True Fun in the Run

I am a runner.  Yesterday, like so many weekend mornings over the years, I laced up my shoes, pinned on a bib number, gathered all of my seemingly necessary runner accessories and found myself at the starting line of a local 10k race.  If any of you have participated in these events, you know that there is a clear formula for success.  Parking spot, minus timing of the port-a-potty lines, plus clothing layer decisions, divided by previous training schedule, does equal overall enjoyment.

On this day, my running partner and partner in life, my husband, found ourselves late getting out the door.  To our surprise, there were many more participants than we anticipated, so immediately we realized we had missed the good parking opportunity.  Additionally, we hadn't picked up our race packets previously, as we usually try to do, so we did the "I'll park the car and you check us in" method.  This clearly isn't the stress-free way to do it, but the registration volunteers were cheery and helpful and in no time at all I was juggling our goody bags, new shirt, numbers and the allotted safety pins.

As I waited in a clearing scanning the crowd, it became obvious that one should not underestimate the ratio of bathroom facilities to participants on race day.  Any good race coordinator will know that you need twice as many as you think, and that it's best to space them in groups around the course.  Otherwise, you will have a complex maze of waiting lines, matched by confused and anxious runners, trying to find the end of the line while calculating how long it will take prior to the race start.  I quickly understood, we were going to cut it close to race time.

As the race director called everyone to the starting line, and the crush of red shirts packed themselves together roughly by marked mile-times, it struck me again how fabulous these runners, run/walkers, and walkers are.  The enthusiasm, chatter and cheers as the start horn blared was invigorating, and the wave of people led by the fast and serious, followed by the costumed and strollers, made their way onto the course.

For the next 6.2 miles, we ran our way both on-road and off-road, through a trail system that was scattered with newly fallen leaves and lined with cheering volunteers.  We were greeted by posters, high-fives, waving pom pons and shouts of encouragement at various points along the path, and, as usual, the runners themselves were supportive and helpful to one another as we all found our way toward the finish line.

Experiences like these are inspiring and fulfilling to me in so many ways.  The general sense of joining a community event while exercising is certainly inspiring.  But, it is the deeper and small things that I believe motivate me most of all.  It is the numerous young volunteers that chose to get up early on their Saturday and hand-out hundreds of water cups to passers-by.  It is the neighborhood families that walked to the corner with coffee cups in hand to cheer on strangers stampeding through their streets.  It is the local band that played their hearts out for an audience that hears them for a mere minute while passing.  And, of course, it is the mix of elite runners, weekend warriors and first-time beginners who while all clad in running shoes are one group, for one purpose, supporting a good cause.  It truly is aptly named a fun run.  I've found I'm certainly not the fastest, and find myself feeling accomplished and happy nonetheless. I would encourage anyone to try it at least once.  Run, walk or volunteer, just get out there and do it.  You just might find some true fun and inspiration in the run.

Sister Love

Today is my sister's birthday.  Two years younger than me, and full of sass and spirit, she has inspired me throughout our lives in so many ways.  Growing up, she was my side-kick in work and play.  We would create ridiculous games during our chores to make the tasks more interesting.  There was play for hours outside climbing trees, riding bikes or searching for things by the irrigation ditch behind our house.  She was my camping companion, Barbie bestie, and horse-riding buddy while atop Geisha and Misty. We also fought fiercely, which many of our friends and family can attest.  But regardless, that passion and protectiveness could turn quickly to any outside force that threatened one or the other.

I'm proud of my sister.  She has accomplished so many things for which I admire her.  Marrying her high-school sweetheart, they are soon to celebrate their 25th wedding anniversary.  And although they started out with nothing, they have successfully built themselves a good life raising two beautiful girls in a welcoming home, always keeping friends and family at the forefront.  I've watched her grow over the years as a sought-after dental assistant because of her work ethic, loyalty, talent and genuine connection with her patients.

But what I find most inspiring is her strength and determination in her own personal goals.  From the time she was young until this day, her will and decision to do something insures she will do it.  Her most recent accomplishments surround her desire for a healthy life, and now include starting her own Advocare business, running half-marathons, learning to cycle, and inspiring clients and friends alike.

I find that birthdays are a good time to reflect on the life you've had thus far, and look to the exciting things that lie ahead.  It's a day to celebrate yourself, the day you entered this world and made it a better place. It's a time that all of those around you can show their love and appreciation for you through song, cake, cards, and messages.  So, for me, this day is about celebrating my sister.  I'm so happy I've been blessed to take my life's journey with her.  I love you, Tina, and here's to a very Happy Birthday and our remaining life ahead.

Education, Motivation and Graduation

Now that early June is upon us, we find ourselves in the midst of the celebratory graduation season.  Who hasn't caught themselves pomp and circumstancing along with high school and college students as they stroll down the aisle with decorated caps and tassels swaying?  We've all clapped and photographed wildly, at some point, the all-important kindergarten or middle school children as they participated in their respective promotion ceremonies.  It is a joyous time to celebrate education, accomplishments and moving on to the next level of life.  There is a sense of sadness at something coming to a close mixed sweetly with the new beginnings of adventure and dreams.  It's the primary time that the words "nothing is impossible" emanates from every microphone across the country.

In attending some of these graduations, events and parties recently, I've been reflecting on my own journey through all levels of school.  Growing up in a small town in Nevada, I have nothing but fond memories of elementary school, junior high and high school.  I was extremely fortunate to have had many caring teachers and staff who nurtured us throughout, providing for a safe and fun environment for learning and growing.  We were challenged academically, but there was also a balance of life lessons and responsibility that we adhered to.  When our senior class of 70-plus were cheered by a full gymnasium, we knew life would take us in different directions and on separate paths.  Some of my classmates went into the military.  Others onto colleges, universities and vocational schools.  And, others opted to move straight into the work-force becoming entrepreneurs, mothers, fathers and professionals.  Whatever their way, it's been 29 years since that time and it is hard to believe so much time has passed.

My personal story took me from high school graduate directly to my Freshman year at a university.  I had been a high achiever, type-A student, who fretted over every grade, test score, scholarship application and extra-curricular activity I could.  But then, married at a young age of 19 and having my first daughter at 20, my higher education goals had to be put on hold.  I continued to learn through my jobs in a medical laboratory and as a legal assistant, which gave me a solid foundation, but I always desired to return to school for my bachelors degree.

This brings me to the motivation part of this story.  Although I had always been self-motivated in many ways, at the age of 26, there were mounting fears of cost, my age, time management, and rusty study skills that kept me from returning to finish my degree.  I often had conversations with myself on whether I had what it took in both energy and commitment to juggle family, work and school to get it done.  We all have a moment, what some call an "aha moment" where one may read, hear, or determine something that provides clarity and promotes action.  My moment came during an out-of-town visit with my friend Ellen.

Ellen had always inspired me in various ways during our personal conversations and her professional abilities as a software and IT specialist, but this particular day, remains with me.  We were sitting by the pool, at a small, random motel in Northern California, watching our kids play and swim while we caught up on life's events.  As we shared our stories, wishes and future dreams, she asked me if I had any regrets.  I did.  The fact that I hadn't finished my college education always saddened and frustrated me.  As she asked what I thought had been holding me back, I rattled off my long list of reasons, ending with the statement that because I had waited, I'd be thirty or thirty-one by the time I graduated.  That's when she paused, looked me straight in the eye, and asked "how old will you be if you don't go?"  It is the one question and my silent answer that served as my motivation.  And, often it creeps into my life to remind me that there is no time like the present, no reason to wait, if one wants to do something.

I did go back.  I did finish, graduating Summa Cum Laude from California State University Sacramento and have had a wonderful life and career since.  It was one of the best things I could have done for myself and my girls.  Life is about learning, yes, and it is also about inspiring oneself and others.  You never know what a positive impact you may have on others just by listening, questioning, or motivating by example. Don't be afraid to learn, move on to something new, or take on what seems an unsurmountable challenge, as it really comes down to three basic steps to achieve those dreams...
education, motivation and graduation.

Small Steps for a Big Planet

This last week has brought tough news from scientists.  Although the climate change warning bells have been going off for many years in my memory, it seems we've reached a tipping point as it relates to the Arctic ice melts and carbon cycle changes.  It's both frightening and frustrating stuff, and I find myself wanting to yell from my suburban rooftop about it and demand (beg) that everyone, most importantly policymakers, do something.  I've never seen myself as a political activist, or been a member of the Sierra Club, but I always have cared deeply about the environment, wildlife, our world and it's future.  I certainly don't do everything in line with living "the green life," but I have tried to incorporate actions, both big and small, that I know can make a difference.

In talking with people, and looking at human behavior, it seems the reluctance to face this issue comes down to three primary reasons.  The first, is the task can seem overwhelming.  A defeatist attitude arises, as it is hard to grasp that anything one does within their four walls at home, can affect and contribute to something so large as greenhouse gases or the rising ocean level.  But there are strong statistics out there that support small decisions at home making a big impact.  For instance, if every American used one less napkin a day (on average we use six), more than a billion pounds of napkins could be saved from landfills each year.  Think about that.   And, there are a great number of daily decisions and behaviors that can create positive changes.  Other small changes I've made are not getting receipts at the ATM machine or gas pump unless necessary.

Secondly, change is hard.  We humans are creatures of habit, good or bad.  I've found that I have had to ease into some of these changes, and others I was able to dive right in.
We have replaced all of our appliances, over many years, with energy efficient ones.  Living in a home that is 20 years old dictated that there was plenty of room for improvement in that category.  I've had great success in changing my shopping habits to include organic fruits and vegetables, and we have both an indoor and outdoor compost bin for recycling kitchen waste.  It took some adjustments, but now, it is a way of life.  However, where I have "failed," I supposed, is that I do drive an SUV that runs on gas. It definitely has better gas mileage than my last car, and my husband and I try to carpool when possible, but it is one change--moving from gas to electric or hybrid--that has been difficult for me to make.  Primarily, due to financial reasons, which leads me to the last point.

Policymakers, leadership, manufacturers and suppliers follow the money trail.  Successful change often comes from market transformations starting at a grass roots level, rather than enacting change from the top.  I like the idea of power in the people, and examples of that are the popularity of farmers markets whereby communities are buying local, organic produce for their families.  And look at the gluten-free products lining the grocery aisles now.  Once a large enough group of consumers support it, and profits arise, change begins to happen.

I'm not naive to think that this is just an American issue.  I know it is a global issue and there are complex, big agenda items that need to occur.  But, if I can be part of the solution, by taking whatever small steps I can in what I do have control of, then I think it's worth every minute, dollar and effort spent.  So let's inspire one another to do more.  Plant a lavender bush in your yard for the bees, take your own reusable canvas bags to the store, hand the Starbucks barista your travel mug from home for your morning coffee.  Small things with big impacts.

Want to know some simple things to get started?  Read through this quick 50 Ways to Help.
http://www.50waystohelp.com

Let's enact change within our lives and communities and teach our children the value of this amazing planet and life.

A Mother's Life

During this last week, it has been impossible not to be besieged by reminders, and sales pitches, that this Sunday marks Mother's Day.  No doubt, florists, greeting cards and cell phone minutes will all see a spike as people everywhere pay well-deserved honor to their Moms.  I, too, have been an enthusiastic participant, as I have been blessed with a wonderful mom, stepmom and mother-in-law to celebrate.  From these three women, I have witnessed strength, courage, generosity and love for family that has served as a stable force for husbands, children, grandchildren and friendships over so many years.

As a mom of two grown girls and two stepchildren myself, I have often drawn on wisdom from other mothers around me, and more often than not, coupled that with pure gut instinct.  I've made mistakes along the way, wish I could have had some "do-overs," but overall am both proud and mystified as to how well the kids have turned out and of the caring people they've become.  At the young age of twenty, holding my first daughter in my arms and looking into her brown eyes for the first time, I knew I was changed forever.  There was never a doubt of what I was put on this earth to do, or on what my future decisions would be centered.  And when her sister arrived a mere 13 months later, that sense of responsibility and commitment didn't simply double, it was exponential.

So, although I'm thankful for the idea behind Mother's Day, I've realized for myself that it is a Mother's Life.  It's in the fabric of who I am, as both a daughter and a mother.  And for those who have lost their mothers, the thoughts and respect to their moms far outreach the boundaries of a single day also.  Whatever the circumstance you find yourself in, as a mom, child, grandmother, grandchild, I hope you can take a quiet moment daily to be inspired and thankful to your moms for the life you've been given.  That you are here, living your life to the fullest, and caring for those around you is the best reverence one can give.  I know how very thankful I am for mine.

I love you Mom.

Lessons in the Dirt

For any of you who, as I see it, are blessed to live in beautiful Northern California, it felt almost criminal to take in the weather experienced this last weekend.  The late February gift was a gentle moment when winter was caught kissing spring, and it drew neighbors and families outdoors to play and explore.  It also moved people, such as myself, to immediately wander around my yard and start digging in the dirt.

I have had the true love of gardening in my heart since I was a child.  I have vivid memories of following my Grandpa around his three Nevada City hillside gardens, as he checked the plants, vegetables, and the tall, border fencing erected to deter the deer.  We would wander each row, me and my younger sister closely on his heels, while he pointed out the fuzzy string beans and the lettuce, swiss chard and carrots.  It was a task that, if I remember, we repeated two or three times a day during our summer stays with my grandparents.  The pay-off of all of this toiling and such was when my grandma would send us out, this time with bowls and bags in hand, to collect something for dinner.  The childhood pleasure of picking our own food, skipping down the path to the back porch and washing our harvest in the outdoor sink, has stayed with me after all these years.

Gardening has been, and continues to be, an important part of my life.  I'm not a master gardener or an expert by any means, but it has become more than a hobby to me in a few inspiring ways.

One was my part in establishing (with the help of many other volunteers) an education program at my daughters' elementary school years ago.  It is titled the "Garden of Learning" program and was built with the idea in mind that lessons learned in the classroom could be illustrated and coupled with lessons outdoors in the garden.  The kids are able to apply their math and science skills through measuring, calculating, building and plant experiments.  Their social studies and history skills come into play with learning about the Native American uses for plants in treatment of disease and health.  Art is also brought into the garden by children encouraged to draw, paint, or write about what they see, hear, and feel while spending time there.  And, at the end of the successful school year, after many days of hard work among students, parents and teacher volunteers, the school holds its own farmers market selling vegetables and plants to help pay for the next year's program.  It was and has been a wonderful tool to teach children and bring the school community together.

Recently, I've heard about another program that is having extraordinary, positive results in South Central Los Angeles.  It is run by Ron Finley, who coins himself as a guerrilla gardener.  He and his team of volunteers plant vegetable gardens on vacant city lots, or in small border areas that would otherwise be considered blight.  The encouraging results of his efforts in addition to beautifying otherwise unseemly neighborhoods, is that these areas and communities now have access to fresh, healthy food, and teach children positive lessons in working together, growing one's own food, and nutrition.  Lifelong lessons that all of us can carry one bushel at a time.

So now, as springtime approaches, and the sun shines a bit longer and life once again blossoms all around us, I encourage you to go dig in the dirt.  Plant something, tend to it, share your experience, and watch it grow.  It's an amazing process that brings nothing but positive change, satisfaction and a whole bunch of wellness.

For more on Ron Finley and his program, you can read more at ronfinley.com

A Kind Word

It has been a difficult few weeks for our family, which is why I've been lagging in publishing any new blog posts.  A worrisome health issue with my Mother-in-law requiring hospitalization and surgery, the sudden sickness and loss of our sweet cocker spaniel, Dusty, of 14 years, and my own bout of a quick virus somewhere in between has been emotionally draining to say the least. Where writing typically serves as an outlet, I found myself tired and sad--not the best voice for an inspiration blog.

But now, with all of the most recent urgencies behind us, and experiencing some moments of calm, I've been asking myself and others about what inspires us and uplifts us when we, the usual optimistic and positive, are not.  It doesn't take much to review the last few weeks to find the simple answer.  It is nothing more than a kind word.

In both the deepest of sorrows or perhaps merely an "off" day, a phone call, a surprise handwritten note discovered in the mailbox or an early morning text with heartfelt emoticons can do wonders for one's spirits.  A hug, dinner with friends, and flowers accompanied by a sweet note delivered on my doorstep  all were reminders about how powerful words can be.  These are the small things that were big things in my life this last month.  Kind words have kept me moving forward, put a smile on my face, and have reminded me that even in the low and hard times in our life, there is so much good that surrounds us each day.  From the lips of a friend, a keyboard to one's computer screen, the pen in one's hand, a kind word can go far in healing one's wounds.  And by sharing with one another, perhaps through a simple blog and kind words, I hope we can help serve to mend and inspire others as well.