tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8519108856646030792024-02-18T21:25:16.773-08:00Meg postsThe beginning of a new adventure!Meg Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05546655962070144649noreply@blogger.comBlogger28125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-851910885664603079.post-41681220226507952352013-11-18T07:19:00.000-08:002013-11-18T07:19:50.419-08:00It's not about meExercise, fitness, nutrition- are these all things just part of a selfish pursuit to happiness?<br />
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When we choose to eat better, join a gym and take on the battle of the bulge- we do it because we want to look good. We want to fit into our skinny jeans and be able to say "I did it!"... "I challenged myself and I did it!.. and I lost weight and feel good and LOOK good!"</div>
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Most people have no problem with the selfishness of it all. Eating right and exercising will keep us healthy, will give us more energy, and lengthen our lifespans. No one would argue that's a bad thing, right?</div>
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For a long time now, living a healthy lifestyle has been rooted in some form of selfishness on my part. Yes I want to feel good, yes I want to have more energy and tackle challenging fitness goals, and yes I want to take pride in my body. And it's only as of recently I realized that as much as I LOVE a good run by the river or sweaty session at the gym, and as much energy and joy and sense of accomplishment is left with me after a workout.... something is still missing. </div>
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I really had been struggling to come to terms with the fact that something that seems to be rooted in vanity is actually my passion and the thing I get most excited about every day when I wake up. And yes, for many it may be about vanity-but for me it is so much more that what I look like or how fast I run, or how much weight I can bench press.(haha, funny, I know- the amount of weight I can personally bench press is not one to toot my own horn over)</div>
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I once had read an article written by a woman who had given away a special piece of jewelry she owned to an orphan on a mission trip she had taken to South America. She had realized that having possessions wasn't as fulfilling as using those possessions in order to love others. That had really resonated with me but at the time I didn't know it could also be applied to my love for healthy living.</div>
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All the sudden it really made sense. The joy I get from my passion does not reach its full potential if I can't share it with others! I would love nothing more but to replicate and pass on my love for running, fitness and nutrition, and use my knowledge and experiences gained from my journey to bless other people. Therein lies the unselfish answer to speaking out for my passion.</div>
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I understand there is a lot more to life than vegetables, sit-ups and 5k's but for me- all my experiences every single day are so deeply enhanced by the balance I have attained through eating right and exercising. These things have formed the foundation for moving forward and doing good in all other facets of my life, and I want to share that with my friends, family, and even those of you I don't know!</div>
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So now: onto to spreading the joy of a healthy lifestyle both near and far!!!!!</div>
Meg Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05546655962070144649noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-851910885664603079.post-30931117073507217312013-11-11T04:50:00.001-08:002013-11-11T11:16:43.322-08:00Listening to your body! And a banana berry smoothie!<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Through the years my interest in fitness and nutrition has developed over time. I look back to when I was a fairly unhealthy pre-teen and teenager eating hoho's and corndogs and I realize how far I have come! It has been years of a combo of self-guided research on things like running, resistance training and good nutritious food, as well as learning to really tune into my body and figuring out what makes it truly feel at its optimum.</span><br />
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">To me its so fascinating to see this change in myself and the fact that I am STILL learning is pretty exciting. </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Just this weekend I learned a great lesson on tuning into your body. I think this is so important in the world of wellness! </span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">There are times when I feel far less motivated to get a workout in some days. I think to myself "hmm it would be nice if I just skipped it today- I'll just relax, or do something else productive that I need to do." On these days I know that I should just suck it up and do it because the result is a much happier, bright eyed, ready to conquer the world me. Getting started is hard- but as soon as I'm finished- I have relieved my stress, boosted my energy levels and I just feel GOOD. This was the case on Saturday. But I made myself pop in a 40 minute Insanity video at home. I like to have these videos on hand for those days I don't feel like running or going to the gym- it makes it easier by removing the step of leaving the house- which can be half the battle! Before I knew it the workout was done and I felt rejuvenated and ready for whatever my day had in store.</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Then- there are times like Sunday- where I am so exhausted that my body just feels like it has nothing to give and its just screaming out for rest. I had had a long, busy week and I was feeling pretty much out of gas. In the past it has been hard for me to feel okay with going a day without doing something active. I had a hard time reading myself to see if it was because I was making an excuse to be lazy- or if I was actually tired. Sunday I <i>needed</i> to rest- and so I thoroughly enjoyed a low key day and now I feel rested and ready for another week ahead!</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Learn how to listen to your body! It knows best!!</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Another thing!</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">I have become a big fan of smoothies. Especially for refueling after a high intensity workout! I think I have found my favorite blend- I made this one after my workout Saturday and here it is:</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><b>Half a frozen banana </b>(you can use a regular banana but I like to cut them up and throw them in the freezer-they have a longer life span and help give the smoothie a thicker- smoothie like texture, rather then a juice like texture)</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><b>Frozen berries</b> (I like to buy fruit in the produce section and freeze them but the frozen already bagged kind is great too)</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><b>1/2 cup PLAIN greek yogurt</b> (you don't need the extra sugar in the flavored stuff- its going to be sweet from the fruit!)</span></div>
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<b style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">1 cup of fresh spinach </b></div>
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<b style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Tablespoon of Chia seeds</b></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><b>1/2 scoop of chocolate protein powder</b> (optional- but I like to give it a little chocolate kick)</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><b>1/2 cup Almond milk </b>(might need to add more as you blend to get the right consistency)</span></div>
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<span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">VOILA! delicious and does a body good</span></div>
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Meg Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05546655962070144649noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-851910885664603079.post-65922521889102732352013-11-05T07:57:00.002-08:002013-11-05T08:00:34.110-08:00The early bird gets the wormDoes anyone else find mornings extremely full of life and hope and hapiness?<br />
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I know it seems that I am a rare breed- as it seems many friends/family/colleagues say they hit the snooze button as many times as possible before they slowly roll out of bed and drag themselves into the shower. And not to say that this NEVER happens to me, because it definitely does, but for the most part I can't wait to get up and start my day early. I love that there is a whole day ahead of me-the earlier I wake up, the more day you get! </div>
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When it comes to working out, the morning is primetime for me. It kickstarts my mind, body and mood for the rest of the day. I can't tell you how good it feels to be finished with a run or time spent at the gym and head into work with that already checked off my list. As the days get shorter and colder the closer we get to winter, I know it can be so challenging to have the motivation to get up and work out but I just have to remind myself of that feeling that comes over me that fills me full of energy and propels me through the day. I feel unstoppable, I feel motivated, I feel as though positivity is just exploding from the inside out!</div>
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It wasn't always this way! Mornings were definitely not always my jam. I used to be a sleep-til-noon if I could type of girl too. I remember in highschool driving to school and thinking to myself when I saw a runner on the sidewalk "what is wrong with them! WHY are they up this early..running!?"</div>
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I can remember the summer that waking up early was neccesary and I learned what worked best for me, and I haven't looked back since! Now I would never give up my mornings for anything! Which brings me to the conclusion that if you want to be a morning person- you CAN! It's possible, I promise! A few quick tips that have worked for me..</div>
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<strong>Routine, Routine, Routine.:</strong> try getting in the groove with the same routine every morning. For me I get up the same time, I go to the gym the same time, I come home from the gym the same time-EVERY DAY. I set little time goals of when I should be getting up, leaving as well as what time I need to be in the shower by.<br />
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<strong>Food!:</strong> Look forward to breakfast! It has become my absolute hands down favorite meal of the day. Eggs/ Whole wheat toast/ coffee= YUM. I reward myself with a healthy, nutritious breakfast that I truly enjoy after my workout is complete.<br />
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<strong>Build in extra time:</strong> I never feel rushed in the morning because I build in about 45 min extra time to eat/check emails/Facebook/ online time. I feel this really allows me to unwind and mentally prepare for my day ahead.</div>
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<strong>Know it takes time:</strong> I think the biggest thing that defeats peoples efforts is that those first few days, or even weeks is that they are NOT fun- I'm not gunna lie, YES they suck. It's hard to get up and you may not feel that you enjoy it for a while. It takes time to develop habits and progress is made slowly. Don't give up. Try it for at LEAST a month. It WILL get easier.</div>
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And sprinkled in for visual goodness are some random fall Boston photos that I love, Enjoy!</div>
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Meg Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05546655962070144649noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-851910885664603079.post-69394903421822675812013-11-04T17:38:00.001-08:002013-11-04T17:38:32.730-08:00Life on paper<div style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">There is a sort of excitement stirring today and to be quite honest- I can't tell you why.</div><div style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"> </div><div style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">I often feel as if I have this greater purpose that I am right on the cusp of discovering. My heart and soul are being prepped for something big. The hard part of it is just waiting to know what exactly that means.This is not one of those things you can force, so I will sit here patiently waiting and watching and listening and soaking in the euphoric feeling of knowing something really cool is on the horizon.</div><div style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"> </div><div style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">On another note- I really enjoy writing and reflecting and making observations through words on paper (er..or computer?) Not that I am the next Ernest Hemingway by any means but I do think there is something about sharing my life story through this creative outlet of writing that is so appealing to me. After all life is just a series of stories strewn together back to back to back. In all hopes of creating a story that people want to read, I am going to do my best to write my little thoughts here. No matter how big or small the audience-or if for nothing else than to have something to read when I get older and to reminisce on how amazing and full of adventure my life has been.</div><div style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><br></div><div style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">So here's to a life full of curiosity, adventure, and a whole lotta' love.</div><div style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><br></div><div style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">Cheers!</div><div style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;"><br></div><div style="font-family: UICTFontTextStyleBody; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto;">Meg<div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><div class="separator" style="clear: both;"><br></div><br></div></div>Meg Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05546655962070144649noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-851910885664603079.post-78511191448969361452013-10-29T06:57:00.000-07:002013-10-29T06:58:00.643-07:00To Live Passionately<div>
I have words on my heart,... thoughts.. ideas.. excitement just stirring. My soul is screaming out with all the things I want to be, accomplish do and see. How can I communicate ALL that I want to do into a statement of purpose? How do I choose a platform that contains the wide spectrum of goals I have for myself and my life? And the bigger question is, <em>how</em> can I do it <u>all</u>??</div>
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I think the best place to start is to write it all out- everything I want to <em>do</em> and <em>be</em> and <em>experience</em>. So here goes!</div>
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1. To live a life dedicated to service to others.</div>
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2. To travel the world and always stay hungry for adventure.</div>
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3. To grow spiritually, continuously grow in my faith, and be the proof of God's love every day.</div>
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4. Challenge myself in ways that help me learn and grow as an individual.</div>
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5. Unconditionally love my friends and family and always make them feel special and important.</div>
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6. Love my husbund (to be) and our family (to be) with all my heart, and empower them to love others and above all be followers of Christ.</div>
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7. Share my love for fitness and nutrition, always stay active, challenge my body and strive for a healthy balance in life.</div>
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8. To live passionately in all that I do, and uplift others through positivity and encouragement.</div>
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Lets <strong>LIVE</strong> this <strong>LIFE</strong>!!!!!</div>
Meg Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05546655962070144649noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-851910885664603079.post-11871999278600979542013-06-24T03:38:00.000-07:002013-06-24T03:38:42.106-07:00Tablerockin' <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Every summer since we began dating two years ago, Brandon has brought me along to go to Tablerock lake with him and his family. Each year brought family boating adventures, cliff jumping, and an endless supply of wake boarding tricks by the Cusick boys. Being out on the lake is one of Brandon's all time favorite activities and from day one I was hooked too. For me its the perfect combination of relaxation and adventure: the ultimate vacation. There is something about being on the water that brings family and friends together, and somehow everyone has a permanent smile plastered on their face and all the little things that aggravate you most days melt away and instead laughter is what remains.<br />
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Tablerock Lake trip 2013: you, my dear friend, are one for the books!</div>
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OH and can I just say I have one <b>studly</b><i> </i>fiance? Look at that superman. YEP its a beautiful thing.<br />
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Meg</div>
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<br />Meg Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05546655962070144649noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-851910885664603079.post-14249250691196207992013-06-21T05:49:00.000-07:002013-06-21T05:49:56.729-07:00WE'RE ENGAGED!!!!!!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I was trying to think of a really clever title for this post, but I think there is no better way to put it, but to scream it out "We're engaged!!!" (I feel like many random moments I feel the urge coming on to just excitably burst out in song and dance about it!)</div>
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I had been anxiously anticipating this weekend for weeks prior: a trip back to Kansas City and then down to our favorite lake in Missouri: Tablerock Lake. I hadn't been back to Kansas since we left for Boston last August and I couldn't wait to get back to see Brandon's family, our friends, and get down to our favorite lake for a few days of relaxation!</div>
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Little did I know what the weekend really had in store for me! </div>
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Brandon was extremely sneaky and had hid his plan<i> so</i> well for the past two months that I had absolutely no idea what was in store up until the moment he went down to one knee and pulled out that special red box with my BEAUTIFUL ring inside.</div>
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(Although, looking back, I now see I should have suspected something was up when he woke me up around 6:30 AM to show me around Big Cedar Lodge- the resort we were staying at- and a place Brandon and his family had been coming for years growing up. I am always an early riser and I actually enjoy getting up .... Brandon on the other hand typically has to be physically dragged out of bed or enticed with the smell of cinnamon rolls baking in the oven.)</div>
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However, it WAS Father's Day and since he told me we were having breakfast early at one of the nice restaurants at the resort, I figured that it would be fun to do some exploring before meeting the family to eat.</div>
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We walked around a little bit, as Brandon showed me several of his favorite spots as and convinced me to hike up to the main lodge that looked over the entire lake to see the morning view of Tablerock.</div>
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The whole time we were walking around, Brandon had been filming parts of our walk with his GoPro camera.. The boys had been using it all weekend to film anything and everything- and were still testing it out and seeing all that it could do...so again, it didn't cross my mind that this filming he was doing was out of the ordinary.</div>
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We reached the deck of the lodge and admired the beautiful colors of the sun peeking through the clouds onto the lake in shades of pink and purple. Brandon set the camera down and suggested we try to find the cabin we were staying in from where we were on the deck. He pointed across the edge of the lake and stated he thought we were staying on that side- I knew this was incorrect immediately and was insistent that we were in fact on the opposite corner of his prediction. This was the perfect distraction for him to be able to get the box out of his pocket without me noticing because I was set on proving my idea correct!</div>
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I turned to him after making my argument of the cabin location and he went down to one knee, box in hand, and asked me the most wonderful question I had ever been asked in my entire life</div>
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and I said</div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">YES!!!!!!!!!!!</span></div>
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And now I get to marry the love of my life!</div>
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Brandon did such an amazing job, I was COMPLETELY surprised, and had no idea he was proposing. I think it took a few days to actually set in what had happened and I am just so thrilled to now call him my fiancé as we start to plan the wedding and our lives together!</div>
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Who would have thought... </div>
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I met a boy in studying abroad in Italy two years ago who would turn out to be the man of my dreams, and <i>now</i> my future husband!</div>
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Love you B</div>
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P.S. lots more photos from the weekend to come!</div>
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<br />Meg Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05546655962070144649noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-851910885664603079.post-84835659120005711152013-06-12T20:09:00.001-07:002013-06-12T20:10:17.339-07:00California Trip: by my iPhone<div style="text-align: center;">
A few weeks ago we were lucky enough to take a trip back to California in order to visit both my family in Sacramento and Brandon's friends' wedding up in Lake Tahoe. We were only able to stay a couple of days but we packed them full of family, friends and activities that allowed us to see the most amount of people in the allotted time we had!</div>
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It was so great to see my mom, aunts, uncles, cousins as well as the few friends that happen to be living in the area. Tahoe was absolutely beautiful and the perfect setting for a wedding destination weekend. The weather couldn't have been anymore perfect: in the 70's, clear blue skies, and zero humidity (I heard we missed quite a sweltering weekend here in Boston!). We hiked, laid by the pool (me), golfed (Brandon) and caught up with so many of B's college friends. You know you have a great guy when he has a pack of pretty awesome friends :)</div>
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So here's a little bit of the weekend as seen through the lens of my iPhone!</div>
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<3 Meg</div>
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Meg Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05546655962070144649noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-851910885664603079.post-48480608614810506852013-06-11T05:32:00.002-07:002013-06-11T05:34:11.701-07:00Dragon Boat Festival Saturday Brandon and I headed over to the Charles River to see Cara, a good friend of mine in action at the Dragon Boat Race Festival. What a great event! The day was absolutely gorgeous (long anticipated- we have had A LOT of rain) and it was the perfect chance to get outside and soak up the sun.<br />
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State Street Dragon Boat Team</div>
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Cara you win!</div>
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Cuties! Cara and Mike</div>
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After the race we took a leisurely stroll through Harvard Yard and I pretended to be a student... fooling everyone I'm sure! The Yard is one of my favorite places in Cambridge, the old brick buildings, the sun rays speckling the grass as it peers around the big shady trees- it just has such a distinguished <i>feel</i> to it. You instantly feel pretty fancy just being in the Yard.<br />
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This Friday I am going back home sweet home for the weekend! Counting down the days, I cannot wait!!!<br />
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<3 MegMeg Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05546655962070144649noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-851910885664603079.post-82188491250751457002013-06-10T19:13:00.001-07:002013-06-10T19:13:15.443-07:00Babes in Bibs<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
It's no secret that I Looooooove to run. </div>
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Even though, yes, I do run..a lot..and can run far distances.. most (um..more like all) of my miles come from safe, predictable wonderful paved surfaces. No mess involved, no unstable ground, just good ole fashioned flat ground.</div>
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When a friend invited me to do a trail run- my first reaction was... dirt roads? rolling hills? I am not sure I am cut out for this! But even with this feelings of doubt, I really wanted to see what this whole trail run thing was about!</div>
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Now... the weekend of the race and the few days before just happened to be full of rain- cold cold rain- making the course VERY muddy. I figured there would be mud, but I had no idea how much until we arrived that morning at the Pine Trails 25k race. SO MUCH MUD!</div>
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AND IT WAS SO FUN!</div>
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I think I may be a trail run convert.</div>
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Before we met the mud</div>
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Ready?</div>
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We were having way too much fun</div>
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All done!</div>
<br />Meg Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05546655962070144649noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-851910885664603079.post-39352030555205965802013-05-26T04:08:00.000-07:002013-06-07T04:10:36.418-07:00Old Friends in New Places<div style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Charter', Times, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px;">
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You know that feeling when you see someone from "way back in the day" and it seems like no time has passed at all? That you're able to pick up right where you left off and laugh about the same things you did 10 years ago? (wow has it really been 10 years since high school already?)</div>
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Rachel is that good friend from high school who we were able to stay close through the years and what a treat it was to have her in town after being apart for over a year! Every time we are together we laugh over silly things, reminisce over the years and drink a lot of coffee together.</div>
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It was fun to be a tourist in my own city and discover new places to eat, and actually appreciate and take photos of things I pass everyday. Boston is such a wonderful place full of history and beautiful buildings, how lucky I am to be living here!</div>
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Meg Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05546655962070144649noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-851910885664603079.post-2537539262202166822013-05-18T04:12:00.000-07:002013-06-07T04:12:55.791-07:00100 for Boston<div data-mce-style="text-align: center;" dir="ltr" style="color: #333333; font-family: Georgia, 'Times New Roman', 'Bitstream Charter', Times, serif; font-size: 13px; line-height: 19px; text-align: center;">
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<a data-mce-href="http://whyirunforboston.wordpress.com" href="http://whyirunforboston.wordpress.com/" target="_blank" title="100 For Boston Website">http:whyirunforboston.wordpress.com</a></div>
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The two bombs that exploded near the finish line of the Boston Marathon took three lives, severely injured spectators, caused incredible damages and struck fear into the hearts of thousands, if not millions, of people. The whole world took notice as the terrifying images played repeatedly on the news, raising many unanswered questions including WHY, why here, why at this marathon that brings together people from all over the world, at an event that typically is surrounded by loud emotions of courage, accomplishment and pure joy.</div>
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I thought about what possible motive could be behind this type of attack on innocent people....Was the idea to inject fear into a situation where excitement and celebration should reign? Would this attack deter people from running or attending this race in the future?</div>
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<em><strong>I contemplated these questions for a little while and asked myself ...how did all this affect my desire to run?</strong></em></div>
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<b><b></b></b>I realized how greatly it has changed the meaning for me of what it is to be a runner. Not only has it given me a deeper appreciation, greater confidence, and a stronger pull to be a runner than ever before, but it made me want to run with purpose- ultimately to encourage my friends and family to use running as an avenue to uncover the power of self they hold inside. I want to share the sport I love so dearly with as many people as possible, because for me, running gives me courage, and it gives me strength and I no longer want to selfishly keep this bundle of emotions to myself. I know its possible to reach any goal you may have for yourself-whether that be a 5k, 10k, a full marathon or any distance in between. And my hope is that in the process you gain so much more than fitness, but also a new frame of mind that allows you to see that all things are possible.</div>
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<strong>Join us in accepting the challenge to “Run for Boston!” Choose any race, any time, any where! Officially dedicate the race in support of the victims, in solidarity to the running community and to celebrate the resilience of the human spirit.</strong></div>
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Want in? Email a photo of you in your running shoes to <strong>100forboston@gmail.com</strong> letting us know you have accepted the challenge. Keep us updated on your training and let us know why YOU run. Help us reach our goal of 100 races completed by April 21st, 2014!!!</div>
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Meg Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05546655962070144649noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-851910885664603079.post-64240358747184308322013-04-22T05:36:00.002-07:002013-04-22T05:36:33.079-07:00My Weekend in Photos<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<3 MegMeg Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05546655962070144649noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-851910885664603079.post-42791187406432611622013-04-18T18:14:00.000-07:002013-04-18T18:43:45.547-07:00A Tribute to the Boston Marathon<br />
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Monday was a day that brought such a wide spectrum of emotion for runners, for spectators, and people all over the world closely watching the event. The oldest marathon in history brings the running community together every year in April in celebration of the fact that humans are capable of doing some pretty awesome things with their bodies. Displaying the ultimate act of endurance is something that is just as much mental as it is physical and is a true testament to a beautiful thing we call the human spirit.<br />
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For me the race was a statement. Proving to myself that all things are possible. That I am capable of anything and everything. That the fears I have held onto for so long were about to be erased from my heart as I took each stride to the finish. I knew that as I ran that race I would be surrounded by 20,000 other people that were making similar proclamations, and I wanted to feel the courage worn so boldly by all who showed up to the starting line that day. You look around as people are finding their corrals, shaking out their muscles, and making sure their bibs are fastened tight, and you feel that courage wrap around you. It makes you feel powerful and capable and strong. And at that point, it's not about competition but instead camaraderie and we all run that race as conquerors of our fears.This is why I love racing. We all become conquerors.<br />
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As I approached the start, started my stopwatch, and switched from anxious walk to a slow jog, I was overcome with the feeling of pure joy. This is real, I am doing this, I am here, and its happening right now. I was surrounded by thousands of amazing people who all put in endless hours of hard work, overcame injuries, setbacks and lots of blisters to be here and lay it all down on the pavement ahead of them.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdK3y-fPdZO5Yfk5W3hK7sJeTBFIjFrbB_K0T9tupkxsMb2bHlKDy9PZEgVwitCaZBiJseVXAmQyosZg0pEX6gQQM7DHCpbQNX2Dj63Ugsu1OtQpcFkBFVPXtyDRDknHdjaABQHa1bhYVH/s1600/photo+(1).JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdK3y-fPdZO5Yfk5W3hK7sJeTBFIjFrbB_K0T9tupkxsMb2bHlKDy9PZEgVwitCaZBiJseVXAmQyosZg0pEX6gQQM7DHCpbQNX2Dj63Ugsu1OtQpcFkBFVPXtyDRDknHdjaABQHa1bhYVH/s640/photo+(1).JPG" width="640" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br />
</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbZBY8AfkSgOXdGPDBYdbn6I7BU9vlLsBhWtta_xXxURVadXjg1wo0WLihI_mRDgsMUmRs-52r2F8TTVBlDI_OM28rlmb2mXchRFbHld9J9yVgiHAU_pVIfcnGrFrjvnurIAwAJWVqxQYD/s1600/photo.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjbZBY8AfkSgOXdGPDBYdbn6I7BU9vlLsBhWtta_xXxURVadXjg1wo0WLihI_mRDgsMUmRs-52r2F8TTVBlDI_OM28rlmb2mXchRFbHld9J9yVgiHAU_pVIfcnGrFrjvnurIAwAJWVqxQYD/s640/photo.JPG" width="478" /></a></div>I feel so lucky to have crossed the finish line 20 minutes prior to the horrendous bombings. I feel like I have been living in a state of disbelief for the past few days. I was there, I COULD have been there when the explosions took place. I see the footage on the news and my heart drops and I immediately become engrossed in a state of shock and horror and great sadness for the ones that weren't so lucky. Everyone gathered at the finish line that day was there to cheer, to encourage, and to celebrate the triumph of running 26.2 miles on that beautiful spring afternoon. The euphoria that should come after crossing the finish line in Copley Plaza was taken from so many courageous runners that day. My heart goes out to everyone affected by this terrible event. My prayers will continue to be with the victims and their families, and I know many of yours are too.<br />
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To my friends who came to cheer me on: Thank you so much for your support and your signs! I cannot tell you how great it was to see your smiling faces on that last stretch where my legs felt completely dead.<br />
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To my roommate Beth: who is selfless and caring and who without I'd probably still be stranded in the city when public transportation shut down.<br />
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To Brandon: who jumped in the last two miles to run with me, who encouraged me to keep going strong, and who always believes in me.<br />
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To my friends and family who from I received a huge out-pour of love and thoughts and prayers and texts and calls throughout these past couple days. I can't tell you how much that meant to me.<br />
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To the 20,000+ 2013 Boston Marathon Runners and spectators: You are the purest form of human awesomeness and I was honored to run next to each and every one of you. I am inspired by your stories and blown away by the encouragement you so graciously gave away. I know this will not stop you from running but instead give you a reason to push harder. Keep running Boston, keep pushing.<br />
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Meg Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05546655962070144649noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-851910885664603079.post-75445040218579260272013-04-08T20:17:00.003-07:002013-04-08T20:19:00.915-07:00Thoughts on Joy +Relay For Life<br />
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<i><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;">"It's not enough to have lived. </span></i></div>
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<i><span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;">We should be determined to live for something.</span></i></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: italic; line-height: 18px;"><i style="background-color: transparent;">May I suggest that it be creating joy for others, </i></span></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #181818; font-family: georgia, serif; font-size: 14px; font-style: italic; line-height: 18px;"><i style="background-color: transparent;">sharing what we have for the betterment of personkind, </i></span></div>
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<i style="background-color: transparent;">bringing hope to the lost and love to the lonely.” -</i>Leo Buscaglia</div>
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I think that one of the greatest discoveries I have made over the past few months is how important people are to me. </div>
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All people. </div>
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<span style="color: #181818; font-family: georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;">I am consistently and overwhelmingly amazed with the heart and goodwill of other people. I love when this feeling takes me off guard. It can be such a beautiful and pleasant surprise when even a small act of kindness lightens up my day. It reminds me that I have this little joy-inducing power within myself as well. If these small acts affect me so greatly, imagine how much joy I can bring other people by simply bringing this part of me to the surface in every connection I make throughout the day. </span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #181818; font-family: georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;">I was lucky enough to participate in the American Cancer Societies' Relay for Life this past Friday. I reached out to friends and family-asking for donations for this phenomenal organization in their quest to cure cancer. I am absolutely in awe of all of the people who responded to my requests and selflessly gave some of their hard earned money to the cause. You are all hero's and it is folks like you that inspire me and motivate me to continue to find ways I can provide service to others. I am forever grateful!</span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #181818; font-family: georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;">The event was held at the Harvard indoor track and provided hours of entertainment- (my favorite was the free cha-cha lesson) a plethora of snacks and delectable baked goods, and even a bounce-house and a jumbo sized twister board. We were moved by several stories told by survivors, loved ones of those who had passed, and people who had sheer determination to find a cure for cancer. I especially appreciated the luminaria ceremony, reminding us life is too precious to take for granted. We </span><i style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;">must</i><span style="line-height: 18px;"><span style="font-size: 14px;"> focus on what is of true importance </span><span style="font-size: x-small;">-<span style="font-style: italic;"> </span><i>the people </i>in our lives that make it worth living!</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="color: #181818; font-family: georgia, serif;"><span style="font-size: 14px; line-height: 18px;"> Keep love front and center and pass on the joy. </span></span></div>
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Now here's the amazing people that came out and supported HEPS and Relay for Life!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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</span>Meg Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05546655962070144649noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-851910885664603079.post-25455335076964844812013-03-19T05:29:00.001-07:002013-03-19T20:06:12.598-07:00Muscles and Meat<br />
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This morning I woke up to a couple inches of fluffy, cold, wet snow- beautiful but irritating I tell ya!<br />
At this point I feel like I have had enough! Enough mother nature! Bring on spring with its flowers, and blue skies, and chirping birds and green trees!<br />
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So after I took a moment to judge the condition of the sidewalks (unshoveled) and the roads (unplowed) I decided to skip the run and try to get a quick workout done in the comfort of my own living room. Sit-ups, pushups- you know the old school stuff we all did prior to things like insanity and p90x. I actually got quite the workout in! Focusing on slow repetitions that cause your muscles to feel like they are reallllly burning! Thanks to the book and concepts from " The Four Hour Body" that Brandon brought to my attention I am learning how to use " the minimum effective dose" in order to cut down on time spent in the gym and maximize those muscle producing results! (More on that in a later post) <br />
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It has been what seems like an impossible goal for me to add some muscle and tone to my body- honestly probably the result of lack of focus and time I have put in to strength training- I have always downplayed the importance of the role solid muscle plays in the life of a distance runner. So this is a new beginning for me- on a quest to "beef up"(haha!) with the hopes of seeing improvements as a runner and all around athlete! I have even been convinced to swap SOME of my broccoli and asparagus and other delectable veggies for lean cuts of meats such as chicken, beef, and fish! Not that I have ever been against meat... It just wasn't my thing! And I hate to admit it... I love a good burger or pork chop now! That's right folks, Meg is a meat eater!<br />
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Meg Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05546655962070144649noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-851910885664603079.post-23177383690853685202013-03-10T07:27:00.001-07:002013-03-11T19:27:59.031-07:00Boston MarathonThe Boston Marathon is the distance runners dream race. Every April, 30,000 runners travel to Boston to run in the Superbowl of marathons, the championship of the long distance athletes. The race is a BIG deal here in Boston, most workplaces shut down so that the people can cheer on the runners. It's dubbed "Patriots Day" and is a great way to get people involved and definitely makes the race more exciting for participants. To qualify, the runner must A) qualify in a certified marathon in a gender/age group specific time. (my age group would be sub 3:35) or B) run for a charity that is associated with the marathon who take on a number of runners committed to raising at least $5,000 for the respective charity. <i>Then,</i> there are the folks that just want to run it- in the road race world these people are called "bandits" and bandits are usually frowned upon because they are essentially "stealing" the race because they haven't paid to participate.<br />
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HOWEVER!<br />
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Boston is one of the few races that Bandits seem to be accepted. From the research that I have done, anywhere from 1,000-2,000 bandits gather at the verrrry back of the pack to run the Big,Bad, Boston Marathon. It has become a part of race day tradition, and as long as the bandits don't get in the way of the "real runners" race officials seem to turn a blind eye.<br />
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And I, Megan Barnes, <u>will be one of those bandits</u> - April 15, 2013.<br />
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Now first things first let me clarify a few things first ... <b>Charity Running</b>- this would be my ideal method of entrance. Raising money for a good cause and running the race legitimately would be such an honor and I wish I had the opportunity to do so. My decision to lay out a training plan and actually commit to the marathon came only a few weeks ago, leaving my ability to "get in" with a charity and raise the 5,000 to do so pretty much impossible. Next year my friends, next year!<br />
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In the past couple weeks I have stuck with my training plan with the exception of a few bumps on the road. A couple of times I had to adjust or change days of my long run due to the massive amounts of snow accumulated or ice plaguing the sidewalks of the city. For example, Nemo was a doozy of a storm and left us with 2 feet of the white stuff- the city practically shut down and running would have been quite a feat!<br />
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All and all I am extremely confident, buzzing with excitement, and ready to rock!!!<br />
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As I finish typing up this post I am mentally preparing for the 20 miler I have on my schedule today. Good thing its going to be a sunny, warm(ish), all around beautiful day!<br />
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Meg<br />
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P.S. is anyone as excited as me that daylight savings means more daylight in the evenings?? I can see spring on the horizon, its coming!!!Meg Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05546655962070144649noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-851910885664603079.post-89234435073681789082013-01-31T04:40:00.003-08:002013-01-31T04:56:53.966-08:00New York MinuteIt was only the night before we left for New York that we had firmly decided "Hey lets go to New York!" We found a great discount on a hotel in Times Square along with a bus line that offered a 15$ fare each way to the Big Apple, instantly booked them and before we knew it, our bags were packed and the next morning we were off to New York!!<br />
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Now with<i><b> 36</b></i> hours <u>total</u> in the City, I had made a short list of things I wanted to see: Times Square, Central Park, The Empire State Building, The 9/11 memorial. I didn't have expectations to even get to them all, I was just happy that we were actually going and anything we saw or did would be a bonus.<br />
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But let me tell you... I was blown away by all the things we were able to see and do in such a short time period! It was the most perfect 36 hour newbie-to- New-York-trip I could have asked for.<br />
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It was a perfectly sunny, and WARM start in Times Square. I say warm..but I mean warm for two kids living up in arctic Boston-it was actually about 45 degrees and it pretty much felt like we were on a tropical vacation!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Times Square, we made it!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Brandon and I were bummed this was the only day with no Phantom of the Opera show... one of our all time favorites.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Olive Garden in the Square..fancy!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">He loves it</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: 13px;">Out front of the Museum of Natural History with Teddy</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">30 rock! do do do dooo do do do dooo (singing the song)</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">30 rock Ice Rink</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Central Station</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">NY Public Library (doin some iPad book readin')</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY7UvYsQJY_vwPZd6trQcURLLRvdqkvVBFfIjZeOH4Uedn763EgcIoZtPcb72t7t6nOIho1JM3XWY_xk81uFP6a2J83Yp-dUV1PDwR-549ZnsokB49bov9WtzTk4ei6s_-gIkrUIDZZDBx/s1600/DSC_8412.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiY7UvYsQJY_vwPZd6trQcURLLRvdqkvVBFfIjZeOH4Uedn763EgcIoZtPcb72t7t6nOIho1JM3XWY_xk81uFP6a2J83Yp-dUV1PDwR-549ZnsokB49bov9WtzTk4ei6s_-gIkrUIDZZDBx/s1600/DSC_8412.JPG" height="424" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">CRAZY.. just bumped into Brandon's friends from college in LA walking on the HiLine.. it truly is a small world!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">9/11 memorial</td></tr>
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A quick run down of what we were able to see:<br />
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-Times Square<br />
-Central Park<br />
-Museum of Natural History (well...just the lobby because it was closing, but still notable!)<br />
-Radio City Music Hall<br />
-30 Rockefeller Center and the Ice Rink<br />
- An off Broadway show called "The Fantastiks"<br />
-Central Station<br />
- The Empire State Building (didn't go to the top because it was overcast)<br />
-Madison Square Garden<br />
- New York Public Library<br />
- Hi Line Park<br />
- Chelsea Market<br />
-9/11 Memorial<br />
- Chinatown<br />
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Let's go back in the spring!!!<br />
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Meg Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05546655962070144649noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-851910885664603079.post-89043252418254431492013-01-16T03:59:00.002-08:002013-01-16T04:00:05.180-08:00Glass half full<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Good morning!!</div>
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I just want to thank Boston for its mild winter...so far</div>
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It gives me a chance to run in the mornings</div>
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and as a result..</div>
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I get to witness sunrises like this over the ocean</div>
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Its mornings like this that make it a glass-half-full kind of day</div>
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Happy Wednesday!!</div>
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<br />Meg Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05546655962070144649noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-851910885664603079.post-70301215785968708102013-01-05T06:24:00.001-08:002013-01-05T06:36:11.951-08:00Thank you 2012!!2013, wait, what happened to 2012!?? As the Holiday season winds down and we throw out the Christmas tree and take down the twinkly lights, we all look forward to the New Year. Many of us set New Years resolutions: to exercise more, to eat better, to work harder, to go to bed earlier. We all look forward to the year ending and "starting over" again, wiping the slate clean and making room for the new person we are to become. I can admit that I am guilty of being so excited for what the future has to bring, that I forget to be thankful for everything I have experienced so far. I know that I could have a million things that I want to work on each year, month, even each day, but first I would really like to look back at the awesomeness that was the year 2012. Pat my self on the back and say "well done Meg..you have really accomplished SO much, be proud of yourself!" And it is so true. 2012 was <u>so</u> good to me. Through all its highs and lows, lessons learned, victories, losses, and a wealth of new experiences, the year wrote an excellent chapter in my life's story. Lets just say 2013 has a lot to live up to! Thanks 2012, you will be remembered in the highest regards!<br />
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In January, a trip to Costa Rica was not only a break from the cold, dark winter of Kansas, but a new adventure full of volcanoes, crocodiles, beaches, waterfalls and new friendships. (and lots and lots of Chicken, tortillas and plantains!)</div>
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In March I was fortunate enough to take advantage of another MBA study abroad opportunity as I ventured off to explore Paris with good friends, take classes in a French business school and intensify my love for travel ( and bread, cheese and wine!)</div>
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In April, we saw KU make a huge run in the NCAA tournament and made a last minute decision to drive 12 hours the next day just in time to see the Championship game.</div>
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In May, I couldn't believe my two years of study was complete and I graduated from the University of Kansas with my Masters, tons of outrageous memories, and some of the best classmate and friends that I will never forget and continue to miss each and every day.</div>
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In July, Brandon and I completed our first full length triathlon. I loved every minute of it, bring on more races this year, 2013!</div>
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Through the summer months, I was fortunate enough to have the best wakeboarding coach in the entire world (yes, I may be a little biased) help me get more and more comfortable on the board as I had the time of my life.</div>
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In August I went cross country with my Dad, making a pit stop in Ft. Collins Colorado for a few days. We hiked Horsetooth mountain and had some pretty incredible views.</div>
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The end of summer rolled around and we packed up our Kansas City lives for Boston to take on a new adventure in a completely unknown and unfamiliar city. As Brandon starts his journey toward medicine and I begin my career post grad school, I couldn't think of a more exciting place to be, or a better guy to experience it with!<br />
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In December, my birthday and Harvard's Masquerade Ball ended up falling on the same evening- giving us an excellent reason to dress up, celebrate with some awesome people and dance the night away. One of the best birthdays of my life- a sign that 27 will be a great year!</div>
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So there it was- my year summed up in a few words and pictures, let this post serve as an official thank you for all the people in my life that made it happen, I am eternally grateful!<br />
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Well hey there 2013, lets boogie!!</div>
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<br />Meg Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05546655962070144649noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-851910885664603079.post-78018653910564478332012-11-08T05:18:00.001-08:002012-11-08T05:22:06.319-08:00What is a Nor'easter??Good morning from a snow-dusted Boston! Last night we had our FIRST snowfall of the season, and I woke up with chattering teeth and a light cover of the white stuff in view from my window. We quickly realized that our heat has stopped working and it looks like we will be bundling up inside until someone can come take a look at the thermostat and heating system. As I write this I am sitting right next to the fire, drinking coffee and soaking in the warmth that each are bringing me!<br />
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Quick sidenote: a lesson in New England terminology.<br />
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<u>"Nor'east</u><span style="font-family: inherit;"><u>er"</u>: <span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19.200000762939453px;">is a <span style="color: red;">macro-scale </span></span><span style="color: red;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19.200000762939453px;">storm</span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19.200000762939453px;"> along the </span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19.200000762939453px;">East Coast of the United States</span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19.200000762939453px;"> and </span><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19.200000762939453px;">Atlantic Canada</span>. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;">This is what brought our snow last night- I had heard using the word and had to Google it. Apparently is a big storm that resembles the formation of a hurricane but brings snow and wind to the area. Hmm..you learn something new everyday!</span><br />
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I can't believe its November already, it seems like yesterday I was miserably hot in the hundred degree temperatures that were reached every day this past July. Although summertime is definitely my favorite time of year, it is always exciting when it gets cold, snow falls and the feeling of the Holiday Season moves upon us. This time I am especially excited as the next couple of months unfold-I am told that Boston is such a great place to enjoy the months leading up to Christmas and New Years- lots of twinkling lights, a BIG Christmas tree in the park, an outdoor skating rink in the common downtown and Christmas markets with crafts, gifts and goodies. The market will start late November and its location is literally right outside my building for work (which could be a good thing or a bad thing! haha)<br />
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Which brings me to my next exciting bit of information. YES I got a job! A real "big girl" job and I am so thrilled and thankful that I was able to find something within a couple of months, and that it is something I am VERY excited about doing. The company is one that I feel is a great match for my personality, professional skills, and will provide great opportunity going forward as well. I start training this coming Monday, couldn't be more happy!<br />
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In the spirit of both Thanksgiving, and the start of my new job quickly approaching, I want to make sure I reflect on these past couple of months here in Boston. I was able to have two full months off from school and work, that although were filled with ups and downs and uncertainties of landing a job and having enough money to outlast my time of unemployment, the time was truly a blessing and I had such a wonderful experience.<br />
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I was able to spend lots of time with Brandon, meeting up for breakfast, lunch or coffee.<br />
I was able to spend time with my mom as she came out to visit and we toured the city.<br />
I was able to get in plenty of long runs, Insanity sessions, and other forms of exercise.<br />
I wandered around Boston, the Back Bay, and Cambridge-exploring and LOTS of window shopping<br />
No homework, papers, assignments or stress of job related situations.<br />
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I am so thankful!!<br />
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Stay warm, dry, and cozy!!<br />
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Meg<br />
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<br />Meg Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05546655962070144649noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-851910885664603079.post-30041549161781754252012-10-31T07:47:00.002-07:002012-10-31T07:47:26.084-07:00Halloween Happenin'sHope everyone is having a Happy Halloween!<br />
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Last weekend we were invited to a Halloween party by some of Brandon's classmates and we did some brainstorming on what we could possibly throw together last minute without spending any money on costumes- only using what we already had in our closets. And this is what we came up with............<br />
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Danny and Sandy from Grease!!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Like Brandon's sideburns? We drew them in with dry erase marker! (it matched perfectly!)</td></tr>
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Happy Halloween!<br />
<br />Meg Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05546655962070144649noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-851910885664603079.post-73725012191128212472012-10-29T10:55:00.001-07:002013-01-05T06:31:12.680-08:00Apples to Apples... to RegattasFall is in full swing here in New England! I have been wanting to take part in a few proper fall time traditions of the region and this past weekend couldn't have been a better one: packed full with feel-good October activities that warms the heart and soul!<br />
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Saturday was the start of the two-day world famous Crew event known as the Head of the Charles in which teams from all over the United States (we saw a few international teams as well!) come to compete in a variety of rowing competitions taking place in the Charles River, the river that separates Boston from Cambridge (where MIT and Harvard are located...one intelligent city if you ask me!)<br />
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We met up with one of Brandon's friends who just happened to move out here recently from LA with his girlfriend for breakfast at a restaurant called The Paramount in Beacon Hill. The tiny little Paramount serves breakfast, cafeteria style and we could tell by the line that wraps outside the door and around the corner that it was going to be delicious and worth the wait! (And it was!)<br />
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After breakfast we scoped out the Head of the Charles festivities, grabbing some free snacks at different booths and watching the crew teams row by on one of the bridges spanning the river. Rowing is one of those sports that I have never been exposed to and know nothing about but it is extremely popular here and I have enjoyed learning more about it..I'm pretty sure they even have rec teams and leagues to join for people who want to row for fun!<br />
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Next on the agenda..the event I had been anxiously awaiting for a few weeks...APPLE PICKING!!!</div>
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Apple orchards are scattered throughout the countryside here in Massachusetts and as soon as I learned that we could go pick our own apples fresh, straight from the trees, I knew it was something we just had to do. Fortunately, our new Boston friends were down for the excursion as well and we decided to rent a Zip Car for the afternoon and make the half hour venture out to Stow, Massachusetts to check out Honey Pot Orchards. (Zip Car: what an amazing idea! Look it up if you haven't heard of it! <a href="http://www.zipcar.com/">www.zipcar.com</a>)</div>
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Honey Pot orchards offers apple picking, a large hedge maze, a country store complete with fresh Apple Cider Donuts and other goodies: jams, apple turnovers, and other baked goods, a small pumpkin patch and farm animals for the kiddies. We picked one big bag of a variety of kinds of apples and indulged in some apple cider donuts. And let me tell you..Apple Cider donuts are phenomenal and you should try them fresh if you ever get the chance. Just don't eat TOO many..we may have learned that the hard way!</div>
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Sunday brought on another event I have been looking forward to: the Dorchester Firefighters 10k! It has been quite awhile since I have run in a race and my roommate had brought this one to my attention and thought it would be a fun activity for this Sunday morning, especially since Beth would be running it too, and it started at 10 AM! ( this is rare, races usually start much earlier!)</div>
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I couldn't have asked for a more perfect temperature that morning and it was bright and sunny and I was feelin' pretty good going into the race- I have had plenty of time to do a lot of running since we've moved here! I was a little nervous, only because I get competitive... with myself! Always trying to beat my previous times. </div>
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I pushed myself really hard and it was one of the hardest run races I have ever completed. I did the first 4 miles in a little over 24 minutes! I dropped back a little at this point, knowing I didn't want to completely run out of gas before the last mile. I ended up placing 3rd place girl and scoring a new Personal Record of 41:48! Beth beat her personal record too! It was a good day for us all!</div>
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<br />Meg Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05546655962070144649noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-851910885664603079.post-54711846080482455832012-10-04T05:53:00.000-07:002012-10-04T05:53:48.770-07:00Takin' the Train to MaineBonus Post!<br />
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Whats this? Two posts in two consecutive days? Thats right!<br />
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More New England goodness to share with you!<br />
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Before moving to Boston, the only place on the East Coast I had ever visited was North Carolina (which actually can't be compared to Boston or the Northeast at all because they are so completely different) So anywhere outside the city all the way out to..well the midwest.. is completely new to me. I had seen advertisements on the T for "taking the train to Maine" and thought that with Mom here for the week, it would be a perfect opportunity to see a new part of the U.S. that neither of us had seen before ( I love how everything is so close out here, just a two and a half hour train ride takes you to Portland, Maine)!<br />
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We were really excited, hoping to see lots of fall colors in the trees, eat some lobster and take in the sites of the Harbor and city of Portland. We were a bit early for seeing much change in the trees around the actual city, but on the train ride we saw beautiful orange, yellow and red trees whiz by as most of the ride was through the forest.<br />
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The day was a perfect crisp fall day and we had so much fun exploring Old Port and its shops, restaurants, cafes and other random stores. I tried Lobster for the very FIRST time and I was very surprised at how good it was! (Iv'e never really been a fish/crab/seafood person!)<br />
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Great trip to top off the week! SO happy my mom could make the long flights cross country to come visit me!<br />
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<br />Meg Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05546655962070144649noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-851910885664603079.post-49102628638276011812012-10-03T06:04:00.001-07:002012-10-03T06:09:06.818-07:00Mom visits!What a wonderful treat that just a month into living in Boston, my mom came to visit for a whole week! I am so happy that she is here and is able to explore the city with me for a few days!<br />
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Last week we couldn't have had more beautiful weather: sunny, warm (but not hot!), breezy, perfect! And of course as soon as mom gets here, mother nature decides to give us lots of rain, clouds and much cooler temperatures. We were lucky enough to have one or two sunny days so far which allowed me to show her all around the city- we even jumped on a bay tour cruise- great way to see the harbor and the Boston skyline from the bay!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Welcome to Boston!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beautiful day for a harbor cruise!</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bunker Hill Bridge</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Boston skyline</td></tr>
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One of the things I really love about Boston is how easy it is to get around in the city. We are able to cover a lot of ground by combination of walking, subway, and bus, so after the first two days I was able to show mom my favorite parts of the city: downtown and the seaport area, Cambridge/Harvard, Newbury/Bolyston street, and the North End! We also took a bus tour of the historical parts of Boston and the Freedom Trail: the old state house, site of the Boston Massacre, Paul Reveres house, the USS Constitution and Old North Church (where the two lanterns were hung to notify Paul Revere the British were coming), which was a great way to see ALL that there is to see in a short time span.</div>
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I have a ton of photos to share, but here is a few (okay maybe more than a few from the last week!) Enjoy!</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu7FxImBrHVwGETPid7wa7FhLH5nH46fhhVd3WzsxrzJt61NpRFjh-3ubKD7zDF0t4jg3cSCGjB0lmyvwZ3o7ON4IQyGci4n7ZS5VsNyo5qJtUPGgPRPEIVAnV-SyQ7P7QiPDf37f6fcin/s1600/IMG_2551.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu7FxImBrHVwGETPid7wa7FhLH5nH46fhhVd3WzsxrzJt61NpRFjh-3ubKD7zDF0t4jg3cSCGjB0lmyvwZ3o7ON4IQyGci4n7ZS5VsNyo5qJtUPGgPRPEIVAnV-SyQ7P7QiPDf37f6fcin/s640/IMG_2551.JPG" width="390" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Downtown Boston in front of the site of the Boston Massacre (tiny brick building)</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAn8WaOjpsdvWDC8vFELTgmWDEafiyjnPCFLGkso9FQ90m3cmQFi9W5r5vouFXUhvYz0fdm8bKhNM-s4JWsRAoZpgsFj1VYZ03gA1usDzDGrXT2PxA_T3EmwOhyvtSv1Y1Pel_vWMcrHmA/s1600/IMG_2554.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="256" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgAn8WaOjpsdvWDC8vFELTgmWDEafiyjnPCFLGkso9FQ90m3cmQFi9W5r5vouFXUhvYz0fdm8bKhNM-s4JWsRAoZpgsFj1VYZ03gA1usDzDGrXT2PxA_T3EmwOhyvtSv1Y1Pel_vWMcrHmA/s640/IMG_2554.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bagels at Quincy Market</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj371jrTVWmEu86IiZpjAy5o0nhn6XABtZqcPTPpdgz7wLF8S4zPNPa-7SSa-yXv7luqMBK4NrpkLcfXv28EOrKthXkhqaO55ZKDuKt1e8ZERMIg5TWEptAL8aqWzHqNvfuReuvf7Te5O4d/s1600/IMG_2566.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="490" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj371jrTVWmEu86IiZpjAy5o0nhn6XABtZqcPTPpdgz7wLF8S4zPNPa-7SSa-yXv7luqMBK4NrpkLcfXv28EOrKthXkhqaO55ZKDuKt1e8ZERMIg5TWEptAL8aqWzHqNvfuReuvf7Te5O4d/s640/IMG_2566.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crew boats on the Charles River</td></tr>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqDIsBHi34LM9cp-5p44_RfCXnd7l8CicEL-FhTx5mUQYjc1kVWdKRO9stngrIbTIr12g3p3XqdNVlossrduJ9c_FG8Tkr2vG_JJI1JuxvYvG2WJyt5e_4qEnwmZbN1_-Wx2ZvP29ATW_s/s1600/IMG_2569.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="306" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiqDIsBHi34LM9cp-5p44_RfCXnd7l8CicEL-FhTx5mUQYjc1kVWdKRO9stngrIbTIr12g3p3XqdNVlossrduJ9c_FG8Tkr2vG_JJI1JuxvYvG2WJyt5e_4qEnwmZbN1_-Wx2ZvP29ATW_s/s400/IMG_2569.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZApxxGTxnRozLR4shg3wC9xjUsiarBTXa4QwgtVg3Q9fSMfOeyNP1fjRLHwDqYCVQP1aKeHRDSvbJPdRVPPSwlPt_VSXD6AGiF8NzJfBf-C2DdJ4e3SIJiiWQu6TuS3bC9fBDqN0Cja1F/s1600/IMG_2576.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZApxxGTxnRozLR4shg3wC9xjUsiarBTXa4QwgtVg3Q9fSMfOeyNP1fjRLHwDqYCVQP1aKeHRDSvbJPdRVPPSwlPt_VSXD6AGiF8NzJfBf-C2DdJ4e3SIJiiWQu6TuS3bC9fBDqN0Cja1F/s640/IMG_2576.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Freshman Dorm in Harvard Yard</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqBt-qL6ycmQ35VZ7XiJiO9smw-BT7Kjmq-JI6eF-sIz-79sfllSrSp7zbUCqvxzXF4x1SJA6vYSrSZrh2pKZMqqdSt3kU68iPxvbN5hFAeQIiEJpo6pB6rbc2QjJOE6qVucRnoxWzAXiT/s1600/IMG_2605.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqBt-qL6ycmQ35VZ7XiJiO9smw-BT7Kjmq-JI6eF-sIz-79sfllSrSp7zbUCqvxzXF4x1SJA6vYSrSZrh2pKZMqqdSt3kU68iPxvbN5hFAeQIiEJpo6pB6rbc2QjJOE6qVucRnoxWzAXiT/s640/IMG_2605.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Boston Common</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguFyT5_ocGBEDnJ1E6V1arqQaULDASsACDIj6Y0C4kjcz3JEi6D6Z8S1BjQtS537QyVPk5D4UhREnLi0L3dvAMsJInaN8SXgCo0YuHeRATArrfsIm1mx_lcOKp2WcgJ4j96NTvtnJ8OyA3/s1600/IMG_2606.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguFyT5_ocGBEDnJ1E6V1arqQaULDASsACDIj6Y0C4kjcz3JEi6D6Z8S1BjQtS537QyVPk5D4UhREnLi0L3dvAMsJInaN8SXgCo0YuHeRATArrfsIm1mx_lcOKp2WcgJ4j96NTvtnJ8OyA3/s640/IMG_2606.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Copley Square</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPjd0_R3DX9e8cJBTZtZgoLexRKi_Ggh_9VKtYw8-LjZJZpBIArF6AYMLozj4W3BnOSDzVE8F2y60LqWyZiT9UiG7uxss5vktjDdHudiPCzvELC3FbYfrKyAnuy4lfg7aVDxxRpOTpPquO/s1600/IMG_2608.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiPjd0_R3DX9e8cJBTZtZgoLexRKi_Ggh_9VKtYw8-LjZJZpBIArF6AYMLozj4W3BnOSDzVE8F2y60LqWyZiT9UiG7uxss5vktjDdHudiPCzvELC3FbYfrKyAnuy4lfg7aVDxxRpOTpPquO/s640/IMG_2608.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Boston Public Library</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFCifLO-uFqUaw0borHOxuqMR9dhN9RUXu5PGzZwrqFOK_KzEMeNaBKQb66F5rB0NSXAfI-LZPEEzh4dQdKvnX5Nfp707Mn-V610RybxjHVnLhMepMUSW-2Fg_YDaf5N3NQxjsp2kTl05J/s1600/IMG_2613.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFCifLO-uFqUaw0borHOxuqMR9dhN9RUXu5PGzZwrqFOK_KzEMeNaBKQb66F5rB0NSXAfI-LZPEEzh4dQdKvnX5Nfp707Mn-V610RybxjHVnLhMepMUSW-2Fg_YDaf5N3NQxjsp2kTl05J/s640/IMG_2613.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Boston Public Library</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0-oBp_KyIXwlp4DdHK9wDe_y77Iaqrf4fk1qEMVWPbhAMrqyS8_9bXbtUM0WQdSd_jzQ8aHfLd5-NJdQsf3qiw1WMrCXz5X9EN8nma9cVWa292ADQRj8jOI5K_mnGgj44_ae4UkChg8Pd/s1600/IMG_2562.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="402" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0-oBp_KyIXwlp4DdHK9wDe_y77Iaqrf4fk1qEMVWPbhAMrqyS8_9bXbtUM0WQdSd_jzQ8aHfLd5-NJdQsf3qiw1WMrCXz5X9EN8nma9cVWa292ADQRj8jOI5K_mnGgj44_ae4UkChg8Pd/s640/IMG_2562.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Mom on the Charles River</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOA7_2xcQewXfjKSCplmFezqmSV7BCWPYufQ4RwlhPM0wBpI8iApe1T-6f717Q_RUHCdM6fJ97R60kEn0fWg-dcUJqkbRsNAphzWKVrlLcxKXS9ZmQMUZGrq-lwvaGKKUAPyz9mWmcK0wR/s1600/IMG_2563.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="336" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOA7_2xcQewXfjKSCplmFezqmSV7BCWPYufQ4RwlhPM0wBpI8iApe1T-6f717Q_RUHCdM6fJ97R60kEn0fWg-dcUJqkbRsNAphzWKVrlLcxKXS9ZmQMUZGrq-lwvaGKKUAPyz9mWmcK0wR/s640/IMG_2563.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Crew team on the Charles</td></tr>
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Until next time!</div>
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Megan</div>
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Meg Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05546655962070144649noreply@blogger.com0