Hours and Days

From this

To this

Being a part of the planning and scheduling and leading and quite frankly the chaos of a huge event like a concert consumed more than a week of my time. Thankfully, only one task fell squarely on my shoulders. Anything more and I would have sank like the JLG in the soft ground. Evidence in the photos above. I’m surprised the large monument-sized anchors in the foreground didn’t sink. Speaking of monuments, those are called pet rocks. When I insisted they look like headstones, I was informed the difference between pet rocks and headstones is the pet rocks have had the “coating” removed. OK, fine. However, now I wonder did someone gift the military dozens of headstones? And why? Perhaps they didn’t believe in air power.

I also met a comedian. A real one! Mr. Walter Campbell has been a comedian for more than 30 years and is easily the funniest one yet. Apparently, he sings and dances, too, which was a fun surprise. Such a treat to meet a relatable and funny man of his famous nature.

Aftermath…who does the hat belong to? We still don’t know.

I was truly enjoying the moment, and still running around like a chaos coordinator, so photos are lacking. The lineup was 3OH!3, Bryce Vine, and Andy Grammer. All were amazing performers and even nicer people.

AFE coin

To say pulling off an event for 1500 people is a feat does it no justice. I was coined by the Air Force Entertainment team which was such a thoughtful ending to the night.

Saturday morning

By the time Parts and I made it to bed at approx. 0145, I’d been awake for 21 hours. Can’t say I want to do it again anytime soon, but…we know there will be.

________________

I ask you –

What’s the longest amount of time you’ve ever been awake? Isn’t there a maximum where someone died after staying awake too long?

(The post Hours and Days first appeared here at Running on Fumes.)

Outtakes, episode 2

The latest iteration of my newest endeavor –

I think I’m getting better at this! Mini only told me once to stop being weird. Progress!

This time, we had 5 girls and it had been raining (with the works) for several hours. Mini isn’t a fan of storms and it appeared most of the other girls weren’t either. So we made a fort with a blanket thrown over a table and let the girls sit under it while I gave the lesson from a rather uncomfortable spot on the floor. Despite a few loud interruptions, we were right on time!

Maybe I’m starting to figure this stuff out. Until next time.

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I ask you –

When was the last time you built a blanket fort?

(The post Outtakes, episode 2 first appeared here at Running on Fumes.)

Reading and To-Do List, in progress

Although I’ve already read the series below, I’m sharing them because they are really that good!

The Little Liar by Mitch Albom, a thought-provoking novel set during the Holocaust, chronicling the intertwined lives and stories of four individuals with Truth as the narrator.

The AJ Docker Series of 5 books by Gary Gerlacher. Imagine Harry Bosch meets medical nonfiction. Easy to read, intriguing, and can be read in any order. Thank me later.

Events / Travel in 2026

Run the Jailbreak: South Padre Island, TX

Handel’s Ice Cream in Plano, TX

_________________

I ask you –

Of the list above, have you tried any?

Recommendations?

(The post Reading and To-Do List, in progress first appeared here at Running on Fumes.)

Re-Post! Unearthly Expectations

Re-Post from October 30, 2023 – deep in the archives of RoF! I promise to return soon with new, unread material!

As expected, my foots need expert, aka surgical, attention. You know – for all that technology has accomplished, how come there’s only a few options for feet? I did all the others. The surgeon was quite incredulous when I requested to have surgery on both feet simultaneously. But I persevered! Eventually, he came around to my way of thinking but it took some convincing. First, he says it’s dangerous when you can’t walk under your own power. Then, he says the pain may be too much. His final attempt at dissuading me was my mental health. Something about suffering from depression when unable to run.

I counteracted his every argument by saying I will sit at home and be a good patient; I have a high pain tolerance; and it makes more sense to have both feet done to allow me to complete my coursework at one time.

Then, when I visited my muse, her advice wasn’t quite what I wanted to hear but valuable nonetheless. She said, “Kel, you’re still Wonder Woman, but it’s an unearthly expectation to do all the things just because you can.” Granted, her words stopped me in my tracks and made me reconsider my decision. For a time. It’s difficult considering all the unknown variables, including being unable to play in the intramural volleyball league as originally planned. Now, I’ll just coach!

My wingwoman and I

So, all this to say my mind is pretty much made up. I may come to regret it but both feet is the way to go. Despite the circumstances and outliers, I know I can persevere. And I will.

Yet every time you make it through something that doesn’t kill you or land you in jail, there’s this overwhelming feeling of excitement and gratitude. I live for it.

___________________

I ask you –

Any big decisions on the horizon?

Could this be the dumbest decision I’ve made? It very well could be.

Tell me about your superpowers!

(The post Re-Post! Unearthly Expectations first appeared here at Running on Fumes.)

What to do now

In my unlimited extra time post-PhD, I’ve included a near daily yoga session into my morning routine. I feel amazing and I’ve almost mastered feet to knees.

Then there’s volleyball up to 3x a week. Sure, we haven’t won a single game but the fun levels of this team I am grateful to coach is unmatched. Off the charts…but not our scores.

I planned a skating party for my 9 year old. She was an infant yesterday. I don’t understand how this is happening. Spare Parts will be a grandma at the end of the summer while I have a 9 yr old. Still makes me laugh.

I’ve been researching adjunct professor positions; there’s a few leads. For now, I’m working through the process of publishing my dissertation to the university and public databases. I’ve also looked into some think tank-type work to impact immigration legislation. Policymaker stuff is my forte.

The comfy corner came together nicely. Mini reads her books there at night while I hoard the space in the early morning hours. My wake up time has only shifted by 30-60 mins yet somehow those precious minutes make all the difference in my rest levels. Most days, I’m a new person!

As time passes, I’m sure it will fill with other responsibilities, requirements, or space takers. No need to hurry.

———————–

I ask you –

After completing something which took a large portion of your time, how did you fill the space?

When did you last plan a birthday party?

Share your wakeup time! 0500

(The post What to do now first appeared here at Running on Fumes.)

Comfy Corner

I originally wrote this post in early 2024 so I thought it fitting I publish it today, one week prior to the scheduled dissertation defense which has consumed my life for a long time.

PMS sucks. I find myself with a lowered patience threshold than usual. Just the little things. However, I often have some really creative ideas during this time. Like this – a reading corner! The plan is to restructure my writing desk and general PhD-making setup into a reading nook upon graduation. I’m not certain what the original thought was for this alcove of a room attached to the formal bedroom. It developed, for me, into a bookcase/writing desk/storage square. Obviously, at this time, it’s where student magic happens.

Sidenote: I do understand how some people can only write or work in their “designated space(s)”. It is a mental act to have all the right conditions when it comes to concentration. One would think I have trouble with being so close to the bedroom, literally within eyesight. However, I believe it was very strategic on my part because mini can wake up and SEE me working; therefore, I’m preventing a mad dash down the hallway and/or her getting up at the crack of dawn when I’m busy. So far, year 3, this is working.

Image credit: Amazon

Anyway, a reading corner complete with oversized comfy chair, foot rest, end tables, and probably a fake plant. Because…death.

Often it feels like this stage of my life is never-ending and I will literally be writing forever. However, I know it’s untrue. I think. Maybe? So planning small rewards – or refocuses, if you will – breaks up the monotony. Like when I forget to check what day my interlibrary loan book is due. Or when I forget mini’s age because I’ve just regurgitated from memory every family member’s phone number, email, blood type, address…you get the point. Forgive me when I can’t do it all! Mini has not let me forget this yet.

My point is I need a place to read and gather my thoughts before the day attempts to steal every remaining functioning brain cell. Can you blame me?

_________________

I ask you –

What would your comfy corner include?

How much time does it take to get your thoughts together?

Fake plant vs real plant. Your preference?

(The post Comfy Corner first appeared here at Running on Fumes.)

Whirlwind

I graduated to this –

The same day as this –

blowing snow, approx 18°

Short story: my knee is getting better. Much less pain, less frequently. I did “accidentally” test out my running inability when a staff member at work exploded into my office, saying “Kelly, there’s smoke up front. And water!” No time for questions. As I sprinted to the front desk, my knee reminded me it’s not ready for running. I sort of jump-hopped the remainder of the way. Spoiler: hot water was pouring out the front door from a heat pump thingy. It was below freezing for several days so this is common. Anyway, we cleaned up gallons of steaming water and I rested my knee.

Tis me. Credit: via IG

As I had already exhausted the traditional number of physical therapy appointments – turns out that number is 5 – then I was scheduled for some additional appointments and a referral to an orthopedic surgeon/practitioner. something about a different type of brace

On day 21, I submitted the final draft of my manuscript to the PhD gods who will hopefully provide feedback in the next 30 days, granting me just enough time to make the updates and resubmit to defend prior to 9 May. To pass the time, I’m making plans to convert my writing desk into a reading nook, determine how many activities I can plan during the summer, and actually reclaiming some time to get outside. Mark my words, I’ll be stir crazy in less than 32 hours. More coffee, please.

__________________

I ask you –

Any elliptical advice?

What’s the weather been like for you?

Tell me what silly word describes you best.

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

(No Fancy Title)

I used to wonder, what’s a girl gotta do –

To win a wing-level award. To clear the smaller but no less significant hurdles of winning at the squadron and group levels. Then, I did it. Twice. Walking across the same stage where I received my master’s diploma was awesome. Now? I’m chasing that annual award. Stay tuned.

To get a PhD. Something about the sound of doctor preceding my name seemed out of my league. I would say “that’s not me”. But, why not? Doctor…loading.

To position myself as a presenter at a leadership conference, established in my field as a policymaker. To make policy! I’ve mentioned if the opportunity presented itself to do this at the services level, I’d have a tough time turning it down. Post-doctor, for sure.

Credit: unknown via Instagram

To find a lost city. According to this article, it’s not out of the realm of possibilities. Of course it was a PhD student. He was looking for his sanity.

__________________

I ask you –

Have you been a conference presenter?

Seriously, what does a girl gotta do?!

Tell me some things you wonder about!

(The post (No Fancy Title) first appeared here at Running on Fumes.)

When it’s busy

In several years, this is the first time I’ve had a full staff. Every position filled, with both new and seasoned employees keeping me on my toes. Yet, I’m the lucky one. Nearly daily, I marvel at the opportunity to be their leader. Someone believed in me, chose me, to lead them. It’s an honor unlike anything else. We have frank, real, deep conversations. I feel their respect when I explain the why.

Get it together. Some days it feels as if everyone is a psychology major. Words from the DSM (current edition DSM-5-TR) are now buzzwords. For example, imposter syndrome. Never heard of it until recently, now we can’t unhear it. I believe the concept is real; however, using it as an excuse for not stepping up is irritating. Sometimes there is no one more qualified than you, regardless of what your insecurities tell you. Be the leader. Do good things.

A small portion of Team Fitness

Nevertheless, transitioning from employee to mentor to leader is not for the weak. It is a lot of needs to balance! I do my best to share the big picture, the budget constraints, always the why behind decisions, yet some are reluctant to grasp the entire narrative. How many times have I done the same.

Tis the season for a million demands on my time. From a weekend with multiple events to planning upcoming holiday activities, it can be hard to take a deep breath. I don’t know how some people manage to float from one busy weekend to the next. My brain is tired just contemplating what’s on the agenda

______________

I ask you –

How often do you use the term imposter syndrome?

What’s on your calendar?

Advice for the break takers!

(The post When it’s busy first appeared here at Running on Fumes.)

I’m a Forgetter

Long live volleyball! I just wish I didn’t hurt myself so easily. Yes, I own knee pads. Several pairs. But did I remember to bring them and put them on? Clearly not.

My kind doctor said I had 6 months to fix my high cholesterol levels. In his defense, he’s given me 3 yrs thus far. The good stuff is getting better but it’s still overall too high for comfort. I blame my parents. In the meantime, I’ve made some easy switches – less fat, more good stuff. Turns out turkey bacon is really good, and I definitely enjoy balsamic vinegar on my salad. More avocado, less fried stuff. We’ll see what happens. I’m always up for an experiment!

Me: I know it’s Saturday morning at 0500, nearing FY end, so let me check my email and really test these new anxiety meds. My brain: Dondnekndicngmeixnwkffiend🤯. Long story short – now I will worry and feel ill the remainder of the day for forgetting for 4 months! to order something I agreed to.

Volunteers, team of 2

Definitely needed a run to clear my head from that disaster. Later in the day, I saw the victim of my forgetfulness and apologized profusely. She didn’t seem to mind much, which was a big change from my anxious brain telling me to escape. Ugh, such a liar.

_________________

I ask you –

Do you enjoy any healthy alternatives to your favorite foods?

What is your go-to activity to clear your head?

Tell me about forgetting something important!

(The post I’m a Forgetter first appeared here at Running on Fumes.)