If We Make It Through December

Last Sunday was the White Rock Marathon. I love marathon weekend! The White Rock Marathon benefits the hospital I work for, Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children. It all starts Friday at work when the elite runners and the parathletes come to the hospital to sign autographs. It's of course always so much fun to be at Victory Plaza the morning of the race. I was supposed to run the half marathon again this year, but because of my shoulder surgery I decided that it would be best if I didn't run. Instead, I hopped on my bike and followed my friends that ran the marathon relay. Maybe not the best decision either, but I had a blast. I also now have a better appreciation for the people that have ever come to watch me at a race. It's a lot harder than you think to follow someone running. I'm glad I knew the area so I could weave in and out of neighborhoods to watch all of my friends. I wasn't able to ride my bike to the last leg of the race, so my dad picked me up and I met up with Rosa to run the last mile with her. After Rosa finished, I went back out and found another friend who was running her first marathon ever and ran the last part in with her as well. I have never had so much fun at a race. Even though I was sad I couldn't run, I had a blast cheering everyone on!




In other news...
Snowfall in Philadelphia the past couple of days: 23+ inches. So exciting! I'm definitely going to experience a real winter this year. While I'd love to see lots of snow, I am crossing my fingers that next week, the weather will be nice for traveling to Philly and shopping for furniture. It would be miserable for me to try and drive a ZipCar to the store and then try to haul a bunch of furniture into my apartment. Talk about nightmare.

Things here in Dallas are about the same. No, I still haven't begun packing. No, I'm not starting anytime soon. That will have to wait until after Christmas. Speaking of, I did get ALL of my shopping done in one day, with only three stops. I also got everything wrapped and with handmade bows on them. I was quite impressed with myself. And so happy to have that done. It was hanging over my head!

Three more days of work. Well, technically I'm working all week as I will be on call Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and the Saturday after Christmas. Don't have too much sympathy for me. I always take call Christmas because 1. my whole family lives in Dallas 2. I don't have any kids 3. I don't have to work weekends during the year 4. I usually don't have to go in to work. We usually try to get all of the kids out of the hospital before Christmas so there is never anyone to see. Last year I had to go in on Saturday to fix a walker, but that was about it Not too shabby. After that, I'll turn off my pager, turn in my keys and say bon voyage. Well, for at least 6 months. After I finish up in Philadelphia in June, I will return to Scottish Rite. I am very thankful that they are keeping my job for me and know hiring anyone in my position. I am excited for what awaits me when I get back. Many opportunities are already unfolding!