Karen's Happiness in 2006

Life With No Sleep

2006-06-08T05:04:00.000-07:00

I would love to read a study about sleep-deprived individuals. I think our house fits within that category!

We each got 2 hours of sleep last night! You see, I didn't get back from Traverse City (which is so beautiful!!!) until 10 PM. Then, Karen Jr. was so excited for us to go on our trip to Manhattan. So, she took her shower and then I took a shower (after riding in the plane all day - yucky!). Apparently, she had been chomping at the bit to pack all day. We started packing her suitcase at 11 PM. We weren't just packing for this trip, we were also packing for Bentwater! We were finished packing her all up around midnight. I gave up on trying to figure out what to put in her carry-on and that is where Billy stepped-in to guide the packing. I had to unpack my suitcase just to repack my suitcase. I was done packing around 1 AM and then was so awake that I didn't fall asleep until after 2 AM. Wouldn't be so bad, but we the alarm went off at 4 AM so that we could leave the house by 5 AM.

You will never believe this, we were actually sitting in the Prius and backing up at 4:59 AM out of the driveway! That NEVER happens in our house ( or not with two girls about to leave for NYC). Karen Jr. woke up to her alarm and had her clothes on, teeth brushed and hair pulled back before I even thought it was time to go get her!! She told us that she hadn't slept at all and I know that is true as I heard her in the room talking to her stuffed animals or playing tic-tac-toe in the air with them!! Amazingly, they win sometimes at the game :-)

We got to the airport just fine. She is eating Wendy's and I just had a bagel from the President's Club.... we are chilling and watching the planes land and take off out our prime window view!!

Stay tuned for more of our adventures in NYC!!!

Will I Crack Under the Pressure?

2006-06-06T21:29:00.000-07:00

Well, I made it! I have had a crazy week and it is only Wednesday (12:28).

- Yesterday, I gave a two hour speech in front of 150 people.
- Today, I worked non-stop from 8 AM until 2 PM. You see, I had a 4 PM flight from Houston to Detroit and then on to Traverse City, Michigan. I am a lot like my dad as I believe you should be to the airport at least 2 hours early. Well, I wasn't even leaving work until 2 hours before my flight! I made it to the gate in the early stages of boarding! I had a 2 hour layover in Detroit (The NWA World Traveler Club is really nice) and then on to my flight for Traverse City. I arrived at my hotel at 11:53 PM. This has been a very long day!

So, how will I possibly crack under pressure? I flew all the way up here for a two hour meeting on Wed. and then will fly home and arrive at my house around 10 PM. Well, Karen Jr. and I are leaving the next morning (Thursday) at 8 AM for a long weekend in Manhattan!!! As she told Billy, "Can you say Bankrupt?" He doesn't trust us on our own.... boy is that the wrong place to send us alone or what? Well, I have a presentation due on Monday at 8 AM. Not just any presentation, a 15 slide presentation and won't have any information until after my meetings tomorrow.... how much work can I get done on the plane home and the plane up to NYC? I sure hope a lot as I WANT/NEED a Vacation!!!

Hopefully, I will post tomorrow on what Traverse City is like!!

A fun-filled Saturday

2006-06-03T13:18:00.000-07:00

Our house was mighty lazy today! Billy woke up at 7 AM to feed the cat and then we all fell back to sleep until 9:00!! We didn't do a lot and then at noon decided that we better do something, so off we went!!

Our first stop was Sonic! Here was the order: Large tater tots and Coke (Karen Jr.), Kid's meal grilled cheese (Karen), and grilled cheese with mozzarella sticks (Billy). Then, we were off to the library. Karen Jr. signed up for the reading club and read 2 of the 20 books she needs to read in order to get a trophy at the end of summer!! Of course, I read magazines while Billy learned French online (we have to get ready somehow!!). After that, we went to Target for clothes shopping. You see, Karen Jr. is all excited for Summer Camp at Bentwater with Mimi and PawPaw J. In fact, she wrote them a card on Thursday to tell them how excited she was and that they needed to IGNORE all of my rules that I had given. Rules are as follows: (1) No playing with Adi; (2) No sleeping with Adi; (3) They aren't allowed to spoil her (4) No chocolate chip cookies and ice cream at night; and (5) No golf cart rides! Can you believe she didn't like those rules? Oh well!!! She is very excited and asked today if she could pack her bags for Summer Camp today!

We are going to Church tonight and then off to dinner. Billy is golfing in the morning, so we are going tonight!

Bye!

Hump Day

2006-05-31T19:50:00.000-07:00

We made it to Wednesday!! A couple of cool things for today:

1. On this one tank of gas in my brand new Prius, I have gone 412 miles and still have about another 75 miles!

2. We are at the middle of the week!

3. I spent some good quality family time with my family watching X-Men III

4. I had a super nutritious dinner of a small bag of popcorn with extra butter on the top... yummy!! Of course, a large Diet Coke. Have you ever noticed that? You can order a heart attack on a plate and then say..... Diet Coke, please! You know, save those extra 150 calories for dessert!!

As you can tell, not a lot going on..... But, I sure am glad it is Wed.

Oh yes, have any of you ever been to Traverse City, Michigan? I just found out that I am going there next week for less than 24 hours!

A Rainy/Cloudy Day in Katy

2006-05-28T14:00:00.000-07:00

It has been a really rainy/cloudy day today! We woke up and went to church and then stopped off at Sam's Wholesale. I love Perrier water and you can get 24 bottles for $12.87!

Afterwards, Karen Jr. went down the street to play with the neighbors and Billy mowed the yard right before the rain started! I stayed inside and washed clothes, dusted and went through my magazines for recycling.

Now, we are getting ready to go to a pool party, which will be indoors at the home of my boss. It should be fun. He just put in a new media room and surround sound. I think the guys will be entertained, for sure!

A Wonderful Saturday!

2006-05-27T14:38:00.000-07:00

Yesterday was absolutely a fun day! I woke up at 4 and went to the airport and made it home from my RT flights around 2 PM. I stopped off at the Sonic after leaving the airport. Have you ever eaten at a Sonic before? It is so yummy! They have the best grilled cheese sandwich on Texas Toast. After that, Karen Jr and I went to look for her a swimsuit and running shoes. Well, we found a lot more than that! We bought two swimsuits, a pair of tennis shoes, a pair of Crocks and socks! She is set for summer.

Speaking of Crocks, I have never seen them before. Last weekend, Karen Jr and my mom were talking about them. Apparently, this is the NEW thing! They sure look comfortable to me.

Then, we went to my niece's high school graduation and her parents treated us all to Olive Garden. My belly was totally full afterwards!

We just put the brownies in the oven and then we are off to a neighbor's party. They just completely redecorated their downstairs - - granite, hardwood floors, bathrooms and everything! I must be honest.... I cleaned my house so well this morning. You see, I knew what would happen. I would go over there and then come home and wish I had new stuff.... So, I am at least coming home to a VERY clean home!!

Enjoy your Saturday everyone!

A Four Day Weekend!!

2006-05-25T19:08:00.000-07:00

Yeah, it is a four day weekend! I am so excited that it is finally here! So, what all am I going to do during the four days?

Friday - Fly to Austin for 2 hours to turn around and come back home, go see Billy at work, get Karen Jr. a new swimsuit and go to my niece's high school graduation.

Saturday - Get a tan at our gym that has an outdoor and indoor swimming pool with two huge curving waterslides and go to our neighbor's house for dinner. They just had their kitchen redone with granite, etc.

Sunday - Go to church and get a tan again (if I am not burned to a crisp!) and then go to my bosses' house for a pool party. No, I won't be in a swimsuit. There is just something odd about wearing a swimsuit around people you work with.... No thanks!

Monday - Hmmmmmmmmmmm..... not really sure!

Enjoy your evening and talk to you tomorrow!!

Karen

A wonderful gourmet dinner!

2006-05-23T18:32:00.000-07:00

I got a phone call this afternoon from my husband asking if I would be home around 7. I told him that I thought 7 would be reasonable. Of course, I had to ask.... why are you asking?! He said that he was cooking dinner. Wow! Cooking dinner on a 'school night' is virtually unheard of in our house. I asked him what we were having and he said: Rosemary lamb chops with a basalmic vinegar glaze and made from scratch mashed potatoes. That is like my FAVORITE meal! I hung up the phone thinking..... what anniversary have I totally forgotten about? All day, I just couldn't think of it.

I got home at 7:15 and he was already in the kitchen going to town! While he was cooking, I went in the bedroom and looked at the engagement card he and Karen Jr. gave me when we got engaged along with the roses and bears. I am glad I looked.... this is our engagement anniversary. I came out and told him thank you for the wonderful dinner on our engagement anniversary 2 years ago, etc. He looked at me like I was nuts as he didn't realize it was our engagement!!! He he he!!! Anyway, the dinner was fabulous and followed up nicely with Creme Brulee!

I hope everyone had a great day! By the way, the recipe came from a blog on the Houston Chronicle that he found today!

The picture above is from our engagement. You see, Karen Jr was about 7 at the time and she loved (still does!) going to Build-A-Bear Workshop. They went and got a cat that looked like Amber in a wedding dress(our cat), a dog named Wags in a tux (what we always said we would name a dog if we got one) and a small dog to represent Karen Jr. We were all covered!!! Boy, I sure was surprised!!

Man.... That was a long Friday/Weekend!

2006-05-22T18:17:00.000-07:00

Just kidding. Hello everyone! I sure have missed you all! I am back from a 'hiatus' on lots of different things. After reflecting, blogging is one of the things that I enjoy most out of my day. But, I forced myself to take some time off.

To be honest, I am not sure what all I did during these last few weeks. I know a few things: lots of family time, lots of work and lots of trips to Calgary. But, my husband went with me on the last trip and that was lots of fun!

So, Billy (my husband) told me that I had gotten kind of in a 'rut' lately. He told me that I needed to read Jim's blog (yes, my husband has still been reading all of the blogs). He was really impressed with Jim writing 3 things that he is thankful for each day. I must admit, I have been thinking about this a lot lately. I wasn't sure if I really had 3 NEW things to say each day. But, that forced me to really step back and look at my day and truly 'take it in' rather then it taking me in!!!

Well, I AM BACK! I can't wait to go out and read everyone's blog and catch-up! I sure have missed everyone.

Karen

A Friday Night of Fun

2006-03-24T14:49:00.000-08:00

Yipee..... it is Friday!!!!

I got off work today at 2 PM and went for a 3 mile run! It is so beautiful outside with not a cloud in the sky!

So, where are we off to for our fun filled Friday night? A Motley Crue concert! Talk about a blast from the past. I have my leg warmers dusted off and am getting my hair spiked now (just kidding!). Should be fun! Last I heard, Tommy Lee would be there as the drummer!

Have a good Friday night!

I AM ALIVE!!!

2006-03-22T15:55:00.000-08:00

Hi everyone- Sorry for taking forever to blog... Things have been absolutely nuts.

So, I had vacation time from Wed-Fri. I have decided that there is no such thing as vacation, but I have learned some tricks! Fill up your inbox beyond the quota and you can only receive emails on your BlackBerry and you can't send anything. The down side of it all..... there is a phone on it! Another lesson learned, go someplace where reception is not picked up! I am not sure where that is considering that no matter what country I have been in, my BlackBerry always works!!

So...... here is a recap!

Wednesday- We went to Austin and to San Marcos for lots of shopping!!! I just love the Kate Spade store, Neiman Marcus, L'Occitane and Ann Taylor.... Oh yes, Restoration Hardware and Pottery Barn!!! We all had a great time. Karen Jr. and I got tons of stuff, but daddy found nothing. Wed. was great.... they couldn't contact me as my inbox reached it's quota and I couldn't send out emails.

Thursday- Worked for about 8 hours throughout the day. But, I took Karen Jr and the neighbor girl to Mad Potter where we painted our own pottery, shopping at the Galleria and then for sushi at Azuma! I LOVE sushi. In fact, I have the local place programmed in my phone for to-go orders. Unfortunately, BlackBerry and phone worked!

Friday- Karen Jr. and I went all over. Central Market, McDonald's, Tuesday Morning, Oshman's, Paulie's for decorated sugar cookies and the Yoga store. Oh yes, we had a family dinner at the table and we played board games afterwards. It was really a lot of fun!!

Saturday- We went and saw 'She's The Man.' This was the cutest movie ever!!! I absolutely loved it! Where we went, it is called The Alamo Drafthouse. You sit in a movie theatre, but have a table in front of you. You can order food and drinks all through the movie!!

Sunday- Church and I worked for 14 hours.

Monday through today were absolutely horrible. I got to work each day at 6 AM only to leave at 1 AM each morning. I have been going off NO sleep. Literally, it has been horrible! Oh well, I got my project done and the load should lighten here... whatever! I always say that and have given up on that happening!!

Have a good evening everyone!!

On Holiday!

2006-03-14T19:51:00.000-08:00

It is official.... I am on holiday!!! Yeah! Not sure really what all we will do for the rest of the week, but I am sure I will show it with pics!!!

I hope everyone has a great Wednesday tomorrow!!!

Interfaith Ministries - What we all can learn!

2006-03-12T12:35:00.000-08:00

This morning, we went to church. We are still doing our series on Marriage & Family. Today's sermon was on "A Healthy Family: Sabbath." Our normal preacher wasn't there; however, his son, Ben Young, preached today. A couple of years ago, Ben joined some other religious experts on a PBS Interfaith Ministries panel. Through the sermon, he talked about all of the things that we can and should learn/practice from the other religions.

The panel included: A Budhist Monk, an Orthodox Rabbi, a few others and him, the Baptist preacher. He said that he picked up that practicing mindfulness and keeping the Sabbath were important practices in these other religions. He said that he is taking 'baby steps' and encouraged all of us to do the same.

His example (which had my husband nudging me like crazy), which he illustrated, showed a box with a key. In that box, he said if you can't do a full day then at least do 3-4 hours on any day (traditionally Baptist Sabbath is Sunday as in Judaism shabbat begins 18 minutes before sundown on Friday night) and put your BlackBerry, cell phone, remote control, watch, etc. away. Just really focus on the here and now.

With that said and after I finish my presentation for tomorrow (my huge file is opening now), I am really going to try and dedicate some time for just 'getting back in focus.' Ben Young has written a book and here is how it goes.... Has your life become like a 24-hour convenience store that is up and running 365 days a year? Everything that is in here so applies to my life.

So, it is time to sit back and smell the roses. He signed my book (Out of Control, Finding Peace for the Physically Exhausted and Spiritually Strung Out) in this manner: Shalom + Grall.

Time Out - It is 'Me' Time!

2006-03-11T13:05:00.000-08:00

Today was a 'me' day! I woke up at 8 AM, courtesy of a little girl just standing at the side of my bed staring at me. No telling how long she had been there! Billy made biscuits for us and I was out the door by 9:30.

Where was I going? Last mother's day (yes, I realize that was last May), I received a 5 hour spa package with lunch. Today was my day to use it. I had a facial, massage, manicure, spa pedicure, lunch from a local bistro and shampoo/conditioner with blow dry! It was so nice to just get away and take some 'me' time.

Of course, I will be working all today and tomorrow to make up for the fact that I won't be there on Wed-Fri. Like any other time I take off, they call quite a bit on my cell and send blackberry messages. I sure hope this is not a working holiday!

Enjoy your day everyone!!

Woo-hoo, we are almost to Friday!!

2006-03-09T16:11:00.000-08:00

Can you believe it is almost Friday? I must admit, I am very happy for that!! This morning was when Karen Jr. had her ear procedure and it went very well. We still had to cancel our trip to Disneyland, but this was important! She has a follow-up next Wed, so we will just have a super good time for our Wed-Fri of doing 'girl things!'

There isn't that much going on except the usual: work, work and more work!! I realized the other day that I forgot to put the pictures from Billy's birthday on the blog.... So, here they are! We are about to have our kitchen re-done and I can't wait to get the floral wallpaper GONE! That and the master tile are my two biggest dislikes about our house.... Otherwise, it is really nice! I didn't pick the house, but the next house I sure will!!Our little 'princess' and daddy!
Helping daddy celebrate at dinner with Mimi and Papa J
I caught them all reading at Barnes & Nobles
I learned that it is very dangerous to give a little girl a cake decorating bag with 7 different decorative tips..... This cake was completely decorated all over with frosting. She wrote 'I love you' about 4 times and every other place just her doodling!!! She put 24 candles on the cake as that is all we had. It sure is amazing the house did not burn down!!

Some fondue if you didn't want cake! Or, you could have both!! :-)

Well, we are off to Texadelphia for Philly Cheesesteak Sandwiches and queso with jalapenos! Billy is playing my boss in golf on Saturday, so he needs some new golf balls. Billy is a super great golfer.... I sure hope this doesn't ruin things for me!!

A nice Tuesday!

2006-03-07T17:19:00.000-08:00

Today has overall just been a great day! A busy day, but a good day. Yesterday, I had a dinner and didn't get home until 10:30 and then I had a 6:30 AM telecon(got there at 6 AM) at work with London. On top of that, I was in a class from 8 until 5. As soon as it hit 6 PM, I was out the door. Billy and I just got back from a 3 mile walk this evening. It was so beautiful outside!! There was a nice breeze and it must have been about 70 degrees. Around our neighborhood, we have these lakes with water fountains and lights in the middle. They are really pretty (good to see our homeowner's assoc. dues going towards something nice) and have walking trails all around them. It was just nice to get out there and chat about our days..... Now for the problem, what do we have for dinner?!

Have a great evening!! :-)

Our Karate Queen!

2006-03-05T13:17:00.000-08:00

On Saturday, we went to Austin for Karen Jr's karate tournament!! We had quite a day!! Mimi and Papa J went with us! This was her day to shine and boy did she ever!

Here she is watching flashing her orange mouthguard..... Mimi is in the background!

Here she is going to town on her opponent!

This is her trophy that she won!
We arrived in Austin and went to play on the playground (I will put that picture in a future post). After that, we stopped by McDonald's to get a Coke and ice cream. After that, we were on our way to the karate tournament. We went to Dave & Buster's to play some with the games and then we were off to eat at The Oasis. If you look at the picture above, you would never be able to tell that we were in Austin and not on the French Riviera!!

I hope everyone had a great weekend!!

Happy Birthday Billy!!

2006-02-25T09:36:00.000-08:00

Today is my husband's 36th birthday!! I love it when he has a birthday as that makes him 5 years older than me! We have had quite a busy day, already! We went to CVS Pharmacy for me to develop pictures, Target for two DVD's that he wanted (10 Things I Love To Hate About You and some other movie), McDonald's for breakfast and Kroger for me to get a cake mix!!!

I just wrapped his presents and we are now off to see the Pink Panther! Then, we will come back so that Karen Jr. and I can make his yellow cake with chocolate fudge frosting.... Yummy!!

Then, we will go to Guadalajara for dinner with my parents!!! On Tuesday, we are going with his parents to the Rodeo to see George Strait and sit in the suite!!!

I will post pictures either tonight or tomorrow!!!

Happy weekend :-)

Hockey- I sure do love hockey!!

2006-02-23T20:16:00.000-08:00

I am not kidding, I really do! Tonight, we went to the Houston Aeros hockey game as they played the Iowa Stars! It was a really good game - - we sat in the Attack Zone (they were shooting on our side twice) and on row 4!! They had a great deal in which each ticket was $28, but you got a free parking pass, $10 worth of food vouchers and a ticket at center ice in the Club section!

My best friend, Kelly, and I used to have hockey season tickets. We had them for 3 years straight and it was SO much fun! We would wear our 'sweaters' (jerseys, but my hubby says the real name is a sweater) and go to all of the home games. Of course, we just loved looking at those cute, teethless boys!!!!

Yeah, can you believe we made it to the weekend (well, almost)!!!

Another thing.... I went last night to get my husband an iPod with video screen for his b-day. Well, he decided that isn't what we wanted.... So, I am at a loss now for a present. While there, I bought me (yes, I went originally for him) an adaptor so that I can listen to my iPod in my car. I LOVE it!!! The only bad thing, I haven't been able to remember turning my iPod off and I keep running the battery down. Oops!! My husband has always said that underneath this brunette hair of mine that I am really blonde!

Since my last entry, things have been crazy!!!

2006-02-22T17:49:00.000-08:00

I will try to keep it relatively short, but here we go......

First - A huge disappointment occurred, Karen Jr. and I had to cancel our 'girl's only' trip to Disneyland over Spring Break!! I am not sure who was looking more forward to this trip - - her or me! Lesson learned: Always buy the $50 of travel insurance!!! I am not sure what we will do now. Probably, we will go to Dallas or San Antonio!

Second - Because of all the hard work, my boss got us tickets to the suite for the All-Stars game! That was great to see here in Houston. Man, those guys can play!!! We had 14 people in the suite with all you could drink and eat.... yummy!!!

Third - We had to keep Adi for the last 4 days. She is so sweet. Really, she is my dog..... but, my parent's have always kept her after her first year. She slept with her head on Billy's pillow and Amber slept with her head on my pillow! My dad had a stent put in. I went up to St. Luke's hospital to sit with my mom during the procedure and then saw my dad before going back to work.

Fourth - I practiced Jim's relaxation techniques on breathing deeply right before a nervous situation! At work, I am on this program called an 'emerging leader.' There are only a few that are chosen for this. So, I had dinner last week with the entire executive leadership team one night and then the next day presented my career 'aspirations.' It is really a pretty neat program, but I was nervous!!! There were 12 pairs of eyes on me and then they asked questions and then I left the room so they could talk about me. After they talk for 5-7 minutes about you, you come back in the room and they talk to you about how they will help you get to where you want to be in your career!

Fifth - My grandmother turned 89 years old!!! On my dad's blog, he put the pictures. I woke up Sunday morning at 7 AM to clean a little and bake my grandmother a birthday cake. Then, I iced it and decorated it with the cake decorating tips and all. It was so yummy! Billy and I went to church and then we came back home to go eat at Luby's with everyone!

Well, I am back in action and promise it won't take so long for me to update!!!

Have a great Wednesday/Thursday!!!
Karen

Banff - A wonderful place to ski!

2006-02-12T13:47:00.000-08:00

I started my day (after the fire, of course) by driving through the mountains, snow and ice to reach Sunshine Village. This is where I went skiing. I must admit, I had never driven in mountains, snow or ice!! This was a first for me. I have gone skiing alone and that wasn't a big deal. I rented my ski equipment and took the gondola up the mountain!! Sunshine Village was great and that day they had 109 runs open!!! The snow was perfect for a day of skiing and it snowed all day, but not super heavy!

After skiing, I went in the town of Banff.....

This picture is of the 'central' street. I walked around and bought my souvenirs here.

The picture above is of the Fairmont Springs hotel. My husband and I almost got married here before deciding on Vegas. It was beautiful and I totally loved walking around it. Billy, we are so staying here when we go back!

The mountain and trees above were taken from me skiing all the way down the mountain(s) while at Sunshine Village.

In the town of Banff, they had this ice sculpture. It was really neat. On the inside, it is an all ice playground! I just thought that was so wonderful!! It is amazing what talent people have to make these kinds of ice sculptures and write Banff, Lake Louise and other pictures on it!!

Well, I am off to check on my chocolate truffles that I am making this afternoon!

I'm Back - Calgary Recap

2006-02-11T12:54:00.000-08:00

The weather in Calgary was absolutely beautiful! This is the park that I walked around on Saturday and went jogging. The trail is wonderful. People are out here at all hours of the day/night. I played it safe and went during 'peak' times. This trail goes for miles and right along the river. Just a beautiful path. Jim, I must admit that I am not sure how you run in the cold weather. I am definitely spoiled here in Houston!

Here is a picture of downtown Calgary. My hotel was the Sheraton Eau Claire Suites in Calgary. It was a great hotel and so perfect in distance to everything!
Yikes! Look at the 5 fire trucks! On Sunday, I woke up at 6 AM to the fire alarm and didn't understand what was going on. I walked out in the hallway and saw that it was going off all over. So, I went back and put my passport and other things in my purse. Just as I was about to put on warmer clothes (I was wearing a t-shirt and shorts), the alarm got louder and faster. They came on a speaker and said it was indeed a fire and we needed to go down the South stairs immediately! So, off I went with just my t-shirt, shorts and no shoes! Thank goodness that someone offered my a jacket. I was outside until 7:15 when they said if you were on floors 10 and lower, you could go back to your room. Everyone was okay and that is the great news! After 9/11, I do not waste time on wondering 'is it real or should I go down.'

I had a late start with the fire to go to Banff and ski, but I was on my way and arrived around 9:30. Stay tuned!! Tomorrow, I will have my Banff and ski pictures on my blog!!

Have a great Saturday!!!

My Husband and more Bahamas

2006-02-02T17:35:00.000-08:00

This picture is of me and my husband at the One and Only Ocean Club Resort. He played golf that day. This course is absolutely beautiful! In fact, I saw Oprah and Barry Bond's house while we were there. My husband is an incredible golfer. In fact, he almost got a hole in one on this course! it went and rolled around the cup to just stop a couple of inches from the hole. On that same day, Tiger was playing this course. Everyone kept asking my husband if he played with Tiger and just was in awe - - of course, it was close to the club house where everyone could see him to do this! By the time he got to the hole, everyone was standing around to tell him what happened and what he almost did! Some day, I will talk about my family and my brothers - - they are all incredible golfers, also!!!

The picture above is of the swimming pool. This is where Jason Priestly (from Beverly Hills 90210) got married this last year. You just sit there and they bring an Evian water spritzer to come freshen your face! When you walk up, they have every latest magazine you can think of!

This picture shows the gardens and is looking up from the pool! What a view!!!! Our one year anniversary was December 20th. I will have to tell you sometime how we ended up 'running off' to get married!

My husband said that I need to share more about me rather than just put my random thoughts on my blog.... So, watch out!!! Just kidding!! I graduated from Baylor University, I can't have that many secrets!!!

Well, today was my Friday!!!!! I am taking tomorrow off for a 'girl's only day!' Should be fun!!!! No telling what we will do! Watch out mall, here we come!!

Did you think I fell off the planet?

2006-02-01T19:04:00.000-08:00

Well, I have not fallen off the planet - - YET!!! Just kidding!! If I do (don't come looking for me), I will be at The Atlantis on Paradise Island in the Bahamas!!

This is where my husband and I went for our one year wedding anniversary! I absolutely loved 'doing nothing.' Tomorrow, I will put a picture of the golf course at The One and Only Ocean Resort. This is where we went to while there, as well.

Every day for a week, I sat on the beach and did nothing! I must have taken three naps a day and just listened to my mp3 player and read magazines.

I think I have said it before, but I love gossip magazines. I must confess that I subscribe to over 17 magazines a month! YIKES!!! Some of these are weekly magazines (Star, US Weekly, In Touch, People, Life & Style and OK). Needless to say, I had lots of magazines to read while on the beach. The other magazines I get are (not all of them, but some): Southern Accents, Gourmet, Bon Appetite, Food & Wine, Time, Runner's World, In Style, Shape!!, Fitness..... you get my drift!!! Aren't those a lot of magazines? It is a good variety, at least. To be honest, I am not quite sure how I get them all read in the week while working 60-70 hour weeks. Somehow, I manage!!!

See you tomorrow!!!!

Already to Sunday!

2006-01-29T13:45:00.000-08:00

This has been a wonderful weekend! On Friday, I went to a going away happy hour for a person at my work. It was held at a steakhouse.

Yesterday was a busy day! We woke up at 6 AM and I was out the door by 7:45 to have my hair cut and colored! I love spending the morning at the spa!! Then, I went to visit my grandmother afterwards. I brought her favorite with me: McDonald's Double Cheeseburger, Dr. Pepper and a valentine's heart Reese's Peanut Butter Cup! We had a great visit!! Then, I went to a wine bar and met a friend for a glass of wine and afternoon snack. We sat there for about an hour and just gabbed! It was great to see her and visit! Last night, my husband and I went to Luby's for dinner. I must be honest, I really do not care for Luby's. But, the things we do for love!!

Today, we went to church. Our preacher is conducting a 8 week series on marriage. Today's title was "A Blueprint for the Husband and Wife." Then, we went to the bookstore for me to read up on Singapore. After that, we went to Central Market to get groceries for the week. I just had lunch (yes, it is 4 PM) which consisted of salmon (with a raspberry dressing) and wilted spinach!!! It was so good!!! We are about to head off for the gym.

I hope everyone had a great weekend! Tomorrow, I will post some pictures of our NYC trip. Jim's comment reminded me that I could talk about my favorite city!!! The picture of me rowing is from Central Park!

Have a great Monday!!

Karen Goes To Cooking School, Again!

2006-01-26T20:12:00.000-08:00

Everyone is a winner!!!! The pictures were of me in London! The first one is of me on the London Eye! I have been there about 7 times and just love it!

Why did I say that 'Karen Goes To Cooking School, Again?' When I went to Chicago in October for a business trip, I went to the Marshall Field's cooking school. Tonight for my mom's belated birthday, I took her to the Central Market here in Houston for a French cooking class! It was so much fun and so yummy!! Here is what we learned how to make:

Petatou de Chevre Frais (Warm Potato Goat Cheese Cake with Nicoise Olives)
Saint Jacques, Endive Braisees au Jus de Biere et Homard (Pan-Seared Scallops with Braised Endives and a Light Beer & Lobster Broth
Plat de Cote de Boeuf, Garniture Forestiere, Pates Croustillantes et Sauce au Vin Rouge (Beef Short Ribs with Forestiere Garnish & Crispy Pasta & Red Wine Sauce
Oeufs a la Neige aux pralines (Floating Island with Pralines)

It was stretched over 3 hours and I am soooo stuffed!! I will have to practice up my culinary skills!!!

Happy Friday tomorrow!!!!

Where in the world is Karen?

2006-01-24T18:28:00.000-08:00

Yes, I know that I took the Matt Lauer and Waldo saying for my 'title.' I am sure they won't mind though.

If you have read my dad's blog right before Christmas, you know where I am! This was on my last business trip. I am sure the second picture totally gives it away! Of course, it might not!!!!
Have a great day!!!!

Tulips on a Monday

2006-01-23T18:47:00.000-08:00

Well, we all made it through Monday!!! That is always a 'good thing' as Martha says.

When I got home today from work, I came into the kitchen and my husband had bought me a dozen tulips!!! I just love tulips. They are the same color as this font. Also, he bought some yellowfin (sushi grade) tuna and organic spinach..... I guess you can tell what we had for dinner!!! I like my tuna lightly seared (about 1 min. on each side) or raw and Billy cooks his all the way through. For dessert, he had creme brulee and I had a Petit Four and some chocolate mousse!!! All of this sure did help make up for my super long day at work yesterday and today!

The vet said that Amber has lost two lbs. and that had her concerned. Amber weighs 9.25 lbs. She can only eat Fancy Feast (because of her age) and believe me, she is loving that! Today, the vet called to tell me that Amber's calcium levels are high and that isn't a good thing. It could be an indicator of cancer or infection. Billy and I think that she is okay and instead she just needs her two teeth extracted. The vet said they will test her blood again after she has fasted. Before Amber's surgery, I am going to have an ultrasound done on her heart to ensure it is healthy enough to proceed with the surgery. My good friend's cat died from heart complications while having teeth removed. The vet has been really nice and she called me back three times to answer my questions! Billy thinks she is just trying to keep me from bursting into tears, again.

The Weekend.... where did it go?

2006-01-22T20:15:00.000-08:00

Hi there- I can't believe the weekend is already over!! Where did it go?

Saturday

Amber and I went to the vet. They told me that she is 13/14 years old and expect her to live to be around 15/17. Well, I burst into tears. I don't think they were quite expecting that type of a response!
We went to see the movie Hoodwinked. It was really funny! A good animated movie and something we all laughed at and enjoyed.
After the movie, we went to the gym. My husband and daughter went swimming and slid down the slides while I ran 4.5 miles.
My in-laws came over as they just bought a brand new Honda S2000. It is a FAST car!
I met a friend for dinner at PF Chang's.... yummy!!!! Since I no longer work downtown, I don't see her as often as I used to. It was great to just catch up and gab!!! Of course, the spicy shrimp was great.
It was a very fun day and definitely so nice to just get outside and do things!

Sunday

Not much to say at all about Sunday....... It was not at all what I had envisioned! I woke up at 4:45 and started working at 5 AM. I worked until 8:45 at the kitchen table and then went to work and was there at 9:30. My poor husband, our printer cartridge ran out of ink and he was the first customer at Target this morning in the rain at 8 AM to get a new one so I could print out some reports. I stayed at work until 5 PM and then came home and finished working until just now...... YUCK!!! Well, I am off to catch up on some Z's....

TTFN!!!

Hillary Duff

2006-01-20T19:52:00.000-08:00

The Hillary Duff song "Wake Up" is one of our house favorites!!! We all have it on our iPods and we sing along super loud when it comes on Radio Disney.

Stay tuned..... I will keep changing it with some of MY favorites and not the 8 year old in the house!!!

Woo Hoo.... TGIF!!

2006-01-20T19:27:00.000-08:00

It is Friday!! We just got done baking chocolate chip cookies and now we are about to have 'family movie night.' I have a confession.... I love family movie night! It is the best time for me to catch-up on my sleep. The second my head hits the pillow, I am out!

Tomorrow, I am taking Amber to the vet. She is our 14 year old cat. Maybe, I will have a special post on her soon. I rescued her and now she is the apple of my eye!!! I wonder if that is why Gwyneth Paltrow named her daughter 'apple.' She is the apple of her eye!

Hopefully, I will wake-up before it is time to go to the vet and I can jog!

Yeah, it is Thursday!!

2006-01-19T19:30:00.000-08:00

I am so excited... it is finally Thursday!!! I worked until around 7 PM tonight and then went for a 5 mile run. It was good and so nice to get out and stretch my legs!! We went to Subway for dinner (3rd time this week).

On our way to Subway, we stopped by Super Target to pick up some Crystal Light lemonade packs. They come in a box of 14 and you put one pack in your 20 oz. water bottle. I usually only put 1/2 of a pack in my water. I like flavored water, but not over the top flavor! I am actually down to 1 coke these last two days!

Not much else is going on...... this weekend should be fun. Friday night is always 'family night.' On Saturday, I am taking Amber (the cat) to the vet, church at night and then I am meeting a friend for dinner. On Sunday, I have to work - - YUCK!!! Oh well, my boss said to take my spouse out for a maximum $200 dinner to make-up for the loss time and then I get an extra day off. We get a 'flex' day (on top of 20 vacation days) each month and this will be added on top of it. One day a month you can pick to take it off, but it is use it or lose it! I end up losing most of mine or taking it off and working from home. Stinks!!!

TGIF tomorrow!!!!!

Hump Day

2006-01-18T18:19:00.000-08:00

Today is Wednesday!!! Things have been absolutely nuts here lately.

On Monday, I went for a great 5 mile run! But, I must admit that I have been really bad on the Diet Cokes lately. My team has been churning out slides like they are about to outlaw them soon. I just found out that I am going to two international spots next month. One will require a 17 hour plane ride. At least, I will be in first class for that long of a time. But, it will be lots of work once I get there - - - meetings, going out, etc.!! This group likes to work hard and party hard until 2 or 3 AM and then be back to work by 7 AM.

Did anyone hear about the car chase today in Houston? We have flat screen TV's that hang on the wall all around where I sit. It was definitely interesting to see all of the roads this person went down. We were all just waiting for the traffic to begin on I-59 and sure enough.... it did!

See you tomorrow!

My Turn To Return A Favor!

2006-01-15T18:32:00.000-08:00

I am feeling much better today. I think 24 hours of sleep did the trick!

However, I am sure I did not help things much though by being outside this morning for 4-5 hours! But, I had an Alaska sweatshirt on (thank you mom and dad - - you know those sayings: 'My parents went to Alaska and all I got was this sweatshirt!') a long sleeve shirt, jeans, a bunch of Kleenex in my pocket and lots of medicine in my body!

So, how does that return a favor?

Well, today was the Houston Chevron Marathon. My husband and I had several friends running this morning and when we woke up at 6:30 AM, we decided to go down there and cheer on our friends! We got to the first stop and saw one of his friends (who was on target for a 3:15 finish) and then the other buddy who was on target for a 3:40 finish, which was their goal. Both of them completed New York in November. I looked for three of my friends at that first stop who were on target for 4 hours. We never saw them (this was at the 25k point). So, we went on to mile 22. There, we saw the buddy who was on target for 3:40 and he was going to do 3:30 and he looked super strong. But, there was no sign of the other friend or my friends. Right about then, his buddy came up and he was hurting. I felt so bad for him as he was in lots of pain..... He went on and finished in 4 hours.

At this point, I still hadn't seen my friends and I was starting to worry as they were all on target for the 4 hours. So, we stayed and cheered on people. Here is a tip: If you run a marathon, put your NAME on your shirt in big bold letters!!! We love to cheer people on and want to say a name instead of 'go runner!' Just as we were about to leave, my husband said, "there she is!" She was hurting and at this point was on target for 5 hours (way behind her goal). So, I ran with her for a bit - - jeans, high heeled loafers, sweatshirt and long-sleeve shirt. We did the small chit-chat to help pass the time. Talked about our families, etc. After we got to a certain point, I told her she was looking good and she had just 3 miles left! At this point, I turned around and went to find my husband who I just left without saying anything to and went to run with my friend.

So, how is that returning a favor? My first marathon was when I was in high school. You see, I am the youngest of 5 children. My family is extremely competitive! My dad and my big brother, Mitch who has posted on my blog before, ran the very end with me and cheered me on! My dad has done it in several other marathons since that first one as well!

Have a happy Monday tomorrow!!

Still Sick and my Nano

2006-01-14T18:07:00.000-08:00

I think I mentioned it toward my first blogs, but I had a really really bad cold, flu.... something! Well, for three weeks I have still had the congestion. Yesterday, it decided to get worse and be almost as bad as I had it the first time. I have been in bed all day today and only getting up tonight to look at the beautiful moon.

I have taken all kinds of medicine, drank plenty of water to flush my system, put menthol stuff under my nose just to breathe and did a bunch of nothing all day. My husband says the reason I am so bad is that I never let myself completely get over it the first time. I was in bed for four days toward the first of the year, but since then have been on the go non-stop. Well, I am resting today.

Last November at work, they gave us all nano iPods. My husband sat at my laptop today (it is in the bedroom with the other three in other rooms of the house) and loaded my music on it for me! Poor guy, that is how bored he was since we couldn't do any of our plans. He would put in a new CD and then we would go through the songs with me laying there and him at the computer desk. We loaded 256 songs and I have just filled up half of it!! I am so excited - - I have the best running songs on it!!! I go from 70's disco songs all the way to hip hop and Hillarie Duff with a great stop at the 80's in between!

I just need to kick this so that I can get out there and run or even go to the gym!!!

How old am I really?

2006-01-13T19:38:00.000-08:00

Funny title, I know! But, if you were to ask my TiVO (remember, we have two), I think it would tell you that I am in my mid 60s to 70s! Yes, I am really only 31. So, why would my TiVO and my HUSBAND both say I am that old? Well, my favorite TV shows are Matlock, Beverly Hillbilies, Keeping Up Appearances (British comedy) and Leave It To Beaver! I kid you not! I was in 'hog heaven' last night when I came home and saw that I had 5 Beverly Hillbillies, Matlock and Leave It To Beaver. Of course, I won't tell you the other things on there that I like (Beauty and the Geek, Elimidate, Blind Date, Entourage, Curb Your Enthusiasm, Arrested Development, etc.) . I really am that random on my TV shows.

Movies are apparently a totally different subject. If you look at my profile and movie choices, I would fall into the 15-18 year old range for a couple of them and a hopeless romantic for the rest.

All this time, my husband had said he swore that I was born 30-40 years too late (I am 31)!

This morning (you know, I couldn't sleep), I woke up at 4 AM and watched the Beverly Hillbilies episode where they think Mrs. Drysdale had turned into a crow!! That is my favorite episode. I have seen it at least 5 times and still laugh (while quoting the show) as if it was my first time to see it!

Then, I went to work and got there at 6:50sh..... nothing but PowerPoint today!!! If you ever have a question on PowerPoint or want to make a cool slide - - send it my way!!!

Have a great weekend.... talk to you tomorrow! Y'all come back now, you here!!! (courtesy of the Beverly Hillibies).

Crazy Day and Insomnia!!!

2006-01-12T18:30:00.000-08:00

Well, today was absolutely nuts! It started with my BlackBerry/crackberry going off at midnight last night as if the world was coming to an end! So, I got into the office this morning at 6 AM and left at 9 PM. What a day!!! Well, I had to put together a 20 page PowerPoint presentation today and email it out this evening. Of course, that is for pre-reads and that gives people a chance to look over it.

But, I am really excited! I get to sleep this weekend!! Yeah. Okay, I know that sounds really funny. But, I am a terrible insomniac. Have you ever seen the movie "Kissing Jessica Stein?" Well, it is really funny and the dialog is great. There is a scene when this dialog happens:

Friend: "So what do you do when you sleep?"
Jessica: "I don't sleep, I am a terrible insomniac."
Friend: "How long have you been that way?"
Jessica: "Oh, since birth really"

Well, I have been an insomniac since 8th grade! In high school, I would go to sleep at 10 PM, wake-up at 2 AM and watch TV and do aerobics, go back to sleep at 5 AM to wake-up at 6 AM and go to drill team practice and then cross country or track afterwards. I used to not sleep and go into work at midnight and then go to the gym at 5 AM to work out and shower to go back to work. Crazy, I know.

So, why do I get to sleep? I am going to my in-laws this weekend. The second I get there, I fall asleep on the couch and just sleep like all the time! I had to tell them and reassure them that I do not have narcolepsy and that I really do like them and don't sleep to avoid them!! They are really great people!!!

The Police

2006-01-11T19:17:00.000-08:00

Tonight, my husband and I went to a Greek restaurant. It was really great and I finally was able to cure my Baklava craving! I took two bites and brought the rest home!

On our way home, a police officer was casually going along beside us down the feeder with no one else in his car except him. Once we got to the stop light, he turned on his sirens and went through the red light. After that, we lost sight of him. We cruised along and came to another light. I looked over to my right and there was that police officer and he was parked in a Mobil gas station. He had his back door open and there was an escaped jailee still in his orange uniform sitting in the back seat (with the door still open). Shortly after (while the light was still red), they drove off . You never know what you are going to see!!!

We are so excited, my husband got a new job offer. This is a really great thing (he does IT) for him and we will be a Manager. The only problem is that this job is so good that when we go to live in London, I am not sure what will happen! Oh well, we will cross those bridges in the future!! In the mean time, we are celebrating!!!!!!

See you tomorrow!!

Princess Diana Exhibit

2006-01-09T19:27:00.000-08:00

Happy Birthday Mom!!!!

This is a picture of my mom and me! She is a new year's baby.

On Sunday, we celebrated her (belated)birthday by going to lunch at Ruggle's Grill. I absolutely love their food. It is a cafe version of a pricey restaurant here in Houston. My two nieces, daughter, husband, mother and father were all in attendance. After eating, we went to the Museum of Natural Science and to see the Princess Diana exhibit.

I have always been a Princess Diana fan! As a child, I woke up early in the morning to see her wedding and years later her funeral.

The exhibit was really great. They had her wedding dress (with the 25 foot train) and a lot of her evening dresses and clothes/suits! When my husband and I got married, my daughter wore ballerina slippers. She actually still goes everywhere wearing those ballet slippers! Anyway, she was so excited to find out that Princess Diana's flower girls also wore ballet slippers to the wedding!

We had a great day and finished it by eating Italian Cream Cake at the park! I have a link to my father's blog as he went in to more details. The guys were not allowed to attend the exhibit with us! Girls only!!!! So, my husband and father went to Best Buy and Marble Slab. Here is a picture of all of us at Ruggle's Cafe.

Everyone is in this picture except my husband (he is taking the pic).

The Weekend - It finally got here!

2006-01-07T07:47:00.000-08:00

Hello! It is a beautiful Saturday morning outside. It is currently 55 degrees and will get up to 78 and no clouds can be found! I just love weather like this.

The last few days have been crazy. I worked last night (Friday) until 7:30 and then we had 'family' night!

We are trying to plan our day and include as much outdoor time as possible. Where we live, there are great bike trails with viewing platforms. Sometimes, you can see alligators at the viewing platforms. We go to church on Saturday nights and then usually out to dinner with either friends or as a family. Sushi is usually our favorite!!!

Have a great day!!!

TiVO - Can it be a lifesaver?

2006-01-04T19:05:00.000-08:00

Hi there! Yeah, it is Wednesday and just two more days in the week. I just got back from a great 4 mile run. The weather is absolutely incredible here in Houston.

Many of my neighbors are having parties to watch the USC vs. Texas game tonight. I must admit, I am not a huge Texas fan. There is just something about UT (no, I am not an Aggie either) and the people that attend the college. I will admit that I am some what on the liberal side and you would think that I would then like Austin/UT; however, I just don't!

So, how does TiVO relate to all of this. Well, it doesn't! I got a call today at work (yes, I left at around 6:30 and that isn't bad) from my husband. He bought us another TiVO with a DVD player and recorder all in one. I really like a lot of TV shows, but am never home to watch them. So, TiVO is a huge lifesaver! I can watch an hour program in 30 minutes. If you think about it, I can watch so many more shows in a much less time. Also, my husband networked our two TiVOs. This will allow me to watch in bed whatever was recorded in the family room and vice versa.... pretty neat! Also, we can now record two shows at the same time. Really, I am not a huge TV person; however, this does make it really nice when you are working really late (like I always seem to be) or you are out of town or better yet... out on the town!!!

See you tomorrow!!

Happy Tuesday

2006-01-03T17:35:00.000-08:00

Well, it was so hard to get back into the groove of work and all. Everyone kept asking me how the Bahamas was at Christmas time. My response - wonderful and I wish I was back there sitting on the beach, taking a nap and drinking that fruity drink with the umbrella in it. Oh well, back to reality.

So, how am I doing on my 'resolutions?' Actually quite well, thank you for asking! I did wake up at 5 AM to check my crackberry (oops, I mean blackberry) and found five messages. There really should be a law against people in other time zones sending an email BEFORE it is a working day time in the time zone you are sending the email. I actually drank water and did not die!! That is a shock. Do you know when the last time I drank water was? Well, it was exactly 3 months ago. Yep, three months of nothing but Diet Cokes and other things. Well, not today. I had 64 oz of water, Chicken Caesar Salad (with my own dressing) and then a Diet Coke! That would really put my body in shock if I didn't just have one.... yes, I only had one!

Dinner was really good and I actually LEFT the office at 5:30. That was such a great feeling. Don't really know how long that will last, but I will definitely take advantage of it while I can!! We cooked this evening.... 4 oz filet mignon (I was a vegetarian for a while and then added back red meat once a week and chicken at lunch), mashed potatoes from scratch and mushrooms! I love mushrooms. Of course, a great 1/2 a glass (4 oz. pour - I think :-)) of Pinot Noir.

For those that don't know (probably no one since I haven't told anyone about my blog!), I am a member of two wine clubs. My husband and I went to Napa and SF last December. While there, I joined the wine clubs I get wines/sparkling wines sent to me each month from Sterling Vineyards and Chandon. It is really great! It gives me a good excuse to cook new recipes and have friends over for dinner.

Well, I am off to be a 'good' wife and watch the FSU and Penn State football game. Of course, that is for 5 minutes until I get bored and read all of my latest 'gossip' magazines that came in the mail today!

Have a great evening!

Written Goals - An honest inner view!

2006-01-02T16:59:00.000-08:00

Yes, here comes my 'manager' personality. As we all know from MBA (or business school) and HR consultants that all goals should be 'SMART.'

S = Specific
M = Measurable
A = Achievable or Attainable
R = Realistic
T = Tangible

Also, written goals are more likely to be achieved compared with goals that you are remembering 'in your head!'

So, here we go:

I would like to get back on track with the healthy eating plan (Mediterranean type foods - - fish, hummus, chicken and turkey products) from my doctor. It really was great and most would consider it the way we should eat. I was having horrible stomach problems and he said this would solve everything... Well, they did when I stick to it. I wear a size 0 (size 25 European style) and they are a bit snug for going into the new year given my December travels. The things I love about holiday gain is that it seems to go away when I get back to my normal running and eating routine.
Like I said in my profile, I work 70 or 80 hour weeks and have been known to work until 3 AM come home to sleep a bit and shower to only be back to work at 7 AM. I would love to cut back to a 'more appropriate' work week - 55-60 hours. My theory on working long hours is this: (a) There is too much work and not enough people or (b) others, including myself, are not using the hours during the day efficiently. Being a manager, this often happens. You deal with everyone's problems and work and then they leave at 5 and you still have your work to do!
Not be as addicted to my Blackberry (or crackberry as my husband calls it). Being that I deal with locations in London and Singapore, I am constantly getting emails (and sometimes) calls all through the night. My goal here is to not go to bed checking my email (usually done around 1 AM) and wake-up checking the blackberry (5 AM). Also, leave the thing in the car when I have dinner with my family. They can not stand me typing emails while we are going to dinner as a 'family.' Can't say I blame them, it does cut down on 'quality family' time!
Get back into long running. The last marathon that I ran was New York. I have been saying that I wanted to run the 'Texas Foursome.' Maybe this will be the year. You ask, what is the Texas Foursome? November = San Antonio Marathon, December = Dallas Marathon, January = Houston Marathon and February = Austin Marathon. I will get back to you as I need to study the Runner's World marathon guide by month. Also, my goal is to run marathons in the 50 states! I have achieved two of them. On a side note, I have been to all states except for Alaska!
Keep doing yoga, pilates and elliptical trainer. We have a wonderful gym. I love it actually - indoor and outdoor pool with waterslides and everything. Anyway, we go to the gym pretty much 5 times a week (I do the elliptical trainer, so that I can watch Nancy Grace).
Find a Sunday School class. Currently, we go to church every Sunday or Saturday night. However, we don't have a Sunday School class. That is my MAIN goal this year. This helps me to also put things in perspective and keep focused during the week.
Keep cooking. As I said, I love to cook gourmet meals. I just made Macadamia encrusted mahi mahi last night. This is a great family time activity as well - - I just can't follow it up with cookies afterwards!
KICK THE DIET COKE HABIT. Yes, I drink 120 oz of Diet Coke every day. I will run 17 miles and then come in and grab a Diet Coke. How awful is that?! While I realize cold turkey is not an option (wouldn't you love to be around me then), I will do my best to go down to 20 oz. a day and this will be around lunch time!

There we have it, written goals! Don't get me wrong, I don't think they will all be achieved every single day beginning tomorrow; however, I am going toward them as if I will!

Stay tuned!!!

Resolutions, are they for real?

2006-01-02T10:32:00.000-08:00

Why is it so hard to keep up with a resolutions? Face it, it is so easy to make excuses. There are so many other things that I would 'love' to start doing. So, stay tuned to future blog postings for my resolutions. This is pretty cool, I can put them all out there and see what happens! Another reason could be that I have been to London and the Bahamas all within the month of December and spent almost a week in each places. So, I am used to the 'holiday living' and not 'reality' living! I am accountable to well, anyone that reads this - - or should I say, maybe no one since no one is reading this!!! Good bye!