Brittany's Birthday Cake!

This was my FIRST attempt at following in my mom's foot steps!

Dinner and a Show

It has become our tradition, and by tradition I mean the past 2 years, that we go to this place called Pinnacle Peak Trail Dust town on Christmas Eve after service.

We go to the old peoples service at 5pm and then we go to Pinnacle Peak Steakhouse for dinner after where my dad goes to town on a 18oz., seared to perfection, medium Cowboy steak and when we are finished we go to the gun show!

                                    

                                      My luggage for the weekend.

                                         It sure is exhausting moving all this luggage!                                                                     

Christmas Eve

Mommy and Me

A Little Taste of Home

 One, among many, of my favorite things for the holidays are when it is time to make  our family cookies better know to us as Spritzers!

Now, it used to be just random Santas and what not however do to my mom and her amazing baking talent she has taken it to a whole new level! This isn't just random baking or decorating for that matter. These were meticulously detailed and they even had "fairy dust" on them! You can only imagine how excited I was when I found out that cookies were in the mail for me. I felt like a little kid staring at the clock for school to be out and then when the bell did ring getting up and sprinting off to the playground!

While the decorating may have changed over the years, in a good way, there is one thing that is still the same about them, they have the same fabulous taste!

I got 2 of the turkeys and 4 leaves!!!!

In addition to receiving some of these cookies, I also got 2 chocolate covered Oreos!!!

Thanks Mama!

Turkey Trot 2010

                                             I completed my first 10K!!!!

At Huntington Beach.

                         A couple of reasons that I decided to do this race...

1.) When first deciding what I should do on Thanksgiving away from home, I thought, I will do a Turkey Trot of some sort. After sorting through a few races, I stumbled across Cause Life. After reading several statistics, I decided that this is the run that I would like to be involved with. I want to make a difference!

2.) It's the first time that I will ever run in a race.

3.) How can you not run for a cause when you see a face like this?

Ready for Combat

Nike has a line that is called Nike Pro. Recently, I decided that I need to make an investment in a new bra. Being on sale I decided to go with Nike Pro Combat Women's Bra. I was a bit skeptical when I first tried it out on a run, so I another bra under it for reinforcement. 

Tonight, I went to go for a work out but was only planning on walking so I only wore one sports bra, the Nike Pro Combat Women's Bra. Well, of course, I wanted to run once my feet hit the pavement, I began to feel the adrenaline rushing through my veins, so I began to pick up the pace!

When I was 30 minutes into my run, I remembered that I was only wearing but one bra. I would have NEVER know the difference! My ladies stayed in perfect place! This thing had to be engineered for busty women! There is a thick band on the bottom that provides firm support and the fabric is not forgiving to ensure that "they" don't go ANYWHERE! They don't bounce nor did they hurt after a run. 

               This is THE bra for all my BUSTY lady friends out there!

                               A MUST have for the season.

Open up the gates!

I went to Dick's Sporting Goods the other day to purchase a new sports bra, remember your bras should NEVER have a birthday (see previous posting).

I found what I thought would be a good one. I did my usual series of tests:

1.) 10 jumping jacks- we are looking to see if the girls poke my eyes out, or if they stay in place.

2.) Does it give me a uniboob after I've been jumping around?

3.) The shimmy- do they swing side to side? Because when you are older, you don't want to be able to tie them in a bow and thow them over your shoulder.

After passing all of these tests, I purchased this bra:

http://dsp.imageg.net/graphics/product_images/pDSP1-7118476p275w.jpg


As you can see, it has a zipper in the front. This is not my normal preference, but I thought, "hey, why not"?!?

The next day, with my new equipment on, I went for a run...

Suddenly after 15 minutes of running my Laddies were quite tender and jiggly. I stoped and looked down and my bra had come open and undone! AHHHHH....

I was on top of the 1-5 and sandwhiched between Wells Fargo headquaters and a hospital. How was I going to get the girls back in there?!? I didn't want anyone to get a glimpse of the PROMISE land. So, I turned around, face the freeway and tried diligently to zip up the bar, but cars kept coming by.

I gave up! So, the girls and I walked slowly and FREELY back home to saftey!

Bringing y Back...

Dearly Beloved,

I am so sorry that it has been so long since I have posted anything. In the past 3 months I've been out in Irvine doing my management training. However, I am delighted to say that I am now at the tale end of my training.

In that 3 months, I worked in the kitchen for just under 2 months, one of the BIGGEST struggles of my life, where I learned that we are a 97% scratch kitchen! I worked on the line during that time as well, and boy talk about a fish out of water, before I worked on the line I couldn't even make Hamburger Helper without burning!

When that was complete, I move back into familiar territory, or so I thought.

1 day bussing.

2 days of food running.

6 days of serving.

6 days of bartending. (That was intense. Who knew there was so much to learn about beer, especially when we have 250 beers on tap!)

With 2 weeks, or 14 shifts, remaining, I am back in action and ready to post!

Stay tuned!

Love,

Me

Humility

I've have had an INCREDIBLY hard time this last week. To kick things off, I had a tough time working in the SAUCE station. I had 5 days to learn 62 recipes and I didn't meet that expectation. The first time that I took the test, I had to re-test. Then, when I re-tested, I had to re-test  AGAIN!

I was so frustrated! It was so hard for me to keep a positive spirit. Well, when I retook the sauce test, I finally passed and with a 100%.
 

Motiv8

I've been getting up so early in the morning (5 am) that I don't have time to go to the gym or a run before I go to work, therefore, I go when I get home. Well, yesterday, I was exhausted and had no energy to go to the gym but I thought, "Ana-Lisa don't forget why you are running!" So I jumped off the couch and away I went.

When I got there there were only 2 other people in there, this is one of my apartment gyms. One man was on the bike and the other lady was on the treadmill. The guy had his head phones in, for a GOOD reason. The lady on the treadmill was coughing up a storm! Every 5 minutes, I thought she was going to die. Yet instead of going home and being in bed resting, she was at the gym CONTAMINATING the air. Are you serious right now lady?!?! Go home!

Just as I thought she had finished, she moved machines, WITHOUT cleaning the treadmill that she had just sprayed spit all over by coughing! NASTY!!! She looked over at me and says, "I'm all finished with the remote, would you like to change the channel?" And while I appreciate the gesture, 2 things; I'm not there to watch RACHEL RAY and if you are going to offer me the remote at least go wipe it down with the courtesy wipes before handing if to me, especially after you've been coughing.

I was so annoyed with her up her lungs (I have yet to mention that my headphones died too!) that after 30 minutes of strength training and 15 minutes of running I went home.

Just Die Already!

As you know, Percy died a TRAGIC  and went to iPod heaven. Then just as I was about to bury him, a.k.a. throw him away, he came back to life!!! However, after only going for a week's worth of runs with me, things quickly took a turn for the worse and he died again!

So Percy, if you can ready this, just DIE already! A girl's heart can only take so much!!!

Everyday at work, we get to try a new item on the menu, for training purposes of course!!! Well, as I am only in my 2nd day of prep, I have quickly learned that there is so much cream, milk and cheese product that goes into things that we don't even realize. It's in just about everything!

Most of you know that I don't eat dairy products- I'm a soy/rice/coconut product kinda gal!

With that being said, I decided today that I was in the mood for a little "home cooking" and that I was going to try the Chicken Pot Pie. So, I went and read the recipe, there is only 1/2 cup of creme in a full recipe that yields 30 pot pies. I thought, "Spanish girl, there is NO WAY that you'll get sick from eating such a minuscule amount!" Well, this Spanish girl is STUPID! 

Needless to say, I have become great friends with "Lou" this evening!

All Tied Up!

Recently, I've had a hard time keeping my laces tied. I'm quite sure why; especially because I've had the same shoes for 4 months now.

With that in ming I hit up my favorite running magazine, www.runnersworld.com, to get some useful tips on how to tie a shoe lace. (Yes, I know---who doesn't know how to tie a shoe lace, but after this, I'm sure you'd be surprised!)

STEP 1:
You can tie the starting knot by passing the left lace over the right (shown at left), or by wrapping right over left. Either method can yield a balanced knot or a granny knot—it depends on what you do afterward.

STEP 2:
Next you make a loop with the right lace (shown at left) or the left. Either choice can yield a balanced knot or a granny knot—independent of which starting knot you made. It comes down to what you do next.

STEP 3:
 Then you circle the other lace around the loop you just made—either in front or in back of the loop. The right choice depends upon how you did steps 1 and 2. (In the knot shown at left, back is correct.) To see the proper last step that matches your technique, consult the chart at right.

For more info about trying your shoes, or perhaps you'd like a demonstration video. You can view the following article that I got my tips from: Runner's World- All Tied Up Article

Should've Listened

Last Saturday, I was scheduled to go on an 8 mile run. I did my usual routine- sunscreen, hat, water bottle and nourishment (sport beans). Usually, I have go to the restroom before I hit the pavement but I didn't have to go this time. 

This is the part in my story where I should have listened to my mama. She always says, "Be sure to go to the restroom before leaving the house!". It's like telling a 3 year old to go potty and them not listening, only I'm 24 now! (I guess some things never change)

Therefore, I hit the road! I was feeling good! I had my playlist and a great pace going. I was going to do my "best mile ever today". Things quickly took a turn for the worse. I was 3 miles into my run and then it hit me. I had to go to the "lou". 

I picked up the pace in hopes to find a restroom on the trail but there was none in sight. My mind immediately went racing, where was the nearest restroom? Then it hit me, it was approximately 3 miles away- at my house!

Flight or fight? 

Do I just hold it? Do I run home? Do I go back to the days when I went to Ethopia and dig a hole in the ground and squat?

The answer is, go home.

I began my run back to the house. Less than half a mile completed and I felt like everything was giggling around in me. "Oh, no!!!"

At that point, you clinch your butt cheeks and run- run like the wind! In instances like this I listen to the wise words of my grandmother, "quick, quick, quick!"

I made it home, just in time!

YardCore is

To my avid 6 followers on blogger:

I will be going to posting only once to twice a week. The reason? The Yard House training program, called YardCore because it's  - that it is compared to learning a year long college course in a matter of 90 days!!!

Say what?!?!

With that being said, my goal is to post at least on Sundays (at least for the first couple of weeks) and keep you posted on the nature of my training.


Love,

Ana-Lisa

He's Risen

Percy is RISEN!!!

I was packing to leave for California tomorrow and stumbled upon Percy. Before I said my last goodbyes, I thought I'd try him out one more time.

When I plugged Percy into the iPod dock, he started playing!!! While Alejandro, my step sisters iPod has served me well, I'm glad to have Percy back!

Twiggy

They say in marathon running that you'll learn quickly there is no room for pride. 

Recently, I have been experiencing some friction between my thighs while running. I have chosen to ignore it but now it is getting to the point where it is unbearable to run for longer than 4 miles.

 Therefore, I went to Dick's Sporting Goods and purchased this:

When I got there, I was embarrassed to ask where the chaffing gel was, so I aimlessly wandered around the store looking for it. Then I found it in the shoe section (explain that on to me!) where a strapping young man was working. He approached me and asked if I needed any assistance. My reply, "No thanks, I found the water bottles!" Then he went to the back to check something out for another customer and that's when I grabbed the chaffing gel and speedily walked to the front to check-out.

When I approached the registers, there were only males checking people out. Being embarrassed, I pretended to still need something and walked around for a bit, I do the same thing when I check out with a male and I'm buying tampons!

Upon my second walk around the store, I realized that the only person's thighs that don't touch are Twiggy's! When I got over myself, I went to the front and checked out.

Tomorrow, I will be going on an 8 mile run and will be testing this stuff out. Let's hope it works because it's painful when your legs rub together for long periods of time.

In a previous post, I mentioned the importance in keeping yourself hydrated and nourished. So while I was at Dick's I decided that I would try the jelly beans. They are made with jelly belly flavors! I tried the gels last time and I have never tasted anything so disgusting.

So with my 2 new products in hand, I left Dick's and will be testing them tomorrow.

Baking In Mama's Kitchen

As you may or may not know, my mom bakes cakes in spare time, simplycakesnmore.blogspot.com . A friend of mine ordered a cake from her and I got to help. This is not that story because Jessica still hasn't seen the cake, so I can't blow the surprise. But after helping my mom, I was inspired. 

So today, after sprucing up my blog and designing hers, I got bored and decided that I was going to make cupcake cones, like an ice cream cones but only stuffed cake and frosting.

Here is my version on how to make them.

 (DON'T try this at home)

Step 1: Make the cake batter.

Step 2: Bake!

Step 3: Make sure you have all of the supplies that you are going to need to make the desired product.

That's right, ladies and gentlemen. It wasn't until the cupcakes were in the oven that I realized that I didn't have flat bottomed ice cream cones, so I improvised. I used pointed cones. 

Step 4: Cut the tops off of the cupcakes and make the frosting (but try not to dye your fingers)

Step 5: Drop a dollop of frosting into the tip (like the chocolate at the bottom of a Drumstick). Then take the bottoms that you cut off and stuff the cone with the cake. After that, put a layer of frosting on the top (it will act as the glue for the top) and then place the top on the cone.

Step 6:Frost the tops of the cones. 

My recommendation: frost the cone tops before you put them on the cone, it makes it easier. Then decorate. 

However, once I completed the first cone, I realized I had nothing to hold these things. While I was trying to hold the cone, I was simultaneously trying to cut holes into a cardboard box. In the process of doing this, the top fell off (yes, mom, I cleaned it up!) and I had to start over.

I only completed 6 cones before I gave up and went to making regular cupcakes!

When I asked my mom about these things, she said there is an easier way to do these. Apparently, you can put the batter into the cone and bake them together.

 I guess I'll be keeping my day job!

How To Run Your Long Runs

For any long distance training program, the long run is essential. Along with being a very important part of your training efforts, it is also very important that you complete your long runs correctly. Yes, there is a right and wrong way to running or walking your weekly long efforts. And no better time than now to learn the correct way to run, as we are getting into some longer mileage. Whether you are someone who takes a little more time to complete your training sessions or someone who likes to finish your workouts as quick as you can and return to the warmth of your bed, all runners should run their long runs at the same “pace.”

That is not to say that someone who is able to run an 8-minute mile should slow down to run a 12-minute mile with his/her friend. You should be completing your long efforts at a “conversational pace.” In other words, you should be able to comfortably carry on a conversation throughout your long effort, even if you are training by yourself. Naturally, this may seem rather odd to passersby, so perhaps singing a song to yourself may seem more appropriate. Then again, you can always have fun with those you pass with some rather interesting conversation topics. Ask me for some good ones for your next run. ;)

By training at a conversational pace, you will get the most out of your long effort. The goal is to train your body to handle a good amount of time on your feet, and prepare you both physically and mentally for the rigors of a long distance race. Even if you can run 8-minute miles during your weekday runs of 3 or 4 miles, you will want to slow down a bit for your weekly long effort. Pushing yourself too hard too early in your training is just setting yourself up for trouble. Depending on your pace, and comfort level, try adding about 30 to 60 seconds per mile to your current weekday run pace. Better to add that time at the beginning of your run and throughout your long run, then to HAVE to add 3 or 4 minutes PER mile to your run for the last few miles of a 20-mile effort because you expended all of your energy too early. Your weekday runs and track workouts down the road are your opportunities to run at a more intense pace and to improve your speed, plus concentrate on other areas of running which we will discuss throughout the season.

A Mother's Heart

"The first day of summer break of 2006 Joshua awoke with what was thought to be the flu. Major complaints were a horrible headache and neck pain. His temp began to rise as the next few days passed and the head and neck only worsened. We visited a colleague of our pediatrician (ours was on vacation) who suspected a viral infection. 

As the next few days passed little things began to occur. Were they linked? The overprotective mother in me felt, "yes, they are". There were two days when Joshua's eyelids became really droopy. And leg pain! It seemed to be growing pains-felt only during the night hours, but really painful. 

Then one morning I awoke to his screaming from his bed. He was unable to even move his legs. I massaged them as I could and he fell to sleep, but only for a few minutes before his cries rang out again. We again visited a 2nd colleague who felt certain it was a virus. This particular virus would explain all symptoms, including the droopy eyelids.

Joshua was scheduled for an ophthalmologist visit to confirm suspicions. On the 10th day of Joshua feeling so horribly-headache, neck pain, leg pain growing worse each day- we finally spoke with our pediatrician who immediately called us in to her office. Joshua's name was called and as he walked in to the office he saw Dr. Campbell and an uncontrollable flow of tears began racing down his face. He hugged her tightly and said, I feel SO bad! He'd never cried like that!

I knew 2 things at that moment:
               1. Joshua was very, very sick.

               2. We had the perfect pediatrician for our son. He trusted her to make things right.

A very quick look at Joshua and a once over on the symptoms and we were immediately sent to the ED of Phoenix Children's Hospital. The doctor suspected viral meningitis and spoke of a spinal tap. If only his intuition had been right. The blood work results were in. 

Joshua was diagnosed with Acute Lymphatic Leukemia, one of the most common forms of childhood cancer. Statistics show an 80-85% chance of survival.

Waiting for their new puppy!

God, show us the way!!" 
-Meredith Gass

The Truth Is I'm Never Leaving You

We'll call this a continuation of "Don't Cry For Me Argentina" but this half is for my BOHers. 

CARLOS: I've had so much fun with you! As with Luis, its been GREAT to watch you become a MAN. I've seen you go from dating to married, from married to having a LITTLE girl and building a family! We've talked about so much and you are ALWAYS sure to let me know what's on your mind when it concerns those situations. You've always been sure to let me know when you don't like something! Please, NEVER lose that. Continue to be who you are. You are a great man with a BEAUTIFUL family!

CHUY: You are such a hard worker! You show up to work, ready to work, EVERYDAY. You have a impeccable work ethic that challenges me to want to do a better job, DAILY! Thank you for all the great laughs. Pei Wei, I love you!

JUAN: Two words come to mind when I think about you: Class Clown. You are always playing practical jokes. Keep that sense of humor up. It brightens up eveyones day.

DORIAN: Who am I going to practice my Spanish with?!? I'm very triste that about this. You, Dorian Illiana, are a beautiful MOTHER of 2. You love your family and will do ANYTHING to keep them together and I ADMIRE that about you. You do things that, maybe, you don't want to do but you know that you need to do to PROVIDE a great life for your children. That is a trait to be HIGHLY esteemed!

FATIMA: There is something to be said for women like you. Women like you go down in the "Hall of Fame of Moms!" You are a great mother, Fati. You are doing a great job raising Juanito and Lupita. You are KIND hearted, GENEROUS, and caring. You are the type of person who would give the shirt off of her back if someone NEEDED it, no questions asked. You are RELENTLESS in telling the truth. If I ever need to hear the truth about something, you are the one that I'm going to ask! If there were more people in the world like you, this world would be a better world. 

DORA: When I think about you, Dora, I think pillar of strength. I'm blown away by how close you are with your family. The way you are with your family is the way so many on-lookers wish they were with yours. 


I LOVE YOU ALL! And it was both a PLEASURE and an HONOR working with you!


 

Don't Cry For Me Argentina

s mentioned in a previous blog post, I am not longer working for Rumbi Island Grill. What's that you ask? Where will I be going?

Well, I am going to work for a concept called The YardHouse.

I am both nervous and excited about embarking on this new adventure. I am ready to be a little fish in a big pond again and going to work for this concept can certainly take care of that.

However, talking about the YardHouse is not the main purpose of this particular blog entry, we'll get to those details later.

Rather this entry is for my now former team members and co-workers. I'll start with my FOHers

AMANDA ANNE: You darling, are a BEAUTIFUL girl. You are INTELLIGENT and funny. I've had the opportunity to watch you "grow-up". We were lucky enough that your dad let you work for us at the TENDER age of 15 and now, here we are, 2 years later, and you're entering the NAVY. You will do an amazing job at serving our COUNRTY, that I have no doubts about. You FIGHT for the things that you want, although sometimes they might not be the things that you NEED (but you'll learn that with age). Amanda, if there is one thing that I want you to fight for, it's YOURSELF. Figure out the things are REALLY important to you and DEFEND those but don't let your TEMPER or EMOTIONS get the best of you. Go after the things that you really DESERVE and settle for NOTHING less.

ALEX: You weren't an employee of mine for very long, I knew you as a guest first! You are very PEACEFUL and CALM. From me to you, don't forget to let your FABULOUS personality shine through in every situation that you are in, it's what got you the job at Rumbi and I'm sure will get you MANY more. Trust YOURSELF and remember, it's okay to MISTAKES (in fact, most people expect them, that's how you learn!) Believe in yourself and others will believe in you!

AMY: I haven't know you very long either but from what I've observed, you are a very determined person. That determined spirit will take you far. Continue to "press on TOWARDS the goal!" (ooo, and the post card from Scotland, I still have it! It's my fav!)

BRITTNEY: Where do I begin with you?!? We met at Starbucks and at first, I thought you HATED me but then as time has passed, that's clearly not true! And while not much time has passed since we've "really" known each other, GIRL, I've seen you go through quite a bit of STUFF. First, you were a "damsel in distress," literally crying in the dinning room, and so we rescued you (and that was the best day EVER!)  Secondly, you had to ENDURE one of the most miserable months of being sick. After just those few things, I've come to know you even more and I am CONSTANTLY blown away by you! You have an enormous HEART and are so generous! You challenge me EVERYDAY, whether you know it or not, to put a smile on my face, no matter what! I always have a great time with you, talking "big girl talk" or just giggling like little school girls! Loves you!

DARIAN:  OOOO Darian. You APPRECIATE my child-like heart, need I mention the silly bands or Disney movies?! You could QUITE possibly be one of the coolest young ladies I've EVER had the pleasure of knowing. You are always joking around and having fun, you have a "California girl" way about you. As with a few of the other girls, I've seen you go through some stuff, as well. Remember when you THOUGHT your car was stolen?!? And then there is the whole topic of boys and girls and people SWITCHING schools. Drama, drama, drama. But in the midst of that RUBBISH, you stayed focused and VIRTUALLY unmoved, and for that girl, my hat is off to you! You are going to accomplish GREAT things with your LIFE and I hope that I am around to see that happen!

JACQUE: I started working here you leave the first time! You come back and it's a whole new world!  I've enjoyed the time that we have spent together. You WANT to learn and while you may not be in one place forever, you certainly want to do your BEST at what you are doing, that has been SELF- EVIDENT over the past few weeks. Keep up the GREAT work! You have faced some MASSIVE trials in the past 2 years and I've been there to watch you and your reaction to situations. These things have caused you to grow up and mature and in a sense "re-define" yourself. I see you, now, as a young lady who is learning what the IMPORTANT things in life are. As you figure those out, you are learning where to PLANT your feet on solid ground so that you can stand FIRM to defend those things. DON'T back down from those things and continue to plant those feet, but remember-be teachable, there's a balance! Thank you for all the laughs and great conversations that we've had!

LUIS: You like?!? You have to be the FUNNIEST person I've ever known! It has been great to watch you step up! You've really become a MAN in these past few years but this last year, in particular. Continue to LEARN! If you find yourself GROWING weary or bored, ask for a NEW learning experience. You are only going to go as far as you ALLOW yourself to go. You are YOUR biggest obstacle, right now. You have so much MORE to bring to the table (or offer) than you REALIZE . You have a great heart, Luis, guard it. Don't let people rob your joy! Be happy because you are who you are and don't let that be based on anything other than that, my love!

SARAH: I am so happy and BLESSED that Pastor Dan brought you into my life! You are a joy to have around. You DILIGENTLY seek after the heart of God and I am blown away by your FAITH. You are great example of what it means to be the "hands and feet of Jesus." I've had the honor of watching you ESTABLISH yourself as young woman. In the past year, you've moved to Mexico, went to Scotland, and now you are EMBARKING on a new adventure, by moving into your own place! I'm so excited for you and for the things that God has for you. Sarita, continue to be "a light in a dark world," it is an encouragement! Your faith INSPIRES!

Speed Racer (Flash): ummm....i worked 2 shifts with you. So not much to say but make sure you listening to Spoken!

B.MADD (Powder Puff): I'm sad at you and the fact that you weren't there to WITNESS my last day. It was not long ago that I WALKED into Starbucks and fell in love with you! You are peanut butter to my jelly, soy to my iced coffee, and new york to my tourist! I was always ELATED to work with you. You were always so APPRECIATIVE of the things that you were experiencing in the moment. If there is one MAJOR thing that I have learned from you, it is, just that. Enjoy everything that you have in your life and enjoy the moment you are in!

Eric: Last but not least. I could write a WHOLE blog entry about you. When we met, I knew virtually nothing about this industry, and while I'm still a PUP, I've certainly come a LONG way and that is thanks in part to you. You brought me under "your wing" and raised me up. You saw something in me, that I couldn't even see in myself. I've learned so much from you in the past couple of years ranging from business to a vast array of subjects. Thank you for taking the time to TEACH me and make a SOLID investment in me and in my life. I would not be where I am today without some of your MANY contributions to my career. I know that I am DIFFICULT at times (as are you!), STUBBORN, would be more appropriate, but as "iron sharpens iron, so one man sharpens another." You have been there to support me, especially when I was in a "dark place". But you were PATIENT and waited for me to BOUNCE back. While to me, these two little words seem INSUFFICENT, I know that me simply writing about you in this blog and mentioning just a few things, that it means a lot to you. With that, THANK YOU!

If Tables Could Talk

I have spent the last 2 and a half years serving, WORKING with and getting to know some of the most AMAZING people I've ever met. I've come to know them so well in fact, that I feel like I'm losing some of my FAMILY by leaving.

If the tables at Rumbi could talk, they would tell you, that in the midst of one of the HARDEST times in my life, these great co-workers and dear guests rallied around me to offer a STRONG support system and advice.

Everyone of my relationships with these people is UNIQUE and DIFFERENT.

Those tables would say that there are certain people that I'd talk to if I was having a BAD day.  I could sit with them, for just a moment, and they'd make me laugh, INSTANTLY.

The tables would say that I cherish the fact that I'm more than just a manager in a restaurant but, rather, a FRIEND. I am there to lend a listening ear, a word of ENCOURAGEMENT, or sit and LAUGH.

They could tell you that some people come into the store with a BURDENED heart and I'll sit with them and they TRUST me enough to talk to me about the DIFFICULT things that are going on in their lives.

Over the years, GREAT stories of engagements, weddings, graduations, and pregnancies have been shared across the table, as well as,TRAGIC stories of death, heart break, and divorce.

These are the most INTIMATE places of someones heart and I have the honor of being able to hear what they have to say!

I have had the most amazing TIMES with you all!  

THANK YOU so much for being a part of my life and allowing me to be a part of yours. I'm going to MISS seeing you (some of you daily)! I'll miss hearing all of your stories, sharing in your secrets and laughing with you.

I LOVE YOU ALL...

But for now, lets just be GLAD that the tables at Rumbi CAN'T talk and that our secrets, tears, and laughter will be held in safe keeping!

Josh's Story

Josh and I meeting for the First time at the Miracles In Motion Kick off party

Just one month before his seventh birthday, Joshua was diagnosed with acute lymphocytic leukemia,a type of blood cancer that is most common in children under age 15.

He went through 40 months of chemotherapy at the Center for Cancer and Blood Disorders at Phoenix Children's Hospital, making monthly trips from his Goodyear home to Phoenix. "It was pretty scary when they first said I had cancer, but I think I’m pretty strong and I think I’m going to be okay. Everyday there are so many needles and so many meds that make me feel crummy, but the worst is that I’ve spend LOTS of time in the hospital. Much of it I don’t remember because my body got too tired to work and they had to use machines to keep me alive," said Josh.

Joshua's family endured other types of hardships throughout his treatment as well.

Paul, Josh's dad, lost his job in the construction industry, so his wife, Meredith, went to work full-time as an event coordinator (she loves to teach dance,though). They switched insurance a few times and paid thousands of dollars in medical bills.

"We had seen the worst there was to offer," he said. "I've realized that even though something like this happened, it could be worse."

 In the four years since he was diagnosed, Joshua, 10, has become a spokesman for research to cure leukemia!

Joshua is now finally "chemo free"! Thirty-nine months of countless pills, pokes, prods and very uncertain months in hospital, he has remained hopeful that tomorrow would be brighter - not just for himself, but for all of those facing blood cancer.

Joshua has most recently been chosen to serve as Arizona's Ambassador through the Children's Miracle Network.

"I’m not sure what I want to be when I grow up, but I know God has a really big plan for me. For now, Ill just try to help find a cure so we can get rid of this stinkin’ disease."

Me, Meredith, Paul, Joshua and Elijah at Dave and Busters

Currently, this AMAZING family of four, live out in Goodyear where Josh goes to Estrella Elementary where he loves to learn about science. Additionally, while he's resting from saving the world, he also enjoys playing soccer (and so does his little brother too!)

Little Brother, Big Brother
Elijah and Josh

Who knows, maybe he'll become a doctor and be the one to find a cure for the very disease that he had to endure.

 If you are encouraged by this story, please click on the icon, FirstGiving, and help me raise money (its tax deductible!), as I will be running in honor of Josh in the P.F. Chang's Marathon!

My name badge! I'm running 26.2 miles in honor of Josh and his family.

I Bid Thee Farewell...

The nice thing about running in a group is that you don't need to take music with you. You just enjoy the run with your group and now more than ever, I appreciate that.

My iPod, Percy, died today only a few hours after our practice today.

It went something like this:

   Still plays music but the forward button doesn't work.

After that, someone at work went to see what song was playing and the screen turned insane colors and then shut off.

                                      MOMENTS LATER

                           Farewell Percy!

Group Run #1

Did you know that less than 5% of the population will ever complete a half marathon or marathon?

Today was my first group run with Miracles in Motion (p.s. I'm still in DIRE need of sponsors) and it was fun. Originally, we were supposed to start at 6 am but when I arrived at the park, aside from Coach Rick, I was the only one there.We did a group stretch and hit the trail at Kawains Park at about 6:30.

I was able to complete the 4 miles scheduled today in 30 minutes! Although, my legs were tight this morning I had to work through it. I was foolish and ran 3 miles on Friday and also did yoga (nuts!!!) While I'm no Flo Jo, I'm excited to see the progress that I will make over the next 6 months.

When we finished our run, there was a man from the Runner's Den there to talk with us about somethings. He was there to talk to us about what the magazines tell us we need and what we actually need. Here is what he recommended:

1. PROPER RUNNING SHOES
• a good shoe that provides great support rather than looks stylish.
2. HYDRATION AND NUTRITION 
• water, water, water. If you are going longer than 90 minutes take water with you. If less, hydrate before and after. 
• Use flue bars, gels, or other forms of energy past 90 minutes and every 40 minutes thereafter.
3. PROTECTING YOUR DANGLEY BITS: 
• Ladies:
1. A good sports bra does NOT come from Target. Protect your ladies. 
2. Never put your sports bras in the dryer. 
3. Most important, your bra should NEVER have a birthday! 
• Men: 
1. purchase shorts with lining because you don't want to wear a jock strap for 26 miles!
2. Buy laytex free band-aids and cover your nipples, so they don't bleed from your shirts rubbing them raw during a long run
4. SUN PROTECTION
• wear a hat 
• use sunscreen
5. CHAFFING GEL
• reduce your friction!!!

I hope that you find this as useful as I did.

Where the Sidewalk Ends

This morning, I was out for a run at, what I believe, is the one of the best parts of the day, SUNRISE. I decided that I was not going to do my normal, Pecos Park, run but  I wanted to try a different trail.

I headed down Frye Road, turned at 40th Street, and made it up to Ray Road. It wasn't until I was coming back and crossed Chandler Blvd. that I was ALMOST hit by a car. The car was making a right hand turn out of the Safeway parking lot, she made a quick glance to her right, so I thought that she saw me coming. After all, I was wearing a NEON pink shirt and yellow shoes, its not like I was wearing muted colors.

I kept running, in the bike lane (I don't run on the sidewalk, it's bad for your knees), and it wasn't until I was in FRONT of her car that I realized that she hadn't seen me. She took her foot OFF the break and started to inch forward, I hit the HOOD of her car and a look of HORROR came over her face. I was the one who had the right of way, I even looked both ways, just like my MOMMY taught me. So while I may feel slightly bad about hitting her car, she needs to learn to pay attention to what's going on around her. If we were all a little more ALERT the majority of accidents could be prevented.

This is my PLEA to you: be careful when you are driving because you NEVER know when runners, walkers, or bikers are going to appear.

To you my FELLOW runners, walkers, and bikers, be alert, because ANYTHING can happen where the sidewalk ENDS.

A Stick Of Deodorant

Today, I took my first official run of the season! I have been doing maintenance running through the summer and because it's so hot, everyone runs indoors. It is now starting to cool off and there are a lot more runners out on the road. The one great thing about there being so few runners outside during the summer is that you don't pass people that have a "smell" or people that have a lot of perspiration.

Most of you know that I don't sweat a lot and that I have this ridiculous paranoia about having body odor. If you know me very well, you know that I apply insane amounts of White Citrus lotion from Bath and Body Works and carry deodorant and a pack of Altoids, at all times. It never fails that where ever I go, there is someone around that has b.o. (that's why I assume that it's me).

Today, I passed a fellow runner that could have knocked a cactus over with his body odor. I don't understand how he could have even left the house smelling like that. Doesn't he know someone that would say "Hey, Friend, you stink!" For that matter, how could he not smell himself? 

As I ran further along, another runner passed me that was sweating so bad that when he exhaled through his mouth i saw the sweat fly from his mouth (and swear that it came 2 inches from me)! Now while they may not be trendy, Sir, you must invest in a sweat band!