Remember our little visit from CPS last week about our neighbors? I just witnessed the child in question outside in nothing but a diaper. The diaper was so full of...something that it was hanging down to her knees. It couldn't have been touching her little tush at all. Maybe if Mr. CPS man comes around again I'll share this little gem with him. I mean, change the dang diaper already.
S.
Sunday, May 31, 2009
C25K in Review
This is just an easy way to organize all my C25K posts. Disregard if you've already read them all.
C25K Day 1
C25K Day 2
C25K Day 3
C25K Day 4
C25K Day 5
C25K Day 6
C25K Day 7
C25K Day 8
C25K Day 9
C25K Day 10
C25K Day 11
C25K Day 12
C25K Day 13
C25K Day 14
C25K Day 15
C25K Day 16
C25K Day 17
C25K Day 18
C25K Day 19
C25K Day 20
C25K Day 21
C25K Day 22
C25K Day 23
C25K Day 24
C25K Day 1
C25K Day 2
C25K Day 3
C25K Day 4
C25K Day 5
C25K Day 6
C25K Day 7
C25K Day 8
C25K Day 9
C25K Day 10
C25K Day 11
C25K Day 12
C25K Day 13
C25K Day 14
C25K Day 15
C25K Day 16
C25K Day 17
C25K Day 18
C25K Day 19
C25K Day 20
C25K Day 21
C25K Day 22
C25K Day 23
C25K Day 24
Friday, May 29, 2009
C25K Day 24
Today was my final run in the Couch-to-5K program. For the last 8 weeks I have consistently run 3 times a week - mostly on a MWF schedule. I've run in mist, clouds, and oppressive heat and humidity. I've run alone, with Brian and with my marathon-running father. It's been quite the journey for me.
Today was challenging for me. The temperature and humidity were more manageable, but I was rushing to get it done. The last 10 minutes were really hard. I had one of those annoying cramps in my side that I couldn't quite shake. If it wasn't my last run of this program, I very well may have stopped. I toughed it out and finished at right about the same distance as Wednesday. It wasn't an impressive performance, but it was another couple miles under my belt.
I've learned alot on this journey. I've learned a little bit about what my body is made of. I have pushed my body past boundaries I had been living within for so long. I learned all the ins and outs of my little neighborhood. I've learned where every stinkin hill is on my various loops. I noticed that more often than not I am alone on the sidewalks. I know the difference between running with and without stretching. I figured out what to eat for breakfast before running that wouldn't come back to bite me later. I learned that there is nothing more fulfilling that accomplishing a goal you set for yourself.
So, what happens now? Where do I go from here?
Right now my plan is to keep going. I'm not even close to completeing a 5K. I'm sure I could, but I wouldn't be able to run the entire thing. When I finally run my first 5K, I'm running the whole dang thing! Next week I plan to run a few 25 minute runs. I want to give my body a little break/reward so I'll knock 5 minutes off what I've been doing this week. I'm also hoping that with shorter runs I can build up my stamina and pace. Then the week after that I can take a crack at 30 minute runs again. I also hope to work in some light weight work and ab work at home on my days off from running. I had hoped to already have worked that in by now, but I've been relishing my lazy mornings when I'm not running. In 8 short weeks, this has become a part of my routine. It has been the easiest way for me to exercise and I don't plan on changing that anytime soon.
As for my reward for completing the program, I placed an order for some running gear from Target. I already have kick-ass shoes, but desperately needed some good shorts and bras. I tried uploading pics of everything I bought, but it's not cooperating and I don't feel like wasting all night fighting with it. I got a white classic sports bra, a black cami-style sports bra, pink mesh shorts, gray mesh shorts and black and white mesh shorts. I hope I ordered everything in the correct size and I cannot wait for it to get here! It'll be so nice to have some new stuff to run in.
So, guys, a big resounding THANK YOU for sticking with me through this. I know my blogging has been severely lacking and you're probably sick and tired of hearing me complain about running in Louisiana humidity. I'm grateful that no one has told me to shut up about it already and also for the encouraging words along the way. It's been quite the trip. This won't be the last you'll hear about my running journey, but I promise it won't be 3 times a week anymore.
Now, on this lazy Friday evening, Brian and I are going to stick in Charlie Wilson's War (opinions?) and call it a night.
S.
Today was challenging for me. The temperature and humidity were more manageable, but I was rushing to get it done. The last 10 minutes were really hard. I had one of those annoying cramps in my side that I couldn't quite shake. If it wasn't my last run of this program, I very well may have stopped. I toughed it out and finished at right about the same distance as Wednesday. It wasn't an impressive performance, but it was another couple miles under my belt.
I've learned alot on this journey. I've learned a little bit about what my body is made of. I have pushed my body past boundaries I had been living within for so long. I learned all the ins and outs of my little neighborhood. I've learned where every stinkin hill is on my various loops. I noticed that more often than not I am alone on the sidewalks. I know the difference between running with and without stretching. I figured out what to eat for breakfast before running that wouldn't come back to bite me later. I learned that there is nothing more fulfilling that accomplishing a goal you set for yourself.
So, what happens now? Where do I go from here?
Right now my plan is to keep going. I'm not even close to completeing a 5K. I'm sure I could, but I wouldn't be able to run the entire thing. When I finally run my first 5K, I'm running the whole dang thing! Next week I plan to run a few 25 minute runs. I want to give my body a little break/reward so I'll knock 5 minutes off what I've been doing this week. I'm also hoping that with shorter runs I can build up my stamina and pace. Then the week after that I can take a crack at 30 minute runs again. I also hope to work in some light weight work and ab work at home on my days off from running. I had hoped to already have worked that in by now, but I've been relishing my lazy mornings when I'm not running. In 8 short weeks, this has become a part of my routine. It has been the easiest way for me to exercise and I don't plan on changing that anytime soon.
As for my reward for completing the program, I placed an order for some running gear from Target. I already have kick-ass shoes, but desperately needed some good shorts and bras. I tried uploading pics of everything I bought, but it's not cooperating and I don't feel like wasting all night fighting with it. I got a white classic sports bra, a black cami-style sports bra, pink mesh shorts, gray mesh shorts and black and white mesh shorts. I hope I ordered everything in the correct size and I cannot wait for it to get here! It'll be so nice to have some new stuff to run in.
So, guys, a big resounding THANK YOU for sticking with me through this. I know my blogging has been severely lacking and you're probably sick and tired of hearing me complain about running in Louisiana humidity. I'm grateful that no one has told me to shut up about it already and also for the encouraging words along the way. It's been quite the trip. This won't be the last you'll hear about my running journey, but I promise it won't be 3 times a week anymore.
Now, on this lazy Friday evening, Brian and I are going to stick in Charlie Wilson's War (opinions?) and call it a night.
S.
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
C25K Day 23
The heat today is almost unbearable out there. I checked the weather as soon as I got back and it was 80 degrees with 75% humidity. There's hardly a cloud in the sky and hardly a breeze to be had. I was baking for the entire 40 minutes I was out of the house - and no, not the cookie kind of baking. The air was thick and there were times I felt like my blood was boiling. I knew as soon as I walked out the door that it would be a bit of struggle.
I tried to put the heat out of my mind and focus on putting one foot in front of the other. There is a certain point on my loop that I checked my watch on Monday to see how much time was left. At that same point I checked again today. Monday it took me 22 minutes to go that far and today it took exactly 20. I had an idea I was going faster. I could feel myself stretching my legs out a bit. Since I did go that much faster at the beginning, the end was harder. I ended the run on a slight uphill which was downright brutal. I finished, though, and that's all that really matters.
Now, here I sit, slightly hungry, wet hair from a cool shower and only one day left in this crazy journey. I'm so close. This is possibly one of the greatest things I have ever done. Not because it's overly impressive, but because I set a goal that was rather lofty for me and I accomplished it.
Thanks for sticking with me, guys. I'll be back to more "normal" posts next week.
S.
I tried to put the heat out of my mind and focus on putting one foot in front of the other. There is a certain point on my loop that I checked my watch on Monday to see how much time was left. At that same point I checked again today. Monday it took me 22 minutes to go that far and today it took exactly 20. I had an idea I was going faster. I could feel myself stretching my legs out a bit. Since I did go that much faster at the beginning, the end was harder. I ended the run on a slight uphill which was downright brutal. I finished, though, and that's all that really matters.
Now, here I sit, slightly hungry, wet hair from a cool shower and only one day left in this crazy journey. I'm so close. This is possibly one of the greatest things I have ever done. Not because it's overly impressive, but because I set a goal that was rather lofty for me and I accomplished it.
Thanks for sticking with me, guys. I'll be back to more "normal" posts next week.
S.
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
C25K Day 22 (from Monday)
Yesterday was my first 30 minute run. To make this short and sweet: I paced myself well, kept breathing, talked myself through the hills and totally survived!
My runs are really boring now. They're all hard for me, but I always finish. I've gotten so much better at pacing myself which makes it all a tad easier. My only real complaint from yesterday was the 95% humidity. I was soaked when I got home. I was a bit digusted with myself. Normally I head straight to the shower, but I had to throw dinner in the crockpot yesterday before it got too late so the shower had to wait 30 minutes. I was still wet when I finished with the crockpot and headed to the bathroom. So gross!
Thanks d.a.r. for the cami sports bra suggestion from Target on my last post. Normally I'm afraid cami-style bras wouldn't offer enough support, but I think I'll give one a try. Surely it can't be worse than the generic (and cheap) Hanes sportsbras I've been wearing. Perhaps I'll even get one of each style and see which I like best. I spent a good 30 minutes today perusing their running gear. I can't wait to place the order!
Random happening of the day: a CPS worker knocking on our door to ask if we had any concerns about our neighbors. Hmm. We didn't have any concerns, but that's only because we don't know them or interact with them at all. I have seen the child look kinda dirty on occasion and squeal obnoxiously from their backyard - nothing to call CPS about.
S.
My runs are really boring now. They're all hard for me, but I always finish. I've gotten so much better at pacing myself which makes it all a tad easier. My only real complaint from yesterday was the 95% humidity. I was soaked when I got home. I was a bit digusted with myself. Normally I head straight to the shower, but I had to throw dinner in the crockpot yesterday before it got too late so the shower had to wait 30 minutes. I was still wet when I finished with the crockpot and headed to the bathroom. So gross!
Thanks d.a.r. for the cami sports bra suggestion from Target on my last post. Normally I'm afraid cami-style bras wouldn't offer enough support, but I think I'll give one a try. Surely it can't be worse than the generic (and cheap) Hanes sportsbras I've been wearing. Perhaps I'll even get one of each style and see which I like best. I spent a good 30 minutes today perusing their running gear. I can't wait to place the order!
Random happening of the day: a CPS worker knocking on our door to ask if we had any concerns about our neighbors. Hmm. We didn't have any concerns, but that's only because we don't know them or interact with them at all. I have seen the child look kinda dirty on occasion and squeal obnoxiously from their backyard - nothing to call CPS about.
S.
Monday, May 25, 2009
C25K Day 21 (from Friday)
Before I set out on my Monday run this morning, I wanted to get this on here.
Friday was another 25 min. run. In hindsight, it wasn't terrible. I ran the long loop around the 'hood to make sure it would be suitable for my 30 min runs this week. I did the loop backwards from how I normally do it and I preferred it. It seemed the backwards way got the annoying up-and-down hills out of the way at the beginning instead of running into them at the end.
This is my last week, folks! Three 30 minute runs. Theoretically I should be able to run a 5K this weekend, but I'm not there yet. I need some more time to build up my endurance and pace.
Brian asked what I wanted as a reward for finishing this program. After I thought about it (and saw workout gear on sale in Target's ad) I decided I wanted a couple more pairs of running shorts and a couple more good sports bras. He said ok. After my final run on Friday I'm going to get on Target's website and see what I can score on sale. I desperately need more running gear. It's all sooo expensive! I've been working with one pair of proper running shorts and one good sports bra. I had to do laundry at 8 o'clock last night so the shorts would be clean. Well, the shorts as well as some bras and socks. I got through my meager supply rather quickly running 3 times a week.
So, folks, that's my goal: to finish the week and get some new running gear. Well, my goal is to also eventually be able to run 3 miles comfortably. It'll come.
S.
Friday was another 25 min. run. In hindsight, it wasn't terrible. I ran the long loop around the 'hood to make sure it would be suitable for my 30 min runs this week. I did the loop backwards from how I normally do it and I preferred it. It seemed the backwards way got the annoying up-and-down hills out of the way at the beginning instead of running into them at the end.
This is my last week, folks! Three 30 minute runs. Theoretically I should be able to run a 5K this weekend, but I'm not there yet. I need some more time to build up my endurance and pace.
Brian asked what I wanted as a reward for finishing this program. After I thought about it (and saw workout gear on sale in Target's ad) I decided I wanted a couple more pairs of running shorts and a couple more good sports bras. He said ok. After my final run on Friday I'm going to get on Target's website and see what I can score on sale. I desperately need more running gear. It's all sooo expensive! I've been working with one pair of proper running shorts and one good sports bra. I had to do laundry at 8 o'clock last night so the shorts would be clean. Well, the shorts as well as some bras and socks. I got through my meager supply rather quickly running 3 times a week.
So, folks, that's my goal: to finish the week and get some new running gear. Well, my goal is to also eventually be able to run 3 miles comfortably. It'll come.
S.
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
What is Home?
I'm awaiting Brian's arrival from the airport and figured a non-running related post would be appreciate by someone....maybe?
I let Tiny out this morning to find that my lovely neighbors had returned some brick object to the hole under the fence. That does not, however, stop their annoying dogs from barking nonstop. I'm still going to have Brian line the fence on both sides with garden stones to prevent any further dog drama.
I've been slowly getting adjusted to my house again. It's weird being away for 10 days and coming back. It doesn't feel like my house when Brian's been living the bachelor life in it that whole time. I really notice it in the kitchen. That kitchen is my kitchen. I know what is in there and where everything is. I clean it at least every couple days, if not more. Brian does not give the kitchen the same level of care. Things were in weird places in the fridge and there was crap all over the counters. I had to force myself to make lunch in there today and clean the counters so I'd feel sorta comfortable in there. Does this make me weird? I also found big chunks of chips under the kitchen table? How did they get there and where did the chips come from. They weren't chips I had bought and brought into this house. Hmm. What was he doing while I was away?
Does anyone else watch BBC America? We get it in our cable package and every now and then when nothing else is on, I'll watching some British show. Some are pretty good and some are only entertaining because they're that bad.
I realized this morning on my run that I've been in this house for 6 months next week. I haven't been here for the whole 6 months - not even close - but that sounds so long! I don't mind it here and I'm grateful that I am within driving distance to our hometown, but this place still doesn't feel like home. Will any place ever feel as much or more like home than my parents' house does? I'm grateful for this house and I love the trees and I enjoy the small post, but I know I'll be able to walk away from here one day and not look back. I wonder how I'll feel about where we end up next.
All right, I guess it's Mystery Diagnosis on TLC until Brian calles. *He just texted - they're on post. I'm off!
S.
I let Tiny out this morning to find that my lovely neighbors had returned some brick object to the hole under the fence. That does not, however, stop their annoying dogs from barking nonstop. I'm still going to have Brian line the fence on both sides with garden stones to prevent any further dog drama.
I've been slowly getting adjusted to my house again. It's weird being away for 10 days and coming back. It doesn't feel like my house when Brian's been living the bachelor life in it that whole time. I really notice it in the kitchen. That kitchen is my kitchen. I know what is in there and where everything is. I clean it at least every couple days, if not more. Brian does not give the kitchen the same level of care. Things were in weird places in the fridge and there was crap all over the counters. I had to force myself to make lunch in there today and clean the counters so I'd feel sorta comfortable in there. Does this make me weird? I also found big chunks of chips under the kitchen table? How did they get there and where did the chips come from. They weren't chips I had bought and brought into this house. Hmm. What was he doing while I was away?
Does anyone else watch BBC America? We get it in our cable package and every now and then when nothing else is on, I'll watching some British show. Some are pretty good and some are only entertaining because they're that bad.
I realized this morning on my run that I've been in this house for 6 months next week. I haven't been here for the whole 6 months - not even close - but that sounds so long! I don't mind it here and I'm grateful that I am within driving distance to our hometown, but this place still doesn't feel like home. Will any place ever feel as much or more like home than my parents' house does? I'm grateful for this house and I love the trees and I enjoy the small post, but I know I'll be able to walk away from here one day and not look back. I wonder how I'll feel about where we end up next.
All right, I guess it's Mystery Diagnosis on TLC until Brian calles. *He just texted - they're on post. I'm off!
S.
C25K Day 20
Wow - Day 20!
Another 25 minute run today. These long runs have been really hard for me. I feel like it's a constant struggle and that I am so far away from it being comfortable. I know I can rush this and I keep reminding myself of how far I've come. It's just still hard sometimes.
This was my first run back in LA and my first long run in LA. The hills were rough. I knew they would be, but they still catch me off guard. I'm still running really slow, but I have to. This my 3rd 25 min. run and I think they are getting slightly easier. I may just be getting better at pacing myself - who knows. I'm nowhere near the 10 min. mile goal of the C25K program and I know I won't be there when the program ends next week, but I'll get there. There will come a day when I can run 3 miles at a sub-10 min. pace without dying (<=that looks funny to me for some reason...don't think it's misspelled...) in the process. I wish I was closer to that goal now, but I've done alot of hard work in the last 7 months and I'll keep going.
I got to run by our new neighborhood center that opens tomorrow - looks super nice. I'm going to try to go by the "open house" they are having tomorrow to check it out. It would be wonderful to have a good workout room in the 'hood.
S.
Another 25 minute run today. These long runs have been really hard for me. I feel like it's a constant struggle and that I am so far away from it being comfortable. I know I can rush this and I keep reminding myself of how far I've come. It's just still hard sometimes.
This was my first run back in LA and my first long run in LA. The hills were rough. I knew they would be, but they still catch me off guard. I'm still running really slow, but I have to. This my 3rd 25 min. run and I think they are getting slightly easier. I may just be getting better at pacing myself - who knows. I'm nowhere near the 10 min. mile goal of the C25K program and I know I won't be there when the program ends next week, but I'll get there. There will come a day when I can run 3 miles at a sub-10 min. pace without dying (<=that looks funny to me for some reason...don't think it's misspelled...) in the process. I wish I was closer to that goal now, but I've done alot of hard work in the last 7 months and I'll keep going.
I got to run by our new neighborhood center that opens tomorrow - looks super nice. I'm going to try to go by the "open house" they are having tomorrow to check it out. It would be wonderful to have a good workout room in the 'hood.
S.
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Louisiana, I'm back!
I'm sitting in my living room in Louisiana missing the chatter of my parents in the kitchen and my brother's work stories. It's quiet here (minus the barking dogs next door).
The drive was rather uneventful. At one point east of Dallas I'm pretty sure a crew of police and firemen were taking a body off the side of the road. There weren't any wrecked cars so it wasn't an accident, but there was definitely a blue body bag on a stretcher in the grass. Wonder what happened...
Traffic was light and I finished my book on tape right as I pulled into Leesville - great timing! The book on tape was...interesting. Perhaps I'll write more on that at a later time.
I arrived home to a surprisingly clean house (thanks Brian!) and dead petunias in the back yard. Guess Brian never noticed they were parched. I threw some water on them and I'm hoping they bounce back. I have a healthy stack of mail to get through and alot to take care of ASAP. After that 8 hour drive, the last thing I feel like doing is getting the house in order. Ugh! I don't want to unpack. I don't want to make a grocery list. I don't want to pay bills. I don't want to dig through the mail pile. I want to sit here and watching mind-numbing TV until I retire to my comfy bed. All my responsibilities can wait until tomorrow, right?
When I checked the mail today, I was happy to find my Twilight soundtrack that I won in Kebi's giveaway. I can't wait to check it out!! I love packages in my mail box.
Tomorrow is another running day. After it'll be a mad dash to get business taken care of and make myself presentable to pick Brian up. He had the surgery this afternoon and is already amazed with the immediate results. I'm so happy for him - no more broken glasses!! He's supposed to get back from San Antonio around lunch time, but we all know how the military is with plans...always changing them. We'll see.
Oh, one last rant: neighbors who previously blocked the hole under our mutual fence with landscaping stones who moved them while I was gone so their big boxer-type dog can stick most of his head through to terrorize my dog. Brian says he'll take care of it for me. I hate the dogs around here. Ugh!
S.
P.S. Who is watching the American Idol final 2 perform tonight? I am! Especially since Brian isn't here to moan and groan. :)
The drive was rather uneventful. At one point east of Dallas I'm pretty sure a crew of police and firemen were taking a body off the side of the road. There weren't any wrecked cars so it wasn't an accident, but there was definitely a blue body bag on a stretcher in the grass. Wonder what happened...
Traffic was light and I finished my book on tape right as I pulled into Leesville - great timing! The book on tape was...interesting. Perhaps I'll write more on that at a later time.
I arrived home to a surprisingly clean house (thanks Brian!) and dead petunias in the back yard. Guess Brian never noticed they were parched. I threw some water on them and I'm hoping they bounce back. I have a healthy stack of mail to get through and alot to take care of ASAP. After that 8 hour drive, the last thing I feel like doing is getting the house in order. Ugh! I don't want to unpack. I don't want to make a grocery list. I don't want to pay bills. I don't want to dig through the mail pile. I want to sit here and watching mind-numbing TV until I retire to my comfy bed. All my responsibilities can wait until tomorrow, right?
When I checked the mail today, I was happy to find my Twilight soundtrack that I won in Kebi's giveaway. I can't wait to check it out!! I love packages in my mail box.
Tomorrow is another running day. After it'll be a mad dash to get business taken care of and make myself presentable to pick Brian up. He had the surgery this afternoon and is already amazed with the immediate results. I'm so happy for him - no more broken glasses!! He's supposed to get back from San Antonio around lunch time, but we all know how the military is with plans...always changing them. We'll see.
Oh, one last rant: neighbors who previously blocked the hole under our mutual fence with landscaping stones who moved them while I was gone so their big boxer-type dog can stick most of his head through to terrorize my dog. Brian says he'll take care of it for me. I hate the dogs around here. Ugh!
S.
P.S. Who is watching the American Idol final 2 perform tonight? I am! Especially since Brian isn't here to moan and groan. :)
Monday, May 18, 2009
C25K Day 19
Before I get to my pesky running, look at these beauties:
I scored these at American Eagle today along with some pretty everyday earrings. That picture actually doesn't do the rings justice. They are super delicate and look stunning on. Definitely worth the $15.50 (that I didn't pay cause I had a gift card...).
Onto the stupid running.
Today was another 25 min. run. I got in a good groove right from the start. I kept a good, steady pace the entire time. I was tired and sweaty when I finished, but I wasn't panting. I tied my shoes looser today too so no numbness issues with my feet at the end of the run. I didn't go quite as far today because of my pace, but I'd trade distance for my sanity any day. I'll work my distance up over time.
Today was also my last run in TX. I head back to LA tomorrow and I'm a tad bit worried about the hills and humidity come Wednesday morning. I'm so close to the end! Only 5 more runs til this pesky program is complete and I can leave you all alone about it. :)
Brian has his eye surgery tomorrow and will head back to LA on Wed. (He's been in San Antonio if I haven't mentioned that before.) Apparently he's been told to sleep as much as possible for 3-4 days afterward. They provided him with happy pills to help him sleep. Sometimes I'm not so good at the mothering so we'll see how this goes!
Also I'm going on a diet when I get back to LA. So is Brian since he's a tad bit over where he should be according to the Army. All the good food here at home hasn't been so kind to my flab. Gotta get with the progam. Wedding in a little more than 2 months. Aaah!
Alright, that's all folks. Hope everyone is doing well!
S.
Friday, May 15, 2009
C25K Day 18
**My last post was post #250. Wow. That's alot. And I still have a pitiful amount of followers. I need to brainstorm ideas to boost my popularity. Ha! :)
Today's workout: 25 min. run w/ 5 min. warm-up and cool-down walks.
I ran just under 2 miles in 25 min. Not where I'd like to be, but I knew I was going slow. These long runs are starting to kick my butt. When I first started it was more my breathing that was the problem, not my muscles. Now, my breathing isn't really bad, but my legs are yelling at me. I keep telling myself this is temporary and eventually my legs'll start cooperating.
So, this is the end of week 6. Go me! Ha.
When I'm finished with this program I think I'll treat myself to some running gear to motivate me to keep it up. We'll see how the next 2 weeks go.
S.
Today's workout: 25 min. run w/ 5 min. warm-up and cool-down walks.
I ran just under 2 miles in 25 min. Not where I'd like to be, but I knew I was going slow. These long runs are starting to kick my butt. When I first started it was more my breathing that was the problem, not my muscles. Now, my breathing isn't really bad, but my legs are yelling at me. I keep telling myself this is temporary and eventually my legs'll start cooperating.
So, this is the end of week 6. Go me! Ha.
When I'm finished with this program I think I'll treat myself to some running gear to motivate me to keep it up. We'll see how the next 2 weeks go.
S.
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
C25K Day 17
I'm starting to lose track of what day I'm on.
Today:
5 min. warm-up walk
10 min. run
3 min. walk
10 min. run
6 min. cool-down walk home
This morning was windy. If you aren't familiar with the plains in middle America, you have no idea what windy really is. I just looked it up: the wind right now is blowing at 23 mph out of the south with gusts up to 35 mph. 35 mph!! That's faster than a car is supposed to drive through residential neighborhoods! Try running in it. At some points I didn't think I was even moving.
Due to the wind (or I'm blaming it on the wind anyway) I had a rough workout this morning. My legs hurt, it was hot and I got tired. I was probably pushing myself too hard after my good albeit wet workout on Monday. Friday is a 25 min. run and I'm nervous. Today was my last workout with a walk break so from now on it's all up to me to pace myself. I also need to get more vigilant about stretching. I always do it pre-workout, but rarely post-workout.
Alright, today I think I'm going to run around town. Perhaps see about getting some new running shorts and sports bras. Only if they're on sale.
S.
Today:
5 min. warm-up walk
10 min. run
3 min. walk
10 min. run
6 min. cool-down walk home
This morning was windy. If you aren't familiar with the plains in middle America, you have no idea what windy really is. I just looked it up: the wind right now is blowing at 23 mph out of the south with gusts up to 35 mph. 35 mph!! That's faster than a car is supposed to drive through residential neighborhoods! Try running in it. At some points I didn't think I was even moving.
Due to the wind (or I'm blaming it on the wind anyway) I had a rough workout this morning. My legs hurt, it was hot and I got tired. I was probably pushing myself too hard after my good albeit wet workout on Monday. Friday is a 25 min. run and I'm nervous. Today was my last workout with a walk break so from now on it's all up to me to pace myself. I also need to get more vigilant about stretching. I always do it pre-workout, but rarely post-workout.
Alright, today I think I'm going to run around town. Perhaps see about getting some new running shorts and sports bras. Only if they're on sale.
S.
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
Wake Up Call
I thought I'd spend this warm afternoon laying by the pool. I put on my strapless bikini (no lines for the wedding in August) that I love, but I don't look as good in this summer as last - grr. I got all situated on the lounger outside and noticed a small red spot on my stomach. I thought it was a bug or something, but it wasn't coming off.
Some background: I am extremely fair and freckled. I wish I had taken after my mom with her lovely italian skin, but I didn't. I have always burned instead of tanned. I get more freckles every summer on my shoulders and arms. There are dark freckles I have to keep an eye on to make sure they don't turn into a health hazard. I should wear sunscreen every time I'm outside, but I don't. In late high school and early college I would go to the tanning bed for a month or two out of the year. Not exactly smart. Three years ago I decided to quit the tanning bed cold turkey and come to grips with the fact that I wasn't meant to be tan. This didn't mean that I swore off the sun as well. I'd wear sunscreen if I was going to be outside for a long time, but that isn't total protection. I got a pretty bad sunburn a year ago when Brian was home and we spent an entire afternoon in the pool. I knew it was bad, but I always wanted so badly to be "normal".
Today when I saw that red spot on my stomach - which may be nothing, but may be something - I knew it was a sign. Call it divine intervention, call it a gut reaction, call it whatever you want. I heard the universe yelling at me loud and clear: "Stop tempting fate, you do not want skin cancer!!"
From now on I will be super vigilant about my skin and sun health. No more sun bathing. I'm letting go of the social pressure to be tan. I'm pale, people, and I'm ok with that. I'm much too informed to make such bad decisions.
S.
Some background: I am extremely fair and freckled. I wish I had taken after my mom with her lovely italian skin, but I didn't. I have always burned instead of tanned. I get more freckles every summer on my shoulders and arms. There are dark freckles I have to keep an eye on to make sure they don't turn into a health hazard. I should wear sunscreen every time I'm outside, but I don't. In late high school and early college I would go to the tanning bed for a month or two out of the year. Not exactly smart. Three years ago I decided to quit the tanning bed cold turkey and come to grips with the fact that I wasn't meant to be tan. This didn't mean that I swore off the sun as well. I'd wear sunscreen if I was going to be outside for a long time, but that isn't total protection. I got a pretty bad sunburn a year ago when Brian was home and we spent an entire afternoon in the pool. I knew it was bad, but I always wanted so badly to be "normal".
Today when I saw that red spot on my stomach - which may be nothing, but may be something - I knew it was a sign. Call it divine intervention, call it a gut reaction, call it whatever you want. I heard the universe yelling at me loud and clear: "Stop tempting fate, you do not want skin cancer!!"
From now on I will be super vigilant about my skin and sun health. No more sun bathing. I'm letting go of the social pressure to be tan. I'm pale, people, and I'm ok with that. I'm much too informed to make such bad decisions.
S.
Monday, May 11, 2009
Winner
Guess who won something?
The lovely Kebi at Hanging by a Thread did a giveaway for either Twilight the movie or the soundtrack. Since I already own the movie, I obviously opted for the soundtrack which I have heard only good things about. So exciting!
Thank you Kebi for giving me my first blog giveaway win!
:)
S.
The lovely Kebi at Hanging by a Thread did a giveaway for either Twilight the movie or the soundtrack. Since I already own the movie, I obviously opted for the soundtrack which I have heard only good things about. So exciting!
Thank you Kebi for giving me my first blog giveaway win!
:)
S.
Another Week in TX
Originally I would be getting up early tomorrow to head home to LA. While I've been in TX, we found out that Brian will be getting his vision fixed (Lasik or something like it) early next week in San Antonio. He'll be gone for 4 days and once he looked at a calendar he told me I should stay here an extra week instead of coming home for a few days before he leaves. So...I'll be here for another week. I'll go back next Tuesday so I can be there when he gets back on Wednesday. He's really excited about the eye surgery and I, in turn, am happy for him. I hope the recovery isn't too bad. Anyone had this done or know someone who has? Let me know what I can expect.
I suppose in my extra week here I'll try to hammer out some wedding things. I have a call into the alterations lady to get my dress altered. I can't do the hem yet because I forgot my shoes in LA (duh!). There are other tweaks to be made, though, and I'd like to get started on them ASAP. I also would love to figure out the groom/groomsmen attire, but I'm waiting to see what Brian would like to wear. He's been toying with the idea of assembling all the pieces for the new enlisted Army dress blues and wearing those. It'd match the color scheme! Other than wedding stuff, I guess I'll enjoy my time with my parents. My brother is out of town with friends (at the beach - so jealous!) until Thursday so it's just me and the 'rents until then.
So, that's all on my change of travel plans. Hopefully the weather will start cooperating here so I can work on my tan by the pool. *crosses fingers*
S.
P.S. Last May Brian came home for R&R. I can't believe it's already been a year since then. I can't believe it's already May and I can't believe he's been home for over 4 months. Time goes by entirely too fast.
I suppose in my extra week here I'll try to hammer out some wedding things. I have a call into the alterations lady to get my dress altered. I can't do the hem yet because I forgot my shoes in LA (duh!). There are other tweaks to be made, though, and I'd like to get started on them ASAP. I also would love to figure out the groom/groomsmen attire, but I'm waiting to see what Brian would like to wear. He's been toying with the idea of assembling all the pieces for the new enlisted Army dress blues and wearing those. It'd match the color scheme! Other than wedding stuff, I guess I'll enjoy my time with my parents. My brother is out of town with friends (at the beach - so jealous!) until Thursday so it's just me and the 'rents until then.
So, that's all on my change of travel plans. Hopefully the weather will start cooperating here so I can work on my tan by the pool. *crosses fingers*
S.
P.S. Last May Brian came home for R&R. I can't believe it's already been a year since then. I can't believe it's already May and I can't believe he's been home for over 4 months. Time goes by entirely too fast.
C25K Day 16
Remember last time when I was talking about 100+ temperatures? Yeah, that only lasted 2 days. This morning I woke up to a wet backyard. I wasn't about to run in any thunderstorm so I pulled up weather.com to see what was going on. According to them at 9:30 this morning, it was 57 degrees with fog. Ok, I can handle fog - I'm picturing extra cloudy conditions... Apparently this fog they speak of translates to incessant mist. It almost looked like snow since you could see each little mist particle. Oh, and it must have been misting/fogging for awhile because it had built up on all the leaves on the trees so every little breeze sent rain-sized drops falling to the Earth. It was going to be a wet run.
I almost didn't go and put it off until tomorrow, but I manned up and went. I told myself I wasn't a true runner until I ran in some form of precipitation. So off I went to do today's workout:
5 min. warm-up walk
5 min. run
3 min. walk
8 min. run
3 min. walk
5 min. run
5-7 min. cool-down walk back to the house
The workout itself was comfortable. My legs are sore from going to the gym with Mom on Saturday and doing my old treadmill workout, so if that hadn't been a factor I think today would have been almost easy. Tomorrow is the last workout that includes any walking. Next week is three 25 min. runs and the following week is three 30 min. runs. Yikes!
Another little funny tidbit from the run today: when my parents went up to the Northeast so my dad could run the Boston marathon, they flew in and out of Newark, NJ. On their way home, my mom picked up a couple t-shirts for my brother and me. Mine is green. I threw it on this morning for my run. When I got home and peeled it off, I had green armpits. Guess the shirt wasn't color safe. After scrubbing them in the shower, they're light green now, but I'm not wearing anything sleeveless for a couple days. Stupid airport shirts!
S.
I almost didn't go and put it off until tomorrow, but I manned up and went. I told myself I wasn't a true runner until I ran in some form of precipitation. So off I went to do today's workout:
5 min. warm-up walk
5 min. run
3 min. walk
8 min. run
3 min. walk
5 min. run
5-7 min. cool-down walk back to the house
The workout itself was comfortable. My legs are sore from going to the gym with Mom on Saturday and doing my old treadmill workout, so if that hadn't been a factor I think today would have been almost easy. Tomorrow is the last workout that includes any walking. Next week is three 25 min. runs and the following week is three 30 min. runs. Yikes!
Another little funny tidbit from the run today: when my parents went up to the Northeast so my dad could run the Boston marathon, they flew in and out of Newark, NJ. On their way home, my mom picked up a couple t-shirts for my brother and me. Mine is green. I threw it on this morning for my run. When I got home and peeled it off, I had green armpits. Guess the shirt wasn't color safe. After scrubbing them in the shower, they're light green now, but I'm not wearing anything sleeveless for a couple days. Stupid airport shirts!
S.
Sunday, May 10, 2009
Friday, May 8, 2009
C25K Day 15 + Some Extras
I'm coming to you from the grand state of Texas. I got here yesterday and was greeted with two days of 100+ degree temperatures. Nothing says summer quite like hot days like those. I'm definitely swimming this weekend!
Today my workout was jogging for 20 minutes without a walk break. I asked my marathon-running dad if he would like to accompany me and he kindly obliged. He ran the Boston marathon last month (under 3.5 hours) and injured a muscle in his butt of all places so he's been out of commission for awhile. Ordinarily I wouldn't subject him to my snail's pace, but I ended up being able to do more than he could. He resorted to speed walking with me which actually helped me keep a steady, slow pace. Dad wore his Garmin, so I knew exactly how far/fast we went. I did about 1.33 miles in the 20 minutes - a 15:33 first mile with a 4:27 1/3 of a mile. I sped up at the end - don't ask me why - and Dad was having a hard time keeping up with me. I was able to talk to him the whole time so I knew I wasn't pushing myself too hard. It was really fun being able to "run" with him even if it was so slow and he was hurting. It was also really nice having someone to talk to and keep my mind off what my body was doing.
I'm not sure what next week's workouts are, but I know it backs off some from this 20 minutes continuous business. Hopefully I can speed it all up a bit next week so it's not so embarassingly slow.
I think I should think of something to reward myself with when these 8 weeks are completed...
In other news really quick: I finally picked up my wedding gown today. It's a bit too snug around my ribs (sorry, there's nothing I can do about the size of my ribs), but other than that - which can be fixed - it's as gorgeous as I remember. My mom had seen it 10 months ago when I ordered it, but my brother tagged along so he could see it too. He loved it, said it was very classic, very me, and very beautiful. I'm in love with it. I was almost worried I wouldn't like it as much since I could hardly remember it, but I love it. It's just so....pretty.
Tomorrow my brother graduates from college. I'm so proud of him and it will be fun to watch him finally get his diploma and be done with the obnoxiously conservative school he's been battling for the last 4 years.
I've eaten way too much since I've been home, but I'm on vacation so it's ok, right? Yeah, I know...at least I ran this morning and I'm going to the gym with my mom tomorrow too, so it'll all balance out in the end. (Or so I keep telling myself.)
I also wanted to thank everyone for their support in my little running experiment. I appreciate all the kind words even if I don't always say thank you. I'm sorry my non-running blogging has been lacking, but it shall return as soon as I have some blog-worthy material.
Happy Weekend everyone!
S.
Today my workout was jogging for 20 minutes without a walk break. I asked my marathon-running dad if he would like to accompany me and he kindly obliged. He ran the Boston marathon last month (under 3.5 hours) and injured a muscle in his butt of all places so he's been out of commission for awhile. Ordinarily I wouldn't subject him to my snail's pace, but I ended up being able to do more than he could. He resorted to speed walking with me which actually helped me keep a steady, slow pace. Dad wore his Garmin, so I knew exactly how far/fast we went. I did about 1.33 miles in the 20 minutes - a 15:33 first mile with a 4:27 1/3 of a mile. I sped up at the end - don't ask me why - and Dad was having a hard time keeping up with me. I was able to talk to him the whole time so I knew I wasn't pushing myself too hard. It was really fun being able to "run" with him even if it was so slow and he was hurting. It was also really nice having someone to talk to and keep my mind off what my body was doing.
I'm not sure what next week's workouts are, but I know it backs off some from this 20 minutes continuous business. Hopefully I can speed it all up a bit next week so it's not so embarassingly slow.
I think I should think of something to reward myself with when these 8 weeks are completed...
In other news really quick: I finally picked up my wedding gown today. It's a bit too snug around my ribs (sorry, there's nothing I can do about the size of my ribs), but other than that - which can be fixed - it's as gorgeous as I remember. My mom had seen it 10 months ago when I ordered it, but my brother tagged along so he could see it too. He loved it, said it was very classic, very me, and very beautiful. I'm in love with it. I was almost worried I wouldn't like it as much since I could hardly remember it, but I love it. It's just so....pretty.
Tomorrow my brother graduates from college. I'm so proud of him and it will be fun to watch him finally get his diploma and be done with the obnoxiously conservative school he's been battling for the last 4 years.
I've eaten way too much since I've been home, but I'm on vacation so it's ok, right? Yeah, I know...at least I ran this morning and I'm going to the gym with my mom tomorrow too, so it'll all balance out in the end. (Or so I keep telling myself.)
I also wanted to thank everyone for their support in my little running experiment. I appreciate all the kind words even if I don't always say thank you. I'm sorry my non-running blogging has been lacking, but it shall return as soon as I have some blog-worthy material.
Happy Weekend everyone!
S.
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Pet Peeve
When I do a load of laundry and open the dryer to put the load of wet clothes in there and find a pretty substantial load of wrinkled clothes (mostly uniforms) belonging to my husband that he took it upon himself to wash however many days ago after cleaning said clothes out of the truck.
Grr!
S.
Grr!
S.
C25K Day 14
Well, I survived!
In case you don't remember...
Today's workout:
Run 8 min.
Walk 5 min.
Run 8 min.
It is super humid today which made running kinda yucky. The first 8 minutes of running went by surprisingly quickly. I took the same loop today that I did Monday. I think I like the new loop...except for the construction men working on the new neighborhood center. I feel like they're staring at me. I suppose I could just be paranoid. Anyway, back to the run...the last 8 minutes were worse than the first 8. The last 2 minutes especially. The dinner I made last night kept me up a lot of the night so my digestive system wasn't feeling all that great this morning. I just slowed down and pushed through. I was really overheated when I got home, but quickly remedied that with a nice cool shower.
Tomorrow I'm heading back to Hometown to watch my brother graduate from college so my Friday run (20 minutes continuously) will be done there. Hometown is much flatter and much less humid than here which can only help my run on Friday. I can't believe I'm already to the point of running continually for an entire workout. Hopefully I can make it!
Now, onto laundry, dishes, packing and Bride Wars on DVD.
S.
In case you don't remember...
Today's workout:
Run 8 min.
Walk 5 min.
Run 8 min.
It is super humid today which made running kinda yucky. The first 8 minutes of running went by surprisingly quickly. I took the same loop today that I did Monday. I think I like the new loop...except for the construction men working on the new neighborhood center. I feel like they're staring at me. I suppose I could just be paranoid. Anyway, back to the run...the last 8 minutes were worse than the first 8. The last 2 minutes especially. The dinner I made last night kept me up a lot of the night so my digestive system wasn't feeling all that great this morning. I just slowed down and pushed through. I was really overheated when I got home, but quickly remedied that with a nice cool shower.
Tomorrow I'm heading back to Hometown to watch my brother graduate from college so my Friday run (20 minutes continuously) will be done there. Hometown is much flatter and much less humid than here which can only help my run on Friday. I can't believe I'm already to the point of running continually for an entire workout. Hopefully I can make it!
Now, onto laundry, dishes, packing and Bride Wars on DVD.
S.
Monday, May 4, 2009
C25K Day 13
Today's workout:
5 min. warm-up walk
5 min. run
3 min. walk
5 min. run
3 min. walk
5 min. run
5ish min. cool-down walk
I took a new loop through the neighborhood which was nice for a change of scenery - also seemed like there were less up-hills. It was also cooler this morning thanks to the thunderstorms yesterday. Alot of the sidewalks were muddy, but the 65 degree temps were very very welcome. The 85% humidity, however, still left me nice and soggy by the time I got home.
The runs were alright. I knew I was running the first two faster than I should have, but I couldn't really judge how fast since I was running a new loop. I had sorta gotten to know my pace on the normal loop. The last run was painfully slow and tad brutal. I was really hot, sweaty, and dehydrated. I took it nice and slow because I really wanted to finish it. I did, but probably looked a little pitiful when I finished.
In the last minute of the last run I got semi-attacked by a loose puppy. It was 2/3 of the way to me from it's owners before they decided to yell "he doesn't bite, promise!" Yeah..and we wonder why I don't let my dog go for walks or out in the backyard alone. Idiots!
Wednesday I get to run 8 min, walk 5 and run another 8. Eek!
S.
5 min. warm-up walk
5 min. run
3 min. walk
5 min. run
3 min. walk
5 min. run
5ish min. cool-down walk
I took a new loop through the neighborhood which was nice for a change of scenery - also seemed like there were less up-hills. It was also cooler this morning thanks to the thunderstorms yesterday. Alot of the sidewalks were muddy, but the 65 degree temps were very very welcome. The 85% humidity, however, still left me nice and soggy by the time I got home.
The runs were alright. I knew I was running the first two faster than I should have, but I couldn't really judge how fast since I was running a new loop. I had sorta gotten to know my pace on the normal loop. The last run was painfully slow and tad brutal. I was really hot, sweaty, and dehydrated. I took it nice and slow because I really wanted to finish it. I did, but probably looked a little pitiful when I finished.
In the last minute of the last run I got semi-attacked by a loose puppy. It was 2/3 of the way to me from it's owners before they decided to yell "he doesn't bite, promise!" Yeah..and we wonder why I don't let my dog go for walks or out in the backyard alone. Idiots!
Wednesday I get to run 8 min, walk 5 and run another 8. Eek!
S.
Friday, May 1, 2009
C25K Day 12
End of Week 4. I am officially half-way through this 8 week program.
So far I haven't missed a day and I've only not completed one day. I can't believe I've made it this far.
When I left for my workout this morning it was 75 degrees with 85% humidity. Yuck. It was cloudy when I started which meant no beating sun and random cool breezes. Instead of my normal loop (run out for half the work out, turn around and run back) I did a full loop of my neighborhood. I'm not even sure how far I went in total. I just know that at my half-way point (when I'd normally turn around) I had gone a bit farther than I had last time.
Things were fine for the first half. Some sun every now and then when it peeked out from behind a cloud. I felt good, had enough energy. The second half was a bit rough. Normally the second half is ok because I'm backtracking on what I've already run making the almost-all uphill course almost-all downhill on the way back. The only-run-it-once-before second half I did today did have one large downhill which would have been nice if the sun didn't choose that half mile stretch to come out in full force. There wasn't a lick of shade to be had. I was baking...or steaming judging by the humidity. After my sun beatdown I was met with an unexpected, more-brutal-than-it-should-have-been uphill for the last 2 minutes of my last run. I sorta wanted to die. I didn't let myself quit, got through it, and trudged home to a tall glass of ice water and a wet paper towel for my face.
This week scared the ba-jeez-us out of me when I first looked up what it would be, but here I am on the other side with all my parts intact and still breathing. Hopefully the next 4 weeks will be equally as bearable.
S.
So far I haven't missed a day and I've only not completed one day. I can't believe I've made it this far.
When I left for my workout this morning it was 75 degrees with 85% humidity. Yuck. It was cloudy when I started which meant no beating sun and random cool breezes. Instead of my normal loop (run out for half the work out, turn around and run back) I did a full loop of my neighborhood. I'm not even sure how far I went in total. I just know that at my half-way point (when I'd normally turn around) I had gone a bit farther than I had last time.
Things were fine for the first half. Some sun every now and then when it peeked out from behind a cloud. I felt good, had enough energy. The second half was a bit rough. Normally the second half is ok because I'm backtracking on what I've already run making the almost-all uphill course almost-all downhill on the way back. The only-run-it-once-before second half I did today did have one large downhill which would have been nice if the sun didn't choose that half mile stretch to come out in full force. There wasn't a lick of shade to be had. I was baking...or steaming judging by the humidity. After my sun beatdown I was met with an unexpected, more-brutal-than-it-should-have-been uphill for the last 2 minutes of my last run. I sorta wanted to die. I didn't let myself quit, got through it, and trudged home to a tall glass of ice water and a wet paper towel for my face.
This week scared the ba-jeez-us out of me when I first looked up what it would be, but here I am on the other side with all my parts intact and still breathing. Hopefully the next 4 weeks will be equally as bearable.
S.
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