Life As We Know IT

This blog is designed to discuss ideas between the Shirley Family and friends. Ideas dealing with all aspects of Life are welcome.

Monday, October 30, 2006

My first marathon


Washington DC -- Well, I did it. I completed all 26.2 miles. I must say that the last 3.5 miles were the hard part. I had to fight through cramping up to get to the finish. BUT, I did finish. No DNF here!

I was on track to complete the marathon at around 3 hrs 45 minutes at the 22.5 mile mark. Then-- Cramps. I cramped up on my left, lower quad. It wouldn't go away. I was devastated. I cramped up at 3 hrs 15 minutes. It took me 1 hr and 5 minutes to go 4 miles. I was dissapointed and happy that I finished at the same time. Now I know that I can do it. I ended up finishing at 4 hrs and 20 minutes.

It was a beautiful day, I felt great, and I had tons of friends and family there as well rooting me on. It was everything I thought it could be. It was the thrill of my life (except for the cramping!). Anyway, a great experience. Enjoy the pics!

Tuesday, October 17, 2006

Road Trip and Graduation

It's me, back home and settled back in after Steve's visit, our road trip and Keri's graduation. It was a long drive but we had my xm so it made for a lot of variation in our programs. I did have to suffer thru some rap here and there but teenagers aren't the only ones who can tune things out when they want to. Steve took his life in his hands(or so he thought) when he finally handed the keys to me to drive. We had a nice visit with Rheta then off to DC which took longer than anticipated because of traffic. I slept like a baby at John's . Steve didn't sleep as well ,seems his snoring kept waking him up!Hmm Kaleb had grown so much and was smiling and we got to see him roll over. Our trip to Newport was long because of traffic again but we made it safe and sound in time to go to Keri's family evening.
Keri looked so good in her uniform and of course I was so proud of her. She has had quite a long year of studying, learning and changes. And it's not over yet. It was wonderful to see everyone again. ( yes ,tears are welling up) I am so very proud of all of you! It was such fun, and so nice that we were able to be there and support Keri's accomplishment. I love it when a plan comes together.
After everyone left Steve and I had a good time touring the mansions , shopping , going to a movie and enjoying a little night life in Newport. It was such a good time and I loved all the boats and water and of course the company. Steve took me to the airport and I couldn't have been more content. ( I didn't even care when they had to take everything out of my purse piece by piece at the airport) I believe a good time was had by all.
On another note ; the Tigers are going to the world Series and they are the team I picked to win. The Cardinals are still trying to get there. And what was the deal with Monday night football. Somehow the Chicago Bears actually won or was I dreaming? Love to All, Mom