Girl’s Day Recap

While mini was enjoying her summer shenanigans, McK and I were planning things for us to do. Because of our genuine love for mini, we decided to wait on a few things and take mini on a girl’s day.

First up – Lip Lab in Frisco, TX

Actually – the first thing we did was eat lunch at Bread Zeppelin (catchy, right?). Hands down, best salad I’ve probably ever had. Mini got her salad stuffed in a baguette, which is the entire concept. As I don’t eat bread like that, I just got a bowl but I can see the draw.

Of course we visited a coffee shop. McK and I have been following the multiple locations of Ascension Coffee for some time – the location we really want to visit is in a converted church. Alas, we were near the Dallas Cowboys stadium so that’s where we went instead. I got the Keto coffee. Amazing. McK got a latte and stated it was delicious, Parts had a Salted Caramel Cold Brew. She said it was very strong but the salty flavor was nice. Amateur.

Mini told me to make certain faces. I obliged but she seemed a little grumpy at my interpretations.

Finally, the lipstick details.

I have jokes. No need to comment on my naming convention as I’m utilizing scientific research that states your ideal lipstick color is 1-2 shades lighter/darker than nipple color. Hey, it’s science.

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I ask you –

Have you ever designed your own cosmetics?

Do you like salt in your coffee?

Tell me your favorite coffee establishment!

(The post Girl’s Day Recap first appeared here at Running on Fumes.)

Let’s Catch Up!

I recognize I just posted about this on Monday and here I am acting as if it’s a very new development. Oh well.

Part of her 4-year plan included jiujitsu and she’s happy as a clam! A rolling clam with arabesque tumbles.

Work insists I wear this fantastic name tag so they know for sure what my name is when I tell rude people to shove it. I’ve never pulled the director card but I might as well now. Relatedly, I was grocery shopping mid-power crisis (more on that shortly) when a woman approached me and said “Are you Kelly?” Taken aback, I answered affirmatively and she stated her name. Of course I exclaimed Oh Hi! as if I knew exactly who she was. Then she said we worked together a time ago and I instantly remembered her. For such a large community, it feels so small sometimes.

Sometimes I think I’d rather be a fly on the wall but then someone says something incredibly dumb or ignorant and I open my big mouth. No name tag required. Therefore, on a related note, I recently found out a coworker thought I was a colossal witch with a b upon his first interaction with me. Funny – nearly every friendship I’ve brokered has started off with the exact same story. I guess you just have to get to know me. As a self-described clown, I can’t see how anyone would think of me negatively but if it results in great relationships with wild stories, I’m all for it.

Final photo. After a particularly hot 47 hours of no electricity, the incredible lineman and power company workers perfected their excellence and returned power to my humble abode. So dramatic, Kel. I frequented Chicka D’s, took many cool showers, and attempted to not get too angry at sacrificing everything in the refrigerator.

Alas, it was a grand excuse to finally throw things away.

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I ask you –

When was the last time you were out of electricity for an extended period of time? 2001. Ice storm. No power for almost 2 weeks.

How do your friendships typically begin?

Tell me how often you clean out your fridge.

(The post Let’s Catch Up! first appeared here at Running on Fumes.)

Violence is not the Answer

Recently mini had to make the very difficult decision to continue dance or try something new, namely jiujitsu. If you’ll recall, her 4-yr plan (her words, not mine) has been ballet, tap/jazz, jiujitsu, then back to dance. In an effort to ensure she wasn’t getting into something she wasn’t prepared for, we signed her up for a 1 wk trial to see how she likes jiujitsu.

Night 1:

Instructor: Why do you want to do this?

Mini: Because I’m violent.

For all that’s holy, what in the world possessed her to say that. FFS. Good grief.

However, she stepped up to the challenge and proceeded to exceed expectations, considering she was sparring (I don’t know the terminology, I’m more out of my element than the dance scene) with boys yet she held nothing back. My girl. At the end of the night, she proudly proclaimed that yes, she did want to embark on a year-long journey with the jiujitsu crew. I shouldn’t be surprised because, for months, she’s been saying she wants to pound someone which has prompted many conversations concerning how we don’t pound people and that jiujitsu is not karate.

the faces of violence

Mini’s dad offered an interesting perspective. He said this would help her with her emotions. Personally, I see no cause for concern as she displays her emotions in a very adult-like way; she simply desires to pound things and I’m here for it. Same, child. Same. If that means learning effective ways to defend herself, then go for it.

And then she can sashay her little butt right on.

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I ask you –

Are you self-described as violent?

What life lessons will jiujitsu provide mini?

Tell me what you do to prevent violent tendencies! Run. Run a lot.

(The post Violence is not the Answer first appeared here at Running on Fumes.)

SPI Recap

South Padre Island never disappoints.

Pool time, fun in the sun, the ocean water and sandy toes – all of it is glorious. Even a thankfully short bout of laryngitis couldn’t hold me back.

On the sick note, I have a theory. As this is my second round of laryngitis in as many months, it seems to have something to do with stress and being able to relax. I spent the past several weeks writing and submitting as many papers as possible in preparation for not doing as much the week of vacation. So, of course, when vacation hits, so does illness because my body and mind are finally at peace. That’s when illness creeps in. This is a working theory but I believe I’m on to something.

Nevertheless, we came, we saw, we ate, we swam, we explored, we shopped, and we were generally a menace to the Islanders. Somewhat joking. My sweet niece and nephew enjoyed their stay, it seemed.

It’s only been a few days but I’m already dying to go back. Sorry, friends, so much didn’t make it into this post because I’m knee deep in a paper that has no beginning, no end, and reads like absolutely flaming garbage. Bear with me, I’ll share more later.

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I ask you –

Where was your last vacation?

Do you take family photos?

At the time of this post, it’s finally week 7 of 8 of the course from hell. Almost there!

(The post SPI Recap first appeared here at Running on Fumes.)

Re-Post: Affiliate Link – Mantra Band

Hi, everyone. I wasn’t ready to post anything new just yet – the multiple papers that didn’t write themselves while I was gone are now demanding my attention. I’ll have something new for you on Wednesday! For now, enjoy another re-post with an affiliate link to my favorite bracelet.

I’ve been wearing my Just Run bracelet since Nov 26, 2018. Nearly 4 years! (Correction: now 5 years!) I never take it off and I think it’s just as incredible today as it was the day I purchased it. Many compliments have come from wearing this – I truly love this simple reminder about how much running means to me and what a run can do for my day. The several months I was injured and subsequent PT had me concerned I may never run again. My Mantra Band was a battle cry to continue working towards running. Now look at me!

Super excited to partner with Mantra Band! The order page is: www.mantraband.com/mindbodyshameless. Use my code MINDBODYSHAMELESS for 15% off your entire order. Not only do the creators at Mantra Band design stunning bracelets but they also have necklaces, rings, and tons of other options, including Mantra Books! Their mission prioritizes optimism and mindfulness which we could all use more of, right?!

As part of their collection titled “Charity Bands”, they offer bracelets with unique mantras benefitting the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society and Alex’s Lemonade Stand, among others. What a great way to literally wear your support and passion on your sleeve. I also love the Bar collection and the Mandala Affirmation Collection. Let’s be real, I love it all. Shortly after I bought my own bracelet, I also sent one to my sister and one to my best friend with a different saying than my own. Mantra Band’s craftsmanship stands the test of time. Everything made by Mantra Band make excellent gifts – for yourself or others!

Full disclaimer: Yes, I have my merchandise links which of course I make money from. And, now, these are affiliate links which, again, means I do make money if/when my readers purchase their own Mantra Band.

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I ask you –

Do you have any affiliate links you’d like to share?

What’s the longest you’ve worn a piece of jewelry?

Again, you can order from this link: www.mantraband.com/mindbodyshameless. Remember to use my code MINDBODYSHAMELESS for 15% off.

(The post Affiliate Link – Mantra Band first appeared here at Running on Fumes.)

© Running on Fumes 2023

Re-Post: Call Sign STUMPER

(Second edition of re-posting while I’m away. This could be one of the funniest, shareable moments to happen to me thus far. However, if you’ve been reading my blog for any length of time, you will remember pt 2 of my call sign appearance. As always, keep reading.)

Allow me to share a story – it’s a long one. Have a seat.

In my (military, civilian, non-profit, etc) career(s), I haven’t had an opportunity to speak with anyone at the federal, national, even state level, to my knowledge. So when presented with such opportunity, I nicely jumped all over it. Some parts of this event were volun-told, but others were sheer chance alone. During a recent visit from the United States Air Force Chief of Staff (correction: now confirmed as the 22nd chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff), Gen CQ Brown, Jr., as hundreds of people crowded into an auditorium, I took my place about 5 rows from the front. Again, when would a visit from this official ever happen again? We were presented typical pre-speech information: don’t take selfies, turn your phone off, and (my favorite) here’s how to ask a question at the end. My friends and I made small talk, ahem, jokes. I regaled them with the story about the time I sang in front of the installation commander. Them: You can sing?! Me: Hahahaha no. On time as always the General arrived. He is a wonderful speaker, a seemingly humble individual, and a strong leader. His slides were short and his humor spot on. In many ways, he reminded me of my current squadron commander. I truly hope one day he, too, will grace stages with an entourage of security detail and big picture awareness. Approximately 30 mins later, the big QA session began. My hand went up before the words were out of the moderator’s mouth. I stood, politely introduced myself, and asked the following question: “Sir, as you have a high impact, high visibility position, what perception do you think we, as civilians and Airmen, get wrong about what you do?” Silence. Deafening silence. Suddenly I became the recipient of wild looks and laughter. The General began to pace the stage in silence. Finally, he answered. His answer was a well-rounded approach to being a father, husband, and son. He struggles with the same things we do. He worries about his children, now adults themselves. He sits around at night and can’t believe he gets to do what he does. I thanked him for his time so others could ask their questions. Fast forward to my office later – a conversation ensued between the Senior Leader and my supervisor. Cue the laughing. Unbeknownst to me, jokes of stumping the General were made on the surrey as he departed. I can only imagine my commander’s face. Kel, you need to stop speaking.

And that’s how I became known as STUMPER.

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I ask you –

Thoughts on the call sign?

Have you ever been laughed at?

Share your wild stories!

(The post Call Sign STUMPER first appeared here at Running on Fumes.)

Go and Grow

Sometimes good leadership lessons fall into my lap. Sometimes I seek them out. A recent devotional passage spoke to me in a way I knew I needed in that very moment:

Basically, one must sacrifice the perks of leadership for the price of leadership. And, you will never lead at a level higher than the level at which you lead and believe in yourself. Influence is based on the bar you set for yourself and how your “buy in” truly represents who you are as a leader. A leader must be willing to pay the price of being the example, the price of going first, if they desire others to follow their lead. (Leaders Go First, a YouVersion plan)

Growth never happens overnight but sometimes it comes in a good night’s sleep, sharing a glass of wine with a sweet friend, or simply making peace with your internal monsters. This is probably just based on perspective but I’m subscribed to my own perspective and how it impacts others in the way I lead. I’m incredibly proud of my title as director because I try to be as direct as possible, especially when others rely on me to make tough decisions. Sometimes I get it entirely wrong. And I admit it. But sometimes I get it so right that even I’m surprised. haHA

Photo by Mikhail Nilov on Pexels.com

Something else entirely surprising is when Parts talks about fixing things, like things with motors, and throws words around, like carburetors and spark plugs. I don’t know what household she grew up in but I just don’t have that type of knowledge. I can boost a car. That’s about it. I know what I like and what I’m good at. So if you ever hear me use the word carburetor in a sentence, I have absolutely no business getting dirty with whatever stupid idea is rolling around in my head.

Take the tools out of my hands. Save yourself.

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I ask you –

Are you drawn to leadership lessons?

How mechanically inclined are you?

Tell me your tool utilization ideas, please. Something an intellectual unicorn like myself can actually use for good.

(The post Go and Grow first appeared here at Running on Fumes.)

How Convenient

Somehow I’m supposed to say no to preordering the latest rendition of my favorite shoe. We’re pleased to announce the Brooks Adrenaline GTS 23 will be available in August. Just in time for fall training. I’ve narrowed down my color options, now to make the final decision.

Pink

Black on Black

New shoes sound awesome but you know what isn’t awesome? This heat. I’m simply counting down the days to my beach side vacation where at least the smell of salt water mitigates the humidity. I managed 2 whole runs last week – but one was sooooo good I couldn’t move well for a few days afterward. As a quad-dominant runner, it’s both a blessing and a curse.

Our new director arrived a short time ago. He will be referred to in writings as the Cali Cowboy because I’m so good at nicknames. At first, it was Surfer Boy but it turns out he doesn’t surf. On the bright side, McK and I didn’t get fired for our naming conventions. Within 2 weeks of his arrival, we received notice of resignation of a co-worker so now the Cali Cowboy has to play that role, too. He did previously state how he learns best by being thrown into the fire.

Welcome to the sh*t show, sir.

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I ask you –

Shoes: pink or black?

How is the weather in your area?

I should probably disclose my blogging interests before he reads about himself on here.

(The post How Convenient appeared here at Running on Fumes.)

Angels and Stress, an Unlikely Relationship

I had an epiphany one (very very early) morning as I was thinking about and missing mini. Some parents describe their child as an angel, not necessarily in behavior (because liars) but just in the term of endearment way. I highly doubt I’ll ever use the term angel when speaking of mini and not because I don’t love who she is. But who she is isn’t angelic – she’s fireworks, she’s lightning, she’s demanding of time and attention, she makes you question yourself and everything you believe, she’s inquisitive, she’s HILARIOUS, she’s witty, and she’s brave. I could go on. She forces me to evaluate the little things. She encourages me to face my fears as a parent and as a woman. She’s my biggest fan and strongest critic.

Peanut butter whiskey + Cranberry = Liquid PB&J: also an unlikely relationship

You know who else is my biggest critic? Yours truly. For example, I received a deduction of 3 points for a Wk 1 discussion post regarding federalism and intergovernmental relationships. Remember last week when I said it was absolute garbage of a post and I lamented how I had been sooooo hard on others? Hello, pot. Meet my new friend. Here I was – down on myself for missing the mark, for not achieving a perfect score, blah blah blah. Sometimes I really must make a concentrated effort to remember that absolutely no one cares! It’s 3 measly points and impacts nothing. I still got an A. And do you think anyone will ever ask me what grade I got in the course? I’ll let you decide.

Lastly, throttling my desire to research the most obscure of topics and concepts is not fun. Whilst searching for an appropriate topic in my current course – Intergovernmental Relations – I found many topics I’d love to delve into but considering my past investigative history I thought it best not to. Ugh. Indeed I love to argue points not traditionally considered commonplace but I don’t fancy explaining them to the authorities. Alas, I’ll just find a vanilla topic and press on.

This final class to round out the 1st year is giving me a run for my money. Stress levels – maxed out.

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I ask you –

What was your last epiphany?

On a scale of 1 to put me out of my misery, how interesting do you think intergovernmental relations is? Negative 7.

Tell me a stress solution!

(The post Angels and Stress, an Unlikely Relationship first appeared here at Running on Fumes.)

Inner Circle

Unwilling to traverse nearly 4 years of blog posts to find where I’ve surely mentioned this before, let’s just pretend I haven’t and this is new information, ok?

Along the way, several instances of people whom I know – mainly, work with – have addressed me as Kel. And it makes me want to scream. You see, Kel is a very private name, like a term of endearment. It’s reserved for those closest to me, who have seen me on my best days and my worst, who know me. Kel is how I refer to myself. She’s special. She’s the voice I write in when you see something in italics. She’s Kel. The persona that most people see at work is decidedly not Kel – not until she speaks out of turn, gets loud, stands up, and/or becomes very authoritative. That’s Kel.

So, somehow, when I hear someone call me Kel who doesn’t know me like that, I cringe. And mumble under my breath. Indeed I love my name; however, it’s presumptuous to think anyone can call me Kel. One must ask for permission, to be invited into my realm of colors…or at least acknowledge that I’m very private about many things and maybe my internal voice is one of them!

Among other things that irk me are the removable pads inside sports bras. Just why? It’s nice to ensure everything is thoroughly clean; however, the amount of time I spend procrastinating putting them back inside the bra pockets is ridiculous. In terms of efficiency, it ranks last! Someone mentioned placing a few stitches around the seam so they wouldn’t come out. But then I examined my favorite run bras and they don’t even have the modesty pad. Which prompts another thought – what do I care about modesty? Have you read my blog?! I’m about as immodest as it gets. If you see my nipples when I’m out running, then you’re obviously searching for something to complain about. Modesty can shove it.

And I think that’s where those pads are destined: shoved in the garbage can.

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I ask you –

Have you ever had a taste of humble pie?

Do you like fried green tomatoes?

Rumor has it there will be a photo shoot with mini and cows!

(The post Inner Circle first appeared here at Running on Fumes.)