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.)

Call Sign STUMPER, the finale

I refuse to politicize this post. However, I will say the firing of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, who is mentioned below, is a grave mistake. Democracy isn’t a popularity contest. I believe when someone works hard, takes care of others, and doesn’t allow politics to cloud their judgment, then they are worthy of the position appointed to them. The good ole’ boys club should be dead and gone. Instead, it continues to play out in a bunch of old white men who think they know best. I said it. And I’ll say it again for the ones in the back.

Previous post (original published in 2022) recaptured –

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, 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, the finale first appeared here at Running on Fumes.)

We did some things!

Seeing my sister win is a WIN! She deserves all the accolades and appreciation and awards. We’re so different, but we are a winning team! She thinks others don’t notice her hard work, I’m sure sometimes she doesn’t feel appreciated, but she definitely is. She’s the better half of this sister duo and the co-worker award is a testament to her heart.

I had a photo here of what happens when Parts doesn’t show up to claim her award, but it was truly awful. Must like she probably felt when she said she was sick. Hmph.

Humble brag: It never ceases to amaze me when I win awards or listen to my own accomplishments. Most of the things I do are my job – lead, train, motivate, join. To me, it’s not a big deal. It’s what I do. So I’m humbled when someone else sees the value in it because that’s certainly not why I do what I do. I do it for them, for my team – a group of people who come together to do good things, day in and day out. They deserve recognition every quarter.

Speaking of teams – 4th quarter team winners – I’ve written about it before – when they win, we all win!

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I ask you –

Received any awards lately? Brag to me!

Do you fancy yourself a great co-worker?

Tell me how many times you’ve been sick in 2025. Because things are going around.

(The post We did some things! first appeared here at Running on Fumes.)

Did you know…?

“How fast do people typically walk? According to a 2020 study, how fast you walk depends on your age and biological sex, with men walking slightly faster than women. In general, individuals under 30 walk at an average speed of 3 miles per hour. Those aged 30 to 39, as well as 40 to 49, walk at an average speed of 2.8 mph. People 50 to 59 average 2.75 mph, while those over 60 move at 2.7 mph. After age 65, people tend to walk at an average speed of 2.1 mph.”

Well, I’ll be damned. My walking speed is worth more than making slower people feel uncomfortable. I’m as healthy as a horse! Some feet issues and a joint problem, but not too bad.

I can’t wait to start running again. It would probably help if I stopped rescheduling my orthotics appointment and PT sessions. I’ve been busy.

I was so busy gathering data that there seems to be a run on busted water pipes, water heaters, and electrical rooms. Let’s make fire! Keep reading for more ways to make your Saturday night fun.

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I ask you –

Are you a fast walker? All my life.

Will 2025 bring increased mileage?

Give me new ideas for fun nights sans water cleanup.

(The post Did you know…? first appeared here at Running on Fumes.)

The Circus is in Town

A radio program mentioned if it’s not your best yes, then it’s a no. Seems I took that to what because a day prior to hearing this advice I had submitted resignations from some volunteer agreements. My motivation for those opportunities had originally been rooted in obligation (or the understanding that someone had to do it). Lately, I had my own realization if I didn’t take it off my plate no one else was about to step up. I hope it’s my heart speaking when I say/share this because I do love people. I just don’t always like them.

Believe it or not, I was concerned the coffee mug below could be offensive to my team. So, I asked a few leaders, and team members, if they had a problem with it. Short answer: no. Most thought it was amusing. Other leaders told me there’s a much more graphic version. Oh!?

I read sarcasm is the lowest form of wit. Whatever. Do you know how witty it takes to be sarcastic?!

For example, I just love when people sit on the fitness equipment playing on their phone. I adore it. It makes me so happy to see you disconnected from your journey towards health. Thank you for being in my way.

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I ask you –

What’s your perspective on sarcasm?

Do you have a favorite coffee mug?

Tell me your most sarcastic response.

(The post The Circus is in Town first appeared here at Running on Fumes.)

Because…I am.

Recently, someone asked why do you want to look different than the people you work with, presumably because of what I wear to work. I said it’s not because I want to, it’s because I need to. You see, when it comes time to stand up for my team, they deserve a leader who will do just that – stand up. It’s a privilege to be their leader and I never want anyone to question my loyalty to them. One of my first days on the fitness job, I was approached with the words “You look like you’re in charge”. My reply: I am. I want to look like a leader because…I am. I want to stand in front of, beside, and behind my employees because…I do. More than any of these; however, is I want my team to see me do it because…I have. And I will. And I will continue to do so. When my team wins, we all win. In 2024, we did big things. Even just a few weeks into 2025, we’re doing bigger things.

a few of many

The glass ceiling still exists. Oh it does. Even in the military (and I doubt it’s only the military) women still struggle obtaining top positions. Not to say it’s impossible – it’s absolutely not and has been proven time and again – but it’s a struggle. I never want to be a leader who was chosen because I was the “best of the worst”. Because I can name a dozen who were. I want to be chosen because I’m the best at what I do. Thus far, I believe that has happened. But I don’t want to become complicit to positional power, easily stripped with removal of a title. Sure, other people rely on me, but it is not that single reason which makes me a leader.

No, this post is not a whoohoo look at me and all the great things I’m doing. I don’t need a pat on the back. My only goal is to empower someone else to do the same, step up, be the leader you’re called to be. Because someone is watching you be the best you. And you have a team to lead.

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I ask you –

Are you an organizational leader?

What’s your opinion of the glass ceiling?

Tell me your title, in whatever capacity you are in.

(The post Because…I am. first appeared here at Running on Fumes.)

Break Time

As seen in a devotional, “…our human hearts and minds wander.” The premise was how our spaces tell a story of who we are, what we hold dear, and how best to utilize these spaces. As I have a full coffee bar in my office, I think it’s mostly clear.

After a particularly emotional day, a stranger told me I should give the equivalent of Ted talks to other women and mothers regarding some struggles. He believed I could write/share motivational stories, or even newsletters, to amass a following of people who need to hear how it is possible to overcome adversity. I was quite humbled by his words. Adding to my to-do list.

Reciprocate, not initiate. Not to be confused with the term “follower”. Recently, I read an Instagram post saying something to the effect that women step (metaphorically) after men do. In other words, a dance, so to speak, or a courtesy within norms of deferring to another, specifically, deferring to a leader in life, a leader of the home, a leader in the relationship. It was fascinating to consider how some believe the adage if you’re not a leader then you’re a follower. Words matter. Rather than perpetuating the old saying, if we reframe the words, then it more adequately explains the dynamics.

The past several weeks have been nonstop, and I fear I’m on the edge of burnout. Still waiting on ethics board approval so I’ve done little for my dissertation yet work and activities have monopolized my time and brain. I need a break.

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I ask you –

What story do your spaces tell of you?

Have the holidays been busy?

Share your thoughts on reciprocation vs initiation.

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

The Big Easy

Thus far, I’ve been fortunate to travel to some new cities to explore, network, and learn. The annual 2024 Athletic Business Conference and Expo was held in New Orleans, LA – a city I am somewhat familiar with but hadn’t traversed via foot in quite some time. My previous visit was with Morgan from Oregon when we ran the Rock ‘n Roll Half Marathon, circa 2019. I believe my wingwoman and I gave it a genuine run for its money with our average 25K steps per day on this trip.

First, let’s get the serious stuff out of the way. I never felt unsafe; however, the changing atmosphere around us when the sun went down was palpable. I doubt the AB Show will ever return to NOLA due to its volatile crime scene. Several incidents were too close for comfort. All this to say, we’re fine and had a fantastic time tasting our way through the city.

New Orleans, or as the locals call it Naw-lins, is slightly above sea level, giving it a bowl-shaped topography. This marshy area is perfect for ancient live oak trees, swamps, and, my personal favorite, humidity. I arrived nearly healed from a cold/allergy issue, succumbed to the 80 degree, then 50 degree temps, and returned home with a mild case of laryngitis. Interestingly, this is typical when I’m around McK for extended periods of time. It’s a running joke now.

I digress.

The Food!

…was authentic. We tried gumbo, red beans & rice, jambalaya, boudin balls, chargrilled oysters, pralines (pronounced prah-leans), many beignets (pronounced ben-yays), a meatery board (I nearly don’t want to discuss this at all), and, in typical fashion, all the coffee.

We also caught up with work friends and many new acquaintances.

From Bourbon St. to Canal St. and all the way to Matairie to meet a famous food blogger (check out Blaine’s), we explored the city without boundaries. Maybe we return, maybe we don’t. But the memories last a lifetime.

enjoying a dinner of chargrilled oysters at Drago’s

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I ask you –

Have you been to New Orleans?

If so, what is your favorite, traditional food there? Beignets, absolutely.

Tell me your thoughts on a city that has seen the best and worst times.

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

Language Lessons

Today’s topic is cleverly titled “Armchair Quarterback of Military English and Psychology”, i.e., the belief you’re using words correctly. You couldn’t be further from the truth. Let me help.

Literally: (courtesy of Oxford Dictionary) in a literal manner or sense; exactly. If you (literally) don’t know how to use it, please use these words instead: actually, completely, directly, plainly, precisely, really, simply, truly

Figuratively speaking: metaphorical speech; the opposite of literal. If it doesn’t involve using words or phrases with a meaning that is different from usual, in order to create a particular mental picture, then just don’t.

Toxic: (when used as a noun) having a very unpleasant personality, especially in the way they like to control and influence other people in a dishonest way. 1980s self-help books are mostly responsible for the increased usage of the word toxic, helping it reach the coveted status of Oxford Dictionary’s Word of 2018. It’s been downhill since then.

Gaslighting: the act of manipulating someone into questioning their own sanity or reality through psychological means. Notably, the word gaslight is included in the Oxford English Dictionary’s 2023 Banished Words List, as a word that should be removed from people’s vocabulary due to its overuse and misuse. I second that.

Circleback (or circle back): (courtesy of Merriam-Webster) to return to a topic or discussion at a later time. Just use revisit or follow up. No one wants to circle back to anything. Trust me. All you’re doing is talking in circles.

Foot-stomp: in the military, it means to emphasize or highlight important information. It’s redundant. Instead, just repeat the information. You’re going to anyway. Why waste words?

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I ask you –

Did any of the above terms strike a chord?

Have you been incorrectly using these words? Yes, you have.

Add to my list!

(The post Language Lessons 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.)