Where has time flown?

Today I realized it is June 13th, Yes Friday the 13th! Now where has Sara been? I had to ask myself the same question. I have been running : ) Yes I finished the Cooper River Bridge Run and I bested my time by 1.56 minutes. I met some really nice folks and had a great time. I traveled with a good friend, who left me at the starting line. LOL....It was his first race and he was very excited!

He did it in under 1 hour, now mind you, one day I want to run a 10k under 1 hour, but I am going to need to practice more than just 3 months out of the year! We had a grand time in Charleston.

No, we did not get to see Uncle Charles and Aunt Carmen, our schedules could never get on track and when they were free...we were tired from the race. We did get a chance to attend a Cajun Festival on Jame's Island. The music was great...there was a really great band from New Orleans that rocked the place! We ate crawfish and had other goodies! It was an awesome festival!

How is the vegetarian lifestyle going? Out the damn window! Yep I said it! I tossed it. I was not losing any weight and found myself tired and lethargic at times. So I switched to a pescetarian lifestyle. What in the Sam Hill..you ask? (yes, I am starting to pick up some Carolina slang.)

Pescetarianism is a dietary choice, in which a person — known as a pescetarian — eats fish or other non-mammalian aquatic animals but will not eat terrestrial animals or marine mammals. Some animal products like eggs and dairy may be part of a pescetarian diet.

How is that working? Tossed that out of the window last week after a long visit with my mother's side of the family. I realized when I am by myself I am a very healthy eater! However, my family's influence, not to say its unhealthy, but its is full of delicious roasted meats and gosh...just thinking about it ...well man! How can you turn down your favorite childhood dishes?

Just mention the name Aunt Aida...a great aunt who used to be a caterer and my stomach growls with delight! At 84, she still wields a mighty sword (JJ Henckel knives) and a oven as a shield. Coupled with my Aunt Pat on the grill (any chicken within a mile should run! All fish should swim as far away as possible!) and my Uncle Preston is quite the story teller, and tells some great jokes. As the official bartender, you begin to realize that after 1 drink you will be staying in their home for quite awhile. No ifs, buts or what! Now he does make a mean Pineapple and Tequila drink. I am not sure of the recipe but it was great!

As soon as we turn into the gates of their palatial home, (small by their standards but 4,500 sq feet with a view of 11th hole of a prestigious golf course), my heart melts, my stomach sighs and I feel like a 6 year old ready to kick my feet under the table with delight. I love to sit in the lanai after a meal and watch the golfers play a round of golf. I also love to enjoy a great cup of her coffee and to delightfully await her magical desserts. I am on a gastronomic high...that only my elders and a few 5 star chefs can give me.

So I realized that eating meat and the preparation of each meal is part of my culture, it's my heritage. I want to pass those traditions off to our next generation. I want my nieces and nephews to come to my house with the same anticipation of a good meal that will beckon them back again and again.

So I will just eat healthier to offset any unhealthy meals...I will indulge in my love for food...I am a FOOODIE...no ifs butts or whats..it is who I am!

So, after my last rant about Silliary. I have to apologize to everyone, I was so sick and tired of being sick and tired of HRC and her campaign antics. In the end I just felt sorry for her. She ran the course, but like a overzealous runner, she ran an extra lap after she knew she had passed the finish line, long after the winner had been announced. Then she had to audacity to want to throw a temper tantrum, to rant that she had really won because she had run the extra lap. The saddest part was when she mentioned that she would be open to becoming the vice president. I was like WTF? Not unless, Obama had 365 food tasters, an army of body guards and the Pope on speed dial would that happen!

I thought I would never blog about my political leanings, but I not am sorry for using this forum to air my feelings. One day I will look back at the Clinton's and be thankful for Bill's time in the White House and HRC time in the Senate. I just need some time without them both in the media to forget the ugliness and to reflect on the good times. As for McCain, well...as an independent, he is going to have to really wow me. Right now I like Obama and I want to work to help make a change. Words are powerful especially when they motivate and encourage.

I went to see Obama, HRC and McCain....I was only impressed once and embarrassed by the others. HRC had a pep rally with 15 speakers and 4 bands, its a small wonder why her campaign was over 21 million in debt. McCain had me wishing the food was better and I was so glad I did not pay for the event, over $200! PLEASE! (It was too much money for a dry *ss speech, coupled with under seasoned and over cooked chicken! They needed to put a coffee carafe right near me! Boring!) But I am glad I got to see all three candidates, it helped with my decision.

This past May 6th I was proud to work at the voting polls, more so than any other time in my voting life time. I saw so many people come out who had never voted or had lost hope and quit the process. All races...they all seem to want a change.

Will Obama succeed? I am optimistic and taking 1 day at a time. I love to hear my Great Aunt talk about the possibilities of the future and how she never thought she would live to see the day. Uncle Preston (a staunch Republican) is watching Obama....he is not sure if he is going to vote for him. But at least he is watching and listening! To that I must say...Wow....Wow!

Tomorrow morning...I am off to do a long 3 mile walk thru the new green way. I will take pictures and tell you all about it.

April 5th is the Copper River Bridge Run

The race is next weekend and I am so ready. I have been preparing myself and getting amped about it.

What have I been up to? Went to see Obama at a rally here in Charlotte. I am really into the political process with him in the race. He is engaging and he garners such a diverse crowd at his events. It seems that many people of tired of the past administration and the scandal prone Clinton's.

Initially I was excited about Hillary's run, now I am so weary of her campaign's dogged and tired approach. So much venom and veiled hate has been spread by her....that I am ashamed as a woman to even think of aligning myself with her. At this point if she wins, she should not count my vote (I am a independent). I would rather vote for the moderate McCain (he did refer to himself as the liberal republican, it was a mistake..but an honest one!) than have another Clinton in the White House who will have scandal on top of scandal. Hillary needs to learn how to compromise and to work with the people. Her tone and sense of entitlement has become overbearing...and rather desperate. She says she is prepared for day 1 of the presidency, however she seems unprepared for the remaining days and is not ready for the bipartisan relationship building and compromises she will have to make. These are just my opinions....and it is my vote!

I spent Easter with family...had a great time! Got to see my beloved ocean! I love the ocean and realize I need to see and feel it at least 4 times a year.

As you may notice I am sporting my hair in its natural state. I have mixed feeling about it. At first it was too big and I was very self conscience about it. But after a little gel and some confidence....(yes a gay man yelled "You go gurrlll!")

My confidence is better.

Tell me what you think....:)

March Madness Begins

I have been busy with life.....I have a small injury that reduced my running to a fast brisk walk. But I am not giving up! I am still training and met some wonderful people who are going to do the Cooper River Bridge Run. John Lineberger is a jewel in the Queen City's tiara! He founded and still actively coordinates the running programs from 3 different area YMCAs! He is very personable! The program encourages everyone and is well received!

I am so ready for the race. I do have a trip scheduled the weekend of my longest practice run. But I plan on doing that along the beach! So I will be simulating the water portion of the run : ) 6 miles along a beautiful beach! Now that is life!

On Saturday I ran into Candy from last years run and she is going to run again this year. She and her daughter (I always thought her daughter was about 4 years old, but no she is 14!) will be doing it together this year. Wow!

I love Charleston! I cannot wait for the weather, the people and the sights!

January and it is time to get ready to RUMBLE......

A New Year Full of Potential

Yes...it is time to get ready to train for the Cooper River Bridge Run. I am heading out tonight to get new running shoes. I am going to have my gait evaluated at Run For Your Life. I did this last year and had a successful run with the pair they suggested. Yes, I also retired the old pair...they served me well. Now it is time for a new pair. I will use the old pair for treadmill training and trail runs.

This year I am running with a friend. Shelly is a phenomenal person! She has the spirit and energy that is so motivating. What I love about her is she started RYPE. What is RYPE? It is a organization that helps African American women realize their true potential. Shelly truly has a genuine spirit and is a great motivator.

So a group of RYPE women will meet on Saturday to have our first practice session. Wish us luck and stop by to see our progress as we train for this 10k.

Get motivated.
Remember Time Waits For No Man... So Get Up And Get Moving.

Top Chef

I met Ilan Hall (the winner of the 2nd season of Top Chef) at a wine festival in the early fall. He was smart, funny and very charismatic. For our short conversation we discussed what he has been up to since the show and I professed my obsession with being a vegetarian, running and Top Chef! I asked questions about Cliff, whom I think would have gone a lot further if not for the little wrestling incident with Marcel that got him eliminated from the contest. Such a silly thing to do at such a crucial time..but we all make mistakes!

I told Ilan how I thought Cliff was sexy and he replied "what about me"? I had to tell him my age, yes I graduated from high school a year after he was born. Not a good look, or so I thought..he laughed and gave me a wink. We took a shot together and I wished him success!

My friend Kenya a fellow wine lover and I ventured to the wine festival with no real expectations. We were surprised by the quality of wines from NC. Not bad...Not bad. She gets to do a lot of traveling with her job. We discussed wines from around the world and she mentioned Ethiopian honey wine. How could I forget that delicious nectar. She found a distributor that will ship! I am going to order some for the holidays.

Vegetarianism is not as hard as I once thought. It has become a way of life for me. I find myself eating delicious vegetables and recently I had oysters for dinner....yep, oysters have me craving for more the way bacon used to. The difference is after about 6 oysters...I am done. At a company brunch there was bacon on the buffet and the smell was a bit nauseating. It smelled salty and the fat on it looked a bit rancid. I was like "oh my... I never met a piece of bacon I did not like...and here I am getting sick just smelling a platter full." It was funny! I wonder will meat have the same effect one day?

The run club started last Saturday and I was excited to get out there for the first 1.5 mile. I can't wait for the 2008 Cooper River Run and I plan on continuing on and finding 10ks around the country to continue my running. My next goal this week 2 miles with a great time!

Summer flew by...Oh My!

Oh my...where has my summer gone? I did have a great one, only one little inconvenience, but hey I learned a valuable lesson. What lesson did I learn? Not to sound cavalier...but I learned that some individuals are not worth a breath of air. I consider myself a good judge of character, so no longer will I question my intuition. Some people are best left to their own demise.

As for my summer it has been filled with visits from my brothers, yes Mike, Rhonda and my nephews came to town. I was happy! Lindsey also was in Wake Forest checking out housing. Visited Savannah, Charleston, Atlanta, home and I made several trips to the beach, my favorite's - Hilton Head and the Isle of Palm and went out on boats a few times with friends at Lake Wylie and once at Lake Norman (with the job). I love water...I forgot how much I love it. I do prefer the ocean to a lake, but living in Charlotte has made me appreciative of lakes.

All in all, it was a blessed summer with family visits, a great trip to Greece, visiting friends and I did get to spend some time with Ilana (aka Lulu) and Shantell (see their photos below.)

Of course Lulu and I played princess, we went shopping and we had a ball, we also visited Branson, MO and I love St. Louis! My visit to them made me realize that I could live anywhere! I am considering purchasing a home there and spending a few years in the mid west. I kind of miss experiencing the four seasons. I miss a true fall and winter.

As for the Vegetarian route...I am still on it. However, I acquired a cold that turned into a bronchial infection. So for the past 4 weeks I have been coughing, but it is subsiding. I took time off from running, well I still am using the treadmill. I am excited for the Galloway program to start up again. I had a blast last year and cannot wait. My food choices are much more healthier now that I have changed my eating habits. Here is my favorite website to find great dishes, check out http://www.epicurious.com to find great vegetarian recipes.

Also met some cool dudes from a local band called Audioform. Checkout their myspace site to hear their sound. http://www.myspace.com/audioform . I met Keith's family - Love them! His wife, son and daughter are so supportive..and the rest of the band seemed to have great support from their loved ones. Antonio has great networking skills and is great at making everyone feel like they are part of it. I loved Cool Ass Tony's demeanor, while we did the set up for the event, he played a CD he made earlier. Gosh it was such a comfort to hear songs I loved as a teenager, songs from every genre. I love how cool Tony is ....what a great personality. If he did not tell me he was a musician I would have guessed it. He exudes coolness. As a band they understand how to share their love of music. As I met the remaining band members I was impressed...the trombone player and the bassist, never caught their names, but loved their style. The drummer Audio is exciting to watch as well as listen. This band is on its way...

Also Keith and Tonio of Audioform asked me to help emcee the a festival of short films. You know how I love to volunteer and stay busy. It was awesome! http://www.15filmfest.com/ Where 20 short films and 3 bands were intertwined! It was simply amazing! A great night! Even my friend Vurnel came out..I appreciated the support, especially since it was not his kind of scene or so he said. But he liked the shorts and the bands. I am glad he got out of his comfort zone for a few hours. I left when Idle Hands were playing their last set. But did want to mention them...this trio packed a wow factor! I am going to seek them out and see a show soon!

Charlotte has a thriving underground culture scene..that reminds me of my years in DC and NY.

My Summer Vacation - OPA!

Athens, Greece....this has to be one of the loveliest places to visit. Now add a overnight on Mykonos and Santorini as well, and you have the perfect vacation.

I did a ton of walking, rented a scooter, did a lot of sightseeing and enjoyed the delightful Greek cuisine. I love the history and the way Greeks have honored their history. Amazing country and a lovely place to visit. I wished I had a companion to share the sights with, however my family all had their own summer plans...oh well! I do love traveling with or without a companion. I just met a few folks and became instant buddies. Good thing I can talk to anyone! I did get a great opportunity to relax at my pace, something that should never be underestimated.

So the big question is did I honor my new vegetarian lifestyle? No, I had lamb...sorry, but I was so tempted. I did however, eat very healthy and enjoyed the food, culture, sights and the people.

I am now back (bummer) and on track with my new lifestyle. While traveling I met a young man who told me to read a book about flextarians (sp?). Supposedly the book is about how to bridge the world of vegetarianism and enjoy a modest carnivore lifestyle (meat in moderation? who knows!). I am having a hard time finding the book. But I know I will eventually find it.

My best meal there? I cannot decide....even their yogurt is different and delightful. Lamb never was this tender or savory! Never! I was blown away. Even the seafood tasted as if it was just caught minutes before my meals. Every single meal was freshly prepared and so delightful.... I must go back! I had a blast! OPA!

Enjoy the sights as I did....

Half Marathon Drop Out?

Well...I cannot get past 7 miles. No matter how much training I do, my body, particularly my right hip is resisting every effort to get past 7 miles. Am I destined to be a 10k runner for eternity? Did I rush into long distance running? Not allowing my muscles and body to get acclimated to the thunderous pounding of the pavement?

These are questions I have asked myself for the past 3 weeks. My body gave out the weekend I decided to go to Hilton Head. I thought the change of scenery would be helpful and decided that weekend I would run 7.5 miles on Hilton Head Island. I started out great....my time was excellent. 5 mile in to it I got my rhythm down seamlessly then at the 6th mile, my hip started throbbing. I walked another half of mile and then decided to stop. I ended the remainder of my day laying on the beach and swimming so my hip and leg would not stiffen up.

The next weekend I had to take the Girl Scout Troop to Isle of Palm for their end of the year event. The girls and I had a great weekend. I was a bit sad, because I decided a few weeks back not to return as their leader and I had to tell them. They took it in stride as all teenagers do. I think my time spent with them made me realize that I had some unfinished goals that I needed to focus on. I did not run, but I tried to run that following Monday....same issue but worse. But I was not deterred, nor was a sad. I decided to just start over. I would not continue doing the half marathon program. I decided to focus on my diet and just start running from scratch doing the basic training for a 10k all over again.

As I have been running my basic training session, I had been contemplating changing my diet completely. My friend Nicole has been a raw foodist for about 2 years now and has been touting the benefits of eating raw. I can say she did lose an amazing amount of weight and just glows with positivity. Her old insecurities and other issues seem to have dissipated with her new diet. About 1 years ago I drove to Atlanta to her graduation from the Living Food Institute. I had not seen her in a year, after her move to Memphis and my move to Charlotte, our schedules were hectic, I was travelling and she was embarking on a new journey, changing her life style and was very excited about introducing me to program. I was my usual skeptical self on the drive down, I stayed with my Aunt Pat and jokingly told my Aunt and Uncle I could never give up meat! Before I headed over to see my good friend, I had a great rib dinner with my Aunt and Uncle.

When I saw Nicole I was floored, she was half the woman she used to be! She went from a 12-14 to a size 4-6! I was amazed. She was attending the Living Food Institute to learn how to continue the path of being a raw foodist in a healthier way. I must admit I was ready to sign up right then and there. Just based on her weight loss.... At the graduation we ate delectable dishes that were all organic vegetable and not cooked! I had a lasagna dish that I still crave!
So I brought some books, signed up for the email list for the Institutes emails and really contemplated doing this. Some how it got off my mind...and I was back on meat and my bad eating habits. When I started the 10k program, I started eating only vegetables, fish, poultry and some dairy. I did well..but I realized that food..well some food in particular hampered my running. So I tried cutting out more things, but as a confirmed foodie...it been hard.

Food has been my comfort for years...when I travel by myself, I pick restaurants as my travel gauge. Hell, I spent a few days in San Francisco and my whole trip was nothing but eating at restaurants and walking. I look at those photos and laugh...because I realized I am truly a foodie. I planned my activities based on what restaurants were near the museum, or attraction. Who does this? Foodies do it! I did this!

I want to live a long prosperous life and I am sorry...the beef industry, hot dog industry and a host of other unhealthy food industries may sue me...But eating certain foods make me sluggish and slothful. So I have to make a change. For me! So on June 22 I went to a raw food seminar given by Matt Monarch. While I was enlightened to the raw food movement for the second time in my life. I realized that either I had to quit cold turkey (excuse the pun!) to truly become a raw foodist or if I was going to work towards that, I would have to stay on the path to vegetarianism with more dedication and I needed to be more aware of my diet and not supplement my lack of pork, beef with more chicken.

So I have been chicken free for 2 weeks. It has been hard...really hard. I also started the first steps to a raw food diet, 1 day a week I eat only raw vegetables foods. Today I had about a 2 tablespoons of rice after not eating rice for a few weeks and I felt the difference. Now I need to educate myself on how certain foods work and react. Then I need to identify which ones do not work with my metabolism and eradicate them from my diet.

Next week I embark on my first trip as a ex foodie! I do realize I will have challenges, but I am going to do my best to stay on the path I have set. Stay tuned for my adventures....

Training for a Half Marathon and Turning 42!

I am now training for a Half Marathon...yes I said it! I am not sure I will be able to do a Half Marathon, but my goal is to get past 6.2 miles and to be at 8 - 10 miles.

I have not blogged because my youngest brother (God forbid if I say "little") and his wife came to town... 2x times in a month. Mike is a die hard NYer, but he does manage to visit me wherever I live. He always leaves me with those famous last words..."It's nice here but it is not NY."

The first trip, we had our normal big sister and little...oops younger brother argument. It was frustrating at that moment, but the next day we laughed. I guess in my heart he will always be the adventurous 5 year old I had to tote to all my after school events. No wonder he can cook, sew, play a mean game of volleyball and is great at basketball...he owes it all to me. We spent his 38th birthday with Rhonda (his wife, orange shirt), Cheryl (Rhonda's sister in the grey) and Shante (niece) at a Japanese Steakhouse that had great sushi too!

Their second visit was a blast! Mike and Rhonda were here for a week. I lent them the keys to the PT Cruiser, they really explored Charlotte. Checking out areas I have never been too such as Monroe, going to the suggested shopping spots in Pineville and Matthews; and loving the quaintness of Mint Hill and the surrounding areas. I also managed to show them a new development I love and hoped they would too. YES! They loved the house and the development too...! When Mike and Rhonda were at the airport ready to go home, Mike turned to me and stated "I really like Charlotte!"

That my friends is a major accomplishment!

On Mothers Day I turned 42. I was supposed to drive to the beach. However, I ended up staying put because the forecast called for rain. I had a great weekend, hanging out with friends, shopping, visiting some restaurants and just relaxing! I am getting used to Charlotte, the running and volunteering opportunities have allowed me to meet some great folks and find some interesting places to go.

Going forward.....My new adventure will be finding organic foods and healthy to enhance my eating experience. I have challenged myself to try my best to eat 90% organic food or if I cannot find organic, I must eat vegetarian dishes. So far I found a market I was very impressed with and then I met Beverly during a run. Beverly is a gift from GOD. Why? Stay tuned for the next update about Beverly and the wonderful market to find out why.

Ciao

Southpark 10k

Southpark 10k was great! Not as impressive as Cooper River 10K Run, but it was a nice run, with about 2,000 runners. This pales in comparison to the 45,000 runners Charleston gets for a one day run, but hey, Southpark was still nice.

I Ran the Cooper River Bridge 10K Run!

I did it!

I ran the Cooper River Bridge Run!

I did it! Amazingly I am not tired.....It's Sunday, one day after the race. I ran a 10k, my first and this will not be my last! Let me recap my weekend:

Friday, I took off from work to drive down to Charleston. I got up early and went to drop off some stuff and to run last minute errands. I was so excited I even helped CAM stuff envelopes....LOL! I then went home to pack and to pay some bills before I headed off to Charleston. By 1 pm I was on the road...singing my favorite CD Cree Summers almost all the way. 3.5 hours later I was in Charleston...picking up my race packet. I kept looking at my cell phone to see if Nancy or Beth would call me...but they did not. I wondered if Beth would make it...she was doing this race and pregnant. But I decided to not to worry and to stay focused on me. Because in the end...its all about me!

The auditorium where I had to pick up my race packet was a litany of information about racing and running. I could have purchased anything I wanted, new sneakers, new gear, those addictive jelly beans (I loved them) and even a spa! Trust me I was perplexed about why they had a spa....but then again....I know they made some serious sales. This race program was well thought out and planned. They had a list of things to do, places to go and see when you were not running. I decided to walk around and map out a walking tour for the Girl Scout's trip in June. I ended up walking about 1.5 miles. Then I decided to go check into my hotel.

The drive to Mt. Pleasant was short, but my lack of attention to detail, maybe the hunger factor or the lack of map (I left it at home) made me miss the hotel 2 times. I ended up driving back over the Cooper River Bridge to get my bearing again. I remember John (running trainer) stating the hotel was near a Whole Foods. So I decided to get some food and to ask for directions. Fortunately, Whole Foods has the best and healthiest selection of delectable dishes. I forgot I was lost and began choosing my dinner, nothing too heavy. Just a little pasta, small salad and a protein drink with a lot of water. I then asked for directions, one man, was kind and tried his best to help me, but he was stumped as well. However, he pointed me in the right direction.

I finally got to the hotel and checked in. I got cozy and ate dinner in front of the TV....I may have gotten 5 hours of sleep because of my nerves. Tammy called me and woke me up to chat about men, I hope I gave her good advice. My mind was on running. I woke up at 5 am and made myself relax until 5:45 am. I then got up and ready. By 6 am I was in my gear putting my chip on my sneaker. I was hyped! I drove to the Harris Teeter and got safety pins, bananas and water. I ate my bananas and walked to the start of the race. Okay, note to self....the walk to the start was 1 mile away. It was good because I needed to stretch and get the nerves out.

As I walked I met 2 girls from the run group, they were carrying the sign for the Charlotte Runners group. While walking we noticed a striking Kenyan man running towards us working out his kinks, and we were told he was the winner last year. Wow.....I was impressed with his time. Can you imagine running 6.2 miles under 30 minutes? I just wanted to break my 1:45 minute time. When we reached the start line it was amazing....over 40,000 folks waiting to start the race. I was impressed! How they managed to organize us and to get that many folks to come out is awe inspiring. I guess over 30 years of working out the kinks helped, but I think it has more to do with the organizers and their commitment!

So after the officials made the traditional welcomes and comments, we noticed the helicopters, there were folks dressed as chicken costumes, bull costumes, or as bowling pins, you name it , folks found a costume! Some runners were there to have fun also. I had a great time chatting and talking to folks. Then it got quiet...the countdown began. At precisely 8 am the starting pistol sounded and we started to move, now mind you the first mile marker, it was not a real run...it was too packed. As we wound our way to the first mile, I was just happy to be here. Mile marker 1 and 2 sailed by.......

I most remember the 4% grade of the bridge....now I see why John had us work on hills...because that gradual incline could be the defining moment for most beginner runners. I took it in stride and I was in awe of the beauty of the bridge and took out my camera to get some pictures. The 3rd mile and 4th mile was good...then at the 5th mile it hit me...all that water..I needed a port a potty bad! So as we entered the East Bay neighborhood, I was looking for a port o' potty. I found the the Thunderbirds motorcycle club (a black bikers neighborhood bar) they graciously let me use their facility. I ran in and ran out (literally!) I had to make up that minute and a half. I loved the way folks lined the street giving us encouragement. Thanks to the cheering section at the last .2 miles. Your cheers helped most of us, more than you will ever know! I mean you see the finish line, your legs and body still are moving but it feels like they keep moving the finish line back. Or so it seems....

I ran my hardest to the finish and was told once I crossed to keep moving.
Gosh?
No champagne? No congratulatory kiss from Michael Jordan? Gosh... it was my first race in 24 years...I thought I would get something.

Okay....so I kept moving. I got my medal and I got water, bagels, oranges, bananas and apples more than I could carry.

I then headed to a bench and sat down....I was amazed I was not hurting...I was calm and so happy. You would have thought I won the race. I had a huge smile on my face. Me and about 21,000 other racers. We are all winners! I sat and listened to a man from Memphis chat with his wife via his cell. He told her, he finished in 1 hour and 9 minutes, his best time! He thought he could have done better if he had ran on the outside at the beginning of the race. Good idea..I thought....I will definitely use that technique in the future. He got off the phone and asked me my time. I said I think 1 hour 45 mins....but I was not sure when I actually passed the start line. He reminded me that my race did not start at 8 am, it started when I crossed the start line and my chip time would be my official time. I was like YEAH!...so I may have a better time! Reminding myself....I may have beaten my 1:45 minute time.

After the race, I decided to head back to the hotel. The organizers had the shuttle buses take us back to the start of the race. What they neglected to tell us, was the start meant the tail end of the start where the last registered person started from. Not a problem except that I had to make another port o' potty stop and after the driver dropped us off 2 miles from my hotel, I panicked and stopped in the Mustard Seed restaurant to use their restrooms. I mean I could NOT even make it to the port o' potties 2 blocks away, let alone to my hotel a 2 mile walk. I was told only patrons for the restaurant could use their restrooms. I grabbed a menu and picked a lunch item. I then paid and proceeded to the restrooms. I asked if I could go to the hotel to change, then come back and eat. They graciously agreed. This was the best thing I could haved done....I happened upon a organic vegetarian restaurant and the food was delicious! I thought this day could not be more perfect! After a great morning and wonderful healthy lunch. I did some shopping and hit the Tanger Outlet! What a fantastic day!

Sunday: What was my official time?

I am proud to announce...I did beat my 1:45 time. My chip time is 01:39:59.....I did it!!

Bib

FName

LName

City

State

Age

Sex

ChipTime

ClockTime

Overall

SexPl

DivPl

AgeGrade

31833

SARAH-MARIE

MILLER

CHARLOTTE

NC

41

F

01:39:59

01:45:45

21051

10078

941

31.6%

Notes for the next race, I will start on the outside and no potty breaks!
The next race is April 14th!
Thanks for all who supported me in my effort!

10 Days To Go - Cooper River Bridge Run!

Last year, if someone would have told me that I would be running a 10k race ten days from now, I would have laughed! Now with 10 days to go, I am! I owe it all to John Lineberger, who runs Charlotte's Galloway Run/Walk program and the supportive women in my group!

Especially Beth and Nancy! And other the two ladies with the addictive jelly beans! w0w...i still crave those!

The program is great! The emails with suggestions are very helpful and the discounts are wonderful too! So cheer for me Saturday at 8 am as I start across the Cooper River Bridge in Charleston.

I am so excited! This is the best thing I have done in years! I plan on running with my camera to take shots of the race. Stay tuned!

I ran 5 miles!

I did it! I ran 5 miles on Saturday, not the required 4.5, I had the audacity to make it 5 miles. The trainer gave us the option of 5 miles, my dumb ass followed the team and not the 2 older ladies I normally run with. Next thing I know I am struggling and two older ladies slow down, crossed the street and give me some encouragement and decided to help me get up the last hill. They gave me some jelly beans with some kind of kick. I am serious these jelly beans had electrolytes and other ingredients that are I guess some kind of runner's crack... It worked! I got the extra kick and when I finished I was hyper. I went off to run errands and then from 3-6 pm I worked the cookie booth sale for my girl scout troop.

This Saturday I am set to run 5 miles, and I will add the extra half of mile. I am going to do it because my body needs to be ready for the race. I am determined.....Hell! I am driven.

Plus, I love how running allows me to feel empowered. I feel as if I can do anything!

I am women.... hear me roar!

PS...this photo is from my recent trip to LA...the demon next to me was rubbing his sin on me! Gosh if only that was Reggie Bush or Michael Jordan! My luck it's some youtube freak!

Where in the hell is Sara?

Long time...No blogging...
What have I been up to? First, my board commitments, girl scouts, a few trips and work have taken a chunk of my time.

The biggest accomplishment was on January 20th, I participated in my first training session for the Cooper River Bridge 10k Run. It was 2 miles and I felt good after. Every Saturday I make my way downtown to join the other countless runners who are getting ready for the March 31st run.

I am most proud of myself...I am very motivated to do other things, such as volunteering for different causes, but when it comes to my health I tend to slack off. I credit two things that got me to realize that my health is important.

1. Gerald Levert's death....That was a complete shock for me and the rest of his fans. Yes, he was slightly overweight...but my goodness, I have seen 300+ lbs individuals live longer lives....I really started thinking about health and its importance!

2. On January 12th, my sister-in-law's brother Mark died at 40, when I got the call I was shocked. Mark was about 6'1 with no body fat. He had the energy of a 20 year old. I was shocked! Mark was the family jester! He always managed to enter a room, tease someone and make everyone laugh. He always managed to show up at my brother's house when the BBQ grill was lit and drinks were the coldest. He is really going to be missed. I know the Miller's BBQ will never be the same!

This prompted me to sign up for the run and be committed to it. Each week an additional half mile is added to the course and as of February 24th (this Saturday) 4.5 miles is the goal. March 17th is the 6 mile marker!

I will not lie to you, it is hard. I did have a hard time with hitting the 3 mile mark. I did not hydrate myself properly and suffered later that evening. I have also found that after a run, I cannot wear heels for at least 1 day. This is hard for me, because I love high heels. I have purchased flats, which for the record are ugly and boring! But hey, they work for my calves and my foot arch.

As for my foodie pursuits...Trader Joe's is coming to Charlotte! I cannot wait! I found a new restaurant that I love, Aquavina! My old usual haunts are still there....I just do not have a full appetite, so a regular meal is now 2.5 meals. Yep! Something is happening....LOL! The other night I had celery sticks for dinner. Can you believe that? Yep, that is all I craved for....Mind you I had a perfectly roasted chicken in the refrigerator! But no....my tummy thought that was too heavy! Geesh! After I run on the treadmill...my desire to eat lessens, so I know something is happening! I have eaten more tofu than should be allowed, for some reason I find myself ordering it at Chinese restaurants...someone please check me for a fever! Tofu and Sara? Geesh.....yep...something is happening.

I have not weighed myself...I just want to feel the difference in my clothes. And trust me when I say I do. I am geeked about doing this race! Nothing can stop me! I plan on making it regardless of what happens.....So cross your fingers and keep a eye on the blog! As it gets tougher I plan to write out my frustrations! I hope to carry my camera during the race for shots of the crowd and to chronicle my journey. Hell, it is my first race since high school....ummm some *counting on my fingers.....wow....ummm....*swallowing hard* 24 years ago! Yikes! Where did time go?

Congrats to Tammy J for her new career move to Revolution Health (Steve Case's new venture)!

Check out Revolution's website it is cool!
Be a part of the health care revolution!

Rest in Peace Gerald and Mark...2 great individuals and entertainers!

Where has time flown?

WOW, I have not updated my blog since June! I have been very busy, traveling making a few trips to DC, New York, Chicago, St. Louis, Freeport Bahamas and Los Angeles. So you are probably wondering how well my diet has fared during these excursions? Well, all I can say is what diet?

Yes, I have maintained my 200 lbs, but not with a diet. Nope, I have had a sinus infection, a cold and a cough all brought on by allergies after each trip. Therefore I could not eat or taste the sumptuous food I yearned for, which was good, I mean why waste money of a meal if you can't enjoy it? I ate basic foods while traveling. With the exception of the Bahamas, I did eat at two great restaurants, and ate some conch stew and fritters. I did have a great time! No cold stands in the way of fun! The cold and allergies allowed me to eat properly and not overeat. Is having a cold the new diet break thru? Only time will tell.....

Next goal is to break the 200 barrier! Wish me luck!

Jogging Queen

Its hot here in Charlotte, I mean HOT! But I have managed to jog 1.5 or 2 miles every day. How does one jog with an heat index of almost 100? I do it at sun down, yep its still hot, but its not blistering and I enjoy my runs.

I love the way my legs are forming. I get a kick out watching the fat melt away. I am loving how my body is toning up and I lost more weight. Yes, I am at 200...been here for awhile but I am okay...because I am losing inches instead of the pounds and its is nice to see clothes hang propery on me! I also am doing 100 situps in the morning and eating healthier.

Ron is gone, so you can say I lost another 190 lbs of dead weight. He was causing more drama in my life. With school, a full time job, real estate investments to manage and trying to live a peaceful life...his personal crisis and unnecessary drama was adding to my stress. I moved here to have a stress free life. A simple life free of chaos and drama....however, I realized that I have a codependent nature, yes, folks I am an enabler. Therefore, folks who need to be help in their lives gravitate towards me. I am learning to let go and let others deal with their own problems. Life is too short and people have got to own up to their own sh*t. I can't help or save them, they have to do the work necessary to save themselves.

I used to cook for Ron, stuff that he liked and wanted to eat. I love to cook, but I was not cooking healthy meals for me. It was heavy West Indian foods 3 to 4 times a week. Now that I am just dating, I am back to cooking healthy meals for me and when I dine out. I eat salads or just a small appetizer. Its amazing how being an enabler can sabotage the work and effort you have put into yourself. Well, let this be the last time his name is said out loud. While we are still friends, I am doing what I do best....I am loving me and taking the time out to take care of me. Every jog is a victory towards getting back to the healthy and wonderful me!

Next goal....The bathing suit photo!

So I broke the 205 weight barrier

Yes, I did it! I broke the 205 lb barrier! I know I had not posted in a while, I felt bad, but with school, work and life it was a little hard. Okay who am I kidding? I just could not come to terms with why this was happening. Even though inches melted away, I stayed a consistent 205. Well, I lost another 5 pounds since my late March post. All my pants are much loser and for the first time in a long time, I need a smaller belt and I am wearing some of my older pants.

What did it take to get to this point? 3 times a week workouts, mowing my own lawn, watching what I eat and what time I eat it. I still have a long way to go, I want to tone my muscles and for the cravings to stop. Yes, I still crave hot dogs. Giving up beef and pork was like giving up smoking for others. In still can't be in the company of a beef eater! I salivate....

Ron is still here and he can be more of a pain than an encourager. He always wants to cut my lawn, damn him its my exercise tool, why would he deny me that? Then he says "Did you do your abs today?" "No knucklehead....I didn't because I was too bummed because you snuck over to cut my grass. Gosh!" I told him twice now, "I love cutting my grass it is a great workout!" He is about to get his head hit on a curb. Last time he came over with a riding lawn mower. What a cheater!

He is annoying, and drags me to Panera Bread, knowing damn well I am watching my carbs. Every Saturday, it is torture. Anyway, I think he has issues because he ex wife is a BEAST! I mean she is FAT. But no pressure on me! I am 6 ft and at 200 I am just above my ideal weight. So by the end of the summer, I should be back to normal! ; )

In the end, it is my life and my way to approach my eating healthy. I should start another yoga class. Hell, I should teach yoga! Okay, yoga is the best way for me to stay active, it is calming and I get a great workout.

Hmmm...Maybe I should look into this more? Any thoughts?

Ex Foodie On The Edge Of The Weight Plateau

I am stuck! Yes, I have reached a plateau...I am can see the mountain top, but I have been stuck at 205 lbs for 9 days. I weigh myself daily...it keeps me focused on my end goal! The last nine days my scale has maintained a steady 205 lbs. I know I should be happy...I know, I do and I am happy to be able to wear some of my size 14 clothes again. So please bear with me...let me just grieve for this moment....for just one post.

What happened? As a foodie I gave up all that I love! Last weekend I went to DC with Ron and I did not indulge in my favorite restaurants. I even exercised! For crying out loud I ate nothing but veggies, no rice, no bread, nada...nothing I loved. I drove past my favorite old haunts...Butterfield 9, Zola’s; I did not go to Tara Thai's, which is my all time favorite! I sacrificed! I avoided Adams Morgan, Bilbo Baggins in Old Town and B. Smiths in Union Station. Folks I suffered! I helped my friend Tanya with an estate sale, I carried boxes and worked hard. Plus, I walked the entire perimeter of Hains Point in the cold, which should given me a pound off! Why I am still at 205 lbs? Okay, I am losing inches...but that is not as gratifying as seeing the numbers drop off the scale!

I have to lose 1 lb this week or I am going to make reservations at the Palm and eat an entire side of cow with a huge baked potato! I have been eating the equivalent of grass for weeks now! That alone should have helped me drop a few extra pounds. I go to the gym 3 times a week and I work out 1 day with a cute (albeit high priced) trainer. Hell, if I don’t lose a pound this week Amen the gorgeous trainer may get bitten. He does remind me of a filet mignon with a side of steamed broccoli...tempting and healthy!

What should I do? Please help...


Signed foodie on the edge of the weight plateau

The March 10 weigh in...Whoa!

Started at 221 and I now weigh 208. Not bad for 6 weeks? With only 2 weeks of solid workouts. Well, the majority of the weight came off with the change in my eating. I had on a pair of pants this week that once was once tight, now I have room in the thighs and waist line.

I will admit I did cheat. I went to a Bobcats game earlier this week and they did not have anything appealing to eat. Now as a vegetarian, I could have eaten nachos, pretzel or some other dish. But, I opted for a hot dog. A foot long .....Yes, that’s right 12 inches of Nathans finest, topped with chili, Cold slaw and onions! When Ron and I were ordering it slipped off the tongue as if I did not ban meat from my diet. Ron was taken aback by my bold declaration. I simply stated 1 coney dog....but it echoed and reverberated loudly. Ron nicely said..."Sara, are you sure?" I was like huh....sure about what...I was oblivious to what I had ordered. He gently reminded me by whispering in my ear..."sweetie, that is meat and you are now a vegetarian" I was like oh....Oh. By the time I opened my mouth to say no, the hot dog was in front of me. What could I do? I handed over the $20... (You know sinning is not cheap, especially in a major stadium!) and headed towards the mustard. Ron shook his head and gathered the change from the bewildered cashier. He politely told her I was recovering Hot Dogolic. She giggled and said oh that is why she had a glazed over look in her eyes!

By the time I put the mustard on my dog, guilt was setting in. I have even encountered a little angelic cherub sitting on my right shoulder, who said. "All that hard work, changing you’re eating habits, enduring a colonic and exercise is now going back to your inner tube that you were trying to get rid of...tsk tsk tsk!" I was shocked...I stood there in the middle of Bobcat Arena rationalizing why I ordered this hot dog. I looked down at the hot dog and said to Ron..."Why did I order this?" Ron being the polite potential boyfriend, stated, "Sara you don't have to eat it. Toss it" Now I am a member of the clean plate club, yes, my mother God bless her soul, taught her 6 kids not to waste any of the food she and my father worked hard to provide us with. Therefore, I have always cleaned my plate, no matter what was on it. Trust me, I have eaten my way around the world and I have a cast iron stomach. So tossing food is not part of my being. I mean for goodness sake, I ate mopar caterpillars in South Africa! I was a survival instructor and have eaten worse than a Coney Island dog!

So we walked slowly back to our seats and with each step the hot dog got heavier, it felt like a brick. As we sat in our seats, the 12 inch hot dog now weighed 5 lbs and looked unappetizing. I could not bring myself to eat it. Then as magically as the angelic cherub appeared, a little devil appeared on my left shoulder and said "Eat it, you deserve it and 1 little hot dog is not going to hurt you." I took a bite, it was tasty but not as tasty as I imagined. The normal euphoric feeling I get from food was not there. The hot dog was a little salty, slightly undercooked and the chili was bland, cold slaw had too much Mayo and the onions over powered the entire taste. The mustard was that cheap yellow brand, with no muster. It was messy to eat with the dog slipping and sliding out of the bun. I was like damn what a mess! After 3 bites...I was disappointed and looked at Ron. Now Ron was watching my reaction to my hot dog. "Not good? Not what you expected? Well, sweetie you can toss it" he said. I wearily shook my head in agreement and he took the hot dog, got up and tossed it. Did I mention Ron has the makings of a GREAT boyfriend? He arrived moments later with the cheese pizza and a bottle of water.

God bless that man! I did pay for my 3 bites later on in the evening. Let's just say there was a nuclear meltdown and fumes erupted for about 30 minutes. Thank goodness it was after Ron had dropped me home. I am not sure if I have the makings of being a GREAT girlfriend for Ron. He must think I am a nut! LOL. If he does he has not said a word. Just that I am beautiful and fun to hang out with. Note to self; don't tell someone you are a vegetarian until I work out all the kinks. I will post a picture of myself later today.

I must say I am proud of myself and how I handle my moment of weakness! I did learn a lesson....something’s are better left to the imagination!

My March 1st Workout! I never thought I could smile so hard during a workout!

With 2 weeks of eating nothing but vegetables and 2 successful colonics. I was ready for my first session with my new trainer. Let me first tell you that my trainer is a fine specimen of a man! I will refrain from using his first name to maintain his anonymity (that is until he allows me to use a photo of him on this blog). So until then, let's just call him Amen. Amen has an 8 pack, lovely pecs and gluts that would make you want to run to the gym every day. I was saying Amen to myself everytime he was within my eye sight. I have not smiled so hard since I was a teenager running for some small town beauty pageant.

Amen is a striking man, not only due to his gifted physique, but his personality is great. He is attentive and very good at motivating me. As if I need motivation to get to the gym for our date...oops I mean our workout. Yes, the workout...I digressed. Amen worked out my trouble areas and trust me he has his work cut out. I have more than a few trouble areas! He showed me various techniques that we will use to get rid of the inner tube around my waist.

I will be working out once a week with him because a trainer is expensive and going to the gym on my own twice a week. I think its a great start. Especially with my new lifestyle. I refuse to call this a diet. It is a lifestyle change.

My lifestyle change was put to the test this past weekend. With the CIAA in town, I had friends visiting. Now we all know when friends visit, diets go out the window! My new lifestyle change was put to the test and I passed. I ate reasonably only having 2 small desserts and I did not eat meat or anything fatty. I ate fish and a lot of vegetables. I did prepare brunch on Sunday and had to cook bacon, sausages, biscuits and French toast. But I also prepared fresh fruit and a lighter egg dish for myself. I made sure all the fattening dishes were eaten by my guests and all leftovers were discarded immediately. Later after my guest departed, I got on the treadmill and ran like the wind. I waited to weigh myself and did so this morning, I did not gain a pound! All the walking we did this weekend worked to my benefit!

Today is my second workout with Amen and I think he will be proud that I did not gain weight after my great weekend. So the lesson learned is stick to your routine, even if you have guests or you travel. You don't have to compromise or feel guilty. There are tasty alternatives!