The Crappy and the Awesome.

Thursday, October 01, 2009

Bad and good are just too boring.

So...... I woke up this morning at 7AM... CRAP!!!!!!!!!!!! What happened to my alarm???

I was supposed to be up at 5AM, getting to rowing practice at 5:30... they were likely pulling back to the dock around that time - assuming they were able to row at all with me missing! I felt soooooooo bad. I sent an email apologizing, pledging to set two alarms and sleep with my phone by the bed from now on. No one replied. Not until way later this morning I got one from someone I didn't even know was rowing today in reply to something else saying they missed me this morning and wanted to make sure I was ok. But they got to row!!! *phwew* So at least it was a mistake that didn't hurt anyone, and in fact gave someone who was extra that showed up the opportunity to row. So... hopefully no real harm done. But I still missed rowing. (Plan to go on Sunday though!)

The good thing is that after getting over being mad while watching ANTM, I got to go back to sleep. :)

I headed out to run very well rested and cheerful. Ran an AWESOME 5.15 miles at a 12min pace. I held back most of the run until the end I got carried away. :D hahaha. It was gorgeous outside. Headed to the library and picked up the book I had on hold -- JILLIAN's MASTER YOUR METABOLISM!!! I expect not to follow her plan, based on what I've heard others say, but still -- I want to read what she says for sure and incorporate what sounds reasonable and good into my diet. Headed to the Sporting Goods store and stocked upon some GU and got some Clif shot blocks to try as well. Got a 6-pack of Chocolate Outrage and also decided to pick up a couple fruity flavors to try - Tri-Berry and Strawberry Banana. I wanted to be well stocked for my big run Saturday.

Also - no mentionable aches or pains from today's run, either. WOOT.

  

  Member Comments About This Blog Post:

SIMPLE_TAILOR 10/2/2009 3:12PM

Sometimes things work out for a reason. Have fun rowing on Sunday. Report Inappropriate Comment

ZMONEY 10/2/2009 1:56PM

Ugh, sucky about the alarm clock. Been there, done that too LOL. Yay for your run & double yay for picking up GU & Shot Bloks. I went to the running store last night to stock up as well. I'm trying the Chocolate Outrage, Strawberry Banana & Lemon Sublime for the first time tomorrow. I wasn't impressed w/ the Tri Berry & will skip it. Love the Espresso Love but the store was out - they took what they had off the shelf to share w/ the Portland Marathon expo that starts today. Am a fan of the Shot Bloks but it's not being used at the Vegas half, so I'm sticking w/ GU for now. Happy Friday! Report Inappropriate Comment

KNH771 10/2/2009 1:09PM

You must've needed the rest! That deep REM sleep is important to your wellness too. Glad your aches and pains seem to be waning. Report Inappropriate Comment

KJNE8O 10/2/2009 6:58AM

Boo you missed your rowing but Yay on the great run! Have a great Friday! Report Inappropriate Comment

JESPAH 10/2/2009 6:21AM

Hey, yanno, imperfections happen. 'Twas nothing fatal. :) Report Inappropriate Comment

KAYAKID 10/2/2009 1:52AM

Dana, nothing wrong with missing the alarm - like many here have said. I don't use an alarm. My body knows when it needs to wake up usually around 6:00am. I onlu use an alarm if I need to get up before 6:00am. good luck with your training. You seem to be doing well keep it up. Mike Report Inappropriate Comment

WHATAGRL42 10/2/2009 1:40AM

It sounds like you are so ready! Stay hydrated..... we had a cross country kid drop dead the other day at a meet, after a 3 mile run. While it was hot (107*), it was later determined he was not at all hydrated and had NO potassium in his system! Doc said you have to begin hydrating a few days before the race... not just the day of, especially when it's that hot. The GU stuff looks good! And don't u hate that "Jarring" awakening that happens when you bolt upright out of bed, knowing you are late? That happened to me once when I had a STUDENT TEACHER from the local university! SO embarrassing! She called me at 8:00 am and I drowsily answered. She just laughed and said, "good morning sunshine!". I flew out of that bed so fast I bonked my head on the lamp! Report Inappropriate Comment

CASSIOEPIA 10/1/2009 10:29PM

I never set my alarm, and am usually up by 5:00 or 5:30 at the latest. On the mornings I sleep until my hubby's alarm wakes me at 7;00, I just put it down to my body knows best! Perhaps you really needed the extra rest. Sounds like your run benefited from it anyway. Report Inappropriate Comment

CLOVERR1 10/1/2009 8:51PM

I like Clif bars on my long workouts, but I'm not much for GU at all. I've got another hilly 18-20 miler planned this Saturday; I really hope the weather stays good! Report Inappropriate Comment

GAYEMC 10/1/2009 8:45PM

Ya think your body was trying to say something? Sadly I slept through the alarm both Tuesday and Wednesday. I do that maybe once a year. Hope it's just the weather change. But you got a good run out of it, and that's a good thing! Report Inappropriate Comment

ROUXZQ 10/1/2009 7:24PM

Well it sounds like you still didn't miss out on an opportunity to get physical! THAT is ALWAYS good! Sometimes *life* just happens. De keep up the good work. Report Inappropriate Comment

SEEHOLZ 10/1/2009 5:35PM

I love Clif shot blocks so much better than gue- I still eat go, but mainly because it's easier to go and stop at Giant Eagle ( the grocery store) and buy PowerGel than to find a running store-- you know, it's just more convenient and cheaper, especially when they are on sale. The PowerGel is smoother ( more watery) and goes down much better- especially in cool temps. The gue chomps are my new fav== they have some kind of berry flavor that rocks and popping them in one by one or two by two makes it easier for races- run, chomp, run-LOL! One time, I accidentally fell asleep ( when I got home from work and was exhausted) and missed a 7:30pm Y staff meeting- the excuse must have come off lame, because I got to hear about it at my evaluation- I know you felt bad and everyone that knows you for who you are, will appreciate the apology- my boss at the time was just a jerk, you know! It sure sounds like you're well rested for the rowing and the running! Report Inappropriate Comment

PRAIRIEDAWNPAM 10/1/2009 4:54PM

Just submitting another vote for book and product reports. Report Inappropriate Comment

TELERIE 10/1/2009 4:37PM

Aw, I hate to oversleep! Glad no real harm done, and that the running goes well! Report Inappropriate Comment

THEQUEENBEE333 10/1/2009 4:25PM

You are doing awesome! Report Inappropriate Comment

KEAKMAN 10/1/2009 4:09PM

Book report and Clif Shots report to follow, right??? Glad you had a good run and were able to get back to sleep. Sorry you missed your row, but it sounds like someone benefitted, so that was good. How long is Saturday's run???? Report Inappropriate Comment

MSSUNBUG 10/1/2009 3:58PM

Great for you on the running! Seriously, I can't WAIT to be in your (running) shoes! :D So sucky about sleeping in and missing the rowing. Seriously. I totally feel you too with feeling guilty and angry and worried that no one else got to row as a consequence, but it sounds like it turned out okay. Better luck waking up on Sunday! Keep at it! Report Inappropriate Comment

SWEATONCEADAY 10/1/2009 3:56PM

can't wait on your opinion of the book! good run and too bad you missed the alarm. Report Inappropriate Comment

KSIGMA1222 10/1/2009 3:53PM

Great run! How do you like the book so far? I am sitting outside watching a bookmobile location and drinking coffee, may pay for the coffee later! But it keeps me alert and well gives me a reason to use their internet. Need to do my long run tonight and the weather has been great for running all week! Intersting to sit out here and just watch everything go by and knowing I need to be working on my new workout schedule and a general life one as well. Oh well do that one in my head and review for a disiater recovery class I am taking tomorrow at the historial society. Pretty good day thus far! Report Inappropriate Comment

TAKEONME48137 10/1/2009 3:49PM

Maybe this was a subtle way of your body telling you that you needed to rest a bit? hehe I know that's not it, but I guess it all worked out right? Every time I read about you running, I seriously get inspired....one day, one day. Report Inappropriate Comment

MBSHAZZER 10/1/2009 3:48PM

I HATE it when I miss the alarm! That happened to me once, in 1998, and I was late to work, something that causes me to want to perform hari kiri. So I have used 2 alarms every since then! However, my main alarm has lately been pulling this trick where it goes off at midnight every so often. The first time it happened, I actually got up, brushed my teeth, put in my lenses and got all ready to go run before realizing it was only midnight! Anyway, glad to hear that they were able to row without you, although I'm sure it wasn't as much fun! And good job on the run! Report Inappropriate Comment

MDTWEETY 10/1/2009 3:38PM

Lemme know how you like Jillian's book. Report Inappropriate Comment

Beauuutiful Run!

Wednesday, September 30, 2009

So I did my run at lunchtime again today, I can see this being a Wednesday gig for me for a while -- looking down my training schedule only TWO Wednesdays have me running anything other than 4 miles. One 7 and one 2 (that last one is the Wednesday before the marathon!) - and the trail by my work is 4.14 miles, and with me getting dropped off at work 2 hrs early, clocking in an hour early and taking a 2 hour lunch to do that is pretty much perfect. And if I can't do that, I can always do it right after getting dropped off in the morning. Maybe I'll do that when I have to run 7 miles. EITHER WAY - very convenient!

Now I'm halfway through week 7... well....in number of runs. In mileage I'll be halfway through after TOMORROW's run. Then the big one on Saturday. I have to say, I never would have really expected to have such a nonchalant attitude toward running 4-7 miles... less than that as well. It's like -- ok.

Anyway -- after heading outside today to go to work I was looking forward to my run ALL DAY! It was sooooo beautiful outside. The sky was flawlessly gorgeous blue with not a SINGLE CLOUD. Low humidity, slight breeze, SUNNY. :)

(OH and ps. I chose sleep over erging this morning. BEST DECISION EVER. When I remembered I could run in the afternoon I was like, no way am I playing the get up early, workout, nap - game.)

Check out the forecast for my run: 77 Sunny, realfeel - 80, Humidity 40

WORD.

Also no pain in the feet at all today. Just an FYI.

That's all I've got for today -- just essays on the beautiful weather and running.

Oh and TOM reared it's ugly head today. And work cake. But the cake was in tiny little pieces so very well managed. A happy and positive day.

  

  Member Comments About This Blog Post:

TELERIE 10/1/2009 4:34PM

Awesome to hear about your beautiful run! You go, Dana!!! Report Inappropriate Comment

MSSUNBUG 10/1/2009 4:06PM

Sounds lovely and amazing. It's nice to hear you say that you never thought you'd see 4-7 mile runs as no thing. WALKING that distance is a HUGE deal for me. I look forward to the day when running it seems like no big thing. Reading about your running and your commitment to it is INSPIRING, girlie! Keep it up! Report Inappropriate Comment

CATIATM 10/1/2009 1:31PM

WORD is right! Report Inappropriate Comment

SEEHOLZ 10/1/2009 10:41AM

A little cake to celebrate a beautiful day seems like a worthwhile decision! Sooooo cool you had a great day! Report Inappropriate Comment

SIMPLE_TAILOR 10/1/2009 10:14AM

It sounds like a great day. Hope they all turn out this good. ttyl Report Inappropriate Comment

BRE7482 10/1/2009 2:23AM

I'm so in love with the weather we're having right now! I'm glad you're enjoying your runs. Comment edited on: 10/1/2009 2:24:21 AM Report Inappropriate Comment

JKPONYGIRL 9/30/2009 10:05PM

I have just started running and I can't wait to get to the point where 4-7 miles seems like nothing. I'm so glad you are enjoying yourself. Report Inappropriate Comment

TAIMOIRAI 9/30/2009 9:41PM

I would love some good outside running weather. No such luck here. It's still summer in Houston. Report Inappropriate Comment

PRAIRIEDAWNPAM 9/30/2009 9:39PM

We had tiny cake at work today, too. I wish our weather was as nice as yours, though. I fear that fall is finally here. I'm thrilled to hear you had a perfect day. You deserve it! ...Pam Report Inappropriate Comment

KEAKMAN 9/30/2009 9:36PM

I think my hubby's favorite thing to hear me say (ok ALMOST favorite thing to hear me say ) is "I only have a three/four/five mile run today" He is sooo proud of me, and is constantly asking "did you ever think a day would come when a ___ mile run would seem easy and something you do casually?" I LOVE IT! Your run weather sounds great! Current weather forecast for the marathon is 55 degrees to start and mid 60s by the end...depending on when you end! No rain, either. I guess it has NEVER rained on the Portland Marathon (a miracle, no doubt, and proof that God loves runners best of all!) Report Inappropriate Comment

S318830 9/30/2009 9:11PM

LOL! Yes, just wait until you go run for 3 hours and the first 2 feel like no big deal and you rarely glance at your watch because why bother? It's a very surreal feeling. Report Inappropriate Comment

BRUIN2 9/30/2009 8:47PM

FANTASTIC! Report Inappropriate Comment

FIRENUT34 9/30/2009 8:20PM

Sounds like a good running day to me. Report Inappropriate Comment

Happiness is...

Tuesday, September 29, 2009

... sleep? Wearing yellow? Eating my delicious new obsession?

HAHAHAHA :D Whatever it is, I'm having a much better day, so I'm all for it.

Just been feeling so full of positivity since I dunno, sometime last night really.

I think also going rowing this morning and having a good row combined with collecting some more of the fund raiser money AND getting an actual congratulations from the club president and being like, uhh thanks, what? and he was like, the FUNDRAISER! :) So apparently it is thought of as somewhat of a success even if it wasn't as much as I personally hoped for. He actually said that he got some more donations from people at his church! They just hadn't been able to get back to him prior to the event (again back to the timing issues, but I think we all agree on that one so no biggie kind of a thing).

IT GOT COLD!!!!!!!! I walked out of work last night and was like...

wut?

haha. This morning I checked the temps before I headed out for rowing to ensure I dressed appropriately. (FOR THE RECORD - it was like... 50's so not REALLY cold, just cold compared to how it's been here!) I wore longer pants, shirt, long sleeved shirt, hoodie, and headed out.

The thing about this is that... sometimes rowing involves water splashing into the boat. I removed my hoodie before the splashing really began, but it was in the bottom of the boat and got a LITTLE wet that way, my long sleeved T's sleeves got SOAKED, also most of my left side. I was so cold and wet when I left there -- but the good thing is that the level of activity made it really tolerable during the row. It was really no big deal. At first no splashing because we're doing warmups and not able to really get sloppy, and by the time the splashing occurred... we were... warmed up. :)

But I did forget my running shoes on the way out of the house so I had to come back home and run a different route than I intended... one that I forgot involves THREE big hills.

I didn't actually run this in the order I have it mapped -- the tail end (.7 miles ish) was actually run at the beginning but you see the humps in there. Assuming this stuff is accurate anyway!



So -- I'm having kind of a mild weird pain. I tried to look stuff up online but nothing REALLY fit it and the closest thing doesn't really seem to have much you can do except maybe put an extra pad in your shoe (well other than get a shot from a dr that may or may not help it - neuroma is what I'm guessing at) It's a pain in the curling area of my toes, the like... middle toes. But it's not all the time, just sometimes... not even on some runs and even on the runs it happens on, most of the time I don't feel it but then I occasionally do. And then it like stops. I dunno, I'm not really worried about it, but I wanted to make note of it and be aware of it.

So anyway -- I felt kinda cold when running especially in the beginning, but not REALLY. Just my arms and hands a bit. But overall it was a really good run!! I tried a new "fuel"... didn't have a chance to get to the sporting good store so I decided to try Twizzler's Cherry Nibs. LOVE THEM.... uh.... but maybe not so much for the running fuel? Now that I've tried the GU and see how QUICKLY that goes, I'm like chewing all these little nibs, I had to start running again and chew and run which was actually fine, but not sure I prefer it is all. Today was also one of the faster times for me on this route which is interesting. I need to make sure to take it easy tomorrow.

Then shower/eat/watch House/sleep. Until RIGHT about time for me to leave!!! :D Luckily my hubby came and woke me up - not sure what happened with my alarm. I think I just turned it off and went back to sleep but I'm sure that was a good decision.

Speaking of tomorrow -- the plan is to erg in the morning at 6AM and be running by 6:45ish. I'm going to go for sleeves tomorrow probably and maybe bring my gloves. I didn't start running today until like 8AM so I bet it will be cooler.

New delicious obsession:



150 cal/13g fat/25mg sodium/6g carbs (3 fiber 1 sugar)/6g protein per ONE OZ.

They ARE sweetened with acesulfame potassium and sucralose, FYI for those who are avoiding artificial sweeteners, but the sweetness level is very low with these, they are the last ingredients. To me it is the PERFECT amount of sweet, the dark chocolate flavor is delicious, they are so good. The best thing is that for me, I can actually eat a few and not feel like I need to eat a ton of them. I have a little baggie here at work and I had a few at my last snack break when I ate my yogurt, and I'll probably have the rest with my lunch, but might save a few for later tonight. :D haha.

That's all for now... still busy busy with the schedule but I'm feeling less stressed and more positive for sure.

  

  Member Comments About This Blog Post:

MSSUNBUG 10/1/2009 4:03PM

I LOOOOOOOOOVE those almonds. I swear, some days they're just what gets me through! :-) I know exactly the running pain you're describing. Back when I was walking 4-5 miles each day, consistently, I had the same pain. Rest helped it to feel better, but it would regularly come back. I was walking quickly, which involves a lot of.... sort of like "propelling" from that area of the foot, and it used to just completely stress that area out. Make sure you take good care of that! Glad to hear your of your positive shift too! Report Inappropriate Comment

TAKEONME48137 10/1/2009 3:42PM

I have to try those nuts sometimes! And I'm loving the weather as well. It's been like 50 in the morning and fairly breezy the rest of the day. =) Report Inappropriate Comment

MYLIFE4LIFE 9/30/2009 5:13PM

Girl those almonds are the best thing since sliced bread! Lol. One of my coworkers introduced them to me a few weeks ago and told me I can get them cheaper at Target (did you know they sell them?) because I priced them at Kroger (not sure if you have one of those there) and Walmart and they were kinda pricey for me. It has been super chilly here. But I totally plan on getting in as much walking outdoors as I can since it won't be long before it is too yucky out to do anything. :( Report Inappropriate Comment

MDTWEETY 9/30/2009 1:55PM

Happiness is SLEEP!! Those almonds look yummy!!! Report Inappropriate Comment

SIMPLE_TAILOR 9/30/2009 1:23PM

Sounds like life is returning to a relative normal now that the fundraiser is done. Make sure you ask how people thought it turned out. The kudos you get can be a needed boost and it will help you learn for your next one. Definitely take it easy the next day or two with that foot acting up. ttyl Report Inappropriate Comment

SWEETZMIX 9/30/2009 11:43AM

Dana, glad to hear you are doing alright. I haven't really been on spark, but kinda out of the loop going through my own issues, u know?? I love all kids of nuts (lol no pun intended) and I will try these when I go to the grocery store. Looks yummy!! And girl I know what u mean about cold. Today I left my house with a sweater and a light jacket w/ my cute scarf!! It's only going to go up to 66 as a HIGH today. I have a feeling it's going to be a cold fall & winter :( Take Care! Report Inappropriate Comment

RUN_LIFT_EAT 9/30/2009 8:35AM

I have seen those, I love almonds and dark chocolate so I could getting into trouble - lol!! And you have got me wanting to wear some yellow! How did you get that nifty map? I am sure the fundraiser was a success! I am with you on the running and cold, and I am total wimp anything under 50 and I'm like "I;m cold!" It is still WAY easier than running in the heat, though. It is 49 here this morning. It feels great! Jake and I lit the chiminea last night, good stuff! Have a great humpday! PS: I vote ATL! Report Inappropriate Comment

JESPAH 9/30/2009 6:28AM

The toes thing -- one thing I've found is I'd better have short toenails if I'm going to run. Might help a lil. Egad, chocolate covered almonds, get thee behind me, Satan! :) Report Inappropriate Comment

SCOLLY 9/29/2009 10:03PM

YUMMY!!!!! Report Inappropriate Comment

PRAIRIEDAWNPAM 9/29/2009 9:34PM

I eat nuts with a square of dark chocolate. Its soooooooo good! Report Inappropriate Comment

KEAKMAN 9/29/2009 9:18PM

Cooler and damper weather, here it comes! Now to find out who the REAL runners are! (sorry to hear about your foot.....go see a doc if it doesn't get better, just in case) So what are your favorite gels/GU/etc? I have been munching various freebies from races, and they are all the same - cranberry something or other shot bloks...good stuff, but in case there is something more gooder out there that I should try..... Report Inappropriate Comment

LAFTERSFREE 9/29/2009 8:35PM

i am LOVING the cooler weather, we went to the blink concert outdoors last night and the weather was PERFECT for an outdoor concert!!! those almonds sound great, i gotta try something like that. i was having some major chocolate needs today!!!! hope we can catch up soon, it sucks that we are both so insanely busy lately!!!! Report Inappropriate Comment

CECE0330 9/29/2009 5:36PM

OK, so everything I read prior to the almonds evaporated as soon as I started imagining the taste of those little guys.... I've been snacking on Vanilla Bean almonds lately, and find I enjoy 15 of those more than a piece of candy or some "faux" treat....those 100 calorie junky foods. Report Inappropriate Comment

SHINYSILVRVOLVO 9/29/2009 5:22PM

You are so cool! I love that you always pick yourself back up after feeling discouraged. It helps me to keep going too! Report Inappropriate Comment

SEEHOLZ 9/29/2009 5:13PM

LOL- I also LOVE those nuts!!! So cool you're happy today-- as for wearing yellow, I'd be depressed-LOL! so not my color... but heck, light purple or light blue would do the trick! It got cold like everywhere-seriously, every blog I read (even in FL) the temps are down the toilet.. fall is upon us girl! Report Inappropriate Comment

MBSHAZZER 9/29/2009 5:10PM

I LOVE THOSE NUTS!!!! I share your obsession! Enjoy the "cold" weather - we get 50's here in Florida every once in a while in the "dead of winter". So glad you are feeling HAPPY! Report Inappropriate Comment

KJNE8O 9/29/2009 5:06PM

Have you tried tha Hammer Gels? I really like them - I like all the Hammer Nutrition products. OK, I live in Ohio but I HATE being cold, especially wet AND cold! Great run today - nice hills! Ugh! Glad you are feeling better! Report Inappropriate Comment

Row-A-Thon, Running, Etc.

Monday, September 28, 2009

So....

The Row-A-Thon! We rowed. It was nice. I didn't row actually, I was manning the shelter in the park -- which was less of a success. I think partially because of the forecast and partially because of the lateness of things which allowed us very little by way of advertising... anyway. I have a total so far of some of the donations, but I still have yet to collect the donations given to the other rowers that received pledges so I do not know how successful it was as a whole yet.

Running - WEEK 6/16 DONE!

This week did not have a typical long run scheduled for the weekend. I did run over 7 miles on Tuesday, however, which for me has been a longer type of a run, but Saturday was supposed to be a " two mile warmup, 5K race, 1 mile cooldown". Well I didn't enter any races, there wasn't one in town, so instead I just did the two mile warmup (actually about 2.1 miles), then ran 3 miles as if I were racing, and then did another mile lap as a cooldown. So the total was a little over six miles, but man!!!! It was hard and fun to run fast again! My first mile loop was at 9:15min! hahahaha. I started out WAYYYYYYYY too fast, though. I could feel myself fading fast halfway through that loop. I ended up second mile around 9:30, last mile around 10:15... haha I also REALLY lost focus at one point in the last mile... I started thinking about other things and then I was like, oh yeah I'm supposed to be racing! I finished the 3 miles in 29:00 though, so considering I've been running an average between 12-13min miles on my runs recently, it was nice to reassure myself that this is because I REALLY AM taking it easy. Not because I can't run fast anymore. Ya know?

So I got that done.

So..... we're not going to be leaving in December unless some amazing job offer pops up like NOW. Within the next week or so is when we have to be telling people (apt, University) if we're gonna be here any longer and so far no bites. (Not too many apps put in but very recently, though... but there's really no reason to try to kill ourselves to get out of here...)

It was a bit of a letdown for me -- ok I'm being very conservative with that statement because frankly I'm embarrassed with how I reacted when it came down to it that this was the best decision for us to make... I criiiiied, it was awful. I was just SO looking forward to giving the big PEACE I'M OUTTA HERE at my work, sooooooo counting on not realllly being the fundraising person forever, just until we left in Dec... stuff like that. But oh well -- it's really not that bad. It just took me a while to readjust my expectations. Ya know? In the grand scheme of things another 4-5 months is really no big deal. Not to mention that it's not going to be like it is now... marathon training takes up so much time and is stressful. It's exciting!!!! But doing it on top of the other things in life just takes a lot out of you.

Anyway -- a little bit downer sounding of an entry, but really, I'm glad last week is over. I was feeling very cheerful this morning and I'm still feeling pretty good. :) I'm looking forward to what the future has to bring, even though it's different than what I was expecting the future to look like a week ago or so.

  

  Member Comments About This Blog Post:

LAFTERSFREE 9/29/2009 8:31PM

those extra months will fly by.. don't worry dana, but i definitely hear u on being eager to leave here. great job on the runs, and although the training is taking a lot out of you, you know that completing the marathon will be one of the most amazing accomplishments of your life and that is worth it. Report Inappropriate Comment

RUN_LIFT_EAT 9/29/2009 1:21PM

Where are you guys planning on going? I am sorry that the row-a-thon wasn't quite as successful as you would have liked. That stinks that you have to stick it out longer than you wanted, but like you said, training will take up a lot of the time . . . it definitely gives you something concrete, that you can control to look forward to, as well. Report Inappropriate Comment

SEEHOLZ 9/29/2009 11:13AM

I'm sorry that things didn't work out as planned- honestly, I must have missed a blog or something, I only thought that you were going to move out of this current apartment, not change jobs or leave town? This is so cliche and usually the most annoying thing to say when you're in it, but things do happen for a reason and my reason for taking a chance to be "egged" by you--- is the fact that I 100% believe that! Like you said- it's 4 to 5 months longer, right? That goes by quick... at least in hinesight-LOL! I'm too impatient to await the next 2 weeks ( or should I say 16 days- oi- but in hinesight, it won't seem that long-LOL- or so I keep telling myself) Great job on the 5K pace-- you totally rocked it- I still do the "run out too quick, fade" thing, so no worries-- just like everything, running is a life long learning experience-LOL! Report Inappropriate Comment

BRE7482 9/29/2009 10:50AM

I'm sorry you're not leaving as soon as you had planned. I've lived here for 27 years, so I understand. Congrats on the great times for your 3 miles though. Report Inappropriate Comment

CATIATM 9/29/2009 10:35AM

I hear you on the whole "peace out" thing. And you're right: it's a question of expections. Any idea on the new timeline? Wow! Great run! WOOT! Report Inappropriate Comment

DDOORN 9/29/2009 9:05AM

For a "downer" you sure do still SPARK-a-PLENTY! :-) Don Report Inappropriate Comment

SIMPLE_TAILOR 9/29/2009 8:01AM

Glad you made it through the fundraiser. The running sounds like it is pretty well on track. Don't be too bummed about the life change (moving/job). We never know what the future holds for us. You are just being put in the right place by our loving Father. Keep with it. ttyl Report Inappropriate Comment

KEAKMAN 9/28/2009 11:29PM

Great run Dana! You are one speedy chick! Sorry for the disappointment. I hope this means the right job is just around the corner for your DH and you get to move to the exact right place! Report Inappropriate Comment

MBSHAZZER 9/28/2009 5:01PM

Hey, sounds like you've had lots of success on the exercise front. And while it's disappointing that you will not be moving in December, it sounds like you've managed to make the best of it and make the glass half full instead of half empty! :) Report Inappropriate Comment

KJNE8O 9/28/2009 4:12PM

First - great run! That is awesome and you are fast! Second- Hugs on the dissapointment - I'm sure that you will find something spectacular soon and will be on to grand new adventures - I just know it :) Report Inappropriate Comment

TAKEONME48137 9/28/2009 3:44PM

I'm glad that despite all that you're feeling cheerful today. I'm sorry that you won't be leaving Tuscaloosa as soon as you thought. But who knows? Maybe it will be some sort of new adventure. I know you had said a while back that once Henry graduates, then you would look into going back to school. Are you going to be able to do that now? Or is that going to be on hold for just a little bit longer? If so, I think you should come back here. =) hehehe Of course, that's selfish of me. You also have one year or so of Chiefs left, right? Incentive! lol I'm totally joking, but seriously, new adventure! I'm also glad that the marathon training is going well. Whenever I read about it, I get more and more inspired to run some kind of race. At the moment, I just really can't do it timing wise and the fact that my neighborhood is kinda sketchy. I know there's other ways around it, but I'm just settling for doing cardio at the gym for now as I have paid for a gym membership so I feel I should use it as much as possible, etc. Anyways, I wish you more success in the training and such. *hugs* Report Inappropriate Comment

KARVY09 9/28/2009 3:28PM

Hey, you'll get out of there eventually. In the meantime, you're doing amazing with all your running and rowing! Report Inappropriate Comment

MDTWEETY 9/28/2009 3:20PM

I know a little bit about how you feel. Two years ago hubby and I were on our way outta here too and then we couldn't sell the house and a good opportunity came up for him at work and well, we're still here. It took me a while to readjust as well and I want to move so badly. But I think you have the right idea to focus on the training and the GOOD things that are going on in your life. Hugs. :) Report Inappropriate Comment

Proud of enduring!

Thursday, September 24, 2009

I definitely used to be a very lazy person.

Procrastinate EVERYTHING except for what seems immediately fun and easy. Which obviously led to lost of sitting on the couch, watching TV and eating eating eating.

Now my opinion on FUN has evolved to include a LOT MORE THINGS, and what is easy isn't always the most appealing thing anymore. Sometimes things become appealing because of the fact that they AREN'T easy... (marathon anyone???)

Since I've changed a bit, I've also become of the opinion that anyone can stand something difficult for a short period of time... Let me clarify I guess. Like Jillian Michael's Making the Cut program -- 30days... it's grueling, but hey. It's only 30 days. Do it, rock it, and you can move on to something else. When I was working massive amounts of overtime at my job one month/two... it was tough, but it was doable and necessary and it wasn't forever.

Right now I'm in one of those situations. My plate became overly full, but I couldn't see anything I could/wanted to remove from it, so now I'm burning the candle at both ends... but!!!!!!! After this weekend, it's over. *phwew*

SO! :D Right now I just count down the days.

This morning I was debating whether to shove my run off to another day... but ultimately decided I would feel a lot better if I just gritted my teeth and got it done. BOY HOWDY! Rowing this morning was tough, but good. The run was... slow (purposefully slow) and hard, and wearymaking, but toward the end I just started thinking how happy I was to have this done today so I could move on with a nice REST day tomorrow prior to crazy row-a-thon day. I think I'm gonna get up and do my running before the row-a-thon, too... I WANTED to row all 4 hours, but it's not going to be super grueling in any case, and there are plenty of volunteers so I can rotate out of the rowing portion at any time. So... again, get it done early and check it off the list! :)

I WAS NEVER A GET IT DONE EARLY AND CHECK IT OFF KIND OF GIRL!!!

See above? About procrastinating? Now, that isn't to say I still don't procrastinate SOME things... but there are things that are NOT FUN these days, and I DO THEM right away, or soon, or early...

Anyway now I'm hungry.

OH YEAH.

As of today I'm already over my calorie burn estimate for the week -- that is not counting any ST, and no running or rowing this weekend.... so.... yeah. Yesterday I was feeling it and I purposefully ate a little over my calories. Right now I'm just eating when I'm hungry and eating good stuff -- the worst thing I've eaten are Kashi Crunch Bars probably, and the candy corn I took for my running sugar today cause I forgot I ran out of running fuel! I'm still tracking up till dinnertime so I have an idea where I am and don't lose my feeling for how much I'm eating and when... sometime soon I'll adjust my ranges in sparks but for right now I'm just going to go with the flow.

So. Snack time.

  

  Member Comments About This Blog Post:

MSSUNBUG 10/1/2009 4:07PM

yay for you! LOVE this blog! Report Inappropriate Comment

LAFTERSFREE 9/29/2009 8:27PM

i like that outlook, that everything is just temporary, so just do what you can as best you can and at some point the challenge will be over! that's motivating :) Report Inappropriate Comment

HOLLY1949 9/28/2009 9:33PM

I would say that you have changed more than a bit. Report Inappropriate Comment

CATIATM 9/27/2009 2:44AM

Rock on is right! I read this blog twice to really digest it. You've hit it on the head: your transformation was as much on the inside as it was outside. You look different, but the actions that made/make you successful reflect a change in thinking. You should be bery proud of yourself, Dana. Report Inappropriate Comment

RUN_LIFT_EAT 9/25/2009 5:24PM

Rock on Dana! I feel the same way about not procrastinating and grinding things out. I too TOTALLY - or at least in LARGE PART credit exercise, it is so good for our lives in so many ways. You SHOULD be proud of yourself, girl! PS: running in winter is helped out a LOT with good gear. I am not a gear head, but good cold weather stuff makes a difference. Report Inappropriate Comment

SEEHOLZ 9/25/2009 5:18PM

I'm using some of the same principles to push through... trying really hard not to burn myself out! I got until the 15th though... but, what do they say.. the only way to the other side is THROUGH the fire??? Something similar anyways-LOL! I miss my double/triple workouts, but am trying to do some focused kick you $ss stuff, so that I still feel the burn-LOL! Great job on sticking it out-- you go girl! Report Inappropriate Comment

SWEATONCEADAY 9/25/2009 2:07PM

great blog dana! Report Inappropriate Comment

KJNE8O 9/25/2009 11:19AM

Yup - I used to be lazy too - I can't imagine what I could have accomplished if I hadn't spent so much time just sitting on the couch! Amazing isn't it how we waste our lives? Good for you for getting that workout done! Isn't it a wonderful feeling? YAY! Have a GREAT weekend! Report Inappropriate Comment

EOSAURORA84 9/25/2009 9:49AM

i could never imagin you as a lazy person....i agree with you that everyone can do a diffucult thing for a least a few minutes.....i also like to get the crapy stuff that i dont really want to do out of the way first, or i will never do it.....good luck onthe row-a-thon.... Report Inappropriate Comment

SIMPLE_TAILOR 9/25/2009 6:58AM

Hope everything goes well this weekend. You've put a ton of work into it. ttyl Report Inappropriate Comment

JESPAH 9/25/2009 6:23AM

Great job! Funny how things we used to dismiss become what we desire, if we stick with 'em long enough to see their virtues. :) Report Inappropriate Comment

DANCINGCAROL 9/24/2009 9:46PM

Wow. Neat post. Thanks for the inspiration. Report Inappropriate Comment

SCOLLY 9/24/2009 9:35PM

You're doing wonderfully. And let me just say, I needed to read this today. I, too, tend to overload myself, but really feel all my current obligations are too important to let go. Glad to be reminded that there is an end date to it all...and in the end, it's ALL worth it. Report Inappropriate Comment

KNH771 9/24/2009 5:44PM

If you could bottle up your mojo and sell it, you'd be a zillionaire! Keep it up. I'll borrow some of your extra calorie burn! Report Inappropriate Comment

SHINYSILVRVOLVO 9/24/2009 5:32PM

And you SHOULD be proud! There are very few people who can say they've accomplished what you have, so GO YOU!!! Report Inappropriate Comment

MISSY_MAGOO 9/24/2009 5:11PM

WooHoo! You ARE rockin it! Report Inappropriate Comment

CLOVERR1 9/24/2009 4:56PM

Have I ever mentioned that my "spirit animal" is a sloth? :) Report Inappropriate Comment

PRAIRIEDAWNPAM 9/24/2009 4:32PM

"Do it, rock it, and you can move on to something else." This is great stuff! Of course, as you've discovered, doing it and rocking it can also lead to LOVING IT. We'll never know if we don't DO IT. ...Pam Report Inappropriate Comment

KARVY09 9/24/2009 4:12PM

Nice job amping up your workouts. I need to get some of that anti-procrastination juice you're taking! Weeeeeeee! Report Inappropriate Comment

SIMPLELIFE4REAL 9/24/2009 4:11PM

I don't always comment on your blogs, but I always read them. I'm so impressed with all the exercise you do and the consistency of it. It's somehow comforting to me that you once struggled with procrastination to a significant degree. It's also motivating to me to see how you continue to work on overcoming it when it rears it's ugly head. Report Inappropriate Comment

MDTWEETY 9/24/2009 4:06PM

Awesome! I procrastinate at times too, but I always feel better when I just get whatever it is DONE. Having things hanging overhead is not at all fun. Report Inappropriate Comment

MBSHAZZER 9/24/2009 4:04PM

WHEEE! Isn't it awesome to have things done early?! I am soooo freaking anal about stuff like that - at work, it usually ends up creating more work for me, but in general, it's the best way to do stuff. You'll save yourself time, money, and stress. Anyway, WAY TO GO!!! Report Inappropriate Comment