Dreaming the dreams was fun, but making them happen takes a whole lot of work, and a whole lot of time. Tell me something - how many stay-at-home moms take on the challenge of running a marathon and starting a social networking website in the same breath? (www.mypax.com)
The holiday season has a funny way of making people wish they had someone special in their life. And so last Christmas, Cupid was playing hard to get with my sister, and I was thinking of a "date-my-sister" kinda site. But knowing all to well, that she would be totally embarrassed and give me that "loser" look, I ran this idea by the husband, who like any entrepreneur was like "great idea baby" but lets tweak it a bit. So after thinking and brainstorming, and signing up for just about every dating site out there, we came up with a few good ideas, that evolved into some great ideas.
Facebook is a good thing, it may not be the best thing. After getting tons of invites to join FB, I finally decided to give it a go, and yoohoo in the next month I had over a 100 friends - was I popular or what, where did these friends come from and what did they want..Maybe they were in a quest to win the competition for most friends - I'd never know. After exchanging hi's, and perfunctory "your kids look great" and "you look cute" lines, I have no idea what to do with the site. Could this be it! Is this all FB is all about?? How could I make new friends, or find a partner to train with me, or even get advice on good running shoes or a damn plumber? I did put an ad on Craigslist, but got a bunch of replies from weirdo's and sex maniacs, whom I knew nothing about and were a waste of time anyways - jeez all I wanted was a running partner - why was that so hard to find. So I thought...Is there any site that can give me a holistic view of a person?? And I got thinking how perfect would it be, if a site lets me know what a person likes, where they work, who they hang out with, which school they went to, what things they are good at. Having a play date for my toddler would be so much simpler and safer, not to mention easier if I have all this information at hand. And that's how my site was born, well at least the idea. After going thru a trillion names, the one that made the most sense was " My Pax"(stay posted for a later blog on the name).
Between handling 2 kids, a dog, a husband, a sister and my crazy hormones, I really didn't have time for doing anything else. For the past 3 years all I pretty much did was change diapers and clean spit ups...bummer! I missed the intellectual stimulation and craved doing something worthwhile with my life. The website was took care of my first problem and the marathon took care of the second. Who would have thought, they both would be so intertwined.
Once an athlete... always an athlete, but the extra 40lbs of flab can make a huge difference. Being done making babies, at least for the time being, I was ready to take on the challenge of running the SF Marathon.
The website and my marathon have both been a well enjoyed journey!! It started out on a whim, but soon became something bigger. I learnt many lessons and faced many hardships. The road to building a dream is faced with anxiety, stress, joy, anticipation, and above all, hard work and dedication. There is nothing sweeter than the taste of victory.
SF Marathon completed. Website successfully launched....Woooohoooo!! Check out www.mypax.com
Monday, September 1, 2008
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
A Run in the Park - 1.5 miles
Packed the kids off to Gill park today, this really nice park by our house. Basketball courts, baseball field, tennis courts, sand pits, play areas, BBQ pits - this park has it all. Oh, and the view of the mountains. The sky was pink with hues of purple as the sun set, it was stunning.
I decided to run a few laps in the park, while Saswata played with Kimaya and Sean. So iPod in ears, I trotted along to the baseball field. I ran for about 25 mins doing the 4:1, got a little tired though, so the run wasn't the best today. Sean, Kimi and Saswata stood by the sidelines and waved out at me, it was very motivating to see them, I felt so special. Sean hit some balls with Saswata, its amazing how he pretty much makes contact with every ball now - my little man :)
But he had other things going on in his little head today - he so badly wanted to come back home and watch Dora and Diego. The toys, the sand, his scooter, he didn't want any of it. So we decided to head back home. Saswata stayed back to hit some balls - the guy deserves a break.
We get home, Sean runs for the remote, Kimaya runs around doing no good as usual, Pooja sits on the couch surfing, James Blunt croons "you're beautiful" - this is home!!!
I decided to run a few laps in the park, while Saswata played with Kimaya and Sean. So iPod in ears, I trotted along to the baseball field. I ran for about 25 mins doing the 4:1, got a little tired though, so the run wasn't the best today. Sean, Kimi and Saswata stood by the sidelines and waved out at me, it was very motivating to see them, I felt so special. Sean hit some balls with Saswata, its amazing how he pretty much makes contact with every ball now - my little man :)
But he had other things going on in his little head today - he so badly wanted to come back home and watch Dora and Diego. The toys, the sand, his scooter, he didn't want any of it. So we decided to head back home. Saswata stayed back to hit some balls - the guy deserves a break.
We get home, Sean runs for the remote, Kimaya runs around doing no good as usual, Pooja sits on the couch surfing, James Blunt croons "you're beautiful" - this is home!!!
Saswata - my world
Saswata......a conundrum!!
I've lived with this man for about 7 years now, and yet, it seems like I don't know him at all. Now that's good and bad....GOOD - cos there is always something new to learn and love about him. And BAD cos there are days when I wonder - Who is this man in my house?? ;)
Having said that - there is no one on this earth I would rather be with. I'd rather have all the downs and bad times with him, than have good times with anyone else. He is everything I am not - and thank God for that. He is the head and I am the heart of our home, and we wouldn't have it any other way.
There are things about him I would so love to change - like when he says - "baby give me 2 minutes" - it could mean 10 minutes or an hour or maybe even NEVER! He is so cool and calm and composed - even is the house is on fire, and that is very scary. He is a workaholic - always thinking of new ideas and burning the midnight oil for no apparent reason at all. He is a coffeeholic, and his teeth are proof :) The only time he gets visibly mad is when Sean plays with the new set of tennis balls, or when our dog Pepper craps in the back yard.
Supportive, caring, loving, stubborn, head strong, doting, unpunctual - that's him. He is a great guy and I love him dearly...He is so ambitious and hardworking - his dreams are as big as his heart. He is an entrepreneur all the way; his determination and dedication are characteristics I hope our children will imbibe from his example.
I love you baby!!! Thanks for being you - my life wouldn't have been as colorful had it not been for you and your little quirks - the ones I hate and the ones for which I love you more.
I've lived with this man for about 7 years now, and yet, it seems like I don't know him at all. Now that's good and bad....GOOD - cos there is always something new to learn and love about him. And BAD cos there are days when I wonder - Who is this man in my house?? ;)
Having said that - there is no one on this earth I would rather be with. I'd rather have all the downs and bad times with him, than have good times with anyone else. He is everything I am not - and thank God for that. He is the head and I am the heart of our home, and we wouldn't have it any other way.
There are things about him I would so love to change - like when he says - "baby give me 2 minutes" - it could mean 10 minutes or an hour or maybe even NEVER! He is so cool and calm and composed - even is the house is on fire, and that is very scary. He is a workaholic - always thinking of new ideas and burning the midnight oil for no apparent reason at all. He is a coffeeholic, and his teeth are proof :) The only time he gets visibly mad is when Sean plays with the new set of tennis balls, or when our dog Pepper craps in the back yard.
Supportive, caring, loving, stubborn, head strong, doting, unpunctual - that's him. He is a great guy and I love him dearly...He is so ambitious and hardworking - his dreams are as big as his heart. He is an entrepreneur all the way; his determination and dedication are characteristics I hope our children will imbibe from his example.
I love you baby!!! Thanks for being you - my life wouldn't have been as colorful had it not been for you and your little quirks - the ones I hate and the ones for which I love you more.
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
$1310 already - I need to start a fund for myself!!
The AIDS website takes a while to get updated. There is usually a 3 day lag, I wonder why?? Given the way the Internet has taken over the world, you would think the donations would be updated instantaneously....Here I was this morning calculating how much I had collected so far...It was tough doing the math without a calculator.. ( now that my vocab and IQ is down to that of a 3 year old) so I was guessing about $800 at best, and I was gonna be happy with that.
But whhoooowhhooooo, I check this afternoon and its a whopping $1310... I just couldn't believe it- my 1st reaction was maybe they put someone else's donation under my name. And then I check the donation list - Halina ( a girl a grew up with) sent my email around her office, and her boss puts in $250 on behalf of the company. Saswata's buddy at Raleigh was very generous with $300, and old colleague of mine from Hertz gave in $100, and a lady whom I help when the elevator got stuck gave me another $100.....this is too good to be true..I am still waiting on Starbucks, Safeway, and a few other places. I have 2 more months of donations to come in, and I think I am going to be able to collect more than I am supposed to - its good - cos that way I am going to be able to make a difference in the lives of more people..
People are good, and are always looking for ways to help - I like to believe that.
But whhoooowhhooooo, I check this afternoon and its a whopping $1310... I just couldn't believe it- my 1st reaction was maybe they put someone else's donation under my name. And then I check the donation list - Halina ( a girl a grew up with) sent my email around her office, and her boss puts in $250 on behalf of the company. Saswata's buddy at Raleigh was very generous with $300, and old colleague of mine from Hertz gave in $100, and a lady whom I help when the elevator got stuck gave me another $100.....this is too good to be true..I am still waiting on Starbucks, Safeway, and a few other places. I have 2 more months of donations to come in, and I think I am going to be able to collect more than I am supposed to - its good - cos that way I am going to be able to make a difference in the lives of more people..
People are good, and are always looking for ways to help - I like to believe that.
2nd Training Run
Woke up at 6.45am, all charged up to hit the road. I was very excited to be trying out my new shoes, though I wasn't really sure if I would since the weather didn't look all that great. But what the heck...I did wear them anyways. The drive there was really nice, serene and scenic. Reached there by 7.45am, and saw only the coaches and the AIDS support team hanging around, so I decided to wait it out in the car till the other runners arrived.
By 8am, we were all in our groups doing hi's and hello's waiting to get running. Each group was assigned a leader and a designated runner. The leader's job was to monitor our speed and keep time, run 4 minutes and walk 1 minute. While the designated runner's job was to make sure that no one was left behind and to run with the last person of the pace group. We were only 3 in my group so we decided to watch out for the other and since Britney had a lap/time watch she did the honors of keeping time....4 miles that was our scheduled run for the day!!
The route was amazing, its unbelievable that given the weather there were just so many people running at the Los Gatos trail. The mist, the slight drizzle, and the lakes make the run all the more fun - it was a peaceful run. My pace group kept good time, and we chit chatted along the way - it was a good run. We even passed the 10.30 minute group and that was good for our time, so maybe next week, both the groups could merge - who knows...
No shin splints, no aching knees, the shoes worked out great - what more could I ask for....hhmmmm, maybe a pair of shoes that the local store (where were meet up) was raffling out. I ran outta luck...no shoes to go home with, only some gels for sore muscles, and some runner magazines - I'll take those :))
By 8am, we were all in our groups doing hi's and hello's waiting to get running. Each group was assigned a leader and a designated runner. The leader's job was to monitor our speed and keep time, run 4 minutes and walk 1 minute. While the designated runner's job was to make sure that no one was left behind and to run with the last person of the pace group. We were only 3 in my group so we decided to watch out for the other and since Britney had a lap/time watch she did the honors of keeping time....4 miles that was our scheduled run for the day!!
The route was amazing, its unbelievable that given the weather there were just so many people running at the Los Gatos trail. The mist, the slight drizzle, and the lakes make the run all the more fun - it was a peaceful run. My pace group kept good time, and we chit chatted along the way - it was a good run. We even passed the 10.30 minute group and that was good for our time, so maybe next week, both the groups could merge - who knows...
No shin splints, no aching knees, the shoes worked out great - what more could I ask for....hhmmmm, maybe a pair of shoes that the local store (where were meet up) was raffling out. I ran outta luck...no shoes to go home with, only some gels for sore muscles, and some runner magazines - I'll take those :))
Rain Rain go away
The weather has been rather yucky over the weekend, and I doubt I am that dedicated to go running out in the rain. I wanted to hit the gym but had too many things on my plate,
Saswata and self were out for a much needed day by ourselves. Its amazing how caught up one gets existing that you actually take living and enjoying yourself for granted. We went for the finals of the SAP Open, Roddick rocked, its amazing to watch his enthusiasm and energy, and his has a pretty cool sense of humor as well. The quaint coffee shop on willow glen was a nice quiet retreat, Monsieur Beans - who would have thought of that for a coffee shop. The walls were bright pink and red, with art all over, unlimited refills of coffee, and about half a dozen guys with laptops furiously typing away - could have been the next Microsoft or Google in the making.
Dinner was at our fave place- Taiwan...but gosh, the prices aren't as favorable anymore.....It was a real nice day, but coming back home to the kids was priceless.
I could have run a bit while I took the kids to the park yesterday, I have no idea how they played in the cold for like an hour. While yours truly sat in the warm car, AC on, and the country channel blaring.
Today is a much nicer day, a more California day, I would say. I am gonna wear my running garb to the park and try to do some laps round the baseball field while the kids play. It's gonna be a be good run, I can feel that.
Saswata and self were out for a much needed day by ourselves. Its amazing how caught up one gets existing that you actually take living and enjoying yourself for granted. We went for the finals of the SAP Open, Roddick rocked, its amazing to watch his enthusiasm and energy, and his has a pretty cool sense of humor as well. The quaint coffee shop on willow glen was a nice quiet retreat, Monsieur Beans - who would have thought of that for a coffee shop. The walls were bright pink and red, with art all over, unlimited refills of coffee, and about half a dozen guys with laptops furiously typing away - could have been the next Microsoft or Google in the making.
Dinner was at our fave place- Taiwan...but gosh, the prices aren't as favorable anymore.....It was a real nice day, but coming back home to the kids was priceless.
I could have run a bit while I took the kids to the park yesterday, I have no idea how they played in the cold for like an hour. While yours truly sat in the warm car, AC on, and the country channel blaring.
Today is a much nicer day, a more California day, I would say. I am gonna wear my running garb to the park and try to do some laps round the baseball field while the kids play. It's gonna be a be good run, I can feel that.
Friday, February 22, 2008
My inspiration - my father
The bond between my father and me is very special. I doubt anyone would every understand it. I am so like him in so many ways, and if I could live my life all over again - you know what - I would want to be more and more like him.
He is a great guy, always pushing me to be the best I could be in anything. The way he encouraged me while I was growing up, well at that time they were more like sermons, atleast so I thought. At 16 who wants to conquer the world, I just wanted to go out and have fun. But I know, that I did manage to get some of his wise words into my head, if not I would'nt be where I am and who I am today. Even on days that I failed I knew I would always come to to love. He is my biggest cheerleader and my biggest fan. He always said be caring, respectful and responsible. He showed me that the most important things in life have less to do with having material things and expensive shoes…and more to do with being kind toward others and sharing your inner light with the world.
I keep reflecting on the things he taught me, and I can't wait to pass them on to my own children. I really miss that they are cannot share their grandparents, the way I would like. My kids are missing out on knowing one of the greatest men to have walked the earth - thats you dad.
He is a great guy, always pushing me to be the best I could be in anything. The way he encouraged me while I was growing up, well at that time they were more like sermons, atleast so I thought. At 16 who wants to conquer the world, I just wanted to go out and have fun. But I know, that I did manage to get some of his wise words into my head, if not I would'nt be where I am and who I am today. Even on days that I failed I knew I would always come to to love. He is my biggest cheerleader and my biggest fan. He always said be caring, respectful and responsible. He showed me that the most important things in life have less to do with having material things and expensive shoes…and more to do with being kind toward others and sharing your inner light with the world.
I keep reflecting on the things he taught me, and I can't wait to pass them on to my own children. I really miss that they are cannot share their grandparents, the way I would like. My kids are missing out on knowing one of the greatest men to have walked the earth - thats you dad.
My hidden force - my mother
It was my moms birthday a couple days ago. Poor thing, broke her ankle a month ago, and my dad is doing the honors nursing her back on her feet - wish I could be there for you ma.
My mom...hmm...a woman of a very few words. A silent observer, she could take on the weight of the world , always ready to help anyone in need, always giving so freely of herself. Her family is her priority, who knows how many sacrifices she has made for us over all these years. Who knows, how many of her own dreams she gave up so that our dreams could come true. She taught me to live life to the fullest and be grateful for the opportunities that I have, cos there are so many less fortunate people out here. Everyone she meets gets so influenced by her caring and her humility.
If I could be only 1/2 the mother she is, I'd she happy. She has taught me every virtue she has in her. She has taught me to be humble, to be kind towards everyone. Now I am running out of words to describe my “Ma”. She is not only a role model for me but for everyone who comes across her and she will remain a source of inspiration for me throughout my lifetime.
Heres to you ma, in the words of Josh Groban:
You raise me up, so I can stand on mountains;
You raise me up, to walk on stormy seas; I am strong,
You raise me up… To more than I can be.
Love you forever ma - nans
My mom...hmm...a woman of a very few words. A silent observer, she could take on the weight of the world , always ready to help anyone in need, always giving so freely of herself. Her family is her priority, who knows how many sacrifices she has made for us over all these years. Who knows, how many of her own dreams she gave up so that our dreams could come true. She taught me to live life to the fullest and be grateful for the opportunities that I have, cos there are so many less fortunate people out here. Everyone she meets gets so influenced by her caring and her humility.
If I could be only 1/2 the mother she is, I'd she happy. She has taught me every virtue she has in her. She has taught me to be humble, to be kind towards everyone. Now I am running out of words to describe my “Ma”. She is not only a role model for me but for everyone who comes across her and she will remain a source of inspiration for me throughout my lifetime.
Heres to you ma, in the words of Josh Groban:
You raise me up, so I can stand on mountains;
You raise me up, to walk on stormy seas; I am strong,
You raise me up… To more than I can be.
Love you forever ma - nans
So far so good - the money's coming in!!
I had been checking my aids Marathon donation page like million times, it was taking forever to get the system updated with the donations. I was beginning to get very eager, as all I was seeing was a big ol "$00.0" as my fundraising amount. I was hoping to see at least $125, that's what I knew was guaranteed, no wait actually $150.
Much to my surprise there was $475, Saswata's business pals were very kind and supportive. That's nice when people in high places, can take the time and the effort to help people - I like that in a person. So I sent them some thank you emails - Saswata thought the email was very elegant...
Here is a excerpt an email that I received :
Hello Ekta,
I admire your dedication and personal sacrifice to such a worthy cause. Your efforts, and those like you, make this - a better world.
Best of luck in your training.
Regards.
Aren't these the nicest words anyone could write :) Like I told this gentleman, when my mind is not keeping up with my body, I am going to be thinking of his email.
I also have to pick up $40 for the manager at the local Starbucks store, and this other guy wants me to come pick up $20 from his store. But hello, I am going to have to pay $20 gas to get there...Maybe I should ask him to do it online.....So things are looking up....its all going to get better....maybe fundraising is not all that bad....fingers crossed!!!
Much to my surprise there was $475, Saswata's business pals were very kind and supportive. That's nice when people in high places, can take the time and the effort to help people - I like that in a person. So I sent them some thank you emails - Saswata thought the email was very elegant...
Here is a excerpt an email that I received :
Hello Ekta,
I admire your dedication and personal sacrifice to such a worthy cause. Your efforts, and those like you, make this - a better world.
Best of luck in your training.
Regards.
Aren't these the nicest words anyone could write :) Like I told this gentleman, when my mind is not keeping up with my body, I am going to be thinking of his email.
I also have to pick up $40 for the manager at the local Starbucks store, and this other guy wants me to come pick up $20 from his store. But hello, I am going to have to pay $20 gas to get there...Maybe I should ask him to do it online.....So things are looking up....its all going to get better....maybe fundraising is not all that bad....fingers crossed!!!
Some more running...
Running has been good this past week. I've been hitting the gym almost everyday, running my 3 miles and more importantly doing my stretching. I still have to take care of my back, cos to much to stress will not do it any good, and I am going to be the one suffering for it.
3 miles, tues, wed and thurs, thats not bad right. Today I skipped the gym cos as I had my physical theraphy session. It was good, did some stretching, and learned some new exercises to avoid shin splints, cos that my was Achilles heel last Saturday during the 1st run. Maybe the exercises are going to help - only time will tell.
I am very excited to try out the new pair of running shoes that I purchased last week from Runners Factory in Los Gatos. Actually running shoes - they don't look as good as my Nike's but they are supposed to be more effective and would also help reduce injury- at least that's what the sales guy said. He made me try on 10 pairs and after 30 mins of jogging in and around the store, we decided on an ascis pair. Given the amount of miles I am going to be doing while training, I might need another pair for the marathon.
Its been raining the past week, and this weekend is going to be no better - so we run in the rain...gees--that's gonna be fun - "NOT"...........as Sean would say.
3 miles, tues, wed and thurs, thats not bad right. Today I skipped the gym cos as I had my physical theraphy session. It was good, did some stretching, and learned some new exercises to avoid shin splints, cos that my was Achilles heel last Saturday during the 1st run. Maybe the exercises are going to help - only time will tell.
I am very excited to try out the new pair of running shoes that I purchased last week from Runners Factory in Los Gatos. Actually running shoes - they don't look as good as my Nike's but they are supposed to be more effective and would also help reduce injury- at least that's what the sales guy said. He made me try on 10 pairs and after 30 mins of jogging in and around the store, we decided on an ascis pair. Given the amount of miles I am going to be doing while training, I might need another pair for the marathon.
Its been raining the past week, and this weekend is going to be no better - so we run in the rain...gees--that's gonna be fun - "NOT"...........as Sean would say.
Stop the treadmill when you get off!!
Its the little actions in life that can make all the difference, mostly its the little things that we all take for granted. And why it is because we get complacent, or that we just don't care. Maybe we are just too preoccupied with other things going on, that we forget what's most important. Well, this can be true to anything in life...But I talk about it with reference to stopping the damn treadmill.
I work out at this place called Milpitas Health and Fitness, not as fancy as the usual gym's. Its cheap, clean, and has good equipment - well that's all that I need. There aren't too many skinny pretty bodies that totally intimidate you, like at other places. So this place works out just fine for me. At 3.30pm I am running on the treadmill, and beside is this Vietnamese lady doing like 7miles per hour, and I was like WOW. She gets off to go where, I really don't care...I continue to do my run and my own well, slow pace. And this lady comes right back..I try to not stare.....The next thing I know - CRASH, BOOM, BANG - she is flying all over the treadmill....she did not stop the machine before stepping off -- what an idiot I wanna say ( I have done that too in the past) And then smart me, tries to stop her machine without stopping mine - it would have been disastrous. It was all happening so damn fast.....and this poor lady is still flip flopping on the treadmill, its like time stood still....Finally, I stopped her machine. Poor thing, her legs and arms are all bruised, we call the gym attendants and they want to know if they should call the ambulance- their policy. So we sit and chat, her name is Francene, she has 3 kids wow, and she was running on the treadmill like there was no tomorrow. They get Francene some ice, and all hover around her, and after a couple minutes they leave her, like nothing ever happened. Me and Francene exchange numbers and vow to keep in touch, and work out together when our schedules permit - I tell you, friendships are made in the strangest places.
The moral of this story is - always stop the damn treadmill before getting off!!! Cos you make get off fairly easily though its running, but its next to impossible to get on when its in motion. I know its like common sense, but we are the wise lot, and common sense is not all that common.
I work out at this place called Milpitas Health and Fitness, not as fancy as the usual gym's. Its cheap, clean, and has good equipment - well that's all that I need. There aren't too many skinny pretty bodies that totally intimidate you, like at other places. So this place works out just fine for me. At 3.30pm I am running on the treadmill, and beside is this Vietnamese lady doing like 7miles per hour, and I was like WOW. She gets off to go where, I really don't care...I continue to do my run and my own well, slow pace. And this lady comes right back..I try to not stare.....The next thing I know - CRASH, BOOM, BANG - she is flying all over the treadmill....she did not stop the machine before stepping off -- what an idiot I wanna say ( I have done that too in the past) And then smart me, tries to stop her machine without stopping mine - it would have been disastrous. It was all happening so damn fast.....and this poor lady is still flip flopping on the treadmill, its like time stood still....Finally, I stopped her machine. Poor thing, her legs and arms are all bruised, we call the gym attendants and they want to know if they should call the ambulance- their policy. So we sit and chat, her name is Francene, she has 3 kids wow, and she was running on the treadmill like there was no tomorrow. They get Francene some ice, and all hover around her, and after a couple minutes they leave her, like nothing ever happened. Me and Francene exchange numbers and vow to keep in touch, and work out together when our schedules permit - I tell you, friendships are made in the strangest places.
The moral of this story is - always stop the damn treadmill before getting off!!! Cos you make get off fairly easily though its running, but its next to impossible to get on when its in motion. I know its like common sense, but we are the wise lot, and common sense is not all that common.
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
Berry Cobbler - soul food for the runner
Got this huge packet of berries from the store, (heard they are good for the healing of muscles after a long run). But they are just too much and honestly the frozen ones are'nt that great. So what do I do with them???
Make a cobbler. Saswata loves the peach cobbler that I make, and what a better way to surprise him. He will be back from a 12 day trip tomorrow ...yyyiiiiipppeeeeeeeeeeeee..gosh, I have missed him so much. its the little things that I miss the most, and its funny that its these very things that piss me off at times. I love him dearly, he knows that.
I look up recepies for the cobbler and then after reading a few recepies I ma ready to give it a go. I really enjoy baking so all of the ingredients were at hand. I needed some peace n quite so Poo took the kids to Safeway..phhhewww...what a releif!
SO here's what I did, and here's what you would need :
Crumble:
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 egg (slightly beaten)
1/2 stick butter or margarine softened
3 tablespoons ice cold water
Filling:
4 cups berries (black, strawberries..anything berries really)
1 1/4 cups sugar
4 tablespoons flour
2 eggs
1/4 stick butter or margarine
Method:
Heat oven 400 degrees C.
Mix all the filling ingredients, add the berries last.
Mix all the crumble ingredients, and put it over the filling.
Sprinkle some sugar over the crumble and pop in in th oven for 45 mins.
Serve with whipping cream and/or vanilla bean ice cream.
I bet you are gonna love this one. You can make it with peaches as well, and that comes great too....
So much for me working out today, I am going to have a blast for dessert..Ain't I lucky!
Make a cobbler. Saswata loves the peach cobbler that I make, and what a better way to surprise him. He will be back from a 12 day trip tomorrow ...yyyiiiiipppeeeeeeeeeeeee..gosh, I have missed him so much. its the little things that I miss the most, and its funny that its these very things that piss me off at times. I love him dearly, he knows that.
I look up recepies for the cobbler and then after reading a few recepies I ma ready to give it a go. I really enjoy baking so all of the ingredients were at hand. I needed some peace n quite so Poo took the kids to Safeway..phhhewww...what a releif!
SO here's what I did, and here's what you would need :
Crumble:
1 cup all-purpose flour
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 egg (slightly beaten)
1/2 stick butter or margarine softened
3 tablespoons ice cold water
Filling:
4 cups berries (black, strawberries..anything berries really)
1 1/4 cups sugar
4 tablespoons flour
2 eggs
1/4 stick butter or margarine
Method:
Heat oven 400 degrees C.
Mix all the filling ingredients, add the berries last.
Mix all the crumble ingredients, and put it over the filling.
Sprinkle some sugar over the crumble and pop in in th oven for 45 mins.
Serve with whipping cream and/or vanilla bean ice cream.
I bet you are gonna love this one. You can make it with peaches as well, and that comes great too....
So much for me working out today, I am going to have a blast for dessert..Ain't I lucky!
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
Fundraising $1800 - thats alot!!!
I was so exicted to do something for myself, I needed to; and whats more I get to do it for a great casue. I can make a difference in the lives of people I do not know. Its an amazing feeling.
Yeah, but hello, how do I raise the money. I don't know which seems more daunting - running 26.2 miles or fundraising. Pooja has been making photocopes for me, our printer at home well is actually non existant. Saswata has sent out over 30 emails to his coworkers, and Pooja has been talking to her buddies at school. And what have I been doing??
HHmmmmm...I went to this place called Edible Arrangements where there make these awesome bouquets with cut up fruit - pineapples shaped like flowers, melons shaped liked the moon, grapes skewered to look like pearls, and ooohh, chocolate dipped strawberries!! How many lucky women got those mouth watering bouquets from their lovers. And me - I worked in the kitchen and helped make them. I washed the fruit, skewered like a million grapes, and blew up over a 100 balloons. And why did I do all this??? Only because the Manager at the store said that she would help me fundraise - am I that desperate?? Hell Yes I Am!!
Its amazing how interested and supportive people are when you tell them that you are running 26.2 miles for a good cause. I have had some reall good response from some local stores who said they would try to help me. My big ticket is going to be Starbucks, if they can do something for me - I should be home free. I so beleive in this, and I am not scared or ashamed to knock on doors and talk to strangers about collecting money for the AIDS foundation. People wanna help, all we have to do is just ask...and I think that this is the toughest part for most people.
And then Surbhi came along, my dear friend. Who has also been very supportive, and who has had her ears busted with my whining, and complaining. She purchased one of my paintings - can you imagine that. All of the proceeds went to the AIDs foundation, that was really so nice of her...Saswata loves my paintings ofcourse why would be buy my painting when he can have the painter :)) But he thinks I should sell them online, and try to raise some funds as well.....I did put some of our own money in, I was too shy to put my name as a donor so I put Sean's name. And there is $20 from Poo.....
Maybe fundraising is not so bad afterall....time will tell though.
Yeah, but hello, how do I raise the money. I don't know which seems more daunting - running 26.2 miles or fundraising. Pooja has been making photocopes for me, our printer at home well is actually non existant. Saswata has sent out over 30 emails to his coworkers, and Pooja has been talking to her buddies at school. And what have I been doing??
HHmmmmm...I went to this place called Edible Arrangements where there make these awesome bouquets with cut up fruit - pineapples shaped like flowers, melons shaped liked the moon, grapes skewered to look like pearls, and ooohh, chocolate dipped strawberries!! How many lucky women got those mouth watering bouquets from their lovers. And me - I worked in the kitchen and helped make them. I washed the fruit, skewered like a million grapes, and blew up over a 100 balloons. And why did I do all this??? Only because the Manager at the store said that she would help me fundraise - am I that desperate?? Hell Yes I Am!!
Its amazing how interested and supportive people are when you tell them that you are running 26.2 miles for a good cause. I have had some reall good response from some local stores who said they would try to help me. My big ticket is going to be Starbucks, if they can do something for me - I should be home free. I so beleive in this, and I am not scared or ashamed to knock on doors and talk to strangers about collecting money for the AIDS foundation. People wanna help, all we have to do is just ask...and I think that this is the toughest part for most people.
And then Surbhi came along, my dear friend. Who has also been very supportive, and who has had her ears busted with my whining, and complaining. She purchased one of my paintings - can you imagine that. All of the proceeds went to the AIDs foundation, that was really so nice of her...Saswata loves my paintings ofcourse why would be buy my painting when he can have the painter :)) But he thinks I should sell them online, and try to raise some funds as well.....I did put some of our own money in, I was too shy to put my name as a donor so I put Sean's name. And there is $20 from Poo.....
Maybe fundraising is not so bad afterall....time will tell though.
Its time for change....
“This is not who I want to be and it is worth any reasonable amount of effort to change this.” I admitted to myself I did not feel healthy and I did not like the way I looked. I got winded to easy, I did not fit into my clothes, I needed to change for me. I knew it would be work and decided it was worth work. I have a great support system, and without their help this adventure of mine would just be a dream.
My sister Pooja takes care of the 2 brats, and the dog, while I go to the gym. Who knows what I would have done without here. I should thank her more, I know.. Sweating it out, I see other folks look and wonder does this lady have a train to catch?? They have hardly ever seen me at the gym before and now I am a fixture there. I still have'nt mustered up the courage to let them know that I am running the SF Marathon, mostly for fear of ridicule. I know its a great cause and only 5% of the population can actually say that they have competed in a marathon...then why do I worry?? I worry cos when I take the spinning class with Skip I am huffing and puffing 20 minutes into the workout, he would think I am simply NUTS...But you know what - I am going to let them know tomorrow, lets see what they say.
Went to Costco, stocked up on good healthy good. I figure, its about time I set a good example for the kids. They eat just too much junk...so the pineapple, mandarin oranges, and the frozen berries would be a good substitute to their M & Ms and fish, and crackers. Maybe this is a sign of good things to come for all of us :)
My sister Pooja takes care of the 2 brats, and the dog, while I go to the gym. Who knows what I would have done without here. I should thank her more, I know.. Sweating it out, I see other folks look and wonder does this lady have a train to catch?? They have hardly ever seen me at the gym before and now I am a fixture there. I still have'nt mustered up the courage to let them know that I am running the SF Marathon, mostly for fear of ridicule. I know its a great cause and only 5% of the population can actually say that they have competed in a marathon...then why do I worry?? I worry cos when I take the spinning class with Skip I am huffing and puffing 20 minutes into the workout, he would think I am simply NUTS...But you know what - I am going to let them know tomorrow, lets see what they say.
Went to Costco, stocked up on good healthy good. I figure, its about time I set a good example for the kids. They eat just too much junk...so the pineapple, mandarin oranges, and the frozen berries would be a good substitute to their M & Ms and fish, and crackers. Maybe this is a sign of good things to come for all of us :)
The first run...........
Saturday 16th Feb, was my first day of formal training! So I got my butt out of bed at like 6.30 am and drove off to a running store in Los Gatos that seems to be the local AIDS marathon hangout of choice. We got to stand around in the cold and get a quick pep talk, then we walked over to the Los Gatos creek trail for our first run. We start at 3 miles, then every week increase a mile until we hit 13, then the program changes a bit as we build up to 26.2. Yes folks, in 11 weeks I’ll run a half marathon. I was quite nervous seeing all these folks all dressed up for the ocassion, gloves, proper shoes, water bottle packs - how do I compete with them, hopfully I will not be the 1st one to drop out..
So I started off at a good running pace. They caught up to me and then some, lol… It is a LOT less hilly than my park trail, and I was running a good most of that first mile. I walked quite a bit on the return 1.5 miles, and kinda paced myself by watching a couple of women who started off just ahead of me. They were doing pretty good, so I decided to stalk them (not literally) Birtney and Monica were keeping good time, I liked them. So without too much of huffing and puffing we crossed the finish line at 11.30mins per mile. Not bad I'd say...
I’m now in a pace group with 4 women, and our target pace (about a min slower than 3 mile speed) is 12:30/mile, so about 5.5 hours for the whole marathon. I’m like, WOW, I might not only finish a marathon but do it in under 6 hours? cool huh??. I’m quite certain I’ll be able to tell you all about them before long, as we’ve got a lot of miles to go together.
All in all I am very excited. I’m very proud of my pace, and I don’t hurt as much as I feared. There were a few little quirks with the run. Like these fancy runners water bottles. Yeah, I had to get taught how to get the darned thing to work. Oh well… But all in all I’m very excited and it was a BLAST to run with the group - everyone is extremely supportive and enthusiastic. Team in Training was also all over the place and pretty much any runner waved and smiled at any other. Lots of people starting marathon training at the creek today.
So as soon as I got in my car, totally high on adrenaline, I called Saswata and told him about my accomplishment - great job baby, Im proud of you..thats all I needed to hear.. All in all a very good start. I’m a lot less worried and very much looking forward to it! I had enough energy when I got home to take the kids to the park and then out for lunch. Its going to be a great run..
So I started off at a good running pace. They caught up to me and then some, lol… It is a LOT less hilly than my park trail, and I was running a good most of that first mile. I walked quite a bit on the return 1.5 miles, and kinda paced myself by watching a couple of women who started off just ahead of me. They were doing pretty good, so I decided to stalk them (not literally) Birtney and Monica were keeping good time, I liked them. So without too much of huffing and puffing we crossed the finish line at 11.30mins per mile. Not bad I'd say...
I’m now in a pace group with 4 women, and our target pace (about a min slower than 3 mile speed) is 12:30/mile, so about 5.5 hours for the whole marathon. I’m like, WOW, I might not only finish a marathon but do it in under 6 hours? cool huh??. I’m quite certain I’ll be able to tell you all about them before long, as we’ve got a lot of miles to go together.
All in all I am very excited. I’m very proud of my pace, and I don’t hurt as much as I feared. There were a few little quirks with the run. Like these fancy runners water bottles. Yeah, I had to get taught how to get the darned thing to work. Oh well… But all in all I’m very excited and it was a BLAST to run with the group - everyone is extremely supportive and enthusiastic. Team in Training was also all over the place and pretty much any runner waved and smiled at any other. Lots of people starting marathon training at the creek today.
So as soon as I got in my car, totally high on adrenaline, I called Saswata and told him about my accomplishment - great job baby, Im proud of you..thats all I needed to hear.. All in all a very good start. I’m a lot less worried and very much looking forward to it! I had enough energy when I got home to take the kids to the park and then out for lunch. Its going to be a great run..
A 26.2 mile Marathon - you must think I am CRAZY!!
Hey everyone, I’ve done it. I’ve gone and signed up for my first marathon. You would think I am completely crazy. I’ve actually been mulling this idea to do something challanging and for myself for a while now. It seems the last few years I have been so caught up making babies and looking after the - that I totally forgot about myself. I see myself in the mirror and I am like - is this the EKTA I once knew; the girl who could get into clothes at store without even trying them???? Hello, Wake up call - Its now or never. Can I really run the way I used to ??? YES - I CAN DO THIS!
Anyways here are some of the reason I have decided to take on this challange:
So I hit 30, and got a herniated dis. It was such a downer being on bed rest for 2 weeks, and then it dawned on me - is this how I wanna spend the rest of my life??? Feeling old, and so out of shape..Where was the Ekta I knew 10 years ago??? I need to get back in shape and feel more confident about myself. I hate not knowing what to do withself and this will channel all my mental and physical energies. I can be and AM a fit athletic person, and with the right training and attitude, I CAN DO THIS
Hubby Saswata has really never seen a competitve side of me, he loves me totally for all that I am and for all that I ever will be..I want him to see me at and the finsish line and say yeah - thats my wife :)) He is always so supportive of me and my ambitions, I am so lucky.
I was such a good athelete in school/college, well more of a wasted talent I would say. My dad always said if I party too much I was'nt going anywhere "Wasted days and wasted nights" he would say.. He could'nt have been more true. So for the events I played back in college, my family was always there cheering me on, they are my biggest fans - This one is for you DAD!!
I want to contribute to a cause. AIDS is a worldwide epidemic, and is one of the leading causes of death in many nations in this world. It is also unfortunately tied in the minds of many to prejudice - too many people believe it is a disease of bad morals, or even a judgment. I want to do my share to support research, treatment and education with the hope of one day eliminating this disease.
In the coming days, as I learn more about the program, you’ll find links here to donate to my race effort. I encourage everyone who cares about or is inspired by ANY of my goals to help me out in whatever way you can, whether that is in the form of donations, going for a run together, or just cheering me on as I work towards this goal. Thank you all so much!
Anyways here are some of the reason I have decided to take on this challange:
So I hit 30, and got a herniated dis. It was such a downer being on bed rest for 2 weeks, and then it dawned on me - is this how I wanna spend the rest of my life??? Feeling old, and so out of shape..Where was the Ekta I knew 10 years ago??? I need to get back in shape and feel more confident about myself. I hate not knowing what to do withself and this will channel all my mental and physical energies. I can be and AM a fit athletic person, and with the right training and attitude, I CAN DO THIS
Hubby Saswata has really never seen a competitve side of me, he loves me totally for all that I am and for all that I ever will be..I want him to see me at and the finsish line and say yeah - thats my wife :)) He is always so supportive of me and my ambitions, I am so lucky.
I was such a good athelete in school/college, well more of a wasted talent I would say. My dad always said if I party too much I was'nt going anywhere "Wasted days and wasted nights" he would say.. He could'nt have been more true. So for the events I played back in college, my family was always there cheering me on, they are my biggest fans - This one is for you DAD!!
I want to contribute to a cause. AIDS is a worldwide epidemic, and is one of the leading causes of death in many nations in this world. It is also unfortunately tied in the minds of many to prejudice - too many people believe it is a disease of bad morals, or even a judgment. I want to do my share to support research, treatment and education with the hope of one day eliminating this disease.
In the coming days, as I learn more about the program, you’ll find links here to donate to my race effort. I encourage everyone who cares about or is inspired by ANY of my goals to help me out in whatever way you can, whether that is in the form of donations, going for a run together, or just cheering me on as I work towards this goal. Thank you all so much!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
