Thursday, December 27, 2007

Bamboo shoots and water torture

Are both preferable than the BORE-dom I have at work this week. How many websites can I hit in a day? Turns out, quite a few...any web suggestions for Snoore-fest Friday?

-K


P.S. On a running note, I've been a lazy pig since December 23. I've resolved to continue my lazy, non-running streak until January 2, just to treat myself before I buckle down on the "sticks and twigs" diet and training for the next half. I doubt I will make it that long w/o lacing up the shoes, but I'm going to try my best! Everyone needs a goal...mine is sloth. Happy New Year!

Tuesday, December 18, 2007

Be careful out there

Over the past weekend, I had a reminder that we as a human race really need to care for each other. I don't mean to get heavy on you all, but let me tell my story:

Sunday in Michigan, we were literally SHIT on with snow. In our area, about 10" (not man-inches, but real inches) of snow. Mr. Gravity didn't venture out to try to tackle the job of snow removal until about 4pm. While he was outside in the (very) cold and blowing snow, he noticed our elderly neighbor across the street. Struggling to start an antique snow blower. Repeatedly pulling the cord, and repeatedly getting no response. So, Mr. Gravity did what I hope we all would have done: He took our machine across the street and began plowing their snow. He stopped a bit to look over the machine with the neighbor, and resumed the work. I noticed this from our front window, and decided I would pack a few Xmas cookies in a bag and bring them over along with some hot cocoa for Mr. G to warm up with.

While I was serving Mr. Gravity his hot beverage, Elderly Neighbor Man motioned for me to come into the house. Elderly Neighbor Lady was at the kitchen table, attempting to send out Xmas cards. I say attempting, because little did we know but she had a bad fall at a local grocery store a few weeks ago and had just returned home from the hospital a few days ago. Her legs have been very weak, so she can't walk very well; and her arm and hand have numbness. They have no children that live nearby, and ENM has been trying to do all of the cooking and housework since ENL has been down. We found out that if the snow hadn't been removed, the home care worker that gives ENL her therapy and shower wouldn't have showed up the next day. Mr. Gravity and I spent the next hour or so in that kitchen, sharing my cookies with the neighbors and enjoying a nice strong cup of coffee courtesy of ENM.

They both had wonderful tales to tell. They have been married since 1950. ENM was in the Navy and had traveled all over Europe and North Africa. ENL had nice stories of her children, and they are expecting their 6th great (!) grand child this April. ENL was so thankful that we helped with the snow; when we were in the kitchen alone (while the boys were still working outside), she became choked up and emotional. My heart went out to her. I'm sure she and her husband are proud people, but the emotional toll of being injured (especially around the holidays) has to be great. I have to admire a couple that can persevere together. To work together as a team once their individual abilities start to diminish. I learned some great lessons Sunday afternoon about marriage; and aging; and personal pride.

My message is this: Just take the time to look out for your neighbors. Take that risk to reach out to a stranger. You may be rewarded in ways that money or math can't quantify. Happy Holidays, all...


-K

Tuesday, December 11, 2007

It's the most, stuffiest time of the year!

Here's a small trip to hell for you:

Sinus is blocked because it is too dry in the house. Run the humidifier, wake up with an even more clogged head b/c sinus is getting used to the dry air. Unblock ears by pinching nose and blowing, commence sinus infection.

I love winter.


-K

Sunday, December 02, 2007

Every team needs a weak link

The decision has been made: Mike P, I accept your invitation to the Steers Long Distance Project. Bayshore 2008 Half, here I come!


-The Weakest Steer