I have complained in previous posts about the lack of customer service that seems prevalent in the stores these days. There are very few stores that I would say provide "good" customer service. I am a loyal customer to those stores that do offer it up. The Running Revolution, REI, Big Es coffee house, and Lunardi's Market are a few of my favorites. I have a new store that I want to give kudos to for going above and beyond in the area of customer service.

Let me paint the picture:
After confirming that BoBo suvived the final cuts, we took at trip to the Sports Authority in our area. The store used to be called Sport Mart and, generally, it has not been my favorite store. In the past, they are out of many items, and it is difficult to get help when you need it. I do prefer them to Big 5, which is the other option short of going to the baseball specialty stores.

The visit was long. For starters, YaYa wandered off. He didn't return the call when BoBo and I walked through the store calling out to him. I was near the 9-1-1 panic mode when BoBo found him picking out some baseball cleats for himself.

I purchased many items for BoBo and YaYa including a replacement mitt for BoBo (as his has a 2 inch rip in the center). $200+ later, and after being stopped by the store's anti-theft alarm, we left with a bag full of items. It was pouring down rain and I had planned to be at my sister's house by then. We tossed the bag in the back of the van and drove off.

It wasn't until late Sunday night (after an already stressful evening) that BoBo realized that he could not locate the new Nike mitt. It was a $100 item that I was not willing to pay for a second time. We searched the van, the boys' rooms, and I even called my sister Carol to have her look in the street by where we parked in case it fell out. Of course it was now over 24 hours later, so if it had falled out, it was likely to have been picked up. No luck.

On Monday, I called the store. I tried to explain that I was in there on Saturday at about 4 pm and that the mitt "may" have been removed from the bag after the anti-theft alarm was set off. I didn't even have the reciept, so it was a pretty huge leap of faith that they would be helpful. To my surprise, the store manager (Jessica) said that she would search the transaction records. I told her that I would stop by after baseball practice.

When we met with Jessica, she showed my the reciept. Not only was the mitt not placed in my bag, it was never charged to my card. I guess the clerk must have thought that the mitt was included with the running shirt that I changed my mind on (after I saw the dollars adding up). So, on a good note, I didn't pay for the mitt twice. On a not so good note, I was out an additional $100.

Hurray for the Sports Authority! Perhaps their recent name change was a little bit more than just that. Special kudos to Jessica, for all of her help. I am sure that I will be back soon.

Posted by Juls at 2:19 PM | Permalink | Comments (5)

The weekend ended on a bad note. I let the feelings roll over into my Monday morning. I cried all the way to work and then did my best to hide in my office hoping that the redness would leave my eyes.

And all was well until my boss cheerfully entered asking how my weekend was. I could easily see that she got her answer with one look at my face.

Well, just as I am sure that you don't blog everything in your life; I don't either. I mention it only to explain why there was no entry yesterday. I think it is the first day that I have missed since the NaBloPoMo-YoYo, blog a day thing. Let's just leave it at that and just say that I am feeling better today.

My morning went so smoothly that I arrived at work nearly 45 minutes earlier than usual. I didn't even have to try; it just happened. I hadn't planned to run in the morning, but the idea tempted me. Since meetings lately have eaten up my lunchtime, it seemed like a good idea. I checked my email, informed my boss that I'd be running on the treadmill, and left for the fitness center.

The fitness center was nearly empty. The morning crowd was now showering, which left me able to choose any treadmill that I wanted. I picked the one on farthest away from the door and fired it up for a 6 mile "easy" run.

I was surprised to find that my running partner, Garminia, gave me the slip today. I guess she has bad days too. I think she is still at home, and I wonder if she is still sitting where I left her last. I hope that she is okay. Anyhow, I gave myPod two jobs to do on today's run. The first task was for myPod to entertain me (which he does well), and the second was to keep track of the time for each mile. This is not a task that I generally entrust to myPod but with the right prodding by me, he can perform just fine.

With the incline at 1.5%, I began running at 6.5 mph and hung out at that pace for a while. It was nice and easy. I think that I increased the speed to 6.6 mph as I began mile 2. I held the pace for the third mile and enjoyed the ease of the pace. Entering into the forth mile, I increased the speed again. I stayed at 6.7 mph for then next 1 1/2 miles and then increased again to 6.8 mph for the remainder of the run.

It was a good run and it felt "easy", as it should. Hurray!

Posted by Juls at 1:09 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)

The sun was up and I had 12-14 miles on my list of things to do. I rolled over in bed and felt the muscle soreness all throughout my body. My arms, pectorals, abdominals, and legs were ALL sore from a night of holiday partying.

It began as the usual family gathering. The fact that we were gathering for Christmas in January, although last year we did it in February, was due to my brother-in-law's loss. As usual, the meal was fabulous.

During dinner, Chris began talking about her new goal for 2007 to begin jogging. Paired up with a jogging partner, Chris already had one workout. Although she told her partner that she "cannot talk" and gave instructions "I'll bring my iPOD and you bring your iPOD." The only problem was that her partner did not follow her directions. The result was that he began talking and talking, and by the time they had traveled one corporate block he was too tired to go on. They are attempting to jog again on Monday. Chris warned him again to "bring your i-POD!"

Well this somehow led to questions of my family on fitness in general. Before long we were doing push-ups, sit-ups, and all sorts of abdominal exercised. The sore tummies lead to more conservative helpings of cherry brownies. Then we all danced to music from the various family members' iPods for over 2 hours.

Of course we finished off the night with singing with our dolly microphones. It was no wonder that I had a muscle hangover after all of that partying. By 10 am I was dressed and heading out to the open space preserve for a hilly long run.

Garminia cannot seem to communicate clearly to the satellites from the open space. The lovely scenery distracts her and tree filled hills. To be sure that I stayed within Coach's pace range, I took the time to calculate the target time for each of the key landmarks along my route.

My run seemed to be going well. I was hitting my landmarks right on target until I came my turn around point. I was 5 minutes early. I was puzzled. Examining the signs, it appeared that my 13 mile route was indeed a mile short on distance. As I ran back to the starting point I ran the numbers through my head. It just couldn't be. I've been calling this route 13 miles for at least two years now.

No matter how I worked the numbers, it still added up to 12 miles. So I did what any type A runner would do; I added on 1 mile. I did this all at the coach specified pace AND without discomfort. Well, except for the soreness that I created from my exercising, dancing and singing thing.

Posted by Juls at 4:42 PM | Permalink | Comments (5)

The house alarm blared loudly as I frantically entered the code to disable it, fan the smoke alarm, and order BoBo to open the front and back doors. My husband had keyed into the level of smoke in the house well before I did. Somehow, I didn't see the smoke in the air even after he pointed it out. Minutes later, the smoke alarm set off the chain of events.

In our home, the smoke alarm is connected to the alarm system, which is connected to the fire department. It is therefore critical to clear the alarm as soon as possible if the only reason that the alarm is going off is because someone is burning a meal. Such was the case today.

I fanned the smoke detector and fumbled with the alarm keypad. In the back of my mind I thought about how I didn't need that hotdog that had created all of the smoke. When I cooked the batch of hotdogs for the kids I resisted the urge to cook one for myself. I didn't need a fat filled hotdog.

Minutes later when I realized that there were slim pickings in my refrigerator, I turned the stove back on. I cut the hotdog in half lengthwise to cook it more evenly as the oil left in the pan apparently began to smoke. My hotdog had just landed in the pan when Tom came in to complain about the smoke. "What smoke?" I asked. And then the smoke alarm and house alarm agreed with Tom.

Our security company called a minute later to see if "everything was okay." This is the part where I have to explain that I was burning yet another meal. Safety can be so humbling.

Tom waited for me to get off the phone and then began his jokes. "Hello Julie. This is Amada at your alarm company. What are you burning, I mean 'cooking' today?" he said while laughing. I played along, "How did you know that her name was Amanda?" Surprised, Tom said, "Really? Her name was Amanda?" It wasn't. He asked if the security company might have been involved in the coupons for cooking classes that recently arrived in the mail. He's such a comedian. He made that up; I don't actually remember seeing any coupons.

I took a bite a bite of the offending hotdog and, funny as it was, it didn't taste good at all. I promptly fed it to the dog. I suppose I could use some cooking lessons.

photo source: www.e-rcps.com/learn/cities/sanfrancisco/index.htm

Posted by Juls at 1:08 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)

Whew. What a day today was. Protocol A got denied board review. This review was one that my team has put in many hours to prepare for. What should have been easy, ended with a result that was hard to take. The preliminary talks went on for over an hour. In the end, the decision made the most sense. It set the stage for my next meeting.

During the 20 minutes that I would have had between meetings, I crafted my email the key players. By the time the meeting occurred, the decision to shift the plan of attack for Protocol B was easy made. Well, for some of us. It took a while to convince everyone. Here again "easy" ending up hard. We finally exited the conference room a mear 2.5 hours later...

By the time I hit the road for home the traffic was already heavy due to newly fallen rain. I parked in front of the baseball field and got ready for an hour run in the surrounding area. As I left, I could see the head coaches sitting together in deep discussion. It's cut day...finally. I say finally because twice before BoBo was told that it was cut day only to be told that the coaches needed more time to make their decision. The coaches looked intense today as they measured each of their options (my son being one of them).

I ran in the opposite direction while thinking of last spring when BoBo didn't make the cut for the All Star Team. He'd played on the All Stars in prior years and even contributed to a district championship. Baseball is no longer easy when the kids get past the "fun to fun" stage. There was a lot of boys trying out for the team. The fathers (who coached last year's AS team) will soon be arriving to see if their boys made the cut. We'll all huddle together and wait. Only this time they will have reason to be nervous just like me. Until then, I just run.

Speaking of "easy," the term is relative these days even for me. Today's run is noted as an "easy 5-6 mile" run but the pace is 8:30-8:45.

Coach: If you are reading this, I am not complaining. I am just noting that I have not thought of 8:30-8:45/mile as "easy" in my past running.

It's a new concept that I am more than willing to adopt. If this pace is ingrained in my mind as "easy," then achieving my BQ will be a piece of cake. I suppose that is the idea.

But staying at the set pace was a challenge. For starters, I began way too fast. I looked down at Garminia as she reported 7:ish/mile pace. After I found the correct pace, I promptly got lost. To add to the mind drain, that was going on in my head, my calf was tightened up. It lasted for a good part of the run which wasn't helping build my confidence. But, as you can see, I did achieve the prescribed pace.

Although easy was a little harder for me today, it was about par for the sort of day that I was happening. Thank goodness for weekends. I almost forgot to note, BoBo *did* make the cut - he is now on his high school's Junior Varsity Baseball Team.

Posted by Juls at 6:09 PM | Permalink | Comments (6)

I recognize the need to take a break from running. After being told that the "wear and tear" from running lead to my over-use injury in October, I understand that my body is susceptible to injury (like everyone else's). Still, I dislike my non-running days. Sure, I can cycle or swim. I can use one of the other cross-training machines. I am just not motivated to do this...at least not today anyway.

It's the lunch hour, and I need a way to escape from work. The meetings, and issues are all presented as "high priority." ALL of them are vying for the top spot on my priority list. But that is where my well-being needs to be. I just want to take a breath and try to refocus my thoughts again. Running at lunch is helps me to do this. I am a better, more focused employee because of my running.

Instead, the emails are rapidly filling my inbox. Each message is a slightly different twist on the same problem. It's medical and technical, and over my head. I want the team to just figure out the solution and let me know so I can incorporate the plan in my documentation. Of course that's not how it works.

To add to the list of priorities is the regulatory agency that is "possibly" coming to the US for an audit. My company = my trial = my problem. But that is a few weeks away, so I am the only one thinking that it is a priority right now.

Today is a rest day. My worn down body needs to rest. Instead, I've shut my office door to write a little something - just to ease the stress. For those of you who are running today, please run a mile for me.

Posted by Juls at 12:59 PM | Permalink | Comments (4)

I had done my homework ahead of time. I had previously consulted the web for treadmill pace equivalents when I began to suspect that the treadmill would be my only option of getting my run done at lunch. According to my source, a speed of 6.7-6.8 mph would achieve the pace I wanted with the incline at 1%.

By the time class was excused for lunch, all I needed to do was grab my workout bag from my car and rush to the fitness center. I had about 45 minutes to get there, do my 3-4 mile run, clean up, and return to class. 4 miles was not possible but I could get at least a 3 mile run completed in the allotted time. It would be tight but possible.

As soon as my feet hit the treadmill, I began hitting the keys to set the belt in motion. 6.8 mph - 1% - enter. The treadmill display cycled through the various readings. 8:49/mile pace displayed every minute or so, but I was confident that with the 1% incline that I would finish the mile in less time. As I hit the 1.0 mile mark, I pushed the lap button on Garminia. She reported 8:43/mile. I had let the belt begin moving before signalling Garminia to begin timing. This could acount for the couple of seconds difference from the information that I had gathered.

I continued on, wondering if I had remembered the speed setting correctly. I was "supposed" to be running today's run at 8:45-9:00/mile pace. The 2.0 mile mark passed and I hit the lap button again. Garminia reported 8:42/mile. Well, at least the pace was consistent. I continued on at the same pace while wresting with the information available to me. I was running at a slightly fast pace, and yet my free time was running out.

I thought back to my emails. Coach had said that he wanted to slow me down this week to allow for my foot to settle down. Here I was, however, running my "easy" run faster than the pace that he advised. I struck a compromise, by running 1/2 mile at 6.8 mph, then slowing down to 6.7 mph for the final 1/2 mile. Mile 3 clicked off at 8:47/mile. I immediately hopped off and wiped down the treadmill. I cleaned myself up as I stretched. I was still sweating a bit as I served up a plate full of lunch and sat down for the grand finale of my training session.

Posted by Juls at 7:34 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)

Today's training workshop was interesting but long. I first became worried when we were 1 1/2 hours into the training and the instructors finally finished spelling out the objectives for the two-day course. Throughout the day, I glanced back to the agenda to see how far behind the planned schedule we were.

The discussions continued as the planned lunch break came and went. I wanted to scream for everyone to stop the commentary that was slowing down the presentation. They weren't worried about lunch as it was waiting outside the door. But, I had a run scheduled for today! When the break finally came, it was decided that we didn't need the full hour. *sigh*

Somehow, I knew this might happen. I went upstairs to do a little work. A few phone calls and emails later, and I was ready for more learning. But , the course continued to crawl along at snails pace. The questions, though close to the topic (sort of), were beginning to annoy me. My head was soon throbbing in pain and my eyes had a glazed feeling to them. I was cooked.

Thankfully, the instructor began to notice that most of the group was getting the same glazed over look. She ended the day a little early. I went straight to my van and drove home.

All the way home, I ran through ideas in my head for how I could manage today's run. I really didn't want to fight for a treadmill at the YMCA. I came up with a plan to run outside - in the dark. The difference from my early morning option was that Tom would actually know that I was going. I would tell him my route and instruct for him to send out the search and rescue team if I did not return.

I cooked dinner, and left while the family was at the table eating. I needed to get outside for a while.

I illuminated Garminia's face and set the screen to show the average "lap" pace. Coach had instructed me to begin my run at 8:45/mile pace and progressively increase the speed. My first mile clicked off faster than planned. It's harder to hit the pace when you are traveling along on the sidewalk, going up and down curbs, and slowing for cars (then trying to speed up to recover the pace).

I realized that it wasn't an ideal situation for this run, but I knew that I was coming up to a nice wide street that had a bike lane that I could run in. It would be a while before I had to return to the sidewalk again. Equipped with my reflective vest, and a headlamp, I was pretty comfortable that I was visible. I only had to watch for tripping hazards. There was also a surprising amount of people out walking. These people all seemed to be wearing dark clothing. I nearly barreled through a couple of them because of this.

Each mile was progressively faster. I think that was the idea. The only problem was that I starting out too fast. In the end, I came pretty close to coach's prescription. By the time I walked back into my home, I was feeling human again. That's progress.

Posted by Juls at 8:13 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)

I was less than lady like as I sat at my desk rapidly shoveling my chicken salad into my mouth. With back-to-back meetings scheduled through my lunch hour, I barely got to the cafeteria on time to get something to eat. To add to the Monday stressors, I had less than 30 minutes before the next meeting and plenty to do to prepare for it.

*sigh*

It's going to be a tough week. I have full day training on Tuesday and Wednesday. Somehow, I have to figure out who will pick up BoBo from baseball practice (should he survive today's final cut). It's a problem that I am happy to have because I'd love to see him play on the high school team.

In addition to the child pickup issue, I have to figure out when I will do my runs. If coach is okay with me doing them on the treadmill, I can fight for a treadmill in the evenings at the local YMCA. I'll have to figure out how I can escape the "30 minute time limit if others are waiting" rule. Running in circles on a well-lit track may be a better option for Wednesday's slightly longer run.

Today is a day of rest where exercise is involved. My feet remain happy after yesterday's "experiment." I am back to giving both feet equal treatment. When I put one foot in the ice water, the other goes in too. They stick together so that there is no argument later that I am giving preferential treatment to one and not the other. It's hard to keep everyone happy these days. I'll just do my best.

Posted by Juls at 1:57 PM | Permalink | Comments (5)

On Saturday I thought a lot about my latest shoe issues: It seems that the size of running shoes, which I have been wearing for the past few years are now... well...short. I don't know what is happening exactly. It seems like my foot is flattening out without my old insoles and subsequently taking up more space in my shoe. I see the podiatrist again on February 1st, but in the meantime, my feet just aren't happy. I feel pressure on my bones bilaterally; my feet want cushion. The heels of my feet feel like I need to dig a divot in the current insoles. The fact is that I really miss my old insoles.

I paid a visit to my local running store. Tim agreed that my toe was a little close to the end of my shoe. He pulled some size 9 1/2 shoes off the shelf and I slipped them on. The felt okay, but a little loose in the toe box. Rather than running on the store treadmill, he had me run in front of the store. I heard the shoes slapping the sidewalk. When I turned to run back, Tim had a funny look on his face.

He hooked his video recorder up to the TV to show me what he had seen. In the video, my feet were landing in turnout fashion. I suppose this would be great if I was doing ballet, but not running. Tim said that no matter what shoes he put me in, that he could not fix the cause of my feet landing this way. "It's not your feet," he indicated (not his exact words), "it's up higher like your hips or core."

This was not what I wanted to hear (or see). I realize that it is just one video of one short little trip down the sidewalk. It is in no way confirmation of a "problem." *sigh* But, I thought, it could be. I need more video of me running. I need to be running my regular pace, and in running clothes rather than with my jeans rolled up. Then maybe, I could determine if it was just me trying to accommodate the bunched up pants between my knees or a problem that needs looking into.

Either way, I find it puzzling. I was doing fine before. So, I had a little over-use issue. It seems that the taking out of the insoles that I loved created a serious of unhappiness in my feet. I was tempted to give them another try, and that is just what I did today.

Coach is challenging me to slow my long runs down. It has been apparent to me, that I have been training a lot of the time AT race pace, or faster (for speedwork). I've known that I should be running long runs slower, and easy runs "easier". I am now having to work hard to stay at the different paces that Coach is prescribing, and get used to what these paces feel like.

My Sunday long run was to be 12-14 miles. Coach asked for me to run 9:00-9:30/mile pace. It probably wasn't fair to try to return my old insoles to my shoes on the same run that I was doing my "pavement tolerance test." I would be trying to hit the correct pace, seeing if my feet could tolerate 12 miles of pavement, AND see if they liked the return of my old insoles. The experiment wasn't wise, but I did it anyway.

I hit the paved trail with my old insoles back in my shoes. I also had some thin gel metatarsal pads under the forefoot area of my insoles. Just in case, I strapped my thin sorbothane insoles, which I have been wearing to even out the tilt in the other insoles, to my fuelbelt.

I began my run and immediately identified two issues. The first issue was that the metatarsal pads were not even in each shoe. I kept running to see which shoe actually felt better. I made the adjustment about 1 mile into the run. The second issue was that my bladder was a bit full. I took care of that issue at the bathrooms, which are about 2 1/2 miles into the run.

At the bathroom stop, I also added the sorbothane insole to the right shoe only. Again, probably not the best choice, but my left foot was happy for the first time in a week. The slope of the trail bothered my right foot. I ran right on the dividing line most of the time (which was where the trail was closest to level). The combination seemed to work.

After passing the dog park entrance, the trail was basically closed. You could run on the shoulder for a bit, but could not continue through the normal route. I wasn't happy, but I followed the signs out towards the main street. To my surprise, however, there was a dirt path that ran along the other edge of the fishing pond. It connected back up on the paved trail before long.

I won't take you through all 12 miles. I will just say that I got through the run fine. My feet did not complain anymore after my creation of "custom insoles" for today's run. It's felt fine, but having something different in each shoe can't be my long-term solution. I just hope that my podiatrist has the time to listen to me and create a more suitable solution. I will also add some core strengthening to my plan. Even if the video thing was a fluke, strengthening my core is never an issue.

Posted by Juls at 5:38 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)

It is Sunday morning and I am waiting for my opportunity to run. I have 12-14 miles planned so I need to allow 2+ hours plus travel time to a suitable route.

Last night, I began figuring my options. Tom was planning to leave the house at 9:30 am, so that would have meant a 7 am start. It would not have allowed for the "cush time" that I like to have for any possible delays. I am not comfortable running alone in darkness, so an early morning run was crossed off the list of options.

My next window of opportunity is not until 11 am, when YaYa has arranged a play-date at his friend's house. I need to pick him up on time for his swim lessons at 2:30 pm, but that should give me 3 hours for my run and travel. It won’t allow me enough time for the open space preserve, which is a bummer. I will also have to hit the pavement – which I am a little nervous about.

Nerves aside, I do need to assess whether my feet can tolerate pavement running. If they can’t then there is no sense in me boarding the bus for the half-marathon in San Francisco. If I look at it that way, then having to hit the pavement today, is a good thing.

In the meantime, I am waiting for the time for my pavement tolerance test.

Posted by Juls at 9:09 AM | Permalink | Comments (3)

Being able to run before beginning my workday is pretty much unheard of these days. Even if the sun were out at 6 am, I would still be pushed to get BoBo dropped off at the high school on time. Generally, our morning flight pushes back from the house at 7 am sharp. But the kids were out of school today for a teacher "in-service day." I don't know what the elementary teachers will be doing, but I expect that the high school teachers are busy updating the final grades as final exams finished up yesterday. That's of no significance here, except for the fact that it was a childless morning. I was on the highway, heading towards the office, at 6:30 am.

I lumbered up the stairs with my laptop computer, purse, and workout bag. I was already dressed in my running wear and just waiting for the sun to lift it's head from the pillow and turn on the light for me. This gave me a few minutes to dock my computer, boot it up and check my emails. As the sky was beginning to fill with light, I grabbed my bag and brought it to the locker room. I was out the door to experience the crisp morning chill on a lovely Friday morning.

With 5-6 miles planned, I choose an out and back route that would allow me to decide my mileage for today later in the run. It was too early for decisions bigger than this. I had told Garminia the planned 8:45-9:00/mile pace, but being the Type A person that I am (at least where running is involved), I wanted my usual mile splits. I hadn't programmed Garminia properly so that I could get this information from her. I also didn't want to wrestle with the reprogramming required to appease my Type A needs, so we just began the run - like any other day.

What a great way to begin my day. With the sun just rising, I ran out the driveway a few minutes later than I usually leave my driveway at home. I ran past a few people who were arriving for their workday, but I didn't feel a bit guilty. I felt great.

The run itself was uneventful. I didn't come upon many people as I ran and tried to keep to the planned pace. A few of my miles were slightly slower than 9:00/mile. I tried not to get too wrapped up in my tardiness at hitting my mile, because I know that the satellites can affect Garminia's report. I do have a Type A mindset though, so I *had* to pick up the pace to achieve the final average pace within the specified range. Since I didn't have to sprint to get there, I think coach will forgive me to for having the two miles slightly slow followed by two mile slightly fast. Keeping pace is an art that, in spite of my blog title, I am still working on.

Mile 1 ( 8:58 )
Mile 2 ( 9:09 )
Mile 3 ( 9:07 )
Mile 4 ( 8:44 )
Mile 5 ( 8:43 )
Mile 6 ( 8:46 )

After running, I felt prepared to attack my Friday. It's just one more work day until the weekend; I am looking forward to it.

Posted by Juls at 1:15 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)

Fixing one thing can sometimes lead to another issue. That seems to be the rule where my feet are concerned. I changed my insoles to allow for more pronation. The new insoles caused a blister problem. I changed again, and now it's something new.

On the way back to my van Saturday, after running my 13 mile trail run, my left foot sort of yelped with each step that I took. The ball of my left foot was sore and my metatarsal bones in both feet seem to feel every step. I was walking on a paved trail, and when I moved to the dirt, the pain eased up.

On Sunday, I spent much of the day in my slippers. They have no support what so ever, but they seem to offer the most comfort these days.

I ran on Monday. I had spent much of the morning with my shoes off because my work shoes just feel wrong. When I ran, my feet actually felt okay after the initial 100 yards. I had a good run with the exception of it being faster than coach had asked me to run.

I had actually told Garminia to keep me at the specified speed interval but she began her hollering when I was still in the parking lot. I wasn't in the mood for a lot of chatter; I would have brought along myPod if I wanted noise. I immediately told her that I didn't care how fast I went so that I could keep her quiet. Well, that helped me get out of the parking lot, but she was useless in keeping me at the correct pace. I slowed myself down several times during the run, but in the end I just couldn't seem to help picking up the pace as I went.

I rested again on Tuesday. I could have cross-trained, but didn't. Instead, I focused on insuring that I would be run-ready on Wednesday. In addition to leaving a message for the podiatrist, I resumed a few of the measures that helped me with my right foot. I wore my retired running shoes to work, and began ibuprofen and ice baths. I was better at the ice baths than I am now. They are torturous. When it came time to run today, I was okay. The conditions weren't perfect. I knew that, but they were okay.

Today's workout called for a 4-5 mile run with 4-6 pick-ups. I was allowed a faster pace than on Monday, which was good, since I seem to be running faster in this cold weather. My toes were numb initially. My fingers were numb also, so I wasn't too worried. I waited until I got off the paved road to begin the 1st of several pickups. I didn't go ALL OUT, but it was definitely faster than the usual.

After completing the 5th pickup, I decided not to push my luck with another. The normal pace felt easy and I enjoyed the feeling of cooling down as my office building came into view.

I plopped both feet into the cooler as soon as I was back at my desk. I did it again just before I hit the road to drive home. My feet didn't warm up by the time I was home from picking up YaYa, dropping off some videos, and buying groceries at the store. So they got a hot bath next. Ahh...

Thursday calls for another day of rest.

Posted by Juls at 7:24 PM | Permalink | Comments (4)

While waiting in the line up of cars for the highway, I sat in my van behind Ms. Gallant. I watched her as she crept along while putting on her face (mascara, lipstick, eyeliner...the whole thing). Later, I sat behind Mr. Enterprise who seemed to be responding to emails on his Blackberry type device while driving ON the highway. Correction, he was NOT driving at all. I let it go for a minute and then tapped my horn to remind him of where he was.

I should have been amused at all of this, but I wasn't. Instead I was left a musing: It's not that I am in such a hurry, but can't these things be done elsewhere? Perhaps Ms. Gallant could have made herself up before she hit the road. Mr. Enterprise could have checked his email after he arrived at his destination. Are we in such a hurry that we need to multi-task EVERYTHING?

Why does it bug me? I have been guilty of multi-tasking while driving. As I continue to contemplate the whole thing, I realize that it isn't the fact that Ms. Gallant and Mr. Enterprise didn't do these things elsewhere, it's that they are so into them that they have no regard for the other people in the world with them.

I continue my muse. Ms. Gallant is prettying herself up so that the world will notice her, and all the while she ignores the world. At the same time, Mr. Enterprise desperately tries to stay connected with the world via his little electronic device and is so disconnected from where he actually is that I have to honk at him to get him back.

It really is amusing?

Posted by Juls at 3:48 PM | Permalink | Comments (5)

My nervousness began to run through my body within hours of deciding that I would target the Chicago Marathon for my next BQ attempt. The nervousness wasn't so much about the race, or the logistics, or even the training. It's too early for these nerves to kick in. It was about getting into the race. I *have* heard that the race fills quickly. I couldn't afford to train up and wait for a long time before registering. So I did it. I'm registered!

Tom has numerous family members in the area. Today, I began reaching out to them with the hopes of generating some support, as well as a place to stay. I think it is going to work out great.

Now, all I need is a few friends on the course, or at least to hang out with at the start. Even though I might have better odds at winning, I would hate to be the only one running the race. Is anyone else planning to run the LaSalle Bank Chicago Marathon?

Image source: http://i.a.cnn.net/si/2005/writers/maggie_haskins/07/08/chicago.2016/p1_chicago_0708.jpg

Posted by Juls at 8:41 PM | Permalink | Comments (5)

21st Century Mom's post today continued the meme that is circulating throughout the blogs of the Running Blog Family. I just happened to be sitting on the floor, by my bookcase, when I came upon her post. After days of avoiding being tagged, I decided to voluntarily play along.

The nearest book, Daniel’s Running Formula: Proven programs 800m to marathon (2nd edition), is not necessarily a book that I have read cover to cover. In fact, I have to admit that I haven't read very much of this book at all. Like Lore of Running, the book sitting beside it on the bookshelf, I have the book on hand for a reference should the need arise. I have a several of these type books on hand, in case I don't like what I read on a topic and am in need of a 2nd, or 3rd opinion.

From Daniel’s Running Formula, (pages 123, sentances 6, 7, 8) reads:
"Although the duration of workbouts is important, when it comes to interval training, intensity (training pace) is even more important. This is because you can attain the difference V02 max only when running at a particular intensity. You need to understand the difference between intensity and speed of running – intensity is the key word when stressing any physiological system...Under adverse conditions, intensity is clearly the better way to identify what pace elicits V02 max – be sure to consider this when doing your interval training.”

Simply put, it isn't the pace that you run, the effort that you are exerting is more important. If you are running up a steep hill, or against a strong headwind, you will not need to run at hyperspeed before you hit your limit. The conditions of the hill or wind provide the natural increase in intensity.

At least that is what I think Daniels means. When it comes to interval training, I am such a beginner. I have my usual workouts that I do: Yasso 800m repeats, mile repeats, and ladder interval progression (up and down). I read other bloggers workouts and think "huh?"

Like anything, I just need to understand the concept, then I can put it into action. I have a dream you know - Boston Qualification this year. "Action" is one thing that will be needed to achieve my dream.

Am I ready for the intensity that will be needed to make my dream a reality? It appears that my foot is recovering. My body has it's voice, however, and my limitations are being expressed. My metatarsals are sensitive to the pounding from running day after day. Since they told me to rest today, I am doing just that. No running today, just reading.

I will be moving in the direction of my goal. I am just going to invest a little more time than I have on previous marathons. I have a feeling that I will being opening these books a little more often in order to better understand how to get to my goal safely. I will be tapping into as many of the resources available to me as I can. These resources may be within my immediate reach (my bookshelf), or one of the "virtual" resources that are accessable via the fantastic technology that we have available to us from the internet.

Posted by Juls at 10:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (4)

"Are you feeling righteous?" she asked with a smirk.
Having just looked to Garminia for my total moving time for today's run, I had smiled and made a thumbs up gesture. "As a matter of fact," I replied, "yes!"

I knew that I was having an awesome run today. In fact, I stopped to change the tunes playing on myPod from fast running music to my slow relaxing music for the downhill portion. I was afraid of coming down the hill too fast. The change in music didn't do much towards slowing me down however; I was really moving.

But, that was the end of my run. Let's back up a bit.

Mistakes are great - that is, when you learn from them. I made the mistake of wearing shorts during my chilly run yesterday. This day was equally as sunny, but even colder. I selected a long-sleeved shirt, my running tights, gloves and a hat to wear.

I was planning to run on the local streets, but was thrilled when Tom suggested that I run at RSA (my favorite open space preserve). I figured that if I was going to take the time to drive to the RSA, I might as well make it worth the trip. I figured that I could shoot for a 13 mile trail run to be sure that I could cover the half-marathon distance, since I *am* registered for the Kaiser Permanente Half-Marathon in a couple weeks. I dug in the closet for my fuel-belt, grabbed a GU packet, and was on my way.

As I drove towards the park, I began to wonder how long I would have to search for a parking spot - since it was so late in the morning. I was pleasantly surprised that I had a ton parking spots to choose from. I think that the freezing cold temperature had kept the people away.

Today myPod was energized, unlike yesterday where she rode piggyback not even making a peep the whole time. I was looking forward to an entertaining run. I selected the songs for today’s run that would compliment the beautiful trails that I would travel. The songs were basically musical pieces without any vocals. I could hear the birds chirping, airplanes flying overhead, people talking, and my breathing.

It was really COLD today. I was immediately pleased with my decision to wear my running gloves. Being anxious for a little warmth, I started out at a faster pace than usual. It felt that way anyway. I actually have trying to run without looking at my pace, or even the elapsed time, until the end of my runs. I've just been pacing myself by how I have been feeling.

I greeted people as I passed, but the people didn't return the gesture. I guess they were just too cold. The puddles were frozen. I could see the trailed off pieces of ice where someone had decided to run through the puddle instead of around it. I moved on with only the purpose of getting to the sunny, less sheltered, part of the run. It was a tough hill, but I figured the hard climb might help me get warm.

I hit the hill with full effort being careful to run on the even areas of the trail when I saw them. My feet were doing fine, but there was no sense in pushing my luck. I was at the top of this section in no time at all. I stopped to reward my body with some GU and water. I stretched my calves a minute or two and began running again.

By this point, my hands were finally warm. I took off my gloves for about a mile, and then put them back on as I reached the shaded areas again. Running on the single-track trail, I meandered up, down and around. I love this part of the trail. When I reached my turn around spot, I felt like I could have kept on going, but I didn't. I turned back and began my descent.

I was coming down the hill quickly. I just let myself relax and reminded myself that gravity would take over. For a little safer run, I removed one of the earphones from my ear. I was aware that I was really moving, but I didn't know just how fast. I didn't dare look. I wanted to be sure that I didn't miss a step and fall.

I reached the steepest descent. Here the trail is rough in many areas. Because of this, I stopped and changed the music in the effort to slow myself down a little. I pulled up my "relax and romace" playlist and let myPod lull me into a more relaxed run down the hill. It didn't feel any slower however, but I was nice and relaxed. I was even singing at times.

Before long, I was past the iced over puddles, past the farm, and finishing my run in the parking lot.

I glanced at Garminia for her report:
Distance = 10.40 miles.
*That's* a lie. Yes, Garminia has been know to lie about how far I have run. She really likes to do it when I run here at RSA. That's okay, I already knew the distance that I covered was 13 miles. It's on the park map and the signs.

Time = 1:40:45
What? I looked again.
1:40:45 !
Garminia never lies about the total running time. I gave the confirmatory thumbs-up motion (with both gloved hands) and exclaimed YES!

There was a woman approaching. "Are you feeling righteous?" she asked with a smirk.
"As a matter of fact," I replied, "yes!"
I *am* feeling RIGHTEOUS!

Posted by Juls at 1:59 PM | Permalink | Comments (6)

I carried my workout bag into the office this morning knowing that the likelihood of my actually getting to use it was low. It was due to be one of the colder days of the week, so I told myself that I didn't care that much. Of course I DID care...a lot.

Having worked into the night hours yesterday, I was easily able to get right back into the task at hand. I began working almost as soon as my computer booted up. I wanted to be done with frustrating project as soon as possible.

By 11 am, I began realizing that I was running on empty. I hadn't eaten breakfast. I reached for the remaining half of a Builder's Bar that was in my workout bag. The bar didn't even begin to tame the hunger that was now coming to life. I went in search of some food. I returned to my office with a packet of instant oatmeal and found Mark waiting for me as I reached for my bowl. Mark was just about to head out for a run.

It didn't take much for me to realized that I needed a break. Suddenly my want to run was stronger than my desire to eat. I began rummaging through my workout bag again. After locating a packet of GU, I agreed to meet Mark outside for a short getaway. Oh, Vanilla Bean GU...yum.

I stretched as Garminia linked in with the satellites. It was a sunny but brisk day. Mark harassed Scott, a colleague, about huddling indoors instead of running outside. I reminded him that he was easily accessible to everyone if he was in the fitness center. It got him thinking. Mark and I waved good-bye and were soon on our way.

The air was so cold that it almost hurt to breathe. I could feel my throat tightening as we ran up the hill. My fingers were numb. I wanted to keep a quick pace with the hope that it would generate some heat. Mark and I rolled down the hill and out towards the baylands. We could hear someone rapidly approaching. It was Scott.

I smiled when I saw that Scott had been so easily influenced. It wasn't the first time that Scott had been harassed into running. My husband planted the marathon seed into Scott's mind at last years Christmas party. I, of course, gave the seed fuel to grow.

The three of us ran along for only a short while before the work discussions began. Talking about the project development plans while running along the water. At the start I was active in the discussions, but after a bit, I just listened.

The water was still with only a few gentle ripples on the surface. The birds were far away on the other side. I did a self-check to verify that my feet were holding up, and that my blister was laying low. All was calm out here, while the storms were hitting at the office. I enjoyed the peace.

I returned to the office with a renewed outlook. I was a meal short, but my run revitilized me. Little did I know, but the traffic, and helping BoBo with his spanish project were going to suck out any remaining energy that I had left.

Yes, I am out of fuel again. I suppose it is a good time to go to sleep.

Posted by Juls at 9:34 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)

"Anonymous" struck again with the notion that I am "hot." The comment strikes a cord with me. As I double over with stomach cramps, puffing out my stomach far more than the usual, and creating a muffin top so large that would please a Giant, I wonder about this statement. Am I Hot? The answer is "not."

I am not being overly critical. I am being honest. I really have no desire to be hot; but the terms healthy, fit, toned, and even sexy appeal to me.

It's true that the blog-o-sphere has only the photos that I choose to post to gauge how "hot" I might be. I am not any less vain than the rest of you; I only post the good ones (where I have successfully sucked in my tummy but am still able to smile).

The truth is that I would like to be thinner, but after the struggles with Jenny Craig, I am not willing to take on the inconvenience. It was a success, in some regards. I lost 7 pounds - from someplace other than my waist. I remember looking at my feet, even before the onset of my overuse injury, and thinking how they looked bonier than before. Weight loss in my feet wasn't exactly what I had in mind.

Since I've tossed aside my Jenny plan, I have gained back 2 of those 7 pounds. In my head, I have reasoned that I will be better about toning my stomach, arms, butt, and back. So far this year, however, the efforts have been ALL in my head. I haven't put in the energy required to bring sexy back.

The truth is that I need a "plan." I've known this about myself for some time (years). I am motivated into action by my training plan. When I am in training for my running, I am also more conscious about my strength training.

As much as I know that the time has come to begin a new training plan, I am scared to step it up. I am afraid that my bony feet won't be able to take the pounding. But I won't know unless I try.

I think it is time to get serious about getting back into shape - MY shape (only better). If being in shape, in the select photos that I am brave enough to post, appear to be "hot" then great. A few flattering comments from "anonymous" can be motivating too.

Posted by Juls at 7:47 AM | Permalink | Comments (10)

BoBo is lying across the foot of the bed right now and driving me crazy. Hours ago, however, we were bonding as I drove him to, and later home from, Day 1 of Baseball Tryouts. *sigh* I was a nervous wreck (on the inside), and he was seeming to be calm. There were about 40+ kids trying out for 20 spots on the team.

The baseballs were flying from glove to glove when I tightened my laces and hit the road. I wasn't feeling great, but I was refusing to say that I was "sick." Among other issues, my stomach was in knots all day. I had no idea where to go on my run, but I thought that I would figure it out as I went.

Figuring it out as I went was basically what I was doing as I ran straight down a dead-end street. Within a few minutes, I made another wayward turn. I toured the neighborhood around the field before finding the main road. I was able to run for a couple of miles before the streets became too busy for comfortable, relaxed running.

I turned back towards the field knowing that, unless I doubled back through the neighborhoods, my run would be less than 4 miles. I had hoped for a 5 mile run, and wanted to cover 4 miles at a minimum. I ended up on the high school track for one mile.

I ran round and round, passing a couple of walkers, dodging kids playing on the track, and keeping an eye on the soccer game that was going on in the center field. It was good that I hadn't had to run the whole time on the track. I felt like I was concentrating more on the surrondings than my running.

I returned to the van to stretch and watch the rest of tryouts. They finished up the fielding drills and began running sprints, doing sit-ups, and other drills. Even though I was pleased with my pace for today's run, it suddenly didn't even compare to the baseball workout.

I knew that BoBo would be tired, but I didn't figure on me being too. I guess the reason why he is driving me so crazy might have more to do with me than him. Maybe I *am* sick. Now that I have run, I am sick AND tired.

Posted by Juls at 8:10 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

The memes are going around again. This time it is the A-B-C meme where there is a required response for each letter of the alphabet. I have just been tagged by a. maria and have taken on this new challenge of awakening my brain on a Monday morning. Pay special attention to the letter "T". If your name is listed there, you have now been offically taged by me. Enjoy.

A-Available or Single --- Maybe I am missing something with this question; aren't these both the same? The answer is "neither." I am married and, therefore, unavailable and certainly NOT single
B-Best Friend --- Tom
C-Cake or Pie --- This is a tough question. Today, my answer is pie (apple pie).
D-Drink of choice --- Double latte with non-fat milk.
E- Essential Item --- Seat belt. I can’t drive without it.
F-Favorite color --- Green.
G-Gummi Bears or worms --- Gummi Bears!
H-Hometown --- I was born in San Francisco, but raised in San Jose.
I-Indulgence --- New running gadgets or running apparel.
J-January or February --- February
K-Kids & names --- DD (27, single & very handsome), BoBo (15), and YaYa (8).
L-Life is incomplete without --- My family.
M-Marriage Date --- November 9, 1997
N-Number of siblings --- I have two sisters and one brother. I am the younger of the two "middle" children, and was the "baby" until I turned 5 1/2 years old.
O-Oranges or Apples --- Oranges in the early part of the year because my neighbor's tree has the sweetest oranges that I have ever tasted. Granny smith apples during the rest of the year.
P-Phobias/Fears --- Fear that something bad will happen to my husband or kids.
Q-Favorite Quote --- "Don't let the fear of striking out keep you from taking a swing" ~ Babe Ruth
R-Reason to smile --- Life.
S-Season --- Summer.
T-Tag three people --- Cindy, YaYa, Wes, and 21st Century Mom (even though she, and Wes, may be hit by a. maria's global tag). Please know that I CAN count, but since I will untimately be helping YaYa to play this game, I have listed 3 other names besides his.
U-Unknown fact about me --- I sometimes steal YaYa's teddy bear when I am having trouble getting to sleep.
V-Veggie I hate --- Okra. I hate the slimy consistency.
W-Worst Habit --- Lately, my worst habit is using foul languge while driving.
X-X-rays you've had --- Numerous x-rays to right foot (including an MRI) for my recent overuse injury at the end of 2006. X-rays to back following an auto accident in spring 2006. I had several x-rays to my left hand and wrist after I fell while running (December 2005). Left ankle after pain following my first marathon did not resolve (June 2002). Back x-rays, CT scan, and myelogram done when I was in 7th grade and lost feeling from my waist down.
Y-Your favorite food --- It's a tie between Tom's lasagna and barbecued steak.
Z-Zodiac --- Capricorn.

Posted by Juls at 9:02 AM | Permalink | Comments (3)

Today, while running on the trail, I silently cheered for the New Years Resolution runners who are trying their hardest to start out the New Year on the right foot. I said "hello" as I passed them, and got funny looks in return. As someone who has chosen running as my favorite past time ever since I can remember, I am guessing that it is difficult for you right now. I urge you to stick with it. It will get easier, and you will get faster.

Prior to going out for my run this morning I read Susie's entry about an article she read on change. The article notes odds of nine to one that you will stick with your New Years resolution. I urge you to defy the odds. Be the "one" - ALL of you.

There is a load of advice out there for you to read. Here is just a little more...

ADVICE FROM JULS:
- Say "hello" to the people that pass you, or when you pass other people. Doing so will make them feel good, and it will do the same for you.
- When someone passes you (going the same direction as you) do not be discouraged. Instead, you can be encouraged that you will be the passer, rather than the passee, some day. Just keep it up.
- Join a training group, or create your own, and commit to a race. The camaraderie will be a huge support. The friends that you make will keep you going, and the event will give you a goal. Finishing the race my affect you so intensely that you will be forever hooked to running.
- If someone says, "on your left," this means to that they will soon be passing you on YOUR left side. Stay put. When you get used to this occurring, it is ideal that you actually move slightly to your right.
- This is especially important if the "on your left" message comes from a cyclist, and even more important if this cyclist is a child.
- Don't under estimate the importance of good shoes. Go to a good "running" store and find out what shoes are right for your feet.
- Celebrate your you every success. If you made it to the trail, then celebrate. If you ran a 1/2 mile, then celebrate. When you run your first 5K, celebrate. Every step is just that. It is ALL worth celebrating...and so are YOU.

Posted by Juls at 8:52 PM | Permalink | Comments (4)

The sun was out at 7 am, but I remained in bed. I couldn't generate the enthusiasm to hit the pavement alone. A sat up in bed, pulled off the Band-Aid from my blister. It looked like it might be a little early for a run, but I knew that I was in need of one.

After coffee, oatmeal, and a little motivating reading, meaning the "blogs", I was starting the feel like it was time. The problem of the blister remained however. I have had blister issues in the past. I remembered using a product called Blister Block when I was first breaking in my orthotics while trying to train for my 2nd marathon. The orthotics are now retired, but I had several packages of the Blister Block left in my first aid supplies. It was worth a try.

I applied one to the top of my blister and, remembering that they tend to roll off from the friction, secured it with paper tape. YaYa and I loaded his bicycle in the van and drove to the trail.

We traveled down the path together with YaYa leading the way on his bike. I ran on the dirt shoulder of the trail when I could. My foot felt relatively okay, with the blister making itself known very little in the first mile or so. I was encouraged, and began seeing me covering 8 or possibly 10 miles. In the back of my head, I knew that I was dreaming. Then YaYa and I came to the sign noting that the trail was closed ahead.

There were detour signs leading into the neighboring streets. It wasn't as ideal as my previous plan. YaYa would have to be reigned in close during this part. The detour quickly took us from dirt to road and my foot began to become more and more aware of the blister. The nervousness of having YaYa on his bike with the cars was also overwhelming me. We turned around shortly after beginning the detour.

On the way back, I could really feel my blister. My foot hurt so much that I stopped to see if the Blister Block was peeling and pulling away the top layer of skin with it. I was surprised to find it still intact. I felt better and before long my awareness of the blister faded.

As we neared the start, disappointment for the run ending was over taking me. We went past the bridge and continued on the other side of the trail. YaYa, who was not familiar with this part of the trail, went on ahead of me. I came around a corner to find him lying on the ground. He was wailing and his knee was oozing blood.

I helped YaYa move over to the side where I checked him out. He was skinned up but everything else was okay. The poor guy was shook up and scared to get back on his bike. I had him take some deep breaths. I assured him that he would not fall again, and kept him within an arms length the whole way back. Now moving with shorter strides, my blister yelped with each step that I took.

I just happened to have parked my van next to my favorite running store because the parking lot by the community park was full. Obviously, the current out of the box insoles are not working for my feet. It was time for Plan C. YaYa and I detour to the running store for something different. I hope they work.

Posted by Juls at 4:17 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)

Why is it that everyone else can see when someone is flushing their life down the drain? Why is it, that is, that everyone can see this except the person who is throwing it all away?

Many years ago, I watched my brother ruin his career, his relationships with those that he loved, and essentially everything that was good. He had to fall hard to finally see that he had nothing left. Well, nothing left except for the people who benefited from his addiction to self destruction.

I see someone who is heading down a different, but similar path of ruin. He is successful but can’t see anything but failure. He is loved and valued by many, but tells himself that nobody cares if he lives or dies. He feels insignificant in the contributions that he has made to the world, and yet he has helped many overcome unemployment and escape homelessness.

How can it be that two people can view the world completely different? One sees doom when the look at the rain clouds while the other sees the opportunity for curling up by the fireplace to good company.

It’s too easy to get down on yourself for the goals that you didn’t succeed in. Don’t do that. It is easy to come down on yourself for failure. It is more difficult to find the good, but it is worth the effort. I have run 10 marathons and still have not qualified to run in the Boston Marathon. I have trained hard for these marathons, suffered in the races, and emerged a stronger person. I will try again. That is a success, not a failure, in my book.

Look in the mirror and see past the things that you have not accomplished, see the successes that you have created. We all can benefit from doing this once in a while.

Posted by Juls at 9:54 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)

Kim asks the question:
What does your YOUR work space (at home or work) say about you?

I don't know what it says about me, except that I don't work well with clutter, and I that I am proud of my family. Beyond that, YOU be the judge.

On my desk sits my computer monitor & printer, my phone, a 3-tiered set of flat baskets for the papers that I need immediately. I have a red glass heart-shaped paperweight (sitting on the papers that are in the top basket), a cup filled with pens, pencils, and highlighters, with a Cat-in-the-Hat finger puppet over the top of the yellow highlighter. In the center of the desk is a small framed picture of the family.

On the wall above my desk is a large framed poster from the 1990 release of The Jungle Book Movie.
I reminds me to enjoy the simple life - just the "Bare Necessities."

In the corner of my office sits a round table which has a medium-sized vase filled with bamboo stalks on top. There is also several pictures that include my Mom in her wedding day with her parents, a picture of my sister "Linda", my brother "Bobby", and me (as a toddler) reaching for our Christmas stockings, and a picture of my best friend from high school "Rosie" and me at our 20 year high school reunion. There is a little miniature container full of tiny clay pot, woven basket, wool scarf, and other mini items. DD gave it to me and the items are supposed to be lucky charms.

On top of a file cabinent, that is essentially empty except when my workout bag is inside, is a dual picture frame with school photos of BoBo and YaYa. The photos are about 3-4 years old. There is a large mug which I use for my morning oatmeal that my sister "Linda" made for me. It has a cow print in the background, purple pansies, and says "Jules" (which is probably how "Juls" should really be spelled but I couldn't change what was started back in high school.)