Kristina's Blog

Christmas 2011

2012-01-08T13:18:00.001-08:00

A Visit To The Mountain

2011-11-14T20:44:00.001-08:00

Halloween 2011

2011-11-14T20:42:00.000-08:00

Our Little Bulldog!

One Year

2011-09-15T20:36:00.001-07:00

10 1/2 Months

2011-06-26T07:44:00.000-07:00

A lot is happening with Ben... He is getting more teeth (bottom right of the 2 middle) becoming more aware of who he is around, smiling all the time and LOVING yogurt and playing at the park.. The swing is one and only things he can do!

9 Months and The Big Boy Bath

2011-06-09T15:18:00.000-07:00

The time is flying by and Ben is growing like a weed. He finally grew out of his baby bath and hit the big boy bath. He loved it!!! Check him out!

Tulip Field 2011

2011-04-18T19:35:00.001-07:00

Finally the sun came out and we headed to the Tulip Fields run by the Iverson's. They are only open till May 1st so this was the time to get there! Ben was asleep for most of the tour, but woke at the last 10 minutes. It was a gorgeous day!!!

8 Months

2011-04-18T19:31:00.000-07:00

I can't believe out baby is 8 months (actually last Friday.) He is pivoting like crazy on his belly and just help himself up in the tri-pod position last night for the longest time. I am feeling confident that he will master this in the next month.

Teeth

2011-04-18T19:29:00.000-07:00

Ben finally sprouted his two bottom teeth on February 28th and his top left fang on April 4th. Last night I saw his right fang is starting to pop through. I just hope that all this runny nose stuff is part of the teething process and he is getting rid of the cold. March 27th he was diagnosed with a upper respiratory infection so it has been real fun times giving him the inhaler. He was getting better then BOOM! Coughing again!

Spring Break 2011

2011-04-18T19:27:00.001-07:00

Ahhh... SUNSHINE! This Spring Break we heading South to Palm Desert to spend a week with Jeff's Family. Ben loved the water and I loved getting a tan!

Check Out My Legs

2011-03-08T20:38:00.000-08:00

They are getting CHUNKY!!!

Palming the Ball

2011-03-08T20:33:00.001-08:00

We knew that out kid boy or girl was going to be a BIG kid. How could the not... Well Ben seriously has the biggest hands EVER! The kid can palm a medium size ball and pass it hand to hand. I am definitely seeing a basketball player in the future!

February 28, 2011

2011-03-08T20:29:00.000-08:00

So this weekend I went away with my girlfriends to Black Butte. It was a great get away. Ben did just fine with his daddy. The went to see Gaga and Papa, Toys R Us and church followed by breakfast. When I got home it was great to see both my boys! Ben was a little fussy, but nothing really out of the ordinary.

Monday morning (2.28.11) when I was changing his clothes for his day with Gaga I couldn't believe what I was seeing.... The little stinker had two teeth pop through. The two front bottom teeth! He is going to start looking like Bugs Bunny. Sharp little suckers that's for sure.

Lots of teething gel for the little man along with a wet cool rag to chew on.

6 Month Stats

2011-03-08T20:27:00.000-08:00

Weight: 19.3 Pounds
Length: 29 inches
Shots: All plus the flu... Screamed for 2 minutes then fell asleep.

Dr. Kilty was gone today so we visited with Dr. Gleason... He sure was a nice guy. We started Ben on foods the next day. He likes the rice cereal and sweet potatoes. Starting to like green beans, apples and pears. Doesn't like peaches.

Seriously?

2011-01-09T17:19:00.000-08:00

So Ben just LOVES to have his diaper changed so I had to document it for the blog. Seriously.. How cute is this!

Christmas in Idaho 2010

2011-01-03T22:11:00.000-08:00

The day after Christmas the three of us flew out to Caldwell to see my parents. My brother was driving over the same day with his dogs. Ben flew well there and back. So glad he travels well. When we arrived at my folks house we had a nice dinner and opened gifts. Ben got more clothes from mom and dad and Erik got his this cool blanket with ribbons that he can cuddle with along with DOG TAGS so we don't loose him! So funny!

We stayed till Wednesday. On Tuesday we took Ben to my Mom's favorite coffee shop Jolts and Juice to see all her friends. The men were there too so Dad and Jeff arrived shortly after we did. It was a great trip.

Christmas 2010

2011-01-03T22:06:00.000-08:00

Ben's FIRST Christmas! Well the little guy slept in till 7:00 which is about an hour extra and seemed to be a little cranky. We opened our stockings then let Ben hang out and try to nap, but that didn't work. We then made breakfast (waffles and brats... I had eggs) and them we got to open present as a family.

Later that day we went to Jeff's folks place for dinner. The kids opened stockings and then we had a great feast. After that we headed down to the basement and opened gifts. Ben was SPOILED. Clothes, toys and MORE toys! He had a great time. Such a great time that he fell asleep in his Auntie's arms.

4 Month Stats

2010-12-13T15:00:00.000-08:00

Weight: 17 pounds
Length: 27.5 inches

Shots: 2 shots today and an oral. He cried for 20 seconds and then realized... Hey this isn't so bad. Off into his car seat and he fell asleep once again. Nice job Benny!

While we were waiting for the nurse to come in to give Ben his shots he was laying on the table and he rolled over ALL BY HIMSELF!!!! It was pretty awesome. He is right on track with all his growing/social/emotional/eating/sleeping.

Breakfast with Santa

2010-12-11T10:54:00.000-08:00

Today was the first day that Ben met Santa. The Canby Fire Department have an annual Breakfast with Santa. Lots of fun activities for the kids and of course you get your picture taken with the Jolly Ol' Man. Ben did awesome! He checked Santa out with wide eyes and like him.

It's Beginning To Look A Lot Like Christmas

2010-12-08T07:27:00.000-08:00

Well the tree is finally up, mantel decorated and Ben has his Christmas jammies! Last night we were ready to head to Portland International Raceway for our annual trip and this year was going to be even better... We have Ben! So we stop for our traditional cup of coffee at Starbucks and head into Portland. And what do our wondering eyes appear... A sign.... Winter Wonderland closed Mondays and Tuesdays! Seriously!!!! It was a total Wally World Moment. So we turned around and headed home. We did stop by at Home Depot for a timer and what do we end up with besides a timer... YEP another blow up! This time it even bigger and better (as Jeff would say). A 12 ft Santa ready to go up tonight! LORD help me!

3 1/2 Months

2010-11-30T22:21:00.000-08:00

The time is flying by... Ben is already 3 1/2 months old and I am gearing up to go back to school. It is going to be very bittersweet. I'm excited to see the students and staff, but I just don't want to miss anything Ben does.

Jeff weighed Ben tonight and he thinks he is 16 pounds. 2 more then he was at our 2 month appt. Our 4 month appt. will be on December 13th so stay tuned to the stats that day.

Ben is eating a lot more now. It started while we were in Palm Springs. 6 oz. daily every 2 1/2-3 hours and when he wakes from his night sleep he eats 7 oz. We had to bag up the 5 oz bottles and now we are using the 9 oz.

While in the desert Jeff put a little "Golden Spoon" on his lips and he really didn't do anything. 2 1/2 more months and we move onto Rice Cereal. I hear it is a fun stage, but also REALLY MESSY!

Papa Making Ben Laugh!

2010-11-30T22:14:00.000-08:00

What's On The Ceiling Ben???

2010-11-30T22:09:00.000-08:00

Thanksgiving in Palm Springs

2010-11-30T21:36:00.001-08:00

Jeff, Ben and I just returned from a great trip to the desert with his family for Thanksgiving. Lots of time hanging out on the porch soaking in the sun rays with everyone.

Ben flew GREAT! The trip down to CA he was a little fussy then ate, fell asleep and woke up with a half an hour to spare. Fussed some more and wouldn't take a binkie or bottle of water. When we landed he was fine. I think his ears may have hurt a little. On the flight home he fussed when we boarded, ate and fell asleep for the entire trip on the plane and home to Canby. He woke up when I put his car seat down on our living room floor!!!

Ben also had his first pool experience and did just fine. No sounds came out of him at all! He was fascinated with the water. It was to cold so it didn't last to long.

Jeff's sister and her family joined us and we were able to celebrate the twin's 1st Birthday! What a fun day with family and friends.

While visiting Jeff's folks, his mom got sick and had to have her gallbladder taken out. Lucky everything is fine and she was able to come home on Thanksgiving and have dinner. So, Shelley (Jeff's sister) and I cooked the dinner and it all turned out great. Michael's (brother in law) folks came from Hemet a few days and enjoyed dinner with us.

We also visit the Living Desert Zoo Lights. Ben was asleep the entire time.

Family Visit

2010-11-12T20:35:00.000-08:00

What a great day! Ben's Aunt and 2 cousins came to visit him and he enjoyed every minute of it. Aunt Lani, Jeanne and Lily traveled from Bend to visit and they stayed the night. Lily entertained Ben all night!!!! It was so wonderful seeing them!!!! We are looking forward to visiting with them this Christmas when we go over to Black Butte.

A Beautiful Fall Day Full of Fun!

2010-11-07T20:26:00.000-08:00

What a fabulous day today. The sun was shining and the leaves are changing. I took the opportunity to get out and get some pictures... Fun pictures in our backyard. Ben wasn't to thrilled, but we had a good time.

After that, we met up with some couples that had taken the Birthing classes with us. It was great to see everyone and I hope we can get together again soon. The babies were just the cutest!

Then off to see Tom, Cheryl, Aubree and new baby Lauren. What a doll she is. A couple glasses of wine and lovin' on the baby made to the perfect ending to a wonderful day!

Grandma Sanders Visit

2010-10-29T18:40:00.000-07:00

Mom came to visit us last week and we had a great time. Ben had his first car ride to settle him down one night. WOW... That was nuts. Mom didn't sleep at all that night. Worried about all the things that could be wrong with Ben. He was fine... Just tired.

He had a nice bath while Grandma was here, along with getting spoiled rotten. New toys and clothes.

Next time he will see Grandma and Grandpa will be Christmas. Lots of pictures and videos will have to be sent!

First Cold

2010-10-29T18:37:00.000-07:00

Ben has his first cold. I called the advice nurse and she suggested we go in to see Dr. Kilty. He was so straight forward... Kid will have it for 5-10 days then he will be better. Don't do anything different... His lungs are fine.... So we are just going at it as we always do.... Day by day!

2 Month Stats!

2010-10-15T21:14:00.000-07:00

Weight: 14.0 lbs
Length: 26.0 in
Head Circumference: 39.5 cm... We think that it was really 36 cm

Shots: All
Reaction: Crying till no sound came out of mouth then once dressed and in car seat totally quiet and asleep before we got to the car!

Happy Two Month Old

2010-10-14T19:07:00.000-07:00

2 Months

2010-10-12T11:05:00.001-07:00

Where has the time gone... Ben is 2 months old. His appointment is this Friday so I will have weight and length later. He is loving taking baths, laughing and smiling at Jeff and I. He is sleeping pretty good. I'd say 9:30-4am then back down till 7ish. We are pretty fortunate to have such a good boy!

Month and A Half

2010-09-29T15:37:00.000-07:00

6 weeks old and getting SOOOO big! I had my 6 week appt. with Dr. Conger yesterday and he gave me the ok to start running again! He also was thrilled to see how well Ben is growing. It was somewhat of a sad day especially when he told me that he was going to miss me. He is such an amazing doctor!!! I thought, wow I won't see him for a year unless I have some complication or get pregnant in the next year (NOT HAPPENING)!

I do have to say I did have the funniest conversation with Conger about his vacation this summer. He RV'ed it to WY to fly fish with his wife and another couple. Funniest thing I have heard since that is what Jeff would LOVE to do!!!

One Month Old

2010-09-15T13:14:00.000-07:00

Wow... I never thought I would say it but the time has flown by with Baby Ben. He is already one month old and getting bigger every day! We are still trying to figure out his sounds and ups and downs. He is doing really good. He sleeps about 3 hours at a time. He hates to be left alone. He loves to be held and can tell the second... I mean the SECOND you put him down. He enjoys the car rides and stroller rides along with the Ergo Carrier. He is close to 12 lbs. or so Jeff says with his weighing himself then with Ben on the bathroom scale. He just moved up to a Level 2 nipple. He was sucking so hard that he was collapsing the Level 1. He is getting 2-3 bottles a day while the other feedings are nursing. We thought he had acid reflux so we tried a trial medication and now that is gone so we will see if it helped or not. We are adding Ultra Flora to his bottles to help with digestion. What else... We LOVE him more and more every day!!!!

Baby Ben Is HERE!

2010-09-03T11:00:00.000-07:00

Weighing in at 9.10 pounds and 21.5 inches long Benjamin Wayne Scott was born August 15, 2010 at Merdian Park Hospital via C-Section. He was stuck on my pelvis bone and wouldn't drop. We had the best doctor (Dr. Conger) and an amazing team. Recovery from the surgery is going great although my back is messed up. I started therapy with the chiropractor and acupuncturist. Massage therapy is starting up today. I can hardly walk which is bringing me down since I am a person on the go. I know that in time it will get better, I just hope sooner then later.

Ben is doing good. He eats well, but deals with gas (my fault). I'm still trying to figure out what I can and can't eat! So far I would say that I am on the BRAT diet. Truly, the blandest of foods. No acidic or spicy food along with chocolate. At least that is helping with my diet!!!

I've dropped 35 pounds and have 25 more to go.

The days are going by slow yet fast. I just wish I could get out of the house more. Ben is loving all his family that has visited him. He just LOVES all his cousins.

Baby Book/ Back Ache

2010-08-05T09:49:00.000-07:00

I started putting "Simon's" Baby Book together today. Just some US pics, Baby Shower invitations and first Mother and Father's Day cards. No writing yet... I don't want to screw anything up. Just wondering when this baby is going to arrive. My back will be so happy when he does.

Week 39 Update

2010-08-04T08:22:00.000-07:00

1w1d as they write on Baby Center and I have nothing new to share. No dilation.... Nothing. This little guy is still Happy As A Clam on the inside. It's a good thing I know that he is hanging on and just getting bigger and bigger. Doctor said that I will probably go full term and may go into week 41. So at least in 2 weeks we will have a baby.

Just trying to find things to do to keep me busy. Lots of dinners out, meeting with friends, running errands and coffee dates.

Week 38 Update

2010-07-26T13:33:00.000-07:00

Nothing.... Plain and simple! The little man is loving life on the inside and isn't anywhere close to deciding to move to the outside world. Doc said that he will probably arrive on the expected due date (8.12.10). Which so happens to be our 10 year anniversary. Then he said maybe one or two days earlier. Nobody knows when he will be ready. Now it is just the waiting game. A game that I am ready to come to an end. I wanta see this little guy!!! I just can't stand it anymore!!

37 Week Update....

2010-07-20T14:10:00.001-07:00

A LOT happened this week and it is only Tuesday. Jeff and I went in for our appointment and the doctor told us that "Simon" went breech! WHAT! was all I could think. Jeff was breech so the evil eye went his way in a FLASH. I really didn't want to have a C-Section so we opted for a Version on Tuesday (which is today.) We arrived at 11am and boy I got the sneak peek to what I will be going through in 3 weeks. I got to have the IV, gown, heart monitor, and shot to relax my uterus. Well the doctor came in about an hour later and guess what... SIMON TURNED ON HIS OWN! What great news it was. So no version needed. I signed some papers and we were out the door. The doctor recommended that when we head in for the real delivery to tell whoever is on staff that Simon is mobile and that they need to scan me prior to anything. THE ADVENTURE BEGINS!

4 Weeks To Go Update

2010-07-16T09:11:00.000-07:00

Wow... A month to go. So all the people I know that were pregnant have now had their baby except one that is due in October. It makes me so excited for the day to come. Lets see, Grady was born last week. Hendrix was born yesterday and each of those ladies came early. Is that in my cards? Who knows. Jeff and I are taking some time tomorrow to go out to lunch and a place called Barefoot Sage to get our feet and legs rubbed (CANNOT WAIT!) Then we are off to get the finishing touches from our Babys R Us registry. I packed last night. All I need to get is some newborn jammies and something for me to wear around. That gown may get a bit uncomfortable.

Baby Care Essentials

2010-07-13T08:34:00.000-07:00

So Sunday night Jeff and I had our first Baby Care class. We learned to swaddle, burp, different holding positions, what newborns look like when they are popped out and how to deal with being sleep deprived. Best part was when the teacher told me that if I am in my jammies till 4PM that is totally fine!!! YAY!

Roughly 5 Week News

2010-07-13T08:28:00.000-07:00

This past weekend my two sister in laws threw a Family Shower for me and baby Simon. It was the perfect day with all the perfect people. We were spoiled rotten with everyone's generosity. My mom was able to fly up from Idaho and her best friend Marylee from Eugene was able to make it too. Now the countdown is on!

6 weeks and counting!

2010-07-01T22:20:00.000-07:00

Ok... 6 weeks to go and I AM BORED! I have ran all the errands I need to (except a run to IKEA and a return to the mall), made all my lists ( snacks for the hubby to make sure I have and who to text when theis baby is born) and have even debated if I want to buy a new "Bag" to pack. The days go fast in the morning since I am busy with Jazzercise and running around, but come 2-3 pm I am as I said before... BORED! My hubby told me to read... BORING! Friends told me to get as much rest as I can... I can't because I can never sit still. The yard work is done too. I literally go out and try to find weeds to pull. OY VEY... Maybe I need to go on a mini vacation close to home.

Friends Shower Hosted by Jackie

2010-06-26T20:41:00.001-07:00

Today was my Friends Shower that my girlfriend Jackie threw for me! What a beautiful day for it! Having all my friends and family together made for the most amazing day. Thanks to everyone for being so generous to me and "Simon!"

7 More Weeks

2010-06-25T12:46:00.000-07:00

Since starting to keep this blog updated, the time is going slower!!! Oh well... 7 weeks to go and I am getting really excited. I have our friends shower tomorrow that my great friend Jackie is throwing for me. We are hoping that the sun is out, but no to hot so we can have it out at our new patio area. Pictures to come later tomorrow.

8 Weeks and Counting

2010-06-17T17:16:00.000-07:00

Ahhh... I've officially started summer break and already I am getting cabin fever! The sun has left us and the rain is just enjoying hanging around. I'm sick of it. I need to some sun!!

Jeff and I had our maternity pictures last Sunday and they were so much fun. We could have spend another hour with our photographer. We just chat and laugh to much together. She is really a talented person. I can't wait to see the images when she gets them ready. She has already given me a sneak peak and they are pretty cool.

I'm trying to figure out when I should start washing the babies clothes. I know it is 2 months away, but being home I am ready to wash, organize and have everything accomplished. I will just have to figure out a plan.

The Countdown... 9 weeks

2010-06-13T13:17:00.000-07:00

So it is a beautiful Sunday in Canby Oregon. Two straight days of 80 degree weather... FINALLY! This afternoon I get my maternity pictures taken. Jenni Carmon http://www.jcarmonphotography.com/ is going to be taking the pictures. She photographed Jeff and I back in November and we loved her work. She will also be taking the babies newborn pictures when he arrives. It's going to be a fun day!

HOW AM I FEELING UPDATE:
Fantastic! The back is starting to ache a little, but that could be due to the hours I have been spending in the yard. OY VEY... It was a mess out there after all the rain we were having.

I have to post a picture of the work in the backyard! It is looking great!

HTC Chickies Shower 5.16.10

2010-06-05T09:03:00.001-07:00

The Chicks That Cruise hosted a wonderful baby shower for me in May. Thank you Lisa, Domi and Karen for a wonderful party.

10 Weeks To Go!

2010-06-05T08:28:00.000-07:00

Ugh... 10 weeks to go till our little man arrives. I am so ready to be hitting the pavement again. I read all these things on Facebook about friends runs that they are signing up for, miles they have accumulated for the day or week and I am JEALOUS! I just hope that I can get back into it without any injures. Any suggestions would be great to get a new mom who hasn't run for 9 months back out there!

First Year Missing HTC

2010-03-25T21:29:00.000-07:00

What a crazy year... teaching a new grade, baby on the way and my first year missing HTC. I sure am going to miss my Chicks and I hope they will miss me. At first I thought wow this is going to be really strange not decorating the van, eating the yummy food our captain makes, new HTC shirts. Then I thought wait, I am not going to have sick tummy, the runs, sleep deprivation, dehydration and a headache! Then reality hit me again. I am going to have a newborn and will be SO sleep deprived that I will probably go INSANE!! I hope HTC has geared my up on the sleep issue!!!!

My New Friend in 5 Months

2010-03-25T21:26:00.001-07:00

In 5 months I will not only have my ipod, water and sunglasses but the BOB Revolution. The new addition will take some time getting use to, but I can't wait for me and the little guy to hit the pavement in STYLE!

Running on Hold due to Baby Boy Coming Our Way

2010-03-25T21:19:00.000-07:00

So we just found out we are having a baby boy! My running has come to what feels like a stand still. Maybe once a week I'll get out and run 3 miles at an 11 minute pace, but not to often. Walking and weights are what I have turned too. I quit Bally's and joined a 24 hour gym in town... Snap Fitness that has been great. I actually lift more then when I was a Bally's. It's also a nice mile walk from the house. This summer I will talk full advantage if that! So August is our due date and the running will come back into play shortly after the delivery. I have to say the extra pounds are killing me, but I wouldn't do any different.

WE ARE IN!!!

2009-11-16T18:00:00.000-08:00

WAAAAAHHHHOOOOOO!!! My HTC team made it in this year! Team #77. I am SO excited!

It's Been Awhile

2008-10-16T08:52:00.000-07:00

Wow! I haven't been here for awhile. With school starting up and my running slowing down, I just have not had much to blog about. I am planning on running the Rock and Roll Half Marathon in Arizona in January with a handful of my HTC friends. It should be fun. That means the training has to start soon! I'll keep everyone updated on that!

The Final Week of Cassidy Camp

2008-08-01T18:44:00.000-07:00

This past week has been bittersweet. The getting up early, routines in the evening, not really eating in the morning and fatigue setting in took its toll on me, but I am going to sure miss it next week when I don't have to get up at the crack of dawn during my summer vacation to get my rear end kicked by Cassidy Camp. I will miss the campers, trainers, facility, off site meeting places and my morning Starbucks with Annette.

Monday was at Champoeg Vineyards again and I really had not had any recovery from Ragnar Relay. I didn't get home till 8 PM and was up running hills from you know where at 7am the next day. I survived and guess what... I had a great time. Tuesday we were back at the park and Annette was able to come join us off site since the spraining of her ankle. Gosh I sure was glad to have my partner in crime back. We ran so much there I thought I was going to die. I was tired and felt a little something coming on. I got home after camp and took Airbourne and Sinus Headache like it was going out of style. Wednesday we were at Adapt and thank the heavens that it was a recovery day. I needed it extremely bad. Well Thursday came around and it was back to Jackson Middle School aka Never Ending Stairway to Heaven. We had to re-run our 800 meter for time. I was thrilled that I went from a 3:49:00 to 3:07:00. I couldn't have been happier. Friday or I should say today was the final day of camp back at Adapt. We had our final timing. The course consisted of bear crawling along a balance beam, hand jumping 6 weight benches, sprinting to the bars the give me nightmares, hopping 4 of those, 4 lateral crawl throughs, 3 frog jumps over platforms, bear crawling up and down an inclined set of stairs then finishing with running up and down another set of inclined stairs. Well the first time I had a 1:09:00 with an add on of 20 seconds. This time I have a :59 with an add on of 20 seconds for falling off the beam. Gosh that STUPID Beam!!!! We ended with a great picture of the group and a really cool shirt.

I have to say the best thing about camp is the experience and the famous quotes from the campers and staff. Check out Annette's blog for the list that will make you laugh till you pee your pants. Maybe, I sure almost did!

Till next camp!!!

It Is Time For Me To Start Presenting Camp Awards

2008-07-17T17:52:00.000-07:00

Please try to image why I would pass out these particular awards...

The "Hey Look At Me Award"

The "Face Plant Award"

The "Oh It Hurts Award"

The "Can I Get Any Louder and Annoying Award" aka Meatloaf

The "Best Hat Award"

More To Come... Annette help me out here!!!

Ok I am back with the final awards of Cassidy Camp. Here I go:

The "Crush Award"

The "Snot Rocket Award"

The "Designer T-Shirt Award"

The "Peeper Award" aka high school boys looking up shorts when stretching

The "Lazy Award" aka high school football players

Cassidy Camp Has Begun!!

2008-07-15T16:36:00.000-07:00

Week One

Let the good times roll! Cassidy Camp 2008 started last week and boy let me tell you... I am SORE. The first day was crazy. They timed us on an obstacle course. I sported a 1:29 while the young bucks around me were at a :34 or :47 second time! I sure felt slow!!! Second day we were at a Middle School running up crazy hills and stairs that never seemed to end. I would say the stairs were similar to the ones in Hogwarts that were always moving and growing. Third day back to the gym for a workout full of crawling, jumping, squats, stretching, and running. Day four we conquered WERR Road. Friday were were back at the gym for a day of floor exercises. I was so happy for Friday... my body needed to recover.

Week Two

Monday we headed out to my old stomping grounds of Gresham. We visited Cascade Athletic Club were I thought we were going to be in the gym. WRONG! We headed out to the back and ended up spending an hour and a half running up a mound of dirt in sprints using our hands, hands behind our heads, bear crawls forward and backwards. Oh no that wasn't the end. We finished with running sprints in sand too! I was so filthy that when I showered I had to wash three times to get rid of all the grime.

Today we were back at camp and work our butts off again. Lots of jumping, crawling, balancing and upper body strength. We ended with sprints. Some of those high school/ college boys and girls are fast.

Well more will come this week. We have the park tomorrow and then back to the middle school Friday!

All right I am back for some reporting... Wednesday we were at a park off of Barrows in Beaverton. Today was endurance day. Lots of running, recovering, roller coasters, and static sides to sides. One activity we did today was chase your partner... well some speedy gonzales decided to join Annette and I and she took off like a freak!!! We were saying to ourselves, "Ummmmm wait!!!!!" Thursday we were back at the gym doing stations that were good. My hip flared up a bit, but by tonight it is much better. Tomorrow we are back at the Middle School for running hills and stairs!!!

Who Runs With Their Dog?

2008-04-17T19:56:00.000-07:00

Ok, I thought it was time to get my two Golden Retrievers back out on the road. I use to run with Bailey (7 year old) then we got Murphy (6 year old). I couldn't run with both and I felt bad leaving on home while out with the other.

Tuesday I took Bailey with me and Alicia for a 3 mile run... she did great. She stayed right by my side, didn't get bothered by the other dogs and didn't pull.

I took Murphy today and I thought I was going to kill her! She was everywhere. I tried the harness leash and it didn't work as I thought it would. She darted side to side, and pulled me. Any ideas for a good leash to use with her? ANYONE????

Only One More Working Run!

2008-04-13T18:17:00.000-07:00

Saturday was my second real long working run for training for the San Diego Marathon. I refer to this run as a "working run" because it is more then 12 miles. Alicia and I set out at 9 AM for our 18 miler with a starting temperature of 55 degrees. Now this is amazing for mid April in Oregon. The run went really well till mile 16 when it was getting hot (close to 70), I just wanted to be done, and my right knee was a little tight. We finished up, gave our HIGH FIVES to each other and headed straight to Tre Cafe (after stretching of course) for lunch. We usually do coffee at Starbucks (hey what does everyone think of their old school logo) but were so hungry and it was noon.

Heat is my down fall with running marathons. I know the temperature we had today will be similar to San Diego. I am praying for a cool breeze while running. If any of you have tips for me while training to help with the heat issue it would be great if you could share your knowledge with me! Less then 2 months and I can't wait!

My knee is still tight. I have been rubbing and icing. It is starting to feel better. I have today and tomorrow off so that will help with the recovery.

2008 Shamrock Run

2008-03-16T18:20:00.001-07:00

Once again the LUCK OF THE IRISH was out in full force! Free beer and chowder after the race. This year Sara, Sandy and I ran the 5K. I was a bit sore since I ran 16 miles the day before. I kept my promise to Sara and made it. Starbucks was also a nice treat after the race. Not sure about my time yet..results won't be up till 9 tonight. The run actually helped with my sore muscles, but boy I am pooped today!

Ragnar Relay

2008-03-02T08:38:00.000-08:00

Ok I am back again after a short break from blogging. Again, school has kept me busy. I joined the great R2P group again this year for a new race in Washington on July 25, 2008.

It is going to be fun and beautiful. I just wonder what leg I will have?????

Update on My Training for San Diego

2008-01-16T19:46:00.000-08:00

I am finally back...school sure takes time away from this blogging stuff. Well my friend Alicia and I are into our 6th week of training for the San Diego Rock and Roll Marathon. Monday I paid my $85.00 for the race and almost $300 for the flight to San Diego. So it is a done deal. WE ARE COMMITTED! We had our longest run last weekend of 9 miles. We felt great and I didn't even nap that afternoon. We are back to 7 this Saturday and then jump up to 11. I am feeling really good this time around. This could be due to the fact that I have invested some time with acupuncture and massage as well as a personal trainer. Let me tell you... Chinese Medicine is amazing. I was dealing with a really tight IT Band. My knee was hurting so bad. I went in for the treatment and Debbie did 4 different things with me. Not only did she work with needles, she used electric current, massage and cups. Cups are made of glass and roughly the size of candle votive holders that are stuck to me like suction cups. Debbie did this by the way of heat from a flame. She moves the cups up and down my leg as well as on my back. It was the most bittersweet feeling ever! It felt like all the bunched up gunk in my body was getting flushed around. The next day the pain was gone and I ran pain free. My plan it to do acupuncture twice a month and massage once a month to keep my body fresh.

Merry Christmas

2007-12-23T08:48:00.001-08:00

Turkey Trot in the Desert

2007-11-28T20:51:00.000-08:00

This Thanksgiving Jeff and I spent it with his family at their vacation home in Palm Desert. The weather was beautiful with a nice daytime temp. around 78 degrees. The mornings were chilly though! 41 degrees if I remember correctly. Jeff and I left for El Paseo Blvd. for the 9th Annual Turkey Trot at 6:30am. The race started at 7:30 am because I wasn't sure how long I would have to wait in line to pick up m shirt and race number. It only took 10 minutes so we headed back to the car to keep warm. I had to admit the shirts were nice. The have an embroidered palm tree with a sun in the background. I have never had such a nice shirt! Around 7:15am I headed back to El Paseo for the start. It was a good turn out. Around 1000 people were projected to run. Finally at 7:30 am we took off down El Paseo and back to Ocotillo. Heading up (and I mean up) Ocotillo I thought I was going to die. The uphill wasn't much, but I felt like I was running fast. Once I hit the top of the hill, I turned around and flew down the hill back onto El Paseo for the finish in front of the Gardens Shopping Area. I couldn't believe it... my time was 24:35 (maybe 48 I can't really remember!!) I ran close to an 8 minute mile. Don't ask me where it came from, but I was very excited with that time! It was really fun. Although I wish I has a running buddy, I would do it again.

Autumn Leaves 10K

2007-11-03T13:04:00.000-07:00

WOW! I am so on this blogging today! Annette is going to be so proud of me! This morning Annette, Karen and I went to Champoeg Park for the Annual Autumn Leaves Race. You have a choice of the 10K, 50K or 50 miles!!! I just wasn't up to par for the 50 miles, so I settled for the 10 K. Yes 6.2 miles was just enough for me today! The weather was beautiful. Crisp, clear and clean! The temp was FREEZING!!!!! I think Annette's car said it was 35 degrees when we started! We ran it in about 1:02:00 which is a good 10 minute mile pace! The course was some road, some trail and some road trail if that makes sense. I loved that it was soooooo small! The goodies were amazing! Shot Blocks, Candy bars, Cookies, Big Town Hero Sandwiches, Diet Coke, Soup, Coffee and so much more!

Fritz did a great job! I think this may be my favorite race yet!!!!

City To The Sea Half Marathon

2007-11-03T12:44:00.001-07:00

Ok! Ok! Ok! I have finally got out of my rut (actually I found some time to get back to this!) October 12th Annette and I took off for San Luis Obispo to run the Half Marathon there! We were so thankful for Kirk and Libby (Annette's brother and wife) to let us stay with them and their family. We got in late Friday, but had all day Saturday to hang out with the family and go see some great things around town. We went to Avila Beach, Avila Barn (they have the best ice cream) and then we were off to pickup our packets.

Saturday night I slept pretty good, but getting up at 6 am was a little hard. A pear, some toast and a bottle of water for breakfast and we were off. It was so cold that morning I thought I was going to die!!!!! When the race started up I finally warmed up and was good.

Miles1-6 were great! We were holding a good pace and felt good. My left shin was a little tight up to mile 3 then loosened up. Mile 7-10 were ok. I was getting tired, but my Shot Blocks were very helpful. Mile 11-13.1 I felt really good. It was a good down hill, but turned into an up hill at the end. Near mile 12 there was a man sitting on the sidewalk and I asked him if he was ok. He said that he had no more gas and asked if I had any GU. I had 3 Shot Blocks left and gave them to him! He was so thankful. I really felt like I served. Coming into the beach I met up with Libby. She was going and we helped each other to the end. Man it smelled sooooo bad the last .2 miles. I thought I was going to get sick! I finished with a 2:15:45 which was perfect for me! I had great friends to run with and the scenery was beautiful.

I HAVE BEEN SO LAME

2007-09-16T18:57:00.001-07:00

Just so everyone knows, I have started back to school (teaching 3rd grade) and I have been LAME on getting to my blog! I have still to post about my HTC 2007. It was a blast!! I also have been running just not documenting my mileage etc... I will get to it soon. The crud has hit me this weekend so I will have to come back to this later!!!

New Shoes

2007-08-22T14:24:00.000-07:00

I have a pair of shoes that I got to wear to the gym, not to run in. The only problem is that they are running shoes. When I wear them in any of the classes (Step, Kwando etc....) my foot wants to stay straight and has a hard time going side to side. So today I thought... what the heck I will take them out for a run and see how I feel in them. Not sure if I should have done this since Hood To Coast is this Friday. Well the shoes felt great, but the did rub on the back of my heels (up high) and I got a little burn on both of my feet. I am going to try them tomorrow with some higher socks and some glide to see if that helps. I really like how they were soooooo much lighter then my Asics and Brooks.

2007-08-22T14:22:00.000-07:00

Mileage: 4.5
Conditions: Partly Cloudy with a breeze
Time and Temp 12:30 pm 77 degrees
Shin Pain: none
Shoes: Nike Bowerman

2007-08-20T18:28:00.000-07:00

Mileage: 3
Conditions: Outside/Rainy...Misty actually
Time and Temp: 8am 62 degrees
Shin Pain: none running...10 hours later low
Shoes: Asics

Great New Idea I Found From Another Runner's Blog

2007-08-17T17:56:00.000-07:00

I was looking at other running blogs and The Marathon Mama caught my eye. Her name is Kristina too! She has a great idea to note some cool data!!! Thanks for the idea Kristina!!!

Mileage: 5
Conditions: Outside Street Running with Annette
Time and Temp: 7:00 am 56 degrees, sunny and crisp
Shin Pain: low (blister a bit agitated)
Shoes: Asics

New Gear!!!

2007-08-17T17:36:00.000-07:00

This week I went to get some new shoes. It was time. I had 400 miles on my Brooks and the blister was the last straw. While I was at Portland Running Company, I picked up a few pairs of my favorite socks, an Asics shoe this time and my favorite...a running SKIRT!

I tested it out on a 5 miler with Annette and it was great! Very comfortable (it didn't ride up at all) and super cute! My husband thought that I looked like I should be playing tennis. I told him that real runners would notice that the shoes were running shoes!!!

So ladies if you want to try a running skirt I got the Adidas brand with no slit. I liked the look of the Nike (similar to the tempo short) but they didn't have my size.

City To The Sea

2007-08-13T21:43:00.000-07:00

A fun half marathon is coming to San Luis Obispo and Annette and I are thinking about doing it! She has family who lives there who are willing to let us crash with them. I am pretty sure they are running it also. I was going to do the Portland Marathon this year, but I am pretty sure I am going to turn it away and focus on the half in Southern California. Running with Annette is so fun and refreshing! We are going to have to see how we feel after Hood To Coast, but I am looking forward to it

Blisters

2007-08-13T21:34:00.000-07:00

Ok... yesterday I went out for my long run (30K). I was into mile 6 and I started to feel a strange rub on my right foot. The ball of my foot to be exact near the crease of my shoe. Mile 8 rolled around and I could tell there was something going on. I checked my fuel belt pack for my blister band-aid...not there! I took it out so my shot blocks would fit. Mile 10 I could really feel it so I decided to walk for a bit. My foot sure felt fine when I turned to walking so I starting into my run again. Mile 12 I was done. My foot hurt and I couldn't stand it. My husband came to water me and I headed right for the passenger side of his truck. He thought something was seriously wrong by the look on my face. After I told him it was just a blister he was relieved, but I was mad. I had an hour to run still and couldn't finish it without pain and I wasn't going to do that.

Today I went to run hills with Annette and she had a great 2nd skin blister band-aid which worked great. As I finished up with a walk home it started to slip and it was feeling a little sore again. So, to end the rest of the day I just let it air out and wore flip flops. It feels pretty good tonight. Hopefully tomorrow I will be fine. I am going to by a new pair of shoes tomorrow. I am over my miles on my shoes!!!!

I Survived My First R2P!

2007-07-17T16:24:00.000-07:00

Friday morning came early for me... 5:30 to be exact! I decided to leave my blinds open the night prior so I could see the thunderstorm. BAD IDEA!!! Annette showed up a bit before 8:30 and we were loaded to go with everything and everyone by 9. Of course we had to stop by Starbucks for our morning java!

When we arrived at our first major exchange we met some of our blogger friends!! It was so great to meet them all. Even though I have only been doing this for a short time, it was fun! What got me was the BEAR SIGHTED sign!! That was just nuts!

Annette and I took off on our 6 miler in the heat of the day! I stuck my grape hubba-bubba into my mouth, got my water into my fuel belt and we were off. If I didn't have her by my side, I am not sure I would of made it! After we were done running our first leg we found out that both of of had thoughts of asking the other to walk, but never stepped up to the plate to ask it! GOOD FOR US RIGHT!!!!

We were able to go and get a great meal at Country Cousin in Centralia! It was the best Grilled Ham and Cheese I have had in a long time. Jeff decided that he needed to change his pants after dinner and air out his shorts, so what a better place to air them out then on the antenna of the van!!! GOD BLESS UNDERWEAR!!!

We had out first rest at a high school along the way. Some of the team slept in the gym, some of us went straight to the track. I really didn't sleep, I just rested my eyes. After we were back in the van Annette informed me that she was hearing coyotes behind us!!!!! Thank goodness I had a nice runners odor on my skin!!

Our second leg was in the middle of the night! Roughly a 4 miler, it was the best run of the race! It was cool, I had Annette by me and I was ready to kick anything or anybody who got in my way (aka dogs, raccoons, deer, crazy people)! Then the steep hill was upon us. If I would of been able to see what I was running up, I probably would of cried. We muscled through it and the last of the run was a nice down hill!

Our next little rest stop shouldn't have even been considered a rest. Me... a 5 foot 10 girl trying to sleep in the passenger side seat of the mini-van did not work out very well. It was cold, the sun was coming up and I couldn't get into any comfortable postion.

Again, we were off to our last leg. It would only be a 3 miler for Annette and I. When the time came, we were ready...ready to be done. This had to be the hardest leg. I was tired and had an upset stomach. When we finally finished all the aches, pains and discomforts disappeared for maybe 10 minutes then came right back. When I got in the van I was so happy to be finished!

This was a great run! Similar to the HTC relay, but scaled down a little. I loved how I had a running partner, the legs were shorter, the pressure wasn't there to be as fast as you could be and the people on my team were so nice and fun to be around. If the teams needs me again next year I am totally game!!!

Rainier Run 2007

2007-07-12T18:01:00.001-07:00

So tomorrow we head out for the R2P. I am excited, yet nervous. I am heading to Bugatti's to carb load tonight with pasta or pizza and a nice glass of wine! I am looking forward to meeting those of you who I have heard from on the blog and all the other runners!!

I think I have packed everything I need thanks to the reminders from Annette!

I think I have drank enough water (Gosh I hope so since we run at 4 in the afternoon tomorrow).

I think that my nerves are starting to get to me so I am outta here!

My Running Life

2007-07-09T16:53:00.001-07:00

I have been running since 2001. Since then I have had one knee surgery and 2 episodes of intense shin splints. Why get into running when I was a swimmer/water polo player.... well it comes down to this. I am competitive. Not only with myself, but with others. I would hear people talking about the 26.2 miles they just ran in the Portland Marathon and thought, "If they can do it, so can I." So I did... twice plus one in Sunriver, Oregon called the Pacific Crest Marathon.

They call it runners high. I call it runners want. Guess what... I want to keep doing it!

R2P Here I Come!

2007-07-09T15:22:00.000-07:00

So this will be my first year running the Rainier to Pacific with a fun group of men and women! I have a great running buddy named Annette that is the perfect runner for me! I am looking forward to the craziness that is coming our way!