What? It's Only Been Two Months...

Time for So What Wednesday!

So what if...

• ... I just finished the tabs at the header of my blog. I've only had this blog design up for two months. Whoops. Now there is actual content in the "about me", "my family", "recipes", and "fitness" tabs. 

• ... I'm just not that excited about the upcoming three-day weekend. Scott's going to be gone for most of it. Boo.

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• ... my "short" runs this week have been... less than stellar. We're experiencing "monsoonal moisture" (a fancy way to say, "humidity"). I am not a fan. I've lived in California long enough to become a huge baby when it comes to the weather. If it's not 72 and sunny it's not a nice day. The past week has been 84 and humid as all get out. No thank you. Can't I just run the "long" runs on Saturdays and call it good? (Grant, if you're reading this, this has not been my training plan of attack. I just wish it was.)

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• ... I'm too tired for anymore "so what's." Every day this week Marcus has been waking before the sun comes up. I thought we were on the road to "sleeping in" until 7:00. Apparently that was all a fluke and the little turd seems to think 5:15 is an appropriate time to rise and shine. His mommy does not share his early bird enthusiasm.

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To link up with the So What fun just click that button below!

August's Cara Box!

It's time for another Cara Box reveal!!!

This month I was paired up with some seriously amazing ladies. Let's be honest, each month I've been paired up with some really great ladies.

Without further ado...

Who received my box:

Amber at Assorted Whimsy. Amber has an 8 month old son, "E", who has the biggest, most melt-your-heart eyes I have ever seen. Like me, Amber is a Midwestern girl who loves football, coffee, and likes to try her hand at baking. All throughout August we emailed back and forth, getting to know each other. I particularly enjoyed exchanging the top five things on our personal bucket lists. If you want to check out what I sent her click >>here<<.

Who sent me a box:
Kaitlyn from Wifessionals! Kaitlyn is the creator of the Cara Box exchange! Kaitlyn is seriously the cutest expectant mommy I have ever seen. And, you'd never think she's only a few weeks away from meeting her little girl. Kaitlyn is so sweet, and it was obvious through our emails that she really wanted to get to know me. And, when I opened my box it was clear Kaitlyn put a lot of thought behind each of the items in my Cara Box. My box couldn't have been more perfect.

When I received my Cara Box I waited all day to open the package. With a glass of wine in hand I slowly opened the box; Scott was still at work and Marcus was fast asleep. I carefully removed each item, savoring the calm and quiet, and smiling as I pulled each item out of the box. The moment was almost magical, just that little snippet of time, all to myself.

I can't help but smile every time I see all of the goodies.

1. How cute are those chevron blue paper straws?
2. Organic fruit mash-ups for my little man!
3. A doggie toy for Drake, in Scott's K-State colors.
4. A cat toy for Izzy, in my ISU colors!
5. That blue polish is my new favorite.
6. Oh.my.gosh. These hair ties! I've been looking forEVER for some good hair ties to use while I run. Everything I ever use always slips, and my ponytail never stays. These hair ties seriously rock.
7. Fashionable hair ties. I love these things. They can double as a cute bracelet until you need to use it as a hair tie.
8. Have you ever had Green Apple Chapstick? I'm officially obsessed.
9. Mulled Cider scented candle. It smells SO good.
10. These earrings are going to complete my ISU game-day look this football season!
11. How cute is that metallic notebook and pencils? I'm already using that book to write down things I'm thankful for.
12. Blue socks! When we go to Mommy and Me classes my socks are always so boring compared to the other moms. These will help me step up my game (pun slightly intended).

Now, of course I have to show off how some of these items are being used.

Left to right, top to bottom:
Marcus quickly ate up his strawberry banana mash up.
I'm already planning my game day outfits, centering around those cute earrings, of course.
Izzy immediately took to batting around her new toy.
I made an iced coffee, and completed it with the blue chevron paper straws.
Drake refuses to let his new dog toy out of his sight.

Thank you Kaitlyn for such an awesome Cara Box!!

I strongly encourage anyone, blogger or non-blogger, to participate in the exchange at least once. It's such a fabulous way to meet new people and receive something fun in the mail. If you would like more info on the Cara Box exchange click on the button below!

Happy Marcus Monday!

We are trying to squeeze out every last drop of summer fun while we can. Every chance we get we're off to the beach.

My baby loves everything about the beach. He's the happiest and most content there. Even if he can't tell me with words, he shows me how at home he is on the water. It makes my heart sing with joy.

Happy Monday!

17 Months Old!

To my little man,

You're getting to be such a big boy, it almost hurts to see you growing right before my eyes. Months ago I told your daddy I wished I could keep you as my little baby. While you will always be my baby, you are certainly becoming quite the little boy. Every day you do something new, and every day you make my heart happier than I ever though possible.

Unofficial Stats
Height: 34(ish) inches -  95th percentile
Weight: 30(ish) pounds - 95th percentile
Teeth: 17


Right now you:

• ... have absolutely no fear. You dive into our backyard pool, no problem; you jump into the big pool like you own the place; you climb and explore with the best of them.
• ... think you are one of the "big boys," and love hanging out with the "big boy" neighbors. It's so fun watching you play with them (rather, watching them play with you).
• ... love to spin in circles. It's hilarious to watch as your equilibrium tries to catch up with the rest of you.
• ... eat much better if you're NOT in your highchair. You would much rather eat an entire meal while running around outside, or swimming, or playing, or doing anything but sitting in your chair.
• ... seem to have added the words "go, go, go," and "ewwww," to your vocabulary. I'm not sure if these are really words you're saying, but I'm counting them as so. You need to step up your vocab, mister.
• ... appear to have a pretty good throw. When you play catch, more often than not, you hit your intended target. Future ball player? Fingers crossed.
• ... love watching cars and trucks go by on the street. We sit at the corner and watch the cars. A lot. It's one of the few times you'll sit still for longer than two minutes. Big trucks and trains are your utmost favorite, though. They captivate you more than anything else.
• ... think you need to walk Drake when ever we take him out. 
• ... tease Drake with your food. You pretend to throw your food, and have a grand old time watching as Drake tries to find the phantom food.
• ... love to "brush" your teeth. You don't do much brushing, it's more just sucking on the bristles, but it's a start. I'll take what I can get, considering you refuse to let me help you.
• ... would rather run than walk. 
• ... find great pleasure in flushing the toilet. Over, and over, and over, and over...
• ... have peed on the big boy toilet a total of two times. Both times have been right before you get into your bath. We're not pushing potty training, yet, but right before bath time you feel the need to pee on the floor when we take your diaper off. We think we've found a solution that will hopefully transition into potty training.
• ... have this mischievous grin, and devilish little laugh. Your daddy and I love them.
• ... look for approval when you know you've done something good, or completed a task. 
• ... think you're pretty independent.

Don't grow up on me too fast. This stage has been a blast, and I'm loving watching you grow into such a fun little boy. 

Happy 17 Months, Monkey! Mommy and Daddy love you to the moon and back, twice. 

The Red Car

Trucks and trains have really been striking Marcus' fancy lately. Any time he sees or hears a truck or train he stops what he is doing and stares intently on the large piece of equipment making the low rumbling noise.

Lucky for us, there is a Red Car that travels a mile and a half, up and down the harbor, that is just perfect for little ones. Even more lucky for us, this summer riding is free of charge (though I think we could find a way to fit $1 tickets into our budget).

The minute we stepped on the Red Car Marcus went from the million-mile-a-minute tornado to a little boy who sat stone still, quite as a church mouse.

There are three Red Cars. Two are replicas patterned after the 1909 Pacific Electric 500-class interurban cars. A third car is a 1000-class Interurban car that was restored in the 60's from an actual 1907-vintage Pacific Electric car.

Though the trip down the tracks is a relatively short one it's just long enough to gain and keep Marcus' attention during the entirety of the ride.

The last stop on the rail is an area that is one of my favorite places in town.

For ten minutes the train waits near some fountains. While I LOVE them Marcus is still very leery of them. I think it's the noise. My kid has his father's hearing, which equals that of sonar ears. Loud noises do not peak Marcus' fun meter, and the fountains aren't exactly quiet.

We will keep riding the car with hopes that the fountains will eventually become a highlight for the both of us.

Naturally we had to take Grandma down the tracks while she visited.

Is it too soon to start thinking of ways to incorporate the Red Car into birthday plans, which is in March? 

Until our next ride, Red Car!

I'm Still Riding This High

Time for a quick link up with Shannon for a So What Wednesday!!

So what if...
... It's Wednesday and I'm STILL talking about Sunday's half marathon.
... I'm still riding this runner's high. Every time I stop to think about the race I smile like a fool.
... More race day photos have been released, therefore I feel I must share them with you. You are welcome.

... I don't care who you are. No one looks cute while running. No. One.

... I'm ok with big orange "PROOF" on every race day photo. $57 for a "package" of race pics? I don't think so.
... I thought we'd make it to Sea World, or the San Diego Zoo this past weekend. We did neither. We enjoyed our hotel, and all of its amenities to the fullest, and that was it.

... Our weekend calendar is totally clear! I'm already in love with the idea of a lazy Saturday and Sunday spent with my two favorite guys.

Happy Hump Day!

A Better Half

As I sat alone, stretching in the dark, I couldn't help but feel an overwhelming sensation. Words unable to fully describe my feelings... Anticipation, excitement, peace, along with a whole host of other feelings, all rolled into one.

While I waited in the chute for the race to begin I silently sent up a prayer for a safe run, a fun run, and the strength and speed to get me across the finish line.

As the sun was trying to peak through the heavy marine layer the race began. I shuffled along with thousands of other people, eager to cross the start line.

I weaved in and out of people, trying to find my pace. I looked to my left and felt a lump form in my throat and tears well in my eyes. We were passing Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery. Row after never ending row of white tombstones were perfectly alined. It was a reminder of how blessed I am, how blessed we all are. I said my second prayer of the morning, giving thanks for this country, my freedoms, my health, the opportunity to take part in the America's Finest City Half.

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The next 12 miles went so smoothly. As with any half I've ever participated there were peaks and valleys. Luckily, I had more peaks. Mile nine I felt the most fatigued, and mile 11 proved to have one hellacious hill that went on for what seemed like an eternity.

I am far too "frugal" to actually buy these photos. Do I mind the proof watermarks? Not one bit.

Two hundred meters from the finish line that familiar lump lodged itself in my throat, and my eyes became watery. A burst of energy hit me and I went sprinting across the finish line.

As soon as I hit the finish line relief flooded over me. That was it. I'd done it. And, it felt amazing.

After the run I knew Scott was around. I heard him cheering me on as I neared the finish. I couldn't wait to find him, to tell him how amazing the run was, how awesome it all felt! 

Through all the work, pain, and sometimes injury, Scott has never wavered in being my biggest cheerleader.

Once I had my medal in hand, the hubs by my side, a banana inhaled, and two bottles of water chugged, I was ready to head back to the hotel and see my little man.

Don't get me wrong, I love the rush, I love making and reaching goals, PR'ing is awesome, and I love the swag. But, what I love most about running is the energy I have to give to my sweet little monkey. He's really the reason I run.

The swag.

My GPS had my half marathon time at a personal record, 1:55:35. However, the official race time had my half time at 1:57:22. I wasn't grasping the math. Then I realized with all the weaving and dodging of getting around people  had added an additional .2 miles to my run. So, by the time my GPS had me at 13.1 miles I was still .2 miles from the finish. Gah! THISCLOSE to an official PR. But, I'm taking the GPS time and claiming it as my PR, seems right. Right? 

Here's to a run that left me wanting more! Time to get ready for the Long Beach Half in October!

In keeping with my running theme today I'm guest posting on some of my favorite running tips and tricks over at Wife Mommy Me. Stop by and check them out!

Happy Marcus Monday!

An impromptu trip to the beach led to a spontaneous photo shoot.

Happy Monday!

Calling All SoCal Runners! {{Giveaways Galore}}

FINALLY, FRIDAY!!!

Let's do a quick link up with Abby and High Five for Friday, shall we?

1. Grandma D is in town. Woohoo! I cannot express how excited I am to have an extra pair of hands to help out during the day.

2. We are headed to San Diego this weekend. I can't decide between taking Marcus to the world famous San Diego Zoo, or Sea World. I'm taking a poll. Let me know in the comments which you think would be more fun!

3. While we are in San Diego I will also be running my second half marathon this year. I'm excited, anxious, and nervous about this run. I've been using a different method of training, and have had some coaching, so let's hope all goes well.

4. Marcus is spinning and jumping, and I find it to be absolutely hilarious.

5. I'm excited to be giving away a free entry to the Hyundai Hope on Wheels 5k in Fountain Valley, CA. The race is August 31, and goes towards an amazing cause - finding a cure for pediatric cancer. If you're in SoCal that weekend, want to get your run on, and want to do it for free, enter via the Rafflecopter below! We will be out of town that weekend, so sadly I won't be participating, but I'd love for one of you to run for free!

6. And, because I'm so excited for this weekend, I'm throwing in an extra high five. Don't forget to enter to win the 8 x 10 canvas print. Rafflecopter entry is below the race entry raffle.

a Rafflecopter giveaway
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Onesie "Cupcakes"

Rounding out the third and final installment of baby shower goodness are these adorable onesie "cupcakes."

To see how to make a personalized banner click >>here<<
To see how to make month by month onesies click >>here<<

After I finished the month by month onesies I had several plain, white onesies left. I didn't want to present the parents-to-be with boring old white onesies. Obviously I needed to add a little fun to something that is generally a bit bland.

Naturally I turned to Pinterest for a little inspiration. I didn't need to look too far before I knew what to do with all the extra onesies. The "cupcake" idea was perfect!

Here's what you'll need:
Onesies - they can be any color
Baby socks
Tape
Cupcake liners - the bigger cupcake liners work a bit better than the regular size

How to (it's SO easy!):
Step one:
Have your onesie and baby sock ready to go.

Step two:
Fold in the arms and sides of the onesie.

Step three:
Fold the onesie in half, lengthwise, creating a long thin strip.

Step four:
Fold the sock and place it at either end of the folded onesie.

Step five:
Begin rolling up the onesie around the sock.

Step six:
Roll the onesie completely around the sock and secure the onesie together with a piece of tape.

Step seven:
Admire your cute little "cupcake."

Step eight:
Place your "cupcake" in its cupcake liner, and you're done. My liners just so happened to look like flowers. CUTE!

I couldn't help but think the "cupcakes" looked adorable sprinkled throughout the shower decorations!

Onesie "cupcake" inspiration: Chica Circle