Who Are We and Why Are We Headed for Shamrock?

We met online in 2005 trying to--what else--lose weight. We've had our ups and downs along the way, but we're not where we want to be. This is our journey to get fit and healthy. We invite you to follow us as we "exercise" our way across the country--track our progress on the map to Shamrock below-- in an effort to each lose 50 pounds by the end of 2009 and adopt a healthier lifestyle along the road.

Where will we go once we reach our goals? The sky's the limit... but we're thinking Greece would be nice.

Thursday, January 15, 2009

Ode to Oakland

Today my virtual journey took me through Oakland, Ca (check out the map to the right to track our journey to Shamrock). I won't lie, Oakland is not my favorite place on earth. Maybe it gets a bad rap. I don't know. Anyway, I wrote it a poem to commemorate my "leaving" it.


Oh Oakland, birthplace of my mother's father, how I do not love to visit you.

Your freeways heading in every direction confuse me. Your streets leave me lost and wondering through unfamiliar neighborhoods. But wait, what is this? From the hills to your east you offer the most amazing views of San Francisco, the bay, and the bridges that cross it. Perhaps I have been unfair in judging you. You are home to some gorgeous art deco buildings and beautiful craftsman houses. Yes, you have had ups and downs. You were born of the gold rush, you offered shelter to thousands after the Great Quake, and you provided for our country in a time of war. For years you have struggled, but are trying to improve in many ways.


Oh Oakland, city of confusing freeways, I do not like to drive in you. But perhaps I will visit you again some day soon...or simply pass through you in my locked car on the way to the airport.


2 comments:

  1. So profound. So moving. And keeping the car locked would be a good idea, considering the current climate!

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  2. Pretty nice, huh? Now I know what I'll do if I get laid off...

    ReplyDelete