It's been a good run

I've decided to close up shop on the blog so this will be my last post. It comes with mixed emotion because I've loved blogging for the last 3 years. It's been such a great outlet for me to jot my thoughts, document all-things Eloise and rant here or there.

But in order to really keep up a good blog, it requires more time than I can dedicate right now. Add in my love/hate relationship with my semi-broken camera, and let's face it, I'm just not really that good at blogging anymore.  And honestly, it bums me out. This was my outlet for so long to talk about Eloise's antics, about the house building process, about working part time, about getting a full-time job, about the baby whisperer, about our debut with baby jogger running and racing, and honestly, every single moment in between. We've laughed. We've cried. We've seen hilarious pics and of course, some scary ones.

So with that said, all good things must come to an end and so today is my last post on The Vails Blog. I've researched turning this blog into a book so that Eloise and I may cherish it forever. I'll get to that eventually because, yes, those services do exist.  And so the meantime, I'll leave you with a standard post that includes stats about Eloise, and of course, another race report.

Eloise's 2 year Dr. appt was Friday and so let's share some stats...

Weight: 29lbs 9oz - 75-90 percentile
Height: 35 inches - 75-90 percentile
Head: 47 1/2 cm - 50-75 percentile

My grandma Ellie, who shared with my mother, once said that in order to know what height your baby will be when he or she grows up, you double their height at 2 years. I've mentioned this before. Well, here we are and I have to say, I'm a little shocked at what height it is now expected of Eloise......5'10"!!  Are you kidding??

Now let me fully disclose exactly how this height measurement was taken and the real experience of what it's like taking a 2 year old to the Drs. office.  Phew. We get there 15 minutes early, per the automated voicemail instructions. And 4 seconds after arrival and after they give me a stack of paper work to fill out, there is a nurse waiting to take us back. In the mean time, Eloise is scaling a chair that she has dangerously placed in front of a giant fish tank so that she could get a bird's eye view. Well, no one wants to be called back too early especially when they have pages of paperwork in front of them and when Eloise just got her chair in the perfect position to see Nemo. Alas, we both followed instructions and scurry behind the nurse. Or rather, I followed the nurse and Eloise ran around like a maniac from the "healthy" waiting room over to the "sick" waiting room and back again screaming "fish, fish, fish" between them both and not listening to me for even one second.

Clip board in hand, purse on my shoulder, I scoop up a screaming child and drag her back to the room.  Just prior to entering, the nurse says, "now that you are a big girl, Eloise, you can get up on the scale so we can get your weight and height?"  Huh. I'm thinking to myself, let's see how this goes.  So of course, it doesn't fly. Eloise wants to see the fish, is pissed that I've just torn her away from the coveted tank, and is not getting anywhere near that giant silver and white monstrosity. Not a chance.  I pick her up, knees buckle. I pick her up again and she straight boards it to the point where all I can do is lay her flat out on the ground.

Ahhhh.....yeah. "Um, she's not really going to go for that scale so can we just go into the room and do this the "baby way?""  I get a look from the nurse and we carry on.  I strip her down to just her diaper and sit her on the "baby scale" so I'm pretty confident the weight is accurate as she had to sit still long enough for the numbers to stop blinking. Then the nurse says, "ok, lay her own on the table and I'll measure her", which I've always been skeptical of from appointment one. Anyway, she's busts out the yard stick, puts Eloise's squirming, screaming head up against the wall and measures. Therefore, I think 35 inches is a bit long. So you heard it hear first, my daughter is not going to be 5'10" when she gets older. There is just no way.

The rest of the appointment proceeded as painful as you can possibly imagine. She screamed all the way through the nurse, then all the way through the Dr. What did she want the entire time?? "Mommy, fish, fish, fish." "Mommy, pee pee pants. Change my diaper. Change my diaper. Mommy, pee pee pants. Fish, Fish."  Phew. The irony? She gets a shot at the end of the appointment and so of course, when we leave she has ZERO interest in the fish. Lord.

Anyway, there are the stats and the Dr left me with the message that, "screaming 2 year olds are a hazzard of the business."  Great. Thanks.

In regards to running races...I went sans baby jogger this weekend and ran in a pretty cool race on Friday night. It was the China Gove 5k and started at 9pm. I've heard of "twilight" runs but have never done one and so it was definitely a bit of an experiment for me. I didn't know when to eat, when to warm up, what to think of a pitch black race with 600 others. All in all, a very interesting event.

We started right on Main Street in downtown China Grove (picture a very small NC town) and we ran straight out to the country, went around a barrel (I kid you not) and then ran all the way back. If we had any light at all, it was only in the "downtown" part where there were a few street lights. Otherwise, all you saw were the few runners right in your path. So the chance of looking at your watch and seeing what kind of pace you were running was out. You just ran it, which in hindsight is good for all of us. Enough with being strapped to the ticking numbers on a watch all the time.

Anyway, not looking at my watch and just going on gut proved to be a good thing for me as I ran a 19:29 (6:16/mile pace), which was my fastest 5k since I started back at this racing thing a few years ago. I was pretty psyched with my time. Also, I was the 5th overall female. Despite being a country race, there were some really fast chicas that showed up from CLT so 5th was the best I could do. Believe me, I'm completely fine with that, and totally stocked with my time.

And so with all of that, I must bid you adieu and say sayonara. Together, we've had a really good run with this blog. We've grown both physically and emotionally. We've had good times and trying ones. What 2 years has brought to our lives is truly amazing. And thankfully because of this blog, we've all had a first had look at how much craziness and joy one little baby can bring to your life. It's truly amazing to me that 2 years ago today Eloise was in my arms for the very first time. It was today that I looked into her eyes and said, "I love you more than life itself, Eloise Claire. I promise to love you more today than I did the day before."

It was today, 2 years ago, that I had no idea how I was going to do it but I knew I was going to be the very best mom there was. I was going to do whatever it took to ensure that you, Miss Eloise, were always given the opportunity to enjoy the best in life. The day you entered my life the light in my heart has never waned. Miss Eloise, I thank you for all you've taught me. Because of you, I'm more patient, more kind, more real, and much more appreciative. I never take one second for granted because each moment I have with you is better than the one before. As I said, and I'll say 1 million times more, I love you more than life itself, Miss Eloise Claire Vail. Now and always.

Love,
Mommy

Running widget

Btw, my blog side bar running widget is all whacked. Yes, I'm still running....(clearly from my previous post) and I'm very sad that my widget can't keep up with me. Ugh.

King Tiger 5K

The Monkey had another stellar showing today at the King Tiger 5K in the University area. As practiced, she was cheering for runners by saying "go runners go!" And on her own she started saying, "go Mommy go!"  Of course I loved that part:)

Today's results....21:20 (6:50/mile pace) and 1st female baby jogger. Not a PR for us but close....21:17.

Next race?? The Summer Breeze 5K on June 18, which for nostalgia purposes I must note, this is the very first baby jogger race that Eloise and I did together. This will be our second showing and I'm very excited!

Great Harvest Bread Co 5k

Great showing for Miss Eloise today. Not so great showing for her Mommy.  Today was the Great Harvest Bread Co's 5k today and so Eloise and I busted out the baby jogger for the first time in quite a while. She was fantastic. Cheering on runners...."keep it going runners....." the entire time and even showed post race fans and finishers a little booty shake to the DJ playing.  I, on the other hand, slogged through a very hilly 3.1 miles with some pretty sore legs. (training a pinch too much as of late and my legs are starting to let me know.) The up hills were as painful as the down so you know that's not going to be a good day. But all in all, she and I enjoyed it and had some fun out there. We're thinking about doing another 5k in a few weekends. I need a little redemption and she needs to keep her Saturday morning dance party going on:). Today's race.....22:40 (7:18 painful minutes per mile. Lord!)

RaceFest 1/2

Today was the RaceFest 1/2 marathon with tornados, 17mph wind gusts, thunder storms and pouring down rain predicted for the 7:30am start. Awesome. I will say, I never contemplated staying home. There were many who changed plans and decided not to show up. But I figured, what the heck? These races are sometimes as much as $55 a pop. I'm running it.

The weather man did indeed get it right this time, which is unusual for Charlotte. Therefore, a chance for a PR was pretty slim. A 17mph headwind for several miles is no joke. There were times where I couldn't even see the pace I was running from my watch because the wind was causing my eyes to water. Then the thunder at mile 8. The pouring down rain throughout. It was certianly a calamity of errors. With all this said, I crossed the line in 1:36:17 (7:21 per mile pace), well off from a sub 1:34 PR but a good effort nonetheless. I was 4th overall for women and 1st in my age group. Now off to find the next race!

And here she is!

Drum roll please.......and ta da...here she is! Covered in chocolate and dirt and running around, finding sticks and dangerous objects to play with. Here's the girl you've been waiting for!

We had an absolutely beautiful weekend in Charlotte including tons of sunshine and 70+ degree weather both days. Eloise enjoyed several hours outside exploring and finding lots of trouble to get into. We also had a fun overnight visit from Aunt Corinna who helped me follow Eloise around and make sure said trouble zones weren't actually entered or eaten. Her little ones are starting to be mobile so this weekend with Eloise may have turned out to be a pinch of boot camp training for what it's like to have a 21 month old running around. She's non-stop. Which speaking of, Eloise turned 21 months on Friday. I completely forgot. Mom of the year, I know.

Lastly, the balmly Charlotte weekend was especially helpful during the Corporate Cup 1/2 Marathon I ran on Saturday morning. My goal was to get a 1:34 and I did just exactly that, a 1:34 (7:08 per mile pace). It was a really tough course but luckily I had great weather and the help of 2 running buddies to keep me going the entire time. Without them, there is no way I would have reached my goal. I'm so thankful for my newly found running group in CLT!

Oh wait, and here's a picture taken from Corinna's phone of Gramma riding trikes with Miss Eloise:)

Cupid's Cup and Winter Flight

I ran in the Cupid's Cup 5K this morning and the Winter Flight 8K a few weeks ago so I'll use today's post to update on both. I totally forgot to even mention the 8K. It was in Salisbury on January 29. My goal was to get under 35 minutes and I finished feeling really strong with a 34:01 (6:50 per mile pace).  I was 5th overall female and 1st in my age group.

Today's 5K was a speedy race. My goal was to break 20 minutes - one of my 2011 goals. And I finished huffing and puffing and nearly vomiting (so I truly know I could not have gone any faster today) with a 19:42 (6:21 per mile pace).  God, 5Ks are SOOOO hard. To me they are like a 3.1 mile sprint. Certainly not my forte. I'd rather log some miles than run fast any day.  Nonetheless, I'm really pleased with how today's race went. It was hard but it was good for me. I was the 7th overall female (after literally watching numbers 4, 5 and 6 pass me in the last 3/4 to 1/2 mile. Ugh.) and 2nd in my age group.

I'm definitely psyched with how both of these races turned out. For whatever reason, I've been feeling really strong lately. My weekly mileage has stayed consistent. I've thrown in some speed workouts and together it seems to be a good recipe. I just hope I can keep it up!  Stay tuned for my next race.

(glad this post is all done because I looked over and just caught Eloise putting a hand full of dirt into her mouth from a plant. ahhh!!)

I'm taking the next step

I'm taking the next step in running. I can't believe I'm actually blogging about this because personally, I'm still a little fuzzy on what this "next step" is but I feel by jotting this down, you will hold me accountable for whatever comes next in my running world. Actually, by jotting this down, I will hold myself accountable for my next running steps.  And maybe by the end of this post, I'll be able to solidify what "next" really is!

Here's some background. About a month ago, I started meeting up with some area runners for weekly long runs. By way of a recently created Facebook group and a local blog I discovered, I've found some runners who run the same pace I do, and have similar love and "use" of the sport that I have. (by "use" I mean, we are a pinch beyond just running for pleasure. we race as well.) So to be expected, they've quickly become a group I rely on to inspire me and help me work and train harder.

Our weekly runs are on either Saturday or Sunday morning and we crank out some miles while chatting and comparing running "notes" on what race is coming up, what training regimen we are following, what gear to have/use, etc. For one, it's awesome having the company. It's truly amazing what a group run will do for your mileage. Before you know it, you've run 13 miles when it only felt like a typical 5 mile run.  For another, this group of people has got me actually "training" for upcoming races vs. just running and showing up. Huh, how did that happen?

I personally feel like I do a lot with running, both in weekly mileage and getting out there for races but where I fall short is in truly training and setting goals. I don't know if it's my age or the amount of years I've been running but I've kind of fallen behind the "just running and staying fit, along with entering a race here or there is enough" kind of attitude. It's become my MO.  And I don't think there is anything wrong with that but for me, it's become my comfort zone.  It's easy for me to put on mileage. I enjoy running. It's what I do.  So getting out there 5 or 6 times a week is just like, whatever.  And as far as races go, I have Eloise to thank for that. She inspired me to try something new - the baby jogger division - which has been really fun.  It had been years since I was out on the racing circuit and thanks to that 18-month old little Monkey, I'm now back out there again. So anyway, my conclusion is, beyond these two said items, that about covers it for me and my running world.

But now, I'm taking the next step.  I'm going to set unrealistic, high reaching goals for myself. I'm going to up my anty as far as training goes. And I'm going to step out of my comfort zone and see what this nearly 36 year old body has left to offer the Charlotte running community.  Wow - what a statement! Don't get too jazzed.  Believe me, there are some mega fast runners around here so I'm not taking Charlotte by storm. Rather, I'll just try and take myself by storm. I've always been my own worst enemy. I'm sure I've referred to that on here before. I psych myself out. And psyching yourself out makes for very poor race days.  And then that leads to less motivation to train. Which leads to more lack luster races and you can see where I'm going here.  And although I truly LOVE running with Eloise, by running with my new group of buddies, I've discovered that I'm kind of hiding behind the jogging stroller. It was an excellent tool to get me back out there racing again, but now I'm using it as my crutch each and every race because with it, I run my own race, my own time, in my own division with what, maybe 4 other people, all because I have the stroller. And of course with the stroller, I'm slower than the rest. But that's OK, right?  I'm pushing a stroller!  That's my automatic, built-in excuse. And with that, I have no idea what kind of race I could run without it.  How fast could I be??

Well, last night I met up with my buddies again. The two of them are gearing up for a mega fast 5K on February 12 called the Cupid's Cup. It's here in Charlotte and from what I gather, it's supposed to be a relatively flat course and thus, a fast one. The two of them recently ran 20:05 and 20:09 5Ks (6:27 per mile splits) respectively and are in major training mode to break 20 minutes. They have 6 weeks to go and have literally mapped out each week's training schedule with speed workouts, long runs, rest days and the like. I have to say, from an outsider looking in, it's quite impressive.

Somehow, thanks to our common love of running, I'm kind of along for the ride with these two. They have the goal. They have the training schedule and luckily, they must like me because I get invited to run with them. So yesterday I got a FB message from them both saying they were doing a speed workout last night at 6pm. Would I care to join?  Of course I would!

Let me preface all of this by saying the last time I did a speed workout was quite literally 18 years ago.  Lol. It makes me laugh thinking about it.  But hey, game on. Let's do a speed workout!  As far as running goes, in order to prepare yourself for a race, and more importantly, in order to run a race faster than the previous one, you need to add speed to your training.  And, I know this. But do I do it? No. (speed workouts are basically intervals of predetermined time or distance in order to condition your body to run faster. the more you do it, the faster you become. easy peasy. Lol. except, I don't do it. sorry for "running 101.")

Can you imagine me sprinting up the street with Eloise in tow (or better yet, around a track pushing a stroller? hilarious!) lets say for example 3 minutes on, 2 minutes off. Then 3 minutes on. Then 2 minutes off.  You get the jist. Anyway, a baby jogger and speed workouts might not be a good match. But, regardless, to be a fast runner, they are important.

Alas, last night arrives and yes, I find myself doing a speed workout adjacent to the Light Rail line in Uptown Charlotte at 6pm with 2 running buddies, all of us geared up with flashing lights and florescent colored shirts with reflective striping. Safety first, remember.  The workout went well. Yes, I can hang with these guys. I was even faster for a couple of them.  When we got back to our cars they continued talking about their sub-20 goal, reviewing their watches for our workout results, and then off we go. We say our goodbyes and head to our cars.  Meanwhile, I'm thinking to myself, "you are totally goal squating here. They are the ones who are reaching higher than they've ever reached. They are the ones doing all of the homework to find out how they can accomplish this awesome time. They set up the days/times we meet. I'm just totally 100% along for the ride."

Hence my "next step" blog post. I'm not goal squating any longer. I'm going to do it too. I'm going to set that goal of sub-20 for the Cupid's Cup. (I've already signed up!) And I'm going to set other running goals for 2011. I'm not going to hide behind the jogging stroller any more (well, actually I would like to run a 10K with Eloise but that would be placed into the "goal" category because I think it'll be a stretch for both of us.).  I'm going to add speed workouts to my weekly regimen. I'm going to do my homework, offer up training ideas to my friends, I'm going to continue feeding off of my newly found running comraderie and therefore become a better runner.  Hey, what do I have to loose?? 

Oh, and most importantly, I'm going to stop being my own worst enemy. When I show up at the starting line, I'm going to be confident and strong. I'm going to do my best for that single day and that single race, whatever it may be.  I'm not going to psych myself out and I'm not going to leave the race feeling like I had more. I'm not going to think about the other runners. I'm going to run  my own race at my own pace and push myself to be better.

There. I said it. I'm taking the next step. Deep breath in and then out.

2011 Running Goals:

1) Sub 20:00 5K
2) Complete a 10K with Eloise
3) Sub 45:00 10K - without Eloise
4) 1:34 for a 1/2 marathon

Dowd YMCA 1/2 Marathon

Today was my own much anticipated 1/2 marathon race (running solo sans jog stroller, of course) and I'm really, REALLY pleased with the results. So proud that I'll even admit to you that I cried after the race was done. Crazy, I know.

I often think to myself....why am I doing all of this running?  It's a really lonely sport and I put on miles upon miles all by myself (of course most of them are with Eloise but it's not like we're talking or competing or coaching one another). But after today's race, now I know why I do it. I felt great throughout the entire run. A miracle in and of itself. With 13.1 miles, you never know when going too hard or going too slow will come back to bite you later in the race but today, I single-handedly planned out my own race, stayed on my own tempo and in the end, ran my PR again.

My fastest 1/2 prior to today was 1:37 something. I can't remember the seconds. It was a race I ran a long time ago and was in the middle of my marathon training at the time.  Today's race, I ran 1:37:26, (a 7:27 min/mile pace). Which was not in the middle of marathon training and makes me even more proud. I guess all of these miles I'm putting on weekly are worth it (not that I was questioning them. I love running. It's just who I am.). But when you start a race feeling as good as you do ending it, it's such a euphoric feeling, I can't even describe it.

I coached myself throughout the entire race. I looked at my watch each mile to ensure I stayed on tempo. I took "Gu" at the miles I mapped out in advance. I drank water at each station. I motored up each and every hill. And in the end, I did it. I did it!  Tears and all, I did it. I ran that dang 1/2 marathon with all my heart and I felt great doing it. I honestly don't think I could have run even one second faster and that's exactly how I want to end a race. I don't ever brag. I don't ever gloat. Shoot, I hardly talk about running (I guess except for this blog. Some of you may be sick of my running banter:). But just for 1 second today, 1 second after the race was done when my eyes filled with tears, I said to myself...You go girl!  You did an awesome job!

And......we have a baby gate

Laaaaaaaaaaaa........ahhhhhhhhhhh!!  Did you see the sky just part? I know, it's a miracle.  We now have a baby gate.  And it's one that fits!  Laaaaaaaaaaaa........ahhhhhhhhhhh!

In other news, I completely forgot about the Monkey's 15 month Drs appt today.  Oospy.  I'll have to call tomorrow and grovel a little and get this one back on the calendar.  Unreal. I haven't missed one yet. I guess I was due.

In the food category, I'm starting to get creative with Monkey and mixing fruits and veggies in with other items to get her to eat them.  So far, it's not really working.  And I'm cooking quite a bit.  Agh. I'll keep trying but as of now the only thing she's liked that I've whipped up to "trick" her is the pumpkin bread (who wouldn't like a little cinnamon spiced pumpkin bread to kick start the fall??).  Meanwhile pumpkin really packs a punch of super great nutrition so I'm going to load this little girl right up with it.  The mega delish home made mac-n-cheese I made today was a no go - with or without steamed broccoli or cauliflower mixed in (and I can't say I blame her because I hate both but again, I'm not going to put my weird food-isms onto my daughter. I pledge.). Tomorrow I'm whipping up another batch of my meatballs and maybe I'll throw something crazy into those litte guys. Carrots?  I'm not sure.  She actually eats the meatballs so I can't screw with them too much without her noticing.

In running news....I've made a decision to run a 1/2 marathon coming up on 11/6 here in Charlotte.  This all stems from this crazy idea I had to run a 1/2 last weekend and I chickened out at the last second.  I'm just not ready quite yet so in hindsight it was a good decision but I was really ready to just throw myself in there and see what happened.  Anyway, instead of running the full-blown 1/2 on Saturday, I instead ran 12.5 miles sans the jogging stroller and I felt really great.  I'm going to add a long run to my Saturday's from now until 11/6 and that'll be what I need added to my weekly running to get myself ready for that distance. I'm really excited about it!  Oh, and I'm sure you can guess but I'll say it anyway, that 1/2 marathon will be without the Monkey.  I could never expect her to sit in the stroller for that long. She'd freak out on me. Lol.  But we are gearing up for another 5K this weekend in of all places....the same corporate park where I used to work. Not looking forward to the tree-less, hilly terrain but it's for a really good cause. The race is being held for a little girl who has cancer. The story will tear your heart out. That little girl is a fighter and so the least we can do is run a measly 3.1 miles in her honor and try to help contribute to an extremely worthwhile cause.

I think that's it for now.  Off to find more recipes to fool my Monkey into consuming something other than whole milk, grilled cheese, apple sauce and cinnamon toast. (a girl after my own heart with that love of carbs she has.)

Friday's update

I'm pretty excited to bang out this week's Friday's update early. Lately it seems like I've got too much going on around the house or with work to sit down and start logging prior to 9pm.  But today, I'm ahead of the game. And I'm psyched. The Monkey is down for her second nap and as soon as she gets up, we're heading to Lily and Jen's house for a playdate. Mucho excited to see that little nugget. 

Ok, for this week...the first music class was today and it was a good time.  Eloise joined 7 other girls (can you believe it?) and 2 boys for a class full of singing, guitar playing, instrument discovery (teacher dumps out this enormous box full of all sorts of instruments and the kids get to pick and choose what they want to bang around.), and just plain fun.

So as soon as we arrive, the introductions begin. We only knew 1 other mom because as I said last week, the entire neighborhood is in preschool at this same time.  Of the girls, here are the names...I almost died at the similarity. First we meet Elle.  Nice to meet you Elle. This is Eloise.  Then we meet Ella.  Hi Ella. This is Eloise. Then we meet Ella Grace.  Lord have mercy!  Others included Madison, Lila, and some I'm forgetting.

Here's the back story on Eloise.  Eloise is my grandmother's name and also my mother's middle name.  So it's a family name that I've loved since forever ago.  And I remember saying at one time (when I never thought I'd have kids to begin with) ....if I ever change my mind and do have kids and then one is a girl, she'll be named Eloise.  Here we are, 1 million years later:)  But here's a fun twist that other than family, I'm not sure how many know this.  (actually, I may have already blogged about this. eeeekkkk...blame it on baby brain.)  My grandmother's official name - like on her birth certificate name - was Ella Louise.  Her kindergarten teacher decided she was going to be Eloise. And so Eloise she became. I only ever knew her as Eloise. Or rather, Gramma Ellie. Anyway, hearing Ella a few times today and then Elle, it brought me back.  And also made me think.....tell me that Eloise or some variation of it is now popular?? Who would have thought?

The Monkey loved music class. She did her usual "stare at the teacher without blinking even once" thing for the first 2/3rds of the class. Then she decided it was more fun to wander around and find other mom's car keys to play with. That's my girl. She even "escaped" a few times and got herself through the closed door and down the hallway.  Since there were hardly any boys in the class (the usual adventurers), Eloise was the only child trying to make a break for it.  I don't think it's her way of telling me she didn't like the class. As the guy at CVS said just after music class, "she's curious."  (as she was dismantling the hydrogen peroxide display) My response? "Very."

Tomorrow is the Monkey's 15 month birthday and before I realized it, I filled her day with a Hog Jog and a BBQ festival. I think she'll like both though. But at some point in the day I need to get "orange chair" pics of this biggie birthday girl. I've decided - through some revelation I had while running - I'd like to continue taking "orange chair" pics up until and including when she can actually get into that orange chair all by herself. I have no idea when that'll be so let's just see how long this takes. Fun?  I thought so. Lol!

Eloise seems to be the master organizer as of late and so I snapped a couple of pics today.  These are two examples.  She's been into this for some time but lately, this seems to be one of the main ways she plays throughout the day.  She selects a grouping of toys...say trucks, or people, or stuffed animals. And she takes them all from one location and delivers them to another location.  Then she sets them up one by one by one to her own satisfaction. Done. That's the game.  She's getting quite good at it actually. It's also fun to watch her. She really studies the placement and in her usual "I have no patience" fashion, if after the first attempt the object doesn't sit exactly where she wants it, she lets out her Monica Seles grunt/scream and away we go. I'm trying to work on this with her.  "That's Ok, Monkey. Let's give it another try. You'll get it, etc." So far, no luck. She still freaks out. Lol. I would say that's Mike Tally #5 but I have very little patience myself so that poor little girl is getting a double whammy of bad genes:)

Also, it appears CLT is getting a little relief from the heat.  This morning it was actually in the 60s. Fantastic! And so to celebrate, the Monkey and I busted out our jeans.  I had to take pics because #1) she's super cute in these jeans but #2) check out how big she looks. When did that happen??

Have a great weekend!

The Hog Jog it is

The Monkey and I have decided to officially sign up for the Hog Jog 5K taking place this Saturday morning at 8am. We will then spend the afternoon chowing down on deliciousness with Daddy at the Charlotte Blues, Brews and BBQs festival. Wish us luck!

Friday's update

This weekend we have friends in town and we're really excited.  Actually it was going to be Caren and John but now sadly, John can't make it so it'll be Caren in all of her greatness visiting the big ole NC and enjoying a weekend away to celebrate all of her "laboring" during the week. Happy Labor Day to all, come Monday.

On the agenda?  I'm not sure but I'm quickly trying to play hostest with the mostest and pull together a fab plan.  So far I've come up with a babysitter on Saturday night so dinner at The Customshop and drinks/dessert afterwards at Crave - CLT's very own dessert bar.  Come on already.  A glass of wine and a cupcake?? I'm so sold on this very idea it pains me that I never thought of it myself. My mouth is already watering.  Yum! Then on Sunday, Mike discovered a blue grass band is playing at the White Water Center so that might be on the docket for Sun. afternoon after the Monkey naps. Beyond this, we'll just hang out, maybe go here or there, but all in all, play major catch up session with a dear friend who we've loved since forever ago.  Coffee talk with the besties. I can't wait!

For the Monkey this week - she's now officially saying "round" and "knee."  Weird words to pick up, huh?  Well, she's busted her knees open so many times that they flat out have never had time to heal. So I'm constantly talking about her "boo boos" on her "knees" and putting bandaids on her "knees" and "let me kiss your knees", etc. Knees was surely going to catch on at some point. And it has.  "Round" kind of surprised me but it was the result of me making a "track" on the driveway out of chalk for her trucks. And what do trucks do on the track??  They go "round" and "round". And what do the wheels on said trucks do?? They go "round" and "round". You're catching on.  As is she.

Our next running race could be next week but I'm still undecided. On 9/11 is the "Hog Jog 5K" that I've never heard of but it's run right uptown so as far as location goes, that's super convenient.  The thing is, they don't have a baby jogger category which means we'll have to run with the masses and since I've never heard of this race, I don't know the size so I'm not sure what I'll be getting myself into. I have a feeling it's going to be small.  Mike likes the idea of eating BBQ and drinking beers post race so maybe we'll do it. Stay tuned here.

As far as preschool goes and my mention of it earlier, every child I know in the neighborhood is going this fall regardless of age. Interesting.  I guess I'm most curious about the 14 month + kids because they are in Eloise's age group and the thought of sending her to school this fall never occured to me. Well, it occured to me but only because everyone's doing it but us.  I guess #1, I can't send her to school this fall because she still takes a morning nap.....a preschool "no no". And since I just officially started a "real" schedule for her and it means she's really sleeping at 9am then that means no preschool for the Monkey.  But honestly, #2 I don't want to send her to school at this age.  I don't think it's necessary. I think she gets enough interaction with other kids from the playdates and other than this, I'm home for a reason. To be with the Monkey.  Then I think to myself....will you send her this time next year?  And my initial thought is still "no".  Unless I think she's painfully shy or some other social issue is going on with other kids and adults, I'm really not thinking about sending her to preschool until age 3. Is that crazy this day in age?  Because I'm starting to really feel crazy.  I was so surprised to hear that literally every kid in the neighborhood her age + or - a few months is going to school this fall.  I guess if the parents have a tee-tiny one at home as well I can understand. They want some alone time with baby #2.  But other than this, I'm just not sure I'm bought into the program.  Seriously though, am I missing something??

I guess that's a wrap for the week. I can't think of anything more. All else remains the same with the Monkey. She continues to love sticks (growing pile in our driveway. she's proving to be a great help before Mike mows the yard.) and sidewalk chalk. Food Wars continue but I did get wise to it yesterday and today where I fed her lunch outside for a "picnic."  She's a girl on the move and so being outside (her all-time favorite place) proved to really help the eating situation.  Like she came to me over and over and over again to eat more of her orange and sandwich. I literally got 1/2 of an orange in her and 1 entire PB&J sans crust. I was pretty impressed.  I need to research getting her a table and chairs. Then we could picnic outside all the time. How cute those pics would be??

Anyway, here are some more pics from this week's driveway/yard adventures. These are the ones that didn't make the cut earlier in the week. I take too many pics. Lol. Happy long weekend!

No anti-baby-joggger blog post

Phew.  Although Run, Theoden Run chats today about his not-so-hot Greek Fest 5K run (I disagree but that's his opinion), at least he doesn't blame his failed PR attempt on some estranged baby jogger who attacked him at the starting line. That's a relief:).

Yiasou!!

Yippee!!  And Yiasou!!  Today's race was awesome.  We got in the 21s, as was my goal ,and not only did we get in the 21s but we finished in 21:38 (6:59 per mile and 9 seconds faster per mile than our last race). I'm so happy!  The course was to be expected, fast and flat. I had a pinch of confusion during the race regarding splits and my time but really shame on for never wearing a watch. I still haven't figured out how to start a race pushing a stroller and pushing "start" on my watch. I just want to get a move on!  Anyway, I wasn't sure how much advance time they gave the jog strollers so when I got to each mile where they had a timing clock, I wasn't sure how much time to add to it.  (they start those timing clocks based on the pack. obviously not based on us jog strollers.) And so at the first mile mark, the timer wasn't even on. Ok.....strange. I felt good and so I just kept going at that pace. We get to the second mile mark and it said 11:08. Ok, is that really 14:08 or 15:08 or 16:08 or what??  Did they give us 3 minutes advance start, 4, or 5 or what?  The start was crazy hectic - there were quite a few runners there and even honestly like 15 jogging strollers or more so it was any wonder what happened after they let us go.  Then I get to the 3 mile mark and I can't see the clock. Grrrr.......  I had .1 mile to go and I just did what I could to get to the finish as quickly as possible. I looked up and I think it said something like 18:40 or so.  So again, is that 21:40, 22:40 or 23:40?? I'm a pinch out of it, trying to catch my breath, get out of the way, and also get the timing chip off of my shoe, but my main priority was to find someone in charge and ask them how many minutes they let the baby joggers go ahead. And 3 minutes it was. So 21:40 I'm thinking. Awesome!!  The results were officially released online about an hour ago and I actually finished in 21:38.  So we met my goal.  Yesssss!!!  Yiasou!!!

Ok so aside from all of this craziness with timing and finishing and whatever...get a load of this.  Agh, I'm mortified.  Since the baby joggers are allowed to go first, we all line up at the starting line first.  Most of us actually back in because getting through that massive crowd with a crazy big stroller is just not going to happen. So I come to the start line and find myself a spot right up front. Cool!  And even in the middle. Even cooler!  Next I'm going to swing the Monkey around and literally start backing into our parking spot and WHAM......as I'm swinging the stroller around, I crack this guy right in the ankle/calf with my front wheel. Are you flipping kidding me???? I'm mortified!!  I'm always so careful with the stroller and besides keeping the Monkey safe, my main goal is to get out of people's way and especially not to hit them and WHAM....I smack this guy right in the leg RIGHT before the race is about to start. OMG....kill me now.  Well the guy turns around and I'm literally dying at this point. "Sir, I'm so sorry. Are you ok?  Seriously, are you ok? I'm really so, so sorry."  He said he was fine and off he went, scurring into the crowd to get his place. That was it. Was he alright? I don't know. Well, guess who it was?????  It just happens to be one of the most influential runners in all of CLT.  Oh yes, I manage to give a good whack to the leg of Theoden Jane, the Charlotte Observer reporter who blogs about running each and every day and literally ALL of the CLT running community follows him.  Now saying "the most influential runner in all of CLT" isn't really all that big of an accolade, but for what it's worth and since I do PR for a living, hitting a reporter in the leg right before one of the biggest races in CLT isn't really where you want to be. Seriously, someone save me right now.  Mortified!

Anyway, he heads into the pack and I finish what started as a "bang up" K-turn and back into my spot. The whistle blows and off we go.  Now, aside from the timing snafu, I will admit, I thought about hitting Run, Theoden Run for about the first 2 1/2 miles. Maybe the distraction was a good one. I tried to look for him post race to apologize again and find out if he made it through a pretty competitive 5K with a baby jogger battle wound, but I couldn't find him.  What did I do?? I sent him a FB message.  I guess it's what you do this day an age.  And thankfully he responded and said he was totally fine, completely forgot about it, and had wished I had introduced myself.  Ummmmm.....I'm going to say, "No way!" to that one. So thankfully he's ok and thankfully he's a really nice guy and hasn't (yet) written a pointed blog post about how awful baby joggers are and that they have no right to be at races since they maliciously try to hurt other runners. I'm thinking Nancy Kerrigan and Tonya Harding at this point.  Now that could make for an interesting blog post and/or article in the Observer to say the least. I'll keep you posted.

Ok, so that was our morning. I'm super excited for the PR. I'm still pretty mortified over the Tonya Harding incident but thankfully the shock value here will fade with time. Goal for our next race?? Well, I have to find our next race first but honestly, I'd love to get into the 20s.  That seems unrealistic to accomplish by the next race but in the next few, I'd like to get into the 20s for sure.  Oh and how could I forget my trusty co-pilot who makes all of this happen??? She was a rock star. Even despite the fact that she chucked her turtle out of the stroller at the very start and there it sat by her feet for exactly 21 minutes and 38 seconds before I could give it back to her:)

Friday's update

"Down" - that's the word of the day around here. The Monkey officially says "down." And she says it a lot. In the right context. Although impressive that she's adding to her vocab, "down" isn't particularly helpful when you are at the running store signing up for tomorrow's race or crammed tightly into an antique store with breakables everywhere.  Others around us were mucho impressed. I, on the other hand, was trying to complete my tasks while holding a non-stop-wiggle-worm who's reciting "down, down, down." Agh!

As I mentioned, tomorrow is our next race. I'm really excited!  It's another 5K - the Yiasou Greek Festival 5K and it's known to be the flattest and the fastest in the CLT area. I'm really hoping to get in the 21s. That's my goal and we best be hitting it. The web site says the baby joggers start at 7:25am and the rest of the field starts at 7:30am. That's never happened in all the times they've let the baby joggers go first. Not a 5 minute lead time. Rather, they give us 1 minute to get a quick shake in our tails before the heavy hitters start pegging us off one by one (at like the 200 meter mark:).  I'm not complaining in the least. I LOVE when the baby joggers get to start first. It makes my life much, much easier although I do contemplate whether or not I run a faster pace for the first mile when I'm with the pack. But whatever it's a trade off. I'd rather start out basically alone (typically no more than 5-6 other jog strollers) and figure out my right pace than start in a crowd of over 1,000 with the stroller. Too stressful.  And speaking of over 1,000 runners....my number tomorrow is 1010.  My favorite number is 10. And now I get 2 of them. I think it's a good sign!! Wish us luck.  I'll keep you posted!

Mike is out of town this weekend. He went home to NY to go to our high school buddy's wedding. The Monkey and I had to stay behind but I expect pictures and a full report of what has quickly turned into a high school reunion.  Congrats to Mark and Tiffany! And Mike, be careful up there with all of your SWCS buddies. You're not 18 anymore:)

The Monkey "no eating" kick continued throughout this entire week and to say it's frustrating is a complete understatement.  I've basically turned into a short order cook, which frustrates me. I waste food unlike I've ever done in my life, which frustrates me. And the Monkey locks her mouth closed and turns her head to basically everything but whole milk and crackers.  I can get an occasional cookie in her and from time to time a few bites of a grilled cheese.  This is getting really, really old but as the Dr. said, I'm not to be concerned (just annoyed). If she won't eat, she won't eat.  She's acting completely herself (aside from today where we debuted a guest baby that I've never met before. and hope to never meet again. lord have mercy!), has no fever, is not sick and is just flat out not eating. A 14 month old anorexic. Awesome. And I thought I was in for it when I entered the world of parenting. Now I'm delving into the world of psychological eating disorders. Agh!  Her 15 month appointment is right around the corner and this will be tops on the list.

Speaking of frustration....let's talk about Monkey Frustration - I've been meaning to jot this down. I'm guessing this is typical for this age but the Monkey shows some serious frustration throughout the day.  It's always because she can't do something that she wants to do. She wants to push the stroller over the rug but the wheels are stuck. She wants to stack the cups by whatever size she sees fit vs. smallest to largest. She wants to move the tab in the book to get the tail to wag but it's stuck. The list goes on and on.  I guess my point of jotting this down is because some day I hope to look back and realize this was just a short-lived, age appropriate phase because when she turns it on, she turns it on quickly and loudly. She honestly is like a mini-Monica Seles. Wheels stuck.....4, 3, 2, 1......"Ah Ah Ah Ah Ahhhhhggggggg."  Book stuck.....4, 3, 2, 1........."Ah Ah Ah Ah Ahhhhggggggg."  Cups won't stack......4, 3, 2, 1......."Ah Ah Ah Ah Ahhhhhggggggggg." All day. Every day.  But I'm holding out hope that she'll give each of these said tasks a little more time and quite possibly try a different approach/route/whatever before transforming into Monica so quickly. A girl can dare to dream.

Ok, for pictures today, I share the Monkey Wagon Ride. I never would have thought of this (I love the completely different perspective Mike has when playing with Eloise.) but Mike saw the wagon, immediately cleared out the toys and put the Monkey inside for a ride. She, of course loved it. How cute is this??

NC Music Factory 5K Rock N' Run

Today's race wasn't our best feeling but it was our best time so we can't complain. The wind was a little tricky - a new weather element we haven't raced with yet - and the rolling hills were tough.  Also, the Monkey fussed from Mile 2 all the way until the finish line. Agh. So with her struggling and me struggling, we were quite the pair out there.  Surprisingly though (really, I couldn't believe it) we crossed the finish line in 22:10 - 7:08/mile, 5 seconds per mile faster than the last race. We didn't reach my goal of "get in the 21s" but I'm pleased with this finish considering how junky we both were. 

Next race - the Yiasou Greek Fest on 8/28 - which has been deemed the flattest - and thus fastest 5K - course in Charlotte. I will definitely set the goal of "get in the 21s" for that race. And that time, we'll get it! (btw - no bands along the course today as we hoped. but kudos to the lady who screamed....."that girl has the best seat in the house!" to the Monkey has we went running past. that made me laugh mid-run. perfect timing for it too.)

Friday's updates (dog show edition!)

Quick update so we can get to the good stuff - yesterday's dog show!  The Monkey is back to eating. She actually returned to her normal appetite the very day I talked to the Dr. Go figure. Anyway, I'm glad to have her back and glad to be stressfree on whether or not her belly is full.  (although I will say, I'm not glad the Dr. said to expect this to happen many many more times before she turns 18 months. wonderful.

The Monkey and I are running in our next race tomorrow. The NC Music Factory 5K Rock N' Walk. 8am start time and I believe it's going to be pretty steamy when the gun goes off. Like maybe 80 degrees.  I'm not at all familiar with the course so we're basically going to wing it. Wish us luck!

I officially have the Monkey on a daytime napping schedule. At 14 months. Yes, you can go ahead and laugh. It literally took me this long or at least, it took her this long to be able to become an ok napper. She's still not great, I doubt she ever will be, but at least now I can say, we have a schedule. At exactly 8:40am and 12:40pm each day we go upstairs, read books and she goes down for her 9am and 1pm naps, respectively.  Done. That's it. That's the dream schedule everyone puts into place on day 1.  Well I'm on day number 428.  Whatever. Details.

And now......the dog show!  Yesterday was really fun. As to be expected, the Monkey loved the dogs at the show (and she behaved herself rather than stirring up a bunch of barking). Aunt Jan's dog Figaro was a shiny star (we didn't get to see him compete but saw his beautiful ribbon when we arrived and then heard the great news on his Title later that day).  The show was very easy to find and although out in the middle of nowhere, it was only took us 37 minutes door to door. I can't say it was 37 minutes on the way home because some how I got us turned around on a road that was supposedly going south.  Yes, I ended up getting us north after we'd already been going south. Lol. I have no idea how that happened. Anyway, the ride home was an additional 20 minutes. No biggie.

In addition to seeing all of the dogs, which was a real treat in an of itself, Aunt Jan brought with her more presents than the Monkey could imagine. It was like Christmas in August! Eloise is now the proud owner of her very own Tonka gargabe truck and a new fleet of Chuck Tonka trucks.  Heaven!  To a girl who loves nothing more than trucks, she was in complete heaven.  Dogs everywhere, now trucks everywhere.  She didn't know what to do with herself!  Jan also splurged on a super cute Hello Kitty purse (every girl needs a purse to put her trucks in), a new cute dress and some great water table toys.  Jan - it was great to see you. You did too much. Thank you so much!!  And congrats Fig!!  You were the best looking dog there and the smartest with the most "agility":)!

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