So despite my super supportive boyfriend's claims- I am not a runner.
I prefer when the term "jogging" was in fashion. Because at best, I am a jogger.
Mostly I am someone who focuses on putting one foot in front of the other.
I had registered for the Monument 10K run in Richmond no less than 4 times.
I walked it one year.
Most years, I enjoyed the warmth and comfort of my bed then the attempt to run 6.2 miles. A distance I thought beyond my reach.
Then I made a new years resolution- to actually run the 10k
I bought some new running gear. And before the 10k date, I had logged 50 miles in training.
Still slow. Still jogging at best. But I had done a 5 mile run at my longest and thought that would be good to set me up for the big day.
The Wed before the Sat race, I hurt my back. I spent all of Thursday in pain, with a massage to try to work out the kinks, with heating pads, ice packs and lots of Advil.
I took it easy Friday.
Saturday morning came- it was cool and rainy. Previous years that would have been more than enough to turn back to bed. Heck previous years I would have called it quits on the Wednesday.
But not this year.
I promised my boyfriend that I would walk if I needed to, that I wouldn't further injure myself.
And I put one foot in front of another.
And another.
And another.
And another.
6.2 miles and 69min 44sec later... I had completed a 10k.
I jogged the whole way. Stopping at 2 water breaks to stretch my back and drink my water.
But I did it.
And as I begin my new journey into the half marathon training (something else I thought I could/would never do) I don't want to forget how happy I was to complete my first 10k. I may not be like my uber-runner friends but like my new running shirt says "running slow is not a character flaw- quitting is."
Sunday, April 8, 2012
Wednesday, March 28, 2012
A Family Tie that Makes Sense
For all those who refere to me as a "little Liberal" - I think my Great Uncle Allen and his wife Violet are responsible for that. Please cross your fingers that the MN Historical Society can help me with getting copies of her biography of her husband (and our family history) and their papers.
Here is a description of Aunt Vi from her obituary June 3 2002.
Whether it meant being the first woman to run for the Minneapolis City Council, in the early 1930s, starting a women's debate team at Hamline University in the 1920s or opposing the regressive nature of sales taxes, Violet Johnson Sollie said: "I always managed to find a good fight."
The longtime lawyer and advocate for the poor died Wednesday. She was 95.
She was born on her family's farm near Ada, Minn., the oldest of 10 children. She graduated from high school at 16 and earned a scholarship to Hamline in St. Paul.
After she was barred from the men-only debate team, she started Hamline's women's debate team in 1926 -- "helping them live up to their coeducational promise," she once said. She went on to win state and national contests for extemporaneous speaking.
After graduating in 1928, Sollie received a master's degree in political science from the University of Minnesota in 1929 and assisted in a tax survey of poor people in West Virginia.
"I saw people living in shacks with pigs and chickens while their landlords lived in luxury," she said in a 1997 interview. "The sales tax hurts poor people without taking a fair share from the rich."
In 1932, populist Gov. Floyd B. Olson invited Sollie to join his reelection campaign committee. In 1933, she fought sales tax provisions from her clerkship on the Minnesota House Tax Committee.
The Minneapolis Star said she was the first woman who saw fit "to enter the merry scramble for [Minneapolis] City Council seats" in 1933. She finished third in the Second Ward race but continued speaking out on labor, welfare and tax issues.
Government jobs eluded her in the late 1930s despite high scores on civil-service exams. In 1940 she was hired by the U.S. Census Bureau and, three years later, she joined the Women's Division of the Industrial Labor Commission.
After her husband, Allen, urged her to return to school, Sollie graduated in 1957 from the Minneapolis-Minnesota College of Law, a predecessor of the William Mitchell College of Law.
When a large downtown law firm told her "they wanted a young man -- not a middle-aged woman," Sollie started her own practice and worked with the Attorneys Referral Committee, helping people who could neither afford an attorney nor qualify for legal aid. She retired in 1993.
The Sollies had no children. She is survived by two sisters and a brother.
Here is a description of Aunt Vi from her obituary June 3 2002.
Whether it meant being the first woman to run for the Minneapolis City Council, in the early 1930s, starting a women's debate team at Hamline University in the 1920s or opposing the regressive nature of sales taxes, Violet Johnson Sollie said: "I always managed to find a good fight."
The longtime lawyer and advocate for the poor died Wednesday. She was 95.
She was born on her family's farm near Ada, Minn., the oldest of 10 children. She graduated from high school at 16 and earned a scholarship to Hamline in St. Paul.
After she was barred from the men-only debate team, she started Hamline's women's debate team in 1926 -- "helping them live up to their coeducational promise," she once said. She went on to win state and national contests for extemporaneous speaking.
After graduating in 1928, Sollie received a master's degree in political science from the University of Minnesota in 1929 and assisted in a tax survey of poor people in West Virginia.
"I saw people living in shacks with pigs and chickens while their landlords lived in luxury," she said in a 1997 interview. "The sales tax hurts poor people without taking a fair share from the rich."
In 1932, populist Gov. Floyd B. Olson invited Sollie to join his reelection campaign committee. In 1933, she fought sales tax provisions from her clerkship on the Minnesota House Tax Committee.
The Minneapolis Star said she was the first woman who saw fit "to enter the merry scramble for [Minneapolis] City Council seats" in 1933. She finished third in the Second Ward race but continued speaking out on labor, welfare and tax issues.
Government jobs eluded her in the late 1930s despite high scores on civil-service exams. In 1940 she was hired by the U.S. Census Bureau and, three years later, she joined the Women's Division of the Industrial Labor Commission.
After her husband, Allen, urged her to return to school, Sollie graduated in 1957 from the Minneapolis-Minnesota College of Law, a predecessor of the William Mitchell College of Law.
When a large downtown law firm told her "they wanted a young man -- not a middle-aged woman," Sollie started her own practice and worked with the Attorneys Referral Committee, helping people who could neither afford an attorney nor qualify for legal aid. She retired in 1993.
The Sollies had no children. She is survived by two sisters and a brother.
Sunday, February 5, 2012
3rd Perspective
I have spent almost two weeks enjoying and exploring the tragically beautiful land of Cambodia.
Travelling to these parts of the world renews yout sense of gratitude for the many ways you have been blessed. It invigorates your priorities, and "sets things right" so to speak. Defining the true meaning of "need" which is rarely used properly in the US ( or any western civilization) enables a traveler like myself to reflect on my choices and to make more grounded decisions in the future.
This trip turned out nothing like it was originally planned- and as things like that go- I think it turned out even better!
First few days we spent in Phnom Penh--- we walked the city, got conned by a fake orphange, went to the National Musem, the Royal Palace and Silver Pagado. I will write more in detail on these in a later post but wanted to give whoever reads this a quick update. We then went to the Killing Fields- a somber but necessary stop to undertand the genocide and resulting effects on the Cambodian people.
We took a boat cruise on the Mekong and had dinner on a private island.
Then it was off to Siem Reap for three days of temple hopping! Starting first with Angkor Wat was the way to go, it's beauty and craftsmanship are unparalleded. Bayon in Angkor Thom was another favorite.
Travelling to these parts of the world renews yout sense of gratitude for the many ways you have been blessed. It invigorates your priorities, and "sets things right" so to speak. Defining the true meaning of "need" which is rarely used properly in the US ( or any western civilization) enables a traveler like myself to reflect on my choices and to make more grounded decisions in the future.
This trip turned out nothing like it was originally planned- and as things like that go- I think it turned out even better!
First few days we spent in Phnom Penh--- we walked the city, got conned by a fake orphange, went to the National Musem, the Royal Palace and Silver Pagado. I will write more in detail on these in a later post but wanted to give whoever reads this a quick update. We then went to the Killing Fields- a somber but necessary stop to undertand the genocide and resulting effects on the Cambodian people.
We took a boat cruise on the Mekong and had dinner on a private island.
Then it was off to Siem Reap for three days of temple hopping! Starting first with Angkor Wat was the way to go, it's beauty and craftsmanship are unparalleded. Bayon in Angkor Thom was another favorite.
3rd Perspective Take 2
So I already wrote this blog but it got lost in transit. :( I shall attempt to create.
I have spent the better part of two weeks in Cambodia. It has been an amazing, heart wrenching, soul checking kind of trip. I am constantly reminded of how lucky I am to be born in the time and place that I was. Cambodia's history is truly tragic and it makes the warmness of its people that much more heartfelt and beautiful. Due to the Khmer Rouge, Cambodia was literally blown back to the Bronze Age less than 30 years ago. They have made progress but so much more needs to be done.
I know many people don't understand why I take trips like this. But for me they are truly a way to ground myself into the world most of the world lives in. To truly understand what the word "need" means and to re-evaluate one's priorities. My trip to India had a profound effect on my 11 years ago. A year ago Costa Rica was eye opening but not quite as impactful in the same ways. Now reflecting as our time here comes to an end- I am re-energized about helping my local and global community even more.
Our trip didn't turn out as planned- and that has been a blessing. Instead of 3 countries in 14 days, we really dug into Cambodia. First days in Phnom Penh we walked around to get a feel for the city, got scammed by a fake orphanage, toured the National Museum and the Killing Fields. Really hearing the voices of the few survivors and seeing the remains was a chilling, somber but necessary experience to turly appreciate the plight of Cambodia.
Then it was off to the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda and then a dinner cruise down the Mekong River with dinner on a private island.
Siem Ream with all of its temples and glory was our focus for the next three and a half days. The craftsmanship of Angor Wat, Bayon and others are beautiful and amazing.
We were to spend one more day in Phnom Penh before heading to the South Coast in Sihanoukville, however both we and our hosts became very sick so we cancelled that part. In our last day we will do some shopping, head to Toul Seng Museum (the genocide museum) and enjoy the company of our hosts.
Will write more on the other side of the world....
I have spent the better part of two weeks in Cambodia. It has been an amazing, heart wrenching, soul checking kind of trip. I am constantly reminded of how lucky I am to be born in the time and place that I was. Cambodia's history is truly tragic and it makes the warmness of its people that much more heartfelt and beautiful. Due to the Khmer Rouge, Cambodia was literally blown back to the Bronze Age less than 30 years ago. They have made progress but so much more needs to be done.
I know many people don't understand why I take trips like this. But for me they are truly a way to ground myself into the world most of the world lives in. To truly understand what the word "need" means and to re-evaluate one's priorities. My trip to India had a profound effect on my 11 years ago. A year ago Costa Rica was eye opening but not quite as impactful in the same ways. Now reflecting as our time here comes to an end- I am re-energized about helping my local and global community even more.
Our trip didn't turn out as planned- and that has been a blessing. Instead of 3 countries in 14 days, we really dug into Cambodia. First days in Phnom Penh we walked around to get a feel for the city, got scammed by a fake orphanage, toured the National Museum and the Killing Fields. Really hearing the voices of the few survivors and seeing the remains was a chilling, somber but necessary experience to turly appreciate the plight of Cambodia.
Then it was off to the Royal Palace, Silver Pagoda and then a dinner cruise down the Mekong River with dinner on a private island.
Siem Ream with all of its temples and glory was our focus for the next three and a half days. The craftsmanship of Angor Wat, Bayon and others are beautiful and amazing.
We were to spend one more day in Phnom Penh before heading to the South Coast in Sihanoukville, however both we and our hosts became very sick so we cancelled that part. In our last day we will do some shopping, head to Toul Seng Museum (the genocide museum) and enjoy the company of our hosts.
Will write more on the other side of the world....
Monday, January 9, 2012
2012 - it's here!
I can't believe it is 2012.
No I don't think the world will end.
But I am not ready to turn 35.
I still haven't formalized my New Year's resolutions. The process of "formalizing" includes- writing them down, using a picture of them as my background on my computer and phone, and printing out a copy and binder clipping them to my visor in my car.
Must. do. This. Before. the. Weekend.
In two weeks, we will be able to cross an item off of my Life To Do list! We will travel to Cambodia, Vietnam and Laos. I cannot WAIT!!!!! I am so excited! Beginning of 2012 has been spent with lots of shots and pills getting us ready for the journey.
I wonder what 2012 will bring to me.....
So many possibilities....
So many dreams....
so many hopes....
Maybe this will be the year.
No I don't think the world will end.
But I am not ready to turn 35.
I still haven't formalized my New Year's resolutions. The process of "formalizing" includes- writing them down, using a picture of them as my background on my computer and phone, and printing out a copy and binder clipping them to my visor in my car.
Must. do. This. Before. the. Weekend.
In two weeks, we will be able to cross an item off of my Life To Do list! We will travel to Cambodia, Vietnam and Laos. I cannot WAIT!!!!! I am so excited! Beginning of 2012 has been spent with lots of shots and pills getting us ready for the journey.
I wonder what 2012 will bring to me.....
So many possibilities....
So many dreams....
so many hopes....
Maybe this will be the year.
Thursday, December 29, 2011
Change of Heart
So I had one of the best Christmases ever. But it was also highly emotional. I always am on the verge of tears all day Christmas Eve. I just feel the loss of my grandparents and my family in general so poignantly on that day each year. I know at some point the flood gates will open- this year it happened at church. Prior to that we had been at Aunt Cookie's for the traditional Christmas Eve dinner and present exchange with Dad's family. My cousin Michael and his wife Dusty had their 6 week old son Zane there and once I had him in my arms, I didn't want to let him go. I am not sure I have ever felt that way before.
The next day after full day of of Christmas festivities with Will's amazing family, we went to my sister's. I must pause because I need to say just how much I love his family. I have felt comfortable there and a part of them since the first day I met them (Easter 2009). I totally feel myself and feel loved and I love each of them with all of their quirks. Each time I am around his family, I feel like I understand Will just a little more.
So back to my sister's. There had apparently been a miscommunication and so we weren't there for dinner where they had cleverly announced their pregnancy. But they announced to us in a cute way as well- my sister is due August 2, 2012. She told me by letting me know the sweater I had bought her wouldn't fit her for very long! I am so excited for her.
But for the the first time I felt something else. Jealousy? Envy? Empty? Hopeful? Granted it is her second but she will be having a baby at 35 (and she is normal not a celebrity) which means maybe I could have a baby too. Pregnancy still scares the crap out of me- and I still think it is weird- but for the first time I feel this longing to have a baby (bio or adopted). And now that this switch has occurred, I can't seem to turn it off.
My thoughts switch from " I need to fix my finances so we can travel more, buy a new house etc" to "I need to get my finances straight so I can take care of a baby, afford time off from work, buy a new home, save for college"
How did this happen? I don't know. But I now have this yearning deep within me that I can't seem to ignore or do anything about. I don't know that I am ready but I know that someway, somehow before it is all said and done... I want to be someone's mother.
The next day after full day of of Christmas festivities with Will's amazing family, we went to my sister's. I must pause because I need to say just how much I love his family. I have felt comfortable there and a part of them since the first day I met them (Easter 2009). I totally feel myself and feel loved and I love each of them with all of their quirks. Each time I am around his family, I feel like I understand Will just a little more.
So back to my sister's. There had apparently been a miscommunication and so we weren't there for dinner where they had cleverly announced their pregnancy. But they announced to us in a cute way as well- my sister is due August 2, 2012. She told me by letting me know the sweater I had bought her wouldn't fit her for very long! I am so excited for her.
But for the the first time I felt something else. Jealousy? Envy? Empty? Hopeful? Granted it is her second but she will be having a baby at 35 (and she is normal not a celebrity) which means maybe I could have a baby too. Pregnancy still scares the crap out of me- and I still think it is weird- but for the first time I feel this longing to have a baby (bio or adopted). And now that this switch has occurred, I can't seem to turn it off.
My thoughts switch from " I need to fix my finances so we can travel more, buy a new house etc" to "I need to get my finances straight so I can take care of a baby, afford time off from work, buy a new home, save for college"
How did this happen? I don't know. But I now have this yearning deep within me that I can't seem to ignore or do anything about. I don't know that I am ready but I know that someway, somehow before it is all said and done... I want to be someone's mother.
Monday, December 19, 2011
Things My Mother Taught Me
I don't think any of us ever appreciate our parents enough when we have the opportunity.
I certainly know that I haven't.
I haven't told her enough how much I love her. How much she has shaped who I am.
So here is a giant thank you for my mom for the lessons she has taught me...
Treat everyone well and equally
Judge each person as an individual- and remember you never really know the full situation, so it's best not to judge at all
Be generous- with everything. Including your love, your forgiveness, and certainly all "things"
It's never too late to start again
You need to be kind to yourself
You can survive things you never thought you had the strength for
The good memories are the ones to focus on
If you give it your all, you can make it happen
Don't let anyone change who you are
Don't let anyone tell you that you can't...
There is always someone who has it worse than you, and you should reach out to them and help
One word, one gesture can change a life
Everyone makes mistakes- that doesn't mean that they don't love you
I love you mom...
I certainly know that I haven't.
I haven't told her enough how much I love her. How much she has shaped who I am.
So here is a giant thank you for my mom for the lessons she has taught me...
Treat everyone well and equally
Judge each person as an individual- and remember you never really know the full situation, so it's best not to judge at all
Be generous- with everything. Including your love, your forgiveness, and certainly all "things"
It's never too late to start again
You need to be kind to yourself
You can survive things you never thought you had the strength for
The good memories are the ones to focus on
If you give it your all, you can make it happen
Don't let anyone change who you are
Don't let anyone tell you that you can't...
There is always someone who has it worse than you, and you should reach out to them and help
One word, one gesture can change a life
Everyone makes mistakes- that doesn't mean that they don't love you
I love you mom...
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