Protein Success

Thank you to everyone that offered advice on my protein dilemma. I have been experimenting with protein drinks in the morning and I must admit, they aren't bad. They taste pretty good and keep me full for at least 3 hours. My 'during the week' running partner, Meghan, gave me 2 different powders to taste and I intend to hit up the Vitamin Shop and purchase. I also bought Trader Joe's Whey Protein, chocolate flavored. I have blended that bad boy up with some milk and banana and that's a real treat! I'm still a fan of English Muffin with almond butter. That breakfast option also keeps me full for a good 3 hours or more. In the morning, I just decide drink or eat?

The making of a green thumb

I do not have a green thumb. I have killed plants that should never die, but I am learning to sustain the life and beauty of my patio plants. So, today when I realized my Tiger Lily had bloomed, I just had to share.

BONUS!

So, a few months ago I heard that Coldplay was coming to town and I mentioned it to a few folks to see if anyone was interested in going. I didn't really have any bites, so I didn't bother. About a week ago, our amphitheater had a lawn blowout sale for their summer shows. Lawn tickets were 10 bucks and Coldplay was on the list! So, that changed a few folks minds. Kirsten agreed to go and a few folks from work were already planning to take their wives, so we met up with them. I also met up with the SBUX crowd.

I noticed a small stage on the lawn when we walked up and remembered a friend mentioning that they play out in the crowd. Of course, I insisted we set up camp there and we did. The show was awesome but even more so when we were about 4-6 feet away from the band. My pictures aren't very good because of my placement in reference to the obnoxious spotlight. But I was able to grab a few pics not to mention my camera battery was dying (I must plan much better than i currently do).

I've liked Coldplay for awhile, but my respect and adoration for them soared post show. These guys are not only talented but very humble and appreciative of their fans. I've been to a million shows and it was the first time I felt like they really were grateful that we sacrificed our time to support them. On top of it all, they gave away a free CD to all concert goers. Kirsten and I laughed on the way home because the price of our lawn ticket was the price of a CD. "We bought this really great CD and got a FREE Coldplay concert!" BONUS!

Funny thing happened yesterday...

Yesterday was ODU's graduation and my dear friend, Pattee, finally completed her undergrad degree. This was a major accomplishment for her and with every exciting milestone, a party is deserved. Folks from all over came to town for the event and it was a lot of fun. Well, a funny little thing happend during the party...

If you know me at all, you know that I'm not a big animal person. I mean, if you ask Kirsten or Dyanna, they would say I hate animals but I don't. I just don't get excited if I see them and I don't want your dog jumping all over me. I'm not mean about it, just indifferent. Well, meet Gracie:

She's the cute little dog Rob is holding and her "mom" is the camera lady. Well, "mom" brought Gracie outside and there were a few older dogs present. I guess they were scaring Gracie so "mom" picked her up and says to me, "Mindy, can you hold her for a few minutes. She isn't ready for all these dogs yet." I politely smile and say "Sure!" When she walks away I look at the girl beside me, smile, and say "I don't like dogs." We just started to laugh (Gracie still in my lap) and Rob walks out and yells "Mindy, you don't like dogs!" Finally, Pattee's sister comes over and asks if she can hold her and I more than willingly oblige. I still chuckle about it and I think of Dyanna, Kirsten, Ali, and Adrienne. They all would have thoroughly enjoyed it!

Marathon Consideration

Ok, people, here's the deal. I've been running consistently since I moved here and in the last 2 years I have upped the ante, so to speak, and started training for longer distances. I completed my third half marathon in March and thought that's the furthest I will run. Well, I'm now considering a full marathon. The race is in March, so there is plenty of time to prep (both physically and mentally). Here is my concern: my mind always checks out around mile 10. I'm much more concerned for my mental health than my physical health. Nonetheless, my running partner has already registered. So, if I ever want to attempt a full, I should do it with someone. You can't run 20 miles alone...well, I can't run 20 miles alone. So, um, what do you think? Should I just go for it? I'm taking a poll prior to registering...

AM Protein Problem

Ok, readers. I need some advice. I have got to find a new breakfast option. I believe my problem would be solved with an increase in protein. I cannot stay full all morning and I'm noshing on anything I can find by 930am. HELP! Please offer suggestions that would be quick to make and easy to eat...in the car. I'm interested in protein shakes if you have any ideas. Thanks!

Summer Schedule

If you know me well, I don't travel too often except for visiting the folks. Well, this summer is going to be different. I received an email from Delta not too long ago to let me know that some of my miles were going to expire. So, I have started to use them up. My first trip is going to Atlanta for Cybil's baby shower. I'm looking forward to seeing most of my girlfriends from college. I think the last time I saw this group collectively was Cybil's wedding a few years ago. The next trip is the first wedding for a Bright Eye. Nikki's nuptials will be in Ohio and Joanna and I booked our flights last night. I'm already pumped about these trips. HOORAY! I've got enough miles for one more trip and about 3 more places I want to visit: Nashville, Dyersburg, and Tallahassee.