Last night, I drank a little bit of wine ( a wee bit) to toast a friend that died. Still sad by the news and wish that I would be able to attend the service. Unfortunately, it's tomorrow and I am working. So, I made my own way of saying goodbye.
I was on line and found myself taking a travel quiz. I have been many places but did not test well. Of the 100 places, I have been to twenty-eight. Fail. Sort of surprised me but inspired me to begin thinking of potential trips in 2012. Just now I looked into flights to Denver in early February. Cheap. Really cheap and I think I might try to do it. I could move things around and head home for a brief stint. Or, I could return to California to check out Temecula or Napa. Napa always invites me back. I have a friend that is a winemaker and I would love to check out his wine. I met him the first time I visited Napa and we have remained friends and in touch (sporadically) since 2006.
I want my dad to visit before it gets unpleasant here. I envision a few spring training games and we could always watch basketball--one of our favorite pasttimes. College basketball to be clear. I do enjoy the NBA playoffs but that is about it when it comes to the NBA. College basketball is a season for me. Plus, I believe my dad would enjoy the hiking trails and Sedona. He spent some time there a few years back with his wife. Like I noted yesterday, Sedona is super close to me and I should make more of an effort to explore the region.
I did talk to my dad about visiting me in the spring. He seems interested and we will discuss it more after he returns from his vacation in Oregon. He spent the holidays with my sisters and niece and nephews. According to Michaela it has been a lovely trip. My dad is relaxed and enjoying himself.
Outside of my dad's visit, Jean and I are heading to Mexico in a few weeks after i complete my first half marathon of 2012. When I signed up, I swear, I had five weeks to train. Now, I look and it's in two weeks. I need to learn to continue to train so that the 13.1 miles doesn't hurt me.
There are half marathons to sign up for, wine ventures, classes and yoga. I must return to yoga. There must be a studio, nearby, where I will become a frequent visitor. When I was in San Diego the other day, I walked right by a core power studio. Unbelievable that Tom lived three blocks from a studio that I recognized. I considered looking at their schedule of classes and dropping into a class. Maybe next time, I will.
I love this time of year as I can hope for what the new year will bring. Joy, possibility and of course travel/wine/food. Happy New Years~
Celebrate and taste life, always...
Saturday, December 31, 2011
Friday, December 30, 2011
2011 continued
Ahhhh, Mexico. I have always had a soft spot for it. I lived in Guadalajara for a few months to learn spanish, eat fish tacos and figure out how to say cafe con leche para llevar (coffee with cream to go). My friend owns a bar in Rocky Point and he was kind enough to let me crash at his house for an indefinite amount of time. I show up with no itinerary outside of that I want to rejuvenate/reflect. Jonny, as always, enables me to explore and be. He showed me around town and foisted me on his roommate, Derek. Derek, at first, was hesitant to have me descend on their livelihood. Eventually, he came around and also became a tour guide. He was more aware of the local food factor while Jon showed me to the tourist places and drinking. Well, and golf. That was awesome. Derek knew of taco stands and listened when I said, I want a homemade tortilla. Between the two, I always had someone to hang out with.
My sisters, Michaela and Jade, also welcomed a few visits from me this year. One time was business. I dogsat for Michaela and brought Jan along. I though it was time for her to meet her "twin" Jean in Washington. That trip was fantastic. We flew out in July, went to the Oregon coast, took care of Michaela's whippet, Pete, and explored the Willamette Valley and spent some time with Jean in Washington. Absolutely delightful. We found bacon flavored vodka and drank ample amounts of wine. Jean always is prepared for visitors. We made steak and scallops. Afterwards, Jan responds, well, no offense, but we could have just went directly to her house and spent a week there. I know she enjoyed seeing my sisters but I think she had talked herself out of wanting to go to Jean's lake house since she didn't know Jean.
Outside of that trip, I did spend time with Michaela and Jade on a few different occasions. I have decided that 2012, they can visit me. It's been awhile since either girl has come to my hospitality and i maxed out my trips this year. Three times. This is probably the most time I have spent with Michaela and Jade in years. I must say that it was such a treat to see Jade's kids. Baseball games, bbqing, and taking Emery to find the moona. He is so sweet.
Food wise--the year started with a trip to Belize. Shari and I thoroughly enjoyed Habanero's in Ambergris Caye. I loved that we wanted a chocolate dessert (demanded it as it was on the menu) and so our second visit the chef brought us a cut up snicker's bar with chocolate syrup. That is love.
After Belize, I had a few home cooked meals in an RV. Aron was an accomodating host and made sure that I had my dose of daily coffee. Phoenix offered mexican food and daily wine specials. That is all I am saying. I could live off of salsa, guacamole and chips. Can you say los dos and bravo? I swear, that place has the best tortillas. In fact, I met Jan and Tom today for lunch to seek out the best bean burrito in Phoenix.
I did find time to return to Denver on several occasions. I made an effort to visit my favorite calamari spot, Rapture bar and of course, the Falling Rock. I adore Denver and it will always be home to me. I ran a few half marathons in Colorado, too. I wanted to try to be productive. I saw Sara Jo, the Goddess, Jenn K, Steve and Pocketsize and others. It reminded me of how great my life was there and how it will always welcome me. I must plan a trip and soon.
For my anniversary weekend (end of August), I went to Sedona. One of my other favorite spots. I found a suitable spot and shared a meal with one of my favorite friends. Lovely times, indeed. Next year, I will return to Sedona as I am that close. It is a mystical mecca and foodie hang out too. I would love to explore more.
I forgot to mention my brief stint in Santa Fe. Melody and her partner, Clayton, were amazing. I couch surfed while passing through between Denver and Phoenix. They took me to see a few spectacular sunsets and introduced me to a new spot in Santa Fe. I hope to treat Melody and Clayton to a meal in Phoenix or Santa Fe soon.
I did cook a lot and find that I am quite capable in the kitchen. I love making enchiladas and anything with avocado is always welcome in my kitchen. I almost destroyed my laptop making margaritas for Jan and Tom one night. Damn the avocado factor.
Like I previously mentioned, 2011 was different for me. It humbled, challenged and forced me to be compassionate and sympathetic, even. I know that I needed it and learned a lot while finding my path again. I feel that I have come full circle. I feel healthy and cannot wait for what 2012 brings. I know that I am ready.
Tomorrow, I work and toast the new year. Also, plan on going for a run. I lost sight of some of the things I hold hear. Running is definitely one of them. I must go manana.
2011 showed me that I can do anything. What did it show you? Or, better yet, what did you learn, improve, share? Congrats and enjoy the end of 2011....
My sisters, Michaela and Jade, also welcomed a few visits from me this year. One time was business. I dogsat for Michaela and brought Jan along. I though it was time for her to meet her "twin" Jean in Washington. That trip was fantastic. We flew out in July, went to the Oregon coast, took care of Michaela's whippet, Pete, and explored the Willamette Valley and spent some time with Jean in Washington. Absolutely delightful. We found bacon flavored vodka and drank ample amounts of wine. Jean always is prepared for visitors. We made steak and scallops. Afterwards, Jan responds, well, no offense, but we could have just went directly to her house and spent a week there. I know she enjoyed seeing my sisters but I think she had talked herself out of wanting to go to Jean's lake house since she didn't know Jean.
Outside of that trip, I did spend time with Michaela and Jade on a few different occasions. I have decided that 2012, they can visit me. It's been awhile since either girl has come to my hospitality and i maxed out my trips this year. Three times. This is probably the most time I have spent with Michaela and Jade in years. I must say that it was such a treat to see Jade's kids. Baseball games, bbqing, and taking Emery to find the moona. He is so sweet.
Food wise--the year started with a trip to Belize. Shari and I thoroughly enjoyed Habanero's in Ambergris Caye. I loved that we wanted a chocolate dessert (demanded it as it was on the menu) and so our second visit the chef brought us a cut up snicker's bar with chocolate syrup. That is love.
After Belize, I had a few home cooked meals in an RV. Aron was an accomodating host and made sure that I had my dose of daily coffee. Phoenix offered mexican food and daily wine specials. That is all I am saying. I could live off of salsa, guacamole and chips. Can you say los dos and bravo? I swear, that place has the best tortillas. In fact, I met Jan and Tom today for lunch to seek out the best bean burrito in Phoenix.
I did find time to return to Denver on several occasions. I made an effort to visit my favorite calamari spot, Rapture bar and of course, the Falling Rock. I adore Denver and it will always be home to me. I ran a few half marathons in Colorado, too. I wanted to try to be productive. I saw Sara Jo, the Goddess, Jenn K, Steve and Pocketsize and others. It reminded me of how great my life was there and how it will always welcome me. I must plan a trip and soon.
For my anniversary weekend (end of August), I went to Sedona. One of my other favorite spots. I found a suitable spot and shared a meal with one of my favorite friends. Lovely times, indeed. Next year, I will return to Sedona as I am that close. It is a mystical mecca and foodie hang out too. I would love to explore more.
I forgot to mention my brief stint in Santa Fe. Melody and her partner, Clayton, were amazing. I couch surfed while passing through between Denver and Phoenix. They took me to see a few spectacular sunsets and introduced me to a new spot in Santa Fe. I hope to treat Melody and Clayton to a meal in Phoenix or Santa Fe soon.
I did cook a lot and find that I am quite capable in the kitchen. I love making enchiladas and anything with avocado is always welcome in my kitchen. I almost destroyed my laptop making margaritas for Jan and Tom one night. Damn the avocado factor.
Like I previously mentioned, 2011 was different for me. It humbled, challenged and forced me to be compassionate and sympathetic, even. I know that I needed it and learned a lot while finding my path again. I feel that I have come full circle. I feel healthy and cannot wait for what 2012 brings. I know that I am ready.
Tomorrow, I work and toast the new year. Also, plan on going for a run. I lost sight of some of the things I hold hear. Running is definitely one of them. I must go manana.
2011 showed me that I can do anything. What did it show you? Or, better yet, what did you learn, improve, share? Congrats and enjoy the end of 2011....
year in review, take one....
Happy last Friday of 2011. What a year this has been, for me. From leaving my life in Denver, to uncertainty in Phoenix and currently, thriving in the moment. I can honestly say, I am precisely where I am supposed to be. Blissful, compassionate and continuing to learn from experience.
I had no idea that my life would turn upside down early this year. I rolled with in by packing my things and heading to the southwest. Thankfully, I have extremely supportive friends that encouraged me to find myself while traveling the southwest. Initially, I believed that Phoenix would be a brief stopover. I had lived here before and as much as I loved the sun factor, I wanted to be in Seattle, San Francisco or somewhere in Oregon near my sisters. I tried Oregon and the weather depressed me. From being in Denver, I do know, I am a sun kid. I love having it 300+ days a year and the idea of rain lessoned my inclination to move to the northwest. Sorry, sisters, I need sun.
This year, I reconnected with friends in Mexico, Slab City/Yuma and Phoenix. It was nice to be able to see them in their setting and provide support and encouragement. My friend in Mexico has had a challenging year with the economy, media and passport issues. His bar continues to thrive but there is always that hope of more. I visited about 6 weeks in the spring and saw an increase of people Memorial Day weekend but outside of that, the beach was, for me, a welcoming tranquility. Most times when I would venture down it would be me and a handful of others. I have felt safe in each border crossing and hope to return soon.
Yes, life is Mexico is different and I enjoyed that period for reflection. I had considered relocating there but after a few weeks, knew, that it would be unsatisfying. I prefer city life. Spending time with my friend in the RV, also, was interesting. He has opted to live an unconventional life in such a way that seems foreign to most people. Selling your house, traveling with some belongings and being free to explore the world. He has great stories and photos to illustrate the last year of his life. I had the opportunity to see him in Las Vegas and it was refreshing to find him so relaxed, free and happy.
When I first relocated to Phoenix, I lived with some friends of mine in the west valley. Graciously, they allowed me to move in until I found myself in a position to move out. I increased my culinary skills during this time as they do not dine at home often. It is easier, for them, to frequent a handful of restaurants. Less trips to the grocery store, prep/clean up, etc. Plus, cooking for two isn't that awesome either. Of course, I prefer cooking for someone else than just myself in most cases. Anyways, I enjoyed that time period, too. I was in a safe place and near excellent hiking. Plus, their Akitas are now considered my dogs, too. I adore Dozer and Jax.
I found a job in a wine cellar through a recommendation of my friend, Kat. She is living in Denver. We sort of switched places is how I like to think about it. From the cellar job, I patiently waited to find the ideal restaurant job for me. I wasn't interested in a corporate place. I wanted to find a restaurant with class, great food and of course, wine. Ironically, due to my previous stint in Phoenix, the job found me. I am extremely happy with where I am currently at. I guess I needed to find balance in my life to arrive at this place. I am happy.
I did receive sad news yesterday. Sort of illustrates the end of an era for me. One of my friends/regulars of my old job in Denver died. They found him in his house which is sad. Very lonely way to go. I toast Mr. Kline this evening after I get off of work. If I wasn't working the weekend, I would be interested in flying back to attend the services. This man was a gracious soul.
I did manage to run four half marathons--three with Lindsay, one with Shari--and deem 2011 as the social year of running. My training decreased but thank god for muscle memory. For example, I only ran twenty minutes before the last 13.1 and was able to sustain it. A touch sore, but overall, I thoroughly enjoyed the experience. The best part about Vegas is dining. We ate at Bouchon, Olives and Todd English's P.U.B--also a great find. Shari met some of my friends from high school and put faces with names. Shari has heard a bunch of my stories from our traveling and so I think she appreciated meeting the RV guy and Jenn O.
Then, there was San Diego and how it inspired me to concoct a return visit and soon. It surprised me how much I took to it. Great vibe, food and the wine factor remains unexplored. That, alone, begs a return visit. I see it happening.
I haven't even touched, that much, on Mexico or the food factor, or my visits to Oregon. I know that I will review that, too. Until later, enjoy your Friday!
I had no idea that my life would turn upside down early this year. I rolled with in by packing my things and heading to the southwest. Thankfully, I have extremely supportive friends that encouraged me to find myself while traveling the southwest. Initially, I believed that Phoenix would be a brief stopover. I had lived here before and as much as I loved the sun factor, I wanted to be in Seattle, San Francisco or somewhere in Oregon near my sisters. I tried Oregon and the weather depressed me. From being in Denver, I do know, I am a sun kid. I love having it 300+ days a year and the idea of rain lessoned my inclination to move to the northwest. Sorry, sisters, I need sun.
This year, I reconnected with friends in Mexico, Slab City/Yuma and Phoenix. It was nice to be able to see them in their setting and provide support and encouragement. My friend in Mexico has had a challenging year with the economy, media and passport issues. His bar continues to thrive but there is always that hope of more. I visited about 6 weeks in the spring and saw an increase of people Memorial Day weekend but outside of that, the beach was, for me, a welcoming tranquility. Most times when I would venture down it would be me and a handful of others. I have felt safe in each border crossing and hope to return soon.
Yes, life is Mexico is different and I enjoyed that period for reflection. I had considered relocating there but after a few weeks, knew, that it would be unsatisfying. I prefer city life. Spending time with my friend in the RV, also, was interesting. He has opted to live an unconventional life in such a way that seems foreign to most people. Selling your house, traveling with some belongings and being free to explore the world. He has great stories and photos to illustrate the last year of his life. I had the opportunity to see him in Las Vegas and it was refreshing to find him so relaxed, free and happy.
When I first relocated to Phoenix, I lived with some friends of mine in the west valley. Graciously, they allowed me to move in until I found myself in a position to move out. I increased my culinary skills during this time as they do not dine at home often. It is easier, for them, to frequent a handful of restaurants. Less trips to the grocery store, prep/clean up, etc. Plus, cooking for two isn't that awesome either. Of course, I prefer cooking for someone else than just myself in most cases. Anyways, I enjoyed that time period, too. I was in a safe place and near excellent hiking. Plus, their Akitas are now considered my dogs, too. I adore Dozer and Jax.
I found a job in a wine cellar through a recommendation of my friend, Kat. She is living in Denver. We sort of switched places is how I like to think about it. From the cellar job, I patiently waited to find the ideal restaurant job for me. I wasn't interested in a corporate place. I wanted to find a restaurant with class, great food and of course, wine. Ironically, due to my previous stint in Phoenix, the job found me. I am extremely happy with where I am currently at. I guess I needed to find balance in my life to arrive at this place. I am happy.
I did receive sad news yesterday. Sort of illustrates the end of an era for me. One of my friends/regulars of my old job in Denver died. They found him in his house which is sad. Very lonely way to go. I toast Mr. Kline this evening after I get off of work. If I wasn't working the weekend, I would be interested in flying back to attend the services. This man was a gracious soul.
I did manage to run four half marathons--three with Lindsay, one with Shari--and deem 2011 as the social year of running. My training decreased but thank god for muscle memory. For example, I only ran twenty minutes before the last 13.1 and was able to sustain it. A touch sore, but overall, I thoroughly enjoyed the experience. The best part about Vegas is dining. We ate at Bouchon, Olives and Todd English's P.U.B--also a great find. Shari met some of my friends from high school and put faces with names. Shari has heard a bunch of my stories from our traveling and so I think she appreciated meeting the RV guy and Jenn O.
Then, there was San Diego and how it inspired me to concoct a return visit and soon. It surprised me how much I took to it. Great vibe, food and the wine factor remains unexplored. That, alone, begs a return visit. I see it happening.
I haven't even touched, that much, on Mexico or the food factor, or my visits to Oregon. I know that I will review that, too. Until later, enjoy your Friday!
Thursday, December 29, 2011
how the venture concluded...
Final day in San Deigo. I woke up, early, as I do, and headed out to the nearest Starbuck's. I mentioned it to Tom since I would purchase him a coffee if he was interested. He wasn't. He seemed content on the couch with his dog.
I walked down Garnett and felt liberated. Beautiful day, sunshine blazing and inspiring. I knew that I had a drive ahead of me but wasn't quite ready to leave. Instead, I loitered in Pacific Beach for a bit, before, returning to Tom's apartment and making him get up. I wanted to check out either another fish taco or find chowder. I was in San Diego, right?
I forgot to mention that we did check out a fish taco on Monday. Mediocre, at best and Tom knew it. I think he had eaten at the establishment, before, but never eaten a fish taco. I am certain that there are ample taco stands that would have sated my desires.
Anyways, he got up and we found a place in Pacific Beach so that I could eat a fish taco and try some chowder. Perfection. I ate most of it but knew that we were having lunch with his aunt in a couple of hours. I couldn't resist attending this luncheon as I have heard numerous stories of this aunt. And, Jean called Tom and said--yes, take Harmony, that way she's know what I have been talking about for years.
So, I picked up my bag and followed Tom to Point Loma. Lunch with his aunt was interesting. When we walked up, she was curious as to who I was, and when Tom introduced me, he said, this is mom's friend, Harmony.
Linda goes--your mom or my mom's friend?
What? Really. I look like I was a friend of your 80+ year old mother. Kinda odd comment to make or so I thought. We dined in a place that reminded me of Fifi's--my first true restaurant job. Had a similar vibe and I remarked about it Tom. His mom would meet me there, sometimes, for calamari, but I think Tom was too young to fully appreciate the place.
Regardless, he had a veal sandwich and I opted for a wicked caesar salad. Wicked in that it was supposedly spicy. Just extra garlic. Not too bad, but not that inspired. We talked with his aunt and I kept thinking--I really do need to get on the road. I have 5+ hours to look forward too.
The drive back to Arizona was really not that bad. I stopped in Alpine for coffee and began my return venture. I would like to return to California to check out Temecula, see the zoo, botannic gardens and find the ultimate fish taco. Really, I think that is important. I feel slighted about not finding a baja style taco. In reflection, the drive is not that far and I see a return in the near future. I cannot believe that it has taken me this long to check out San Diego. The appeal of Temecula begs for a quick return trip to check it out.
I walked down Garnett and felt liberated. Beautiful day, sunshine blazing and inspiring. I knew that I had a drive ahead of me but wasn't quite ready to leave. Instead, I loitered in Pacific Beach for a bit, before, returning to Tom's apartment and making him get up. I wanted to check out either another fish taco or find chowder. I was in San Diego, right?
I forgot to mention that we did check out a fish taco on Monday. Mediocre, at best and Tom knew it. I think he had eaten at the establishment, before, but never eaten a fish taco. I am certain that there are ample taco stands that would have sated my desires.
Anyways, he got up and we found a place in Pacific Beach so that I could eat a fish taco and try some chowder. Perfection. I ate most of it but knew that we were having lunch with his aunt in a couple of hours. I couldn't resist attending this luncheon as I have heard numerous stories of this aunt. And, Jean called Tom and said--yes, take Harmony, that way she's know what I have been talking about for years.
So, I picked up my bag and followed Tom to Point Loma. Lunch with his aunt was interesting. When we walked up, she was curious as to who I was, and when Tom introduced me, he said, this is mom's friend, Harmony.
Linda goes--your mom or my mom's friend?
What? Really. I look like I was a friend of your 80+ year old mother. Kinda odd comment to make or so I thought. We dined in a place that reminded me of Fifi's--my first true restaurant job. Had a similar vibe and I remarked about it Tom. His mom would meet me there, sometimes, for calamari, but I think Tom was too young to fully appreciate the place.
Regardless, he had a veal sandwich and I opted for a wicked caesar salad. Wicked in that it was supposedly spicy. Just extra garlic. Not too bad, but not that inspired. We talked with his aunt and I kept thinking--I really do need to get on the road. I have 5+ hours to look forward too.
The drive back to Arizona was really not that bad. I stopped in Alpine for coffee and began my return venture. I would like to return to California to check out Temecula, see the zoo, botannic gardens and find the ultimate fish taco. Really, I think that is important. I feel slighted about not finding a baja style taco. In reflection, the drive is not that far and I see a return in the near future. I cannot believe that it has taken me this long to check out San Diego. The appeal of Temecula begs for a quick return trip to check it out.
day two of cali adventure
The next morning, after making a few necessary stops--food and coffee--we headed to Point Loma to walk around some of the trails. We began the day in Ocean Beach and munched on breakfast burritos. I think I had mentioned how wonderful that would be in the a.m. if Tom knew of a place to recommend. He took me to a spot and we people watched in Ocean Beach. If I lived in San Diego, that is where I would want to live--I think. Funky vibe, great shops and inviting. Next time, I think I will suggest checking out the spot on the pier that offers breakfast burritos. I want to dine on the water and people watch.
Day two continued with Tom heading to work and me wandering around Pacific Beach. Tom's roommate offered to take me a bbq but I felt inspired to walk around his area of town. I stumbled into a Trader Joe's hoping to find something to eat on the way back to Phoenix. This woman stops me and says--omg, how are you? I saw your jacket and recognized the logo, look up, and realize I know you. How are you, Harmony? It's Brenna....not going to lie, it took me a minute to place her. It had been awhile. She explained that she had been living in Pacific Beach, returned to Denver (briefly) before coming back to San Diego to work for Trader Joe's. She said she loved it there and we chatted for a few additional minutes. I told her that I was now in Phoenix and visiting a friend for christmas. Small world, indeed.
Eventually, I found a spot that seemed appealing. I had a glass of wine and reflected on my trip. I always do this and I make lists of what I want to do in the near future. I like crossing things off my lists.
Anyways, Tom called me and we had mexican take-out for dinner. I swear, i could live on mexican food. We shared burritos and pastor tacos. I was disappointed in the taco but the burrito was excellent.
Day two concluded with watching Seinfeld and me considering when I should take off for Phoenix. I wasn't too excited about that drive....
Wednesday, December 28, 2011
San Diego Christmas
I chose scallops for dinner. I considered black cod, but the scallops caught my attention immediately. Also, I had brussel sprouts with bacon--love that. The service at the restaurant was lackluster. However, being christmas I can forgive that and some of the other girls with us were waivering on whether or not to stay where we were seated. Concerned about the cost while I kept thinking--seriously, aren't you all in the service industry? And, didn't you look at the menu before you chose this place? We are committed to the dining area and cheers to the holiday.
Yes, I had a wonderful time in San Diego and will update more later. Must run errands for the time being.
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
Tuesday offers
Happy Tuesday! Beautiful day for a run, wine tasting and dinner with friends. I am excited about all of these activities today and must not get too focused on the wine aspect. It is easy to do especially as I will be sampling wines that I love. Remember my Rapture fixation? I will tasting some wines from that profolio and yes, I am excited.
I am meeting Jan and Tom for dinner, too. We will meet at a local spot that they enjoy and as much as I like the spot, the only drawback, is that we always eat the same things. I have learned, from experience, that they are creatures of habit. They like to eat what they know they enjoy. I understand that but am more adventurous in my dining. Tonight, we will have a spinach salad and pepperoni pizza with olive oil for the crust. Delicious but wish it were a little more inspired.
I am over half way done with the christmas cards and feel that I will finish that task today. I keep putting it off and then realize that xmas is now five days away. Must complete the cards.
I did manage to sign up for the Phoenix 1/2 marathon in January. Originally, I was on the fence. My training is definitely not where it was a year ago. 2011 has been social running for me and I have truly enjoyed that experience and hope to kick it up a notch in 2012. I asked the Goddess if she wanted to join me for the race but her sister is due with her first child early in January. I do understand Lindsay's hesitation to travel down here. I think this race will be a solo effort. I decided to sign up for it after being offered a discount from the rock and roll series. As previously noted, the Las Vegas event was a cluster/nightmare for many runners. I didn't hate it but I would definitely reconsider signing up for that race in 2012. The lack of water at aid stations, porta potties, spectator support and the hostility of running with both walkers and full marathon participants left a bitter taste in my mouth. That race was not well executed by any means. I did e-mail the organizers my displeasure and they responded. I appreciated that, too. I don't know if they will take my thoughts seriously, but, I felt, they needed to hear some constructive criticism and make adjustments to their event for 2012.
I feel better after signing up for the Phoenix Race, too. It is in my neighborhood and a fantastic way to start the year. I believe I will convince my friends to run a wine race and in addition, there will be a few more half marathons to add to the mix. I hope to do another full, too. I have no idea which one it will be, though. I have time to decide and think it will be a fall race. I tend to like to put the full's off until later in the year.
I am off to run or I will procrastinate that activity til tomorrow. Wine follows and eventually, there will be pizza in my future. A few of my friends are celebrating birthdays today and I will toast them in spirit. Celebrate today!
I am meeting Jan and Tom for dinner, too. We will meet at a local spot that they enjoy and as much as I like the spot, the only drawback, is that we always eat the same things. I have learned, from experience, that they are creatures of habit. They like to eat what they know they enjoy. I understand that but am more adventurous in my dining. Tonight, we will have a spinach salad and pepperoni pizza with olive oil for the crust. Delicious but wish it were a little more inspired.
I am over half way done with the christmas cards and feel that I will finish that task today. I keep putting it off and then realize that xmas is now five days away. Must complete the cards.
I did manage to sign up for the Phoenix 1/2 marathon in January. Originally, I was on the fence. My training is definitely not where it was a year ago. 2011 has been social running for me and I have truly enjoyed that experience and hope to kick it up a notch in 2012. I asked the Goddess if she wanted to join me for the race but her sister is due with her first child early in January. I do understand Lindsay's hesitation to travel down here. I think this race will be a solo effort. I decided to sign up for it after being offered a discount from the rock and roll series. As previously noted, the Las Vegas event was a cluster/nightmare for many runners. I didn't hate it but I would definitely reconsider signing up for that race in 2012. The lack of water at aid stations, porta potties, spectator support and the hostility of running with both walkers and full marathon participants left a bitter taste in my mouth. That race was not well executed by any means. I did e-mail the organizers my displeasure and they responded. I appreciated that, too. I don't know if they will take my thoughts seriously, but, I felt, they needed to hear some constructive criticism and make adjustments to their event for 2012.
I feel better after signing up for the Phoenix Race, too. It is in my neighborhood and a fantastic way to start the year. I believe I will convince my friends to run a wine race and in addition, there will be a few more half marathons to add to the mix. I hope to do another full, too. I have no idea which one it will be, though. I have time to decide and think it will be a fall race. I tend to like to put the full's off until later in the year.
I am off to run or I will procrastinate that activity til tomorrow. Wine follows and eventually, there will be pizza in my future. A few of my friends are celebrating birthdays today and I will toast them in spirit. Celebrate today!
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