i am bucket.

Barb's Race 2013 - A Woman's only Half Iron Distance Triathlon in Sonoma, CA

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 05 Aug 2013 22:18:00 +0000

Thursday. 7.25.2013

We arrived to the rental house and it was everything I imagined. The house was very inviting and comfortable. I immediately wanted to run around and jump on every bed! Yes that is how much I loved it. The house was less than a mile from the Russian River (the swim start), which was just perfect for us. Once Darcy, Coach Q, and I arrived we took a nice little walk down to the river. The water was so warm and inviting, I knew swimming in it was going to be amazing.

Friday. 7.26.2013

Time to pick up our race bib and set up our T2 gear. In English speak, T2 means Transition 2. This is gear you leave ready for yourself for when you 'transition' from the bike to the run. To be honest, I was pretty nervous about leaving my running shoes out by themselves. Most people don't think much about it. But if your running shoes are your most favorite and really I am going to relay on them to take me those last 13.1 miles, they better be there when I get to T2.

Here is a photo of the empty T2 area. Wish I had a picture of the area full of bikes, it really is a sight.

Here Darcy and I are pretending to go out at the run start. It was an ahha moment for me. The next day I would be running out of here. So...on to race day.

Saturday. 7.27.2013
The night before I made sure to leave everything ready. Water bottles, wet suit, tri gear, everything was ready!!

Everything 'was' ready. Looking at my bike at T1, and talking to Coach Brad, .... i realized..OH NO my water bottles! I forgot my water bottles. :( I'm ready to cry. Coach Brad say's It's OK, we will get you some. I'm standing there. Thinking. Can I run back to the house and make it back in time for the swim start? No. Then I think 'shit', not going to cry. not going to cry. 2 minutes later..Coach Brad comes back with 2 hydration bottles. 1 with water, 1 empty. I run to fill one up with Gatorade (thanks SAG). OK everything is fine. I'm good with 2 bottles. I can stop at SAG and fill up my bottles. It's going to be fine. Freak out moment didn't happen. I was fine. And really I was.

My swim start was at 8:33 am. Here I go. What was I feeling? Amazing. I loved it. The water was perfect. Like my teammates told me "Bucket go out there and swim the shit out of it." And I did just that. I'm not the fastest swimmer, so my time didn't matter. It mattered that I finished. I swam the 1.2 mile in 1:00.52. Considering all..I was happy.

and...here goes. T1. Transition from Bike to swim. I put my wet suit and towel and whatever else I have and get ready to... 'Bike the shit out of it.'

OK here I go. I know I can do this. 56 miles...no problem. See I'm smiling.

At the beginning of the bike course. Somewhere before mile 5. I'm pretending to be hardcore Triathlete here. LOL. Looking at this picture all I see is that my arm coolers aren't pulled up correctly. I left my necklace on. My arms are all wrong. That is why I see. What I felt? AMAZING I was excited. I knew what to expect and wasn't nervous. Can't believe I wasn't nervous, the whole week leading to the event I was nervous.

This is a picture my friend Lisa took of me as I was going up Chalk Hill. What is the big deal? I did not get off my bike. Yes I stopped. Took a breath. And then continued on my merry way. Chalk hill is best described as the largest hill on the course. You hear so much about it out that you basically talk yourself out it and say..I can't do this I can't do this. I kept looking at my mileage and thinking oh I have a ways to go for Chalk Hill. I thought it was at mile 48. Not sure why, but I did. So when I hit it at mile 45 I didn't think much of it. Even though I had done it twice already on training rides, i admit on race day it felt much easier. To say the least I WAS VERY EXCITED!!

And here this picture was taken after Chalk Hill. As you can tell i was VERY happy.

I did have a few mishaps on the bike course. Yes that is blood you see on my knee. I fell at SAG stop 1. I went to grab a water bottle and clumsy me only unclipped from 1 pedal and not the other. So I fell. The poor people at the SAG stop asked me to stop and go to the medical tent, I was like No I'm fine. See. Throw some water on it and I'm fine. Around mile 42/43 my bike chain got stuck again! UGH!! I stopped and did the gear thing of switching it back and forth trying to get it unstuck. Nope that didn't work. Then I pulled over and realized SHIT now what. That chain is in there good and I can't pull it out. I calmly tried to get it unstuck. Nope nothing. Lucky for me a guy pulled over and yanked that chain out!! Thank you stranger who was hot and doing a full Ironman and did the helmet bump with me and stopped to help me...love you forever! :) Yes I was HAPPY. Must get my bike looked at again. This is getting old.

56 miles done. 5:03:50. I was hoping for a time between 4:15 - 4:30. It's OK though, I got it done. How did I feel? I felt good. I was ready to get my grove on and get to running.

And now off to do my 13.1 miles.

I was OK with my knee on the bike, but come to the run . . it was a no go. I had to walk, when I tried to run I could feel it. It was a bit swollen. So I figured I better just walk really fast. OK so I only ran when pictures were being taken.

This was my serious face. It was also my 'I want to get this shit over with' face.

Why am I posting this picture? This picture has a story. I was running/walking and I hear this huffing and puffing. This guy was hurting and pissed. So I 'slowed' down to talk to him. Me being me said 'do you need anything? Can I help you?' He was like no I'm OK I just want this day to be over with. I totally understood what he was talking about. He then continues to tell me about how his friend talked him into doing this race. His friend got a group discount so hey why not do an Ironman. He said he was so upset with his friend. Yikes. So here I am on mile 7/8. Here is he on mile 4ish, he only had another 22 miles to go. Yeah I felt bad for him. I wonder if he made it.

My highlight from the run. I was just starting to run, maybe around mile 1, I had to pee really bad. There was a group there from the Silcon Valley IronTeam cheering on participants. I said..Be right Back I gotta pee really bad. Yes I talk to complete strangers because I can and I don't care. So here I go to the porta-potty. I come out...Imagine this..Coming out of a porta potty and about 10 people yell 'GO TEAM' as I open the door. They Scared the shit out of me and we all start laughing. BEST CHEER SQUAD EVER!!!

OK...back to the race. At mile 8 I was OVER IT! I hit the wall. I was pissed that I couldn't move any faster. I started running a bit. It hurt but who cares. I had blisters and I could feel them. Stupid blisters. So....here I am sprinting it in. You can't tell but I was crying.

I was telling my legs..MOVE IT!
Worst finisher photo ever. I should have put my head up. But I was crying. I wasn't crying because I was hurt or anything, I was crying because I had completed the race. I was so happy. My body was saying 'I never want to do this again.' my mind was saying 'OK when are we doing this again?'

This here is the finish line cheering squad ever! Hugs and kisses from them were the best.

I really was happy.

I still can't believe I did it. I would hear my friends talk about doing Ironman races and just sit in awe and wonder. Can I do it one day? A full Ironman, no way, but a half maybe. So I took on this personal challenge and did it. It has by far been one of the most amazing experiences ever. My coaches exceed my expectations. I was told it was going to be an amazing season, it really was that and much more.

So what's next? Yes I am doing it again. Kona 70.3. Who is up on taking this challenge with me?

7.19.2013 No good excuse

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 20 Jul 2013 00:15:00 +0000

it's funny the last time I posted on this blog I talked about getting a new job. Since then I've left that position. I realized maybe 3 months into that job it wasn't for it. It wasn't what I expected. I was in a very bad place, emotionally. It was affecting my personal life, my work, my training - you name it it was not good. I won't go into detail about it - its in my past - but I will say i am in a very good place now.

My new job came to me at a time I needed it most. It came in the way of an email. A former co-worker emailed me - Hey Susan...So and So is putting together a conversion team. It's right up your alley, call/email her and check it out. Good luck. 'AAAWWWEESSSOOOMMMEEE'!!! Fast forward - I GOT THE JOB. I got the phone call 2 days before my birthday and it couldn't come at a better time. We needed some good news. The minute I gave notice everything changed. I was happy again. I was back to being the old me again.

How is work going? I am back to doing what I know. My job is in the city of Glendale - 30 minutes from home. I'm super busy and really it's what I like to do. I haven't made any 'work' friends, but at least everyone here smiles. it's pretty awesome.

Also the last time I posted on here I talked about signing up for a half Ironman. Lets just say it's ON!! my event is next week - Barb's race. I have been training with some amazing coaches, who have been very patient with me. I'm slow what can I say. Stupid job affected me and I left it affect my training. BUT so what. I'm back and I'm ready!

I'm nervous, scared, and excited all at the same time. I coudln't have done this alone!

The nice thing about teamwork is that you always have others on your side ~Margaret Carty

[Team Picture taken after our first team Open Water swim - I probably cried during this swim]

[Team picture after our training weekend up at Wildflower]

Am I still scrapbooking? YES. I love being on the design team for Remember When. I have always loved going into different scrapbooking sores and oohhhing and aaahhing at the different layouts posted around the store walls. I always hope my layouts inspire someone. Below are a few things that I've done for the store.

Next time...an update on my race. :)

Yesterday, Today what's the difference 1.7.2012

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 07 Jan 2013 21:25:00 +0000

Wasn't it just yesterday that I posted on this blog? I guess not. Since I got my new job at ...

I've been pretty busy. I told one of my old co-workers, so this is what it's like to be busy. I'm not complaining or anything but my jobs before were never this busy. I have to admit I really like it here. The traffic bites a big one, but the job is worth it. In the beginning I guess I talked about my job so much that my h.u.s.b.a.n.d. started saying that I was all about USC. blah blah. Whatever..jealous. haha

I made a few commitments to myself. Be more in the here. Enjoy what is here and be happy about being here. Don't dwell on the past and don't look at the future as a what if..but be happy of my here. For this reason I have chosen my word of the year to be 'Here'. Thinking of jumping on the band wagon check out Ali Edwards post on One Little Word word's you can chose from, or at least give you an idea of how to pick one.

Definition of He·re (hîr) n.Variant of Hera.
here (hîr)

adv.

1. At or in this place: Stop here for a rest.

2. At this time; now: We'll adjourn the meeting here and discuss remaining issues after lunch.

3. At or on this point, detail, or item: Here I must disagree.

4. In the present life or condition.

5. To this place; hither: Come here, please.

adj.

1. Used especially for emphasis after the demonstrative pronoun this or these, or after a noun modified by the demonstrative adjective this or these: This tire here is flat.

2. Nonstandard Used for emphasis between the demonstrative adjective this or these and a noun: This here tire is flat.

interj.

Used to respond to a roll call, attract attention, command an animal, or rebuke, admonish, or concur.

1. This place: "It would be difficult from here, with the certainty of armed gunmen inside, to bring him out alive" (Howard Kaplan).

2. The present time or state: We are living in the here and can only speculate about the hereafter.

And with that... I have decorated my Project Life (my other commitment to myself) Album with my one little word and hey I think it's coming along OK. Here are a few pictures of my progress.

It's pretty simple, but I love it.

And these pictures here I have to share because really they are COMPLETELY adorable!!!!

The story: Hey Scarlett lets go visit Zach. Here we go with her all bundled up and with a sock monkey.

The greeting. Totally adorable she loves Zach.

Want to go on a ride on my bike? You can't see it in this picture but he was so happy. Scarlett being Scarlett just let Zach drive and tell her what to do. This one was too adorable. I tried pushing her but was told NO by Zach. He wanted to push her and hold the sock monkey at the same time. Love them to pieces!!!

And next up on the my endurance event training is Barbs Race.

Barb's Race is a half Ironman. The race is limited to 450 women. My goal...come in at 499 with a huge smile. It's all about the finish not how long it takes.I only say it that way because I am scared shitless!!! In the mean time I'll be doing the Nike Woman's Half Marathon in DC as a fun training run. as well as The Color Run around Dodger Stadium.

Besides that..nothing else is planned. I'm going into full training mode and well black to eating clean and sleeping a lot, as well as drinking a gallon of water a day.

hum hum...i know i am boring, but i like boring. boring is good. Here where I am is good.

New Job

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 02 Oct 2012 20:00:00 +0000

First day of work and I was late 40 minutes. I misjudged traffic and well I was late.

Going home I got lost. Hahha yes I made one wrong turn after another and finally got on the freeway only to get stuck in a traffic jam. 2 hours later I was home safe and sound.

My first week I had lunch with my friend Veri, by the way Thank You again! Had more lunches with co-workers and have enjoyed getting to know them.

My 2nd week is getting a bit tougher. So technically I'm not the new person any more and I don't have everyone's name right yet. I still get lost coming to work. Note to self when the WAZE app says go through dodger stadium for a short cut..don't listen. Argh. But I am enjoying lunches by myself. So as technology goes I'm sitting outside blogging on my phone. Today it's super hot but beautiful. I love people watching! On my way to get lunch I saw a DJ playing rap music and well who knew those white boys can dance. Ok well this Mexican here has no rhythm so who am I to judge.

Being that my last job was off campus before I am enjoying being on campus. My sister Veronica has teased me about working in the Ghetto, but I don't see it. It's Downtown LA and I see it for all its beauty and culture. I love that I drive thru Korean Town. I am craving Korean BBQ!!

As much as the drive sucks I like it here. Everyone is great and so far they like me and said they will keep me. :) what's not to love right. So as they say at USC 'Fight On' and Uumm I guess that's it.

For tomorrow I plan on going to their recreation center. Looking at the website they have some great classes. It is encouraged that you go. No more time nazis. Hahah my friends at UCLA will know what I mean. Love and miss you all.

Ready?

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Sat, 08 Sep 2012 03:26:00 +0000

While I lay here in bed I think about this incredible journey I've been on. I won't lie I've been so stressed that I seriously tried to come with a reason not to do this triathlon event. I know stop shaking your head at me, but you have to understand stress sucks.

While I am so excited about my new job I was also not excited about giving notice. I love the people I work with but really I was looking for a new opportunity. But wait I'm going off track.

Stress. This WAS the excuse I was going to use to get out of coming to San Diego. On our drive over here Mark kept rubbing my arm. He could totally pick up on my nerves. I took a few breathes and thought about it. Why am I so scared? I CAN DO THIS! No I won't be the fastest I may even be the slowest but I'll be damn I am doing this! So for now ta ta. Tomorrow I become a Triathlete!

scrapbooking

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 07 Sep 2012 05:05:00 +0000

Scrapping my favorite holiday :)
My Minds Eye-Lost and Found Halloween Collection.

it's been a while

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 04 Sep 2012 20:22:00 +0000

So much to update on.

My triathlon is exactly 4 days away.I feel like my training season went by so fast. I've had the most amazing time and have met so many amazing people. I tend to get a lot of slack for 'doing my thing' but if you call doing my thing kicking cancer in the A$$. Then you better believe it I am very happy about doing my thing.

Can you see that smile? That is what Team in Training does. It makes you feel amazing, awesome, and super all at the same time. Don't believe me? Then you really should give it a try.

My campaign manger sent this to me..and really I just have to share it. On my race day yes I will truly showing off my PDA. A lot of my friends have said they wanted to donate, there is still time. If you have read my training blog you will know there is never enough anyone can do for cancer research. Help me raise $100 more. or better yet $1,000 more. Click here to donate.

and if you haven't heard.

I'm going from here

to here

I know I know. Some will give me a high five. Some will look at me and say trader. Either way you look at it it's a great opportunity for me and I AM TAKING IT!!

Am I scared. Sure. Am I excited. Sure. Am I jumping up and down. YOU BETCHA!

xoxo - bucket

6/3 And how was your weekend

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 04 Jun 2012 16:09:00 +0000

Team in Training Triathlon Team

I LOVE THEM! You know in a friendly way, but everyone on the team is so amazing. I've met some great people and everyone is there for one cause - Kick Cancer in the rear. I really do kick myself for not doing this sooner. I know stop talking about it, but I'm loving the swimming! The bike has yet to be ridden. Just been a bit busy, but I'll get back on it soon. My running isn't all that great - no surprise there. Stupid legs and the the falling asleep issue. Oh well what can you do.

Below are a 'few' of my favorite pictures from the weekend.

My Tia Lupe with her tea set, Natalie and Ethan.

I see someone from the bridal shower party has been reading the book. Speaking of which, for my gift I went out on a search for Ben Wa Balls. Interesting the clerk said, 'Ever since 'the book' came out the Ben Wa Balls have been selling out like crazy.' And then look at my cousin Natalie with her little one Ethan. I love this photo! He is such a happy baby.

I attended my favorite little 7 year old's birthday party. Adriana has the most beautiful smile and gives the greatest hugs ever! Always happy to see me and talk my ear off about anything and everything.

My boys with their sisters. Adriana is dressed in yellow. She had the cutest Hello Kitty Birthday Party.

Here are my boys with their dad and step-mom. I don't say it enough, but this whole blended family thing is amazing. A lot of people look at me in awe and say what, your going to your ex husband's for his daughter's birthday. Well yeah he is my ex-husband but so what. Everything happens for a reason. I married him and out of that marriage came out the 2 most amazing boys. I divorced him so that he and Jackie could find each other and have the most 2 amazing girls in the world. Like I said everything happens for a reason.

The Rodriguez Family - Jackie, Josh, Isabel, Adrian, Adriana, Johnny.

Her is a picture of me and my boys. Imagine Johnny with a wig or me with that harry thing on my chin..Twins. Love them so much!

Johnny, me, Josh

This weekend was also Mud Run Weekend. Mark has been busy studying for an engineering test he has to take and was looking for every excuse possible not to go. I think in the end he really enjoyed the race. He was supposed to stick with me but he decided to leave me. Whatever. I just wanted to finish.

Here is our photo before the race.

Liz, Bucket, Mark - Still Clean.

Liz and I after the race. Her tutu isn't as fluffy, my zebra stripped shirt isn't white anymore. IT WAS THE MOST FUN EVER! Ask anyone. I was told that when I was a kid I loved playing in the mud, I can honestly say that hasn't changed.

Liz and Bucket - so dirty.

Mark, Bucket, Liz

And with that Happy Monday and have a great week.

5/31 Swim #2 Still smiling

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 31 May 2012 15:37:00 +0000

Back when I was younger (like last week) I went to San Diego to Swim Qualify as part of my U.S. Marine training. In bootcamp I did pass, but back then all we had to do was float for I don't know about 5 minutes or so. We floated in our PT gear so it really was no big deal - for me at least. Then when I joined the reserves we had to re-qualify. This time it was in full Boots & Utes. I think that is where I first figured out I can't float and got a bit scared of the water. Here I was trying to float while I was in full gear, a stupid helmet that didn't fit, and all while carrying a rubber M16A2. Blah blah. I'll say it wasn't a bed of roses that's for sure. Sadly I went swim unq. I freaked out when I couldn't lift my head out of the water. But that was then..this is now. Yeah I like to babble.

I decided to attend last nights Team swim practice to give it another shot. More swim practice is better then none right. At one point I felt like the baby in yellow. Do what again? Do another 100 yards doing what - I forget what it's called already. Honestly think we swam a total of 750 yards or maybe more. At one point I lost count. It wasn't bad, I'm not complaining, it was just very exhausting. You know that song from finding Nemo - just keep swimming - I was actually singing that to myself. After a while I started smiling again (to myself) and started saying...I could do this! I really could!!! .

My BFF Sue Baker read my blog post from yesterday and said she cried. Tears of happiness. She really does love the Triathlon team and I can understand why. The coaches are so patient and really are with you the whole time.

A quick update on my fundraiser. The list of opportunity drawings keeps on getting better.

When I created my FB Invite I was pretty vague about the Journey Fan prize package. I wasn't sure what I would be getting so..I kind of left it open ended. I did get an email yesterday confirming what the prize package will be.

drum roll please......
2 Tickets (YES TICKETS) to the Journey Concert on July 21 at the San Manuel Amphitheater, San Bernardino, CA. 2012 Tour merchandise items with an autographed copy of the "Live in Manila" concert DVD. Did you know this concert starts their 2012 Tour? So you know it's going to be good! And Pat Benatar and Neil Giraldo (from loverboy) will there. Wait..come to think of it I want those tickets. Just kidding, maybe, but I may have to bribe the prize winner to take me along.

AND if you haven't checked..I also got the word that the Ellen Show is donating tickets to the show. I've been a few times and totally loved the experience. So DON'T ask me to give you the tickets. You will have to come to my event to get your 'opportunity' to win them. Even if you are family, and I pulled your hair, and I love you a lot..you will have to attend. Love you Espi. :)

I've said this before, but really am fortunate to have such great people in my life. Thank you again.

5/30 How did you like it?

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 30 May 2012 17:48:00 +0000

The highlights of my first swim practice with the Team in Training Triathlon Team. 

1. I feel like throwing up.

2. I can't breathe under water. How is that even possible?

3. My legs feel like jell-o

4. I drank way to much water

5. I HAD THE MOST AMAZING TIME EVER!!! 

Yes while it was hard. I can swim. My friend Sue Baker kept telling me "Bucket! You are going to love it! The coaches and mentors are with you at all times! BUCKET are you listening? JOIN THE TRI TEAM!" Me: OK Sue I'll do it. And yes if Sue told me to jump off a bridge and that it would totally be safe - why yes I'd do it.

This is my BFF Sue Baker.

I have absolutely no regrets in joining. It's a new adventure for me. I can run. I can bike - well only if there are no parked cars, running cars and little kids with skate boards on the road. Oh the swimming. That will be my biggest challenge - but honestly with some practice I will be fine.

And yes Sue you were right. I LOVE IT! So for those of you that haven't been listening to Sue Baker, what are you waiting for?

5/30 The Sketchbook Project

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 30 May 2012 14:59:00 +0000

I received an email a few weeks back from my friend, Tashia, saying lets do it. Do what? Do a sketchbook. It sounded so intimidating. I said I'll go to the art show with you to check it out, but that's it.

What I found was amazing! 

They had several of these bookcases filled with sketchbooks from around the world.

I looked at this desk and totally imagined myself sitting here sketching and people watching. Daydreaming at it's finest.

Above is one of the sketchbooks I checked out.

The art show also had a feature sketchbook artist. Jim Rugg. If you have a chance I say check out his solo show at iam8bit in Los Angeles.

At the end of the show I told Tashia, OK I'm in. I purchased my sketchbook. Got my other goodies. I can't wait to get started.If your curious, check it out at Sketchbook Project 2013.

5/24 Good bye my friend - Kelly DeGon

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 24 May 2012 15:26:00 +0000

Yesterday I said goodbye to my friend Kelly. My friend Willie made the most beautiful tribute to her. I know deep down inside I will see her again and when I do we will be doing the funky chicken and yelling out whiskey dick while playing Bingo with her.

Photos from yesterday.

A bunch of us got together to do a 3 mile walk and share memories of Kelly. Her smile, her laughter, he oh so silly sense of humor...i think it was the sense of humor that attracted us all to her. 

5/22 Humm..put on a smily face

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Tue, 22 May 2012 21:45:00 +0000

On my way to work on Wednesday morning (5/16) I got an email saying my friend Kelly passed away. I had to read it 5 times to make sure I had read it correctly. I was stuck on the words Kelly DeGon had passed away in her sleep on Monday. It's a lie. It had to be a lie. I cried. Cried all day. Cried the next day. And really haven't stop crying.

I just saw Kelly. We talked about getting together. Doing a "Couples thing". She wanted us to get to know her husband-to-be better. She was so excited. She was so happy. I've been cussing out GOD. Why? It's not fair! I've been told it's part of the grieving process, it's OK to cuss him out.

Tomorrow is her memorial service and it still seems unreal. Girl...I am going to miss you so much!

Inspired Journey.

This is the best thing that could have happened to me. While I had all this sadness going on in my heart I had my friends to lift me up. Here are a few photos from this past weekends event.

I sat next to the sweetest person ever! Erin I still want to make your card! She is so creative. The cards I had were curiosity of Joey Otlo of Bazzill.

When was the last time I rode a bike? 

My friend Raul is really a girls best friend, for a straight guy. He is the one that has been pushing me to get on that bike and embrace it. We made a date and I said OK lets do this. But in the mean time I have to post this. Our conversation before my big day. I'm so glad he doesn't think I am crazy, I think any normal person would have said screw this...she is on her own.

   We got to the park and he was all excited to see the bike. I'm glad he was because I was ready to go home. While he got ready I rode around the parking lot. I got a little unsteady, tried to stop, turned into a parked car. My first bike/car accident. We finally got on the path and it went pretty good. The speedometer said my max speed was 13, where my average was 6.5. What does that mean? I have no idea but I thought it sounded super bike smart. 

In the end my body was sore, I was a bit too tense and held on to the handle bars for my dear life. But honestly I can't wait to do it again.

I am excited about the challenge and even more excited about my fundraiser. I am going to have an event with my friend Raul. He still has fundraising to do and mine has yet to start. He is training for an Iron Man and me for a Triathlon. I'm excited, we are planning an awesome Summer Party. Save the date for the evening of July 7th.   

April Design Team Projects for Remember When

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 14 May 2012 21:58:00 +0000

I love..love..love being on Remember When Design Team. When I went to the last meeting and all of us on the team were talking about our projects I was in awe. Really the women on the team are amazing artist. If you haven't checked out the April Design Projects you really should. Click here.

Paper Line: Cosmo Cricket Evangeline Rose. This paper line is so pretty and romantic. Sorry the photo is so blurry. I used my Silhouette to cut out some die cut images. Also on the bottom it's a heart flapper sort of thing, really pretty in real life.

For those attending the crop this weekend, you will get instructions on how to create these projects.

Paper Line: My Minds Eye/Lost & Found
Sorry for the glare on the photo, the layout is adorable in real life. It's of my nephew Zach and his puppy Capone.

Paper Line: My Minds Eye/Lost & Found

A generic card that can be used for any occasion.

Let the training..almost..begin

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 14 May 2012 21:07:00 +0000

When I joined the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society's Team in Training Triathlon team, the one that really scared me was the bike thing. Can I afford it? Am I being realistic in thinking I could do something like this? 

Who know there are programs out there where they give you loaner bikes? Not me! So I called, emailed and the response.."We have a bike for you!" I got super excited! Then I said..oh this means there is no turning back now is there? The way I have described my emotions is "I'm super excited and scared shit-less at the same time". 

The next step is to plan my fundraiser. I have the idea in my head. I know what I'm doing. I just need opportunity prizes..and PEOPLE. I have a few prizes that have been offered up, but I need more. Something that will really draw people into my party. So if you are reading this..and want to help me .. and love me..and think I am amazing...email me. :) I wanted to plan my party for late June, but that isn't going to happen. So now I have to pen in a date for the 1st weekend of July. I've planned plenty of fundraisers where I know I need to plan at least 2 months in advance. So far so good, but I need to get to planning instead of just having the ideas in my head.

It's my birhthday...it's my birthday...well it was.

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 14 May 2012 20:48:00 +0000

I had the most amazing birthday weekend. It's the kind of weekend where I smiled all day and really went with the flow. And I say that in the sense where things just went great all weekend. My small little party was amazing. I would look around and just smile at everyone. I can't explain it, but it's just a great feeling to feel such great love. Below are a few photos of my birthday evening. :)  

Me with my amazing birthday cake that the most amazing niece made me.

Me and my cousins with my sisters.

Me with my best friend. Yeah I know cheesy, but really he is.

Me and my babies. They make everything better. How did I get so lucky?

My birthday party guest.

In the end....I had the best 21x2 birthday party. It was perfect, and a big thank you to my sister Veronica to making me have one. Cause really I was going to pass on the whole birthday thing.

a Triathlete? Me? Why not.

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 27 Apr 2012 22:12:00 +0000

I thought about it a few times, actually it's been on my mind for a while. I wanted to do a Triathlon before I turned 40. 40 came and went and still I didn't want to take the plunge. I'm scared. I for one am the FIRST one to tease my friend about sharks in the ocean. I will sit there and totally tease him and scare him all while I am just laughing away. Honestly I was jealous. Jealous because it wasn't something I could do. Really I wasn't ready for the challenge. As always life got in the way, or really I made excuses.

About a month ago I was talking to my friend Jenny about seriously considering doing a Triathlon with Team in Training.My friend Sue would just tell me "Bucket! Do it! I can't even tell you want an amazing experience it has been!" Sue, Jenny and I have trained for marathons together, but a Triathlon? While helping out at a fundraiser (back in December) again they 'almost' convinced me. During a night of walking the streets of Los Angeles and drinking a few beers - Jenny had me convinced. BUT I still hadn't signed up. Then I finally decided, this is my year! As I said before "Crazy is as crazy does."

Sue, Jenny, Talene, Nary, and me.

And so a new chapter in "The Crazy Things Bucket Does" begins.

Give me some of that stuff you're drinking

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Thu, 26 Apr 2012 02:34:00 +0000

Sometimes I feel like that. Sometimes I get in this mood where I just want to create all day long. Then I get OK what are you drinking because I want to be on that high that you are on. I say..it's all me.

A friend of mine recently contacted me about some design work for some t-shirts. Within 5 minutes I was working on the design and within 2 days I got it. I knew what I wanted it to look like. It was just a process of collecting all the pieces for the design. I think it’s one of my favorites yet. But anyway, that is another story.

The point is, in the process of researching I found this awesome site called Logo Soft Wear. It’s mostly for team sports, but really lots more to it. It’s not like café press or zazzle, the options are endless as far as products you can upload your design to. I created a store just to test out their design options. LOVE LOVE LOVE. The fact that you can have a logo on the sleeves was a major plus for me. But what I loved most was this fitness jacket. Like I said I am still playing with the design options but so far it’s been a lot of fun.

My store name is: Stuff by Bucket. I know not very original but really what do I call it. Blind ambition by Bucket. Surf and Turf by Bucket. Check yourself before you wreck yourself by Bucket. Yes I think Stuff by Bucket suits me just fine. So what do you think?

My Desk and my Smash book

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 20 Apr 2012 21:43:00 +0000

It really is this clean. The lights have been dimmed a bit, I think it makes my area a bit cozy.

Since I know I have at least one reader (Hi Karina), here is an update on my Smash Book. I don't really do 'chunky' on the book. Since I carry it in my purse I don't want it to heavy. 

Inside. My family. I wanted my first pages to be of the most important people in my life. Even though, and I am sure this is for all moms, I don't feel like their most important person. March Calendar Page Just stuff..but look at the baby boy. I can't get enough of my nephew. more stuff. April Calendar Page.
I've collected images from different magazines. The card on the left is my new business card - as if I need one. I put the little mustache face over my info. my boring but awesome life. and that is it. OH..if you have time, and happen to be in the area..I am doing a make and take tag at Remember When next Friday.

This, that, and then some more of something else

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Wed, 18 Apr 2012 18:30:00 +0000

Hollywood Half Marathon

Have you ran any marathon's lately? I get this from my boss all the time. I laugh, it's not like I like to run, because I really don't. I only do it for the photo opportunities. Really.

Matt, me, Mark, and Susie 

Taken at zero dark in the morning. Always great seeing a friendly face in the morning.

And here were are with Irene. Irene was my 'Lets do this thing' partner that day. Had such a great day with her.

It was great running through Hollywood. I kept thinking here I am running with someone who doesn't drink, and here all I could think about is drinking. Hey there were all these cool bars I had heard about and had been wanting to try, and now I know where they are at. Even though my doctor said no more drinking. BUT I don't drink everyday, it's more social. I just love hanging out with friends. OK yes I am making excuses, but whatever...I love Jesus but I drink a little. LOL. Yes you had to be there.

If this doesn't motivate you, then nothing will. At this point when I saw these guys it was at mile 11/12. It was ALL Uphill towards the end of the race.

Then just random photos.

Sweet messages from Mark. I sent him a message saying I was proud of him.

The Medal.

A must need, a pair of sparkly race legs from Team Sparkle!

He was so happy here. I love his smile. I love him.

It was a great day spent with amazing people.

Scrapbooking

Not sure if I mentioned it yet, but maybe not. I got chosen to be part of my local stores design team. Remember When Scrapbooking.

I went to my first team meeting a few weeks back and .... was totally intimidated! Why? Because I haven't done this in so long. Don't get me wrong I scrapbook, I do it for me. But doing it for someone else is kind of nerve wrecking. Well those were my thoughts. But now I'm all about the challenge

I hosted my first make and take, and I think it went well. I smiled. I chatted. Big Thumbs Up.

I even scrapped a few pages. If you have ever scrapped next to me, you would see I pull out things and put things away, I hate clutter. I do this at crops, but at home it's a different story.

Here are a few of the pages I created.

A fun night in Hollywood going beer tasting. So I wonder, am I the only one that still uses her plastic alphabet pattern. All I know is that font is called watermelon.

It was an Unofficial official beerathon. The actual event was cancelled by the ABC. Fudgers right, but it didn't spoil our weekend. With map in hand and beer specials to be had..We still had an amazing night. I pulled out my Fuji Instax camera and had a blast.

This layout was left simple on purpose. Aren't they just adorable!!

My scraproom has crappy lighting. The original, in my opinion, is beautiful. My nephew Zach, is watching Mark and his nephew play basketball. He was so eager to go play. It was just adorable watching him watch them.
I

Each time my parents come home and he sees them he starts saying "Go, Go, Go." Meaning take me outside in my little car.

More Photos because I can't get enough of them

Me and Zach

Mark taking Zach for a walk around the pool. Can you believe this kid is only 13 months old!! He is so big.

baby love. He smiled when he saw his momma coming to get him. 

Scarlett - she will eat just about anything I eat. Here I had to share my PB & J sandwich with her.

For whatever reason she was just being a total fuss ball. So I asked if I could stick her in the bath with bubbles. Even with little ones, all you need is a bubble bath to make things all better. 

Baby Sitting, Scrapbooking, and Glamour Shots

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 26 Mar 2012 01:29:00 +0000

This Saturday morning I got to spend time with my 2 favorite babies in the world. Scarlett and Zachary are my niece and nephew. You have to see them together to enjoy it. I've always wanted twins and well this is as good as it got. I love them to pieces!!! That girl would not stop giving him kisses. I hope to babysit them again.

I love my friend Rachelle. She has totally brought me out of my scrapbooking slump. Saturday night she came over and we decorated cookie sheets. We made them in simple magnet boards. I told her go buy a cookie sheet and I have the rest of the supplies. She laughed. I haven't take a picture of hers but here is mine.

We also altered some dominoes to make them into magnets. Rachelle was having so much stamping and painting. I've said it before, but it really is fun showing a newbie crafter the art. If you look closely at my cookie sheet on the top right hand corner you can see one of my dominoes.

While she was still working on her cookie sheet I started cleaning up and found these Girl/Boy card stock pieces while cleaning up. So I decided to take out a few new sheets of scrapbooking paper and whalla....this was created. I kind of really like it. It only took me a total of 15 minutes to create.

Then today it was Glamour Shots Day. I must admit I was pretty excited about it. I went in and told the make up artist, I am your blank canvas just make me pretty. She smiled and said you know I really love the 50's pin up look. I said yeah go for it. Lets do it. Then when I went to the photographer and told him I am open to any ideas. He pulled out a THONG!! Yes a THONG. I started laughing! OK totally a great ice breaker. hahaha he said he loved taking my photos because I let him be creative. What a great compliment, right! Honestly I would totally do it again. I think it would be a great Girls Day Night Party. I don't know if they exist, but imagine a day with your girlfriends - getting pretty and taking pictures. RIGHT! Fun.

Journaling Tags

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 16 Mar 2012 15:59:00 +0000

I've been playing again. I haven't used them yet, but wanted to share these fun tags. If you do use them I'd love to see what you do with them. 

Jan - Jun tags - Click here to download.

Jul - Dec Tags - Click here to download.

Camera Tags - Click here to download.

 Miscellaneous Tags - Click here to download.

Smash Journal - The Cover

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Fri, 09 Mar 2012 16:14:00 +0000

I thought about it for a few days, what did I want to do with the cover. I didn't want to glue anything on the front with fear that it would tear off. I carry my journal in my purse.

So I decided to pull out my old Making Memories Foam Stamps, some acrylic paints and my good old water colors.

I stamped and stamped and then realized I have used these stamps in forever.

Stamping done. Now to bring out the water colors. 

I like the cover it has that 'Bucket' touch. 

So no what? This is the part I don't like. So I've created my calendar pages. I've decorated my cover. So now I just have to wait to life events to put in my journal? I guess so right since I am using it as a calendar. Hum....then I guess I'm done.

Smash Journal

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 05 Mar 2012 20:27:00 +0000

I can't remember when I bought it. But I've had it for a while. Sometimes I just need a little inspiration, just a little push to get my creative juices going. My friend Rachelle asked me to help her create a yearly journal type of thing. I sat at my desk and just started thinking and thinking and finally came up with the idea of using the smash journal as a monthly planner. I'm sure others have used this idea, but THIS ONE HERE is my idea. haha.. Reminds me of the Goonies when I say that.

So here are my starting pages of my journal. Since I started in March there are no Jan or Feb tags.

1. The inside cover pages.

March Calendar page.

The tabs. Just cute little tags that I stamped with my old Making Memories Magnetic Stamp Set. I have to admit this, by far, has been one of my favorite scrapbooking purchases ever.

This little trick I threw together on the fly.
The holders are id card holders. I can't even remember why I bought them, but glad I had them. All I did was cut off the top tab area and hot glue it down. Whalla... pen and stuff holder.

I'm all about DIY journals, and totally loving this one. I'm on a mission to use my blog more often and will post pictures of my journal as I go along. It makes me all giddy inside to make cute stuff again.

Click here to see more pictures of my Smash Journal.

Where have I been?

noreply@blogger.com (Anonymous) — Mon, 05 Mar 2012 20:08:00 +0000

I haven't blogged in forever. I guess I've been a little busy. If you don't know guess what..Mark and I got married. We went to Las Vegas with our closest friends and family. 11.11.11. <- that is the date Mark picked, lets hope he won't forget our anniversary. We had the best time ever, all thanks to my friend Letty who helped organize everything. Really couldn't have done it without her.

Been spending a lot of time with this little cutie pie.

This is Scarlett. She is as adorable as they come. Mark and I are always fighting for her. I can't wait for her to start walking and talking because we are going to be besties. I just know it.

And then there is this adorable little hunk of a baby boy. His name is Zachery and he is the cutest little boy EVER!! When I say "My nephew is cuter then yours" I really mean it. When he sees me he gets all excited!

He just started walking! His birthday is in a couple of weeks and I totally predict he will be running on that day. He is so smart and just so loving. Well he doesn't give hugs and kisses, but his smile...oh that smile kills me.

See I told you! That smile gets you every time.

Where are my babies.
Well here is an update. This one here has a girlfriend. (Picture stolen off Facebook). She is adorable. I've only met her once, but the fact that she reminds him to call his mother..well that really makes me like her.

And look at Mr. Smiles with his 2 little sisters. This past weekend I had a few people, that recently met Josh, tell me that he has the most amazing personality. He was such a great help and I should really be proud. Tears came to my eyes. We had a conservation recently where he told me "Mom, i have to tell you, I really like school and I love working." I cried. He looked at me and asked are you crying? Me NO!! I just got something in my eyes and laughed. I love him with all my heart.

Here is a more recent picture of Mark and I taken on Valentine's day. We celebrated 15 years of being together and 3 months of being married. :) Yes I know it's about time, but the wait was worth it.

We went to Coupa Cafe in Beverly Hills. The the food plus our company made it an amazing night. To top off our night I got a red light ticket. Oh yeah, thanks Beverly Hills. I love you, but not that much. Thanks for the gift. Now does anyone know how I can fight it?

And that is the recap of my life. Not much going on, but in my case that is a wonderful thing.

Oh but one more picture, because it's the best of all.

Yeah that is me in a pink sparkly skirt with the cutest pink striped stocks. I had the best weekend with these two wonderful ladies. More fun times are ahead!!

OK really now..that is all I have to say.