Rock N Roll San Diego 2013

Today's race marked one year since I ran my first half marathon. I cannot believe it has already been a year! The days leading up to the race have been full of reflection.

We started the morning off with some laughs. When a hummer limo pulled up in front of the hotel just after 5am, Kari says "oh our ride is here". Funny enough... that was our "shuttle" to the start line.

This morning I found myself even more emotional that I was on the day of my first half. It has come full circle and I simply couldn't be more thankful.

Just before the national anthem there was a moment of silence for Boston. Sitting here now, I have tears in my eyes thinking back to April 15th. Terrorists tried to strike fear in our hearts. They tried to take the innocence of our sport away. They didn't. Today 28,000 runners united and ran. Nothing was going to stop us. I proudly wore my "Run 4 Boston" ribbon, "Beat Cancer" ribbon and "Boston Strong" head band.

There was a quiet reassurance before the race today. A large law enforcement presence. Look outs on rooftops and all sorts of dogs and handlers walking around. I was so thankful for that presence today.

About 5 weeks ago I was plagued with shin splints so I backed off on my training. My friend Chris gave me a great recovery plan and pep talk. I am so blessed by the people God has put in my life. My legs felt strong and ready for today. My mind? Not so much.

If anyone tells you running is 100% physical, they are very wrong. You see, there's this little voice in your head that doesn't want to shut up. It wants to tell you how tired your body is after 3 miles, how the twinge you once had in your foot it going to come back, how you "only" ran 9 miles to get ready for this race and that wasn't enough. Around the 3 mile mark, those were the things going through my head. So I did what I normally do... rebuke that inner voice. I tell myself to snap out of it and to keep pushing. I pray and thank God for giving me His strength to run this race. I remember that this is something that I love and I was ready for. That inner voice lost today, as usual.

I checked my watch periodically and knew I was a bit slower than I had wanted to be but I was ok with that. There were a few more hills than I had anticipated. I normally walk hills. Not today. I powered up those hills. I wasn't going to let that little voice back in. I walked way less than I have in the past. I can't run and drink water at the same time so I try to pair the two so I am not taking extra breaks.

My favorite memories from today (in no particular order)

1) A marine running in full gear. Back pack, helmet and all. I made a point to tap him on his shoulder and tell him thank you. I actually saw a lot of runners do that. One lady might have misjudged her shoulder "tap" because it almost looked like she shoved his shoulder. I know she didn't. She was just running fast.

2) A US Navy fire fighter running in full bunker gear (the big heavy turnouts they wear on structure fires), helmet and BA (breathing apparatus they were on structure fires). I also tapped him on the shoulder, high fived him and said thank you.

3) Around mile 9.5-10 I was struggling a little. The race benefits the Leukemia Lymphoma Society. I turned the corned and it was lines with purple banners and white signs. Signs saysing "thank you" or who we are running for etc. One purple sign stood out to me. "Remember why you're running". It was at that moment that I thought about Kayla and all she has been through. At that moment I dug deep and remembered this was yet another celebration run because she continues to be cancer free. I also thought about a fire captain that works for CAL FIRE and my cousin Joshua that have both been diagnosed with Hodgkins Lymphona. It was for them that I ran. It is for them (and me) that I will continue to run.

4) I love seeing people on their porches, coffee cup in hand, cheering for all of the runners. They don't have to. They could sit inside with the TV turned up and be angry that their street is occupied for half of a day. There were people on every.single.street. Amazing.

5) I am a runner. I am still shocked by this. I am even more shocked that the farther I ran, the better and stronger I felt. I wonder if I all of that will every fully sink in!

6) Seeing Jimmy, Jessica, Justen, Alissa, Ali, Preston, Asher and Ansel screaming and cheering my name as I ran toward the finish line.

7) Running a major race with Michelle. She asked me if I wanted to do a 5K with her and Preston back in 2011. I have loved being on this running journey with her. We have different goals, training styles, paces etc but she "gets" me when it comes to running,among other things. 

8) Ali was here!
9) Free Jamba Juice at the fnish line. It was the bestest smoothie I've ever had!
10) Finishing my 4th Half Marathon in 1 year.
11) Being there to witness Veronica's first half marathon and Kari's second full marathon

12) Petting the black lab puppy after I picked up my gear :)

13) The enormous amount of support from my family and friends. You are all priceless

14) Riding to the start line in a hummer limo

15) Inspiring my brother Jimmy to start running. Who knew a baby sister could do such a thing?

I ran this race 12 minutes, 35 seconds faster than I did last year. My time was 2:32:34.

It was not my fastest half marathon (2:28:50 in Feb) but I am ok with it. I thought I would be disappointed but I'm really not. The course in Feb was completely flat. This one... was not. I think being only 3 min 44 sec slower than my fastest time while running hills is pretty darn good. I am proud of myself. It will just keep getting better from here!

Street Preaching

Something really bugs me every time we go to an Anaheim Ducks game. There are always people out front with signs and bull horns preaching. I've also seen this at most of the races I've run in.

I am a Christian. I love God and Jesus with everything in me. I *hope* I show God's love in everything I do. I am not even close to being perfect. I am, however, honest about my faith. People who know me, know I have a relationship with the Lord and that it comes first in my life.

All that being said, there is something about street preachers that really bothers me. Perhaps its the signs that say " God punishes sin" on one side then "Jesus loves you" on the other. To me this sends a mixed message. You're telling people that God is going to punish them while in the next breath you're telling them that Jesus loves them.

Are there consequences for sin? Yes.
Does Jesus love you? Yes.
Does God want people to be alcoholics, druggies, liars, adulterers, greedy, etc? No.
Does God still love you despite those sins/imperfections? Yes.

I've never been an "in your face" kind of person or Christian so the bull horns and giant signs are a big turn off for me.

I understand their intentions. Especially at sporting events because there are thousands of people in a concentrated area so you can, potentially, reach more people in a short amount of time. I get it. You want to see people come to Christ and serve a mighty God. Do you really feel yelling at them is the right tactic?

The other night Jared and I were waiting in the security line at the Honda Center and one of the street preachers was arguing with people in line. Arguing. Not exactly the way to "win" someone over for the Lord. Neither of us disagreed with what the man was saying but we definitely disagreed with how he was saying it. He wasn't the first one I've seen acting this way. He won't be the last.

You can be passionate. You can be excited and bold and honest. Jesus was a patient teacher. He loved people. He loved through His words, His actions, His life and His death. How many times did Jesus take simple things like a mustard seed and turn it into a story. Jesus sat amongst the people and talked with them. Jesus loved the unlovable. I wish those with the bull horns focused more on the love of God than on the wrath. There is so much negative, anger, hurt, fear in this world. Why make God look like this angry God that just wants to punish people. Have you forgotten that sin breaks God's heart? Have you forgotten that God is merciful and loving? We are His babies. He wants to hold us close and calm our fears. He wants to give us an abundant life. Offer hope to people out in the world, not more fear. Think before you preach.

Living

“I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly.” – (John 10:10 KJV)


This scripture really hit me. Am I truly living my life and enjoying it? Are you? Life may not be perfect but are we taking the time to truly count our blessings?

I think it is safe to say that this latest shooting in Connecticut has rocked our Nation. It has taken our already broken hearts and beaten them down even more. I don't know about you, but on December 14 I felt like I shouldn't go on with my happy day. It felt so wrong to have fun, joke around and enjoy the day because precious, innocent people were dead. My heart was heavy that day.

Jared and I went ice skating that afternoon. We had so much fun. We are already talking about when we want to go again. Then we shared a delicious dinner. Although I was having fun, the people of Newtown were on my heart.

On the way back to his place, Jared and I got to talking. I told him how strange it felt to go on with our good day when something so horrible had happened. Then it hit me... the parents/friends/family of those that are dead would want us to live. They would want us to go about our day, spread love to others and not take one single moment for granted. This is an assumption, of course, but I am pretty sure at least some of them would agree with me.

Yesterday we had our annual cookie exchange. The house was FULL of our family and friends. The moment I got there I hugged my youngest niece(4) and nephew(2) so tight. The older ones came later ( 14, 13, 12) and I gave them hearty hugs as well. To me the teenagers are still babies too. I'm not a parent so I cannot begin to understand what you might go through when you lose a child. I am, however, an aunt. An Auntie that loves her nieces and nephews as if they were my own. I want to protect them just as their parents do.

I so enjoyed the day full of laughter, friends and family. I think it was good for all of our hearts. We took the day and we lived. We enjoyed the food, the company, the music and a whole lot of cookies. We were living and it was beautiful. I never want to take that for granted.

 

Lauren's Ride Fundraiser

Most everyone knows that i have been talking about Lauren's ride since it began in early September. Sometimes things just grab ahold of your heart and take root. When I heard about what John Byrne was doing, I was impressed and touched. I was all in.

Having two older brothers, I understand how close the bond can be between a brother and sister. Especially older brothers and younger sisters.

I've followed John's journey since the first day.Every day they post a blog or update, I am amazed at how doors are opening and how many good people are stepping up to be part of it.

The Oakland Raiders have been a huge support for the ride and much to my dismay, the Chargers haven't returned any of our phone calls or emails. The original idea came from Dottie, the front office administrative assistant at Monte Vista Headquarters. On September 25th, she mentioned getting a bunch of Charger's fans together and taking a huge picture. I immediately loved the idea. Unfortunately it is nearly impossible for me to do something simple. I suggested we turn it into a fundraiser but we knew cookies and cupcakes probably wouldn't raise much. So my mind started racing. I told Dottie we could keep it simple. burgers, chips, water. Easy. My text to her was : "That's a great idea!! Wonder if we'd have time to put together a little fundraiser. Like sell burgers or something. That's probably too complicated though". Then it was on like donkey kong! Well that lead to cupcakes then face painting. Then someone offered to dress up as Smokey Bear (side note for those that didn't know.. the "the" is no longer in his name). Then someone offered a sound system so we would have music. The water was donated by the fire station on the compound. The Union chapter donated $250 to help with the cost of food. Everything fell into place. We had about 2 weeks to get it all together. 12 days to be exact. Because we were having it at a CAL FIRE facility, there had to be quite a few Chiefs involved and many approvals made. On October 1 we got the final approval we needed and we were off.

Today I went to Costco to pick up the burgers etc. While in line I was able to share with a couple people about Lauren's Ride. One of them made a donation right there.

Rain had been coming down most of the morning and all day yesterday. I was praying the rain would stop. I also kept having this feeling that no one was going to show up. Right there in the Costco parking lot, I prayed. I asked God to bless this fundraiser. I asked that things would continue to fall into place like they had been over the previous 2 weeks.

Tonight was more than I could have ever hoped for. The music was great, everyone was pitching in to help, the kids were having a blast playing with Smokey Bear, the kids got to ride in the fire engine, two engines from San Miguel Fire came over. When San Miguel Truck 15 pulled in, I looked at Ali and started crying. All I could say was "wow". The rain had stopped a couple hours before the BBQ started and people just kept coming. We even got a phone call from John and Tony! I had no idea they were going to call. Dottie knew and thought she had told me but I never got the memo. That was definitely the highlight of my evening. You can hear the deep gratitude they have for everything people have done. I have greatly enjoyed following John on his journey across the country.

Once we counted the money we realized how much we had raised. $1100!! My hope was for $500. We bought enough food for 100 people and we wanted to sell all of it. We definitely thought that was a realistic goal. When this first started I had the number $1000 in my head. I didn't think we would get to that but I really wanted to. My hands were shaking while I was counting the money. That total isn't the final amount just yet. i have a few returns I need to do and that money will go into the donation as well.

Thanks to all who supported this ride, fundraiser and my crazy ideas! And most of all thank you to God. He opened every door for this and blessed it. My cup runneth over.


Some of the people that came out to support the fundraiser and Lauren's Ride.



Celebrating 3 Years!

I'm only about 2 1/2 months late in writing this...

On July 1st Jared and I celebrated 3 years of dating. This year we actually had 4 1/2 days off together. A few days before our anniversary, we started by hitting up the Del Mar Fair. We aren't really into the terrifying rides so we stick to the exhibit halls and check out the many many products being sold. We particularly love the ones with free samples! OH and the mini donut booth!! Have you ever been to that? They make the most uhhh-mazing mini donuts that are hot and covered in cinnamon sugar. We may or may not have eaten a whole dozen.  I had a $4 corn dog... or what I like to call a mini corn dog. It looked like half the size of an average hot dog. Lame! But when in Rome, have some fried food at the fair. Including a deep fried Snickers. Delicious!

Thursday was a pretty low-key day. Jared came over to my place and I made us lunch. Italian Panini's. We watched a couple movies then got ready for our fancy-smancy dinner at Pamplemousse Grille in Del Mar. We've only been there twice but the food is incredible. And expensive. SO worth it though. I've been on track with my weight loss so I finally got to wear a dress I've had for 2 years. Jared's smile told me it was worth the wait. He looked pretty hot himself.. dress shirt, tie, slacks... Oh yes. He looked good! Our server was so nice and very helpful.

Here's what our dinner looked like. Pictures don't do it justice: 



Appetizer: Tempura Rock Shrimp w/Plum Sauce



Jared's Dinner: Koby Beef burger w/ Truffle Cheese and Truffle Fries

Jared's Dessert: Stone Fruit Cobbler w/ Oatmeal Crumble and Toasted Coconut Gelato



My Dinner: Mixed Grille of Ahi, Salmon and Seabass







My Dessert: Chocolate-Caramel Cake, Salted Caramel Sauce

Vanilla Gelato

 

Friday we were supposed to go ice skating but one of us fell asleep. It may or may not have been the blogger herself. I'm never gonna tell! At any rate, Jared made dinner for us and we lounged all evening. Those are some of my most favorite moments!

Saturday we had a "fun" filled day at the reptile show. Not exactly my cup of tea but my guy loves him some reptiles. The things we do for our men I tell ya! Only one near heart-stopping moment when a little girl shrieked. Moments before I had noticed a woman holding a tarantula and I was certain it had gotten loose, causing the little girl to freak out. I nearly bolted for the door. Thankfully the lady still had the disgusting furry spider on her hand. (Shudder!)

Sunday was our actual anniversary. Funny thing is, we had nothing planned for that day. We really didn't do much but we did spend the day together.

Every day I thank God for blessing me with a man like Jared. He is by no means perfect and neither am I. I could go on and on with the mushy, lovey-dovey things but I will leave it at this:

So many years I prayed, cried and asked God "why" He hadn't brought the right man into my life yet. On July 1, 2009 I knew exactly why He had me wait and I would do it all over again. Jared is truly my other half. He reads my thoughts, knows my heart, completes my sentences, hugs me when I cry, apologizes when he was wrong and loves me so fully and completely every single day. Thank You God for this incredible gift. I cherish it.

Happy Easter!

As I was driving to celebrate Easter with Jared's family, I heard this story on KLOVE. It touched my heart in such a way, I can't even explain. Here's the true story told by a Sunday School teacher. I hope you take something away from it like I did:

" Phillip was in a Sunday school class at his church. He had a hard time fitting in with the other kids because he had Down Syndrome. The teacher wanted him to feel like part of the class so she went home and collected old panty hose eggs. The next Sunday she took the 10 plastic eggs she had collected and told the class she had an activity planned. They were told to find something outside that represented new life and put it in their egg. When they were all back inside, the teacher took the eggs and started opening them one by one. One had a flower and kids awe'd at it. Another had a lady bug and there were a lot of ooh's. Then the teacher opened an egg and it was empty. They kids started saying that someone did it wrong. Phillip tugged on the teacher's shirt and said 'I didn't do it wrong. The tomb was empty.' "

"Last year Phillip died. His family knew that he may not live a long healthy life. During his funeral, the sunday school teacher and a line of 8 year olds made their way up to the front and laid an empty plastic egg on his casket".

Happy Easter my friends. He is Risen!

Focused in February

I am happy in my life. So happy, in fact, that sometimes I can't believe this is my life. God is so good! That's not to say that there aren't daily struggles or trials etc. but I am remembering more and more that we have a Lord and Savior that holds us in his hands every single day. He knows what He is doing, even if we can't figure out what is going on.

In February I want to focus on a few particular things. Things that are important to me and that I feel need a little more attention than I have been giving them. It's like I know I should be giving it more attention but I am waiting for it to happen on its own. It is said that after 3 weeks (or 21 days), something becomes habit. I want better habits in my life.

*God: reading daily devotions and spending more time in prayer
*Jared: praying for him daily and encouraging him as much as I can
*Nutrition: Saying goodbye to processed sugars. i.e. cookies, candy, cakes etc.
*Cross Training: working out 6 days a week. Whether it is push ups and sit ups at home, a long run or hitting the weights at the gym

What are some things in your life that need more of your attention than you've previously been willing to give? I challenge you to focus on those things during the month of February.

To remin myself of what I need to focus on in the coming month, I've written myself little notes. One to put by my bedside , one in my wallet, one on my fridge and one in my bathroom on the mirror.

Goodbye, Hello

Goodbye:
*Frustrations
*Deaths
*Sadness
*Arguments
*Disappointments
*Extra pounds
*Bad runs
Goodbye 2011

Hello:
*Unconditional Love
*Love conquering all
*Hope for a future
*Fitness Goals
*5Ks and Half Marathon
*Quality vs Quantity
*Comprimises
*Fresh Start
*Joy
*Patience
*Making a Difference
Hello 2012!!!

Out with the good, the bad and the ugly that 2011 had to offer. On to the anticipation of a great 2012!! I changed a lot in 2011. Some good, some bad. I became obssessed with getting married and became angry when rings and engagement didn't happen. I was frustrated with lack of time with friends. Jared and I argued more than I'd like to admit. I allowed black clouds of hurt, sadness and fear wash over me. I didn't fully enjoy all that God had placed in front of me.

Things will be different in 2012. I will be thankful for a man that loves me even when I am a monster. And yes babe, I was a monster at times. I will be thankful for the kind of love that only God can ordain in His perfect plan. A kind of love many hope for but never receive. I will look forward to the day I get to marry Jared, not count the days until it happens.

I will be thankful for the times I get to spend with my friends, not how much time. I will lose these extra pounds and I will keep them off. I will complete a half marathon. I may not run the whole thing but I will finish!

I will walk closer with God and dive deeper into His word. I will learn to be more like Jesus. To love like Him and react like Him.

These are not resolutions,they are lifestyle changes. Changes I want to see in myself. I want to be a better example for Christ and live my life to the fullest. I don't want to get caught up in the negative. I want to press on and achieve the positive. Not perfection, as I so often strive to do.

Here's to a better 2012. For all of us.

The Longhorns

Jared's nephew, Tyler, plays Pee Wee football. This year he is on the prestigious Lakeside Longhorns. He isn't very buff but they put him on the offensive line. He's a tackle or something. Don't ask me, I am not up on my football terminology. Regardless, the boys that usually play that position are usually bigger than Tyler is.

Jared and I have had the opportunity to go to some of the games this season. So far they've had a great season. I think they have only lost one or two games. Ty is #50 so we are constantly scanning the sidelines for a glimpse of our favorite player.

His little sister, Kailyn, is a cheerleader for the younger division but she has a great time cheering on her big brother.

I love being part of Jared's family. They remind me so much of my own amazing family. I have prayed for years for the family I would marry into and God has certainly blessed me in that area. I love having more nieces and nephews to spoil and dote on! The only hard part is having two nephews named Tyler.

10 Years Ago...



9.11.01 Never Forget.



Ten years ago I was a Resident Assistant and  Sophomore at Vanguard University. I was up early getting ready for class. It was a normal morning. Until the knock on my dorm room door. Pounding is more like it. Pounding and yelling. A lot of yelling. "Shannon we are under attack! The United States is under attack". The girls from my floor gathered around a tiny television set and watched the footage. Shortly after my mom called to check on me. We only talked for a few minutes and I remember regretting that later in the day. Everything was so uncertain and I had only spent maybe 5 minutes on the phone with my mom.

I proceeded to class where everyone sat in silence. Tears flowing , eyes big with fear and uncertainty. Our professor could barely speak. We joined in prayer as a class then proceeded to Chapel where the entire school gathered and prayed. And prayed. And prayed some more.

Ten years later the emotions are just as raw. The memories just as alive.

This morning I stood in my shower and cried. Grieving, like it just happened today, for the thousands of lives lost. Civilians, Fire Fighters, Port Authority, Police Officers, and Military. Not only on that day but since.

What was meant to cause chaos, fear and uncertainty drew a Nation together. We've stood strong, fought back and overcome.

I will never forget 9.11.01. I will remember every day for the rest of my life. To those that gave their lives that day and who continue to fight for our freedom and serve our cities/states/country... Thank You.

Sometimes in Life...

Sometimes in life things happen that kind of rock you. They make take a look at all you have in your life and remember that a bad day is simply that, a day.

I recently stumbled upon a blog and her husband passed away suddenly. She encourage everyone to make a Peanut Butter Pie in his honor and the blogging community stepped up and honored Mikey. (Please take a moment to follow that last link to see everyone that paid tribute. I hope it touches your heart like it did mine)
She has touched my life. I am so sad for her. It made me realize, even more, how precious life is. I cannot imagine losing Jared. The very thought makes my heart pound and tears fill my eyes.

Last month my fire family lost a dear friend. I can't believe it has been just a little over a month. It feels like yesterday but also a lifetime ago. So many people are still hurting and they are walking around in a fog.

A yound married couple I know is really struggling. One willing to throw in the towel while the partner fights with every bit of strength they have. They aren't communicating well and it is putting a huge strain on the relationship.

A friend is having to make a very difficult decision about a relationship in their life. Walk away or stay? Both options are very painful but which one is the best choice?

Three friends have just announced their pregnancies. They are all nervous, excited and occasionally puking. It is an exciting and joyful time. I am so happy for each of them!

Through all of these things, all of them have remained hopeful and positive. They remember all they have and all that is yet to come. Although I am sad for some of  them, I find each of them so encouraging. They've reminded me how much I have and how blessed I am by the many wonderful people in my life.

I may not get to see my friends every day (or even talk to them) but they are still there. They always will be. I have a best friend that is beautiful, talented and has the most precious kids but we get very few days together. Regardless of time, we are in eachother's hearts and minds always. I love her and my life wouldn't be the same without her. I have a friend that emails me weekly to talk about life, God, the future etc. Even if we talk about the same things every week, I look forward to the emails. Some friends only contact me via facebook and thats how we keep up on eachother's lives. There are friends from high school and college that are always on my heart. Sweet people that I care about and know my life is better just by having them in it.

My family lives no more than 10 minutes from me but we don't get much time together. It stinks sometimes but that just makes our time together that much sweeter. No matter the time, day, place or specifications of the need, they will always be there for me and they will always drop what they are doing to help me or someone else. They bring a richness and a fullness to my life.

I have an incredible man in my life that would do anything for me and I for him. We've been learning alot from our Love Dare Devotional. We are communicating better, learning to be more patient and take everything one day at a time. He has a family that is wonderful and I love them. I couldn't ask for better (future) in laws.

I am blessed beyond measure. I am so very thankful. I love my life and I cannot thank God enough for all of you that are part of it.

Loss

I don't understand death. I know it is a real part of life but the "why" is never fully explained. It is a question that only God can answer. It is an answer only God can fully understand. 

Yesterday our Unit, City, State and Country lost a true hero. Colby was a fire fighter for Cal Fire and a Marine in the US Marine Corps. I can't say I knew him all that well but I am thankful I knew him. He was part of a family. Not just his wife and kids but the Fire Service family. A family that stretches across the state and across the country. A family structure that isn't always understood by people outside of the fire service.

I've had to shroud my badge many times in my (almost) 5 year career with Cal Fire. Too many times, in fact. But this time is different. This time I know the person, even if it isn't all that well. His will be the first department funeral I will attend, when the time comes.

My heart is so sad for his family and our Cal Fire family. It is a reminder that life is precious and we shouldn't take anything for granted.

I've Been "Biebered"

OK don't hate me for selling out to this "teen sensation". Not all of his music is annoying. In fact, he really does have a great voice and is quite talented. I can't bash the 12 year old girls that burst into tears at the sound of him clearing his throat. Fact is, in High School my friends and I were obsessed enjoyed some boy band music. We may or may not have spent countless hours making signs for the concert or driving around San Diego like lunatics trying to win the Channel 93.3 scavenger hunt. There were front row tickets and back stage passes at stake, after all. We may or may not have shed a tear (or two) during "God Must Have Spent".

So when I heard this Justin Bieber song and watch the video, I sort of found a small place in my heart for the kid. It is a beautiful song and, in my opinion, a thought provoking video. It shows things we don't want to think about. We know they exist but as long as we don't see them, all is good.

Take a few minutes and watch.

Inked

Jared has wanted a cross tattoo for as long as I have known him. Longer really. So, when I found out a Cal Fire employee used to be a tattoo artist, I contacted him and asked what we would charge etc.

I really wanted to gift this to Jared for our 2 year anniversary in July but if you know me at all, I have the hardest time keeping secrets about surprises and things I am excited about. I held it in for maybe 24 hours, at most. He was so excited when I told him about it. We called Ben that night and made the appointment for the next day.

We got to Ben's house and they got to work right away.

I decided to watch the process and I have decided it is pretty cool. Ben made it looks so easy. At times it seemed like he was just coloring with a colored pencil.

I was afraid there would be a lot of blood or some gigantic needle that would put others to shame. Wrong. You couldn't tell if there was blood and the needle was unseen. Jared was a trooper. If it hurt, he didn't show it. He sat there and watched Ben but not once did he flinch. An hour and a half later, Ben was finished with the master piece

I know tattoos are a bit of a sensitive subject. Some people like them, others completely dislike them. Some people don't see the point. Regardless of how everyone else feels, Jared really likes it and I think it looks great. Maybe this will open the door for Jared to talk to his co-workers about God. Who knows.

Ben did a great job. It turned out better than we had both hoped.

Running Pineapples

My friend Staci approached me about participating in the Pineapple 5K Fun Run. The "fun" part is actually an obstacle course. What are the obstacle you ask? Beats me! We won't find out until the day of.... as in when we run up to it, then we will know what the obstacle is. How in the world am I supposed to train for that? Regardless, I am pretty excited about it.

I've been working out a lot and I finally feel like I am back into the groove of things. On occasion my choices of food haven't been great but no one is perfect, right? I pray a lot about this whole getting into shape thing. I heard Joyce Meyer once say " tell God you will do the work but He's got to do the rest". So, I have been working hard and eating well (most of the time) and I am slowly seeing changes. I know God is with me, even in this. Sometimes I put God in a box and forget He is in these little things. I forget that I am His daughter and He cares about every aspect of my life, not just the "big" things.

For a while I lacked motivation to get back into working out and ditching the last 20 or so pounds. My motivation was revived when my sweet friend, Michelle, asked me if I wanted to do The "Finish Chelsea's Run" 5K in March. Shortly after I started training, the announcement was made that my gym would be holding another Biggest Winner Contest. This happens to be the last week of the contest. I was praying about what to do next. I needed another goal, something else to work towards and accomplish. A day later Staci e-mailed me about the Pineapple Run. I was hesitant when I heard there would be mud and obstacles but when I found out the run benefits the Leukemia Lymphoma Society, I couldn't resist. You see; my sister in law's younger sister, Kayla, was diagnosed with Hodgkin's Lymphoma in March. This cause touches close to home.

I set a goal to raise $300. In these times and in this economy, that may be a little on the high side but I think about this... I have 300+ friends on facebook so if everyone gives $1, that goal can be reached.
If you can spare $1, here's the link. If you can't, no biggie!
Donate Here.

Oh and if anyone wants to come out and support me, I would LOVE that. It will be a FUN event with a Luau afterwards. Staci and I would love to have a cheering section. You can purchase tickets for the Luau at the event. There will be food, drinks and traditional hawaiian food. The event takes place near San Diego Bay.

Day 71

I always forget to take pictures of the baby blankets I make. So, before I ship this off to Bakersfield, here is Baby Joel's blankie.

Back in July I mentioned my sweet friend, Desiree, was 21 weeks pregnant. This was a huge triumph because she had already endured atleast 3 heartbreaking miscarriages. You can refresh your memory with this post and that post.

I am happy to say that on December 3, 2010 Des gave birth to an adorable 7lbs 1oz, 20.5 in baby boy: Joel Allen Vigo. I am just dying to meet him! Thank You Lord for this precious miracle! Just for fun.. here's a picture of Joel.

Day 51

Only 4 days in and I am really loving this. I highly recommend it to any couple. They are short but powerful devotions.

Love Dare

For Valentine's Day I picked up a couple copies of "The Love Dare Day to Day Coules Devotional" for Jared and I. We both started reading them on Thursday. Right away I was thankful I got these. Only 4 days in and I've already been challenged, blessed and reminded of how to love someone deeper.

I thought I would share a little something from the book. It really struck something deep inside me. I hope it does the same for you. I hope it opens your eyes to a new perspective and a deeper understanding of what love is and how to apply it in your own life.

Step 1: Read the following passage from scripture:

1 Corinthians 13


1 If I speak in the tongues of men or of angels, but do not have love, I am only a resounding gong or a clanging cymbal. 2 If I have the gift of prophecy and can fathom all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have a faith that can move mountains, but do not have love, I am nothing. 3 If I give all I possess to the poor and give over my body to hardship that I may boast, but do not have love, I gain nothing.

*4 Love is patient, love is kind. It does not envy, it does not boast, it is not proud. 5 It does not dishonor others, it is not self-seeking, it is not easily angered, it keeps no record of wrongs. 6 Love does not delight in evil but rejoices with the truth. 7 It always protects, always trusts, always hopes, always perseveres.*

8 Love never fails. But where there are prophecies, they will cease; where there are tongues, they will be stilled; where there is knowledge, it will pass away. 9 For we know in part and we prophesy in part, 10 but when completeness comes, what is in part disappears. 11 When I was a child, I talked like a child, I thought like a child, I reasoned like a child. When I became a man, I put the ways of childhood behind me. 12 For now we see only a reflection as in a mirror; then we shall see face to face. Now I know in part; then I shall know fully, even as I am fully known. 13 And now these three remain: faith, hope and love. But the greatest of these is love

Step 2: Re-read the passage but when you get to verses 4-7 ( I put a little * at the start and end for you) insert your first name in place of the words "love" and "it".
 
Did that change your perspective at all? It certainly did for me.

Change

If there's one thing that I am really not good at it is change. I don't adjust well at all. I try. I want to be ok with change but I almost always fall short. I don't even know if it is all types of change that I have a hard time with or a certain few.

One of the biggest difficulties for me is when friendships or relationships change. People come and go in our lives on a daily basis. I am usually ok with the short term coming and going but the ones that stick for a while, I tend to hold onto them. Tightly.

Lately God has been reminding me that He is the one in charge. That He is the one that determines who comes and goes in our lives. Usually  "change" is a bad word with a negative connotation but it doesn't have to be. If fact, many good things come from change.

So as I continue through the good, bad and ugly of life I am reminded once again that God has everything under control.


Ecclesiastes 3:1-8
   1 To everything there is a season,
A time for every purpose under heaven:
   2 A time to be born, And a time to die;
A time to plant, And a time to pluck what is planted;
   3 A time to kill, And a time to heal;
A time to break down, And a time to build up;
   4 A time to weep, And a time to laugh;
A time to mourn, And a time to dance;
   5 A time to cast away stones, And a time to gather stones;
A time to embrace, And a time to refrain from embracing;
   6 A time to gain, And a time to lose;
A time to keep, And a time to throw away;
   7 A time to tear, And a time to sew;
A time to keep silence, And a time to speak;
   8 A time to love, And a time to hate;
A time of war, And a time of peace.

God

Here's a story for you...


There was a 69 year old man helping out a friend. They were doing manly handyman type stuff when something fell and hit this man's hand. The object cut his thumb to the bone and he passed out, hitting his head along the way. When he came to he got light headed and passed out again. His friend immediately called 911.

In the ambulance the man complained of "heart burn" and to his surprise the paramedic told him he was having a heart attack. This was shocking news for the man because he's never had any type of heart problem. He was taken into surgery shortly after arriving at the hospital. They did angioplasty and put in a stint and he is on his way to recovery.

You see, had he not cut his thumb, his adrenaline wouldn't have elevated and his blood wouldn't have hit the blockage in his heart in such a way and cause a mild heart attack. This man would have been walking around ,unknowingly, with a blockage in his heart. The blockage would have continued to grow and he would have had a major heart attack. He drives for a living and lives alone. It could have happened anywhere. He couldv'e had it while he was home alone or on the road and cause an accident. But someOne was looking out for this man.

If you ever wonder if there is a God. Or if there's someone out there that really loves you unconditionally and cares about every.single.detail. of your life... stop wondering. This story proves there is a God. Nothing is coincidence. Nothing happens by "chance" or "fate". God knows every detail of our lives. He knows where we are at all times. I can hear some of the nay-sayers out there saying "well if God really loved this man he wouldn't have allowed something as bad a heart attack happen to him". How about you change that around. If God hadn't been there, this man wouldv'e had a major heart attack. He might have had major damage or even died. Bad things happen in this world because Adam and Eve brought sin into the world by eating the forbidden apple. God gives us free will and we choose what path to follow. There's more to it than all of this but I am by no means a theologian.

What I know with 100% of my heart is that this man is alive because God was watching out for him. God loves him. God knew what was going on inside this man's body and intervened. You may wonder who this man is and where I heard this story. It happened yesterday and I heard the details of it today because this man is my uncle.