Blue Sky and Sugar Blue

Gorgeous day out there!  I decided to come out of hiding finally.  My  sister posted a link to my blog on her very popular blog and I have to admit I cocooned.  It is funny because obviously when you blog, the whole point is for people to read your blog, but the thought of people other than family reading your blog can make you freak out a little bit.

Anyway....I'm back.

I have had a really good week of fitness in spite of the rainy weather.   I took my workouts indoors for the most part and I have been diligent about sticking to my schedule and gym routines.  Luckily the work gym allows me to take more than the normal allotted 30 minutes on the treadmill due to lack of users which is a big plus for me.

Yesterday my son Gavin had a game out at UBC.  He has to be at the game an hour before so I "geared up" and brought warm woollies to change into after the run.  I had a really nice run all around the UBC campus.  It was cold and crisp and beautiful.  I just followed my legs and ran 25 minutes away from the arena and then 25 minutes back.  I didn't hit the trails although I was sorely tempted, but instead just stuck to the roads.  I finished in time to change and take in his game.  Perfect way to multi-task.

This morning the girls had a game at Britannia Arena on Commercial Drive.  If it was not so early I would have enjoyed walking "The Drive" before the game and doing a little window shopping.  I settled for coffee instead and hunkered down in the bleachers with my warm fleece blanket.  Britannia wins the award for the coldest arena in town.

When we arrived home the older siblings were just rolling out of bed.  After everyone was settled in I headed out for my run around Burnaby Lake.  Absolutely spectacular there this morning.  Perfect running weather for a long run.  Crisp and cold and clear.

After ensuring that I as well as the family had enjoyed at least some of the winter sunshine I firmed up plans with my sister for an indoor outing that was all about ambiance.

I have often talked to my siblings about the music acts at The Yale and an opportunity arose to take in a show with my sisters today.   The Yale is known as the home of Vancouver's Rhythm and Blues and is renowned for playing host to some amazing talent.  Tonight's 5o'clock show featured Sugar Blue, who Rolling Stone magazine referred to as "one of the most foremost harmonica blowers in all of blues".  I was able to talk my sisters into taking in the show with me tonight and only wish we had rounded up more of our siblings as I know my brother Joel would have enjoyed the unbelievable sounds that came from that harmonica.  The only negative was the smoke smell in that old building.  Hard to shake.  We were able to enjoy the first set, as well as the eclectic crowd, before heading home.  Good fun for this "baby" sis to be able to introduce new experiences to the older sister. ;)

As it was I was home in time to enjoy a great movie with the girls.  We had watched it the night before but I had been only half watching as I folded laundry etc.  Grace sat me down when I got home tonight and said you have to watch this movie.  I am so glad she did.  Flipped is a Rob Reiner film with a great ensemble cast which includes Aidan Quinn (I have loved him since Reckless) and other familiar faces.  It is a coming of age story told from both sides of the coin.  Beautifully directed it is a wonderful tale of young love.

Only 35 more days until my half marathon.  I feel like I am doing everything right and so far no injuries. 

Blaze a trail!