Tuesday, March 22, 2011

So Much Going On ....

.... whether it be in the world or just in my little micro part of it all. Globally speaking all I am sure are aware of it all. Earthquake, tsunamis, and Nuclear Power Plant. Upheaval in countries one would never expect having an impact on day to day life anywhere in the US. Yet, they do directly or indirectly. Oil prices pretty high again as well. While the value of US dollar falls again.

Here in my little speck of the Mojave Desert, things have not really improved much for the City of Lights (US desert SW version). Unemployment still high and leading the nation. 7 out of 10 homeowners way underwater on mortgages. Many vacant homes. We currently have two on our cul de sac. Overall, our development used to be quite nice. Now ..... ?
Well, at least our own cul de sac stays okay looking.

Yet, through it all - Gratitude. Very grateful our family has a steady income. We can take care of things. Plus, we did not make the silly mistake of buying in an over-speculated real estate market 5-6 years ago. We have good health for the most part. At least our kiddo's anyway. I am doing fine except for some sore hamstrings. My wife? Well, hopefully it will be fine as well. She does have a few things or two to check out. Yet, she is happy and humming along.

I am grateful for my Faith. I am grateful for others, no matter their religious way of life as well. Religion is important no matter how you perceive it. Hopefully, in yours you see  caring and love for all no matter your Faith. Service to others through that Faith is a special thing. It rewards and uplifts everyone. Taking the time to serve, without being asked, randomly and selflessly is a precious jewel in this world.

Running? Yep it centers me as well. I ran yesterday, even though I probably should not have. My right hamstring is sore from soccer and running (sprinting) with our 4 month old Husky pup in the park. No pain while running. Walking is when I feel it the most. This too shall pass with rest. Which is what is in the plan for the next 5 days at least.

Also, within the Running Plan of Life - races. I thought I would post and update the upcoming events.

Labor of Love HM April 9th-10th. This is a maybe. Timing depends on Hamstring. Along with Soccer schedule and, also, Baseball schedule for Runner Dude #2 (my second oldest).

Orange County Half Marathon (OC HM) May 1st. Did this last year and had a great weekend with the Family. Race was enjoyable. Perfect size event for me. Not too big, not too small.

San Diego Rock and Roll Full Marathon or Half, June 5th. Might do either one, or not at all at this point. There are a few things that could super-cede doing this. Soccer Tourney and my daughter might have a Ballet recital as well this weekend.

Seattle Rock and Roll HM, June 26th. Really want to do this one this year. Yet, we are having Family vacation, work scheduling issues. I might just have to fly up by myself for this. I have a number of friends doing it as well I have not seen in years.

Disneyland HM, Labor Day Weekend. Yep, I know SOLD OUT! However, several Charities seem to be calling my name and fund raising abilities in running this event for. Special Olympics looks like a must for me. I have run this one the last two years for my Sister who died of Lung Cancer. She was a school teacher, who loved working with kids with challenges. Especially, a nephew. I plan on doing this for her and my nephew who has been a Special Olympics participant.

St. George Marathon, Oct 1st. They have to let me in this year! Three times the Lottery Charm!

Long Beach HM, Oct. 9th. Our family had too much fun doing this last year for us to NOT do this one again. Yep, only a week after doing St. George Full, but somehow I think I can make it.

November? Hmmm? Not sure yet? Maybe a trip back to Seattle for the Seattle Marathon? Nope - NO NYC Marathon. I pulled out of the lottery for it. TOO expansive of a trip for our entire family to do it. Maybe some year when we don't have other vacation/family reunions that need to happen.

Vegas Rock and Roll HM ends the year again in December. Night time run on the strip this year. Should be fun!

Here's to a happy and healthy rest of the year to make it all happen.

Cheers!



5 comments:

Kristen said...

It makes me so happy to read your blog again -- another thing to be grateful for :)

I'm also on the mend with sore hamstrings after my first ultimate game in a few months. I'm in the second week of my San Diego program (I switched to a less scary 12-week training program with *some* speed work). I've been eyeing the night-time Vegas half (maybe even full?) - I love nighttime running :) Have you considered the Portland race in October? Supposedly a flat, fast course...It's the weekend before my birthday, so I"m heavily considering it as well. I'm hoping that we find ourselves at the same race one of these days! It would be so fun to meet you in person!

Happy running, Slomo, and happy spring to you :)

Kate Geisen said...

I love reading about race plans. It makes me happy just thinking about what's coming up. :) And special olympics is a GREAT charity to fundraise for!

HappyTrails said...

Dear Slomo - Thank you so much for your kind and encouraging words and prayers - they make all the difference! Thanks too, for running with Steve in my absence (at least figuratively) - I'll know he's in good company!

And yes, we do have lots to be grateful for. And Faith is where it's ALL at.....

The Green Girl said...

::hugs::

Glenn Jones said...

I'll try to find you at the OC (spectating again) and in Long Beach (hopefully running).

You know - if you can't get into Disney, you can always join me running to the Top of Mt. Baldy on Labor Day!