This morning I met Ashley and Summer for a chilly morning run. We did approximately 4.5 miles in the 19 degree temperatures (that was really 8 degrees with the wind chill.) Even so, those temps felt balmy after the negative numbers that plagued us all last week. It was nice to be outside and enjoying a run just to run. Don’t get me wrong, I’m aware that I have yet another marathon in about 47 days. It’s looming. I need to build up my base again so that I can sustain for 26 miles. I’m not seeking a new PR in New Orleans. I just want to have fun and complete my 6^th marathon. It will be wonderful seeing and running a new city and a new state. All in all, I’m happy that I made it out of bed for the second day in a row for a 5am workout. Progress, my friends, can be made in small increments. What would life be if we didn’t have hills and valleys? It’s the spice of life.

Speaking of the spice of life, how about a few non-workout tidbits? Our newest addition to the family Jerome (“Jerry”) was dropped off at the vet yesterday for the big snip- declawing and neutering. I hoped there was a discount for only needing 3 paws declawed rather than 4, but not so. Jerry came out of surgery very well and is chilled out on kitty pain meds. If he continues to do so well I might get to take him home today or tomorrow. George is completely lost without his little buddy. He tried to play with Callie last night but she wasn’t having any of that nonsense. I will be ready for all my little kids to be home and harmony restored in my house.

Also, just to be quite honest, I did very well at Christmas. Santa, family, and friends were very generous. I have new toys to play with that are taking up my free time (what little there is.) Firstly, I got a Keurig and it was a total surprise. I have wanted one of these one-cup wonders for months and now it graces my counter space. I’m not constantly drinking my specialty-brewed coffees, teas, and cocoa one cup at a time and all day long! It is glorious. Secondly, my nook. This is the latest and greatest e-book reader from Barnes and Noble. I love it like I love my socks. It’s a necessity. If you are a reader, and I mean reader, the person that has a book in every corner, reads in the car, and has multiple books going at all times (I’m one of these people) the nook is just for you. Your entire library fits on this thin light device, fits in your purse, and goes with you everywhere. Not only that, but nearly all the books are $9.99 or less! Even bestsellers! I recommend this device- hand’s down. The few precious moments that I get to sit, enjoy a hot cup of sweet tea from my Keurig and crack open a book on my nook are some of my favorites. Oh, one other thing that I’ve fallen in love with…the show Dexter. It’s morbid, has quite vulgar language, and settings that I don’t even come close to approving of (how do you really honestly approve of a serial killer anyway). I’m waiting the time that I can start watching Season 3. Free time, please find me soon. I have a holiday on Monday (thank you Mr. Martin Luther King) and maybe I can utilize some of my favorite things on my free day!

TODAY I LOVE: creating a habit

SONG OF THE DAY: “These are the Days” by Van Morrison