tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-65205144875513806192024-03-13T20:20:13.888-07:00From Gram Gram to GaGaMelissa Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16594445999193214579noreply@blogger.comBlogger87125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6520514487551380619.post-37530744818237474432020-09-03T12:56:00.000-07:002020-09-03T12:56:07.532-07:00September 3, 2020<p> September, finally! Fall is just around the corner! I am looking forward to cooler temperatures and maybe less humidity. Tupelo Marathon is 3 days away. I am not ready, but no matter, going to run it. Training for Tupelo involves hills, heat, and humidity. In those three areas, I am ready. I printed out a 5:45 pace bracelet. I do have an out, at the midway point , I can opt to finish. I doubt I will cut my run short. Running is such a mental sport, and I am just crazy enough to finish. This race last year nearly did me in. However, it was number 9 and this year it is number 1. Tahoe Marathon is just 4 weeks away now. Ahhh, running in the mountains, in Nevada and California. It just doesn't get much better!</p><p><br /></p><p>Are y'all tired of the pandemic yet? I certainly am! I made about 160 masks for family and friends. If I never see another one, it will be way too soon! My husband and daughter never stopped working, so I never stopped babysitting the grands. I am relieved that school is back in session. A sense of normalcy in the chaos. </p><p><br /></p><p>I had a decent herb garden this year. I really like dill and cilantro! I dried a lot, used more. I also made sage and rosemary bundles to burn. And, tomatoes...oh the tomatoes! I planted two traditional tomato plants and two cherry plants. The cherry sized tomatoes did amazing, the others, not so much. The plants were over 6 feet tall! Caterpillars are feasting on them now. I am okay with this, I ran out of recipes. Best thing I made was a roasted cherry tomato pizza. YUMMY! Need to figure out how to grow the herbs inside. </p><p><br /></p><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq5gOQ-vL6vZt5plt9yZQ_hHeNojkHlqNRyC_t_8vJhPTfmqY2rshWi847_oGJF9vr27gGtR_sIg1Yo90Kz7sADw0II6uvnQFE_gavzlGGF9cjr2zNyVGQFtPn5iCe2z6dUlhZ6xqkzg/s320/528%255B1%255D.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="240" data-original-width="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjq5gOQ-vL6vZt5plt9yZQ_hHeNojkHlqNRyC_t_8vJhPTfmqY2rshWi847_oGJF9vr27gGtR_sIg1Yo90Kz7sADw0II6uvnQFE_gavzlGGF9cjr2zNyVGQFtPn5iCe2z6dUlhZ6xqkzg/s0/528%255B1%255D.jpg" /></a></div><br /><p><br /></p>Melissa Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16594445999193214579noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6520514487551380619.post-15890762637906219312020-05-20T09:34:00.003-07:002020-05-20T09:34:40.403-07:002020 RunningAt the end of 2019, I was burned out on running. Really, seriously burned out. Not sure what I needed to do, so of course, I signed up for a race. A 5k on New Year's Day in Knoxville, Tennessee, yep, that's the ticket. The race was sponsored by Calhoun's, which has the BEST steak anywhere. The start and finish were at Calhoun's on the River, an out an back that took us past Neyland Stadium, home of the Tennessee Volunteers, twice. I enjoyed this race for a few reasons. One, Calhoun's, period. Two, we got a blanket instead of a shirt, awesome! Third, short and sweet! Forth, there was wine glasses for the first 200 finishers, of which I was not, oh well. Fifth, breakfast provided by Calhoun's afterward. Lastly, Calhoun's, like seriously! I tried their ribs for a nice change. They were amazing!<br />
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Race number two this year was on Leap Day in Elkmont....with Ludavine! I love the Hound Dog Half! I think I should run all races named for animals! Especially, when said animals get to make an appearance. I wasn't really ready to run a half, still burned out, I hadn't trained properly. I finished with a respectable time, but I hurt. If you want to run out in the beautiful boonies of North Alabama, this is your race! The last 5 miles are "trail", an old railroad path. Of course, Ludavine is at the finish for all racers to get some love. They serve the best food after this race! One year we had brunswick stew, another, pancakes. This year was local BBQ. Oh, My, it was good! <br />
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My last race of 2020 was the UAH 8k, which was the day after Hound Dog. I was hurting, so did not plan to race this one at all. Ran with a friend, did her intervals, and had a wonderful long chat. <br />
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There was supposed to be more, lots more. However, China had other ideas. I did find my motivation again. Focusing on training for Tupelo and then Tahoe marathons. I did a couple of virtual races, but I miss my running friends!<br />
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The first of May I found a challenge. I was four weeks into marathon training and there it was, run 100 miles in 12 days. 12 Days of Hurt they called it. Could I do it? 8.4 miles a day? Seemed reasonable. First two days I felt great! On day 3 I felt a shin twinge, stopping at mile 3. Deemed it a muscular pain and not the dreaded shin splints, so slowed down and soldiered on. 12 days of hurt was an appropriate name! On day 8, after 70 miles, all road, my feet said, nope, no more. I came home after two miles, put my recovery shoes on and walked the rest. I finished those 30 miles in recovery shoes and just walking. BUT. I. FINISHED! This achievement felt bigger than the 12 in 12 somehow. I proudly wore my shirt, because, now I am a badass! hahaha<br />
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So now, back to marathon training. I did get some new shoes, Hokas. They are very comfy!<br />
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Keep running free my friends!Melissa Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16594445999193214579noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6520514487551380619.post-15355920637349584092020-05-20T09:07:00.001-07:002020-05-20T09:07:01.880-07:00Marathon #12 Goal AchievedMy first marathon was Rocket City in Huntsville, AL. I chose this one for my first because this is my hometown, and anywhere on the course, I know where I am. To finish at home was perfect. I had traveled all year, seen beautiful places, met awesome people, made so many memories. So to circle back to achieve goal, was wonderful. So many familiar faces! I started out, again, with the 5:30 pacer. I lost them as we were leaving the gardens, I finished about 5 minutes after them, not so bad. Rocket City starts in the heart of Huntsville, at the Von Braun Center, and finishes inside. This year we finished in the south hall, rather than the arena. The course was modified a bit also because of construction. First half still runs through downtown, over to five points, through Lee High School, and surrounding neighborhoods then back to downtown. Second half takes you past Lowe mill area, Old Westlawn Middle, over the one serious hill into the Space and Rocket Center.This is one of my favorite parts of race, we always get "rocket pictures", no other race I have run offers those. Then on to the Botanical Gardens, which is decorated for Christmas. The lights are usually on, but they don't play the music. I wish they would. This is where I usually lose my pace group and this year was no different. We come out around mile 21, and that is where I usually have to give myself a major pep talk. Through the neighborhoods and past my brothers elementary school gives me time to prepare for a strong-ish finish. Since the course was modified this year, the Grim Reaper was not at mile 23, I was very disappointed! I hoped there would be beer at mile 24, and yay, there was. My hubs was also there at mile 24, in the Lowe Mill district. He handed me a coke, so good at that point! My only gripe with the changes this year was that we had to run all the way around Big Spring Park, which is in front of VBC. So close to the finish, so very close, and yet still running. I finished at 5:35, which I thought was really good considering this was #12 and I was dang tired!<br />
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How did I feel to complete goal? RELIEVED! There was a moment of, "I did it!", but mostly I was just tired and ready to be done. On to 2020.....Melissa Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16594445999193214579noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6520514487551380619.post-48252796053015917242020-05-20T08:41:00.002-07:002020-05-20T08:41:51.688-07:00Marathon #11I had chosen to do a 50k for my November marathon. Dizzy 50s was my 2018 goal race, thought I could do it again. I fell early, like around mile 2. I just wasn't feeling it after that, like at all. I didn't even really try. Somewhere along the south loop of this course the finishers were starting their final loop. I wasn't going to be able to make up the time and finish under 9. Sadly, I really didn't care. Since I had told David I didn't feel ready and seeing how I was struggling, David met me at the finish with another race suggestion. He had gotten me this far, he wasn't ready to let me give up. So, off we went to southern Mississippi to Stennis Space Center. This course is pancake flat! Another loop race through the space center. The course is kind of boring, but I think it was just what I needed at the time. I finished around 6:11, long after most people, but I finished. Mississippi is hot in November, by the way. We went to the beach after race. All races should have a water feature at the end! Because we were so close, I also got a New Orleans weekend out of the deal. Only one more to go!Melissa Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16594445999193214579noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6520514487551380619.post-2325443808392673132020-05-20T08:32:00.002-07:002020-05-20T08:32:26.316-07:00Marathon #10Ahhh, October in Chattanooga, Tennessee! Running 7 Bridges, the reason I trained for a marathon. This race will always be a sentimental favorite. There is much speculation among runners how the race directors rarely get the distance correct. I have run this marathon 4 times, only once was it off measurably. That year I got 27.3 miles without getting lost along the way. This race covers 7, now 8, bridges in the Chattanooga area. The course is beautiful, through downtown, across all those bridges, and along the Tennessee River. There is a LONG section along the main highway that I don't like, but the rest absolutely makes up for it. This year, because of construction along river walk, we had to run that highway section a second time. I lost my pace group around the 16 mile mark. I was just tired of hills at that point. Around mile 20, I just wanted to give up. I think I was worn out, physically and mentally. I got passed by a couple of guys who initially started in our pace group, but fell back early. That kind of spurred me on. I sucked it up, and finished under six hours. I was in the 5:30 pace group to start. I was ready to give up the marathon a month goal at this point. David, however, was not going to let that happen.Melissa Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16594445999193214579noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6520514487551380619.post-90495603603795352452020-05-20T08:19:00.002-07:002020-05-20T08:19:19.326-07:00Marathon #9I didn't realize where I had left off. Let me finish this. Marathon number 9 was in Tupelo, Mississippi, in September. This was the one I was most worried about, because of the heat and humidity. The race, thankfully, started at 5am. That being understood, I should have been finished before 11am. Not the case. This race was hard, really hard. Not sure why, but it nearly killed me. I ended up with blisters, huge blisters, on both, yes, both, feet! I walked the last 7 miles with another runner. We finished around the 6:30 mark. We weren't last, but we were close. We did get our medals, yay! The 5am start was really nice, still dark, but cool temperatures. The course is mostly through farmland back roads. There were a lot of hills, not so bad going out, torture on the return. This is an out and back course. Those who ran the "half" got an extra 1.1 miles as the turn around point was not the finish line. My husband met me around mile 13 to take my lights and give me my cooling towel. That was much appreciated! Although, or maybe because, this race nearly took me out, I am running it again this year. I absolutely love the shirt and medal! Besides what doesn't kill you, makes you stronger, right?!?!Melissa Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16594445999193214579noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6520514487551380619.post-87481459757096300302019-09-27T09:23:00.000-07:002019-09-27T09:23:04.579-07:00Marathon #8<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfcjT_buWnatdO5Rgkr3EudJ3pqSiugZlQ9mAyibZVFYu1k30rRCiCylxjLBnq7W9pONllRkHT4rEYM3GuNx_bg9B81EtbWaeCrxic9tgZZBkgDGe-LmBL2MFg0Hj8bZJDFig7GLa0Dw/s1600/0810190700_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1296" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhfcjT_buWnatdO5Rgkr3EudJ3pqSiugZlQ9mAyibZVFYu1k30rRCiCylxjLBnq7W9pONllRkHT4rEYM3GuNx_bg9B81EtbWaeCrxic9tgZZBkgDGe-LmBL2MFg0Hj8bZJDFig7GLa0Dw/s320/0810190700_HDR.jpg" width="259" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Beaver Chase Urban Trail Marathon</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Indianapolis, IN</span></div>
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Okay, so I chose northern races for June and July. Not so much for August. Yes, Indy is north of Bama, but definitely not any cooler. This race was billed as a trail race inside city limits. Trails equal coolness of shade, right?...nope. This course is a cross country course. Which I learned means lots of running on grassy areas. Not my favorite surface to run on. There was also a great deal of open area, without the shade I looked forward to. This is loop race, 4 loops for the marathon distance. Now, I have done looped races before, no big deal. This course KICKED MY BUTT! In the first loop, no less! I did like the first couple of miles, after getting of the grass and into the trail portion. That part was awesome! Nice soft trail, shaded, views of the river...really, really nice! But, then you go back out onto the grass and stay there for the next four miles. On my last loop, and I was the last runner, I asked my favorite person if he would do the last 5 miles with me. I was going to walk it, and he walks faster than I do. I figured he could help me stay on pace to finish under cut off time. He did, and I did. I probably won't do this one again, but they put on other races that look like fun.Melissa Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16594445999193214579noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6520514487551380619.post-60113395809365197582019-09-27T09:10:00.001-07:002019-09-27T09:11:23.605-07:00Marathon #7<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Jack and Jill's Downhill Marathon</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Hyak to North Bend, WA</span></div>
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Northern Washington in July is wonderful! I am not a fan of big cities, so Seattle was a bit intimidating. Thankfully, we stayed outside in Issaquah. This race was different for me. I wore my trail shoes as it was a former train route. Trails I've done, but all downhill was new. The course was mostly gravel and dirt and not completely downhill. The hills were not terrible. I hurt differently and longer from this race. I am usually okay the day after a race, but the stiffness lingered a few extra days. The race starts in the mountains near Snoqualmie Pass, about 30 miles outside Seattle. The temperature was in the 40s at race start, perfect! A mile in, is the above tunnel. It is 2.5 miles long. I got really warm in the tunnel, as there was no wind. Once I left the tunnel the wind was back and stayed for rest of race, very refreshing! We ran 95% in the mountains and the last bit was in North Bend, mostly in a park. I would do this one again, just because of the mountains and temps. One thing I noticed though, Washington's pine trees do not have a strong scent, I missed that. Back to Alabama where pine trees smell amazing!Melissa Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16594445999193214579noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6520514487551380619.post-15046684062966415442019-09-27T08:45:00.002-07:002019-09-27T08:45:42.093-07:00Marathon #6 and mini vacation<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Whitefish Point Marathon</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: x-large;">Paradise, MI</span></div>
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While choosing marathons for this adventure, I first tried to stay fairly close to home. Then I ran a half last September, the heat and humidity nearly did me in. Decided then I needed to find cooler places to run in the summer. Where is colder than Michigan?!?! I chose this one as it is the furthest north I could find. The race is and out and back, from Paradise to Whitefish Point Lighthouse. The race itself was kinda boring. The mosquitoes were huge and plentiful. Thankfully, I had been warned. I ran this one with a lady from Michigan who was running her first marathon. I enjoyed her company. Race medal is a rock from the shores of lake Superior. Aiden gave me a bigger rock from same shore, with a personal message, I liked it better.<br />
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The mini vacation part was way more fun! We got Aiden into four of the five great lakes, searched for Petoskey Stones in Petoskey, climbed the dunes at Sleeping Bear, and went through Hell (MI) to get to Paradise. We also biked around Mackinac Island. I would love to go back and just hang out...with loads of mosquito spray, of course.Melissa Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16594445999193214579noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6520514487551380619.post-17419069218782381472019-09-27T08:26:00.001-07:002019-09-27T08:26:13.655-07:00Marathon #5 and Looking for Motovation<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<u><span style="font-size: x-large;">The Flying Pig</span></u></div>
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This marathon is now my favorite race! So much fun! From flames at the start, winged pigs along the course, games to play, and the amazing medal at the finish. This was my first race as an official "Marathon Maniac". I didn't realize the high expectations that come with that shirt, as I haven't run hundreds of marathons. Thousands of people run this race. The city is completely involved. I was never alone, as is the case in most races. The flaming start was really cool. We started in Ohio, ran across river into Kentucky, and back after a few miles. Along 7th avenue there was a pig....,with wings!!!! Of course, I petted him! The volunteers made this race so much fun. Lots of chocolate, candy and sweets. When the we split from the half marathoners, there were mimosas waiting. How fun. If I had stopped at every beer table, I would've been drunk by the end. I waited until mile 25. There were aid stations with candy, gatorade, water, sunscreen, and cold wet towels. By far my favorite was around mile 18...BACON! It doesn't get any better than bacon! Temperatures were perfect. Course was amazing. I will definitely do this one again!<br />
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As far as motivation, I am burned out, mentally, not physically. Not sure what I need to do. I am hoping going over the last few marathons will inspire me to get back out there. I have 3 left as of this month.<br />
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Keeping it real,<br />
~MelissaMelissa Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16594445999193214579noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6520514487551380619.post-51554180346571167892019-04-24T12:15:00.003-07:002019-04-24T12:15:53.756-07:00Marathons 3 and 4Raccoon Mountain<br />
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I love this race! Its fun, laid way back, and, has great aid stations. Since I was running the full and not the half, I really took my time on the first go around. I love how personalized this race is, as well. I found my sign this year. I sent David back for it, since I found it at the half way point. This years course deviated a bit, confusing a lot of runners. I got turned around my self, but only lost about 5 minutes. Someone was blasting up on the mountain that weekend. Oh well, kept things interesting. I knew at the half way point I was going to run about a 7 hour time. I was/am completely okay with this! Around mile 21, I looked up coming off trail, and SPLAT! Fell, twisted my ankle...ugh! I was coming off trail, so road for a few miles. My ankle really hurt, walked a bit, tried running, was going to be slow, but not terrible. Back on the trail for a couple miles was really painful. At mile 23ish, I made the right turn, to go up "the last darn hill". Another runner insisted I was going the wrong way, she had called the director to ask directions. So I turned around and ran with them until we got to a place we had just been. Decided up that hill was probably the right direction after all. We probably were supposed to get back on the trail at that last aid station, but my ankle would have protested. Up the hill, across the water, down the other side, and FINISHED! Took 7:15:30, but hey, I sprained my ankle, and got turned around. It's all good! I truly love the personalized hand made medals!<br />
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Andrew Jackson<br />
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Another new race and town for me. The day started cold, yay....but, quickly got really warm....not yay! This is another 2-looper. Three in a row, now. This is a really small race, marathon wise, anyway. Only 54 runners, and one couple stopped at the half way mark. Jackson, TN is a really cute small-ish town. We through a college and hospital district, really pretty area. I met up with the girl who had paced Rocket City in 2017, and helped me to a 32 minute PR. She was coming off injury as well, so we stayed together from around mile 6. I had no real time goal. I just wanted to finish without messing up my ankle any further. This race's aid stations were lacking in my opinion. The people were absolutely fabulous, but no GU, not much fruit. Pickle juice always a help, but I do get tired of that. All in all, a fun race, because of the people, and especially Dianne. The medal is cool, what looks like mountains is actually Andrew Jackson's face sideways.<br />
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Next up, Flying Pig in Cincinnati. Have been told this is an amazing race. I have my GU, just in case. <br />
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Run far, Run free, Run because you can!<br />
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~MelissaMelissa Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16594445999193214579noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6520514487551380619.post-49266369822895938842019-03-14T13:59:00.000-07:002019-03-14T17:00:28.550-07:00First Two Marathons of 2019I have made it through the first two of my twelve planned marathons. First up was "The Mississippi Blues Marathon" in Jackson, Mississippi. I was concerned about forcasted rain, but was blessed with perfect temperatures and cloudy skies. Our first impression was the roads, they are really bad! The hubs didn't like driving on them, at all. The expo was small, but found an adorable charm that was a mini of the medal, guitar shaped! Those same friendly peeps engraved medals the next day. The race itself was fun, lots of bands along the way. The course wound through a college campus, downtown, some really nice, and quiet, neighborhoods. There is a really long hill around mile 22-23. I don't particularly like hills at the end, but it wasn't terribly aggressive, just never-ending. I stumbled on the horrible roads around mile 6, treating it like a trail race from that point on. My feet hurt like never before in a race, had new-ish shoes. They had plenty of miles on them, but they are definitely not for me. Lesson learned, back to my Asics! I enjoyed this marathon, but probably won't do it again, or maybe in my trail shoes.<br />
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Second on my list was "The Mercedes Benz Marathon" in Birmingham, Alabama. Running another marathon just two weeks after the first was a bit concerning. Was not sure how I was going to do, this one has a 6-hour cutoff, as opposed to "Blues" 7-hour. I needed to stay in front of the balloon ladies. Mercedes is a loop race, two for the full marathoners. Thought the elevation gain was the problem in MS, so inquired about hills before hand. First 5-6 miles of loop are where the hills are. None were game changing, and wasn't worried when I started my second loop. Both half and full distances start at the same time, so course seemed crowded for first 13. So much room as the half marathoners broke off to finish. I was never alone, which was nice. Talked with a guy named Scott for a bit near the industrial part of course. His family even met him out there, really nice! Best part of day? The pancakes and bacon around mile 17. Oh MY! I also got my beer at mile 25ish. I will absolutely do this one again! I managed to PR for my marathon distance!<br />
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Number three was supposed to be "Snickers Marathon" in Albany, GA. Felt really good going into race week. My last two runs were horrible, and a new class I took kicked my butt, however, I knew I could do this. Woke up morning of race with a bout of stomach flu. Nope, could not even look at food, much less GU. Very disappointed, we drove home before the start. I slept in the camper all the way home.<br />
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So, number three will be "Raccoon Mountain". I ran this as a full last year with a friend, her first. I also have run it as a half, which was my intent for this year. A nice slow relaxing, forest-bathing, trail/road race. Well, now it will be nice, relaxing, forest-bathing, full marathon. I should, barring unforeseen problems, beat my 8 hour time from last year. But, if not, they do give a prize for last place. Win-Win<br />
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See you on the other side!<br />
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Run Far, Run Often, Run Happy<br />
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MelissaMelissa Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16594445999193214579noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6520514487551380619.post-79893848763559222532019-01-03T13:32:00.003-08:002019-01-03T13:32:17.511-08:00<div style="text-align: center;">
<span style="font-size: x-large;">Happy New Year!</span></div>
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Finally back to running, although it is slow and not nearly long enough. 23 days until my first marathon of 2019. I plan to run it slow and easy. There is a 7 hour time limit, and I plan to use most of it. I have been a 5:30-45 marathoner. The plan is to ease back in, as much as you can ease over 26.2 miles. My shin is in good shape, achy after runs, but no sharp pains. The physical therapists are encouraging. I haven't tried my aqua-jogger yet. The holidays didn't leave much time for such things. <br />
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So here's the current working plan. Run 1:1 intervals for 2 miles each day, until Saturday. This Saturday will be a 6.2 mile run, 3 mile recovery run on Sunday. Then next week, if I am pain free, increase to 1:30 :1 intervals for 3 miles daily, resting on Wednesday. All goes well, 10 miles the following Saturday. Repeat miles with 2:1 intervals. Still on the fence for a race on the 19th. The Hound Dog half is that day, LOVE this race! Love Ludavine the half marathoner hound dog who it is named for. Will run that distance if all is well, so maybe.<br />
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Looking forward to some long runs soon!<br />
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Run Long...Run Safe....Have Fun<br />
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~MelissaMelissa Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16594445999193214579noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6520514487551380619.post-7266392870848559182018-12-09T06:20:00.001-08:002018-12-09T06:20:30.166-08:00Hello Long Forgotten BlogWow! Been almost two years since I last posted. I got past my running breakdown. I am still running, even more than two years ago. Currently, I am resting a tibial stress fracture, so had to miss running the Rocket City Marathon yesterday. I volunteered as course sentry and got to see the winner fly past me twice. He makes running look so effortless!<br />
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I have big plans for 2019! Big running plans! Going to attempt to run a marathon a month. I have them all chosen and the first 6 paid for. It's going to be a great year. Which is awesome since 2018 has sucked! Personally speaking, not the running, well, except for the fracture.<br />
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My 2018 running goal race was Dizzy Fifties back in November. A trail 50k. I did run it with the fracture, but because of the softer surface, it didn't bother me. My original goal was 8 hours. With the fracture, I just wanted to finish under the 9 hour time limit. Finished with 10 minutes to spare! Goal achieved! I rested a week, then ran 10 miles at home, on the roads. Pain returned, Dr threatened to put me in boot. I have resisted the temptation to run, been a good girl, resting my tired shin. Physical therapy starts next week. And, I think I shall try deep water running to keep up my aerobic stamina.<br />
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Big plans, big goals, high expectations for 2019! Looking forward to sharing my journey with anyone out there listening.<br />
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Much Love and even More Miles,<br />
MelissaMelissa Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16594445999193214579noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6520514487551380619.post-91207099762457716602017-03-23T16:25:00.001-07:002019-01-03T13:44:01.352-08:00Running took over my life, looking for balanceI questioned for a long time if I was an actual runner. Newsflash, if you run, you ARE a runner. I began this journey almost 4 years ago. I started 5k training with a friend. Went pretty well, so kept running 5k races around town. Almost a year later, we ran our first 10k, the Cotton Row in Huntsville, AL. Because this race attracts runners from everywhere, there is a cash prize, I felt like a real runner afterwards. The next year I added a few half marathons and insanely signed up for the Rocket City Marathon, also in Huntsville. This past year I ran A LOT, two marathons, and my first 50k. I was obsessed. Everything I did revolved around running. My house fell apart, I stopped cooking dinners, vacations revolved around runs...it was insane!<br />
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When I ran the 50k, on New Year's Eve, no less, somewhere in the middle I decided to take 2 full weeks off from running. I had a half marathon scheduled for January 21. Thought, eh, it's just a half, no big deal. Apparently, my sanity was left somewhere on the 50k course.... Fortunately, severe weather postponed the race until February. However, that meant a 5k, 10k, and half on 3 consecutive Saturdays. My<br />
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*mile 11 at the Grand Teton Half*</div>
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glutes and hamstrings still hated me. No amount of yoga, foam rolling, or stretching was making them happy, 3 very painful races.<br />
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This week I have a complete breakdown, of sorts, for me anyway. I decided to give it all up, gain lots of weight, spend all my time on the couch, eat whatever I craved. This was my perception of "everyone" else. So I began my mornings with donuts and fried pies, coffee, soda. Then by 11am yesterday, I was sick. Icky, yucky sick. Plan going well, right?!?! I didn't wear my fitbit yesterday either, oh the freedom I felt! I sat down at work! A true rarity. I work in daycare, with 2 year olds, I rarely sit. I just needed a break!<br />
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<span style="color: magenta; font-size: x-large;"><b style="background-color: white;">Epiphany</b></span></div>
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I began training hard last June. All summer long, in heat, humidity, sweat, and bugs. I never lost focus and made it to marathon #1 painfree! 7 Bridges Marathon in Chattanooga, TN. Was amazing, had a great race, took 31 minutes off my previous marathon time. Then, well, something happened. Was it the track speed work, which I had not done to this point? Did I not give myself a proper recovery time, both physical and mental? Whatever it was, I began marathon #2 eight weeks later in pain and not happy. Granted it was really cold, but that should have helped. I gained back 15 minutes of time, but still came in before the cutoff time. Three weeks later, yep, just 3 weeks later, I ran the 50k. I was nervous, but excited. I taped my hip, IT band, and calf, and wore a icy/hot patch on my back. 7 hours and 50 minutes later, I was an ultra marathoner.<br />
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<span style="color: #cc0000; font-size: x-large;"><b>Now What?!?!</b></span><br />
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I am not running at the moment. Not wearing anything related to running. I did wear my fitbit today. But I have no idea how many steps I have taken, and I do not care. I did go in and adjust my step goal, to something reasonable and achievable. I have a race in 10 days. But, I am going to have fun, and not stress about times, steps, or anything, just enjoy the beautiful course. Went back to drinking water today, feels better than soda. I am a runner, yes, but I am also a wife, mom, gaga, friend and woman. I enjoy other things besides running, so I think I shall partake in some of them for a bit.<br />
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Until later,<br />
Melissa<br />
Be still (haha) and know that I am GodMelissa Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16594445999193214579noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6520514487551380619.post-5732784541203088092014-01-13T16:31:00.000-08:002014-01-13T16:31:33.969-08:00New Year's ResolutionsI realize it's the 13th of January. Nearly half the month gone. One of my trees is still up, we had 5. I am just not moving real fast....maybe that's a good thing? I looked over last year's resolutions, not all were accomplished....did not even touch my piano. The "resolutions" seem so silly now, maybe that's the point? This year I just want to stay in God's will, worship Him more openly and freely, spend time with family, and teach my babies at daycare the love of Jesus. All this will take time, slow, purposeful time. "Be still and know that I am God" Psalm 46:10 I thought this was a verse God wanted me to learn for a time, now I am believing this is my lifetime verse.<br />
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I love to reuse things in my class. I have been collecting the lids from laundry detergent for awhile now. Uses I have come up with:<br />
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1. Matching/sorting colors<br />
2. Matching/sorting sizes<br />
3. Scoops<br />
4. Stacking<br />
5. Playdough cutters/imprinters<br />
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Have any ideas to add?<br />
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Have a wonderful winter's day!<br />
Melissa<br />
Be still and know that I am God. Ps. 46:10<br />
Melissa Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16594445999193214579noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6520514487551380619.post-66225856536344672392013-11-25T17:07:00.000-08:002013-11-25T17:07:12.127-08:00I Ran!....AND I loved it!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I trained, sweated, worried, doubted.....I FINISHED!</div>
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Out of 6500 runners, that was a bit overwhelming, I finished as the 774th woman. It was really fun! Have already run a second, thankfully much smaller, race. My friend and I finished 49th and 50th. Going to run early on Thanksgiving Day and a couple of days later at night through our lit up botanical gardens. Trying to get the hubs to run with me....that may take some convincing and maybe a bribe or two.<br />
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My advice.....lace up those shoes and GET MOVING!Melissa Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16594445999193214579noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6520514487551380619.post-728551049944509152013-08-20T18:14:00.001-07:002013-08-20T18:16:53.725-07:00Am I a runner?I have always wanted to be a runner. I wanted to run the Boston Marathon just once in my life. However, wanting and doing do not always co-exist. I tried on my own, but it really is so much easier to excuse <u>yourself </u>from hard work. I work with a woman who started running/walking seriously a year ago. She invited a number of us to do some "fun runs" with her that a local business sponsors during the summer. First, summer in the south is smotheringly hot and humid. Second, I am no longer considered a spring chicken. Third, did I mention summers in the south suck?!?! I do not do well in the heat; cramps, headache, nausea. I usually hide with the a/c from April through September. This year, nope! I strapped on my Sketchers in mid-July and started with a 3-mile "fun run". And, surprise! It was fun! I missed the next run because of vacation bible school, as director, I kind of <em>had</em> to be there. But every Thursday since I have run/walked. Then, oh my, I decided to get into training for a 5k race in October. Who would have thought? Well, I did, but having someone every day encouraging me and running with me, has been a huge help. So now, three days a week it's interval training, two days of swimming, a rest day, and a 45 minute walk day. I have always been a all or nothing kind of girl....and this time, I am all in!<br />
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Annie is learning to be my running buddy!</div>
Melissa Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16594445999193214579noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6520514487551380619.post-19204817822899026192013-08-10T12:07:00.000-07:002013-08-10T12:08:04.071-07:00Anastacia Noelle is heartworm free!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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My precious Annie is heart worm free! She is so happy to be able to play again! Annie is FULL of energy, she loves to run. The cost financially was a bit overwhelming, but I feel worth it. She is definitely my best canine friend. She is still afraid of just about everything, but we are working on it. Today she did really well during a thunder storm. We haven't done any formal training, but may start that soon. I wrote down a list of commands that a couple of authors suggested. She has gotten down a few, sit, out, back, leave it, let's go, get dressed. The "get dressed" command is supposed to help me get her harness on....she tries to help a bit too enthusiastically! The hubs commented on how she is always in such a good mood, he was a bit jealous, I think. :)<br />
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~MelissaMelissa Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16594445999193214579noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6520514487551380619.post-69676876749760627262013-04-28T17:52:00.001-07:002013-04-28T17:52:31.124-07:00Update on AnnieAnnie has been through her first heartworm treatment. She is doing really well, not complaining too loudly about the extra time in the crate. We spend as much time on the couch resting as we can. I don't want her to think I have abandoned her. She goes back on the 6th of May for the second, and hopefully final treatment. I am encouraged by how well she has done thus far, and hopefully by June we can start getting her back to normal. <br />
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<span id="goog_531753210"></span><span id="goog_531753211">My eldest child brought her new puppy by today, Annie responded really well. She usually wants to eat dogs she doesn't know. But "Vader", whose name will probably change to "Mater" because of grand #3, is small and non-threatening. Puppy tried to bark at Annie, too cute! <span style="font-family: inherit;"> I was so busy playing with puppy, I forgot about my camera.</span></span>Melissa Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16594445999193214579noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6520514487551380619.post-40608147575539692612013-02-24T16:35:00.001-08:002013-02-24T16:35:42.806-08:00The Lost Princess Anastacia<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This is Anastacia, Annie most of the time. She showed up on our front porch the second week in November. She has been a joy! Such personality, sweet disposition, loves to play! We found out yesterday that she is heart worm positive. We were going to get her vaccinated and fixed. Because she is a stray I am not sure my husband will want to go through the expensive treatment, I hope so. Yesterday was such an emotional day for me. Annie and I spent a good part of the day on the couch. She shows no signs, heart sounds good, so hopefully a good candidate for treatment.<br />
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Annie at Thanksgiving, with one of the grands. Annie is awesome with the girls! She has made herself at home, on the couch, and in my heart.<br />
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<br />Melissa Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16594445999193214579noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6520514487551380619.post-91866374782517749342013-01-02T18:03:00.003-08:002013-01-03T06:21:28.699-08:00Moving on up!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I teach two year olds. When they turn 2 1/2 they move into the next class up. Today two of my children moved up, and two more moved into my room. I was excited about one moving in, the other worried me a bit. No worry necessary! I had never heard him talk before, only whine...alot! But, oh my, he can talk...well! This week we are learning about snow and ice. We made snowmen out of three paper circles. Shapes, color, counting, order, size, location...covered. :) They really seemed to like gluing the circles down. The snowflake stickers were definitely a hit! Tomorrow I am bringing my ice shaver...we are gonna play in the snow!!! Here in Alabama, snow is never a sure thing. And if the weathermen dare mention the "S" word....milk, bread, and toilet paper fly off the shelves! LOL However, this week, in the two year old's room, we will have snow, and enjoy it!<br />
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Have a beautiful day!<br />
Melissa<br />
Be still and know that I am God. Psalm 46:10Melissa Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16594445999193214579noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6520514487551380619.post-37782026805933222482013-01-01T11:50:00.001-08:002013-01-01T11:50:09.866-08:00Happy New Year!Today did not start out wonderfully. My upstairs bathtub drain is leaking into the downstairs bathroom. A funny side is that the drip is is landing in the cat's litter box. Aside from that drama, we brought in the new year quietly, just the way I like it. I spent the evening on the couch with my youngest granddaughter and our latest canine addition, mostly listening to football. We watched the Rose Parade this morning. My faith in parades restored. I did not enjoy the Thanksgiving Day parade that Macy's put on. Rose Parade much better with the focus on floats, marching bands, and history. Will be watching the Rose Bowl later, not sure who I will be rooting for. I am waiting patiently for the BCS Championship game....ROLL TIDE!<br />
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I have been spending way too much time on pinterest lately. But, I am intrigued by all the "make your own" cleaning items. I will be trying a "make your own" laundry detergent. I hope it works the way the claims say it does! I have most of the ingredients, just not in the proper quantities. I have also used so many of the kids craft ideas at the daycare. My two year-olds have enjoyed them so much. I made a felt Christmas tree, with the felt ornaments for them to play with. Lasted less than 24 hours on the wall. I do have seven, yes 7, VERY active two year olds though. So, maybe, that was a long time? <br />
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I have made a few "resolutions" for 2013.<br />
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1. Learn to juggle<br />
2. Learn 12 new songs on piano, must include at least one David Nevue song<br />
3. Gatlinburg often<br />
4. More weekend day trips with Hubby<br />
5. Continue counting grace<br />
6. Stress less, laugh more (especially where leaks are concerned)<br />
7. Make cookies more often<br />
8. Use my china, all the time!<br />
9. Learn and use the word "no"<br />
10. Throw/give away stuff I will never use (hard one!)<br />
11. Hug my kids, who are all grown, more<br />
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I am sure I will think of more things I would like to accomplish this year. I always do.<br />
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I hope you have a blessed and joyful New Year,<br />
Melissa<br />
Be still and know that I am God - Psalm 46:10Melissa Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16594445999193214579noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6520514487551380619.post-33487321503641489962012-08-07T18:56:00.000-07:002012-08-07T18:56:40.703-07:00The Napmat<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR1Q7E4RRiLZPmpfBAd9A-x2fW9Q3heBhuvA8mpnJlbpGuaZWOxwJG-skUGlfT5SiBKVkK9NpX57pP-LgEg-M2NFXHN7G2PkdI6VBYT6s32oJGgKUj8JztNUf_atSH5Cz2lGXOTBkcGw/s1600/100_0073.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" kda="true" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgR1Q7E4RRiLZPmpfBAd9A-x2fW9Q3heBhuvA8mpnJlbpGuaZWOxwJG-skUGlfT5SiBKVkK9NpX57pP-LgEg-M2NFXHN7G2PkdI6VBYT6s32oJGgKUj8JztNUf_atSH5Cz2lGXOTBkcGw/s320/100_0073.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
I did actually finish the nap mat for my granddaughter. She loved it, as did many of the parents at her daycare. I may have started something... I used <a href="http://jennygarland.typepad.com/jenny_garland/2008/09/not-your-everyd.html">this tutorial by Jenny Garland</a>. I followed the directions only as far as step 5, there are 10. I wanted the mat to be all one piece, not have the cover removable. I am not sure why this is, the mat washes well in cold water in a regular washing machine. In place of the removable foam I used a package of crib sized quilt batting, doubled. The batting fit perfectly! I left a 10 inch opening for the pillow, which I hand sewed closed later. I also "quilted" the mat itself, just straight lines across the width about 8 inches apart. I got the material out of the remnant bin at a local fabric store (okay, it was the one I worked at) :) So the most expensive thing was the batting, which was half-price as well. I did use buttons, as in step 10.<br />
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A closer look at the material...isn't it adorable?!?</div>
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Kitty approves!</div>
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Have a wonderful day!<br />
~Melissa<br />
Be still and know that I am God. Psalm 46:10Melissa Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16594445999193214579noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6520514487551380619.post-45837110471740628752012-07-07T12:16:00.000-07:002012-07-07T12:17:47.305-07:00WHEW!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I am back to one job....what was I thinking? Playing with two year-olds is both amazingly fun, and exhausting! Working at the fabric store wasn't much fun anymore. Part of the reason was I didn't have time to sew anything....and I really enjoy sewing. So, one full time job it is.<br />
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My husband and I did make a rare summer trip to <a href="http://www.mercier-orchards.com/">Merciers</a>. I saw a post on Pinterest for a blueberry cheesecake. So off we went to their u-pick blueberry morning. It was HOT! But we got two baskets of really sweet blueberries. The "bushes" we taller than the hubs! The cheese cake was amazing! <a href="http://www.epicurious.com/recipes/food/views/No-Bake-Blueberry-Cheesecake-with-Graham-Cracker-Crust-108320">Recipe here</a> I could not find my springform pan, so I made mine in an 11x7 dish.<br />
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Today I am sewing, but in spurts. I am working on a napmat for granddaughter #3. She's a cutie! Will get pictures up soon...maybe...LOL Going to try to work on my blog a bit better than I have been.</div>
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Grandbaby #3 with her mom at her big sister's baptism.</div>
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Have a wonderful weekend,</div>
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Melissa</div>Melissa Mhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16594445999193214579noreply@blogger.com0