Solitary Sojourns

Savoring the PI Spirit

2012-02-12T17:30:00.000-05:00

Early morning 4 mile run on Parris Island, brunch with 6 Marines at Traditions swapping Drill Instructor/recruit stories, an awesome tour of the base by one Marine sister, and another Marine sister hooking me up at the PX...the cost of coming in early for the celebration, priceless!

The Molly Marine 5K

2012-02-11T15:40:00.000-05:00

The last time I ran regularly was when I was in the Marine Corps 30+ years ago. Yup that was me, doing the running portion of the physical fitness test (PFT) during boot camp back in the day.

I hated running back then, mainly because I had to. When I got out, I hung up my running shoes...I was done. Through the years, I tried to get moving again but never succeeded.

This year after training for three months, I was excited to back to the place where it all began, Parris Island, South Carolina.

I planned to attend the Women Marines anniversary celebration on Monday, 13 February 2012 but went a few days early to run in the Molly Marine 5K Run/Walk hosted by the SC-1 Phyllis Alexander chapter of the Women Marines Association. At 5K, we would be running twice as far as we ran the PFT in the late 1970s (now all Marines run 3 miles).

When I drove through the Parris Island front gate that morning, I was pretty emotional. I couldn't quite believe I was back and wasn't sure what to expect.

PI is flat but with a 17 mile an hour headwind, the run definitely wasn't easy. But I finished with a personal best and the top woman in my age group...well okay, I was the only woman in my age group!

Gonna Take A Sentimental Journey

2012-02-10T19:58:00.000-05:00

Getting ready to take a trip down memory lane.

This is my original military ID pic from when I was in boot camp...totally looks like a mugshot, doesn't it?!

Half Way To The Half

2012-02-09T22:17:00.000-05:00

I'm half way through my training program to run the Flying Pig Half Marathon on May 6th. Over the past 13 weeks, I've run nearly 150 miles with the longest distance being 9 miles. At this point, I know I can complete it...even if I have to walk the last 4 miles.

As I reflect on what I've accomplished so far, I'm amazed. I hadn't run a mile in nearly 30 years and I could barely run to the end of the block. I could not have come this far without the support of the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society's Team In Training and my awesome coach Steve Teichow. That said, besides being connected on Facebook and an occasional email, I only see my coach and team mates on the long Saturday runs. My training runs the other four days of the week are up to me and so far I've been on autopilot.

I've had surgery on both my big toes and I suffered from shin splits when I ran in the Marine Corps back in the day. With an implant in one toe and a screw in the other, I thought my feet or shins were going to be my biggest challenge. Turns out neither one is my nemesis.

The biggest challenge, I've discovered, is my mind...keeping it occupied and thinking positively. Music helps A LOT, but sometimes old, tired thinking creeps in questioning my ability, whether I can really do this, etc. This is especially true every time we increase our mileage and I'm breaking a new barrier, a distance I've never run before.

This Saturday morning, I'll be running in the Molly Marine 5K at Parris Island, South Carolina where I first began running. I'll savor the experience and be reflecting on just how far I've come since I first stepped on those yellow footprints nearly 36 years ago.

Novi Super 5K

2012-02-06T21:51:00.000-05:00

After an 9 mile run on Saturday, I learned about the Super 5K being run in Novi on Super Bowl Sunday. I enjoy the hoopla and want to get race experience under my belt so I'm prepared come race day so I decided to give it a shot.

Sunday morning was beautiful so the race promised to be packed with people. Sure enough, they ran out of shirts for those of us who signed up on race day.

Nevertheless. I had a great time and did pretty well coming in the middle of the pack considering I'd run 9 the day before. And I did get a 'Finishers' glass...my new favorite possession!

It's The Little Things

2012-02-01T20:00:00.004-05:00

Source: seejanerun.com via Deb on Pinterest

Are these Asics Kayanos not the perfect shoes to run the Marine Corps Marathon in?!?

And bonus...they were on sale.

Well, first things first...get through the Flying Pig Half in May!

100 Days & Counting

2012-01-26T21:10:00.000-05:00

100 Days until the Flying Pig Half Marathon in Cincinnati, OH on May 6th!

I've run 100+ miles, my longest run to date is 7, I'm doing 8 on Saturday, and I'm just over half way to my fundraising goal. I'm on track and looking forward to the finish line.

What's hard to believe is that I couldn't run to the end of the block ten short weeks ago. What a difference several weeks worth of dedicated training make. Now let's hope the mild weather sticks around for the rest of the Winter.

Saturday Snow Run

2012-01-22T00:04:00.002-05:00

12 degrees, windchill 2, 7 miles with 1-2 inches of snow, 1:44, done. Not great time but damn, never run 7 miles before...LOVE breaking through barriers!!

Making It Personal

2012-01-16T18:41:00.002-05:00

Some running days are better than others. Today wasn't one of them...I was sucking air!

Saturday was my longest training run yet. To date, I've only run up to 5 miles and I was scheduled for 6 that day. Because of other activities planned later, I began my run pre-dawn and without the company of my Team in Training running mates. It was just me, my iPhone, and my feet crunching on the new fallen snow, which in itself was a new experience.

I not only finished the run, but about 4 1/2 miles in, I finally felt "yeah, I'm a runner"!

Today I struggled to hit 4 miles, but there were two things that kept me going. First, I'm motivated by doing something for a cause bigger than myself. For this half marathon, I'm training to raise money to find a cure for blood cancer.

Sydney B. was the young girl introduced at our Team In Training Kickoff meeting and her mother's story of Sydney's journey touched me deeply as she walked half way across the room displaying her beads of courage. When I got her card last week, it was a perfect reminder and I posted it on my refrigerator.

The other thing that kept me going was my mantra "I'm a Marine. I Can Do This." along with Marine cadences like "C-130 Rolling Down the Strip" and "I Want To Be A Drill Instructor" interspersed between my running music. Somehow they remind me of time when running was so easy that I took it for granted. Weird, but it worked for me today, thankfully!

Red Wings Host Marines

2012-01-15T21:14:00.000-05:00

The MI-2 Motor City chapter of the Women Marines Association has rhe privilege of watching the Detroit Red Wings beat the Chicago Black Hawks 3-2 from the Budd Lynch suite at Joe Lewis arena.

The two female WWII Marines on the sofa are 91-years-old and they and Col Buckles (far right) were saluted on the Jumbotron during a break in the game.

Everyone had a really great time!

I Am A Runner

2012-01-08T19:30:00.002-05:00

Wrapping Up 2011

2011-12-31T21:00:00.000-05:00

To change things up for the last training run of the year on Saturday, 31 December, I signed up for the Flint New Year's Eve Resolution 8K. After a one week vacation, training increased to 5 miles so the event was the perfect distance.

I'm here to tell you it was a little scary going by myself and figuring out the ropes, but it was a great experience and I thoroughly enjoyed the hoopla of an actual event. That it was an 8K was just perfect and there is something about being passed by old people those with handicaps that puts a little extra fuel in the tank!

The good news is that I didn't finish last in my age group! In fact, my time was 1:01:19 averaging 12:20 per mile, which I felt pretty darn good about. I may have even been under an hour but I dropped my headband and had to go back to retrieve it.

All in all, it was a great experience, I have a sweatshirt to show for my efforts, and it was the perfect opportunity to reflect on how far I've come during this challenging year.

Gulf Run...Done.

2011-12-29T09:49:00.001-05:00

Now it's time to head back to Austin and head home tomorrow :-(

Birding, Bicycling & Parasailing

2011-12-28T19:42:00.001-05:00

Fun times vacationing in Port Aransas, TX on the Gulf

What a GPS looks like when riding a ferry boat

2011-12-27T21:19:00.001-05:00

Had no idea that we'd even have to use a ferry...it was pretty funny!

Checking out the USS Lexington

2011-12-27T21:16:00.001-05:00

On the Gulf Coast near Corpus Christi, the first naval vessel that women served aboard.

San Antonio 3 Mile Run

2011-12-27T10:11:00.001-05:00

San Antonio...Deep In The Heart of Alamo Country

2011-12-26T18:50:00.001-05:00

Adapt & Overcome

2011-12-24T18:02:00.000-05:00

This morning it was cold, raining, and time for my training run. Yeah, still not a fan of running in the cold rain so I found a fitness club and bought a day pass.

Ten dollars, four miles, less than one hour later...done

Vacation Expectations

2011-12-24T13:47:00.001-05:00

The weather in Austin is cooler than I expected but exploring Downtown Austin by Segway yesterday was a blast! I didn't even know it was an option, but once I saw them on the downtown streets, I was on a mission because I've always wanted to ride one.

Other cool sights were the painted guitars at the Austin Airport and the beautiful stained glass ceiling at the Driscoll Hotel (rumored to be the most haunted place in Austin).

After spending Christmas in the Austin suburbs, we're headed to San Antonio, then the Gulf Coast.

Wishing everyone a VERY Merry Christmas!

'Tis The Season

2011-12-19T21:12:00.001-05:00

I'm a cookie hound. Ask my daughter. When she was a teenager, she nearly got grounded a week after refusing to tell me where she hid the cookies she baked. I never met a cookie I didn't like.

This year, it's different. When I look at cookies, my first thought is "damn, I've worked too hard to put that back on my hips". That is SO not me of seasons past, who would have gobbled first, felt guilty later.

Last night I finally succumbed and enjoyed every last morsel of a home made frosted sugar cookie. It. Was. Awesome. The only consolation was knowing I had a training run today and that the season will be wrapping up soon.

Today I ran my personal best...just under 23 minutes for 2 miles averaging 11:28 per mile beating my record of 12:16 per mile. As much as I'd like to think it justifies eating more cookies, I think it has more to do with the excitement of going on vacation tomorrow and running in warm weather. That should be a new and interesting experience!

Life Is Full of Adjustments

2011-12-18T15:27:00.001-05:00

I was supposed to play tennis tonight. Running is changing my body and the last couple of times I played tennis, I felt off balance. My agility and endurance have improved and I can definitely get to shots I never would have been able to reach before. I just don't feel grounded...weird.

Anyway, instead of playing doubles for two hours tonight, I opted for a 1 mile 'get my muscles moving' run this morning. Now that we're moving up in miles, I figured it was the perfect time to get used to carrying water with me so I'm ready for my longer runs.

I have both a handheld bottle and a belt with a water bottle attached. Both feel cumbersome, never having run with anything attached to me.

In the end, I opted for the belt because I couldn't imagine running with a bottle strapped to my hand. Then again, it may have more to do with needing both hands free so when I feel the urge to whip out my iPhone at a photo stop, I'll be ready.

The belt felt awkward and heavy on my back during my morning run. No doubt once I get used to it, I'll appreciate the chance for a swig when I'm 4 miles in. Just like everything, it's an adjustment...and hopefully I'll feel grounded on the tennis court again soon too!

Killer Kensington

2011-12-17T21:13:00.001-05:00

Today was not my best day running. The upside is that I went 4 miles...the downside is that running at Kensington Metropark with its hilly terrain kicked my butt.

Since it didn't offer any stop signs to give me a break, I decided it's not just about the journey, but what you see along the journey.

I ended up taking a couple of photo breaks and a couple of hill breaks. That got me over the hump to mile 3 and I ran the rest of the way.

I have to get out of my own way! I had a mental block about going 4 miles, somewhere I'd never been before. With this training program, I'm continuously increasing my mileage so I'd better get over it and bust through that barrier.

Limitation lesson learned.

Does It Get Easier?

2011-12-13T16:49:00.001-05:00

Yeah, didn't think so. But I guess that's the challenge...keep pushing your body past the point you previously thought was your limit.

Today I ran three miles, Thursday I'm scheduled for two, then Saturday I'll be visiting a place I've never been...four miles.

I've got to say, looking at December's training schedule kind of freaks me out. After this Saturday's four mile training run, I'll be going out of town for the holidays, just in time for a four mile run on Christmas Eve and returning to my first five mile run on New Year's Eve. Yikes, as if the holidays aren't stressful enough!

So for right now, I'm focusing on the upside of having lost 8 pounds to date and running further than I have ever run. I'm so grateful my knees, hips, and feet are hanging in there with me on this journey because we have A LOT more steps to take.

Wreaths Across America...Remembering

2011-12-10T13:16:00.001-05:00

It's was beautiful December morning at the Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly, Michigan.

After running three miles earlier this morning, I joined hundreds of others at 11 am in Holly to place wreaths on the graves of veterans in the local National Cemetary. Then at 12 Noon, a memorial service was held with a wreath presented for each branch of the service.

Non-profits sell wreaths for Wreaths Across America, whose goal is to put a wreath on every veteran's grave. Unfortunately, only a portion of the graves at GLNC received wreaths this year so hopefully next year more donations will provide wreaths for all the graves.

Three Weeks In

2011-12-08T21:32:00.001-05:00

Non-runners might find this really hard to believe, but I actually enjoy running in the cold weather. It's a shock to the system at first, but once you're out there and warmed up, it actually feels pretty good.

I'm wrapping up my third week of training and I'm hanging in there. I've completed all my training runs and have run a total of 19 miles to date.

Saturday Week 4 begins and I'm over the 21-day habit forming hump. Somehow, I don't think that's going to make it any easier as the miles increase.

Food Is Fuel

2011-12-05T20:19:00.000-05:00

Tonight the team went to Hansons Running Shop in Royal Oak and listened to the coaches discuss nutrition. They stressed that this is not the time to start a diet, whether it be fat free, no carb, or whatever. The point is to try to eat 'clean', avoiding sugar and processed food.

One of the points they stressed was the need to refuel during the race. We got a sample of "Shot Block", kind of a gummy bear type energy chew. Other options were GU (a kind of gel/paste in a tube), pretzels, and my personal favorite (though I haven't tried them yet) energy beans. Go ahead, make me eat jelly beans!

It makes good sense to really tune in to our bodies now during this early training time so we know what works and what doesn't. That way, once it's race day, we'll know what we need to do to have a great race and just be on autopilot taking care of business.

Stoplights Are My Friends

2011-12-03T11:15:00.001-05:00

Made it through my first three mile training run, but really looked forward to the four stoplights to catch my breath.

After we were done, both the run and walk coaches gave us a stretching and injury prevention clinic and answered any questions we had.

Damn, I haven't run 3 miles in 29 years! I am SO grateful to Team In Training because I could not do this myself.

Holiday Fundraising

2011-12-02T22:40:00.000-05:00

Christmas cards with fundraising letters are done and ready to be turned in at tomorrow morning's training run...whew!

Finding The Motivation

2011-11-30T18:16:00.001-05:00

I've been wanting to run for years however the mind was willing but the heart and body were weak. To get myself off the sofa, I knew I needed an extra push. some sort external motivation to keep me going.

Team In Training with The Leukemia & Lymphoma Society was exactly the catalyst I was looking for...a structured program in a team environment with experienced trainers, something my body could get into. Their mission of raising money to cure blood cancers was something my heart could get behind.

When I went to the informational session, I met coaches and a few others who said they had sat in my seat just a year ago. An LLS staff member said she had never run before and positively glowed when she showed off her medal and told us how thrilling it was to cross the finish line.

Sign-up form in hand, I was given a choice of doing a triathlon (yeah, right!), running or walking a marathon or a half marathon. Although my eventual goal is to do a full marathon, I thought it best to start small and work my way up considering these old legs hadn't run one mile straight for nearly 30 years.

Then we had to choose which event we'd like to run. Our choices ranged from Cincinnati, to Nashville, to Vancouver, BC or even Madrid, Spain. As awesome as Vancouver or Madrid sounded, I chose Cincinnati for my first attempt because I can drive there. It was also a plus that I would need to raise less money to participate.

Sign-up form completed, I was welcomed aboard and handed my official Team In Training shirt and a training schedule based on the event I chose. I left the meeting feeling cautiously optimistic that this was something I might be able to do with the support they offer.

Then reality set in and my sofa beckoned.

My First Week of Training

2011-11-26T15:21:00.001-05:00

I've run seven miles during my first week of training and just ran my toughest two miles. Maybe it was Thursday's turkey weighing me down or maybe it was the wind in my face...not sure, but it was rough going.

My two mile Thanksgiving morning run went much more smoothly which made me think two miles would continue to be easy for me. Not so much today.

The main thing is that I finished it.

I have one more week of running two miles, then next Saturday I have my first three mile run. At this point, I just have to focus on keeping one foot in front of the other and not getting too far ahead of myself.

Rain, Rain, Go Away

2011-11-22T19:35:00.000-05:00

Today on training day #2, I had my one mile route all mapped out and was actually looking forward to running after work. It looked like I was going to get my run in but when I got off it was raining steady. Hmmm, learn to deal with the conditions or find a treadmill?

Yeah, can't quite go there yet as I'm still a fair weather runner. I was totally prepared for the cold, but the thought of getting soaked to the bone doesn't thrill me.

After two days of sore muscles and stretching, one mile seemed pretty easy and I was ready to keep going. That surprised me.

I would rather have been outside, but was glad to have had the treadmill option to run without ending up like a cold, drowned rat.

I have two more training days this week with two miles each day. I'm thankful for the steady, slow pace to adjust to a life of training along with the many other blessings in my life that I'm thankful for this time of year.

Marine Corps Marathon Motivation

2011-11-19T22:48:00.000-05:00

I got a little marathon moto from recent Marine Corps Marathon finisher and friend Lori Howard at our Women Marines meeting today.

Lori just ran the event on 30 Oct 2011 and said if you only run one, the Marine Corps Marathon is the one. She said that as a Marine, it's awesome to cross that finish line and have a Marine place that medal around your neck.

Very cool!

My First Training Run

2011-11-19T22:10:00.003-05:00

I did it...I actually finished my first two mile training run!

It's been nearly 30 years since I ran two miles straight without stopping and I was so thrilled to have completed it.

I'm not thinking about all the training that lies ahead, I'm just going to take one day at a time and do the best I can.

But I'm definitely savoring this day!

Running Scared

2011-11-18T23:16:00.002-05:00

I have a dream to run the Marine Corps Marathon. There, I said it to the world and it scares the hell out of me.

When I served in the Marine Corps more than 30 years ago, we had to run and I hated it. Dreaded having to do it, couldn't wait to stop, and was relieved to get out and be free of that necessary evil.

A couple of years later while in college, I ran a 5K to impress a runner I dated. Though I did get a sense of accomplishment and thrill out of finishing the race, I didn't enjoy running any better than I had years earlier.

Throughout the years, I've thought wistfully of my pre-Title IX school days when I loved to run, feeling the wind at my face, loving the freedom I felt, and living for the kick at the end. Periodically I'd try running again but I lacked the motivation to keep me going. Even the moto fun run at the Denver WMA Convention last year didn't give me the drive to do it (though there is nothing quite like running in formation with a DI calling cadence!).

Until now.

I'm rocking off the 'life stresser' chart with all that has happened in the last two years, but life is short and time is ticking.

The Fox Theatre in Downtown Detroit MI

2009-12-13T19:24:00.001-05:00

The Fox Theatre in Downtown Detroit MI, originally uploaded by MichiganMoves.

Site of the "Detroit: Our Greatest Generation" movie premiere
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MI-2 Motor City Chapter of Women Marines Association & Loyal Escorts

2009-12-12T16:16:00.001-05:00

MI-2 Motor City Chapter of Women Marines Association & Loyal Escorts, originally uploaded by MichiganMoves.

13 Marines (including 2 from WWII & 3 from Korea eras), along with 2 Loyal Escorts at their Annual Holiday meeting where they collected Toys For Tots & coffee for the VA Hospital
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Santa Homer Simpson with D'oh-nuts

2009-12-07T15:52:00.001-05:00

Santa Homer Simpson with D'oh-nuts, originally uploaded by MichiganMoves.

Hands down the best holiday inflatable I've seen because it's in front of a donut shop
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Looney Baker on Farmington, just north of Schoolcraft in Livonia MI

2009-12-07T15:50:00.001-05:00

Looney Baker on Farmington, just north of Schoolcraft in Livonia MI, originally uploaded by MichiganMoves.

With a drive through and their popular Looney Bread, it's a popular pastry spot
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Dr. Justin Geller & JMG Dentistry in Novi MI support the troops by collecting Halloween candy

2009-12-07T12:42:00.001-05:00

Dr. Justin Geller & JMG Dentistry in Novi MI support the troops by collecting Halloween candy, originally uploaded by MichiganMoves.

WMA's "Operation Caring Friends" ships over 1,000 boxes to the troops every year...and they LOVE candy!
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#SEMIREO This Redford MI roof deterioration didn't just suddenly show up

2009-12-05T15:07:00.001-05:00

#SEMIREO This Redford MI roof deterioration didn't just suddenly show up, originally uploaded by MichiganMoves.

Clearly home this needed a new roof years ago
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Christmas Walk at Historic Greenmead in Livonia MI

2009-12-05T14:09:00.001-05:00

Christmas Walk at Historic Greenmead in Livonia MI, originally uploaded by MichiganMoves.

A once a year fundraiser
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Cooper loves his tennis balls...good thing we have a LOT of them!

2009-12-02T10:38:00.001-05:00

Cooper loves his tennis balls...good thing we have a LOT of them!, originally uploaded by MichiganMoves.

And glad the weather is nice enough to play outside
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The basement shower of this Redford MI foreclosed home is messed up #SEMIREO

2009-12-01T20:47:00.001-05:00

The basement shower of this Redford MI foreclosed home is messed up #SEMIREO, originally uploaded by MichiganMoves.

Half the fixtures & cabinets are missing in this home
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Our Ducks are always in a row!

2009-11-19T16:40:00.001-05:00

Our Ducks are always in a row!, originally uploaded by MichiganMoves.

Something you DEFINITELY want from your title company!
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Veterans Day 2009 at Great Lakes National Cemetary in Holly, MI

2009-11-12T07:51:00.001-05:00

Veterans Day 2009 at Great Lakes National Cemetary in Holly, MI, originally uploaded by MichiganMoves.

From a fallow field just 5 years ago, this is a FREE service for all veterans for their service
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100 flags line the road of the Great Lakes National Cemetary

2009-11-12T07:43:00.001-05:00

100 flags line the road of the Great Lakes National Cemetary, originally uploaded by MichiganMoves.

Over 7,000 burials have occurred at this Veterans Cemetary in just 3 years!
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Service Flags flying high over Great Lakes National Cemetary

2009-11-11T17:36:00.001-05:00

Service Flags flying high over Great Lakes National Cemetary, originally uploaded by MichiganMoves.

Following the Veteran Day Ceremony in Holly, Michigan
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Early arrivals at the Great Lakes National Cemetary

2009-11-11T17:28:00.001-05:00

Early arrivals at the Great Lakes National Cemetary, originally uploaded by MichiganMoves.

To commemorate Veterans Day...in Holly, Michigan
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Military wreaths to be presented at the Veterans Day ceremony

2009-11-11T17:13:00.001-05:00

Military wreaths to be presented at the Veterans Day ceremony, originally uploaded by MichiganMoves.

At the Great Lakes National Cemetary in Holly Michigan
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Battery D-1st Michigan Light Artillery @ Holly MI National Cemetary

2009-11-11T16:39:00.001-05:00

Battery D-1st Michigan Light Artillery @ Holly MI National Cemetary, originally uploaded by MichiganMoves.

Practicing firing of their cannon before the Veterans Day ceremony gets underway
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I'm humbled by receiving the 2009 MCL Northwest Detachment 162 Distinguished Service Award & Marine of the Year

2009-11-07T22:18:00.001-05:00

I'm humbled by receiving the 2009 MCL Northwest Detachment 162 Distinguished Service Award & Marine of the Year, originally uploaded by MichiganMoves.

Celebrated at the Detachment Marine Corps birthday celebration at American Legion Post 162 in Livonia MI
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WMA MI-2 Marines in Detroit's Veterans Day Parade

2009-11-07T11:10:00.001-05:00

WMA MI-2 Marines in Detroit's Veterans Day Parade, originally uploaded by MichiganMoves.

Getting ready to roll down Woodward Avenue
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Bavarian Inn Lodge and Conference Center in Frankenmuth MI

2009-10-26T15:21:00.001-04:00

Bavarian Inn Lodge and Conference Center in Frankenmuth MI, originally uploaded by MichiganMoves.

Site of the 2009 All Service Womens Luncheon & very quaint Bavarian-type village
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Michigan's Own Inc. Military and Space Museum in Frankenmuth, MI

2009-10-24T19:38:00.001-04:00

Michigan's Own Inc. Military and Space Museum in Frankenmuth, MI, originally uploaded by MichiganMoves.

Privately run museum
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Women WWII Veterans at All Service Womens Luncheon in Frankenmuth MI

2009-10-24T18:14:00.001-04:00

Women WWII Veterans at All Service Womens Luncheon in Frankenmuth MI, originally uploaded by MichiganMoves.

Amazing Women pioneers including nine WAVES and four Marines. Four of them were 88-years-old!
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Gratitude Steel Drum Band rockin' the Atrium at NAWBO's Health & Wellness Expo in Southfield MI

2009-10-22T13:51:00.001-04:00

Gratitude Steel Drum Band rockin' the Atrium at NAWBO's Health & Wellness Expo in Southfield MI, originally uploaded by MichiganMoves.

At 2000 Town Center
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The Party is on at the SE Michigan Veterans Stand Down...music & dancing are good way to pass the time #vets

2009-10-15T13:58:00.001-04:00

The Party is on at the SE Michigan Veterans Stand Down...music & dancing are good way to pass the time #vets, originally uploaded by MichiganMoves.

Second and last day of 2009 SEMIVSD
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SE Michigan Veterans Stand Down is in full swing

2009-10-14T11:53:00.001-04:00

SE Michigan Veterans Stand Down is in full swing, originally uploaded by MichiganMoves.

At the Michigan State Fairgrounds
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Michigan Vietnam Veteran Medal of Honor Recipients display @ SE MI Veteran's Stand Down

2009-10-13T16:19:00.001-04:00

Michigan Vietnam Veteran Medal of Honor Recipients display @ SE MI Veteran's Stand Down, originally uploaded by MichiganMoves.

"For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of life, above and beyond the call of duty"...Dwight H Johnson, Paul Ronald Lambers, William Maud Bryant (KIA), Robert Leslie Poxon (KIA), Gordon Douglas Yntema (KIA), Dewayne Williams (KIA), James Leroy Bondsteel & Peter C Lemon
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Michigan Vietnam Veterans Traveling Memorial http://vva142.org

2009-10-13T13:36:00.001-04:00

Michigan Vietnam Veterans Traveling Memorial http://vva142.org, originally uploaded by MichiganMoves.

The Memorial will be displayed at the Southeast Michigan Veterans Stand Down Wednesday & Thursday
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Michiganders at the Women Marines Association Interim Board Meeting in Kansas City MO

2009-10-10T13:52:00.001-04:00

Michiganders at the Women Marines Association Interim Board Meeting in Kansas City MO, originally uploaded by MichiganMoves.

From left, Marines Wendy Woodward-Hopkins, Mary Ann Merritt & Debra Drummond along with Loyal Escort Jeff Merritt
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Oh-oh, good thing I brought my ruby red slippers with me ;-D

2009-10-09T12:01:00.001-04:00

Oh-oh, good thing I brought my ruby red slippers with me ;-D, originally uploaded by MichiganMoves.

Tornado Shelter sign at Kansas City, Missouri International Airport
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Sitting on the tarmac @ DTW #United

2009-10-09T08:01:00.001-04:00

Sitting on the tarmac @ DTW #United, originally uploaded by MichiganMoves.

Why do they taxi out & sit for 20 minutes?
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So long Arizona...

2009-10-04T21:03:00.001-04:00

So long Arizona..., originally uploaded by MichiganMoves.

It's been wonderful!
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With this architecture, we're definitely not in Michigan anymore!

2009-10-01T20:39:00.001-04:00

With this architecture, we're definitely not in Michigan anymore!, originally uploaded by MichiganMoves.

Sheraton Wild Horse Resort in Phoenix AZ
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The Great Lakes Chili Cook-off is this Sunday in Downtown Plymouth MI

2009-10-01T11:51:00.001-04:00

The Great Lakes Chili Cook-off is this Sunday in Downtown Plymouth MI, originally uploaded by MichiganMoves.

With chili & lots of bikes, it's a fun event, so be sure to check it out!
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Scarecrows line Main St in Downtown Plymouth MI

2009-09-30T22:32:00.001-04:00

Scarecrows line Main St in Downtown Plymouth MI, originally uploaded by MichiganMoves.

Fall is definitely in the air!
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Tae Kwon Do Scarecrow

2009-09-30T22:00:00.001-04:00

Tae Kwon Do Scarecrow, originally uploaded by MichiganMoves.

Representing Dan Vigil's Academy of Tae Kwon Do
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The Scarecrow Bride from the Bridal Couture of Plymouth

2009-09-30T21:53:00.001-04:00

The Scarecrow Bride from the Bridal Couture of Plymouth, originally uploaded by MichiganMoves.

One of the many scarecrows in Downtown Plymouth MI's Kellogg Park
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Plymouth Reign Goulie scarecrow

2009-09-30T18:29:00.001-04:00

Plymouth Reign Goulie scarecrow, originally uploaded by MichiganMoves.

Cute headless scarecrow on Main Street in Downtown Plymouth MI
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Laurel Woods condominium complex is conveniently located behind Laurel Park Mall in Livonia MI

2009-09-28T18:30:00.001-04:00

Laurel Woods condominium complex is conveniently located behind Laurel Park Mall in Livonia MI, originally uploaded by MichiganMoves.

These 1 and 2 bedroom condos feature a large open living space. The location close to shopping & expressways is perfect for 1st buyers looking to take advantage of the real estate tax credit.
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Commerce Drive-In theatre sign is just a sad reminder of days gone by

2009-09-27T16:01:00.001-04:00

Commerce Drive-In theatre sign is just a sad reminder of days gone by, originally uploaded by MichiganMoves.

The few drive-ins there are today are often in the parking lots of stadiums.
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Cute golf tot statue on outdoor patio of the Senate Restaurant in Northville MI

2009-09-27T15:54:00.001-04:00

Cute golf tot statue on outdoor patio of the Senate Restaurant in Northville MI, originally uploaded by MichiganMoves.

The Senate is adjacent Bushwood Golf Course, a challenging little 9-hole executive course
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Our own Lady Liberty in front of the Senate Restaurant in Northville MI

2009-09-27T15:43:00.001-04:00

Our own Lady Liberty in front of the Senate Restaurant in Northville MI, originally uploaded by MichiganMoves.

In Country Club Village on Haggerty Road, just South of 6 Mile
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This is something you don't see every day...a full-sized hockey rink behind this Northville MI short sale home!

2009-09-25T15:04:00.001-04:00

This is something you don't see every day...a full-sized hockey rink behind this Northville MI short sale home!, originally uploaded by MichiganMoves.

Perfect for a hockey fanatic & their team mates. Nicely surrounded by woods for those not so keen on hockey.
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Original mechanicals are just the beginning of the issues in this Canton MI foreclosure

2009-09-21T19:03:00.001-04:00

Original mechanicals are just the beginning of the issues in this Canton MI foreclosure, originally uploaded by MichiganMoves.

While it seems like a smokin' deal @ $49,900, the value is clearly in the land!
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Mill Race Village in Northville MI is the center of Northville's 2009 Victorian Festival

2009-09-20T14:16:00.001-04:00

Mill Race Village in Northville MI is the center of Northville's 2009 Victorian Festival, originally uploaded by MichiganMoves.

After being rained out last year, no doubt the organizers were thankful for this year's glorious weather!
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The Northville Victorian Festival brings out the finest in Victorian attire

2009-09-20T14:02:00.001-04:00

The Northville Victorian Festival brings out the finest in Victorian attire, originally uploaded by MichiganMoves.

This once a year festival kicks off with a parade on Friday evening and continues through Sunday
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The Northville Eclipse vintage baseball team prepares to host the Greenfield Village Lah-De-Dahs at Ford Field in Downtown Northville

2009-09-20T13:50:00.001-04:00

The Northville Eclipse vintage baseball team prepares to host the Greenfield Village Lah-De-Dahs at Ford Field in Downtown Northville, originally uploaded by MichiganMoves.

Celebrating the spirit of the Victorian Festival
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Members of The King's 8th Regiment adding some Victorian authenticity in Mill Race Village

2009-09-20T13:41:00.001-04:00

Members of The King's 8th Regiment adding some Victorian authenticity in Mill Race Village
Originally uploaded by MichiganMoves

And encouragement to return to the Crown
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Winner of the Best Dressed Golfer award in the "Fallen Warrior Women Marine Memorial Golf Scholarship"

2009-09-19T21:00:00.001-04:00

Winner of the Best Dressed Golfer award in the "Fallen Warrior Women Marine Memorial Golf Scholarship", originally uploaded by MichiganMoves.

At Selfridge ANG Base
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The Inaugural Fallen Warrior Women Marine Scholarship Golf Outing Supporters Ready to Tee It Up!

2009-09-19T20:55:00.001-04:00

The Inaugural Fallen Warrior Women Marine Scholarship Golf Outing Supporters Ready to Tee It Up!, originally uploaded by MichiganMoves.

At the Selfridge ANG Base Golf Course
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Is this not the cutest golf club head cover? OK, Maybe if you're a Marine ;-D

2009-09-19T16:30:00.002-04:00

The Best Dressed Golfer in the "Fallen Warrior Women Marine Memorial Golf Scholarship", originally uploaded by MichiganMoves.

At Selfridge ANG Base
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Beware Poker Players and Loose Women

2009-09-18T17:17:00.001-04:00

Beware Poker Players and Loose Women, originally uploaded by MichiganMoves.

Sign on wall of Benny's Charity Poker Club in Shelby Township MI
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Cool custom cars in Downtown Plymouth MI at the Fall Festival

2009-09-13T15:18:00.001-04:00

Cool custom cars in Downtown Plymouth MI at the Fall Festival, originally uploaded by MichiganMoves.

And they ranged from old to new
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Seriously, if you're gonna have a flag pole, clear the trees around it!

2009-09-13T09:41:00.001-04:00

Seriously, if you're gonna have a flag pole, clear the trees around it!, originally uploaded by MichiganMoves.

Just wrong...just sayin'
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Last day to check out Fall Festival in Downtown Plymouth MI

2009-09-13T07:55:00.001-04:00

Last day to check out Fall Festival in Downtown Plymouth MI, originally uploaded by MichiganMoves.

And you definitely should enjoy a chicken dinner...they are GREAT!
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No, say it ain't so!

2009-08-28T19:13:00.001-04:00

No, say it ain't so!, originally uploaded by MichiganMoves.

A cold, dreary ending to the Summer!
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#SEMIREO #SEMIRE Graffiti & bad words on the wall of this Livonia MI bank owned home for sale doesn't help sell it

2009-08-28T15:08:00.001-04:00

#SEMIREO #SEMIRE Graffiti & bad words on the wall of this Livonia MI bank owned home for sale doesn't help sell it, originally uploaded by MichiganMoves.

Even the attractive price isn't attractive enough for this mess!
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Moo-ving the mail...Tattered but cute & unique mailbox

2009-08-25T23:02:00.001-04:00

Moo-ving the mail...Tattered but cute & unique mailbox, originally uploaded by MichiganMoves.

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#REBCOhio @MortgageReports leading a GREAT blogging session!

2009-08-20T10:57:00.001-04:00

#REBCOhio @MortgageReports leading a GREAT blogging session!, originally uploaded by MichiganMoves.

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Sometimes you see the darnest things in front of you at the toll booth

2009-08-15T22:36:00.001-04:00

Sometimes you see the darnest things in front of you at the toll booth, originally uploaded by MichiganMoves.

South of Chicago on the way to Indiana
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This bus was hard to miss today going Eastbound on M-14, just east of Ann Arbor, Michigan

2009-08-09T21:52:00.001-04:00

This bus was hard to miss today going Eastbound on M-14, just east of Ann Arbor, Michigan, originally uploaded by MichiganMoves.

Not sure what it is about, but there was a car following it with a sign that said TheBigGreenBus.com. Guess I'll have to check out their website to find out!
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A truly bizarre toilet seat cover in this foreclosure

2009-08-09T21:30:00.001-04:00

A truly bizarre toilet seat cover in this foreclosure, originally uploaded by MichiganMoves.

Seriously, where do you get something like this? Do you Google "toilet seat covers with faces"?

There was no power on in the home so we could easily have missed this gem, but did catch it thanks to my eagle-eyed buyer.

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#SEMIREO Not sure what's going on with this Highland Township foreclosure, but this can't be good!

2009-08-09T21:12:00.001-04:00

#SEMIREO Not sure what's going on with this Highland Township foreclosure, but this can't be good!, originally uploaded by MichiganMoves.

Since it was hot outside, hot air was rushing down from the attic demonstrating the importance of good insulation.
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#SEMIREO This Livonia MI foreclosed bank-owned home for sale @ $175K seems like a smokin' deal...

2009-08-08T17:02:00.001-04:00

#SEMIREO This Livonia MI foreclosed bank-owned home for sale @ $175K seems like a smokin' deal..., originally uploaded by MichiganMoves.

But the Kitchen is stripped as well as the lighting & plumbing fixtures, down to the jetted tub in the Master Bath! There also appeared to be water in the basement. Too bad because the home had been very nice!
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Monument describing ND's 164th Regiment's contribution @ Iwo Jima

2009-08-03T23:21:00.001-04:00

Monument describing ND's 164th Regiment's contribution @ Iwo Jima, originally uploaded by MichiganMoves.

At the North Dakota State Veteran's Cemetary south of Mandan, ND
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North Dakota veterans buried on the prairie overlooking the Missouri Valley

2009-08-03T22:56:00.003-04:00

North Dakota veterans buried on the prairie overlooking the Missouri Valley, originally uploaded by MichiganMoves.

North Dakota Veteran's Cemetary south of Mandan, ND
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Interesting stats on lives lost at Iwo Jima

2009-08-03T22:56:00.001-04:00

Interesting stats on lives lost at Iwo Jima, originally uploaded by MichiganMoves.

Memorial by ND Iwo Jima Association at the North Dakota Veteran's Cemetary
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