Too long again

I always have the best intentions about keeping up with this silly blog. Unfortunately, I just don't always turn the intentions into actions. It has been over a year since I have last written, and it just doesn't seem like that much time could have passed.
I left off on a running kick and a soapbox. I am sad to report that my running kick didn't last very long last September. I allowed myself to get too busy. But, I am happy to report that I am now on week 7 of couch to 5k, and have fallen in love with running. I crave it! After a long stressful day at work, there is nothing that calms my soul like a run with good music in the background. I believe the only reason I have lasted on the running kick this time is because I have a friend who is running alongside me. Isn't it sad that I couldn't get it done on my own? :( We have pushed each other each week and have run a couple of 5ks over the last 6 weeks. I am up to running 30 minutes without stopping and ran my last 5k in under 40 minutes! We are planning to keep up this new hobby and keep pushing ourselves to the limit.

All of this running and the new friendship has made me think about a couple of things. First of all, we are able to do anything that we set our minds to! This has been as much of a mind battle as a physical battle. You would think that after the Camino I would remember this. Guess I still need to be reminded some times. The other part that has spoken so loudly to me is that with a friend and encouragement, I have been able to do SO much more. Isn't our journey here on Earth meant to be shared with others?! The Lord wants us to have relationships that "spur us on." We should have friends who sharpen us and we should sharpen our friends. Thank you Lord for this reminder that all things are possible and that I need to help my friends in this life journey as they help me!

Here's a little "catch up" on my life over the last year. I still have the same job and am still loving it! It feels so good to get to invest in others and be making a difference in this world! My sweet sister and JJ are expecting a little boy named Korbin soon! We will have a new baby at Christmas. Kaitlynne is 12, Alexis is 8, Keaton is 6, and Jackson is 3...so as you can see, they will have their hands full!
Mom and Dad are doing well. Dad has battled through some health issues this whole year, but we have finally found some answers and things are settling down on that front. Toni and I are still living together and are hoping to move to the Norman area some time soon!
We went to New York City in September...Toni took me to Wicked for an early birthday present! If you have never seen it, you must rush to see it when it is near you! We had a blast, and I can't wait to go back.
That seems like that is about it...you can tell I have no life if I can get through a whole year in that short of time and space. Oh well, I love the life I do have!

I will work on being better about posting! If anyone still reads this.
Mel