Sunday, July 26, 2020

Ripping Off The Band Aid

Do you ever realize that the more you put things off, the bigger the snowball becomes and the harder it is to just start?

I've missed blogging and this community. But, there has been a part of me that is simply shut down to blogging and to this type of writing. It's not really because I don't want to. I just think my creative juices (sounds dirty) and motivation have been stalled. I could blame it on Covid because Covid sucks ass and it's become easy to make it the scapegoat for everything that is not right. Because honestly, no part of life is not affected by this beast of a virus that has cancelled races and weddings, sidelined vacations, sent countless people into fear-based living and mask wearing. I don't think it's a hoax. And I do have a mild crush on Fauci, although I'm pretty sure I can throw a baseball better than he does.



Side note: Did you know he used to be a marathoner, and now at age 79 power walks 3.5 miles a day?

But, let's be real. I stopped blogging long before Covid stole the show. I've asked myself many times, "What happened that girl who was so tuned into writing that she did it with fervor every day for so long?" Truly I'm not sure. Maybe I burned out. Maybe I thought no one really cared anymore about what I did. Maybe I felt blogging had lost its touch and was slowly fading away. So many bloggers I know don't blog anymore but a have become podcasters and Instagram stars. I am neither (although I do think I could put on a hell of a podcast if I could find the time. It could be all fart noises, hot flashes and swearing). Whatever the case, I just felt BLAH about it all. And, if I'm honest, becoming apathetic and complacent and in a place where I let life just happen to me scares me the most.

So THANK YOU to a few of you have who reached out to ask "Where the hell are you?" (I'm here in the same chair at the same desk) and to those who have showed concern, wondering if I am still running and shitting my pants (yes, occasional sharts), curious if I still like my Sleep Number bed (no, just traded it in for a king-sized bed - a Casper) and if I'm healthy (yes, aside from being 53 and dealing with the beginnings of menopause and a few more aches and pains).

It was you guys giving me a slight kick in the ass that made me want to rip off the band aid and say "hi" after not posting since early December 2019.

The truth is, I miss the blogging world and the days when I connected with so many people that way. I looked forward to reading several blogs a day because it felt like checking in with friends and now I hardly read any. I'm not a big fan of the blogs that want to tell me the best foods to eat for runners or how to prevent injuries. I can read that shit on any running site. What I love about blogs are the personal peeks into a person's daily life beyond the superficiality and abbreviated blurbs of Instagram. What I've also missed is the chance to write freely, unedited content where I am writing solely what is true and honest for me and not trying to impress a certain audience.

Here is what I look like now in case you forgot.


Taken in June in Tabernash, Colorado on our 25th wedding anniversary
And now a few updates:

What has changed in my life since Covid?

Everything. Emma (age 19! If you've been reading forever you met her when she was 9!) came home from San Diego State mid March and is still here. She had online school through May and has been working at a kids summer camp. She is returning to San Diego for online school and is moving into a ridiculously expensive apartment with there others. I don't love paying out of state tuition for online (WTF! stupid), but we are really trying to make sure she continues to have somewhat of a college experience. Nothing is normal right now and we are all doing things we would not normally do or find acceptable!

Sam (age 22! If you've been reading forever you met him when he was 12!) graduated in December, got a really cool job then lost it a couple of weeks after Covid started. He was unemployed for a few months, but started a job remotely thee weeks ago. He came home for a bit from Phoenix when the cases started to get really high there. He's been here for a month and probably going back next week. Ken's got a new job, thankfully, cause he hated his past job. I am still doing my same social work job but it is now 100% remote, at least for now. No one has been sick and w don't know anyone who has been. My parents are 81 years old, and are doing well. Fingers crossed.

The fam - ASU 12/2019 - before shit hit fan

Am I still running?




I started running way more when Covid hit because it was all I could do. It was the mental and physical release I needed. But, I got sidelined with some weird ankle pain and it even hurt to walk. I didn't see a doc because our insurance sucks right now and if they ordered an MRI, etc it wouldn't be covered. So I took three weeks off and now I'm fine. Go figure. I self-diagnosed on Google and it is either the Bubonic plague or peroneal tendinitis (No, not perineum tendinitis - that's your TAINT people, not your ankle). Anyway, I've been putting lots of miles on my bike and swimming too, so, you know, forced cross training.




How's my mental health been through all of this?

Up and down. The ups are having my kids home, still having a job, being healthy and still getting outside a lot. The downs are the obvious things like - all the unknowns about life as we know it, all the negativity and divisiveness out there right now, not being able to be with friends like normal, no races to look forward to and our cancelled 25 year anniversary trip to Greece (with no refunds! No, I don't want a voucher, I want my f$cking money).

What I'm doing with my time beyond exercise:

- Netflix/Amazon Prime - The Imposters, Ozark (omg the ending of Season 3!!), Jeffrey Epstein (low life scum), Babysitters Club (makes me feel happy, that is all), The Wall (best game show ever), Tiger King (don't judge me), Little Fires Everywhere, Waco, Too Hot to Handle (don't judge me again) and many more.

-Books - American Dirt, My Dark Vanessa, Big Summer, The Revised Fundamentals of Caregiving, The Dutch House to name a few

-Cooking new recipes - Gnocchi with Vodka Sauce, Fresh Spring Rolls, Instant Pot Mac and Cheese, Coconut Curry Ramen, Shrimp Enchiladas

-Cruising - as a gift for our anniversary, I got Ken and I cruiser bikes (see below from Retrospec). Free shipping and only $199. We've been cruising around town to breweries, lakes, etc. So fun.

Definitely doing my next Ironman on this baby

So, this is a good start. I've had fun. Have you?

I'd like to know:

-One word to describe your Covid experience? Mine is shit-fest (is that a word?)
-Have you are anyone you know been sick? No
-Best book you've read lately/best show you've watched - see above
-What is your best advice for these times?

My advice?

Keep a positive mindset and know that this situation is temporary, but also know life will likely feel pretty different for a long time. But, does that have to be bad? No. We just have to adjust expectations and make do what you CAN do. Don't give yourself permission to totally check out, eat Fritos all day and die a slow death while watching Too Hot to Handle (<oh, wait, that's me). But seriously, keep your head up and do the best you can. That's all.

I've also found it helpful to drink

SUAR

PS: And I've kept up on Instagram, follow here for the most fun you've ever had

95 comments:

  1. OMG same on all the things. Including blogging. I've managed to write a couple things, but feeling meh about so much.

    -One word to describe your Covid experience? Mine is shit-fest (is that a word?) SUCKTASTIC
    -Have you are anyone you know been sick? NO, thankfully.
    -Best book you've read lately/best show you've watched - "old" movies (i.e. from the almighty 80's...I'm one year older than you)
    -What is your best advice for these times? DETOX from the news

    And maybe I'm just a little more motivated now to go write something. Anything!

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    1. Yes, you mean like Pretty In Pink, St Elmos Fire, Say Anything...all those epic movies??

      And detoxing from the news is an excellent idea. I go to my reliable sources just enough to stay informed then shut out the rest

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    2. Gremlins is on for tonight! I mean, you know, it's 2020 and so I'm sure Gremlins is next up on our shit show year :)

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    3. I just saw a meme with someone about to pour water on a gremlin, captioned "Up next for 2020"

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    4. Yay!!So glad you came back!

      1. Gratitude. Makes me sound really well-adjusted, but honestly, 2018 was such horrendous year for me that 2020 still seems easy. I've been able to work from home and me and my husband are empty-nesters and don't have half the worries that some people have.

      2. My husband's ex-wife died from covid-19 in May. That's the only person we know of who's had it.

      3. I signed up for Netflix and binge-watched The Crown, which is weird because I've never had much interest in the Royal family. But I really enjoyed the show.

      3. Get outside often and stay away from the news.

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  2. OH.MY.GOD! Hello, my friend! So good to hear from you. Yep, lots of ups and downs here--I write about them even though no one else does. I thought it was just me. I've cut back to blogging 2 days a week because I just don't have that much to say anymore. Well, I do, but my blog isn't political...lol... please stick around because you inspired me to talk about bathroom issues and of course other things. Right now we bloggers need each other. XOXO

    PS I'll be sharing my month's reads on Friday's runfessions.

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    1. Hi!!! Yes we do need each other now more than ever. I've kept up with your blog and I really love your book recommendations!

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  3. It was good to catch up on your life - even if I do get updates here and there on good ole Facebook. I've been meaning to blog some gear reviews but, like you, at least until now, I just haven't actually gotten myself to do it.

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    1. DO IT. I'd love to read your reviews.

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    2. So happy to see you post again. I am 48 and while some other running bloggers are adorable, their non-running lives are things that, well, been there done that. I enjoyed your posts being someone kicking butt closer to my age.
      Anyway
      Covid experience in 1 word “home”
      We have thankfully not been sick.
      “The Most Fun We Ever Had” was the last novel I read. It was really good.
      My advice is DBAJ. Don’t Be A Jerk. It works most of the time. Even now.
      Be safe and happy.

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    3. Thanks for the book recommendation! And DBAJ is wonderful advice and something that MANY people need to be better at these days.

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  4. I’ve literally worked through this pandemic.. I work in a hospital so cluster-fuck is my word.
    I’m a costume drama girl so Belgravia on EPIX was my show. If you like that kind of show, really good.
    Both my husband and I were sick. They wouldn’t test us, as it was early March, and we didn’t meet criteria(I wasn’t 60-I guess that’s good?)
    We do know several friends and family that had someone pass away from COVID. (Wear a mask, wash your hands).
    A few too many g&ts has gotten me through the time. Oh, and trail runs and hikes. Strength training with John Peel in my bedroom (I-fit app).
    What about Tommy Rivers Puzey!?!

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    1. Oh wow thanks for being out there and doing what you are doing. And, I'm glad you are on the other side of your sickness. Scary stuff. Tommy Riv's story is insane. I really thought, like most people, that he had COVID. I really hope he pulls through.

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  5. So great to see you back!!
    One word to describe your Covid experience? Weird

    -Have you are anyone you know been sick? Yes. Two have died, one spent a long time in the ICU and recovered, three were a symptomatic, two had what felt like bad colds. A friend has a kid who got a neural infection that’s may have been cause by it.

    -Best book you've read lately/best show you've watched: we are in season one of Ozark and I read the Dutch House too.

    -What is your best advice for these times? “It won’t always be like this.”

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    1. I'm sorry about who you know who've been sick. Ugh. So hard.

      Keep at it with Ozark. It just keeps getting better.

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  6. Yay! You’re back! I cannot believe your kids are all grown up. Seems like they were just in high school!
    #1–shitshow
    #2–yes. I am a nurse, many of my colleagues have gotten sick as well as some friends in the community. It’s ass here in Florida. Thankfully everyone has/is recovered. Thank god.
    #3–the new hunger games book was excellent. “The ballad of songbirds and snakes”. Just enough meat to be interesting but not too heavy.
    #4–practice self care and just roll with the changes. Take care of yourself and each other.
    Glad to see you’re back! ~~Faith K.

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    1. Self care FTW! Thanks for all you do as a nurse. I know you've made a huge impact on people!

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  7. -One word to describe your Covid experience? Clusterfuck
    -Have you are anyone you know been sick? Yes, my 93 year old aunt in a nursing home had the virus and recovered!
    -Best book you've read lately/best show you've watched - ozark is the best thing I've binged. I enjoyed reading The Great Alone and currently reading Verity which is starting off really good.
    -What is your best advice for these times? Stay off social media and don't watch the news. The arguing and politicizing of the virus is awful and it brings me down. Trying to go outside as much as possible and running/biking is getting me through this. Also, we've fostered a couple of dogs, which has added something interesting to do.

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  8. Wow, I’ve missed you! I too have been stalled with my blog and just feel meh about it. My COVID word is “shit-fest” I’m over it now but the shit is really going to hit the fan once school starts... I work in a school and it looks like we are heading back next month and I can’t even imagine what’s going to happen next. It was good seeing your face again!

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    1. Best of luck with all of that. So many unknowns when returning to school!

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  9. My favorite blogger, so glad to have you back!
    Yes, COVID sucks, we were in Jamaica in March right before they shut the airport down, Now I have travel PTSD! still have a job, don’t know anyone that’s sick, miss seeing my grand girls, just finished American Dirt, am currently bingeing on Longmire. Yes to running and biking. It’s going to be OK🏃🏻‍♀️

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    1. TPTSD. Haha! Glad you made it home, but Jamaica sounds really nice right now. I'll have to check out Longmire. It IS going to be ok

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  10. My running coach is a Suunto runner so everytime I’ve seen that it would remind me of you (and hoping you’d post soon.
    1 - home
    2 - no one has been sick that I know, although a distant relative of the hubs passed away from COVID.
    3 - Jodi Taylor’s Chronicls of St Marys series
    4 - I don’t have any advice and I don’t know that I think it will all be ok, so I keep running because it’s the one thing that feels normal.

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    1. You are right, running does feel pretty normal...when nothing else really does

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  11. Love your blog - so glad you are back at it!
    Covid = craptastic
    Books = One Day by Gene Weingarten, loved American Dirt like you, Wooden on Leadership, The Rent Collector
    Advice = get outside LOTS, be present, enjoy the little things (libraries and pools were BIG on my list), be positive and hopeful
    Don't no anyone who has been sick personally.

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    1. Yes to libraries and pools!! I'm glad both are back, even with restrictions

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  12. Where the Crawdads Sing was my best read of the year, but were you seem to need advice is on your Netflix viewing. Watch The Stranger and The Politician.

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    1. Loved the Crawdad book. Thanks for the Netflix suggestions!

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  13. So glad you are back! You were missed!


    -One word to describe your Covid experience?
    Long-so tired of all the cancelled races and vacations

    -Have you are anyone you know been sick?
    Yes-my oldest stepson hadit. Thankfully it wasn’t too bad for him.
    -Best book you've read lately/best show you've watched -
    Educated by Tara Westover
    -What is your best advice for these times?
    Try to keep things as normal as you can. Get outside and exercise.

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    1. I LOVED Educated. One of the best memoirs out there IMHO. I'm glad our stepson is okay. It makes me feel better to know of the people who get it and recover just fine as I think the news highlights all of the worst stories. Another reason to not watch the news, right?

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  14. Hi!!! I’m so happy to read this. I’ll be 50 in a couple of months and I just can’t relate to most of the runner-bloggers out there. I am so grateful that you wrote this update!! Definitely it’s been a crazy time- is it possible to have my older kids home and be happy about that but at the same time feel awful that they aren’t able to fly the nest like they should AND that I could be at all grateful during an awful pandemic? Feels SO selfish :-( Anyway, I know someone who died in March—youngish father who left a beautiful family behind, it was awful. I adore your blog and hope you are inspired to write whenever you feel like it. You are such an inspiration to me and many others!! Have a wonderful week and thank you again for the update. :-)

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    1. Yea I know what you mean. I feel in such a different place that the thirty somethings, probably because I am! I'm really sorry about your friend who passed away. His is one of those terribly tragic stories. Thanks for your kind words.

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  15. I've been reading your blog since the beginning! I'm glad you're back at it! I can relate to your post entirely - its been much longer than that since I've blogged on my blog... I want to get back to it... motivation, topic, life, worry, etc are all the same recycled reasons. Someday!
    COVID - Slow
    Sickness - not us or anyone I know thankfully!
    Books - The Calculating Stars
    Advice - I'm not sure I have any more than enjoy yourself while there's a bit of downtime!

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    1. Get back to blogging! Whatever it looks like. I'll be reading along!

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  16. Hooray! One of today's highlights is seeing this post. Thank you.

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  17. Welcome back. I've missed you. I know what you're saying about blogging as a way of staying in touch, and there's been a few times it's been a real struggle to continue. Sometimes I'm not sure why I do. I had begun to think you had moved on as well.

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  18. I hit the publish button too soon. There were questions.
    -One word to describe your Covid experience? Nothing changed. Being sort of retired will do that, though I was lured out of retirement and am working remotely.

    -Have you are anyone you know been sick? Not with COVID.

    -Best book you've read lately/best show you've watched. Karsh beyond the Camera. Show, hmmm. We liked Longmire to start, but didn't pick it up again when we got home. We like Altered Carbon but put it off a few days because we were busy and never got back to it. Mr Holmes was really good.
    -What is your best advice for these times? Agree on skipping the news, hit the headlines and move on. Eat right, drink some wine, keep moving.

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    1. You are the most consistent blogger out there!! I love your advice - I try to do those things daily.

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  19. I've almost given up my blog a hundred times because I don't think people are really reading them. Glad you are back. I've been working at home but I did that before. We are getting a million tourists who don't seem to care. I know a couple people who have been sick. I am writing books so don't read them that much. Oh and I think I had that tendonitis thing from hiking a couple of years back. I waited it out and it went away.

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    1. I just added you to my blog list, so I am reading!

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  20. Eh
    Yes
    Ozark
    We got this!

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  21. COVID Word: Dumbfiunded... I teach first graders. I’ve been home since March but about to go back into the classroom. Really Dept of Education? That’s the best idea you’ve come up with in the last five months?? Go into a room full of six year olds and expect them to not lick stuff?

    Yes- with the whole range of symptoms from mild to severe. Two have passed away.

    The Great British Baking Show- I’m obsessed!

    Wear a mask people!

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    1. Wow, best of luck returning to the classroom. I think we are all just waiting to see what the fall brings...

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  22. I'm so glad you're back!

    -One word to describe your Covid experience? Shit-show. I'm a CPA and this has been a never-ending tax season!
    -Have you are anyone you know been sick? Yes, my mom's cousin died (he was 93) and I've had a friend and a client get Covid and completely recover. My cousin also died of lung cancer in April and pretty sure they coded it Covid
    -Best book you've read lately/best show you've watched - does the Master Tax Guide count? I wouldn't recommend it
    -What is your best advice for these times? Stop watching the news, pet your dog and go for a run!

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  23. Wow, I didn’t realize how much I missed you and your writing until I just audibly snorted twice while reading this. I am so glad you’re not an instagram weirdo or product-pusher. We’ve all known you since way before that was a thing; and I’ve always just loved reading about your life and experiences. Covid is an ugly bitch. Over the past few months I’ve honestly felt like giving up, between missing my family who are far away (haven’t seen them since December) and dealing with an unraveling relationship. Currently under the gun to decide to 1) stay where I live where I have no real REASON to live - ie. Remote work, yet no way to afford rent now that I’m alone, will need to move apartments regardless - however I LOVE it here.... or 2) pack it up and head home. It’s tough. But I know others have it much worse. I lost an uncle to Covid. I have had a hard time reading, but working through the Overstory which is dense but amazing. Loved Ozark; just watched palms springs, which was fun. And Monty Don/Gardeners world 100% got me through spring with the excitement and anticipation of flowers and gardening; the one silver lining of quarantine. Welcome back. There is no pressure - please share your world whenever you feel like it. We’ll all be so happy to read whatever it is you write xox

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    1. Hi Vanessa, thanks so much for the kind words. I'm sorry you are in a rough spot with what sounds like a tough decision to make. I love that you have found hope, solace and inspiration through gardening. We all need to find that thing that keeps us joyful. xxoo

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  24. So good to read your blog again! My word is weird - my life was racing along, in the past 2 years I have unexpectedly separated from my husband, started full-time work, and just before Covid I was diagnosed with really high blood pressure - and so Covid forced me to sit down, take stock and figure out where I actually was. So while it sucked - my family lives in a different country and I haven't been able to see them for months - it was also a much needed break that I seemed unable to force myself to take. The best book I've read in this time is The Dutch House by Ann Patchett and On Being Human by Jennifer Pastiloff and the best thing I've watched is Bosch... Sending love to you all x

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    1. Hi Petra, it really sounds like this time gave you the opportunity for some positive changes. I do think a plus is that we have all had to re-prioritize and slow down. I hope you're feeling healthy now. Going to check out On Being Human. I loved the Dutch House.

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  25. Hello Beth, Nice that you ar blogging again. Here in Europe the pandemic was also bad, but it seems worse in the USA. I live in Holland and of course there were no running events. I cycled a lot as I have some injuries since december and running still goes only 5 km and that is hardly a reason to change to running gear.

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    1. Hi Holland! Stay healthy and keep moving. Thanks for reading

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  26. Fine
    No
    West World, 1Q84
    Enjoy the simple things.

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  27. Yay!!!! Welcome back! Please post as often as possible to cheer us all up. Since we live in a covid hotspot (Florida) we know people who have been sick, but no one who's been really, really sick or died from it. Thanks for posting!!!!!!

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  28. Welcome back! I started reading when Sam and Emma were little.

    -One word to describe your Covid experience? Grounded (we usually travel to Hawaii 4-8 times a year for my husband's work. Haven't left SoCal since March.)
    -Have you are anyone you know been sick? Yeah, we think we had it in December after coming home from Hawaii. We were both horribly sick within 5 days with a "weird" flu. Didn't know COVID existed at that point. Stayed home for more than a week, drinking TheraFlu, but fully recovered.
    -Best book you've read lately/best show you've watched - anything that won't make me sad or angry. Nothing stellar to recommend.
    -What is your best advice for these times? Stay active and turn off the news!

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  29. I love that you are blogging again. Even though we talk nearly everyday - I miss this special expression of YOU.

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  30. So glad you are doing well and happier to see you are blogging again! I love your sense of humor and writing style. Here are a couple of book recommendations: Such A Fun Age and The Wife Stalker.
    Look forward to more blog posts from you! Take care!

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    1. Thanks for the book recs, I'll check them out! Stay well.

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  31. I'm glad you wrote here! I've always enjoyed reading your blog; I love your sense of humor.

    -One word to describe your Covid experience? Ugh. Things have been cancelled, I miss seeing my parents who live in a different state, I work at a university and figuring out how we're going to do college is stressful.
    -Have you are anyone you know been sick? Yes, two acquaintances, both men in the 30 to 50 age range. One recovered after a mild illness, one passed away.
    -Best book you've read lately/best show you've watched - I'm really sad that I spent the whole stay home time reading a trilogy that I ended up hating... why did I feel compelled to read all 3 books and 2500 pages?
    -What is your best advice for these times? Connect with your friends and family in whatever way you can do so safely, and get outside.

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    1. I can't imagine trying to navigate how things will look for college. I am just stressed about my daughter returning, but for those who have to make the tough decisions about it all...ugh. YES to your advice. I always feel so much better after I do both.

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  32. I have totally missed your blog!!! :D

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  33. I was so happy to see your new blog in my in box this morning. I forgot how much I enjoyed your writing. Welcome back!

    One word - connection - I reconnected with friends from high school and college via Zoom and it was nice to have the time to do that!
    Yes - I have known many people who have been sick, some very sick and still battling it months later. Also have known a couple people who died. Crested Butte was hit pretty hard in March (probably earlier, actually), but we seem to be ok now with only a few cases a week and none too severe.
    Best book/show - I have been liking all of the new game shows on TV - they are mindless escapes. I have been reading a lot - These Is My Words, Next Year in Havana, Becoming, The Tattooist of Auschwitz, The Ten Thousand Doors of January, The Storyteller's Secret
    Advice - stay educated, but limit news and getting sucked in Facebook debates. Get outside as much as possible!

    I hope you are motivated to write more frequently. You add a lot of joy to our lives when you do!

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    1. Hey Molly...I'm glad Crested Butte has settled down. I love your town so much and really want to do the Crested Butte ultra next year. Thanks for the book recs as well. And I love your advice about FB and staying out of debates. I have no room for that kind of negativity. Plus, such a big energy suck.

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  34. I was just thinking about you the other day and was very excited to see your post. Here are my answers:
    One word to describe your Covid experience: disappointment (my daughter completed a 5 1/2 year sailing circumnavigation of the world and we were unable to celebrate, my mom passed away and we were not with her, and I retired to the COVID boredom).
    -Have you are anyone you know been sick? My secretary was sick with it
    -Best book you've read lately/best show you've watched - Where the Crawdads Sing was excellent; binge watching West Wing (such hope for sanity to return to the White House)
    -What is your best advice for these times? Hang in there, we just have to ride this craziness until it’s over.

    Keep writing, you inspire me. I’m hoping to get back to running when the summer is over; I live in Texas and it is so damn hot and humid.

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    1. I'm so sorry about your mom. I've really felt awful for family members who couldn't be by a loved one's bedside. I'll keep writing if you keep reading.

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  35. One word- chemo. I was diagnosed with breast cancer 2 days before our country shut down so I have been side tracked with chemo, surgery, hair loss. At least I’m not missing out on anything.
    I know several people who have been diagnosed with Covid.
    Best book: The Long Run. Untamed is really good so far too.
    Best show: we are watching Taxi right now, which is from the 70s. My husband and I are a bunch of old souls in our forties.
    Best advice: RUN. I have ran more miles while on chemo than I ever have in my life. Running is keeping me sane, relaxed, calm, strong.
    So glad to see you back. I see you on IG but it’s not the same as the blog .

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    1. So sorry to hear about your diagnosis, but I love your attitude and that you are putting in the miles. I loved the Long Run and have Untamed on my Kindle but haven't read it yet. Hang in there and thanks for reading along.

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  36. I follow your IG so I knew you were still exercising, but I have definitely missed your blog! I didn't realize your last post was from December. I turned 50 in the middle of this dumpster fire called Covid, and like others said, I enjoy your blog because it seems more real to me. :) My husband grew up in Longmont so I'm always telling him where you are running to see if he knows location. He thinks I'm crazy, but that is ok.

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    1. Dumpster fire. LOL.

      Small world that your husband grew up here. I'm sure it's changed a lot. We've lived here 21 years and it's changed a ton in that time.

      Happy Birthday. Celebrate HUGE in 2021 or once we get out of this dumpster fire.

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  37. Covid has made this the year of exercise...without it I would go insane.
    I don't know anyone who has been sick. I am in Texas and they way they talk about things on the news maybe I should know someone, but we've been VERY careful.
    The 3 best books I have read recently - Bottle of Lies (about generic drugs), Chasing the Scream (about illegal drugs), and The Most Fun We Ever Had.

    perineum tendinitis...I'm curious to what this might feel like???

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    1. I'm sure perineum tendinitis t'aint fun. See what I did there?

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  38. One word to describe your Covid experience? Stupid
    -Have you are anyone you know been sick? No
    -Best book: Hide Away by Jason Pinter
    -What is your best advice for these times? Take care of yourself. I went through a faze at first of comfort eating and drinking more than I should. I am over it and am not letting this stupid virus control my life any more!!!! (Except for everything I look forward to continuing to be canceled or postponed indefinitely...)

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  39. I was so good to see a blog post from you! Welcome back!!
    Initially I really struggled with the stay at home orders but working from home still almost 5 months down the track and I have settled into a somewhat new way of living. Shopping online I've taken to like a sport and I now have set a challenge to see if I can get all the way to my Half Ironman on September 13th in Queensland (still not cancelled - I know, its unbelievable!!) without ever having to go to the office.
    COVID-19 has made me do new things - buy a wetsuit, swim in the manky lake near my house so thanks for that virus. Ive taken up big arse jigsaw puzzles too because I actually started getting bored with watching TV! (Never would I ever!)

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    1. Fingers crossed Queensland is a go! Are they letting people from the US in? Or, maybe you're not in the US..

      That is a bright spot that Covid has made you try new things. Silver lining I guess?

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  40. Covid has been a shitshow! We got rid of lots of inmates, but still had an outbreak. Lots of inmates and coworkers got it. I lived in complete fear for the first couple of months, but pulled my shit together. Tiger King was the best thing ever, no judgments from me. Running alone is lame, but drinking wine alone is still fun! Glad you are back to blogging!

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  41. Covid-Asshole
    Books- been reading and listening to Audiobooks non stop. Thank you Libby App and anythink for working together to keep me sane. I enjoyed Dear Edward, Queenie, American Marriage, Henna Artist, Know My Name, Dutch House, And Then She was gone, to name a few. Seriously have read 60 books since January.
    I also have had some tendonitis in my foot and it sucks, been walk/running as I can and sometimes its better to just be outside for my brain, even if my foot hurts.
    Menopause and Covid feel like a real kick in the teeth. I spent one day lying in bed. When my husband asked if I was going to get up I said "why"
    Had to cancel trip 20th anniversary trip to Hawaii. Did I mention Covid is an asshole?
    Best advice: reach out to friends, remember what you enjoyed before covid and try to find a way to do a version of it.
    TV show-Wonderland on Amazon prime. Just the views of Australia make it feel like a a vacation.
    PS glad your back

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  42. I love blogs and always will (including your blog, which I've read for years). I blog intermittently and sporadically but always with joy and a sense of connection. R xo PS My one word for COVID? Vulnerable

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  43. The peroneal/perineum thing made me laugh! Back in 2016, I had surgery to fix a labral tear in my hip. My coworker told her husband I had a labial tear fixed. He was like.... um, I think you have that word wrong, I don't think she'd tell you about a tear in her labia. Bwhahahahahaha!

    Covid - Plan-ruining-ahole
    Health - my family and me are all healthy, thank god
    Best book - heavier/educational = So You Want to Talk About Race; Lighter = The Boston Girl
    Best show - The Last Dance on Netflix (about Chicago Bulls/Jordan)
    Advice - wear a gd mask! And limit your news intake.

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    1. That is hilarious. Actually the husband of a friend of mine said the same thing about someone they knew who had a labral tear. I had to show him your comment!

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  44. Hello! I missed you - I am doing and watching and reading and feeling all the same things as you. But I hope we get to celebrate my 50th birthday with a family vacation to HAWAII this November. We've been planning it for years. Or get my $$$$ back at least. Maybe a bit naive about that.... oh god now I'm depressed again.

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    1. I hope your trip works out or at the VERY least you get your money back. It's such a rip off that they don't refund...I mean even if I wanted to I couldn't go to Greece right now b/c they aren't letting people from the US in...so, give me my money!

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  45. Never commented before, but wanted to say happy to have you back! One word for COVID experience: challenging. Nobody I know has been sick (yay!). Best book: Aristotle & Dante Discover the Secrets to the Universe. Best advice: We’re in this for the long haul, so find out how to do the things you love safely (without risking yourself or others) and then do them. Also, Wear a F*#&ing Mask!!

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  46. Jenni4pa@yahoo.comJuly 28, 2020 at 7:23 PM

    So happy to hear from you!! I ran more at the start of shutdown because that was my option until the weather improved, need to get back to it!

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  47. I've only commented a few times over the years, but have to say how happy to hear from you (and relieved that everything is well). I would check every few weeks to see if there was a post. Like you, most of the long time blogs I read have disappeared. Seeing you was great.

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  48. Been a silent lurker of yours for years - never commented before - and was really happy to see your blog post. I checked back periodically to see if I missed a post but each time nothing new since 12/19.

    I'm in Fort Collins - feeling like we're waiting for the other shoe to drop. I love that Colorado is only pee yellow right now ... but worry it won't be much longer until we turn red.

    It's not a new release but I recently read The Gentleman in Moscow by Amor Towles. Great storytelling and descriptive language (kind of like your blog posts!).

    Multiple vacations canceled. Shut Up And Run, and wearing a damn mask.

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    1. hoping we stay in the pee yellow zone and don't go to menstrual red. I will check on the book, sounds good. SUAR and WADM!

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  49. I'm Beth too. So fun to read your blog again. I'm glad you're surviving. ALSO re menopause-- try gabapentin for hot flashes. It's cheap and it works.
    -One word to describe your Covid experience? Meh. Pretty boring, and I'm an introvert.
    -Have you are anyone you know been sick? A friend's husband died, a former coworker was just diagnosed, The mil of a coworker just got out of a 3+ week stint in the ICU, plus a handful of others.
    -Best book you've read lately/best show you've watched - I've been going for total fluff: movies: "The Rewrite" with Hugh Grant", "Puzzle", "Destination Wedding" come to mind. I've been binging on horrible romance novels. I rationalize that it's taken my focus off drinking wine.
    -What is your best advice for these times? This too shall pass. But in the mean time, put on a damn mask.

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  50. So Happy to see a post from you!....now if only I can get my but in gear too!
    my Covid experience?? Very High Anxiety for this Type-A extrovert...
    No one sick from Covid, but Covid put the Hubby's Artery By-Pass on hold for 3months...
    Crime/Drama books for the Win!
    Nonsense TV programs...(Bravo RH anything, don't judge)

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  51. Hey Beth--what a great way to end July--with one of your posts!! Welcome back :)
    One word to describe your Covid experience? Confusing. Even on Gilligan's Island the castaways believed the professor over the millionaire!
    Have you are anyone you know been sick? My 30 something nephew. Went to a bar... yada yada yada. He was sicker than a dog and 5 weeks later still cannot taste or smell.
    Best book-American Dirt. Great writing and storytelling from a woman's perspective.
    What is your best advice for these times? Sign up for a virtual event. If we want to participate in our favorite events in the future, we need to support them. Oh...and...WEAR YOUR DAMN MASK!

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  52. Why, welcome back! Blogging IS dead, but I keep it up so I have some kind of training log, lol.

    -One word to describe your Covid experience? CHILDCARE.
    -Have you are anyone you know been sick? LOL yes. I live in New Orleans! My family has stayed healthy, but I am literally in the middle of it, since I work at a New Orleans hospital. So far, only two close friends were sick and they recovered, but many family-of-friends have been very sick or died. Very sad. We do have a better grip on treatments now, though, so I hope to see the death rate drop.
    -Best book you've read lately/best show you've watched - I loved Last Dance so much.
    -What is your best advice for these times? Opt outside.

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  53. So happy to check in and read this update from you! Your voice has been missed. I am not a blogger, but have also enjoyed for years the more personal style of blogging you described. I'm glad to hear you and your family are healthy and doing relatively well. Enjoy those CO mountains for the rest of us!

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  54. So great that you are back - I've missed reading your blog! I live in Longmont, too, and am 52. Going through alot of what you mention in your post - getting through this by spending increased time outside - running, biking and hiking. And supporting our local breweries as well (hello growlers)!

    One word to describe your Covid experience? GroundhogDay
    -Have you are anyone you know been sick? A good friend from high school and her husband were both very sick, but recovered.
    -Best book you've read lately/best show you've watched - Best book - Empty by Susan Burton (she grew up in Boulder and now works for NPR). Best show - The Big Bang Theory (we're on Season 4, and it makes me so happy to know how many episodes we still have ahead of us)
    -What is your best advice for these times? Take it one day at a time and be grateful

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  55. I haven’t followed my normal blogs in over a year and so glad i didn’t know I should be missing you -
    Reflective
    Yes
    The Henna Artist
    Prioritize

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