Pearl Tea: running

Thursday, June 3, 2010

Ahh, my arch nemesis, we meet again.

San Diego is one of the hillier places I have ever been. I have encountered the hill to beat all hills... Princess View Drive. What a sweet name for such a brutal hill. I tried to take some photos during my run to exhibit her magnitude - but I fear that my photos will not do her justice. I like that I am referring to the hill as if it has a personality. I suppose it could represent any obstacle I choose it to. For me, it is just fun to think that she and I have a competition going. So far, I am kicking her behind...

This is close to the base of Princess View (PV)... it is hard to see but she is a long, steep climb. It took about 7-8 minutes to get up her. I want to believe that Pandora (the online radio station that streams to my i-Phone) also has a persona, and she was on my side in this epic battle. I believe this because she played the songs "Baby got back" (by Sir Mix-A-Lot)and "Sexy back" (by Justin Timberlake) as I took on PV. Pandora was cheering me (and my sore behind) on as I took the climb.

About halfway up...

Near the top, looking back down...

Back home, gloating :)

Princess View=0, Mariah=2

I suppose it is good to set goals for yourself, even if you are on vacation and without any major responsibilities. I enjoyed taking on my nemesis once again. Until next time PV.

Inspiration.

I have been fortunate to live my life under the influence of incredible women, namely my mother and my Nana. The lessens they have taught me have helped shape who I am today.

Alzheimer's disease has taken these women from me. Slowly, deliberately, and painfully. This blog has taken twists and turns throughout the past couple of years, but right now, I want it to be a commentary of my feelings and thoughts. A chance to share the perspective of a caregiver and family member. My posts will most often be hard to read and painful to write. However, there is much growth to be had from pain, and I hope when you read my thoughts it will resonate. Everyone has lost someone, and because of that we share a bond.

The namesake of my blog:

When we would go out to eat in restaurants with my Nana, she would always order a cup of "pearl tea." Noone had any clue what it was so each time she would explain that it was simply hot milk and water with sugar, a tradition passed down from generations before her. She was never frustrated that they didn't know, she looked forward to "teachable moments" as an opportunity to share her perspective with others.

I strive to live my life and carry out my interactions like my Nana did. She was graceful, beautiful, faithful, and intelligent. At the same time she had spunk and humor and she maintained a naughty laugh that only those closest to her had the pleasure of hearing.