Nellie's new form of transportation. . .

This past weekend Pete and I went to Birch Bay to visit family, friends, and celebrate our 4 year anniversary. It was a great weekend and one of the high points was riding around Birch Bay on our beach cruisers with my parents. Nellie especially enjoyed the ride with the wind in her fur as she took in the view! The best part was that neither my mom or I would dare ride the bike with Nellie because it was tipsy, so Pete and my dad had to take turns riding her around! She loved it! What an experience for her-it won't be the last time.

Real athletes RUN-others just play games

10 K Rum Run
The three of us after finishing the Helvetia Half-Marathon
Taylor and I crossing the finish line of the half-hand in hand!

Webster's dictionary defines the word Run as: an act of going quickly on foot. Yes I have to agree with that, but running is so much more to me. I never have thought of myself as a runner. I love to exercise, I always have, but I usually stick to the eliptical, power walking, or classes at the gym.

Back in 2008, Pete and I challenged each other to a half marathon. We trained and ran the Laguna Hills half marathon in California. It was fun because we did it together, but I did not truly enjoy the running and it didn't stick after the marathon was over. This spring my friend Maria from school has been a running machine. She inspired me and our other friend Taylor. The three of us have been running since April (some more the others) with the goal of running the Helvetia half marathon on June 12th. Well I'm proud to say we all finished it this past saturday. It was pretty intense (I had a stomach bug) and quite hilly, but we did it! They were awesome running buddies and I could not have done it without them.

This time all the running has felt different-some how running has transformed into something I crave and admire. To me running is an outlet-a way to relax after a long day, a way to challenge and push oneself. By no means is it easy for me and every time I approach a big hill I despise running altogether. The point is I see the beauty in it and I see why it is so contagious. With running there is no boundaries or limits-you can around the block or you can run until your lungs hurt. I love the variety, diversity, scenic views, the sweat, and the way it leaves you feeling when your done. I still do not consider myself a hardcore runner, but I see myself as someone who is embracing the art of running and reaping the benefits.

So what's next for my world of running? A life goal of mine is to run a half or a full marathon with my dad. Now he is a true runner at heart. So we are looking into some races this fall. I'm thinking we better do one soon before my steam runs out. :)

Health Tips: CPR

Last week I took an awesome certification class at the local community college called Advanced Cardiac Life Support (ACLS). Along with it I renewed my Basic Life Support (BLS) CPR and AED. These classes included the very most important elements when facing an emergency. I think it is very crucial that everyone know some of these basic steps as anyone could be the first to walk upon an unconscious person in the grocery store etc or experience a child/infant choking. It is important to be prepared and know your ABC's (airway,breathing, circulation) until more advanced help comes along.

*Below is a video link to some teaching videos and a link to the American Heart Association's website that will go over the basics.

http://www.ehow.com/video_4400301_current-cpr-guidelines.html

http://www.americanheart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifier=4479

Flicks!

As I update my netflix queue, I wanted to share a few cute/good movies that I saw last week that are worth seeing for a few laughs, romantic moments, and an adventure rush. . .

1.) Leap Year (beautiful footage of Ireland)

2.) Did you Hear About the Morgans?

3.) Love Happens (filmed totally in Seattle)

4.) and of course. . . Robin Hood (in the theatre)

The first two are a bit cheesy, but are perfect for a night when you need to do something brainless! So grab some popcorn and enjoy! ;)

ps: We are hoping to see Prince of Persia this weekend. Any reviews?