Checking in with Mike Wazowski

Every once in a while someone will ask me what's up with Mike. He rarely makes an appearance here, mostly because he hates the paparazzi as much as any publicity-shy celebrity. But last night he was off his game and was caught lounging between the stair banisters. Interesting choice considering this house is full of more comfortable spots.

A non-coach-endorsed break

Today marked a turning point in Couch to 5K. I haven't posted about it lately because I took a short mental health break. Give or take a few weeks.

It started when my coach left for his whirlwind basketball tour. There were a few days I didn't run because of rain. Those days turned into a few more because of . . . fatigue? pain? lack of motivation? disinterest at going it alone? Maybe it was a combination. It's fascinating to me that I ran religiously through the hottest part of the summer. Once the weather improved, I stopped. I figured I'd get back on the horse when my coach came home. Except I didn't, and then he went back to school.

I quickly realized that I was going to have to do it myself or admit defeat. A year ago I would have thrown in the towel and surrendered. But I'm tired of the negative doubt - from myself and others - and, most of all, of not meeting my own expectations.

So tonight I put my shoes back on and headed out. Day 49 is now in the books.

Doggie Swim Night!

One of our favorite nights of the year is the annual Doggie Swim at Prairie Ridge Aquatic Center. C.C. knows what this night is all about. Say "Doggie Swim" and she has her goggles and her towel and is waiting at the door - faster than you can snap your fingers!

There is something magical about watching her and the other dogs go crazy. They have the run of the pool, from the grounds to the slides to the kiddie pool and the deep end. Big dogs, small dogs - they're all there, chasing each other, chasing their balls, jumping in, doggy paddling out. There is no way you can leave that place without a big smile on your face. It's the best therapy around.

Nothing compares to the Iowa State Fair

 

The great Iowa State Fair starts tomorrow. If you're in the neighborhood, stop by the 4-H Exhibit Building and see me. I'm working three shifts this year; knocked the first one down today setting up the display. Also managed to find my way to the Cattlemen's tent for a delish bacon cheeseburger. A few hours later one of those yummy shaked lemonades. Mmmmm . . . What am I going to eat tomorrow? I'm pretty sure it will include a corn dog and mini doughnuts.

Rip Van Winkle

This kid spent the better part of July traveling around the Midwest playing basketball. When he wasn't doing that, he was at the gym shooting baskets. When he wasn't doing that, he was lifting weights or outside running cross country or serving as my Couch to 5K coach. He got home last night around 10:30 from the final trip of the summer. He hasn't moved all afternoon. I think he has some catching up to do.