GRATE THOUGHTS

Thankful

2011-05-12T11:19:00.000-05:00

I have so much to be thankful for...This last month has been full of ups and downs, but mostly ups for sure. God has been so good to me and my family.

The Jewelry business is going FANTASTIC! I love, love, love it! Can't say it enough. The jewelry shows are a total stress reliever for me. School has been less than stellar this year, but the evenings are devoted to stress free fun. I don't even let myself think about my frustrating day if I have one. Once I'm on my way home, I am thinking about business and it's great! I have 13 shows scheduled in May...hope to have half the furnace money saved by the end of the month. I'm also working on a goal to be a designer by the end of the summer and earn a free cruise next year. Exciting times!

After a LONG Plateau, I have finally started losing weight again. I have dropped 4 more lbs this month to make my total 48! Hoping to hit 50 before school ends and then really hit it hard this summer! I'm feeling great and can't wait to get the rest off!!

The biggest thing I'm thankful for is the health of my niece, Addison. She just recently spent over a week in the hospital (mostly ICU) for a severe case of RSV and possibly bacterial Pneumonia. She was one sick little girl, but thanks to an awesome God and great Dr. and nurses at Children's, she is better and finally home. Seeing her that sick, was just heartbreaking. I hated it, but as we were leaving the hospital one day, a man offered us a token to use for the parking garage. He had a whole bag and explained that his family were "lifers" so the hospital gave them to him. It was such an eye-opening moment for me. Things could have been so much worse. My heart felt such sadness for him and his family. I don't know their situation...I just know ours was mild in comparison. The hospital situation also made me think about how lucky as a family we are to have each other. Andrea and Addison had a lot of support from family and friends. There were babies in ICU that never had anyone there with them. I can't even imagine...and for that, I am so thankful.

Kelley

What's Up?

2011-04-08T13:18:00.000-05:00

Well Holy Cow! How did I get a month down the road already? Life has been super busy, but super AWESOME!

The third week of March found me in Virginia on spring break. I had a wonderful 4 days with my brother and his family. We did a lot of sight-seeing, shopping, and laying around. It was good to be with family. Poor Zeke was sick while I was there so he was home from school everyday and not his usual rambunctious self. The night he fell asleep on the couch laying with Aunt Kelley was my favorite. I hardly get to enjoy those times as it's rare to get him that still. Emmy was a jewelry diva like her aunt Kelley enjoying the box of "contraband" I brought her. I am only wearing my Premier jewelry now, so she inherited much of my old collection. Every morning I had to help her decide which earrings to wear to school and what matched her outfit the best...we truly are kindred spirits. Elijah is just amazing. He's growing into such a nice young man. He has such a soft heart and just the funniest sense of humor. I'm always amazed at his quick witted retorts that seem to roll off the tongue effortlessly. Of course, I enjoyed time and good conversation with Jason and Holly as well. They are lucky to live in a place so rich with history, right up both their alleys.

When I returned from break, it was time for that Premier Training Show I had been so anxiously waiting for! Seemed like it would never arrive, but it did and it went GREAT! I had several friends come out and support the kick-off of my new business. It has been non-stop action since then. I have done 3 shows on my own with another booked for tomorrow, and the response has been wonderful. Sales have been awesome, but what I was most concerned about was bookings for future shows and that has definitely NOT been a problem. I currently have 24 shows booked over the next few months. I am busy and crazy, but loving it!

All of this however puts me in a quandry. I have been looking for a principal's position, but now I am questioning if that is the direction I want to go or if I'm seriously going to work towards leadership with Premier Designs. What I know is that if I work this business, it can and will pay...more than being a principal. What I also know is that I have not been angry or frustrated after any of my jewelry shows...hmmmm. Usually, I'm hyper and excited, and HAPPY on my way home. Wonder how many days I can say that when I leave school? So, decisions, decisions. Lots to pray about. I heard an amazing Leader with Premier speak a week ago, and all I kept thinking was..."I could do that!" So, we'll just have to see what the Lord has in store.

School is down to 34 days (not that I'm counting) and I couldn't be more happy about that. It has been possibly the hardest/worst year I've ever endured over the last 17. Years like this make even the best/most dedicated teachers yearn for retirement. So...I say, "Thank you Lord for the blessing of Premier in my life and summer vacations!"

Just a quick update on the rest of my family...Mom had a total knee replacement a month ago and is doing great! She is such a trooper! Andrea and the girls are also hanging in there. Kenzie is going to have her tonsils out soon, but otherwise is growing up way too fast. Her 3rd birthday is next Monday! I just can't believe it! Addison is growing like a weed and keeping us all entertained with her constant smile and giggle. She is truely a delight! We're all praying for June to be here soon so Jon can return to his family from Afghanistan. I know nobody is praying harder than him. He won't believe those sweet girls when he sees them!

Last...diet. UGH! I haven't given up, or stopped. I'm still plugging along, but I have not dropped a pound in well over a month and I'm SUPER frustrated! Gonna have to figure out how to break this plateau. I do feel great though and can't complain about that. I just know that I have miles to go and I want to be on my way. This pit stop has lasted long enough.

Life Update

2011-03-08T11:55:00.000-05:00

So, life seems to be flying by at faster than I can run! But...I LOVE it! Life is really good right now! I've really been working on being a positive person with a positive attitude and it is amazing the difference when I CHOOSE to be happy!

School has gone well for 7 straight days...I think God is teaching me lessons about myself and my role in bad days. He is also renewing in me the passion I thought was gone forever. I think these last weeks are going to be good ones.

Personally, I am happier than I have ever been. My weight loss journey is slow but steady. I am learning to read my body which keeps me from being discouraged on days when my weight goes up. I know if the cause is too much freedom, or I have had too much salt so I'm retaining water. I'm getting ready to embark on a new exercise routine starting today after school which I am really excited about. I think it will really kick my loss into high gear. Super ready for that!

I am giddy with excitement as I get ready to begin my new part-time career as a "Jewelry Lady!" Premier Designs and the people associated with it, are amazing to work with. The jewelry is absolutely gorgeous! I feel proud to promote this product. Knowing that my guilty pleasure is also helping to support missions, makes this an absolutely amazing opportunity.
I'm going to be extremely busy, which I think is a good thing. I tend to be more productive when I've got a full plate.

Last, God has really be working on me through the Soul Shift series at church...good stuff! I love that I am growing and hope I can make a difference in the lives of my students, the women I encounter through Premier, and anyone who calls me friend or family. I want to be used.

New Venture

2011-03-02T08:11:00.000-05:00

I feel the need to revise…wish I had held my post until I slept on it. I woke up this morning and felt the Holy Spirit saying, “What good did that do?” In the dawn of a new day, I want a re-do.

On the topic of Public Education, here’s what I will say…we need to be on our knees in prayer. Prayer for law-makers, administrators, school boards, teachers, educational aids, and mostly for the students.I’d also like to say that I have MANY wonderful students. There are some that make each day possible for me and I need to do a better job putting my focus on them. Yesterday, they were all great and I needed that reminder. I’m hoping for a repeat today. As I seek God’s direction for my career and try to figure out what I want to be when I grow up, I pray he will make me a light in my classroom.

My new venture with Premier Designs Jewelry is very exciting to me! I love that this company provides a beautiful product, but also focuses on bettering this world by supporting missions around the world. I am excited to be a part of it! If you love jewelry and would like to get it for free, please leave me a message…I’d love to host a Home Show for you!

God Bless!

Disappointment

2011-02-11T09:34:00.000-05:00

"I'm sorry to inform you, we're going with another candidate", the scale went up instead of down, a friend let me down, the trip was cancelled because of weather, the cancer has returned, my team lost the game, a hero fell off the pedestal I placed them on...all these are examples of different levels of disappointment both in circumstance and people. Some would be considered trivial...some life altering. Some devastating. Some days it seems life is full of disappointments. I guess that's what we get living in a fallen world. As people we often disappoint each other. When I try to think of a person who has NEVER disappointed me, I can't think of anyone except my Dad.

I'm sure as a child, he disappointed me by not letting me go somewhere, or by not buying me something I wanted, but as a PERSON, I have never been disappointed in him. I guess you could say, I have him up on that pedestal. He always protects, always provides, loves my mother in a way I hope to be loved by a husband someday, always models true kindness for others, easy forgiveness, not holding grudges, slow to anger, loves God and made Him the head of our house, loves me even when I'm sure I disappoint...need I go on? Sounds perfect, doesn't he? In my eyes, he's pretty close. I do know he's not perfect and I also know he'll be a little uncomfortable with me saying all this about him...another part of his perfection.

So, you can imagine how I was knocked for a loop when Pastor Steve made the statement that my earthly father is just a pale comparison to my Heavenly Father. The Soul Shift that Sunday was Slave to Child. Moving from viewing God as someone we serve and try to please in order to earn our place in Heaven to a Father who we worship and emulate because we love Him and He simply gives us a place in Heaven because we belong to Him. We're His children. I've been grappling with this for the last 2 weeks. I would say I believe that in my head, but in my life, I live like a slave. I follow certain rules and hope to please. It's only been in the last few years that I have begun to realize, it truly is relationship, not rules. That even when I disappoint with my humanity, His love does not waiver. It's a hard mindset to change, but oh so freeing when you get there! Just like a slave who is released from their shackles.

I thank God for an earthly father who doesn't disappoint. I know I am truly blessed as I watch my students deal with disappointment in their fathers regularly. Fathers who don't pay attention, don't pay their support, don't protect, but abuse, don't really deserve the title of Dad. I thank God that He is a father to these children. But I thank Him even more that I have a Heavenly Father who makes Keever Grate pale in comparison. I can hardly comprehend the depth of His love for me!

Everyday

2011-02-04T05:54:00.000-05:00

I don't really have a deep, thought provoking post for this week. I had a REALLY tough week involving 3 snow days and 1 2hr delay. I have totally taken advantage of the break and renewed my mind and body with lazy activities. I did manage to clean my house and get ready for my sister's visit this weekend, but mostly I watched TV/movies, read books, took baths...you get the picture.

This weekend I plan to totally enjoy a visit from my sister, Andrea, Kenzie and Addison. Very little brings me more joy than time with my family especially the nieces and nephews. On Sat. we will go support Sue at her last regular season game and then Sunday I'll hang out with the SS crew at a Super Bowl party. Should be a fun weekend!

Upcoming thoughts...Soul Shift #2 "Slave to Child"

Decisions

2011-01-27T12:11:00.000-05:00

I wonder how many decisions I make on a daily basis. Already this morning, I made the decision to not push the snooze and to get up and exercise. I decided what to wear, how to style my hair today, what to have for breakfast, and to not stop for gas but take my chances on the way home tonight. Since I've been at school I have made numerous trivial decisions.

There are big decisions weighing on my mind too...where is God really calling me to be for the next 20 years? Should I stick with education or broaden my horizons? Decisions are scary. I'm feeling like I'm being nudged to make a change, but what does that look like? Why am I so scared? I love a challenge and usually thrive in new situations. Don't you sometimes wish God would just write it across the sky? Here...Do this!

I've also made the decision to involve myself in the Soul Shift series at church. I joined a small group of women who meet on Wed. night's to discuss the 7 Soul Shifts and what that looks like in our lives. This week the shift is from Me to You. Boy...I'm selfish. I think I've always known that on some level, but the sermon on Sunday, the reading and last night's discussion made it blatantly clear to me. If I doubted it, now there is no room for doubt. I am certainly Me focused, but I'm making the decision to let God shift my soul. That in itself is scary. There are parts of that change that are not going to be fun for me. How sad is that to say?! I don't want to be "others" focused sometimes, but God makes it clear that how much I love "others" even my enemies, is how much I love Him! That was a hard pill to swallow. I would say "I" have some changes to make, but I'm realizing "I" can't do it.

I'd like to ask any of you who pray to remember a friend of mine who made a really hard decision this week. She made the right decision, but it's impact will be wide spread and it's going to have a long fallout I'm afraid. Pray for peace in her heart and mind that she did the only thing she could. Pray for nights of good sleep. Pray for focus through the day as she tries to do all that is required of her.

In order to end this on an upbeat note...I have also made the DECISION to keep plugging away at this healthy lifestyle of mine and it is paying off! I am at 39lbs as of this morning!

What's the Answer?

2011-01-18T09:42:00.000-05:00

Well, here I am writing about weight loss again, but seriously people, I am going crazy! I dropped 4lbs, got all excited and have now spent the last week and a half fluctuating up and down. I am constantly reading, trying to figure out this weight loss monster.

So, what's the right amount of protein, carbs, water, calories, fat, etc? You can find 100 theories and proof to scientifically back up every cotton-pickin' one of them! It can make a person just want to eat whatever and stay fat! But then my smarter side kicks in and reminds me that no matter what the scale says, I am feeling better right now than I have in years. I should not give up! My life right now mimics that cartoon where there is a voice on each shoulder...one good, one evil. I am starting to think that I'm hearing voices.

If any of you out there have any tried and true methods that could help me...I'd love to hear them. I want a lifestyle, not a fad diet though. I've obviously done some serious damage to my metabolism so I don't want to continue down that path.

I will do this...I will do this...I will do this!!!

Need? Want? What's Enough?

2011-01-10T13:04:00.000-05:00

When I was in college at IWU, I worked as an RA for 3 years. The first year our retreat ended with a true "foot washing" ceremony. I knew this terribly uncomfortable experience was coming and I dreaded it the whole weekend. I didn't want to touch someone else's feet, but more importantly, I certainly didn't want a stranger touching mine. I was floored when that experience turned out to be one of the most emotional, spiritual, and memorable times of my life. I have never forgotten it. It was humbling to have someone wash my feet, yet a huge blessing. I was also blessed by washing someone else's feet...to be a servant.

Sunday's sermon was on our "needs" and "wants" and When do we have enough? This was a hard one for me...I seem to ALWAYS be wanting! New clothes, purses, shoes, items for the house, vacations...the list is endless! But Pastor Judy's point was if we have Jesus...is it enough? it certainly is! He meets all my needs and then some! I am certainly blessed! But, sometimes he meets our needs through others...

We then start focusing on identifying a need that someone else can fill for us. Well, I'm single and a homeowner so there are plenty! Right? Wrong! I find that most of my need is financial, not something someone can do for me in an hour or less. Anyone have an extra 10 grand so I can get a new furnace and windows? A new master suite addition (pipe dream of mine)? Those things are probably not what she had in mind, so let's focus on things that need to be done around the house. There's washing windows, washing/cleaning my car, yard work (lots and lots of yard work!!), etc. But these are things I just don't like to do...I can, I just don't want to. That's not a "need", that's LAZY! We're about to fill out the card and I have to think of 1 need. I'm starting to panic a little.

Where does pride figure in? I don't want people to know how dirty my windows are! I don't want people to see how dirty I let me car get! I don't want people to think I'm lazy or incapable of taking care of myself! It's hard to accept help! Such pride! It occured to me that when Jesus washed the feet of the disciples, it wasn't about them being capable of doing it for themselves...it was a service, a ministry...a demonstration of his love for them. I enjoy serving others, doing acts of service, "washing the feet" of others. It's a blessing to me. So when I refuse to let others help me, am I robbing them of a blessing?

So, it's decision time and...I leave my card blank. I'm not going to ask someone else to "wash my feet" just because I'm too lazy to do it, OR it's a job I procrastinate because I don't like like doing it, OR maybe it IS hard for me, but I don't want to admit that I "need" help.

As the final song is being sung, I'm looking at the empty card in my hand a light bulb goes on in my head...OUTSIDE CHRISTMAS LIGHTS! My Dad drove 3 hrs one afternoon to put them up for me, but I wasn't sure how I was going to get them down. I know he is super busy with his new job at the church so I don't want him to feel pressured to make a trip over here for a job that will only take about 30 min. My BFF, Sue, could help me, but she's super busy with coaching basketball right now so I don't want to ask her to help me. I guess I could just go redneck and leave them up till spring, or next Christmas...no that's not an option!

So...it turns out I do have a "need" and I'm going to let someone feel the blessing by helping me! I'll also be blessed by letting them do it, and hopefully by finding a "need" I can meet for someone else!

Out with the Fat Clothes

2011-01-08T06:40:00.003-05:00

Ok...so I have been thinking this week how I want to proceed. What "tone" or "focus" do I want to have. I noticed as I read through all my posts that I definitely went through seasons. There was the randomness at the beginning, the job hunt season, and the mini training/weight loss era with a few spiritual applications thrown in along the way. I really don't think I want every post to be about the same thing like I did over the past few years with the mini training, so I'm going to return to randomness I think and try to write about it all. Sound good?

With that said...today is going to be an update on my weight loss with the promise that it won't be that way every time. However, I'm too excited today not to share! During the summer, I was pretty much "off" any kind of healthy eating plan. Not sure what gets into me, but I was living it up. As I got ready to head back to school, I was at an all time high weight and super discouraged. I didn't really have a plan in mind except to try and get things back under control. So, I just started cutting back and trying to make some better choices. Through August and Sept. I dropped about 6lbs. Then during the first weekend of October, I spent a weekend at my sister's. We started talking about weight loss as she was wanting to drop her baby weight and a plan was hatched. We intially set it up at a competition with the promise of rewards, but both of us are winning, so the reward has just been the feeling of accomplishment. October and half of November were VERY successful. Then, we headed into the holidays and things came to a halt. Andrea and I discussed it and decided that we would make out goal simply to not put any weight on through the holidays. If we could make it to Jan. 1 without gaining, we would be happy. Well, both of us managed to do that with a little accountability help from each other. So, this week, I hit the ground running and it has been a good week! As of this morning, I am down 35/29 lbs!!! The 35 is since school started, the 29 is from the Oct. date.

This is my largest weight loss in 20 years. I have been trying to lose weight since college. But have never lost more than 30lbs. and that was 17 years ago when I lost 30 lbs for Andrea's high school graduation. In Feb. of her Senior year, we had done a "sisters" act in matching costumes at a valentine banquet which had a HUGE affect on me. Try standing beside your high-school skinny sister in matching clothes...not good! When I left for college, we were basically the same size...she got super skinny during high school and I started gaining in college. I decided then that I would be skinny for her graduation. I lost 30 lbs., went to her graduation party, ate, and that was that. I was off the diet and continued to climb from there. I've been fighting it ever since and have never lost more than 20 lbs. at a time. If you put it all together, I've probably lost hundreds!!

So, I have not talked about it much. I feel like putting it out there for the world is sometimes what derails me. I won't post about it a lot, but I was excited to see a loss this morning, and had to share. I think the most exciting thing, is that I don't feel in danger of stopping. I am feeling good, enjoying the struggle of finding things to wear because I've dropped 2 sizes, and am saving for a tropical vacation when I hit my goal. I'm not just talking Florida tropics, I'm talking Hawaii or something equally as awesome when I get to goal. I won't go till I can feel good about being in a bathring suit. I've renewed my committment to exercise and am hoping to get back the determination I had when I was working out at the Wellness Center. I'm also avoiding following a "diet". I am simply watching calories and learning how to eat healthy. This will have to be a lifetime thing, so a fad diet isn't going to work in the long run.

So with all that said...I think I'll go do a little closet purging! Out with the fat clothes!

Change of Heart

2011-01-04T19:18:00.002-05:00

I guess you could say that I've had a change of heart...hence the title. I had decided that I was done blogging after all this time. I rarely write...sometimes going months at a time without even thinking about it. It feels like the world has moved on. It was a great phase, but I felt the days of blogging were behind me. Then some events occured that caused me to have a change of heart.

The first event occured on a lazy Sunday afternoon. I had nothing to do so I spent an entire afternoon reading my past blogs. I don't know what on Earth prompted me to do it, but I literally sat for hours reading every blog from the first couple of years. I read every comment too. I found myself laughing out loud at myself! I am funny! Who knew? I also laughed at comments left by my friends and family who were faithfully following my journey. Thirty seconds later, I'd find myself in tears...remembering a sadness. Then I'd read those comments and realize how many people love me and support me in my journey. I was AMAZED at all the things that have happened in my life over the last 5 years! Valleys crossed and mountains climbed were only a memory. Those events felt so huge at the time! Hard times, sad times, but mostly totally BLESSED times! Looking back helped me remember the blessings and how God has never left my side!

The second event was the death of my Grandma in November. I found myself consumed with memories...remembering. Then at our Grate Christmas, we spent time reading a journal that Grandma had kept for a few years and cards/letters she had written to Grandpa. I was so touched and amused to hear her words. She was a hilarious, loving person! (must be where I get it) Getting a chance to see her heart meant so much to me. It gave me a more intimate picture of who she was. I want to leave that behind for...well anyone who cares to know me! I don't have children, but I have 5 nieces and nephews who might get a kick out of reading my ramblings.

The last event was a discussion on "reflecting" in Sunday school class. As we talked about the importance on reflecting on our lives especially our spiritual growth as we head into a new year, I couldn't help but think about the blog and the things I learned about myself just rereading it. The growth I've had, but wouldn't have even been aware of without that opportunity to look back at what I was facing, feeling, dealing with over the last 5 years. I knew right then that I was going to revive the blog! Mostly it's just for me...a record of my memories, my struggles, my triumphs, but I'd love it if some of you would come along with me!

13 lessons in 13.1 Miles

2010-05-10T08:22:00.004-05:00

Sat. May 8th, I finished my second Indianapolis Mini Marathon! 13.1 miles! It was a balmy 40 degrees with winds gusting up to 35 mph. I was beyond excited about that! Since the race ended, I have been reflecting on the experience and in many ways found that this finish meant more to me than the first. The first race was about endurance. Did I have what it took to keep walking a steady pace for 13.1 miles? The second was about digging deep and determining that I am not a quitter. Let me explain...

The fear of staying ahead of the bus that picks you up if you don't keep an 18 min mile pace has always been a driving force for me. Last year the 5K race started after the Mini so the bus was never even in my sights. Even still, at first I was scared to death for the first several miles that I wouldn't walk fast enough and would get picked up. This year, they started the 5K first which means the "Back of the Pack" crew was right behind the last people to cross the start line. I knew this was going to be the case, so I entered a faster time in order to start well ahead of the back. Somehow without realizing it, most people forged ahead and I didn't even realize I was one of the last people crossing the start line. I never looked behind me, so I had no idea this was happening. Needless to say, about 5 min. into the walk, my friend Missy pointed out that the "Back of the Pack" crew was right behind us. I totally freaked out! Lynn, Missy and I took off running. Due to different paces, I ended up going ahead by myself. I wanted to walk with Lynn and Missy, but fear of getting picked up made me keep running every little bit to stay ahead. It seemed like those clanging cow bells were right behind me.

Needless to say, the first couple of miles were a complete mental battle for me. I felt the task was hopeless. I didn't think I could go fast enough to put distance between myself and the bus. I didn’t think I could battle the wind for 13.1 miles. I didn’t think I could mentally go the full 13.1 miles with the bus right on my heels. I didn’t think I was strong enough to do it all alone. With tears streaming down my cheeks, I fought the urge to quit…to give up for nearly 2 miles. But as I contemplated quitting, I kept thinking how my family had come to see me cross that finish line, how I had bought a shirt that said “I Finished 13.1 miles”, how I knew that EVERYONE in my life including my kids at school knew that I was doing this, and I didn’t want them to think I had failed. Instead of picturing defeat, I started to picture myself crossing that finish line. So, I kept running every little bit. I noticed that by mile 3, I couldn’t hear the cow bells any more and I could barely see the bus. All the people who had stopped to go to the bathroom were now behind me and there was a whole sea of people between me and the bus. I am starting to believe I can actually do this.

Between miles 3-5 I really made good time and got into my stride. During mile 5 as I was approaching the Indy 500 track, I started talking to a girl who was also walking alone. She had quite a story to tell and was doing her first marathon. Many people had told her not to do it because they thought she was setting herself up for failure. We had a wonderful talk and it was very motivating to me to be able to encourage her…it was exactly the spark I needed to face the 2.5 mile lap around the track. During mile 9 things started to get a little tough. I could feel some blisters forming and the thought of 4 more miles was depressing, but I knew I could finish. Right before mile 10 I heard someone scream my name. I turned around and there was my friend, Jami that I teach with. I was able to join her and her sister for the last 3 miles. It was nice to have someone to talk with as I finished the race.

Having my family and my best friend cheering for me at the finish line was very special. I loved having them there. They were really the motivation that kept me putting one foot in front of the other when it would have been easier to give up.

So, here are 13 lessons I learned in 13.1 miles…

13. Next year (if I do this again), I’m starting with the Kenyans!

12. I will not die if I run.

11. I hate cowbells.

10. Nervous pee is just that…if you ignore it, it will go away. (I
refused to stop for the whole 13.1 miles)

9. Yellow Gatorade is gross.

8. Black spandex is not flattering on everyone.

7. Telling my students my goals is a good motivator.

6. Sheer determination can take you farther than you think.

5. I’m stronger than I give myself credit for.

4. God sends along people when we really need them.

3. It’s okay to be alone.

2. If the bus (or a large dog) is nipping at my heels, I’ll not stick
around to help you…I will run to save myself. (Sorry, Missy)

1. “I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.”
-Phil. 4:13

What happened to 6,7,8,9?

2010-04-10T15:11:00.002-05:00

Wow! I was astounded to see that I hadn't written since mile 5! That was a long time ago! Since that time, I have been to Florida for spring break where the weather was crappy and the wind made the walking difficult. I got off for a few weeks, but I'm back on track.

Last week I did 8 miles. It was rough. I did good until mile 6, but after that was a real struggle. I did finish and in decent time, but it was not very encouraging to me. I feel miles behind where I was at this time last year. I realized that last year I wasn't just walking, but also working out at the gym. I was doing the elipcial and training with Ryan. I can really tell that my overall stamina is not what it was. So, that has me a little worried. I stressed all week long as I did my walks about doing 9 miles today. I was especially concerned because Sue wasn't going to be doing the whole walk with me. She drew the line at 8 so I was going to do the first 4.5 by myself and then she would join me for the last half. So, this morning at 9:30 I set off on my course. I actually did pretty well. It was easier today doing nine that it was doing 8 last week. Sue met me right on time with a cold bottle of water which was wonderful and I made it with no problems.

Overall, I'm having mixed feelings about the marathon. It's getting close. Next week is 10 miles and that's the most I'll walk. I think I will struggle more this year than I did last. Knowing how hard it is going to be, is not working in my favor at this point. I'm not sure who I'll be walking with. I have options so I won't be alone, but I sure wish my sister could walk with me. I'm going to miss her for sure.

5? No Problem

2010-02-20T14:37:00.002-05:00

Well, that's not exactly true, but kinda. I am at Andrea's this weekend so I did my 5 mile training walk on her treadmill. Less than exciting way to do it, but I got to watch Seven Brides for Seven Brothers, an old favorite, while I walked which was nice.

Things that were better about the walk:

*I got to watch the movie

*I didn't have to go anywhere

*I felt NO pain in my legs or feet at all (this amazed me)

Things that were worse:

*It seemed really long for some reason

*I have a terrible cold and have congestion in my chest so I could hardly breathe. This made it a tad difficult

* The speed on the treadmill certainly didn't match what I do at the gym. The 17.5 pace was literally almost throwing me off the back. I had to jog to keep that pace, so I was slow today according to the treadmill.

Feeling good about the training. Today was not a problem. :)

Another 4 Miles

2010-02-13T12:31:00.002-05:00

Feeling good after today's 4 mile walk. Today was supposed to be a 3.1 mile walk, but since I didn't walk 4 last week I thought I needed to do 4 today. My walks this week have all gone well, so I was hoping for a good time today. I got it. I completed my 4 miles in 69 min exactly which is a 17 min. 15 sec. mile. Realizing that I only need to knock 15 sec. off of each mile which is essentially a 1.5 sec a lap, is not too bad. I think I can do that! I only neared a 17 min. mile at the end of last years training so I'm feeling really good about where I am right now. I also noticed that my pain lessened much more quickly today. It really only hurt during the first mile after that I was good.

My feelings about this whole process seem to be all over the map. I feel everything from dispair to elation...hopelessness to determination...dread to excitement. I find that I have days where I just don't want to do it. It's hard and now that I've done it once, I know how hard it is. It's more a feeling of not wanting to do it though, not fear that I can't. But, the good news is that once I get myself to the gym and start that first lap, the determination to better myself kicks in and then the elation at the end when I've finished and finished faster is awesome! Next week...5!

4 miles -Check

2010-01-31T16:01:00.000-05:00

Saturday's walk went really well. I was nervous because Friday's walk was extremely difficult. I only walked 2 miles. At the end instead of being happy I was completely freaked out that tomorrow that would only be half way!! Just couldn't imagine getting through the 4 by myself. But, I did! I blared my music and played mind games but got through it. I was even faster than an 18 min mile which is way ahead of where I was last year at this point.

On my way home I called my sister to gloat about my success. We ended up having a half hour conversation which was great except I was sitting down that whole time. When I stood up to hit the shower, I nearly fell down. The muscle in mt right calf was in a complete ball. Lesson learned- stretch more and keep moving after the walk! :)

It's a New Day!

2010-01-23T14:00:00.004-05:00

Yes, I know...I disappeared again. That's what I do when I don't have anything good to say. The holidays were hard and I would say that I was really bad. But, we're in a new year and it's a new day! I decided last fall to sign up to do the Indy Mini again this year. Andrea signed up with me and so now it's time to train. All fall, I "rested" my foot hoping it would be better by now. All I accomplished was gaining back weight I had lost and I still have an injured foot. As this week approached and I knew the training was to officially start, I wondered what I had done. I felt trapped by the commitment to my sister and wished I had never agreed to do it again. So, with a heavy heart I went out for a walk Monday to "test the water" so to speak. I did a mile just to see how the foot would do. Surprisingly, the foot wasn't too bad. Everything else hurt, but the foot pain was minimal. So, that was encouraging. Tues, Wed. and Thurs. I did not walk. It was icy outside and I hadn't been to the Wellness Center yet to pay my $50 so I could use the indoor track for 4 months. I needed to wait till I got paid Thursday. So, Friday afternoon, I forced myself to the gym. I paid my money and set off on a two mile walk. That was the goal I set for myself. I am happy to report that I made it. The first mile was somewhat torturous, but the 2nd was easier and I felt proud that I had completed it. So, I decide that I will just count that as my "big" walk for the week and break myself in easy. I was supposed to do 3 today and then 4 the next two weeks. In my mind, it made more sense to go 2, 3, 4, so that's what I had decided to do.

Well, I woke up this morning and thought, "Kelley, you need to get to the gym." I decided I didn't want to start the training off by making excuses and allowances so I needed to grit my teeth and do 3 today. I put it off till 12:30 but finally got myself out the door. As I was walking that first mile, I thought, 3 was going to be pretty hard to achieve. I was hurting, but I realized that I had something this time around that I didn't have last time...the knowledge that I can do way more than I ever thought I could. I proved that to myself last year. I can dig deep and fight through pain, so I became determined then to complete the 3 and to be no longer than a 19 min. mile. That's slow, but faster than the 20 min. miles I started out with last year. I was on lap 15 of 33 when the gal at the desk asked me if I realized they closed at 1:00. It was 5 after. I quickly grabbed my coat and keys and was out the door. (feeling a little like I had been saved.) I was consoling myself with the fact that I had done the first mile in 19 min. as planned and was well into my 2nd mile realizing that the pain was easing up and I had no doubt I could finish the 3 miles.

On my way home, while stopped at 50th and Harmon, I saw a girl walking. She was bundled up but moving right along and then I knew what I had to do. I rushed home, pulled on my heavy sweatshirt and a scarf and headed out the door. I needed to get another mile and 6 tenths in. I knew exactly where I needed to walk to get that, so off I went. It was easy to finish that last half of today's walk...probably easier than if I had stayed at the gym going round and round. I kept my pace and the pain subsided the longer I walked...just like it did last year.

So as I was walking, I was doing a little comparing. I was making a mental checklist of what was the same as last year and what was different. Here's what I came up with.

SAME:
1.The first mile or two still hurt. The pain in my shins, calves, and sometimes back is enough to draw tears...BUT, just like last year, if I can fight through it, it eases up after that and gets better.

DIFFERENT:
1. I am doing this on my own. Best friend is not available to walk with me this year. There were walks especially the first several that she literally talked me through. This year, I'm going on the knowledge that I can do this. I know my abilities are more than I give myself credit for.

2. There were no tears on walk 1...just determination.

3. I am faster starting out than I was last year. Hoping to be faster overall this year.

4. I don't feel an overwhelming sense of fear that I will fail. I know I can do it!

I'm sure there are even more. I also want to say here at the end, that I'm thankful for that "trap of commitment" I feel to my sister. I probably wouldn't have started this week without it and maybe wouldn't have done it at all, but now, I feel excited and motivated! I have felt like a failure for a while now, but as I begin AGAIN, I realize that I'm only a failure if I fail to keep trying. I will not quit this fight. I am still trying to give it to Jesus and I know that someday with His help, I'm going to win this fight over weight.

AWAL

2009-11-03T22:07:00.002-05:00

So...I guess I kind of went AWAL for a while. Life has been interesting the last few months. I have been attending a Bible study by Beth Moore at church on Wed. nights. It has been AMAZING! Really, honestly, life changing. So, the problem is...my weight loss journey has been on hiatus. It's like I have come to grips with a lot of areas. I've given them all to Jesus, but I hold onto the weight issue like a lifeline. It's like I'm afraid to turn it over for fear He'll actually help me! How stupid is that?! Well, last week, I finally decided it was time. Giving God this weight battle, is something I have never done. I know that seems crazy...why wouldn't I be praying for His help all these years? But I haven't. I have always tried to do it myself. Well, we see how well that has turned out. It's like I have always felt that this was my mess. I created it and God has bigger things to worry about than me controlling my eating. So, daily I'm trying to turn it over. And it is literally a daily decision to turn it over. I haven't been perfect, but better. I also decided that my goals are way too lofty. I am always focused on the full amount of weight and I want to lose it all in less than a year. But I realized yesterday that I have gone almost 14 years fighting this and I've never reached that goal. So, why not make it more manageable. Maybe just a pound a week. If I could do that, I'd be down 52 lbs by next year. That would be huge. It's hard to think it might take two years to get it all off, but if I don't do this, I could be two years down the road and have lost nothing. So, that's my new goal. I want to lose 3 lbs. by Thanksgiving. And then 3 more by Christmas. Doesn't seem like much, but it's better than gaining which is the where I'm headed if I don't turn this train around. Actually there I go again, saying I'm going to turn it around, actually, God is going to help me turn it around. I can't do it...that's evident. It's gonna have to come from Him!

What Have You Done Today to Make You Feel Proud?

2009-09-22T21:50:00.002-05:00

These are the words to the theme song for the Biggest Loser. Tonight as I'm watching the show, it dawns on me that my answer to that question is... very little. I'm about as low as I can go right now. I am like a train wreck. I'm still working out...that would be the little that I am proud of, but other than that, I'm ashamed. This blog was easy to write when I was super motivated and proud of my progress. I haven't wanted to post in the last couple of weeks because I didn't want to be honest about my failures. But, it's time to face the music. I need and covet any prayers you can send my way. Satan is doing a number on me right now, and it's only through prayer that i'm going to make it.

I've Got Nothing...

2009-08-16T09:46:00.002-05:00

My Dad reminded me yesterday that I haven't been posting very regularly. Well, part of that is because the well has dried up. I've Got Nothing...as they say. I haven't lost a pound in over a month. I've continued to exercise and be active, but I obviously am eating enough to offset that effort. :( I don't really feel like I'm eating that poorly, but I guess I am because I don't know how else a person can exercise as much as I am and not lose weight. So, here I am at the end of summer (school starts tomorrow) and I lost 5 lbs., not 20 like I wanted. I've yet to get through that set of 10 so I could buy myself some treat. Very discouraging. I don't want to give the impression that I'm giving up. I definitly am not. I'm hoping with routine, will come some results. Hopefully packing my lunch for school will help me to eat better and be more consistent. My goal of running the 5K has also been derailed. I hurt my heel a couple of weeks ago racing my niece and nephews. It is still giving me problems and definitly changed what I can do in the category of cardio workouts. I have trouble walking and running on it. My personal trainer, Mary, says it could take up to 6 weeks to heal and of course that's assuming, I don't do anything stupid to injure it more...like wear stupid shoes. (which I tend to do) :) So, I guess I feel a little behind right now, but not totally defeated. (BTW- I don't really have a personal trainer, just a really good friend who is a highly talented athletic trainer.) I would love to post fabulous news in the coming months, so please add me to your prayer lists. This is a harder battle than most would think and it's going to take more than just my efforts to get the job done.

Kelley

Progress

2009-08-05T07:45:00.002-05:00

Well, I've had a successful week so far. The extra pounds from Nashville are gone...which tells me they were mostly water. I've had good workouts this week and have done pretty well with my eating. I realized that I didn't drink hardly any water the whole time I was at home and in Nashville. I drink tons of water every day, so I'm sure that was the reason for my huge gain. I feel much better. Now if I can just keep going in the downward direction instead of stopping. My workout schedule will be changing starting next week because Sue goes back to school on Monday. So, my workout partner won't be available till after school. The next Monday, I go back, so it's time to get back into that school year routine anyways. I've been so faithful this summer...getting up early to go and get it over with. Hope I can be just as faithful once school starts and I'm feeling tired. I know it will be easy to skip on those days when I'm feeling tired from getting back into the school routine. I'm hoping my eating can be more disciplined this school year. The teacher's lounge is a very bad place for me. I was talking to a few of my teacher friends who share my struggle and we all agreed to bring more healthy options to share on those days when we need a "carry-in." Well, I have lots to do today so I'd better get to it. Have a good day everybody!

Detour

2009-08-03T07:52:00.002-05:00

Well, I feel like my journey has taken a BIG detour...I think I'll still reach my destination, just much later than I intended. I just got home from a weekend trip to Nashville with Mom and Andrea. We had a blast, but I was horrified when I got on the scale this morning! So, off to the gym I went with my injured foot and a heavy heart. Very discouraging, but I am determined to get back on the main highway!

No Time

2009-07-23T07:59:00.003-05:00

I'm not sure why I've had no time to update, but that's how it's been. As I stated in my last post, life has been crazy busy the last couple weeks. I am frustrated beyond measure that I haven't lost any more weight, but I have continued to be faithful in my workouts. I guess they've kept me from gaining weight with all these special occassions and get togethers. It's funny...I thought eating right was hard during the school year and couldn't wait for summer...now I think it'll be easier once school starts since I'll be in more of a routine. Wow...guess it's just never easy. I need to be more disciplined in both situations. My internet cord is broken so I have to update at Sue's which is making it less convenient. Hopefully I'll get a new cord soon. I'll post pictures of all my fun stuff when I do.

Crazy Busy!

2009-07-14T10:35:00.002-05:00

Life has been a little nuts! I had a garage sale last weekend...I sold my car on a whim...but made a killer deal! I've been car shopping the last few days since being carless is a little inconvenient. I am buying a Pontiac G6 and love it! I've worked out hard the last two mornings. I cleaned my house like mad this morning so my niece won't be crawling on dirty floors. I'm leaving in 1 hour to go to Columbus with my dear friend Kismet for the Billy Joel/Elton John concert. (Yahoo!) We're spending the night with my sister and then I'm bringing Kenzie home with me tomorrow. I'll head back to Dayton on Sat. for my cousin's wedding and to return Kenzie and then I'm hosting a big cookout for all my school friends on Sunday evening. I need a nap just reading this back to myself!

I'm in a holding pattern again with the weight, but I'm doing well with my exercise and not too bad with my eating. The weekend wasn't great because of my birthday and other get togethers I attended, but I'm back on it this week. Life is good. :)

Reflections

2009-07-11T09:17:00.003-05:00

The rain is ruining my garage sale and I have money to make!!! Grrr! Yesterday was my birthday and I was running the garage sale, so I didn't have time to post. It was a great day. I sold my car which was a awesome! I was just putting it out to get some idea what the interest was and it sold on the first day! Now, i guess I need to start car shopping. I'm lucky to have a best friend who has an extra car. Think she'll let me drive the Mustang? Ha! No way! But, I'll take what I can get. Life is going great.

As I reflected yesterday on my last year, I was very pleased with the year. I've lost 30 lbs in the last year. I've made major changes in my life that I never thought I'd make. God has been so good to me this last year. I have no complaints. I'm excited to see what this year holds. What new challenges, what changes? I don't feel a bit sad about this birthday. I think I might have been depressed about another year older if these positive changes weren't taking place, but as it is, I'm excited to see what I can accomplish in this next year. It's amazing what a little change in mindset can do for you. I hope everyone is doing well and has a great weekend!

I did it!!!!

2009-07-08T17:01:00.001-05:00

I lost the pound and now I'm in a new set of numbers! hallelujah! Great workout today and then spent all day working in the garage. Running a rummage on Friday and Sat. Hope to make a mint! :)

2 lbs gone!

2009-07-07T07:46:00.002-05:00

Well, I achieved one of my goals so far this week. The two lbs I gained are gone. Now, I just need to drop one more! I did 30 min. on the Elliptical this morning. This is just my 2nd time to go that long. Boy does it kick my butt! I am exhausted, but in a good way.

Thinking about this journey I'm on...I can really tell a difference in my mindset this time. In the past it's always been a "diet" with the goal of losing X number of pounds. This time, I'm not on a diet. I have no prescribed eating plan...just better choices and good old fashioned exercise. The results are slower, but I'm not quitting either. I have bad days, but I get right back to it the next. In the past a bad day would signal the end of my effort. Of course, I'd love to see the weight come off faster, but I'd also like to see it stay off for good and I think this is the only way that is going to happen. I have a birthday coming up and I've decided to make my lowfat/low calorie cheesecake for myself. I don't think getting older is a good reason to sabbotage my efforts but a good reason not to. :)

Paying for the 4th!

2009-07-06T08:31:00.002-05:00

Oh Boy! I am paying for the 4th (and 5th) today! It was like I had lead in my shoes. I'm up 2lbs which I am bound and determined to get off plus one this week. I will be good and disciplined if it kills me! No skimping on my exercise either! Pray that I can get my focus back.

Oops...the Gym was closed!

2009-07-03T12:41:00.002-05:00

So, this morning, Sue and I headed to the gym for our typical Friday workout only to discover that the gym is closed for the 4th holiday. So, we decided to head out to Matter Park, the site of my mini training. One trip down and back is 4.5 miles and includes a pretty serious hill. Sue was pacing us pretty fast, so I decided to try to do some running. Well, I ended up running close to half. I would run beside her for a while, then I'd walk. I'd fall behind because she was walking fast and then I'd run to catch up. I'd run ahead and then walk till she caught up. I'd try to walk about 2-3 min. and then run 2-3 min. I managed to do that for the whole walk. I also chose to run up the hills...for some reason it seems easier to me than walking them. I was pretty psyched about my progress. The best part...no pain in my shins, knees, or ankles. I felt great! Being a person who needs constant affirmation, I asked Sue if she was amazed and she said she was. She admitted that she impressed and proud that I've stuck with the exercise. She had her doubts based on my past history. She asked me at one point if I thought I'd be a walker or a runner once I got the weight off. I don't know. I never thought I'd like to run, but it is kind of addictive I think. I hope everyone has a great 4th holiday!

Back on the Horse!

2009-07-01T09:19:00.002-05:00

Well, it's been a crazy week! The kids were here and we had a ball! Literally, one of my favorite times with them. They got along with each other, I was calm, and it was sunny every day they were here! This morning as I hit the gym for the first time in a WEEK! I had to smile as "Living on a Prayer" came on my mp3 player. I was running on the treadmill (yes I was dying after not running for a week), but all I could hear was Zeke singing this song at the top of his lungs. Made me smile in the midst of agony. :) Actually the workout felt great. It was good to get back to it and I was pleasantly surprised to see that I had lost a pound this morning. It's only took 2 weeks! So, I guess I'm officially at 28lbs. My plan for the rest of this cold, grey day: work on my weeds. Great day to do it since the sun isn't shining. ;(

Derailed

2009-06-26T20:18:00.002-05:00

Well, at least it feels that way! I haven't been to the gym for two days and probably won't get back there until the kids go home. But, I think swimming for about 5 hours today has to qualify as exercise. I definitly wasn't laying on a raft!!! Might try to go Monday with the youngins, we'll just have to see. Loving having them here...never a dull moment and nearly a laugh a minute!

Where Does Exercise Hurt...Everywhere

2009-06-24T13:21:00.002-05:00

Who does exercise hurt...everyone! Just had to make a little fun of one of my favorite commercials. I hurt from top to bottom today. Had a great workout this morning. Did 3/4 of a mile running and felt pretty good. I did the first half without too much trouble. Was wanting to run a whole mile, but it just wasn't going to happen. I was pooped. Have been painting the rest of this day. Have done two coats and painted a door. I have blisters on my fingers and I hurt everywhere, so I'm pretty sure painting counts as extended exercise. Now, I am off to clean up my house for tomorrow the kids come and Friday mom and dad come. Tonight, Sue and I are refurbishing my fire pit, so there is no rest for the weary in sight. Feels great to be working hard though. Still haven't dropped any more weight which is about to send me off the deep end, but I'll keep plugging. It's bound to happen eventually.

Alternative Exercise

2009-06-23T21:32:00.003-05:00

That's what I'd like to call painting. Today I didn't work out, but I helped Sue paint for a couple of hours. I'm hoping that counts. Tomorrow morning, I'll be at the gym bright and early. :)

exhaustion

2009-06-22T07:24:00.002-05:00

I am exhausted! I went home yesterday for Father's Day and had a great time! I was telling my family all about my workouts and feeling really proud of myself. Today, you would have thought I had never worked out before. I felt like I had lead in my shoes. Might have been the mashed potatoes. :) I had such a hard time today. Every single step or lift felt so hard! But, I prevailed and finished the workout. I'm glad it's over for today and I hope tomorrow is better. Goodness!

Sweat

2009-06-20T08:41:00.001-05:00

That's what I did a whole lot of this morning at the gym...30 min. on the elliptical (aka machine of death)...425 calories burned! Off to get a Polar Pop...for Sue! :(

I feel Content

2009-06-19T07:20:00.002-05:00

For the time being...I go back and forth between this nervous energy where I can't relax and feel like I should constantly be doing something and this lazy contentment I feel right now. It won't last long, so I'm going to enjoy it.

I had a great workout this morning. I did some running/walking instead of the elliptical. It felt great to do it since it had been a couple of days, but I realized that I burn more calories on the elliptical. Both machines tell you how many calories you are burning, but I had never checked it on the treadmill. That was a real eye opener. It was a good one though because it helps me to feel okay about doing the elliptical more than the running for now. I didn't post yesterday, but Sue and I decided to walk about 4 miles instead of going to the gym. That was a nice change of pace especially since I haven't really walked any longer distances since the race. It was great to see that 4 miles wasn't difficult at all. We walked about a 16.5 min. mile which was a fast pace for me. I realized that no matter where I'm at with the weight loss, I have come so far in my endurance and ability to be active. It feels great and you can't put a number on that. :)

Elation!

2009-06-17T08:34:00.003-05:00

I got the 3 pounds off!!! I went back to the gym and ran a 1/2 mile yesterday. I just feel better when I do it! I decided that I'm going to take it easy and not push myself too hard right now. I'll just run enough that it's making me feel good, but stop immediately if it hurts. I'll push for longer time/distance when I've lost more weight. Today's workout was hard!! I am pooped, but that's a good thing! After the workout, I went to Sue's and scrubbed 3 walls that had been stripped of wallpaper, but not the glue and scraps. I worked for 90 min. and feel like it was as much a workout as the workout was. :) Now, I'm ready for a shower and a nap! :)

I'm adding on to this post...I had my shower, but now I'm not so tired. I was thinking...I tend to be very motivated by "things", you know...purses, shoes, clothes, jewlry, etc. :) So, I think I am going to give myself permission to buy myself 1 thing every 10lbs. I know 10 lbs doesn't sound like much, but at the rate I've been taking it off, it could be several months! I am 2 lbs. from going into a new set of numbers (which shall remain nameless). I haven't seen those numbers in over 10 years. So, when I get through them, I'll buy myself something fun! Sounds like a grand idea to me! Now, I need to get online and start shopping for what I want!

Frustrated

2009-06-16T07:08:00.002-05:00

Well, I knew this day would come. I knew this journey wasn't going to be all happiness and sunshine, but it feels like it came too soon. I'm irritated and frustrated today. I'm up 3 lbs. which I know is probably water, but still it's hard to see. I went to the gym today and did 20 min. on the elliptical which is my longest time and then walked a quick 16 min. mile which is also a personal best, but I feel like I'm not doing enough. The running felt like I was really pushing myself and now without it, I feel like I'm not doing so great. It's very frustrating. I've really got to change my mindset, but right now, it's not happening. So, I think I'm going to REALLY clean my house today (not just one room like yesterday) because I do my best cleaning when I'm mad and then maybe a clean house will perk up my mood. :(

Dilemma

2009-06-15T07:56:00.002-05:00

Well, here we are on Monday and I have a dilemma. Over the weekend, I was out with friends, one of which is my good friend Mary, an athletic trainer at IWU. She's right up there next to Doctors in my book and gives me good advice and help when I'm struggling with injuries and such. So, I was telling her about my running goals and she said, "Really? hmmm." Now, I didn't pursue that, but later, I had to ask her what she meant by that. Wish I hadn't asked.

Mary tells me that for every pound we carry, we exert 4 pounds of pressure on our knees, shins and ankels. So, when I'm running, that's ALOT of pressure pounding down. She's not against running, but thinks it's better done once weight is lost so that you don't injure yourself. So, I don't know what to do. I'm not injured right now...but I don't want to get a stress fracture or something even worse that will cause me not to be able to exercise at all. She suggested doing more on the elliptical which applies no pressure to your joints but still is a great cardio workout for losing weight. Well, that's okay, but I don't really enjoy the elliptical and I feel a huge disappointment to not continue my goal. I actually haven't decided what to do.

Today at the gym, I did the elliptical for 15 min. and then walked on the treadmill the remaining time. Then Sue and I did our weight/ab workout. It was a good tough workout, but I felt disappointed to not run at all. So, what to do? Do I continue running as long as I feel okay doing it, or do I stop and pick it back up later when I've got some of this weight off??? That is the question of the day. Any thoughts?

A Day of Rest...

2009-06-14T10:47:00.001-05:00

Today... I rest!

Run, Forest, Run...

2009-06-13T10:33:00.002-05:00

That's what I felt like yelling as I was on my last lap of running today. I was dying and hurting and wanting to quit.

Gym: Decided to do some interval stuff on the treadmill today. Wasn't sure my ankles and shins could take 11 min. solid again, so I decided to walk a lap, run a lap, walk a lap, etc. until I had reached 2 miles. So, that's what I did. I started out walking to warm up and then ran a quarter, then walked a quarter until I reached two miles. Which means...I ran a mile today! :) Not all together, but a full mile nonetheless. Then I did some ab work, then lifted weights, then walked a mile on the track for a cool down. Best news is, that I came home and weighed and I was down two pounds!!! That Makes 27 total! Woohoo!

Sue asked me last night if body snatchers had actually replaced her best friend and as I sit here nibbling on green peppers and cucumber slices, I would have to wonder that myself. ;)

Have a good day everybody...I'm off to the pool!

Journey

2009-06-12T09:29:00.003-05:00

I've decided to title this entry "Journey" because I'm going to start Journaling about my Journey. My weight loss/exercise addiction/get healthy journey. I'm not sure that many people read this blog anymore, but that's okay. It's going to be more for my own personal growth. If you happen to read, I hope it helps or motivates you in some way. I've been on this journey most of my life. From about 6th grade on, I started struggling with my weight. In high school, I lost 30 lbs and stayed a decent weight till I left for college. It was all down hill from there...freshman 15 turned into 30....60... and 15 years after graduating college, I'm currently about 100 pounds overweight. Actually, It was worse...I've lost 25. So, as I keep plugging through this journey to overcome my weight, I think it will be helpful for me to write about it.

This leg of the journey started 8 months ago when my ladies group talked about walking the Indy Mini. I couldn't imagine at that time being able to do this, but I didn't want to be left out and I thought a big goal like this could possibly help keep me motivated to work out. The accountability of everyone knowing I was trying to do this didn't hurt either. So, I joined the Wellness Center and began walking. At first I couldn't walk 1 mile in 25 min without tears. I was tired, sore and out of breath. I had a lot of pain in my shins which has always been a stumbling block. So, on the advice of a friend, I decided to go to the Good Feet store in Indy to see what they could do for me. The inserts were very expensive and I was very nervous about this, but they literally worked a miracle. I was now able to walk without extreme pain and slowly I was able to increase my time and my pace. As most of you know, I walked the race in May and finished. I wasn't super fast, but I didn't get picked up by the slow bus, and that was my main goal.

I was pleased with my progress, but very disappointed in my weight loss. I had only lost about 12 lbs during all that training. Sadly, I worked hard, but I didn't eat very well so I didn't see much progress in the weight loss which was my main purpose. A few weeks before the race a contest was announced at our gym. It was a biggest Loser contest and would involve biweekly training sessions with the gym's trainer, Ryan. I thought maybe this would help. Well, I finished the 8 weeks. I didn't quit (which is nothing short of a miracle). Many people quit. This was by far the hardest thing I had ever done. Ryan pushed me to limits I didn't know were possible...but still I only lost 10 pounds. So, I'm up to 22 pounds. I had lost about 3 since the start of the school year, so I'm claiming 25 lbs lost from my heaviest weight to date at this point. Although I didn't win the contest, I won something much more valuable. I developed a sense of pride in the fact that I can work hard. I am capable of way more than I ever thought and if I'll just quit letting food rule my world, I could probably kick this weight.

During this time, I talked with Ryan several times about a new goal. I felt kind of lost now that my walk was complete. He started encouraging me to run...now if you know me at all, you're probably having a good chuckle right about now. Me? Run? No way! I hate to run! It hurts and I can only go about 20 feet before I've had enough. Well, through his workouts, he started incorporating running so I didn't really have a choice...after all, I'm not a quitter. So, I ran. At first not very long and definitly not very fast, but I ran. Ryan wants me to run a 5K (3.2mi) in October. IWU Homecoming always sponsors a 5K. I haven't committed to this 100% yet, but I've decided to start working towards it to see if I think it is possible. Today, I ran 3/4 of a mile in 11 min. I know that is not going to win me any medals, but it's my longest run without stopping to date. I do this on the treadmill at the gym so I can see the distance and time. I also walked 3 miles this morning.

My plan this summer is to really get a grip on the food, workout twice a day and try to get a big jump on this journey.

My biggest goal however, is to conquer my fear. My Mantra for this summer is NO FEAR! I had a nice long talk at the pool on Tuesday with my good friend and personal therapist, Missy. When I neared the end of my rambling, she pointed out that I had used the word scared or fear numerous times. I didn't even realize it! Scared of failing (again), scared of letting people down, scared of actually succeeding (I know that sounds crazy). Who knew? So, I came home and did some listing. Missy said I tend to skip right over what I have accomplished and focus on my failures. So, she had me make a list of all the things I had accomplished in the last year. Then I made a list of goals. The two lists looked like this:

What I have accomplished:
1. I have worked out faithfully for over 8 months.
2. I completed a 13.1 mile walk
3. I completed Ryan's torture sessions without quitting
4. I can run 10 (now 11) min. without stopping
5. I lost 25 lbs.

My goals for this summer:
1. No Fear
2. Workout 6 days a week, twice a day
3. Lose 25 more lbs.
4. Increase my running time by 2 min. each week.

So, there you have it. My daily posts won't be this long, but I needed to get the whole thing down for myself. I have a few verses that I would like to end with. These have taken on new meaning for me as I continue on my journey...

Hebrews 12:1-2
...let us throw off everything that hinders and the sin that so easily entangles, and let us run with perserverance the race marked out for us. Let us fix our eyes on Jesus....

Phillipians 3:14
I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.

Phillipian 4:13
I can do all things through Christ who give me strength!

Kenzie's 1st Birthday party!

2009-06-01T07:27:00.006-05:00

Sorry about the sideways cake. Andrea made Kenzie's cake and I thought it turned out beautifully!
This was Kenzie's cake to eat on her own.

Andrea reads a card to Kenzie. She looks totally interested. :)

Aunt Kelley got her a rocking elephant.

She loved her pop up toy from Sue.

So serious as she gets another handful of icing.

Hey! This is pretty good stuff!

Kenzie was actually 1 on April 11th, but her Daddy was gone for Army training. So, Sunday, May24th, we celebrated her 1st year. Daddy was finally home, and everyone was happy!

Happy Birthday, Kenzie!

Memorial Day 2009

2009-05-31T07:28:00.004-05:00

Kenzie Jo is a constant source of entertainment.
Jon got a new Wii from Andrea which delighted all the "Kids." I think Sue might have an unfair advantage against her opponent. :)

Elijah, chills as he waits for his turn on the Wii.

Mom and Dad enjoy some time on the swing. The weather was incredible.

Me with my favorite Sister-in-law, Holly. ;)

The whole Grate clan enjoying a wonderful lunch.

We celebrated the birthdays of Emmy, Keever and me!

Happy birthday to us!

Blowing out our candles.

Birthday girls, Emmy and Aunt Kelley

Sisters- Kelley and Andrea

Zeke is such a nut and so strong too!

Awe...there's my sweet boy!

Kenzie got a big kick out of her new toy. It played music and whenever you pushed it, she would crack up laughing. Too cute!

Busy Month

2009-05-22T17:52:00.005-05:00

Friends- Jeff, Sue and I went to a Reds game on Thursday. They lost, but it was a BEAUTIFUL day! We rode in Sue's new Mustang convertible with the top down all the way home! Incredible!

This year's patio flowers all all hues of orange, yellow and reds. I LOVE them!

Mother-Daughter Banquet 2009

Andrea and Kelley

Lifetime friends- Kismet and Kelley

Mother's Day dinner at Grandma's!

Mom with her girls!

My "twin" cousin Kim!

Kenzie JoAnn Looking too cute!

planting mom's flowers- No Dad is not flipping you off. The stripe on his shirt looks like it's coming from the middle of his fist!

Love working with my sis!

I believe it's almost been a month since the Mini. My life has been zooming by. I must say, I was a little out of sorts after the race. To be focused on something for that long and then have it completed, is something of a let down. I had to refocus. So, this month we've had Mother's day, flower planting, a trip to Cincinnati with friends, and a new focus on exercise. I've been working hard at the gym and have lost 25lbs since the fall. I have a long way to go, but I'm more focused on my eating and more intense exercise now that I'm not training for the "walk." My goal is to kick another 25-30 before school rolls around again in the fall. The Lord and a good friend are teaching me to be more content with who I am and to enjoy this time of change instead of being impatient that it's taking me so long.

Mini Marathon pictures

2009-05-02T19:21:00.003-05:00

Me and my sis after the race.

The whole crew at the IWU tent after the race.

Kelley and Andrea coming into the home stretch.

Shortly after the starting line

2009 Indianapolis Mini Marathon

2009-05-02T18:38:00.003-05:00

This day was so incredible and overwhelming! Today I walked my first mini marathon, 13.1 miles. My friend Missy has a torn miniscus in her knee so had to pull out at the last minute. I was supposed to walk with her and was a little panicked about walking alone. So, I placed a call to my biggest supporter, Andrea. She agreed on Friday morning to become "Missy" for the day. Honest to goodness, I could not have made it without her. Andrea, thank you for being the BEST sister on the planet! I love you!

We were in our corrals at 7:00am just like we were told to be. The starting gun went off at 7:30 and 44 min. later we crossed the starting line. It was crazy. I started off strong and in great spirits. All along the race course, there are local bands playing, people cheering and just general hoopla! It's fun and motivating. At mile 6 you go into the Indy Motor Speedway. Now that is overwhelming! That place is huge. It's 2.5 miles around and it felt every bit that long. During that part of the race, I started to get tired....

Our group of walkers had t-shirts made for the race. The front said "Nothing is impossible" while the back had a scripture; "But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength; they will soar on wings like eagles, they will run and not grow weary. They will walk and not be faint. Isaiah 40:31

All along the race course, people commented on the shirt. As we were walking the track, I heard a lady behind me talking about my shirt. She then told me that she really liked it. I told her thanks and that I could really use someone in front of me wearing the shirt right now...she said, "Here let me read it to you." She proceeded to read the verse to me. I was a blubbering mess. I needed to hear the words of that verse in a big way. Later around the track, we ended up near her again and this time, she just started reading. She told me that this verse had gotten her through many a race. This was her 18th Mini Marathon. I was in awe. She was in her sixties and had walked this race for the last 18 years. I told her that I was in my first and maybe my last. :)

Well, we made it around the track and completed mile 9 shortly after we left the speedway. About mile 10, I started to get overwhelmed. I had never walked farther than 10 and the thought of 3 more, was hard to take. My feet were hurting and I was tired. Andrea kept me encouraged as did my friend Missy with her text messages. I got choked up several times during the last 3 miles. At one point the encouragement was too much and I started crying...I said "I don't think I can take anymore encouragement" so the ladies next to Andrea started telling me how poorly I was doing. It was hillarious. Made me laugh and kind of broke the tension. Well, before I knew it, Andrea and I were walking the last mile. The mile markers were counting down...3/4....1/2....1/4 and then I could see the finish line...

Before I knew it the whole gang was lined up on either side of the street, cheering me one, snapping pictures, ringing cowbells...I felt like a rock star!!! It was so cool. I have the best friends in my life! I cried like a baby as Andrea and I crossed the finish line together. 3:58:33

Trip to Michigan and Last Training Day

2009-04-26T15:41:00.004-05:00

This weekend I went to my brother's house in Michigan. I had such a good time. I hadn't spent a weekend with my kids since Christmas except for a very short visit Easter weekend. I have looked forward to this weekend for a long time. Today, Sue and I took the kids out for ice cream. A good, messy time was had by all. :)
Chocolate peanut butter...yum!

A much too big for him, M&M sundae!

The best eater of them all...rainbow sherbert!

Saturday afternoon, we all went to the museum. It was a lot of fun. We saw a steller performance in the planetarium.Me with my little brother.

Love that grin.

Holly and the kids on the back of the trolley.

TRAINING DAY UPDATE

Well, today I finished my training walks today. I am in Michigan this weekend so I was unable to walk yesterday. So, this morning, Sue and I headed to a local mall to walk 6 miles. I was excited that today was ONLY 6 miles. Man was it hard! I have never been a "mall walker" and now I know why. Talk about boredom. I didn't think we were ever going to be finished! And, it was stinking hot! I was burning up. But, I am done and next Sat. is the race. I am so excited and nervous all at the same time. I can't believe it's here already. I can't believe I have walked every Sat. (except today) since the first weekend in January. By far the most disciplined I have every been about anything. It's been a good experience and it's shown me that when I want to have discipline and will power, I can have. If I can just apply that same determination to my eating, I'd probably be amazed at the results. Well, next time I post, the race will be over and I'll hopefully be posting about my amazing finish. Until next weekend...

Too cute for Words!

2009-04-18T13:44:00.001-05:00

What a Day That Will Be!!!

2009-04-12T21:09:00.002-05:00

Today was such a blessed day! The whole weekend really was awesome, but today took the cake. After a wonderful service a church, we headed to Grandma Grate's for dinner. Grandma took the lead at dinner and prayed, which brought me to tears. It's when she prays that I feel the closest to her. It's like God gives her back to us as she used to be for a short time. After dinner, my Aunt Marla suggested we bring church to Grandma since she can't get out to church anymore. There were 18 of us gathered in Grandma's living room singing. We sang "Because He Lives," "He Lives," What a Day That Will Be," "When the Roll is Called up Yonder," and a few more I'm sure I'm forgetting. It was such a precious time. Grandma was singing along a little, but mostly raising her hands to the Lord as we sang. It was hard not to get choked up and all of us did at one point. After we sang, Grandma prayed again. She really prayed and cried, just like I remember her doing all my life. She prayed for her children and grandchildren. I remember listening to her and Grandpa pray for us all by name when I was little and used to camp with them. They thought I was asleep, I'm sure, but I used to listen to those prayers and knew I was always uplifted to the throne. That has never left me. Today, I got to have that once more. When I think of "prayer warriors," my Grandma always comes to mind. Today, I felt a renewed faith in the power of prayer. Not just in the things we can gain from praying, but the way it can transform us. Grandma was transformed today as she prayed. God is so good! I am so thankful for His gift of salvation and what this beautiful day means for all of us. What a Day That Will Be!

Another Day of Training

2009-04-11T14:02:00.002-05:00

Well, I survived another day of training. I'm here in Ohio this weekend for Easter with my family. My sister Andrea went with me this morning to walk my 9 miles. Our church here has a nice 1 mile walking path. It was freezing cold and windy, but we made it. The beauty of this path is that is is completely flat and easy to walk. I had my fastest time yet, at 161/2 min. miles. We kept that pace from mile one till the end. I thought it might not be quite a mile since my time was so fast, but then I started considering the diffence in this path and the path at Matter park. If I can do all the hills and keep a 17 min. mile pace, then I probably was faster on a completely flat path. So, after discussing it, Andrea and I decided to go with the faster time theory. :)

Record Time

2009-04-04T13:33:00.002-05:00

Today was fun! I had suggested that anyone from our group of ladies that wanted to do their training run/walk today at the same time should come on out. It's more fun to have others around even if you're not all walking/running at the same pace. You pass each other and give encouragement. Kind of makes it more interesting. So, there were six of us that met today. Some ran, some did a combination and then there was me walking (with Sue). I thought today would be a breeze. Only seven miles after last week's ten seemed like no big deal. Well, I was wrong. I felt like it was just as hard and just as long...BUT the good news is, I was much faster today. To finish at an 18 min. pace, it would take me 2hrs and 6 min. I finished in 2hrs 30 sec. I was elated! This was a great walk and I was amazed that I upped my pace. I haven't been any faster the last several weeks so I kind of felt like maybe that was as fast as I could go, but today, I was proven wrong. I guess these short little legs can move when they want to. Only 4 weeks till race day!

Milestones

2009-03-28T13:10:00.002-05:00

Well, today was the big day! The day that has loomed out in front of me since I started the "mini" training. Today was the 10 mile walk day. That is the most you walk before the race. I have watched this week approach on my training schedule...wondering "would I ever be able to do that?" Well, that week arrived and guess what? I did it!! It was long and hard and I'm exhausted, but I did it!!! Today was very emotional. I cried on the way to the park feeling a little overwhelmed by what was ahead. I called Sue for a little support and like the friend that she is, she put it in perspective...she told me to suck it up because there's no crying in marathons! Now, don't be thinking that she's insensitive. I actually laughed when she said it and it did the trick. But, when the walk was over, I also broke down and sobbed. It's just a little overwhelming to come to this milestone in the training. To do something that you never thought was possible is very motivating. I feel like I can do anything right now. I decided today that I need to continue this drive to exercise when the race is over. I'm come so far, I don't want to lose all I've gained. Well, that's all for today!

Operation Kenzie gets to see Daddy is a success!

2009-03-25T09:06:00.004-05:00

Kenzie and Daddy say goodbye.
Early morning playing

Somebody loves her Daddy

Trip down...time for diaper change and PJs

Kenzie was loving the freedom!

Bridge into Jacksonville

The pier

Time to head home

Doesn't she look so peaceful?

9 Miles

2009-03-24T12:00:00.002-05:00

Well, my trip concluded with no beach time at all. Aunt Marla, I'm sorry, but didn't make it to St. Augustine either. Another 100 miles of driving on top of what we had already done, was just too much of a deterance. Some day though, I would like to go there. Instead, just headed back to Augusta and had dinner with Jon, Andrea and Kenzie. Watching Andrea and Kenzie tell Jon goodbye was a real tear jerker! My sister is one tough cookie...I don't think I'd be as strong as she is. The trip home yesterday was long but uneventful. I must say that Kenzie was one amazing traveler. She was so good. 20 hrs. in a car seat is a long time for a toddler and she only had 1 10 min. fit in all that time. (I'll post pics of our trip soon.)

So, since the winds deterred me from my walk on Sat. I got up this morning to do my 9 mile walk. I want you to think of some destination that is 9 miles from your house and then think about walking there! 9 miles is a long way!! My friend Missy walked with me today. She did the first 8 with me which was awesome. She had only done 6 to that point and is fighting a torn miniscus in her knee. I was very proud of her. I did the last mile on my own but that wasn't any big deal. At one point she told me I was "speedy." I have to say that I'm pretty sure noone has EVER called me that before. :) This coming Sat. is 10 miles and I must say that I never dreamed I would get there. Thanks for all your encouragment and prayers through this process. It has meant the world!

Kelley

The things you do for love...

2009-03-21T18:56:00.003-05:00

Like walking in the rain and the snow, when there's no place to go, and you're feeling like a part of you is dying...

Couldn't resist. Just heard that in the car. Love that song. It reminded me of this weekend. Let me explain.

My sister's husband, Jon, is in the Army reserves and is currently at Ft. Gordon in Georgia for 4 months of training. He is halfway through his time. Andrea was wanting to come for a weekend visit with kenzie about this time which coordinated with my spring break. So, Sue and I volunteered to drive her and Kenzie to Augusta. The plan was to leave on Friday from Andrea's about 2:30 and arrive that evening before Midnight. We thought it would take around 9 hours. Sue and I would stay the night in Augusta and then leave early Sat. morning for Jacksonville Beach, Fl. Supposed to take about 4-4.5 hrs. We would have the rest of the day Sat and all day on Sunday to lay on the beach and enjoy an area of Florida we had never experienced. Then Sun. evening, we would head back to Augusta so that we could pick Andrea and Kenzie up early Mon. morning to head home. It was going to be a quick trip, but would be a fun road trip and would help Andrea so she wouldn't have to drive that distance with Kenzie by herself.

Well...here's how it really went down. First let me point out that Sue and I had to drive 3 hrs to get to Andrea's. we left her house by 3:00 and didn't arrive in Augusta till 1:15a.m. It was a LOOONG day. ( I have to say though that Kenzie was amazing. Traveled very well for such a long time in the car seat) We got to deliver Andrea to base which was an experience in itself. First of all, Jon is on the phone with Andrea telling her protocal as we approached the base. You have to turn your lights off and approach with only your parking lights on...not sure why. After our ID's are thoroughly checked and we count our blessings that we are not over to the side being searched like the other cars, we head toward Jon's room. He's telling Andrea to tell Sue to slow down that they really enforce the speed limit (25mph) and that if someone is on the side of street getting ready to cross, you have to stop and let them; they have the right away. We are a little slap happy by this time and are making all kinds of jokes. I'm sure we are going to get thrown in the brig before we get off base, which is HUGE! I was picturing something much smaller. Amazing. So, we get to see Jon get Kenzie out of her car seat and see her for the first time in 2 months which brought tears to my eyes. Very sweet moment. She was a sleepy little doll. Sue and I head off to our roach motel and get to bed at 2:00am. We hit the road at 8:00 this morning planning to be on the beach by noon. Try 2:00 and the beach was out of the question. It took almost 6 hours to get here, AND they are having hurricane force winds. It was only 68 today. We walked out to the beach and had to turn right back around. Too cold. The breakers are 4-6 feet though. It was amazing to see. They have dangerous rip currents posted for the next couple of days for this area. So, we drove 18.5 hrs. total to get here for two days on the beach and we'll be lucky to even go out to the beach. Tomorrow is supposed to hit 70 and be less windy, so maybe we'll get to go out, but it's been a bummer of a day. Also, we have been amazed at what a wierd place this is. We've been to many, many areas in Florida and have never been to one that made us as uncomfortable as this place. Full of freaky, or should I say "unique" people. Not sure we care to come back. On top of all that, Sue is sick with throat and ear issues which doesn't make a "road trip" that much fun.

The things we do for love...Love you Andrea, Kenzie and Jon! :)

Unnamable

2009-03-14T14:00:00.004-05:00

I can't even think of a name for this blog...today was crazy. Sue and I headed to Matter Park at 8:45 this morning to walk 8 miles. This was our first time walking the river walkway. So, we were told that if we started at one end (by Vogals in downtown), walked clear to the other end (center of Matter Park), around the pond twice, and all the way back to my car, it would be 5 miles. Then we would need to turn around walk 1.5 miles and then back again to make the additional 3. So, that was the plan. First let me say, that the lake we walked around last week, was completely flat terrain compared to the riverwalk, or at least the first part of the riverwalk. The big hills by the hospital had me completely sucking wind and wishing that I was not doing this crazy marathon. Once we got farther along and the path evens out, it was quite lovely and enjoyable. However, knowing that we had to go back and do the hills again and then turn around and do them AGAIN, had me competely beside myself. On the way back the first time, I was hurting in my hip on the big hill, so I told Sue, that I wanted her to stop her clock when we got to the end, we would jump in the car and drive to the other end in Matter Park and walk the last 3 from there to avoid doing the hilly part a 3rd time. So, that was the plan. So, at 5 miles, we were under time, Yippee! Then as we started the last 3 miles from the other end, we were on time at 6 miles. Then the unthinkable happened. We needed to turn around when we got to the 1.5 mile marker. Now, I could swear when we were walking the first time, that I was sure we got to that marker before we entered the big hill. So, we're walking along and we pass 1.25 and then we get to the bottom of the hill and we haven't seen the 1.5 marker. So, I start up the hill. Sue is trying to convince me to turn around and just count it as close to 8, but I am determined to be accurate. So, up the hill we go. When we get clear to the top, we come to the 1.75 marker!!! WE HAD MISSED THE 1.5 MARKER!!!! I'm pretty sure there was some swearing going on. Sue was beyond angry. She was really feeling it today and to find out that we had done an extra 1/2 mile was not a good thing. So, at the bottom of the hill, there was the 1.5 marker so faded that it was easy to miss. I'm sure we'll laugh about this someday, but it won't be today...or even tomorrow. The funny thing was, I was truckin up that hill, not nearly in the pain that I was the first time and I proceeded to be the cheerleader for Sue that we could do this. We had totally switched roles. She was whining around and I was trying to encourage. Well, this lasted for only so long and then I got mad. First let me explain that the plan for the remainder of this day was yard work. My yard was so covered in sticks that it was hard to tell if I had grass. So, knowing the hours of back breaking yard work ahead of us, didn't help the dispositions. She kept wanting to dwell on that, and I really needed to not think about it. One obstacle at a time was my philosophy. So, we got a little ouchy with each other, but we made it back to the car in one piece. 8.5 miles down. We did decide as we walked today, that it officially wasn't really fun anymore. Once you pass that 8 mile mark, it just becomes hard and super tiring. As I am typing this, it is dawning on me that we checked our time at the wrong place. I thought we should check it when we had .25 left to go, but we should have checked it when we had .5 to go. So, knowing that, we were probably on time. I thought we were 4.5 min over, so that would make sense. It takes about that if I'm walking an 18 min. pace. So, not faster today, but on time, which is huge considering the hills. I thought I would die! To all my friends who walk the riverwalk faithfully, you are my heros. You can also have your riverwalk...not sure I'll be returning any time soon. ;) So, did we actually do the yard work??? YEP! All done...spent about 2 hrs. picking up sticks and then Sue airiated (sp?) my yard. So, I am just now sitting down for the first time today and it is 4:00pm. I think I'm going to go soak in the tub. I actually feel good, but I'm tired.

Success...

2009-03-07T16:06:00.002-05:00

Well, today was interesting. Today was only a 6 mile walk because it was the 10K training day in Indy. I say ONLY 6 miles and that kind of makes me laugh. Since I did 7 last week, I thought 6 would be a breeze this week. Boy was I wrong. Let me set the stage...I am at my sister's in Columbus this weekend. So, Andrea, Sue and I decided to walk together. Mom and Dad volunteered to come down and watch Kenzie so we could go walk. Andrea has this park here in Columbus that has a walking trail around a big lake. I thought that sounded awesome since it was 70 degrees today...well, so did 5000 other people. We had people walking dogs, people pushing baby strollers, families out for a stroll and lovers walking hand in hand. Then there were those of us who were there for serious exercise. On top of the chaos, this was my first time on a trail that was hilly and uneven. We weren't a quarter of the first lap and I knew I was in trouble. I was hurting and huffing. I don't think I mentioned that one lap around was 1.2 miles. So, we needed to do 5 laps to get our 6 miles in. My goal shortly after starting was just to finish in an 18 min. mile. I was really doubting that I would make that, but I was gonna try. Lap 2 was still bad...about lap 3 things loosened up and the pain was better. So, when it was all said and done...1hr. 44 min and 30 sec. I finished with a 17.5 min average. I was beyond elated. I thought that was incredible considering the change in terrain and considering I was sweating like a pig. All good things in the long term for training, but things that I thought might really make me lose time today. The fact that I was faster was so rewarding. I was a little irritated that my sister went out and just walked 6 miles with no training and walked several steps ahead of me most of the way. But, it was motivating to have her there because my pride wouldn't let me stop or slow down. I've been telling her how well I'm doing so here on the day she can actually see how I'm doing, i definitly didn't want to look bad. That was the motivation that got me through the first 2 miles. She was very encouraging and proud of me. (But I'm secretly hoping that she's really sore in the morning. :)

60's Day...

2009-03-06T20:59:00.002-05:00

Today was 60's Day at school. Our special needs class sponsored a dance today with a 60's theme. We had a ball! My team decked out and had so much fun! Below we are staging a "sit in" in the principal's office. Groovy...Peace out!

Unabomber Smurf...

2009-03-03T17:30:00.002-05:00

I can't even believe I'm putting this picture out there, but it was too funny not to. ( For those of you thinking, "Geez she looks big!" Please keep in mind that I had MULTIPLE layers on.)Yesterday, I walked in the 29 degree cold and looked like a unabomber smurf doing so. however, I was fast!!!! Who wouldn't be in 29 degree weather? It was actually very energizing and I was on a natural high when I got done. Tonight I worked out at the gym and did my hard workout only to discover that it's...not that hard anymore. Not sure when that happened but my face wasn't flaming red tonight and I didn't feel like my chest was going to explode...hmmm. Am I getting stronger? So do I do the right thing and up my reps? I don't know. I kind of enjoyed the feeling that I wasn't going to die before I finished. This journey is starting to get a little bit addictive. 5 lbs lost this week! :)

7 and we're over half way to Heaven...

2009-02-28T12:21:00.002-05:00

Okay, I know that was a lame title, but you try to have something creative every week...

So, today I walked 7 miles in...drumroll please...2 hours 6 min. and 10 sec. That was a little anti-climatic since I was actually over time by 10 sec. but I don't feel bad. I would have liked to have shortened my time not lengthened it, but I'm pleased. I had several different factors today that could have attributed to my longer time. First, Sue was unable to walk with me today. So, I walked with my friend, Kara, from school who is also doing the mini. The second factor is that we walked at Taylor which is not my normal spot. The track at the wellness center is 11 laps for a mile. The track at Taylor is 8. It seemed ENORMOUS to me when we started walking. I think there were some head games going on that I had to overcome. 3rd, Kara wanted to walk my pace so she didn't really know how much to push me compared to Sue. If I slow down, Sue picks up the pace. When we were on the last mile, Kara finally said, "We're going to make up these 45 sec. and you are going to finish at an 18 min. mile....even if I have to be a butt (she didn't use that word, but I'm censoring here. :) So, we kicked it in gear and even ran the staights on the last lap. We did make up time, but were still 10 sec. over. Overall, I feel great. I did over half the race today and I feel good. I'm tired, but I could have kept walking. That's ultimately what matters. The most you walk in this training is 10 miles and I was only 3 miles from that today...pretty cool.

6 miles long...

2009-02-21T15:17:00.003-05:00

Holy Moly! 6 miles is a long way! Today, I had myself a little psyched out. I was so overwhelmed before it ever started. I had myself convinced that 6 miles was farther than I could go. Tears were in my eyes before I ever started. Sue convinced me to do a little praying while we were stretching out and that seemed to calm me down. We took off and 1 hour 46 min. later, we were done. I wasn't overly impressed with my time. It was under, but I didn't gain any time this week. But, I finished, so I'm glad about that. I came home and went straight into the bath with the jets. As I'm typing this, I am hurting. My feet hurt, my back hurts and my hips hurt. It's weird how it's worth it. I've always wondered about people who train for big things...marathons, iron man competitions, etc. I didn't understand what could drive a person to endure pain just to complete a task. But, I have a small taste of that now. Even though it hurts, I want to see how far I can go. It's hard to imagine that today was not even half the race, but a few weeks back, I was crying about 3 miles and today I doubled that. So, I have to assume that the same will happen with 6.

Last week, I thanked all the people praying for me and while I still appreciate that soooo much, I have to thank a specific person this week. Sue has been a tremendous friend. She walks with me every week and encourages me when I think I can't go on. She does all this, just to help. She is not doing the race. There is no need for her to do these walks. She's sore too and I just want to let her know how much I appreciate her.

New Shoes and rug burn...

2009-02-15T20:28:00.003-05:00

Well, Sat. I walked my five miles with no problems. Every week, I feel at the end of my endurance, and I can't imagine how I'll go a mile further the next week...but so far I've just kept going. This week there was very little pain. I had to walk indoors, so it was a little harder than the outside walk of last week, but not too bad. I was able to stay under the 18 min. mile which is the required pace for the race. My goal was to be under 90 min. and I finished in 88 min. 45 sec. I wasn't much under, but still under. My ultimate goal is to get down to a 16 min. mile so I can afford a bathroom break during the race. :)

2 complications:

First, my very expensive shoes that I bought specifically for the training and race, were falling apart. So, Sue and I made a trip to Indy Sat. afternoon to see what the Good Feet Store would do for me. I was very pleased when they gave me a brand new pair of shoes with no hassels.

Second, I have rug burn (I guess it's actually underwear burn) all the way around my waist. 5 miles officially put me over the distance where clothing rubbing against my skin left a mark. Ouch! I'll have to figure out a plan for next Sat's 6 mile walk!

I'm going to take you outside your comfort zone...

2009-02-13T18:36:00.002-05:00

Let's talk about the things that take me out of my comfort zone...

15 min. on the elliptical followed by:
Stepping up on a box (approx. 1 1/2 ft off the ground) while holding 15 lb. dumbbells
Bench pressing 60 lbs.
Squats while holding 15 lb. dumbbells
jogging 3 laps
and so much more. I don't know the technical names for the rest of the exercises. There are 5 other grueling things that I don't know how to describe.

Then... repeat it all again.

Tuesday, Ryan, the trainer at the gym, ramped up my workout. When he told me he was going to take me outside my comfort zone, I thought, "Okay..that's fine. Just being here is outside my comfort zone." Boy was I wrong. I was so comfortable before and I didn't even know it! I think he's trying to kill me off. I don't know what I did to annoy him. I rarely speak to him. Tonight I asked him as I was dragging by the desk on one of my jogging laps if he was certified in CPR. With a smile, he assured me that he was. Actually, while I am so completely outside my comfort zone, I feel so incredibly strong when I finish. I'm amazing myself.

8:00 am tomorrow morning: 5 mile walk! Whoohoo! Can't wait!

2 quick things...

2009-02-07T16:37:00.002-05:00

First: Had a wonderful time with Kenzie Jo last weekend. This was her first big adventure to Aunt Kelley's without Mommy. We had a ball. She was so sweet and well behaved. By that, I mean, she slept all night and didn't cause Aunt Kelley to lose any sleep! These pics are backward so the one above is after bathtime and ready for bed.

Kenzie is never short on smiles. She's even doing it on cue now when you get out the camera. I love it!

Awe...Kenzie loves her Aunt Kelley!

She's kind of fond of Sue too!

Okay Second thing: Marathon Training Update!
Today I walked 4 miles outside in the freezing wind! I completed my 4 miles in 68 min. which is a 17 min. mile! WHOOHOO!! I literally am amazed, but I want to say that I know a big part is the prayers I know go up for me every Sat. afternoon. I got a text from a friend just a little past half way that said, "Keep going Kel! I know you can do it! I'm praying for you right now as you walk." I was so encouraged. I want to say A huge Thanks to everyone who thinks of me on Sat. and prays for me. The prayers are definitly working. Some might not understand what a big deal this is for me, but if you could have seen what I was like in Nov. you would understand. I can't even believe how much I can do now compared to Nov. when I started this process. I couldn't walk 1 mile in 25 min. much less 4! The most amazing part, is that I felt no pain in my legs today at all. That is the first time and it felt amazing. Can't wait to do 5 next week!

Long time coming...

2009-01-18T22:02:00.002-05:00

Hi everybody! I know this has been a long time coming! I have thought about writing several times in the last three months, but that is as far as I've gotten...thinking. I'm not sure why. I keep thinking, "I really should update" but then I think, "Why? Does anyone even read it anymore?" I know my mom reads and my cousin Carolyn, but everyone else seems to have moved on from blogland. Facebook seems to be the new craze. I wonder what will be next? I do hear occassionally from people, "Are you ever going to update?" and I must admit my first though is, "Do you read?" No one ever comments so I guess I am under the wrong impression that noone reads. So, for all you readers, here ya go! The fall was a fabulously busy time. I love fall because there is one event after another. Thanksgiving was a blast with the whole fam being home this year. The next weekend was mom and dad's big Christmas open house. Andrea and I both go home and help mom and dad with this event. It's exhausting but alot of fun. This year they were even on the Christmas Parade of Homes. Andrea and I got to go on the tour and we agreed unanimously that mom and dad won, hands down! The other homes were slightly decorated for Christmas and then you reached Pole Lane Rd. and thought you had arrived at the North Pole. No kidding! So, that was a lot of fun. Then on the 20th, I headed back to Ohio for a week of Christmases! Again, we had a great time. J and Holly and kids were with us the first part of the break. Christmas Day was a little different for me this year. Andrea and Jon were at Jon's parents on Christmas morning, so this was my very first Christmas in 37 years to not have Christmas on Christmas morning. Andrea and I have always jumped on my parents bed to get them up and this year they jumped on mine. They tried to keep me from being depressed. Might have worked if we hadn't gone to see Marley and Me in the afternoon. Not the movie to see when you're fighting depression. :) But, Christmas evening was great. We put on our pajamas and pretended it was Christmas morning. I came back and spent the 2nd week of my break here in Indiana. I always enjoy that week to relax before heading into the 2nd half of the school year. This time of year is always a little hard. It's a long time until the next break and the weather is bleak. I guess the biggest thing on my mind from now until May is my "Mini" marathon training. I've been diligent in my training and things are going well, but there is a long way to go before I'm ready to do 13.1 miles. If you think of it, whisper a prayer for me on Saturdays. These are the days of my endurance walks. The last two Sat. have been 3 miles. Next week I go 4. It will be a challenge. Sue had to talk me through the last 5 laps yesterday. I was in pain and the tears were close to flowing. She told me to go to my happy place to which I replied, " I don't have a happy place...I"m not happy." Everything she mentioned, I shot down, till she hit on my time with my niece and nephews. That brought a smile to my face and I finished strong. Well, that's pretty much wraps up the last few months. I hope everyone is keeping warm and I'll try to be more faithful. Enjoy the pics from Christmas!

Nothing like seeing Kenzie throw back her head in a laugh. She is so darn cute!Dad and his girls, snuggling in for "Miracle on 34th Street" on Christmas night.

The whole Grate clan!

My biggest blessings by far. I love these kids so much!

Pictures of Volleyball game

2008-10-31T13:31:00.003-05:00

The Wining Team!
Jeff, Kelley and Delayna after 1st match!

We are victorious!

I Go Back...

2008-10-20T20:51:00.003-05:00

For those who don't know, I Go Back is the title of a Kenny Chesney song. It talks about all the things that trigger those memories that take us back to the "Good Ole Days". (my words, not Kenny's) Anyways, I picked that title because tonight I went back...

Did I ever tell you about the time I scored 8 straight points to win the game against Taft middle school?... Those who know me really well are laughing out loud right now. I tend to live my entire athletic life through this one very monumental moment. I was not what you might call...athletic, but I did play one year of volleyball in the 8th grade. I wasn't a starter, but I had a few shining moments. One such moment was the game against Taft where we were down 7 points and I served 8 straight points to win the game. Why she didn't play me in the next game was a mystery because I was obviously our secret weapon. Well, tonight I got to go back...

About a week ago the 7th grade volleyball coach asked several of us teachers if we would be willing to play a little tournament against her team after school. The season is over and they wanted to do something fun. I must admit this struck fear in my heart. I wanted to play, but I didn't want to look stupid in front of my coworkers, the 7th grade players, but most importantly the slew of kids who thought it would be great fun to come watch their teachers humiliate themselves. But due mostly to peer pressure I agreed to play. I was a nervous wreck. We made team shirts, and even decked ourselves out on game day just like the real players do when they have a match that day. I wasn't sure I could do this. Well, as we were warming up for the game, I was starting to gain some confidence. I was getting my serves over, I was bumping and setting well. So, I started to get excited. Would you believe that my team of teachers (there were 2) won the tournament? We beat both groups of girls and I played very well for a person who hasn't played real volleyball in 24 years. The crowning moment though was when I scored 5 straight points to bring us from behind to 1 point ahead. We went on to win the set. I could have been 13 again! It was so much fun!!! I was actually a little proud of myself.

Now if only I could find a show choir to join...

Where has the time gone?

2008-10-14T11:06:00.005-05:00

Aunt Kelley with her 3 kiddos! Love those cheesy grins!

3 Little Monkey's sitting in a tree!

Ezekiel Scott

Emmy Rae

Elijah Monroe

Miss Makenzie

Cousins- Andrea, Georgene, Kelley, Bev, Kim
Kenzie and Kelley
Kenzie in her dedication gown...what a smile!
Our little Amish girl!

Boy...has it really been since August that I last posted? I can't believe that. It doesn't feel that long. Time sure flies...if I had a nickle for every time I heard that. :)

Things have been busy. I was at home a couple weeks ago for a family reunion and Makenzie's dedication. It was a wonderful weekend. Last weekend, I had Elijah, Emmy and Zeke while J and Holly were out east at Holly's cousin's wedding. The weekend with the kids was great. They were entertaining as always. They were easy to take care of as they spent most of the weekend in my tree. :) All 3 kids were great...I don't want to sound like I favor one of them, but Ezekiel sure knows how to make a girl feel loved. He is just the sweetest thing. I was on overload with all the hugs, kisses and "Kelley, I love you's". I could keep him permanently. I can hear the hearts breaking already. He was also full of quirky questions such as: "Hey...What would you do if I lived in a doorknob?" or "Hey...How long till I'm 40?" I mean really, these were just random, out of nowhere questions. I loved it. He asked Sue how long it had been since she was a baby and when she replied, "About 40 years ago" he replied, "OH MAN...YOU"VE GOTTA BE KIDDIN ME!" We all collapsed in laughter. BTW- His question about being 40 was the day before he asked Sue her question so the two were not related.

School is good! Still having a great year. I keep waiting for that shoe to fall, but so far...so good.

Andrea and Kenzie come this weekend to visit friends at IWU and Aunt Kelley. I'm so excited. Can't get enough of that little girl!

Hope everyone is doing well...Love to you all!

Kelley

Patience and Change...two of my favorite things.

2008-08-24T20:30:00.003-05:00

Well, I just thought I'd write a quick update to let everyone that I'm off to a fabulous start at school. I was of course disappointed to have not found a principal's position this summer so starting school wasn't exactly something I was looking forward to. BUT, I have had one of the best starts in years. The kids have been great! I have the same students as last year since I moved to 7th grade. This wasn't something I was really looking forward to either, but they have been really attentive and are participating at a level I am not used to seeing out of them. I'm actually taking them a treat tomorrow to celebrate what a great 1st week we had together. :)

Church today was incredible. I don't know what else to say. I was so blessed from start to finish. The music style at my church doesn't really match what I would normally enjoy, but today was the exception. A quartet within our church started the service with one of my favorite southern gospel songs "He Made a Change" they then led our worship time, singing one of my old favorite hymns, "Haven of Rest" as part of the set. I couldn't even sing for the tears running down my face. It has been so long since I've sang one of those "old, country" hymns. It truely blessed me. Then Pastor DeNeff preached on patience. Not just patience with people, but patience while waiting on God. His time is definitly not mine and this is such an issue for me. There are so many things in my life that I don't understand God's timing on. This was a sermon that pierced my heart. The pastor went on to say that sometimes the things we desire are not bad things, but because of our lack of patience, we go about getting them the wrong way, or even substituting things that aren't good in place of when God doesn't answer in the time we think he should. I was so convicted. I feel God changing me... I've been thinking about all the things I desire...a husband, a principal's job, a new furnace, new windows, a flat screen TV, the list goes on and on. I've been thinking about my singleness. I don't like it, but I have so many oportunities to help and serve, but don't because I've become selfish with my time. Some opportunities to serve have come up lately so I think I'm going to take advantage. I want to spend my time thinking about others instead of all the things I want. I'm giving up the "vice" and time waster of soap operas ( I know some of you can't believe I watch, but I'm addicted to General Hospital) to spend more time being active. I know I'm rambling, but these all tie together in my mind. I feel myself changing. God is changing me. Could be that perfect timing of His and I'm just starting to get it.

Where Have I been?

2008-08-05T08:17:00.002-05:00

Well, it's been a busy month. I have posted several small posts below with pictures of what I've been doing over the last month. They aren't in exact order, but close enough. This is my last week of summer school and then I will have one week before school starts on the 18th. I can't believe it's here already. It's been a good summer...just went to fast.

Kelley

Miss Makenzie

2008-08-05T08:12:00.003-05:00

Can you say precious? Oh my word! Miss Makenzie gets more beautiful each day. These are her 3 month pictures and this is only a few. She is the most smiley child I've ever seen. Andrea and Makenzie are coming this weekend to stay...Aunt Kelley is giddy with anticipation.

Sue's New House!

2008-08-05T07:59:00.003-05:00

Last week, my dad came and put new siding on Sue's house. The transformation is amazing. It's like a brand new house. Sue and I had a good time working with my dad. He's quite the guy. I always knew he was the best contractor around, but after watching him in action, now there is no question.

4th of July

2008-08-05T07:54:00.003-05:00

4th of July was a blast. On the 3rd, I went to see the fireworks in Fairmount with many from my Sunday School class. Then on the 4th, Sue and I hosted a cookout/swim party at Sue's.

Emmy Rae

2008-08-05T07:52:00.002-05:00

Emmy also spent 5 days with me. She got to swim with a new friend,Shelby and they had a ball! They even had matching swimsuits.

Elijah and Zeke

2008-08-05T07:47:00.002-05:00

Zeke and Elijah spent 5 days with me in July. We had a ball swimming every day!

So...What's New?

2008-06-25T11:39:00.004-05:00

It's been a while since I posted last. So, what's new? Well, it's been a busy month. I have been applying for principal's positions. I have an interview tomorrow...please pray. I've spent some time in the pool, I've taken a week's vacation to Florida with friends, I've played church league softball, and I've worked in my yard on my landscaping. That pretty much sums up my last month. It's been relaxed and wonderful. It's during the summer months that I fall in love with education all over again! :)

Navarre Beach, Florida

This is Sue and I on the balcony off her bedroom. The view was incredible. On our last morning, I stood out here and watched dolphins swimming right up close to shore. The view out my bedroom, was of the sound and the causeway which was nice, but not as nice as this.

On Friday morning, I woke up around 5:15am. Of course everyone else was still asleep, so I quietly got dressed and headed out to the beach to watch the sunrise. The picture above it what I saw when I faced the west...the picture below is what I saw when I faced the east. Pretty amazing.
This picture was taken on the Destin Beach. The sand is like powdered sugar.

Landscaping pics

I have really enjoyed working on my flower gardens. It truely has become one of my favorite things. I got hooked on HGTV in Florida. I don't get that channel on my cable, and now I'm fighting the urge to upgrade. So many good ideas! The hill out front is in baby stages, but within the next two years, it should be amazing to see how it grows and changes. Just adding the mulch brought alot of curb appeal to the house. Have I mentioned lately how much I love my house and property?

So...what's to come? Well, much of the same. (minus the vacation) But, add in some quality time with my kids. I'm heading to Andrea's next week to get some quality time with Makenzie while Andrea has surgery. (Gall Bladder on Monday the 30th. Keep her in your prayers.) Then after the 4th I'll be arranging to get my Michigan Munchkins for their special weeks with Aunt Kelley. And, I plan to have a rummage sale in there somewhere as well.
Summer will be gone before I know it, but I'm enjoying every day.

Memorial Day Weekend

2008-06-03T14:08:00.006-05:00

Memorial Day Weekend

Memorial Day weekend, the whole fam gathered at my house. We had such a good time! This was little Makenzie's first visit to Aunt Kelley's. She had such a good time, she let me know it with a big smile. :)

Zeke had lots of fun riding his bike. He finally let us take off the training wheels and never missed a step. I hate to think how many miles he rode just around my driveway!

We took the opportunity to get a family picture in our Ohio State shirts. Mom's thinking about using this for her Christmas card so you may get to see it again. For those who remember seeing us in these shirts, we had to take it again, now that Makenzie is here.

Emmy Rae gave me a goofy grin!
Elijah practiced all weekend and became quite the pro on his ripstick.
Emmy was so excited for Makenzie to finally get to my house. She had to wait all day!
I think Elijah loves her the most though. He informed me that he didn't bring his playstation because he planned to spend his time with the family...especially holding Makenzie. Too sweet!

I think this was one of my favorite weekends. I just had such a great time with all the kids and Monday was a great time of visiting with Jason and Holly. I'm glad we have this tradition.

Let it be Spring! (and other things)

2008-05-19T15:27:00.007-05:00

Hello Spring Lovers! Although the weather has not been exactly ideal, I'm still enjoying all the signs of spring. This little fellow was snuggled in the bush in front of my house. Originally he was behind the bush with his head hidden. I watched him, prodded him with a stick and determined he was dead. I could not see even a hint of a breath. So, I went to get my garden gloves thinking I was gonna have to remove this dead baby rabbit. When I returned, he had moved to the other side of the bush and was very much alive. So cute. He just sat there very still while I photographed him. Next time I checked, he had run for the hills.These are tulips I cut from my yard. They are on a side of my house that I don't get to enjoy unless I purposefully go there to view the flowers, so I decided to cut them and bring them inside. So beautiful!

Makenzie meets Great Grandma and Grandpa Walsh

Mother's day weekend, Andrea was able to take Makenzie to meet her Great Grandparents. These are my mother's parents. They both loved her to pieces.
4 Generations

Random pics of Makenzie

Grandpa Grate is a baby hog!
Makenzie likes her little bouncy seat. She was wide awake and
almost smiling at her crazy Aunt Kelley.

Mother/Daughter Banquet 2008

Best Friends Nicole and Andrea with their babies. Nicole's little one had been eating something blue...she's not wearing black lipstick. :)
Andrea and Makenzie with Jon's mom and Grandma.

Makenzie meets Great Grandma Grate

Sunday we all met at Grandma Grate's for a special Mother's Day meal. Grandma who is going to be 90 in 8 days, thought Makenzie was a pretty special treat.
Makenzie and Aunt Kelley
4 Generations

Trip to Cincinnati

Sue and I enjoyed a trip to Cincinnati last Friday night. The Reds played the Indians for a nice inner-state rivalry. It was a good game with the Reds winning 4-3!

So, there you are...all caught up! So, where am I personally? Well, no news about a job which I desperately need for next year. Because of cuts within our system and my licensing I will have to move to 7th grade next year. I love the people on that team, so that's no problem...having this same group of kids again...is a problem. It's been a challenging year and I'm happy to see it coming to a close. The thought of picking up where I left off in a few months, is quite depressing.

My diet is...stalled. I need prayer in the worst way. It is truely a battle, both physically and spiritually for me.

Next weekend is Memorial Day and all the fam is coming to Indiana! I can't wait. All my munchkins together! This will be a special year with our new little Makenzie joining the fun. No doubt, I'll have lots more pics to post next week.

2 Weeks Old

2008-05-04T20:54:00.003-05:00

Okay, I didn't want to become one dimensional in my blogging, but since people are asking... Last weekend Makenzie was 2 weeks old. I am on a two week plan. With Mother's Day and Memorial Day, I will see you her every two weeks. Gotta love that! She's a real sweetie! Enjoy!

More Makenzie!

2008-04-16T16:11:00.006-05:00

What a beauty!
Cousin Zeke!

Makenzie loves her Grandpa!
Emmy's happy not to be the only girl anymore!

Welcome to the World Makenzie JoAnn!

2008-04-11T20:57:00.006-05:00

On Friday, April 11th, 2008, at 8:00am on the nose, Makenzie JoAnn Gorenflo finally made her entrance into this world. It was by far the most amazing thing I've ever experience and I'm so grateful to my sister and brother-in-law for allowing me to be with them during her delivery. I got the "this MIGHT be it" call at 10:00pm. I got the "This IS it!" call at 11:50. I was on the road by midnight. I arrived at the hospital at 3:00am and got to be with Andrea through the night. She was fully ready by 4:10am, but had to wait because the nurse said the bad storms mess with the barimetric pressure and had caused a flood of births. Her dr's were at another hospital delivering. So, water was broken at 7:40 and 20 min. later, she was here. Makenzie weighs 6lb 15oz and is 19.5 inches long. She is absolutely breathtaking. (Maybe I'm biased, but I don't think so.) She has a head full of dark brown hair just like her Momma did. Andrea is doing great and will come home Sunday morning. Enjoy the pics!

2008-04-03T16:39:00.004-05:00

I know, I know, I know! I'm sorry! I actually started working on this post last week and then my internet was down over the weekend. Just got off the phone with tech support and discovered all I needed to do was shut down and reboot the computer. AURRRGH!! So, here we go!

Back on March 15th, we traveled to Michigan for Miss Emmy Rae's 7th birthday! She is quite the little diva. She loves Hannah Montana and is sporting a Hannah Montana original in these pics. She also got a Hannah Montant wig from Aunt Kelley. She saw this the day after Christmas as we were shopping and has remained faithful in her desire to have this from me for her birthday. Pretty funny. Looks like her daddy enjoyed the wig as much as her. Oh Baby! What a looker! Emmy is growing up and is quite the lovely young lady. She sang us all a song that was so beautiful. I taped it and will try to attach it to the bottom of the post, but in case it doesn't work, trust me it was precious. I was successful at attaching her cousin, Zoe, singing "Tomorrow" from Annie. It is so cute!

The last week of March was spring break! Sue and I took off for sunny shores! We went to Navarre Beach, Florida, which is known as Florida's best kept secret. That is the absolute truth. It was absolutely glorious! We had a wonderful, quiet, relaxing week on a nearly empty beach. Just the way I like it! The giant yellow house, is not where we stayed, but where we would like to stay. It's a party pad to be sure. There were some fellow buckeyes staying there. Not sure if they attended Ohio State but they saw my Ohio State shirt one morning as we were walking and gave me a shout out! It was pretty funny. I felt so cool. It only cost a measly $10,000 to rent for a week. Anyone interested? It'll house about 20 people, so start saving your pennies! Our little one bedroom townhouse was a little more modest and only cost us $600 for the week. What a steal!

My next post will hopefully be soon and it will be introducing the newest member of our family, Baby Girl Gorenflo as I call her. Andrea's due Wed. and we're all more than ready to meet this little one. Please say a prayer for Andrea as she gets ready to deliver. Well, I've tried unsuccessfully, twice I might add, to upload Zeke and Emmy's videos, but it's not working. So, enjoy little Zoe! She is quite the little entertainer.

Diet Update

2008-02-19T11:03:00.002-05:00

I decided that it was time to update my diet journey. As of this morning, I have lost 14lbs. This was weigh in number 7 which means, I've averaged 2lbs. a week and that is exactly my goal. I set down this morning and in my journal that I'm keeping, I charted out my "small" goals throughout this next year. Breaking it into 20 and 30 lb chunks sure seems alot more manageable than 125lbs. which is my ultimate goal. I'm excited to see where I can potentially be at each milestone such as Spring Break, Memorial Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, Christmas and then ending with next Spring Break.

I have re-joined Curves and am loving it! It is the perfect workout for me at this point in my journey. I can do it, and I feel great after I do it! I definitly know that I've exercised, but I'm not so miserable that I come away hating exercise, which has been a problem in the past. As I lose, I may want to add more, but for now, it's perfect.

Most importantly, I'm feeling great. My clothes are getting loose and people are starting to notice, which always makes you feel good. As always, I appreciate any prayers you can send up on my behalf. It is definitly a spiritual battle. I know Satan is hitting me full force when I start thinking things like, "I'll never make it." "What's the point?" "Who cares, just eat it." Etc. But, God has really been with me and I've been able to fight through those moments for the most part. I've had bad days and I've shed a few tears, but I've always gone right back to my plan, which is success in itself.

Snow Fun!!!

2008-02-05T17:24:00.000-05:00

Last weekend I got to have my 3 kiddos for an extended weekend! The storm of the century was supposed to come in Thursday night so I was just sure that we would be cancelled on Friday. Sadly, this was the storm with more bark than bite as the weather man put it. I had to use a personal day and the kids had to play in a dusting of icy snow. But they enjoyed it just the same. Elijah wasn't so nice to Emmy. Having her face shoved into the icy snow, didn't sit well with her. Her sad pitiful face was too cute not to take a picture of.

Zeke had a ball! He's one tough little guy! Elijah couldn't upset him. He was all smiles in his new Cars coat and matching snow pants!

Awe...Hot chocolate to warm us up! Yum!

What a ham!

Happy New Year and Other Business...

2008-01-26T09:20:00.000-05:00

I was just looking at the calendar and realized that I hadn't posted in almost a month. That's terrible! I have gotten so lax in my blogging. Maybe it's the winter blues? Well, the month of January has been a big one for me. Lots of activities and changes. First let me say a belated "Happy New Year!" I spent the evening alone scrapbooking. It was actually enjoyable. I bought myself a bottle of sparkling grape juice, scrapbooked and watched all the Christmas Movies I didn't get to see over the holidays. It was a fabulous night.

On New Year's Day I worked around the house, taking down Christmas and watching a marathon of an old Biggest Loser season. I have never watched that show, but I must say I was inspired that day and a plan was hatched. This season, the show is focused on couples or partners. For those of you not watching, they have teams of married people, best friends, mothers and daughters, etc. So, I got to thinking that maybe a challenge like that might motivate me. I talked with Sue, Lynn and Missy to see if they would be interested in a little weight loss challenge. They were and the Biggest Loser, Marion was born. Missy's sister and her husband have also joined our challenge so we have 3 teams competing. Each team contributed $50 for prize money to be awarded to the couple with the highest percentage lost in the end. The weight is combined between partners and we do it as a team. I've never had my cheating, I mean dieting directly impact someone else's success before. It has been quite the motivator. For those of you who know Sue, you know that she's a little on the competitive side, so losing is not an option. Monday will be our 3rd weigh-in. In two weeks I lost 7lbs. and I'm anxious to see what the scales say this week. I have not really cheated at all and I've exercised almost every day. I take Sunday's off, but try to get 5-6 days in each week. At this point, I feel great, still motivated and I'm loving the connection with friends who are having the same struggles I am. Each week as we gather to watch the show and give our weekly updates, it motivates me for another week. I have a vision of 4 sun goddesses lounging by Sue's pool this summer. I hope there aren't any accidents on St Rd 9 as drivers do a double take. :)

The month of January has been a rough one for me in the area of sports. One week in particular. On January 7th, my Buckeyes lost the National Championship (again). On Sat. of that week the IWU women experienced their first loss in 57 games. They had won 56 straight games. UNBELIEVABLE! We have been so proud of them. On Sunday, the Colt's lost in the playoffs, ending our hopes of a Superbowl repeat. I was one depressed cookie! But, as they say, "There's always next year!"

On the 19th, we all headed for Michigan to celebrate Zeke's 4th birthday! I can't believe he's 4!! Where does the time go? He is such a funny little guy. I just love him to pieces. The trip there for me was a little stressful. I drove into a blizzard about 30 miles from Grand Rapids and had a little melt down. The stress of hypnotic, twilight zone, style snow blinding me, no visible lane markers, some idiots doing 80 while others are crawling at 20 was just a little overwhelming. Jason called to see where I was and if I was okay, only to catch me crying. He offered to come get me, but I said no. I could do it. I would just go slow. Well, I made it safe and sound, but headed for home right after the party on Sat. to avoid the second wave expected to hit that evening. It was well worth the trip though. The kids were so fun and it was great to spend even a few hours with them. Below are some pictures of our birthday boy! Enjoy!

Let it Be Christmas!

2007-12-29T12:55:00.000-05:00

Well, here we are at the close of another year. It's hard to believe. I just wanted to post a few of my favorite pics from Christmas. Our family had a wonderful holiday and I personally enjoyed every minute. The kids were so much fun! Zeke is at that perfect age...everything is exciting and magical to him. He brought us all many laughs. Elijah is at that independant age. I don't like it so much. He disappears to play video games of watch movies on his new DVD player. Wish we could keep him small forever. Emmy...well, she's just hillarious and sweet and ornery all rolled into one. She's my pal, and I just love her to pieces! Below are pictures taken at our 3 Christmases. Enjoy!

We're a Buckeye Family!

Andrea and Jon on Christmas Eve.

Mom and Dad on Christmas Eve.

Zeke with his new Ohio State hat!

Elijah is a Buckeye from head to toe!

One pretty little Buckeye!

Sandy and I were in the Christmas spirit!
Dad and his sisters, Marla and Margo sang at our annual Grate Christmas.
Not much I can say here except, "Oh my goodness! Cutest kids on earth! "
Jason's family on Christmas Eve.
The 3 kiddos with Uncle Ed and Aunt Linda on Christmas Eve.

December Birthdays!

2007-12-15T07:41:00.000-05:00

Well, our big family weekend came and went, but it sure was a good one. I have to say, it ranks up there as one of my favorite. It was just a good time! We started off on Friday night with just Jon and Andrea and the kids. J and Holly stayed in Ft. Wayne with friends to celebrate Christmas while mom and dad couldn't come till Sat. Friday night we had pizza and a movie night. It was a fun, relaxing evening. (As you can see)

Zeke was in an extra, loving mood and I wasn't complaining.

Time for Bed. Jon uncovered a sleepingEmmy to take her to the bed and this is how we found her under the covers. It was too funny not to take a picture.

Sat. Jason and Holly joined us at 1:00 for the IWU lady Wildcat basketball game. It was a special one as they announced the championship team of last year and revealed the National Championship banner.

After the game it was home to party and celebrate the December birthdays of Sue, Holly and Elijah! Mom and Dad arrived around 4:00 as well as Bob and Janet, Sue's partents. We celebrated those we love.
Below you have Mom and Dad with Andrea. Mom can't seem to keep her hands off Andrea's growing belly.

This is Bob and Janet Jackson, Sue's parents.
After eating, we opened the presents before cake and ice cream. We made Elijah read all his cards out loud before he could open the present. (Good practice, you know.)
Since Elijah's party (cake) was an Ohio State theme, Grandma Grate thought his present should follow suit. These are just a few of the treasures in his goody bag.
Jason liked them too. Elijah may have trouble holding on to his belongings on game day!

Elijah, 9 years old, with his Ohio State Cake!
All 3 birthdays blow their candles out together!
Sorry, these pictures are backward. Before they blew the candles.
Holly opens one of her gifts....
AS does Sue...

The weekend was so great. Sat. evening, the "siblings" stayed up late talking which was really nice. We don't get the opportunity to do that much anymore. We're all spread out and quiet talk time is at a premium with all the kids. I enjoyed it immensely.

I hope all the Dec. birthdays enjoyed their special day and know that we love you!

Just a side note, today is Sat. the 15th and we are expecting up to 10 inches of snow in the next 24 hours. I am hunkered down in my house (in my pajamas which is how I plan to stay the rest of the day) for a day of wrapping presents, reading, watching Christmas movies, basically whatever hits me. But it doesn't involve me getting gussied up and going anywhere!
How sweet is that?!

Happy 30th Birthday, Andrea!!!

2007-12-06T17:54:00.000-05:00

Well, to my secret commenter, who is missing my writing...Here you go! To tell you the truth, I have been so busy, since Thanksgiving that I have felt like I am meeting myself coming and going. My Thanksgiving holiday was wonderful, just like I knew it would be. The shopping day was especially fun since I kept finding things for myself! So much for others! Sat. evening we had a "semi" surprise party for Andrea's birthday. I say "Semi" because she totally knew something was going on. But, her best friend, Nicole, was there and that was a surprise, so I guess that should count for something. Below I have included some pictures from her party.

Above you have Andrea with her very cool Ohio State serving platter, that is upside down if you look close enough to see the script Ohio on the field.

Andrea's best friend, Nicole who only beat her to 30 by 6 weeks.

They've been friends since birth!

I love my sister!

Since Thanksgiving, I've baked approximately 35 dozen cookies, and gone home to help host 2 big Christmas open houses that my parents hosted. That was a busy week and weekend! But let me tell you, my mom, sister and I make a great team. We had the best time and put on a spread that was Paula Dean worthy, if I do say so myself! Andrea and I would love to do that kind of thing for a living. Maybe someday....

This week, I am busy cleaning and preparing for my whole family to be at my house. We are celebrating December birthdays! Elijah turns 9 and we're also celebrating Holly and my best friend, Sue. The Holly and Sue part is a surprise, so sshhh..don't tell. Hopefully neither will read this before Sat. So, I will have pictures to post next week of this big weekend!

Then...I rest.

Emmy and Aunt Kelley

2007-11-19T21:40:00.000-05:00

What a Weekend!

2007-11-19T12:46:00.000-05:00

I had such a fun weekend! I had my niece, Emmy come for the weekend to help me with my Christmas decorating and some cooking. We also spent about 2 1/2 hours in the beauty shop while I got my hair done. She was a real trooper! I worked her to death and she seemed to enjoy every minute of it. The work was enjoyable because we sang, talked and cheered on our OHIO STATE BUCKEYES while we worked! Once the decorating was complete, we started cooking for Sunday's SS harvest dinner. Emmy helped me make cheesy potatoes, taco salad, turtle pumpkin pie and pumpkin pie squares. When it was all complete, I took her down to drive through the walk-way of lights. I thought this was a good idea because it is early in the season and nobody would be there. WRONG! I got in the middle of some parade that I didn't even know was happening. We sat for close to 45 min. at a dead stop. I was not amused, but Emmy kept insisting that it would be worth the wait. Well, I'm not sure it was for me, but she loved it so I guess it was. She was sound asleep by the time I got her home.

The weekend only continued to get better with our first service in the new church on Sunday. It was incredible! The building is amazing and so beautiful. It was such a special day. Emmy loved the church and the kids wing, especially. She was so excited to go to the kids church. After church our SS had a Thanksgiving dinner to thank the pastoral staff for all they do. The food was wonderful and the fellowship was even sweeter. It was a blessed day, indeed!

With only 2 days to work this week, it's looking to be a good one. I love Thanksgiving! I can't wait for the food, decorating, Christmas music, movies, shopping, but most of all time with my family. We're going to miss Jason, Holly and the kids this year, but we'll have them for Christmas. Well, I should wrap this up. I hope everyone has a wonderful holiday!

Kelley

What's New?

2007-11-05T10:21:00.000-05:00

What's new? Well, my Dad told me that he keeps checking the blog for a new post and I need to get on it. So, here I am doing as I was told.

I spent this last weekend at Andrea and Jon's painting with my Dad. We got the master bedroom and bathroom done. May not sound like a lot for two days of work, but you should see the size of this room. It was a chore. Dad also did a few other things, but painting was my only contribution. It was fun. We always have fun together. Andrea couldn't paint because of the baby, but she cooked up a storm and kept us all well fed. Jon also helped on Friday night, but had drill on Sat. (I didn't want anyone to think he was a slacker!)

Sunday we had a SS carry-in dinner at the Rowley's. It was excellent! Tons of great food and great company. I enjoyed it immensly. We also met for SS in the new church with our new teachers which I thought was wonderful. I really liked their spirit and felt like they are going to be a good fit for our class.

The Colts lost to New England last night which was a major bummer. We did get in some nice hard hits on Tom Brady which made me happy. I know we will meet them again in the playoffs and I suppose I'd rather lose to them now rather than then, but it still was no fun! My Buckeyes are still on top and undefeated. The Michigan game looms in the near future though. Makes me nervous just to think about it. IWU women's basketball open their season this Wed. night at 7:00pm so I'm excited about that. It may be the season where I prove that I'm a true fan not just a National Champ bandwagon fan. Losing 5 seniors will definitly show, but I think they will be better than most expect them to be.

As I look at my calendar, I am overwhelmed with all I have going on between now and Christmas. My weeks are full and the weekends are even more full. Christmas will be here before I know it. I'm excited about it though. Now through Christmas is my favorite time of the year. I love being busy and having lots to do. I seem to be more productive.

Well, I hope everyone is doing well and enjoying the fall weather like I am! Have a super week!

Kelley

IWU Homecoming 2007- What a DUD!

2007-10-09T16:08:00.000-05:00

Well, last weekend was IWU's Homecoming weekend. To say I was disappointed, would be an understatement. Actually, I have to say that the Point of Grace/IWU Chorale concert on Friday night was excellent. I thoroughly enjoyed myself (especially the part where Prof Guy asked all Chorale alumni to come up and join the chorale for their final number and I got to pretend to still know the words and alto part to A Mighty Fortress 17 years later)! Yikes!! Am I that old? Anywho...On Sat. we made our way to the athletic fields where this year's Homecoming festivities were to take place. Much to my dismay, there was nothing there except inflatable toys for the kids I don't have, and a tent for the meal that I was not going to eat. There was a booth where I got to write down my name and throw it in a basket. What did I win, you might wonder? Nothing. Just a card to let them know I came. I was hunting for the boothes that used to sell things like carmel apples, t-shirts, etc... but found nothing. I was looking for the stage where the music groups sing and entertain us...it was nowhere to be found. I guess I could forgive all that because it's really about coming to see all my old friends from college, right?Where were the people that I came to see? Well, I saw Anon, Deb W., Doug P., Jim and Jaena, Shelli from a distance, so that sounds great, right? It would be except they are all in my Sunday school class and I see them every week. ( Not that I don't always enjoy seeing them! ) Sue and I watched a few innings of the softball game, but in the 90 degree heat, it just wasn't worth it. So, we were out of there by 12:00. I was very discouraged by the obvious decline in the Homecoming festivities. I hear there has been a marked improvement in the torch run and bonfire that kicks off the weekend with the current students, but to me HOMECOMING implies the act of coming home by the ALUMNI. I would like to see a little more focus put into making the weekend special for those who are coming back. How about an ALUMNI tent where we have drawings with those cards for small give aways? Just a thought. It's not like our money didn't help build the mighty fortress known as IWU. Well, I could go on and on. The sarcasm is dripping from me today if you couldn't tell. Must be the changing weather...Was anyone else disappointed, or was it just me?

Catching Up!

2007-10-02T16:39:00.000-05:00

The last couple of weeks have been crazy! People at church probably think I've dropped off the planet. I really haven't. The following will explain where I've been hiding lately. Besides this update, life has been pretty normal and steady. School is...well...school. It's okay. That's about the best I can say. Based on today's test scores, I either need to rewind and start this year over, or find another profession. I seem to be losing my educator's touch. Those things are hard on a teacher. We take the test scores personally as it is a reflection of our teaching. You might pray for me and this year's students. We have a long road looming ahead of us. Okay...on with the update!

Andrea and Jon are in their new house!

Two weekends ago, we moved Andrea and Jon into their new house. This is Andrea organizing her cupboards. Are you supposed to climb on step stools when you're expecting?

The house is awesome and we're so excited about the baby on the way!

Another Grate Family Reunion was held!

Sat. the 28th, we gathered at mom and dad's in Marion, Ohio for another Grate Family Reunion. There were 67 people there! It was so much fun to visit and spend time with family that live so far away. The Grate's are special people!

This is Zeke in his "tunnel." What a cutie!

Kelley and Bev forgot to take their annual picture, so I pulled this one from the archives. It was taken in July at my Dad's 60th B-day party. We always have a blast together. The laughter is non-stop!

Here is Uncle George and Aunt Violet with their children and grandchildren that were able to come.

Aunt Violet and Aunt Eva played us some old time gospel music.

This isn't even the whole group. I couldn't get back far enough to get them all, but it gives you the idea. We had a full house!

Colts Game

2007-09-07T09:35:00.000-05:00

This picture of the banner is supposed to be farther down, but I accidently deleted it and can't get it back where it goes. So, when you read that the banner was revealed, this is it! ;)

Well, where do I begin? Oh my goodness this was so much fun!! First I'd like to start by saying, "Thank You, Thank You, THANK YOU" to Deb Wuertly for suggesting Sue and I to her Dad as possible buyers for their extra two tickets! This was an incredible experience! For those reading who don't know what I'm talking about, Thursday night was the Indianapolis Colts season opener against the New Orleans Saints. They had a free NFL Kickoff concert at Monument Circle in Downtown Indy from 5:00-7:45 featuring Hinder (should be named Hideous), Kelly Clarkson (A fav of mine) and Faith Hill (probably my all time favorite female country singer). So, Sue and I flew out of school and hit the road to Indy about 3:45. We were parked in the Conseco Parking Garage by 5:15. Traffic wasn't nearly as bad as I thought it would be. We made our way over towards Monument Circle where there were 50,000-100,000 people milling the blocked off streets and crowded like sardines a few city blocks deep to see the concert. The first picture is the screen I could see of Kelly Clarkson and the next picture is Faith Hill. As crazy as it sounds, it was really a fun atmosphere. We enjoyed listening and watching via screen two of our favorite artists.

Around 7:30, we started heading toward the RCA Dome. The ceremony presenting the 2006 superbowl banner and a performance by John Mellancamp was to begin at 8:00. This next picture is the scene in front of me going into the Dome.

Once I was in the gates, I took pictures looking down at the crowds of people waiting to get in and the people streaming from all over the city towards the Dome. The seas of blue and white was so cool to see.

Our view of the stadium. The Porters seats are excellent. Back row of the bottom section. You have a wall at your back so the drunk who goes for his 35th beer won't spill it down your back when he returns to his seat. You also have the replay TV's right above you so you can watch the replay up close. Below they are setting up the stage for the pregame ceremony. The replica Superbowl ring was for the players to run through as they took the field. It was amazing. ( I feel like I'm running out of adjectives!)

Sue and I decked out in our Colts gear!

The people are going wild as they are getting ready to start. The white towels are a waving!

Here you have the Colts cheerleaders and below is John Mellancamp on the big screen. I couldn't get the pictures while he was performing to come out. It was too dark. He introduced Jim Irsay to the stage at the beginning of the ceremony.

Here come the Colts!

The 2006 Superbowl Banner was revealed!
Ready to score! The game was so exciting! First

half was a little slow, but Peyton and crew really put on a clinic in the second half. The drunk guy in front of us, who was really a very nice guy, was into high fives for every good play, so we felt like a real part of the group! There is nothing like being there when that long pass into the endzone hits it's receiver perfectly for a touchdown. The crowd goes wild and it's so exhillerating! (sp?) (Trying to find a new word.) Well, I guess that's it. The game was awesome and we won big! Sue and I looked at each other on our way to the car and agreed that it was worth every penny! Go Colts!

Labor Day '07

2007-09-03T20:19:00.000-05:00

What a great Labor Day! Actually the whole weekend was great. We couldn't have asked for better weather. I got the kids on Friday night, mom and dad and Andrea and Jon came on Saturday, then J and Holly joined us today. We ate and swam at Sue's house along with Sue and her parents, Bob and Janet. No one could complain about an empty stomach. After we ate, we all jumped in the pool where much splashing and a serious splash ball war took place.

After pool time, we went back to my house where the kids rode their new bikes that get to stay at Aunt Kelley's house. Emmy learned to ride without training wheels. We tried Zeke but he wasn't quite ready.

I love having all my family together. These weekends are always full of special memories. Sunday night we cooked out around the fire and enjoyed sitting out on the patio. The weather was perfect. It's always so much fun, but a major let down when it's over. Back to the grind tomorrow. I can't help but wonder where this long weekend went!

A New School Year

2007-08-20T15:22:00.000-05:00

Well, here I am...One week in! It's been an okay start to the year. It's too early to make any predictions. I'm wondering why I wanted to switch subjects. While Science is not my area of expertise, all my lessons were prepared. I'm back to square one with Language arts, but I do love the subject more, so I guess that's a good thing. I have a big bag of work with me tonight.

To be honest, I'm having a hard time even writing. My heart is just sad and heavy for my friends the Osbornes and Hummels. I know most everyone who reads my blog is also connected to them as well, so I won't retell the story, but if you are unaware, you can go to http://hummelnest.blogspot.com/ for the updates on Bryson. It really just breaks my heart. It seems like I've known more people who've experienced tragedy in their lives in the last few years, than in my whole life leading up to it. I wonder why that is? One thing I would like to share is about a book I read called The Shack. It's about where tragedy meets eternity. The book is fiction and can only be purchased online from the website http://www.theshackbook.com/ but it was incredible. As a matter of fact, I feel the need to read it again to help myself wrap my brain around this situation with Bryson. I know God has an amazing plan for this little boy. I pray for peace and comfort for his family and for him as he deals with the loss of his leg.

Well, I hope everyone is having a good start to the week.

Kelley

Catching Up

2007-08-11T10:47:00.000-05:00

This post will probably seem like it's all over the place, but it's been a while and I have lots to say. First let me explain this photo. While Holly had Emmy in St. Louis visiting friends, Jason gave me the opportunity to have the boys for a few days. We had just arrived home and Elijah went straight to the bathroom for a, shall we say, longer bathroom experience. Zeke had to go in a bad way also, so I shouted the first thing that came to my mind..."Go out by the tree!" He literally ran for the tree and dropped his drawers. I...ran for the camera! Doesn't he just have the cutest little bum?

Holly likes to call him quirky...I think she knows what she's talking about. He asked me to take his picture while he made funny faces. We took about 10 shots, but he kept getting closer to the camera and the pictures kept getting scarier so I'm only posting a few. What a nut!

At the end of the week, Holly and Emmy came to my house to pick up the boys on their way home. They spent the night which gave me some time with my sweet Emmy too. When they arrived, Emmy jumped in my arms, wrapped her arms around my neck and her legs around my waist and hugged me for a long time. She's definitly Aunt Kelley's little buddy. While that was happening, I was thinking that there is nothing that brings me greater joy than being with my neice and nephews...now if only I could have more....OH WAIT! Andrea called last night and she's going to have a BABY!!!! Aunt Kelley was a blubbering mess. I was so emotional. To say I'm excited would be a major understatement! Zeke's 3 1/2 and it's definitly time for another baby in the Grate family. Andrea and Jon have also bought a house so the timing is perfect. The should be moving at the end of Sept. Andrea's excited about the timing because she won't be able to do any heavy lifting...Dad just wants to know if she can still golf! Priorities, you know.

Well, now that I've caught everyone up on my family, what have I been up to? Well, I have literally become obsessed with my flower gardening. It's a little frightful and my friends and family are wondering what happened to the real Kelley. I'm out watering, weeding, pruning and deadheading by 7:00 each morning. While I'm thrilled with my progress, my visions just keep growing. I'm reading gardening magazines constantly and am wondering if I shouldn't have gotten my masters in business so I could start my own gift and garden center. That would be my dream job. I envision it in my huge backyard where it's probably not even possible, but it's fun to dream. Maybe I'll take early retirement and open a small shop with the millions I've saved. Oh, guess, I would have to quit spending for the to happen. Which leads me to my next adventure.

Wed. Missy, Sue and I headed to Shipshewana. Now I know what you're thinking...95 degrees and you go to an outdoor flea market in the Amish country. Well, we were there by 8:00 and there was next to nobody there. We were able to cruise right along. It was cloudy until 11:30 so it wasn't too awfully hot. The river running down my back kept me cool. We were able to finish up by 12:30 and head for home. Sounds simple right? The only problem is I bought a cabinet for my kitchen that fit, but only by putting both seats down in Missy's car. So, that left 2 seats and 3 people for the trip home. There was a small wedge next to the cabinet so I molded my soft pliable body in there, hiked the other bun in the air while Sue slammed the door..twice. Needless to say, the trip home was long. We stopped in Wabash about a 1/2 hour from home at a couple of shops and then Sue rode the rest of the way in the back. I was very thankful. All my treasures look great so it was a worthwhile day, however, I'm putting my application in at wal-mart because I'm gonna need a second job to cover the expense. I went a little nuts. Which leads me to....

No, I didn't find a principal's job. I had 2 good interviews that felt like real possibilities, but neither panned out. So, it's back to HCMS as a language arts teacher next Tuesday. The disappointment has faded some. I went through some pretty depressed times this summer, but have come through it. I don't know what the plan is. I don't know what the Lord is trying to tell me. Maybe the perfect job is just around the corner. Maybe I'm not supposed to be a principal. I sure hope that's not it since I spent A-LOT of time and money on that degree. I would sure be bummed if that were the case. I just don't know. But, I'll keep looking and praying for direction. That's all I can do. One cute story about this. Zeke and Elijah were here when I got the call that I didn't get the 2nd job. I was pretty much devestated. I really thought this was the one. So, I put my head down on my desk and just sobbed. Zeke was in the kitchen playing and he heard me crying. He came over to me and started rubbing my back. He very quietly said, "I like your back." Then later when I asked for a hug, he looked at me and said, " I think you need some sugars first." So, with lots of sugars and hugs from my little man, I made it through that disappointing day. Don't think I haven't realized that God probably sent them to me for those few days for that very reason.

So, that's it. Summer is over. I start school on Tuesday and can't believe it. It's always interesting to wonder what this year will hold.

Happy 60th Birthday, Dad!!

2007-07-31T15:07:00.001-05:00

Today is my Dad's 60th Birthday! We had his party 10 days ago in order to actually surprise him. It was a great time with lots of old friends and family.
I think he's shocked!
I always knew he had a lot of hot air!
He was a trooper; he read all his funny cards (and sappy cards) aloud for all of us to enjoy!
The big surprise...a flat screen for his bedroom!

I would like to take this opportunity to say how blessed I am to have Keever Grate for my Dad. He's amazing! He is a man of God who has been a wonderful role model in my life. He has a great sense of humor, he's gentle, kind, he's a do it all kind of man. He takes care of me even still and far away, he listens and offers sound advice. I've watched him be a wonderful, faithful husband to my mom. I think sometimes that I can't find Mr. Right because I compare all men against the "Keever" standard which is about impossible to measure up to. You know what else I love about my Dad? I love his hands. They are rough, calloused, hammer holding hands. They have always been tough, yet gentle hands. They remind me of Grandpa Grate's hands. Hands that have worked hard to take care of their family.
I love you, Dad!

Kenny Chesney ~ Flip Flop Summer Tour 2007

2007-07-14T08:36:00.000-05:00

It's that time of year again. The time of year where we go to see that beautiful man named Kenny. Some might say that we have a slight obsession...they might be right.
Sugarland opened for Kenny and they were wonderful. They are another of my favorite groups and they were a great opening act.
This year we partied like pirates...a little Pirates of the Carribean theme going on.

Awe...there he is!