tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-71362445678494790072024-03-21T18:35:31.140-07:00uPnUpAnonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05492654627591730637noreply@blogger.comBlogger16125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7136244567849479007.post-68928999693246026472013-05-21T06:20:00.000-07:002013-05-21T06:20:00.370-07:00IMTX: Mount UP<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
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<b><i><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman';">"Sometimes all that stands between you and the ride of a lifetime is simply getting in the saddle and seeing what you are made of" - some texan</span></i></b><span style="mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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I am happy to report that I can cross another Ironman off the listthat was probably the most challenging races that I have ever done which makes stepping over the line that much more meaningful. There is a lot that goes on during a 10 hour and 18 minute race but I will do my best to highlight my day:<o:p></o:p></div>
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Pre-Race...up at 3:45 to eat some oatmeal and coffee...and then off to the races we go. I was pretty calm and trying to avoid all the nervous energy of everything around me. I knew that I did the best I could to prepare...and now was just the time to enjoy it. After a few deep breaths and hugs from my onsite support crew, I headed into the water ready to start the day.<o:p></o:p></div>
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SWIM: The cannon always goes off at 7:00 a.m. and once you hear the blast, it is a human blender of 2,400 people all heading the same direction. It can be pretty crazy in the waterI managed to get a few kicks to the face; elbows to the head and constant water in my mouth. Believe it or not, it was actually pretty enjoyable navigating and embracing all that is the mass start. I think if one can just stay relaxed- the swim is actually a pretty fun adventure. It was a non-wetsuit swim (the water was too warm) and once I made it through the first half mile or sothings did calm down and I was able to have some space to just swim and get through it.</div>
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BIKE: 112 miles of Texas country side on two wheels. The one-loop course was actually very beautifulan added perk when riding solo for 5+ hours. I had a pretty good ride for the first half or so The wind had not really picked up yet and since it was still pretty early in the day, the temps stayed pretty reasonable. The last half of the ride was a little more challenging. I was greeted with a headwind and rising temps as I made my way through the last 60 miles of the course. I just kept reminding myself to make sure I am hydrating and fueling right, not fighting the wind, and ignore anyone who passes mebecause like with any triathlon, the run was coming up next and I needed to save some gas in the tank. The back end of the bike course was just hard. The heat and wind are a tough combo - at times I just told myself to simply spin it out and just keep pedalin. I seriously broke the end of my ride down by 15 minute intervals. My watch always sounds an alarm at the 15 minute mark to remind me to evaluate my caloric intake, how I am feeling, etcEven a 112 mile bike ride is sometimes conquered a minute at a time.</div>
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RUN: The run was set up as a 3-loop course which is actually helpful in that its easy to mentally break down. My approach was to just jog the first loop and stay comfortable given the temperature and effort already pushed on the bike. By this time, it was really getting warm out. I learned after the race that the actual temp. was about 93- but with the humidity, etcthe heat index was about 98-103. Ouch! I dont honestly remember much of the run but I remember just thinking over and over to just keep moving forward and dont stop. I would use each mile aid station to dump water / ice on my head, drink as much as I could, and just try to revive myself enough to make it another mile. All I really wanted to do was jump in this lake that we ran by and drink an ice cold Diet Mountain Dew. By the second and third loop, there were more people walking than running the heat was taking its toll and many participants were just doing what they could to move forward. I learned that I was in first place for the final lapso my focus stayed on just running and moving forward. Each time I tried to push a little harder, my body would tell me to just back off - and I listened. I simply just tried to do the best that I could in any given mile and it seemed to be working. I think sometimes its more challenging to ignore everything else that is going on around and just focus on MY race - it was me against me.</div>
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I crossed the finish line in 10:18 good enough for first place in my age; first overall amateur female; and in the top ten overall. As you know, I am not driven by outcome but at the same time was definitely happy to earn a podium slot for the race...but was just as proud to continue to push even though all I wanted to do was stop. It was an epic day for surethere were so many people out there doing whatever they could do to simply continue to move forward and eventually cross that infamous Ironman finish line.<o:p></o:p></div>
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When I see people push through whatever it is to achieve their best that day...to me, that is inspiration. I don't care if its a Ironman or finally getting out the door to walk a block...all great things begin with the decision to try. Don't let your worst enemy be the one between your own ears.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Success for me isnt something that I chase; rather the pure effort is something that I consistently bring forward... and with that effort, success sometimes just happens. I am truly blessed with just the opportunity to train, race, be active and just LIVE out loud and hopefully use my adventures to help others along the way...that is more rewarding for me than any trophy.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I am now in recovery mode this week- I have blisters on my feet and legs that are not too happy right now..pain today and pride tomorrow right? <o:p></o:p></div>
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Thank YOU for being along for the ride!</div>
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<o:p><span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman','serif'; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-fareast-language: EN-US;"><v:shapetype coordsize="21600,21600" filled="f" id="_x0000_t75" o:preferrelative="t" o:spt="75" path="m@4@5l@4@11@9@11@9@5xe" stroked="f">
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05492654627591730637noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7136244567849479007.post-28481285841842424402013-02-03T17:12:00.000-08:002013-02-03T17:12:50.717-08:00Racing for a Purpose<div align="center" class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto; text-align: center;">
<span style="mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-no-proof: yes;"><v:shapetype coordsize="21600,21600" filled="f" id="_x0000_t75" o:preferrelative="t" o:spt="75" path="m@4@5l@4@11@9@11@9@5xe" stroked="f"><v:stroke joinstyle="miter"></v:stroke><v:formulas><v:f eqn="if lineDrawn pixelLineWidth 0"></v:f><v:f eqn="sum @0 1 0"></v:f><v:f eqn="sum 0 0 @1"></v:f><v:f eqn="prod @2 1 2"></v:f><v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelWidth"></v:f><v:f eqn="prod @3 21600 pixelHeight"></v:f><v:f eqn="sum @0 0 1"></v:f><v:f eqn="prod @6 1 2"></v:f><v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelWidth"></v:f><v:f eqn="sum @8 21600 0"></v:f><v:f eqn="prod @7 21600 pixelHeight"></v:f><v:f eqn="sum @10 21600 0"></v:f></v:formulas><v:path gradientshapeok="t" o:connecttype="rect" o:extrusionok="f"></v:path><o:lock aspectratio="t" v:ext="edit"></o:lock></v:shapetype></span><b><span style="color: #1f497d; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<b><span style="color: red; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 22pt;">HELP ME</span></b><b><span style="color: #254061; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 22pt;"> by </span></b><b><span style="color: red; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 22pt;">HELPING THEM:</span></b><span style="color: red; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 22pt;"> </span><span style="color: #1f497d; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 22pt;"> </span></div>
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<span style="color: #1f497d; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 22pt;"></span><span style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 22pt;">2013 is going to ROCK!</span></div>
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<span style="color: red; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">WHAT: </span><span style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><span style="color: black;">I am dedicating my year of training and racing and participating in the Ironman World Championships in Kona on October 12, 2013 to Ride2Recovery</span>. </span></div>
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<span style="color: red; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">WHO: </span><span style="color: black;"><span style="background: white; color: #4c4d4f; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman';"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-themecolor: text1;"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 12pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-font-weight: bold; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-themecolor: text1;"><span style="background: white; color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt; mso-ansi-language: EN-US; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: SimSun; mso-fareast-language: ZH-CN;">Ride2Recovery (R2R), a 501(c)3 Foundation whose mission is to improve the health and wellness of Healing Heroes from Iraq and Afghanistan through mental and physical rehabilitation programs that feature cycling as the core activity.</span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; mso-themecolor: text1;">I have been involved in R2R events in the past and….these veterans are my heroes and the least I can do is dedicate a few drops of sweat to help them continue to move forward in so many ways.</span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; font-size: 10pt;">I know that each one of them has their own story, challenges, struggles and potential to continue to move forward – sometimes we all just need a little tailwind along the way. Together, lets create some wind!</span><span style="color: black; font-size: 10pt;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: red; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">WHY:<span style="color: black;"> </span></span><span style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><span style="color: black;">I am driven by purpose. Through your donations to R2R- you are helping fuel my fire to train and race to the best of my ability and ensure that we are all doing what we can to help these men and women regain their own purpose through pedaling. </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"><span style="color: black;">Over 90% of each dollar that you donate goes directly to help Healing Heroes participate in Ride to Recovery. Past accomplishments through supporting dollars include</span>:</span></div>
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<span style="color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Wingdings; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings; mso-style-textfill-fill-alpha: 100.0%; mso-style-textfill-fill-color: #0D0D0D; mso-style-textfill-fill-colortransforms: 'lumm=95000 lumo=5000'; mso-style-textfill-fill-themecolor: text1; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-themetint: 242;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">ü<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span><span style="color: #0d0d0d; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-style-textfill-fill-alpha: 100.0%; mso-style-textfill-fill-color: #0D0D0D; mso-style-textfill-fill-colortransforms: 'lumm=95000 lumo=5000'; mso-style-textfill-fill-themecolor: text1; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-themetint: 242;">Training rides and programs at local Wounded Transition Units and VA Medical Centers<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Wingdings; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings; mso-style-textfill-fill-alpha: 100.0%; mso-style-textfill-fill-color: #0D0D0D; mso-style-textfill-fill-colortransforms: 'lumm=95000 lumo=5000'; mso-style-textfill-fill-themecolor: text1; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-themetint: 242;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">ü<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span><span style="color: #0d0d0d; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-style-textfill-fill-alpha: 100.0%; mso-style-textfill-fill-color: #0D0D0D; mso-style-textfill-fill-colortransforms: 'lumm=95000 lumo=5000'; mso-style-textfill-fill-themecolor: text1; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-themetint: 242;">Bicycles to use for training and on the Challenge Rides<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Wingdings; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings; mso-style-textfill-fill-alpha: 100.0%; mso-style-textfill-fill-color: #0D0D0D; mso-style-textfill-fill-colortransforms: 'lumm=95000 lumo=5000'; mso-style-textfill-fill-themecolor: text1; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-themetint: 242;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">ü<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span><span style="color: #0d0d0d; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-style-textfill-fill-alpha: 100.0%; mso-style-textfill-fill-color: #0D0D0D; mso-style-textfill-fill-colortransforms: 'lumm=95000 lumo=5000'; mso-style-textfill-fill-themecolor: text1; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-themetint: 242;">Adaptive bikes specially built for those with missing limbs and other severe injuries<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: #0d0d0d; font-family: Wingdings; mso-bidi-font-family: Wingdings; mso-fareast-font-family: Wingdings; mso-style-textfill-fill-alpha: 100.0%; mso-style-textfill-fill-color: #0D0D0D; mso-style-textfill-fill-colortransforms: 'lumm=95000 lumo=5000'; mso-style-textfill-fill-themecolor: text1; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-themetint: 242;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">ü<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span><span style="color: #0d0d0d; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif'; mso-fareast-font-family: 'Times New Roman'; mso-style-textfill-fill-alpha: 100.0%; mso-style-textfill-fill-color: #0D0D0D; mso-style-textfill-fill-colortransforms: 'lumm=95000 lumo=5000'; mso-style-textfill-fill-themecolor: text1; mso-themecolor: text1; mso-themetint: 242;">Uniforms, helmets, shoes, and other cycling equipment needed for cycling<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="color: red; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">WHATS IN IT FOR YOU? </span><span style="color: black;"><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">If you offer your support through a donation, I will add you to my exclusive email list where you will receive weekly sneak peek emails on my own journey to Kona through pictures and videos of all my adventures, highlights of some of the R2R participants and rides, and hopefully some additional motivation for YOU to go accomplish your own goals- we got this!!</span><span style="color: black;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Let</span><span style="color: #1f497d; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">’</span><span style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">s give back to those who have given so much to us...Please consider making a donation (any amount will do…) today at the website below. <b><u>Please make sure to donate in my name</u></b></span><b><u><span style="color: #1f497d; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"> </span></u></b><span style="color: #1f497d; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';"> </span><span style="color: black; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">and add your email so </span><span style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">that I can get you on my distribution list and you can see the magic you help make happen throughout the year.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Calibri','sans-serif';"><a href="http://ride2recovery.com/r2r-sponsor-a-rider.html" target="_blank">Click here to Sponsor!</a> <span style="color: #1f497d;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">Thanks so much- let<span style="color: #1f497d;">’</span>s get some butts on the bikes!! <span style="color: #1f497d;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">RIDE ON!<span style="color: #1f497d;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Calibri','sans-serif';">Emily</span><span style="color: #1f497d;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<i><span style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">If you would like to learn more about this worthy organization, go to </span></i><a href="http://www.ride2recovery.com/"><i><span style="font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">http://www.ride2recovery.com/</span></i></a><i><span style="color: #444444; font-family: 'Arial','sans-serif';">. If you believe in helping to heal America's Wounded Warriors as much as I do, please donate what you can. No amount is too small, but the more we help, the more we heal.</span></i><span style="color: #1f497d;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05492654627591730637noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7136244567849479007.post-84695345593293352792012-12-27T09:27:00.001-08:002012-12-27T11:06:50.473-08:00letting 2012 marinate.<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: 'Cambria','serif'; font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Taking a look back…<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Cambria','serif'; font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">2012 was full of amazing blessings, challenges and change... I was able to travel to foreign countries, move to a new city and new state, start a new chapter in my career, see awesome parts of the world on my favorite form of transportation, spend time with people that I love and admire and meet new ones too…train and compete with a healthy body, and take advantage of many adventures that life threw my way. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Cambria','serif'; font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">At the end of it all…there are always certain lessons that stick out for me more than others…here are my top five for 2012:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Cambria','serif'; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: major-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">1.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: 'Cambria','serif'; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Work Hard. Nothing worthwhile in life comes easy. You always get out of it what you put into it. Dedicate yourself to your goals, trust the process and don’t be afraid of failure- only be afraid of not trying in the first place. If it does not challenge you- it will probably not change you either.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Be motivated to simply do the best you can each day…the rest will take care of itself.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Cambria','serif'; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: major-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">2.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: 'Cambria','serif'; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">People are amazing. I have learned so much from those around me. Every single person has an incredible amount of potential with so much to share…take the time to just be present with those around you and hear their story. Close your mouth and just open your ears and take the time to un-connect from things with cords and connect to those with hearts. I am so blessed with an awesome family and network of friends that support, encourage, and believe in me…that right there is the best part of life- the people that choose to live it with you.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Cambria','serif'; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: major-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">3.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: 'Cambria','serif'; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Being uncomfortable just means that you are growing. Many times we avoid the discomforts that change or challenges present…but it is those moments that true inner expansion and growth takes place. Be comfortable with being uncomfortable and see what you can accomplish. Know your own limits and dare yourself to overcome them. Anything is possible if you got enough nerve.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Cambria','serif'; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: major-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">4.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: 'Cambria','serif'; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Consistency matters.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have learned that doing small good things consistently can eventually lead to great things.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Don’t feel the need to do it all right away- rather, take the small steps each day in the direction you want to go. I approach each training session, day at work, or anything else with the motivation that the culmination of effort will eventually lead to something better. Patience.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Cambria','serif'; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Cambria; mso-bidi-theme-font: major-latin; mso-fareast-font-family: Cambria; mso-fareast-theme-font: major-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;"><span style="mso-list: Ignore;">5.<span style="font: 7pt 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span><span style="font-family: 'Cambria','serif'; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">Choice. We are all given the choice…no matter what the situation- I am given the choice.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The choice to... overcome, believe, stay positive, try, be brave,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>keep moving forward, be thankful, be content, and at the end of it all….know that I am exactly where God wants me to be.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Choices- even the small ones, can define and create not only your present – but your future as well. Choose wisely.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'Cambria','serif'; font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-theme-font: major-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: major-latin;">I love living. I love the people in my life who teach me how to do and be better. I love knowing that each day is another chance to grow, experience, and be better than I was the day before.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I love opportunities…cause that is what everything is: an opportunity. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05492654627591730637noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7136244567849479007.post-22025590370377394562012-08-30T19:35:00.001-07:002012-08-31T09:11:12.630-07:00the approach<!--StartFragment--><br />
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Next weekend I will have the opportunity to be at the start line of my second Ironman of 2012…Life is full of events that require preparation, work, and most importantly, a positive approach.<o:p></o:p></div>
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For me, the approach to my race, can really be mirrored by my approach to life. For what it worth, many times I embark upon life’s adventures in the hopes of using what I learn to help inspire others – or at least provide a new perspective for myself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Ironman is no different.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>That being said, as I look forward to next weekend- I thought I would share the approach that I choose to take with me to the start line of an event that I have logged many hours on the computrainer, miles on the road, laps in the pool, reps in the weight room, sweat, blood, and sometimes tears in hopes of crossing the finish line to the best of my ability.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><o:p></o:p></div>
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- It’s about the process- not the result.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So many times we put such a powerful emphasis on the result and we forget about the journey to get there.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Through my training, my head has been able to take my body to places that I thought were not possible…I have learned to be comfortable with being uncomfortable because that is the point in which strength grows- both mentally and physically. <o:p></o:p></div>
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- Sometimes you have to GIVE in order to GET.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Goals that you set are completely within reach if you are willing to give a little to get what you want.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I have had to sacrifice in order to get to that start line – but crossing the finish line makes it all worth it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The simple truth is that if you really want something bad enough- you will find a way.<o:p></o:p></div>
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- Perspective.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It can be so easy to get caught up in the anxiety that usually accompanies any big race…but in the end, its just a race.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There have many before and will be many in the future. Much like life, I am simply so grateful for the opportunity to participate and push myself forward to be the best I can be.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If that means crossing the line in first place, or carrying a glow stick and finishing at the 17 hour cut-off…in the end, we are not defined by what place we come in, but rather by the drive, determination and pure heart put into the effort.<o:p></o:p></div>
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- Attitude is really the only thing I have control over.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>There is a lot that can happen during the 140.6 miles that is uncontrollable.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I can get smacked around in the water (its happened every race), have mechanical issues on the bike (been there), feel suboptimal on the run (done that) or any other factors that can easily come into play without any warning. The only thing that I can control is my response to any challenge that presents itself.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I enter each race the best prepared that I can be – but also respect the fact that the race (or life) does not always go according to plan…when the unexpected bumps show up – just do what needs to be done to get over them. Stay positive for the “workout” that goes on between our ears can take us farther that we ever thought.<o:p></o:p></div>
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- Let loose and enjoy the day.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>As crazy as this sounds…I do this because I enjoy it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The day goes so fast and is really a celebration of all the hard work that I put into the process of getting to the start line.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>God has blessed me with the opportunity to do what I love and I owe it to Him to do the best I can.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My ultimate goal in racing is to do the best I can do for me.<o:p></o:p></div>
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At the end, my approach to any race or life is actually quite simple:<o:p></o:p></div>
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Expect the unexpected<o:p></o:p></div>
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Be comfortable with being uncomfortable<o:p></o:p></div>
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Be smart but don’t over think every twist and turn- just lean into it.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Get excited but keep the mind calm.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Keep fighting even if the battle seems lost...losing is never an option to someone who does not give up.<o:p></o:p></div>
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Be fearless. Be bold. Be thankful.<o:p></o:p></div>
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I have enjoyed the approach- look forward to my dance on the runway…and anticipate the take off to new dreams once this Ironman is in the books.<o:p></o:p></div>
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No need to wish me good luck on race day- instead, I encourage YOU to dream big and approach any new adventure with the determination that it will be impossible to fail.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Believe when others doubt, persist when everyone else quits, work when others are busy wishing, and never look back. <o:p></o:p></div>
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<span style="color: black; mso-bidi-font-family: Times; mso-themecolor: text1;"><i>"As you journey through life, choose your destination wisely, but don't hurry there. You will arrive soon enough. Wander the back roads, the forgotten paths, the unknown ways, as you keep your dreams in your heat as the light that guides you. Seek out new voices, strange sights, and bold ideas. Such things are riches for the soul. And if, upon your arrival, you find that your destination is not exactly what you dreamed it would be, don't be disappointed. Think of all you would have missed if not for the journey there, and know that the true worth of your travels lies not just in where you've come to be, but in who you became along the way". Linda Staten</i></span><span style="color: black; mso-themecolor: text1;"><o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<!--EndFragment-->Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05492654627591730637noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7136244567849479007.post-50369796051259283702012-07-31T09:16:00.004-07:002012-07-31T09:16:57.686-07:00big kid dreams<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Kids are amazing at dreaming…their ultimate ideas and dreams for the future are realistic in their own minds. I love that.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">When does the dreaming end? When do the excuses start? Somewhere along the line we allowed discouragement, shrinking self-belief and doubt to deter our focus on what our heart and head really wants for ourselves…whether it is a professional goal, a personal dream, or anything in between.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">What dreams and visions have you given up on? The awesome thing about goals and dreams are the fact they are all relative to YOU…it could be finishing a 5K or an Ironman, getting your Ph.D. or getting your high school diploma, owning a company or simply finding a job.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Define what YOU are wanting and be the author of your own story.</span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">I just want to remind you that if you want it bad enough you’ll make happen.</span></b></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Accept no excuses.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Don’t settle for mediocrity.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Don’t buy into excuses.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Don’t undermine your worth or potential by comparing yourself to others.</span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: "Calibri", "sans-serif"; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Most importantly, don’t give up when you still have something to give since nothing is really over until you stop trying.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Pursuing dreams can be scary – don’t be afraid to encounter a risk – that is where you learn to be brave.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Limitations only exist if we let them and YOUR POSSIBILITIES are endless once you begin to believe you can. </span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ9qWjInC0rm8-6B8hlvT-9SfNgqrX3sXtkMxniEhU9NFZGGRDsOL8MpMHgMhyphenhyphenurvGRoBRNDpOylghg9Kbxi12RJJS71xE2ZrH57n_Ni250iwM_HN2nAnEV99fWFUjQMmamlxQG0FRPFc/s1600/bud.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" eda="true" height="187" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJ9qWjInC0rm8-6B8hlvT-9SfNgqrX3sXtkMxniEhU9NFZGGRDsOL8MpMHgMhyphenhyphenurvGRoBRNDpOylghg9Kbxi12RJJS71xE2ZrH57n_Ni250iwM_HN2nAnEV99fWFUjQMmamlxQG0FRPFc/s200/bud.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<br /></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05492654627591730637noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7136244567849479007.post-40567519384564535262012-05-24T14:56:00.002-07:002012-05-24T15:48:28.839-07:00the start line<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span class="apple-style-span"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="color: black;">The journey is the reward. </span></span></span></div>
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<span class="apple-style-span"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="color: black;">Last weekend I had the opportunity to participate Ironman Texas – a pretty solid event that has been on my radar and has been the reason behind my training up to this point. I don’t think that I have ever taken the time to write a complete race report…simply because for me the journey to get to that start line is where all the magic takes place. Sure, race day is fun and an awesome part of the process- but I have never let it define the journey to get there. </span></span></span></div>
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<span class="apple-style-span"><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="color: black;">Relative to anything in life- you truly get out of it what you put into it. What did I get out of it? Here we go…lessons that come with the finisher medal:</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10pt;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span><span class="apple-style-span"><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Do not resist change. Let go of the brakes. Don't worry about the bumps and bruises. Your body can take them. Don't steer around the challenges, opportunities, events, ideas, or goals that scare you…instead go over them, go through them, eat them up and keep moving forward. Keep your chin up and ALWAYS see what is around you and in the end, there will be one less thing you cannot do.</span></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="color: black;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span></span><span style="color: #333333; font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="color: black;">Life is right now. If you want it bad enough, you will do whatever it takes to reach your goal. Obstacles are life. There is no way to happiness…since happiness is the way. If you don’t go after what you want, you will never have it. If you do not step forward, you will always be in the same place.</span> </span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10pt;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">True growth happens in moments of weakness. It really is not the level of achievement, run splits, or any numbers attached to racing that I find growth- It is those moments when I am tired…when hope seems lost…when I am given the choice to either quit or keep moving forward where I learn the most. That is the moment that gives me courage and strength to face each battle, challenge, and hill in life with an open heart and can do attitude.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10pt;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Nobody ever said that it was going to be easy…but they all say it will be worth it. It doesn’t matter if you complete and ironman or finally run 1 block—we all start somewhere. Sometimes in order to achieve great things, we have to be willing to give up the things that hold us back…even if that is our own negative attitude, habits, and self- beliefs. Be your best cheerleader.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10pt;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Positive attitude has power. If you did all the things that you are capable of…you would astound yourself... True Story. I dare you to be astounded. </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10pt;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">Always dream and shoot higher than you know you can do. Don’t compare yourself to everyone around you- try to simply be better than yourself.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: black;"><span style="font-family: Symbol; font-size: 10pt;">·<span style="font-family: 'Times New Roman';"> </span></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;">An impactful network: surround yourself with those who believe in you, support you and simply love you for whom you are standing still…make people a part of your process.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="color: black;">My journey to the start line is just life. Whatever you can do or dream you can…BEGIN IT. Boldness to start has power and magic. Exhaust yourself with living…give it all you got no matter what that means for you. Years from now you will be more disappointed in the things you didn’t do than by the ones that you did.</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Verdana, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="color: black;">See you at the start line.</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #333333; font-family: Tahoma, sans-serif; font-size: 10pt;"><br /><span class="textexposedshow"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">So stop waiting; until you finish school, until you go back to school, until you lose ten pounds, until you gain ten pounds, until you have kids, until your kids leave the house, until you start work, until you retire, until you get married, until you get divorced, until Friday night, until Sunday morning, until you get a new car or home, until your car or home is paid off, until spring, until summer, until fall, until winter, until you are off welfare, until the first or fifteenth, until your song comes on, until you've had a drink, until you've sobered up, until you die, until you are born again to decide that there is no better time than right now to be happy. Happiness is a journey, not a destination.</i></span><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;"><br /><br /><span class="textexposedshow">- Alfred D'Souza</span></i></span></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05492654627591730637noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7136244567849479007.post-4437677254347642582012-05-02T18:51:00.002-07:002012-05-02T18:51:58.553-07:00top tens...for now<!--[if gte mso 9]><xml>
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<!--StartFragment-->
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: center;">
I love making lists. I love lessons. Therefore, I love my
lessons put in a list.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Each year I
randomly take the time to let life sink in and journal how it looks and the
awesome insight that each day provides.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> I had some time on my latest travels for fun slash work so </span>I thought I would share at least 10 of many…Below is a flavor of things
I have learned, read and lived…and a philosophies that I try to keep in mind as
I grind out each day…and think of how much better my tomorrow will be.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<ol start="1" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;">You’re
stronger than you think you are.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Sometime you have to fight through some bad days to earn the best
days of your life. You never know how strong you are until strong is the
only choice you have left. Be a fighter- it will be worth it.<o:p></o:p></li>
</ol>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .25in;">
<br /></div>
<ol start="2" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;">You
can press forward long after you can’t. It’s a matter of wanting it bad
enough.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>You tell me every reason
why you CAN’T and I will give you every reason why you CAN. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>What is your CANT? Get rid of the “T”.
You got this.<o:p></o:p></li>
</ol>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<o:p> </o:p> </div>
<ol start="3" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;">Life
is 10% what happens to you and 90% how you react to it. Simple.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Be positive. Work Hard. Expect and give
nothing but your best.<o:p></o:p></li>
</ol>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<ol start="4" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;">Do
what you love, not what you think you’re supposed to do.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Many times we get trapped into what the
expectation is…follow your heart.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Dreams are achieved when passion is pursued.<o:p></o:p></li>
</ol>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<ol start="5" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;">If you
want to feel rich, just count all the great things you have that money
can’t buy. Faith. Family. Friends.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Those
are my favorite things…buy experiences with those who make you smile and
fill your heart. <o:p></o:p></li>
</ol>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<ol start="6" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;">Be
gentle to yourself. Forgive yourself. Embrace your mistakes to propel you
to new learning and understanding.</li>
</ol>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<ol start="7" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;">Drink
in as many new experiences as you can.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Remember- all the magic happens outside your comfort zone.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Dare to lose…for the chance to win is
worth it.<o:p></o:p></li>
</ol>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<ol start="8" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;"><span style="mso-bidi-font-weight: bold;">Sometimes good things fall apart so
better things can fall together. Just because you give up…doesn’t mean
that you are weak – sometimes it just means that you are strong and smart
enough to let go.</span><o:p></o:p></li>
</ol>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin-left: .5in;">
<br /></div>
<ol start="9" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;">Don’t
dwell on the past or worry about the future for too long. Right now is
life. Live it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Be mindful. Be
grateful for today. <o:p></o:p></li>
</ol>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<ol start="10" style="margin-top: 0in;" type="1">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;">Don’t
pray when you are in the valley if you can’t remember to pray when you are
on the mountain top. Be consistent in your faith and trust in Gods plan.
Simple.<o:p></o:p></li>
</ol>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
Sometimes life allows us to be our best teachers if we
continue to allow ourselves to learn.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Get
out there and let others be blessed by your presence.<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm4KspQG4zLRVYthV8KduOgFfO8gQBskczW1cxO_Pa-rbwVYpwP7ng-0JdZRDIwDkrivtRgra34fHzqA42r8OEA0fW0mYeraenuNTFNRsg1_3-EsbRRR912EkD_pgVlSgvmIjd8eWPGI4/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhm4KspQG4zLRVYthV8KduOgFfO8gQBskczW1cxO_Pa-rbwVYpwP7ng-0JdZRDIwDkrivtRgra34fHzqA42r8OEA0fW0mYeraenuNTFNRsg1_3-EsbRRR912EkD_pgVlSgvmIjd8eWPGI4/s320/photo.JPG" width="228" /></a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<!--EndFragment-->Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05492654627591730637noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7136244567849479007.post-84457906338009176982012-03-30T12:41:00.001-07:002012-03-30T12:41:29.295-07:00questioning<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<a href="" name="OLE_LINK1">sometimes the questions are more important than the answers</a></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;">we value answers. people like the quick fix, solutions, end points, and having a clear expectation of what is to come.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;">there is nothing wrong with answers- they are needed, warranted and important.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>but what happens when the answers that we are seeking begin to eclipse the original question that brought them up in the first place?</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;">throughout my ongoing study of intrinsic motivation, this concept has really began to stand out for me and can really applied to any circumstance, thought, short term decision, long term commitment…to life.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;">we have a tendency to use our energy, focus, and time on scrambling to get to the next step, cross it off the list, lose those last 10 lbs, become happy in our relationships, learn to manage our money, or any other area of our life that we tend to be challenged in…while in fact we are not that clear on the question that we are working so hard to find the answer too.</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">what are you wanting?</i></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;">action steps, goals, and strategies are meaningless endeavors if you are unclear to what is most important to you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;">what are you wanting?</span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;">have you ever taken the time to explore and think about what it is you are truly wanting for yourself relative to your true goals or overall wellbeing? </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;">what is it deep inside that you are wanting for yourself and what is most important to you?</span></div>
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<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;">i can tell you that it’s usually not a number, a dollar sign, or an award but rather a feeling or state of being …something you cannot put a price tag on.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>it is something that is driven by you because it provides purpose and a value that cannot be defined by anyone else.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;">if it is truly important to you…you will find a way to make it happen and your next steps will be apparent. </span></div>
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<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;">that is a true goal.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;">make your goal the most important – keep your focus on goal, not the problems that happen along the way. </span></div>
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<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;">be flexible. </span></div>
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<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;">be determined. </span></div>
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<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;">be invested. </span></div>
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<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;">many times we work so hard to find the answers…and never take the time to understand what our question is. slow down and trust the process.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;">be purposeful in your endeavors. time is such a gift and should be spent on creating the life you want based on what is most important to you.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></div>
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<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;">as you look at past challenges and future hopes- take the time to ask the question.</span></div>
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<span style="mso-bookmark: OLE_LINK1;">sometimes the question truly is more important than the answer.</span></div>
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<br /></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05492654627591730637noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7136244567849479007.post-48138038321476514582012-03-23T13:25:00.000-07:002012-03-24T06:10:28.704-07:00emerge<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0in 0in 0pt;">
<span lang="EN" style="color: #333333; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: 8.5pt;">this week I had the opportunity to lead and facilitate an internal goal setting workshop. we talked about goals and what the participants are really wanting relative to their overall wellbeing moving forward. it was an awesome learning experience for me and really provided insight on how much people dwell on past “failures”, attempts, and setbacks to determine their present and future capabilities...and what a waste of time that is.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="color: #333333; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: 8.5pt;">below is just what emerged for me after working with, listening, and just being with the participants. i always love to share what i learn.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="color: #333333; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: 8.5pt;"><strong>first, I dare to share a small piece of reality with you: you’re a fantastic person on an exciting journey, in the beginning or middle of creating a life that you want. building, growing, and moving forward is like building anything else - you build one brick at a time. appreciate and celebrate the small steps- they really do equal miles.</strong></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="color: #333333; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: 8.5pt;">• <strong>think positive</strong> and surround yourself with positive people. don't let unwarranted criticism affect you. know the naturally supportive and positive people in your life and choose to surround yourself with them…people that build you up and love you for the magnificent person that you are. speak positively and be kind to yourself…your thoughts will follow suit. <br /><br />• <strong>be engaged</strong>. involve yourself in something that is both good for you and consistent with your expressed goals. feel good about yourself, you have to treat yourself as if you are already someone worthy of respect and good treatment…and you are. be engaged with positive activities, environments, and relationships that align with a healthy and balanced life.<br /><br />• <strong>perfection is impossible</strong>. creating and living a perfect life is not going to happen…instead aim for doing the best you can with what you have and know that is good enough. success is contagious. you do not have to be perfect…just willing, honest, and able to trust yourself.<br style="mso-special-character: line-break;" /></span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="color: #333333; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: 8.5pt;"><br />• <strong>positive mistakes</strong> despite a common line of thinking, a mistake does not make you a failure. in fact, it’s a sign that you are growing and simply given an opportunity to learn. stretch yourself to be uncomfortable every day by facing challenges, learning from them, and moving forward. mistakes are just the catalyst for learning.</span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="color: #333333; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: 8.5pt;">finally, always start the day right. remind yourself that you are a worthy, wonderful, valuable individual. you deserve to live up to your potential and embrace the wonderful person that is in you…don’t be the one person that holds you back. </span></div>
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<span lang="EN" style="color: #333333; font-family: Tahoma;">it doesn’t matter where you have been. we live. we learn.</span></h4>
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<span lang="EN" style="color: #333333; font-family: Tahoma;">it only matters where you are now and where you want to go. </span></h4>
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<span lang="EN" style="color: #333333; font-family: Tahoma;">begin anywhere.</span></h4>
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<span lang="EN" style="color: #333333; font-family: Tahoma; font-size: 8.5pt;">what can you do today to get you one step closer to a better tomorrow?</span></div>
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<br /></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05492654627591730637noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7136244567849479007.post-72252917142290247042012-03-20T17:56:00.000-07:002012-03-20T17:57:20.856-07:00merci tuesday!<br />
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red; font-size: large;">It's Merci Tuesday…you know what that means….we have good stuff to
report! <o:p></o:p></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: red; font-size: large;">My favorite things today…</span><o:p></o:p></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"><b>1. Sleeping in the rain last night….well I wasn’t in
the rain but it was raining outside. I love that. <o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"><b><br /></b></span></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: purple;">2.<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';">
</span>A client meeting….at a cheese plant. In Wisconsin.
Enough said.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"><b>3.<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';">
</span>I saw a really cute old couple (like 80 year old
…that old) walking and holding hands. I love that too.<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: purple;">4.<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';">
</span>A banana with nutella.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"><b>5.<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';">
</span>I am a guest facilitator this week for an online
grad course through MSU- I love being involved with others learning…I learn
just as much as they do. <o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: purple;">6.<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';">
</span>SPRING! </span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"><b>7.<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';">
</span>I know more today than I did yesterday…love
progress.<o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: purple;">8.<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';">
</span>My brother.</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"><o:p></o:p></span></b></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;"><b>9.<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';">
</span>Sounds crazy…but when someone just takes a
moment to ask how you are doing…and they actually care about how you respond. <o:p></o:p></b></span></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: purple;">1.<span style="font: normal normal normal 7pt/normal 'Times New Roman';"> </span>I
am tired…just means today was just filled with good stuff, action, and
activity. Being tired means you worked
for it. I love that</span><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: blue;">.</span></b><o:p></o:p></div>
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<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;">Hope your today was better than your yesterday…but not as
good as your tomorrow. </span></b><o:p></o:p></div>
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<i>Remember to always remember your good stuff.</i></div>
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<br /></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05492654627591730637noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7136244567849479007.post-62208944350612127572012-03-16T12:41:00.003-07:002012-03-16T12:41:57.655-07:00yOuR mOmEnT<div align="center">
<span style="color: red; font-size: large;"><strong>FrIdAy FuEL</strong></span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Looking back</i></b>: this past week has been a big training week. Time. Intensity. Recovery. Repeat.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>To round out the work week- this morning I had a 14 mile run with a special efforts thrown in the mix.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>My legs were not as cooperative as normal from the start which can equal a battle between the mind and the body. </div>
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It was near the end that I had my moment.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>It was the moment when everything told me to just stop…except for that little voice that said that – keep going. Sometimes the little guys do come out on top.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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The moment you are able to overcome, breakthrough, persist and just simply NOT GIVE UP is the moment where you grow, expand, learn, and push your limits just a little farther out.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></div>
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<b style="mso-bidi-font-weight: normal;"><i style="mso-bidi-font-style: normal;">Looking Forward:</i></b> Moments are relative…and can certainly last longer than a brief period of time.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Moments can be defined by finally letting go of the negative in order to create more space for something positive, taking a risk because if anything- you are bound to learn something, taking the first step towards significant change, working through loss and keeping hope of a promising future alive, or simply not pressing stop because that will not get you any closer to your ultimate goal.</div>
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Whatever your short or long term moments are made of: Keep at it.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Know the moments of weakness are the same moments that will someday define your strength. </div>
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Own your moment.</div>
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Be a fighter. </div>
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You got this.</div>
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<br /></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05492654627591730637noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7136244567849479007.post-5857561838226347732012-03-13T18:34:00.000-07:002012-03-13T18:40:23.497-07:00danke tuesday!dAnKe, TuEsDay!<br />
<br />
back at it...another day with more opportunities to live out loud, have new adventures, and share yourself with the world. top ten blessings:<br />
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<ol>
<li>a whole lot of sun</li>
<li>a successful client meeting...first one down.</li>
<li>10 hours of sleep </li>
<li>sarah's almond biscotti...flavor parade for your mouth</li>
<li>phone calls with mom kratz</li>
<li>a plant delivery for me at work...love me some green.</li>
<li>compression socks to prep for tomorrows training brick.</li>
<li>meeting new people...new ways of thinking</li>
<li>a walk around Calhoun</li>
<li>the fact i get to get up tomorrow and do it all over again.</li>
</ol>
<div>
more often than not- we get hung up on focusing on the challenges, whats wrong, and all the obstacles that often get in our way in every element of our lives. take the time to remember all the RIGHT things, people, experiences, and moments. Keep your focus on the positive contributions you can make to those around you...and you will feel just as good as they do.</div>
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Chin up. If you had a tough day...focus on what went right and know that you have the chance to have an even better day tomorrow. Make it what you want it to be.</div>
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<br /></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05492654627591730637noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7136244567849479007.post-64979749059217359612012-03-09T15:54:00.001-08:002012-03-09T15:54:43.899-08:00iF<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000; font-size: x-large;"><b><u>fRiDay FuEl </u></b></span></div>
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<br /></div>
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<br /></div>
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<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div>
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<div class="MsoNormal">
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></div>
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<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
“If” is such a big word for being only two letters.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Within that I and F are such possibilities.
Such potential. Such power to become.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Exploring IF’s can be a relevant journey of thought…think about it: <o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
WHAT IF…<o:p></o:p></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<ul style="margin-top: 0in;" type="disc">
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;">The secret
to success is failure<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;">The
timing is always right<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;">You
came to realization that you are capable of more than you ever thought<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;">The
benefit almost always outweighed the risk<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;">Living
outside the lines became more common than staying in a safe place<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;">A
smile was easier than a frown.<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;">You
realized that you are not valued by the number of 0’s on your pay check,
the number of trophies and awards you earn, the amount of friends you have
on facebook, the kind of car you drive, the square footage of your
house…but rather by your ability to love and be loved, to create memories,
to offer your best to those around you…and to yourself.<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;">You
started to do all the things you usually just talk about<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;">Rushing,
moving, doing slowly turned into just being <o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;">You
realized that you have the ability to turn a life around…just by showing
up.<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;">You
were just a little more gentle with yourself…and dared to be fearless<o:p></o:p></li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;">Listening
hard, living with intention, learning, and appreciation were common
staples of everyday life</li>
<li class="MsoNormal" style="mso-list: l0 level1 lfo1; tab-stops: list .5in;">Living
the dream really can be your reality- if you let it happen…after all, its
just perspective.<o:p></o:p></li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal">
More importantly…</div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<br /></div>
<div class="MsoNormal">
<i>What if</i> you your personal IF’s truly became
your WHEN’s and your WHEN’s became your NOW? </div>
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DO IT: Pick just one of your own IF’s…make it your one NOW. (every if counts...even the small ones)<o:p></o:p></div>
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<!--EndFragment-->Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05492654627591730637noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7136244567849479007.post-60058809004728431232012-03-06T17:46:00.002-08:002012-03-06T17:47:28.075-08:00top tensIts Grazie Tuesday!<br />
Why would we not want to dedicate every Tuesday to favorite blessings? Here we go. Top Ten in no real order...<br />
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<li>the opportunity to jump in a cool pool of water for a 2 mile swim at 4:45 am. </li>
<li>Lifetime Fitness Plymouth has Woodway treadmills. I get to use them. BONUS.</li>
<li>RJF has Caribou coffee. fresh. everyday. </li>
<li>Went out for lunch with new fun people...I like new fun people.</li>
<li>My St.Louis Park family gets back from CALI tonight! yay!</li>
<li>It was 62'. in March. enough said.</li>
<li>I got a care package of good stuff in the mail. </li>
<li>I still get excited when my favorite song comes on the radio at just the right time. it happened. and yes, i turned the volume up. loud.</li>
<li>My work neighbor shared dark chocolate espresso beans. dang. those are good.</li>
<li>This kid:</li>
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what are you thankful for? let those blessings outshine those challenges...cause even the challenges are blessings. true story.</div>
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<br /></div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05492654627591730637noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7136244567849479007.post-35851717875511522352012-03-05T17:11:00.001-08:002012-03-05T19:14:54.418-08:00defined.happy monday.made it through my first official monday on the new job and even drove home WITHOUT my GPS. thats right folks. this girl knows her way home. i am off training today so am resting my little legs and writing for the second day in a row. yeah baby<br />
<br />
...and back to the beginning. in case you did (or maybe didn't) notice the title for this craziness is uPnUp. its not only a new word- but more of an attitude. sometimes stuff brings you down. don't let it. sometimes people try to get you down. don't let them. sometime you may even bring yourself down. don't do it.<br />
stop.<br />
pause.<br />
and think the one simple yet powerful word: UP. (or you can do the two for one special and throw them together: uPnUp)<br />
life gets so much better when you think up.<br />
try it.<br />
double dare you.<br />
title explanation done.<br />
make it a good week.<br />
<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05492654627591730637noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7136244567849479007.post-7205964044601434652012-03-04T17:59:00.002-08:002012-03-04T18:04:17.723-08:00shake iti got this.<br />
i have always thought about doing this...life in words. never thought i had the time or would make the time to see it through...change is inevitable. lets do it.<br />
last week i moved, started a new job and flipped to a new chapter in life. to say that taking the leap was easy would be a slight understatement. i was content. i was happy. i was not looking to change things up. but when God presents opportunities - i choose to think about them and pull the trigger when it makes sense. this made sense to me. to keep it simple: sometimes one has to be bold, be brave, and simply believe that there can be more if you are willing to seek it out. i am on a journey to discover, explore, and truly maximize all i have and can be. for me, that means stepping outside the box, being open to new terrain and jumping in with both feet. the unknown can be a scary place...but its also the place where all the magic happens. i refuse to settle for the routine when life is all about shaking it up. lets get shaking.<br />
tomorrow is a new day. new options. new choices. new adventures. new people. new places. new opportunities.<br />
make sure you shake it up.<br />
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you got this.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05492654627591730637noreply@blogger.com2