Ain't No Moutain High Enough!

In only 20 days Tayler and I will be running 13.1 in Austin at the Livestrong Marathon.  Looking at the course details we got a little scared because over the half the race is UPHILL.  We live on the South Plains.  Plains = flat.  So, we decided to go out to the canyon and run "hills". We haven't visited the canyon since this summer.  I have to say the "hills" kicked my booty, my thighs, my hams, my everything.  I can only pray that the hills in Austin aren't as steep!

HILL #1 - climbing out of the canyon - Mile #1

HILL #2 - Going back into the canyon and climbing BACK out Miles 3-4

Top of Hill #2 staring at the LAST ONE - Hill #3 somewhere around mile 5ish

I wasn't smart like Tayler.  She took a GU before attempting the last hill.  It sucked the life out of me.  My pace slowed to almost a 12 minute mile.  I thought it would never end.  I think I could have walked it faster.

This is the view from the top of HILL #1.  Going back DOWN into the canyon.  There are some beautiful houses.  It is very pretty in the summer time. 

This crazy looking house was designed by some famous sculptor.  It is made totally of steel. 

The majority of the running was on a Farm to Market road with no shoulder.  I found out that trail running isn't for me.  This is what we ran on to keep from being flattened by a truck.  A little over 8 miles later we made it back to the car.  My final pace was 9:50.  My goal is to stay under 10 for Austin.  It wasn't pretty, but I know I can do better. 

I won't be running outside for the next few days.  A winter storm is blowing in as I type and watch the Bachelor.  My husband is suppose to be studying but instead he enjoys making fun of the crying girls.

On a different note, my parents got back from their trip to Vegas.  Remember the trip my mom won and chose to take my dad over me?  Well, I didn't follow Nellie's advice and take back her Christmas presents because I was afraid I wouldn't get that cool North Face stuff and my Canon Rebel.  They had a great time and since my dad is such a high roller, they brought back a little moolah to share with me.  Sometimes it is just great being an only child. 

Snow day tomorrow?  Should I tell my hubby about the cash or shower myself with presents at the outlet malls in 20 days?  Just kidding.  I will share.  A little. 

I ran with my Spi belt and carried my camera.  It didn't bother me.  I forgot about it within the first mile. 

What do you carry when you run? 

Lazy Beautiful Saturday

Yesterday after school my third graders had to sell sno cones as part of their economics project.  Silly me wore a white shirt under my staff tshirt.  It is now polka dotted with coconut and strawberry syrup!  The kids really worked hard.  We sold almost 100 sno cones.  I am so proud of them.  My fabulous team members helped me the clean the MESS! 

Then we went to meet our friends at Logan's to celebrate Todd's pinning.  He is now an official EMPLOYED firefighter with LFD.  I had to miss his pinning, but that is good thing because I probably would have cried and embarrassed us all.  Todd was a bit hungry and decided to order this

20 ounce ribeye with fries and mac n cheese.  I am sure he had already consumed about 6 ounces before I could snap the picture.  The rest of us ordered "small steaks".  After watching him tear up that steak, I want to enter him into a food eating competition  It was a great dinner with good friends.




  Like my blogging, my running has been nonexistent this week.  On Tuesday, Tayler and I did hill repeats.  The weather is beautiful today and I needed to get some miles logged.   My kiddos wanted to go ride their bikes, so we loaded up and went to the park so I could run hills while kids road their bikes. 


The prairie dogs were running scared!


I know I should be cleaning or grading papers, but I think I might take nap, read my RW magazine, or go shopping. 
Enjoy your Saturday!



2011 Race Schedule

 2011 RACE SCHEDULE

 

February 20th

Tayler and I are hoping to stalk spot Matthew McConauhey, shirtless if we are really lucky.  After all, he loves Austin and is a friend of Lance.  I am sure he will be there! 

March 26

Midland, Texas

This race is only 2 hours from home and we get to stay with Beth's mom for FREE.  I get to eat at one of my favorite restaurants.  SWEET!

April 10

Dallas, Texas

Originally, we thought we might try to run the full, but now the plan is to run the half.  It is suppose to be a really pretty course.  I think the family is going to join me for this race!

Drum roll, please

May 1 - Oklahoma City

The BIG one.  Maybe.  Hopefully.  I haven't registered.  Am I Crazy Enough?

That is as far as I've gotten.  I thinking about this one. 

I run for chocolate and champagne.  I LOVE this slogan!  I want to run the race just to get the shirt, the champagne glass full of chocolate and the free champagne and chocolate at the expo. Did I mention champagne?  

Do you have any races on your bucket list?

I am thinking that I will run the RnR Mardi Gras or the Disney Princess next year.  I would love to run the Nike Women's Marathon (for the Tiffany necklace). Maybe a BIG race like NYC or Chicago?



Catch Your Magic Moment

Ran a little over SIX miles OUTSIDE in SHORTS

Average Pace: 9:07

I've been running with my iPod on all my solo runs lately.  It is very unlikely that you have heard of most of the songs on my running playlist.  One of my favorites is Right Now by VanHalen.  Yes, I know it tells my age.  Tayler & Danielle would say it is a "generation thing".  They like to take shots at me because I'm a decade older than them.  I love them anyway.  I know they are just jealous of my ability to run on my treadmill in my red high heels!

Or maybe it is because of my perfect children. 

Could be that I'm the lucky girl who has been sharing a bed with this guy for the last 14 years

Back to the real reason for my post.  I really need to love a song so that I can get so wrapped up in singing along (in my head) that I forget I'm pounding pavement.  My goal before the Livestrong Half Marathon next month is to add about 10 songs to my playlist.  I have itunes giftcards burning a hole in my pocket!  Please leave a comment with your favorite "running" songs. 



Casa de la Zant 5K

Today I was suppose to run a 5K race.  I didn't even bother trying to find one in the area.  I'm glad because it is cool and WiNdY on the South Plains today. 

So, that left me with two choices: 
1. run extra tomorrow or
2. run a 5k on the tm at the casa

I chose choice number 2.  Mainly because I was a slacker and didn't run on Thursday morning and Thursday evening was not an option.  My niece and nephew were showing their animals in the county stock show.  Important family business! 

I ran 3.5 miles in 28:31. This is a new PR for me. 

I ran my first 5K in something like 36 minutes two years ago!  A six year old from a local elementary school beat me by 8 minutes!  The crazy thing about that race was that I was as proud of myself that day as I am today.  I hated running in high school.  I only did it because the coach made me if I wanted to play basketball.  It was a big accomplishment for me to run 3 miles at one time. 

Now, I am pumped that I ran three miles at a 8:08 pace and felt good  GREAT!  It must be those beta alanine pills.  Thanks Janae!  If you haven't already, go give Hungry Runner Girl a virtual hug and tell her I am certain the beta alanine are responsible for my new PR.  She is recovering from surgery and being forced to eat ice cream out of the carton. 

Did your Saturday plans include a race?

My virtual 5K on the treddy...now for the afternoon
My stubborn darling little girl is finally getting her swimming / sleepover party today at a local hotel.

Fashionista Friday Boots and Jeans!

I promised my loyal followers...all 10 of you that I would make up for missing my post last week.  I know you LOVE my fashion tips. 

Following these tips when wearing boots and jeans promises to make you slimmer in seconds!

Mid calf Boot + Dark Denim = TRIM THIGHS    Sign me up!
Light brown or gray boots with a hint of slouch with darker denim draws the eye downward away from thighs.  Stay away from dark bulky boots and skintight light wash jeans.

Booties + Tucked Jeans = ADDED HEIGHT    Now, I can't choose.  Slim thighs or height?  I need both!
Tucking faded denim into rugged booties of similar shade optically stretches the leg line from hip to toe.  No high heels required!  If you cuff jeans above short boots it "chops" of legs at the ankles and give the high water look.  YIKES!

Tall Boots + Dark Denim = EXTENDED LEGS
Dark, skinny leg jeans under black slim fitting boots forms an unbroken vertical line that optically stretches legs for miles. No chunky heeled boots or washed out denim. 

I know all of you are dashing out the door to buy some new skinny jeans and boots.  I love boots and jeans almost as much as I love my brooks and reefs. 

Do you have a pair of skinny jeans?  Where did you buy them?  
I have one pair from New York and Company that are "straight leg".  On me, that works for skinny.  I also have a pair of skinny jeans from Old Navy but I'm not crazy about the wash.  I need to go shopping!

Do you have a favorite pair of boots?
I have a love affair with all shoes, but especially boots in the colder months.  I have been wanting to buy a pair of those booties, but haven't gotten up the nerve to do so.  I love my tall black boots with the kitten heel and my chocolate brown slouch boots with heels.  My favorite "flat" boots are my black suede Steve Madden slouch boots and tan "riding" style boots.  I also flaunt my red and black corral boots when I want to be "COUNTRY". 

Happy Fashionista Friday!

Fashionista Friday - CHEAP Running Shirt

Last Saturday when I bought that one item basket full of stuff from Target, it included these shirts made by Champion. 

 

Target currently has them on sale for $7.49. You can check them out here: C9 by Champion  I'm not saying they are better than Nike drifit or even my addias running shirts BUT I bought THREE (green, purple, black) for the cost of ONE Nike shirt. 

My review:  lightweight, roomy ( I probably would be comfortable in a small)...I LOVE the length on me.  I can't stand short shirts!  I've only worn the black in 50 and 60 degree temps.  Not sure how the shirt would handle my sweat in the summer temps.  Overall good purchase.

According to Target's website:

Features

• Sizing and Fit: Women Sizing with a Semi-Fitted
• Material: 100 % Polyester
• Material Features: UV Protection, Duo Dry®
• Care and Cleaning: Machine Wash Cold, Tumble Dry Low
• Knit Type(s): Jersey
• Fabric Weight: Lightweight Fabric Construction
• Garment Length: Below Waist
• Neckline Style: V-Neck Neckline , Banded Collar
• Short Sleeve Sleeves
• Closure Style: Pullover Closure(s)

Treadmill Tuesday

Week 5 of 16 - Marathon Training Plan

The weather was beautiful today but my little guy is sick and so I had to run on the dreadmill.  The good news is that I don't dread it as much as I once did.  It is kinda like "speed work" for me.  I set the tm at 9:22 for the first mile (easy warm-up)  Then after that, I speed up every half  or quarter mile until I am running around 8:20.  I know that is turtle speed for most of you guys, but it is a big accomplishment for me.  I'm a former 11 minute mile girl.  This has been working pretty good for me since I only have to run 4 miles on Tuesdays. 

I get to stay home tomorrow with this sweet boy while my kiddos at school eat the sub alive.  Poor sub.  Jaxx is such a big boy now that they gave him pills instead of liquid antibiotic.  I am sure he will feel up to kicking my booty in monopoly tomorrow.  I'm off to watch the Biggest Loser.  I find it very motivational.  I don't EVER want to be a contestant on that show!

Do you watch the Biggest Loser?

I usually don't watch it regularly.  Once every two weeks or so until the last few weeks. 

Last night, my hubby found a show called HEAVY.  Wow!  Have you noticed how obsese people have enablers in their lives?  Dream takers instead of dream makers.  I guess it is a little like being an addict, you can't get clean if you don't change the peeps you hang with.  I challenge you to be a DREAM MAKER!  That's why I love my BHC girls.  I wouldn't have started much less continue this journey of 1000 miles in 2011 without them!

Sunday Funday

Ran OUTSIDE in SHORTS today.  A balmy 55 degrees in West Texas.  Tomorrow's forecast:  70s.  SWEET.  Maybe Monday won't be a rest day after all.  No School.  Even SWEETER!

I even thought a time or two about stripping to my tank, but where would I put my shirt?  I was suppose to run 9 but turned it into 7.  Why? I was actually feeling pretty good, but I was short on time.  I stopped back by the house to get a drink and ended up wasting time talking to the hubby who was resting after his grueling 1.5 mile jog. I'm being mean.  He just stared crossfit and has been SORE.  I had to make these for my niece for her birthday...why do something weeks in advance when you can wait til hours before?

Bummed you can see the detailed stiching.  I should have taken a better picture!

I named my blog Bling on the Run partly because of my hobby side business.  I make jewelry and decorate jeans, camo pants, flip flops, hats, etc.   I have a business partner, but she moved away 2 years ago, and I haven't been very motivated to really work the business with her gone.  My plan is to scale back and just do custom orders and gifts for friends and family.  Next month will be my last month to have a "store front".  I chose not to renew my website at the end of the year.  I'm a little sad.  I just don't have time for work, children, the business and running.  Something had to give.  So, I will be having a "Going out of Business" sale next month.   I will be sure to post pictures of all the gorgeous merchandise!

Yesterday, I did manage to make it to Target.  I went for one item - the jeans I needed to decorate.  I came home with ONE basket FULL.  In my defense the lamp and shade is for my mom.   

After this shopping trip, I am officially back on the Dave Ramsey envelope plan! 

I'm gonna have to sell some jewelry to make up for this!

Time for Change

I haven't managed to post or read many blogs this week.  SICK, TIRED and STRESSED.  After spin on Tuesday, I didn't work out again until yesterday.  Ran 5 miles with the girls at a 9:30 pace.  My legs felt like cement and were still a little sore from spinning.  

My hubby is gone hunting.  My kids are about to leave with their uncle.  I have a gazillion things to do like go grocery shopping and CLEAN.  Instead, I'm reading a magazine.  It says that 46% of women want to start a new career.  I'm not a math teacher but I know that is almost half.  WOW.

I think my job is giving me an ulcer.  Time for Change?
  

TOP THREE REASONS

1.  Current gig is not fulfilling

2.  Doesn't make enough money

3.  Wants to try something different



When the students actually learn it is VERY fulfilling.  It is hard teaching to the current generation.  Who can compete with TV, Nintendo, Xbox, youtube?  I am struggling...how do I make the kids care? a desire to learn?  I feel like I'm living in the land of entitlement.  Instead of "What can you do for your country?"  It is "What can my country do for me?" 

Money?  Well, I would love more, but I won't complain.  9 months on, 3 months off.  Another career?  Maybe I can start fishing with SkinnyRunner?  I think she works more like 3 on, 9 off.  Maybe I don't need a new career, just a little change.  PhD?  So my friends can call me Dr. Zant?  Would teaching college be any different? 

Anyone teach in a "tough" school?  Do your students have a desire to learn?  



Peer Pressure - Sometimes it a Good Thing

This is week 3 of our Marathon Training program. Yes, I'm no SkinnyRunner.  I need a plan.  Today we were suppose to run 4 miles with 5 minutes of total uphill time.  Usually we go run at the park to get our hill work in, but it was SUPER DUPER FREEZING COLD today.  My alarm went off at 5:30 this morning and I entertained the idea of the dreadmill for about a second.  SNOOZE.  It was 9 degrees with a windchill of ZERO, so a big NO to the outdoors.  SNOOZE. 

After school tutoring...still cold...dragging my booty home to run on the dreadmill.  Ring, Ring.  Tayler wants me to join her for a spin class at the gym.  The last time I did spin was about a year before my son was born and he is almost 8.  YIKES!  Have I mentioned how much I dislike the treadmill?  Tayler and Spin Class vs. Treadmill.  I chose spin.  OUCH!

Tayler and I are both inexperienced spinners, and even though we raise our hands to let the instructor know, she totally bypasses us.  Oh Well, I hope we got everything set correctly.  It must have been our professional workout clothes.  In fact, after class, the instructor asked how long we had be taking spin.  Was our lack of experience that obvious or did we totally rock? 

Sometimes peer pressure is good.    My booty is sore.  My hip flexors are sore.  Tomorrow will be worse.  BUT, It was fun and it was a good workout.  I didn't have to run on the treadmill.  I still like Tayler.  Tomorrow, I might be cursing her!  Sorry, no pictures.  We were so nervous we forgot the camera in the car.  Next time, you will get to see my RED face and Tayler's man sweat as she calls it!

How do you feel about spinning?  I have several friends that love it.  It was a great change for me.  Sometimes, I get stuck on just running.

Stylish Blogger?, It's an honor just being nominated!

Angie at Kimbo's Breakfast just awarded me the stylish blogger award!  She was recently featured as a Cat Lady on Skinny Runner's blog.  Go check out her blog and great recipes.  I am new to blogging and I don't have many followers. Poor Me.  Maybe this will help!  Thanks Angie!

Here’s how it works…
There are 4 duties to perform to accept this award:
1.  Make a post + Link back to the person who awarded you this award.
2.  Share 7 things about yourself.
3.  Award recently discovered great bloggers
4.  Contact these bloggers and tell them they’ve won!

7 things about me

1.  I was raised as on only child although I have 1 step brother, 1 step sister, 1 half brother, 1 half sister
2.  I grew up in the country and went to a really small school.
3.  I love the lake and everything that goes with it!
4.  I do not like cold weather.
5.  I'm addicted to carbs.
6.  I love reading trashy romance novels - Nora Roberts fan
7.  I rarely watch TV unless I dvr something

**Stylish Blogs**

1.  Blonde Ponytail
2.  Diary of a Midlife cruiser (already nominated by a fellow blogger/friend)
3.  Just One More Mile (also already nominated...geez)
4.  Philadelphia Phitness Pharmacy
5.  See Savannah Marathon  (obviously I need to get a head start on Danielle next time!
6.  Run with Jill

Am I Crazy Enough?

I been feeling a bit under the weather for a week now.  I won't do anything crazy like go to the doctor.  Who has time for that?  Yesterday was the worst.  Today I was feeling better and decided that I better take advantage of the 60 degree day and head outside for a run.  I decided to break in my new BROOKS Ravennas today.  My hubby and I have been buying brooks for about 15 years now.  They are my favorite!  I got a deal on these because they are so last year!  Orange is not my favorite color, but I decided to incorporate orange to be FUN...see my Friday Fashionista post if you missed it. 



please ignore the my gorgeous tan

Tayler and Danielle were over achievers and ran a 5 mile race yesterday.(according to our plan, it was REST day)  They averaged something like a 8:40 pace.  SMOKIN' 

Danielle & Tayler

Anyway, I was even too sick to go cheer them on.  Later, they were sweet enough to take Maddie Grace to the Texas Tech basketball game. Maddox had won tickets at school, but since her parents obviously don't love her enough, she had to sweet talk Danielle, Tayler and Beth into taking her.  Did I mention that I have some of the best friends in the whole wide world?  Maddox is a very strong willed child and not the easiest to spend an afternoon with.  My husband is sure the girls will decided not to have children.  We are all teachers, so they probably have already decided that anyway!

BLAH, BLAH...back to the run.  My training plan said 8 miles.  I decided that I would take my iPod since I would be running solo.  I've been having this problem with mile 2 lately.  I think it is because I try to keep with those speedy little running buddies of mine and I use all my energy in mile 1.  I decided that I would NOT be looking at my garmin.  With the music, I wouldn't know when I hit a mile (except that I run the same route, so I kinda know anyway) cause I wouldn't hear the little beep.  I was determined not to hit a wall on mile 2. 

Mile 1:  8:53  feeling good lovin' my tunes
Mile 2:  9:04  (SWEET) I've been dropping to 9:45-10 lately
Mile 3:  9:30 now, my wall is at 3?
Mile 4:  9:18 better
Mile 5:  9:28 feeling a bit tired at this point
Mile 6:  8:35 my stomach was hurting and I wanted to get home...didn't make a full 6

I decided not to go back out and finish...I'm not dedicated enough to risk the embarrassment of an accident. 

Pretty bummed about my stomach, but pretty pumped at my 9:14 average pace.  It is a new PR for me.  I tried to take a picture of my eye sweat...it didn't show up and my hubby informed me that "It wasn't a good picture."  What??  Running over 5 miles in 47 minutes doesn't make me look like a beauty queen?  Who Knew?  Thanks honey.  The good thing about being married for over 13 years...he feels safe enough to be brutally honest or CrAzY enough to risk ???? 

Is your husband/boyfriend crazy enough to be honest with you about clothes, make-up, hair? 
Obviously, mine is.

So, am I cRaZy enough to set my sights on a marathon in April or May?  I think I will hold off on that decision until February. 

It gonna get cold on the South Plains this week, so my next run will probably be on the dreadmill.  Have a GREAT week!

Fashionista Friday Set the Tone

I picked up a Women's Health Magazine at Sam's Club the other day and I was pretty impressed with the quality of articles!  Since it is Fashionista Friday, I thought I would share with you what they had to say about color and how it affects our mood and the reactions in those around us. 

BLUE = Relaxation
Blue soothes the person wearing it and makes the people around them feel at ease.  Midnight blue hues are great for interviews and turquoise or light blue is a great choice when hosting a party.

RED = Romance
"Red is the sexpot at the rainbow's end."  Men are more attracted to women wearing read because it stimulates them; boosts arousal and makes them want to chase!  Red heads are a step ahead of the rest of us!  Speaking of red heads, go check out Danielle's blog.

PURPLE = Creativity
When you want to feel inspired, put on something purple!  It also said purple is a color that people either love or hate, so when you wear it, you are sending the message that you're a self-assured free thinker.  I LOVE purple!

BLACK = Authority
Wearing black  makes other people perceive you as powerful and competent.  "If you want to take the edge off, choose something with a bit of embellishment," suggests WH

ORANGE = Fun
Wear orange when you want to appear social, friendly, or approachable.  Orange really doesn't work with my complexion, but WH suggests trying a belt or shoes.

GREEN = Happiness
Green puts you and other around you in a good mood due to a connection with nature.  "It instantly brings about feelings of peace and contentment."

So, I've decided that since my new running shoes have ORANGE trim, running will be FUN.  I will continue wearing my BLACK compression sleeves so all will know I'm serious about running.  My PURPLE tempo running shorts will inspire me to run fast.  I've got to go shopping for something GREEN so I will be in a good mood when I run.  After my run, I will change into BLUE so I can relax or maybe RED if it was a really GOOD run!  Now, I know why my husband's favorite color is RED. 

Join the Fun!

Ran today:  6 miles in 56 minutes making my yearly total: 13! Only 987 to go!

Since one of my goals for 2011 is to run 1000 miles, I joined the challenge by Tall Mom on the Run today.  A great way to be accountable, get prizes and well, who doesn't want to be part of a club?  It's a bit different than the Mile High Club, but you can actually share pictures on your blog about it!  Membership is exclusive, so hurry and join!  Also, MapmyRun is having a 30 miles in 30 days challenge.  Another great chance to score!

FRONT



BACK



Speaking of clubs....The girls and I formed the BHC this summer.  Here are our cute shirts we had made for the San Antonio RnR this past November.  No, we don't know who Bill Kirby is, but we had to give him credit for such a great quote!

Snap back into reality...

Yesterday was my first "official" day back at work, but it was only a teacher work day.  Last night, I laid in bed having my pity party about having to go back to work.  If you didn't know, I'm a teacher.  Well, at least I get paid to attempt to try to beat some knowledge into the heads of little people to influence their lives in a positive way.  

As I watching the Bachelor, I realized how silly that show has become is and that it is not near as fun to watch without the girls, food and bottles glasses of wine.  If Brad would let me, I could narrow down his choices and save him a lot of time.  If you watched, you know that one has fangs, one is a Manscaper, the well the rest are just CRAZY.

Today, the kids came back in their new clothes and shoes and excited to brag to their friends about their Christmas.  It wasn't a bad day.  I've had much worse!  However, I got a power chain on my braces yesterday and my mouth really hurts, so I guess I will be forced to drink my supper.  Soup or Wine?  Both?

As soon as my kids were gone, I got rid of those uncomfortable grown up clothes and changed into my running gear.  Beth, Tayler and I headed to the park to tackle the hills.  We ran three miles of the "rolling hills" and then concentrated on one hill.  We ran up and walked down.  Four times?  I can feel the burn!  Buns of steel, here I come!...sometime that is....Tonight, STICK, here I come.  I will be rollin' with my STICK tonight. 

It's Running Tuesday in Skinny Runner land, so go BRAG about your first Tuesday run of 2011!  Only 992 more miles til I reach my goal for 2011!!!

Farewell Baron Batch aka Mr. Successful

I have been a Red Raider fan since I can remember.  My Grandfather went to Texas Tech when it was in the middle of a cotton field.  My uncle was a proud member of the Goin' Band from Raiderland.  I am graduate of Texas Tech University and reside in Lubbock, Texas.  I LOVE college football.  We have had season football tickets since we could no longer get in as students.  Every year I pick a player to be my favorite.  Some of my favorite Red Raiders include:  Zach Thomas, Dane Johnson, B.J. Symons, John Saldi and Wes Welker. This is the third year for Baron Batch to be my favorite.  No other player has had the honor of being my favorite for three years!  I have to be honest, I originally picked Baron simply because of his name and the fact he was from Midland.  We lived 2 years in Midland and I think Baron's momma did a great job picking out his name.  It is a name meant to be said over the PA system.  Destined for greatness.  Today was Baron's last day to suit up in the Red & Black and take the field as a Red Raider in the Ticket City Bowl in Dallas.  My hubby has accepted my love for Baron and gave me this as an early Christmas present.

Baron points to the man above whenever he scores.  We are having it framed and haven't decided if it is going next to our Masked Rider print in the family room or in the office.

My hubby also talked me into going to the Tech women's football clinic this summer.  I told him he would be in big trouble if I didn't get to meet Baron.  While standing in line to pick up my registration, I saw Baron walk in the athletic training facility.  Seeing him was not enough, neither was going through the drill he was "teaching".  I wanted to actually MEET him.  I mean you can only stalk a guy on his blog so many times!  So, when we met Baron walking down the ramp to the football field, we had to snap a picture.  I know teaching a women's football clinic was probably way down on Baron's list of favorite things to do, but you would have never known it.  Danielle and I were like silly school girls talking to him about how we read his blog...BLAh, BlaH, bLah....I guess we were STAR struck.  He said he would blog about us, but never did.....we probably would have gone into cardiac arrest if he did.  If I were 12 years younger and single, I guess he would think of me as a "jersey chaser".  I know Baron will never see this post, but if he did....Baron, I think you are an amazingly gifted, funny, generous guy with an incredible smile and butt...I mean physique.  The fact that you played football at my favorite school would only be icing on the cake. 

I could go on and on about Baron, but I think his I am Second Video does a great job of telling his story. 

One day you may see Baron playing football on Sunday, or on the travel channel, or see one of his photographs.  You will hear his name again, he will be successful.  After all, a name like Baron Batch is destined for GREATNESS! 

One of my favorite quotes from Baron's Blog: 

"But really, why not try and do everything that you love to do? Isn’t that way better than not even trying because you let the fear of failure consume you, and then ending up doing nothing?"

Say a quick prayer for Baron as he leaves tomorrow for Haiti with a group of people from Lubbock called Operation Hope.  Then go check out Baron's Blog!