Happy Mother's Day aka Running with the Skeeters!

What a great Mother's Day Weekend! Yesterday I was able to run 13 of my planned 20 miles. I had to cut it a bit short so that we could get to Lem's Volleyball game at 8:30. Kind of funny that getting up and out the door at 5 am isn't quite early enough...

Lem's opponents did not show, so it was a win in their column. It's been so exciting watching these girls evolve from beginner players to where they are now. Most had never played before 6 months ago and now they are a true force to be reckoned with. Lem is loving the game, and I love watching her play.

Next on tap for me was a wonderful brunch with my dear friend, J. She is an amazing woman and any time I can spend with her I am so grateful for.

We did a bit of shopping which is something I don't normally partake in, but since my clothes are not fitting anymore and my children are beginning to liken me to a bag lady...

Last night was a big deal in our home. We have been working up to this one for quite some time now. I purchased a night light a few days ago and we were just waiting for that "perfect" night to start. Boo is a wonderful little boy, but he has not put himself to sleep, ever. We love the snuggle time with him, so really, it is our own doing that some nights he is up at even 11:00! The time has come for him to get onto a normal sleep schedule beginning with him putting himself to sleep.

Mark read a story to him and then placed him into his bed. I'm sure that each of you could hear the screams that immediately ensued. We braced ourselves for a good 30 minutes to an hour of the unbearable parent call of the wild, but were blessed with only 15 - 20 minutes of it. Ahhhh.... let's see if this holds up tonight.

Mark then proceeded to begin making the lasagna for tonight's festivities. Not only is it Mother's Day, but it is also the celebration of Mark's birthday and Fish will be making his First Holy Communion! It smells heavenly. I did try to make it healthier with turkey instead of ground beef, whole wheat noodles, and organic sauces. The verdict will be in tonight after Mass.

This morning, I set out to finish the last of my 20 that I didn't get in yesterday. I ended up putting another 11 miles on the feet and though it was hot, humid and generally miserable out there, I enjoyed the run. I must be insane.

At one point I stopped at the water fountain and was immediately attacked by several skeeters. How quickly I was reminded that in Texas, you can't stop running, ever. Your own personal "coaches" will be on you quicker than you can say, "OFF!" They do tend to push one into a tempo run...

Only saw one snake today, and it had been brutally killed. Not pretty. Neither was the dog deposit that some wonderful soul left on the path for us all to see. Thanks for that. I place you right up there with the "runners" that drop their gel litter along the way. Your footprint has been made.

As I arrived home, my children were awake and preparing my favorite breakfast for me, French Toast! I also indulged in a few strips of bacon which I usually try to avoid. But hey, it's Mother's Day!

As we celebrate our Mother's today, I can't help but think of mine. Though she is no longer with us here on earth, knowing she is waiting at the feet of Jesus for me to come home leaves me with a peaceful, joyful spirit.

To those of you who have lost your beloved Moms, I know that feeling of our earthly sorrow. I pray that we can call on the wonderful memories of the ones who gave us the gift of life and then take the time to truly honor a special woman in your life.