A Hawkeye Among the Razorbacks

2011-10-08T04:53:00.001-07:00

Something strange happened yesterday. I was locked out of my gmail account and my blog. I felt more loss over the blog and immediately started a new one on Wordpress.

Well my rights were reestablished, but not before I realized how much I liked Wordpress.

So I'm going to cool it on the "Hawkeye Among the Razorbacks" because I am so much more than that now.

So please head on over to http://polkadotrunner.wordpress.com to hear about my adventures as a runner, midwesterner in the south, a wife, dog owner, daughter, aunt, friend, coffee drinker...

:)

Xoxox

2011-10-06T04:21:00.001-07:00

The Bibliophiles met for the first time last night at Hjem. There was good food, new art up and wonderful conversation. Some gut wrenching laughs too :)

My coworkers, T. & J. And i are the founding members but more are to come :)

I've been looking forward to this for a while. I was in a book club when I lived in Champagne-Urbana and really enjoyed the gatherings we had and the friends I made.

For the first book, we have selected "The Pleasures and Sorrows of Work" by Alain de Bottom. It's non fiction, of which I have read very little of so this will a good step for me.

We shall see :)

Xoxo

2011-10-05T08:01:00.001-07:00

My week day mornings consist of about 10 minutes of trying to wake up, 30-40 minutes of running, 30-40 minutes of showering, eating breakfast, feeding the animals and picking up the house and 10 minutes of walking to the bus stop.

I love the craziness of them. The cold run, the warm shower, the sleepy smile that my husband and dog give me. The smell of my coffee and cereal that I wolf down in order to make my bus on time. It’s almost an meditation.

Happy Wednesday, all

xoxo

2011-10-04T04:55:00.001-07:00

Date night.

Grilled veggies and Blue Moon.

A deep velvet Autumn sky.

:)

Xox

2011-10-03T03:53:00.001-07:00

I had one of those Sundays where nothing gets done and nothing is planned.

We all have to have those once in a while, right? Just to keep us on our toes.

An impromptu brunch, followed by all the men working on a car for the rest of the afternoon. Ah well. Good visiting got done on my end :) now onto a hopefully productive week :)

Xox

2011-10-02T05:49:00.001-07:00

It's been one of those weekends where not a lot was going on.

All the activity was happening on Dickson street with BBBBQ and usually a third of the town runs for the hills when that happens. It's beenp blissfully quiet.

Al and I got our holiday reservations taken care of for Christmas. Now we can just concentrate on totally deserving the break ;-)

Xoxo

2011-10-01T10:29:00.001-07:00

I ran 16 miles this morning.

This isn't the first time I've done it. I'm training for my fourth marathon. And of course it's a good 10.2 miles short of a full marathon. I still have a ways to go before I'll be ready to run Tulsa 2012.

I'm always amazed at my strength as the mileage begins to climb and am so lucky to gave two amazing running buddies, S. And L. They keep me going and inspired :)

Xoxo

2011-09-30T06:57:00.001-07:00

I’ve seen some good friends these past few days that have made me smile.

The fall colors are appearing and there is a sweet coolness in the air that just makes me sigh.

I’m feeling pretty blissed out this days ;)

xoxo

2011-09-29T06:20:00.001-07:00

Last night I attended a Rosh Hashanah celebration…Jewish new year.

How amazing to have your new year when the leaves are turning color and the weather is slowly getting colder ;) The meal and the traditions surrounding it were all based on blessing the food and getting ready for a good and prosperous new year.

How ironic that the non-Jewish New Year is heralded in by noisemakers and wine. This seems much more desirable ;)

xoxox

2011-09-28T06:01:00.001-07:00

I didn't post a blog entry yesterday. I meant to do it early in the morning but it just got away from me.

I thought I might do it that evening but Al and I spent it together - we walked to a nearby sandwich place, worked out and watched some of the new Dr . Who.

While I love my blogging routine, I enjoyed taking a break for a blissful evening :)

Xoxo

2011-09-26T06:40:00.001-07:00

Sometimes I think of Monday as the start of a race or the beginning of a log twisted road. Maybe an excursion in the woods?

There will be unforeseen obstacles and unfortunately this is only the beginning.

But just keep your wits about you and we’ll get through this ;)

xoxox

2011-09-25T12:35:00.001-07:00

Yesterday I was so productive. I ran 14 miles, napped, grocery shopped and cooked. Today I am being as lazy as humanly possible....for a few hours at least ;-)

Have a warm and cozy Sunday, all :)

Xoxo

2011-09-24T10:18:00.001-07:00

I love fall evenings.

They are crisp and cool and smell AMAZING. I can smell the cold and the snow that will eventually fall.

Summer nights are different. They are hot, sticky and often remind me of a scene from a Tennessee Williams play (although maybe that's because I currently live in the south). They cause me to stay wide awake when all I want is to sleep.

In the fall I can be cozy again :)

Xoxox

2011-09-23T06:12:00.001-07:00

Cold mornings remind me of the Midwest and make me happy.

I remember walking to Zuzu’s in the early mornings for coffee in Chelsea Michigan, going to Geisler Library on Central’s campus to study in undergrad, kicking the leaves on my way home from MHS or visiting some funky café late at night in Minneapolis during a college trip or family visit.

I keep those memories with me and they last me for another year ;)

Xoxox Happy Friday!

2011-09-22T06:19:00.001-07:00

Today has been the first cold rainy morning in a while.

I LOVE IT.

In college, my friends and I would stay up late watching movies and listening to Nora Jones during the cold nights of September through December. I don’t know what it is, but the cold weather outside makes me feel warmer inside J

Stay cozy, all J

xoxox

2011-09-21T06:14:00.000-07:00

Sometimes it's good just to lay your head down and think for a bit. We all get busy and forget things or take them for granted.

It's also nice to get outside in the sunshine and let the breeze blow your cares and worries far far away. All that's left is you and the solid ground beneath your feet. That should be enough to go on, eh?

Happy Wednesday :) Half way there.

xoxox

2011-09-20T07:38:00.001-07:00

It’s good to be back to work and back in a routine J

One good thing about being gone yesterday – I missed Monday J

xoxox

2011-09-19T14:03:00.001-07:00

Life and death are funny things. Death is so absolute and sad. Rarely is it thought of as a celebration.

Today Al and I attended a funeral of a 20 year old. It's hard to think of that as anything but tragic. But the sky was blue and the sun was shining. People were there who loved the deceased. It was a celebration - and I hope others thought of it that way too.

Xoxo

2011-09-18T07:06:00.001-07:00

A lot of the blogs and writers on twitter that i follow have mentioned the mighty summit. It is a gathering of bloggers from around the country and one of their activities is to make a list of 100 things they want to do in their lifetime. I became intrigued and decided to write my own list. I have scaled it down to 30. Here we go (in no particular order).

1 visit Vermont
2 swim in the dead sea
3 get a poem published
4 wear green for a full week
5 make home cooked meals for a full month
6 run the Chicago and Boston marathon in one year
7 work at a museum
8 act in a show in Chicago
9 visit Europe again
10 do one craft a day for a full month
11 take a train ride across the country
12 learn how to knit
13 wear a pair of minolta blonics if only for a day
14 start a book club
15 create a garden
16 reread all of Jane Austen's books
17 live in NYC
18 live in Chicago again
19 write letters instead of emails to people for a month
20 make a collage that represents my life so far
21 get a bike and use it more than my car
22 contribute to at least one charity a year
23 run a small boutique
24 live near enough to my family that I can see them all at least once a month
25 run an independent coffee shop
26 start an arts coalition
27 learn how to write a grant
28 live by the sea
29 get featured in an art museum
30 die at the age of 103

Whew! You try it now :)

Xoxo

2011-09-17T08:30:00.001-07:00

The rainy, chilly days are here and I couldn't be happier :) With a cup of chai in one hand, I can take on the world :)

Xoxo

2011-09-16T06:13:00.001-07:00

Tired. Exhausted. Happy.

I should have more words – I’m 28 now.

We’ll see what tomorrow brings ;)

xoxox

2011-09-15T06:02:00.001-07:00

I turn 28 today.

Ooof.

So I know that 28 is young. VERY young.

But as I grow older and change, so do the people and things around me. I think THAT is what I have a hard time grasping. Not age itself, but the change that comes with age.

Change is inevitable I suppose and none of us live forever. Soon my hair will be flowy white and I’ll wear lots and lots of purple…just to be a cliché ;)

xoxox

2011-09-14T06:14:00.001-07:00

I've always been one of those lucky people that does a little bit of soul searching every day.
With friends and family living so far away, I realize how short and crazy life is. This makes me live it to the fullest.

I get up early to see the sunrise. I run 2 marathons a year. I bring my camera to every gathering I can so that others can be less afraid of getting their picture taken. I drink a glass of merlot while watching Mad Men and pretend that Don Draper is hanging out with me. I listen to sugary poppy crappy music while I work out but Tchaikovsky while I read.

Yeah. Wild I know :) but it's fulfilling and wonderful. How many people can say that about their lives?

Happy Wednesday all. :)

Xoxox

2011-09-13T06:15:00.001-07:00

I saw it taking off, probably from the XNA airport.

The plane was gliding effortlessly through the air, soaring high above the trees. I could almost imagine the passengers looking down at the tiny dots below them as they reached higher and higher altitudes.

It made me restless. Think of travel. Think of road trips.

Hopefully those will come soon J

xoxox

2011-09-12T04:04:00.001-07:00

The weather was perfect this weekend. A few drops of rain on Saturday and then the sun shown all day on Sunday.

I like Sundays like that - get everything done on Saturday, then Sunday can be a lazy "in your PJ's all day with a book" kind of day.

Back to work now.

Xoxox

2011-09-11T04:32:00.001-07:00

It's been good weekend. Got plenty done at home and at work.

Saw friends.

And just concentrated on "being". Hubby is on the mend and autumn is almost here. I am a happy girl :)

Xoxox

2011-09-10T08:37:00.000-07:00

My week has had it's ups an downs. As always, I try to make the most of the ups. Hubby is on the mend (bronchitis has been booted out the door and told never to return). Finished some big projects at work ahead of schedule and marathon training is going great now that the cold weather is here :)

Happy weekend friends :)

Xoxox

2011-09-09T09:39:00.001-07:00

I had the sweetest present waiting for me when I came home last night from work. A new dress for my birthday. It's a BonnerBell design - made by our dear friends D. and W. It's perfect for fall and one that my hubby picked out himself ;)

Football is swinging into high gear around the campus. I've never been a huge fan before working in a higher education setting, but it's easy to get caught up in the excitement of colors, fall and school spirit ;)

Hopefully the cool weather will last.

xoxox

2011-09-08T06:19:00.001-07:00

The evenings seem to go by in a blur now. Twelve hours later it’s light again. I’ve been pulling out blazers and scarfs. Watching movies that make me think of Autumn and winter. Doing quiet, cool weather things.

I snuggle up in the early mornings under the covers and look out the window at the soft violet light descending.

Happy Wednesday all J

xoxoxoxox

2011-09-07T06:11:00.001-07:00

Dear Autumn,

Where have you been?? I have missed you.

For 6 months I have been wanting to run in 40 degree weather, wear jackets and blazers, not have my legs stick to my black car seats, drink merlot with dark chocolate and get dressed in the morning under the covers.

But you’re here. You’re back, I hope for a while.

Good to see you J

Your biggest fan,

Kate

xoxoxox

2011-09-06T03:53:00.000-07:00

It was a good three day weekend. Beautiful weather, fun time with friends and good food. Al was sick but is on the mend.

Time off always makes you realize how busy you are and how much you need to slow down and appreciate the beauty and fortune before you.

And now we get to begin the week on a Tuesday. Never a bad thing!

Xoxox

2011-09-05T06:26:00.000-07:00

I celebrated my 28 birthday last night. My actual birthday is the 15th but I wanted to make sure that everyone could attend the gathering so I had it a bit early :)

I made all the food (fruit, veggies, crackers, cheese, tea sandwiches) and we had wine and beer. We played fun games and talked and just enjoyed each other's company.

My friends make turning 28 easy :)

Xoxox

2011-09-04T05:47:00.000-07:00

Me, now.
Circa 2007, on Broadway before a Les Miz performance.
The Sag Harbor Carnival, 2007

Around this time of year, I often get into a little funk.

It's not a bad thing really. This is when I first moved to Arkansas and left Sag Harbor, I miss the Midwest Autumns and it's my birthday.

I'll be turning 28 this year....which is a little nuts. I know, I know. 28 is YOUNG. People keep telling me that. Older people...who act slightly offended sometimes that I think that I'M getting old :-P

But 28 is old FOR me. I thought when I hit double digits age wise (at 10), that I could be considered old. 28...well....it hadn't even crossed my mind.

But it'll be a good year. I have a loving and wonderful family, a devoted husband, a beautiful niece and nephew and great friends :) I am truly blissed out ;)

xoxoxo

2011-09-03T06:35:00.000-07:00

(scenes from a 14 mile run I took this morning)

Al has been sick, so I woke up early and did half of my 14 Miles at 5am and the other half at 630am with my running group.

Running is one of the few activities that is so flexible. You just need yourself, a pair of shoes and a open road.

I learn more about a place by running in it. Plus I get a better view. Nobody knows the back roads better than a runner :)

Xoxox

2011-09-02T05:05:00.000-07:00

With a long weekend ahead and the prospect of cooler weather on the way, I am very glad it's Friday.

I get a day off from the second job, a 14 mile training run to do and a birthday to celebrate early with friends.

Life. Is. Good.

Xoxoxo

2011-09-01T04:38:00.001-07:00

It's going to be a busy day today. Projects to work on and activities to do.

I like it. Staying busy keeps my mind working and desires fulfilled.

Happy September!

Xoxox

BTW I got a new toy! Well...new to me. A friend recently upgraded to an iphone and gave me her old ipod touch. And it has alllll kinds of photo editing apps! Yeah! I'm already in love with instagram.

2011-08-31T06:16:00.001-07:00

In the early morning, things seem easier.

Running 5 miles.

Getting ready for the day.

Doing anything.

Around 8am, reality sets in. You are still human. You still make mistakes. You are not perfect.

All you can do is try. And hey, at least it’s Wednesday J

xoxoxox

2011-08-30T07:56:00.000-07:00

I got a call last night from someone hoping I was ok - I had a post on Facebook saying "glad to be home".

The concern was understandable. Jobs and life in general can be stressful.

But I just generally like being home. I have always been like that. In elementary school I went home for lunch. To see my folks and to be HOME.

Wikipedia defines home as "a place of residence or refuge". It's a place where I can be me, relax and regroup. It's comforting to know that no matter where I go, I always have a place to come back to.

Home is where the heart is. :)

xoxoxox

2011-08-29T04:18:00.001-07:00

(scenes from Al's restaurant)

The weekend was restful. As always, it went to quickly and I didn't get nearly enough accomplished.

Ah well.

I spent time doing what I love with those I love - I guess that takes precedence over doing laundry or errands. :)

I did a 12 mike training run, worked 5 hours at my other job, read, had meaningful conversations and laughed a lot.

Xoxox

2011-08-28T05:20:00.001-07:00

Some people have wondered why I have taken on the second job.

My simple answer is - I get to be in a museum.

It's not like we are up in the art galleries with the great works of art. It's unglamorous data entry.

To me, however, it's more about being a part of something big. Something that will impact the whole community and perhaps state.

In my own small way, I am making a difference :)

Xoxox

2011-08-27T04:09:00.001-07:00

(1. Snow-cone stand on Maple St, 2. UA lawn in-front of Old Main, 3. Delta Delta...something :), 4. Fayetteville square)

Mmmmmmmmm........

Bring it on, weekend :)

2011-08-26T06:09:00.001-07:00

I totally forgot to introduce you.

This is Mr. Clover. He's a mini camera with no real special powers except to document and be discreet.

He often takes blurry and unfocused pictures. Yet he has his own unmistakeable charm that is adorable and edgy. And he's 1/8 the size of any SLR. Those of us who were made pocket sized are extremely important :)

Happy Friday!!!!

Xoxo

(taken with Mr. Clover mini camera and embellished a little :) )

2011-08-25T04:02:00.001-07:00

This week has been oddly relaxing. Sure it's been busy, but I have had more time with friends and my husband.

More time to cuddle and laugh......

(Taken with Mr. Clover Mini Camera)

I feel like myself again :)

xoxox

2011-08-24T05:30:00.001-07:00

(Taken with Mr. Clover mini camera)

Mornings are always a blur for me. Workout, tend to the animals, pack lunch.

Could I make them easier by doing more the evening before?

Of course.

But moments of interaction with my husband or friends, calls from family etc. have become so precious to that I sometimes throw organization and chores to the wind and choose contentment and happiness :)

Xoxo

2011-08-23T04:04:00.000-07:00

We had a slighty humid rain fall yesterday evening. I love rain - especially thunderstorms.

You are never too old to build a fort, have a flashlight on hand, make coca and eat animal crackers.

Unfortunately this was just a sprinkling.

Hopefully it brought about a much needed coolnes.

So. ready. for. fall..

Xoxox

2011-08-22T06:15:00.001-07:00

Isn't it funny how things work out? Al and I were looking at photographs to hang this weekend and we found pictures from Chicago, Champaign-Urbana, the Hamptons and NYC.

We have LIVED and WORKED in those places.

I had someone ask me how old I was this weekend to have experienced everything that I have. A life in Iowa, a small career in theater in the Midwest, jobs in Chicago, Champaign-Urbana, the Hamptons and now here….

Yeah I guess I'm lucky J

xoxox

2011-08-21T06:05:00.001-07:00

Lately I've had a strong desire to travel.

I'm not sure why exactly. I don't really have time to even think about it right now.

But the summer heat, the busy schedule, the husband's late hours...they just make me want to curl up on a rainy day by the ocean and dream.

Xoxox

2011-08-20T15:09:00.000-07:00

This week has been ones of those where things just don't stop moving.

Work. Chores. Activities. Friends.

Sloooow down.

Xoxoxo

2011-08-19T05:12:00.000-07:00

Fridays are my little escape.

Yes....I still have to go to work.

But I start the day with the knowledge that in 8 hours I will have more time in the next two days to get stuff done, but more importantly - RELAX.

Check stuff off the list people and enjoy the day. It's Friday!

Xoxox

2011-08-18T05:40:00.001-07:00

I'm usually not a risk taker.

But today - I interview for a promotion. A real grown up move, I guess.

::breath:: :)

Xoxox

2011-08-17T06:08:00.001-07:00

(Picture of K. and I inside the stuck elevator)

Day 30 - Self Portrait

Last day of the 30 day photo challenge - I'm almost sad. It's given my composition some structure!

I know this isn't a self portrait but I'm going to combine an entry about an adventure I had last night with the photo challenge.

I have been doing data entry at another place besides the university, 6 hours a week. It's good networking and the extra money is nice. Last night when I was leaving with my coworkers, the elevator came to a halt between the ground and first floors. It would not budge.

Ok. Don't panic.

Immediately my supervisor, K, pushed the big emergency call button and a friendly voice answered "Hello?"

To make a long story short….the firemen were called. When they couldn't figure out how to get us out, the manufacturer of the elevator was called. Finally, in a very "oceans's 11- esque" way, a ceiling panel of the elevator was lifted off and we were pulled out through the ceiling.

Sooo…cons of staying in an elevator for an hour and a half : it gets stuffy, there is NO bathroom and there is NO cell phone service. Pros: you have some amazingly crazy conversations that only end in laughter and friendship J

xoxox

2011-08-16T03:50:00.001-07:00

Day 29 - Black and White

It's funny how the simplest of things (like getting a movie to watch with the hubby) can make a night better :)

On to the rest of the busy week.

Xoxo

2011-08-15T06:00:00.001-07:00

Day 28 – Flowers

This weekend was gloriously cool and sunny. Saturday I spent the morning outside, training for the marathon. The afternoon was spent deep the bowels of a museum. Sunday was lazy as could be and wonderful. A few things were done around the condo and the afternoon was spent by the pool.

This morning while walking to the office, a white SUV passed me with a flowered lei dangling from the rearview mirror. Ah yes. The students have returned ;)

xoxox

2011-08-14T05:07:00.001-07:00

Day 27 - From a distance

Just as things can appear different up close, a whole new prospective can be observed from a distance.

It's a good idea to take a moment, step back and look at the BIG PICTURE. It's important too.

Xoxox

2011-08-13T07:35:00.000-07:00

Day 26 - Up close

Sometimes it takes looking at an issues up really close to see that it's really not an issue. That and a little chocolate always helps :)

On another note, I ran 10 miles today. First 10 of training for my fourth marathon. Rocky start, but I'll get there :)

xoxox

2011-08-12T05:27:00.000-07:00

Day 25 - Something Pink

"I fell off my pink cloud with a thud"

- Liz Taylor

Happy Friday :)

Xoxox

2011-08-11T05:31:00.001-07:00

Day 24 - Animal

Goonie has been a part of our family for a little over a year. I still remember the day we got him - Al came to pick me up and had a tiny, mangy mutt in the front seat. Goonie looked at me with his big brown eyes and I was hooked :)

Xoxo

2011-08-10T04:05:00.001-07:00

Day 23 - Sun Flare

I have always been fascinated by the sun.

It is never the same. It's bright, it's dim. It's streaking through clouds. It's standing alone, burning everything to a crisp.

Have you ever stopped to think, how can one thing have so much beauty and so much power to do good or evil? :)

I'll be happy when the sun lets up on Fayetteville. I'm done with summer.

Xoxox

2011-08-09T03:51:00.001-07:00

Day 22 - Hands

Sooo I cheated with this one. I think the purpose of the photo challenge was to have us take pictures NOW. I took this one at My friend S.'s wedding in June of this year.

At this moment, S. had just put on her wedding dress and was having the back laced up. She was quietly and calmly staring into the mirror, excited for what was to come and assured of her perfect choice :) Her eyes were bright and sparkling and her voice shook. Yet her hands were steady and calm. :)

Xoxo

2011-08-08T06:39:00.001-07:00

Day 21 – Faceless Self Portrait

Yes, I know this shows my face. But only part of it. The rest of it shows my hair uncombed, my eyes closed and my arms limp. I'm RELAXING. Something that I don't often do these days, what with a husband, two jobs, training for my 4th marathon and two pets.

Whew. Seeing that spelled out exhausts me ;)

XOXOX

2011-08-07T06:52:00.001-07:00

Day 20 - Bokeh

The bokeh I captured in this shot probably wouldn't be considered as such by a variety of photographers.

Bokeh is often defined as the aesthetic quality of a blur or the out-of-focus area of an image.

Luckily for me, photography can be very subjective. I believe bokeh can be any little trick of light or imperfect smear of color in a picture that lends something to it's aesthetic quality.

Isn't that what we're all about as photographers? Capturing beauty?

Xoxo

2011-08-06T08:37:00.001-07:00

Day 19 - Something Orange

Alex and I were registering for our wedding gifts at Target. I don't know how many of you are married or have participated in this tradition, but it's a very dangerous thing to put the scanner gun in a man's hand.

They will start scanning tv's, furniture and music. Stuff that you never need or want makes it on the list.

Alex was the same way and ended up scanning this purse.

I had no idea until we opened up an early wedding present from my friend who lived in Delaware. She sent us the orange purse from Target :)

Xoxox

2011-08-05T05:15:00.000-07:00

Day 18 - Shoes

"She packed up her potential and all she had learned, grabbed a cute pair of shoes, and headed out to change a few things."

Happy Friday!

Xoxox

2011-08-04T04:13:00.001-07:00

Day 17 - Technology

There was a point in my life where I wanted nothing more than to ride a horse everywhere and use candles to light my house.

Now I won't go anywhere without my laptop, have twitter and facebook apps on my Palm phone and take my ipod full of MP4's with me on my morning runs.

We can't escape it. We need to embrace it.

A whole community of blogs and e-courses are cropping up that help us stay current on things in our lives as well as notify others of exciting opportunities.

Sure technology can be scary. The xerox printer at work is the bane of my existence. However, if it helps me do my job, it's worth something. Right?

Xoxox

2011-08-03T06:15:00.001-07:00

Day 16 - Long Exposure

I used to love doing long exposure shots with my first digital camera, Kodak Easy Share. The funkier the better. It's just back to the basics. Sure, pretty pictures of landscapes and sharp imagines of people are great. But it's the ones that are over exposed or have streaks of unintentional color that cause the mind to think and be free ;)

The second pictures today is not related to the photo challenge but is what I saw this morning while running. Jealous? ;)

xoxox

2011-08-02T04:10:00.001-07:00

Day 15 - Silhouette

Silhouette memories...

It was Kindergarten. We stood infront of a big beam of light while Mrs. P traced our silhouette on a piece of paper that was hanging on the wall. Squirming. Restless.

Mine was a big head on a little body with fly away brown hair that never seemed to stay untangled.

Later, during a band/choir trip to San Antonio, my friends and I stopped by a stand where a woman was making silhouettes without the beam of light. She sat opposite of you, staring intently at your profile - all the while cutting feverishly at a piece of black paper.

Long, permed hair. Frizzy from the drizzle.

Xoxox

2011-08-01T05:12:00.001-07:00

Day 14 -Eyes

I've heard it said that the eyes are the window into the soul. Dwight on the Office also has remarked that "The eyes are the groin of the head" :)

They are definitely the first thing I notice about someone. You can tell so much about someone through their eyes - are they happy? Sad? Angry? Blissful?

My mother-in-law knew that Al and I were a "sure thing" when she asked him what color my eyes were (nearly 5 years ago) and he answered immediately "Blue/Gray" :)

Xoxo

2011-07-31T08:54:00.000-07:00

Day 13 - Me and 13 Things

Colors, patterns and layers.

Yeah.

That's me.

Xoxox

2011-07-30T06:33:00.000-07:00

Day 12 - Sunset

To me, it's always kind of weird to write about sunsets during the morning.

It's almost like a chapter of a book that is finished and you are opening it and replaying the words in your head.

What happening during the night? Did you see the sunset? Were you awake to see the stars?

Xoxox

2011-07-29T05:21:00.001-07:00

Day 11 - Something Blue

Happy Friday.

I'll have more words tomorrow :)

Xoxox

2011-07-28T05:24:00.000-07:00

Day #10 - A childhood memory

I saved ALL summer for her.

It was the sixth grade and it was 1997.

Molly - an All American Girl :) You could buy Samantha, Addy, Kirsten, Felicity and Molly. I wanted Molly - obviously because with my huge glasses at the time and my hair that I so often wore in braids - I looked just like her. :)

She was a fun friend throughout the years and has traveled with me to Michigan, Illinois, New York and Arkansas. I still keep her close :)

Xoxo

2011-07-27T05:29:00.001-07:00

Day #9 - Someone you Love

I'm one of those few lucky people who met their favorite person while they were relatively young.

My hubby, Al.

From an outside view, Al and I are complete opposites. He loves video games, disc golf and cartoons. I love black and white movies, theater, reading and running. His dream is to go to Comic Con. Mine would be to meet Jane Austen or Kristen Chenowith. But we share loves of family friends and life. We take our passions extremely seriously and share an odd 12 year old boy sense of humor :)

Most of all - we are devoted to each other. Sure, things aren't perfect but it is there, unsaid (although we have both said it!), that we want to grow old with each other :) I guess that's all that you can ask for.

Xoxo

2011-07-26T05:23:00.001-07:00

Day #8 - A Bad Habit

I have been drinking coffee since I was 7 years old. I'll let you do the math for how long that is :)

I remember my very first cup. It was packed with cream and sugar and tasted amazingly sweet and bitter. My dad and I were watching Joe Versus the Volcano.

I've never really thought of coffee as a bad habit myself, although I know others certainly do. In college, I had my grandmother's percolator set up in my dorm room to provide me with my favorite beverage.

Summer theater with it's 12 hour days also brought on more coffee. It was our life juice :)

Now with marathon training, I have scaled down a bit. Drinking more water than coffee - but I still keep the good stuff around :)

Xoxo

2011-07-25T03:22:00.001-07:00

Day 7 of Photo Challenge - Fruit

Apples are my favorite fruit.

Peaches remind me of summer,Figs of winter, blueberries of spring and apricots of fall.

Apples are constant.

Flipflop adorned, freckle faced and barefoot.

Cartigan and scarf.

Crisp. Juicy. Clean.

Xoxox

2011-07-24T06:49:00.001-07:00

Day 6 of Photo Challenge - View from a low angle

I live in a little condo complex that has several 3 story buildings surrounding a pool and clubhouse.

I feel very at home with my big windows that let sun in and my wide open rooms.

It's hard to leave in the mornings :)

Xoxo

2011-07-23T04:53:00.001-07:00

Day #5 of Photo Challenge - View from a high angle

Getting ready to run. 80 degrees.

Is it fall yet? :)

Xoxox

2011-07-22T05:27:00.000-07:00

Day #4 of the photo challenge - Something Green

The day I was able to refer to myself as a marathoner was pretty exciting. I ran my first full marathon in 2009. It was the Hogeye Marathon in Fayetteville AR.

It. was. brutal.

But AMAZING. I ran it again the following year and suffered some major hydration problems, as it was close to 90 degrees when we all finished. I still got second in my age group and won this mug.

This year, I ran the Little Rock marathon and my friends and I plan to run another marathon this fall.

It's an addiction :)

Xoxox

2011-07-21T05:28:00.001-07:00

Day #3 of photo challenge : Clouds

I love taking pictures of clouds. They are so majestic and almost royal. I remember once reading a story about a little girl encountering a cloud on a hillside and being disappointed that she couldn't walk on it.

I would be too.

I enjoy their magic. :)

Xoxox

2011-07-20T05:26:00.001-07:00

Day #2 of 30 Day Photo Challenge - what I'm wearing today.

Ok so I kind of cheated with this one. I actually wore this last night. But it's one of my favorite dresses - bubble hem, 1980's vintage. Swoon.

It is perfect for a party - which is where I wore it. My friend S. turned 23 and she had a small gathering at the barn where she works.

It was the perfect day for it - sun shining, everyone drenched in a thin layer of sweat and yummy food and beer.

Xoxo

2011-07-19T03:56:00.001-07:00

If you'll look over to the right of my blog, you'll see a button for the 30 day photo challenge. And while I think its purpose is to motivate people to take more pictures (a task I have NEVER had trouble with) I thought it might be fun to participate.

Day #1 is a self portrait.

So this is me, taken with my Nikon D40. It's 8pm on a Monday. I'm tired from work. Most of my eye makeup has been rubbed off, as I'm home and don't care how bedraggled I look. I'm in my kitchen, where the light is probably best in my house. Ready for the evening ahead.

This is me :)

Xoxoo

2011-07-18T05:38:00.001-07:00

We spent the majority of the weekend around home.

Cooking, watching movies, playing games. I allow myself one lazy day during the week - Sunday. I don't run, I sleep in, I wear my nike shorts and tank all day and never take my flip flops off.

Just content to be.

Xoxox

2011-07-17T09:13:00.000-07:00

It's hard to believe it's almost August.

When I was a kid, the summer was a blur of water balloon fights, lightening bugs, swimming, eating watermelon and laying out under the stars.

Summers now consist of 8 hours or so in an air conditioned office and then a quiet evening at home. A good change, different even. Every once in a while I miss staring up at the sky from a cornfield in Nebraska or out at the harbor in Sag Harbor.

But still it's nice to feel like you are where you belong.

Ready for the fall :)

Xoxox

2011-07-16T08:15:00.001-07:00

Last night D., S and I went to Theos. We sat on the balcony, sipped on wine and people watched as the sticky, sweltering evening slowly cooled down.

It was a change of pace and felt good to be outside despite the heat.

The only thing that could have made this scene more perfect would have been slow, soft jazz in the background...

Xoxox

2011-07-15T04:18:00.000-07:00

I finally finished one of the biggest photography projects I have yet taken on - my friend S.'s wedding photos.

I literally had no idea what I was doing when I took the role of wedding photographer on. I was flattered that S. thought I was good enough to accurately capture her special day...and a little scared.

The experience itself was very rewarding and educational. I learned what equipment I need to bring next time (to other weddings) and other tactics I could try to get more effective shots. More than anything, it was amazing to see S. and L. say their vows and celebrate just being together forever :)

Xxooxo

2011-07-14T10:40:00.001-07:00

I've always wished I could save the afternoon sun. Maybe in a bottle or a jar. One that I could open on a rainy day or when I was sad.

But thinking about it - would it be the same? Sure the warm rays would be nice...but it's so much about the moment in time when they hit your face or what you're doing or whom you are with.

Xoxox
------------------------

Do you know what happens, Kate, when a dream comes true and you feel your joy bubbling over into wide grins, happy dances, and shrieks of "Holy @#$%!!" and the like?
Your energy actually spills over into the oceans of time and reaches into the past where it laps upon the shores of a former here and now, infusing a former unsuspecting self (who is still merrily living their life due to time's "simultaneousity") with a flash of inspiration or a burst of intuition; a hope for what the future might hold.
Whew... and that, my friend, is the truth about where dreams come from.
The Universe

2011-07-13T05:31:00.001-07:00

A thunderstorm last night cooled off the sizzling temps here.

It was soothing almost - a welcome break from the unrelenting sun.

I sat watching tv while it raged outside and forgot all stresses that I was keeping bottled up. Softly I slid into the calmess of the evening.

Xoxox

2011-07-12T05:24:00.001-07:00

This week has been HOT.

One of those weeks where things are much more pleasant if I simply don't move.

I do all my running and movement in the morning,so I can sit back and relax when the sun is beating down. Lay by the pool. Be amphibious. Live from moment to moment.

Bask in the sun's rays.

Xoxo

2011-07-11T07:10:00.001-07:00

Kate, oh Kate-ie-poo... you're dreaming-g-g-g. And while I abhor the idea of disturbing you when things are getting so very exciting in your life, I just want to remind you that no matter what may ever happen, the dreamer is always greater than the dream.

You're the greatest -

The Universe

Happy Monday. We will survive it J

xoxoxox

2011-07-10T05:37:00.000-07:00

Al's sister T. has been down this week. She works in New England and we get to see her about 3 times a year so it was nice to see and ctach up with her.

While she was down, she and I went and saw Monte Carlo which got me thinking of my trip to Europe in May of 2000. That was ELEVEN years ago. Eleven years since I stood at the top of the Eiffel Tower or walked up the steps of the Sacre Coeur. Seems unreal - these memories are making me want to see the world again.

Biding my time till then :)

Xoxox

2011-07-09T10:08:00.001-07:00

I like the Saturdays where there is no pressure.

You haven't made plans or an agenda. You can clean all day in your sun dress, go get an iced coffee or just lay on your bed dozing as the fan wafts cold air over you.

No agenda is good for a day. :-D

Xoxo

2011-07-08T05:33:00.001-07:00

It's always hard to get back to a regular routine after a vacation.

I'm grateful for it though.

Back to a schedule, to do lists, seeing friends and getting to bed early....or late, as usual :-D

Our routines make us appreciate our time off and vice versa.

I think that once I don't want to go back to an old routine after a break, it'll be time for a change....:)

Happy Friday, all :)

Xoxox

2011-07-07T05:35:00.000-07:00

There is something to be said for being by the water. Our trip to Branson and our subsequent time on the water made me think of the hamptons and my summer in Sag Harbor New York with Al.

Water was everywhere there. Beaches were rampant. Everyone was content to live in flipflops and their bathing suit all day. It was a poolside diva's heaven :)

It good to remember those days :)

Xoxox

2011-07-06T04:52:00.001-07:00

We will be on the road again soon. Back to reality and a routine.

Exhausted, happy and soul - rested. What more can you ask? :)

Xoxox

2011-07-05T06:07:00.000-07:00

There is nothing quite like mornings on a vacation. To me, they seem much longer than the regular 5am-12pm deal. There is more time to do things - maybe this is because I'm an early riser and usually have more time to myself.

I'm usually not a huge fan of leisure time. I like a routine and I like to stick to it. But these past few days in Branson have been restful and cathartic. They have reminded me to slow down, look around and smile.

Xoxox

2011-07-04T06:42:00.001-07:00

I am U.S.A.
Red,white,blue spangled and all.
Free to change the world.

Xoxox

2011-07-03T07:06:00.001-07:00

For the 4th I am joing Al and his fam in Branson at a condo resort called "Fall Creek Condo Resort and Marina". It's a restful place, next to a large lake and rolling hills and paths.

We can see the water from the back porch and can watch the boats sail all morning.

Restful. :)

Xoxox

2011-07-02T05:06:00.001-07:00

I love those days when everything seems lit up by the sun.

Happy weekend :)

Xoxo

2011-07-01T04:52:00.000-07:00

To me, we are finally on the cusp of summer.

This when I'd be having watermelon seed spitting contests with my sister, or when I'd be deep into the library summer reading program, or when we were finally secure in what we were doing in the summer stock theater company I worked for.

This is when I was splashing around the bays of Sag Harbor or walking down the dark hallways of the Louvre.

Yep. It's that time :)

Xooxoxox

2011-06-30T06:14:00.001-07:00

I'm a sucker for words.

Maybe it's because I read so much as a kid, or now as an adult, various fonts and "word art" facinates me.

But when I see a sign or a word written somewhere, especially if it's in a strange or off the wall place, I have to read and examine.

Words are our privilege. They are our power. They can say everything and nothing. They are the only true paradox.

xoxox

2011-06-29T06:26:00.000-07:00

I've come to think of Wednesdays as a mile marker on a marathon.

Not sure which one. Maybe 13.1?

You've already gone pretty far, but you have a bit more ground to cover. Get through Thursday and sprint the final mile of Friday to the finish line.

Happy Wednesday :)

Xoxox