Ok, I am sorry it has been so long since my last blog post. Not that you are all waiting on pins & needles for a new post, but it helps me to get this stuff off my chest and on to this virtual message board.
I feel like I'm just about over the Christmas holiday hangover, just in time for New Year's! I have not been weighing myself, as per Janelle's request. I have been eating all the holiday goodies, just like the rest of you, but in more moderation I feel than in years past.
We did not run over the holiday, and I didn't allow myself to beat myself up about that...we were busy! We were able to spend time with family and friends and enjoy the many blessings that we count at this special time of year. Christmas Eve Eve I made up a hair appointment that I had cancelled because of Jingle Bell 5K #2. As always, that made me feel fantastic! Afterward, as Shawn enjoyed a few drinks with some old friends, I went shopping. Yes, shopping on Christmas Eve Eve...and not for our friends or family members - my shopping had been complete weeks ago. As all of our gifts were wrapped and nestled under our tree I shopped for myself!
Now, all of my friends know that I have a love of luxury goods - specifically handbags and jewelry. But when it comes to actually buying myself something, I'm a bargain shopper through and through (thanks Brenda), and am especially hesitant to buy new clothes when I feel like I'm heavier than I should be. Besides, have you seen some of the clothes they try to get plus sized people to wear?!
That night, however, be it because I've been running for more weeks than I can recall off the top of my head or divine intervention, everything I tried on FIT! Oh - and was on sale :).
Two pair of work pants, a festive red v-neck sweater, a pair of dress boots, a bargain pair of Chaps Mary Jane Wedges, socks and some lacy panties (remember - still on the salon/hairgasm high), all for $140! Wait, I forgot to mention the Fila reflective pink and gray long sleeved shirt - yep, I actually tried on and bought a running shirt that night, I think a tide is turning.
Christmas Eve itself I experienced the first injury of this journey, and remarkably enough it wasn't due to running. You see we gathered at mom's as we always do on Christmas Eve and as I attempted to scale a baby gate (for the dogs, there are no babies), in said new pants, sparkly sweater and dress boots, I realized that the baby gate was attached to NOTHING. That's right, that sucker was just floating in the hallway, and decided to fall, and soon, so did I (thanks again Brenda). Yep, I bit the dust in my cute new outfit, thankfully the glass of wine I had just consumed lessened the blow. The next morning it was sore, and bruised, and swollen, and I doubted that a run would have even been possible, had our schedule allowed.
So we enjoyed the rest of our Christmas festivities and by Tuesday evening the knee was good as new.
We ran Old Farm Ln. I ran most of what I think is a mile. The Pandora and the new Droid Running app both crapped out, however Shawn got me some super cute Sony ear buds that are pink and sparkly and fit perfectly in my ears and do not budge during my work-out! So we now know that my inner ears aren't deformed, but this girl with a Master's Degree has yet to find a way to get her SMART PHONE to do three things at once.
Today is Thursday and if I have ever had touch of the runner's high that you running fanatics speak of - it was today. I got out of work a little early, and as I neared my house I realized that it was still day light out and still 43 degrees! Mind you, I don't think it has been this warm during any of my runs! So I rushed inside, let the dogs out and called Shawn - I was hoping that he wouldn't mind if I got ready and ran without him - who was I kidding? Of course he didn't. Fed the dogs, dug out my Adidas warm up pants with zipper pockets, a regular long sleeved tee, jacket, socks, shoes, and I was out the door. I was so great not having to lug the gloves, ear warmer, etc. Oh, I also took the ipod, this running without music business had to end!
Got to the track before sunset, set the ipod to shuffle and zipped it in pocket #1, stretched, then found my starting point on the track, started the stopwatch on the (new) Droid, and placed the phone in pocket #2 and was off. It had been weeks since I had run at the squishy track and I had forgotten how nice and FLAT it was. Not that long ago, I was only running a 1quarter mile lap before slowing to walk and catch my breath. That was several weeks and two 5K's ago though...tonight, in the near perfect temps, the first lap came easy, then the second, then the third. I was focused on my breathing and the was able to drown out everything else (including the sounds of my belabored breaths) with my sweet sweet music. I'm pretty sure the last lap was run on sheer momentum and I felt amazing. I reached for pocket #2 ready to stop the stopwatch and revel in a good time AND a fully run mile to find that, of course, the stopwatch had stopped when the new phone went into sleep mode...son of a B&$%@! It was around 12 minutes, that's about as exact as I can get knowing what time it was when I started.
Regardless, I had accomplished something major. In 8 or so weeks I had gone from struggling to run one lap to running an entire mile without dying! I had done this without Shawn, without my "coach" running beside me, coaxing me to carry on, this victory was my own...but I still had to call someone! Once I stopped myself from full out crying as I crossed the "finish", I tried to call Janelle as I walked my cool down half mile. She was probably enjoying her tottie time as I struggled to compose myself and catch my breath. Shawn, however, picked up! I've got some work to do before I can catch up with his progress, but I am so glad that I can share these mini milestones with him.
Saturday is New Year's Day, and weather/hang-over permitting, we'll be out running. My vote is the squishy track!
Thursday, December 30, 2010
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
HO HO HOpe for me yet!
In the time since my last blog there have been a few mini milestones.
1) I completed my 2nd consecutive 5K in two weeks
2) My husband completed his FIRST EVER 5K
3) I was able to run an entire mile without stopping to walk
4) And the big one...I've not given up!
This "challenge" began 11/7/10 and my first official run/walk was 11/8/10. We are at December 12/21/10 - we are seven weeks (and how many runs Nelly?) in. I feel pretty great about the fact that we're still going strong, though it is still a chore somedays to get the work-outs in. I NEVER would have guessed that I would agree to two 5K's in two weeks, nor did I ever imagine that Shawn would be joining me for so many of my morning or evening runs OR agree himself to the participate in last Saturday's race.
This past weekend's race was not what I would call fun, but another accomplishment for us. Janelle a.k.a Drill Sargeant, a.k.a coach, met us around 8:30 AM and we made our way to the race site. We had plenty of time to kill as this race was much smaller in size than the last and we had again pre-registered. Janelle decided that rather than wait in the warmth of the car that she would go ahead a run the course before the race started, Shawn and I walked a lap to warm up. The course itself was laid out nicely and I think we'll have to spend some more time there in the Spring. Shawn took off ahead of Janelle and I once the race began. It wasn't very long until we were again lapped by the race leaders.
I felt pretty good though, starting out, Janelle acredited that to the fact that I hadn't ran the Thursday evening prior - again, I am a fair weather runner, and there was snow covering Old Farm that evening. About half way through the first mile I began to feel as if I could run the entire mile without slowing to walk. Once I mentioned that to Nelly - it was on. Her sole job became encouraging me to keep it up until we reached that neon "1 Mile" sign. And I did. It felt great. I walked for a while and began to shed layers like an onion - I still dress to warmly for these races, but it's cold out there! Janelle, being the awesome sister that she is, would hold my gloves, ear warmer, extra long sleeve shirt as I undressed on the course and was determined to keep us on track to beat our previous time, which we did!
We finished right around 42 minutes Saturday, and along the way, I even encouraged another runner to stay with us and run to the finish...she almost made it. As we rounded the corner to the finish line I saw my adorable husband waiting for us. He'd finished about 6 minutes ahead of us - I told you he was a closet running machine. And as I huffed and puffed, getting myself calmed - he hugged and kissed me and once again professed his pride in my accomplishments. Yeah, I'm a lucky gal.
After the race we headed to the shiny diner as the loot at this inagural race didn't compare to the prior weeks. I was thankful for this time with my husband and sister, though I wasn't on board with her New Year's Day 5K in Baltimore plan. I was again thankful too, that I was off the hook for at least another few days until I was running again.
That brings us to tonight. I was a reluctant runner tonight, I just feel so rushed and fatigued this time of year. Parties, shopping, wrapping, baking, it's all catching up to me it seems. But we got out there for a run on our street. I was feeling pretty good the first half mile or so. It wasn't terribly cold tonight, and Sean Kingston's "Fire Burning" blared in my ears. After the song ended, so did the music for the rest of the work-out. I finished the mile, though. I probably walked for a 1/4 of it. I walked another 1/2 mile afterwards before meeting up with Shawn and heading in to make dinner. My time - 13:47.
I'm again off for a day, and am thinking a return to the track might be in order for Thursday morning. We'll see about a Christmas run....I won't beat myself up about it too bad if we don't get out there as I know the track will be right there waiting for us on Tuesday.
The best way to eat an elephant? One bite at a time. 13.1 might seem like a lifetime away, but as recent history has proven, there's ho ho hope for me yet!
2) My husband completed his FIRST EVER 5K
3) I was able to run an entire mile without stopping to walk
4) And the big one...I've not given up!
This "challenge" began 11/7/10 and my first official run/walk was 11/8/10. We are at December 12/21/10 - we are seven weeks (and how many runs Nelly?) in. I feel pretty great about the fact that we're still going strong, though it is still a chore somedays to get the work-outs in. I NEVER would have guessed that I would agree to two 5K's in two weeks, nor did I ever imagine that Shawn would be joining me for so many of my morning or evening runs OR agree himself to the participate in last Saturday's race.
This past weekend's race was not what I would call fun, but another accomplishment for us. Janelle a.k.a Drill Sargeant, a.k.a coach, met us around 8:30 AM and we made our way to the race site. We had plenty of time to kill as this race was much smaller in size than the last and we had again pre-registered. Janelle decided that rather than wait in the warmth of the car that she would go ahead a run the course before the race started, Shawn and I walked a lap to warm up. The course itself was laid out nicely and I think we'll have to spend some more time there in the Spring. Shawn took off ahead of Janelle and I once the race began. It wasn't very long until we were again lapped by the race leaders.
I felt pretty good though, starting out, Janelle acredited that to the fact that I hadn't ran the Thursday evening prior - again, I am a fair weather runner, and there was snow covering Old Farm that evening. About half way through the first mile I began to feel as if I could run the entire mile without slowing to walk. Once I mentioned that to Nelly - it was on. Her sole job became encouraging me to keep it up until we reached that neon "1 Mile" sign. And I did. It felt great. I walked for a while and began to shed layers like an onion - I still dress to warmly for these races, but it's cold out there! Janelle, being the awesome sister that she is, would hold my gloves, ear warmer, extra long sleeve shirt as I undressed on the course and was determined to keep us on track to beat our previous time, which we did!
We finished right around 42 minutes Saturday, and along the way, I even encouraged another runner to stay with us and run to the finish...she almost made it. As we rounded the corner to the finish line I saw my adorable husband waiting for us. He'd finished about 6 minutes ahead of us - I told you he was a closet running machine. And as I huffed and puffed, getting myself calmed - he hugged and kissed me and once again professed his pride in my accomplishments. Yeah, I'm a lucky gal.
After the race we headed to the shiny diner as the loot at this inagural race didn't compare to the prior weeks. I was thankful for this time with my husband and sister, though I wasn't on board with her New Year's Day 5K in Baltimore plan. I was again thankful too, that I was off the hook for at least another few days until I was running again.
That brings us to tonight. I was a reluctant runner tonight, I just feel so rushed and fatigued this time of year. Parties, shopping, wrapping, baking, it's all catching up to me it seems. But we got out there for a run on our street. I was feeling pretty good the first half mile or so. It wasn't terribly cold tonight, and Sean Kingston's "Fire Burning" blared in my ears. After the song ended, so did the music for the rest of the work-out. I finished the mile, though. I probably walked for a 1/4 of it. I walked another 1/2 mile afterwards before meeting up with Shawn and heading in to make dinner. My time - 13:47.
I'm again off for a day, and am thinking a return to the track might be in order for Thursday morning. We'll see about a Christmas run....I won't beat myself up about it too bad if we don't get out there as I know the track will be right there waiting for us on Tuesday.
The best way to eat an elephant? One bite at a time. 13.1 might seem like a lifetime away, but as recent history has proven, there's ho ho hope for me yet!
Tuesday, December 14, 2010
One Jingle Bell Down, One to Go...
Well, I survived the Jingle Bell Walk/Run 5k! I have attached some pictures courtesy of my coach/drill sgt./excited sibling. The race itself was not that bad. Of course, I say that now, good thing there wasn't a laptop at my disposal as I crossed the finish line!I made it to the race location early - registration began at 8:30 AM and I arrived soon after. I was a good pupil and did not partake in my morning coffee or cigarette (ok, so I haven't completely broken up with the cigs - it's more like one of those on again/off again dysfunctional relationships, but I'm trying!). I arrived before Nelly, Joy-ous and two of their students who also believe that running is fun. I picked up our race packets and turned in ANOTHER $30 thanks to my friends at Dentsply (yay!!), and went back to my car to warm myself before we began. It was cold on Saturday, about 27 degrees. I was less nervous about the chill in the air than actually completing this thing. I mean, I knew I would finish, but I didn't want to be dead last, I didn't want to look ridiculous, I didn't want to sprain or twist anything, I didn't want to disappoint Janelle. I mean, I had only ever completed one of these before and that was YEARS ago! We suited up once the sis & co joined me. She brought the hats and the Jingle Bells for our shoes laces. I brought the garland, the snowflake earrings I made and the knee high socks (well, calf high socks for me). We posed for pictures and then made the necessary adjustments. 1) The earrings had to go - they were way more obtrusive than originally thought. 2) So was the garland - Janelle wrapped hers around her waist, I left mine in the car. 3) The gloves I brought weren't really doing the trick so Nelly-bell lent me hers. 4) The ear covering/headband thingy was a must!
We started towards the back of the "running" group. There were walkers there, a few with their make up done, cute, warm looking outfits and coffees in their hands, I was envious - they brought up the rear and looked happy doing so. There were also dogs, I'm still not sure how my little puffballs would handle 3.2 miles of run/walking. Joy and the two girls that tagged along ran a good bit ahead of us for the entire race. It was just Nelly & I, and well, I ended up being quite the captive audience during the trot. You see, for once, I couldn't get a word in edgewise - not because I had nothing to say (let's face it, that's never been a problem), but because I literally couldn't speak between belabored breaths...in through the nose, out through the mouth...
We did a pretty good job of running, I would say that we ran at least 1/2 of the 5k (easily). She allowed me to power-walk up the hill(s) and allowed me to decide when I was ready to run again. About half the way through the race we were lapped by the race leaders. I took comfort in the fact that we were not "dead last" - though it turned out that only 6 official runners crossed the finish line after us. The official time was 42:45. We beat Joy's anticipated time for us by over two minutes. When Janelle had me figure the split (that's an official running term, I'm told), it came out to about 13:25 per mile, which I was happy with. That time is right about what I'm averaging at home on my own, and I don't run/walk more than a mile at a time! I can't let myself forget that this was only something like my 14th run, either.
One thing they don't tell you about is the loot after the race. There was literally a lady with an armful of donuts waiting near the finish line. There was Starbucks coffee - THANK GOD - fruit, cheese, granola bars, candy canes, etc. We had gotten a long sleeved tee and Santa Hat with the race enrollment too. I must say, it was pretty funny watching all of those Santa hats bob up and down as the runners started off that day. Before we left I stumbled across a postcard announcing a mirror image of the Harrisburg race in York the following weekend. I showed it to Janelle because I was thinking, "why in the hell did I have to get up and drive to Harrisburg to torture myself when I could have waited a week, slept in a bit and been a lot closer to home when I was done the race and ready for a nap?!" The plan kind of back-fired though when she suggested we all do it all over again the following weekend, and this time Shawn (my husband), and Sophie (her Golden Retriever) should join us.
Yep, I agreed. Am I becoming one of those addicted runner types? No. Am I happy that I can accomplish something outside of my comfort zone that I set my mind to? Yes. Is it also a plus that I will see my sister twice in two weeks (no matter how annoying she can be early in the morning, on race day especially). Shawn too, has agreed to join me, and while we are still on the fence about whether or not we will talk the doggies along, we can at the very least feel good about the fact that we have at this point raise nearly $200 for the Arthritis foundation. Again, thank you to those who have donated to my this wonderful cause and my silly quest. And there is that time that we need to beat...
In other news, I have made the executive decision to begin a Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday training schedule based largely on the fact that I'm now running a 5k every Saturday. We ran tonight, again on Old Farm Lane, my time tonight was 13:40 and it was as cold as it has been since I began this journey. My cheeks were stung by the wind and 20 degree temps. I'm pretty sure that the tears that streamed down my face, froze there. But I'm not sick, I'm not too sore, and I'm feeling pretty good about my progress, though I'd be lying if I said I wasn't looking forward to a day off tomorrow.
Thursday, December 9, 2010
Baby Steps
cause for celebration is that I have braved some pretty cold temps this week, and feel good about that. Last night I heard the low was going to be 17 degrees! We ran around 7PM and I'm guessing we were right around 28 degrees, but the wind chill was stinging. Shawn ran nearly an entire mile before stopping to walk - I am so envious of him!
Once we both completed our mile We gave each other a high 5 and walked probably another 1/4 - 1/2 mile on our street :). I do love our little neighborhood. It's fairly well lit and not heavily traveled, and really, after a long day at work and commute home, who wants to load back in the car to go to the track...I will say this though - the ground is hard! Ugh, I've got a dull ache today in both legs, but I'm guessing this is par for the course and am grateful to not have sprained anything or injured myself thus far. I'm proud of what I'm accomplishing, even if my progress is slow.
I went against my coach's advice and weighed myself this morning. Is it actually possible that after 5 weeks of running 3 times a week, and all of the activity these past few weeks, that I gained 3lbs?! What the hell! I was ready to pitch the damned scale this morning, but decided against it. Here's what I do know, my scale probably could use a re-set, and both times I've weighed myself since this journey began has been in the poorly lit early AM light of my bedroom. And I didn't write down the first figure - mostly because I was scared of it, so maybe I remembered it wrong too...either way, it looks like I need to be a little more conscious of what I'm eating heading into holiday party season, not that this is ANY different from any other year. God bless all of you who live each day without food/weight issues - you really have no idea how lucky you are!
Two days til the Jingle Bell - and while my sister is uber-excited, I am moderately terrified. There are two, well three pluses for me with this 5k: 1) I don't have to run Friday 2) I get to design cute outfits for us 3) I've raised $ 120 for a good cause.
And now, a word from the boss:
Can you believe it's been 5 weeks of running already...and 13 runs? You are really doing well. I am super excited for Saturday and if things go well, I think we should look for some more 5K and maybe 10K races in the near future. It will certainly be good time for us to be together. Much love~
Did she say 10K?!
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
T-minus 4...
This is the best time of the year to sing Christmas Carols, this is the best time of the year to shop the holiday sales, this is the best time of the year to bake cookies, attend parties, and drink milled wine - but I cannot get on board with this being the best time of the year to run outside. Hmpf.
Yesterday was of course Monday, and I did a pretty good job of running myself ragged this past weekend. Saturday was NYC, mom and I hoofed our way from East to West side like old pros. I was proud of the fact that we did not take a cab, carriage, rickshaw, bus or subway ALL day. That had to count for some of those off day exercise bonus points. Sunday was haircut, a jewelry open house with Michele - and then, who can stop at just a jewelry open house, we hit up Target and Kohl's for good measure and some gifts...oh, and Jingle Bell Walk/Run garb of course!
I thought you all would be more forthcoming in your suggestions for ridiculous holiday attire for me to wear during the 5K this Saturday, but with only a weeks notice we had to get busy on the outfits.
Janelle, aka Coach, aka drill Sargent picked us up some pink Santa hats. And while I loved the idea of wearing a tree skirt - 1) it's festive, 2) it would cover my spandex covered bootie - and I DID find pink and purple sequined tree skirts at Target, they were $30 ea. and I just couldn't justify the cost.
So plan B includes some pink and purple argyle knee socks, some white garland with tiny colored ornaments on it - to drape, or make like a necklace, and some pink snowflake ornaments that I intend to fashion earrings for us out of. There will of course, also be pigtails. I think that is sufficient. Still not sure what I'm wearing underneath all that. Runners, please, what can I wear to cover my behind? I can't rock just these leggings in public - help! I would also appreciate any pre-race suggestions, stretches, warm ups, snacks, drinks, etc. Coach, if you are reading this, you are slacking! The only thing you have made clear is no coffee or cigarettes... :).
Last night it was around 30 degrees here and since I did not get my butt out of bed earlier enough yesterday A.M. I had to brave the cooler temps and that crazy wind chill alone (hubs was at class). Making things easier, however, was the package that was waiting for me when I got in the door. An old high school friend has been reading my blog and was generous enough to send me a pair of Under Armor leggings and two Under Armor turtlenecks along with a note of encouragement. Lord help me, I was excited to see running gear, if only in the hopes that it would keep my butt, well, and the rest of me, warmer.
I ran a mile on Old Farm last night, tracked the course in my car ahead of time. My apps - the running log and Pandora decided to just stop mid run/walk, so it was a lonely, cold, work-out. I guestimate my time to have been around 15 minutes. To run/walk on the road and not the squishy, supportive track at the high school makes a big difference in my time as well as how bad my legs hurt afterwards. I must say, I'm not looking forward to this 5K on Saturday...I'm going to need a hot bath to thaw and rest my muscles in for sure.
Friday, December 3, 2010
Jingle Bell Bootcamp
Hello hello blog followers - I am in a great mood (currently) because 1) it's Friday 2) my run/walk is out of the way for the day and 3) things are really starting to feel festive!
This morning was down right frigid, but we made it to the track before the sun did. I actually double layered the pants today, I do not have an actual temp reading but I can tell you it was below 30 degrees and an my eyes and nose were running plenty enough to prove it. Good thing for me I did load up the pockets with tissues before we left the house. Yes, WE, Shawn was again along for the morning run. He ran practically an entire mile before slowing to walk, he doesn't track his time, but I think he's doing just amazing with this.
It also makes it nice that, he too, hates to run and it's kind of like this camaraderie that we've developed as we "suffer" through this.
I was determined to push myself a bit more this AM (reasoning to follow). I ran the first full lap, and rather than slow to a walk at the end of that lap, I ran a bit further today, another 1/4 length of the track. I finished out that lap walking, ran the third, then walked the fourth only until the half way point, then ran to the end. My time reflected the extra effort - 12:51. Shawn and I then walked another lap to cool down (strange, since it was freezing out) a bit before heading home.
And while I'm happy to be finished for the week, my sister presented me with yet another challenge - that's right, the girl is about out of challenges if you ask me...but this was more of a challenge/bribe so I relented.
Next Saturday morning, instead of sleeping in before the Killian Christmas Party, I will be participating in a Jingle Bell Run/Walk 5K for Arthritis. My sister paid the $ 15 entry fee and has stated that if I do this Saturday, I will not have to run on Friday morning, she also said that she would stay with me, and of course the run was benefiting a good cause. It was too tempting to turn down.
Here is the info. she sent to me:
2010 Jingle Bell Run/Walk®
Harrisburg, PA
Saturday, December 11, 2010
Registration Begin at 8:30 AM
5K Race Begins at 10 AM
Be there with bells on!
Get in the spirit this holiday season at the Arthritis Foundation’s Jingle Bell Run/Walk for Arthritis®. Be one of the thousands of runners and walkers who hit the nation’s pavements, pathways and parks this winter to fight arthritis, the nation’s most common cause of disability.
Jingle Bell Run/Walk® is a fun and festive way to kick off your holidays by helping others! Wear a holiday themed costume. Tie jingle bells to your shoelaces. Run or walk a 5 kilometer route with your team members and celebrate the season by giving.
Harrisburg, PA
Saturday, December 11, 2010
Registration Begin at 8:30 AM
5K Race Begins at 10 AM
Be there with bells on!
Get in the spirit this holiday season at the Arthritis Foundation’s Jingle Bell Run/Walk for Arthritis®. Be one of the thousands of runners and walkers who hit the nation’s pavements, pathways and parks this winter to fight arthritis, the nation’s most common cause of disability.
Jingle Bell Run/Walk® is a fun and festive way to kick off your holidays by helping others! Wear a holiday themed costume. Tie jingle bells to your shoelaces. Run or walk a 5 kilometer route with your team members and celebrate the season by giving.
So I'm all signed up and ready to roll. I get an e-mail from the people at the Jingle Bell Boot Camp, I mean Run/Walk, to e-mail to family friends so that they can join me or support me in this effort. Much to my surprise, $ 120 has already been raised in my name. YOU PEOPLE ARE FANTASTIC!
Because you have been so supportive and wonderful, I am open to "suggestions"/donations for my Jingle Bell Boot Camp, er Run/Walk, costume...just remember, I'm not the best runner so let's not impede my efforts too much. I was thinking pigtails...I love a good excuse to wear pigtails.
Have a great weekend, thank you Uncle Tom, and thanks to the rest of you, you really do motivate me everyday. I'll write more next week, though I plan on getting in quite the work out tomorrow - Brenda and I are hitting NYC for a day of shopping :).
Thursday, December 2, 2010
Back in town and back in the saddle...
As you know, we left last Tuesday night for a mini vacation to Williamsburg over Thanksgiving. The trip there took us SEVEN hours, which is basically twice the time it was "supposed" to take. The dogs traveled well with us, but we were all thoroughly exhausted by the time we reached our destination, got checked-in and un-loaded. The Williamsburg Plantation was great, we ended up with an additional bed and bath, and the master bath, in all its enormity, with the super sized jacuzzi tub almost made me forget about the treacherous trip down.
Now, you also know that my current run/walk schedule is Monday, Wednesday , Friday (though I've already been warned that a Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, Sunday schedule is in my near future). So even though it was after 2 AM until I was nestled all snug in my bed, I knew what I had to do a little later that morning. When we checked in I did something I have never in my life done - asked where the gym was! Usually I ask where the spa is, but this was an altogether different vacation. I slept lightly, thinking about the work-out, thinking about what I wanted to see & do in Williamsburg, and was up & at 'em before 9 AM.
Shawn was not happy about the fact that I was up so early but I explained to him that I just wanted to get it over with. He drove to Williamsburg, and I can't drive a stick shift (I know, I know), so I walked to the gym at the clubhouse and eventually found myself a treadmill. The gym was HOT, full of sweaty vacationers and the roaring fire outside in the lobby did not help my cause. I was about 1/2 way through my run when I saw a familiar face in the glass door at the Gym...yep - the hubby got his behind out of bed and ALSO walked to the Clubhouse. He finished his run outside, I got it done in 14:30, it was dreadful, I was so tired, (and did I mention hot?)...but it was done!
Our days in Williamsburg were packed with sightseeing and LOTS of walking, by the time Friday rolled around our legs and feet were killing us even though we were doing a regular soak in 'cuzzi with full jets blazing.
We decided to take the dogs with us and do our run/walk in the development which we were staying in. Shawn believed a course he charted was just a mile. We walked most of it, our aching feet were having little more, and finished up in 15:36. We got plenty of exercise on our trip - and eating out on Thanksgiving didn't really allow for us to stuff ourselves, so that worked in my favor too :).
I wish I could feel completely happy about the last week, but on Monday morning, back at home, in the coziness of my own bed, and still suffering from vacation-hangover, I didn't run. Neither of us flinched when the alarm went off, it wasn't going to happen. Yesterday morning we also stayed in bed due to the monsoon like conditions outside our bedroom window, but made a resolve that we would get our butts outside last night. Rather than go to the track, Shawn thought we should run up and down our long, fairly flat street and see how many "laps" equaled a mile.
Now I can say that I've finally figured out how to use my Running Log app with the GPS feature, the only problem(s) - it updates the distance when it feels like it, and the distance is read in Kilometers. Shawn downloaded a free app on his phone, only to find after the run/walk that it read in footsteps, well feet, yes really, feet. So, about 18:20 min in, we absolutely completed a mile, which we think is somewhere between 3 & 4 trips down the street. When I did the conversion on my laptop, I think I was around 1.3 miles. At any rate, it felt good to get back out there, not physically, but the guilt is gone!
Now, you also know that my current run/walk schedule is Monday, Wednesday , Friday (though I've already been warned that a Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday, Sunday schedule is in my near future). So even though it was after 2 AM until I was nestled all snug in my bed, I knew what I had to do a little later that morning. When we checked in I did something I have never in my life done - asked where the gym was! Usually I ask where the spa is, but this was an altogether different vacation. I slept lightly, thinking about the work-out, thinking about what I wanted to see & do in Williamsburg, and was up & at 'em before 9 AM.
Shawn was not happy about the fact that I was up so early but I explained to him that I just wanted to get it over with. He drove to Williamsburg, and I can't drive a stick shift (I know, I know), so I walked to the gym at the clubhouse and eventually found myself a treadmill. The gym was HOT, full of sweaty vacationers and the roaring fire outside in the lobby did not help my cause. I was about 1/2 way through my run when I saw a familiar face in the glass door at the Gym...yep - the hubby got his behind out of bed and ALSO walked to the Clubhouse. He finished his run outside, I got it done in 14:30, it was dreadful, I was so tired, (and did I mention hot?)...but it was done!
Our days in Williamsburg were packed with sightseeing and LOTS of walking, by the time Friday rolled around our legs and feet were killing us even though we were doing a regular soak in 'cuzzi with full jets blazing.
We decided to take the dogs with us and do our run/walk in the development which we were staying in. Shawn believed a course he charted was just a mile. We walked most of it, our aching feet were having little more, and finished up in 15:36. We got plenty of exercise on our trip - and eating out on Thanksgiving didn't really allow for us to stuff ourselves, so that worked in my favor too :).
I wish I could feel completely happy about the last week, but on Monday morning, back at home, in the coziness of my own bed, and still suffering from vacation-hangover, I didn't run. Neither of us flinched when the alarm went off, it wasn't going to happen. Yesterday morning we also stayed in bed due to the monsoon like conditions outside our bedroom window, but made a resolve that we would get our butts outside last night. Rather than go to the track, Shawn thought we should run up and down our long, fairly flat street and see how many "laps" equaled a mile.
Now I can say that I've finally figured out how to use my Running Log app with the GPS feature, the only problem(s) - it updates the distance when it feels like it, and the distance is read in Kilometers. Shawn downloaded a free app on his phone, only to find after the run/walk that it read in footsteps, well feet, yes really, feet. So, about 18:20 min in, we absolutely completed a mile, which we think is somewhere between 3 & 4 trips down the street. When I did the conversion on my laptop, I think I was around 1.3 miles. At any rate, it felt good to get back out there, not physically, but the guilt is gone!
Monday, November 22, 2010
I think I can, I think I can...
I'll start by saying that I feel it's a huge accomplishment that I have done the walk/run thing every Mon., Wed., & Fri. thus far. Let me also say that every morning when that alarm goes off I consider turning it off and going back to sleep. And since I'm being honest, I can also state that once I get to the school parking lot and stare at that track, I have to take a moment to convince myself to get out of the car and go do the damned thing.
I'm about the most reluctant runner in history...but I'm doing it.
This week, however, could prove challenging. Of course it is Thanksgiving, yay for carbohydrate overload and all things in excess! Further complicating things would be that Shawn and I leave tomorrow for Williamsburg. I know that there is a gym near our condo, and I have been assured by my sister-coach that there are plenty of flat areas that would suit us just fine for our Wednesday and Friday jaunts. But we'll be on vacation! We like to travel, we like to explore, we like to eat, drink, and be merry on our little excursions and who can blame us?! Work hard/play hard is the motto at the Hawks Nest ;).
I think it could be a challenge to get Shawn on board with a vacation work-out, though I've already begun laying the groundwork. Last night I commented about how nice it will be to not have to wake up at 6:00 AM for our walk/runs, since we won't have work we can head out whenever we feel like it. I also noted that though the temps are supposed to start getting down right frigid, we have the option of the mid-day run so it won't be so bad! Of course I'm saying these things to convince myself of them as well...but I also know me, and if he doesn't feel the urge to join me for my mile those days, it will be positively brutal trying to get my butt out and moving on my own.
I'm fairly confident that I can run but can't hide from the sister-coach though. It's quite possible that she'll call every day of our trip. 1) Because she loves Williamsburg and gave me a detailed list of places to visit, wine to consume, and Pottage Pie to be eaten. 2) She doesn't want me to slack off...
She may also want gear updates. That's right, she gifted to me some LL Bean runner duds yesterday. Some legging things that I was certain no person of my size was to wear by themselves in public, a second skin long sleeved pullover with holes in the wrist cuffs, (you know, like those goth kids used to do to their shirts), and some socks which are to be far superior to the good old fashioned athletic socks I've been wearing. She assured me that my Nike's are fine (for now), and encouraged me to continue to wear the Columbia fleece that's been getting a major work-out in its own right these days.
So this morning, I put it all on, and when I completed the practically ALL BLACK ensemble with my black beanie I was in straight up prowler mode! I'm serious, I looked like a thug...well, except I don't know if common thieves wear clothing that tight. I was almost glad Shawn stayed home today and was half-asleep when I left. He only got a shadowy, squinty eyed view of his lovely wife this morning. Cat-Woman I'm not!
My time this morning was 13:31 and I don't know if it was the special, leaves nothing to the imagination, "gear" that I was wearing or what - but I felt a little better out there this AM. I was also thankful that it was the lightest of mists today, again, not sure I'm ready for those adverse conditions.
This could potentially be the last blog of the week, as I doubt the laptop will be making the trek to VA, I will update on Facebook, however, and WILL get on that scale of mine before our departure.
Wish me luck! I think I can, I think I can....and Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours.
I'm about the most reluctant runner in history...but I'm doing it.
This week, however, could prove challenging. Of course it is Thanksgiving, yay for carbohydrate overload and all things in excess! Further complicating things would be that Shawn and I leave tomorrow for Williamsburg. I know that there is a gym near our condo, and I have been assured by my sister-coach that there are plenty of flat areas that would suit us just fine for our Wednesday and Friday jaunts. But we'll be on vacation! We like to travel, we like to explore, we like to eat, drink, and be merry on our little excursions and who can blame us?! Work hard/play hard is the motto at the Hawks Nest ;).
I think it could be a challenge to get Shawn on board with a vacation work-out, though I've already begun laying the groundwork. Last night I commented about how nice it will be to not have to wake up at 6:00 AM for our walk/runs, since we won't have work we can head out whenever we feel like it. I also noted that though the temps are supposed to start getting down right frigid, we have the option of the mid-day run so it won't be so bad! Of course I'm saying these things to convince myself of them as well...but I also know me, and if he doesn't feel the urge to join me for my mile those days, it will be positively brutal trying to get my butt out and moving on my own.
I'm fairly confident that I can run but can't hide from the sister-coach though. It's quite possible that she'll call every day of our trip. 1) Because she loves Williamsburg and gave me a detailed list of places to visit, wine to consume, and Pottage Pie to be eaten. 2) She doesn't want me to slack off...
She may also want gear updates. That's right, she gifted to me some LL Bean runner duds yesterday. Some legging things that I was certain no person of my size was to wear by themselves in public, a second skin long sleeved pullover with holes in the wrist cuffs, (you know, like those goth kids used to do to their shirts), and some socks which are to be far superior to the good old fashioned athletic socks I've been wearing. She assured me that my Nike's are fine (for now), and encouraged me to continue to wear the Columbia fleece that's been getting a major work-out in its own right these days.
So this morning, I put it all on, and when I completed the practically ALL BLACK ensemble with my black beanie I was in straight up prowler mode! I'm serious, I looked like a thug...well, except I don't know if common thieves wear clothing that tight. I was almost glad Shawn stayed home today and was half-asleep when I left. He only got a shadowy, squinty eyed view of his lovely wife this morning. Cat-Woman I'm not!
My time this morning was 13:31 and I don't know if it was the special, leaves nothing to the imagination, "gear" that I was wearing or what - but I felt a little better out there this AM. I was also thankful that it was the lightest of mists today, again, not sure I'm ready for those adverse conditions.
This could potentially be the last blog of the week, as I doubt the laptop will be making the trek to VA, I will update on Facebook, however, and WILL get on that scale of mine before our departure.
Wish me luck! I think I can, I think I can....and Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours.
Friday, November 19, 2010
2 Down 50 To Go...
This morning's time was my best yet - 13:04. I noticed my time and kicked it into high gear at the end. Another reason I think I shaved that many seconds off my time - I was chasing my husband! Yep - he made good on his word and came along this morning. I am so jealous of his natural ability. This is only his second time running since I've known him, which, is almost 7 years at this point. He runs faster than me, naturally, he's all legs - so he had a pretty good lead on me first 1/4 mile in. Then as I slowed to walk my second lap - he continued to run. That's right - he ran a 1/2 mile before stopping to walk a lap, then sorta walked/ran the last lap...maybe it was just a slow run. I don't know, it was early, I didn't have my glasses and I could only kinda make out his shadowy figure as I panted and forged on with the help of my Pandora Quick Mix! Side note - is Taylor Swift's Dear John really about John Mayer?!
I'm pretty pleased with myself to have stuck with it thus far - this weeks observations/notes:
1) I do love my husband - it's much easier to get up and go in the AM with him by my side.
2) I am pretty sure I have found my abs!
3) I can keep time with the running app I have on my phone - but it only saves my times when it feels like it - I really need to get my nike for ipod reloaded on the nano.
4) They say it takes about 30 days for a habit to form, does that mean I'm half way there?!
5) I have more respect for my little sister every day.
6) Yay - 11 followers! (that I can see)
7) This week I've been more fatigued than last - Coach says that will change, she may just be saying that.
8) I have not bought a pack of cigarettes in over a week. I have had on average 2 cigarettes a day. It's a start! Now if I could only get my supplier to quit!
9) I took my sisters advice and did not weigh myself this week - mainly because I made lasagna this week for our lunches and quick dinners, and it was awesome, and I think it landed squarely on my thighs. Next Wednesday I WILL face that scale, and hopefully deliver some good news!
10) Next week is Thanksgiving - and don't think because we are traveling I will be "off". Nope - Coach is already working on flat courses in Williamsburg for us to try and the Plantation has a state of the art gym. No post-dinner turkey day guilt for me this year!
Message from the Coach:
I read the blog. I would steer clear of two miles at this point. I want you to get to the point where you can run a mile without stopping before increasing your distance. Not good to do so before you are ready, you could injure yourself. I think when you are feeling up to it you should try to run two laps back to back and then walk one and finish with a running lap. This is only run number 5 so as you so wisely told me with my life, "it's a marathon, not a sprint...slow down" Much love and stay on track pun intended. Remember on your off days to get some walking in (take your puff balls) this will keep you moving and building endurance. One thing that you could add and this is only if you are ready and if Shawn is on board...add a Saturday workout of two miles on the track walking and running. This would be considered your overload day which is necessary to continue to build on endurance. So that would mean you are working out 4 days not 3. Up to you at this point. There will be a time when 4 days is not an option :-)
Hmmm, I wonder how long we have until that 4 days is not an option. Ugghhh.
That's all for this week, have a great weekend everyone!!
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
He always has that affect on me
Last nights sleep was again, awful. The severe thunderstorms in the area weren't really helping my cause though either. I recall waking to the sound of thunder around 1:30 AM, I also remember being up and looking at the alarm clock around 5AM. Somewhere in between those two times I awoke and stated "if it's raining, I'm not going"...I remember saying it and Shawn remembers hearing it. I'm not ready for adverse weather conditions - I'm barely on board with this training regimen anyway!
Luckily for me, or un-luckily - depending on how you look at it, when I awoke to the alarm clock at 6AM (well, there was a snooze button smack or two in there), the rain had stopped.
I began to get dressed and asked Shawn if he was coming along - bracing myself for the no, rollover, and cover the head with the blanket move I had gotten the last time he had mentioned that he might join me.
Instead, he said yes. Whatta guy :).
I quickly finished getting ready, let the dogs out and fed them, grabbed some water bottles and we were off. We stretched and I told him about my already strange track habits - where I stretch, where I begin my run, the run, walk, every other lap madness, and how I just can't seem to breathe right. I'm a mouth breather, sleep with my mouth WIDE open too. He agreed, he knows duh, he's slept beside me for over 6 yrs at this point. I was a little nervous for him to see me run, it's silly, I know. We hike, walk, golf, explore together - but I'm certain I look ridiculous when I run.
I made that comment to that effect to him and he thought I was absurd, he's adorable, even if he is lying.
We set off on the run and he makes it look effortless! This guy NEVER runs, his only exercise is on the golf course these days, well, when not in a golf cart. He explained that he wasn't really getting winded, but that his legs were getting sore. We chatted a bit more during the "walk" laps, he retrieved our water for me when I said my throat was getting dry. I thanked him for coming with me, he stated that he doesn't want me to have to do this alone. When we were finished (14:09 today - I blame the wind and the chatting), we again stretched and headed home. I packed lunches, made coffee and played with the pooches, he went back to bed! We are both pretty skeptical of this endorphin high thing those real "runners" speak of.
He later tells me that he thinks he could have run that last lap that I walked. He also said that he thinks maybe we should be doing TWO miles instead of one when hitting the track as to be sure I'm actually running a mile each AM.
Hold it right there handsome! Ugh, maybe next week.
I feel better today, took a few Motrin (should probably buy some stock in Motrin), and am in a better mood all around. He always has that affect on me...
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Tireeeed
Wow. I'm beat!
I don't know if it's this new routine of mine finally hitting me, the weather, or what - but yesterday was just brutal! I did complete my AM mile - run, walk, you get the picture. I shaved a couple of seconds off my previous time (hooray for small victories), and did not freeze my behind off thanks to the balmy temps we have been experiencing. Along with the balmy temps, however, comes the runny nose...I can actually remember a time when my allergies weren't year round, just another joy of aging on my part I suppose. Mental note - when laying out my clothes on Tuesday night, stuff some Kleenex in the pocket of the fleece vest - just in case!
At the track I ran into the old lady that didn't find me very amusing last week - she did, however, speak to me yesterday - "it feels like Summer this morning", and she was on her way. There were actually three other ladies at the track yesterday morning, they have beat in age by generations, and they power-walk (well, their version of power-walk) in lanes 3 and 4 as I gasp and carry on in lane 1. After I finished yesterday I didn't feel the little boost of energy that had come to make those early AM work-outs worthwhile. I was tired. A little wobbly, and tired. Did I mention I was tired?!
I think part of the reason for the fatigue yesterday was the fact that this was my first ever Monday morning run. Now, as much as I am not a morning person, I am even less of a Monday person! Compounding that fact was that I had had the weekend "off", and it was gray and foggy outside. Additionally, even though I went to bed at 9:30 PM the night before in anticipation of the dreaded Monday morning mile - I couldn't sleep! Typically, if I have an event, or appointment, or even if I'm heading off to vacation - the night before sleep is crap. Sunday into Monday was no different. I distinctly remember looking at the alarm clock at 3:30, 4:30, and 5:30 AM before the alarm blared finally at 6:00 AM.
Yesterday dragged, the only thing that really got me through it was knowing that my work load would allow me to duck out right around 5:00 PM and that I didn't have to run again until Wednesday. The blog wasn't happening either - heaven only knows what I might have written.
I dutifully recorded my run in a message to "the Coach", who must have sensed my irritation. She had this to offer in reply;
I don't know if it's this new routine of mine finally hitting me, the weather, or what - but yesterday was just brutal! I did complete my AM mile - run, walk, you get the picture. I shaved a couple of seconds off my previous time (hooray for small victories), and did not freeze my behind off thanks to the balmy temps we have been experiencing. Along with the balmy temps, however, comes the runny nose...I can actually remember a time when my allergies weren't year round, just another joy of aging on my part I suppose. Mental note - when laying out my clothes on Tuesday night, stuff some Kleenex in the pocket of the fleece vest - just in case!
At the track I ran into the old lady that didn't find me very amusing last week - she did, however, speak to me yesterday - "it feels like Summer this morning", and she was on her way. There were actually three other ladies at the track yesterday morning, they have beat in age by generations, and they power-walk (well, their version of power-walk) in lanes 3 and 4 as I gasp and carry on in lane 1. After I finished yesterday I didn't feel the little boost of energy that had come to make those early AM work-outs worthwhile. I was tired. A little wobbly, and tired. Did I mention I was tired?!
I think part of the reason for the fatigue yesterday was the fact that this was my first ever Monday morning run. Now, as much as I am not a morning person, I am even less of a Monday person! Compounding that fact was that I had had the weekend "off", and it was gray and foggy outside. Additionally, even though I went to bed at 9:30 PM the night before in anticipation of the dreaded Monday morning mile - I couldn't sleep! Typically, if I have an event, or appointment, or even if I'm heading off to vacation - the night before sleep is crap. Sunday into Monday was no different. I distinctly remember looking at the alarm clock at 3:30, 4:30, and 5:30 AM before the alarm blared finally at 6:00 AM.
Yesterday dragged, the only thing that really got me through it was knowing that my work load would allow me to duck out right around 5:00 PM and that I didn't have to run again until Wednesday. The blog wasn't happening either - heaven only knows what I might have written.
I dutifully recorded my run in a message to "the Coach", who must have sensed my irritation. She had this to offer in reply;
"Great job Vyotta. Don't worry about how long it takes you, the good thing is that you are getting out and moving. You will progress with time and how great will it be to look back and see how well you have done. I am proud of you everyday!"
Tomorrow is another day, debating as to whether or not to brave the scale before the work-out as I did last Wednesday morning. I may have a partner joining me for my Wednesday/Friday jaunts as well - that could be just what the Dr. ordered. He's not a morning person either, but he's been there for me for the last 7 years whenever an obstacle arose...we'll see if we both make it to the track tomorrow, I'm sure the old ladies will appreciate his attendance ;).
Friday, November 12, 2010
1 Down 51 To Go...
Well, I did it! I survived my 1st week of Coach Ebaugh's 1/2 marathon boot camp.
We spoke on the phone a little bit ago (Coach is celebrating Veteran's Day in Williamsburg this year), I reported my time -13:54, and she congratulated me on my success the 1st week. "One week down, fifty one to go!" she exclaimed. She's too chipper first thing in the morning, yet another way in which we are polar opposites. I was, however, reminded this morning of one thing that we do have in common - we are stubborn. You can pretty it up if you want - call it tenacity, determination, focus, call it what you want but we are some hard-headed ladies! That was the force dragging my rear end out of my nice warm bed at 6:00 AM today. At that hour I'm not thinking about calories to be burnt, blogs to be written, nope - I'm thinking "I've been challenged, and that little sister of mine probably thinks I will sleep in today".
(side note: I did remember to lay my clothes out last night - big help!).
The Week 1 Top 10: Positives vs. Negatives of the Week
1. I finished 3 miles!
2. I got up at 6:00 AM TWO days this week to get to the track and get my work-out in which is a MAJOR accomplishment for me.
3. That endorphin rush carries me through to 2PM when I inevitably crash.
4. I now have a nifty little blog and 7 followers (that I can see)!
5. I am not as sore as I thought I would be.
6. I still don't have a running app for my BlackBerry that's worth anything, and today my Pandora wouldn't work either...I guess we could call this one "technical difficulties", oh, need new ear buds too, apparently my inner ear is deformed or something and they just won't stay put if I'm doing anything more than walking
7. I don't have cold weather gear, but I will soon! Thanks JTP!
8. There has been an overwhelming outpouring of support from my friends and family and I know that I need that. I'm needy and aware of it :). THANK YOU!
9. I cannot run more than a 1/4 mile straight without stopping to power walk, but I'm hopeful that will change in the near future.
10. I simply cannot smoke another cigarette and keep this up...I'm breaking up with my cigs officially and finally this weekend. This won't be the first time, but I hope it's my last.
I'm officially "off" til Monday, have a fantabulous weekend, catch you next week!
We spoke on the phone a little bit ago (Coach is celebrating Veteran's Day in Williamsburg this year), I reported my time -13:54, and she congratulated me on my success the 1st week. "One week down, fifty one to go!" she exclaimed. She's too chipper first thing in the morning, yet another way in which we are polar opposites. I was, however, reminded this morning of one thing that we do have in common - we are stubborn. You can pretty it up if you want - call it tenacity, determination, focus, call it what you want but we are some hard-headed ladies! That was the force dragging my rear end out of my nice warm bed at 6:00 AM today. At that hour I'm not thinking about calories to be burnt, blogs to be written, nope - I'm thinking "I've been challenged, and that little sister of mine probably thinks I will sleep in today".
(side note: I did remember to lay my clothes out last night - big help!).
The Week 1 Top 10: Positives vs. Negatives of the Week
1. I finished 3 miles!
2. I got up at 6:00 AM TWO days this week to get to the track and get my work-out in which is a MAJOR accomplishment for me.
3. That endorphin rush carries me through to 2PM when I inevitably crash.
4. I now have a nifty little blog and 7 followers (that I can see)!
5. I am not as sore as I thought I would be.
6. I still don't have a running app for my BlackBerry that's worth anything, and today my Pandora wouldn't work either...I guess we could call this one "technical difficulties", oh, need new ear buds too, apparently my inner ear is deformed or something and they just won't stay put if I'm doing anything more than walking
7. I don't have cold weather gear, but I will soon! Thanks JTP!
8. There has been an overwhelming outpouring of support from my friends and family and I know that I need that. I'm needy and aware of it :). THANK YOU!
9. I cannot run more than a 1/4 mile straight without stopping to power walk, but I'm hopeful that will change in the near future.
10. I simply cannot smoke another cigarette and keep this up...I'm breaking up with my cigs officially and finally this weekend. This won't be the first time, but I hope it's my last.
I'm officially "off" til Monday, have a fantabulous weekend, catch you next week!
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
It was time
Lunch time = blog time these days.
And who would have guessed that wake-up time would = run time?
The past few days have given me a lot to think about - there have been thoughts about how I spend my time, how I should spend my time, how much time I want to be on this planet...
It was time to make a positive change in my life. It was time to focus on myself. It was time to once again feel in control of what I'm doing, how I'm feeling, the way I'm living.
It was time to try to lose weight - the reasons are clear: I want to be healthy, I want to live a long life - I do love my life. I want to be able to shop with my girlfriends in the misses or even (Gasp!) juniors section(s) of department stores. I want to be the healthiest possible version of me as we head into this uncharted (for us) IVF territory next summer.
It's really not about the half-marathon at all, besides the fact that I've been challenged, but my sisters time-ing couldn't have been better.
So. this morning, I did the unthinkable, I woke up at 6:00 AM and headed to the track. Getting dressed in the pitch black darkness of the bedroom was an adventure, I made a note to myself that in the future I WILL lay out my work-out clothes the night before. I did my best to be quiet and keep the dogs settled as Shawn remained cozily nestled in our bed.
I went to York Suburban High School which is practically in our back yard. Their track is also that wonderfully squishy turf stuff. To my surprise, there were two others at the track, a guy running and the cutest little old lady arrived about the same time as I did for her morning walk. She said "good morning", I said "it's nice to know I'm not the only crazy one out here today!" - she wasn't amused, said nothing and went about her walk. Yet another running app that I downloaded a free trial of turned out to be crap, something is wrong with the GPS feature, but it did keep a time for me, if not a distance. I switched on the Pandora quick mix and was off, again with the run one lap, walk one lap plan of attack.
My time on Monday night was 14 minutes - I didn't have an accurate timer, used the time on my cell phone as an indicator. This morning my time was 13:58, so I was somewhere under where I was Monday evening, and considering that I am not a morning person (to say the least), I felt pretty good about that.
Let me say this, however, this is not easy for me - I huff and I puff, probably mumble and groan, the entire time. I am looking forward to a time when I don't have to concentrate so hard on my breathing, etc. and can let my mind just go. I'm not as sore as I would have guessed either, which is a plus. I have some tenderness in my calves and my core/abs area - though I wasn't sure that I still had abs?! It's not easy, but it is absolutely wonderful to have support from my family and friends and this blog as an outlet for expressing my thoughts and feelings. It's very therapeutic, and now, I'm accountable. I'm accountable to my "followers" and more importantly, I'm accountable to myself.
Words of wisdom from the coach -
"Oh...meant to tell you, if you get a tattoo please make sure it says 13.1 not 13.2 lol"
Free clothes AND a tattoo! She really knows the way to this girls heart :)
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
Reality Check
So last night was mile one.
I was energized and feeling good - so many well wishers, supportive words, etc. By the time I had gotten home Shawn had already taken the dogs out and fed then before he headed off to class. Perfect - I was going to be in and out in no time, well, that was the plan anyway. It took me about a half hour to discover I either have less outdoor active gear than I thought, or it had been so long since it had seen the light of day that I had just plain lost it.
Grabbed some long yoga pants, layered a short and long sleeve tee, then added a fleece Columbia vest for good measure. The gloves I had were too bulky - besides, how could I advance the songs on my Blackberry with gloves on anyway? The headband/ear-cover that had been my best friend during the blizzard this past February was also MIA. I figured I would be warm enough - it was windy, but not terribly cold.
I bounced around the house grabbing a kashi bar, my ear buds and water then found two pitiful puppies waiting for me at the front door. They know what it means when I put on my sneakers - I was leaving, and they wanted in on this walk/run/car ride action. I'm such a softy...
Another 10 min. later I was finally out the door with all my goods, the doggies, and their goods. To the track we went! Shawn had recommended a track near the new gym at York College, it was relatively well lit and that awesome squishy/foamy material (the proper name escapes me). I did some stretching, discovered the running/GPS app that I downloaded the free trial of was actually crap, took a look at the time and started Pandora (I'm not sure why Taylor Swift radio was my motivator of choice). I ran a lap, then walked a lap, ran, then walked, smiled at the girls power-walking on the track, thankful they were there for safety reasons, but sure the sight of me panting as I passed them was nothing short of frightening.
14 minutes of belabored breathing later, I had completed the first official mile of this journey.
I again stretched, then rewarded myself with a non-fat Chai latte from the 'Bucks and the pups and I ran a few more errands before heading home. Took a few Motrin before bed last night and feel surprisingly pain free today, my "off day". The only thing that "hurt" was the figure on the scale that faced me this AM. I figured "what the hell, might as well go all in and face everything I've been avoiding for months"...that is a story for another day. For a tiny battle was won last night, and I'm still rejoicing in it.
I was energized and feeling good - so many well wishers, supportive words, etc. By the time I had gotten home Shawn had already taken the dogs out and fed then before he headed off to class. Perfect - I was going to be in and out in no time, well, that was the plan anyway. It took me about a half hour to discover I either have less outdoor active gear than I thought, or it had been so long since it had seen the light of day that I had just plain lost it.
Grabbed some long yoga pants, layered a short and long sleeve tee, then added a fleece Columbia vest for good measure. The gloves I had were too bulky - besides, how could I advance the songs on my Blackberry with gloves on anyway? The headband/ear-cover that had been my best friend during the blizzard this past February was also MIA. I figured I would be warm enough - it was windy, but not terribly cold.
I bounced around the house grabbing a kashi bar, my ear buds and water then found two pitiful puppies waiting for me at the front door. They know what it means when I put on my sneakers - I was leaving, and they wanted in on this walk/run/car ride action. I'm such a softy...
Another 10 min. later I was finally out the door with all my goods, the doggies, and their goods. To the track we went! Shawn had recommended a track near the new gym at York College, it was relatively well lit and that awesome squishy/foamy material (the proper name escapes me). I did some stretching, discovered the running/GPS app that I downloaded the free trial of was actually crap, took a look at the time and started Pandora (I'm not sure why Taylor Swift radio was my motivator of choice). I ran a lap, then walked a lap, ran, then walked, smiled at the girls power-walking on the track, thankful they were there for safety reasons, but sure the sight of me panting as I passed them was nothing short of frightening.
14 minutes of belabored breathing later, I had completed the first official mile of this journey.
I again stretched, then rewarded myself with a non-fat Chai latte from the 'Bucks and the pups and I ran a few more errands before heading home. Took a few Motrin before bed last night and feel surprisingly pain free today, my "off day". The only thing that "hurt" was the figure on the scale that faced me this AM. I figured "what the hell, might as well go all in and face everything I've been avoiding for months"...that is a story for another day. For a tiny battle was won last night, and I'm still rejoicing in it.
Monday, November 8, 2010
Day One
And so it begins...
Last night my younger sister presented me with a challenge. Like I need more of those, right?
Her challenge was for me to use the next year to train for a half marathon in which I would run with her.
Now, I'm a bit of a hard head and not one to shy away from a challenge, this could be though, the most difficult thing I've ever been through.
Where my sister has always been athletic, I was more artistic. She excelled on the field or on the court and I could be found center stage, mic in hand.
My life has been a roller coaster and my weight has always been a good indicator of which twist or turn I might currently be navigating.
I know why she wants me to run - she wants me to be healthy, she wants me to be happy. She wants me to get reacquainted with that young woman I knew in my early twenties, who if only for a moment, had a handle on her weight AND her emotions.
I would drag myself to my parents basement 5 out of 7 days a week, get on that treadmill, press play on the boom box (yes, this was even pre-MP3 player), find a spot to stare at on that cinder block wall, and run. Whatever I was feeling, whatever I loved, hated, wanted, whatever was wearing on me weighed less as I ran, going nowhere.
So much has changed since then - I've moved, completed undergrad and graduate degree programs, I have an extraordinarily wonderful husband, a fulfilling job, an adorable home, and the most loving little puffs of fur a girl could ask for.
Because we have been so busy, studying, working, traveling, dreaming - I have again lost control in my lifelong struggle with my weight. Adding to that is, for the last two years we have been trying unsuccessfully to conceive.
Not a single person out there who has not gone through the infertility process can identify with what we're going through. Because of that, most of what I'm feeling has been internalized, and that void has been filled with food.
So, here's the challenge in the words of my "coach". The gauntlet has been thrown - let's see what this girl is made of!
Last night my younger sister presented me with a challenge. Like I need more of those, right?
Her challenge was for me to use the next year to train for a half marathon in which I would run with her.
Now, I'm a bit of a hard head and not one to shy away from a challenge, this could be though, the most difficult thing I've ever been through.
Where my sister has always been athletic, I was more artistic. She excelled on the field or on the court and I could be found center stage, mic in hand.
My life has been a roller coaster and my weight has always been a good indicator of which twist or turn I might currently be navigating.
I know why she wants me to run - she wants me to be healthy, she wants me to be happy. She wants me to get reacquainted with that young woman I knew in my early twenties, who if only for a moment, had a handle on her weight AND her emotions.
I would drag myself to my parents basement 5 out of 7 days a week, get on that treadmill, press play on the boom box (yes, this was even pre-MP3 player), find a spot to stare at on that cinder block wall, and run. Whatever I was feeling, whatever I loved, hated, wanted, whatever was wearing on me weighed less as I ran, going nowhere.
So much has changed since then - I've moved, completed undergrad and graduate degree programs, I have an extraordinarily wonderful husband, a fulfilling job, an adorable home, and the most loving little puffs of fur a girl could ask for.
Because we have been so busy, studying, working, traveling, dreaming - I have again lost control in my lifelong struggle with my weight. Adding to that is, for the last two years we have been trying unsuccessfully to conceive.
Not a single person out there who has not gone through the infertility process can identify with what we're going through. Because of that, most of what I'm feeling has been internalized, and that void has been filled with food.
So, here's the challenge in the words of my "coach". The gauntlet has been thrown - let's see what this girl is made of!
"First things first...start slowly. One mile three to four times a week walk/run until you can steadily run your one mile without walking or becoming too fatigued. Once that has happened you will be able to progress. It may take a few months, but once you have that first mile down that you can run it without walking and being winded you will be able to move up in mileage weekly. Keep me posted every week on your progress and I will guide you. We don't have to register until Sept. of next year so if things change, no big deal. Let's just see what we can accomplish. Another thing is proper gear. Running in the winter is some of the best running you can get, just make sure you dress appropriately. A hat/ear warmers, light gloves, comfortable pants (not too heavy so sweats are out) and a long sleeve shirt that is warm, but breathes. Put it to you this way, you start run/walk one mile M-W-F for one month On Dec. 6th if you are still doing it and getting the benefits from it, we will go shopping and get you some gear (on me). Well tomorrow is day one...you keep me posted with progress! It helps if you drive your car around a route you may do to get an exact mile that way you know how far you have gone and how long it takes you. Let me know after each run; the time, and how many times you had to stop and walk. I will keep track and progress you when you are ready. This could be really fun :-)"
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