What's What with Maddy?

Oh, You Didn't Know?

2007-06-08T20:11:00.000-04:00

The list of the 25 worst rapper names was recently released.

My favorite worst name: Chali 2na.

For Real.

Who All See the Leprechaun Say Yea!

2007-05-07T22:28:00.000-04:00

Really?

It must have been a slow news day in Mobile Alabama that day.

I love the drawing. So professional.

It's Just Like a Mini-Mall

2007-04-26T22:29:00.000-04:00

This guy has rhythm...

and living rooms, bedrooms, dinnettes. He's got 'em

My Humps?

2007-04-20T20:43:00.000-04:00

Black Eyed Peas. I think we are all pretty familiar.

Alanis Morisette. Angry lady of the 90's. And one of the craziest covers I have ever seen

Take the poll

Free Poll by Blog Flux

Heartburn, Nausea, Indigestion...

2007-04-10T22:36:00.000-04:00

The orginal commercial made my shy away from the copier at work if there was a line, there are some things people need to keep to themselves or stay home and deal with.

Then things got really crazy.

Thank God there is maximum strength!

I love the look on Paul Bunyan's face when he's doing the diarehha dance.

It's just so wrong.

Dancing With The Stars is Weird

2007-04-02T22:21:00.000-04:00

I was folding laundry in the bedroom and I turned the TV on just to keep me occupied while I was folding.

The TV was on ABC and Dancing with the Stars was on. Heather Mills, the future ex-Mrs. Paul McCartney was dancing.

It's nothing new that she has prosthetic leg, but all of the crazy camera angles of her feet and legs were really strange.

They didn't show Billy Ray Cyrus' legs like that...

It struck me as strange.

Or is it just me?

India School of Dance

2007-03-23T21:28:00.000-04:00

A few weeks back I ran across this amazing video:

Then the other day I was checking out Fran's Blog, R-Cane Running, and I found he had posted this:

Are these the same people?

Regarless, check out those crazy dance moves...

It's wild!

And We're Back...

2007-03-20T21:11:00.000-04:00

I bank at the WaMu. I love the WaMu. I'm not sure what I find so appealing about this commerical, but I really think it's funny.

I'm not sure that this commercial alone would make me change banks, but I don't have to...

Nobody Puts Baby in the Corner

2007-03-15T20:46:00.000-04:00

Occasionally you run across people or run into situations in your life that teach you about yourself.

And just when you think you have it figured out you learn something new.

It never occured to me that I was competitve until Tracy pointed it out to me.

I always thought that it was the Virgo in me that made me want things a certain way, even though I don't put a lot of stock in astrology. Sean told me otherwise.

the girls and me

Being more aware of these characteristics haven't changed who I am, but it may change the way I react in some cases - as almost a justification. I will tell you now I'm competitive, a few years ago, I probably wouldn't have, quite simply becuase I didn't know.

Based on a few separate situations over the past few weeks, I have learned something new about myself. And honestly, it might go hand in hand with the competitive nature I have, but I am absolutely shocked by the tenacity I have been feeling.

And just when I thought I had it all figured out...

I said the other day half joking "Nobody puts Baby in a corner". Maybe I wasn't joking after all...

I Am So Sorry Bill

2007-03-13T20:18:00.000-04:00

You know, I hate to see broadcasters take a fall. It truly is hard work. Harder than most people can imagine. When I was in college, I interned at the local ABC affiliate station. Making a "package" could prove to be a challenge. But it was never anything like this:

This is nothing but pure entertainment at it's finest. Who cares about the weather...

Terry Tate :: Office Line Backer

2007-02-28T05:58:00.000-05:00

I don't have time to slack at work. I am much too busy. I know there are places in the workforce that could use Terry Tate's Services.

Chicka the China * The Chinese Chicken

2007-02-24T20:21:00.000-05:00

I found a great version of One Week. I had never seen this one before and for those who find this to be one of the most annoying songs ever, This is a kinder gentler version.

Enjoy!

What a Trainwreck!

2007-02-18T16:30:00.000-05:00

Before:

What a beautiful girl. On top of the world.

After:

Talk about Spiraling out of control.

Excuse me as I shudder involuntarily. Also known as the hebee gebees.

What a disaster!

I'm a Kitty Cat

2007-02-18T01:52:00.000-05:00

Ok, so I'm really more of a dog person. My sister has a cat named Maruschka that looks similar to the star of this video.

Only my sister's cat doesn't dance. Maruschka does trip out on cat nip when given the opportuity. Maruschka also looks like she has a shrunken head because she is absolutely enormous! She's so funny.

Those Cards Are Funny!

2007-02-15T21:11:00.000-05:00

There are a lot of places to find cute eCards. But sometime the I have a hard time finding what I'm looking for. I just found free funny eCards at EGreetings.com and these cards are great! I love the animated and the risque cards. Just the thing to send to my sister.

When cupid looks like this you know it has to be funny!

You can get a free one month trial membership to send unlimited cards or for only $13.99 you can have 365 days, one full year, of Egreeting madness! That is awesome! Just imagine, sending your friends cards for President's Day, Chinese New Year and even Mardi Gras, not to mention Birthday, Aniversary and New Baby cards. Whatever the occasion there are cards, even just because.

Think about the trips to the card store and the aggrivation of waiting in line. What a hassle! Save your gas and your temper. You can send these hillarious ecards right from your computer.

Disclosure

The Tale of Two Watanabes

2007-02-13T05:40:00.000-05:00

I talked to my sister, the Fabulous Ms. Fabulous, Sunday night. She told me that she and Mr. Fabulous had just returned from seeing Letters of Iwo Jima. she said it was a really good movie. And as a bonus Ken Watanabe was in it.

"Who doesn't love some Ken Watanabe?" I asked her.

"Wait a minute, wasn't he Long Duck Dong in Sixteen Candles? Wasn't he in the Michael Keaton classic Gung Ho?"

I was in the car and had no way to verify immediately, which makes me crazy. Ms. Fabulous said she had just shut down her computer otherwise she would look.

"I could be wrong." I told her.

"It would be even ore amazing if you were right." she replied.

Once I returned home, I had to know. Was Ken Watanabe Long Duck Dong?

No. It was Gedde Watanabe.

Ken, Gedde, What's the difference?

One guy was the token Asian of 1980's film making. The other is listed on hotbadguys.com.

It's Almost Like Spectraman... Almost

2007-02-10T10:12:00.000-05:00

When I was a kid, I lived outside of Chicago and there were some televsions stations - this was pre-cable that showed some crazy shows. I guess I thought that everyone got to experinece fantastic dubbed-over Japanese shows like Space Giants and Spectraman.

During the Superbowl, I found out that wasn't the case.

I rather enjoyed the Garmin commerical. It reminded me of coming home from school and watching channel 44. I laughed at the commerical and my husband couldn't figure out what was so funny.

"Didn't you ever see Spectraman, or that show with Rockets that lived in a Volcano?"

He didn't know what I was talking about.

I don't think I need a navagation device - but if I did, the Garmin would beat out the Tom-Tom.

Mike Doughty... He's Chill

2007-02-05T22:37:00.000-05:00

I had never heard of Mike Doughty. he opened for the Barenaked Ladies at Hard Rock Live in November. What a pleasant suprise.

The Fabulous Ms. Fabulous sent me a CD and it's just awesome.

This one is my favorite.

I wonder why...

I'm Moving

2007-02-03T13:37:00.000-05:00

I'm moving (to a new blog that is...)

It was never my intention to use this blog as a record of my running. If you remember an earlier post the Fabulous Ms. Fabulous and her thought that I wrote a lot about running - which I do - but there are other post thrown in for good measure. I decided that I want to keep it seperate. I will still post here about various randomness that I like or don't.

To follow my running trials and tribulations please click here.

Running by the Seat of My Pants

2007-01-31T21:43:00.000-05:00

I really don't like being told what to do.

Because of that I have never really followed a formal training program. I had a great 12 week half marathon program that simply was a program to finish. I loosely followed the program last fall and winter in preparation for Disney 2006. It served it's purpose. I finished.

Since last January I have consistantly included some sort of long run most weekends as a part of my training. Sometimes on Saturday, sometimes on Sunday - whenever I could fit it in and was in the mood. These runs were productive and allowed me to make last minute descisions about races. Depending on what was on the weekend schedule - There wasn't really any local race I wasn't confident I could run in.

My first half marathon this season was an eleven minute improvement over my previous PR, and I bettered that by four minutes, two races later. Without any improvement since the middle of December, I have been less than pleased with my times. I don't want to continue to be average.

I started this year with some goals in mind, but nothing solid. Small goals. like keeping a training log. The goal that weighed heavy on my mind was Sarasota in under two hours. With 31 days to go, I still have a lot of work ahead of me.

After seeing Marathon Chris' goal to run 1,000 miles in 2007 I was thinking that sounded like a good idea. Then I thought I could runn 100 miles a month - 1,200 miles this year. I was 22 miles short of my 11th hour goal. Partly becuase I missed a long run this weekend in exchange for a 5k PR and partly because I simply slept in too many days.

February brings a new month - a better thought out plan, a new chance to hit 100 miles and a chance to get Sarasota done in under 2!

Lady Track Shack 5k

2007-01-28T11:36:00.001-05:00

I invited a bunch of my friends and co-workers to join me at the Lady Track Shack 5k. I have heard it's the largest Ladies Only 5k in the Southeast. If it's not anymore, it used to be...

I offered to pick up race packets for everyone - I was trying to make it as easy as possible for people to join me. Because I always wear a bandana when I run, I decided to add bandanas to the race packets for my entire crew. I got some pink camo bandanas for everyone. It turned out to be really helpful in locating one another.

Susan, Val, Kelly, Kristi, Dawn and I met up at the entrance to Mead Gardens around 7:00AM. We chatted for a bit and headed to the start line. We probably waited too long to get there - we were pretty far back. I always longed for a running buddy at the starting line. I am usually there by myself without anyone to talk to and it seems that those around me are caught up in their own conversations. Today, I had buddies!

As soon as the gun sounded we seperated. I was trying to get past the walkers and the runners who were three or four wide (Why do people do that?). I spent the first quarter mile or so running on the grass to get where I wanted to be and out of the cluster.

At the first mile the timing clock said 9:10. I looked at my watch (for the only time during the race) It said 8:27 - It had taken me 43 seconds to cross the starting line.

My biggest concern about the race had been the "killer hill". that runs along the Winter Park Ninth Grade Center. I have never been a big fan... However after Clermont in November and last week in Clearwater, as I ran the hill this morning, I was thinking "This is it? This is what I was worried about? This is nothing!" I sailed up it.

At mile Two it began to rain. Just a litle sprinkle - It lasted for just a few minutes and it was absolutely refreshing!

The brick roads were a little slippery and I watched my footing so I was sure I didn't take a "digger" as Kelly calls them.

I made my way to finish line with a new PR.

My Offical Time: 28:09

My Chip Time: 27:26

w00t!

Treadmill Training

2007-01-23T21:19:00.000-05:00

Some runners may think it's just not right to do the majority of one's running on a treadmill. According to the December 2006 issue of Runner's World Magazine in the American Runner 2006 Survey, only 5% of runners run primarily on a treadmill.

There are several reasons I train on my treadmill.

My knees are much happier when they aren't being pounded on the asphalt or concrete

I live in a neighborhood without street lights or sidewalks and once upon a time I was sure I was going to be kidnapped - it turned out to be the newspaper man...

I live on Lake Harris. Lake Harris is nearly 14,000 acres with an estimated 3,500 aligators living there, in my front yard!

When we moved to Tavares, it was aligator mating season. When I went outside early in the morning, I could hear the gators craoking in search of some love. It scared me just a little.

Last September Darrell was cleaning some of the weeds along the shoreline and decided to take a break. As he sat on the dock he realized that just two feet away from where he was working, a gator was laying in wait.

We called the Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission Nuisance Alligator Hotline (it really exists) and a state certified trapper was dispacthed to take the bad boy away.

I feel much safer in my controlled environment. But this morning, there was a new wrinkle in my training plan. after .65 miles a groggy five year old appeared before me and she was not happy. "You woke me up!" she said, scowling.

What could I do? It was just after 5:30 AM - way too early for her to be awake. I had no other choice than to stop and put her back to bed. Darrell has mentioned that I have been waking him up as well.

Could it be the increased speed that is making more noise? We all know it can't be the incline.

I am going to try again tomorrow morning. I hope they can sleep through it. If not, then what? Yikes!

That's No Ordinary Bridge...

2007-01-22T21:14:00.000-05:00

Sunday morning started out a bit chilly. I debated over what I should wear. I had my pants with me and thought I would go that route, but I changed my mind at the last second and decided to wear shorts, a short sleeve tech shirt, a long sleve tech shirt and a throw away long sleeve thermal shirt.

It was 57 degrees when I left New Port Richey at 6:00 AM. I headed south on US 19. I was glad we headed down on Saturday to get my race packet for a few reasons.

#1 I had no idea where I was going

#2 Clearwater is a little further South than I thought

#3 The line to get packets on Sunday morning was INSANE!

When I got there I streched a little and put those two long sleevers back in the car. I knew I wasn't going to need them. I was a little chilly until the race got underway, but I toughed it out.

The first half mile was smooth sailing and then we hit the bridge, Memorial Causeway. It was slow going up. I was suprised to see that at the one mile my pace was just over 9 minutes.

No worries! The course took us along the Gulf and through the touristy area of Clearwater Beach and then over the second bridge on the route, Sand Key Bridge. We then weaved our way through Sand Key Park. And then back out to the street and along Condo Road. We made the turn to head back at about the 7.5 mile mark.

At mile 9 it was back over bridge number two. I was starting to slow down. I was moving along , refusing to stop...

I was feeling pretty strong through the touristy area, past Captain Memo's Pirate Ship. and back onto the road that would ultimately lead back to the Memorial Causeway

Then I was hit by the wind. I felt like I was running in place. To say it was windy would be an understatement. I got to the Causeway, it was mile 12. So close, but I still had that major climb.

I made it! Sailed down and cruised into the finish line. The race collatoral did not lie. This was not a PR race. My final time: 2:18:06 - Three seconds behind my OUC time, and my poorest performance of the season.

I knew it was going to be hard. I still wanted better.

My plan now is to work on my hills, work on my distance and blow Sarasota out of the water!

Calling All Runners - What's on Your Playlist?

2007-01-17T20:44:00.000-05:00

I listen to music when I run. I have read arguements both for and against being tuned in while running. My thought is whatever works for you. Last year I purposefully ran Disney without my MP3 player so I could soak up every magical moment. This year, I had my MP3 player. Between the music and my increased training I took 41 minutes off of my time.

There are four days until the Clearwater Halfathon. Three days before I leave for the West Coast of Florida. I began thinking today that maybe some new music would help move me along. But what?

I currently have a heavy supply of Barenaked Ladies and that keeps me happy, I have some Everclear, some Beastie Boys thrown in for good measure. There is some miscellaneous music thrown in to mix it up, but it's starting to get old. I need some help!

I'm looking for something new. What gets you going and helps you keep your pace? I would love to know...

What's on your playlist?

Your Blog is About What?

2007-01-16T19:25:00.000-05:00

My sister, Patty Fabulous, and I started writing our blogs at about the same time. It wasn't a group project, more like, "Hey, I was thinking about starting a blog."

"That sounds like a good idea, maybe I will too."

The other day, I commented to the fabulous Ms. Fabulous that her post about banks vs. credit unions was really funny. It had successful elements of a great viral video, becuase even those out of the industry could see the humor - I even passed it on to some of my friends.

She said "Thanks."

"Do you ever read my blog?" I asked her.

"Not really. Well, sometimes. There's a lot of running stuff."

I could see her wrinkling her nose at me from 1,800 mile away.

While it was never my intention to blog about running, I do. Because that's what I do.

Without either of them knowing, my little blog is a gift to Darrell and the Fabulousness herself. I have an opportunity to lay out my random thoughts about my runs. My fear and nervousness about my races. My goals and all of the little things that come up along the way. I'm sure without this release I would be insufferable...

With just five days to go until Clearwater, and my lack of hill training, there's been a lot on my mind.

Regardless of that, I'm going to have a great time!

Geico Commericals Make Me Smile

2007-01-15T18:02:00.000-05:00

I don't have Geico Insurance. They can't save me money. I called for a quote years ago and they were super expensive. I have State Farm Insurance - and I have since I was 16. I have a policy that can't ever be cancelled becuase I'm loyal and it's a good deal for something you have to have..

Geico's little gecko bugs the crap out of me. That in itself would be enough to keep me away. But a few of the other attempts that Geico has made in the advertising arena make me laugh.

I love Little Richard's howl after he says "Cranberry Sauce". It makes me laugh every time I see it.

Even more funny is the travelling caveman.

I can't decide if it's the catchy tune, Remind Me, by Royksopp or if it's the look on the caveman's face like he just can't believe it! It's just so funny.

I'm sure the Geico would love it if I jumped over to their brand. That won't ever happen, but I do appreciate their attempts to get me to do it.

What's a Girl to Do?

2007-01-14T18:38:00.000-05:00

Running takes a toll on your feet. I have some great shoes, thanks to the fine folks at the Track Shack I don't generally have a problem with my hip anymore - Bye bye Adidas... Once upon a time a pair of New Balance I had made my toe hurt incredibly bad, I couldn't take it any more.

Under average circumstances, running a few miles here and there wouldn't make that big of a difference but I am currently providing my feet with what some may consider tourture. My feet don't hurt me. The problem is, my toenails are black, blue and in some cases missing.

For most, it may not be an issue. And I can work around it. Luckily I have a shade of polish that is remarkably close to the color of Barbie Band Aids. The Band Aid goes mostly unnoticed. Whew... It saves from having to answer what really happens to runner's feet.

But why would anyone see my feet in January? Just like most of the country, Florida has been experincing some crazy warm weather. Pair that with the fact that I work in a super casual office - my boss wears shorts two or three times a week... While I choose not to wear shorts, I am a fan of slip-on sandals and jeans. The shoes here are just an example, not a pair I own, or would even wear. But you get the idea...

I am a smart woman. However, sometimes, the obvious goes right past me. One morning last week while I was putting on the daily pink band-aid, Darrell said, "Why don't you just wrap your toes before you run?"

Good question. Why don't I? This morning I had a long run planned and I decided to give it a try. After the eleven miles I put in I felt pretty good. The toes on my right foot are a little sore, but they have been and those toe nails may forever be band-aided. I am happy to report that my left foot is feeling fine. I am going to continue wrapping my toes for my long runs. I hope it works. I would save a ton on band aids. And, maybe my toe nails would grow back so I can get a decent pedicure.

Clearwater is Right Around The Corner

2007-01-10T19:41:00.000-05:00

On the tail of Disney, I'm getting ready for the 2nd Annual Clearwater Halfathon
I'm not expecting a PR at this one, but it sure would be nice. I've been trying to decide if I should be concerned about four passes over the 74 foot bridges. I assume that the bridges in Clearwater are similar to the Ringling Bridge in Sarasota. Last year that one didn't pose a huge problem. However, two bridges might be a different story.

The website says that the rest of the course is super flat, so who knows...

I'm planning on a long run this weekend. I don't want to commit to anything crazy, but based on the way I felt around mile eleven on Saturday, I want to stay on top of it and try to maintain a constant speed. I started slowing down and my time at Disney was bittersweet.

I had been considering Gasparilla in February, but now I think I might just push myself and train harder than ever to see if I can break two hours in at the Sarasota Half Marathon.

Let's keep our fingers crossed.

2007 Disney Half Marathon - 2:13:38

2007-01-07T21:50:00.000-05:00

I decided to pick up my bib and race packet on Thursday night. I headed out to the Wide World of Sports directly after work. Last year, we waited for 45 minutes just to get inside the Milk House on Friday evening. I was sure it would be the same way this year. I had an opportunity to cruise through the expo. I felt bad for the guy selling the Tyvek suits. Last year in anticipation of the 26 degree start, he was busy. He was selling like crazy. This year, with the low forecasted at 63 degrees, no one gave him a second look. I did buy a sticker from the lovely ladies at One More Mile. I knew Saucony was going to be there. I was hoping they would be offering the same red shoe laces they were selling in New York to help end childhood obesity as a part of their Run for Good Campaign. The laces were not available at this event. Boo!

Friday, we headed to the Pop Century Resort to check in for the evening. There was a line here - about 30 minutes, at least we didn't have to get my packet too!

We discussed going to one of the parks for a little while, but I didn't think I would have enough time. We ate dinner at the hotel and took the kids to the arcade. at 8:30 I headed back to the room and Darrell took the kids to EPCOT. One of the benefits I didn't realize would be useful when making my reservation in July are the Extra Magic Hours. A pre-determined park remains open late for resort guests. I was able to get some rest and the kids felt like we weren't just there for the race.

I was up at 2:50 AM on Saturday. I had no idea how crowded the buses would be or how long it would take to board. I didn't want to leave anything to chance. I boarded the bus at 3:20 AM. I was surprised that I was able to walk right on the bus and it wasn't even full. Don't get me wrong, it's not like there wasn't anyone there. There were a total of 12,282 finishers. It was crowded!

I was excited that based on my time at the Gulf Beaches Halfathon, I was moved to Wave A-2. I wasn't sure what that would mean, other than I would be closer to starting line. Last year it took me eight and half minutes to cross it. This year, I was across in a minute. The faster I am becoming the longer I stay in the pack. It seems like it takes a lot longer to break free, or be left behind.

It was amazing to feel how my dedication to training over the past year made an improvement. Last year the sun had risen by the time I was in front of the Contemporary Resort. This year, I was through the Magic Kingdom before the sun was up.

I signed up ahead of time to get text messages and emails for my 10k time (58:50), 15k time (1:31:50) My 15k time was four minutes faster than my Minnie Marathon time back in May. It was great to get back to the room and see how my times were. I really didn't want to wait until Saturday evening when we got home.

After mile ten I felt myself starting to slow a bit more. I realize now that to get in under two hours I'm going to have make my long runs 15 - 20 miles. The ten mile runs can get me through, just not as fast as I would like.

I have a few weeks until the Clearwater Halfathon I need to focus on my hills and my distance.

I decided I will most likely never get a new PR at Disney. There are too many people and I spent the first few miles trying to negotiate where I felt comfortable with my pace. I spent another bit of time dodging elbows. I'm 5'2 and with many tall guys what, 6'4? pumping their arms, I narrowly missed elbows in the eye no less than six times. Dispite this, Disney is still my favorite race. It's exciting to be a part of such a magnificent, magical event. I can't wait until next year!

An SNL Digital Short

2006-12-30T19:47:00.000-05:00

Christmas time is the best time for the Saturday Night Live folks. The Christmas Show in 2005 Gave us Lazy Sunday -

Mr. Pibb + Red Vines = Crazy Delicious

The Christmas Show 2006 Gave us step by step instructions...

This has caused quite a craze. BustedTess is pre-selling a tshirt with said instructions. And get this... mens Medium, Large and Extra Large are already backordered.

Nine Days to Go

2006-12-28T20:44:00.000-05:00

I am now counting down to Disney. It sort of funny now. When I say Disney at this time of the year, people seem to know why I'm going. I mean, sure we go a lot anyway. It's been a couple of weeks and I think Darrell is jonesing it big time... But right now, everyone seems to know that the next time we go it's for the half marathon.

I'm feeling pretty good. I'm dealing with this muscle thing in my back, but the Chiropractor said I should wait to get a massage until after my long run this weekend. I scheduled a massage for Tuesday at 5:15 PM. That should be nice. I followed Doctor's Orders last night after my adjustment. I came home took and Epsom Salts bath and then put some ice on the sore spot. What torks me about this, is that it's not even a running injury. It's from twisitng using two monitors at work. Overall,it's not that big of a deal. Even without the massage, I would be good with a few ibuprofen. But I won't turn down a massage either.

According to weather.com January 6th is going to have a low of 61 degrees, partly cloudy and 20% chance of rain. The high is supposed to be 76 degrees, but I'll be done running long before the temperature gets that warm - and really, is 76 degrees warm?

I admit I am feeling a little cautious about the weather forecast. Last year I started checking the weather early on in preparation for whaqt the day would bring. It looked like it was going to be a beautiful day, as the day got closer and closer the forecast got colder and colder. I was layered up at the start of the race last year, several sweatshirts, a jacket, a long sleeve shirt and a tank top. I also had a scarf, a hat, my signature bandana and two pair of gloves.

While I was at Target on Tuesday I bought two pair of gloves and a hat, just in case I need it. If not, I picked out some that are cute enought to wear if I need them just to wear...

My training has been going well. I've picked up the pace a litte bit. I've been running at 7.5 MPH. We'll see how I am after ten miles on Saturday. - Although I don't foresee a problem. I was hoping that there was another half marathon this weeked close by. I didn't find anything on runningintheusa.com I was hoping I could find a wacky New Year's Resolution Race. No such luck.

I am going to run in the morning - I couldn't find my way out of bed this morning. I'm planning on three or four miles - a great way to get the day started!

Dr. Suess + BNL = Merry Christmas!

2006-12-22T18:23:00.000-05:00

I was going to buy Barenaked for the Holidays, but I just never took the time to do it. I really love their version of Do They Know it's Christmas. Truth be told, there's not much they do that I don't like. I found a great user-created video on YouTube.

What an imagination!

Merry Christmas!

Perhaps Fritalian...

2006-12-21T22:00:00.000-05:00

Dunkin Donuts must have gotten a new creative agency. Their new series of commericals are really funny.

With the growing trend of having a recognizable celebrity perform the voice over duties, having John Goodman, who is probably pushing four bills does not motivate me run out and have a donut. If anything, it makes me think it's not so wise to stop for a latte and a donut.

I wonder who came up with that idea?

What's Your Theme Song?

2006-12-17T12:48:00.000-05:00

According to This Day in Music your life's theme song is the the number one song on your 18th birthday.

If this is true, my life's theme song is: Release Me by Wilson Phillips. Wow!
The early 90's... What can I say.
It's not what I thought it would be...

What is Your Life Theme Song? I would love to know

Barenaked Ladies Love Borders

2006-12-15T21:11:00.000-05:00

It seems like the Barenaked Ladies love to make stops at Borders to play acustic sets. And the nice people who go record them and post to YouTube.

I wish the Barenaked Ladies would play at a Borders near me in Florida. I would go...

All Dressed Up

2006-12-12T21:46:00.000-05:00

The week before last, we got all dolled up for my company's holiday party - You're not supposed to call it a Christmas Party anymore - as not to offend.

It was a good time.

We clean up well.

Turns Out, It was the Humidity!

2006-12-12T20:57:00.000-05:00

Saturday the fam and I headed to Madeira Beach in preparation for the Gulf Beaches Holiday Halfathon. I picked up my race packet and I briefly perused the expo that was set up inside City Hall. I was able to find "my shoes" for a screaming deal -$69.00 - I think I paid $100 or $110 for my last pair of the exact same shoe.

Our next stop was hotel check-in. I asked for late check out and was denied. Apparently, "runners" have taken advantage of them in the past. Now, this is no chain. Just a small little family run operation, with marginal rooms. This was the third time this year we've been there. My thought is, we don't go to the beach to stay in the room. We need a place to sleep and a place to shower. The rest of the time we spend at the beach or at the pool. The price was right, so we kept going back. We won't go back again. I was told if we were in the room after 11:00AM, we would be charged for another day. Because I wasn't sure how quickly the shuttles would be running from the finish line to the start, I had Darrell and the kids check out of the hotel and meet me at the finish line. We drove a little further north to New Port Richey and I took a shower at Darrell's sister's house. Needless to say, our next trip to Madeira Beach will lead us to a different hotel.

We ate dinner at a little Italian restaurant. The kids were happy with cheese pizza, Darrell had a spinich calzone, and I ate spaghetti. Nothing special, but it had the carbs I needed for the next day. We took the kids to get ice cream and we found a little ice cream shop that had all kinds of retro candy. Pop Rocks, Zotz, Jumbo jawbreakers... It was really fun!

All of the action and I was still alseep before 9:00 PM.

I woke up at 5:45 AM got dressed, ate a Clif Bar and walked to the start line. I was there with plenty of time to spare. I wanted to be there to support the early walkers who started at 7:00AM - I guess it really didn't matter. The start was a little disorganized -

The runners started at 7:35 to a gunshot start - no chip timing at this race. The weather was great! Nice and cool. It warmed up, but the it was still just a beautiful day. The miles flew by. before I knew it, I was at mile 4. Then mile 7. I was moving right along.

I had followed a lady with two pigtail braids until right around mile 7. The course went through a park and she stopped for a potty break. I really thought I would follow her to the end.

The course went several miles on the Pinellas Trail. It was nice and shady, and I felt like I was picking up some speed. We ran from the trail and into Taylor Park in Largo. I was so excited to see Darrell's car. First, he had found the park. Secondly. for the first time ever, he and the kids were going to see me cross the finish line!

I could hear Stone andChase behind me running, chanting "Go Momma, Go Momma, Go Momma"

The final time? 2:08:31.

I'll take it!

Hills or Humidity?

2006-12-02T13:05:00.000-05:00

Saturday morning I participated in the OUC Half Marathon. I was afraid it would rain. The forecast on weather.com called for scattered showers.

So When I got up early that morning, I checked the local doppler to see what I had in store. I was pleasantly suprised to see that it was crystal clear. I did notice that the humidity was at 97%...

I never really thought that much about how the humidity might have an effect my end result. Let's just say that at mile 10, I took my t-shirt off and rung out about a gallon of sweat.

My final time was 2:18:04. I was a little disappointed. I was hoping to beat my time in Clermont, but I was actually slower...

I guess I have to realize that every race can't be a PR. It's still disappointing.

We'll see how it goes this Sunday at the Gulf Beaches Halfathon. The weather is supposed to be a bit cooler. I'm looking forward to it!

Berries and Cream Diet Dr.Pepper

2006-11-30T21:36:00.000-05:00

Once upon a time I was a big Cherry Vanilla Diet Dr. Pepper Fan. I liked to swing by 7-11 and get on in the afternoon. Then it was gone. Sure, there was regular Diet Dr. Pepper and then there was a new drink in place of my beloved Cherry Vanilla concotion. Berries and Cream Diet Dr. Pepper?

Ewwwww.

Who would drink that?

So I switched to Regular Diet Dr. Pepper. It was good stuff. And it is still a favorite, but I felt like I was missing some flavor.

On a whim, I finally relented and tried a Berries and Cream Diet Dr. Pepper. I figured it was worth a shot.

It was AWESOME! The taste reminded me of Red Cream Soda, that I haven't had since I was little.

Can you believe it, after all my hesitation, and this stuff is good!

Gem of the Hills?

2006-11-26T14:27:00.000-05:00

Last Sunday I ran my first half-marathon of the season. It was a hilly out and back course. On the return trip , I was thinking those hills were no gems!

Regardless of the hills, I still achieved a PR (personal record) of 2:12:44. That is about 12 minutes faster than my old PR. I am excited thinking about what my time might be like on a nice flat course. I have my sights on the
Gulf Beaches Halfathon in Madeira Beach on December 10th. With Just eight days between runs, I was concerned about how I might hold up.

With seven days behind me and those killer hills to boot I am feeling confident that it shouldn't be a problem.

I will keep you posted - hopefully quicker than a week next time!

Gem of the Hills

2006-11-17T06:20:00.000-05:00

Just two days left until my first half marathon of the season. I'll be in Clermont at the Gem of the Hills Half Marathon. I am excited about it, however I get a little nervous about racing sometimes. I know I'm not going to win, so there is no reason to be nervous, I suppose.

http://www.usantc.com/event_list.php?&eventid=132

Saturday night I'll have my traditional Lasagna dinner. The perfect amount of protein and carbs.

The weather may be on the chilly side at the start, but It should be a good time.

I Want it That Way?

2006-11-14T21:53:00.000-05:00

Wow!

So the kids were watching Nickelodeon and I hear the Backstreet Boys. Not that I'm a fan, but I was wondering why it was on Nick.

Turns out that Mr. Meaty's Josh and Parker were lip-synching. This is just so wrong...

That made me think of the "so over" Backdorm Boys.

It occured to me that I may have never actually even seen the Original Video.

Whic one do you like best?

Steven Page... So Awesome

2006-11-13T23:01:00.000-05:00

Last Week the Barenaked Ladies were in town! What a great show! Darrell came along - He thought Steven Page had a great voice - so different!

I think Wilted Rose is such a beautiful song! Rock on Mr. Page. Rock on!

My Sister Visited

2006-11-06T23:25:00.000-05:00

My sister was in town for a conference - She had enough time to take a day and go to EPCOT with me. We had a great time.

I wanted to go from country to country and have our pictures taken with different hats representing each country.

Unfortunately, I did think of the idea until we had reached China and we were a few countries down. We only had Norway

After that, It just seemed like too big of a hassle to backtrack and then to ask strangers to take our picture.

Maybe next year...

Happy Halloween, Brother!

2006-11-01T06:09:00.000-05:00

A day late...

Who's sick from eating a ton of candy?

How Many Maddys?

2006-10-26T19:59:00.000-04:00

I found this really cool site today - Thanks Val for passing it along...

You type in your First Name and Last Name and it give you back results of how many people there are in the US with the same name as you.

Pretty cool!

HowManyOfMe.com

There are:
25
people with my name
in the U.S.A.

How many have your name?

The Most Amazing Treadmill Action Ever...

2006-10-24T21:14:00.000-04:00

I run. I love to run.

I run a lot.

With a little more than three weeks until My half marathon season kicks off, I have been diligently running. Training on my treadmill to save my knees for the asphalt pounding that will be right around the corner...

I think this is one of the most amazing feats ever performed on a treadmill - or eight.

Brand Spankin' New

2006-10-24T20:16:00.000-04:00

Hi! If you're here it's probably becuase I told you to pay me a visit. If you just happened upon this, my name is Maddy. I'm the tall one...

This picture was taken at Disney World. We live close by and we go a lot!

I will be posting regularly, so come back often!