Redemption!

I knew it wasn't just us who had to be fuming about the race snafu.

Seattle PI has a nice little article about it. (Thanks BigBro for sending).

Life's To Do List: Walk a Half Marathon - CHECK

Right. 90+ out today. Oh. My. Freakin'. God was it hot.

The Half Marathon didn't turn out quite like I had thought it would. In fact, I only walked 10 miles. If you can do math, you know that a half marathon is 13 miles. Let me start at the beginning.

The half marathon was to start at Husky Stadium. The "plan" was you were supposed to park at the finish line, and they were going to shuttle people to the starting line. Sherrie and I got to Bellevue early - within time to get on a shuttle and get to the finish line. There were about 100 or so people in line when they announced that the last shuttle had left. That we could either book across the lake to "maybe" get to the start OR we could wait an hour and they'd shuttle us to the second half of the marathon to walk. Ridiculous! The WHOLE reason we were walking in this darn thing was to walk across the floating bridge.

Blueberry got in the Stang and we flew. They had delayed the start of the race to be at 7:15AM. We got on the freeway at 7:10. We hit Husky Stadium at 7:22 - yah, I flew. We parked and ran to the starting line, just as they were closing it down. The race guy said, "You two are the last two...go." So we booked across the Montlake bridge to 520 Floating bridge. The best part, we had a police escort. They stayed about a car length behind us. We we were booking like I've never booked. Oh I forgot to say when we got in the Stang to head across to the stadium, I had to pee. Oh boy did I. When we got there they wouldn't let us. So the first 4 miles it was the thought of a honey bucket that kept me going.

Blueberry and I were hauling. My shin splints were on fire, my legs were hurting, but dammit we were walking across that damn bridge.

We hit mile 4 water hole - keep in mind we were dead last - and the line for the bathroom was 20 minute long. So I stood in line and stretched and got to pee.

Then we were off again. We were doing well. The heat was coming on, but I felt like I was hydrating well. Then it hit me, I hadn't had time to eat my breakfast. Oh god. But now I was so tired and hot, I couldn't even think about eating. And yet, I managed to choke down a half of a bagel.

We hit milepost 5 and 6 and were doing great. Hit mile post 7 and that was the breast cancer supporting milepost, so we stopped to take a photo. Then we were on. Just past this awesome mile we hit THE HILL FROM HELL. I was going to take it slow no matter what. And suddenly we looked behind us and there were three people and that stalker the police car. Half way up this 1/2 mile hill, I stopped to take a breather. I bent down to put my hands on my knees and I felt my eyes roll back into my head and felt like I was going to pass out. Started waving back and forth and some how managed to stay on two feet. We get to the top of this flippin' hill and the police are behind us and these three other people. The three people consisted of a 76 year old, a 68 year old and a woman who was about 60 I would guess. Fantastic people. They were so friendly and so fun to walk with. And the more we walked the more pissed we got that we were being rushed by the police. According to Seafair we had the course until 1pm and it was only 10:30 ish. We had plenty of time. Jerks!

Then we hit mile 8. At mile 8 my right thigh muscle knotted up and cramped like I've never felt anything cramp before. My god. I couldn't barely stand on the damn thing. So I hopped in the back of the Seafair car and stretched it out. The cops had given up on us and we were only be followed by the official seafair car. I sat in the car for a mile or so when we came head to head to a truck picking up the cones that marked the route. WHAT! It wasn't even 11 am yet and they were picking up the cones. So I hopped out of the car and started walking with the 3 folks we had been with from like mile 6. Then we realized we had no idea where the hell we were going.

Oh and what about Blueberry? When I hopped in the car, she put herself into high gear and took off. Our plan was to meet at the finish line.

So I hopped out and walked a mile to the park which was where we started the morning. We had no idea where the route went so we couldn't go any further. We decided to walk across the park to the finish line anyhow. F*uck em was our attitude. The one lady was fired up. We were both pissed that they had screwed up the race from the first thing this morning. When we started we were effectively 30 minutes behind the ENTIRE race.

We walked across the park and through the finish line. Then I stood there and waited about 15 minutes for Blueberry to walk through. So while I didn't walk all 13 miles and ended up only walking 10.2 or so, I still felt like I had achieved a half marathon. Had they not screwed it up in the beginning I totally would have walked the whole way. But the combination of 1) no breakfast, 2) starting 30 minutes late 3) waiting 20 minutes for a bathroom and 4) walking faster than ever the first 4 miles...I totally would have made it.

Oh but the best part, by the time we crossed the finish line, they were out of medals! Ugh! So Seafair will be sending us our medals, and I will be sending Seafair a piece of my mind in the form of a letter.

Look all around, there's nothin' but blue skies

Hello my lovelies. Miss me? I've been ever so (read: not) busy that I've just simply not had time to sit and blog. Oh, okay. You got me. I've not been busy. I've just been lost in depression of a certain band who's determined to ruin my stalk reputation.

Shortly after posting that said band has unceremoniously fired their lead singer (who I had a wee crush on) I determine then I must focus my "crush" energy on another member of the band. But who? Who will be the lucky lad? I decide the lead guitarist. He seems the friendliest and the one I've actually spoke words too instead of drooling and babbling over. So there. Decision made. THEN I find out he got married. My life has been in a tailspin ever since. I have no place to focus the jenn crush energy. It's just hanging above me like a depressed grey cloud.

But here it is Friday. The skies are clear and blue. The sun is shining. It's damn hot outside and promises to get hotter this weekend, so I can't even manage a depressed feeling in my body.

Yay!

This week has been s-l-o-w at work. Things are winding down for the end of fiscal year at the large software company we support, so things for us are slow. Which for the "Miss Organization" personality to finally make an appearance. So this week I've been cleaning out files, updating much needed project plans (note: not project schedules. Everyone calls project schedules "plans" and it bugs the sh*t out of me), filing, deleting emails, etc. Overall quite productive. None of it chargeable, but productive.

This weekend is the half marathon. Funny, I wasn't at all worried about this 13 mile trek through the streets of Bellevue - across on of our famous floating bridges - and ending at Husky Stadium - UNTIL....I saw the weather report. Oh my giddy aunt. It's going to be 90 flippin' degrees on Sunday. You laugh! But 90 while sitting by a pool sipping a beverage is just great. 90 walking 13 miles isn't so great. If you recall, last time I walked in such weather I almost killed myself by not hydrating enough. So yes, I learned from that stupid mistake. I've been pounding water for two days now. AND I plan on carbing up Saturday night. The plan is to hit the pavement fast and hard for the first 6 or so miles. Then we can slow down some once we change our sockey-s and walk on home. Blueberry will be walking with me. BeagleBabe got a new job and stopped training so I was left to walk alone...then I thought Blue - who had to walk this weekend anyhow - would want to do it. Indeed she did.

But before I go, I've been remiss in sending out a few shout outs to recent donors. I'm at $3,400 - if you can believe it! None of it would be possible without several folks who read this blog.

So....

PM GODDESS! Thanks! I promise next time your in town to take you for a cosmo.

Ritzeville Rita! God Bless. It wa not only GREAT to see you and your family, but thank you soooo much for your donation.

Wish me luck. And HAPPY FRIDAY EVERYONE!

The Boys are back in town...sorta!

You don't recognize them do you? Well, No you wouldn't. But that there are my boys at DMQ. I, they're main stalker, didn't recognize them. It was a sad sad day for me yesterday when I realized the front guy had been fired. So sad. Then to find out the keyboardist had quit! Man, no wonder these boys hadn't been around lately.

They do still have that DMQ sound, as the video suggests - did you notice the HOT babe at the end of the video. Yah, that hotness... me! And that bright light on my face? The sun! I know! Sun in Seattle. No way! But it's true. I have proof.

Sorry I posted that before it's time. I wanted to be sure you all got a good glimpse of the HOT chick at the end of the video... So here's a photo just in case you missed. it.

Stop staring at my beers!

The party going on behind me was a 35th Anniversary for Ray's Boathouse. An icon on the Seattle waterfront (well north of the waterfront). The sun was shining, the wind was blowing, but we didn't care. It was free food and drink all night long. The food was spectacular. I've never seen such an outstanding display of delicious food - well for free anyhow.

So the quote of the night came from HikerGirl. I can't set it up for you because out of context is much funnier.

HikerGirl: "I'm surprised I can hold something in my mouth that long without swallowing."

Thoughts as the Day Goes By

I've been accused of getting random songs stuck in my head for no apparent reason. Well, okay so it happens. I admit it. I can't control it. But I noticed today all the random thoughts that pass through my mind. And lucky you, I decided to share them with you. Now it should be stated these aren't the ONLY thoughts that passed by, just the random ones. And I could explain why they were random at the time, but that's too much work.

And so in no particular order, here's a few nuggets.

Shake'NBake - Who buys this stuff? Oh, I do. For some ungodly known reason I bought ShakeNBake. Now being a amateur chef (in my own mind anyhow) I couldn't understand why this was in my cabinet. Ick, BTW. I cooked it today and ICK.

Must Love Dogs - I think I need to watch this movie again. There's something about the chemistry with John Cusak and the woman - who I can't remember. It seems that suddenly my helpless romantic side feels the need to watch a romantic comedy.

Straws are underrated - I really think straws aren't used enough at home anymore. I bought a bag of straws a couple weeks ago for some reason - probably the same shopping trip I bought the Shake'N Bake.

Green - I need more green in my closet.

Purses - What purse should I bring for the DMQ show tomorrow? I should have bought that little purse on the rack in Florida.

Junk Mail - If I were to shred all the junk mail I get in my ever so small mailbox, I wonder how many days it would take to fill up the shredder?

Monkey's are scary little creatures.

Maybe instead of a new BBQ I should buy and indoor grill. Wait! I already have an indoor grill. Where is that grill?

One's perception (is that even a word) may be the most annoying aspect of my life at the moment. How do you change a perception? Do I want to?

A brownie sounds good right now.

Then a somewhat normal thought hit me, that's going to cause me to do some deep diving into the soul, "Am I leaving a mark in life?"

My head hurts!

Whole Lot of Naked Going On

This weekend, so far, has been a good one. I so needed a fun weekend.

Friday night, Saving Second Base walked 7ish miles. I need to get back caught up with the team who managed to walk 36 miles in one weekend without me. Which is good for them because I would have definitely held them back considering my foot "issue". So yay team. Fundraising wise, we raised our team goal to $15,000 and I have no doubt we'll make it. Blueberry was rather excited on Friday because she finally passed me in fundraising. She's around $3500, I'm around $3400 and BigBro (who will surpass us both I'm sure) $2700. Blue and BigBro walked in the Race for the Cure yesterday. It's a meesley 5K walk - but took them about 2 hours because of all the people.

Why wasn't I walking? Well its two fold. One, I get all anxious around large crowds of people and the walk goes across a very scary viaduct that I'm sure is going to collapse while walking.

Instead myself and a companion from the PhotoGods - Mr. Volleyball, went to the Seattle Solstice parade for our monthly photography adventure. We were planning sunsets lighting this month, but in Seattle the sun doesn't actually set until 9:30 ish. Too late for this girl. So Mr. Volleyball and I decided the parade was a an excellent opportunity to photograph people.

This parade is legendary in Seattle. Historically, its a naked parade. It allows all types to display themselves if so desired. Most naked is painted though so it's not as scary as one might think. In fact their website describes it the best: "unparalleled demonstration of free speech, creativity, art and community, we cast a spell of joy, hope and rebirth that spreads from Fremont to the entire universe." But let me tell you, birthday suits for some should stay well hung in the closet.

I took some fantastic photos. I not very good at taking people photos because I frequently feel like I'm intruding on them. But with a 200mm lens it helped me take photos from afar. Well, that and most people want their photo taken at this parade. Check out all my photos by clicking here. They do not disappoint I guarantee. But never fear, hear are a couple of my favorites.

This little player thing was just sitting there asking to have it's picture taken. I really like the way this one turned out. I'd like to say it was planned, but I think this one was one of those "quick" shots.I took several photos of this guy from the front, but I remembered a trick from my days in Europe where you were taught to always look up to see the masterpiece. I figured the fronts of a lot of these people were spectacular, but their backs could be as well. This one, like the other, really was an accident. He was sitting under a tree and the lighting turned out just perfect.

This little clown was just a happy little guy. He had a flower pin on him that shot water and he thought it was just hilarious. Mr. Volleyball asked this little guy to shoot off his pin again and he was all too willing.

It's the Incredible Hulk

And Mr. Blue Jeans!

So check out the rest. It's a collection of photos I'm very proud of.

Then last night I finally got to the theater, forked over one arm and one leg, and got to see Sex in the City. Oh.My.God Mr. Big is all that and a slice of bread. Despite his assh*leness...he's a hunk and a half.

I've managed to come down with one fantastic cold. I hate being sick. It slows me down. And this coming week I get to see my boys ... finally. And cold or not, I will not miss this concert. It is on a school night so I hope I can stay awake.

Where has the man gone?

My parents have been here the last week and it’s been a difficult one at that. See my dad has Alzeimer's and it's gaining on him it seems. Each time I see him, he has slipped further into his own mind and has become this person of whom I no longer recognize. I miss the man he once was. I miss the man who was generous, caring, considerate and above all loving. He’s been replaced, at least mentally, with a man who has no consideration for anybody or anything, who is rude and demeaning, and forgets simple details within minutes of hearing them. Then gets mad when you say, "I just told you."

I know the brain that now controls my dad isn't my dad. I know that. Logically! I know that. But what makes it so hard is to SEE the man who is your dad, and trying to reconcile with the fact that behind those beautiful brown eyes that once twinkled with a vibrant life, now lives a different person, no twinkle, no life. I wonder, all too frequently, if he ever gets a glimpse of his former self. Or if he sees and recognizes the person he becomes and gets scared knowing he can’t control anything? I wonder how frustrating it might be for him to know, perhaps, that he’s not the man he once was, but still wants to be. I miss that man.

I sometime sit and watch him and feel sad for the things in my life he will miss out on. If he is alive to walk me down the aisle, will he remember? Will he want to? Will he even know who I am?

I did well this trip to not take his bait to argue. See early stages of this disease makes them argumentative. It is one of the most difficult things for me, because I love to argue. But arguing with him is useless. His logic is generally off, and he has no respect for any truthful information of fact. If he doesn't believe it, then it isn't so. Dad and I used to discuss things like politics, religion, races, etc and while he frequently didn't agree with me, he respected my opinions. His responses are so matter of fact, and are often delivered in a “thou shalt not argue” tone of voice. He shuts you down and won’t even listen to reason or your opinion.

So, I miss him. But as long as the "man" is with us, I'm going to do my best to practice patience with him.

In other news, I made a KICKASS stroganoff tonight. I do love me some good stroganoff.

All Grown Up! I really wanna shout it out!

It seems impossible that Friday night I sat and watched as yet another niece graduated from high school. It seems like just yesterday she was born and we had a small, little baby to play with and make ridiculous cooing sounds to. And yet, here she is today, a young woman ready to set out on her own journey. How I remember that time in my life.

It was the time of life where you knew everything, and yet you were scared to death that you would make a wrong decision and end up a loser at your 5 year reunion. It was the time of life where anything seemed possible. Where you feel like you could be anything you wanted to be, and you knew, just knew, that you were on the road to greatness. You had no real idea what the world was like, nor did you care. You figured you'd learn as you go. You expected things to come somewhat easy to you, since they always did. You could feel the power of growth. That very moment you took the diploma (or cardboard plaque that was to hold your diploma) in your hand, you knew you were on your way.

I thought back to my graduation some 21 years ago and about how things have changed ever so slightly. My final years in high school were, I'm sure, unlike most high school years in a public school. Just about everyone in our class was moving on to college. There didn't seem to be an option really, it was just what your next step would be. Some didn't make it all the way through, some flew through and never looked back. But I remember thinking that finally, I was an adult. Turning 18 didn't make me feel like an adult, but somehow graduating from high school meant that I could now sit at the adult table at Thanksgiving or Christmas (I'd later realize the kids table was way more fun and would want to go back to it). I was confident that college would be fun and "easy", but at the same time I was moving from a 57 member class to a class of thousands. I worried about fitting in. When the reality was, no buddy really cared in college. You made your own group of friends and that was really all you cared about.

I'm proud of SportyNiece for graduating and making it through high school in a time when stability wasn't something you knew or expected. I can tell you though, you couldn't pay me enough to go back to high school these days. No way. No how. I'd never make it. SportyNiece's future is yet to be determined. She's thinking Army reserves, for potentially becoming a Nurse. I say go for it. What better way to get your education than to let the military pay for it. Granted I'm not all that happy of where she may be shipped off to, but military would be good for her.

The rest of the weekend was party central at BigBro's abode. Graduation party for SportyNiece on Saturday and Father's Day party on Sunday. I'm pooped. And all I did was attend these parties.

S.H.I.T Day - Sure Happy It's Thursday!

So today is going relatively well. I've only wanted to kill a certain co-worker twice. Thankfully he's off at training at this minute or I'd likely be being hauled away in handcuffs for assault! And no, it's not Skippy - for a change.

Patron Saint has a meme tag on her blog and I thought it would be fun to do.

1) What were you doing 10 years ago?
I can barely remember what I did yesterday, so 10 years is going to be a struggle. Let's see that would make it 1998, right? That means about this time I was getting riffed (laid-off / fired depending on who you ask) at Geeksoft and sitting alone in my apt wondering if McDonald's was hiring. That was a sucky summer. My self-esteem was in the toilet, I had a horrible roommate that I just moved in with, and I was quickly going to be broke. BUT, shortly following my pity party I was hired as a contract employee back at Geeksoft. AND I think that was when I met one of the Mike's in my life that I was then attracted to and destined to have a broken heart over. Good times. I'm glad that's over.

2) What are 5 things on your to-do list today?
Only 5, hmmm. Well, getting up and getting to work wasn't really on my "list" of things to do today, but I feel very accomplished that I did in fact make it in. Other items include: writing 2 project plans (my favorite), completing my already late month end report (another "oh joy" favorite), attempting to build a project schedule in an almost impossible timeframe, and have lunch. I should mention that on my daily list is "go to Starbucks" and that one I can say has been checked off.

3) List some snacks you enjoy:
Does coffee count as a "snack"? If not, I love pretzels. Low in fat, high in sodium usually. I do like to get my not so good for me snacks on too. I'd like to change that, but have been bad at planning. My snack food mostly consists of chip like items, with a few, very few, vegetables mixed in.

4) What would you do with a billion dollars?
Wow. A billion dollars. I'd definitely quit my job. And I'd definitely travel. Perhaps even purchasing my very own airplane so I could travel in style. I think I'd pay the ParentalUnits back any "so called" money I still owe them. I'd buy a house, well, and a hanger to house the plan in. Realistically, if I had money that I could toss to the wind, I'd seriously consider opening a coffee shop on some trendy street here in Seattle. Oooo and I'd buy real Prada hand bags. I might even donate a few million to my favorite charities.

5) List the places you have lived:
You'd better go get a snack. It might be easier to list where I haven't lived.
Houston, TX
Albuquerque, NM
Minot, ND
Trenton, NJ (I think Trenton - I was too young to really know)
Great Falls, MT
Lancaster, CA
Lugano Switzerland
Guadalajara Mexico
Riyadh Saudi Arabia
Pullman, WA
Kirkland, WA
Renton, WA - couple different times/places
Kent, WA
Bellevue, WA - couple different times/places
Redmond, WA
And most recently, Lynnwood, WA

6) List the jobs you've had:
Barista, house cleaner, secretary, marketing coordinator, assistant account manager, resource coordinator, deli clerk (college), front desk receptionist (college), scrapbook store sales person (two different stores), international customer service, subsidiary liaison, customer experience manager, program administrator, channel mgmt project manager, and finally Project Management Goddess! I think I need to retire.

okay, now back to being a PM Goddess.

Traffic Jam of the Brain...Makes me want to Scream and Shout

Well, I'm officially back in Seattle. I'm "unofficially" back in Seattle - if you know what I mean. My brain seems full and is bulging at the seams. While I like being on vacation, and away from work, but man it sure is a lot more work when you get back.

My work and personal email is at an all time high. If you've sent me an email, expect a response by 2010.

The flight home was relatively uneventful. I was at the airport early - as usual - for my 7:30 AM flight out only to find out they moved the flight to 8:30AM. So I did what any normal, warm blooded, traveling princess would do, I found a Starbucks. My first cup of "real" coffee in as many days. Oh it tasted good.

I checked in, managed my way through a frighteningly quick security check point, and voila - another Starbucks. Well, don't mind if I do. Grande Vanilla Americano with Extra Room - part two.

But I wasn't done yet. In fact, at the point when I reached Denver and located a Starbucks almost immediately, I started thinking I might, just maybe, be addicted to Starbucks coffee. Maybe. There's a chance. I'm just sayin.

As I said, it sure feels good to be home. No matter how nice it is to go away for a bit, it sure is nice to come home. I've heard nothing but lip from the feline that resides here. You'd think he was left for weeks without food or water. Brat.

I was talked into seeing the worlds dumbest movie yesterday. The new Indiana Jones movie - my god - don't waste your time. While I was a big Indy fan, I looked forward to seeing this movie. But was sadly disappointed. No plot. Harrison might be just a bit too old now to play such a character. And the ridiculously outlandish things that took place in this film. Yes, I realize it's a movie, but at least make it some what real. If you haven't seen it yet, I would say, save your money. Go buy some coffee or something.

The ParentalUnits come in tomorrow. They'll be here a week or so for doctor visits and my niece's high school graduation. Hard to believe she's graduating since it was just yesterday she was born.

And just because you asked nice, the first Orlando photos (well the second) have been posted. Kennedy Space Center photos. Enjoy. Already posted were my "photography" photos.

I can't feel my face - Part DERRRR

Right, so you'd think I'd learn. But no...I try to keep up with UK Bloke #2 and his drinking fetish, and big shock, but I can't. OMG. The final night in the Land of Or and my face has mysteriously is numb again. I'm beginning to think it's something in the water - or gin. I can't quite tell which.

The show is done. At least for me. Next week a new, fresh set of people arrive to make the same bloody mistakes I've made this week. The food, the parties, the numb face...You'd think we'd learn. But them folks at Geeksoft can surely throw a party.

Last night was the "official" party for all attendees and staff folk like myself. Geeksoft rented Universal Studios and basically shut it down after hours so we could enjoy ourselves. I marveled at the expense the must go to just for the sake of entertaining us and their way of saying thank you. Upon entering the half empty park you are swarmed by people offering their goods. Not those goods, sheesh. I mean food. By the time we were just 20 steps in we were offered GYNORMOUS turkey legs, bags of chips, cotton candy, M&Ms, beer, wine, you name it, it was offered up. We, naturally felt obliged to take part. Our first stop, however was the VIP showing of T2 in 3D. Little did we know - or rather that we didn't read the invite - that it was an award ceremony for people we didn't know and could care less about. We it was free food and free drink. We couldn't say no.

After those festivities, we wondered the park with 6,000 of our closest friends. The main attraction, The New Simpson's Ride. First let me state, NOT a ride for kids. And second, WHAT A BLAST! It was awesome. But the best ride of the whole night was the MIB (that's Men In Black for those of you not in the know) - it's a ride that allows, you, the passenger to shoot aliens. Naturally the Pointy Head Boss who was sitting next to me was an alien, I had to fire. I got no points for that though. I felt quite smug exiting the ride seeing my score of 83,789, only to have my excitement dashed by UK Bloke #2 who had well over 150K. Kids!

Tonight we managed to - er um - stay relatively sober. Okay so not really, but I wanted to. My flight is at O dark Thirty tomorrow and the last thing I need is a hang over. But Bloke #2 - I admit I gave into peer pressure. He kept calling me a light weight. I couldn't say no. In my younger years, though, as Blueberry and any other college friends who might read this blog, could contest, I would have drank him into a stuper. But now, not so much.

And with that, I bid you farewell from the Land of Or. I'm pooped. I'm in serious need of a Starbucks and I can't wait to feel my face again.

That's a whole new stack of Monkeys

So the show is moving along. Nothing overly exciting to speak of other than my feet hurt. Which is really nothing new. Tradeshows are fun to me - mostly - but this one seems to be dull dull dull. The participants aren't really the folks we need to be talking to for our service, as they aren't decision makers. But we're talking anyhow and have found some great leads that will hopefully pay for us being down her drinking.

One thing I can say about Geeksoft tradeshows is they sure know how to do them up right. The after hour parties are so much fun. We had two such parties we had to attend last night. Yes I said "had" to. What? They twisted my arm. I, being the good workaholic, wanted to stay in my room and respond to the hundreds of emails that have now managed to clog my inbox, but noooo they demanded I go out. So what's a girl to do? I had to oblige.

We started at TGIFriday's for a team we've done work with. UK Bloke #1, The Pointed Head Boss and I sat in a room full of architects and ate appetizers and drank beer. Not so exciting. We mingled and ran into our "client" who promptly dismissed us and moved on to another group of folks. So we headed out to party #2 - which proved to be much more exciting.

UK Bloke #2 and Creed met us at this club. The bar was open - free drinks, the food was passed by staff, the music was pumping, and it was freaking hotter than hell outside. But we didn't seem to care. The bar tender at the bar we planted our selves at -which at first didn't make sense to me that we'd sit there - until I saw the "girls". Yah, I asked each man that was with us if they could tell me the color of this chicks eyes. The blank stares I got back were priceless. This girl was L.O.A.D.E.D with some big guns. Not real of course, but UK Bloke #2 - mid 20's - didn't care at all. But this bar tender said to me when I ordered my cosmopolitan "I make mine with cranberry juice - is that okay?" Erm....cosmos have cranberry juice in every single one I've tasted. But whatever. I said sure I sure I'd try something new. "Amber" (that's what I called her because I was sure if we put a poll in the middle of the bar she'd hop on it and show us her "other" talent.) dropped a drink in front of me that was weak but tasty.

Speaking of Amber, the best quote of the night came from Creed. Amber dropped by and asked how we liked the food. I told her to help herself to a nibble (which got laughs from UK Bloke #2) and she responded by saying if she ate that piece of chicken that we'd see her stomach in this tight shirt she was wearing. Creed pipes up and says, "Honey, it's not your stomach these guys are looking at." Classic.

So why a whole new stack of monkeys? Well, the most annoying and most popular give away at the show thus far are these freaking flying monkeys. I've got two now to bring back and annoy Sales with. If you click on the link you'll see how annoying the sound is.

Well, I'm off to another fun filled day of standing, looking gorgeous in a 10X10 booth. Later I'll chat about the "Booth Babes" next door.

I can't feel my face

OMG...I can't feel my face. I can barely type and see straight. What started out as a simple dinner has ended up with me not being able to feel my face.

I'm drunk. And instead of drunk dailin, I'm drunk blogging. Trouble. Serious trouble. I'm gonna be hurtin tomorrow. I hooked up with our UK folk and well, here I am at almost midnight and I can't feel my face. We started at Capital Grill with champagne...not my normal drink, but OMG so good. Then we had a fantastic bottle of wine. Followed by an after dinner drink, and then a drinks at Tommy Bahamas for a some sort or other popsicle martini thingy ma bob. Either way, I'm toast. Three of them at Tommy's ... we taxi'd our way to the hotel only to find our the hotel bar was closed. Bugger.

We had three drinks there, martini's I might add. And consequently -which I'm surprised I can spell - I'm hammered. Wait I already said that.

Tomorrow we set up shop at TechEd and oh. dear. god...if tonight is any indication of how the week is going to go...I'm in trouble. Big drunkin trouble.

Drunk in Orlando - over and out.

Cap'n Jack and one single solitary gator

Greetings from the Tiki Bar. With a Stella in hand, I invite you to another fun filled and exciting blog of Jenn in Orlando.

SLSIL and I decided at the late hour of 5:30pm last night as we ate a pizza from Uno's pizzeria that we should go on an airboat ride today and see a real live gator. I immediately jumped at the chance. SLSIL isn't a huge fan of gators, in fact she hates them, so I figured we'd never have a chance. She had a glass of wine in her so she was having a weak moment. I jumped at the chance and called Big Toho Airboat rides and made a reservation. Then I called them back to see how much they were. Reasonable and we were "gARANteed an aLLeeGator" sighting. (You need to read that with a thick Louisiana accent to get the full experience of "Jerry" who answered the phone and took our reservations.).

The deal was done. We had our appt to got gator watching. I only hoped they weren't watching us and licking their lips as they were checking out which one of us would make the best meal.

We were up at the crack of dawn today, right...the crack of dawn...that's funny. We were up at 8am, which for the loud obnoxious people who came home late last night and woke us up, it was early (and the little devil in me was tempted to slam our door and make as much noise as possible - but I chose to be nice, for a change.) We made our stop at Bucky's and we were off. Being the navi"gator" I had my directions in hand and we headed south to Lake Toho-something-or-other. We had just a small glitch in finding the place, but we prevailed and had time to wonder around the dock area for 30 minutes as I melted in the freakin heat. Turn the oven off already. Sheesh.

Then like a byplane landing came our airboat. 600HP of pure goodness. As Cap'n Jack put it, "This sucker is Baaad!" We hopped onboard, did our very little safety speech and we were off. Oh. My. God. This airboat kicked some serious ass. That's me, by the way, with Cap'n Jack in the middle of the swamp where he totally could have robbed us or fed us to the gators that weren't out.

What a beautiful area - in a very different way. I mean, being from the pine tree capital of the world, it was bizarre to see green stuff growing on top of the water. Wild birds everywhere. Oh and before I forget, I need to make a correction to my blog yesterday when I said it was a crane eating the lizards, I was mistaking. It's an Egret.

We only saw one alligator, and you can't even tell it's an alligator from my photo, but if you look real close to the big brown blob to the left of the photo, that's an alligator, who, upon snapping this shot, disappeared into the green murky water.

Cap'n Jack took us all over looking for gators, but it was way too warm for them to be toward the top of the water. Being odd cold blooded little creatures and all, they prefer cool areas.

The reality was, even though we didn't see as many gators as I would have preferred, the boat ride was an absolute blast.

Tomorrow vacation comes to an end and I have to think about actually logging onto the computer to *gasp* read work email. Ugh. I can honestly say, for the first time in my life, I didn't bother checking email once. Well, okay I checked it, but didn't really do any work.

Celebration and such

So after I posted last night I had a run in with a crane. Well, actually I didn't run into it, but it was within touching distance to me. As I followed the crane with my camera it ate 4 lizards. And by ate I mean swallowed whole. As it swallowed the little devil I could see it wiggle down the cranes throat...totally grossed me out, but it was fascinating all the same. If you look closely you can see one lizard in it's mouth.

After witnessing that, and after two beers at happy hour, SLSIL and I walked across the street to Fish Bone and had a spectacular dinner. I had a steak that was like butter...so tender and delicish.

This morning I actually slept in. No kidding. I got up at about 9am. I never sleep that late. So SLSIL and I got up, headed to Bucky's and then off to Celebration. It's this cute little Stepfordish town. It really feels like a movie set, but some very cute shops. We met up with some old family friends from way back when. The Rahbar's and my family go back almost 30 years. Seems impossible to think when I first met them their youngest were barely two and now they're in their 30's with children. Which seems impossible because I've not aged. Huh! Anyhow, we were treated to a fantastic lunch at a little Italian restaurant. In fact, I have some on my shirt right now...thought I'd savor the moment and bring some home with me.

You can't see it but behind us is a sign warning people to not aggravate the alligators. Really? You think?

After departing Celebration - well after stopping at the Bucky's again for an ice tea - SLSIL and I headed off to Downtown Disney. Disney is all over down here and I'm convinced Orlando would barely be a blip on any map if Disney wasn't here. Anyhow, we just wanted to wonder through downtown Disney. Full of shops with just about anything Disney you want. Walking through we found a Ghiradelli chocolate shop. We just had to go in. I bought some chocolate peanut butter bars that were ZOMG so good - they gave us a sample and I just couldn't pass it down. I bought an extra to bring back with me to work and I might share with PMDude...maybe. But then SLSIL says to me, "Have you ever had a chocolate soda?" Er - a who and what now? Soshe twisted my arm and said we had to have one. Who was I to say no? Apparently they date back to the good old days and fountain drinks. So I couldn't possibly pass up an opportunity to have a chocolate soda. And when they asked if I wanted chocolate or vanilla ice cream in it I knew I was in for a treat. A treat indeed. It was delicious! I decided I should bring some home on my shirt for later too.

I'm a Space Princess

When I left work on Tuesday afternoon, heading to vacation, it reminded me of the last days of school before the summer. The air seemed stale and full of promise of the months to come. I was so ready to be on vacation. I promised myself to not check email – though secretly I might just peek. I hopped in the Stang, blasted the music – as much as these old ears could handle, and off I went. I got about 15 miles away – almost home – and I realized I left my wallet at work. Typical. Turn around and head back.

I had done most my packing the day before so I really didn’t have anything to do except clean the apartment slightly since the parental units would be staying there over the weekend. If Pookie wasn’t going to be traumatized enough by me being gone, he was going to have two standard poodles as housemates for the weekend.

Up at the butt crack of before dawn and off to the airport. The airport was absolutely packed. I couldn’t believe how many people were there. I knew it might be busy, but not packed. I had no worries though had plenty of time to get through security (and for the record, why are people so stupid? I mean really. You’re standing in line. The recording is looping telling you to take you freakin shoes off – but noooo there’s always a couple of people who seemed surprised that they have to take their shoes off. ) Through security and off to Bucky’s for coffee.

The flight to Houston was uneventful. I slept. Steppin Out 2 was the movie and I figured I could miss that. But the flight from Houston to Orlando was quite eventful. I got to sit in first class. This young Indian family wanted to sit together so the husband asked if I wanted his seat instead. I was feeling oddly generous so I said sure. Then he said it was in first class…Um HELL Yah I’ll switch with ya. I got water in a GLASS with ice, a free bloody mary, warm towelette, and a wide seat for my derriere. Too bad it was the short leg of the trip, but I’m not complaining.

I got down to baggage claim and for all of you who made fun of my pink with white polka dots suitcase, let me just say, I recognized it from three carousels down! Waiting for SLSIL and then we’re off. Orlando will never be the same.

That was yesterday. Today is , well today. Thursday. It's sunny and 91 outside as I sit poolside and write this blog. Beer in hand (well not in hand because I can't type then - but not far from the hand...ooo hold please...gotta take a sip)

Anyhow, SLSIL and I got up this morning, not too early I might add, and headed east to the Kennedy Space Center. Oh. My. God is that the coolest place on earth. We took the Nasa Up Close tour, which took us all over. We got to see both shuttle - or sorry they call them orbiters - launching pads, the big ass building they put the rockets and shuttles together in, and of course, critters. Not that Nasa is special for critters, but the space center sits on a wildlife refuge. Very cool. On our way out we saw two gators - much to SLSIL's concern. She's not a fan of the gators. Then we saw a turtle, two or three eagles, and a couple of mating ugly ass bugs. Bug P*rn oh goody. And before you ask, yes I did add to my pink collection by purchasing the pink Space Princess Travel mug. I've been thinking about buying a travel mug anyhow to do my part with saving the environment - I just needed to find the right one...and so I have.

The tour through the center was especially cool because there's a shuttle launch for this Saturday. Sadly no tickets in my price range are available and as far as I can tell I'm not a VIP. Bummer. We couldn't see the actual shuttle on the pad because it's being prepped, but you can see the big ass gas tank.

This is the big ass building (BAB) below [BTW NASA is FULL of acronyms. I thought Geeksoft was bad. I now know where they learned it from]. Just to put it in perspective, each star on the flag is 6 feet wide. And I'm not sure it'll come out in the blog, but in the middle section near the NASA logo you can see a straight line - if you look real close you might be able to see two fools up there painting.

Tomorrow we're "shopping" and having lunch with some old family friends of ours. I can't wait to see them, it's been years. Well, the Tiki Bar is calling me back to drink more beer, so I'm going to sign out for now.

One and one is sometimes eleven

It seems a lifetime since I last wrote. I was most certainly in a funk and writing helped me get out of it. Wednesday and Thursday I worked a total of 30 hours, by Friday I was indeed fried. But I have lived to tell the tale. I did finally get some positive feedback, though not from who I expected, but none the less it felt good to know I wasn't in it alone. And thanks to everyone who passed on their words of encouragement, it helped.

I got home Friday around 2:30 and was so tired I wasn't sure how I was to possibly walk 15 miles. This weekend was our "test" in that we wanted to do 15 miles back to back. After looking at google pedometer we found it was more likely 12 for Friday. Perfect. Bigbro walked from his work and so by the time he met us he'd already gone 10 miles. It was sunny with the threat of overcast and maybe rain. But off we went. I took my 5 hour energy in my water - so as to not get all weird like I did the first time I took it. So despite the fact I wanted to do nothing but nap, I strapped on my shoes and I was off.

About 10 minutes into it the rain started. It wasn't a down pour, but a constant rain. It was miserable. We debated on calling BigBro's wifeepoo to pick us up, but by the time we thought that we figured we only had about 4 miles left. I was feeling surprisingly well considering the week I had. And then...

About 2 miles out I hit the wall. That invisible "i can't go any further" wall. BigBro gave us two options at that point. We could either take this ENORMOUS hill or walk 14 more blocks on flat land. Clearly I was delusional because I suggested the hill. At some point BigBro said (though as I understand it now he said it BEFORE we took off I just either ignored it or missed it) that the hill was about 12 blocks long. erm, what? Ugh. The first part of this hill was straight up. Shut up I know hills are generally straight up, but I mean STRAIGHT up...it felt like climbing a ladder. (Drama queen alert) - I thought I was going to die. But alas, I got to the top and that good old feeling of accomplishment greeted me. It was all down hill from there. My right foot was hurting like crazy. The start of that blasted ball of my foot blister. I had a bad feeling about being able to get up and walk again on Saturday.

So Saturday morning I tried to "fix" it by putting puffy moleskin on both balls. I mean both balls of my feet you pervert. But even then I wasn't sure. It hurt. And we all know my threshold of pain is like - well it doesn't exist. I'll admit it. I'm a baby.

Got to BigBro's house, we decided on a route and we were off. Coffee in hand, 5 hour energy in my water and I was ready. The foot was hurting. About 2 miles we came across a Joe's sporting good store, so we decided we should go in and get some medical tape and maybe something to help cushion my foot. And wouldn't you know it, they had PINK prewrap and pink medical tape. Well, I couldn't not get pink. So now I have some very cool pink tape to go with all the other pink items I've collected in the past year.

BigBro got out his second skin, gause and bandaids. We cushioned up the right foot and wrapped it in perty pink tape and we were off. It felt good really. The weird thing is if you stop, the first 5 steps when you start again hurt like hell. But then it's like it goes numb or something, but its fine. So we walked on.

At a certain point we hit a park in Seattle. We were going to walk to the water and come back up, about another mile on our trek. I decided to stay at the top and rest the foot and stretch a bit. BigBro and Blueberry were off. By the time they got back, I was glad I didn't bother. They were both panting as the hike back up was quite the hike. Finally, I made a good solid decision that I was sure would save my foot.

We turned to head home. The sun was high in the sky by this point and it was warm, but a nice warm. Around 70 which in my opinion is perfect to walk in. A heck of a lot better than Friday night's rain walk. At this point though my left foot was starting to be vocal about all the attention the right foot was getting. I decided to ignore it and just keep on. Maybe not the best decision, but I just wanted to get home.

As we headed up this hill, there on the horizon we saw it. 7-11....ahhhh, our hot dog break. Thank god. Now generally speaking our hot dog breaks are quick. I mean after all we are stopping at a convenience store who's entire purpose is for people to get in and out pretty quick. This 7-11 apparently didn't get that memo. My. god. It took us 20 minutes I swear to get our dogs, and get out of there. The clerk was no where to be found when we got in. Several other "characters" were in the store with us. We weren't exactly in a great part of town and we got to experience all the "winners" from that area. Drunk man 1 decided to just walk out with his beer since the clerk was no where around. As he left two meth girls walked in on a "munchy" break. Still no clerk. I was peaking into the back rooms and finally she came out of the bathroom. It was pretty clear pretty quick that she wasn't playing with a full deck and she confirmed it when she was trying to ring Blue up for her hot dog. Bigbro and I gave up waiting for the clerk so we went and decorated our dogs and just stood in the back eating them. We were almost done before Blue got back and we just stood and watched the scene of crazy that was in the store. Then BigBro and I had to check out - my god. The clerk couldn't figure out how to ring bro's dogs up since they were a two-fer. He got a deal on it too...I made mine relatively simple for her, but still. So off we went.

In the end I did 11 Friday night and 11 on Saturday. Bigbro and Blue did a bit more since they walked to the park and back. It was a good test, and I really need to figure out what to do about my feet. It sucks really because the legs don't hurt, and aren't sore...so if I can figure out the feet I'd be good to go.

I'm finally sitting and resting. I was in bed by 9pm last night and was out with no effort. I had to get my energy back since today was going to be a full one too. But in a good way. Picking up TheNiece for a pedicure and lunch. I won't be getting an "official" pedicure, but a soak and a massage...which is fine by me.

And as if my life isn't already busy, but I leave for Orlando on Wednesday for a much needed vacation. SLSIL will be meeting me - Yay - and we'll be getting into some trouble. Then I have to be at a tradeshow for 5 days. All in all it will put me behind at work, but I'll be where its warm and not in Seattle.

Just How Bad Can it get?

I'm not sure yet, but I'll let you know.

I'm feeling, of late, like a beaten down, stomped on, abused little kitten. "They" say - whomever "they" are - that when you're down you only have up to go. I'm not 100% sure about that, but am trying to hold out hope.

It seems that life is a constant ebb and flow of good times and bad times. Any time now I can see the good times. Really, any time now...a.n.y.t.i.m.e! I'm still waiting.

I'm in a situation where even when I think I'm doing my best and trying to do my best, that inevitably a negative is found in my performance. I feel like no matter what I do, nothing I do will ever be good enough or meet the extraordinary expectations that appear to be just set high enough for me to not reach. I can't help but wonder, what it would feel like to get a "good job" once in a while? What does that "approval" feel like?

I am, generally, the first to admit when I need to grow. When feedback is given to me, I generally take it seriously and make strides to "fix" whatever it is that appears to be broken. It's one of the most redeeming qualities that I happen to like about myself. But being forced to change the way you do things, and knowing that you're under a microscope while you make those changes, just lends to making mistakes. The constant walking on egg shells and constantly having to prove myself is not something I do well. And what may have ordinarily been a "mistake" is taken out of context and blown up to appear that you are incompetent. I'm not I swear! I used to think that I was good at what I did and now am questioning it. I hate that. I hate that. I mean, let me learn. Let me grow and let me make mistakes and look at them in context to what I've done well.

And what about my successes? Do they mean nothing? Do they get swept under a carpet and not mentioned?

I will be the first to admit I am far from perfect. But now I'm wondering if I'm ever going to be close to acceptable.

I probably shouldn't post this, but it's after 9pm and I'm just leaving work and frankly I just don't care right now.

And don't worry about me. I'll come out the other end and be fine. By the time most of you read this I will have gotten some sleep, have had a 5 freakin A.M. con call, and moved on hopefully. I'm just feeling beaten to a pulp right now and find the only way to feel better is to write about it. Though if anyone has any advice on how to "impress" and "convince" others of my greatness, please email me - or post to the blog.

To lift my spirits though, I peaked to see who won American Idol. I've been accused lately of being a closet idol watcher. I'm not, I swear, but it just so happens that a Mr. Hotty McSexyson is a contestant...and boy can he ever sing. And thankfully to some very serious voting that went on over there yonder in a small gardenish state, Mr. McSexyson won. Thanks Jersey!

Pet Peevesapalooza

I have several pet peeves. I don't mean to, but people in today's world just make it so easy to have them. And really they're not so much as "peeves" as "people really piss me off."

I'm in training for two days. Thrilling, overly exhilarating Financial Fundamentals for non financial minded managers...or something like that. It's learning how to speak accountant and finance. See, our CEO is an accountant and I need to learn how to speak his language. He and I are definitely same planet / different worlds sorta thing.

It's been my experience that many of the "professional" training courses I've participated in are full of people who have little, to no understanding of consideration towards the other participants. For example, pet peeve # 14758.

Tardiness. I get so annoyed when people come into a class late. First and foremost, you know what time the class starts. You get it in your registration brochure AND the registration confirmation AND the ticket stub thingy you have to bring with you to paid. Yet, people still show up late. What is that all about? I'm perpetually early. It's both a curse and a blessing. I just think that if someone is waiting on me, I should respect them enough to be on time. And furthermore, when you're excused for a break, and the instructor says "let's be back by a quarter after." She doesn't mean half past! I'm just sayin'. These people are harshing my mellow.

Pet Peeve #78946

Separate conversations while the instructor is instructing. I can understanding asking, "what'd she say?" Or "what page?" But full on conversations? Come on! You - over there in the cute pink skirt! Shut the heck up! You're voice carries and no one cares about your tooth pain. I'm just sayin'.

Pet Peeve #89765 (Yes that means I have over eighty-nine thousand pet peeves. Not really. I'm really quite nice, at times. I just have a low tolerance for people who don't respect others around them). ahem.

Right, so back to my pet peeve. Asking questions just for the sake of hearing your own voice. Um yah, like that question about personal expenses has any relevance on our current topic of depreciation.

So how exactly do so many people become so inconsiderate? I just gotta know.

Oh, and when the instructor says, "Please turn off your cell phones and pagers." she's talking to you stinky boy in row 3.

ahhh, now that that's off my chest.

I had a weird random thing happen this morning. Actually wasn't so much that it "happened", but that I noticed it. There was an alarmingly large amount of white cars on the road today. As I drove in to the Emerald City I noticed that every car around me and in my line of sight was white. What does that mean I wonder? An omen? Or more likely I was in some vortex or something that caused the color in all vehicles to disappear so my baby could appear to be so beautiful and Wow'ing.

Right. Moving on...

I got to downtown early this morning because I had to take a presales call before the class. I parked several blocks away to 1) save on parking and 2) get in some exercise. As I walked out of the very conveniently located Starbucks right by where I parked that smell hit me. The smell I think every big city has in the early morning. That smell of energy building. It's fresh, but yet you can feel it. Oh man, I love that time of morning in the big city (well, Seattle).

I was shocked at how fast today went. I was sure sitting through AccountANT speak was going to just about kill me. My process orientated mind loved how exact accounting is. I mean really, it's the answer to just about any question you might have about a company. But the mathy side just baffles me sometimes. But alas, the light bulb went on. Did you see it? A bright light coming from the North? That was me getting it! Finally! That double entry thing - makes perfect sense. It's really yin/yang. Every action has a reaction.

And with that, I'm gonna become a CPA. Okay, not really. But I almost had ya didn't I? Stop laughing, I could be a CPA. I might, after all, need a career change here very soon.

And finally, the Photo Safari of the weekend. I've really saved the best rambling for last. Sunday was a beautiful day. PhotoGods met up and walked through the botanical gardens snapping contest winning photos right and left. I had one personal favorite.

quad, two-pump vanilla, one and one-quarter pump sugar free hazel nut, latte with 1/2 soy, 1/2 nonfat, extra hot, with three ice cubes

Right! I'm not making that up by the way. My drink? Grande Vanilla American with Xtra room. Simple, to the point, and I don't have to take a breath while ordering. The drink in the title? Ordered at a local Starbucks by a crazy, one and one quarter full deck player customer. I had to ask the barista to write it down for me because there was no way I'd remember all those adjectives.

I've been reading a book about Starbucks of late called The Starbucks Experience. The book is written as a "business" book to explain why Starbucks, as a company, is so successful. The book states that Starbuck's success is primarily on the way the treat their "partners" (employees). The executives live the vision, and the partners see that and live the vision too. What a concept! Say what you will about Starbucks, but their business practices with their partners is quite revolutionary. Made me go out to their website to see if they have any project management openings. What? The partners get ONE FREE pound of coffee a week!

Here are some interesting facts about the company. You can likely find a Starbucks within 5 miles of your home (that's assuming you are living in an city/town - the small town livers need not apply). If you had invested $10,000 in Starbucks in 1992, your investment would be worth approximately $650,000 today! Starbucks stock rose 5,000%! AND, today Starbucks opens five new stores a day! I know most of you are like, 'Dah', but really think about that. 5 stores a day! Think about the impact that has on the company, the communities, the world, and more importantly me. I mean, that means no matter where I travel, I can find a Starbucks.

In Seattle, there seems to be a almost dislike for Starbucks by some. It's a huge company who has taken over the streets of Seattle. We have several small coffee shops that offer some great coffee and a great atmosphere. I don't think there's anything wrong with those shops either. In fact, I find myself on a regular basis sitting at one, but it offers me a different experience. When I go to one of those coffee shops I'm never really sure what my coffee is going to be like. Starbucks, to me, is consistent. I can almost guarantee that if I go into any store and order my Grande Vanilla Americano with Xtra room, I'll get the same thing I got yesterday at a different store.

"My" Starbucks, not only knows my drink when I step to the counter, they know I have a registered Starbucks card, they know I am walking in the 3-day and ask how it's going, they know that on Fridays I may be tempted to buy a Top Pot donut, and they know that there's at least a 50% chance I'll be back in the afternoon. And almost on a regular basis, I get an extra shot in the morning (which is 4 shots in my Americano - which PMDude LOVES when that happens because that makes me - well more fun.)

Yesterday was a beautiful day here. A day in which I almost died. Okay, maybe not, but it sure felt that way. I taught myself a very valuable lesson yesterday. It's one of those things you "know" but for some reason you don't appreciate until you're in a learning situation and you are forced to get it. Yah, that was me yesterday.

BigBro, Blue and I took off for a 16 mile walk yesterday at 6:30AM. As we left the apartment it was already almost 60 degrees. It was going to be a hot one. In about 7 miles I hadn't even drank 24 oz of water. In heat. I felt like crap. I couldn't even fathom walking another step. Thankfully, on the horizon was a Starbucks (Yay). I sat and drank a 20 oz water, bought another bottle (I dropped my bottle of water in the toilet - don't ask), filled it with zip fiz, changed the socks and rested for about 20 minutes. I felt better. But as we walked on, again, I barely drank. It was so hot, small breeze only every now and then, that I should have been chugging water. I was clearly dehydrated. At a certain point, I bid farewell to BigBro and Blue - I zigged to the right and they went on to finish the walk. I managed to find my way home. Stopping twice to rest in less than a half mile from my apartment. I was dying. I was panting when walking on flat ground. I had no water with me since I had chugged the rest of my 24 oz bottle I had filled up at Starbucks 6 miles back. I was proving a point to myself and I gotta tell ya, there must be a better way.

I got home, somehow, chugged two more 20oz of water sat on the floor and panted and slowly cooled down. Between the sun and lack of water, I was sure that I would die right there and ten on my cat fur covered carpet. Lesson Learned: MUST. DRINK. WATER. I quite frankly felt like a loser to some extent because my own stupidity got in the way of me training, but I've learned and will do what I need to in order for this to NOT happen again. Blue and BigBro ended up going 17 total and I ended with 15 total (give or take).

Today it's another beautiful day, cooler, but beautiful. Today is another Photo Safari with the PhotoGods. We're heading to the Bellevue Botanical Gardens for flower shots...Yay! My favorite! Oh, but have to stop at Starbucks on my way though, so I'd better get going.