Tis The Season

Mark is holding over for me so I can ride my bike into work in the daytime. The sky is steel grey with peach colored light infusing the clouds. My Christmas lights are still on. The timer doesn't work...I just remembered that. There's a lot going on right now. I've used the word, "Stress," more times than I care to count this month and we are only in the 11th day. It's Christmas. Not being particularly religious this word has different meaning for me than some. But, the lights and spirit of the holidays usually causes me to look around and re-connect with those around me in a more intentional way. This year I'm struggling with that. I find myself very wrapped up in my own drama.

This is my attempt to jump out of this rut. My Mom is in the Philippines. I get to visit her in Janaury. I've not seen my mom for more than a year. She's become an activist, a friend, and an important part of a community on the other side of the world. I get to see this amazing woman in yet another shining example of someone to live up to.

My sister and her partner Todd will move into there new house shortly. Todd remodeled this house, while working full time, with his own hands. There journey of buying, fixing, almost losing, and finally moving into their new home has been nothing short of a miracle.

I've been adopted by this amazing group of runners. They run together, for miles, but they're so close and so supportive of every aspect in each other's lives. This energy practically carries you on air if you are fortunate enough to join this pack on wildwood. Ronda, my new DFF, has become a mentor and inspiration. I thought I was tough. She's doing things I haven't even imagined...let alone thought possible. We don't grow unless we challenge ourselves. I'm indebted to Ronda because I'm excited again to challenge myself in both running and nutrition. I've never tried the combination and the results...in just a short time are amazing. And Tom. Tom doesn't like to be mentioned in blogs. But he doesn't read them either so what he doesn't know won't hurt him. He doesn't take any shit. Especially your excuses or the reasons why. He just wants 20 push-ups and 20 pull-ups and if you can do that, great do them with one arm. There is no talk, just action. Tom rules.

My friend Seth is visiting this week. I've not seen Seth for almost a year. We used to surf together 2-3 times a week. I've not been in the water since September. I've not surfed with him...I can't remember the last time I caught a wave, and looked up afterwards to see if he watched. Only to find him staring back while riding the bigger wave of the set as I get pummeled trying to get back outside. He's taking me to the mountain to teach me how to snowboard.

My friend Kelley called wanting a swim lesson. Since a pretty traumatic introduction to water at a young age, Kelley has wanted nothing to do with anything more than a bath tub. I've not been in the pool for over a year. Kelley is actually easily swimming the length of the pool. Her only difficulty is learning to exhale out of her nose. She's determined to practice this basic skill so she can master swimming. She practiced the advice and drills I gave her willingly and with a smile.

Helen and Ann, Mother and daughter, are still walking the lanes of the pool causing mischief and smiles wherever they direct their caring jabs. They are like pillars of community. Even when you don't go for days, months, or years, they are there excited to see you back again when you do decide to return.

My friend Rishi just returned from a month in Brazil. He moved into my house over a year ago and put up with my impatience, odd schedule and obsessive behaviour caring for my dogs. He became a friend and cooked soup for the neighborhood soup party. He actually reads and comments on my blog. He works hard to reach out to people no matter where he's living, which is Chicago now, unfortunately. Hi Rishi!

It's light out. I have to ride to work. I sold my car yesterday. Today I have: no car payment, amazing friends, amazing family, beautiful dogs, and strong legs to ride to work under a clear, dry sky that still has some peach clouds.

Thanks.