The girls and I have just returned from our first all-girl roadtrip. We headed up to Ludington for two days of beach and family. All of us are happy, tired, a little too much sun. We ate a trough of ice cream at the House of Flavors - I don't want to see ice cream again for a very long time. Actually, that's a lie. I could handle some right now. Really, anything cold sounds acceptable..Michigan has had a killer week of heat, and this little house is a little too cozy without AC.

Last night after the kids were in bed, I settled in with my adult (when did that happen?!?) cousins Jessica and Amanda to watch Amelie'. Beautiful, whimsical storytelling...several absolute no-prior-warning freak out moments..altogether one of my favorite recent films.

I started running again this week. Red-faced, chest on fire, flailing like a mad-woman chased by a cougar. It's been two years since I've run with any regularity, and I've never been any good at it, really..but once I get past the first few weeks of torture it begins to be a meditative window in my routine. No other form of exercise has helped my moods or improved my strength as quickly and thoroughly. I have always loved it - once I get past the strong, *strong* urge to quit.
Hopefully this time, I will learn some skills that may help me improve and continue. If any of you readers are also runners, feel free to help me along by sharing your tips! Or actually carrying me while you run. That would be ok too.