I have a rather unfortunate happening going on right now. I'm sick. Well, I use that term loosely. Sick can mean so many things to so many people. Actually, for me, I'm not really sick. For me sick means I can't get out of bed & function. This only happens on rare occasions and every 5 years or so. Last time I remember this happening was 2009. That time it was just a really nasty cold that had me under. If you wanna talk puking type sick then that is even more rare & has not happened since 2006.
Hopefully none of you are feeling queasy right now and headed to the bathroom. Bear with me now, it all has a point!
I woke up Saturday and my throat felt awful. My 1st instinct was strep throat. Oh how I loath strep. I had serious bouts of it as an adult which resulted in me getting my tonsills out. Ladies and gentlemen....it's not just for kids!!!! Anyway, I pushed past the ickiness and ran 7 miles and later in the day felt much better. Sunday morning.....same crud again. I had hoped for a long run on this morning, but slept in to get a solid 8 hours of sleep. I know that if I am on the verge of being sick then sleep is one of my best preventatives. I went easy & only ran 1 mile and wha-la felt better by the mid morning. It was back with force on Sunday night and I then pinpointed the problem. I was having massive sinus/allergy drainage coming down the back of my throat.
It has gotten worse today. On the plus side, all drainage is clear and I have yet to see any sign of fever (although I typically can be very sick and never run a fever. I'm just cool like that...get it...no fever....cool...hahahahahaha...ok...ok!). So I'm sort of stuck in the middle. I don't feel super great, but I'm not in bed unable to function (although a serious nap is happening after I post this). I went to the store to get some drugs and even ate chicken noodle soup for lunch despite this hot late July day. I have to nip this in the butt!!!! Remember....triathlon in 5 days & an ultra in 12!!!! Ugh!
I'm not letting this affect my training (if you want to call it that). I did let go of a long run this weekend. Today, however I hopped on my bike to take it for a spin. I was advised by a tri guru to not completely slack on my training this week. Keep moving and still do 60% of what I normally do. He obviously doesn't know me too well because he said "if you normally bike 100 miles a week, only do 60". Ok, I don't think I've biked 100 miles this year!!!! Whatever. I headed out on my bike, mostly because I thought it would be nice to actually bike for more than a few miles around town since I got my fancy smancy $75 tires. I also FINALLY figured out how to mount & work my computer odometer bike thing-a-ma-bob that flashes all sorts of numbers once I get riding. I'm really looking official now!!!!
It was during this (what turned out to be) 11.5 mile ride that I had several thoughts of "oh my goodness....I'm gonna die!!!!" Now, I was once a cycling/spin instructor. I know what it's like to ride a bike continually for 45-60 minutes. I think this is what I was basing my whole "I can do a triathlon" theory. Not to mention I have done a tri or two before (never mind it's been 10 years). I did it then, I can surely do it now. Yeah, except I think it's a little like giving birth in that as soon as the pain, the intensity, the oh my goodness I can't do this for another moment is over...you forget. Until you actually ride or race again. My ride today was just a taste of what I will do this Saturday. I'm sure adrenaline will kick in and I will no doubt overcome the great burn, pain & intensity that ensues over the course of the race. I'm pretty awesome like that! You knew that right?!?!?!?
After taking a break from biking I also headed out the door in the nice toasty morning temps to run 4.75 miles. I can't let my running slack too much, not until the middle/late of next week. Still keeping my eye on that 40+ mile goal for Howl at the Moon. Miles and more importantly running in the summer heat is what I need to keep going for now. When I'm running or biking I tend to either not notice my massive allergy drainage or it ceases to drain. Either way I feel so much better (minus the whole my legs are on fire and surely turning into noodles as I bike feeling). At least for awhile. Now....I feel like total crap, so I'm off to pop some drugs and take a nap!
Happy Monday everyone!!!!
Monday, July 30, 2012
Friday, July 27, 2012
Which one?
I want to give you two scenarios about how I spent my morning & day so far.. One is true. One is not.
Scenario #1: I woke up at 6 a.m. I was tired, but got myself up and out the door for a 10 mile run. It felt so good to get the run done early and the run itself was just awesome! Once I was done I had my typical protein full breakfast of 3 eggs and, of course, my daily cup of coffee. Once that I was done I continued to be productive, getting the laundry going for the day and other household chores that needed to be done.
OR
Scenario #2: I slept until 8 a.m. For a rare change my kids awoke and found me still in bed. It was nice to snuggle with them for a little while. Getting out of bed felt like a huge chore. I was sore and still tired! I got up only long enough to get the kids some cereal for breakfast and even had a big bowl of granola raisin bran cereal myself. I never...ok rarely, eat cereal. Not a good source of carbs at all. I crawled back into bed to eat my cereal and watch tv. It wasn't until 10 a.m. that I finally got up out of bed for the day. I packed up the kids and we went to the Y where I ran my mile and biked for 30 minutes. As promised I took them swimming, just for fun...not laps to swim for exercise, just play time. I did eventually get my kitchen clean, but just so I could make zucchini chocolate chip cookies.
Think about it. Maybe comment real quick before reading on. What is your guess on how I spent my morning & day so far? Be honest.
I won't keep you in suspense for too long. *drum roll*................................
Scenario #1 is NOT true! Scenario #2 IS how my day has gone. Are you shocked?!?!?!? Does that even sound like me at all?
To tell you the truth I don't even feel guilty. It kind of felt awesome to just take a step back and veg. Now, I'm not promoting a lifestyle like this AT ALL. It was one day and I didn't plan for it to be this way, it just happened. It's ok to step back and have an occasional day like this. In fact, I can't think of the last time I did this. Typically for me sleeping in means 7 a.m. and eating a "bad" breakfast food means eating an english muffin along with my eggs.
What about you? Do you need an off day? A day to step back and veg out? Go ahead.....do it! You've probably earned it and deserve it!
*******************************************************************************
This looks different each day, but as long as you accomplish it....you are good to go!
Have a great weekend everyone!
Scenario #1: I woke up at 6 a.m. I was tired, but got myself up and out the door for a 10 mile run. It felt so good to get the run done early and the run itself was just awesome! Once I was done I had my typical protein full breakfast of 3 eggs and, of course, my daily cup of coffee. Once that I was done I continued to be productive, getting the laundry going for the day and other household chores that needed to be done.
OR
Scenario #2: I slept until 8 a.m. For a rare change my kids awoke and found me still in bed. It was nice to snuggle with them for a little while. Getting out of bed felt like a huge chore. I was sore and still tired! I got up only long enough to get the kids some cereal for breakfast and even had a big bowl of granola raisin bran cereal myself. I never...ok rarely, eat cereal. Not a good source of carbs at all. I crawled back into bed to eat my cereal and watch tv. It wasn't until 10 a.m. that I finally got up out of bed for the day. I packed up the kids and we went to the Y where I ran my mile and biked for 30 minutes. As promised I took them swimming, just for fun...not laps to swim for exercise, just play time. I did eventually get my kitchen clean, but just so I could make zucchini chocolate chip cookies.
Think about it. Maybe comment real quick before reading on. What is your guess on how I spent my morning & day so far? Be honest.
I won't keep you in suspense for too long. *drum roll*................................
Scenario #1 is NOT true! Scenario #2 IS how my day has gone. Are you shocked?!?!?!? Does that even sound like me at all?
To tell you the truth I don't even feel guilty. It kind of felt awesome to just take a step back and veg. Now, I'm not promoting a lifestyle like this AT ALL. It was one day and I didn't plan for it to be this way, it just happened. It's ok to step back and have an occasional day like this. In fact, I can't think of the last time I did this. Typically for me sleeping in means 7 a.m. and eating a "bad" breakfast food means eating an english muffin along with my eggs.
What about you? Do you need an off day? A day to step back and veg out? Go ahead.....do it! You've probably earned it and deserve it!
*******************************************************************************
This looks different each day, but as long as you accomplish it....you are good to go!
Have a great weekend everyone!
Thursday, July 26, 2012
T T T
Wow, I didn't mean for a week to pass with no blog post. It just happened. On more than one day I did sit down with the intention of getting something posted, but would be called away before even starting. My stage/theatrical life really took over last weekend and then coming out of it I was in quite the tailspin. Although my family is very understanding and supportive I had a lot to get back to with my "normal" life and responsibilities. Anyway....onto today's post of Three Things Thursday.
1. I have talked about an upcoming triathalon that I had planned to do. So far that was all just a bunch of talk and a plan. I wasn't actually signed up for said race up until this week. Now, it's official! I AM racing in my first (in 10 years) outdoor triathlon next weekend. Mind you I have done an outdoor tri before (it's just been so long ago) and I do an indoor one almost every year (similar, but very different). It's time to get back to the real deal. I will say, I don't really know what I'm doing....other than swimming, biking & running. Like most other things I have not trained specifically for this event. I'm a wing it sort of competitor. This has it's pros and cons. For now I'm just wanting to get back to the event. I plan/hope to in the future to do more than one a year. For now I just want to get this race done and kind of get of gauge of how I compete, what needs work, etc.
2. I have a new fitness teaching position at the local community college, most commonly referred to as CSC or Sandburg. This will in no way effect my teaching, training & certifying at the YMCA where I have worked for 16 years. My new job makes me adjunct faculty and I have to actually grade the students who are taking the class for credit. I'm excited about this new teaching opportunity!
3. If you are interested in getting a closer look at my performance in the Pirates of Penzance you have several options. You can see several hundred pictures that were taken here. Or you can see a slideshow I created with the same pictures, but with less pictures here. I also talked a little more in detail about my experience on my family blog. And, as noted on my family blog, you can see some video clips of a dress rehearsal on this Youtube account.
1. I have talked about an upcoming triathalon that I had planned to do. So far that was all just a bunch of talk and a plan. I wasn't actually signed up for said race up until this week. Now, it's official! I AM racing in my first (in 10 years) outdoor triathlon next weekend. Mind you I have done an outdoor tri before (it's just been so long ago) and I do an indoor one almost every year (similar, but very different). It's time to get back to the real deal. I will say, I don't really know what I'm doing....other than swimming, biking & running. Like most other things I have not trained specifically for this event. I'm a wing it sort of competitor. This has it's pros and cons. For now I'm just wanting to get back to the event. I plan/hope to in the future to do more than one a year. For now I just want to get this race done and kind of get of gauge of how I compete, what needs work, etc.
2. I have a new fitness teaching position at the local community college, most commonly referred to as CSC or Sandburg. This will in no way effect my teaching, training & certifying at the YMCA where I have worked for 16 years. My new job makes me adjunct faculty and I have to actually grade the students who are taking the class for credit. I'm excited about this new teaching opportunity!
3. If you are interested in getting a closer look at my performance in the Pirates of Penzance you have several options. You can see several hundred pictures that were taken here. Or you can see a slideshow I created with the same pictures, but with less pictures here. I also talked a little more in detail about my experience on my family blog. And, as noted on my family blog, you can see some video clips of a dress rehearsal on this Youtube account.
Thursday, July 19, 2012
Three Things Thursday
1. Here are some pictures from last weekend.
2. I mentioned in my big honkin' recap that I took my bike to a shop to get tires. I had showed you said bike in a vlog post last month. I knew I needed new tires anyway. I bought this bike 15 years ago, used it for a handful of triathlons and then it sat untouched for 10 years in my garage. Tires were still intact, but even to my untrained eye I knew they were not up to par. I still started riding anyway to get some training in, but eventually I found a hole in the front tire. I am in no way, shape or form messing with that scenario of having a blow out because I rode with defective tires. Problem is there is no bike shop here in town. So my bike sat for 2 weeks while I tried to figure out what to do. Here is the extend of my biking knowledge: you get on...you pedal and GO! Seriously, that is it. To many other unknowing people they may wonder what the big deal is. Go to Wal Mart or something and just get some tires. Ah, not that simple....at all. Even though I have the most simplistest and outdated bike, it's still a road racing bike and it requires special care & attention. Anyway I was so glad I went to Muscatine because I knew they have a wonderful bike shop there and they really know their stuff. I wasn't sure what to expect in price, but time is running out (tri is in 2 weeks) and I HAVE to get tires on there. $75 later I walked out with new tires on my bike. And that was going the cheapest way possible. That sounds like a lot of $$ for tires, but really in the realm of road/racing bikes it's not.
3. I've made it clear in previous posts that I LOVE FOOD! Love.....love....love! In the last 24 hours I've had a few "treats". First off, I made my 3 Cheese Twist. It's a bread I've been making for 15 years or so. Go ahead....drool:
Then, this morning I was treated at the Y with these yummy spice cupcakes. It was sort of a belated birthday treat. Although it is the only cake I've had this week. I hadn't had a piece at all in honor of my birthday so I had no problem enjoying one at 7 a.m. this morning.
I know some people (mostly on facebook) want my 3 cheese twist recipe. So before anyone asks for it, I WILL get it done and posted. This is a recipe that I've made it so many times for such a long time that I don't look up what I'm suppose to do. It's all up in my head. I just know what to do. I'll be sure to let you know when I get it written out. If you live close to me I may just make you a loaf and surprise you. I love doing that for people!
Have a great day everyone! We're almost to the weekend! Yay!!!!
Oneida 5k on Saturday, 1st in my age group.
West Liberty 5k on Sunday, 1st in my age group.
Tony Carl & I after running from Muscatine to West Liberty (17 miles) then racing the 5k.
2. I mentioned in my big honkin' recap that I took my bike to a shop to get tires. I had showed you said bike in a vlog post last month. I knew I needed new tires anyway. I bought this bike 15 years ago, used it for a handful of triathlons and then it sat untouched for 10 years in my garage. Tires were still intact, but even to my untrained eye I knew they were not up to par. I still started riding anyway to get some training in, but eventually I found a hole in the front tire. I am in no way, shape or form messing with that scenario of having a blow out because I rode with defective tires. Problem is there is no bike shop here in town. So my bike sat for 2 weeks while I tried to figure out what to do. Here is the extend of my biking knowledge: you get on...you pedal and GO! Seriously, that is it. To many other unknowing people they may wonder what the big deal is. Go to Wal Mart or something and just get some tires. Ah, not that simple....at all. Even though I have the most simplistest and outdated bike, it's still a road racing bike and it requires special care & attention. Anyway I was so glad I went to Muscatine because I knew they have a wonderful bike shop there and they really know their stuff. I wasn't sure what to expect in price, but time is running out (tri is in 2 weeks) and I HAVE to get tires on there. $75 later I walked out with new tires on my bike. And that was going the cheapest way possible. That sounds like a lot of $$ for tires, but really in the realm of road/racing bikes it's not.
I know some people (mostly on facebook) want my 3 cheese twist recipe. So before anyone asks for it, I WILL get it done and posted. This is a recipe that I've made it so many times for such a long time that I don't look up what I'm suppose to do. It's all up in my head. I just know what to do. I'll be sure to let you know when I get it written out. If you live close to me I may just make you a loaf and surprise you. I love doing that for people!
Have a great day everyone! We're almost to the weekend! Yay!!!!
Wednesday, July 18, 2012
Tuesday, July 17, 2012
BIG HONKIN' RECAP
I had no idea what last weekend was going to bring. I do remember struggling over seeing the bright side of things when we had to cancel our original plans to Chicago. Little did I know that by that happening and then packing up the kids & taking a trip over to Iowa was the beginning on the best birthday weekend ever! Now, in all of my 36 years of wisdom, I can say I'm so glad things happened the way they did!
Last Saturday I got up and raced in Oneida. That is a small town about 15 miles away. It's also a small race with about 50 people. Don't be mistaken by the small town-ness and turnout. It's very nicely organized race and there is always some competition. I have ran it the last 3 years and have never won. Usually the smaller the race the more chance I have of winning it, but this one always gets me. The last two years was miserably hot and it showed in my performance. This year when I walked out the door to head over there it was pleasantly cool. That had me all excited about running. We were tricked though because despite the cooler temps the humidity was sky high. You didn't notice it so much until you got running and them WHAM! it hit you like a ton of bricks. I still felt pretty good during my run so I was shocked when I finished and saw my time. It was even slower than my 4th of July run and that run was awful! I could analyze it to death, but in the end I wasn't too worried. I was second overall. Beat by a 15 year old girl. Chalk it up to beingold full of wisdom, I'm well past worrying or beating myself up over that scenario.
I took a picture, but didn't get the picture uploaded and my daughter has my camera at camp. I'm sure you'll live without seeing it...although I did look super awesome with my Wonder Woman socks on!
After racing I packed up all 6 of my kids, plus 2 extra and headed to Muscatine, IA my hometown. After a quick trip to the bike shop (will make a separate post about that) we headed to the water park for the afternoon. In the meantime, I had a friend go into labor. Her due date was yesterday and I had long teased her that her baby would be born on my birthday. I was busy keeping tabs on her the whole day and it became more and more apparent that it really was going to happen. How exciting!
Sunday morning I was up at 4 a.m. and met up with a running friend Tony and we headed to West Liberty. The Muscatine Running Friends has a long tradition of running from Muscatine to the smaller communities in the area that hold races. They call these runs migrations. The call was put out for anyone to migrate this morning, but it ended up being just Tony & I. We hit the road at 4:30. It was dark and cooler temperature wise. We took our time, took specific walk breaks and just enjoyed the run. The mileage from town to town was 17 miles. Once we got there we still had to get to the fairgrounds where the race was being held. So about 18 miles total. I felt fine the whole time. Only the last 5-6 miles was the sun getting high and hot on our backs and I began to feel a little worn. I could tell that I had some nice blisters coming though on my toes.
I still had a 5k to race. I wasn't completely dead from the migration, but I certainly wasn't up to speed either. My first mile was a 7:15 pace. Once I heard that I knew I was going too fast, I knew I would not be able to maintain that...not after running 18 miles. I don't know if that thought is what did the trick or if it really was just my body saying "whoa!", but mile 2 was awful. I was miserable. Going into mile 3 I began to perk up a little and despite still having a slower pace I at least felt solid and good. I finished with a time that on any other day would be unacceptable to me, but I knew was good for today. To top it all off I still placed 1st in my age group and won a $30 Panera gift certificate. Yay!
By this time it's only 9 a.m. and felt so happy and so accomplished on my birthday. How can my day get any better? I packed up the kids and headed home just in time for some church. I had not attended my church in almost a month. This is typical in the summer when we are busy & gone a lot. I enjoyed a quick lunch with my family, received a wonderful, most thoughtful present from my hubby (a brand new camera, one much nicer than my point and click thing I have now) and then headed off for musical rehearsal. It's tech week. We are in the theater, on the stage & putting the final touches on the show to have it ready for this upcoming weekend. Rehearsal is MANDATORY at this point. If you don't come, don't bother showing up for the performances because you are done! In the mean time, my friend is STILL in labor, she DID end up giving birth on MY BIRTHDAY! Woo hoo! He is the 3rd person I personally know to have been born on my birthday.
After a looooooong rehearsal I came home exhausted. I should have gone straight to bed and planned to sleep in on Monday. However, I never claim to be the smartest person you know. I didn't get to bed right away and I did not sleep in. I got up and ran 6 miles with my running partner Angela. I actually didn't feel bad at all. I also had to teach a hi/lo aerobics class later in the morning and have an informal job interview for the local community college to teach fitness classes there in the fall. My afternoon was filled with going to the hospital to visit my friend and new birthday buddy Liam followed by another evening spent on stage with musical rehearsal.
Awesome people are born on July 15. Don't be jealous! : ) Welcome Liam!
With my friend & brand new mommy. Good job Gyovanna, you are so awesome!
It's been non stop action since I last blogged last Friday. I didn't sleep in this morning either, I had a class to teach. I am taking it easy exercise wise and I'm going to require myself to take a nap. I have another rehearsal tonight. Ahhhh, the demanding life of stage & theater. It will all be worth it come this weekend with our performance of Pirates of Penzance!
I try and stay away from big long posts, but I wanted to give a recap of everything that has been going on. I'm caught up....for now : )
Last Saturday I got up and raced in Oneida. That is a small town about 15 miles away. It's also a small race with about 50 people. Don't be mistaken by the small town-ness and turnout. It's very nicely organized race and there is always some competition. I have ran it the last 3 years and have never won. Usually the smaller the race the more chance I have of winning it, but this one always gets me. The last two years was miserably hot and it showed in my performance. This year when I walked out the door to head over there it was pleasantly cool. That had me all excited about running. We were tricked though because despite the cooler temps the humidity was sky high. You didn't notice it so much until you got running and them WHAM! it hit you like a ton of bricks. I still felt pretty good during my run so I was shocked when I finished and saw my time. It was even slower than my 4th of July run and that run was awful! I could analyze it to death, but in the end I wasn't too worried. I was second overall. Beat by a 15 year old girl. Chalk it up to being
I took a picture, but didn't get the picture uploaded and my daughter has my camera at camp. I'm sure you'll live without seeing it...although I did look super awesome with my Wonder Woman socks on!
After racing I packed up all 6 of my kids, plus 2 extra and headed to Muscatine, IA my hometown. After a quick trip to the bike shop (will make a separate post about that) we headed to the water park for the afternoon. In the meantime, I had a friend go into labor. Her due date was yesterday and I had long teased her that her baby would be born on my birthday. I was busy keeping tabs on her the whole day and it became more and more apparent that it really was going to happen. How exciting!
Sunday morning I was up at 4 a.m. and met up with a running friend Tony and we headed to West Liberty. The Muscatine Running Friends has a long tradition of running from Muscatine to the smaller communities in the area that hold races. They call these runs migrations. The call was put out for anyone to migrate this morning, but it ended up being just Tony & I. We hit the road at 4:30. It was dark and cooler temperature wise. We took our time, took specific walk breaks and just enjoyed the run. The mileage from town to town was 17 miles. Once we got there we still had to get to the fairgrounds where the race was being held. So about 18 miles total. I felt fine the whole time. Only the last 5-6 miles was the sun getting high and hot on our backs and I began to feel a little worn. I could tell that I had some nice blisters coming though on my toes.
I still had a 5k to race. I wasn't completely dead from the migration, but I certainly wasn't up to speed either. My first mile was a 7:15 pace. Once I heard that I knew I was going too fast, I knew I would not be able to maintain that...not after running 18 miles. I don't know if that thought is what did the trick or if it really was just my body saying "whoa!", but mile 2 was awful. I was miserable. Going into mile 3 I began to perk up a little and despite still having a slower pace I at least felt solid and good. I finished with a time that on any other day would be unacceptable to me, but I knew was good for today. To top it all off I still placed 1st in my age group and won a $30 Panera gift certificate. Yay!
By this time it's only 9 a.m. and felt so happy and so accomplished on my birthday. How can my day get any better? I packed up the kids and headed home just in time for some church. I had not attended my church in almost a month. This is typical in the summer when we are busy & gone a lot. I enjoyed a quick lunch with my family, received a wonderful, most thoughtful present from my hubby (a brand new camera, one much nicer than my point and click thing I have now) and then headed off for musical rehearsal. It's tech week. We are in the theater, on the stage & putting the final touches on the show to have it ready for this upcoming weekend. Rehearsal is MANDATORY at this point. If you don't come, don't bother showing up for the performances because you are done! In the mean time, my friend is STILL in labor, she DID end up giving birth on MY BIRTHDAY! Woo hoo! He is the 3rd person I personally know to have been born on my birthday.
After a looooooong rehearsal I came home exhausted. I should have gone straight to bed and planned to sleep in on Monday. However, I never claim to be the smartest person you know. I didn't get to bed right away and I did not sleep in. I got up and ran 6 miles with my running partner Angela. I actually didn't feel bad at all. I also had to teach a hi/lo aerobics class later in the morning and have an informal job interview for the local community college to teach fitness classes there in the fall. My afternoon was filled with going to the hospital to visit my friend and new birthday buddy Liam followed by another evening spent on stage with musical rehearsal.
Awesome people are born on July 15. Don't be jealous! : ) Welcome Liam!
It's been non stop action since I last blogged last Friday. I didn't sleep in this morning either, I had a class to teach. I am taking it easy exercise wise and I'm going to require myself to take a nap. I have another rehearsal tonight. Ahhhh, the demanding life of stage & theater. It will all be worth it come this weekend with our performance of Pirates of Penzance!
I try and stay away from big long posts, but I wanted to give a recap of everything that has been going on. I'm caught up....for now : )
Friday, July 13, 2012
FIVE Things Friday
1. I was very unsure if I was going to blog today. I was, then wasn't....back and forth. I did the same yesterday. Mentally I even knew what I was going to put, but I just haven't sat down at the computer too much the last few days. Know what though...I have a very clean house. Yay! So in some ways, it's worth it. I had a few things on my mental list that I really wanted to get done, plus just the usual upkeep that has honestly been neglected the last few days. I just needed to buckle down and get it done!
2. I don't really have anything to post under Friday's Findings. As I said last week I haven't seen too much while out running worth picking up. However last Saturday I was out for a run along S. Lake Storey Rd. and saw a cd in the ditch. I ignored it the first time, but when I passed by again I thought I would at least take a look. It was a Christmas CD!!!!! I found that very amusing since it was so blasted hot outside. I did pick it up, but honestly don't know what happened to it.
3. I saw this funny picture on facebook.
Why....you may be wondering is that so funny. Especially from me! Well, I happen to have some offspring who do NOT run for anything. You know, zombie apocalypse time....she's just gonna lay down and die cause she won't run for ANYTHING! I told her I would buy one for her car. Although it would look really funny next to all my 50k, 26.3 & 13.1 stickers. Aside from her (who I really wonder if she was just switched at birth) I have a slew of friends who do not run at all. That's fine. To each their own, right? Just as I want them to love and embrace me for my crazy awesome running passion, I want to return it by loving them for not being as awesome as me having a passion to not run.
4. We had been planning to take the kids to Six Flags in Chicago this weekend. Yesterday, the hubster called me and told me to cancel the hotel. The trip was off. Long story short, he has to work all weekend. I was so bummed! The kids actually didn't know this was what we were going to do. It was going to be a surprise for them. Despite being a little down and ticked off about the last minute cancellation I searched for the bright side of things. I didn't see any right away. Since we didn't pack up and leave today I was able to stay home and really get things done around the house. It even gave me time to go to the chiro for an adjustment then take a nice nap in the afternoon. Tomorrow I am packing up the kids and heading home to see my family in Iowa aka heaven. We are going to spend the day at the waterpark and just enjoy the time there. We are staying overnight so I can race on Sunday morning. Bonus! I've always wanted to do this race, but it's never on a good weekend. Of all years this race on this Sunday will be extra special.
5. Sunday is my birthday! I LOVE BIRTHDAYS!!!!! I honestly truly LOVE getting to be another year older. I completely embrace it! I don't think I have ever raced on my birthday. I've raced the day before and the day after, but as far as I know not ON my day. I'm so excited! I guess not going to Chicago has turned out to be a good thing after all. Anyone want to guess how old I am turning? (No cheating and blabbing the answer if you already know.)
Have a great weekend everyone!!!!
2. I don't really have anything to post under Friday's Findings. As I said last week I haven't seen too much while out running worth picking up. However last Saturday I was out for a run along S. Lake Storey Rd. and saw a cd in the ditch. I ignored it the first time, but when I passed by again I thought I would at least take a look. It was a Christmas CD!!!!! I found that very amusing since it was so blasted hot outside. I did pick it up, but honestly don't know what happened to it.
3. I saw this funny picture on facebook.
4. We had been planning to take the kids to Six Flags in Chicago this weekend. Yesterday, the hubster called me and told me to cancel the hotel. The trip was off. Long story short, he has to work all weekend. I was so bummed! The kids actually didn't know this was what we were going to do. It was going to be a surprise for them. Despite being a little down and ticked off about the last minute cancellation I searched for the bright side of things. I didn't see any right away. Since we didn't pack up and leave today I was able to stay home and really get things done around the house. It even gave me time to go to the chiro for an adjustment then take a nice nap in the afternoon. Tomorrow I am packing up the kids and heading home to see my family in Iowa aka heaven. We are going to spend the day at the waterpark and just enjoy the time there. We are staying overnight so I can race on Sunday morning. Bonus! I've always wanted to do this race, but it's never on a good weekend. Of all years this race on this Sunday will be extra special.
5. Sunday is my birthday! I LOVE BIRTHDAYS!!!!! I honestly truly LOVE getting to be another year older. I completely embrace it! I don't think I have ever raced on my birthday. I've raced the day before and the day after, but as far as I know not ON my day. I'm so excited! I guess not going to Chicago has turned out to be a good thing after all. Anyone want to guess how old I am turning? (No cheating and blabbing the answer if you already know.)
Have a great weekend everyone!!!!
Wednesday, July 11, 2012
Vloggin' Wednesday
I'm cheating today....kind of. I don't want to take the time to make a vlog, wait a gazillion years for it to upload to youtube and then finally post it. So I have a few shorter videos that I never got posted and will post them instead.
These two are in vlog style where I talk with you. I made it at the beginning of June and honestly forgot about it. Finding it reminded me of my summer challenge that I started. I'm still kind of, sort of, maybe not really doing it. I'll review that soon. Anyway, here are those videos that also include my son Andrew who joined me that morning.
I was reminded by my wonderful friend Suzie that I never posted my video from Snake Hill. Oops! I'm sure I forgot to post it due to brain damage sustained from my little adventure. So it's fair to say...IT'S SUZIE'S FAULT!
: ) Love you, dear friend!!
Lastly, just because I feel like posting it and I know a few will enjoy it (it's not for everyone, I admit) here is a video of me singing while at camp. Just one of my many talents. Mind you, I'm no American Idol (far from it!), but I can sing praises to my Lord and sometimes that is all that matters!
Have a great Wednesday! I'm off to the kitchen to cook & bake away. I plan to have a mountain full of homemade goodness, meals & treats! Mmmmmmmm!
These two are in vlog style where I talk with you. I made it at the beginning of June and honestly forgot about it. Finding it reminded me of my summer challenge that I started. I'm still kind of, sort of, maybe not really doing it. I'll review that soon. Anyway, here are those videos that also include my son Andrew who joined me that morning.
I was reminded by my wonderful friend Suzie that I never posted my video from Snake Hill. Oops! I'm sure I forgot to post it due to brain damage sustained from my little adventure. So it's fair to say...IT'S SUZIE'S FAULT!
: ) Love you, dear friend!!
Lastly, just because I feel like posting it and I know a few will enjoy it (it's not for everyone, I admit) here is a video of me singing while at camp. Just one of my many talents. Mind you, I'm no American Idol (far from it!), but I can sing praises to my Lord and sometimes that is all that matters!
Have a great Wednesday! I'm off to the kitchen to cook & bake away. I plan to have a mountain full of homemade goodness, meals & treats! Mmmmmmmm!
Tuesday, July 10, 2012
Tuesday's Tunes
Good news! I've ran a little over 100 miles in the last 30 days! My funk seems to have left the building. Although apparently that doesn't matter anyway, I was cranking out the miles. With the funk gone though it's not such a chore or drag. I'm ready to go, even when I'm tired or hot. I'm enjoying the run and feeling great the whole day afterward. Hopefully that funk will stay away until after Howl at the Moon, my 8 hour ultra that is in ONE MONTH!!!!
This is going to be reeaaaallllly short. I have musical rehearsal in 16 minutes. Yikes! I sat down once to start blogging, but got side tracked. Then I got busy and yay, my house is clean and supper was cooked fresh & ready on time. I feel accomplished. I like that feeling! Anyway, I knew I had a short time frame to get on here, get this typed & posted and then head out the door for practice. We are 9 days from opening night!!!! Crunch time!
Here are my tunes from my run this morning:
(Sorry, no time to link them this time)
We Belong Together - Soundtrack from Toy Story 3
Whatever You're Doing - Sanctus Real
Don't Cry for Me Argentina - Madonna
Different Strokes - TV Theme Songs
TJ Hooker - TV Theme Songs
I Like It - Inrique Inglesies
Just As I Am/I Surrender All - Shelly Hamilton
Mad About You - Belinda Carlisle
Because of You - Kelly Clarkson
Quit Playing Games With My Heart - Backstreet Boys
Monkees Theme Song - TV Tunes
Heart Break Hotel - All Shook Up musical
Waiting for a Star to Fall - Boy Meets Girl
How Will I Know - Whitney Houston
Friday, July 6, 2012
Friday's Findings
Hello. My name is Captain Obvious and I'd just like to state that it is HOT OUTSIDE!!!! Well, duuuuuh....Sherlock! Ok, just making sure everyone knew, in case you hadn't noticed.
Anyway, I actually found NOTHING this week while I ran. Seriously. I admit I'm fairly picky about what I will pick up & haul home. Still nothing was out there, but a bunch of trash.
Last week, while I was on vacation at IRBC I did find somethings along the way.
I actually found a few pennies too, but they failed to make it into the picture. The quarter & Backstreet Boys cd were found on my run toward Ventura as I headed West away from the camp. I see cds all the time, but they are often broken or the blank kind that you burn on your computer. Although I do jam to a few Backstreet Boys songs (what????....they have a good beat and are fun!!!!) I really wouldn't say I'm a fan. It still got picked up and kept long enough for picture sake before I properly discarded it in the trash. (I wish more people would start using that trash properly. I hate seeing trash everywhere I go!)
***********************************************************************************
One last vlog post from camp. I'll go back to my once a week video posts. Which, by the way, if you ever want me to discuss something specific, or do a crazy stunt, or something fun on a vlog feel free to let me know. I'm game for just about anything.
I will leave you with one of my favorite views from camp.
Have a great weekend everyone!
Anyway, I actually found NOTHING this week while I ran. Seriously. I admit I'm fairly picky about what I will pick up & haul home. Still nothing was out there, but a bunch of trash.
Last week, while I was on vacation at IRBC I did find somethings along the way.
I actually found a few pennies too, but they failed to make it into the picture. The quarter & Backstreet Boys cd were found on my run toward Ventura as I headed West away from the camp. I see cds all the time, but they are often broken or the blank kind that you burn on your computer. Although I do jam to a few Backstreet Boys songs (what????....they have a good beat and are fun!!!!) I really wouldn't say I'm a fan. It still got picked up and kept long enough for picture sake before I properly discarded it in the trash. (I wish more people would start using that trash properly. I hate seeing trash everywhere I go!)
***********************************************************************************
One last vlog post from camp. I'll go back to my once a week video posts. Which, by the way, if you ever want me to discuss something specific, or do a crazy stunt, or something fun on a vlog feel free to let me know. I'm game for just about anything.
I will leave you with one of my favorite views from camp.
Thursday, July 5, 2012
Three Things Thursday
1. I should have got this done sooner, but I took a nap earlier. In addition to my feeling like crap running that has taken over just about every run, I am tired. All the time. Not sure what to make of it or think about it. I'm just blaming summer and the heat. Luckily, I have a fairly wide open schedule for the time being. My evenings are about to be consumed with my performance in the Pirates of Penzance, but my calender is otherwise blank. Since no one is knocking down my door to get a piece of this awesomeness I'm just enjoying my life of nothingness right now. It will not be like this forever so I should embrace it while I can.
2. At camp last week I had the privilege of hooking up with a friend & running partner Tahmi. Now we've ran a few of the same races (years ago) and counting when we ran together last week we've run together ONCE. I don't care though, I'll still call her my running partner. We tend to connect more in a virtual way. We often talk and comment on running things via facebook. We dream every year of running Dam2Dam together. Not to mention, she is just plain & simple an awesome friend who runs, so that's good enough to deem my running partner. I made this vlog post about her & our friendship after we ran. I also took this picture when we were done.
3. I should go take another nap. *yaaaaaaawn*
2. At camp last week I had the privilege of hooking up with a friend & running partner Tahmi. Now we've ran a few of the same races (years ago) and counting when we ran together last week we've run together ONCE. I don't care though, I'll still call her my running partner. We tend to connect more in a virtual way. We often talk and comment on running things via facebook. We dream every year of running Dam2Dam together. Not to mention, she is just plain & simple an awesome friend who runs, so that's good enough to deem my running partner. I made this vlog post about her & our friendship after we ran. I also took this picture when we were done.
3. I should go take another nap. *yaaaaaaawn*
4th on the 5th
I should have blogged yesterday. I knew exactly what I wanted to post. I just never sat down at the computer to get it done. I know this sounds totally bizarre and crazy, but I haven't had much of a desire to be on the computer. Oh, I like my ipod for checking email and fb, but it keeps me at just that....a check. Not oops, there goes an hour and I still have things to get done. I had to "force" myself on here today and am hoping the motivation to get it done & off here will help me to be quick.
Let's just ignore what the time stamp will say and pretend it's Wednesday, July 4th!
Today I raced in the Galva 4th of July Freedom Run. There are several race options in our area for this holiday, but we always choose this one because it is the town where my husband works. It is also a smaller town. Don't let that fool you though because it draws a good crowd and fast runners. The top male runner posted a 16 minute time and the lead lady a sub 20. The idea of a smaller town means a less crowd and easier chance to snag an overall award do not apply to this race. With the ever pressing heat I gave up all chance at being top female or even having a good run.
In fact, I knew from the get go that this would be a crappy run. This has been something that I just can't shake. My runs on vacation were only deemed great & awesome because of where I was and who I ran with. The running itself, which is always great even when it's bad, has been bad every single day....all....the....time for over 2 weeks now. I'm not complaining....just noting. The only thing I can think of is to blame the heat. Once the race got underway my legs went into auto mode, but I had no umph and no desire to actually push myself and run hard. I still managed to finish in under 22 minutes (I told you auto mode), but not by much and was still able to snag 2nd in my age group. Yay! Another trophy to sit in the basement ; )
***********************************************************************************
Last Wednesday on vacation I got up extra early so I could watch the sun rise. It was beautiful and ah-may-haz-ing! I made this vlog post before heading out for an 8 mile run.
Later in the day they had a splash down contest. They have this every year, but I have never participated. The temps were soaring into the 90's and it seemed like a good day to jump in the pool and have some extra fun! I'm not one to shy away from dressing up to have a good time. So it wasn't an option to participate in just my swim suit. Nope, I had to make my splash looking like this:
I made quite a good splash and received high scores while doing a good job representing the women folk, but I did not win. I still felt like a winner though
: )
Let's just ignore what the time stamp will say and pretend it's Wednesday, July 4th!
Today I raced in the Galva 4th of July Freedom Run. There are several race options in our area for this holiday, but we always choose this one because it is the town where my husband works. It is also a smaller town. Don't let that fool you though because it draws a good crowd and fast runners. The top male runner posted a 16 minute time and the lead lady a sub 20. The idea of a smaller town means a less crowd and easier chance to snag an overall award do not apply to this race. With the ever pressing heat I gave up all chance at being top female or even having a good run.
In fact, I knew from the get go that this would be a crappy run. This has been something that I just can't shake. My runs on vacation were only deemed great & awesome because of where I was and who I ran with. The running itself, which is always great even when it's bad, has been bad every single day....all....the....time for over 2 weeks now. I'm not complaining....just noting. The only thing I can think of is to blame the heat. Once the race got underway my legs went into auto mode, but I had no umph and no desire to actually push myself and run hard. I still managed to finish in under 22 minutes (I told you auto mode), but not by much and was still able to snag 2nd in my age group. Yay! Another trophy to sit in the basement ; )
***********************************************************************************
Last Wednesday on vacation I got up extra early so I could watch the sun rise. It was beautiful and ah-may-haz-ing! I made this vlog post before heading out for an 8 mile run.
Later in the day they had a splash down contest. They have this every year, but I have never participated. The temps were soaring into the 90's and it seemed like a good day to jump in the pool and have some extra fun! I'm not one to shy away from dressing up to have a good time. So it wasn't an option to participate in just my swim suit. Nope, I had to make my splash looking like this:
: )
Tuesday, July 3, 2012
Tuesday's Tunes & the Trust Fall
I suppose this house is not going to clean itself. Nor will this post magically appear from my thoughts. I'm stalling from doing both. I really want to crawl into bed and take a nap. I might still if I can do something to justify said action. You often hear that you need a vacation from your vacation. That would be true for me. While on vacation I was up early every day to run and sit out on the dock. It was worth it....so worth it! But now....I'm SOOOOO tired!
My run this morning was short & easy (sounds like me-ha ha). I ran long yesterday with my running partner Angela. And since I plan to race tomorrow I knew I had to k.i.s.s. (keep it simple stupid). Because of my tiredness I did not get up to run early. I almost over slept & missed getting to my class on time (something I have never done, at least not to my tues-thurs yogalates class). So I bumped my run until 7 p.m. The heat and humidity was already making it uncomfortable. That does not help my sluggishness at all. I did a small 2.5 mile route that is near GHS. Another neighborhood knocked off my I Run This Town project.
Here are my tunes that kept me company:
We Are - Kari Jobe
Yeah! (Batuka remix) - originally by Usher
Let Yourself Go - All Shookup Broadway Musical
God is so Good Theme & Variations - Shelly Hamilition
Call Me Al - Paul Simon
I Will Be Here - Steven Curtis Chapman
Everything I Do I Do It For You - Bryan Adams
****************************************************************************
Here is my vlog post from last Tuesday. It's short and fun (me again!). After yesterday's post I had thought I should share a picture or two from each day. On my family blog I will post a whole bunch of pictures (better go get that done after this). Here are the trust fall pictures that I mention in my video.
My daughter perfected it.
Different daughter (on the left) from a different view. I have no idea how they do it!
I tried. The first time I couldn't bring myself to go hands free. I still had a hard time letting myself completely fall back.
The second time I tried to go hands free and freaked out at the last minute. I just could not do it!
My run this morning was short & easy (sounds like me-ha ha). I ran long yesterday with my running partner Angela. And since I plan to race tomorrow I knew I had to k.i.s.s. (keep it simple stupid). Because of my tiredness I did not get up to run early. I almost over slept & missed getting to my class on time (something I have never done, at least not to my tues-thurs yogalates class). So I bumped my run until 7 p.m. The heat and humidity was already making it uncomfortable. That does not help my sluggishness at all. I did a small 2.5 mile route that is near GHS. Another neighborhood knocked off my I Run This Town project.
Here are my tunes that kept me company:
We Are - Kari Jobe
Yeah! (Batuka remix) - originally by Usher
Let Yourself Go - All Shookup Broadway Musical
God is so Good Theme & Variations - Shelly Hamilition
Call Me Al - Paul Simon
I Will Be Here - Steven Curtis Chapman
Everything I Do I Do It For You - Bryan Adams
****************************************************************************
Here is my vlog post from last Tuesday. It's short and fun (me again!). After yesterday's post I had thought I should share a picture or two from each day. On my family blog I will post a whole bunch of pictures (better go get that done after this). Here are the trust fall pictures that I mention in my video.
My daughter perfected it.
I tried. The first time I couldn't bring myself to go hands free. I still had a hard time letting myself completely fall back.
Monday, July 2, 2012
Monday Madness
There really isn't any madness about my day. My calendar page is blank. Wide open. There is just so much to do post vacation. While we have done a lot to unpack and get back to home life, there is still so much to do. The laundry pile is INSANE and continually living in this home just makes a mess upon a mess.
Not to mention what I want to get done with my blog here. I know you all were just beside yourself while I was gone. Wondering how you'd survive your week without me. Haha. Ok, so not true, but that is ok. I thought of you all. I made a vlog post each day and will post one each day. Let me clarify that it is ok if you don'tcare about what I have to say want to watch my videos. I understand that they are not for everyone.
Anyway, so much to do + a lot to blog about = plenty of madness for this fine Monday morning. I will tell you about my vacation through out the week. Probably best to spread it out, otherwise it will be one looooong post. I will sum it up by saying that the week was completely AWESOME!
I want to do a monthly recap for June. Mostly because it was a great running month for me. After having run 10 miles in the month of May (those only came from Memorial day - end of month) I was able to come back and run 93 miles in the month of June. It has been my best month so far this year. Yay! I am so excited! My longest run was only 8 miles. I was just able to get out there every day (on day 36 of streaking) and get solid, consistant miles in. I also added in swimming & biking, but I don't count/keep track of those miles. My yearly total for 2012 is 386 (ish because sometimes my ipod didn't work, etc) miles. Not bad considering I've had close to 2 months of not running at all due to injury.
Hopefully this streak will continue. I have my 8 hour Howl at the Moon Ultra in 38 days. The heat has been kicking in and preparing me for that day. I still do a lot of my runs in the early morning hours, but even that is not a guarantee break from the heat and gazillion percent humidity. I purposely sprinkle in some afternoon runs to help prepare me for my race as well.
I will leave you with my vlog post from last Monday. It's a little windy. Actually it is very windy, but had turned the camera to block a chunk of the wind. You can still hear me, although a tad tough at times. What is so neat (to me) about this video is that I made it right before heading to evening chapel. I talk about my friend Joy in this video. When I went into chapel the speaker mentioned Joy and it was (unbeknownst to me) on that exact day 1 year ago that Joy had her first headache. Not just any headache, mind you. For those that don't know her headaches were actually brain cancer that would take her life 6 month later.
Have a great Monday everyone!
Not to mention what I want to get done with my blog here. I know you all were just beside yourself while I was gone. Wondering how you'd survive your week without me. Haha. Ok, so not true, but that is ok. I thought of you all. I made a vlog post each day and will post one each day. Let me clarify that it is ok if you don't
Anyway, so much to do + a lot to blog about = plenty of madness for this fine Monday morning. I will tell you about my vacation through out the week. Probably best to spread it out, otherwise it will be one looooong post. I will sum it up by saying that the week was completely AWESOME!
I want to do a monthly recap for June. Mostly because it was a great running month for me. After having run 10 miles in the month of May (those only came from Memorial day - end of month) I was able to come back and run 93 miles in the month of June. It has been my best month so far this year. Yay! I am so excited! My longest run was only 8 miles. I was just able to get out there every day (on day 36 of streaking) and get solid, consistant miles in. I also added in swimming & biking, but I don't count/keep track of those miles. My yearly total for 2012 is 386 (ish because sometimes my ipod didn't work, etc) miles. Not bad considering I've had close to 2 months of not running at all due to injury.
Hopefully this streak will continue. I have my 8 hour Howl at the Moon Ultra in 38 days. The heat has been kicking in and preparing me for that day. I still do a lot of my runs in the early morning hours, but even that is not a guarantee break from the heat and gazillion percent humidity. I purposely sprinkle in some afternoon runs to help prepare me for my race as well.
I will leave you with my vlog post from last Monday. It's a little windy. Actually it is very windy, but had turned the camera to block a chunk of the wind. You can still hear me, although a tad tough at times. What is so neat (to me) about this video is that I made it right before heading to evening chapel. I talk about my friend Joy in this video. When I went into chapel the speaker mentioned Joy and it was (unbeknownst to me) on that exact day 1 year ago that Joy had her first headache. Not just any headache, mind you. For those that don't know her headaches were actually brain cancer that would take her life 6 month later.
Have a great Monday everyone!
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