{ a running project }

One of my many projects is literally running.  I’ve always been a decent endurance athlete, especially when it comes to swimming, I’m a fish.  But running… oh it’s a project to say the least! 

I started running in 2003, and ever since, it’s always been a challenge for me.  I had a lot of friends and support.  However, at my very first high school cross country meet, I never made it to the finish line.  I woke up in an ambulance.  After running in 100+ degree weather, I had suffered a heat stroke.  Just like everything my mom’s ever taught me, I “got back on the horse.”  I finished the season running 10-12 minute miles (ie: not that good.) But, I was awarded the Most Improved Runner!  I was thrilled!

Since then,  I’ve competed in a few sprint distance triathlons, several 5ks, and 2 mini marathons.  Here’s a photo of my talking running buddy, Krissy, and me at the 2010 Derby Festival Mini Marathon in Louisville, KY. 

This weekend, I’ll be running with ZirMed’s Team in a 200-mile relay on the Bourbon Trail in scenic Kentucky, the 2010 Bourbon Chase.  

Next weekend, I’ll be running for the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation’s Run Like Hell!  My mom was able to score some toe tags from the morgue, so I’m working on a sweet costume!  Will post photos later!

So needless to say… it’s me or the house.  Out Running… I’ll be on a house-hiatus for while.  Wish me luck! 

Always,

Natalie

{ a fall mantel and birthday }

Happy Fall!

“It’s the Little Things that Make a House a Home” had the cutest, wallet friendly fall decorating idea… You can read more about Karla’s Candy Corn decorating and other ideas here!

Our lonely ghost needed some company on the mantel.  So, I followed Karla’s instructions, and here’s how it turned out!

It happened to be my wonderful husband’s birthday this week, so we had a birthday party/fall themed mantel all week!

Thanks for stopping by!

Natalie

{ kitchen & dining room }

This one is for my Grandmother by special request… :)  You may remember photos of our empty kitchen and dining room from when we moved in here and here. 

Here’s what’s happened so far:

The dining room had these hanging blinds that I hated.  They looked old and did not add any light to the room at all.  I decided to hang curtains.  I cannot find a photo of the DR before… Oops!

Working hard:

Dining Room Now:

 

Kitchen Before:

 

 Kitchen After:

  We added appliance and furniture so far.  We’d like to update the hardware, faux brick, cabinets, countertop, and colors.  I will always dream of a new kitchen though.  :)

There’s a full bath between the kitchen and breakfast nook: 

Thanks for stopping by!

Natalie