Tis the season! I delivered holiday gifts to friends and neighbors yesterday and felt so good. I made pots filled with cooking herbs....lemon thyme, oregano and cilantro. Perfect for anyone who cooks. I picked up the herbs and soil (and advice) from Natural Gardener.
I have really enjoyed our small garden...we use pots and are growing three different lettuces, spinach, arugula, and herbs. And brussel sprouts and shallots, but they haven't shown up yet.
I feel like I am doing my part to grow some of my own food so I don't waste so much food and only use what I need. Not to mention I'm saving money. Now, I need to figure out whether a CSA is the right thing for me....not sure I cook enough to sign up for a CSA.
So tis the season...I hope my friends enjoy their gift that will keep on giving for months and months.
Merry Christmas.
Monday, December 22, 2008
Thursday, December 18, 2008
Texas wine flights
Last night I went to Uncorked on East 7th (love it!) to enjoy a glass of wine with my client, the Texas Dept of Agriculture Wine Marketing team. The owner kindly allowed us to create our own flight of Texas wines: we enjoyed Alamosa Sissortail (dry, white rhone blend), McPherson Sangiovese, and the Alamosa Pallette Red Rhone Blend.
The wines were terrific....I plan to buy all three to have at home.
What a tough job...telling people about how far Texas has come in producing really terrific wines. Texas winemakers are hard-working people who show up every day.
So if you haven't already, go out there and try a Texas wine. Ask for Texas wines at your restaurant. Cheers!
The wines were terrific....I plan to buy all three to have at home.
What a tough job...telling people about how far Texas has come in producing really terrific wines. Texas winemakers are hard-working people who show up every day.
So if you haven't already, go out there and try a Texas wine. Ask for Texas wines at your restaurant. Cheers!
Back in the swing of things
It's been over a year since I blogged but after attending the Austin Food Bloggers happy hour, I was inspired! It's time to show up!
I have to tell folks that my friends and colleagues at ACTIVE Life show up every day to help youth learn lifelong healthy eating and physical fitness habits. They have been hard at work establishing ACTIVE Life Partner Schools throughout Central Texas and expanding their programs throughout Dallas, Houston, San Antonio and the Valley.
My dream is that kids will enjoy "real" foods one day (with no desire for processed junk food) and will see that running around, hula hooping, dancing, playing outside is way more fun than watching TV. That this will be their way of life.
It can be done. We all just need to show up and do our part.
I have to tell folks that my friends and colleagues at ACTIVE Life show up every day to help youth learn lifelong healthy eating and physical fitness habits. They have been hard at work establishing ACTIVE Life Partner Schools throughout Central Texas and expanding their programs throughout Dallas, Houston, San Antonio and the Valley.
My dream is that kids will enjoy "real" foods one day (with no desire for processed junk food) and will see that running around, hula hooping, dancing, playing outside is way more fun than watching TV. That this will be their way of life.
It can be done. We all just need to show up and do our part.
Sunday, March 04, 2007
Austin Wranglers Kick Off Season with a Win!
The Wranglers showed up today!! Woo hoo!! They won their first game of the season -- beating the LV Gladiators.
Way to go, Coach Partlow and all the new players...but big cheers go out to Greg B., Dane K., Sedrick R., Derrick L., Kevin N. and the other returning players. This is your year!
Good job Aaron and Chance...only heard the radio show at the end of the game...but they sounded great.
Here's to a winning season!
Way to go, Coach Partlow and all the new players...but big cheers go out to Greg B., Dane K., Sedrick R., Derrick L., Kevin N. and the other returning players. This is your year!
Good job Aaron and Chance...only heard the radio show at the end of the game...but they sounded great.
Here's to a winning season!
Thursday, February 15, 2007
Texas wines!
Today was a most unusual "work" day -- if you can call it that. I joined my Tater colleagues to tour several Texas wineries in the Hill Country -- it's a job, but someone had to do it!
Since we promote Texas wines to consumers via Texas, regional and national media, we wanted to visit some of the wineries and winemakers and learn a bit more about our state's new and delicious wines. That we did -- we visited five wineries in five hours. They all had wonderful wines and great stories to tell.
My favorite story was from Torre de Pietra -- the winery owner created a special wine after a group of ladies who call themselves "Las Sucias" -- AKA "Dirty Girls" -- who regularly frequented his winery. The Dirty Girls wine is a slightly bubbly chardonnay that was wonderful. Of course, I had to buy some to share with my friends during our next girls night out.
Anyway, here's to Ashley and Jenny who both have earned an afternoon of wine tasting for all their hard work on behalf of the Texas wine industry. Next stop -- Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo and International Wine Competition -- can't wait to show off more of our state's wines.
To switch gears....I have to brag on my big son, Bric, who arrived in Austin today to help us sell our NeatSeats at the ATT Marathon Expo this weekend. He joined us in Vegas when we sold our NeatSeats for that marathon and promised he'd come home to help us this weekend. Talk about showin' up!!
And here's a shout-out to Shelby who is showin' up every day in London!! I think she's teaching those Brits a thing or two.
More later. Cheers!
Since we promote Texas wines to consumers via Texas, regional and national media, we wanted to visit some of the wineries and winemakers and learn a bit more about our state's new and delicious wines. That we did -- we visited five wineries in five hours. They all had wonderful wines and great stories to tell.
My favorite story was from Torre de Pietra -- the winery owner created a special wine after a group of ladies who call themselves "Las Sucias" -- AKA "Dirty Girls" -- who regularly frequented his winery. The Dirty Girls wine is a slightly bubbly chardonnay that was wonderful. Of course, I had to buy some to share with my friends during our next girls night out.
Anyway, here's to Ashley and Jenny who both have earned an afternoon of wine tasting for all their hard work on behalf of the Texas wine industry. Next stop -- Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo and International Wine Competition -- can't wait to show off more of our state's wines.
To switch gears....I have to brag on my big son, Bric, who arrived in Austin today to help us sell our NeatSeats at the ATT Marathon Expo this weekend. He joined us in Vegas when we sold our NeatSeats for that marathon and promised he'd come home to help us this weekend. Talk about showin' up!!
And here's a shout-out to Shelby who is showin' up every day in London!! I think she's teaching those Brits a thing or two.
More later. Cheers!
Monday, January 01, 2007
Just Show Up
New Year's Resolutions
It's 2007 -- the start of a new year. After a wonderful end to 2006 with friends at our home (including Cindy and David and kids who endured three miserable travel days to get home from Kentucky! and Elizabeth and her family who arrived home from their holiday vacation to a flooded bathroom!), it's time to reflect on what 2007 might bring. Here's a few thoughts:
1) Of course, you gotta show up! If you don't show up, you don't know what you missed, what could have been. So show up for your family, particularly your spouse, and show up for your friends. If you're blessed to have wonderful family and friends, then also think about how to show up for your community to help shape the world for your kids and to help others in need.
2) Be patient and be gentle. Enough said.
3) Leverage strength into positive contributions -- without being hard.
4) Work hard, play hard (and of course, run hard.)
5) Write notes every now and then to long-lost friends and loved ones. With email and IM, it's nice to get a hand-written note.
6) Eat well (as in good food and as in healthy food). A healthy body fuels a healthy mind. And good meals with family and friends create great memories.
7) Enjoy daily physical activity -- run, walk, swim, do yoga, skateboard, whatever turns you on, just do it.
8) Live each day in the present. Don't worry about tomorrow -- focus on today. (Easier said than done for me.)
Thank you to my wonderful husband, Fraser, and my kids, Bric, Shelby and Dean for all their love and patience every year. Thank you (and my dear friends) for all the wonderful memories you have given me. I'm so blessed and so looking forward to this year.
It's 2007 -- the start of a new year. After a wonderful end to 2006 with friends at our home (including Cindy and David and kids who endured three miserable travel days to get home from Kentucky! and Elizabeth and her family who arrived home from their holiday vacation to a flooded bathroom!), it's time to reflect on what 2007 might bring. Here's a few thoughts:
1) Of course, you gotta show up! If you don't show up, you don't know what you missed, what could have been. So show up for your family, particularly your spouse, and show up for your friends. If you're blessed to have wonderful family and friends, then also think about how to show up for your community to help shape the world for your kids and to help others in need.
2) Be patient and be gentle. Enough said.
3) Leverage strength into positive contributions -- without being hard.
4) Work hard, play hard (and of course, run hard.)
5) Write notes every now and then to long-lost friends and loved ones. With email and IM, it's nice to get a hand-written note.
6) Eat well (as in good food and as in healthy food). A healthy body fuels a healthy mind. And good meals with family and friends create great memories.
7) Enjoy daily physical activity -- run, walk, swim, do yoga, skateboard, whatever turns you on, just do it.
8) Live each day in the present. Don't worry about tomorrow -- focus on today. (Easier said than done for me.)
Thank you to my wonderful husband, Fraser, and my kids, Bric, Shelby and Dean for all their love and patience every year. Thank you (and my dear friends) for all the wonderful memories you have given me. I'm so blessed and so looking forward to this year.
Wednesday, December 27, 2006
London: Here She Comes
Shelby Arrives!
Shelby leaves tomorrow for London and we are so excited for her. This will be such a great experience for her. She is heading over there as part of a work abroad program and will find a place to live and a job to support herself. She is "showing up" big time! She has tons of courage, independence and free spirit! Here's to her having a wonderful time and creating tons of memories.
Shelby leaves tomorrow for London and we are so excited for her. This will be such a great experience for her. She is heading over there as part of a work abroad program and will find a place to live and a job to support herself. She is "showing up" big time! She has tons of courage, independence and free spirit! Here's to her having a wonderful time and creating tons of memories.
Sunday, December 10, 2006
Just Show Up
Prince in Las Vegas
Wow....what a show! We went to Vegas to sell NeatSeats to the Las Vegas Marathon runners -- what a great group of runners from all over the country. And they really liked the NeatSeat and bought 'em up for their own use or for holiday gifts. And we appreciate those great customers!
And we appreciate our kids who "showed up" big-time this weekend to help us sell NeatSeats. They were so great! They helped set up the booth and did a great job talking to customers about the NeatSeat and how it works. Thank you Bric and Shelby for your hard work! (Standing on a concrete exhibit hall for 2 days straight AND pitching your product is tough work! But we had fun, too!)
Besides running the family business, we had two other great highlights from the Vegas weekend. Celebrating Shelby's 23rd and Bric's 25th bdays -- which included a roller coaster ride at New York, New York, AND going to see Prince live at his new 3121 Club.
Prince in Vegas -- doesn't get much better than that! What a great show....we were 20 feet from the stage all night. 20 feet from Prince and Maceo Parker and his back-up singers....they were great. He jammed, crooned ballads, performed his hits, and danced and entertained for two and half hours! It was a really special show and I encourage anyone who's heading to Vegas to go to the show.
Vegas is loud, a bit obnoxious, and full of drunks (one of which tried to hit on my daughter, but Fraser and I put an end to that real quick!) -- but it's also very entertaining in a weird way. It's a town where anything goes and people are just hanging out, having fun. It was a nice getaway and a great trip with the big kids. We decided that we're all going back there together -- to celebrate Dean's 21st bday!
Wow....what a show! We went to Vegas to sell NeatSeats to the Las Vegas Marathon runners -- what a great group of runners from all over the country. And they really liked the NeatSeat and bought 'em up for their own use or for holiday gifts. And we appreciate those great customers!
And we appreciate our kids who "showed up" big-time this weekend to help us sell NeatSeats. They were so great! They helped set up the booth and did a great job talking to customers about the NeatSeat and how it works. Thank you Bric and Shelby for your hard work! (Standing on a concrete exhibit hall for 2 days straight AND pitching your product is tough work! But we had fun, too!)
Besides running the family business, we had two other great highlights from the Vegas weekend. Celebrating Shelby's 23rd and Bric's 25th bdays -- which included a roller coaster ride at New York, New York, AND going to see Prince live at his new 3121 Club.
Prince in Vegas -- doesn't get much better than that! What a great show....we were 20 feet from the stage all night. 20 feet from Prince and Maceo Parker and his back-up singers....they were great. He jammed, crooned ballads, performed his hits, and danced and entertained for two and half hours! It was a really special show and I encourage anyone who's heading to Vegas to go to the show.
Vegas is loud, a bit obnoxious, and full of drunks (one of which tried to hit on my daughter, but Fraser and I put an end to that real quick!) -- but it's also very entertaining in a weird way. It's a town where anything goes and people are just hanging out, having fun. It was a nice getaway and a great trip with the big kids. We decided that we're all going back there together -- to celebrate Dean's 21st bday!
Sunday, November 26, 2006
Just Show Up
Thankful
No doubt, I'm thankful for SO MUCH! My terrific husband, kids, and friends rank #1....followed by all the fun I have running, walking, going to yoga, shopping at Central Market and Whole Foods (wow....a foodie's delight!), tasting new wines, and just enjoying the sunshine every day here in Austin, Texas.
Speaking of running, my running pals surprised our dear friend and coach Frank with a special "brick" in his honor that will be placed on the Town Lake Hike and Bike Trail at Lou Neff Point. It's a fundraiser for the Town Lake Trail Foundation plus a great way to show someone how much you appreciate them. And we sure do appreciate our good friend Frank.
This weekend, after running our traditional Turkey Trot five-miler, we enjoyed an amazing Thanksgiving Feast cooked by me, Cindy and Elizabeth. We all "showed up" and cooked our hearts out....to the delight of all of us who enjoyed the meal....and yummy desserts, including the very special "chocholate glazed peanut butter tart" from Brad. Nothing like a big ole Reese's cup to top off your meal...WOW...talk about fantastic!
To top off our holidays, we hosted game night and invited friends for Cindy's AMAZING turkey pot pies (did I mention how AMAZING her pot pies are??!!) and a night of cards (65), dominoes and Rumikube. Great fun....a nice, low key way to end the weekend.
Oops, but I forgot my weekend wasn't over yet. Nope, I worked with Fraser to create a new "sitting patio" on our front side yard. Very small but very cute...and creative. We showed up, big time!
A lovely, relaxed (except for the digging, rock carrying, and patio building....) weekend. Great memories, great friends. So much to be thankful for.
And
No doubt, I'm thankful for SO MUCH! My terrific husband, kids, and friends rank #1....followed by all the fun I have running, walking, going to yoga, shopping at Central Market and Whole Foods (wow....a foodie's delight!), tasting new wines, and just enjoying the sunshine every day here in Austin, Texas.
Speaking of running, my running pals surprised our dear friend and coach Frank with a special "brick" in his honor that will be placed on the Town Lake Hike and Bike Trail at Lou Neff Point. It's a fundraiser for the Town Lake Trail Foundation plus a great way to show someone how much you appreciate them. And we sure do appreciate our good friend Frank.
This weekend, after running our traditional Turkey Trot five-miler, we enjoyed an amazing Thanksgiving Feast cooked by me, Cindy and Elizabeth. We all "showed up" and cooked our hearts out....to the delight of all of us who enjoyed the meal....and yummy desserts, including the very special "chocholate glazed peanut butter tart" from Brad. Nothing like a big ole Reese's cup to top off your meal...WOW...talk about fantastic!
To top off our holidays, we hosted game night and invited friends for Cindy's AMAZING turkey pot pies (did I mention how AMAZING her pot pies are??!!) and a night of cards (65), dominoes and Rumikube. Great fun....a nice, low key way to end the weekend.
Oops, but I forgot my weekend wasn't over yet. Nope, I worked with Fraser to create a new "sitting patio" on our front side yard. Very small but very cute...and creative. We showed up, big time!
A lovely, relaxed (except for the digging, rock carrying, and patio building....) weekend. Great memories, great friends. So much to be thankful for.
And
Thursday, November 16, 2006
Just Show Up
The Running Event
We just finished two great days visiting with running store retailers from all over the country -- and world (welcome our friends from New Zealand!). We were showing them our NeatSeats for consideration for their stores -- and we got a great reception. NeatSeats keep your car seats clean and dry after working out -- no more sweaty, stinky cars! Our customers have really enjoyed the NeatSeats so we hope more and more athletes will find NeatSeats at their local running stores.
We prefer selling through local running stores because they know and care about their local runners, bikers, swimmers and atheletes. Nothing against the big guys -- we just like the personalized attention we get from our local store RunTex, Bicycle Sport Shop, Jack and Adams -- not to mention our favorite Chuy's, but that's another story! They provide us with amazing margaritas and Tex-Mex food with flair! We run and swim so we can enjoy Chuy's!
OK....so I got off track....it was a great show with great companies, including other smaller entrepreneurs like us. We work hard to make a good product and provide great customer service but it's alot of work and effort. But we love it. We show up every day to make our product the best it can be. It is really fun to go to these shows and talk about our homegrown product.
I'm anxious to use my NeatSeat....I've been running/walking from home ever since I rolled my ankle....but it's getting better so I hope to make it to our wonderful Town Lake Hike and Bike Trail soon (and then drive home with my NeatSeat!). I love the Hike and Bike Trail -- and it was great to talk with all of the out-of-towners for The Running Event who enjoyed their runs on our wonderful city jewel.
So thank you Austin for making this such a wonderful place to live and run.
We just finished two great days visiting with running store retailers from all over the country -- and world (welcome our friends from New Zealand!). We were showing them our NeatSeats for consideration for their stores -- and we got a great reception. NeatSeats keep your car seats clean and dry after working out -- no more sweaty, stinky cars! Our customers have really enjoyed the NeatSeats so we hope more and more athletes will find NeatSeats at their local running stores.
We prefer selling through local running stores because they know and care about their local runners, bikers, swimmers and atheletes. Nothing against the big guys -- we just like the personalized attention we get from our local store RunTex, Bicycle Sport Shop, Jack and Adams -- not to mention our favorite Chuy's, but that's another story! They provide us with amazing margaritas and Tex-Mex food with flair! We run and swim so we can enjoy Chuy's!
OK....so I got off track....it was a great show with great companies, including other smaller entrepreneurs like us. We work hard to make a good product and provide great customer service but it's alot of work and effort. But we love it. We show up every day to make our product the best it can be. It is really fun to go to these shows and talk about our homegrown product.
I'm anxious to use my NeatSeat....I've been running/walking from home ever since I rolled my ankle....but it's getting better so I hope to make it to our wonderful Town Lake Hike and Bike Trail soon (and then drive home with my NeatSeat!). I love the Hike and Bike Trail -- and it was great to talk with all of the out-of-towners for The Running Event who enjoyed their runs on our wonderful city jewel.
So thank you Austin for making this such a wonderful place to live and run.
Tuesday, November 07, 2006
VOTE!
Today is election day and as I said in a previous post, I'm all for voting for candidates I support vs voting for candidates just to oppose the other guy. More importantly, though, is to vote. Get out there and be a part of the process.
I'm proud to say all members of my voting-age family voted today. Did you?
I've been showing up every day, trying to heal my ankle I rolled several weeks ago. Takes alot of patience to get out there and try and run. My neighbor and friend Kristie has been showin' up every day for the past several years -- as a terrific mom and a runner trying to get past an ankle/achilles injury. I really appreciate my friends -- all of whom are getting a bit older -- who still get out there and work it. So here's to Kristie, Frank, Cindy S., Diane and all my friends -- and my son and husband -- who are still trying to run/exercise through the aches and pains.
My son is back running again...his calf injury is healed so he's trying to get back in the swing of things. I admire him completely -- at his age, I couldn't run a half of a mile. Nor did I want to. I didn't start running until college -- and then it was just to keep the weight off while I ate and smoked my way through college. Gross....so much better today to run for just good, clean living.
My husband tried aqua-jogging the other day...talk about a workout....he's awesome the way he swims and stays at it every day.
That's it....time to check out the election results and be satisfied - regardless of the winners/outcomes - that we live in a society where we can vote and express our opinions freely.
I'm proud to say all members of my voting-age family voted today. Did you?
I've been showing up every day, trying to heal my ankle I rolled several weeks ago. Takes alot of patience to get out there and try and run. My neighbor and friend Kristie has been showin' up every day for the past several years -- as a terrific mom and a runner trying to get past an ankle/achilles injury. I really appreciate my friends -- all of whom are getting a bit older -- who still get out there and work it. So here's to Kristie, Frank, Cindy S., Diane and all my friends -- and my son and husband -- who are still trying to run/exercise through the aches and pains.
My son is back running again...his calf injury is healed so he's trying to get back in the swing of things. I admire him completely -- at his age, I couldn't run a half of a mile. Nor did I want to. I didn't start running until college -- and then it was just to keep the weight off while I ate and smoked my way through college. Gross....so much better today to run for just good, clean living.
My husband tried aqua-jogging the other day...talk about a workout....he's awesome the way he swims and stays at it every day.
That's it....time to check out the election results and be satisfied - regardless of the winners/outcomes - that we live in a society where we can vote and express our opinions freely.
Wednesday, October 18, 2006
Twins 5-year Birthday
Just Show Up
My friend Elizabeth REALLY SHOWED UP today for her twins' 5-year birthday. She threw them their first big bday party -- complete with pony rides for everyone (that is, everyone who weighed less than 75 pounds....so no ride for this igoactive girl!) Great fun was had by all...most of all, by my friend Elizabeth who worked so hard (starting at 4:30 a.m. today when she baked two cakes!) to create wonderful memories for her daughters and friends. Way to go, Elizabeth!
Dean also "showed up" -- this time, alone, no thanks to his mom. I forgot to tell him that cross country practice was cancelled but he ran three miles anyway. My bad, but I don't think he really minded.
Speaking of kids, I'm doing my part by bringing two great social marketing powerhouses together: EnviroMedia and YouthInterACTIVE. YI does great things to support the health and wellness, educational opportunities and community involvement of today's youth. EMI implements great marketing programs that support the environment and public health. Imagine the great impact (and fun) that these two groups could do together. Stay tuned.
And here's to great success at Mathews Elementary's annual fundraiser this weekend. We were delighted to donate a NeatSeat (gray with pink cancer ribbon) to the silent auction.
It's raining here...finally!! And maybe now we'll actually get some cooler, fall weather.
My friend Elizabeth REALLY SHOWED UP today for her twins' 5-year birthday. She threw them their first big bday party -- complete with pony rides for everyone (that is, everyone who weighed less than 75 pounds....so no ride for this igoactive girl!) Great fun was had by all...most of all, by my friend Elizabeth who worked so hard (starting at 4:30 a.m. today when she baked two cakes!) to create wonderful memories for her daughters and friends. Way to go, Elizabeth!
Dean also "showed up" -- this time, alone, no thanks to his mom. I forgot to tell him that cross country practice was cancelled but he ran three miles anyway. My bad, but I don't think he really minded.
Speaking of kids, I'm doing my part by bringing two great social marketing powerhouses together: EnviroMedia and YouthInterACTIVE. YI does great things to support the health and wellness, educational opportunities and community involvement of today's youth. EMI implements great marketing programs that support the environment and public health. Imagine the great impact (and fun) that these two groups could do together. Stay tuned.
And here's to great success at Mathews Elementary's annual fundraiser this weekend. We were delighted to donate a NeatSeat (gray with pink cancer ribbon) to the silent auction.
It's raining here...finally!! And maybe now we'll actually get some cooler, fall weather.
Tuesday, October 17, 2006
Another Bum Ankle
Just Show Up
So we have another bum ankle in the family -- mine! Rolled my ankle while running in the greenbelt. It hurt like crazy...but am on the road to recovery.
Went to NYC last week and walked (not ran...) to Central Park and stopped by the CBS Early Show, which tapes outside. Ended up chatting with Harry Smith for about 10 minutes. He's a cyclist...he rode 18 miles the day before we chatted. Pretty impressive.
Am back in Austin and walking 3-5 miles...I think I will be OK and ready to run soon.
NeatSeats are exploding....more and more stores are finding us and wanting to sell our product. Very exciting....thanks to Fraser who runs the biz.
Getting sick and tired of all the campaign ads...will be glad when the election is over. I am tired of people voting for someone just because they don't like the other candidate. I personally vote for people I like and who I believe are honest and hardworking.
So we have another bum ankle in the family -- mine! Rolled my ankle while running in the greenbelt. It hurt like crazy...but am on the road to recovery.
Went to NYC last week and walked (not ran...) to Central Park and stopped by the CBS Early Show, which tapes outside. Ended up chatting with Harry Smith for about 10 minutes. He's a cyclist...he rode 18 miles the day before we chatted. Pretty impressive.
Am back in Austin and walking 3-5 miles...I think I will be OK and ready to run soon.
NeatSeats are exploding....more and more stores are finding us and wanting to sell our product. Very exciting....thanks to Fraser who runs the biz.
Getting sick and tired of all the campaign ads...will be glad when the election is over. I am tired of people voting for someone just because they don't like the other candidate. I personally vote for people I like and who I believe are honest and hardworking.
Tuesday, August 15, 2006
First Day of School
Today was the first day of school in Austin, Texas -- my son's first day in high school. Yes, I made him take a photo in front of the school -- and yes, he was in his running clothes because he had XC practice before school. AND, he had to shower in front of others for the first time -- no one has seem him naked since he was 4. But he survived...and in fact, was disappointed that there wasn't more upper classman hazing. Whatever......I remember just trying to find my way around the maze of halls at school when I was a freshman. Of course, I loved seeing all my friends and the cute boys....and just having the feeling of a bit more freedom.
igoactive girl is finally healed and running pretty well again.....yippee! I have done all the hamstring and abductor exercises prescribed to me from the great PT at Sports Performance International....and have been carefully adding mileage and a little speed. So far, so good.
Good thing, because my highly competitive, very fast runner friend Cindy has signed us up for some partner adventure race...I truly must be crazy, but heck...always up for a little adventure. And fun....she swears it's just for fun!!!
And that's why I love exercise so much...it's truly fun for me. I know exercise can be such a bummer for alot of people and I'm blessed to enjoy it so much. I hope I am teaching my kids and the neighbors' kids and anyone I meet that getting movement in your day is a great way to live a long life. It's good for your body and your brain...and your overall well-being.
Here's to lifelong movement and fitness. And to surviving the first week of high school.
igoactive girl is finally healed and running pretty well again.....yippee! I have done all the hamstring and abductor exercises prescribed to me from the great PT at Sports Performance International....and have been carefully adding mileage and a little speed. So far, so good.
Good thing, because my highly competitive, very fast runner friend Cindy has signed us up for some partner adventure race...I truly must be crazy, but heck...always up for a little adventure. And fun....she swears it's just for fun!!!
And that's why I love exercise so much...it's truly fun for me. I know exercise can be such a bummer for alot of people and I'm blessed to enjoy it so much. I hope I am teaching my kids and the neighbors' kids and anyone I meet that getting movement in your day is a great way to live a long life. It's good for your body and your brain...and your overall well-being.
Here's to lifelong movement and fitness. And to surviving the first week of high school.
Monday, August 07, 2006
He Showed Up!
My son went to his first high school cross-country practice this morning -- and enjoyed it. He ran 2.5 miles and felt good, felt prepared -- from all of his summer training with me. I was so proud of him -- he is ready to give it his best shot and that's all you can ask from someone. It's all about showing up.
Core -- it's all about the core. I was reading an article about the importance of strengthening your core as you get older. I have worked hard to build my core and I can tell and see its benefits. I rarely have back pain and am as strong as an ox. I can run 9-10 miles (like I did this weekend) and still feel great.
Disciplining other people's kids -- saw a story on TV about whether it's OK to discipline other people's kids. I wouldn't say anything to kids who I don't know -- but you bet, if I know the kid and I see them misbehaving....I will get on them. And I will tell their parents I did. We have a responsibility as parents to work together and help kids make good choices and to grow up to be responsible adults. It takes a community to do this. What has happened to our society that it's not "PC" to get on other peoples' kids??!!
NeatSeats -- our new shipment of NeatSeats are here! Stay tuned for yellow, light blue, pink and purple NeatSeats to protect your car seats from getting all sweaty and gross.
The New PE at AISD - I am proud of the work that the AISD SHAC PE Committee has done to develop some educational flyers about the New PE at AISD. PE is not what it used to be and we need more students and parents to understand it - and how important it is for kids to learn lifelong skills for exercise, fitness planning, and overall health.
Show up and do something for your health, your family, your community.
Core -- it's all about the core. I was reading an article about the importance of strengthening your core as you get older. I have worked hard to build my core and I can tell and see its benefits. I rarely have back pain and am as strong as an ox. I can run 9-10 miles (like I did this weekend) and still feel great.
Disciplining other people's kids -- saw a story on TV about whether it's OK to discipline other people's kids. I wouldn't say anything to kids who I don't know -- but you bet, if I know the kid and I see them misbehaving....I will get on them. And I will tell their parents I did. We have a responsibility as parents to work together and help kids make good choices and to grow up to be responsible adults. It takes a community to do this. What has happened to our society that it's not "PC" to get on other peoples' kids??!!
NeatSeats -- our new shipment of NeatSeats are here! Stay tuned for yellow, light blue, pink and purple NeatSeats to protect your car seats from getting all sweaty and gross.
The New PE at AISD - I am proud of the work that the AISD SHAC PE Committee has done to develop some educational flyers about the New PE at AISD. PE is not what it used to be and we need more students and parents to understand it - and how important it is for kids to learn lifelong skills for exercise, fitness planning, and overall health.
Show up and do something for your health, your family, your community.
Friday, July 28, 2006
Bum Ankle
Finally, my hubbie went and got his ankle x-rayed....it has been bothering him for several months. Sure enough...something's not right. Looks like part of the ankle bone has become unconnected to where it's supposed to be connected, so it's rubbing the bone funny. (not very medical, I know!)
Over the past several years, Fraser has taken up running and swimming...and he actually became a pretty swift runner. I couldn't keep up with him, particularly if he's running with Nick.
But this nagging ankle has kept him from hitting the hike-and-bike trail -- but he made up for it by swimming and treading water (GREAT workout!) at Barton Springs.
I hope they can fix his ankle so he can get back out there. While we don't run together often (I prefer running in the morning....he prefers later morning or afternoon)....it's still nice to know that we can.
Over the past several years, Fraser has taken up running and swimming...and he actually became a pretty swift runner. I couldn't keep up with him, particularly if he's running with Nick.
But this nagging ankle has kept him from hitting the hike-and-bike trail -- but he made up for it by swimming and treading water (GREAT workout!) at Barton Springs.
I hope they can fix his ankle so he can get back out there. While we don't run together often (I prefer running in the morning....he prefers later morning or afternoon)....it's still nice to know that we can.
Hightlight of my life
Thursday was a highlight of my life. I was driving home from my swim workout and thinking about how lucky I am to be able to work out and feel so good. I was admiring the others in my neighborhood who were out walking and running -- including some older people. I wish and pray that I will still be exercising when I'm older. I truly love exercising and being active. I wish everyone did it so they can experience how great it makes you feel.
I was day-dreaming a bit, thinking about running and how lucky I am to have strong legs, good knees, stable back that allow to me run. I am so thankful.
I came up a hill in my neighborhood and around the corner -- and who did I see running on the sidewalk?! My son and our dog.
Wow...my 14-year-old got up on his own and took off for a run. I have been training with him this summer because he's doing cross country his freshman year and I want him to be semi-ready for their first practices. He seems to enjoy it OK....although I feel like I nag him much of the time to get him out there.
So to see him out running without any prodding or nagging on my part....was just amazing. I'm so proud of him for being disciplined and interested that he did it on his own.
Of course, the thought of running with him for years to come is so heart-warming for me. I won't care if he chooses not to run. But if he sticks with it and it's something we can enjoy together, that would be so cool.
So here's all the teenagers who get out there and run, swim, bike, play golf, and do whatever turns them on!
I was day-dreaming a bit, thinking about running and how lucky I am to have strong legs, good knees, stable back that allow to me run. I am so thankful.
I came up a hill in my neighborhood and around the corner -- and who did I see running on the sidewalk?! My son and our dog.
Wow...my 14-year-old got up on his own and took off for a run. I have been training with him this summer because he's doing cross country his freshman year and I want him to be semi-ready for their first practices. He seems to enjoy it OK....although I feel like I nag him much of the time to get him out there.
So to see him out running without any prodding or nagging on my part....was just amazing. I'm so proud of him for being disciplined and interested that he did it on his own.
Of course, the thought of running with him for years to come is so heart-warming for me. I won't care if he chooses not to run. But if he sticks with it and it's something we can enjoy together, that would be so cool.
So here's all the teenagers who get out there and run, swim, bike, play golf, and do whatever turns them on!
Great workout
On Thursday, did another swim, but without my good friend Diane there to encourage -- she was too busy livin' it up in Houston celebrating a recent client win. Good for her! BUT I suffered without her through this workout:
200 warmup
200 flutter kick
100 freestyle
200 paddles/float
6 50s at 1:15 each
200 paddles/float
3 100s at 2:30 each
6 50s at 1:15 each
200 cool down
Geez....tough but a good endurance workout. That was supposed to be my last workout with Coach Paul, since next week is his last week. But I might go two more times, if I can tolerate getting up at 5:30 a.m.
Like the title of my blog - YOU HAVE TO SHOW UP! I've been showing up and it's all good.
200 warmup
200 flutter kick
100 freestyle
200 paddles/float
6 50s at 1:15 each
200 paddles/float
3 100s at 2:30 each
6 50s at 1:15 each
200 cool down
Geez....tough but a good endurance workout. That was supposed to be my last workout with Coach Paul, since next week is his last week. But I might go two more times, if I can tolerate getting up at 5:30 a.m.
Like the title of my blog - YOU HAVE TO SHOW UP! I've been showing up and it's all good.
Wednesday, July 26, 2006
Out and About
Went out last night to the Austin Monthly magazine launch party to meet and greet some of the editors. Went with my PR pal Alicia and we visited with several media folks about the goings on in Austin and enjoying some adult-time during the summer when kids are at camp. It's fun to get out of your everyday routine and see colleagues.
Getting up this morning for my Wed run was a little tougher, but hey, if you don't show up, you don't get the benefits. My ever-loyal running pal and best friend Cindy always shows up. She kept me on a good pace...harder than what I'm used to but easier for her. Now that the hamstring is better, it's time I pick up the pace a bit.
My son, however, got up and decided he was too pooped to run. He actually ran down the block with us and was not keeping up and decided to turn back. Maybe later today, he'll decide to do his own run. He's doing tons more than most of his friends.....I'm proud that he's been getting out and running with me.
Getting up this morning for my Wed run was a little tougher, but hey, if you don't show up, you don't get the benefits. My ever-loyal running pal and best friend Cindy always shows up. She kept me on a good pace...harder than what I'm used to but easier for her. Now that the hamstring is better, it's time I pick up the pace a bit.
My son, however, got up and decided he was too pooped to run. He actually ran down the block with us and was not keeping up and decided to turn back. Maybe later today, he'll decide to do his own run. He's doing tons more than most of his friends.....I'm proud that he's been getting out and running with me.
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