On to Plan B....

Race Change: Chevron Houston Marathon to Aramco Houston Half Marathon Dear Hillarie Van Zanten: You have successfully switched your race from the Chevron Houston Marathon to the Aramco Houston Half Marathon.

Time for an update!  Its been 3 weeks since the infamous "Acorn Attack".  I have spent a lot of time in the pool still, visited the Chiropractor and had long conversations with the husband.  

The last of these left me with a heavy heart and a lot of praying for an answer.  J has always had my back when it comes to my drive to see goals achieved.  This has not changed but for the first time he voiced concern over the long term affects of continuing to push through to the marathon next month.  It was time to take a moment to listen and contemplate this.  What is the ultimate goal?  What are the repercussions after the marathon if I pushed it?

In the end, he's right, as usual!  Of course this pisses me off but God brought this man into my life to support, encourage and sometimes be my dose of reality when needed and for all of this I love him!  

I am not physically or mentally ready for 26.2 miles.  To run a marathon unprepared is not the goal.  It would be miserable (not that a properly trained for one isn't but I digress).  So I will take my ultimate goal off the table for now and will go to Houston next month to run, not for PR or to qualify for a bigger race but just to run.  I will run the Half Marathon for the pure fun of it!

Thank you all for the support this year!  Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!  Here's to 2016, a healthier year both physically and mentally!

Wish me luck!

Acorn-1/Me-0

This was the plan anyway!  Saturday's weather was ideal and most of the group was back out and ready for 16 miles.  It felt great to get going.  Football and the upcoming College games were the topic of conversation.  We were 2 miles in and I decided to take the lead (or they let me think anyway).  And then it happened.  One step all is going just as planned and the next step you watch your ankle turning in an unnatural direction and then you are on the ground!  A darn acorn! Unbelievable!

So after x-rays, the good news, its not broken.  It is however, a partially torn ligament.  Three days off my foot and then to see how much I can tolerate.  Not the way I wanted to start my weekend but all is not lost.  As a friend said, "tis merely a flesh wound'.  

We've got 6 weeks to go but I'm taking it a week at a time and in the end, it is what it is.

Wish me luck!

Day 30 of Thanks

Whew......I'm thankful I made it through.  I didn't always post an individual "thanks" but I did give thanks for each day this month.

I am truly thankful for the opportunity to reflect on the things that I am thankful for.  I didn't even begin to skim the surface though.  I think it would take a year or more to give thanks to all the blessings in my life.

I started today off with another swim and I have to admit, it is getting easier and I may even have caught myself smiling!  After a weekend of rain and not completing my training runs, it was nice to start the week off with a fresh start.  

Tomorrow is the first day of the last month of 2015 and it will blow by.  I will blink and it will be the new year and I'll be wondering what's in store for me.  But tonight as I lay down to sleep, I'm going to say my prayers and thank God for everyone that touches my life.  When I wake up tomorrow to start the day, I will take a deep breath and try to remember to live each day fully and not worry about what lies ahead.  One step at a time, one day at a time, one run at a time!

Thank you for continuing to check in and supporting me!
Wish me luck!

Day 29 of Thanks

Thankful for a lazy day in pjs finishing the tree decorations before the week starts!  Let the cookie baking begin!

Days 23-28 of Thanks

Another post of multiple days of thanks!

Day 23 - Thankful for two women I have had the pleasure of getting to know through Vacation Bible School.  We have formed a small bible study group and they are so much more knowledgeable than I but VERY patient as I work through understanding my faith and things that don't come as easy to me.

Day 24 - Thankful my mom!  She is always there ready to see the humor in things I don't.  To remind me to laugh at myself and not take things so seriously.  When it comes to her family, her love for us is fierce and she loves her grandkids beyond measure.

Day 25 - Thankful for a wonderful day spent with my family.  My mother in law and a very special person in her life came for Thanksgiving.  We spent the morning shopping and the afternoon taking Dave to the Book Store Depository for the JFK tour.  It was a great day spent getting to know him.

Day 26 - Happy Thanksgiving!  So much to say thanks for....Started the day with a few of my Running Club kids.  It was so fun watching them race and see how far they have come since the start of the school year.  Thankful for a great friend that paced me through the race and for a wonderful husband that served as team photographer again this year.

Thankful for the wonderful meal (although turkey is not my favorite).  My dad even said my stuffing was the best I've ever made.  (Thanks Dad for the sweet lie, love him)

Day 27 - Thankful for the calm nature of my husband.  When we realized the night before that our fridge and dishwasher were going to need to be replaced, he just rolled with it.  He was up and at Lowe's at 5:30 on Black Friday, scoping out the deals and sending model numbers to me for research before we made our purchases.  And to top it off, had to run to Hobby Lobby in the pouring rain to buy a new Christmas tree.  I was just going to deal with a tree that only half the lights were lit but his response, "You said you wanted a bigger tree, so let's go get you one!"  Love this man to the moon and back. 

Day 28 - Thankful for a reprieve in the rain so that I could sneak in a 6 mile run.  Thanks to my running partner again for keeping an eye on the weather and texting out a call to run!  

Days 18 - 22 of Thanks

This pretty much sums up the last 5 days.  Since Tuesday's storm, its been a whirlwind week.  IVZ was my running partner on my first track workout back from injury.  She warmed me up and cooled me down.  The best part......she looked at me when we finished and said, "Good job Mom"!  

I swam 3 days this week and actually felt like I was getting the hang of it!  I even got a friend that's been battling an injury to come out and join me.

Saturday morning saw our first cold spell and the wind was brutal!  I was thankful for a friend that packed an extra hat and gloves so I didn't freeze and for a group that may all be at different levels of injury but we are still out there supporting each other through whatever distance we can make.

IVZ had a soccer tournament with a new group of girls and they had a great showing.  I'm thankful for a great club & coach that keep things in perspective.  

I'm thankful for Sundays & the opportunity to worship and thank the Lord for all that he has provided for me and my family, even as undeserving as we are.

Day 17 of Thanks

Today I am thankful for my family.  That we are all together safe and under one roof.  After last night's storms and a day of cleaning up and assessing the damage, we have a lot to be thankful for.  The Lord was watching over us.  The damage could have been so much worse.  

Kids enjoying the fallen tree before its removal

Day 16 of Thanks

Yesterday I was home with IVZ as she was sick.  I think her busy weekend wore her down.  I was a little surprised to get a phone call about 2:30 telling me JVZ, who was on a field trip, was sick with a migraine and would I mind picking him up so he didn't need to ride on a bus back to school.  

As I headed out to get him I let the school know I'd be late to pick up AVZ as a result.  As soon as I knew he'd be taken care of, off I sped to get my oldest.  My phone rang again asking if I would give permission to one of the teacher's to drive him back in her car and she would meet me at school.  Yes, please & thank you!

We are VERY blessed to have so many wonderful teachers in our life!  Teachers do not get enough credit most days but I try to make sure they know how much we appreciate them.  They didn't have to call me, they could have asked the school office to call.  They didn't have to sit outside with him while he fought waves of nausea and they certainly didn't need to put him in their personal vehicle not knowing whether he would be sick again or not!

These are not just teachers but friends!  I am thankful for each and every one of them.  They are the real super heroes in this world!  Thank you from the bottom of my heart for taking such good care of the 3 most important pieces of my heart!!

Days 14 & 15 of Thanks

What a weekend!  I am thankful for a full weekend spent watching IVZ do what she loves.  We spent the whole weekend together on the soccer field!  Sunday saw the end of the tournament for her team.  She was exhausted and all she wanted to do was curl up and watch movies with her mom.  I know these days are coming to an end sooner than I would like but I'm thankful for the days I have left.

Reminded me of afternoons spent watching musicals with my mom!  Some of my best memories!

Day 13 of Thanks

I'm thankful today for my oldest as he was my saving grace today!  I came home from a morning in Dallas and stuck in traffic with a headache like I haven't had in a LONG time!  I had to phone a friend to pick up the kids from school & when they got home, JVZ immediately went into caregiver mode.  He made me eat toast & applesauce and drink water.  

He must have listened all those times he or one of his siblings were ill and I made them hydrate and eat small meals.  

I am truly blessed by his kind and caring heart!  He mended me back to health.

Day 12 of Thanks

We have all heard this before.  I even say this to my kids quite often but yesterday this really sunk in for me.  

I reached out to a friend that has been telling me since I met him that I should be swimming.  It would help my running and its no impact so reduces injuries.  I laughed each time, joking that I would drown and the only stroke I knew was the dog paddle.

Well this week I told him he won and I needed help.  In order to give my training any hope, I felt that I needed to do something while I work on my ankle and build the miles back up. 

We met in the morning and he guided me through.  He didn't sugar coat anything, didn't coddle just told me to put my face in the water and swim.  I complained A LOT and I venture to say it was the longest 40 minutes of his life!

So on the 12th day of November, I am thankful for the patience of a friend.  

Day 11 of Thanks

Happy Veteran's Day!

Today my thanks goes out to all past & present service men and women but especially to my favorite veteran, my Dad!  He sacrificed so much for not only his country but for his family to provide a better life for us.  He is an amazingly strong man who always puts his family first, loves his grandchildren fiercely and has always been my biggest cheerleader!

Love you Dad & thank you for everything!

Day 10 of Thanks

Eek!  Today I have to tell you a secret, I've been running!  Now don't get upset, I have been running with approval and its only been twice.  I finally agreed to see a Chiropractor and had my second session today.  After the appointment, I went for a run and had a smile on my face the whole time.  People that I passed probably thought I was crazy!

As I was finishing my run, I had to run around a woman sitting in the middle of the trail  I didn't know what she was doing at first but as I came closer I could see that she was drawing with chalk.  It seemed perfect to finish a great run with this beautiful piece of art in progress.

Today, I am thankful for a beautiful fall day, the ability to run after just a few chiropractic appointments and to finish it with a view of this and its powerful message.

Day 7, 8 & 9 of Thanks

Well, I didn't promise that I would be prompt on my daily doses of thankfulness or did I?  Anyway, the weekend as usual was very busy so when I think of what I am thankful for over the past three days, here they are:

Forgiveness

This is HUGE for me!  I am so thankful for the grace to be forgiven.  I don't deserve it, I have no right to ask for it so when I receive forgiveness I truly want to be better for that person.

Friendships

The last few days have been spent together as a family but also with friends.  I love that we have close friends that not just the kids are friends but the parents are too.  

Growing in Faith

My parents did such a good job bringing my brother & I up in the Catholic faith and set a wonderful example.  I always knew this but today while finishing up a lesson in my bible study it really hit home how much they tried to integrate the faith into everything we did.  The study guide gave examples of ways, daily, to continue your spiritual growth and those that were listed are things I did as a kid and continue to do with my own children to this day.  Thanks Mom & Dad

I'm also thankful that I have found a study that truly challenges me and leaves me wanting more.  For the ladies that have formed a small group to discuss our studies and have the patience with me as a work through thoughts that I just can't seem to get.

Day 6 of Thanks

I seem to always be a day late with my thankful post but last night's was for good reason.  I spent a long over do night out with this lady and got home way past my bed time!  

This wonderful woman has been by my side through thick & thin.  She is my support, cheerleader, shoulder to lean on, ear to listen, person to laugh with.  When I am getting to serious, she's there to make sure I laugh at myself and if I need it, she's the first in line to give me a swift kick in the rear!

She is my person and for that I am thankful.  Its a hard job for sure!

Day 5 of Thanks

Today was Running Club!  The weather forecast all week called for 100% chance of rain.  Luke's Locker, our local running store, was scheduled to visit and time our run.  We were all super excited and praying for the weather to hold off.

I am thankful for 25 minutes of light sprinkles, for kids that despite the downpour at the end just wanted to do one more lap and for volunteers that kept encouraging and cheering.  

I could not have imagined, 3 years ago, how much this group would mean to me.  I look forward to Thursdays and seeing their progress and the pure joy on the faces of every kid.

Today I am thankful for the SJS Running Club!

Days 3 & 4 of Thanks

For some reason yesterday got away from me and posting so today I'll double up.  First, my oldest is someone I am thankful everyday for!  His faith has always amazed me but he completely threw me for a loop yesterday on our way home from school.  He was explaining an assignment he was given in his religion class.  He had to identify a religious figure & someone he knows that is a faithful person & list ways that he can learn from them both.   I was completely shocked when he told me that I was the person he picked.  I asked him why he picked me & his response, "Mom you live your faith everyday".  Proud Mom moment needless to say.  I'm so thankful for his kind heart that believes in me.

Pope Pius, JVZ & Me - Puppets for the assignment

And then there's this kid......I am so thankful for his silliness, his laughter, his heart and his bravery to be who he is.  He was the most adorable priest this morning in mass and didn't hesitate when asked if he would wear it.

I am one lucky & thankful lady to have these two boys call me Mom.

 

Day Two of Thanks

I am thankful for this guy!  After a busy weekend with a testy wife, my husband understands & gets me.  He knows this lack of running is wearing on my nerves and came home to help with dinner, homework and bedtime routines.  And thank goodness he did!  Homework was a chore tonight for our little guy and IVZ just needed a little more support than usual.  

JVZ did a great job assisting with the creation of a robot made out of a box and helped with the glue and tape as needed.  

Sometimes I forget to tell him how thankful I am for his patience, understanding and support.  

30 Days of Thanks!

I can't believe yesterday was Halloween and today begins the countdown to Thanksgiving and then Christmas!  Each year seems to go by quicker than the last.  

Today was a lazy day at home after a busy Halloween.  My sweet husband made it a point to tell the kids that we would be watching the New York Marathon instead of the normal Disney Channel all morning.  Surprisingly, there weren't any complaints and Mini Me actually sat and watched with me, choosing which runners were her favorites to win.  

We both sat and watched in awe of how effortless the elite runners make it look. We watched as the first wave of "normal" runners started and I felt that lump in my throat as the screen filled with men & women pumping their arms, waving and jumping in front of the camera, all with HUGE smiles on their faces.  The commentator said two very profound things during this portion of the live coverage:

First, he mentioned the smiles...... they would be the same smiles we would see cross the finish line but for a much different reason.  
At the beginning, it's the excitement of finally stepping up to the starting line you have trained so hard to get to.  At the finish line, that smile is for the last 26.2 miles, you have accomplished something that only 1% of the population has.  You have seen your body pushed beyond its limits, in pain & not sure it can go on. 

Second, he said this & I'm paraphrasing, "the race is run at the front with the elites but the marathon is run in the middle & back of the pack".  So true!  For most of us, we will never run a marathon to win.  We run because we love it.  I'm not saying the elites don't but if the majority of runners only did it for the win, there would be a lot fewer than 1%!  I really appreciated that the acknowledgement.

While we finished watching, I thought about yesterday and the fact that I had the great pleasure of watching IVZ race a 5k.  This wasn't her first but up until yesterday, all of the previous races we have done together, I have been running too.  I have focused on my race and been there at the finish line when she came across.  Yesterday, I didn't run but walked the course so I was able to see her as she ran the 2nd have of the race.  I saw the effort she was putting in and was able to cheer and encourage her.  I even snapped a quick picture.

I could not have been more proud of her!  She ran it in 28:11 which is a 9:05 min/mile and good for 2nd Place!  This was her day and I was so happy to share in it with her.  

So since its the first of November, I decided that I am going to do a daily post with what I am most thankful for over the next 30 days.  

And surprise, surprise today, I am thankful for her and a shared hobby!  This may not be her first passion, that will always be soccer but she does appreciate running and wants to continue racing and do it together.  For that, I am thankful and will support her for as long as she'll let me.

As for my injury, I'm at the halfway point and trying to be patient......

Wish me luck!  

Open the Eyes of My Heart...

  

Am I the only person that can still be moved and amazed by the message in a homily?  Probably not but I really can't put into words how today's homily at mass moved me.  In the gospel reading, Baritmaeus receives his sight through Jesus' healing.  Father went on to explain that Baritmaeus was a true follower.  He described Jesus as a superstar and people wanted to be near him, to follow him but didn't truly understand what it meant to follow.  Father asked the kids if Jesus asked them what they wanted from him, what would they ask for.  That struck a chord with me.  What would I ask of the Lord?

Another analogy Father used to explain his point was a story about a man that climbed a mountain to visit & learn from a wise man.  The wise man served the visitor tea and while he was pouring the cup, he didn't notice that the cup was overflowing onto the floor.  The visitor finally stopped the wise man, pointing out that the cup was full and he was spilling.  The wise man explained that the visitor's mind was like the cup, it was so full that nothing the wise man could tell him would fit.  The point......empty your mind, be open. 

I may not have heard what I wanted yesterday at the doctor but as I sat in the examine room waiting to see the doctor, I prayed.  I prayed and promised to do whatever I was told.  I have another stress reaction.  So I will rest and stay off my leg as much as possible and be thankful for the opportunity to do things right.  And when I have been fitted with my custom orthotics and am cleared to run again, we'll see where my road leads.

At the end of mass the choir sang the recessional hymn and it was perfect......

Open the eyes of my heart Lord, I want to see You!

Time to put on my Big Girl Panties

So I'm 3 weeks into training...

Honesty check, I'm not feeling it yet.  I don't feel the excitement I did a year ago and I wondered why.  My runs have gone good so far with the exception of this weekend.  More on that in a minute.  

The image above pretty much sums up my thoughts on my Thursday morning run, which makes me laugh a little.  I think I have made it pretty clear that I don't like to run alone.  Confession, at 42 I'm scared of the dark.  Not so much the dark, as much as what's out there that I can't see.  Example?  Last Saturday's long run took us on an unlit  "country" road where we came along something moving in the ditch.  Turned out to be a skunk that was not at all scared of us!  If I had been alone, I think I would have melted into a puddle right then and there.  I don't like running alone in the dark!  But running with me in the dark is never without entertainment.  Just ask the guys, I'm always good for a laugh  

So back to Thursday, I was scheduled to do my first tempo run & I have been joining a group that meets on Tuesday & Thursday.  We all run different paces & distances but start out together and eventually break off into 2 or 3 groups.  Well, I was a group of one when it was time to turn up the speed, which was a little scary for me.  I just kept telling myself to suck it up and get through it.  I guess I can't technically say I ran alone, the group was there, just not "right" there.  I did make it through & I was proud of myself for kinda running solo.  Baby steps....

I have promised to train smarter this time around so when my leg didn't feel right the last 2 miles of the run, I went home and immediately iced.  As the day went on the pain never completely went away and the hubby thought it looked swollen.  So, I'll see the dr. and maybe its nothing but maybe its something.  We will see and if needed get a game plan going earlier than later.  Needless to say, I took the weekend off!

So now back to the lack of excitement.  I found myself in a love/hate relationship with Facebook these last two weeks.  I love the feature that shows you your memories from years past, but its been hard to read through the posts from last year.  I read the excitement and anticipation in them and feel bad because I know the outcome and the person writing them at the time didn't.  I read all the comments of encouragement and confidence from friends that I was going to come home having qualified last year.  This blog was meant to hold me accountable and that is still its purpose but man its hard.  Its hard to continue to write about the journey not sure if anyone is going to continue to read and support.  Or will people read and think "just another run in a journey that will come up short again?"

I guess either way, my journey continues.  I will visualize the goal and document my thoughts.  I will put on my Big Girl Panties and run through the fear!

Wish me luck!

P.S. Good luck to everyone running races tomorrow!  I will be your cheering for you! 

Taking advice from a classic

Here we go again!  Week 1 of training started this past Monday for the 2016 Houston Marathon.  This will be my next and 3rd attempt to qualify and check off that pesky Boston Marathon off my bucket list.

It has taken all week to put my thoughts together and I'm still struggling to sort them out but the one phrase that continues to run through my mind is a quote from the latest movie version of Cinderella...."Have Courage, and Be Kind".

This first week went well and I feel pretty good.  There weren't any pace goals & no speed work so a pretty normal running week of me.  I went for a little longer run than was scheduled today.  I have some friends training for a half marathon in 2 weeks.  I asked to join them on their long runs a few weeks back and they keep asking me back, so I ran their scheduled 12 miles with them.  We had a great run. The weather was gorgeous with ideal temperatures.  They are ready and will have a fantastic race!

Back to what I believe will be my mantra for this round of training.  I am no Cinderella but I'd like to believe that I am kind and that its courage that keeps me striving to achieve my goals.  Not just courage to achieve my goals but courage to seek kindness and light in a sometimes dark world.

I'll keep you posted.  Wish me luck!

Where were you when the world stopped turning.....

Fourteen years....It seems a lifetime ago but on this day every year my emotions get the better of me.  As I changed my photos on Facebook last night in remembrance I wondered why it still feels so fresh every year.  

This morning I thought about where I was, where I've been and where I am now.  I am not the only person in this country affected by the events of that day.  There's not a person alive that I think wasn't/isn't affected.

Fourteen years ago today, I was engaged to be married in one month, we had bought our first home, it was sparsely furnished and we both left that morning to jobs we loved.  It seemed, like everyone else starting their day, we had a beautiful future in front of us.  Don't misunderstand, very little changed for us, we were still married but there sure was uncertainty.  

At the time, I worked for American Eagle Airlines, American's regional and we were just settling in with our VP to listen to our morning briefing.  It was a normal morning of covering the day before operation, delays and the forecast for the current day.  Our facilitator wasn't too far along in his briefing when he let everyone know that there had been an incident in New York involving an airplane.  As any airline employee would do, we held our breath, prayed it wasn't us and prayed for the airline and people on board.

I had recently been trained as a CARE team member in the event our airline had an accident and when it was confirmed that it was indeed American, I immediately called to activate my status not knowing where they would send me or how long I would be gone.  My next call was to my soon to be husband to let him know that I basically didn't know anything but would keep him updated.  As the Lord does always, he was watching over me and I was sent to the Command Center to assist in assigning members to victims families, so I was staying local.  At this point we had no idea this was a terrorist attack.  It wasn't until our second airplane went down in Washington, D.C. that the full scope of what was happening came to light.  

The next week, I spent my days & evenings helping to send CARE team members to the families of the Flight Attendants lost.  I have read a lot of posts today about the unsung heroes and I could not agree more!   

When I decided I wanted to be a Flight Attendant at the very naive age of 19, I thought all it would entail was a smile at the airplane door and the ability to push a cart down the aisle and serve drinks to thirsty passengers.  Plus I dreamed of all the places I would travel.  Boy, did I learn a lot in the weeks of training I, along with 20 others were required to complete.  

On this day, I remember those Flight Attendants who I only knew by name.  I never met any of them but I know they did their job to the best of their abilities and for that I thank them.  While I had a wedding to look forward to and a future of wonderful unknowns that resulted in three beautiful children, job promotions for both my husband & I, 2 homes filled with love and laughter and the blessing to leave a job I loved dearly but felt that desire to be with my kids more; these beautiful, strong, courageous individuals said good bye to their loved ones that day not knowing it would be for the last time.  

So my friends, if you are reading this, I would ask that while airline travel has become a little more difficult, lines are long, airplanes are packed, there's little room for your carry-ons, please thank the individual at the door, greeting you with a smile and know that they will do everything to keep you safe.   

In remembrance of:

American Airlines Flight 11

Pilots
Captain John Ogonowski
First Officer Thomas McGuinness

Flight Attendants
Barbara “Bobbie” Arestegui
Jeffrey Collman
Sara Low
Karen Martin
Kathleen Nicosia
Betty Ong
Jean Roger
Dianne Snyder
Madeline Sweeney

American family members
Laurie Neira
Renee Newell

American Airlines Flight 77

Pilots
Captain Charles “Chic” Burlingame
First Officer David Charlebois

Flight Attendants
Michele Heidenberger
Jennifer Lewis
Kenneth Lewis
Renee May

American family members
M. J. Booth
Eddie Dillard
Captain Bud Flagg (Retired)
Dee Flagg

United Airlines Flight 175

Pilots
Captain Victor Saracini
First Officer Michael Horrocks

Flight Attendants
Robert Fangman
Amy Jarret
Amy King
Kathryn LaBorie
Alfred Marchand
Michael Tarrou
Alicia Titus

United Airlines Flight 93

Pilots
Captain Jason Dahl
First Officer LeRoy Homer

Flight Attendants
Lorraine Bay
Sandra Bradshaw
Wanda Green
CeeCee Lyles
Deborah Welsh

Welcome to Lake Highlands D3, Well Done!

This comes a few days after the conclusion of 3 straight weekends of soccer because to be honest the emotions were just too raw on Sunday.  I wasn't sure why, hormones, frustration over parent behavior (mine included), irritation at poor sportsmanship from opponents, etc.  It wasn't until I looked at the date yesterday that it hit me.  Even while living in the moment of the here & now, your sub conscience remembers.

Our last game Sunday was very important, not that any leading up to this point weren't, but because of the decisions made by the coach of the previous game as well as our team not playing to the best of their abilities, it was that much more important that we get the win.

As I sat on the sideline during the halftime break with our team down 0-2, I began to pray St Patrick's Breastplate. I said it over & over & over.

When the girls returned to the field, I felt an overwhelming wave of emotions to the point I had to get up and walk away.  I hurt for them but was so proud!  As I was walking away, I continued to watch the play on the field.  I saw IVZ receive the ball and make a run.  I watched her do this at least 3 times.  I watched her open up her stride and appear to float, with the ball at her feet, across the field.  While she never made it in the net, she shot and got right back in there.  EVERY girl out there, fought, won the ball, looked for the open opportunity and GOT BACK IN THERE!

I told IVZ that morning, thanks to the wise words of my co-manager, win or lose, D1, D3, Lake Highlands or Plano, I was proud of her!  She is stronger, more confident and athletic than I EVER was or am!  I continue to pursue my goals because of HER!

In the end, the final second of the game, we took a corner kick and it was a beautiful moment.  The ball sailed through the air & hooked right into the top right corner to tie the game!  Through everything, the rejoicing of the parents, the tears of joy on the girls' faces made it all better.  We may not always get along, we may not see eye to eye but in a family who always does?  That's what we are, family.

Now as far as the emotions and why they were so overwhelming, Sunday marked 2 years since  Grandpa Beach left to watch over us from heaven.  He didn't get to see IVZ play a lot, but when he did, he loved to see her run.  So, I believe in my heart, 100% he was the wind beneath her wings!

I want to conclude my post today by thanking our coach & the founder of our club.  First, Coach, your consistent pushing them to dig deeper, your patience, your honest reflection on how you can be better and how you have NEVER given up on them makes you stand out above all the rest!  Lastly, but surely not least, Coach Smith, your integrity in the face of criticism proves that this Club is not about how many wins we have but about what type of players we are developing!  Thank you for your constant support and strong faith!

05G Penn is ready to take on this next challenge!  Wish them luck!

Galatians 6:9 - Let us not become weary in doing good.......

Galatians 6:9 - Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.

The last month has been completely focused on soccer since IVZ's big signing day.  The girls have met twice a day, every day for a week with running and conditioning in the mornings, practices in the evenings, weekly skills sessions and countless rain checks on dates with friends.  All in preparation for this weekend and the goal of successfully entering 

Lake Highlands Girls Classic League Division 1.

Today we finished with a 1-1-1 record for the weekend.  It was not enough and so we play again next week.  As I watched the girls come towards the parents with tears in the their eyes, I wondered where I would find the words to ease my child's disappointment when I too was feeling the same.  

Sometimes being the parent stinks because you want to feel down too but as we walked off the field, I told her it was okay to be sad, disappointed, mad even but there is a lesson to be learned and something to take away from every experience.  God has a plan and a reason for everything.  We need to have faith and know that for everything there is a reason.  I'm not sure if she nodded in agreement to get me to stop talking or not but it was important that she & I both hear that.

I haven't been running much and I've been using soccer as the excuse but if I'm really honest its because deep down I'm still disappointed in myself.  I understand the hard work the girls have put in, how they visualized winning and celebrating only to come up short.  

Isn't it funny how you start off trying to teach and end up being taught.  We can learn a lot from our kids.  IVZ will get another shot at her goal and if I know her and the team, they will come back stronger!  I hope to, too!

Wish us luck! 

Today's road ended on the soccer pitch!

I haven't posted in awhile but its not from lack of things going on but because of what has been....

My running has taken a backseat recently to a very big event "I" has been preparing for.  Today was her day and I want to make sure I capture all that has transpired leading up to it.  My girl has been playing soccer since she was 4 (she's 10) and it seems like a lifetime ago since that first game that she refused to even get on the field.  When I think back, I laugh because I was convinced this was going to a VERY short lived hobby.  Her coach at the time told her she could be a butterfly if she would get out there....and sure enough he picked her up and she flapped her "butterfly wings" out onto the center of the field!  We haven't gotten her off the pitch since.

First Team
 "Grasshoppers"

Let me tell you something I think I have told you before, I AM NOT COMPETITIVE!  Or at least I wasn't at her age.  I played one season of indoor soccer and didn't like it because my socks kept falling down!  As my dad would say, I just didn't have that "killer" instinct, but somehow, "I" does!  And I love to watch her do her thing!

Found her groove

When we decided to move her into a more competitive environment we really didn't know anything about this sport or what it meant to "play competitively".  We learned a lot that first year.  I saw her lose her love for the game and feared she wouldn't get it back.  Fever United was not our first stop but it would be our last.  She found a home and quickly gel'd with the team and the coaches.  Finding that love again!

One of her first seasons with Fever United

Teammates working together!

Teammates spending time between games!

I'll be the first to admit, Texas sports are insane!  It is crazy to me to have my 10 year old sign a contract and commit herself to a team for a year.  What?!  But that's exactly what she did, without hesitation.  Tonight she signed on the dotted line and committed to Fever United 05G Penn!  Her team has come so far and worked so hard!  I'm proud of each one of them!  At this age, to watch a group of girls support, encourage and love one another like they do is amazing.

Signing her first contract!

Signing Day - Fever United 05G Penn!

So proud of our girl!

As the world watches the Women's World Cup, you have to see similarities in the US team and young teams across the country.  They all love this game, play as a team, depend on one another and win or lose stand as one!  "I" has found this in her team & I can't wait to watch what is next for all of them.

My goal may have been pushed back a year but the Fever girls continue to inspire me.  Their hardwork, perseverance and determination show me that you can accomplish anything you set your mind to.  I may be taking the summer off but I wouldn't want to be any other place than on the sideline cheering our team on and watching them do what they do, to achieve the next goal......qualify to play in the Lake Highlands Girls Classic League.

Wish them luck!

Texas Independence Relay

Photo Courtesy of Wim Schalken

What did I just do?!  I just had one of the most memorable weekends of my life, that's what.  While Boston still remains #1 on my bucket list.  I just checked off another that I didn't even know had made the list.  I was one runner in a twelve member team that competed in the Texas Independence Relay (TIR), a 200 mile road race from Gonzales to the San Jacinto Monument just outside of Houston.

Our map!

Firing the Cannon 

First Leg of our 200 mile journey

So I will admit that I don't know a lot about Texas History.  I'm not a native of the state nor do I claim to have gotten here as fast as I could.   So doing this race was more about seeing how I would endure it than about following in the footsteps of the brave men that fought for the State's Independence.  I say this, however I was inspired by what the Mayor of Gonzales, Bobby Logan said to each team before the cannon fired to start their race:

Gonzales Mayor Bobby Logan's inspirational TIR send-off speech, Saturday morning, March 28, 2015:

"Good morning and welcome to Gonzales where the first shot for Texas independence was fired. In a few seconds when that cannon fires you will begin your 200 mile trek of the Texas Independence Relay. I know for many of you it is merely a walk in the park. But on your journey to San Jacinto I want you to remember about the 32 men from Gonzales that answered the call to help defend the Alamo. These brave men were the only ones to respond to Col. William B. Travis' plea and some were as young as 16 years old. They gave their all to make Texas the greatest state in this nation. Good luck, God speed and remember the Immortal 32."

Gotta admit, this non-Texas felt a little proud to live in this great state after that!  So, off we went to spend the next sub-24 hours (we hoped) in 2 vans, running 200 miles through the countryside. 

Leg #1

My first hand off!

We started at 12:16 on Saturday but I didn't run my first leg until 7pm.  I was secretly thankful for the later run and the sun at my back.  I don't think I could have survived the afternoon runs on gravel roads with the dust from passing cars choking me.  My teammates that covered those legs are stronger than I and I was in awe of all of them!  I was happy with my time on that first leg and I got one "kill"!  No blood was shed and my kill was a "road kill" although I did see plenty of those!  Passing a runner from another team was considered a kill & it helped to push me to run harder.  Its what I focused on.  Over the course of the weekend I had a total of 6 "kills".  Pretty proud of myself.

Finishing up my night run

Did I mention I spent 2 days in a van with 5 other people that were running anywhere from 4 to 7 miles at time for at least 3 legs, sometimes more?  Can you imagine the aroma of our van?  Thank goodness there was a high school in a town along the way that opened up their locker rooms so we could "freshen" up.  After a hot shower, our van was on rest and we tried to get some sleep.  I've always been able to sleep in a vehicle but apparently that only applies if the vehicle is in motion.  Oh well, who needs sleep anyway, I was too wound up thinking about my middle of the night run.  This was the leg I was most worried about.  I do most of my running in the dark but with people.  This would be the first time I ran solo, in the dark, on a road, in the middle of nowhere, with who knows what in the bushes!  Apparently, the "what" was a spectator cheering runners on from their dark lawn where NO ONE could see them.  I about came out of my skin!  While I appreciated the encouragement, shine a light for goodness sakes!

So now I have to brag on my team for a minute.  I have said before that I am truly blessed to have met this group.  They got me through my marathon training, believed in me and were my cheerleaders!  

Some background first though.   For 2 weeks leading up to the relay I had a lot of restless and sleepless nights.  Besides making sure the kids were taken care of, I needed to figure out how to get to church on Palm Sunday during the race.  I had come to the conclusion that the only way to make it happen was to rent a car on Sunday to go to an evening mass and then head back to DFW after.  Well, our Team Captain was not having that.  He found a 6am mass in downtown Houston and worked out the leg assignments so that I could attend church and not have to drive home alone.  They waited on me and then off we went to finish our portions of the race.  What a team!

Exhausted but spiritually full!

So the goal was to finish in less than 24 hours.....mission accomplished!  Finish time, 23 hours 52 minutes, 4th team to cross the finish line.  What an A-MAZING weekend, with a wonderful, fun loving, prank pulling, super fast group of people I am proud to call friends.  Until next year, my friends.  And as far as that other item on the Bucket List, one of my teammates & new friend is headed to mark it off her list this month!  Wish her luck!

Girl Power on Team BCRC!

Our Bling!
Photo Courtesy of fellow teammate, Wim Schalken

2015 Team Bear Creek Running Co

Complete!