An ode to Geraldine Doyle...

Song of the day - Rosie the Riveter ~ The Four Vagabonds

This lady was the inspiration for Rosie and she past away last weekend. She had her photo taken while working at a Detroit factory, but only worked there for 2 weeks because she was a cellist and didn't want to damage her hands. She saw the photo years later and realized that it was her! What a symbol!



Happy New Year and Peace...

Because we all did...

Song of the day - Alabama 3 ~ Woke Up This Morning

Enjoy your day!



Peace...

Steeldriver goodness

Song of the day - The Steeldrivers ~ Where Rainbows Never Die

One of Shamus' new faves...



Peace...

Jukebox The Ghost - "SCHIZOPHRENIA" OFFICIAL VIDEO

Song of the day - Jukebox the Ghost ~ Schizophrenia

Love it!



Peace...

Case of the Mundays

Song of the day - Khaira Arby ~ Aigna

This lady is quite the diva in Timbuktu and has a beautiful voice...



Peace...

Carol of the Bells - Boys Choir of Harlem

Song of the day - Boys Choir of Harlem ~ Carol of the Bells

Happy Holidays!



Peace...

One for my sister...

Song of the day - Harry Connick Jr. ~ (It Must've Been Ol') Santa Claus

For my youngest sister who used to listen to this song (and Pure Prairie League's Amy, over and over and over, singing "Happy Ho, Ho, Ho to you" and dancing around the living room...it's nice to be able to listen to it again without pulling my hair out because I do like the song.



Instead of random Thursday I thought I'd count my blessings:
* A husband that is 100 percent wonderful (well most of the time :)) and digs me even for all of my weirdness
* Stellar friends to run, laugh, cry, talk about bodily functions and share special times
* Closeness of my family (well most of them) and my married family
* Our four-legged family members, no run, hike, ski would be the same without you...Chui, is exempt, but still very important
* These legs that carry me via running, hiking, skiing and swimming to places I could have never imagined that I would go
* These hands that have helped me learn to bake all sorts of fun fare, to knit (well sort of, work in progress) and sew
* These eyes that enable me to see this captivating world that passes me by day to day and read the most wonderful and not so wonderful books and blogs
* These ears that allow me to hear the sounds of the mountains, music and beautiful voices of my friends and family

Peace...

Another for a snowy day...

Song of the day - Vince Guaraldi Trio ~ Christmastime is Here

Best known by Charlie Brown Christmas, but lovely music made by these folks...



Peace...

Nat King Cole - The Christmas Song

Song of the day - Nat King Cole ~ The Christmas Song

This song just makes me want to snuggle inside on a snowy day such as this... His voice is as smooth as buttah.



Peace...

Not song o' the day, but SWEET...

I won't make this song of the day, but had to share...Merry Slayer Christmas



Peace...

Christmas tunes

Song of the day - Bing Crosby and the Andrew Sisters ~ Jingle Bells

A little toe tappin' for Monday with our 2 plus feet of snow and counting.



Peace...

Classic ...

Song of the day - Otis Redding & Carla Thomas ~ Tramp




Peace...

Nostalgia

Song of the day Emily Barker & The Red Clay Halo ~ Halo

I'm addicted to the show that this is a theme song for from the BBC "Wallander" and LOVE the song...



Peace...

Erykah Badu - Time's a Wastin

Song of the day - Erykah Badu ~ Time's a Wastin'

And it is...



Peace...

Days Go By

Song of the day - Dirty Vegas ~ Days Go By

And they really do...



Peace...

Lloyd Miller and the Heliocentrics - Rain Dance

Song of the day - Lloyd Miller and the Heliocentrics ~ Rain Dance

A Monday tune...



The Geminids Meteor Shower is this evening, so if you are a nerd like I am you'll be skiing and watching. It's peak time is 2 am EST, but it begins at 9-10 pm with 50-140 per hour. Find Orion's Belt and look left and up, WHOOPA!

Peace...

A game of tag...

1. What races do you plan to complete in 2011?? The sky's the limit! Hopefully, I won't be a total clutz and can do the Alley Loop for skiing. For running, Frozen Buns, Sage Burner, Lead King Loop, Cart to Cart and my first 50K...quite possibly Goblin Valley. It's exciting to think about.
2. What is your #1 indispensable running accessory? #2? #1 Cynther Funderson : ) I enjoy running alone and need it at certain times, but soooo look forward to our runs together. So, in general the joy that any running buddy can bring! #2 Camelback on long runs and skis, I've embraced it and even hazard to say that I like it...
3. Do you send Christmas/Holiday cards? Why or why not? Yes, because the fam enjoys getting a photo of where we are and what crazy hijinks we are getting into and I enjoy getting other folks' as well to hear what has happened in their lives in the past year...Plus, I am not really a phone talkin' gal so it's a way to hear all the tales without the awkwardness of me on a phone.
4. What do you mostly think about when training? EVERYTHING - Things that I am frustrated over, problems I need to solve, things that have cracked me up that day/week, how beautiful my surroundings are, how lovely it is to hear the sound of my feet, what adventures are in store for the hubby and I, songs running through my brain and the list goes on and on...
5. Is your sweetheart supportive of your extra curricular active activities? How? I couldn't ask for a more supportive partner in crime. He's met me at all sorts of halfway points of races with water, GU's and smiles via bike, jeep and feet. He also is glad to aid me on just training runs that are long and or in need of shuttling. He tells me constantly that he's proud of me for the things that I do. I brim with joy just thinking about it and can't imagine if I didn't have his love and support there.
6. (Such a good question I had to use it again...) What is your proudest moment of 2010? I would have to say doing my first trail race, which was Greenland Trail Race...although Sage Burner was more difficult, it was still my first. Now I'm hooked and can't wait for 2011's adventures! Also a small proud moment, I'm learning how to knit...I'm a nerd : )

Tag, well I think the few folks that follow have already been tagged, but if you are reading and haven't been and you'd like to give it a go...then YOU!
1. What races do you plan to complete in 2011??
2. Favorite running (extracurricular activity) song?
3. Where is your favorite place to run/bike/swim/ski/etc.?
4. What do you mostly think about when training?
5. Is your sweetheart supportive of your extra curricular active activities? How?
6. (Such a good question I had to use it again...) What is your proudest moment of 2010?

Another tribute of sorts...

Song of the day - Jamiroquai ~ Canned Heat

I thought that this song was appropriate, as I fell on my bum on the ice yesterday and felt as if I might have "broke my coccyx..."



Peace...

Paying homage ... a day late

Song of the day - John Lennon ~ Working Class Hero

I was torn yesterday, so this is a day late, but had to do a tribute to this lovely fellow...



Random 3 Thursday...

1. Wrapping Christmas goodies last night and listening to ...Irish music?!? Shamus is a bah-humbugamus brat.
2. There is a preschool across the hall from my office and it cracks me up the things those little guys say. For instance this morning, the teacher that takes them on frequent trips to the restroom says, "Don't forget to wash your hands." Munchkin "But I didn't touch anything..."
3. Because I couldn't think of something else interesting a word for the day "wharfinger" - A person who owns or who has charge of a wharf; one who makes a business of letting accommodation for vessels at his wharf.
I will try to use it today and that may be interesting...

Peace...

Breaking up is hard to do...

Song of the day - Fiona Apple ~ Sleep to Dream

An ode to the boss and his lady friend and their recent break-up... things do happen for a reason though



Peace...

Sam Amidon - 'Saro'

Song of the day - Sam Amidon ~ Saro

Have a lovely day!



Peace...

A birthday tune...

Song of the day - Wayne of Wayne's World ~ Happy Birthday Mr. President

To an excellent friend and running buddy, even though they contend that they aren't celebrating a birthday, much love on your special day!




Peace...

Blitzen Trapper: Black River Killer (official)

Song of the day - Blitzen Trapper ~ Black River Killer

Careful this one gets in your head...



Peace...

The Message

Song of the day - Grandmaster Flash ~ The Message

Old school, great tune...



Random 3 Things Thursday:
1. My sometimes drive-me-up-a-wall boss was talking about the trouble that the Broncos head coach is in, which I had no idea about, but said how bad he feels for him and the media just needs to stop hounding him so much, it's unfair...REAAAALY?!? I said I don't feel sorry for him in the slightest because he makes MILLIONS of dollars a year and cheating is cheating is cheating. Any who, that's all I'm going to say about that.
2. Swam last night, which was open swim night/free swim at the college. Luckily, they left one lane line in for crazy folks such as myself that wanted to be a square and just swim back and forth. If you've seen Caddyshack, it sort of resembled caddy swim day at the club pool...a rope from the ceiling and tarzan jumps into the pool, canon balls off the diving board and fellas trying to impress the ladies with their mad MJ water basketball skills. Good for a laugh any way and awesome "open water" simulation with the wave action.
3. Saw this quote, which pretty much sums up why I enjoy the silence of running and swimming (minus Caddy day at the pool) - "We need to find God, and he cannot be found in noise and restlessness. God is the friend of silence. See how nature - trees, flowers, grass - grows in silence; see the stars, the moon and the sun, how they move in silence...We need silence to be able to touch souls." ~ Mother Teresa

Peace...

And another...

Song of the day - Ray Lamontagne ~ Jolene

A deep-cutting song by a lovely hairy fella...



Peace...

Classic ...

Song of the day - Dolly Parton ~ Jolene

Classic version, plus awesome hair and wardrobe...



Peace...

Jolene tunes...

Song of the day - Cake ~ Jolene

Realized how many good Jolene tunes there are, so starting with #1 in no particular order...



Peace...

Opening day

Song of the day - Marshall Tucker Band ~ Fire on the Mountain

In honor of opening day on the mountain, but let me tell you folks nothing could be further from the truth with snow and wind gusts of 40-50 mph...nothing a little alcohol can't cure for those costumed folks



Peace...

Oz Tuesday

Song of the day - Powderfinger ~ My Happiness

For my aussie pals, as I just learned that Powderfinger is retiring, good tunes will live on..."It's been an age since I've seen ya..."



Peace...

Monday flurries, gale force winds

Song of the day - Shawn Colvin ~ Riding Shotgun Down the Avalanche

Thought that this song was appropriate due to the 40-50 mile per hour wind gusts, snow, and 22 degree high for this Monday mornin'



Peace...

A Friday tune

Song of the day - Wyclef Jean ~ Guantanamera

Happy Friday!



Peace...

Random 3 and a song

Random 3 Things Thursday:
1. When your mother-in-law says to ask your father-in-law about a cape, be afraid, be very afraid.
2. Shamus words of wisdom from the last days of hunting/hiking last weekend, "Well, you know what you do when you forget TP." I say, "Like WB says, 'Sacrifice a sock/glove/t-shirt...?'" He says, "Oh well no, let's just say I won't be using this pair of boxers anymore and thank goodness that I had my knife." Nice...
3. The sun is out, it's supposed to be 45 today and it's gorgeous!

Song of the day - Red House Painters ~ Have You Forgotten

Kind of a mellow tune, but his voice is hypnotic...




Peace...

Dutch - Pearls

Song of the day - Dutch ~ Pearls

Shamus heard this and hipped me to it, so props to him! Love it!



Peace...

First day back in the pool...

Song of the day - Bobby Darin ~ Splish Splash

In honor of my first day back in the pool, the high school team was swimming in the lanes next to me and made me feel extra slow. Oh how time lets you forget how many mucles it takes to get my booty 25 yards down the pool...arms why have you forsaken me. No seriously, great morning swim!



Peace...

Snowy Monday

Song of the day - Feist ~ I Feel it All

This song kept running through my head on Saturday, which I love it, but I was feelin' it all at that point. Any who, had to share, great song!



Peace...

Learning to love the handheld water bottle - Rim Rock Marathon Race Report

Yesterday was my first solo marathon adventure and by solo I mean: no Cynther Funderson, no Shamus hugs at the end and in general no one I knew was there...I know big kid pants! The marathon was in Fruita, Colorado through the Colorado National Monument. I had a bit of a squirrely drive over Kebler Pass to Fruita on Friday thinking I had plenty of time and I had heard that it had been plowed after our most recent snow...welll it hadn't been plowed at the top. So, my little Honda was machine-gunning through ~6 inches in spots with one lane of tracks through. As I came down from the top of the pass, there was a fellow pulled over in a big Ford truck putting chains on and fully about dropped his chin on the ground as I bee-bopped by in my little beast. Any who, made it there and checked in Friday scoped out breakie and where to go for the shuttles in the morning and I was ready. The shuttles took us up in the morning, which was an interesting dynamic instead of just going somewhere and starting the race because you had all sorts of runners packed on school buses two to a seat and the nervous energy was wicked high. I love to people watch so it was great fun watching folks messing with all of their running gadgets/chatchkie and listening to what was being said. We got there and it was bloody well cold; in fact my bum and feet did not warm up until about mile 3. They got us staged and I cruised to the back. We all started with cheers and headed for the switchbacks. This race was pretty much 13.1 miles of uphill, 2000 ft elevation gain and 13.1 miles of rolling downhill. As we climbed, the view behind us was absolutely brilliant with the sun rising and the Grand Valley laid out before us. Once the sun rose, the temperature was perfect ~ 45 with a slight breeze. I decided to carry my handheld water bottle and it was a good decision. Until this point, I've gotten to the point in a run where I felt like chucking it at someone's head, but it was great to have and be able to drink when I was thirsty...so in turn I have embraced the handheld water bottle, or at least today. The road switch backed up until about mile 5 and then became a much more gradual uphill as I said until mile 13 and then started rolling down. I cruised through the uphill and felt great. My muscles didn't get tired and I didn't once feel out of breath. The one thing that I didn't anticipate was that due to the switch backs up and down most of the road was banked and they kept us in the right lane to keep traffic running through the left. Hence, I started noticing at about mile 9 a little bite in my knee and tried to find the flattest parts of the road to keep on trucking. I met a lovely fellow from Missouri and ran with him mile 11, forgot about the knee for a moment. We got to the aid station right before mile 13 and one of the volunteers said, "Keep it up, you look great." I laughed and said, "No, no I don't, but you are nice." Then, we came up the last big hill and as I crested there were a group of bikers sitting there getting ready to roll down and they said, "Great job, no sweat now it's all downhill from here." Yes, yes it was, butttt I didn't have a bicycle now did I? We continued to run just skirting the edge (hence, Rim Rock) of the mesa, which the colors were just exploding in the light, and started down. I met a nice gal from Grand Junction at about mile 19 before the downhill kicked into high gear. It's amazing the people that you meet while running and the little snippets of your lives that you share in those moments. I feel lucky to experience that closeness. We left each other and from mile 20 on it was me, myself and I again. My knee was screaming bloody murder for these final 6 and it was the first race that I have actually had it go through my head what would happen if I didn't finish, but I put a heavy foot down on that crap and kept on going. I've been dealing with some family drama-rama this past week and a half and really needed this time to sort through it. At times, I was fighting back tears, but I beat them back with a stick. Running is also amazing for that sense of clarity that it can help bestow. So, rolling down the road and I had just passed mile 25 when it was move it or lose it I had to duck in the bushes and as Cynther's, WB would say "sacrifice a sock." In this case, it was a glove. Good as new, well sort of, and less than a mile and I heard the load speaker saying my name as I crossed that line at 5 hours 24 minutes, yea baby! What a wonderful experience, great people, scenery and self-motivation. Although I needed this alone time, I do have to say it makes me so appreciate my running buddy and the special bond we have. Words can't express how lucky that I am, thanks young lady!
Peace...

Pink Floyd - Run like Hell - from Pulse

Song of the day - Pink Floyd ~ Run Like Hell

This is what I hope to do at the Rim Rock Marathon tomorrow in Fruita...Happy Friday all!



Peace...

Honor for Veterans

Song of the day - Mormon Tabernacle Choir ~ Battle Hymn of the Republic

Happy Veteran's Day to all the past, present and future individuals that dedicate their service for us all. "As we express our gratutude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them." ~ John Fitzgerald Kennedy



Peace...

The sun shines on a new day

Song of the day - Jeb Loy Nichols ~ As the Rain

Dig this fella



Peace...

It's been one of those days...

Song of day - The Dead Kennedy's ~ Chemical Warfare

We all have crap that happens that affects our days and today has just been one of them. So, instead of feeling sorry for myself, the punk will head bang and rage it out... Hope that YOU are having an excellent one!




Peace...

Monday Soul...

Song of the day - Mavis Staples ~ Eyes on the Prize

A lady with some serious soul for Monday...




Peace...

Los Lobos - Kiko and the Lavender Moon - 1996

Song of the day - Los Lobos ~ Kiko and the Lavender Moon

Friday tune...




Peace...

Random 3 Thursday...

Song of the day - Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros ~ Home

Shamus, "Home is where ever I'm with you..." and I truly mean that. Great song, but careful it'll get in your head!





So my Random 3 for the day:

1. Shamus words of wisdom, "Jess, You'll be so stoked. I've been wearing the same clothes all week so that there's less laundry to do." Yes, yes there will be, but other issues do ensue with this...
2. Republicans, congratulations eventhough you didn't get my vote, I'm not a sore loser, but I am anxious to see what "fixes" for all of the issues that you have in mind. And that's all that I'm going to say about that...
3. Stash pizza - CB local fave, but we only go there when we have guests and since my pops is here we went last night and had some fig-licous pizza...mmmmm

Peace...

My pop's comes to the Butte

Song of the day - James Brown ~ Papa's Got a Brand New Bag

In honor of my pop's visit to the Butte, he didn't get a new bag for the trip, but here's hoping that his make it from Indy...



Peace...

Woods - Rain On

Song of the day - Woods ~ Rain On

I'm a bit late today, "but it feels like should today..."



Peace...

Weezer - Buddy Holly

Song of the day - Weezer ~ Buddy Holly

Although they are lame nowadays, this is a reminder of when they used to be stellar...



Peace...

PS. Painting you can suck it...

A Halloween tune...

Song of the day - Michael Jackson ~ Thriller

This video and Vincent Price used to creep me out like no other. For Cynther, as I know she dug this album and a Happy early Halloween to all...



Peace..

Humor and a tune...

Song of the day - Joe Cocker, John Belushi ~ A Little Help from My Friends

Saw this last night and forgot how hilarious it was. Had to share, RIP John and hello to our neighbor from the town of Crawford, CO, Joe...



Peace...

Piano Red - I Ain't Gonna Be Your Low Down Dog No More

Song of the day - Piano Red, aka Willie Perryman, Dr. Feelgood ~ I Ain't Gonna Be Your Low Down Dog No More

No special connotation to the day, just thought it was a good Wednesday tune. This fella is a self-taught pianist that played the barrel house blues style and blues to the bone he is.




Peace...

Rain turns to snow...

Song of the day - Simon and Garfunkel ~ Hazy Shade of Winter

As yesterday's rain turned to snow/ice, it now does look like some degree of winter outside my window today and Sheasa is going skiing in the back country because of the dumpage...



Peace...

Because it's a rainy Monday...

Song of the day - Burt Bacharach ~ Raindrops Keep Falling on My Head

90% chance of rain/snow today, enough said...



Peace...

Michael Leonhart & Avramina 7 - Dreams Of An Aquarian

Song of the day - Michael Leonhart & Avramina 7 ~ Dreams of an Aquarian

New sounds and old melded together, happy Friday!



Peace...

Random 3 Thoughts of Thursday...

So, I'm a copy cat and know that many folks do a "3 Things Thursday." So, as titled mine will be a random 3, sort of like Deep Thoughts of Jack Handy, I guess. Any who, here goes:
1. Drove down valley to Gunni on Tuesday and saw the first bald eagle of the season soaring above Almont and I have to admit that even after seeing them so often for this long I still get the chills. They are just so majestic.
2. I was in our little coffee shop also Tuesday and two fellas in suits were in front of me ordering and were total ass hats to the barista and thought their poop didn't stink. It ticked me off because they were jerks to the little gal, but then I cracked up because they looked like such idiots anyway and didn't even realize. Even if you are on business, come on now this is Crested Butte people pull out their good jeans when they are getting swanked up around here.
3. I saw this quote and it made me think of the strength in running: "When you are so tired and exhausted that every muscle in your body aches and you feel you can't go another inch, you're halfway there."

Told you it was going to be random.
Peace...

Song of the day - Amy Winehouse ~ Valerie

Sista Sphie would be ashamed, but I admit I dig this chick and good beat to bebop through Thursday...
I do find it humorous that they have an advertisement for drug rehab at the bottom of the video...



Peace...

Song of the day - Jello Biafra & Mojo Nixon ~ Are You Drinkin' With Me Jesus? -

Upon suggestion from my good pal, Christie. Kind of a Friday tune, but hope it's a lovely day...



Peace...

SESAME STREET: I LOVE MY HAIR! AWESOME!!!

Song of the day - I Love My Hair

Heard about this on NPR last night, man wrote this for his daughter...absolutely beautiful song for young and old



Peace...

John Denver - Country Roads

Song of the day - John Denver ~ Country Roads

Had an awesome time and an awesome race in Moab, but it's wonderful to have those country roads bring us back to the Butte...



Peace...

6 years of maiwage

Song of the day - Common ~ The Light

"If heaven had a height, you would be that tall..." Thank you for marrying me 6 years ago tomorrow Shamus. I dig you more with each passing day...



Peace...

cold crush brothers

Song of the day - Cold Crush Brothers

Old school artists that helped give hip hop a start...nice



Peace...

Business Time - Flight Of The Conchords (Lyrics)

Song of the day - Flight of the Conchords

A laugh for Wednesday... but because sometimes it is business time



Peace...

Bumper sticker ???

I've often wondered what makes people choose certain bumper stickers and think, "Holy crap, I need that on my car." I'm for them they totally crack me up, but saw one this afternoon that just really got me wondering. The one I saw was across the whole back window of the car and said "Go Eff Yourself." Except, it wasn't my pc version...WHAT THE CRAP!?! Now, sometimes we all might think that phrase or even say it, but really saying it to everyone that drives behind you...I'm just baffled.

Any who, peace...

Heavy Metal Drummer - Wilco Fan Video

Song of the day - Wilco ~ Heavy Metal Drummer

Obviously not the original video, but cracked me up...I need a heavy metal drummer to wake me up this AM!



Peace...

Song of the day - The Beatles ~ In My Life

We thought we had lost our Natty girl yesterday and it made us appreciate the snuggles with her that much more this morning...



Peace...

Blues Traveler - The Mountains Win Again

Song of the day - Blues Traveler ~ The Mountains Win Again

Not what this song is about, but there's snow in them there mountains this mornin'...




Peace...

Dysfunctional Canine Family

Sooo, I think that I may be going bonkers and have in incling that it is due to dog sitting four extra crazies. Many have said we are too nice, I just don't know how I'd say no. My husband and I have not seen each other for more than an hour here and there for the last week and a half with a week and a half to go... So, I thought as an outlet I would introduce these critters that are causing my lunacy:


Public Enemy #1: Riley James, a.k.a Cupcake
Seriously, the biggest weinie of a dog that I've ever met. Does not like to go outside if it is rainy, windy or below 50 degrees and looks at you like you are abusing him if you make him go out in any of these conditions. Also, must follow you wherever you go and be straight under foot...remember folks that he's a great dane and he weighs roughly 110.






Public Enemy #2: Bosworth P. Humperdink, a.k.a. Baby Huey
Really loveable fella, but has gas that will knock your socks off ...I know I know it's easy to blame that on a dog, but not when you hear it like an alarm bell coming out his bum. He is not in a hurry to go anywhere, but is somewhwat enamored by ice. Has a head like a bear and it's questionable at times how much else is up there.





Public Enemy #3: Bean, a.k.a. The Enforcer
Also does not want to go out in rain, wind or temperatures below 50 degrees, but I am a bit more sympathetic as he only weights ~ 4 pounds...smaller than most cats I've met. He has an extreme disdain for Public Enemy #1 and has on several occasions now fully "went after" him, which leaves Cupcake wondering why the guinea pig attacked him. Bean is cute and cuddly, but has a strange habit of only eating when you tuck into bed for the night...?!?! Also, if he isn't hungry at that time he tries to bury his food for a later time...


Public Enemy #4: Willie, a.k.a. Old Man
Not pictured, but seriously no trouble at all because he stays outside all day with a bed in the garage and his idea of a fun walk is down the street about one hundred yards. He does seem to have a nervous colon from time to time and has left a present of diarrhea or two on the bathroom floor...sweet



Public Enemy #5: Natty, a.k.a. The Brat, Lady
A permanent Earley family member, but don't let her fool you by her sweet and innocentness...her name is The Brat. Public Enemy #3 has taken a serious liking to her, but she is not quite sure what to think of him as he weighs four pounds. PS. This photo is The Brat with extreme rage and annoyance that we would dare place something on her head.





Public Enemy #6: Bombadil, a.k.a. The Fat Man
Also a permanent member of the Early household and is the number one pot stirrer. He enjoys chewing on the arm of the couch, any and all of Public Enemy #5's legs and wearing a pink/yellow polka dot bikini.


Pheewww, I feel much better after venting there! It just makes me appreciate our quiet-ish little home and how happy I will be to have it back in just a short while.

Peace...

Yael Naim new soul

Song of the day - Yael Naim ~ New Soul

Happy little song...




Peace...

The Velvet Underground - Rock and Roll

Song of the day - The Velvet Undergroud ~ Rock and Roll

Rock and roll through this Wednesday



Peace...

Roosevelt Sykes - Dirty Mother for You

Song of the day - Roosevelt Sykes ~ Dirty Mother for You

"You got a mop like an opossum..." Great bluesy tune for Tuesday!




Peace...

The Mamas & Papas - Monday Monday (Hollywood Palace, 1966)

Song of the day - The Mamas & Papas ~ Monday Monday

Because it is...





Peace...

Song of the day - Keb' Mo' ~ Whole 'Nutha Thing

Good little ditty for a Friday...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XWLFj0S6b9M

Peace...

Boo...Hoo...

Well boo, I missed the last of the fun runs last night with the CB Mountain Runners last night because I'm under the weather, but I wouldn't have been good company anyway because I look and feel as though I'd been run over by a truck...

Song of the day - The Black Crowes ~ Hotel Illness

Because I don't feel well. Although I don't have a "head full of sermons and a mouth full of spiders"...at least today anyway

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lGGlexqj66w

Peace...

Song of the day - Jethro Tull ~ Aqualung

For Shamus because he so digs rocking out to the wicked flutes...exhibit A last night when he was roasting coffee...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QqZmtq5LhFo

Peace...

Song of the day - Jill Scott ~ A Long Walk

Perfect song for a sunny day and a truly beautiful woman...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TSYMKUtNuw8

Peace...

Battle for good versus evil...

Well tonight is the Bears/Packers game, a classic good versus evil battle can be flip flopped based on which side you are on... in Shamus' case the Packers are evil. This is one of the few games that we go out on the town to watch because we don't have a tele at home. Lots of years we don't even watch the Super Bowl, unless of course it also involves the Bears...so it's a quite an event, he he.

Song of the day - John Lee Hooker ~ Boom Boom

One of my grandpa's all time favorites, thinking of him today and hoping it gets you bouncing through the start of the week...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rOyj4ciJk34

Peace...

Song of the day - Earth, Wind and Fire ~ September

Good groovin' soul for a Friday and because it is...September that is

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nfLEc09tTjI&feature=related

Peace...

Peak of fall...

Well, the actual peak could've been yesterday or the day before, but I finally got some photos and had to share...

yes, that is snow back there...dang!

Actually, Saturday of them driving the cattle down the main highway into town...random

Song of the day - Flogging Molly ~ Drunken Lullabies

After seeing "The Town" last night it made me think of my favorite irish tunes that I adore

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pDwlGbEcJ6Y

Peace...

Song of the day - Patrick Watson ~ The Storm

Due to the 70% chance of rain and the ominous black clouds looming behind our golden aspen covered mountains...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p0Auj4qR9Mg&feature=related

Song of the day - DJ Z Trip featuring Murs and Supernatural

More of a Saturday morning song of the day, but needed a good throw back to get through this Tuesday...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_aAkJTIEs94&feature=related

Peace...

Marble or Bust...

Well we made it to Marble and it was a blast of a girlie weekend. The town of Marble is lovely and I thouroughly enjoyed seeing it and it's people. As our host at the B&B said, Marbolonians with and emphasis on Bolonian...ha ha. We started the race (Lead King Loop 25K) at 7 am instead of the 8:30 start and I'm so glad we did. The first ~5 miles were pretty much uphill the whole way, but we had prepared ourselves for the worst and I believe that really helped our mental state. Plus hiking in the Butte up some of our hills helped get our motors running. My hands were frozen until about mile five and then I sweated the whole rest of the way. The remaining 10 miles were also an ankle breaker, to which Cynther proved yet again what a bad mamma jamma she is by falling, popping her ankle back when it was out and then running the remaining 4 miles. It was a perfect day with the temperature, a bright blue sky and no back log of runners at any point in the race, which can happen in trail races because of the funneling joy of the single track. We did meet a seedy person or two on our journey to which the song of the day is dedicated to...

Song of the day - Mountain Rhythms ~ Dueling Banjos

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GG4pKmHQaRA

Peace...

Song of the day - Arrested Development ~ Tennessee

Old School to cruise into the weekend!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g40c6iAEHpc

Peace...

Tired bones run...

Don't know if it's allergies or just me, but last night on my run was absolutely worn out! Kept truckin' though and was awestruck by the golden aspen leaf carpet laid before me. It's just starting and I forget from year to year how amazing that it is. Whatever keeps you going I guess...

Song of the day - Ani Difranco ~ Shy

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qv343ai0EfA

Peace...

Song of the day - Johnny Cash & June Carter Cash ~ Jackson

Toe-tappin' good

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rsd6WXisgLk

Peace...

Off Season....SAAAWEEETTT!!!

We live in a resort town and thoroughly appreciate all of our touristas who come and support our little economy, but I do have to say dang it's great to have a deep breath when off season comes...

On another note, on Facebook, I do a "song of the day" and decided that I might start doing that here to share the wealth! If you run with an iPOD some of these may be a welcome addition to the playlist...

Soooo, the inaugural "Song of the Day" is - The Dirty Projectors ~ Stillness Is The Move

http://www.metacafe.com/watch/3013867/dirty_projectors_stillness_is_the_move/

Normally I use Youtube, but either my computer or their website was having some maaaajor issues at the moment...enjoy!

Peace...

My mamacita the bad ass...

So, summer appears to have been crazy as I see I have not posted anything in ages! We had an adventure and went home to Indiana for my youngest sister's wedding, which was a lovely event, in mid August. I have to say that I admire all of those who run in the heat and humidity and have been trying to smack myself when I say that it's "hot" here (75 degrees with a breeze). So, my dear mother came to visit for a week last Wednesday and now is leaving today. We laughed because it was so close to when we were just home, but the funny thing is it was perfect timing as we didn't see each other hardly at all running to and fro doing wedding funness. We have been trying to wear her out, but I'm totally now convinced my mom is a serious bad ass. Since she got here she's:

• Climbed darn near the top of Mt. CB
• Hiked with Shamus numerous times, which is no easy task...I know I'm married to the bush-whacker
• Rode the mountain bike to the cemetary, up Slate and into town a couple times
• Hiked the Caves with a motely crew...not a trail we can take just any tourista on
• Went to pilates with me, first time for both of us, and totally showed me up at the plank position, which I now have a love hate relationship with (the plank, not my mom) because I've avoided it like the plague because I'm a weinie...

I'm so proud to be her daughter and aspire to be half the woman that she is! Safe travels home mims, much love!!!

Peace...

Jog bra...don't leave home without it

I never have what people call a "bad" run. Sometimes I am tired or just not feelin' it, but it's hardly ever bad. Yesterday, I forgot a jog bra and decided to try it out because I just wanted to go for a run...MISTAKE! The poor bikers, walkers and joggers that passed going down hill I'm sure even more than normal I was quite a sight to behold...HA! Note to self, NEVER give it a go again no matter how much I think it's okay, Cripes!

Peace...

Yule Pass ADVENTURES

So Saturday we decide it would cool to go up to a place called Paradise Divide, which is truly an amazingly beautiful place and that I would go for a run and then meet my main squeeze and his pal up at Yule Lakes. I took off with the dogs and we had an excellent 6 miler up passed the top of Schofield Pass then back to the Divide. I did a superman, changed my shoes and strapped on my hiking backpack and ate a bar and off I went. This trail, minus some of the rock slide areas is an easy peasy trail for about 2.3 miles to the top of the pass. So, I rolled up and passed Shamus' parents close to the pass. They said as usual there was a snow slide area and Shamus had cut out steps and that they were only about 20 minutes ahead of me because Tom had to backtrack after forgetting his fishing pole on a pee break. So, off I go again and get to the slide...I take one look and decide no way in HECK am I crossing it by myself. So, I turn around and go up a cut in the hill about 25 yards back, which was much easier. This whole time as I've been hiking I notice how black it is getting behind the pass and unfortunately as I crest the top of the hill all hades breaks loose and there is lightening outstretched like a hand above me. So, I bust a major move down, down, down and hit the trail again and the pups and I hunker down beneath some willows for a few. Luckily, I'd had the foresight to put on my rain gear. Snow, hail, grapple and rain and two t-oed pups thinking that I am punishing them take of to find a place a bit more out of the wind. So, up and over the pass to the other side of the snow slide and wait under a rock ledge for a few while it is coming down in sheets. All of the sudden the sun comes out and we jet back out up and over the pass, but I see a huge line of black clouds well on it's way. So, in the break I decide that maybe it's not too late and I could catch Shamus' parents before they leave. Up and over the cut I go again, and basically running down the trail to the cars and I get there right as the rain starts and no parents, which was fine. So, the pups and I hop in the jeep and chill while the next line of storms pass and again out comes the sun like a beacon. At this point, I have no watch and no key to the jeep to know what time it is, but looking at the sun I can tell round about what time it is and that I don't want to just wait at the jeep for hours. So, I strap on my backpack and off we go up the pass and up the cut down to the trail and into the meadow. The whole time I'm just a hair worried because Shamus' had told his p's that if I couldn't make it across the slide that I should just go home with them and after being at the jeep and going to the pass the second time I realized that a note just in case probably would have been a good idea, but hindsight is always 20/20... I roll down into the meadow about a mile passed the pass and look who I find, a sight dressed in earth tones, pheeew! Here are some photos from the trail back with those yahoos...

Peace...

Strength of a little girl

So, Shamus' fam damily has been here for the last couple of days and we haven't seen them since last summer. It's a whirlwind when they are here because our quiet house is transformed into a rockin' good time for two little girls. Having no kids and still both being on the fence as to whether children are in our future, seeing and hearing the things little girls chat about and do is sort of alien to me at least (probably sound a bit old). i.e. how cute Justin Bieber? is and what a great singer Taylor Swift is, seeing the littlest girl eat Rice Krispies and having it cascading out of the sides of her mouth like a waterfall, etc. Between now and then a horrible event occurred in which the father of Shea's 9 and 10 year old cousins shot himself and their mother in front of the girls. These girls absolutely amazed me. No person should ever have to see something such as this let alone a child, but they have more strength than I ever could have imagined. Their grandparents now take care of them and on a side note I have no idea how they can keep up, but they love those girls to bits and it is apparent in everything that they do. They all decided that therapy would be a must and all go. I'm sure that this is something that maybe a need through most of the rest of their lives because of the things that they have seen. What I was most amazed by though is speaking to them and seeing them interact, they talk about their mother regularly and never in the past tense always in the present. Especially, giggling about her likes and dislikes and stories of times together. Even in regards to what happened they speak freely about it. Most of what they speak about their dad is negative, but that unfortunately is all of what they saw of him with addiction problems and domestic violence on a daily basis. I don't know what I expected truly when I saw them, but to anyone who doesn't know the burden that they carry they are just normal 9 and 10 year old little girls. That talk about Justin Bieber and Taylor Swift, wrestle with our dogs, love to play games and giggle. I just know that my own mother, even though she's far away, is my best friend in the entire world and can't imagine her not being a part of my life. I guess that is where I had to stop myself though and realize that their mom is still a huge part of their life in that they carry her and all of the memories so close to their hearts. They don't have the luxury of taking her for granted like some of us do from time to time. I hope that the good memories stay with them always and that their lives can grow out of the sadness and become the brilliant women that I see in their little faces.

Sorry to be a downer, but just had to say this and how important it is that if you or someone that you know is in an abusive relationship to get help to get out of the situation. http://www.ndvh.org/

Peace...

Sun and wind and Kebler and bears...Oh My!

So, I finally saw my first bear while running yesterday and I am still stoked. I have seen bears before outside of various places we have lived when they were cruising through, but never out in the open. I was running up the final hill on Ohio Creek Pass and saw something move up ahead. There it was, I say it because I didn't ask or get close enough to see under it's tail, magnificent! I just stood there watching it in awe and it stood there watching me for about a minute or so. It was a gorgeous deep auburn color and was probably 350-400 pounds. I'd always imagined the first time seeing a bear out like this that I would have the sock scared out of me, but I was absolutely and utterly calm and just felt so lucky to be there right at that moment to see such a beautiful animal. Then off it lumbered into the woods and off I went again to finish my run. What a wonderful run and an exciting moment for me!

"He is richest who is content with the least, for content is the wealth of nature." ~ Socrates

Peace...

Louis, the amazing farting office dog

Well, I applied for a job and got the ding email yesterday, BOO! I've decided though to look at the positives for now in the job that I am lucky enough to have right now. So, today I laughed and thought that I should give props to Louis the office dog. Some people talk about their work wives or husbands, while I don't have one of these, Louis is totally my office dog. On a side note, it is pretty stellar to work in a town where it is pretty much across the board okay to bring a dog to work or into the bank. Any who, back to Louis, he is my bosses' dog and is an 8, almost 9, year old yellow lab with quite a personality. He loves to roll in all things stinky (i.e. dead fish, rotting cow poop, etc.) which promptly gets him removed from the office to the back of the truck until a bath can be arranged. Louis also has some major gastrointestinal issues and is known for his room-clearing farts. It is not uncommon for it to be -10 degrees and for us to have the window open because of his escapades in eating who knows what. His final quirk is that he LOVES apples, like nothing I have ever seen. He hears me take the first bite of my apple and is right behind my chair drooling until I give him the core. He has stolen apples from my desk and just last week out of a subcontractor's pocket, which really burns me up some days, but at the moment it just tickles me. So, these are his quirks, but he is just one of the happiest, snuggliest dogs that you will ever meet. He keeps me company every day that the boss doesn't ride a motorcycle to work and is an excellent excuse to get out of the office and go for a bathroom break walk. There can't be a replacement for my pups, who I might add are wicked jealous every night when I come home about who I've been loving on, but Louis, the office dog, has a huge place in my heart!

Peace...

Cart 2 Cart

Yesterday, I was lucky enough to run with some of the elites of Crested Butte. The Crested Butte Mountain Runners put on the run with an 11 or 19 mile course. The 11 mile started at the Canal Trail on Brush Creek Road. The 19 mile started at Camp for Coffee in Crested Butte and ran out to Tony's Trail. Then, up to the Upper Upper, which nearly brought me to tears not because of pain, too early in the run, but because of the shear beauty of the morning. We had received a fair bit of rain the night before and the woods just smelled of damp pine and grass. Everything was glistening in the sunlight streaming down through the trees and the colors have exploded because of this recent moisture. My heart was just overflowing! We finished the Upper Upper down to Brush Creek Road, which to me was maybe the most demoralizing part of the run because of being on the road and the flatness...although later this will be a welcome sight. Was greeted by the hubby on the road with smiles and asking what I needed, at this point I was doing fine though. Then a quick stop at the water stop and picked up Cynther and said howdy to WB. Onto the Canal Trail, lovely trail through low lying scrub and saw two snakes along the way. Then a hard right about a mile up onto Strand Bonus...all I can say is DING DANG it was a kick in the pants. Now at least I have done it, but not knowing what to expect it was a bit of "rolling" hills. From there a quick run on the connector trail and a right onto the 409. I really didn't know it, but none of the uphills counted until I started on this trail which seriously kicked my butt. I've done all of these trails except Strand Bonus before, but I had spaced out some of the killer parts. Cynther was right there with me the whole way, what a blessing, those hills would have seemed like mountains without here there. Up switchbacks, crossing creeks/marshy areas and through flower covered meadows for 3 miles to the Doubletop Trail. The hill prior to and post coming to this trail were brutal and the thought of running almost made me laugh because it was just impossible at that point for me. We say Shamus' pops was up there though and it was a wonderful sight to see a smiling face which helped push at least me on my way. On up the last substantial hill to the ridge, to which I could have jumped for joy, but if I would have I might have crumpled over into a pile of stinky, Hammer gel covered running attire. Then, I knew I could make it because these are trails that I know like the back of my hand. Down the hill for a quick swig of water at the Walrod Cutoff/Caves intersection and down we went again. I thought that all of this downhill would be a welcome sight after all of the m-effing uphill, but it just hurt. We hit Walrod Road and tried our best to speed through it because of the technical nature and pain in the rear that it was. We made it then took a right on the single track that follows Cement Creek Road. Then, onto the road for the home stretch. There were still people that waited there to give a hoorah and it was so sweet of them for a pokey turtle like me, but I did it and earned this dang coffee mug! I feel honored to be able to run in such a beautiful place with such talented people, how many sports can you do this.

Then later when we ran across WB and Shamus, they said they had seen two of the fast pants guys walking the same course backwards to town just because...and I felt like I accomplished something. There are always more miles to go, more books to read and more songs to hear! The excitement of it!!!

Peace...

Sounds of Summer

Yesterday after a stellar relaxing run, I laid on our deck in the sun for a bit and these were the things that I took in while I shut my eyes:

• The rustling of the wind blowing through the grass;
• The squeals and laughter of happy children;
• The creaking of an old townie fender as it rode by;
• The smells of freshly baked french bread wafting from the inside of my house;
• The barking of happy dogs all around Riverbend and as they passed by on the Rec path;
• The zipping of a humming bird as they went to and fro;
• The burning charcoal and cooking of varied fares on the grills about; and
• The chirping of birds.

The sounds of summer and complete bliss...

More about the 25K later and peace ...

Fair weather runner...NOT

Rain/Sleet showers + me on the Rec Path = unintended speed work + hills and all in all a fabulous 5 mile run! I've come to the realization that inclimate weather really gets me jazzed when I am running and motivates me. This may just also be instincts telling me to hurry up and get indoors.

On another note the humming birds have arrived and bless their little hearts on days like today...yes that's snow in the background

and no I don't want to talk about it!

Peace...

Lack of hippie

So for hanging with her little man, Cynther bought me the most wonderful smelling soap from Lush. It was so awesome that I hadn't even opened the package and just kept smelling the box as I drove home. When I got home and opened it, I told Shamus that she got me the best soap EVER and had him smell and he says, "Oh, that's why the bathroom smelled like a head shop."

So, this got me thinking about how I try to be very earth friendly and green in all ways of life and enjoy doing so ever so much, but today is Tuesday and on KBUT (our local radio station in the valley) it's the Dead Head Ed show from 2-4 pm, which showcases nothing, but The Dead for two hours. No offense meant to Dead Head Ed either... I LOVE all things music and will give anything a listen, but have tried and tried again to like the Grateful Dead and I just can't. In fact, they along with some other jam bands kind of give me a littttleee rage. I don't know why, they all seem like nice fellas, but I just can't jive with endless jam sessions and seedy vocals. Sooo, I guess I am just coming to terms with the fact that I can never be a complete 100% hippie.

Peace

25K Birthday and the foster snake finds a new home...

I am now officially 30 and an old bat (according to Cynther). It was an amazing birthday! Drove up on Friday and had some sketchy weather/road conditions at the top of Monarch pass...sorry no photos too busy holding on for dear life. Then, rolled in otherwise through just blustery, rain, sleet, grapple and other Rocky Mountain spring weather wonderfulness. Woke up for the race Saturday morning and the sun was coming up and not a cloud in the sky. I had forgotten with the sunrise on the Front Range you get a deep red color that explodes from the mountains, beauty. Rolled up to the race and got there early for some good people watching. The race began and we rolled across the starting line at 8:05 am. I had imagined the beginning of a trail race to be somewhat of a difficult thing because of the limited width of the trail, but this started on a jeep/utility road and crowd spread quite quickly. For the first loop the ground was still crunchy and a bit snowy in spots. The views were spectacular: rolling hills of green, birds chirping and a slight breeze. For the second loop, the sun was OUT and it was a muddy ADVENTURE. Cynther helped me up the switchback hill for the second time, phew, because I had hit a bit of a "wall" if you will. We rolled in to the finish at 3:28 with the little man and Shamus waiting and his beard was like a beacon in the blowing grass. Met great folks (volunteers and runners) on the course and it was just a beautiful course in general! Other than the apple spice gel at the halfway point and the man snarfing a piece of pizza on his way back out for the 3rd loop of the 50K, no other tales to tell.

So, for the second part of the story Shamus thinks that I may be too nice and in this installment in January ended up with a 6 foot long Red-tailed Boa named 15 because of an acquaintance's son's incarceration...long story short. We called it the foster snake because we DID NOTwant to keep it. We already have a snake and don't have the space for a snake that big...i.e. the tortoise we have has spoken for any extra space we have as it will get 2 feet wide, ~80-100 lbs and live longer that Shamus and I. So, yesterday we got the call that he was going to Denver to a new home...yippee!!! I had him and all of his gear packed and helped load it all into the lady's car, lickety split! She was majorly freaking out though that the snake was going to get out of the cooler as she was driving and she would proceed to wreck the car. I assured her no that it wouldn't get out and even put a bungee cord around the top to appease her. So, our dear foster snake, 15, drove away. Cheers to a gorgeous snake getting a good home...now I promise that I won't say yes to any more pets...at least for a while.

Peace

Happy Birthday Motown!

Today is Motown Record's 50th birthday, one of the greatest labels to exist and a predominant provider of to many of today's tunes. I know that the Jackson 5, Supreme's, Marvin, Gladys, The Four Tops and sooo many more have melodically carried me through heaps of my runs. I often claim that I was born a couple of decades too late for more reasons than just music, but thanks to the LP, CD's and MP3's I can relive these decades through some classic music. Here's to you Motown! Here's their website if you care to view: http://www.motown.com/

Short sleeves, dry dirt and dusty pants...

Great running weekend! Did an 8 mile loop at Hartman's that was the most memorable run of the weekend. The roads and 80 percent of the trails were dry as a bone, even a bit dusty. About 5 minutes in stripping off my jacket and for goodness sake short sleeves the whole rest of the run! Just one of those days that was breathtaking as I crested each hill with a slight breeze, but not wind and lots of other smiling faces on the trail. I didn't realize that I needed the dryness and sun-soaking that awaited me there, which makes me very excited for the spring/summer that awaits ...so many single tracks and so little time!

Peace

When I Started Running...

So I thought I should tell a little tale about how I developed my deep love for running. My younger sister started running cross country when she was in middle school and was and still is a wicked fast little runner. Sooo, she inspired me and I decided to join the cross country team my junior year of high school. Practices began in late July and August before the school year to get our fast pants going. For anyone who hasn't been in Indiana, where I am from originally, in July and August the humidity can be somewhat of a bear. It is at times similar to being trapped in a small laundry room with the dryer vent unattached from the wall with the dryer running. Any who, so I go to all of the practices and am really diggin' on running. After being only a swimmer for six years, it was exciting to have a new passion. School starts and it's time for our first meet, which was an invitational that four schools were invited to including ours. I'm stoked, the race begins and I'm out on the course noticing that I am quite alone, but I'm no concerns. My mom comes to see me at my first race and happens to get there late. So, there are runners already coming into the finish. She is looking and looking for me, but to no avail. People are milling about and actually kind of spreading away from the finish line as if things are done and the announcer comes over the the amp saying "Attention everyone, if you could please stay where you are we still have one more runner on the course." My mom thinks, no way I've just missed her. As I come running up the the final hill it's like something out of the movie Rocky people cheering and clapping on both sides, you'd think I'd just run some major race. Then the announcer comes on the amp again and says "You can do it, great job! Keep it up!" I finished and was damn proud, even though I was by far the slowest runner out there. One of my friends that ran the race as well obtained the nickname "Chuck" that race and you can imagine why. SO, I was just stoked to not have been made fun of in a name. I came in last place in numerous other races at the beginning of that season, but nothing quite that spectacular. Something strange began to happen as the season progressed and I wasn't coming in last anymore. This photo was taken at regionals where I totally cruised by multiple folks and kicked some ace and took some names. At the end of that season, we had a dinner with the team to celebrate and the coach presented books of clippings, ribbons, etc. to each of us. When he called my name, he chuckled and said that he had to admit that he swore up and down that I would quit after three days of practice, but I perservered and there I was at the end of season banquet. I am still a slow runner and have come to terms with the fact that I probably always will be, but the fact is I LOVE to run and I am thankful each day that I have these big legs to carry me through each dirt road and trail that I find. It is my therapy, sun-soaking, contemplation and getting the rage out time. I just can't imagine what a state I would be in if I never would have started running!?! So, here's to all of the runner's out there slow or fast it's how much your heart is into it!

These other photos are just of a beautiful sunset and a frosty tree because I don't have a good running photo for today.

Peace

The town in which I live...

Sooo, these ads are from our little local paper and we get our papers on Thursday of each week. So, as last week was April Fool's Day on Thursday, these were are few installments from the annual April Fool's Day paper, which I thought were just a crack up. Shamus and I were talking though and laughing about what if The New York Times or Boston Globe had an installment such as this. The first 4-5 pages of the paper are all fake articles and ads, but if you

were an out of towner picking up the paper you might think that we are all freaks in Crested Butte, which might be the case on any other day for other reasons.
A friend said that he used to live in Apsen and they do this there as well and had a "faux" article a couple of years ago that told everyone that there would be free parking for the day and everyone got parking tickets....HA!

So, any who I thought this would give some insight as to the small town in which I live. Crested Butte is an 1880's historic mining town and is located about 230 miles Southwest of Denver with a year-round population of 1700 people. We are a ski resort town so we get a large influx of people from Thanksgiving until last weekend and then from Memorial Day until Labor Day. Crested Butte is also the "official" Wildflower capitol of Colorado, gorgeous photos to come in July and August. Any who, for your geography lesson of the day... I often laugh because I am from a very small town and couldn't wait to get away from the small town-ness and now here I am living in an even smaller one! Oh how I've come full circle with an appreciation for walking to do my mid-day errands, smiling and exchanging with familiar faces, riding my bike or walking to work, April Fools day silly papers and the other joys of a small town.

So, I know that I've said that I'm a trail runner and love it, but recently the weather has been true spring crapness (i.e. snow, wind, mud, ice, etc.) and someday I will write about an adventure on the road...sorry none as of yet though!

Peace