I'M SO BUSTED!

Both my daughters had orthodontist appointments today. (We all see the same ortho.) It didn't cross my mind that Dr. B might want to look at MY teeth! Sure enough, before checking out my daughter's alignment, he asks to look at mine ... And wouldn't you know it ... i wasn't wearing my rubber bands! BUSTED!

"An Athlete's Prayer"

Lord, You know I'm pushing on to finish this race 


I fix my eyes on You
in everything I face
 

Even when my feelings say it isn't so
 

Your Truth that beats 
inside my heart won't let me go
 

With every step of faith,
 You strengthen me
 

Along every mile of trust,
 You're remaking me
 

'Tho a trail of sweat and tears 
mark the path that I've come
 

Until I finish this race ... 
I'll continue to overcome
 

(Hebrews 12:1-22,
Corinthians 4:8-9)

"It's Not the Thai Food"

There's been a lot of rumbling going on in the underbelly of my life. At the beginning of the year, my prayer was that I would be more aware of God's grace, and that I would in turn be more graceful and impart more grace to others in my life. I have been overwhelmed (in a good way). I feel revitalized. And I feel even more empowered to make what may seem like small but necessary adjustments in my life, so that I CAN be more graceful. I am hopeful. I am excited. I am blessed. I am full ... and not cuz I ate ;-)

Yesterday was my 40th birthday. It seems odd to say that, but I celebrated it proudly. In fact, I've decided to celebrate this milestone all year long :-) Why? Because life should be celebrated. I was profoundly reminded of that at Treasure Island yesterday while watching two of my friends complete an olympic distance triathlon event in the cold and the rain. Why would anyone subject themselves to that rigorous of an ordeal in less-than-desirable circumstances?  Because they can.  

Count your blessings.

Heavy Handbags and High Heels are a Health Hazard

This is how you know you're approaching 40: Having to make an emergency appointment with your chiropractor for a horrible kink in your neck and shoulders due to the size of your handbag AND sore leg muscles from wearing heels all day.

And I'm supposed to ride how many miles? Sheesh!

Take a deep breath ...

I was at the MacWorld Expo yesterday. No, I didn't pre-order a Macbook Air. But I was among the throngs of people standing in line to see it ... touch it. Pretty cool, but i can't justify it's purchase. I do love the advertising though ... "There's Something In The Air." There was another one ... 'Thinnovation."

Personally speaking, while I can't relate to the THIN part ;-) I have felt an anticipation, an underlying expectancy, of excitement and joy as I think about 2008. So yes, I do feel like there's "something in the air." 2007 came and went so fast. In 2008, let's really take the time to smell the roses ... and take deeper breaths at that. More to come ...

Before and After

I wanted those Angelina Jolie lips, so I ...

Just kidding ... it's been 6 months since my accident and surgery. In some ways it seems like a long time ago; in other ways it seems like just yesterday.

I had an appointment with my orthodontist today, and he said that things are progressing well and that another surgery does NOT seem likely. THANK GOD! Fine adjustments still being made to my jaw with COUGAR bands, even stronger than the MOOSE rubber bands I've been (ehm, periodically) wearing.

Another bit of exciting news - tomorrow night is TNT's Informational Meeting for the Spring Season! I'll turn in my participation forms and officially begin training again. 6 months ago, I thought 6 months was too far out. Now I know it's just right.

GOSH MOM!

Yesterday, I did the worst thing a mom can do to her teenage daughter. I mortified her in front of her friend ... and a guy friend at that. I didn't do it on purpose, mind you. It was just one of those perfect timing moments, I guess!

I decided to sneak in a ride between storm fronts since we had some sun yesterday. I put my new saddle on my bike, new shoes on my feet, and had my new headband on. I was all geared up and ready to go, so I pressed the garage door button and made my way towards my bike. Next thing you know, I hear this, "OH MY GOSH, MOM!"

There was Lauren, sitting in the car with her friend who had driven her home from school. Hahahahaa!

(This picture was NOT taken yesterday, but can you imagine if you were 15 and YOUR mom came out looking like this!) Hahaha! Sorry Lauren!

Happy Belated Christmas and New Year!

Santa was good to me this year. Truth be told, he always spoils me, not just at Christmastime. Goodies under the tree included a headband that keeps my ears warm while riding, road shoes sans laces, a new saddle, and an iPhone! But riding has been at a minimum as of late due to the holidays, the family parties, the weather, and the flu which made it's way around the family 1.25 times.

But I'm back in form ... eating form, that is :-) I guess the jaw's doing better, as I've been able to eat more. Yikes! Thank goodness training starts at the end of the month.

On a more serious note, not long after my last post, I received a sobering phone call from an old friend. A mutual friend of ours was recently diagnosed with cancer and would begin chemo on January 2nd. Please add George to your prayers. In June, I'll be riding in honor of him, among others.

Let's remember to count our blessings.