See Suba Run

Well, It's Been A While

2009-06-07T12:16:00.002-04:00

Wow, I just realized I haven't blogged since New Years, and I really should change the title of my blog since I'm not doing much running these days. I think I got discouraged because I never really got any better (better = faster). BUT, I may try again. And, just because I'm not running, doesn't mean I've given up on exercise. I'm still working out, just doing other things.

I've also started focusing WAY MORE on my diet. Not my "diet", but my overall eating, like what I've been putting in my body. A bunch of my WeWa (WeWe = Weight Watchers) Message Board buddies and I are currently reading Master Your Metabolism by Jillian Michaels. This book is truly eye opening. It's about removing anti nutrients and toxins which are slowing your metabolism, and restoring natural whole foods to your diet. Foods that will rally your fat burning hormones. And, it makes sense because I've been saying for years, that I eat so good, I'm so careful to eat low fat foods and what I thought were healthy foods, I should weigh 150 pounds already. I thought I'd been eating good, but my metabolism is all screwy.

Until I started reading this book I never REALIZED the amount of chemicals I have been putting in my body. Processed foods are murder on our hormones because our bodies don't recognize them as foods. Processed foods don't come from nature, they come from factories. So, when we eat "fat free", "carb free", "sugar free", it's really a bunch of chemicals thrown together to actually make them have taste. Have you SEEN how long some of these ingredient lists are? And, do you even recognize most of the ingredients, let alone can you even pronounce them??? So, this is my main focus these days. I'm learning to eat MUCH cleaner. More whole foods, more natural foods, and less hormone & pesticide laden foods. The theory of the book is "if it doesn't have a mother, and doesn't come from the earth, we shouldn't be eating it".

So, I'm making changes, slowly but surely, and I'm paying MUCH more attention to what I put in my body. Most of the foods now have small ingredient lists, and they are things I can actually pronounce. I've cut out ALL artificial sweetners, and I use organic honey or raw turbino sugar now. I've switched to organic milk (1 or 2%), all natural cheeses, all natural lunch meat (Boar's Head has a great line), natural peanut butter (All Natural Jif is great), organic or Greek yogurt (I love Wallaby and Stoneyfield, and Fage) and Polaner All Fruit Spread. All of these aren't only good for me, they actually TASTE good. I feel satisfied and stay full longer.

Today's breakfast was a fruit smoothie: 6 oz Organic plain Yogurt, Frozen Blueberries, frozen strawberries, little organic honey, and a splash of 2% organic milk. I had that with a hard boiled egg and I was good to go.

Lunch was 2 oz. Boar's Head All Natural Roast Beef with a slice of All Natural Havarti, and some roasted red pepper hummus rolled in a whole wheat tortilla. I had that with some grapes and I was more than satisfied.

Snack is some whole raw almonds and an orange.

Dinner is going to be some whole wheat pasta with some Newman's Own All Natural Marinara, some romano, and a big salad. Except for my low fat milk and yogurt, none of my day's food is labeled as "low fat", "sugar free", or "fat free". Most of it is all natural, it's good for ME, and hopefully by incorporating these changes, I can start to FINALLY balance my metabolism and get some of this weight off.

Welcome 2009!

2009-01-02T15:00:00.005-05:00

Happy New Year everyone!

I'm really looking forward to this year. I don't like to make "resolutions" because you know how that goes. It's all good for a week, maybe two, maybe even a month, and then it all goes to shit. So, my resolution is "No Resolutions", and I'm just going to say that I hope to make some little changes, maybe learn a new routine or good habit this year and incorporate some new things into my daily life. These are some of the things I have been tossing around.

1. Try to be more patient.
2. Make some specific mother-daughter time. Maybe start a new tradition with Kelsey.
3. Run faithfully 3-4 days per week even if my running buddy flakes on me.
4. Tell Wade more often that I appreciate him. He knows I love him, but I want him to know that I APPRECIATE him.
5. Start following a regular face washing routine. I'm horrible about going to bed with make-up on, and I want to keep my youthful appearance (*snort*) for as long as I can.
6. Once and for all, start "eating to live" instead of "living to eat". THIS ONE will be the hardest!
7. Put $40 per week in my "going on a Safari fund". With what I have saved, if I do that, I can see the giraffes live and in person in the spring of 2010 (or whatever time of year is the cheapest LOL).
8. Visit at least one new place, and make at least one new friend.
9. Go out more with Wade. We stay home too much, and we're too young to be fuddy-duddies.

So, that's what I have. Even if I only do some of the things on the list, I think that will still be good. Slow and steady and all that good stuff......

Martini Saturday

2008-12-15T09:54:00.004-05:00

Wade and I attended my friend, Cindi's, Second Annual Martini Mixology party on Saturday night and we had a really good time. We hung out with friends, had martinis, and ate good food. Cindi's hubby, Bob, is a chef, and he makes this killer Brie wrapped in phyllo dough with thinly slices apples, candlied walnuts, and raspberries. Mmmmm, it's to DIE FOR. There was not one scrap of that left at the end of the night.

I know Wade was ready to leave the party a little earlier than I was, but he was a good sport about it and stayed as long as I wanted. Of course, he was my Designated Driver so I needed him to stay LOL. I got drunk, but not as bad as last year. This year I didn't have to lay in the back seat when he was driving home, thefore I didn't roll *off* the backseat when he stopped at a light, and he didn't have to pull over because I thought I was going to puke. This year I didn't drink "TOO much, too fast", which was my problem in the past. I drank, got my drunk on, and then I stopped drinking. Wade was happy about that, and I didn't embarrass him, which he's ALWAYS happy about. I did pass out as soon as I got home though, which is par for the course.

AND, even though he was ready to leave, he let me put the Santa hat on his head and then take a self portrait of us. My honey, he's such a good guy! I love him!

And The Fat Get Fatter

2008-11-27T22:46:00.004-05:00

Ok, we had no company for dinner today (perfect day as far as I'm concerned). Kelsey was even a maybe because she hardly ever spends her free time at home anymore. Yet, I prepared a feast as if I were having 12 people for dinner. This is what I prepared and what we ate. THIS IS FOR TWO (maybe 3) PEOPLE:

ham (5 lb)
turkey (12 lb)
stuffing
yams w/marshmallows
rolls
gravy
ham glaze
mashed potatoes (I had to throw them away because they were like glue)
And of course we had a pie---caramel apple pie w/pecans from Fresh Market. One of the best pies I ever ate. And, yes, there was French Vanilla ice cream on top. *puffy cheeks face*

4 hours of cooking and cleaning for 15 mins of eating and more cleaning and washing of the dishes. AND, my stomach hurts, AND I can feel my underwear getting tighter as I type. Yep, that's my "fatness indicator". When my undies get tight, that means I'm packing on some extra pounds. And, right now, they're rolling down the stomach under the fat, I'm feeling roly poly, and the thought of food is making me ill.

Mark my words, next year I am going to a restaurant!

Endurance - I Think I Have Some

2008-11-15T10:54:00.003-05:00

Today I woke up early and decided to head to the gym for a run. I figured I was up, so I might as well get a workout in. Anyway, I had the best run today. I'm not talking pace time because my pace sucked (17 min mile), but I don't care. I ran longer today then I ever have without stopping.

I did a quick warm up and then ran a nice, steady pace, trying to keep my HR in the zone (143-160), at 3.6 mph for just over 30 minutes. I've never run this long before, so I'm really proud of myself. AND, I wasn't gasping for breath (thank you inhaler). Throughout the rest of my workout, I was running between 3.5 - 4.0mph with no incline. Out of the hour workout, I think I ran a total of 50 minutes (broken into blocks). That's the best I've ever done. Usually I spend more time walking then running, AND I think my pace is actually faster when I'm walking, but I'm going to improve that, slowly and steadily.

SO, anyway, I'm really pumped, I feel good, and I'm going to keep working on my endurance. The next step after that will be gradually trying to increase my speed.

I have a little less than 4 weeks until my 5k.

Today's Workout

1:00
3.52 miles
1236 calories burned

PUPPIES!

2008-11-13T19:42:00.013-05:00

In case you haven't seen it, this is puppy cam. I am hooked on these little guys, and apparently so are many others as you can see by the number of people viewing. Although they sleep most of the time, when they're awake, they play with their toys and with each other. And, let's admit it, what's cuter than a bunch of puppies.

http://cdn1.ustream.tv/swf/4/viewer.45.swf?cid=317016O

And I made it to the gym tonight....treadmill run/walk interval workout. The chick next to me smelled like armpits, so thank goodness she left after 10 minutes, it was brutal.

Yeah, I know, we went from puppies to armpits.....

Today's Treadmill Workout:

3.29 mile walk/run
57:01
1012 calories burned

Stupid IT Department

2008-11-09T19:46:00.005-05:00

Blogs are now blocked at work, that's why I haven't been keeping up as much. And, when I get home from work and take care of all that needs to be taken care of, plus work out, I just don't feel like sitting at the computer.

They also blocked personal E mail, Face Book, photo sharing, music streaming, and all kinds of other good stuff. Shit, I can barely print an online coupon anymore. I'm surprised WeWa is not blocked, but thank goodness it's not.....I need somewhere to go when I'm bored.

I finally picked up some reflective stuff at Sports Authortity today, so now I can go running after work. I haven't running outside since we turned the clocks back because it's already dark by the time I get home from work, and I didn't have anything to make sure I could be seen...especially since I wear black pants. I picked up some reflective bands you put around your wrists and your ankles. I hope that's good enough to make sure people can see me. I guess we'll find out tomorrow.

I'm "training" for my next 5k, the Jingle Bell Run on December 11. It's a run where people dress up in holiday theme and wear lots of jingle bells. I picked some bells up at Target this weekend and I'm going to get some reindeer ears or something. I wanted to get a Santa hat, but I know I would be sweating under that hat....I'm just way too hot a person to wear anything on my head. It sounds like it will be a fun race, so I'm excited. I hope I can do it in 47 mins or less. That's my goal. Yeah, my expectations are not high because I know I'm a slow runner. But, once this is done, and I set my time, I'll have something to try to improve upon. I'm just happy that I'm out there burning calories.

Baggies

2008-10-30T22:00:00.007-04:00

Forget Tupperware, these are THE best thing to store leftovers in. Right now in my fridge I have baggies of all sizes with peas, macaroni salad, pasta, a pork chop, and stuffing. I've also been known to use baggies for jello too. These things are good for everything! Wade said he has never seen anyone do this before, but I know I can't be the only one out there who does this. I mean it's WAY better than using a plastic container, especially when you're the one in charge of cleaning the fridge. Plus, in the baggie, you can see what the leftover actually is. And then, when the leftovers go uneaten, you don't have to clean out the containers that contain the food turned science experiments....you just toss the baggies in the garbage...no fuss, no muss. That's right, I'm all about the quick and easy. (Yes, I know, there's a joke there *smile*)

^^^^Anyway, that's my mindless dribble of the evening.

Oh yeah, and I made it to the gym tonight after work and did a treadmill walk/run interval workout:

3.1 miles
47:28
959 calories burned

MUSHY

2008-10-28T20:37:00.004-04:00

That's what I feel like. I haven't worked out or eaten a healthy meal since a week or so before I went to Miami. And, since I've been back I've been eating like they're taking food off the planet and I better get what I can get before it's all gone. Oh, and I have 100% confirmed that I can NOT have ice cream in the house that I like, and that's all I need to say about that! I'm sure most of you can relate.

I am so sick of saying "I need to get back on track", and I'm sure Wade is SO tired of hearing it, but I'm pretty sure it's something that I'll be saying for the rest of my life. I wish it were easy, but it's not, and I need to finally get that in my head. This weight loss thing is hard work....WORK being the key word. If it were easy, everyone would be thin, right? Add to that, my non existent metabolism, and this is going to be a life-long journey for me. *Sigh*

Oh well, I'm back on track---AGAIN! LOL

Tonight's workout:

Walk/Run 2.8 miles (more walking than running)
46 mins
732 calories burned

Race Report

2008-10-20T09:48:00.009-04:00

I'm back from Miami, and had a great time. The race was awe inspiring, and I was so glad I took part in it.

We arrived a little before 7:30 a.m, and it was a mad house. They said over 15,000 people were participating, and most of them must have been there already....it was hard to even walk though the event. There were vendors giving out goodies and food, (thank goodness because I was starving), so I ate a mini bagel with some cream cheese, a babybel cheese, and some kind of little bar. I can't remember what kind, (I'll have to ask Soxy again), but it was good.

About 7:30 they had the Survivor Ceremonies, and the announcer said there were 700 survivors on stage, the most of any year. When she said that I got choked up. I just took everything in, and I was SO GLAD I was able to be a part of this. It was amazing all of the people who came out to support the cause. There were people from all walks of life: young, old, men, women, people pushing baby carriages, people with their pets.....all coming together for a common cause. It was just a great thing to see, I had never been a part of something so important before, and I couldn't have been more proud to be there. They made a bunch of announcements, played some music, and I walked around just taking it all in.

At 8:30 the horn sounded, and it was time to begin, so I started my HRM. Danielle and I were together (at this point we had lost everyone else), so off we went. There was such a massive crowd crunch, there was no way we were going to be able to do this race the way we had anticipated we'd do our first 5k, but that's okay, we didn't care. We agreed we would run whenever we got a chance and we'd walk when we weren't able to run though the mass of bodies.

We were able to get a little 5 min run going through the first part of the course because walkers had moved to one side to let runners go on the left. So, as we passed Mile 1 the clock on the side of the road read 15:47. The second part of the course was over a bridge and people weren't moving to one side. It was more of a bob and weave sort of thing, mostly walking, and as we passed Mile 2, the clock read 38:05. The course was a loop, so for the last mile we headed back up and over the bridge, and would try to get a short run going whenever we got a chance, but those were few and far between.

As we rounded the last corner I could see see the finish line. It was then I started to really get choked up. I was thinking of all the people who came out for the event, and of our group, who came from all over to support our dear friend, Eve, and what an inspiration Eve is (who BTW ROCKED her pink bandana). I also thought about all the survivors, all the people running for loved ones, and the ones who didn't survive the fight. So, as I passed the finish line I shed a few tears behind my sunglasses....for all those people I mentioned above, and for myself because seven months ago, when I started thinking about trying to run, I never knew that I could feel this good when I crossed that finish. It was a sense of accomplishment and pride, and I loved that feeling. End time 55:19.

Link to photos: http://picasaweb.google.com/Suba913/MiamiWeekend#

Day Before The Race

2008-10-17T08:26:00.003-04:00

Well, I'm heading to Miami for the SGK 5k / F2F. I'm a little nervous but very excited. Excited for the run, excited to be running for such a special cause (and a special friend), and excited to meet new people. Oh, and let's not forget the Boston/Tampa Game 6 rivalry that I'll be sharing with Soxy while we're there. This should be....um, interesting, to say the least LOL.

Thanks for all the encouragement and donations. I'll report back after I get home. Wish me luck!!!

My New Obsession

2008-10-08T10:26:00.003-04:00

BAGELFULS

Someone (thanks Gypsy), mentioned these on the WeWa board a few weeks back, so I went out and tried them, and I have been addicted ever since. I eat at least one every day. They are 4 WeWa points (200 cals/4 fat/2 fiber), and the good thing is they only contain 6g of sugar. I watch my sugar intake closely, so these really are good to eat for a snack when you're in the mood for something sweet.

My two favorite ones are the plain bagel w/strawberry cream cheese and the cinnamon bagel w/cinnamon cream cheese. I want to try the plain bagel w/chive cream cheese, but I haven't seen them at my store. (Note to self: talk to the Publix Manager next time I'm there about that). You can find these in the freezer section with the breakfast foods. I store mine in the fridge and nuke them for 15 seconds. I have found through trial and error, this time works the best. You can also put them in the toaster, but I like them better microwaved.

The only BAD thing about these is that the wrapper is SUPER crackly. It's hard to be quiet when you're unwrapping one of these things at 4 in the morning LOL. Anyway, this is my new guilty pleasure, yet I don't have to feel guilty about eating it. YAY.

Ok, does anyone else notice how many of my blog posts are about food *giggle*

Food And The Difference Between Men And Women

2008-10-03T09:35:00.007-04:00

Last night after work a bunch of us got together for happy hour and dinner at a local restaurant. The food there is delicious, I've never had anything bad to eat there. We started out with these appetizers:

Baked Brie: Brie topped with fire roasted red peppers, fresh basil and infused olive oil, served with seedless grapes and a fresh baked baguette.

Bleu Cheese Chips: House-made red, white and blue potato chips topped with a warm bleu cheese aioli, bleu cheese crumbles and finshed with a balsamic reduction.

And this is what I had for dinner:

Oak Grilled Shrimp and Scallop Skewer: Herb basted black tiger shrimp and cold water scallops flame grilled and served over creamy corn risotto accented with a basil cream sauce. (This was absolutely delicious!)

The reason I start out with the food is because I want to make a point. On my way home from the restaurant I called my friend to tell her what yummy food we had (she loves this place too), and when I got home last night I was trying to tell Wade about what I had to eat (LOL) and he wasn't listening, so I said "Listen, I'm trying to tell you what I had for dinner". SO, then I told him about my dinner and the delicious appetizers (and he could care less LOL), but LATER I thought about this comment and it made me think on a deeper level.

My WeWa buddies and I talk about food all the time, my girlfriends and I talk about food all the time. We plan shopping and movies, and girl's nights around food. My sister and I talk about food and what food items we've recently discovered, or new recipes we've made or are going to make, or what restaurants we're going to hit while we're on vacation (and the vacation could be six months away, yet we're still talking about the food).

Then I thought about men, and that I've never heard of any man doing this, at least none of the men I know. I just can't picture a bunch of guys sitting around with their beers talking about the delicious imported cheeses that were at a party the other night, or the savory soup they had at the restaurant yesterday, or the melt in your mouth cake that was served at the wedding last weekend, yet every woman I know does this, and it makes me laugh. It makes me laugh because we're so centered around food, yet our men probably have no idea. AND, even if they do know this, they will NEVER understand it. Thank God for girlfriends!

Third And Final Annual Cat Exam

2008-10-01T08:37:00.007-04:00

Yep, 3 up, 3 down, that's what I thought when I took Leo in for his annual shots and physical yesterday. Well, I was wrong. This cute little animal turned into the devil himself. We were in the "little room" at the vet's office, waiting to see the doctor, when all of a sudden, Tavo, the vet assistant, comes in to take some information. Leo did NOT like Tavo, and he started hissing and growling when Tavo came near him to take his temperature. I had never seen Leo like this before, I mean look at that cute face....he's my sweet baby boy, all 10 pounds of him.

Anyway, since Leo was acting like he was going to scratch out Tavo's eyes, Tavo tells me he'll be back, and comes back a few minutes later with the vet, and Tavo is wearing those big thick "falcon handler" gloves up to his biceps and carrying a towel. He figured he could scoop Leo up in the towel and take him to the back room and have someone assist him with the temperature taking. Yeah, no....Leo freaked the fuck out, pissed and shit all over the table AND Tavo, and I thought the poor cat was going to have a heart attack right there. I opened his carrier and he ran right in, glad to be in his little safe haven.

Needless to say, Leo did not get examined, he did not get his temperature taken, and he did not get his shots because he was way too stressed. AND, the bonus for me was that I got to go home and clean his shitty cat ass. Yeah, that was fun. AND, Leo has been coughing for a couple of weeks like he's trying to get something up, but nothing comes up, but the vet didn't get to listen to his lungs, or feel his throat, or anything. He sent me home with some antibiotics, hoping it's just a respitory infection and I have to give Leo medicine (which is easy for me) and BRING HIM BACK to the vet in a week for a re-check. Poor Leo, he has no idea he has to go back to THAT PLACE next week and I'm not going to tell him either.

I'm off to Google kitty Valium.

A 92 Year Old Is Faster Than Me

2008-09-24T19:57:00.003-04:00

Some 92 year old woman ran a 5k in 45 mins this past July.......currently that's faster than me. I have a little more than 3 weeks until my first 5k to beat her time. I told my running partner tonight that we have got to crank it up, no excuses, we've got to push ourselves. I CAN'T be slower than a 92 year old, I just can't. Right now I'm nursing left calf pain, so I'm even slower than usual (if that's even possible). I know, it's always something. First the plantar feet, then the metatarsal, then my hip, now my calf. All these pains, yet I haven't given up, that's a first for me. So, just for that I'm proud of myself. And hearing myself tell people, "I run".....that's something I NEVER thought I would hear myself say, so I'm proud of myself no matter what. BUT, I'll be more proud if I can beat the 92 year old!

Todays workout (mostly walking)

45:55
2.8 miles
719 calories burned
45% fat

Yes, I'm Addicted

2008-09-18T18:46:00.006-04:00

If there is such a thing as a plantain intervention, then I need one for sure. I eat these yummy things just about every night, and Wade just laughs when he sees me cooking them up. Sometimes I cut them up and eat them with my dinner, sometimes I eat them after my dinner like a dessert, sometimes I cook them with chipotle chicken strips (John Souls brand in the frozen section--delicious. 3 oz is 2 points) and put everything on a sandwich or in a wrap, or sometimes I just make them for a tasty snack. But, yes, usually I have some every single day.

You can find them in the frozen food section (in the ethnic section). 2 oz is a serving (that's about 2 pieces), and each serving is 2 points (110 cal/2 fat/2 fiber). I spray a little pan with Pam and cook 'em up. You can also bake them (which I have done at work in the toaster oven). Scrrrrrumptious!!!!!

Anyway, enough about my pathetic addiction. I just came back from a run, if you could call it that. I had to cut it short due to a calf cramp. Plus, it was SO hot and the sun was beating down....I forgot how miserable it was.

21 minutes
1.4 miles (15:01 pace)
382 calories
35% fat

I'll be happy if I can run my first 5k and not come in dead last. Four more weeks to go.........

Shredding

2008-09-18T08:46:00.002-04:00

I'm really liking this Shred. I started last week, and I'm on an every other day schedule so to give my body a day to recover. My calorie burn per 28 minute workout is in the 450 range (not too shabby). I'm on Level 1 right now, but I think in a week or so, I'll move up to Level 2.

The video is a combination of cardio, abs, and strength training....I use 5 pound weights, and that seems to be good. Who knows, between the running and shredding, maybe I'll start seeing some results. And, maybe the scale will even move down.

Smokey's Turn

2008-09-08T22:19:00.013-04:00

Today was Smokey's day for the annual cat exam and shots, and here he is kicking back, waiting for the doctor. (Yes, even animals have to wait once they get to the patient area). This is BEFORE he got violated, and BEFORE he knew what was to come. This is what he got once he was there: 3 vaccines, some dewormer goop dropped in his mouth, flea medicine, blood work, and a plastic thing shoved up his ass for a fecal test. Can you imagine.....poor cat.

This was Smokey on the way home. He looks like he's smiling, but he was panting LOL. He was actually really good in the car....just a few meows and the panting. I couldn't put him in his carrier at home, that's why he was loose in the car. Oh, if there had been cameras in my house filming me trying to get this cat in his carrier, I could have won $100k.

Kitchen Creativity

2008-09-07T13:20:00.007-04:00

This is one of my newest creations: Flatbread Pizza. I eat it as a meal, but it can also be a tasty appetizer. The one pictured above is a total of 5 points (1 for the flatbread, 1 for the sauce, and 3 for cheese). I also make a variation using BBQ sauce instead of the pizza sauce, and then I add cut up pre-packeged chicken on top of the cheese.

These are all the ingredients I use, and before I prepare the pizza I put the flatbread on the rack of the toaster oven and toast it so it gets a little crispy around the edges. When I take it out, I spread the pizza sauce on the flatbread, sprinkle on my spices, and then put the cheese on. Broil until the cheese melts, and there you have it. It's SO yummy and filling.

No More Treats For Charlie

2008-09-04T15:41:00.017-04:00

My poor Charleston--the vet told him (and me) he was overweight yesterday. My tubby kitty tips the scales at 23.9 pounds, and he needs to lose 5 pounds. The vet told me that he couldn't even feel Charlie's ribs (oops!) and that 5 pounds to a cat is like 25 on a human, and Charlie could develop arthritis in his senior years if we don't get a handle on his weight now. Yes, I'm all too familiar with tackling weight problems, and now I must deprive my Charlie of the treats that he loves. We're going to try and trick him by telling him he's getting treats but it will actually be a couple of kibble nugs from his food bowl. You think he'll buy it....probably not LOL.

Charlie is the most loveable cat I've EVER been around, and his fur feels soft, like angora. He would be 100% content to be surgically attached to Wade or myself, and Wade is often heard sternly telling Charlie "just lay *next* to me, I don't want you ON me", and always calls him needy. I call him snuggable. Charlie wants to be on you or next to you all the time, and I don't mind one bit. He's my moldable kitty. He's my teddy bear when I just want to lay on the bed or the couch with my arms wrapped around him. I love him, so I will help him lose the 5 pounds to make his life easier. I want him to be around (and comfortable) for a long, long time!

Ready To Go Back To Work

2008-09-01T15:58:00.002-04:00

Believe it or not, I'm actually looking forward to going to work tomorrow. Four days off with crappy weather and no vacation plans is very boring. Wade worked most of the weekend so he wasn't really around, Kelsey was nowhere to be found (as usual), and I basically have no single friends.

This was my weekend:

Friday night Wade and I went to see Tropic Thunder--it was one of those "stupid funny" movies, we laughed.

Saturday my friend and I went to PF Chang's for lunch (I'm addicted to their lettuce wraps) and then shopping at the mall (I found NOTHING--it was a total bust). Saturday night I watched a movie by myself at home (Daddy's Little Girls--I enjoyed it) and drank alone because Wade was still at work. I made Sangria with red wine, OJ, peach schapps (I found some Hiram Walker-90 proof schnapps), and Diet 7-Up. It was delicious and I got HAMMERED and passed out (surprise surprise).

Sunday I did my grocery shopping at Super Target and Publix and then watched another rented movie (The Air I Breathe--it was good). Sunday night Wade and I hung out at home and played Scrabble (of course I won).

Monday was lazy morning. Wade had to work, so I did laundry, a little cleaning, and then I FORCED myself to go to the gym (I literally had a fight with my own self and made myself go). Needless to say I didn't last long because I wasn't really into it, but at least I went and burned calories, right?

Workout:

30 mins
1.69 miles (that's what, an 18 min mile? LMAO)
528 calories burned
25% fat

Deliciousness

2008-08-31T16:38:00.003-04:00

This, my friends is a Cookie Cup. It's a Nestle's chocolate chip cookie "tart" (for lack of a better word) filled with chocolate frosting. It's probably one of the best things on the planet. Ok, I may be exaggerating, but not by much. My friend, Martha, loves the ones with the white frosting, and ate a few of them yesterday, but I am all about the chocolate. I bought this one yesterday to bring home for Wade. I know, I know, what a sweet girlfriend I am. Believe it or not, it actually made it home, AND it even lasted overnight, in the house, with me eyeballing it all night while Wade was working. AND, I didn't even eat one when we were at the mall yesterday. Now that's what you call willpower!!

My New Toy

2008-08-28T22:31:00.003-04:00

This is it, my new Polar F11 HRM in Pink Fizz. Isn't it pretty? Yes, I know, I know, I have NO business owning anything electronic, because God knows I am the most technotarded person on the planet (next to EG *giggle*). BUT, slowly but surely, I am figuring out how to use this thing. So far, I've figure out how to set the date and time (lol), all my stats, and how to get it going when I start my exercise. For now, that's good enough, and I'll learn more as I go along.

I have realized that the 'calories burned' reading on the treadmill at the gym is way off. Like tonight it showed that I burned 463 calories, but my HRM showed way more than that. I like that....I need to burn all the calories I can.

Tonight's workout:

53:10
3.25 miles (yes, I know, I'm not breaking any speed records)
1041 calories burned
40% fat

Kelsey

2008-08-27T11:33:00.005-04:00

So, Kelsey got a new haircut this weekend and it looks SO good on her. Man, my daughter is beautiful. I know she got that from me hehee, although her father (back in his heyday) was really cute. I'm sure now he's bald and fat and living in someone's garage. Ha, but I digress.

Kelsey left for school this morning wearing these tiny cut off shorts and a tank top and she looked smokin hot. Hey, I guess she'll try to get those A's anyway she can. LOL.

Summer Never Ends Here

2008-08-26T11:01:00.007-04:00

Anyway, so here it is, almost September, and it is still hot as hell outside. I can't find a good time of day to run without feeling like I am ready to DIE. My running partner and I attempted to go out again yesterday after work, and with the 90 degree temp, the 100% humidity, and the blazing sun beating down on us, we faded FAST!

Oh well, at least I haven't given up. I keep plugging along, and will continue to do so. Good thing I don't compare myself to other beginner runners I know, or I would have thrown in the towel (and my running shoes) long ago. I WILL persevere *doing elaborate snapping and head bobbing move*.

Workout:

21:43 mins
1.5 miles
397 calories burned
30% fat

Back To Square One

2008-08-19T15:47:00.003-04:00

Man, everytime I take one step foward, I take two steps backwards. Sometimes I wonder if I'll ever reach my goals. *sigh*

Yesterday was the first time I had run since August 4th due to a hip injury and then back pain. Well, my back was still a little sore yesterday, but not to the point I couldn't straighten up, like it had been, so I decided to "just get out there" and try to push my way through it. I did walk/run intervals at 2 mins each. Two minutes of running seemed like 10 mins....it was brutal. That's what 2 weeks off does for me, I'm like starting over again.

I was still experiencing some pain, so I only went a short distance. Later on in the evening my back was KILLING me so I iced it, and then slept on the heating pad. It feels a little better, so I'm going to go back out again tomorrow and then try an ice bath when I get home.

Anyway I ran almost 1.5 miles in 20 mins. That's actually a better pace than I had been running NOT injured LOL.

I Never Thought I Would Miss Exercising

2008-08-13T09:26:00.004-04:00

I was out of commission last week due to a sore hip, and now this week I am Quasimoto (sp?) with back pain. I first hurt my back in high school, and now about once or twice a year it seems to flare up. I can barely straighten up after getting off my chair, and I'm walking like I'm 100 yrs old. Wade is calling me Granny this week.

So, I've been icing, heating, and taking Advil for the pain. Hopefully I'll be better soon, but for now, I really can't do anything except rest and take care of it.

I guess the main thing is that I actually MISS running. I feel like a slug when I can't get out there now. Who would have thought? That in itself is a major milestone for me!

Hot and Sweaty

2008-08-02T12:59:00.003-04:00

Sweat Hog, that's what my nickname should be. I sweat......A LOT. This morning I forgot my towel for my run, and ewwwww!! It's bad enough that when I run I sweat in every crevice on my body (and then some), but today I had sweat rolling down my face and neck too, and I had nothing to wipe it off with....gross. Let's not forget that I live in FL, so at 7 a.m it was already 80+ degrees. So I had to lift my shirt to wipe off my face, and yeah, that was a pretty site for anyone coming towards me LOL. Aren't you glad I shared all that??? *snort*

Oh, and my running buddy taught me a good trick for keeping my water cool: Freeze half a bottle of water and then add water to the rest of the bottle right before you go out, and the water stays cold. As I run, the frozen water starts to melt so the water stays cold the entire time. At the very end of the run I have a little ice chunk left. Oh, and I keep my water bottle down my shirt tucked into the front of my sports bra....I'm very resourceful, and I hate to hold a bottle, and no way am I wearing one of those fuel belts :-)

Anyway, today was a good run.

Week 2 day 3 of 5k training. We're supposed to do intervals of 3 min/3 min, but today we ramped it up to 4 mins because next week we go to 5 min runs. SO today's workout was:

5 min warm up walk
4 min run/3 min walk x 5
7 min cool down walk

Total time: 47 mins

Music Makes Everything Fun

2008-08-01T08:56:00.003-04:00

When we run, my running buddy and I both wear iPods. While we walk we have them off and we chat, but when we start running, we crank 'em up. Well, last night on our last run interval, we danced. There we were running around the track and dancing at the same time, it was so much fun. After our 3 minutes was up I waved us to keep running, and I said "let's keep going until we really need to stop". So, our 3 minute run turned into an 8 minute run, and we had fun the whole time. Music made it fun.....I love music!

Week 2 Day 2 of 5k training:

8 min warm up walk
3 min run/3 min walk x 4
8 min run
2 min cool down walk

Total time 42 minutes

Good Run Today

2008-07-29T09:26:00.003-04:00

Met Danielle at 5:45 this morning (although I was up at 5:15 to call and wake her up....how do people NOT hear an alarm???). Now that she started a new job we have to meet earlier, but that's okay, it gives me time to get home, eat something and then relax for a while before I have to shower for work.

The temperature this morning was a no breeze blowing, humidity filled 80 degrees. I mean when I say the air wasn't moving, it WASN'T MOVING, it was gross. We're going to try an evening run on Thursday to see if we can catch a breeze since I've noticed that the weather at about 7:30 p.m is a bit cooler now with a slight breeze. Plus, the sun has gone down, and there is still light out at that time.

Anyway, I got my calves, feet, and shins worked on yesterday and I felt good today.

Week 2 Day 1 of 5k training:

5 min warm up walk
3 min run/3 min walk x 5
5 min cool down walk
Total 40 mins

Let The Training Begin

2008-07-22T11:12:00.006-04:00

Ok, today is the OFFICIAL start of my 5k training.....this is going to be my first race....the Susan G Komen Race For The Cure on October 18, 2008 in Miami. I am following a program in the Complete Book of Running. It's a 10 week program, and this week is 2 min running/2 min walking x 5. I know I could do more than that, but I want to follow the program to see how it all plays out in the end.

So, I met Danielle bright and early....well, I say bright, but there was no light since we met at 6. And since we are following the book, we are focusing on minutes not miles, and I like that.

Today we did a brisk 10 min warm up walk, 5 sets of 2 min running/2 min walking, and then a 10 min cool down walk. Total 40 mins.

I feel good, it's good to be back in the swing. I slacked off for a few weeks there, and I swear I felt like a slug when I wasn't running.

Yep, I guess I *AM* a runner!

Technotarded

2008-07-21T12:38:00.004-04:00

Ugh, why do I have to be SO technologically challenged? I see everyone with their gadgets and gizmos, and I barely know how to turn the computer on. I tell people not to text message me because it will take me 20 mins to send one back LOL. My sister still laughs at me because I had an MP3 player for long time and I only had 12 songs on it because I couldn't figure out how to get them on there (the first time was a fluke and I could never remember after that LOL).

I thank the baby Jesus every day that she gave me her old iPod fully loaded with over 600 songs, and I've since learned how to get onto itunes and manage it myself, BUT, it took a long time AND many phone calls to her. I don't know how I lived without that thing, and now I wonder what else is out there that will enrich my life that I don't have, and even if I did, probably wouldn't be able to figure it out. *sigh*

So, now I'm looking for a new computer and I go online and look at all these specs and my eyes roll back in my head and a glazed look comes over me...it's like a foreign language, so now someone who knows all this stuff will just have to TELL me what I need. Oy, so frustrating...why can I kick ass in Jeopardy, but I can't process any of this tech info?

Well, at least I'm farther ahead than EG, who as of last year was using R2D2 head phones at the gym LOL.

Testing 1-2-3

2008-07-15T10:56:00.004-04:00

I have been posting, but nothing is getting "published" and it's making me mad.

UPDATE: It's working now *throwing confetti*

Back To Reality and Back on Track

2008-07-14T09:51:00.013-04:00

So, my vacation was officially over last week, but I couldn't get my mind and body back on track until today. It's funny, I gained less than a pound on vacation, and then came back and gained 2 pounds in a week at home. Sheesh!

So, I did all my grocery shopping over the weekend, stocked up on my healthy foods for work and home, and came in to work today with a Jethro Bodine bag of all my stuff. I was out of the house this morning at 6 to run w/my running buddy, and while I was on vacation, she decided she would take a break too, so this morning when we were doing our runs, we were both sort of "off" and huffing and puffing a little too much. I swear, a couple of weeks off, and it's like starting all over again. Oh well, at least I know, I MUST stay on top of the running, and not only that, I WANT to stay on top of the running...I really enjoy it, plus I am going to start officially "training" soon for my 5k in October.

I bought a running book off Amazon last week (hardcover, used, but like new for $.99 plus $2.99 s/h.....can't beat that!!) and I'm patiently awaiting its arrival. It's the "Runner's World Complete Book of Women's Running: The Best Advice to Get Started, Stay Motivated, Lose Weight, Run Injury-Free, Be Safe, and Train for Any Distance". This sounds like the perfect book for me, I can't wait to start reading it.

So yes, I am officially BACK!

Vacation Is Officially Over

2008-07-08T17:54:00.005-04:00

And, I'm exhausted, and happy to be home. It was great to spend time with my family and friends, and boy, are we a bunch of lushes.

Today was my first day back to work since June 26, and I got through all the crap that had accumulated while I was gone. It's amazing what I can do at work when I'm focused.....I'm like Batman over here!

I only exercised 2 days while I was on vacation, but miraculously, none of my pants are tight (YAY). Probably from all the mornings I woke up with "drunk stomach" (I'll spare you the details), but hey, I'll take it any way I can get it LOL. Tomorrow it's back on the pavement with a 5:45 a.m walk/run and I'll get back in my groove. I need to start "officially" training for my 5k in October, and I want to set a goal for myself, but I'll do that at a later date. I don't want to set myself up for disappointment, so I'll have to assess where I am, and where I think I can be by that time.

Yeah, I guess I don't have much to say today.

Denver F2F

2008-06-30T11:19:00.002-04:00

The F2F was SO MUCH FUN. We stayed in a cute boutique hotel, and walked A LOT. I got to meet Tam, Weezee, Queen, Ong, JenChats, Cru, Nik, and then see again, JH, and Phat. I think as a group we all really got along well with each other. And, let me tell you, this group can DRINK, we had a blast! There were body shots, bar dancing, and boobs all present this weekend. There wasn't any Goldschlager, because apparently, bars in Denver don't carry this (don't you think that's weird?).

Anyway, these women are AMAZING, all of them, and they looked GREAT! I learned so much about everyone, it was really nice. I feel that I came away with some good friends. It was a great weekend for me. I was sorry it had to be over, but as they say, all good things must come to an end.

Wade

2008-06-23T16:56:00.015-04:00

My earlier post got me thinking. I mentioned all my best girl friends, but I also have a wonderful friend in my honey. Not only do I love him, I really LIKE him, and we get along swimmingly MOST of the time, and we spend A LOT of time laughing together. Another bonus is that we both have the same, sick, twisted sense of humor. I'm not saying we don't have our tiffs because we do, but nothing life altering, just normal crap like him leaving his soda cup in the sink unrinsed, or him squeezing the toothpaste from the middle when I've rolled it up from the end (grrrowl)...things like that.

Wade is the first man that I've ever REALLY felt loved by. He loves me for me, and let me tell you, loving me is no easy feat LOL. I'm VERY independent, and he is okay with that. He doesn't monitor my whereabouts, or think I'm out fucking around when I'm not with him (please, who else would have me LOL). He is okay with me going out with my friends, having girl's nights, meeting invisifriends, and taking my girl trips. He is trusting of me and I trust him with my entire being. I love that about our relationship.

Some of the things I love about him is that he loves me the way I am, and he thinks I'm beautiful and tells me all the time. When I call myself fat, he says "you're not fat honey, you're pleasantly plump". And he says that because he knows I hate that term, and then we laugh together. He calls me Honeybun, he loves our cats, he'll dance with me, he's such a hard worker, he's a good son...he loves his parents, and sometimes when I'm upstairs and he's downstairs, he will yell up "honey do you need anything". How many men do that? Let's see what else...... he cleans without being asked, he does his own laundry too, and if my clothes are in the dryer he will take them out and fold them (even my underwear). OH, and when I we're watching TV in the same room he hands me the remote because he knows I like to be in control LOL. I could go on, but you get the gist. It took me a long time to find him, and I only hope that he considers himself as lucky as I do!

Friends For Life

2008-06-23T09:12:00.023-04:00

This time next week I'll be in CA with my best friends in the whole wide world....my sister and my buddy Elaina (that's the three of us in the pic above...Elaina is in the black). We've all (plus Elaina's husband) been friends for over 25 yrs, and I miss them so much all the time. BUT, I talk to my sister probably every day, and to Elaina at least once a week. And I see them at least once a year, sometimes more). We all (with our guys) went on a cruise last year and had the best time of our life! We had so much fun, that we've all planned a bigger, longer cruise, for Sept. 2009.

I'll be in Denver first for my WeWa F2F, and then I fly to N. CA for a few days with Cree and Elaina, and then the three of us are off to Sacramento to visit and stay with Tara, my niece AND my friend (in the photo above with me). We're going white water rafting on the American River (class III/IV), and while at Tara's, we're going to do some sake tasting and some wine tasting and just hang out by the pool and have a good time together.....basically eat, drink and smoke for days on end (yeah, my type of vacation as you all know LOL). I think we're also going to head up to Lake Tahoe for a day/evening trip. Should be a blast. I can't wait.

It's funny how friends all have different roles in our lives. Cree (real name Christine, but we call her Cree), I can tell ANYTHING to. She will keep my secrets til the day she dies, and she NEVER judges me. I could murder someone and she will lie under oath and not even blink an eye (and she knows I would do the same). She is so generous too, I don't know what I would EVER do without her!!! Cree is not just my sister, she's my best friend.

Elaina is up for anything. She is a lot of fun, doesn't have to get all "put together" before she goes out, we can just throw ourselves together and go. She loves to drink with me, and when we're together we laugh ALL THE TIME! She's not just my best friend, she's my sister.

Tara, is my adventure buddy. She pushes me to do things I'm hesitant about, but then I end up thanking her for making me do it. With her coaxing, I kayaked for the first time when we went to Mexico together last year (spur of the moment trip), and then we zip lined through the Mayan Jungle, and now she has me rafting. She'll probably be the one to go on the African Safari with me because she doesn't care about 5 star accommodations, she just likes the adventure. She'll try anything once! Although she's not blood related (my brother met her mother when she was 6 mos old....I was 5 yrs old), she is, in every sense of the word, my family!!

Together we all compliment each other, and we all get along so great. I love them all so much, and I can't believe I'm lucky enough to have friends like them, and I can't wait to see them. Four more days!!

Oh, and I need to give my friend, Martha, an honorable mention because she is a best friend too. We've known each other since high school, she taught me to drive, she was one of the first people I saw after I delivered Kelsey, she was with me with when I got the news that my mother passed away, and she is ALWAYS the voice of reason with good advice. Where I'm loud and crude, and being all "Susan", as she so eloquently puts it (hehee), she's steady, and polite, and even though she asks a THOUSAND questions about everything (that's her thing LOL), there isn't one person who EVER comes in contact with her that can say they don't like her....she's just that loveable!We moved to FL together over 10 yrs ago with no jobs or place to live waiting for us, and like Thelma and Louise, we drove cross country from CA (with Kelsey in the back), had an adventure, and we've been having them ever since!

I Love Happy Hour

2008-06-18T10:04:00.007-04:00

Really, I'm not a lush....ok, not a BIG lush hehee, but I do love my martinis. No, not the dirty kind (herk @ olive juice), I like the fru fru martinis. And 2 for 1 or half off, oh yeah, those are the words I LOVE to hear. Yesterday we went to Happy Hour after work and I drank 2 Oatmeal Cookie Martinis (Goldschlager, Butterscotch Schnapps, & Baileys) and 2 Key Lime Pie Martinis (Vanilla Vodka, Licor 43, Key Lime Juice, and Half & Half with a graham cracker rim..yum!) They were perfection.

So, about a half hour after I got home I was HAMMERED....all of a sudden everything hit me at once. I think I was annoying Wade (as I often do when I'm drunk) because he was unresponsive to my bewbie dance and was extending his neck to see the TV around me LOL. I ate some, ok a LOT, of Wade's Ben & Jerry's Peanut Butter Ice Cream (scrumptious by the way), and then went upstairs to change, but ended up passing out around 8:30. I woke up at 2 a.m dying of thirst and sporting quite a headache. I guzzled a bottle of water, took some aspirin and went back to bed. This morning I'm good as new and thanking the Baby Jesus I don't get hangovers!

Ahhh yeah, I love martinis!

Let The Training Begin

2008-06-17T09:53:00.004-04:00

*cue Rocky theme*

I've decided to start back with the Couch To 5k program to train for my 5k. I originally started out using this plan, but I only got through week 2 or 3 because I started running w/the runner's group and the coach had her own plan for me. SO, since I'm not running with the group anymore (they run after work, and the summer is TOO hot for me), this morning I started back the C25k Week 4, Day 1.

5 minute brisk walk
3 minute run
90 second recovery walk
5 minute run
2.5 minute recovery walk
3 minute run
90 second recovery walk
5 minute run
5 minute cool down

I had a little shin discomfort during the last run, but I'm feeling okay now. My goal is to get through C25k without any repeat weeks. Let's see if I can do it.

My First 5k

2008-06-13T10:57:00.003-04:00

I'm officially in the race!! Susan G. Komen's Race For The Cure that is. I'm part of team "Mini's Rack Pack", racing October 18, 2008 in Miami. Most of you know Mini from the WeWa boards, and recently she was diagnosed with breast cancer. I (and the rest of our team) want to support her in this most difficult time of her life, and we can't think of a better way to do it than racing for, and with her, on that special day. Our group is meeting in Miami from all parts of the U.S.A to share this day together. Oh, and part of making this day special will be joining in the drunk fest the night of the race! Wooohooo.

Please see my webpage http://tinyurl.com/6lauzv if you would like to make a donation. No amount is too small, and EVERY dollar is appreciated. Thanks!

Morning Bridge Run

2008-06-12T09:23:00.003-04:00

This is the Ringling Bridge in Sarasota, FL. It doesn't look that steep, but when you're running/walking it you're thinking "Ok, am I EVER going to get to the top so I can start the descent". It's like you keep climbing, and climbing, and climbing, until FINALLY you're at the top, and it levels off for a bit, and then you start the down slope. Ahhh, man, the down part feels good. The up part is a killer on the back of the legs and butt, but it hurts so good, right? Uh yeah, okay :-)

So, this was my run/walk this morning. Start point was the the marina about 1/2 mile (maybe 3/4 mile) away from the bridge, and then up the bridge and back. Round trip was at least 3 miles, but probably a little more (I need to map it ... IF I can figure out that stupid mapmyrun.com). Time was 50:26.

Back In The Groove

2008-06-10T12:45:00.005-04:00

Oh yeah, now that summer is here, running in the morning is the way to go. No blazing hot evening sun to wear me down and zap my energy. I'll now be doing most of my running in the mornings.

So, today I was up and out of the house by 5:45, and met my running friend at 6 sharp. The weather was nice, probably mid 70's, a little humid, but there was a nice breeze blowing so it felt good. I mean, it's still Florida, it wasn't cold, or even cool, by any means, BUT it wasn't miserable, and I wasn't fatigued and nauseas at the end of the run. I didn't even run out of water.

We did our normal 3 mile route doing 2 min runs/1 min walks on the way up, and then on the way back we did 3 min runs/2 min walks for a total of 46:16.

I need to buy a GPS for running because I have to verify that the route we THINK is 3 miles, IS actually 3 miles. I think it may be a little short, and mapmyrun sucks (well it could just be that I'm too lame to figure it out). So, this weekend I'm off to do some searching for something. I just hope once I get something, I'll be able to use it......I'm very technologically challenged. It was always my sister's job to program the VCR, that's how lame *I* am LOL.

Oh, and I've also decided on my first 5k. It's going to be the Race For The Cure. Soxy came up with a great plan to run this race in honor of Mini, so she and Yankee Chick will come down (and other WeWa friends will join us as well) to Miami on Oct. 18th. I can't think of a better first race, and for a better cause.

http://www.komenmiaftl.org/race/race.php

Sundays And Vodka

2008-06-09T09:17:00.004-04:00

Ok, do you see a pattern here? Sundays have become "lay by the pool like a queen and drink lots of vodka" day. Ahhh, it's wonderful.

<-------This is what I was drinking yesterday, Three Olives Cherry Vodka (it's GOOD) mixed with Coke Zero. I was at the pool from about 12:30 til 4:00, and there was NO ONE else there. I live in a small (94 units) townhouse community with a big, beautiful, blue pool, and it's never crowded. I don't understand why (maybe everyone prefers the beach), but hey, I'm not complaining. So, yesterday it was all about me, iPod, pool, and vodka.....the perfect day!

*planning next Sunday's drink menu*

Sh-Sh-Sh-Shuffle

2008-06-07T13:10:00.017-04:00

Yep, that was me today, a shuffling fool.

This morning I was out of the house by 6 a.m to meet up with the new Galloway group (http://www.jeffgalloway.com/training/5k.html) to try the structured run/walk interval program. Well, at 6:00 it was already 80 degrees, not to mention the punch you in the face, air standing still, not a breeze to be had, humidity. Ugh, it was brutal, but I figured we're doing 2 min run/1 min walk, should be easy, right? Uhm, no, I could barely run 2 minutes. What the hell happened to me??? I was doing 6 min run/walks and I was up to running 3/4 of a mile around the track just a couple of weeks ago (about 10 mins straight), and now I can barely run for TWO MINUTES??? My shins and feet were really hurting, I have a blister on my toe, my hip and my knee were bothering me, and I just felt so TIRED during the running parts.

I can't figure out what is going on, but I'm HOPING I just need a "tune-up". I see my Active Release Chiropractor on Monday (http://www.activerelease.com/what_patients.asp), and she will work on my feet, shins and calves, and everything else that is bothering me. So, on Monday, I will get my body adjusted, AND, I need to get used to running in this heat. In the ten years I've lived in FL, I've never really exerted myself outside. I've always been a "get me to the pool" or "get me inside where it's air conditioned" gal, so now that it's only going to get hotter, while I need to listen to my body, I also keep pushing myself through it or I'll never get acclimated (per Viv, that's the word of the month). Soooo, that's what I'm going to do..... I'm going to get myself through this!

Even with all my aches and pains today, I went 3 miles in 50 mins. Yes, I know that time-wise, that's not much to brag about, BUT I've stopped comparing myself to other "real runners". For ME, this is good! Plus, I finished the route without calling for a ride back, so that has to account for something, right :-)

We Have A Date!!!!!

2008-06-04T11:41:00.015-04:00

WOOHOO! We've decided on our cruise for 2009. This is the 3600 passenger, Royal Caribbean Liberty of the Seas, and it's equal to their Freedom of the Seas ship as the world's largest cruise ship. This ship has the surf-simulator, water park, ice skating rink, rock climbing wall, and boxing ring. It also has an indoor shopping mall with pomenade rooms overlooking the shops.

Wade and I, along with my sister Cree & her boyfriend Dan, Dan's brother and his wife, my best friend Elaina and her husband Joe (the 3 of us have been friends for 25 yrs), and my niece Tara (and her yet to be determined FWB *lol*) will all be cruising together next year Liberty's 7 night cruise (leaving from Miami) to the Western Caribbean. Some of us cruised together last year, and it was the best vacation EVER, and we all had the times of our lives. Wade, Dan, and Joe even entered the Sexy Legs Contest (see photos below) and had the crowd howling! I can't WAIT until next year!

In order of photo appearance are: Joe, Dan, and Wade.

**If anyone is interested in joining the party next year let me know and I can give you the dates and details.

Mmmmm, Squagles

2008-06-04T10:51:00.010-04:00

That's what I call these bagel bread squares. They are so yummy and soft (and big). And for all my WeWa, point counting, invisihoor friends, they are only 3 points. Here's what it says about them on the Thomas's Web Site:

"Squares Bagelbread 100% Whole Wheat: With all the flavor of a bagel, and the soft texture of bread, Squares is a tasty alternative to bread. For breakfast, lunch, dinner or snacking, Squares is the delicious new shape of things to come".

Yeah, it's got to be a slow day.....I'm posting about SQUARE BREAD!

Holy Shit It's HOT!!!

2008-06-02T19:58:00.004-04:00

Not only is it hot, it's humid. The air doesn't move, and it hits you like a punch in the face when you walk outside. If this is the weather NOW, I can only imagine what it's going to be like in July and August. I mean it was 90 degrees with 100% humidity at 6 p.m tonight. I had to do six 7 minute run intervals and I got so fatigued on that first run, I could only do 5 min runs after that. The heat zapped every bit of energy I had, and I don't see it getting any better as summer comes along.

I spoke to the lady tonight who owns the Fleet Feet in my town (we run from her store on Mondays) when I got back, and she invited me to come out Saturday morning and try the Galloway runs with her group...she leads the group. She does 2 minute runs and 1 minute walking intervals, and she runs marathons this way. I'm going to try it, I love the interval training, and I don't feel zapped of my energy because of the recovery walks. For me, running has never been about speed, and my goal isn't about running for miles and miles. I started this so I could do a 5k, and this may be the way I'm going to do it. SO, Susan may have a new game plan.......I will let you know how that works out. Now, to peel these clothes off and get in the shower.

Stoli Vanil

2008-06-01T23:09:00.004-04:00

I love this stuff! It's the best vanilla vodka EVER.....I mix it with Coke Zero, and it's SO yummy. Well, today I drank the entire bottle (mixed with soda).....BY MYSELF, while laying at the pool (just call me lushie, hehee). Yes, I was fucked up, and hell yes I passed out when I got home, but it was fun. Now, if only I didn't have to work tomorrow *sigh*.

I'm laughing because that's all I have to post about today....vodka!

Oh, wait, I wanna post about how my eating habits have really changed. I think I have this "this is not a diet, it's a lifestyle" thing down....FINALLY. Wade and went out to breakfast this morning and I ordered the egg beaters, wheat toast dry (so I could put a little peanut butter and jam on it (used one little pack of each), and canadian bacon. I don't even finish all of my meals anymore either (I used to think because it was in front of me, I had to hoover it down), and I rarely leave a restaurant without taking left-overs home. I think the true test will be when I go on vacation at the end of this month. If I can eat smart when I'm not at home, then that will be the REAL victory, and I think a turning point in my weight loss journey. *praying for a miracle*

The End Of An Era

2008-05-31T13:56:00.011-04:00

Well, it's official, Kelsey has graduated from high school!!!It was touch and go there for a while (and I'm a little grayer than I was in Sept.), but she pulled it off, and I'm proud of her. Now starts the next chapter of her life. She is already enrolled in the local community college, and she'll start in August. She's not sure what she wants to do, but I'm sure she will figure it out along the way, and I'm glad, at least, she wants to get a college education. I know if my mom were alive she would be very proud of Kelsey. I'm sorry she wasn't here to watch Kelsey accept her diploma, and she won't be here to watch her mature into a beautiful woman, but I know she'll always be here in spirit!

P.S. I absolutely hate this picture of me. I have two chins, I look pale as a ghost next to Kelsey (Note to self: buy darker foundation for summer), and my arm looks extra linebacker-ish in that shirt. Oh well, it is what it is, right? I'm LOL that I turned this post into an "all about me" *giggle*

Reflections

2008-05-30T10:41:00.004-04:00

I just found out someone I care about, my friend, has cancer......breast cancer. I've never been close to anyone with cancer before, and I think to myself, how would I react if I was given that news. What was she feeling when she was told "you have a malignant tumor"? MY head is swimming, what must she be going through. I can only imagine, but I KNOW it doesn't come CLOSE to the emotions that she is feeling. There is so much information to absorb and process. I'm sure she just wants to break down, but she has to stay strong because there are so many decisions to be made. Ugh, I just wish I could take her pain (the physical pain that's to come, and the emotional pain she's dealing with) away, and I want her to know I will always be here whenever she needs a friend.

She sent me an E mail today and said, "I've always thought it great they way you take the initiative to make things happen...particularly your travels in a world where money is tight. Somehow, you make it happen". You know, I've always tried to live for the NOW because I never know what curve balls the universe will throw my way, and I don't want to sit around thinking "I wish I would have done that".

To mi amiga, the universe has thrown you a curve ball....the universe is testing your strength and resolve, but I know you will find a way to get a piece of it and hit it WAY out of the park. YOU will make it happen, and you will beat this!!!!

I Hate My Nose

2008-05-29T19:14:00.003-04:00

Not in the "I want a nose job" sense, but rather the "I can smell everything" sense. Ugh, I hate it. I was on the treadmill today next to the smelliest woman. It smelled like she rolled around a pile of Whoppers. No, not the delicious chocolate malted milk balls, the Burger King hamburger, Actually it was a cross between cumin, taco seasoning, and onions (yeah, now do you sympathize with me?) I couldn't even breathe through my nose because she was so foul, I had to mouth breathe (and yeah, THAT'S real attractive, right) for 30 minutes, until I could stand it no more, I had to get off and do something else. It reminded of me the Seinfeld B.O. episode where Jerry asked Elaine "do you smell that" and she said "what, am I hard of smelling"? That's me, I smell everything, even things I never want to smell, even things that other people with normal looking noses don't smell. Man, I wish I were one of them because I HATE my nose!

The Little Engine That Could (and her iPod)

2008-05-28T21:12:00.011-04:00

That's me, the Little Engine. Ok, not so I'm not so little (smile), but I don't give up. Tonight at track workout I went 3 laps around the track without stopping (that's the farthest I've gone yet). That would be 3/4 of a mile for those who don't know. AND, if it weren't for my iPod (thank you, Cree, my sister and best friend who sent me an iPod fully loaded with over 600 songs), I don't think I could have made it.

I keep everyone running around me entertained because I sing when I run. They pass me (yes, most runners pass me on the track) and I'm out there tonight running with the music cranked up and singing along to "Big Balls", "Eye of the Tiger", and "Copacabana" (just to name a few) in between my heavy breathing. Oh my, it's quite a site, but I don't care how I look or sound, because it keeps ME going. Going when I just want to stop and lay down, going when all I want to do is get out of the 90 degree weather and the humid Florida heat, and sit in front of an air conditioner the size of Texas.

Yep, my iPod, I never leave home without it, because it keeps me going!!

My First Blog

2008-05-28T11:44:00.001-04:00

Ok, this is my first blog. I'm going to use it to keep track of my running progress, but first, a little about me.

My New Year's Resolution for 2008 was to run a 5k. I was inspired by all the runners on my Weight Watchers Message Board and their accomplishments, but I wasn't sure I'd be able ever run because of my Plantar Fasciitis. I'd been suffering with this on both feet for the past 3 yrs, I could barely walk at times, but wanted desperately to run. As fate would have it, in early 2008, I was introduced to Dr. Catherine Martin, an Active Release Chiropractor (Google this kind of chiropractor) and she seemed to think she could "fix me". PF was one of her specialties. What she did was take a tool and break up all the scar tissue in my arches. Let me tell you, this was some of the worst pain I have experienced, I was sweating, and I had to do "labor breathing", and I was skeptical at first, but as time went by, and I continued to have treatments, not only on my feet, but my calves as well, my feet started to feel better, and so I started doing the Couch to 5k program.

In March 2008, at one of my appointments, Dr. Martin told me to bring my running shoes to my next appointment, and she would have her A.M. Receptionist (Bree) check to see if I was in the right shoe. Bree is a runner, she's a great runner. I think she ran a half marathon in like an hour and 20 minutes or some other ungodly time, so she was going to evaluate my shoes and my stride and all that good stuff that "real" runners should know. So, I brought my shoes in with me to my next appointment, and Bree had me running in the parking lot. Thank goodness it was only about 50 yards because it was hot, and I was not really a "runner", so I didn't want to embarrass myself. Bree determined that I was in the wrong shoe, and she told me if I met her on Saturday at the running store, she would help me find a shoe that was right for MY foot. I met her on March 8, she put me in the right shoe (Brooks Ariel), and she asked me what my goal was. I told her "I want to run a 5k this year". She told me she was the coach of a local running club (Sarasota Surge) and I should come out the next Wednesday and see if I would be interested in joining them. She told me she would come up with a specialized plan for me, and she could help me achieve my goal. I told her I would see her Wed.

Wednesday, March 12, 2008 was my first official meeting with my running group (track workout), and that day my workout was my warm up which was 2 laps (1/2 mile), and then I think I was running 100 meters, walking 300 meters for 3 laps, and then 2 lap cool down. It took me over an hour to do this (not even 2 miles), and I was exhausted, but felt good. I was excited about becoming part of this group and TRYING to become a runner.

Fast forward to now. I love my running group, I work at MY pace, but I push myself harder than I've ever pushed myself to do anything before. I feel such a sense of accomplishment when I go a tiny bit farther running then I did the week before (or even 2 days before), and Wade tells me all the time how proud he is of me for sticking with this. (I'll admit I'm not the greatest at sticking with things, but this seems to have stuck). I am up to running 2.5 laps around the track straight (one lap is 1/4 mile), and interval walking between running laps. On Monday, I ran/walked a little over 3 miles in 47 minutes. On March 31, 2008 it took me 30 minutes to WALK one mile, and now I'm going over 3 miles in 47 minutes!!! Seeing my hard work pay off, and the progress I have made, keeps me going. That, and that my ass-shelf is disappearing (yay), AND I've lost 11 pounds doesn't hurt either :-)