Everything's coming up Roses....

Or otherwise known as "when life hands you lemons you make lemonade...."

So on the house front....we haven't found anything yet. But, that just means the right house is waiting to be found, right? The good news is that we've changed our price point a little bit....so while inventory is fewer between at the new price, the houses themselves are more what we're looking for. It's unfortunate that the house we loved didn't work out, but you know - everything happens for a reason. And we were fighting too hard for it....it just didn't feel right.

On the family front - life is good, everyone is happy - and there's a fun family vacation coming up in the near future to a fabulous beach in Maine. Really, really really looking forward to it.

I feel so incredibly blah and fat. There I said it - fat. Now, am I really overweight - nah. Am I really out of shape and eating whatever I want and whenever I want it? Oh yes... I'm in a rut right now - I can't seem to find the time for ME. I'm either working or with the kids. And if I do take off during the day - it's hard because there aren't classes that I can take during the day. They're either morning or night. Unless I run...then I can do that in the morning. I just need to find time for ME. Even if it's just an hour. I think I need to get back to when I first started taking yoga and going to night classes. If that's what it takes for me to get an hour of time to myself without feeling like I'm rushing, then that's what I'll do. I havcn't run since May, and haven't been to yoga since March and this girl is sorely in need of some center and balance.

And there you have it. Life is pretty status quo right now. I've got lots of potential rants regarding Whitey & Casey Anthony but I'm just not up for them at the moment....

What's going on....what's going on....Hey what's going on....

I'm really, really, really happy it's Friday.

I had a great run around the lake today after work. It was gorgeous outside - and it was the perfect way to de-stress from the week. Not that I had an overly stressful week, but just the normal day-to-day kinds of things that might make a girl need to exert some energy.

Love my little IPod Shuffle. It shuffles much better than my older IPod does; and I'm finding some songs that I forgot I had, that I love to run to. Songs like "Cowboy" by Kid Rock, "Somewhere in Time" Iron Maiden, "Slave for you" Britney Spears, "Magic Man" Heart, and "Metalingus" Alter Bridge - just to name a few. Sometimes slower songs like "Heat of the Moment" by Asia are great too, they keep me better paced at times. I definitely have an eclectic mix from Metallica to Christina Aguilera - and everything in between. It helps keep me motivated for sure.

Still a little stressed about the house situation. We have a showing tomorrow, so we shall see. I had just really hoped we'd have already had a closing date at this point.....even the kids are over the point of being sad about moving and excited about the new house; they're actually at a point where they're like "you mean we might NOT get that house?!?!". We're all sort of hanging with bated breath at this point.

And truthfully, I'm all set with keeping the house pristine all the time. I mean, I always do -- but it's stressful knowing that you have to keep it that way as opposed to just wanting to. I just want to be done with it, you know what I mean?

We have a wedding on Sunday...an afternoon affair so I didn't go crazy with the dress; it is adorable though, I really like it. I had it taken it a little since it was too big, so hopefully it will look cute. Now to find the right pair of shoes....well, that's what tomorrow is for.

Tonight is for watching the rest of the NFL Draft, Sons of Anarchy Season 2 finale (I thought I was going to watch it the other night but didn't....no spoilers please) and probably some baseball. My pillow is actually calling my name right now, truth be told. But I've got little people to attend to, so that isn't about to happen.

Have a fabulous weekend whatever you do - and I hope it is filled with laughter & love.

Plop, plop, fizz, fizz...oh what a relief it is.

So I'll be shocked if I have a voice come tomorrow.


Yesterday when I woke up feeling congested with a sore throat, clearly was an indicator of the cold that was coming on. I have no tonsils, so I don't really get sore throats per se; I get more like sore sinus passages that run down the back and sides of your throat. It started on my right side yesterday, moved to the center overnight and this morning and is now on the left side. Slight fever today, completely congested in my chest, blech.

And we all know how I get once I get congested in my chest. Laryngitis, or at a minimum - my Demi Moore voice comes out. Which of course I don't mind one bit. It's kind of fun.

But as long as I feel okay, I don't mind. I can deal with congestion and a cold, it's the fever that's the worst because it just makes you feel weird; but if the fever goes away then I don't mind it so much. Truthfully, I wish I had been able to run today. Sometimes a good run will just help you clear all that junk in your system. Or it can work against you.....but I'd like to think it would've made me feel better.

Cinderella always knows that the secret lies in the shoes....

Today was my first outdoor run in a long, long time. Six months anyway.


I didn't do too badly; 3.5 miles in 38 minutes, and I walked only about a half mile of it. I probably would've made better time; my breathing was fine and I didn't feel sore or anything, but I woke up this morning with a semi sore throat and a little congestion - and with the wind this morning, I actually had an earache while I was running. As warm as it was today, it was still rather cold this morning and so I was really uncomfortable at some points of the run. But I worked it out and finished.


So, I'll let you in on a little secret. All these years that I've been running, I've never once worn running sneakers. Truth. My favorite to run in are these cute pink and black New Balance sneakers that have zero support or cushioning. Back when I had my knee injury, my physical therapist was horrifed to see I was running in them - and she said she was shocked that I hadn't had other injuries prior. She begged me to get running sneakers post surgery -- which I planned on doing, but never did. Oh right, and I ran a 5k 5 weeks post surgery. Crazy, I know. But listen, I have to say, they're just comfortable - and besides, having never worn "running sneakers" I knew no better.


Well, the other day G was shopping and asked what I needed while he was out and I said "running sneakers". He runs and has a million pairs of good sneakers so I trusted him to pick out something for me. He got the Asics Gel Keyano 16, and I couldn't wait to try them out. (And yes, they're pink and very cute.)


So, back to my run. I have to say that the last time I ran outdoors my knee started to tweak, and my hips bothered me. (My hips?!? What's that all about....I'm so not getting old!). But not today! Not only did it feel like I was running on a cloud...but I feel fabulous even as I write now, 12 hours later. I love the way it felt so much, that I almost wanted to run again this afternoon; and had I brought them with me or clothes to change into, I think I would've.


Amazing what a difference a good pair of sneakers makes! And all of this time, I had no clue....

Since you've been gone.....

It has been one heck of a year.


Hard to imagine that Mother's Day is going to mark the one year anniversary of my Mother's passing. Every Mother's Day, I run the road race in the city that the store is in; last year, I was going to run despite the fact my Mom died -- I think she would've wanted me to do it. But I was so emotionally exhausted that I was physically drained. I just couldn't bring myself to do it. I woke up on time, but I was literally physically sore from stress.


Which made me think of the figure skater from the last winter olympics who lost her Mom, Joannie Rochette. How she had the strength to go on and compete, is amazing. I'm sure she found her strength from knowing her Mom would never want to see her not compete....but one can only imagine the strains emotionally and physically she suffered in order to do so.


This year, my sister is going to run the race with me. She's never run before and so she's a little leary about doing it, but I told her that it's not about winning the race -- it's about completing it -- reaching the goal. Whether she runs or walks, it doesn't matter - and slow and steady is what it's all about. I'll probably keep pace with her so that she doesn't think about it much and feels confident.


Truth be told, I haven't been running as much as I should be and need to get my own act into gear - otherwise, she's going to be the one pacing herself to keep me company!

Get into the groove....

Today was my first day back to yoga.
I know, I know....I said I was going to do it last week - but truthfully, the cold came on too quickly -- but fortunately left just as quick, so today was day one.

My God how I've missed it.

What I did notice, however...is that while taking two months off isn't a horrifically long time - I didn't bounce back so strongly as I usually do. A few Warrior Two's and my quads were singing to me. Singing...! What's that all about? Could it be that turning the "big 4-0" makes that much of a difference? I defy the aging process... defy it I say.

Well, that's not entirely true. I'm all about aging gracefully, and embracing who we are naturally. But that's on a purely superficial level. That doesn't mean when it comes to my physical abilities I'm going to lay down and wither away. Au contraire mon frere. As a matter of fact, I was so irritated with my legs burning that I was determined to run three miles when I got home.

However, I opted to have a glass of wine and blog instead. We'll save that run for another night.
But I will do it. And it will be this week.

This girl swears on it.

Get into the groove.....

So, I don't want to say anything but..... it seems like those "intangibles" of Jason's that weren't "so important" last season, are looking pretty darn important these days -- aren't they? Funny to hear sports radio today talking about it. I don't want to say "I told you so", but......

Okay, so I'm getting ready to run the Mother's Day 3.5 mile race. I've only run 3.5 miles outside a couple of times this Spring, but I've been running at minimum a mile per night on the treadmill. It's not a lot, but enough to keep my juices flowing so I'll be all set for the race. I can totally run 3.5 -4 miles outside not a problem without any preparation, but given the fact that I've got all these sore muscles from the Yoga Marathon, it seems to make sense to keep moving while the body is feeling it. I've also started lifting again (just lightly, mostly for sculpting) and I am going back to yoga classes at night once a week. I've really been doing nothing for me and I need to get back to doing a little something good that's not for me as a Mom -- but for me as a person. (Seriously, don't you want to shake me and say "get a hobby!" Well, I would if I had free time! Yoga and running are my hobbies! ) Partly the reason why I only run 1 mile at home is because it's something that I can squeeze in under 10 minutes! Once I'm home from the store - I'm Mom, and just because I'm not the only grown up home doesn't mean my day ends. Oh no, it just begins....

So I'm trying to get into a new rhythm of energizing, and it's starting with this. Hopefully, this is just the beginning.

(Oh, and a quick postscript: try spamming now my little solicitious friends...just try.)

Great things DO come in small packages....!!

So, Target had a sale on IPod Shuffles. Having only the Nano, which is rather old at this point now -- it's been feeling too large and cumbersome to run with at this point -- and I much prefer to use it in the store for ambiance so.....seeing the ad in the Sunday paper, I went there and bought it. Who needs more than 500 songs when running, right? It's not like this girl's doing the Marathon.....yet.

Anyway.
Love it. Love it!
It's tiny!!

I was in no way prepared for how small it was, and the best part is -- not just the voice over option that announces my next song -- but I can control the volume and the fast forward or rewind from the earpiece cord. (ta da!)

I always have to run with my IPod in my hand which can make my shoulders ache a bit from being tensed; this allows me to run hands free.... I am so loving it.

Highly, highly recommend it.

Thank God for DVR.....

And, TGIF might I add....

So, I'm catching up on American Idol which I missed this week due to a life of busy-ness (as opposed to business), and while I know the judges used their save (truly, I'm dissapointed because while "Big Mike" is talented, I don't know that I think he'd be worth the save. )I don't think he could win it all, truthfully - but hey, that's just my opinion. I just wish the radio station that gave the info away warned me about the spoiler alert so I could change the channel!)

Tonight is going to be a fantastic dinner now that my detox is over. I have to be honest and say that I didn't omit all protein this week -- I ended up having fish with dinner at night which really dissapoints me so next week I'll do it again, but the right way. I still felt great, but it's just not the same, you know what I mean? So tonight I'm going to indulge just a bit....country style ribs, salad with rice & shrimp, grilled asparagus -- and a delicious glass of wine. All while watching Tim Wakefield pitch for the Sox, and snuggled in pajamas. Seriously, call me crazy -- call me old, but that sounds like a perfect Friday night!

This weekend could potentially be pretty busy....soccer day tomorrow if the fields aren't closed due to flooding from todays rain, and a birthday party. Sunday, nothing planned yet though I have to say I have been craving to go to a really good brunch! And there are so few good places to go to, but I heard that there's a hotel near the favorite ice cream farm we attended last weekend has a brunch that is "to die for". I'm working that angle as an option for Sunday, so my fingers are crossed. Besides, I need to have some yummy food to burn off as I run Monday morning and do my detox all over again!

And then we'll start all over again on Monday......

However you're spending your weekend, may it be blessed with laughter and love....happiness and good fortune. Take time to stop and enjoy the flowers that are blossoming everywhere and enjoy the beauty of Spring.

Life moves pretty fast. You don't stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.

Who let the dogs out....who let the dogs out....

So, it was quite the game last night....
Welcome to Boston, New York. Last night is just a little sample of how we roll....
(Though truly, Beckett was off. Really off....)

I've got some fantastic pictures from Easter that I have yet to download but must share. I can't stand how cute the kids were - -and we had a picture perfect day. It was gorgeous outside. We ended up on Saturday going to our favorite ice cream place and having lunch, playing mini golf and being incredibly indulgent in everything we ate.

Speaking of indulgences, yesterday was my last day of doing so. Today, I started my detox and I had my first run since September. Pretty good, 3.25 miles in 36 minutes. I'm not going for time so much as I am endurance, but I felt great -- no breathing issues or side stiches, just some minor tweaking in my knee (the one that didn't have surgery -- not sure what that's all about!) and I was euphoric after, which is sort of the high that you chase when you run. I do need to get myself fitted for good running sneakers - I have yet to do that and I do believe I'm going to do that tomorrow. It's a nice slow week for me at the store this week, so I should be able to catch up on little errands I haven't had the opportunity to do.

It's almost impossible to be in anything but a good mood these next few days. Fantastic weather is on the agenda, baseball is back in season -- and so to wake up and see sunny skies makes everything seem happy and shiny. It even makes my headaches tolerable -- and just a reminder that I need to go back to acupuncture. Yoga is on the agenda this week as well....and maybe, a new lip gloss too.

I've neglected myself quite a bit over these last few months, and I think this week it's time that I show myself a little love.

And that is how this girl is going to roll.

Top 10, part deux...

So, I'm not very good at these kinds of lists truthfully. It's hard to determine categories for things that happen in any person's life, you know what I mean? So I think it's best for me to just have a final Top 10 of things that happened or had impact in this girl's life in 2009. Good, bad or otherwise.

Again, not in any meaningful order -- just how they come to me.

10. Leaving my job. Wow, had I dreamed of when that day would come but nothing prepared me for the reality of it. It wasn't a bad thing -- it was a great thing, but still a little sad. Of course that lasted oh, about a minute. I don't miss it a bit -- being in business for myself and being my own boss is beyond gratifying. Having friends and family work side by side with me is a great thing; I often get tinges of sentimentality when I see things that have to do with the Air Force or the base -- but other than that....nada. I loved my job and I truly made the best of things, but I was beyond frustrated knowing I was capable of doing great things and was held back because I wasn't in the Government proper.

9. My knee surgery. That was one of the coolest things I've ever experienced. I mean, you are awake for CSections and that's pretty interesting but it's not nearly the same thing as actually getting to watch what's happening inside your knee surgically. Definitely one of the more fun things that happened this year. Sounds kind of silly I know - but it alleviated my discomfort and was educational and fun at the same time.

8. Finding out my Mother has Cancer. The news itself of her having the disease wasn't all that shocking, only because it is so rampant. What was shocking, was the poor care (in my opinion) that she had received up to this point. Finally, she is going to Dana Farber -- tomorrow actually, and I am going with my parents -- to get what we hope/wish/pray will be a diagnosis (finally!!!) and hopefully a better prognosis than what she received in Florida.

7. Being hardworking, diligent and patient. While this was a difficult year for everyone on so many levels -- it was a good year for us with business. Patience and hard work, with a sprinkle of due diligence really paid off in allowing us to launch a new business. I have to say that over the last year prior to this opportunity I had been so frustrated; we came so close so many times, but timing can be everything and truly while luck only goes so far -- it's all about the work that goes into it.

6. Spending time with my family. Sounds mundane and not necessarily listworthy - but the truth of the matter is -- that it is. This summer while I was not able to take any time off because of the buildout, I still was on a more flexible schedule than being at work and was able to spend a few days with the family at Water Country, Canobie Lake Park, etc. Even just staying at home later in the morning before heading off to the store site -- it was far more enjoyable of a way to start my day than stressing over traffic and what time I might arrive in the office. Again, it's tied to being my own boss -- and while I'm incredibly busy at times, it offers me a luxury of time with my family that I haven't been able to enjoy before.

5. Having to adjust to the fact that my children think on their own. Let me tell you - that's a tough one. Trying to parent firmly, discipline strongly and not be too stifling is a tightrope I've had to walk on all this year for the first time. Princess Petunia was the first one to challenge -- and her boldness has encouraged her brother to express himself as well. This has been a huge event this year in my life and while it was a change that I knew would come -- I still wasn't quite prepared for when it happened.

4. Abandoning Dunkin Donuts forever. I have completely transitioned to Starbucks. After spending probably hundreds of dollars in coffee that tasted so horrible that I threw it away -- I finally smartened up and actually spend only an extra .25 for a cup of coffee that I enjoy every single time. It feels like a monkey is off my back -- truly. How crazy is that? Discovering that I can really enjoy a cup of coffee consistently -- that's a huge happening in this girl's life after months of being disappointed by Dunks.

3. Achieving many of the goals I'd set for myself. I ran the 5K sooner than anticipated; I did a yoga marathon even sooner post-surgery. I continually worked on accepting the things I could not change and actively worked on changing the things that I could - that needed changing. And some things were just fine the way they were.

2. Seeing a Broadway play front row. Wow, did that spoil me forever. G and I going to see David Mamet's "Speed the Plow" at the Barrymore --with Jeremy Piven and cast practically sweating on us -- was amazing. So impressive, that we're thinking of going back and seeing the aforementioned director's new production of "Race" at that same theatre in the next few weeks. It was an event that truly had an impact on me as far as spending quality time with G, appreciating and loving NYC -- and throughly appreciating theatre even more than I already did. It made me long for what I might have done at one time... but at the same time appreciate the choices I made in not pursuing that career as fully as I could've. Because if I had -- I wouldn't be here today. And I'm pretty happy where I'm at....

1. Proving that I'm capable of doing great things. Listen, I knew I could do it -- but let's be honest there were plenty who had their doubts. Building the store was a fun, frustrating, stressful and yet enjoyable process. Our new store is something I'd always hoped it would be...and yet at the same time, I look back at G and I and think "wow, who'd have thought that two kids from nothing and nowhere would do all this...." But again, it just shows what a little hard work, good common business sense and a drive to succeed can get you. Sure it's only in it's infancy, but it's off to a good start -- and I'm so very proud. Aside from my children who are my greatest accomplishments in life -- it's up there on things to be proud of. Some people go through their whole life and don't have much to show for it -- and that's okay; there's nothing wrong with that. But we have built goodwill with a brand; we have actually made history in a community.

And how awesome is that?!?!?

Friday's final thoughts....

*She sighs as she rests her tired toesies on the sofa*

Yes. I wore heels again today. I know, I know....I'm a glutton for punishment.

So it's Friday, and it's Halloween weekend -- and I've got a swirl of thoughts going around in my head and I figure I might as well set them free. Let's get started, shall we...?

1. Who doesn't love Halloween? Seriously. It's so much fun, even if you don't get dressed up it's a blast watching all the kids in their creative costumes. Today at the store - I blew threw 1800 pieces of candy to all the kids who came in to trick or treat at the local businesses and I was blown away by the creativity of some costumes. Loved them.

2. My daughter's costume however - is the most creative of all. I've come to realize just how artistic my little Princess Petunia is these days. Both of my kids are very imaginative and creative - both very artistic -- but she can make something out of nothing. She'll take a juice box that's empty and poke pencils in it, hang things from it - and come up with a brand new creation. So this year, she came up with her own costume idea: A rainy day. (I'd prefer sunshower, but she ixnayed Mommy's idea...). It's her favorite yellow rain slicker with a duck head for a hood, her yellow umbrella with light blue strands of plastic hanging from it to look like rain -- and slickers. Seriously, how cute and out of the box?!?! Love her...

3. Two weeks into the store and it's abundantly clear that staff needs to be rotated. Some, while maybe wine savvy just aren't cut out for retail. At least not fast paced retail.... and if anyone knows G, then they know he's a bull in a china shop on speed. He's got NO patience for anyone not working at his level, and while I'm high speed low drag myself, I've got a little more patience in that arena than he does. So, I've got to rework the scheduling a bit to see how we can't get more snazziness on weekends than we do at the moment. Love everyone there, but the speed isn't quite there... Ahhh, but such is the life in retail.

4. I'm convinced I won't be able to recharge any time soon. Running, yoga, massages, retail therapy...any or all of the above are more than likely a vision in the not so near future. But that's okay, after the holidays it will be appreciated and valued that much more because I'll really, really, really enjoy it....

Really.... !

Cream coloured ponies and crisp apple strudel, Door bells and sleigh bells and schnitzel with noodles...

Key Lime Tea Cookies. "To Die For" dips - any variety. A very good and emollient hand cream, just lightly scented. Really good chinese food, like the kind I grew up on. Cinnamon Toast scented candles. A fabulously delicious Zinfandel, say "Sin Zin". The feeling of my floors when they've just been washed. The smell of my daughter's hair after a day outdoors. Seeing, touching, feeling when I shop. A perfectly made Spicy Tuna roll. Feeling proud and accomplished. Anything pumpkin. A dinner made by anyone else but me - for me. Watching home videos of my children. Spending time with my friends who are working with me. Missing yoga and running, but knowing I'll get back to it. A strong, deep tissue massage. Living life, laughing and loving every moment of it -- the good, the bad and everything in between.

Friday's Final Thoughts....

As I sit here with a glass of Malbec and waiting to make grilled calamari and chopped salad for dinner - I'm completely and entirely exhausted. Today didn't exactly go as planned -- rather than having huge gaps of time between items and errands throughout the day - I was back to back with errands and visitors and appointments. Not a bad thing - but made it so that I wasn't able to do a favor for a friend, which really bummed me out. I don't like not being able to help someone, you know what I mean?

So, my weekend is also jam packed but in a good way and hopefully a relatively relaxing one.

And the store - which will be completed being painted tomorrow looks flipping fantastic. Seriously, I'm loving the color and even more - loving some of the artistry that's going to be done on the walls when the paint is done. So exciting...

What are this girl's thoughts for the day.... well, they are as follows:

1. I did not watch the season opener of Grey's Anatomy. So no spoilers, please. I DVR'd it so I can fast forward through commercials tonight -- I'm already pretty convinced that George is going to die, so that's not going to be a huge shocker - but I do miss my friends at Seattle Grace and hope that there's more to the debut than that.

2. I did however, watch "The Changeling". I have developed a whole new appreciation for the talent of Angelina Jolie. It was quite refreshing to see her in a role that showed her as a vulnerable character rather than a tough, action figure one. I'm really just about all set with her being a brooding, dark, sexy, tough girl. It's a little played out, just sayin'...

The movie was done very tastefully as well, since it didn't focus on the gruesome aspect of the crimes - and more on her and what changes she was responsible for in LA during that time as a result of losing her son.

3. How much fun was Sean Casey up in the booth with Don Orsillo? Seriously, I think they should have him on all the time. I was laughing the whole time - he is so animated and his stories are pretty funny, or maybe it's just his translation of them that's so fun - but I loved it. Funny sidenote to that -- which I mentioned here before -- is that my son sat next to him at a WWE event last year. Speaking of which, my son will be attending once again next week - and one only knows who he will end up sitting next to this time. I'm so sad because I was supposed to go with them this time but my son invited a friend to go, so.... Mommy's out of luck it seems.

4. I miss Jason. Ugh, everyone is all over the Victor Martinez bandwagon. Yeah, yeah.. I know. I don't want to hear it.

5. Busy busy weekend for the girl. We have our first "away" game in travel soccer tomorrow morning, then off to the store to pay the painter. Next up is a family reunion - and fortunately, tomorrow night as far as I know - there are no plans. Sunday, I'm running a 5k in the morning and then we're going for a family dinner and watching the Patriots.

And then we start all over again on Monday.
But that's a big week.
Huge.

The "I'm just a girl" kids!

So the aforementioned "smell of school" crisp was in the air this morning -- and in full force. It was a brisk 58 degrees out while we were awaiting my daughter's bus. But that didn't chill her enthusiasm or excitement for her first day.


My son started last week -- and it was a bit more summerlike on his first day.


We had a fabulous Labor Day weekend, full of family and fun. Those are my favorite kinds of days spent -- and they're unfortunately, too few and far between.


And after I followed the bus and ensure my Princess Petunia made it safely on her way to the first day of the rest of her educational career -- I took off and ran 3.25 miles around the lake -- my first outdoor run since Mother's Day. I averaged 12 minute miles, so not too terrible.



Between that, the pollen and all the store "stuff", I should sleep very soundly tonight!

Everybody's working for the weekend.....

1. Can’t read my, can’t read my, no he can’t read my Poker Face…. My God, I don’t think I’ve had a song completely take me over like this song has! I can’t get it out of my head….and I really love it. Of course, it doesn’t hurt that the radio station plays it like 13 times during the work day. But it’s a must download for my IPod on Saturday, along with other newer songs that I’ve been remiss in adding. And it’s a necessity for the weekend!

2. Why is music a necessity, Rebecca? Well, because I’ve decided that I am going to run the Mothers’ Day Road Race that I participated in last year. It was my goal to be able to run that race post surgery – and even though it’s a week earlier than I had thought it would be – I’m definitely capable of doing it. I think with the music to pace me properly, I will be just fine. And – I’m going to have a running partner this time. All these races I’ve done, I run alone; but I’ve been running with a co worker of mine who lives around the corner from me – so she and I are going to run it together. I don’t expect to beat my time from last year – or even match it, quite honestly – this time, it’s just about completion. Didn’t I say the bitch is back?

3. I’m all about the weekend…and it’s sunny and beautiful out. After all the rain, this is a spectacular way to start the weekend – and one with out soccer might I add, which is a nice bonus surprise. Don’t get me wrong, I love soccer with the kids – but I really would like to go get my hanging plants for the porch and just have fun with the kiddies hanging out. Tonight we have a family birthday party to go to – so after work I’ll be making chicken wings to bring with us; then tomorrow hopefully just us having a fabulous day in what I’m hoping will be beautiful weather. Fingers crossed….

4. It’s all about being Mom. So, the kids have informed me that they want to take me to Canobie Lake for Mother’s Day. (hmm, wondering if they have confused Mother’s Day with Kid’s Day?? Kidding…) I told them whatever they want to do to celebrate is perfectly fine with me, so long as we have a great day. I’m not fussy. My only request is that I get the 7-11a.m time frame to do my running thing. The rest of the day – is theirs.

5. Big week next week….lots of things going on. Big changes possibly. Big news hopefully. Big, big, big!!! Stay tuned….

"We can complain because rose bushes have thorns, or rejoice because thorn bushes have roses."-- Abraham Lincoln

1. Rosemary, is an entirely underrated herb I think. I love using Rosemary – it’s got a fine line between too much and not enough, but if you hit it just right – it’s spectacular. I use it in everything, so much so that I think in fact this season – I will add it to my garden herbs. I don’t generally plant it, but I use it so much that I definitely am going to this season. Cilantro is another underrated herb, in my opinon. It’s not just for guacamole or salsa – there are so many fabulous ways to use it – and that is an herb that is a constant in my garden.
2. Speaking of gardening….I don’t generally plant flowers. I’m a vegetable garden kind of girl. However, the kids picked out some morning glory seeds, and so we’ll be planting them on Saturday. I think I’m going to pick up a trellis so that we can train them up it. They’re pretty excited about it, and so am I actually. I wish I had the room to do a wildflower garden, but I barely have room as it is for my postage stamp garden, so… you take what you can get, right?
3. I really like the town that I live in. This morning, our police department sent a global message to the residents via telephone – informing us that a rash of car break ins had been resolved. This sort of gives you an idea of the amount of severe crime that happens where I live. I mean, there’s definitely some crime – everyplace has it; but as a city girl originally, I find our town to be exceptionally quiet. Of course, my Dad used to be a cop – and so living in the city and having a scanner in your house – you grew up knowing about everything that happened, and I assure you – it wasn’t always good. I can only imagine the calls on the scanner in my neck of the woods now… and I’m not about to mock them, because I think it’s a good thing.
4. As I was thinking about how much I like my town on my drive in to work... I noticed the high school has a crashed up car on it’s front lawn to remind kids about drinking and driving. Again, in the city – there was not much outreach to us as kids. Sure, we had police officers come in during elementary school, and once in high school to go over drugs with us -- but there was none of the real community involvement that I see where my kids are growing up. It’s not overwhelming or overbearing – and it’s not about drugs per se; it’s just an interaction with the kids in general, by all types of public officials. It’s real clear to me that this community cares about it’s youth, and I love that about it. Though I won’t be a “townie” – my kids will be, and I’m happy about that for them.
5. Thank God for muscle memory. I’m going to yoga tonight, and it will have been my third time this week. It’s amazing how quickly your body bounces back into shape – and in such short time, my arms look pretty decent again – considering I haven’t really lifted much. I’m starting to run on the outdoor track next week – which will be my first run in three weeks; I’m hoping the time I’ve given my knee to relax a bit, and build some quad strength with yoga will get me past that half mile mark. Running on a springy outdoor track is far better than on the treadmill, so here’s hoping….

Besides, I've got a wedding coming up the third weekend in May - and I'm wearing a hot little number to it, so.... there's inspiration for me to push through the pain if need be.

Life is like a box of chocolates...you never know what you're gonna get....

(Unless you intentionally go for the squared pieces. Those are caramels -- my fave. Just sayin...')

Jon Lester’s performance last night is exactly why I don’t believe in pre-season predictions.
One never knows…..

So, it’s been quite some time since I’ve had a headache; my last acupuncture visit was in January, about 3 weeks before my surgery – and the last headache up to that point I’d had was in early December. I can’t rave enough about acupuncture. It has literally worked wonders and changed my life. That being said, the down side to it (unfortunately, every upside has a downside…ying and yang) is that when I do get a head ache – wow. They hurt. I almost forgot what they feel like. The last one I had, was small -- playing “peekaboo” with me for a day. This one I’ve got now well, it’s a bit stronger. It came on last night, and it’s just hanging on to me today. I’m going to go on a limb and guess that it’s weather related, given the sudden drop and then sudden lift in temperature over the past 36 hours or so. Seasonal or not, it’s definitely time to schedule another appointment.

Last night I made a valiant effort to complete a mile run. I’m still sitting at a half mile – but I’m being so cautious and smart about it all. (Shameless pat on the back.) I know myself well enough to acknowledge I tend to push myself, and I certainly do not want to do any damage to my knee, so I will continue to run every other day and stop when my knee starts to alert me that it’s “had enough”. Besides, what am I thinking – it’s only been 9 weeks since my surgery, running is a big deal on the knee. Look at Mike Lowell – he still can’t run well and his surgery was well before mine. Granted, it was hip surgery - and not the same thing at all, but it’s still surgery and structural and impacting none the less.

Saturday is my annual effort at the 108 Sun Salutations for the Jimmy Fund. I’m really looking forward to it. Three hours of a seriously intense workout – and for a fantastic cause. And then, Sunday – I get to enjoy Easter dinner guilt free, right? I am not hosting this year --I will be a guest and I’m looking forward to it. I am not sure what I’ll be bringing yet….

Lingering in the back of my mind is the business venture…..we’re at a point with financing and it’s weighing heavy on my mind given the state of the economy. Banks don’t want to lend to businesses, despite the fact that the SBA is backing 90% of the loans; the banks just aren’t underwriting them. Our present business is almost owned outright – and the balance of the loan is so small. Adding the costs of the new business to the existing loan is the only route we can go on because no one wants to lend to a “startup” – and the business can clearly sustain the new loan balance. But again – banks don’t want to underwrite loans these days, period. So, fingers crossed….I should have more information on that relatively soon.

And then there’s the Sox game this afternoon. I’m almost glad that I can’t see it – since Dice K is pitching and he is so frustrating to watch; but I’m thankful for the radio at my desk. It’s been years since I’ve sat in a building that got reception and being able to listen to the game puts a whole new light on being stuck in the office.

Speaking of which – this girl is off to get a spring in her step with some fresh air and a run to Whole Foods.

"Cheese has always been a food that both sophisticated and simple humans love.”

So the Sushi Soiree weekend didn't come to full fruition.
But my God did I eat. I ate like I'd never seen food before.

Friday night - I was supposed to go for sushi & shoe shopping to celebrate a girlfriend's birthday. But....she had a borderline anaphylactic reaction to some allergy medicine she was on, and the poor thing not only looked awful, but felt even worse. So we rescheduled to this evening, which I inturn, have postponed - due to the fact that I think I have a sinus infection - and feel lousy in the morning, and even worse at night. But I'll get to that in a bit...

Anyway - I stayed home Friday, and G ended up ordering me a prosciutto & roasted pepper sub from AJ's which was okay. Not sure why TV Diner has raved out of their minds about it, I think the subs and calzones are just okay; but then again - Summer Shack is like their "golden child" and I'm rather unimpressed with them as well, so... look at the source, right? I mean, AJ's is good -- but I can think of a few places better. Just sayin'...

Saturday, another girlfriend came over - and we took the kids to Minado in Natick for lunch. She'd never been - and my kids and I love, love, love it there. The best sushi and Japanese cuisine buffet anywhere. She stayed the night, and we watched chick flicks which was a ton of fun. Of course we were stuffed from lunch and didn't feel like eating a big dinner, so me and my brilliant ideas thinks...."what goes best on chick flick movie night? Insane snack food." So I run out, and get all the fixing's for home made guacamole, 7 layer dip, salsa -- oh, and this amazing Pumpkin flavored cheese with wheat crackers. I swear, it was like eating Pumpkin Cheesecake. To die for....

Here's the thing, I can resist peanut butter -- but I have zero tolerance with any cheese products. Needless to say, I was congested and barely able to breathe - with a buzz from some good Sauvignon Blanc, as well as my overdose on sodium.

Sunday afternoon - we took the kids to brunch; hello, banana stuffed French toast (no whipped), homefries, sausage and two eggs over easy. And then I wonder how I put on 7 lbs. since the surgery? Right....

Which brings us back to today, which is the actual birthday of my girlfriend from Friday - whom I've cancelled with for tonight. Well, turns out - her lunch plans cancelled so I said "lets meet quick for lunch at least!". We initially opted for Panera - but then this sign "Sakura" caught her eye. It's a fast food, yet made fresh Japanese restaurant in the Woburn Mall. (I know what you're thinking, "mall sushi?!?!". Trust me, we both thought the same thing; but it was cheap and we were short on time, so mall sushi it was.) We're both pretty picky about sushi, and we were not at all impressed with what we saw (or the rude woman at the counter, but I digress....) but yet we were both very pleasantly surprised at how good the sushi was. It was better than good - it was actually, very good. And exceptionally inexpensive, might I add. Which allowed for a light, healthy and inexpensive lunch.

And even though my eyes hurt, and my sinuses are pounding -- I am going to venture into my first session of jogging tonight. Must get back into the physical routine of life again -- and say goodbye to those extra 7 lbs. which I'm oh-so-aware of. I think my surgery is far enough behind me to slowly get back into the running groove -- and today is the day I am starting. Besides, getting the blood circulating through my system might not hurt this sinus thing I've got going on as well.

Here's hoping, anyway....