Running is tough on my pride

Running in my better days

As you might have noticed, I've started training for a half marathon. One of my friends recommended that I run the Salt Lake Half. "You'll love it!" she said. "The course runs winds through Sugarhouse and Downtown." Now, we all know how much I love the city and running in the city, so, with a good deal of trepidation, I agreed to run it with her.

A few weeks later I traveled to DC to visit some good friends. One of my friends in DC said, "We should run the Salt Lake Half! We could train together and keep each other on track over email and phone. We'd start training in the middle of December. We could totally do this!" Her enthusiasm was so contagious, that I thought to myself, "Yeah. I could totally do this."

Now that the training has begun, I'm slightly less excited about the idea. You see, running is hard. Running makes me sore. It used to be (like two months ago) that I could run three miles and actually feel good afterward. Now, I feel like I'm going to die. More specifically, I feel like my legs are going to lead a mutiny and kill me. My calves feel like they're made of cement, and they totally freeze up by mile 2. Ridiculous. Which is why I say - running is tought on my pride.

What has happened to me? Why can't I run like I used to? When I'm on a treadmill, I still do pretty well, but let's be honest, who wants to run for 45 minutes on a treadmill?

I went for a run on Christmas Day which was filled with obstacles. First of all, I left my good running socks at my apartment, so I had to borrow a pair of my sister's (cotton!) socks. No lie, every five minutes, I had to stop to pull up my socks because they had slipped down under my heels. Then, the route that I had planned to take was totally blocked by construction! Even the sidewalks were closed! I had to take a detour through a parking lot and double back UPhill and run at the park instead. Last came the pain. I had planned to run for an hour, but at about 25 minutes, my poor little calves started cramping. This was not the kind of pain I could just push through. So, instead, I ended up walking more than I ran. I felt weak. I felt wimpy. I did not feel like 'a runner.'

With my pride in pieces, I limped home, dragged myself up my parents' front steps, and made a beeline for the advil in the medicine cabinet.

Something's gotta give.

This very second...

I'm blog stalking all my friends to see what wonderful Christmases they had.

My sisters and Mom are watching our new Christmas movie, Eclipse. Jenny is saying, "Ewww..." every few seconds. She hasn't seen this movie yet. :)

I'm sitting here ready to go in my running duds, trying to convince myself that I should get off my butt and run, even though I've been sitting here for forty minutes. UGH.

Have I mentioned that I'm planning/hoping to run the Salt Lake Half? I'm starting to think that it's not such a good idea. My legs hurt.

All you runners out there - how do I stretch out my shins, calves, and ankles so they don't SCREAM at me every time I take a step? I'd really appreciate your tips and hints. Because, gosh darnit, I'm going to run this thing!

Whew. I'm glad I got that off my chest. Here I go.

Lessons I've learned from my mom

We celebrated my mom's birthday earlier this month. This annual birthday post is a little late, but I didn't want to let December pass without writing something to let my mom know how much I love her. I am so grateful she's my mom, and I'm grateful for all I've learned from her. Here are a few things (some serious, some not so much) she's taught me:

1. There's nothing better than a well-deserved jammie day.
2. Some boys are duh-heads.
3. Prayer changes things.
4. Chocolate chip cookies make a hard day better.
5. Pink roses are beautiful.
6. Don't let something like a little pie crust intimidate you.
7. All you have to be is the best version of yourself.
8. No matter what, my mom always loves me.
9. You can always go home.
10. You can never have too many Christmas decorations.
11. "Whenever I hear the song of a bird" is the best lullaby.
12. Never go anywhere important (a date, job interview, or church meeting) without a little lipstick.
13.Presentation is important.
14. Don't take yourself so seriously.
15. Always be quick to apologize when you've made a mistake.
16. My mom taught me how to crochet, tie a bow, and play chopsticks.
17. Count your blessings.
18. Songs make things much easier to remember.
19. Breaking out into song at any time of day or night is always acceptable.
20. Don't forget to smile.

I love you so much Mom! Thanks for helping me become the person I am today.

My three favorite Christmas albums

If you happen to be looking for something to listen to this holiday season, try these simply fantastic albums. I started listening to them today, and I'm definitely getting into the Christmas spirit.

I've been listening to this since before I can remember. Seriously. Ask my parents about the "Santa Claus is Coming to Town" dance of 1988. To me, this album means Christmas. My favorite song? He Came Here for Me.

Would it be weird to admit that I have a teensy crush on Donny Osmond? This album is the perfect mix of classics with a fresh twist and original Christmas songs. Plus, it's got a great dance number. I melt whenever I hear Donny's voice.

If you know me, you know I LOVE Katie Thompson. I am still sad that she's no longer playing Connie Lou in the Forgotten Carols. Sorry, Mr. McLean, but it's just not as good without her. I adore the piano-rich accompaniments on this CD, and Arise and Shine Forth is simply incredible. I've had this CD on non-stop in my car for two whole days.

Welcome, Birthday Week!

It's my birthday week! Hooray!

This is a BIG birthday for me. My sisters have reminded me at least twenty times, "Did you know you've been alive for a quarter of a century?" Thanks, girls. I'd almost forgotten. :)

This week, I've made a list of things I want to DO, not necessarily get, for my birthday. I love spreading out birthday celebrations over a few days, and 25 seems momentous enough to make a week out of it, don't you think?

To celebrate my 25th, I'd like to:

1. hang the mirrors and pictures at my apartment - Check

2. eat at the Blue Iguana

3. have a parking lot dance party

4. drink virgin margaritas

5. eat a pretty cupcake - Check. Thanks cute Carrie!

6. eat falafel

7. have a 'crafternoon' - I'm itching to MAKE SOMETHING!

8. see Inception (I STILL haven't seen it)

9. go to the library

10. see Tangled - Check. Thanks, Jill!

11. get drinks at Spark Lounge in Provo

12. buy fabric to make curtains for my bedroom - Check!

13. visit my sis at the Bead Fairy - Check!

14. make chocolate chip cookies and give some away - I gave some to my family. Does that count?

15. sing

16. enjoy being snowed in Tuesday afternoon with a blanket, hot chocolate, and a good book. - Check!

17. look for 25 ways to think of others first

Want to join me for any/all of these? Let me know! This will be a week to remember!

Happy Birthday, Carrie Girl!

This is how we party.

My incredible sister Carrie turns 15 today, and I've been thinking of all the reasons I love her.

1. She gets excited about little things.

2. She gives the best hugs.

3. She finds hobbies to keep her busy - legos, skateboarding, crocheting, and reading are just a few of her past favorites.

4. She can help me put things in perspective.

5. Her amazing faith.

6. She never, ever, ever gives up, even when the odds are stacked against her.

7. She is absolutely beautiful.

8. Did I mention her stunning root beer eyes?

9. She has funny voices.

10. She makes me laugh.

11. She's always happy to see me. Oh, and she likes to hang out with me. :)

12. She loves to sing about anything.

13. She is a talented leader.

14. She doesn't let anything get her down.

15. She chose life.

To be honest, there are no words to describe how much I love my youngest sister. Try as I might, I just can't explain how blessed I feel to be her sister. There was a time earlier this year when I wasn't sure I would ever see this day, but now that it's here, there's just one thing to say:

Happy 15th birthday, Carrie girl! I'm so grateful you're here, and I'm grateful I can celebrate this day with you.

Football with my Dad

Blackout Game 2010

Even though this wasn't the greatest game I've ever been to (grrr... still angry), I love how happy my dad and I look. We love Utah football, and I'd say we're die hard fans. Who else would stay through the entire Utah TCU game just to support our guys - even if they couldn't catch a pass to save their lives that day? Plus, the company can't be beat. Dad, Jen, and me in the MUSS - it doesn't get better than that!

My new favorite treat

The picture's a bit blurry... but this is seriously one of the most delicious treats I've tried. Too bad you have to find a Trader Joe's to get it - since there isn't one in Utah. Boo.

I'm obsessed with Edamame in any form, but chocolate covered is DELICIOUS!

And - it's good for you!

P.S. Any hints on where I can find something like this in Utah would be greatly appreciated.

The end (I think) of 'Miss Hortin goes to Washington'

Here they are! The (possibly) final shots of my trip back east. I really love the shots you're about to see. It's been a couple of weeks since my trip and I still feel giddy when I look at these pictures. I visited the National Cathedral on a Sunday. I dragged my aunt and uncle, who just happened to be in town, all the way from Dupont Circle to the Cathedral. As soon as I walked inside, I remembered why I love this place so deeply. It's gorgeous and breathtaking and filled with history. I may not be Catholic, but I can understand why many in the world consider cathedrals 'sacred space.'

You know what's awesome? When family turns up in the same city you're in and they're on vacation, too! You know what's even more awesome? When they ask you for recommendations on good restaurants in the area because you were once considered 'a local.' Thanks for the delicious dinner at Old Ebbit Grill, John and Sherilyn! And thanks for not letting the lackluster seating arrangements get you down.

I kid you not, there is no better place to be on a Saturday morning than Eastern Market. Lots of people go for the french toast or blue bucks at Market Lunch, but I prefer the crepe stand. The crepes are as thin as paper and filled with delicious ingredients like Gouda and berries. (I tried to give the crepe man a lesson on how to say that cheese like a Dutchman. It was pretty entertaining.)

Give me a crepe and Limonata any day, and I'm in heaven!

I visited the Newseum for the first time ever. The admission is pretty steep, but it's 100% worth it! I saw a piece of the Berlin Wall, part of the radio tower from the World Trade Center, a heart wrenching exhibit about Hurricane Katrina, and many, many historical front pages. I realized that much of how I view the world and history is influenced by the news. This is a photo from the observation deck looking over Pennsylvania Ave.

Hooray for cupcakes! Meagan and I started our own little tradition of 'run in the morning, then go get cupcakes.' Don't judge. There are just so many yummy cupcakeries (Is that a word? It is now) in DC to not visit as many as possible. This is at Georgetown Cupcake where they gave us each an extra cupcake in a pretty little box - and boy, were they yummy. (Might I also point out the wrist band from Lululemon in Georgetown that holds my debit card and key when I run? I'm in love.)

A few more

Sorry I'm falling behind in my blogging. There have just been too many other fun and important things that have needed my attention. :)

If you're interested, here are a few more shots from my amazing trip!
Laney and I visited the Visitors Center at the Temple and met some lovely sister missionaries.

White House!

A man noticed I was having trouble snapping this picture of myself, so he offered to help. "Thanks," I said. "Make sure you get the address. I used to work here."
Pretty sure that was the strangest picture he's ever helped a tourist take. But I love it!

I saw a real play at Ford's Theater. It was incredible! Truly one of the highlights of my trip!

Yum! Sandwiches! I highly recommend the PB&J, believe it or not.

What a trip!

Just a few snapshots from a truly incredible trip:

"The Run" - We ran from the Watergate Building to the Capitol. Woo!

Absolutely delicious homemade churro from Dolcezza - an Argentine bakery.

Beautiful Autumn in Georgetown.

The Museum of American History!

Getting "baked" at Baked and Wired.

This trip was a dream and a half. I did so many things for the first time, and enjoyed every minute. I'm 100% sure that this won't be my last post about my amazing vacation (I sure hope you don't get bored), and I'm also 100 % sure that I won't be able to stay away from DC for long.

As Laney put it, "You love this city too much to stay away for very long."

Only a few more hours...

Today I'm most excited for:

Learning history at the Capitol Building

Feeling patriotic at Arlington

Standing in front of great art at marvelous museums

Shopping and eating Eastern Market and Capitol Flea Market.

Maybe I'll find some artwork for my new place. Woohoo!

Bon Voyage!

See you next week!

P.S. Flying makes me so nervous. Wish me luck.

P.P.S. Does anyone know how to make my blog title banner (is that even what it's called?) look cooler? I'm tired of the blah look it has now.

So excited!

Today I'm most excited for

Georgetown

Cupcakes

H&M Shopping

and...

Fantastic friends, Laney and Meg!

Two thoughts

Thought number one:
Last weekend, my mom and sisters finally convinced me to watch Mr. Magorium's Wonder Emporium. I don't know why, but I just was never really interested before. I think it was partly because of the long title. What a mouthful!

Now that I've seen it, I absolutely love it! It's so darling and inspiring and just plain fun! It was just what I needed to jumpstart a great week.

It's a story of a magical toy store, a girl who needs only to believe in herself to make magic happen, and a pet zebra. Go watch it! Now! And then tell me what you think. :)

Thought number two:

In eight days, I'm leaving on a jet plane for our Nation's Capitol! Woohoo! I can't wait. Every time I think about my trip, I get a tingly feeling in my fingers and toes.

I'm just hoping I can visit all my favorite places without bawling nonstop from a overwhelming bout of nostalgia. So many memories.

It'll be an absolute blast to catch up with two of my favorite women in the world.

Today, I'm most excited for this, this, this, and this. (It's been my goal for nearly two years to run from Lincoln to the Capitol. In a little more than a week, I'll make it happen!)

I can't believe I didn't take any pictures!

I just had the best weekend imaginable! I can't believe I didn't take any pictures!

Here are a few of the highlights:

Driving through three counties just to get to Provo and visit my incredibly chic friend KK.

Listening to a concert on top of a parking garage (such a cool venue) and listening to an encore played three feet from me. Seriously! The band came out into the crowd for an encore jam session.

Sipping a very pink and tasty margarita in a very hip (non-alcoholic) lounge. That's Provo for you.

Spotting a pseudo-celeb who I blog stalk. :)

Listening to General Conference surrounded by family.

German pancakes, doughnuts and hot chocolate, Day's market shortbread cookies, Dairy Keen Chicken Club Car sandwich, and Training Table cheese fries. Mmmm- the food was good.

Reminiscing about our 'second homes' with my awesome cousin. Hers is upstate New York. Mine is DC. (Did you hear? I'm going back in two weeks!)

Making Halloween bracelets with the Hortin women while singing (loudly) to "Undo It."

Welcoming fall with people I love. :)

I'll see you there!

This Saturday, I'll be staging a comeback of sorts.

Last year, I ran the Young Alumni 5K.

One broken leg later, I'm back for seconds.

I'd love to make it a tradition.

And I'd love to have friends join me.

See you there!

A good cry

I had a breakdown today. Don't worry, I'm okay. I just let the stress of life get to me. I forgot for a moment that:

"Happiness does not depend on what happens outside of you, but on what happens inside of you."

~President Harold B. Lee

I learned a few things:

1. It's okay to have a good cry now and then. Just because you cry sometimes doesn't mean you're not a happy person.
2. Sometimes it's hard to keep myself convinced that, "Someday it will all be worth it," as my dad says.
3. Good cries are always best accompanied by good hugs.
4. I'm ready for a big change.

Another confession

While singing my guts out to the soundtrack today, I realized that someday I would love to play this role.

It's truly an amazing show. And Millie is just so spunky.

A handful of things that make me smile

*Fresh strawberries with sugar

*Diet Dr. Pepper

*Lunch with work friends

*Going to musicals - like the Lion King!

*Wedding receptions and seeing old friends

*Cool fall air at night

*Living in the city

*Live outdoor concerts

*Baseball games

*Leaves changing color

*Listening to General Conference on my iPod on my way to work

*Spontaneous shopping trips

*Feeling stronger

*Chalupas and Baja Blasts with people who rock my socks

*Feeling patriotic, especially while setting up flags at the Sandy Healing Fields

*Laughing with my sisters (I think that makes the list every time)

*Reading the Book of Mormon

Found this today via Uber Chic for Cheap. You can find the original here.

I found it so deeply true.

A secret

I have a secret dream. And I'm going to let you in on it.
Please don't laugh.
Because I'm sure you know that I am far from being coordinated or athletically talented AT ALL.

But - since high school, I've always wanted to teach aerobics. Crazy? Maybe so. Especially since I get my butt kicked every week at RS Aerobics (but I love it anyway).

I just LOVE to move! I love the feeling after a good, butt-kicking workout. I actually like feeling sore the day after because I know I worked hard. And (as I'm sure you know) I love to teach. Put the two together, and you've got a magic combination.

Oh well - setting lofty goals is a good thing right? ;)

It's calling my name

I want to go here so badly I can taste it. I'm dreaming of an October vacation. But, to be honest, once you've gone through the work of planning a vacation and then cancelling all of it, including the flights, you're a little less than excited about going through the whole process again.

However, the tug I feel toward my second favorite place on earth may be just enough to get me to try again.

It's coming!

This Thursday, I will be here, cheering my guts out.

Go Utes!

First Triple Date

Melanie turned 16 a few months ago, and she was so excited for her first date! Woohoo!
She planned to double with another friend, but at the last minute, her friend's date backed out. Mellie couldn't go alone because it's a family rule that there's no single dating at 16.
Luckily, her big sisters stepped in. "We can triple!" we said.
So we did.
And it was fun.
Just ask Mellie.

I should be....

Right now, I should be:

running an errand at the Gateway.

doing housework.

exercising at the gym.

BUT

It's been an incredibly busy week, and it'll be an incredibly busy weekend.
I've decided to sit here and watch LOST.
I'm throwing responsibility to the wind.
Well, at least for an hour.

Shhhh.... don't tell. :)

Only...

21 days left!

Can you tell we're sisters?

While Carrie was still in the hospital, we got a little silly with the camera.

Smile, Carrie!

Now make a funny face.

(I promise the twinner 'stick your tongue out' face was totally unplanned.)

Funny face, take two.
(Can you believe it? Same face again!)

We must be sisters or something.