Snapshot Saturday

I have been neglecting my "Snapshot Saturday" postings. So, today I decided to finally upload all my pictures from October 2009-January 2010 onto my computer. When I did this, I realized, "man, I need to get better at taking more pictures." So, let's add that to another goal for 2010. Anyway, enjoy some pictures. Happy Saturday... despite the cold, the sun is shining in Indiana... YAY!

Enjoy

Before my brother left for bootcamp, he wanted to take a ski/snowboard trip. So, my mom took all of us kids, and some of his friends. The first day we skiied and the second we went tubing. It was a blast! Thanks, Mom!

Mr. Hoosier and I enjoying our first Christmas Day at his parents.


Bailey and me on Christmas morning!

Us on New Year's Eve! Here's to a wonderful 2010!

Until next time,

H :)

One Week Later...

One week ago, my brother left for the Navy, and my mom received a letter today. It was definitely a sigh of relief. However, the letter (the portion he wrote) was very short and basic, it is so great to know he is there and doing well.

It has been a difficult transition for my family all around. I know it's hard on my mom not having him around and not being able to pick up the phone and make sure he is okay. As for me, I often lie in bed at night and just ponder about his day, his feelings, and if he is scared or sad. I know that is very "big sister-like" of me, but that is just how I am. Mr. Hoosier tells me not to worry, but it's in my nature.

I do, however, have comfort in knowing that my brother thrives in structured, disciplined atmospheres, hence my belief in the reason he joined the Navy. After baseball was out of his life, it was hard for him without the structure, the discipline, the feeling of accomplishment, and the presence of teammates. What better place to get these back in your life than a branch of the military?

Despite my worrying, and mostly wondering, I am so proud of him. I am sure I will state this many times until the day he graduates from bootcamp. Speaking of bootcamp, in the letter we received his graduation date; he will be graduating on March 19th. My birthday is March 22, and I couldn't ask for anything better to see my brother graduate from bootcamp for my 26th birthday. So, Mr. Hoosier, myself, and my family will be spending the weekend in Chicago seeing my brother graduate and enjoying some time with him before he enters A School. Until then, I have comfort in knowing he is going to come out a changed man, for the better. I am so proud of him and love him so much.

Well, I am off to write him his first letter.

Until next time,
H =)

Running "Things" That Make Me Happy

I clearly write about random things in my blog.  After all isn't that what blogging is about; random thoughts?  Well, I don't just blog about random things, but I also read random blogs that vary from running, to design, to health, to my favorite radio station dj, to my idol (the founder of Girls on the Run), and mostly all things preppy, of course.  One blog I follow the Happy Runner  writes about all things running.  She is a true inspiration, and I even won a free running shirt on her blog- bonus!  Anyway today she posted ten things running related that made her happy, so I decided to copy.  What better things do I have to do right now then to do the same?  I could actually write my brother a letter, organize my third bedroom, or continue my goal to read more, but instead this is what I am doing... enjoy!

I've decided to list 10 running-related things that make me happy. So, here goes:

1.  Morning Runs- Yes, I am crazy and thoroughly enjoy morning runs; that is, when it isn't below freezing.  Whether its meeting my favorite running bud at the park at 5:30 to do our 4 mile pre-workday course, or heading out on the path by our house with Mr. Hoosier, morning runs ALWAYS get the day off to a great start!  Not to mention, when Mr. Hoosier and I do our morning runs, he usually cooks me two egg whites and one egg scrambled when we are finished.  

2.  My new, green running shorts- Mr. Hoosier got me these awesome, new kelly green nike running shorts for Christmas, and I love them.  They are like all my other running shorts (all Nike and the same style), just green!  

3. Race tee shirts- I am a huge nerd when it comes to race tee shirts; I always have to have one.  I don't even wear them half of the time, except for the long sleeve ones, but I always have to have one.  It is something about digging through my drawers and remember that certain race, that certain finish line, and that certain feeling.  However, I now have too many to fit in my tee shirt drawer so they are stacked else where.  Mr. Hoosier always asks me what I am going to do with them, and the answer is still uncertain.  Someday, I might make a quilt out of them.  Have you ever seen tee shirt quilts?  They are pretty cool; I think its a good idea.  But then, where would I put the darn quilt?  Until then, I will continue to LOVE my race tee shirts.

4.  My pink and white striped running socks- Between my favorite shorts and socks, my favorite running outfit may not coordinate, but I am okay with that.  After all, I have to be wearing something pink if I am running a race.  My pink socks are my favorite.  My mom bought them for me at the Indy Mini convention.  They are so comfortable, and of course PINK!

5.  My framed picture of my mom and I crossing the finish line at the 2009 Indy Mini-  Pretty self explanatory, my mom bought a picture of the two of us holding hands, crossing the finish line, and had it framed for me for Christmas.  It is pretty awesome;  it is in my "Girls on the Run Office", also known as the third bedroom.

6.  Finish lines in general- No matter if it is your PR, your worst time ever, you cross with an injury, or you are a spectator, finish lines are such a happy place.  You don't know ever runner's story, and that's it everyone has a different story and that is what makes finish lines so wonderful.  If you have crossed a finish line, you know that feeling; it's indescribable.

7. My running watch- Yes, it is pink and white, and no, it isn't a Garmin; it is just a cheap Target watch, but I love it.  It does exactly what I need it to, time my run and help me beat my time for a certain course I am running.  It is easy to use, and it has a light so I can see my time if I am finishing an early morning run.  Perfect for me.   

8.  Girls on the Run- Every single aspect of Girls on the Run; I just love it!  It is my absolute passion.  I never thought I could be so excited about something.  I can't even choose one thing about it that I love the most: I love crossing the finish line with my girls, I love watching the expressions on parents' faces, I love each and every practice, I love planning for the future of Hamilton County- I just LOVE GIRLS ON THE RUN!

9. Asics- I love Asics running shoes even after they're worn out and I wear them with jeans. 

10. Post Race Activities- Whether it is listening to a post-race band, driving home from a race and stopping to get coffee, stopping at the Farmer's Market with Mr. Hoosier to load up on some yummy post-race snacks (one of my favorite things to do), or taking a nap on the couch, activities after you complete a race are that much better!  Actually, the whole day is just fantastic

Bonus (because I can't choose which to take out): Logging my mileage- I love to log my mileage; it gives me a feeling of accomplishment.  I especially like to log my times with my mileage so that I can beat my previous time even if it is just by 10 seconds.  

Well, that is my list.  How about YOU try your own!

Until Next Time,

H =)

Running Goals

You may notice that I added a new gadget to the side of my blog. The new gadget tracks my mileage for the week, month and year; how cool! Since I didn't find this until today, I didn't track my mileage for the rest of January, but that's okay, it will still keep me motivated.

Speaking of motivation, I am looking for a good training program to use while training for the Indy mini; any suggestions are welcome. I have heard good things about Hal Higdon's program, and I am thinking about using his Intermediate training program.

Here are my previous times from the particular race:
2004= 2:08:07 (my first half marathon ever!)
2006= 1:50:53 (man I was flying!)
2008= 2:15:05 (I was twiddling my thumbs, or just way out of shape, probably the latter one!)
2009= 2:02:44 (most memorable as this is the one I ran with my mom; not many can say that!)

So, after looking at these times, and knowing that 2006 is the only year I TRULY trained for the mini; this was the only year that I completed my long runs. Long runs is where I struggle, and is the reason why my other times haven't been what I would like them to be. I usually do all the other runs, but only ever get up to about 7 miles for my long runs, but this year is going to be different. My goal is to really follow a training program and complete the long runs. My goal is to run this year's Indianpolis Mini Marathon in 1:55-I can do it!

I feel that this will also be a good gauge as to whether or not I will run a full marathon this fall. If I can't even stick to a half marathon training program with fidelity, there is no way I will be able to do a full marathon. So, this year, is a true test to my running faith. I will start my training program in two weeks; I will let you know which I choose.

Happy Running

Until next time,
H :)

Bittersweet Farewell

My dear, younger brother:

I feel like it was just yesterday that the three of us piled in one bed on Christmas Eve in anticipation of what Santa would bring us, and today I said good-bye to you for what will be longest I ever go without hearing your voice or seeing your face. Although I am sad, I have never been so proud of you in all 20 years of your life!

I have told you this story a hundred times, and I am going to write it once again...

I remember the day you were born. Heck, I remember the day before you were born; it was October 4th, 1989. Mom, Dad, and I went to buy a new car in preparation for YOU! I was so excited about the pockets on the back of the seats. I remember that I told mom I couldn't wait to put books in the pockets so I could read to my new sibling; and that I did, all the time. Then, the next day, I got to miss school. Yes, Mom let me "skip" school in kindergarten so that I could be there to welcome you into this world. I remember sitting in the waiting room with Aunt Rita. Of course I remember what I was wearing; jeans, a white oshkosh sweater with a pink turtleneck underneath, and my hair in a pony tail. The nurse came out into the waiting room and told me I had a new baby brother. I was so excited to see you. I already had a picture drawn to tape hospital crib for everyone to see. When you came home from the hospital, I brought you for show and tell. I was such a proud big sister at the age of 5, and that is one thing that has never changed!

Life for us has gone so fast, but we have so many memories! It was so funny to watch you as a little boy fall asleep in your high chair while eating. I will never forget you going around and showing people the "squeeze". When I speed skated, you were always my biggest fan and would meet me after my races to give me a hug; you were so loving. I remember all the bike rides we used to take with mom when we were younger. First, you sitting in the seat attached to her bike. Then, you riding your own bike with Court in the baby seat. As you got older, we made memories playing various sports. I remember golfing with Dad at the par 3 course and the first time you ever beat me; I was so mad! Many memories were with baseball whether it be playing catch in the street, wiffle ball in the backyard, cheering you to to so many victories, or in the car going to and from various tournaments; watching you play ball brought so much joy to everyone.

As you grew into a young man, you became one of my very best friends. I treasure the late night talks we always had in the summer time by the pool, and even the instant messenger conversations we had while I was away at school. I loved when you and Court came to stay with me at Ball State for a week while I was taking summer school classes. But most of all, I love the trust and friendship we built beyond being just brother and sister; I know that relationship will continue as you enter this new chapter of your life.

Deciding to join the Navy, in my eyes, was the most mature and responsible decision you have ever made and I have never been more proud. I know that you will excel in this atmosphere. You are an intelligent, kind-hearted, and determined man. There are so many opportunities that await you and I am so excited to see where this all takes you. Just like I cheered you on when you were on that baseball field, I will continue to cheer you on as you take on this next challenge in your life.

This will be the longest I ever go without talking to you, and it will be awhile, if ever again that we live only two hours away from each other, but that's okay. I know that nothing will ever come between the strong bond we have created over the last 20 years. I am proud of you, I love you dearly, and I wish you the very best. In the next 9 weeks, when you are struggling to get through, or feeling really homesick, just remember I will be yelling, "Come on, Z, you can do it!"

My thoughts and prayers are with you throughout bootcamp, and forever! I can't wait to see you graduate!

Love always,

Your Big Sis

Snapshot Saturday

I have been absent from the blogging world for over a week; my apologies. Life has been busy with a wonderful celebration of life for Nate, skiing with my family, and a busy week at school. Here are my two pictures for my Snapshot Saturday. As I was finding pictures to post today, I realized that I really need to upload all my fall/winter pictures onto my computer so that I can post them. But until then, here are two photos to enjoy! Have a lovely Saturday... and of course, GO COLTS!!!

Mr. Hoosier and I at Wrigley! I love the Cubs!

Our trip to Lousiville!

Until next time,

H :)

God's Plan

In the past 36 hours I have learned that God's plan is not always our plan or the plan we want to see happen. I have been struggling with understanding why He makes the plans that he does, and why He takes the people He does from this Earth.

On Tuesday, God took a special person from this Earth. I have come to realize that He had other plans for Nate. It hurts, it hurts very bad, and it is so hard to understand. As Mr. Hooiser and I laid in bed last night, I kept asking him why. Mr. Hoosier reassured me that God had better work for Nate and He really needed him. I know this is true, but it doesn't take away the pain right now- the pain that I feel when I see my young, beautiful cousin facing so much grief at such a age.

Nate Savieo, 18 years old, went to be with the Lord Tuesday morning. One week ago, I asked you all to pray for him, and I thank those of you who did. It was a long journey for the family and friends of Nathan. It was an emotional rollercoaster as we all thought he was improving slowly, from what ended up being a strep infection that got into his blood stream. However, that was not the case and he lost his battle at 3:03 am at Parkview Hospital in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Nate is a true testimony of how precious life truly is.

As I have thought and thought for the last 36 hours on what to say or write, I am speechless. There is nothing I can say or do to make anyone feel better. I search for the right words for his parents as I know losing a child is a parent's worst nightmare. I search for words for his younger siblings as they will grow up without memories of their brother like I have with my brother and sister. I wish I knew what to say to his grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins because I know how it feels to lose a family member. I have dug deep for something to say to make my precious, cousin Katie Jo whom he loved so dearly. I can't imagine losing the one you love the most, and to do it at such a young age breaks my heart into pieces. They were never even given a chance to take their relationship to the next level, and that kills me. I know their love was so true despite their young age. As for my aunt and uncle, I know Nate was the son they never had, and to them it's like losing a child; the question of what to say remains. And to my other two cousins, Ashley and Alyssa, Nate was like a younger brother to them and I can't imagine their pain.

My husband said it best yesterday when he wrote me this, "The only thing I understand about God's plan is that it is God's Plan. I don't know why he does certain things or allows them to happen, but I have to believe it is His plan." And that my friends, is what keeps me going, knowing that it's not my plan or your's, but His and that is how we must live our lives.

There are many things I don't know or understand. I don't understand death, I don't know what to say to people when it happens, and I struggle with how to move on after it happens. However, I do know and trust one thing, and that is that Nate is in a better place. He is in a world free of pain, free of hate, and full of love and happiness. I am sure he is "schooling" everyone in heaven on the baseball diamond, basketball court, and football field. I know that my Grandma and Uncle Ricky welcomed him when he went to heaven. He will forever be watching over us, and will be Katie Jo's guardian angel. That all gives me comfort, but it doesn't take away the pain...

Rest in Peace, Nathan Patrick Savieo, you will forever be in my heart. Thank you for showing Katie unconditional love, and thank you for making me realize that I need to be more loving to my own husband, family & friends. You are a true testimony to "living every day to its fullest", and for you, buddy, I will try my best!

Nate & Katie at our wedding- May 30, 2009. They really love each other!

Nate opening Christmas presents from Aunt Kathy & Uncle Joe. Christmas 2009, just a week and a half before he went to be with the Lord, and just 3 days before he went to the hospital.

Nate & Katie driving the go cart at my Uncle Don's.

1 Book Down, 19 to Go

That's right... my goal of reading 20 books in 2010 is 1/20 of the way finished.  I finished Love the One You are With by Emily Giffin at about 1:00 am.  That's right, I couldn't put the book down.  What an eloquent writer she is, and so descriptive.  However, the book was a little different than the typical Nicholas Sparks love stories I tend to read, which is good, I am branching out!  

In summary (I don't want to give too much away) this novel is about a newlywed living in NYC with her husband, a southerner from a very prominent family.  She is head over heals in love with her husband, UNTIL she runs into her ex-boyfriend and first love on the streets of NYC. Ellie then finds herself in conflict and trying to fight feelings coming back for her previous lover, and the feelings of resentment when her husband takes her away from the city, her well-developed career, and moves her to the south with his family.  

My favorite line, "Of saccharine-sweet, blond, blue-eyed, Lilly Pulitzer wearing, Bunco-playing neighbors with whom I have virtually nothing in common."  

I love her writing, and this line!  Not to mention I was able to show my husband this line to let him know that Lilly Pulitzer was actually very popular just not around here.  When I asked for a Lilly sweater for Christmas he had never heard of it, but he was a trooper and bought it for me!

Anyway, I highly suggest this book!  Now, on to the next one Something Borrowed also by Emily Giffin.  You will notice that when I find a good author, I often stick to their books!  

Until next time,

H :)

Snapshot Saturday

Happy Saturday, friends! To me, this is a sad Saturday as I go back to work on Monday. Oh, but alas, I should be lucky that I had two whole weeks off unlike most of the working population. As I sit in my house, sip my coffee, and look out the windows, I start to shiver just looking outdoors. In the midst of a cold, Indiana morning, I suddenly remember being in Mexico with my husband of just a few days and immediately would give anything to go back to the warmth. So, in lieu of that wish, here are a few honeymoon pictures for my Snapshot Saturday. Unfortunately, I will not be seeing the beach or feeling the warmth of Mexico anytime soon, however, it sure makes me excited for San Diego in July. Enjoy :)

Until next time,

H :)

Welcome 2010

Most people were excited to see 2009 pass, but not me. 2009 was the best year of my life; I married my best friend. I hope that 2010 is as great as 2009!

Mr. Hoosier and I had a BLAST ringing in the New Year with friends. We had a great dinner and then went out!

As 2010 begins, most people have New Year resolutions, but not me. I don't believe in New Year resolutions because most people forget about them after the first month. However I set goals for myself.

Here are my goals for 2010:
1. Read 20 books this year
2. Run 2 Half Marathons
3. This is still iffy, but I think I might want to run a full marathon... I will get back to you on that as it is still in contemplation.
4. Through Girls on the Run, I would like to inspire 5 parents to run a 5k along with their daughter.
5. I want to take a trip to NYC.
6. My goal for Girls on the Run is to use 2010 to make GOTR well known in our community and have solid partners and sponsors before we begin our first season in February 2011.
7. Health/Fitness wise, my goal is to continue to keep my body healthy through working out and eating clean!
8. Cook 2 NEW eat clean recipes per week! This doesn't include our regular faves such as eat clean sweet potato fries..mmmm! I will try and post the recipes that I cook, but don't rely on that ;)
9. Take my dog on more walks- 3 per week is what I am shooting for! Mr. Hoosier is much better at this than me.
10. Call my grandpa more- at least once a week!
11. Be a good, loving, and supportive wife!

Happy New Year, friends. May 2010 bring you the happiness you have always wished for!

Until next time,
H :)