What are you Thankful for?

So what are you thankful for this year? What will you say thanks at your Thanksgiving table tomorrow?

I know that I am thankful for so many blessings and I am sure that I’ve missed half of them. I am so thankful that we have a loving Father who forgives us and allows us sinners chance after chance. I am thankful that I am alive; I so thankful that this Thanksgiving meal will be celebrated at a table in the USA! (I was deployed last Thanksgiving). I am so thankful that my better half is my best friend and although this year has been rough, I know we can make it.

I am thankful that my brother-in-law is home and not deployed this year either. I however, will not forget…

my father who is deployed (Lord, keep him safe!) my friends who are in harms way and those that paid the ultimate sacrifice.

Please on your day of Thanksgiving, just remember there are those standing in harms way protecting our way of life and freedom. Please remember them as they spend their holiday away from family and loved ones. Don’t feel sorry for them, don’t feel pity for them either, we all wear the uniform proudly and only ask for your support and rememberance.

I hope you all have a Happy Thanksgiving and if you are traveling, please travel safely!

follow me on twitter OliviaNunn

I had to share!

November 19, 2010 I am not one for quotes, however, I had to share one today. This is on Wounded Warrior Project’s Facebook page. Wounded Warrior Project is a great organization for our wounded heroes. I just had to share below because I think it speak volumes.

This quote applies to our heroes that defended our freedom in both World Wars as well as it is today as we find our heroes defending our way of life in Iraq and Afghanistan.

“What we have done for ourselves alone dies with us; what we have done for others and the world remains and is immortal.” -Albert Pike

I hope when this war is all said and done, our historians will remember the sacrifice, strength, commitment and dedication our Soldiers protrayed. I hope people will remember our Soldiers and I hope they will never forget the sacrifices they have made.

To all my friends who I have lost since 2003, I remember you well. I remember what you shared with me, I remember that you stood next to me and answered the nation’s call. I still remember the day I saluted your cross. Thank you for believing in something bigger than yourself. You have paid the ultimate sacrifice and for that, you can never be forgotten.

I feel good!

November 19, 2010 So, day 5 in a row of getting up and feeling better about myself and hitting the gym. I had a 1 hour spin class this morning. The guy tried to smoke us, but I wouldn’t let him. I was finally able to burn out all of the acid in my legs!!! YEAH!

We are having a lunch time potluck Thanksgiving meal in our office today. Super excited about it! Turkey, yum, yum! I love the holidays!

I just realized, this time last year I was in Baghdad, Iraq. I actually get to celebrate this year’s holiday season in the good old USA! I am so pumped. Since I moved from Texas this year and now live in NY, I might actually get my very first WHITE XMAS! I’m not a fan of the cold, but I could be happy with it just this year.

I truly have to say, GOD IS GOOD! I am blessed to have this life. I am blessed that I survived 3 tours to Iraq, I had too many close calls. I also am blessed to have a wonderful husband and family. I am blessed to have an awesome job. I am also blessed that I get to meet wonderful people on BS and share my life struggles.

I hope you all are having a great day. I hope you all realize the blessings you have. Just remember, your day can’t be any worse than a trooper that is currently deployed.

I blogged about this last night, if you can take a minute to check out www.greenbeanscoffee.com you can buy a cup of joe for a joe. its a small token and believe me, being able to sip on a great cup of coffee to help make your day better is worth it.

I hope you all have a great weekend! Army plays Notre Dame tomorrow! I am pumped!

GO ARMY! BEAT NOTRE DAME!!! The game after that is against Navy, Al this is for you, GO ARMY, BEAT NAVY!

follow me on twitter OliviaNunn

Give a cup of joe to a trooper!

November 18, 2010 BodySpace members, please remember as we prepare next week to spend time with our loved ones and share a fantastic holiday meal, that there are those serving our country and are deployed.

Please check out this link =”UntrustedLink.bootstrap($(this), “e36f4″, event);” href=”http://www.greenbeanscoffee.com/coj/faq.php” target=”_blank” class=”word_break” />m/coj/faq.php

You can donate a few bucks to help buy a cup of joe for a joe! I know having been deployed 3 times, that the one nice thing to do is to take a mental break and enjoy a great tasting latte or mocha. Its not much, but its always the little things that help you get through deployments. Please donate a cup and say thank you to a trooper who is in harms way during this upcoming holiday!

thanks!

Day 3 and sore

November 17, 2010 Well, on Monday I made a committment to myself again, to hit the gym and change what I don’t like about me (physically speaking). Along this change wagon, I also see a counselor once a week to help me work through the issues of 3 deployments. I also go to church every Sunday with my husband now, this was definately something that I needed.

I’m happy to say that my gray world looks a little brighter now. I did CrossFit on Monday and did a spin class on Tuesday. I went to bodypump on Tuesday afternoon but to only end up not being able to move. I went a little hard on Monday and now the soreness in my legs is really getting to me. I didnt feel bad about not doing the bodypump, I’m just glad I made it there. I did however, make it to the gym this morning. I did another short and easy CrossFit workout. I could barely push out the squats this morning, my legs are on fire!

I feel good that I’ve done something for myself 3 days in a row. I’ll keep chipping away at it.

I meant to share something on Monday from Sunday’s sermon.

Q: Do you know why the grass is greener on the other side?

A: Because there’s more poop on that side!

I laughed so hard when the pastor said this, but its so true. His sermon was about how we allow the heat or stress of life to push us to other things. We run to porn, other people instead of our spouses, alcohol, drugs, etc. Instead of remembering to run to the Lord, that he is enough to help us through our heat. The other issues is that we look at the other side of the fence thinking that if only, another woman will understand me better, another man could provide more, the drugs will help me get through life, fill in the blank it all fits. The grass isn’t greener on the other side because its great, its filled with lots of poop!

Anyways, I thought it was something great and wanted to share it.

I hope you all are having a great day!

follow me on twitter OliviaNunn

Feeling the pain, but its a good thing!

November 16, 2010 Yesterday, I made a plan to get on the training wagon again, I felt good about the commitment that I made to myself yesterday. I hit the gym yesterday during lunch, it was great!

Today, I woke up early, I actually felt like waking up! I hit the gym and did a 1 hour spin class. It wasn’t the toughest cardio workout, but it got me going. I definately like my tri bike better. I even started off my morning with a protein shake and oatmeal. I feel great, well except for the burning sensation in my legs!

Yesterday’s workout was squats and this morning was all pedaling, yeah my legs are bit sore. Walking to work wasn’t fun this morning, but I know its worth it! I have plans to hit body pump at lunch today, my bag is packed and its on my calendar. We’ll just see what chaos hits the fan today, hopefully nothing so I can escape!

I hope you all are having a great morning!

follow me on twitter OliviaNunn

Getting out of the dump

So, ever since my half marathon last month, I pretty much have been a non-player at the gym. I really jacked up my knees during my half and took time off to recover. In that process I pretty much lost the drive to do anything. I finally ran this SAT, I did a 5K Turky Trot. Oh boy, I could tell that me being a couch potato really got to me. (OK, so I’m not exactly a couch potato, work keeps me busy).

So today, I actually packed my gym bag, I doubled checked all the items. I even just finished filling out workout times throughout the next 3 weeks. I even made a bet with a co-worker of mine, she is also trying to slim down. So we are going to see who hits the gym the most amount of times.

I hope this will get me out of the dump. I also see the light at the end of tunnel, part of depression and lack of going to the gym is I have been dealing with trying to support my folks who are financially hurting as well as my grandmother. The responsibilities of trying to take care of my family coupled with my issues with 3 deployments all came to head these past 30 days.

I think I see the light, I hope this gets me out of the dump. My first scheduled gym time is today at lunch. I made an announcement in my office and everyone will know where to find me, at the gym doing CrossFit!

hope you all are having a great day!

follow me on twitter OliviaNunn

Too blunt and too emotional

So, I was doing some reflection today as I was running around all day at work due to some stress of unknown media coverage. Anyways, I was told (on diferrent occasions) that sometimes I’m too blunt or I’m too emotional that I’m hard to work with. Hmmm, I thought how could anyone who cares about their jobs not be emotional.

I have also been told that women are passive agressive #itches! Excuse me! So when I asked you the first time nicely you obviously took me being nice as you ignoring my tasking as a joke. So when I came back to check on you/the job and you failed to get it done, I had to resort to a more aggressive means which than I was told I’m a #itch!

So really, how is that if I had a pair of balls and said the same thing would have caused results in the beginning but since I don’t have a pair of balls I’m considered a passive agressive #itch?

I don’t think I’m too blunt nor too emotional. I think I just give a damn too much. I care about the work that I do, I care about the responsibilities that my job requires of me. I care that the products that I create have my name on them and I want to build a reputation of great work.

I’m sorry that you can’t handle a 5 foot 1 inch female that has guts and balls bigger than you. I’m sorry that I demand the best and expect you to perform the job that you have been hired to do. I’m sorry that you can’t be man enough to realize that it doesn’t require boobs or balls to get a job done, what matters is the person that is getting the job done is capable.

Sorry to vent, I’m just irritated that because I’m a "small" person that I obviously lack some bite. Try me, I’ll bite you hard and you better get your job done! If you hate your job, stop working and collecting your paycheck, I know there are thousands of people out of job and would love yours!

Hopefully you are having a better day than me.

Follow me on twitter OliviaNunn

Veterans Day

In honor of Veterans Day tomorrow, I changed my profile picture. This picture is a bit older, it was taken in 2008. I am with my husband and this shot was taken after I took the guideon (flag) of my troop. In Army tradition, the guideon is given to the Troop Commander by the either the battalion or brigade commander, depending upon the relationship of the troop. This guideon was given to my by the brigade commander.

I was given the opportunity to lead some fine troopers. The unit that I commanded for 19 months was Headquarters and Headquarters Troop of the 1st Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division out of Fort Hood, Texas. I was lucky to have commanded a great organization with great leaders. Sometimes the task of leading a troop (mine was over 300 Soldiers) can be daunting, exciting, and stressful; but its the best job in the Army. I was truly lucky that my previous boss gave me the opportunity to take on the task of leading this unit. I trained with this unit, both at Fort Hood and at the National Training Center at Fort Irwin, CA as well as leading this unit into combat. I am so thankful that everyone of my troopers came home from our last deployment this past February alive.

To all the veterans who are serving and to those that have served, THANK YOU!

A special thanks to my father, who as a non-commissioned officer in the Army when I was a child. My father set the example, showed me the way and told me to never settle for less than the best. He told me to demand the best from your subordinates everyday, but make sure they know that you will take care of them. When you have gained their trust and confidence a Soldier will go to hell and back for you. I was lucky that my dad showed me the example of serving a higher purpose than myself. I was lucky that he told me that true leaders lead from the front. Thanks dad!

ESPN SportsNation at West Point

Today, the Cowherd radio show will broadcast live from the Academy. His show is on air from 1000-1300 or for those not familiar with military time 10am to 1pm. Also today at 1600 or 4pm live from the Academy SportsNation will broadcast their show. The set looks awesome, its currently between our beautiful library and what we call here the Honor Plaza. (The Honor Plaza is a monument with the following words carved into it, "A Cadet will not lie, cheat, steal nor tolerate those who do." This belief, this honor code is taught from the very first day to the cadets here at the Academy.) It looks amazing and we can’t wait for the show to begin!

The show will end just after 1700 or 5pm. At 5pm we lower the American Flag and during that time ESPN will capture how the cadets pay their respect and salute as the flag is lowered. This occurs everyday on any military installation and today, if you tune into ESPN you’ll be able to catch the cadets!

The temperatures today are on the cold side! The wind is blowing and whipping all around us. The leaves have definately turned and the scenery is beautiful! So if you have time today, check out ESPN SportsNation. You’ll get to see me do what I love, my job! Go Army!

follow me on twitter OliviaNunn

What an Army Football game looks like

I took some photos during the Army vs Air Force football game this past weekend. Sadly, Army lost to Air Force. BUT, we have one more big show down this season… Army vs Navy! GO ARMY! BEAT NAVY!

I thought you might like the photos below. Also, part of my job here at the Academy I assist CBS College Sports. There is a cadet sideline reporter that reports during the game. Its my job to get that cadet and ensure that he or she reports well on live tv! I love what I do and working with great people makes my job even better. While working this football season, I was lucky to meet Dave Ryan and Jason Sehorn! What a great set of professionals and they helped make the football season evern more fun and entertaining.

Thanks to the awesome crew at CBS College Sports!

Follow me on twitter OliviaNunn

Are you committed?

So the past 3 weeks I have attended services at a church. The church’s senior pastor is amazing and I think this might be the church family that I need. The lessons we have been learning is about heat. The heat refers to the stresses in life: martial issues, finances, death, loss, etc. We are learning that these trials or heat helps shape and mold us to live the life that God wants us to live. So during these trials do we run to the Lord or do you run to those sins: other people instead of your spouse, alcohol, drugs, gambling, etc to self medicate.

These lessons have been very eye opening. I learned that when we try to self medicate instead of trusting in the Lord we have essentially told our father that he isn’t good enough, that we can’t trust him to help us with our problems. I also learned that God will give you only what you can handle. The problems, the trials you face are those that the Lord knows you can handle. It made me realize that if only people realize this instead of blaming that their faith would be strengthen not weakened. I also realized that I needed to turn to the Lord and not run.

So how committed are you? How committed are you to the Lord, to trust our father that you can get through your trial?

On another note, Army sadly lost to Air Force. Air Force takes the Commander in Chief Trophy this year. Navy had it last year. Well, next year! But I still came to the game with my game face on! We are still one game away from a bowl bid! We play Kent State this Saturday, I can smell the victory!

We still have another huge game next month, Army vs Navy! A very long tradition. Go Army! Beat Navy!

Hope you all are having a great start to your week!

Follow me on twitter OliviaNunn

Go Army! Beat Air Force!

yesterday, my whole public affairs office went to a spirit luncheon. It was my first luncheon and the first social gathering with the PA crew. I have to say, it was really a lot of fun! The cheerleaders were out in the audience along with our mascot and spirit band! The United States Military Academy playing against the Air Force Academy is a long tradition. Tomorrow, with great respect for one another, the teams will face off on the football field here at Michie Stadium.

This is the first year in a long time that Army’s Football team has done this well. We are close to a bowl bid and the spirit here in the Academy is contagious! Go Army Black Knights!

I hope you all have a great weekend!

follow me on twitter OliviaNunn

Halloween 2010

I haven’t completely emerged from my blue state just yet, but I can feel the shift. I know that my focus need to be and need to continue to be the Lord.

I also started a game yesterday with my husband. I have a really bad habit of talking with 4 letter words. The Army is an environment where foul language is the norm. Its not pretty, I hate to say, but it happens. So, yesterday the game was the number of times we cursed. The count yesterday was my husband 5 me 0!

Today I have been good at not swearing either! yippie!

Now, if only today would speed by quickly, I am exhausted from this weekend! I was lucky and i got to hang out at CBS College Sports Studios in NYC. One of our cadets was invited to the studio along with cadets from the other service academies to discuss their school’s football game. Army played VMI this past SAT and we WON! We are close this year to a bowl bid!!!

Below are photos from my Halloween costume (maquerade) and my time at CBS College Sports studios.

Hope you all had a great weekend and Halloween adventure!

follow me on twitter OliviaNunn

Down

So, I haven’t logged onto bodybuilding lately or any other site. I have been feeling really blue and out of sorts lately. I even have lost the drive to hit the gym and even run. It seems when bad things happen, they all happen at once.

My problems are definately too much for me to bear alone, so my husband and I decided that we need to come back to focus. We realized that we have lost what is important and decided to find a church family this past weekend. We went to a church this past Sunday and the experience was great. We will definately be heading back this weekend.

Just after one visit, I could feel and tell that the reason why I was blue was I forgot to turn to God. I forgot that in times of hardship that the Lord is my way. This past Sunday’s sermon was a tough one to hear for me, it hit too close to home, but its what I NEEDED TO HEAR.

I have also started counseling, I have realized that 3 deployments to have Iraq have left me shaken a bit. I have always tried to play tough and that I would never need help. BUT, the time has come that I can’t continue without sleeping well. I have decided that coming to grips with my experiences is important.

I wouldn’t change anything that I’ve done to this point. Even with the nightmares that I have, deploying 3 times is just part of my job. I love being in the Army, I love that my job is part of a bigger meaning than me. I love to tell people that I am a CPT almost MAJ in the Army and that I have done more in my 32 short years than most have done in their lifetime.

Also, a huge thanks go to all those out there that support our troops, your prayers, thoughts mean so much, they make what we do in the Army easier.

My last post I had commented that I went to an award ceremony. Mr. John Baker, former Secretary of State was given the Thayer Award here at the Academy. This award is given to a civilian that lives the motto "Duty, Honor, Country" I have attached a photo below with Mr. Baker.

Fun Filled Packed Weekend!

This past weekend was a 3 day weekend for me, we had Monday off! My weekend started off with my best friend coming to visit me late on Thursday night, she flew from Seattle. We had a great time this weekend. Friday I took her on a tour of West Point and we had lunch in the cadet restaurant. We ended Friday in NYC, we went to a Brazilian steak house and we watched Mary Poppins on Broadway. The food was amazing! I definately was able to fill my red meat cravings. The broadway show was neat, I wouldn’t say it was the best one I’ve been too. (So far I’ve seen Phantom of the Opera, Rock of Ages, Wicked and Mary Poppins).

Saturday morning was an early morning, I took my girl to the salon, we had our hair done, mani and pedis. We left the salon and proceeded to grocery shop for the meal I planned. We finally got home on SAT afternoon and started to make crab bisque (this recipe was huge!!! it took me over 3 hours to make). we finally finished the receipe, grilled steaks, prepped the salad and had a few friends over for dinner and drinks.

Than at 0300 on Sunday morning, I drove back into NYC to drop my girl off at the airport. I spent Sunday doing brunch at the historic Thayer Hotel on West Point with another couple, mimosas and custom omletes were yummy! While at the hotel, we met General (Retired) Shinseki! Followed by shopping at the mall with a good friend of mine. We spent a lot of time and money on Halloween decorations. We are co-hosting a Halloween costume party at her house on Halloween! (Super excited! I will be in a masquerade ball gown, mask and all!)

Monday finally came around and I spent the day in PJs watching old movies on tv. I have to say it was a really great, packed weekend. Now, I just need a rest day to follow my weekend! LOL!

I was also happy last week was recovery week since the half took a toll on my knees. But this is a whole new week!

I will be traveling this weekend to Austin, TX! My tri kids will be competing this weekend! Go Army!

I have 12 days to the Army Ten Miler in DC, I’m pumped!

Hope you all are having a great day!

Today is a good day!

Today started off not looking good. It was cold, wet and raining. Today didn’t look too hot, but its definately changed! The sun is out and it warming up a bit. I hope it stays this way because this late afternoon, I will be on the parade field in full military dress. The Academy will be honoring the Thayer Award Recipient.

The Thayer Award is given to an outstanding citizen whose service and accomplishments in the national interest exemplify the Military Academy motto, "Duty, Honor, Country." This year’s winner is James A. Baker III. This afternoon there will be a pass and review (civilians would say parade) in his honor.

So the warm sunshine and no rain is making this a better day!

I also gave a command brief to a VIP today. I did very well and I was paid a compliment from my audience. I was told that I exemplify what a Professional Army Officer should be, that I presented my brief with confidence, poise and command presence. That was an awesome compliment this morning, I’ve been working hard in making my brief interesting and informative.

The brief I give is one over the world on the Academy, since I am not a graduate of the military academy, and have never been stationed here before, I have been learning as much as I can about the academy since July.

I hope you all are having a great day as well, tomorrow is FRIDAY!

I forgot to post the below picture the other day, but this is the medal I got for finishing the Diva Half Marathon!

Follow me on twitter OliviaNunn

Diva Half Marathon

I DID IT! I did my very first half marathon yesterday. I ran the Diva Half Marathon on Long Island, NY. It was the longest run I have ever done. My time wasn’t spectular, it took my 2 hours and 52 minutes. I averaged a 13 minute mile pace, the pace was 3 minutes per mile slower than I worked for. My knee gave out at mile 8 so for the rest of the race it was run/walk. The temperature for the race was very cold, it was 48 degrees, and most of our training had been in around 70 degrees. The wind was blowing so hard too that I thought I was going to blow away.

But, I’m glad I finished, it was the most thrilling experience. I almost broke out in tears at the finish line, I finally did a distance that I’ve been talking about for the last 3 years. I walked away from the half marathon knowing that I will never be able to do a full marathon, my knees are just about done. BUT, I may do another half a few months down the road. I also learned that I can’t zone out for 13.1 miles without music. I was humming to myself but that got old really quick.

I tried to zone out by looking at the other runners, but that didnt work either. There were over 4,000 women running this half, it was awesome! We all finished the run with a pink feather boa and a tiara. We were greeted at the finshed line with a rose and champagne. We also received an awesome finisher’s medal that was given to us by some studly firemen.

I have over 1200 photos to sort through, I should be done with them tonight and I’ll post a couple photos here.

Now, its time to get ready for the Army Ten Miler at the end of this month.

Follow me on twitter, OliviaNunn

AARRGGHH DOGS!

This morning was not a good morning! First my dog starts howling at 0400 in the morning. I thought he had to go to the bathroom, I opened the kennel and of course he just sits there. I was so mad! Than I crawled back into bed and the neighbors dog starts howling like the world was falling apart! The bad part of all of this, the stupid neighbors dog does this every Freaking morning and evening!!! I want to shot the dogs!

I finally got into the shower after missing my alarm because my sleep was sorely disturbed than realized that I missed my morning run with my group because I couldn’t remember what day of the week it was.

I came to work late because the dogs didnt want to listen and took off and I had to chase them for 45 minutes! I finally showerd, dressed and than because parking is horrible here at the academy I parked in timbuk 2!

The only good thing so far today, its been quiet at work and the sun is out after 3 days of straight rain.

I hope everyone else has had a better morning than me.

Follow me on twitter OliviaNunn

It's been awhile

Yesterday morning I didnt meet my running group, my feet hurt too much from SAT’s long run of 10.5 miles. So I took the morning off, but I finally made it into the gym!

I have really spent my time and energy on running and cycling with the tri team, so weight lifting really hasn’t been an area of focus. However, last week I decided I don’t like not lifting. I love the amount of cardio I’m getting but all that running and cycling does nothing for my figure. Well ok, it helps me maintain my weight but I want to get to weight loss and transform from flabby to tight.

I went to the gym even though I was exhausted after work, I didn’t do anything special or intense. I did bench press, incline bench, cable pull downs, pull ups, and squats. I also did my routine of core workouts that I signed up from on active.com

Today I can say I am sore, I also didn’t lift a whole lot of weight either, I could definately tell its been awhile, but I’m excited that I’m sore in a good way.

Follow me on twitter OliviaNunn

What a weekend!

Ok, let me recap this past weekend…

On Saturday morning, I got up around 0500 and got ready to run. I ran 10.5 miles with my running group, it was slow and painful. My knees and feet were swollen and the last few miles were extremely painful, but I didnt want to quit. My half marathon is this coming weekend and I am determined to finish it! My time won’t be fast but it will be an accomplishment for me.

After my run which took me 2 hours and 18 minutes. I went home and washed my dogs, they were stinky! I gave both my English Bulldog and Shih Tzu a long bath, I brushed them and than spritzed them with good smelling cologne! I than cleaned out the bathtub and scrubbed it out and disinfected the bathroom. I did a couple loads of laundry than went grocery shopping for a BBQ at a friend’s place.

Went to the BBQ, met some cadets and spoke to them about important decisions to make upon graduation from the academy. Ate a wonderful meal then took off to the Octoberfest. Hung out at the Octoberfest for a few and watched a corn eating contest.

Finally made it home and got ready for the next day.

Sunday about 0400 woke up and got ready and gook off to Westchester, NY. The West Point Tri team competed in a TRI and cleaned house! The girls and the guys won overall as well as their age groups. Finally made it home and made dinner and watched It’s Complicated.

Finally went to bed around 2200 and past out until someone who I have no idea rudely called me at 0230 in the morning!!! I was pretty much screwed from 0230 until 0530 when I had to get ready for work.

Oh we started the whole weekend on Friday by going to NYC to buy my husband a segway. Since he really can’t walk around or drive, carpooling with two different schedules is tough, so now he can commute the 1 mile from our house to the academy.

Hope you all had a great weekend! Follow me on twitter OliviaNunn

YIKES!! 1 WEEK LEFT!

So, next weekend will be my very first half marathon! I’ll be running the Diva Half on Long Island, NY. My training the past two weeks has slowed down due to too many work commitments and taking care of my husband who was unable to leave the bed.

This week I finally caught up with all of my work requirements and even got out the door this morning to run 3 miles! I feel great that I got up and ran the 3 miles. Too bad the rest of the girls that I meet didn’t show up, so it was a quiet run this morning. The only bad thing about this morning’s run is my knee. I am really excited that I decided to do this upcoming half, but it will be the longest distance that I’ve ever run. I have some bad knees but I refuse to not run.

My knee is swollen but I think it was worth it. I just hope they don’t give in with the half around the corner.

I’m so glad its Friday!!! Hope you all have a great weekend!

Follow me on twitter OliviaNunn

How did you start?

So, I have a question and would love to get responses.

In the beginning, when you first decided that you wanted to get healthy and have a ripped body; how much time and how many days in a week did you commit to the gym? Were your days filled with 2 hour gym sessions of straight lifting, or was it every other day? The last part of the question is, once you committed to the routine you liked, how long did it take you to go from flabby to ripped?

Thanks!

Meeting of the Minds at West Point

http://www.cnbc.com/id/38690591/

Above is the link to CNBC's Meeting of the Minds television show. It will air tonight the 15th of SEP at 8PM EST. In a CNBC Special, Meeting of the Minds, hosted by Maria Bartiromo from the United States Military academy at West Point, America’s greatest leaders gather to answer tough questions and chart a path forward.

Yours truly is seated in one of the backrows with the cadets. The panel discussion was interesting and very informative to our young cadets who will become the next generation of leaders for our country. You gotta watch it!

Follow me on twitter OliviaNunn

Wounded Warriors complete the IOCT

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CbepFzDH0mk

Check out the link above! It is a video of inspiring and true warrior athletes. These wounded warriors came to the United States Military Academy and conducted the IOCT (indoor obstacle course test). This test is a mandatory test for all juniors and is a requirement for graduation. This test is a very difficult physical test and watching these true athletes complete this test was beyond words.

So when you feel like giving up or giving in, just remember these warriors!

Kicking butt in Army Tri

So the West Point Triathlon team won this past weekend in DC. We took the commander’s cup for both the women’s and men’s team. We did very well against Navy and Air Force! The team is outstanding and strong this year! I am so proud to be able to mentor these awesome athletes! Go Army Tri!

Below is an excerpt from the Army Tri team’s officer in charge:

Both the Men’s and Women’s Triathlon Team dominated the other Service Academies and won the annual Commander-in-Chiefs Cup in Washington DC this weekend. On the men’s side, Romedy Murr ‘12 was spectacular, finishing 8th overall in a field of 5200 professional and elite athletes. Brendon Fox ‘11 was only 15 seconds be…hind finishing 9th overall and two minutes before the first other Academy finisher. Dan Livosi ‘12 and Nate Martins ‘11 rounded out the score sheet for Army. On the women’s side, Jessica Clay ‘14 dominated and finished five minutes ahead of any other Academy athlete. Lauren Cooper ‘11, Kelly Kingma ‘14, and Sarah Haight ‘13 gave the finishes that defeated all other Academies. Here are some photos from the rainy event. Go Army!

Wounded Warriors-source of inspiration!

Yesterday afternoon a group of wounded warriors came to West Point. They were here to participate in the IOCT (indoor obstacle course test). If you are a graduate from WP you know that this test is tough. These warriors completed the obstacle despite having missing legs and arms. These warriors showed us the meaning of being a true warrior athlete. To watch these warriors scramble under an obstacle, run through tires, jump over a horse, jump and grab a bar to climb onto a shelf, navigate across by skipping across bars, jump down, jump through a tire, run across a balance beam, scale a wall, climb a rope and run with a weighted medicine ball, than with a baton than a short sprint.

Watching these warriors was simply awe inspiring and so emotional. You couldn’t help but shed tears in the amount of dedication these warriors showed us. Despite their limitations they were determined to complete the test as quickly as they could. They showed us the true meaning of the Army’s Warrior’s Ethos.

Today I woke up and ran the longest distance yet, 9.3 miles. The last 2 miles I wanted to give in, I have been struggling with adding distance but not having my knee go out. My knee was on fire and my pace slowed down, I was about to say "I give in." However, I remembered I have nothing to complain out. I remembered that yesterday afternoon I saw a group of true warrior athletes give it their all. I told myself to shut up and keep moving out. I also remembered that today was a day to remember and not to forget. I remembered my times in Iraq and reminded myself that I am blessed to have today. I am blessed to take in a giant breath and see the beauty all around us.

So when you think you can’t give anymore, or you can’t finish your routine, just remember you have more to give because there are warrior athletes out there that have less and will accomplish more. Just remember you are blessed to share with us today.

Follow me on twitter OliviaNunn

Visitor's Center

So, West Point has a visitor's center near the academy. Its a great place that has kinda of fallen to the way side in the past years. Now, there is a new Superintendent who is very energized in getting the visitor's center up to date. I like the fact the chain of command cares to make West Point look great but live up to its reputation of a world-class academic institution.

So the past 2 weeks, I have put in a lot of time and energy in helping my boss revamp the visitor's center. I can't wait for the semi-final project and how it will look by the end of the month. However, I am flustered, I feel that many people around me just don't understand the sense of urgency or pressure that is required to get this project completed.

Every day the team that I work with has made small minor changes, but the biggest changes will happpen when we can get some paint on the walls!

I have also decided that I must delegate a lot of my current tasks and requirements to NCOs. So far they have done an extemely great job of meeting timelines and expectations.

The academy is an interesting and unique environment. The opportunity to be stationed here is great.

Its been 3 weeks

So, its been 3 weeks since I last posted. I have been keeping some what with my half marathon training plan. I am on week 6, and it looks like work will be competing with my training plan.

I plan on going into work really early each morning in order to get the things I need to do in the office done. I have a rather large project to work on at the moment.

The other news is, I am an office representative for the West Point Triathlon. This past weekend was the 21st Annual West Point Triathlon. The event went really well, even with all of my special cases. We received nothing but rave reviews. However, the team is excited about making the event even better for next year.

During race day, I heard my name so many times that I felt so popular! Ok, not really, but it was great to see that the race went well and there were smiles all the way around.

The triathlon team is busy conducting try outs, it seems like a good bunch have come out to try. We will see by the end of the week.

I have been really good at blogging on my body blog on www.bodybuilding.com

The other good news is I have been trying for a while to get an Army 10 Miler ticket! I was finally able to get a transfer in today! I am going to be running the Army 10 Miler! I am so happy! It looks like October will be two competitive and long runs for me.

I am excited!

follow me on twitter OliviaNunn

conquering hills

So, I'm half way done with week 3 training of my half marathon training plan. Let me say that this week's runs have been all hills! I truly hate hills, partial inclines or anything that more than flat! However, I can tell I'm getting faster each time and the smaller hills which I thought were mountains are becoming small inclines to me. I'm not sure if thats a good thing or a bad thing.

I will also say that if you are avid runner here at West Point, you will be able to leave from here as an accomplished hill runner because everything is a giant hill here!

I'm really excited that I joined Knight Runners. Meeting these great ladies each morning motivates me to get up out of bed. I really hate hearing my alarm go off at 0500 each morning, but I know I'm doing something good for my body.

I am definately getting the run part of my fitness and health down, but I have not figured out all the other components.

I want to be able to lift at least 3 times a week in order to drop more body fat. I also have yet to spend some serious time on my piano or learn on my new guitar! My poor guitar sits in the corner and it calls to me.

Hopefully before the school year ends I'll be able to rock out! I also hope to be able to speak some basic spanish sentences as well. I hired a house keeper who comes in every other week. She is amazing and cleans my house so well! The only issue is, I can't communicate with her because I can't speak spanish. I keep telling myself I need to learn. I am hoping now that I really need to know it might motiviate me into actually spending time.

The days at work are decent and every day is something new. The school year hasn't even started but I can't wait!

West Point fortification tour

Today I had the opportunity to tour West Point from the historical stand point. The department of History at USMA provided the tour guides. Our journey began this morning on a boat off of the Hudson River. We traveled across the river to Constitution Island.

The tour was given in chronlogical order and the events of history were covered in detail. It was nice to hear how West Point came about and why was the more important question.

Each stop during the tour explained a portion of what events and actions that took place that included the famouse traitor of all times, Benedict Arnold.

The tour took us all over the island and the main portion of West Point as well. The hisotrical lesson was well worth the time!

I also have to point out the weather was perfect! Bright, sunny, warm with a nice breeze!

The tour lasted longer than I anticipated but the information was worth listening to.

A quick lesson in history but a lot of great information for this public affairs officer!

Figuring out the dogs' schedule

So, since moving here to West Point, the dogs have been really bad. For some reason they think the kitchen and back porch is their bathroom playground! I think they are doing this to spite us and are mad at us from moving them from their dream playland in Austin.

These dogs are driving me crazy! So I'm hoping that if I add a quick walk in the morning and a long walk in the evening, they will stop being so silly! They whine all day long because for their punishment of thinking the kitchen is their waste playground; they are now in their kennels all day long. I hate the fact they are in them, but I don't know what else to do!

Besides having these great issues with the dogs, integration into the academy seems to go well. I have figured out my work schedule for the most part too include my morning runs. The part I need to figure out is my lift schedule. My timeline is getting shorter and shorter. I plan on helping out with cadet sports which means I will be committed to their practices from 4pm until 6pm. I still need to get home and make dinner for Lawrence.

Speaking of making dinner, I usually hate being in the kitchen. So far the past 2 weeks, I have managed to be in the kitchen 75 percent of the time and have made a meal. I'm not Julia Childs yet but I'm managing.

Anyone have any ideas for the dogs?

Once over USMA

Today all of the new faculty members at USMA were required to attend an all day welcome brief. It sounds tedious, but the presentations were decent. Since I wasn't a graduate of the academy it was nice to learn things about the academy that wasn't obvious to me. Also, it was important to learn these things because part of my job requires me to brief the one over the world of the academy to very important people.

The more interesting part was finding out who I did or did not know at the academy. I was surprised to see quite a few people from my past. After the formal portion was done we were able to mingle.

This one over USMA is a 2 day affair. I look forward the small group discussions we will have.

Each day that passes I find that I truly enjoy my job even more. I also find that the job is complex, diverse and fun. I am also excited to see what sports or clubs I will be able to get involve in to help mentor cadets.

Surviving the firing squad

Today was my first brief that I performed as a Public Affairs Officer for the United States Military Academy. The brief was given to various officials from various countries across the world. The brief provides an overview of West Point.

The brief went well and lasted about 35 minutes. After the brief was given the questions kept coming! I expected the questions to be easy and relative to the basic curiosity one might have the academy. However, the questions that I received were quite deep and required quite a bit of thought.

It was interesting I thought that I was able to provide a response for all but 1 question. Since I did not attend West Point, my knowledge base is currently minimal. I hope to change that quickly and know and understand West Point that the brief I give can be given without my notes.

The question and answer period lasted over 30 minutes alone! I think I did well in answering the officials questions but I know I could have done better.

I think this job is going to be extremely rewarding and I can't wait to see what else in store.

Starting my stride

Today was my first day in my training plan for the 1/2 Marathon in OCT. I only ran 3 miles this morning, but the humidity and lack of running last week really kicked my butt! The good thing from this morning run it started my day early and got me going for this new week at the academy.

I was able to update slides today for tomorrow's big brief to some very important people here at the academy. I have been rehearsing them all night and I am still very nervous in giving the presentation tomorrow. I hope all goes well tomorrow and the number of questions is minimal.

I don't know what's wrong with me, but I am smoked and the only thing I can think about is my tempurpedic bed! I'm so excited to go lay down and rest my eyes! I'm also excited that tomorrow is a day off from running, my feet aren't happy with me. However, Wednesday the training picks right back up!

I've started my second week of work and so far things are going great. I have met numerous officers and leaders that have so much to give to the academy. I am excited to be working with these great leaders to learn from them and to pass my lessons learned to the cadets.

With the number of hours that I'm going to put in with the office and training/mentoring with cadets, I have deceided that I'm getting a maid! I think a maid once a week is worth it! Now, if only I could find someone to wash my dogs and my car!

My social calendar is getting full and I have weekends with friends visiting until OCT already! I'm so excited that so many of our friends want to come visit us.

Now I just need to find time in my work and social calendar to read my novels, play the piano and actually learn to play the guitar! I'm still looking for a karaoke crew to hang with! Any singers in the West Point area?

Another great week has started! Go Army, Beat Navy!

So far at USMA

So far my job at USMA here has been going well. I am still getting to know the various offices and people associated with each. I will admit, its all very dizzy and overwhelming trying to remember the hundred of faces that I have met so far.

I am excited so far about all this new job has to offer. I am more than excited to start mentoring cadets later this year. It seems each day my calendar grows more and more packed with activites and commitments to help the CORPS!

Each day I have decided to ride my bike into work to save on trying to fight for a parking spot. The exercise is great, but I hate showing up to work soaked in sweat! Yuck! I guess I can't complain too much.

Today, a board of visitors stopped by to get an update on all the happenings at West Point. As the incoming public affiars officer I was able to observe the board of visitors and their activities today.

One of those activities took us to the qualification range. While at the range the senior cadets briefed the board of visitors about their progression of leadership and their requirements. I was very impressed with the level of maturity and ease in which these cadets displayed. I was also very impressed with the leadership presence they already seem to have and show.

Just only one week in at the Academy and I can say this, The United States Military Academy is by far the best institution for developing tomorrow's leaders. I cannot wait as my job progresses and the invovlement that I will have.

This assignment is truly and opportunity of a lifetime, a great way to help mentor, develop and shape the next generation of America's leaders!
Go Army, Beat Navy!

Cops and Violence

So, lately there seems to be quite a bit on the news with videos being captured of police hitting civilians. What I find interesting about these moments captured is what is the whole story? What was that civilian doing to provoke an assault? Why did the police feel that hitting back was the answer?

What people need to remember that a police officer is an armed service member. They might not be wearing the battle dress uniform of the military, but they are armed service members. They have taken an oath to protect the lives of our citizens and in order to do so, they are armed.

Most civilians wouldn't think to attack a military member due to the assumption that they armed, so my question is this... Why would you attack an armed police officer?

Now, by no means am I saying that an officer should react with assault, there are always other means of handling the situation. Citizens remember, police officers are there to protect and serve but don't attack them!

Rock of Ages

Yesterday on the 24th of June, my husband and I along with another couple from West Point ventured to NYC for a night of good food and company.

The afternoon began with a trip down to NYC on the Metro Train. From the Grand Central Station we caught the subway and arrived early at Buddhakahn restaurant. While waiting for the restaurant to open, we adventured to a local market and was amazed at all of the shops and bakeries. We decided to check out a small wine place and enjoyed a glass of wine with some cheese from around the world.

After our wine and cheese we headed to Buddhakahn and was greeted with a friendly staff and the atmosphere of the restaurant was very chic and modern. While we waited for our table to be set, we ordered from the bar. The bar waitress was very friendly and knowledge about various types of drinks. Our orders were quickly placed and served.

Not long after arriving we were sat at our table. The setup of the tables and the feel of the restaurant was very worldy and romantic. The lights were dimmed and candles were on every table.

Our waitress arrived promptly and provided a great source of information about what to try and order. We quickly ordered appetizers and decided on our main entrees. The restaurant is set up to be a family style where the dishes are created so you can share them.

We decided on getting 1x meat, 2x seafood, 1x chicken, and 1x rice dish. Every dish was amazing. The flavor and portion sizes were perfect in feeding 4 people. All of the dishes ordered were quickly devoured.

The food was amazing and was the best dining experience I've had in a very long time. After a great dinner and drinks we caught a cab to watch our show.

The Rock of Ages Musical was by far one of the best entertaining experiences that I've had. 80s music was blasting from the moment we arrived in the theater. Our seats were located in the front mezzanine in the center. We had an incredible view of the stage and were able to enjoy catching every part of the show.

The story is set in LA during the 80s and every song was the best from that era. The musical really drew in the audience and kept the atmosphere fun and exciting.

The narrator of the musical was an interesting character. At first his over the top dramatics seemed out of place and a bit annoying, however, 20 minutes into the performance you understand his character. The dramatics were perfect for the story and helped really push the story along.

The lead female and male performers were amazing. Not only were they talented with their stage presence but their ability to sing was amazing.

The songs were rocking the audience and when intermission came around, you couldn't help but want the second half to start immediately. The whole performance rocked from the beginning line all the way through the ending. Every song that was sung was a hit from the 80s and if you lived any part of the 80s the music took you back.

The musical finished with the best song from Journey which included the audience singing along.

When the musical finished I was sad that it was over. It was a great musical and definately worth watching again! If you lived any part of your life in the 80s, this musical is a must see and an experience you cannot miss!

a source of lesson learned

http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/37847841/ns/us_news-military/

Today the news covered the story of the top U.S. Military commander in Afghanistan. If you read the story that will be published in Friday's release of Rolling Stones, the general and his aides were quoted of their opinions about the Obama administration.

The key take away from this article as public affairs officers, we need to ensure that those lessons we learned from the school are applied.

1. Did we brief our commander that all comments regardless of when they are said, as long as media are around, will always be on the record for attribution.
2. Did we do our background research on the media personnel that will be conducting the interview or if deployed embedded with the unit.
3. Did we teach the Soldiers in our unit how to talk with the media. Did we develop media smart cards and provide them to our Soldiers?

All leaders and Soldiers in our units have a story to tell, we must ensure that we help faciliate that story to the media.

settling in

So the first half of June, my husband and I have been working to put our house together and unpack all of our stuff. I am amazed at the amount of things you can accumulate! The good thing about moving is the ability to go through your stuff and throw away things you no longer need. The best part of the move was my mom was able to spend a week with us here in West Point. Her assistance was much needed in setting up the kitchen.
I look forward to the time I have to start training again.