Monday, June 04, 2007

Organized Chaos


I finally did it! I finally dedicated a space to my running mementos. The linen closet will now double as my "running closet." Ha! I think most people put such items in their home offices... but I'd like mine to function as a real office one of these days, so I was hesitant to "clutter" it too much. And I wouldn't dream of putting this stuff in my kitchen, dining room, spare rooms, living room, etc. That left me in a quandary. At first I wanted to post it all in my own, personal clothing closet. But in order to show it off, someone would have to be a contortionist. So, the end-of-the-hall, easily-accessible linen closet seemed like the perfect spot. It's "hidden" until I want to show it off.

And just to clarify, this can best be described as my "since being married running mementos closet." I ran a few 5K's before I got married, but nothing more. And I didn't keep any of the loot (except the t-shirts). So this closet really is a testament to my husband, as well. I don't know if I would have ever had the *oomph* to train for my first half-marathon without his love and support. That medal is the one on the left. Notice how I have more hooks on the right for future medals! And, I have another closet down the hall when I outgrow this one.

Ain't life grand? :-)

6 comments:

Maddy said...

I love it! What a clever solution!

MarathonChris said...

Cool! A nice big space for all the races coming up :-)

Unknown said...

So this closet really is a testament to my husband, as well.

We all know that Chasen ROCKS!

CewTwo said...

Everybody needs a place to put his or her personal affirmations. Losing weight was really tough for me. As I progressed at it, I would take pictures of my new size and ability. I placed them on a clear piece of Plexiglas in front of the treadmill. That sure helped! As I ran, I would look at the pictures and knew that I was achieving something (and not in a minor way).

Achievements are similar (for me, at least), as they can grow from the affirmations of attaining a goal. I had set my mind on losing weight, exercising more and becoming a better person for it. Now, I can apply what I have achieved toward another goal. I do have my first bib number and T-shirt.

I could never use a closet door. I have never learned how to keep a neat, clean, organized closet. This may date me a bit, but my closets are all like those as experienced in the Fibber McGee and Molly household from the golden age of radio (you can hear them still at www.otrnow.com). Some are even podcasts and work for a run (I tend to laugh and have people around staring at me).

Great idea!

Cory said...

Awesome idea! I am setting up my closet now.

Petraruns said...

Hey Susan - that looks fantastic and is something to be so proud of! And it's great that you think of it as a double effort - it takes more than one person to do these things.. Have you sent a copy for Terry to post on Catch me if you can?