Run Michele Run

Martini's and Beer as a Pre-Race Taper (or What Not to do the Night Before a Race)

2012-01-19T08:26:00.000-08:00

So, I backed down from running the full marathon this past weekend due to numerous things, such as hip pain, possible fracture in my toe, fatigue, and just not mentally being in the game. Turns out that it was a great decision.

We had relatives in to celebrate my father-in-law's upcoming 75th birthday this past weekend. This celebration included many late nights, several martini's being drunk by my father-in-law and lots of beer being downed by my running posse.

Traffic getting to the start line was horrific and we were stuck in it for 2 hours. Some runners were even brave enough to jump out of their cars on the highway and run to the start line, making their race about 15 miles total instead of 13.1. We did not do that. We did consider scrapping everything and going to breakfast, but we forged ahead and made it to the start line an hour late.

Being an hour late for a race zaps any hopes of doing a personal best, which also relieves you of any pressure during that race. We (or at least I) had the most fun during that race. We were able to chat the entire time, enjoy the new course and pose for some fun "Tebow" pictures. Lesson learned. Although we are not elite athletes, we do train to do our personal best at these races, but sometimes it's o.k. just to enjoy the race and go out there and run for the sake of running.

Let the Sleeping Dad Sleep

2012-01-19T08:17:00.000-08:00

Quiet. Well, except for the extremely loud TV in the other room. My Dad was asleep when I got here at 7:30 and I do not believe in waking people (or any age) unless it is an emergency or they have an appointment that they are going to miss, etc. Luckily for him he is hard of hearing, which is both why he has the TV so loud and why he is able to sleep through it.

Hospice located a lift chair for loan yesterday and it has been a huge help and relief to our backs. Dad seems to be pretty comfortable in the chair as well. With the neuropathy and advancing cancer in his bones, walking/moving for Dad is becoming more difficult. I actually fear trying to get him into my car on my own because it is low enough that it is very trying for him to get out. So far he's been very agreeable to having me run his errands for him, or being his legs as he calls it.

I will have to say that as far as a patient, he still has a good attitude and I truly believe that if anyone can will the cancer gone and a full recovery it is him. He is still looking forward to moving back to Iowa in August and is still making purchases that I personally question, but then again, it's his money to spend, not mine. I'll just continue to fight him on the electric scooter since there isn't a model that would work in his home due to narrow doorways, narrow hallways and no ramps. But, he persists in looking on the computer each day, possibly just to get under my skin.

Waiting to turn the page

2011-12-13T14:23:00.000-08:00

Well, here we are, almost mid-December and where has the time gone?

I was listening to a podcast as I was running in the rain this morning and they were talking about how people get stuck in a rut and say things like "I'll do it when...I lose 20 pounds...I have better job...the kids are older..." The discussion went on that there is always going to be something else in the way, regardless of what it is that you are looking to do, but putting off for whatever reason. One point that totally hit me was their statement that you may be in a situation where certain things cannot happen until that chapter of your life comes to a close, but you cannot stop living.

A year ago at this time I was so frustrated with my life that I was looking in to moving back to Chicago. Little did I know that in my frustration I would find out that it really did not matter if I was here or there, we would not be better off. We cannot sell this house without financial ruin/set back until my father-in-law passes away, due to the housing market, although things are starting to look up. But for now, (I) we need to continue on in this "chapter" of our lives until it comes to a natural close. Looking back I never thought this chapter would be so long, but as the years have gone on, I have had waves of resentment and guilt. I never wanted my living arrangement to be this way, but how do you go back on a request made by loved one on their deathbed? And how awful is it that my perceived happy ending to this chapter comes with death?

Speed Work in a Retirement Village

2011-11-07T12:15:00.000-08:00

Some days I can be in the crankiest, most cantankerous and foul moods ever. Those days are usually days that I don't get my run in before the day begins. Today was one of those days and unfortunately for everyone who has to deal with me before I get me run in, it is usually pretty ugly. After dealing with such a bad mood for six hours, I found a new way to get in some speed work, hang out with my Dad and get my workout in so I am not such a cranky bi-otch! Found out today that if I run the perimeter of his 55+ community, it is darn near close to a one mile loop. So, I was able to do a mile, check in on Dad and repeat for a five miler today. Workout saved. Cranky mood gone. Still hanging out with Dad. AND, even gave some of the older residents something to talk about. I hope I make it into the underground newspaper they print each month.

Run Michele Run - Literally

2011-10-27T19:55:00.000-07:00

So, I had a really good run this morning, thanks to an old pair of shoes, some small rocks and testing out a hydration belt that totally sucks and I am returning tomorrow. Good thing I had such a good run as I needed it later in the day, while hanging out with my dad.

My father has several ambulatory aids - a cane, a walker and a wheelchair. My car can accommodate the cane and walker easily, but the wheelchair takes a bit of maneuvering and swearing on my part. Normally my Dad takes only the walker/cane but today we took the wheelchair since handicap parking is prime real estate at the Virginia G Piper Cancer Research facility and we have to park in a garage that is too far away for Dad to walk.

Before we even leave, I have a minor temper tantrum because this chair is a pain in the ass to put in my trunk and does not go in easily. So naturally I am ticked off and trying to regain composure the entire ride to the radiology office, because it is so uncool to yell at a cancer patient. I try and try to regain my cool, and am slowly getting there by the time we reach stop #1 for the day - radiation.

We have to park in the garage since the parking lot is full of HUGE trucks that are too large for a normal spot and they take up not one, but two spots. Ugh. So I find the closest spot, on an incline in the garage and proceed to get the chair out for my Dad. I get him situated and then turn to grab my wallet only to turn and witness my father zooming down the ramp in his wheelchair, without a seat belt and without someone to slow him down. Did I mention that I am not a sprinter, which I what i tried to do to catch up with him? He finally decided to heed my pleas for him to stop by running into a car. At least it was parked and did not have an alarm. The crowning glory is when I finally caught up to him and he said "I love feeling the wind in my hair." Ahhh, the joys of parenting your parents.

S.L.A.C.K.E.R

2011-10-25T19:18:00.000-07:00

No run for me today and I have to be honest, I do feel like a slacker. BUT, I do know that my body does not do well with over-use injuries, so, it's best to stay as injury free as possible. Plus, that means that I am healthy and able to hang out with my new crew, the 65+ crew. I like to call them the Polident Posse.

Bronder, Michele Bronder

2011-10-24T19:37:00.000-07:00

Shhhhhhh.......I live a double life, but please don't tell my husband. It dawned on me today that despite all of the difficulties I have (o.k., perceive to have) in life, I lead a pretty sweet life. I get up before the butt-crack of dawn, by choice, clear my head/get ready for the day/PRAY through some form of exercise, hustle the kids off to school and then after 2 1/2 hours of pure hustle and madness I get to stop. I get to slow down my pace. I arrive at my parents' home and I get to not only take care of my Dad (easy stuff- make breakfast and lunch and make sure he takes his meds) but I get to live life for about five hours at a much, slower, pace. Would an extra income be nice - sure, but hangin' with my Dad is time well spent and worth all the money in the world.

My Hip Don't Lie

2011-10-21T16:01:00.000-07:00

It's actually been a quiet Friday. Started out the day hoping to get in a 19-20 mile run and instead ended up with 13. My hip was not happy with me today and reminded me after eight miles that we've been fighting some pain and fatigue. Should have either waited until tomorrow or not have biked and walked yesterday. Oh well. Still have plenty of time to train, plenty of chances to get those long runs in yet. Since I headed out the door at 4 AM, and after running, laundry, mopping, driving Dad to a Dr. apt and the grocery store, I am pooped. A nap is calling my name :)

Adventures With Old (and Young) People Part Two

2011-10-19T14:32:00.000-07:00

Yesterday it was a trip to Costco. Today, dad decided that he needed color ink for his printer, so we would head out to Wal-Mart and then lunch. As he is getting into my car, I notice a lunch bag in the back seat. It's a full lunch, and it's Grace's. Ugh. What do we do? Since it was 11:00, I was hoping I could get her lunch to her before she went to lunch. So, I tell Dad there's a change in plans and off we speed from Maryvale to South Buckeye (I only take my dad to the best places) only to find out that when we got to school, 5th grade was already eating. Which means that Grace did not see her lunch in the bin and was now going to be grumpy the rest of the day. Sigh. We did end up getting lunch at the Bronder Bistro and ink at Wal Mart in the upscale neighborhood of Goodyear.

On a side note, I am always amazed at the things I can see in my trips back and forth. Today, an old man driving a golf cart to walk his dogs.

Fun with Old People

2011-10-18T17:32:00.000-07:00

How daring are you? Me? I'm afraid of heights, snakes, large dogs without owners and collars and the occasional stray child. But today was the day to step out and face my fears. Today, I rode in a car with my Dad and his 82 year old friend. The 82 year old was driving. To Costco. At Christown Mall, in Phoenix.

Now, my Dad has recently had brain surgery and has impaired cognitive ability, delayed reaction time and memory lapse. He also cannot drive. His friend, the 82 year old, God bless him, is ex-military, an opinionated loud talker, and walks as fast as I do. He also has an opinion about almost everything, which he is not afraid to share with you. In a very loud voice. In public.

That said, he is very kind to my parents, he checks in on my father when I am not there and he brings my kids treats when they are with me. And these treats are not the scary old people treats like Tums or stale circus peanuts, but rather gummi bears, Doritos and Popchips.

As we wove our way to Costco, my Dad in the front, me in the back (and unable to buckle my seat belt because the seat is covered with a blanket for his dog Rex, the Dachshund) we proceeded to honk at every intersection to alert the cars at those intersections that we were coming through and they dare not come out and cut us off. This in a town where no one uses their horn, ever. We arrived at Costco, unscathed and were able to enjoy our lunch with a running narrative on every "derelict" present in the place and the glowing review on how Costco uses only the best ingredients in their food.

I am happy to report that after lunch, we reversed our route, complete with horn honking and running commentary on the poor state of our state of Arizona and the many residents and arrived safely back into my father's and the 82 year old's neighborhood. Which happens to be the same neighborhood where I have seen two separate people on bicycles with weapons (a gun and a knife) within the past week.

2011-10-18T11:07:00.000-07:00

I've been thinking about posting for quite some time, just haven't "found the time." Of course, I have the time in bits and pieces, but just not the discipline to actually sit down and type/write something down. I'm hoping to get better at this, sigh.

I've been running off and on for the past five years, and consistently for the past three. Even though I've lost many a toenail, gained quite a few calluses and blisters, as well as other running related issues, I have to say I am ever so grateful for my morning run. The quiet and more recently the darkness allow me a bit of tuime to myself where I don't have to worry about anyone but myself. This includes making sure I don't step in a hole or trip over a rock. I find that I am needing this time more and more as a way of rebooting my outlook and reminding myself that anything is possible.

In the past few weeks, I have gone from just taking my Dad to and from doctor appointments to spending a part of every day at his home. I like to think of this as my pre-nurses training. Although looking back at it now, I should have spent more time with him after he was released from the hospital in July when he was still regaining strength, mobility and stability, the cancer has taken the upper hand in his fight, which is making him weaker and of more assistance now than before. He doesn't need a lot of help, and quite honestly he would do o.k. if I did not come out everyday because that is just the stubborn coming out in him. But, he's fallen a couple times and not been able to fix himself a sandwich and forgotten to take his meds, and if I can help out, why not.

Radiation has eliminated the pain in his left shoulder, and we are hoping that it will do the same in his right back. The process will take a bit longer since the back ribs are closer to vital organs and soft tissue, but we are hopeful that it will work just as well. Personally, I would love to see him get some relief from the pain and be able to at least enjoy his day rather than spend it going from one uncomfortable position to another.

I am always amazed by the medical profession. You run across some really good people, and then you run across some who may need to find a different profession. Dad has had nurses who speak with such enthusiasm and positive words that you cannot help but feel better just by talking to them. Then, he also has a doctor, that I am sure is very good at what he does, but man, he could use a little help in the people department. He mumbles for one thing, which is extremely difficult on someone who is hard of hearing, such as my Dad. Second, he's fairly blunt. There is no sugar coating anything with him. Don't get me wrong, I can appreciate being direct, too the point and telling it like it is. However, when it comes to answering a patient's question of "So doc, who's winning? Me or the cancer?" maybe softening the blow wouldn't hurt. Or at least follow up your answer of "The cancer is definitely winning" with "But it hasn't won yet." or something along those lines.

I've seen death many times, from my high school nursing home job to watching my mother-in-law fade away, but being the daughter of the person on the receiving end of this statement I was even taken back by the harshness of this reality. Even though I know that the chemo medication he is taking is not likely helping that much (and I saw the blood tests that confirm this,) he's been feeling better over the past few weeks and getting around fairly well. He's even been talking of the future and his move back to Iowa next summer. Today, he's in severe pain, nauseated and has even spoke of dying a couple times. I'm blaming the doctor for deflating his hope.

Dad has an appointment at TGen next week as one of the doctors believes Dad may be a candidate for one of their medical trials. I'm hoping this can respark his attitude and give him some faith in the future.

2011-08-16T09:07:00.000-07:00

Ran a 5K with a PR on Saturday. After a hectic summer, I was finally able to make it to the last of the ARR Summer Series at South Mountain. According to my Garmin, I ran at a 7:50 pace for 3.20 miles, but the official time from ARR is 8:04(?) Either way, I usually max out at 8:15 when I run by myself, so I will take either time. Apparently having someone running with their dog behidn me is enough motivation to get it in gear!

Training times have increased this week, only by 5 minutes, but mentally 5 minutes seems to be a lot sometimes. ON store for this week is XT, 45-55, 25-35, XT, 45-55 and finishing it out with 9-10 miles on Saturday with a rest day on Sunday. Changed XT yoga DVD back to the Bob Harper Yoga for the Warrior and although my quads are screaming from so many warrior poses, I did not have a headache afterwards. I'll stick with Bob for XT. Ran 6 miles today in 52 minutes, not bad considering it was 88 degree at 5 am as I was out there.

Speaking of 88 degrees, as I was returning the girls home from theater class last night at around 5:30, I saw a gentleman out running. Now, I must be a wimp because this man had no water with him, no hat on and was beet red, which I am assuming was due to the 108 temperature at this time. Either he's gutsy, determined or flat out insane. After experiencing heat exhaustion last summer, I am totally paranoid of it happening again, which is why I run when all the locals are finishing up last call at Roman's.

Yoga Headache?

2011-07-28T13:49:00.000-07:00

Ever since my session with my medical massage therapist I thought I would try Pilates or yoga as a cross-training activity instead of my Bob Harper Strength training DVD. I started with the beginner Pilates this morning and decided that it just was not what I was looking for (a.k.a. can I really be getting anything out of this) and popped in the power vinyasana DVD. I am happy to report that I did survive the yoga session, even got a few very nice stretches in, but ended up with a huge headache that will not go away. Maybe it's time for a nap.

Sunrise

2011-07-22T18:16:00.000-07:00

Started marathon training this week. It's nice to be back knowing that the mileage is not just "junk" or "wasted" mileage. I wish I could put on a head cam so everyone could see what I see - from Roman's giant chicken and Captian Morgan to the numerous rabbits, jack rabbits, chickens and occasional coyote. Anyway, hopefully a sun rise will do...

Shells with Sun-Dried Tomato Cream Sauce

2011-07-22T18:03:00.000-07:00

While the rest of the country has been fighting some wicked heat, we've been surviving our "normal" 100+ degree days this summer as well. You know you've been in Arizona for a while when you can drive your car and forget to turn on the a/c and once you realize that you forgot the a/c (twelve miles down the road) you think, "hmmm, I'm really not uncomfortable." Wow. Never thought I would get here.

So, in an effort to cook at home, but not add too much extra heat to the house, I've been trying to create meals that everyone will like/enjoy. This week has been a hit between potato salad, egg salad and pasta salad (see the theme here?) But I would have to say the best dish so far this week has been the Shell pasta with Sun Dried Tomato Cream sauce. I just wanted to use up a few things and was tired of a normal red sauce, so I threw together some sun dried tomatoes, a couple table spoons of tofutti "cream cheese," milk, Parmesan cheese, basil from the garden and about six green olives. It was so creamy and so delish! I only wish I would have taken a picture of it all. Next time.

Training

2011-07-19T18:04:00.000-07:00

Marathon training has begun! Nothing like a goal to get things back into perspective :-) Don't get me wrong, I love my almost daily runs, but when they are the same, old, thing and seem to be like running on a hamster wheel, it's good to get some change in there.

Started the week with x-training on the bike, followed up with a five-miler today. Now, I just need to find some hills to run for this weekends 4-6 mile hill routine...

Marathon Training

2011-07-17T16:51:00.000-07:00

We start marathon training again tomorrow. I am looking forward to having my miles count towards something and not just aimlessly run without a purpose, other than to just stay in shape. We start off with cross training - and Paul is planning on training with me everyday - this should be fun!

Hearty Campers or Better off in a Hotel?

2011-07-17T16:49:00.000-07:00

Do you ever feel like a higher power is trying to tell you something and you really don't get the picture until several clues happen in a row to give you the big picture?

So, we went camping at the end of May for a break away from things and as it turns out, a chance to decompress before June 2011 a.k.a. the month from hell hit. Turns out, we had a nice time, enjoyed our campsite, and even relaxed a bit. Hindsight tell us that we had winds that made it near impossible to set up the tent/light a campfire/light a camp stove/ completely caved in the tent while we were inside and should have told us that maybe the tent camping thing was not meant for us. The last day at camp I was so frustrated that I could not light a match or make breakfast, that my family went to McD's to get coffee and McMuffins while I packed us up to leave! That should have been a clue...

So, we get all packed up and are actually on time this past Saturday to leave for our campsite. According to Google maps, there are no traffic snares, so we are set to go. We are very excited to celebrate the ending of June and what could promise to be a glorious 4th of July, complete with a fantastic view of fireworks. I eyed all of the tent sites and chose the one closest to the front, with no obstructions - this should be great!

As we are noshing on our cold pizza we took for our road lunch, I check the traffic flow on Google maps again. Still looking good, for now. As we approach Anthem, the highway sign alerts us to an accident ahead that would have us sitting in traffic for at least an hour. Considering Paul's car is under the weather and does not like idling in traffic, we chose our escape route to head through Prescott. Even though this would be out of the way, it would still be better than sitting in traffic. Except that we have a child that gets carsick. Even when given motion sickness meds. And we have to go through the mountains.

Meds ingested, we make it through Wickenburg and Prescott and are still optimistic as we head out of town. We only need to make it through Jerome and Clarkdale and then we are home free. The road heading out of Prescott to Jerome is flat and paved and we are giddy. Yes! We will finally make it to our destination!. Stop. We now end up on a scenic mountain road to Jerome...O.K., since heading to I-17 would put us directly into the traffic, we have no choice. So off we go.

Well, apparently between Prescott and Jerome, you need to climb 2000 feet in a very short distance. Cue "check engine" light. Cue " a/c fail." Cue "inability to move faster than 5 mph." Panic sets in. Sweat is pouring off of all of us. Luckily we see the descent into Jerome and are relieved. At least we can use gravity to our benefit.

We finally make it to Cottonwood and the campground. Whew! As we get to the site, we proceed to put up the tent, at which time the wind picks up. No problem as we are pros when it comes to dealing with putting up tents when it is windy. Even though we are pros, the wind proves stronger than us and proceeds to whip the tent around, shattering a tent pole and tearing a hole in the tent. Off to Wal-Mart for groceries and supplies to repair the tent. Supplies bought, return to camp, fix tent and make dinner. All in all, we are just thankful to have survived the day.

Cue the next morning. Grace is in a fowl mood - apparently her sister is a bed hog and she did not get a good night sleep. Good grief. We go for a short hike before we have to find WiFi (I have to submit homework). Before we leave camp, I made sure we set up the shade pop up since we have absolutely no trees around us and it is 100 plus degrees. We head to Starbucks at Safeway - no outlet to plug in to, so we head to the Starbucks back on I-17. I'm able to plug in, finally get reception, and submit my homework. It was a nice break to sit in the a/c for an hour though... As we are heading back to camp, we notice gray clouds ahead and some lightening. Should we head straight back to camp and make sure the rain fly is on or stop for ice first? We decided to head to camp first since it was rather windy and we did not want all of our things soaked. Good thing we headed back first because once we got back to camp, the shade pop up was a twisted mangled mess and several items were strew everywhere. So, we quickly picked things up and put the rain fly over the tent before it started to rain. At that point we were in need of lunch, so we found a local restaurant and ate lunch while it rained.

After lunch, we bought ice and headed back to camp. Luckily everything inside the tent stayed dry, so we were able to relax a bit that afternoon and play some corn hole, take showers, make dinner and even make s'mores on the stove.

That night, I was having a terrible time sleeping. It was hot. Our neighbors were a bit loud. We had to make several trips to the bathroom. Then I kept hearing this rustling noise, like someone was looking through our camp supplies on the table. So, I get the lantern and head out, only to find a skunk in the trash. He was quite cute and I'm grateful I did not scare him as I can only imagine how much that may have smelled.

After a restless night, breakfast and coffee were made and we were just looking to bide our time before fireworks that night. We were all a bit worn out by the heat, so we cleaned up from breakfast and headed to the river for some cool water and shade. After four hours by the river, we were ready for lunch and shower and in need of more ice. We head into town for ice and on our way, we notice that we are the only people left in the tent campsites. Hmm. Not sure what that is telling us, but by golly we are sticking it out for those fireworks. On the way for ice we fill the car with gas and stop for ice cream, again, to help cool us down. Back at camp we rearrange the cooler with the fresh supply of ice and are thinking about playing corn hole when a storm suddenly comes in, and it's bringing hail this time. Run for the car girls!

We wait out the storm in the car and return to the tent to find it flooded. Well, that's it for us, we can finally take a hint and are packing up to leave. The girls stay in the car as we are not in the middle of a rain/lightening storm while we take the tent down and shove everything in the car. We cram everything in and run the tangled shade pop-up and mangled tent to the dumpster before hopping in the car to get out of town. On our way out, the storm lets up and Paul wisely asks "Should we stay, the storm is letting up?" A large lightening bolt came as his reply to which we continued on our way out of town and headed home.

We are chalking that trip up as an adventure that we never want to take again. We may not ever camp again after that one. Disneyland, here we come!

Potato Salad and Hobos

2011-07-07T20:12:00.000-07:00

I was with my dad at his physical therapy appointment today. The girls did not want to go, so they stayed back with Grandpa B. So, I had my dad all to myself.

I hadn't seen him since last Thursday and apparently it was a long, quiet weekend for him. Since it was very hot out, he and my mom did not venture out on the bus, which I am thankful for since it was 118 this past weekend. Unfortunately, by Monday, and being stuck inside for three days, my parents were tired of staring at four walls. Luckily I'm around for comic relief.

After I picked him up, we headed down to PT and were early. Instead of going inside, we sat in the shade in the car and I told him of our adventure we had camping this past weekend. We had a good laugh over that and he told me of a bear incident that he had while on a canoe trip in Canada. After his appointment, he directed me to one of his favorite restaurants. And, after driving down three wrong streets and after a few chuckles, we finally found what he was looking for. We then enjoyed a nice lunch with great conversation. We spoke about everything from potato salad, cold winters in Iowa, my extended family, hobos and everything in between. Unfortunately, or fortunately, my dad's synapses are not all connected in the brain, so the conversation was a bit disconnected, but it was enlightening as well.

As we left the restaurant, I could not help but feel so grateful that I am able to take him to his appointments, help him out by driving him around and spend this special, individual time with him. Although some days I feel a bit overwhelmed by everything I have going on, I am so grateful that I am able to spend these precious minutes with him. I have found out more about my family and had more laughs and shed some tears with my dad in the last month than I have my entire life. Lucky.

T-minus Three Days Until July...

2011-06-28T20:35:00.000-07:00

Had a great time last night at the Dback game with the family. It was a nice "surprise" treat and a great break away from everything. The Dbacks ended up losing, but all in all, we had decent, cheap seats, good food and cold beverages.

So, I watched a documentary based on therapeutic nutrition. They recommended niacin for treatment of depression. Lightbulb! So, I've been tinkering with vitamins and diet for some time to treat the ills in my household. Some things have works, others were received with disdain, so they were quickly removed. So, why not try niacin? It's only Vitamin B, right? Well, let's just say that after experiencing the flushing that occurs with niacin, we won't be doing that any time soon. At least not in pill form. We'll stick to foods with higher quantities. Incidentally, my two chapters on Nutrition focused on vitamins today. Should have read those first!

Excellent Advice from Ben Stein

2011-06-28T15:47:00.000-07:00

Watch CBS News Videos Online

Bit of Good News

2011-06-26T17:46:00.000-07:00

June has completely flown by. It's hard to believe that we have only been out of school for almost three weeks, have been on a camping trip and are getting ready for another one and have had both Grandpas go from the ER, to being admitted and finally released from the hospital. All in 25 days. The hospital visits alone total 20 between St Joe's and Banner Estrella. Whew! I'm just happy to report that all is getting back to normal and we are hoping for a much calmer July.

We had an awesome camping trip to Dead Horse Ranch State Park. It was incredibly windy and the nights were a bit chilly, but we were able to decompress, enjoy a few hikes and play in the water. In fact, we liked it so much that we are returning this coming weekend.

On our way home, it was Brooke's birthday, so we were able to meet up with my parents and my brother for a quick birthday lunch at Culver's. Plus for Culver's is yummy frozen yogurt, negative is no vegetarian options that are not deep fried. Needless to say, I went with fried cheese curds and a side salad - nice balance eh?

Doesn't she look happy to get gifts?

Spent the remainder of the month between Psychology and Nutrition Class homework, visiting the hospitals and dealing with cars that are not fond of the heat, or of their age. Keeping our fingers crossed they can last just a bit longer...

As far as running, much of it has been in the form of the treadmill, which is my least favorite option, but, when it's nearing 100 degrees and your time does not allow for an early run, what can you do. Besides, it has allowed me to check out some new shows - Extreme Couponing being one of them.

Terrariums

2011-05-23T20:41:00.000-07:00

I think these are pretty great...I hope the recipients like them as well.

Dad

2011-05-23T17:01:00.000-07:00

This weekend officially starts the summer series of 5Ks with our running group. I've been trying some new things and am hoping to really improve my time over the course of the summer, although it may be challenging later in the summer when it's 90 degrees at 5 AM.

This weekend also starts the beginning of my dedicating each run to my dad. Unfortunately, reality has set in and the 40 markers that were found have reached his spine and shoulder and are affecting his walking. Not to mention he is in a lot of pain. It has gotten to the point that they have actually called my brother to come in from Illinois for a visit. He hasn't been here for at least two years. This summer will definitely be a tough one for my family. I'm grateful that I won't be working so I will be available whenever my parents need anything.

Normally when I run, I just listen to running or health podcasts or on rare occasion, music. I feel guilty many times because could be spending that time praying or meditating, but I lose focus and get off track. So I selfishly spend that time trying to better me by listening to training or nutrition tips. What's even worse, if I feel fatigued, I let myself deviate from the training plan, justifying it by saying I can always make it up later.

I'm now going to get out my sharpie and write DAD on my wrist or hand or somewhere, just as a reminder to myself when I want to slack off, that I need to remain strong. Not only physically, but mentally and emotionally as well. This could be one long summer.

Back on the Hamster Wheel

2011-04-26T21:14:00.000-07:00

So thankful to be able to get back into the whole running/cross-training routine again. Last week was a bit challenging to get anything done with the waterworks going full blast along with sneezing, coughing and major head congestion. Finally ended up getting some homeopathic allergy meds at Sprouts which saved the day, my sanity and a few innocent, wide-eyed children as well. Ended up running 5 miles yesterday with an additional two miles walked at school. Today, did a kettle-bell workout in the morning, a two mile walk on the hamster wheel while waiting for my "new" weight workout partner and a full hour of weight cross training torture via Bob Harper DVD with Paul. My shoulders are killing me.

I am also contemplating what to do for the next challenge. We have the Warrior Dash this weekend which will include some obstacles that I have never done before (running over smashed cars, military crawl through mud, leaping burning logs, rappelling) I would love to try something to really push the limits, like a triathalon or even a 50K (since I did so well at the marathon, gesh.) I've joked about taking up smoking and junk food, but I mastered that in college, so I need something new. Especially since I am up in the air as far as a future job or when this nursing school thing will start again. I.need.something.to.do.

Allergies? Or, just genetically destined to be cranky.

2011-04-23T16:52:00.000-07:00

So, I haven't run in a while, o.k. about four days, but I'm not sure my run/walk interval on the dreadmill counts for running. This has been the longest week in the history of weeks. It all started a week ago when the winds kicked up and started blowing the pollen around - ugh. I've never had allergies before, but I think I may have acquired them recently. I'm pretty positive that I have never sneezed as may times as I have this week, nor have I ever been able to just have tears run/pour out of my eyes without cause, like Snoopy running away from home in a Charlie Brown special, or a perfectly placed Hallmark ad when Aunt Flo is in town or even when I've witnessed horrible animal cruelty like the dairy calves at the E6 farm in Texas - grrrrr. And I've been beyond cranky. The kids at school have been subject to my wrath several times this week: Innocent Child: Mrs. Bronder, can you help me with this? Evil Mrs. Bronder: Well, what does the question ask? Innocent Child: Oh, I didn't read it yet. Evil Mrs. Bronder: Well, let's see what it asks us to do... Innocent Child: Oh, O.K.....I get it now. Sigh. And this is NOT coming from the "special needs" child I am working with. I think there are only 31 days left until the end of the year. Who's counting?

When Bad Things Happen to Snarky (Cynical) People

2011-04-20T22:00:00.000-07:00

You know the saying "the road to ..." well I've been meaning to blog for quite some time, but meaning to and doing are two totally different things. If only my thoughts could automatically be posted for me. On second thought, scratch that. No one really needs to know what goes on inside my skull.

What has happened since my last post...Ran a 20K, in under two hours on a hilly course and I NEVER run on hills, so I was quite pleased to finish in under two hours. Needless to say, I have re-injured my second toe nail which has not been normal for the past two years. Both girls are enrolled (or on a waiting list) at Odyssey Charter School. I've been reading "Love & Logic" which is their method of teaching responsibility and have actually used it a few times - good stuff! Also survived two weeks of second grade prep-testing for the Standford-10 Testing followed by three days of actual testing - good grief! I was so over testing by day two of pre-testing. (I could totally go off on a tangent on how we have created a generation of coddled kids, but I won't.) Oh, and I also became certified to take the girl scout troop I lead camping. I received my certification on the weekend that it decided to snow at the campground I did my training at. Did I mention it was 10 inches of snow? Did I also mention that I haven't been in snow like that for ummm, twelve years. Or, how about the fact that my "I don't replace my frayed, ratty windshield wipers because I live in the desert and who needs 'em anyway" attitude did not help during the rain/snowstorm going into camp. The true piece de resistance was the fact that I had to crawl through my trunk to get into my car to start it so I could leave the frozen tundra of Prescott because my car was frozen shut. Karma loves me.

The Tooth Fairy and Other Lies We Tell Our Children

2011-03-24T15:14:00.000-07:00

At what age do we give up this nonsense about Santa, the Tooth Fairy and good ol' Easter Bunny? Do we let it go on until the child no longer believes it and starts questioning such things? Do we get to a certain point and as a parent say enough is enough?

The girls have a habit of writing letters to the character of the season, in which they expect a return response, if said character has time to reply. Case in point, a letter was left, along with a molar to the Tooth Fairy last night. Now, normally, this is not a big deal, but the child that left the letter has a hard time falling asleep and staying asleep at night, which makes replying to the letter challenging for the parent, namely me. I don't mind answering a few questions, but when it comes down to drawing a self-portrait, wow, these children are asking a lot.

So, as a good parent, I went about sneaking into the bedroom to retrieve the letter and crusty tooth so I could respond. I was moving along at a wonderful pace and even remembered the handwriting and backwards letters that I used. That is until I was walked in on by not one but both children, luckily not at the same time. Neither seemed to notice, but after that happened, I am tempted to say enough already to the lies! But then, I feel guilty. It seems that kids are exposed to a lot of realities today and maybe just a few more days/weeks/months of believing in Santa or the Tooth Fairy isn't such a bad thing. So for now, I'll play along with the fantasy until it comes to an end and they have to face this reality as well.

Plays Well With Others

2011-03-23T10:01:00.000-07:00

I am always quite amazed/amused/angered by the audacity of people. Many times to the point where I can actually go rambling on in my head, on top of my soapbox, give them a good tongue lashing and work myself into quite a bad mood and more times than not, a headache. Most recently at issue were comments made that at first hurt and then frustrated me.

I don't consider myself thin skinned, but if someone throws a jab my way after I have tried to be helpful, well then that is just downright rude. Comment number one was made after a meal I had made. Granted, cooking a meal is not the easiest thing in my house. And, you would think that a culinary degree would make things a breeze. Yes it helps, but when you are dealing with vegetarians, a non-white meat eater and minimal red-meat eaters, it gets a bit frazzling at times. I usually end up erring on the side of healthier and create a vegetarian version and if possible, a lean meat/turkey version of the meal. Well, after getting rave reviews from my immediate family about the turkey burgers/sweet potato fries and asparagus that I prepared for dinner on Sunday, I was hit with the "I don't particularly care for turkey or sweet potato fries" by the "senior patriarch" of the family. Wow.

My immediate reaction ranged from "You were told what we were having before hand" to "Jack in the Box is down the street" to "I would be happy for assistance in the kitchen" to a vengeful "you knew what you were getting into when you forced your way into living with my family four years ago you ungrateful old man!" I kept my mouth closed and was stunned. I later learned that these comments were not necessarily directed at me, but rather a way of jabbing my husband. (This is their preferred way of communicating, through sarcasm.)

Second statement that stung, and quite honestly stings every time it is said, was "Well, isn't enough that I was at work all day." This was in response to my statement of "Isn't it enough that I cooked the meal," when asked to go retrieve dessert for my family. Yes I'm sure my tone was a bit snarky, and yes I am on a two week break from work, but this comment comes up more often than I would like and quite honestly, it irritates every time I hear it. I'm sure it's not meant as a jab saying that one of us works more than the other, but it feels that way each and every time I hear it. Grrr.

So, after wasting precious energy stewing over it all, I am almost to the point of throwing up my hands and shrugging it all off. How did I get here? As I was reading through a couple magazines that I had let pile up, I came across an article that said that many times the things that irritate us most in other people, are likely things that we exhibit as characteristics ourselves. What?! Who writes this crap?! Don't they know that I am always right and if people followed by my rules, things would run so much more smoothly?

But wait, maybe they do have a point. So, I have taken a deep breath, put a smile on my face and I am going to try my hardest to try to do a bit of reflection and not let these things bother me. Besides, I am sure that the people who made the statements have moved on and forgot they even said it, so why waste any more precious time on it. Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm going to go work it over while I go for a run.

10 Places You Should Take Your Kids

2011-03-17T13:19:00.000-07:00

10 Places You Should Take Your Kids

Funny How Things Work Out

2011-03-13T18:34:00.000-07:00

Well, after spending a lot of time, and I really do me an A LOT of time, researching affordable neighborhoods and school districts in the Chicago area, I have finally come to the realization that the school districts that I was looking at are not really any better, if not worse, than we currently have. So, I can either look at it as I am not going to get my way and not move back to Chicago, or, I can look at is as saving a lot of money,and the headaches moving four plus an elderly father-in-law (who was not going to go quietly) plus not going into debt just to get exactly what I have here.

This has been reaffirmed to me in the past week, when I found out that the teacher I work with will be moving to a local charter school, followed by several other children/teachers that I hold in high regard when it comes to education. So, I went from settling to quick research and paperwork submission to an entirely new way of thinking within a three day period of time. Whew! I have to admit that I did not know anything about charter schools until about a week ago, and I am still a bit in a fog, but I am really excited about the opportunities ahead for my kids. I also may have an opportunity to continue to work with the child I currently work with at the new charter school and still be near my girls as well, which is always a plus.

NASCAR

2011-02-20T09:53:00.001-08:00

As in, why am I watching this? Who knew family time was going to include being subjected to a NASCAR race, ugh.

2011-02-09T13:53:00.000-08:00

I've always maintained that I would be a horrific teacher and I still stand by that, although maybe horrific is a bit dramatic. I certainly have to say that I have never had any wish to be a teacher and the only reason I have volunteered in "teaching" type rolls is purely to benefit my girls. Now, after being in the school and seeing/hearing/observing things first hand, it proves what I have thought all along - teachers are the most under-appreciated people out there and must be saints for wanting to be a teacher because in my opinion they certainly don't get paid nearly what they are worth, nor do they get the parental or administrative support necessary to deal with the range of children they deal with on a daily basis.

We have many times thought about moving back to Chicago and have thought about when to do so. The thought of leaving friends and the climate would truly be a negative, but in seeing what is happening to the education system here, it leaves us almost no choice but to look out for what is best for the girls and return to the Midwest. Now, it's just a matter of picking when.

Being that I will have eight weeks off (unpaid) this summer, my plan is to head back to Chicago and find both an apartment and a job within a short period of time, get settled and then move the girls at mid-semester and have Paul eventually get transferred or move and find a new job altogether. Now, the few kinks in the plan are what if my number comes up finally for nursing school, what if the housing market doesn't turn around enough for us to sell to just break even on this house, how do we move with a 75 year old person living with us and just how will our family survive being split up for a few months at a time? Growing up, my father worked different contract jobs all over the US starting when I was in second grade, so the idea isn't new to me. Yes it will be hard, but it's the easiest way for us to make the smoothest transition across country for this motley crew.

Of course, there are several scenarios that can come up between now and then. The true test will be if we can actually stick to our guns and not over think or over worry about things, and just let it happen. Since we only have three family members out here, I am certainly excited about getting back and celebrating with more extended family. That and real pizza.

Ouch (Or How it Feels to Run 26.2 Miles)

2011-01-26T13:50:00.000-08:00

One day post marathon and I cannot believe that I am actually saying that I would be happy to run another one. Call me crazy, but I will soon be searching for another one, either late fall or early spring next year.

The marathon on the surface wasn't truly that great of an experience, especially considering we were shooting for a finishing time of 4 hours 30 minutes and ended up finishing just 5 minutes shy of 6 hours. After agreeing to take it very slow so we could monitor the incision on Paul's back (the surgeon said he was o.k. to run) we ran at a 10:30 pace for the first 7 miles. At mile 7, we had to make a pit stop for about 10 minutes at the porta potty - no big deal. As I was waiting, a girl emerged from a stall and said "my stomach hates me right now." I thought to myself, "Yikes, that is no way to run." Little did I know what was ahead. We ran really well from mile 7 through 14. At 14, I started to feel the effects of the Cytomax on my stomach. At mile 15, I made my first stop due to nausea and began my 6 mile nauseated and increasingly dehydrated trudge to mile 21, where I finally checked into a medic tent for help. See, I normally have water (in my Camelback) on any run I do, never Gatorade/Cytomax. And I don't take the Gu shots either. Unfortunately due to past experiences, both Gu and Cytomax make my stomach hurt and cramp and me very ill. Well, I was worried about Paul's back and becoming dehydrated during the run without my backpack, so I made sure I drank the Cytomax. So, after becoming ill from drinking the electrolyte mixture and actually becoming dehydrated, I learned my lesson. I was so desperate for food to calm my stomach, I contemplated begging a family coming out of a grocery store. Luckily the doctor at the med tent had a granola bar in her car that she gave me. After granola, ibuprofen and a 20 minute break, I was able to finish the marathon holding Paul's hand to receive that medal I so desperately wanted! As we were walking to the car, Paul mentioned that he was glad we set such a low PR for the race, gives us something to shoot for in the future.

Nursing Crash Course

2011-01-08T13:10:00.000-08:00

Paul had minor surgery this week on his back. Nothing big, just had to have a sebaceous cyst that had grown fairly large drained. Luckily, it's an outpatient type surgery and was over in 15 minutes. What we did not realize is that he would have to have the wound packed with gauze packing during the healing process twice a day. Hmmm, wonder who is up for that challenge?

We were suppose to receive a call from a visiting nurse on Monday to train me how to do the packing and general care of the wound. After waiting all afternoon, and no call by 8 PM we took matters into our own hands. So, we did what anyone would do when they want to find out how to do something, we "googled" it. Luckily I have seen open wounds packed before, so I had a clue on what should be done. I had two first aid kits, a handful of 2x2s and some rubber gloves on hand and was able to MacGyver his wound treatments until we finally saw the nurse on Thursday night and she gave me the proper supplies. I am happy to report that I did a fairly decent job and the healing process is going well. Well enough that he was able to join me on a short run this morning with no increased bleeding :)

Log 1.5.11

2011-01-05T06:05:00.000-08:00

3.39 Miles - total time 28:08, ave pace 8:18. Temp - 39

Log 1.4.11

2011-01-04T17:32:00.000-08:00

Slow, easy (untill I saw two dogs without humans) 5 miler this AM at a 8:50 pace for a total time of 44:16. Temperature was brisk - somewhere in the upper 30s/low 40s.

Marathon Taper

2011-01-03T14:56:00.000-08:00

I knew I was way off track when I realized that the marathon was only two weeks away. I'm glad I realized that when I did, otherwise I would have been overrunning this week. Let the taper begin and the antsiness begin. In past races, I sort of tapered, but then mess up the taper the day or two before by riding 16 miles on my bike, going on an extended hike or volunteering for an event where i end up standing all day long. In reality, those last few days are supposed to be spent doing minimal running, or just enough to help the anxiety subside and little else. Resting your legs for the big race is the best thing you can do. I'm on day one of my two week taper, which calls for running a couple five milers, a couple three milers and cross training this week. The remaining time is short runs and cross training. Since this is my first marathon I will be following this taper to a T.

New Year, New Blog, New Changes Ahead

2011-01-02T14:30:00.000-08:00

I always have grand ideas about sitting down and writing wonderfully intriguing posts that will change the world, or at least I think they will. So I get an idea, and I think about it, and I think about it and I think some more and forget to write it down or "type" it down in my blog. So, since it is a new year, this is the time to change all of that. Time for a better record of what is going on in this hectic household of mine and time to tweak my writing hobby.

As I look into my crystal ball for 2011 I predict big changes ahead for my family: one full marathon being run (in two weeks -eek!), major cleaning of excess stuff that we do not use and do not need, an extended trip to Chicago this summer, possibly leading to our permanent relocation there or coming back for nursing school and delaying the move until after that. I'm sure there will be a few fun things come up in between like a possible trip to the Grand Canyon, visits by relatives and many races shorter than a marathon. We'll see...