tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-42714850786804718622024-03-05T12:46:49.276-08:00color me spunkyliving life, learning lessons, making memoriesAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05170966947416468535noreply@blogger.comBlogger52125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4271485078680471862.post-1069575941926696252015-04-21T10:36:00.000-07:002015-04-21T10:36:51.443-07:00human againHELLO INTERNETS!<br />
<br />
Happy to see that you're still out there. It's been a while! Congratulations on your marriages and babies and houses and school news. Bravo!<br />
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For those of you who don't know, I am a tax accountant for a public accounting firm. (I'm also a pro-puzzler, Disney enthusiast, and lover of cheese, but those things do not pay the bills. Unfortunately.) Since I do taxes by trade, there are some pretty important dates in the spring. April 15th? Yep, that's a big one. What you may not know is that there's also a major deadline for businesses on March 15th. And what you may not think about is that to get lots of tax returns (or extensions) filed for lots of businesses and people, we get busy around mid February. And as my first spring as a senior associate, I had to get all my admin/scheduling work done in January. Which is about the time I fell off the internets.<br />
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But I'm back! Now I'm not making any promises about this blog because, frankly, I probably won't keep them. Real talk. But I did want to let you know that I'm alive, so ta-da! Nails done, legs shaved, sunglasses on, human again.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05170966947416468535noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4271485078680471862.post-19382589758917015932014-12-31T13:48:00.000-08:002014-12-31T13:48:20.922-08:002014 Resolution Wrap Up<div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: none; text-align: center;">
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<br />
What a year it has been! As 2014 draws to a close, I am happy to report that I finally <i>completed</i> a <a href="http://colormespunky.blogspot.com/2014/01/new-years-resolution.html">new year's resolution</a>! I completed one active event each month of 2014. Every kind of event from <a href="http://colormespunky.blogspot.com/2014/04/april-rustys-run.html">old favorites</a> to my <a href="http://colormespunky.blogspot.com/2014/03/march-center-springfest-metric-century.html">first bicycle ride</a> to <a href="http://colormespunky.blogspot.com/2014/06/nature-hike-and-some-bible-stories.html">traipsing all over Israel</a> to my <a href="http://colormespunky.blogspot.com/2014/08/august-triathlon.html">first triathlon</a>. And I learned so much and experienced so many new things along the way.<br />
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Here's a no brainer for you: training helps. Throughout the year, I was in all kinds of shape for the different events. When I was training regularly, I felt <a href="http://colormespunky.blogspot.com/2014/12/december-12k-of-christmas.html">strong</a> and confident and (obviously) finished with better results. When I had been a little lax on training <i>(read: NOT training)</i>, I felt unprepared and <a href="http://colormespunky.blogspot.com/2014/02/february-hawc-race-against-violence.html">struggled through</a> the event. So guess what? Training and regular exercise makes a difference! Good thing you stopped by to gather that little nugget of wisdom. <br />
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Perhaps a more important lesson, I learned how to define my own success. The world bombards us with widely-accepted definitions: winning, power, fame, money, etc. For a series of races, winning would pretty clearly be considered success. But what else? In each ride, race, and event, there were thousands of people participating. Does that mean only a handful of those people each time are successful? Of course not. For me, there were a few "successes" throughout the year.<br />
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First, finishing. I tried a few <a href="http://colormespunky.blogspot.com/2014/08/august-triathlon.html">new activities</a>, and a couple of them made me pretty <a href="http://colormespunky.blogspot.com/2014/03/march-center-springfest-metric-century.html">nervous</a>. So the goal was <strike>not always</strike> never winning, or even besting a personal time, but rather just to push through. To be stronger than my fear and to push my body through physical weakness or exhaustion. I finished every activity. Some stronger than others, to be sure, but I crossed each finish line on my own volition. And so I count each race a success. Moreover, I completed a new year's resolution, and I don't know that I've ever done that before. I stuck it out each race and each month, and I'm happy to be crossing the finish line for 2014.<br />
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Another valuable lesson learned and practiced was the good ole "no excuses." One event, each month, for an entire year. No excuses. I didn't give up the time we <a href="http://colormespunky.blogspot.com/2014/03/march-center-springfest-metric-century.html">got lost on a course</a>, or the time <a href="http://colormespunky.blogspot.com/2014/08/august-triathlon.html">I left my swim gear</a> at home, or when <a href="http://colormespunky.blogspot.com/2014/09/september-park-to-port-ride.html">the weather</a> was particularly nasty. I had a goal I wanted to complete, and to make that happen, I couldn't make excuses. Good practice for a life lesson.<br />
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Third, I can't discount the self-awareness and self-confidence I am taking away from this experience. I learned to be proud of the finish lines I crossed, the time goals I met, and stepping out of my comfort zone. When the triathlon was going <a href="http://colormespunky.blogspot.com/2014/08/august-triathlon.html">so terribly</a>, I resigned myself to being in last place <i>(womp womp)</i> and set out to just finish and keep my chin up. I turned my negative thoughts around <i>during</i> my hardest event of the year, and told myself that I was capable and I would be proud of finishing. When we were <a href="http://colormespunky.blogspot.com/2014/03/march-center-springfest-metric-century.html">lost</a> on a bike course, I swallowed my panic and stuck it out on my bike to finish the ride. This year, I accomplished goals I hadn't even imagined setting on January 1st. And that is a pretty incredible feeling.<br />
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All in all, I count the year of 2014 a smashing success. Now I am ready and excited for the adventures that 2015 will bring!<br />
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<b>Did you stick with your new year's resolution?<br />
What did you learn in 2014?<br />
Are you ready for the new year?<br/><b>
</b></b>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05170966947416468535noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4271485078680471862.post-43743685065127162502014-12-25T16:29:00.002-08:002014-12-25T16:29:20.399-08:00<br/>
Merry Christmas! The Lord has come! I hope your holiday is filled with joy and hope, love and laughter.<br/>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgZfiaClA0nsbz4S2-xmgpURhudYnG4Zmllwc__xPW2lneS9-UBuLuQOJCEAwuKXDbWw-o7dcVIrXI01aXWYBp3edClFTrpWl-0qXc2s6n2zUzqlCESblI0OxokYka0wY66k22iP-DH12f/s1600/merry+christmas.jpg" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgZfiaClA0nsbz4S2-xmgpURhudYnG4Zmllwc__xPW2lneS9-UBuLuQOJCEAwuKXDbWw-o7dcVIrXI01aXWYBp3edClFTrpWl-0qXc2s6n2zUzqlCESblI0OxokYka0wY66k22iP-DH12f/s640/merry+christmas.jpg" /></a><br/>
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Merry Christmas to you and yours.<br/>
<i>Love, the Welshimers</i>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05170966947416468535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4271485078680471862.post-50195248490790661852014-12-23T15:03:00.000-08:002014-12-23T15:03:04.000-08:00December: 12k of ChristmasMerry Christmas! This December event marks the completion of my 2014 New Year's Resolution. How exciting is that? It seems like it couldn't possibly have been a year ago that I first made that resolution. I'll post a final wrap up soon, but first, let's talk about the 12k of Christmas!<br/><!---more--->
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS7nSUqrZYzoqTCvllFCjiClSV34Cd7pG11JKZa6UIEgTKX2lPnO1SDpRykoSOE-VzNKLEgczUWDMJZELHbMyTqvfy8WNF7D3NcupTL6I23FV90RVusCsurSxaV1jIMSrO_XV2gWFYrnce/s1600/IMG_1881.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS7nSUqrZYzoqTCvllFCjiClSV34Cd7pG11JKZa6UIEgTKX2lPnO1SDpRykoSOE-VzNKLEgczUWDMJZELHbMyTqvfy8WNF7D3NcupTL6I23FV90RVusCsurSxaV1jIMSrO_XV2gWFYrnce/s640/IMG_1881.JPG" /></a>
<br/><br/>
I ran the 6k portion of this run last year, and it did not go well. The weather was so humid it felt like we were swimming, and I was out of shape to boot. Since I've been running, this year went so much better, and I was able to run the full 12k! I finished in 1:22:51.5, which was about an 11:15/mile pace. I'm pretty happy with that, since I was running fairly casually with my friend, Rose, and the Mister.<br/>
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The race was very well organized. We started at Fish Plaza at the Wortham Theater Center, which is a great area in Downtown. Unfortunately though, the course was really boring. First of all, the 12k course was just two times around the 6k loop, which means we would already be running the exact same path twice. Even worse, that 6k loop? It wasn't a loop. It was a U-turn. Which means that we ran down Memorial Drive, then up Memorial... then down Memorial... then up Memorial <i>again</i>. Not very motivating. For the 6-9k, we actually played "I Spy," we were so bored.<br/>
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Oh well. At least the course was pretty! Even if we had to look at it 4 times. :) <br/>
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AND we got a finisher medal. And who doesn't love getting a medal?<br/>
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Altogether, I really enjoy this event. For a new event, it is wonderfully organized and well put together. This year's course was different from last year's, so I have high hopes for the course interest to improve. The 12k of Christmas is a festive end to a year of active events, and a festive beginning to my holiday break. It definitely helped me stay motivated to run during the hustle and bustle of the holiday season. Between the Christmas parties, hosting Christmas Cookie Decorating, buying and wrapping gifts, and packing for vacation, it was good to know I had to be ready for the 12k. All about that motivation.<br/>
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<b>How do you stay motivated during the holiday season?</b>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05170966947416468535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4271485078680471862.post-46643078553812119332014-12-13T14:00:00.000-08:002014-12-13T14:00:02.135-08:00fall bucket list - recapThis post should probably have been written two weeks ago, followed by a charming Christmas/winter bucket list. But that would require me to be on top of my game, which is just not <a href="http://colormespunky.blogspot.com/2014/12/hot-mess-holiday-edition.html">the story around here</a> lately. So forgive me for being late to the party, but cheers to fall!<br/>
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> <strike><span style="color: #e69138;"><b>pumpkin patch</b></span> </strike> - Yes, indeed! I love how our <a href="http://colormespunky.blogspot.com/2014/10/pumpkin-patch.html">family photos</a> turned out!<br/><br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhop0RPYihkJCcmyKkFdtNBaL5pDXZhOnqaOIAbsIIMY6bwtejCuDPf1hZ10mNopz8fDS7XVvJhbPmblNjIGf81zwsKJU4miiP0227FftGLpEoG7rvQqeBI5Ox-MvDUgkwUlyBmZsPX5tIh/s1600/IMG_3068.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhop0RPYihkJCcmyKkFdtNBaL5pDXZhOnqaOIAbsIIMY6bwtejCuDPf1hZ10mNopz8fDS7XVvJhbPmblNjIGf81zwsKJU4miiP0227FftGLpEoG7rvQqeBI5Ox-MvDUgkwUlyBmZsPX5tIh/s640/IMG_3068.JPG" /></a>
<br /><br/>
> <strike><b><span style="color: #f1c232;">pumpkin spice latte</span> </b></strike> - Do you know what I discovered? I think I'm over pumpkin spice lattes from Starbucks. (<i>Say what?!</i>) I only had one this season, and it just wasn't that exciting. You know what is delicious though? The salted caramel mocha. Yum.<br />
<br />
> <strike><b><span style="color: #b45f06;">decorate pumpkins</span></b></strike> - I passed on carving this season, and opted for a couple of different <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/37928821837342305/">pumpkin</a> decorating <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/37928821837426709/">ideas</a>. I thought they turned out pretty cute.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHi3llsIdjKE-x8GWHxnIBBQS0vOqLCHdVeCPhlSeZ48PLV3jODYJl4A81y1QK9kOe5CIp_hTsr3pdgs_XD3-H_RXLt3E5GILePNAYHM4sLmmHYiKVzsU0Pf3MNEV8aJlWnQshbUEEVKp4/s1600/IMG_3386.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHi3llsIdjKE-x8GWHxnIBBQS0vOqLCHdVeCPhlSeZ48PLV3jODYJl4A81y1QK9kOe5CIp_hTsr3pdgs_XD3-H_RXLt3E5GILePNAYHM4sLmmHYiKVzsU0Pf3MNEV8aJlWnQshbUEEVKp4/s640/IMG_3386.JPG" /></a>
<br /><br/>
> <b><strike><span style="color: #e69138;">make baked-pumpkin-something</span></strike> </b>- I made this tasty <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/37928821837471663/">banana pumpkin bread</a> to take to Waco as a hosting gift/snack to share. It was delicious.<br />
<br />
> <strike><span style="color: #f1c232;"><b>pumpkin beer</b></span></strike> - the Mister kept a log this season, and we tried seven different pumpkin beers! Our favorites were Harpoon's Pumpkin UFO and Karbach's Krunkin' Pumpkin. Do you have a favorite?<br />
<br />
> <strike><span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>cook ALL THE FALL RECIPES</b></span></strike> - I can definitely check this one off the list! The Mister and I made this <a href="http://theeverygirl.com/3-easy-recipes-everyone-should-cook-this-fall" target="_blank">delicious butternut squash soup</a> a couple of times. We also tried <a href="http://theeverygirl.com/10-in-20-best-squash-recipes" target="_blank">charred Mexican zucchini</a>, <a href="http://www.healthytippingpoint.com/2014/09/delicata-squash-honey-mustard-quinoa.html" target="_blank">honey mustard quinoa</a>, and this <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/37928821837560312/">tasty salad</a>. And of course, there were <a href="http://allrecipes.com/recipe/addictive-sweet-potato-burritos/detail.aspx" target="_blank">plenty</a> of <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/37928821837505868/">sweet potatoes</a>!<br />
<br />
> <strike><span style="color: #e69138;"><b>Make chili</b></span></strike> - We did score some of <a href="http://colormespunky.blogspot.com/2014/10/fall-bucket-list.html">Mom's chili</a> during the week of Thanksgiving, and made our own this past weekend. Texas comfort food.<br />
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> <strike><b><span style="color: #f1c232;">Baylor football game</span></b></strike> - <a href="http://colormespunky.blogspot.com/2014/11/homecoming.html">Homecoming</a> was wonderful. It was so great being back on campus and catching up with dear friends.<br />
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> <b><span style="color: #b45f06;">finish closet detox</span></b> - Ha. Remember how this was on the short list? Nope. I <i>have</i> been utilizing a capsule wardrobe for fall, but I haven't actually cleaned out the pieces that didn't make the cut. One step at a time, I suppose.<br />
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> <strike><b><span style="color: #e69138;">camping</span></b></strike> - the Mister and I did get to <a href="http://colormespunky.blogspot.com/2014/10/campfire-comfort.html">escape to the woods</a> for a short weekend trip.<br />
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> <b><span style="color: #f1c232;">bike to Cypress</span></b> - Nope. We basically ran out of free Saturdays. I'll have to schedule it in one of these days!<br />
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I loved having a bucket list for fall. It was a great way to keep track of all our traditions and the memories made this past season. I've got some great ideas for a winter bucket list, but we'll see if I can get that posted before spring. Just kidding! <a href="http://colormespunky.blogspot.com/2014/12/hot-mess-holiday-edition.html">No, but really.</a>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05170966947416468535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4271485078680471862.post-79043826302180501952014-12-10T15:39:00.003-08:002014-12-10T15:39:43.906-08:00hot mess - holiday editionMerry Christmas!<br />
<br />
The internets are brimming with beautiful Christmas baubles, handmade decorations and gifts, holiday treats that are clever and delicious...<br />
<br />
That is not my apartment.<br />
<br />
This is my apartment:<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgelUn_LnE4FT4qqoXXvUdWj8WvFMJlfXFejlfCxw0uenVfhfOQH6fzzwahI89-Of2LT9AR9pBSb0CApN6COPUyCewpxnK5H40BibsQQOJfF5Yvq9FtTwDHoCtgezMdZLP7lRzWRqSE6p7Y/s1600/IMG_3405.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgelUn_LnE4FT4qqoXXvUdWj8WvFMJlfXFejlfCxw0uenVfhfOQH6fzzwahI89-Of2LT9AR9pBSb0CApN6COPUyCewpxnK5H40BibsQQOJfF5Yvq9FtTwDHoCtgezMdZLP7lRzWRqSE6p7Y/s640/IMG_3405.JPG" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I'm sure the folks outside are very impressed with our festiveness.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
Say hello to our living room tree. It's not a Christmas tree, because there is nothing to suggest that Christmas has arrived. Note the pumpkins. And the distinct lack of sparkle on our tree. Yes, this picture is current. Yes, Christmas is only 15 days away. <br />
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"Not so bad," you say? "There's plenty of time!" you declare? True, in most cases. However, say hello to the other side of our house.<br /><br/>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpAKwI8NEV0kfXaMaDG7mRpWu78XfjAX7Fgu62EHqbeNQpX0ftM0DlZET9OFOIFpNMHLIPmBIKld_6JF9lH7HbnedzOotqH1B0ojJsOhKelFQQmXUgFbq0hw1TPZa9dsOQsLssd0yH1JJp/s1600/IMG_3408.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpAKwI8NEV0kfXaMaDG7mRpWu78XfjAX7Fgu62EHqbeNQpX0ftM0DlZET9OFOIFpNMHLIPmBIKld_6JF9lH7HbnedzOotqH1B0ojJsOhKelFQQmXUgFbq0hw1TPZa9dsOQsLssd0yH1JJp/s640/IMG_3408.JPG" /></a>
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<br />
It's Hot Mess Hotel over here.<br />
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Last night, we attended our first Christmas party of the season. Tacky sweaters and potluck snacks! Christmas Jeopardy! I have been planning since <i>last year</i> for this year's tacky sweater, and the idea is adorable and amazing. But, it's not what I wore. I wore my fallback tacky sweater, which has been my tacky sweater for four years running. Womp womp.<br />
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Sure, maybe the sweater didn't get done, but desserts and snacks could make up for that. I have plenty of quick and easy recipes for party snacks. No problem! But guess when I remembered that we needed to bring said delicious dessert/snack to this party? T-6 hours until party time. Break-and-bake for the win. Or the lose.<br />
<br />
To top it off,<br />
I have purchased zero Christmas presents,<br />
done zero planning for Christmas cookie decorating (which I am hosting),<br />
and am three days behind on my advent calendar. <i>(It's a chocolate one. Not even a devotional or reading calendar or anything. I just haven't even kept up with eating chocolate.)</i><br />
<br />
All this to say that I do not have it all together. And that's ok. The Mister and I are doing some decorating tonight, and I know I'll finish (and start, tee hee) my Christmas shopping before the big day. It will all work out. <br/>
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I also know how frustrating it can be when all the Christmas on the internet is picture perfect. Don't get me wrong-I love seeing all of the beautiful and creative ideas this season. I want my party to be pinterest-pretty this year, too. But first, I wanted share my not-pinterest-pretty real life, in real time. That way, <strike>-if-</strike> when our Christmas Cookies party is a hit and every picture is precious, you and I will both know where I was ten days before. Hot Mess Hotel, full capacity.<br />
<br />
So Merry Christmas, everyone. Know that if your tree is bare, your pinterest reindeer cupcakes look like angry cows, and you just don't have it all together this Christmas, I'm right there with you. Let's focus on filling this holiday season with laughter, friends, celebration, and cheer. Even if you have to wear last year's sweater.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05170966947416468535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4271485078680471862.post-88352169618191319632014-12-10T15:32:00.001-08:002014-12-10T15:32:52.707-08:00rewinds<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIiz6RMr8qzYIhAspuORPK36a70FwohC85KWm8EarB2K0LjwwKVhVH8Wgbt-3fiNOC8vjJxIjITiw49VykZ2Qs-U0M6qNmggpE-ovaeHpZ2zW_dq8rwlUVgmbJwovl_jdJc7oXG7s-OEcd/s1600/IMG_1822.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgIiz6RMr8qzYIhAspuORPK36a70FwohC85KWm8EarB2K0LjwwKVhVH8Wgbt-3fiNOC8vjJxIjITiw49VykZ2Qs-U0M6qNmggpE-ovaeHpZ2zW_dq8rwlUVgmbJwovl_jdJc7oXG7s-OEcd/s1600/IMG_1822.JPG" width="297px" /></a>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRXMKWIRNVfbaxbWnQC19I8bzd1eAQWTgQR256l14x44YL9GW-9Wm3j2mpdzm13Byz74CJ_7KluoM4Sw3r138D0SOFPoWM7XIoqJmzaazEQsc14xVrlDPKieQiCqXfAYzbBtLFj1BtZkeQ/s1600/IMG_3242.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRXMKWIRNVfbaxbWnQC19I8bzd1eAQWTgQR256l14x44YL9GW-9Wm3j2mpdzm13Byz74CJ_7KluoM4Sw3r138D0SOFPoWM7XIoqJmzaazEQsc14xVrlDPKieQiCqXfAYzbBtLFj1BtZkeQ/s640/IMG_3242.JPG" width="297px"/></a>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKuv1zJYJ3mX30eciTz6J5Jnb62-FLlQOHtS0CGaE0-KXCO_GLQfaO3xS_igqpP7dTYc8boGb3lscNvYEkoOsroZvR2Yue9Lai96EXczou6PGIClz7-8HHjC_AGiMqa1lpd_0t2o2JvlpW/s1600/IMG_3194.JPG" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKuv1zJYJ3mX30eciTz6J5Jnb62-FLlQOHtS0CGaE0-KXCO_GLQfaO3xS_igqpP7dTYc8boGb3lscNvYEkoOsroZvR2Yue9Lai96EXczou6PGIClz7-8HHjC_AGiMqa1lpd_0t2o2JvlpW/s640/IMG_3194.JPG" width="297px"/></a>
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9GkbQ2DarBOS1ZuZDqRUAbGrVczw44gO5t6RSfsiiSq-sjREfrfnTZvWZ8oP0qVkLnH3XOIUdu-diThdVFdooXvlUg2rFsU1Ul9u0KHm_rjtq3KN7XmdwH8-icgmSMz1f47MXxZV_JKdg/s1600/IMG_1834.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh9GkbQ2DarBOS1ZuZDqRUAbGrVczw44gO5t6RSfsiiSq-sjREfrfnTZvWZ8oP0qVkLnH3XOIUdu-diThdVFdooXvlUg2rFsU1Ul9u0KHm_rjtq3KN7XmdwH8-icgmSMz1f47MXxZV_JKdg/s1600/IMG_1834.JPG" width="297px" /></a>
<br />
<br />
<b>REWINDS</b><br />
<b> << </b>I ran the Turkey Trot for the second time this year. Recap coming soon!<br />
<br />
<b><< </b>We spent Thanksgiving day with the Mister's family. The day was full of food, family, football, and games. <br />
<br />
<b><< </b>Some of my Oklahoma family was in town for the holiday. We took a quick trip down to Galveston so my cousin could see the beach for the <i>first time ever</i>. Which is nonsense to this Texas girl.<br />
<br />
<b><< </b>At Youth Group this week, the Jr High students decked the loft. It is finally, officially Christmastime! Now I just have to get my own tree...<br />
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<b>SOMETHING TO SHARE</b><br />
* I made these <a href="http://www.wetherillssayido.com/cranberry-goat-cheese-butternut-squash-crostini/">crostinis</a> and this <a href="http://naturallyella.com/2014/10/24/roasted-butternut-squash-quinoa-and-arugula-salad/?crlt.pid=camp.5QciG7DrAOqI">salad</a> for Thanksgiving. Tasty and pretty.<br />
* <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/37928821837671036/">Cutest cookies</a> on the block.<br />
* I'm putting one of <a href="http://www.pinterest.com/pin/37928821837670852/">these</a> on my Christmas list.<br />
* What a <a href="http://www.abeautifulmess.com/2014/11/string-art-advent-calendar.html">clever way</a> to celebrate the Advent season!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05170966947416468535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4271485078680471862.post-72053376951702710632014-11-30T16:27:00.000-08:002014-12-12T17:08:51.593-08:00November: Turkey Trot<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center; display: none;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq1jdq_IDBwSipI-0ps8LB50FI2M0hX3BEYmxFAH4J2rkMF6J3Cr8LkCLzVDJAuuXmQQEf5FPfhzc6GBu0AYowM2fvbviqHTme-YUOOBxTL-5CGHj21UemrrzFH7-of7dckiC6EHX0yQQr/s1600/IMG_1822.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgq1jdq_IDBwSipI-0ps8LB50FI2M0hX3BEYmxFAH4J2rkMF6J3Cr8LkCLzVDJAuuXmQQEf5FPfhzc6GBu0AYowM2fvbviqHTme-YUOOBxTL-5CGHj21UemrrzFH7-of7dckiC6EHX0yQQr/s200/IMG_1822.JPG" /></a></div>
<br/>
Nothing like a Turkey Trot to get you ready for the Thanksgiving feast!<br/>
<br/>
This was my second year to run the Turkey Trot here in Houston, and I do believe this event is one of my favorites. It's a HUGE event - we're talking 15,000 people participating! The course is also through Uptown, which is just awesome. We run along streets that are usually jam-packed with traffic, so it's a cool feeling to be there on foot and in the middle of the road. Of course, 15,000 people just creates a different kind of traffic.<!---more---><br/>
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<center><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3kkH1K2Bb7vAZkgyDM18HAyO9k5ny3-Vq1yvVo-QAswTxIhutyOkTIkMJIQqHfOjL4mHV2rmwsYWyU1s4NxUVTkT7YsX5XttUBuaS4V1No637pN9eLwTG2fwwxZ1NznQdWoF_PWJUiryH/s1600/IMG_1822.JPG" imageanchor="1" ><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi3kkH1K2Bb7vAZkgyDM18HAyO9k5ny3-Vq1yvVo-QAswTxIhutyOkTIkMJIQqHfOjL4mHV2rmwsYWyU1s4NxUVTkT7YsX5XttUBuaS4V1No637pN9eLwTG2fwwxZ1NznQdWoF_PWJUiryH/s640/IMG_1822.JPG" /></a></center>
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The Mister and I ran the 5k. One, because it's cheaper. Two, because it's shorter. And three, because there was a FEAST waiting! Can't have Turkey Trot time cutting into turkey time, can we?<br/>
<br/>
I went into the run aiming to finish in under 35 minutes. I figured that was a realistic goal for the pace I'd been running while training, and I felt that it left enough wiggle room for stroller-dodging and human traffic jams. I'm happy to report that we crossed the finish line at 34:46! I am definitely proud of that time, and meeting a goal is such a good motivator.<br/>
<br/>
The trot was festive, the crowd was lively, and the weather was beautiful. And best of all? Guilt free dessert!<br/>
<br/>
<b>Have you ever run a Turkey Trot?</b>
<br/>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05170966947416468535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4271485078680471862.post-78934289025887268412014-11-19T18:14:00.000-08:002014-11-19T18:18:01.282-08:00rewinds<center><a href="http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/allienik/media/IMG_3361_zps13e76d20.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w538/allienik/IMG_3361_zps13e76d20.jpg" border="0" width="297px" alt=" photo IMG_3361_zps13e76d20.jpg"/></a>
<a href="http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/allienik/media/IMG_3374_zps121ad42c.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w538/allienik/IMG_3374_zps121ad42c.jpg" border="0" width="297px" alt=" photo IMG_3374_zps121ad42c.jpg"/></a><br/>
<a href="http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/allienik/media/e3308ca4-9240-4bc1-9a8d-f5e0df4a5242_zpsc45a1b8d.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w538/allienik/e3308ca4-9240-4bc1-9a8d-f5e0df4a5242_zpsc45a1b8d.jpg" border="0" width="297px" alt=" photo e3308ca4-9240-4bc1-9a8d-f5e0df4a5242_zpsc45a1b8d.jpg"/></a>
<a href="http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/allienik/media/39fa4083-5db7-4573-a619-709aaa95ff7a_zps8fc17cb3.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w538/allienik/39fa4083-5db7-4573-a619-709aaa95ff7a_zps8fc17cb3.jpg" border="0" width="297px" alt=" photo 39fa4083-5db7-4573-a619-709aaa95ff7a_zps8fc17cb3.jpg"/></a><br/>
</center><br/>
<b>REWINDS</b><br/>
<b><< </b>My Mister had a <a href="http://colormespunky.blogspot.com/2014/11/mister-25.html">birthday</a> on Thursday! This weekend was chock-full of celebrations - soccer ganmes, a movie and sushi date, and Sunday lunch with the families. He doesn't like too much fanfare, so we kept it casual but definitely celebratory. <br/>
<br/>
<b><< </b>We had some sweet friends in town and got to meet their new baby! She's the cutest. I was too busy laughing and catching up to take any pictures, though. #bloggerfail<br/>
<br/>
<b><< </b>Golden Grill (our Houston grilled cheese food truck), has a sandwich that is made of brie and peach preserves. BRIE AND PEACH PRESERVES. Yum.<br/>
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<b><< </b>We found the greatest toy store ever in the Heights! So many unique and clever toys. 25 years old, sans kids, and I still spent an hour in there. :)<br/>
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The weather was dreary, but we made the most of this weekend! Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05170966947416468535noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4271485078680471862.post-66945052371378434982014-11-13T14:43:00.003-08:002014-11-13T14:53:37.476-08:00Mister 25My amazing Mister is 25 today!<br/>
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<a href="http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/allienik/media/Sean25_zps2fa68003.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w538/allienik/Sean25_zps2fa68003.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo Sean25_zps2fa68003.jpg"/></a><br/>
<br/>
He is sweet and strong. He is kind. He is always willing to help. He's funny. He's easygoing. He's dependable. He's all good things, and I am so proud and in love with this man.<br/>
<br/>
He has all my heart. Forever.<br/>
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Wishing him the happiest of birthdays!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05170966947416468535noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4271485078680471862.post-5360064979209349952014-11-07T16:14:00.001-08:002014-11-07T16:14:17.254-08:00Homecoming<div class="separator" style="display: none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/allienik/media/6e3592e2-f82f-4b7a-b6c8-92da67ef49e9_zpse6abd8fc.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w538/allienik/6e3592e2-f82f-4b7a-b6c8-92da67ef49e9_zpse6abd8fc.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo 6e3592e2-f82f-4b7a-b6c8-92da67ef49e9_zpse6abd8fc.jpg"/></a></div>
This past weekend was Baylor's homecoming, so the Mister and I headed up to Waco to meet up with several of our old friends. We visited some of our old favorites and explored the new additions.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: none; margin-right: none; text-align: center;">
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<td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/allienik/media/IMG_1752_zps13fdb7e2.jpg.html" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo IMG_1752_zps13fdb7e2.jpg" border="0" src="http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w538/allienik/IMG_1752_zps13fdb7e2.jpg" width="295px" /></a></td>
<td><a href="http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/allienik/media/IMG_1797_zpsb44cd8a0.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo IMG_1797_zpsb44cd8a0.jpg" border="0" src="http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w538/allienik/IMG_1797_zpsb44cd8a0.jpg" width="295px" /></a></td>
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<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Food for Thought - one of my favorites for Waco eats. And the crossword puzzle? The Mister and I used to do them together every day. Adorable, I know.</td>
<td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center; vertical-align: text-top;">New stadium! Exciting times for good ole Baylor.
</td>
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Baylor has the oldest Homecoming in the nation, so there are lots of traditions! We have a bonfire Friday night, the parade Saturday morning, and the homecoming football game later Saturday. All the while there are events all over campus - reunions, Pigskin Review, tours, and just a whole lot of Baylor love.<br />
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<a href="http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/allienik/media/homecomingcollage_zps52641cd2.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo homecomingcollage_zps52641cd2.jpg" border="0" src="http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w538/allienik/homecomingcollage_zps52641cd2.jpg" /></a><br />
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The best part of Homecoming this year is that we were there with a group of the old crew. There is something truly special about the friends you make in college. Even though I hadn't seen some of these ladies in years, it felt like we could pick up right where we left off. We reminisced about our college days, caught up on life lately, encouraged each other, and laughed a lot. We laughed all weekend long, the kind of laughter that is balm to the soul.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/allienik/media/IMG_3259_zps2e9b3da8.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo IMG_3259_zps2e9b3da8.jpg" border="0" src="http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w538/allienik/IMG_3259_zps2e9b3da8.jpg" /></a></div>
<br/>
"Homecoming" is such an accurate term for last weekend's festivities. Baylor and Waco are such a part of me now; my heart knew I was <i>home</i> when I walked onto campus. College was a time of such growth. I learned so much about myself and the woman I want to be. I met some of my dearest friends and experienced so many things for the first time. I grew so much during those years in Waco, and Baylor is part of who I am.<br />
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Then when the weekend is over, we packed up the car and came home to Houston. We stopped in Cypress to pick up the pupsqueak before driving into town to our apartment. That route takes me through the place I grew up, and lands me in the place I am now. Houston, of course, is <i>home</i> to me. I love this city. We have so many adventures here. I am learning to navigate this great big world, and Houston is such a big part of that journey.<br />
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My heart calls both places home. Both places are precious to me, and both places are part of who I am and who I am becoming. But loving both as home reminds me that I don't know what all God has in store for my life. There will be other places I call <i>home</i>. I want to be open to change, and I want to keep my heart open to every place I go.<br/>
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After all, my true home is with Jesus.<br />
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<i>"For we know that if the earthly tent we live in is destroyed, we have a building from God, an eternal house in heaven, not built by human hands."<br/>
-2 Corinthians 5:1</i><br />
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While I hold my home-places close to my heart, let me always be willing to go where called.
<br />
<br />
<b>
What places do you call home?<br />
How have the places you have called home formed you?<br />
How do you keep your heart open for the next adventure?</b>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05170966947416468535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4271485078680471862.post-47562274509561967892014-11-06T07:49:00.000-08:002014-11-06T07:49:07.221-08:00rewinds<center>
<a href="http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/allienik/media/2d9d3080-9bab-47e8-90d2-9da32027b721_zps97e89728.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w538/allienik/2d9d3080-9bab-47e8-90d2-9da32027b721_zps97e89728.jpg" border="0" width="297px" alt=" fight song"/></a>
<a href="http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/allienik/media/c65d19f8-af4d-4abb-93d5-6a275314bf2d_zps1d400ac2.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w538/allienik/c65d19f8-af4d-4abb-93d5-6a275314bf2d_zps1d400ac2.jpg" border="0" width="297px" alt=" jellyfish"/></a><br/>
<a href="http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/allienik/media/093d4aa1-ceb4-443e-8e37-7f936bf1080c_zpsa7c2107c.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w538/allienik/093d4aa1-ceb4-443e-8e37-7f936bf1080c_zpsa7c2107c.jpg" border="0" width="297px" alt=" baylor bagel"/></a>
<a href="http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/allienik/media/6e3592e2-f82f-4b7a-b6c8-92da67ef49e9_zpse6abd8fc.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w538/allienik/6e3592e2-f82f-4b7a-b6c8-92da67ef49e9_zpse6abd8fc.jpg" border="0" width="297px" alt=" stadium group"/></a>
</center>
<br />
<b>REWINDS</b><br />
<b><< </b>We were up in Waco for Baylor Homecoming all weekend and had the best time visiting old favorites and catching up with dear friends.<br />
<br />
<b><< </b>I was a jellyfish for Halloween. I was surprised and impressed that most people got it right away, though I was mistaken for Bubble Boy at some point. Close enough.<br />
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<b><< </b>Einstein's Bagels has PUMPKIN SHMEAR! Go get some. Put it on a cinnamon bagel. It's delicous.<br />
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<b><< </b>New Stadium! Sic 'em Bears!<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05170966947416468535noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4271485078680471862.post-33817633632416183222014-10-31T09:00:00.000-07:002014-10-31T09:00:10.798-07:00pumpkin patch<div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: none; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/allienik/media/e1eb2071-ae6b-4b03-8fbd-2953b951b613_zpsff4d1d37.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w538/allienik/e1eb2071-ae6b-4b03-8fbd-2953b951b613_zpsff4d1d37.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo e1eb2071-ae6b-4b03-8fbd-2953b951b613_zpsff4d1d37.jpg"/></a></div>
<br/>
Even with all the fall love bouncing around the internet, I was having a hard time feeling like fall was here for me. Tax busy season had me mostly confined to my cubicle when people started drinking pumpkin spice lattes, decorating pumpkins, and wearing their flannel, boots, and scarves. The 85+ degree weather that has been holding here in Houston hasn't helped, either. (Just change, weather!)<br/>
<br/>
Well I'm happy to report that FALL IS HERE! (No, the weather has not changed. Let's not get ahead of ourselves.) But I have finally started to check some big items off my <a href="http://colormespunky.blogspot.com/2014/10/fall-bucket-list.html">fall bucket list</a>. The Mister and I escaped <a href="http://colormespunky.blogspot.com/2014/10/campfire-comfort.html">to the woods</a> Friday and Saturday, for some much needed R&R. On Sunday, we went to the pumpkin patch! We picked out some beauties for decorating and took our yearly family photos. Enjoy!<br/>
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<a href="http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/allienik/media/pumpkins/IMG_3068_zps3e3d2bbb.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w538/allienik/pumpkins/IMG_3068_zps3e3d2bbb.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo IMG_3068_zps3e3d2bbb.jpg"/></a>
<a href="http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/allienik/media/pumpkins/IMG_3059_zps90b9c60a.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w538/allienik/pumpkins/IMG_3059_zps90b9c60a.jpg" border="0" width="298px" alt=" photo IMG_3059_zps90b9c60a.jpg"/></a>
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<br/><br/>
Sean and I have been taking photos together in this pumpkin patch since 2007, minus a few years we were away at college. Continuing our tradition this year really made me feel like we were <i>celebrating</i> fall, rather than just letting the season change around us. I want to engage in the current moment. Finally, I feel like fall has arrived! <br/>
<br/>
Or perhaps I have finally arrived in fall.<br/>
Carpe diem and seize the season!<br/>
<br/>
What is your favorite fall tradition?Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05170966947416468535noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4271485078680471862.post-36183089239814134962014-10-30T17:05:00.000-07:002014-10-30T17:05:06.800-07:00campfire comfortThere is poetry on the lake and a song in the trees. <br/>
How simple, how pure does nature appear - <br/>
All the while teeming<br/>
With life, with heart, with stories unheard.<br/>
<br/>
The Mister and I spent a night in the woods this past weekend. We loaded up the cooler and our pupsqueak and unplugged from our hustle and bustle life.<br/>
<br/>
We played in the woods, feasted over a campfire, and dreamed under the stars.<br/>
<br/>
<a href="http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/allienik/media/IMG_3105_zps1638ab09.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w538/allienik/IMG_3105_zps1638ab09.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo IMG_3105_zps1638ab09.jpg"/></a>
<a href="http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/allienik/media/camping%2010-24-2014/IMG_2945_zps9b21fe42.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w538/allienik/camping%2010-24-2014/IMG_2945_zps9b21fe42.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo IMG_2945_zps9b21fe42.jpg"/></a>
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<a href="http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/allienik/media/camping%2010-24-2014/IMG_2969_zps2aaa0ed7.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w538/allienik/camping%2010-24-2014/IMG_2969_zps2aaa0ed7.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo IMG_2969_zps2aaa0ed7.jpg"/></a>
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<br/>
<br/>
Just what we needed.<br/>
<br/>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05170966947416468535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4271485078680471862.post-859387062754832842014-10-28T19:58:00.000-07:002014-10-28T19:58:08.793-07:00rewinds<br/>
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<br/>
<b>REWINDS</b><br/>
<b> << </b> The weather here in Texas was b-e-a-utiful all weekend, and we did not let it go to waste. Friday night we went camping in the East Piney Woods at Martin Dies Jr State Park. I took it up a notch past hot dogs, and we had baked chicken with roasted brussel sprouts and potatoes for dinner, pancakes for breakfast, and toasted sandwiches for lunch. I got a teensy bit excited about having a cast iron skillet, if you couldn't tell. :)<br/>
<br/>
<b> << </b> Saturday night we rode the Moonlight Bicycle Ramble - a <a href="http://colormespunky.blogspot.com/2014/10/october-moonlight-bicycle-ramble.html">midnight ride</a> all over Houston! Coolest experience I've had on a bicyle by far.<br/>
<br/>
<b> << </b> Sunday we visited our <a href="http://colormespunky.blogspot.com/2014/10/fall-bucket-list.html">pumpkin patch</a> for family photos and to pick our pumpkins. We came home with some lovelies, and I can't wait to decorate them! <br/>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05170966947416468535noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4271485078680471862.post-5537644500731810112014-10-27T20:56:00.000-07:002014-10-27T20:58:05.512-07:00October: Moonlight Bicycle Ramble<div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: none; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/allienik/media/1d689dcf-79f3-48b4-bc50-15657dd9447e_zpsa23c2178.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w538/allienik/1d689dcf-79f3-48b4-bc50-15657dd9447e_zpsa23c2178.jpg" border="0" alt=" photo 1d689dcf-79f3-48b4-bc50-15657dd9447e_zpsa23c2178.jpg"/></a></div>
<br/>
Oh my goodness. SO. MUCH. FUN. Saturday night the Mister and I rode all over this beautiful city in the middle of the night. That's right, ladies and gentlemen - Westheimer, the Galleria, Allen Parkway, downtown Houston - all on bicycles! Seriously, we rode down roads that I avoid in my vehicle. The one with an engine.<br />
<br />
We started rolling at the convention center at 12am Sunday morning. So many of the bicycles were decked out in rope lights and reflectors. <i>(I'll definitely be decorating my bicycle next year!) </i>The whole group was so festive and ready to go. The clock struck, and we were off!<br />
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Then we stopped at a traffic light.<br />
<br />
Then another.<br />
<br />
And another. <br />
<br />
It took us about 15 minutes just to get out of downtown. By far our worst mile. However, it was one of my favorite parts of the ride; it was so surreal to ride down the streets of downtown with so many others on bicycles. It was a whole new perspective on home sweet Houston. Not to mention I got some serious practice with group starts. Good news! I did not crash or knock anyone over. So proud.<br />
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We crossed out of downtown, rode through Midtown, headed south through the Museum District (traffic circle, for the win!), meandered through West U, pedaled through the Galleria, into Uptown, across Memorial Park, and back to the convention center. All over this city.<br />
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<a href="http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/allienik/media/IMG_1734_zps9749692e.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt="Moonlight Ramble 2014 photo IMG_1734_zps9749692e.jpg" border="0" src="http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w538/allienik/IMG_1734_zps9749692e.jpg" /></a>
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<br />
My favorite parts were the Galleria area and riding through Memorial Park. I loved riding through the Galleria area because it's typically such a crazy traffic area. This is one of those areas Houstonians learn the back ways around. Traffic is <i>always</i> terrible. True to form, this was the most highly trafficked area of the ride, even at one in the morning, which is why I loved this experience. We were truly riding as another vehicle on the road, following traffic laws and showing our cycling etiquette. I find the idea of commuting via bicycle so romantic and free-spirited. Y'all know I'm planning on making <a href="http://colormespunky.blogspot.com/2014/10/fall-bucket-list.html">a small bicycle trip</a> of my own, before the cold whether hits. I would <i>love</i> to be able to ride everywhere, and applaud those who truly use their bicycles for transportation. Maybe me too, someday.<br />
<br />
My other favorite was riding through Memorial Park. First of all, the park is beautiful. Second of all, we got to ride FAST. Okay, it wasn't that fast, but when you're averaging 7 mph with the traffic lights, suddenly anything over 10 mph feels like lightning. Sean and I had a blast.<br />
<br />
We finished around 2:45am with tired legs and big smiles. The Moonlight Ramble was an incredible experience, and I definitely want to do it again!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05170966947416468535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4271485078680471862.post-77839653332618561022014-10-23T07:50:00.000-07:002014-10-23T07:51:12.650-07:00weekend update
<br />
Busy season is over, praise the Lord! Deadline day was Wednesday and I took PTO Friday and Monday to decompress and put my other-than-work life back in order. So grateful to be back in a normal schedule. This weekend was packed full of NOT WORK, and that is an excellent feeling.<a name='more'></a><br />
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<br />
My darling husband sent me cookies at work for deadline day celebration. So sweet. Both the husband and the cookies. :)<br />
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Friday afternoon I engaged in some retail therapy with my friend and coworker. We went to the outlet mall and practically had the place to ourselves. So much sunshine!<br />
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Saturday, my parents' neighborhood hosted a garage sale, and my parents' garage was open for business. I took some of my own goods to their garage and helped my dad run the show. The mister and I walked away with $44 from our wares, so we're basically pro. Ha. <br />
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Tough loss for my Baylor Bears. Oh, my heart.<br />
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Oh, did I mention the <a href="http://colormespunky.blogspot.com/2014/10/fall-bucket-list.html">pumpkins are here</a>? Sunday youth group was movie night in the pumpkin patch. We watched the made for Disney Channel original <u>Tower of Terror</u>. Have you seen it? Let me tell you, the kids these days did not appreciate. I, on the other hand, had great fun with this blast from the past.<br />
<br />
So many wonderful things squeezed into this weekend! Glad to have real weekends back.
<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05170966947416468535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4271485078680471862.post-21938307020569847972014-10-13T15:58:00.000-07:002014-10-13T15:58:28.898-07:00week's end<br/>
<a href="http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/allienik/media/edaeb05c-b465-4f2e-919a-653ced5b0bd3_zps3500e9a1.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo edaeb05c-b465-4f2e-919a-653ced5b0bd3_zps3500e9a1.jpg" border="0" src="http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w538/allienik/edaeb05c-b465-4f2e-919a-653ced5b0bd3_zps3500e9a1.jpg" /></a><br />
<br />
+ Finally got myself a pumpkin spice latte, so <a href="http://colormespunky.blogspot.com/2014/10/fall-bucket-list.html">fall is officially here</a>. Two things I discovered/remembered/admitted:<a name='more'></a><br />
1) They're better hot.<br />
2) I like all the caramel drinks better. Blasphemy, I know.<br />
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+ Tiff's treats on Thursday = best day of the week.<br />
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+ <a href="http://colormespunky.blogspot.com/2014/10/fall-bucket-list.html">Pumpkins</a> are here! We unloaded ten million pumpkins on Sunday afternoon, give or take. It was rainy and muggy and I had <i>the best time</i>. It's like a barn raising. Only with pumpkins. <br />
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+ Work is winding down! Deadline day is WEDNESDAY! This girl is about to get her life back and cannot wait.<br />
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Oh and lest we forget, happy <a href="http://theoatmeal.com/comics/columbus_day" target="_blank">Indigenous People's Day</a>!<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05170966947416468535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4271485078680471862.post-11564788147899756382014-10-03T13:11:00.000-07:002014-10-13T15:58:45.484-07:00fall bucket list<div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: none; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/allienik/media/b828731d-d503-49f4-88d2-8b3c256d22c8_zps74cd66f0.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo b828731d-d503-49f4-88d2-8b3c256d22c8_zps74cd66f0.jpg" border="0" src="http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w538/allienik/b828731d-d503-49f4-88d2-8b3c256d22c8_zps74cd66f0.jpg" /></a></div>
Hello all! Hello fall! The weather here in Houston is teasing us. We've had a couple of days where it's dropped into the 60s (<i>grab your coats!</i>), but it's mostly holding in the high 80s with summer humidity still strong and thick. <br />
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Basically that just means we order our pumpkin spice lattes on ice. <br />
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<a name='more'></a><br /><br />
<a href="http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/allienik/media/dc5d4134-d1d1-4c44-beec-b983ffdbc540_zpsde0e60c6.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt="jessie pumpkin patch" border="0" src="http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w538/allienik/dc5d4134-d1d1-4c44-beec-b983ffdbc540_zpsde0e60c6.jpg" /></a><br />
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I'm a summer girl at heart, but I do love all the fun treats and activities that come with fall. Fall is certainly a festive season! And the smells and flavors can't be beat, am I right? So, without further ado, my fall bucket list!<br />
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> <span style="color: #e69138;"><b>pumpkin patch</b></span> - every year my church hosts a pumpkin patch to raise money for the youth group. I love every bit about it - the unloading party, the pallets full of pumpkins, the tiny pumpkins, the giant pumpkins, the kids in costume, the family pictures. So cute! Last year I managed to snag a cute one of Jessie-dog, so we'll try our luck again this year.<br />
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> <b><span style="color: #f1c232;">pumpkin spice latte</span> </b>- because yes.<br />
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> <b><span style="color: #b45f06;">decorate pumpkins</span></b> - carving, or bedazzling, or painting. So many options!<br />
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> <b><span style="color: #e69138;">make baked-pumpkin-something</span> </b>- bread? cookies? muffins? waffles? yes, please.<br />
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> <span style="color: #f1c232;"><b>pumpkin beer</b></span> - the Mister is on a mission to try as many pumpkin beers as he can this season. We're making notes so we know what to revisit next year. Any favorites we can't miss?<br />
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> <span style="color: #b45f06;"><b>cook ALL THE FALL RECIPES</b></span> - one check mark for this already! The Mister made some <a href="http://theeverygirl.com/3-easy-recipes-everyone-should-cook-this-fall" target="_blank">delicious butternut squash soup</a> this week. I've been pinning recipes like crazy. Like <a href="http://theeverygirl.com/10-in-20-best-squash-recipes" target="_blank">these</a>, and <a href="http://www.healthytippingpoint.com/2014/09/delicata-squash-honey-mustard-quinoa.html" target="_blank">this one</a>, and maybe <a href="http://theeverygirl.com/healthy-and-homemade-beet-and-sweet-potato-chips" target="_blank">this</a>? <a href="http://allrecipes.com/recipe/addictive-sweet-potato-burritos/detail.aspx" target="_blank">These burritos</a> are already one of our favorite recipes. <i>I have been underestimating sweet potatoes, y'all. Forgive me.</i><br />
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> <span style="color: #e69138;"><b>Make chili</b></span> - yes, this is separate from fall food. It's a bit of a tradition in my house that Mom makes chili when we get our first cold snap. It's a fall tradition that fills the belly and the soul.<br />
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> <b><span style="color: #f1c232;">Baylor football game</span></b> - Homecoming at the end of this month! Sic 'em!<br />
<br />
> <b><span style="color: #b45f06;">finish closet detox</span></b> - I have been cleaning out my closet and working on my capsule wardrobe, as inspired by Caroline over at <a href="http://www.un-fancy.com/" target="_blank">Un-Fancy</a>. I want to be intentional about what stays and what goes, and intentional work takes time. This one is on the short list for post-busy-season activities. <br />
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> <b><span style="color: #e69138;">camping</span></b> - what better way to take advantage of the beautiful weather we get this time of year?<br />
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> <b><span style="color: #f1c232;">bike to Cypress</span></b> - I'm planning on the Mister and I taking advantage of one of the cool weekends to bike out to our parents' places from our apartment in the city. I really want to use my bike to <i>get somewhere</i>, you know? It will certainly be an adventure.<br />
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What do you have planned for this season? Anything I need to add to my list?</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05170966947416468535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4271485078680471862.post-37715507891113253312014-09-29T08:00:00.000-07:002014-09-29T08:00:03.181-07:00the weekend.<br />
Busy season: when every day feels like a Monday.<br />
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T-17 days until freedom.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05170966947416468535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4271485078680471862.post-55206551894318611942014-09-24T08:33:00.001-07:002014-10-08T13:25:58.313-07:00weekend highlights<div>
Yep. I'm posting a weekend update on a Wednesday. Busy season, anyone?<br />
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1. A <a href="http://yellowrosedistilling.com/" target="_blank">new distillery</a> opened just over a mile from our apartment and had a grand opening celebration, complete with live music, food trucks, and samples! The mister and I hopped on our bikes to check it out. It was a great little event to see off summer before fall really arrives. The samples were tasty and I love supporting local businesses, so I definitely see us buying Yellow Rose whiskey in the future!</div>
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2. I received and filled my <a href="http://www.thredup.com/r/4MRYCA" target="_blank">thredUP</a> bag! If you haven't heard of thredUP, <a href="http://www.thredup.com/r/4MRYCA" target="_blank">take a look</a>. You can order a super cute polka dog bag, fill it with those gently used clothes that you never wear, and get paid for your pieces. You can cash out or use those dollars to buy gently used clothes that others have sent in. And if you <a href="http://www.thredup.com/r/4MRYCA" target="_blank">share the love</a>, your friend gets $10 credit, and you get $10 when they spend it. Winning all around right?</div>
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It's such a relief to let go of these clothes that I never wear, and now I'm itching to do a full closet clean out. I may put that on the list for a PTO day post busy season. Exciting stuff, I know. <i>You know you're a grown up when...</i></div>
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And that's about it for the weekend. </div>
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<i>"Highlights" plural may have been a bit generous.</i></div>
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But honestly, busy season makes me a little brain dead, so I'm happy to have a laid-back weekend with lots of down time. I finished a book, worked on a puzzle, and watched an embarrassing number of Frasier episodes. It was glorious.</div>
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And now, on to the week ahead!</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05170966947416468535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4271485078680471862.post-92018147012080905872014-09-16T11:46:00.000-07:002014-10-08T13:25:36.153-07:00September - Park to Port RideIt's amazing to me how much more comfortable I am on a bike these days. You may remember how <a href="http://colormespunky.blogspot.com/2014/03/march-center-springfest-metric-century.html" target="_blank"><strike>terrifying</strike> exciting</a> my first official ride was. I was all kinds of nervous beforehand, and was convinced that I would crash and/or humiliate myself. Fast forward 6 months, and I love cycling! I still stick to pretty casual rides, but I'm daydreaming about the MS150 in the future. :)<br />
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<a name='more'></a><br /><br />
After the <a href="http://colormespunky.blogspot.com/2014_08_01_archive.html" target="_blank">triathlon</a> in August, I definitely wanted an easy event for September. Especially since I am in the throes of busy season, with little time to participate and less time train. The Park to Port ride was perfect - rolling start between 7a and 9a (sleeping in compared to those crack-of-dawn rides that start before the sun), 20 miles total, halfway party at the turnaround point, and a finisher party at the end with free snacks and drinks.<br />
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The ride celebrated the 100th birthday of Hermann Park and the Houston ship channel. I loved that this ride took me through parts of town that I never visit. The east side of Houston (port side) is mostly industrial, so I don't usually find myself exploring that area. It was a great opportunity and an interesting ride.<br />
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The weather was less-than-beautiful, but I'm always thankful for a chance to play outside. Plus, I noticed how much more confident I was riding, since puddles and rain didn't send me into a blind panic. Hurrah for small victories.<br />
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The mister and I had a great time exploring and laughed a lot. We took it easy at the finisher party, eating breakfast tacos and drinking St Arnold's. Sean also walked away with a whole box of KIND bars, since we were there when the tents started packing up.<br />
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Rain or shine, go out there and get active! I know having this <a href="http://colormespunky.blogspot.com/2014/01/new-years-resolution.html" target="_blank">new year's resolution</a> has forced me to stop making excuses and get moving!<br />
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Happy health, everyone.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05170966947416468535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4271485078680471862.post-23405516992217635272014-09-15T13:43:00.000-07:002014-09-29T12:38:06.737-07:00weekend - it's over already?<br />
Woorrrkkk...<br />
is crazy. <br />
<br />
Today is the 15th of September. Today is also a Monday. I work in taxes.<br />
<br />
I am looking forward to a happy hour at the end of this day.<br />
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<a href="http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/allienik/media/32d455c5-3ca6-4e2b-9c86-daf650869f35_zps5d8941c7.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img src="http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w538/allienik/32d455c5-3ca6-4e2b-9c86-daf650869f35_zps5d8941c7.jpg" border="0" width="380px" alt=" photo 32d455c5-3ca6-4e2b-9c86-daf650869f35_zps5d8941c7.jpg"/></a>
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<br />
Saturday morning, Sean and I rode the Park to Port ride - a 20 mile, family friendly bike ride from Hermann Park to the Port of Houston. Both of these landmarks are celebrating their 100th birthdays, so the ride was one event of many to celebrate. The weather was icky - drizzly rain, grey skies, chilly temperatures. <i>(I'm a Houston girl and consider 75 degrees to be chilly. Don't judge.)</i> Hence the hot mess that is my hair. I mean, I'm no beauty queen after any event, but that right there is out of control.
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<br />
But hey, it's tax season, so I'm just happy to get outside - rain or shine.
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<br />
Saturday afternoon I went to...<i>(drumroll please)</i> work. Yes, it's lame. No, I do not have a picture.
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<br />
But to combat the lameness, Saturday evening the mister and I tried a new dessert/coffee/wine/beer place. Sounds awesome? It was awesome. You should go.
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/allienik/media/IMG_1696_zps2ec05376.jpg.html" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo IMG_1696_zps2ec05376.jpg" border="0" src="http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w538/allienik/IMG_1696_zps2ec05376.jpg" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.facebook.com/redhouston" target="_blank">Red Dessert Dive</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Sunday after church I did... you guessed it... more work!
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<br />
Womp womp.
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<br />
Did I mentioned that today is deadline day?<br />
Happy taxes, all you corporations and partnerships!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05170966947416468535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4271485078680471862.post-54407000186680722342014-09-09T07:46:00.000-07:002014-09-09T08:09:49.535-07:00weekend recapWhat a wonderful weekend! My social calendar was already clear for this weekend, since I'm basically on call for the first big fall tax deadline next Monday. Miracle of all miracles - I did not have to work this weekend! Believe you me, I soaked up every blissfully restful moment of my unexpected free time.<br />
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1. The Houston Museum of Natural Science had a Frozen sing-along on their IMAX screen! Sadly, I did not purchase tickets in advance, and they were sold out when the mister and I arrived. After assuaging our disappointment by watching all the happy faces of the girls in their princess dresses and boys in their Olaf t-shirts, we rallied our feelings and hunted down a DVD copy. The songs did not go unsung in our apartment, let me tell you.<br />
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2. Since we were all prettied up for our little date, we changed course and grabbed dinner at our favorite hot dog joint, <a href="http://gooddoghouston.com/">Good Dog Hot Dogs</a>. They use all local ingredients and everything on the menu is unbelievably delicious and creative. Good Dog is a food truck gone brick and mortar, and I love that we've been able to follow along with them. If you're in Houston, go check them out.<br />
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3. Saturday, we had a lazy morning, since I was on call for work. We slept in, ate oatmeal in bed, and enjoyed the slow pace and each other's company. We did leave the house long enough to go to Half Price Books to sell some books - only so we could buy some more. <br />
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I really had the chance this weekend to slow down and spend some quality time with my man. The rest was much needed, and I feel truly refreshed to take on deadline week! <br />
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I hope you got a chance to rest and recharge as well!<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05170966947416468535noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4271485078680471862.post-23419333678989527812014-08-29T08:30:00.000-07:002014-09-29T11:44:47.051-07:00August: Triathlon (!)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; display: none; text-align: center;">
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SO INTENSE. Y'all, a triathlon is no joke. Last weekend, Sean and I completed a sprint distance triathlon in Clear Lake. <br />
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If you've been following along on my <a href="http://colormespunky.blogspot.com/2014/01/new-years-resolution.html">New Year's resolution</a>, you'll know that I've completed my share of <a href="http://colormespunky.blogspot.com/2014/01/january-choco-loco-5k.html">5k fun runs</a> and <a href="http://colormespunky.blogspot.com/2014/03/march-center-springfest-metric-century.html">bike rides</a>. So when my friend, Gabby, asked if me if I wanted to do a triathlon with her, I was pumped! Nervous for sure, but excited about the challenge. Besides, she asked me in April, so I would have four months to train and would totally be prepared!<br />
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The Clear Lake sprint triathlon consisted of the following:<br />
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500yds swimming<br />
23k biking (just over 14 miles)<br />
2.1 mile run<br />
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Not too bad right? I was completely confident about the running, since the distance was shorter than a 5k and I've been running those for years. Also, running is my favorite sport (no hand-eye coordination or flying objects), so I could get excited about that leg..<br />
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I also wasn't worried about the cycling portion. I'm not as experienced as the Mister in this portion, but we've completed several rides at longer distances, so I knew I could finish that leg strong, even if I had to take it slowly.<br />
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But swimming. Oh my swimming. This leg would be the challenge, so I knew I would have to focus most of my training here. Get a Y membership, buy some goggles, learn to swim. But with four summer months to train, I could definitely prepare for 500yds!<br />
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Which is true. You can definitely learn to swim as sport in four months. If you train. Unfortunately, my work schedule stayed busy through the summer and I started working fall-busy-season overtime in July, only a couple of weeks after getting home from <a href="http://colormespunky.blogspot.com/2014/06/israel-day-1.html">Israel</a>. I did get that Y membership, but it went unused too many days while I worked late. Too often the story, isn't it?<br />
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So let's talk about race day. <br />
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We left super early so we could get there about 45 minutes before the transition area closed. (Triathlon learning point: you set up your biking/running gear in the transition area before the race begins. Googled this a lot pre-race. Google answers all questions.) I was feeling pretty good so far - race day morning was going much smoother than is typical for me: good breakfast, leaving early, feeling calm. About 10 minutes from the race location (read: 30 minutes from home) the worst of the worst happened. <i>I had forgotten my swim gear.</i> I had gone over and over my transition pack to make sure I was ready to start those other legs when I got out of the water, so i didn't think about getting <i>in </i>the water...<br />
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Did y'all know a 2003 Camry can sustain 90+ mph for 30 miles?<br />
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Thankfully, we made it back in plenty of time to set up. That everything-is-ruined feeling lifted, and normal race day butterflies took it's place. <br />
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The gun went off and the olympic distance folks took off.<br />
Then the first men's wave.<br />
Then Sean's wave.<br />
Then the first ladies' wave.<br />
<br />
My wave was the last wave, and finally it was my turn. And swimming is HARD. I was under-prepared physically and mentally. We were in salt water, which drained my energy even faster. I would swim a little bit, tire out, and flip over and float on my back. I completed the swim portion in 17:51.4 - 18 agonizing minutes. I was third-to-last out of the water, and last into the transition area, putting me in last place of my wave.<br />
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I want to be honest here. There were some moments in the water that I was ready to quit. I was on the verge of panicking. I was angry at myself for not training enough. I hadn't considered the fact that the swim was in salt water, and I was dehydrating quickly. I hate losing, so I was feeling pretty down on myself for being one of the last people in the water. I was angry and sad and overwhelmed and embarrassed.<br />
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About two-thirds through the swim, I realized that I was only thinking negative thoughts. And that is<b> not</b> how you finish a race. So I stopped those thoughts. <i>I swallowed my pride</i>. I was slow, but I was <i>persevering</i>. I wouldn't win, but I would <i>finish</i>. If it took me all day, I was going to complete this triathlon. And I would finish with my head held high. I would be proud of myself for my effort and my attitude, not my time at the finish line or my number in the ranking.<br />
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That's a lot of feelings for 17 minutes and 51.4 seconds.<br />
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I took my time at transition to rehydrate and prepare for the cycling portion. I was last out of transition, but I was feeling so much better. The cycling portion went smoothly and I was grateful to be out of the water and on the bike. I passed the girl in front of me, but she passed me back when I pulled over for some water. (Note to self: get a squeeze bottle. My bottle fits too tightly in the holder, so I had to pull over to get it out - otherwise I probably would have thrown myself into traffic.) I did have to walk a portion of the Kemah Bridge, but I'm not ashamed, just disappointed. Just before transition, I passed two ladies on their bikes, and it turns out they were in my wave! My average pace on the bike was 12.6 mph, and my total bike time was 1:08:20.8.<br />
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My second transition was much quicker, and I started the run portion. I drank an entire bottle of water before the first water station; my body was still so dehydrated from the salt and the heat. I then drank another cup of water at the first water station, and dumped the second cup of ice water on my head. BEST DECISION EVER. I alternated running and walking, and really enjoyed the last leg of the race. There were lots of race participants still on this portion, for both the olympic and sprint distances, and I was happy to have other people around. And the volunteers at the water stations were so encouraging. I ran the last portion and finished with a smile for the camera!<br />
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Let's take another look at these happy finisher faces, shall we?<br />
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<a href="http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/allienik/media/IMG_1590_zps844f6c32.jpg.html" target="_blank"><img alt=" photo IMG_1590_zps844f6c32.jpg" border="0" src="http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w538/allienik/IMG_1590_zps844f6c32.jpg" /></a>
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Total time: 2:05:06.8<br />
Final place: 16/16 in my wave, 242/248 overall<br />
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Nothing to brag about, but I'm so proud to have finished! I'll just plan on being the most improved participant next time. :)<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05170966947416468535noreply@blogger.com0