Just an update...I checked my paperwork from the doctor and my official diagnosis is Capsulitis of the Hip. Nice to know, right?
One week from today and I’ll be joining the masses at the George R Brown Convention Center (also known by Houstonians as the “GRB”). We’ll be picking up packets, browsing the booths, listening to motivational talks, meeting our pace team leaders, etc. Yipppeeee, I can’t wait!
I received my confirmation yesterday - I am bib #7168 and in the “open” corral (meaning: with the other slow people). No offense to any walkers out there, but I do aim to line up in front of you, so that I am not continually dodging you in the 1st 8 miles!
I have to admit that I am a bit nervous about this race with this hip injury looming. What if I get out there and it starts to really hurt at mile 10 or 15? What if I’ve lost fitness in my two-week long hiatus and I totally and completely suck? What if, what if, what if… So many uncertainties - I’m not sure how hard to push. I am not sure how my hip will feel on the hills of Elysian, Montrose, Newcastle and Allen Parkway – especially the down hill segments. I usually love those, but and stepping down really hurts right now. Should I try to maintain my “best case scenario for a PR pace”? Should I take it easy?
But then again, even with a healthy body ANYTHING can happen on race day. I went into my very 1st marathon feeling confident and ready. I had completed a great 15, 18 and 21 miler with no problems other than the usual fatigue. However, around mile 4 or 5 of my marathon, I felt an odd pull in my hip. By mile 9, this odd sensation was moving to my knee. By mile 16, it felt as if someone was stabbing me in the knee with an ice pick. Then, by mile 19, all my muscles were cramping and I was nauseous (as if the knee pain wasn’t enough!). By mile 20, I was falling behind the rest of my group. All of the symptoms I was experiencing were things I never experienced before race day. I had no idea what the hell was going on. I caught up with one of our coaches around mile 20 and she said the knee issues sounded like ITBS and the cramping/nausea sounded like I needed salt. She kindly shared her pumpkin seeds, showed me a couple of ITB stretches and gave me a pep talk. My group finished the race about 7 minutes before me…I was just happy to finish at all.
Moral of the story – the marathon is a long race. (Okay, not as long as an Ironman, but still long!) Anything can happen. We deal with it. Most of the time we finish, sometimes we don’t. But, we have to try. So I may be slower that I want to be next weekend, I may be walking more than I had planned, or I may be hobbling to the finish. If I feel great after the 1st few miles (and those stupid Elysian hills), then I will go all out. If not, well, I switch to plan B – just finish. I won’t know until I try…and try I will!
Showing posts with label rambling. Show all posts
Showing posts with label rambling. Show all posts
Friday, January 06, 2012
Tuesday, May 17, 2011
Random Stuff
I am here. As usual, life has been busy. Some updates since our vacation:
- Despite my lack of training during vacation and my struggles to “get back on the wagon” once we returned, I participated in the CB&I sprint triathlon and actually PRed! My swim was pretty pathetic, but I managed to take almost 2 minutes off of my bike and run times. Race report to come!
- Since the week after we returned from Disney, I’ve been having a weird pain in the arch of my right foot. After 3 weeks of this and experimenting with different shoes, I finally went to the doctor. I have posterior tibial tendonitis. Fortunately, I can still run, but need a bit of NSAIDs, ice and stretching for it to get better.
- The morning after my dr’s appointment (on Saturday), I managed to break my toe. Yep, no exciting story to go with it - basically, the dog insisted on going outside at 5 am and when I was coming back to bed, I hit my toe on the bedroom door. Hard. My toe immediately swelled and later I noticed bruising. I had to cancel my long run and hobble through a wedding. The next morning, the top of my foot near my toes had turned a lovely shade of purple. And, I had to wear flip flops to work. That’s right – Tahari suit and flip flops. Nice. (Since I can't run or bike at the moment, it looks like my foot will have plenty of time to recover from the tendonitis as well...)
More updates to come, including the promised vacation photos. Have a great day!
Friday, April 08, 2011
Workouts and Randomness...
Thursday, 4/7 - Insanity and Swimming Not much to say...I woke up early to do Insanity - Pure Cardio and then headed to the pool in the evening to swim 1,600. I made it back home in time to help the hubby put the kiddos to bed and then it was time for some Malbec for mommy! Just a 1/2 glass, but it was oh so yummy!
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Still here...
Ugh, looks like another catch up post. Life has been crazy…mostly in good ways. The family has been busy with soccer practice and soccer games, gymnastics, birthday parties, baby showers, wedding showers, etc. Last weekend, we had a rare opportunity to just hang out and veg for a little while and it felt great!
Here's a glipse of our Saturday...
Here's the Hubby showing the kids how to fish
Here's the Kiddo in action at her soccer game
This is what the Munckin does during big sis' soccer games
Here's the Munckin enjoying his "Soccer Tots" class
One thing I haven’t mentioned yet here is my decision about the Memorial Herman 70.3. I decided several weeks ago that I was not doing the HIM. Honestly, after being out of town 3 times in late February / early March and being scheduled to go out of town again for a week in late March (which ended up being cancelled – yay!), I felt like I neglected my training too much. Especially the swimming. Here’s the deal - when I know I’m going out of town, I feel like I need to cram in as much time with the Hubby and kids as possible before I go. So I miss workouts. Then, I go out of town to a non-bike friendly place with no pool. I miss more key workouts. Then, I come home again and feel like I need to make up for lost time with the Hubby and kiddos. More missed workouts. Add some working late due to busy season and that means more missed workouts. I know that I could sacrifice some time with them, it was only a couple of months until the race, right? But, the kids and Hubby are a priority to me. I see the kids for about 30 minutes in the morning before dropping them off at daycare and I have about 2 hours with them each night before bedtime...if I leave work on time, which was rare during February and most of March.
This would be a non-issue if I was already a strong swimmer, but to be honest – I suck. In open water, I suck even more.
I am working on this and I will overcome this little issue.
But unfortunately, not in time for the HIM.
So that’s it…I am back to sprint distance races. I’ve decided to try some new ones this year (see sidebar for schedule). My plan is to end my tri season by August, so I can focus more on my long runs. But, if things are going well (and my swim doesn’t suck as bad) and I feel like I can keep going, I may try an Oly scheduled for late September.
Here's a glipse of our Saturday...
Here's the Hubby showing the kids how to fish
Here's the Kiddo in action at her soccer game
This is what the Munckin does during big sis' soccer games
Here's the Munckin enjoying his "Soccer Tots" class
One thing I haven’t mentioned yet here is my decision about the Memorial Herman 70.3. I decided several weeks ago that I was not doing the HIM. Honestly, after being out of town 3 times in late February / early March and being scheduled to go out of town again for a week in late March (which ended up being cancelled – yay!), I felt like I neglected my training too much. Especially the swimming. Here’s the deal - when I know I’m going out of town, I feel like I need to cram in as much time with the Hubby and kids as possible before I go. So I miss workouts. Then, I go out of town to a non-bike friendly place with no pool. I miss more key workouts. Then, I come home again and feel like I need to make up for lost time with the Hubby and kiddos. More missed workouts. Add some working late due to busy season and that means more missed workouts. I know that I could sacrifice some time with them, it was only a couple of months until the race, right? But, the kids and Hubby are a priority to me. I see the kids for about 30 minutes in the morning before dropping them off at daycare and I have about 2 hours with them each night before bedtime...if I leave work on time, which was rare during February and most of March.
This would be a non-issue if I was already a strong swimmer, but to be honest – I suck. In open water, I suck even more.
I am working on this and I will overcome this little issue.
But unfortunately, not in time for the HIM.
So that’s it…I am back to sprint distance races. I’ve decided to try some new ones this year (see sidebar for schedule). My plan is to end my tri season by August, so I can focus more on my long runs. But, if things are going well (and my swim doesn’t suck as bad) and I feel like I can keep going, I may try an Oly scheduled for late September.
Wednesday, March 09, 2011
Hot Mess
Ugh, what a difference 15 degrees makes!
Saturday, it was 55 degrees. I ran 8 miles at a 10:20 pace and felt as if I could run for-evah!
This morning, it was 70 degrees. It was also cloudy and foggy with a zillion % humidity. I ran 4 miles at a 10:29 pace and was just happy to be done.
An hour and a half later, as I was driving the kids to daycare, the temp was 62 and there was no humidity! A cool front came through the area while I was busy showering and pushed the clouds out, revealing a gorgeous blue sky and a pink/orange sunrise.
Welcome to Houston. Crazy weather!
I started my 4-miler with the intent of doing some 800 intervals. But, I didn't set my watch right and instead of stopping to fix it, I just decided to run. I really, really need to get re-acclimated to the warmer temps again, because I was being a total pansy this morning. Pretty soon, it'll be 80 degrees at 4:30 am and I will be looking forward to mornings like this with the temps dipping in the 70s. Ugh, like I said, welcome to Houston.
Not.ready.for.summer.
Saturday, it was 55 degrees. I ran 8 miles at a 10:20 pace and felt as if I could run for-evah!
This morning, it was 70 degrees. It was also cloudy and foggy with a zillion % humidity. I ran 4 miles at a 10:29 pace and was just happy to be done.
An hour and a half later, as I was driving the kids to daycare, the temp was 62 and there was no humidity! A cool front came through the area while I was busy showering and pushed the clouds out, revealing a gorgeous blue sky and a pink/orange sunrise.
Welcome to Houston. Crazy weather!
I started my 4-miler with the intent of doing some 800 intervals. But, I didn't set my watch right and instead of stopping to fix it, I just decided to run. I really, really need to get re-acclimated to the warmer temps again, because I was being a total pansy this morning. Pretty soon, it'll be 80 degrees at 4:30 am and I will be looking forward to mornings like this with the temps dipping in the 70s. Ugh, like I said, welcome to Houston.
Not.ready.for.summer.
Monday, February 14, 2011
Catching Up (with pics this time!)
So, my last post was a quick summary of what I've been up to. Now, here it is in pictures...
As you might know, it's been freaking cold here. Let me clarify: that is cold as in S. TX cold...I know you guys to the north of us think we're pansies and that's okay. But, it has been FREEZING! We even had a "snow day", which ended up being nothing more than a bunch of ice. But, I did get to work from home...as in on the sofa, in front of this:
This is about the time the Hubby introduced me to this product, which he refers to as "coffee crack" and it's great for these FREEZING temps:
The nice thing about FREEZING temps, is that we have plenty of time and zero excuses to work on school projects. This little doozy is the Kiddo's island...yes, that Amazon stick figure to the right is supposed to be me. :-)
And when the projects are done and it's still FREEZING, we just play...I think we need some more cars and trains, don't you?
And when the kids are bored from all the projects and playing and it's STILL FREEZING, they tend to get creative. Sitting in a plastic box is oh so fun and entertaining for a 6 year old....I told you we needed more cars!
I did run the Houston 1/2...naturally, it was the one weekend that it was not FREEZING. Yes, I am still a little bitter about the warm temps and rain. But good swag can usually make up for it.
Oh and cupcakes! Cupcakes make up for a lot too (even when it's FREEZING) . In fact, I am sure we would have world peace if every meeting of world leaders started and ended with one of these...
When it's FREEZING in TX, you wait until mid-day to take your long bike ride so that it's warmer. But, dressing for cold weather on the bike is soooo different than dressing for cold weather for running. As you can see, I haven't quite figured it out yet...nor do I have bike clothes that match - that's me in the pink with the blue on top. Don't hate, I know it's trendy.
And, we finally had a weekend that was not FREEZING...in fact, it included highs in the 60s without any rain! This is good, because it also happened to be the weekend of the Kiddo's 1st soccer game! We got our butts handed to us, but the kids had fun anyway.
As you might know, it's been freaking cold here. Let me clarify: that is cold as in S. TX cold...I know you guys to the north of us think we're pansies and that's okay. But, it has been FREEZING! We even had a "snow day", which ended up being nothing more than a bunch of ice. But, I did get to work from home...as in on the sofa, in front of this:
This is about the time the Hubby introduced me to this product, which he refers to as "coffee crack" and it's great for these FREEZING temps:
The nice thing about FREEZING temps, is that we have plenty of time and zero excuses to work on school projects. This little doozy is the Kiddo's island...yes, that Amazon stick figure to the right is supposed to be me. :-)
And when the projects are done and it's still FREEZING, we just play...I think we need some more cars and trains, don't you?
And when the kids are bored from all the projects and playing and it's STILL FREEZING, they tend to get creative. Sitting in a plastic box is oh so fun and entertaining for a 6 year old....I told you we needed more cars!
I did run the Houston 1/2...naturally, it was the one weekend that it was not FREEZING. Yes, I am still a little bitter about the warm temps and rain. But good swag can usually make up for it.
Oh and cupcakes! Cupcakes make up for a lot too (even when it's FREEZING) . In fact, I am sure we would have world peace if every meeting of world leaders started and ended with one of these...
When it's FREEZING in TX, you wait until mid-day to take your long bike ride so that it's warmer. But, dressing for cold weather on the bike is soooo different than dressing for cold weather for running. As you can see, I haven't quite figured it out yet...nor do I have bike clothes that match - that's me in the pink with the blue on top. Don't hate, I know it's trendy.
And, we finally had a weekend that was not FREEZING...in fact, it included highs in the 60s without any rain! This is good, because it also happened to be the weekend of the Kiddo's 1st soccer game! We got our butts handed to us, but the kids had fun anyway.
Sunday, January 16, 2011
Long Run and Crappy Weather
Saturday is supposed to be my long bike day and Sunday is supposed to be my long run day. But sometimes Mother Nature is a witch and decides not to cooperate. Saturday and Sunday were perfect examples of this...
My tri buddies and I were planning on a 7 am bike ride - 30 miles. We're gradually upping the mileage. At 5:52 I received a text message from tri buddy, Kelly, asking if it was raining at my house. Apparently, it was raining at her house. Even though she only lives about 10 miles away, it wouldn't be the 1st time it was raining at her house but not at mine. But, I went to look out the front door and sure enough, rain. Drats! And, since it was 45 degrees, a rainy bike ride would not be fun. We decided to postpone the ride, especially since it was supposed to rain off and on all day. And, Sunday's forecast looked even worse - 100% chance of rain. All day. Ugh.
By 8 am, it looked as if the rain was going to let up a bit. I decided that I should go ahead and get my run out of the way, especially after seeing Sunday's forecast. I'll be honest, I really didn't want to run. I am used to being done by 8 am, so to start my run at 8 am...well, it was just weird. But off I went....around the neighborhood. It was in the low 50's and I totally overdressed - Nike Capris and a long sleeve Under Armor shirt. I know better. I started out feeling awkward and stiff. It took seveal miles to really feel good. It seemed like I felt every bit of those miles. I made it back to my house at 8 miles, used the bathroom, changed into a short-sleeved shirt, grabbed some Gu and headed out once more. Finished 4 more miles at a much faster pace that the previous 8. Overall run - 2:04, or a 10:21 pace. Not too bad considering I had no intention of running, did not want to run and was pretty damn negative the entire 12 miles. If I maintain this same pace for the 1/2 in 2 weeks, I'll have about a 5 minute PR. Now let's just hope the weather cooperates!
Sunday, it was a nasty mess all day- about 58 degrees and non-stop rain. Yuck. I should have gotten out my trainer for a long bike ride, but I opted to watch movies with the kids instead. Lazy. We did get out to get the kid's haircuts taken care of and had dinner with my parents. I am so used to this being Houston Marathon weekend, that it seemed weird to be having birthday dinner with my parents without being able to celebrate running. Oh well...two more weeks! And the Golden Globes are tonight...can't wait! Hoping that Mad Men and The King's Speech pick up a few!
My tri buddies and I were planning on a 7 am bike ride - 30 miles. We're gradually upping the mileage. At 5:52 I received a text message from tri buddy, Kelly, asking if it was raining at my house. Apparently, it was raining at her house. Even though she only lives about 10 miles away, it wouldn't be the 1st time it was raining at her house but not at mine. But, I went to look out the front door and sure enough, rain. Drats! And, since it was 45 degrees, a rainy bike ride would not be fun. We decided to postpone the ride, especially since it was supposed to rain off and on all day. And, Sunday's forecast looked even worse - 100% chance of rain. All day. Ugh.
By 8 am, it looked as if the rain was going to let up a bit. I decided that I should go ahead and get my run out of the way, especially after seeing Sunday's forecast. I'll be honest, I really didn't want to run. I am used to being done by 8 am, so to start my run at 8 am...well, it was just weird. But off I went....around the neighborhood. It was in the low 50's and I totally overdressed - Nike Capris and a long sleeve Under Armor shirt. I know better. I started out feeling awkward and stiff. It took seveal miles to really feel good. It seemed like I felt every bit of those miles. I made it back to my house at 8 miles, used the bathroom, changed into a short-sleeved shirt, grabbed some Gu and headed out once more. Finished 4 more miles at a much faster pace that the previous 8. Overall run - 2:04, or a 10:21 pace. Not too bad considering I had no intention of running, did not want to run and was pretty damn negative the entire 12 miles. If I maintain this same pace for the 1/2 in 2 weeks, I'll have about a 5 minute PR. Now let's just hope the weather cooperates!
Sunday, it was a nasty mess all day- about 58 degrees and non-stop rain. Yuck. I should have gotten out my trainer for a long bike ride, but I opted to watch movies with the kids instead. Lazy. We did get out to get the kid's haircuts taken care of and had dinner with my parents. I am so used to this being Houston Marathon weekend, that it seemed weird to be having birthday dinner with my parents without being able to celebrate running. Oh well...two more weeks! And the Golden Globes are tonight...can't wait! Hoping that Mad Men and The King's Speech pick up a few!
Thursday, December 30, 2010
You spin me right 'round baby...
My schedule is out of whack a bit since I've decided to move my long run to Sunday. I did the P90X stretch workout on Wednesday morning, but that didn't feel like a "real" workout, so I ended up going to another spin class at lunch.
I did several months of spin in 2009 when I was preparing for my 1st triathlon. Never during that time, did the instructor work hand weights into the routine. You can imagine my surprise when the instructor at yesterday's class told us to get 2 hand weights - one slightly heavier than the other. The spin class focused mainly on spin - break aways, hill climbs and jumps - but, for a portion of the class we used the weights while we pedaled. We worked out our shoulders, lats, biceps and triceps and during our cool down we did about 8 push-ups. Overall, it was a good workout...the music, not my favorite. Rob Thomas? I can do without Rob Thomas.
This morning, I headed out in the wee early hours to run. I had 5 easy miles on the schedule (a break from the speedwork, since I ran 13 over the weekend). In all honestly, I didn't want to get out of bed. This was my internal conversation:
"Just do 3 miles."
"Three easy, peasy miles and then come home."
I also remembered that it was an easy run day, so I told myself:
"Just take it easy, run at a comfortable pace. Five miles is no big deal"
I did manage to get out of bed, get dressed and go outside...but still did not want to run. But I did. The weather pretty much sucked - 65 degrees and 1000% humidity. It was even foggy enough to make the neighborhood look a little spooky.
Once I got going:
"Okay, let's go 4 miles. Four miles and you're done."
Then I made it to 3 miles:
"WTH, just HTFU, do your damn 5 miles and get it the hell over with!"
grumble. grumble.
Hopefully, I am not the only weirdo who not only talks to themselves, but also bargains. :-) My run was done at a very comfortable 10:29 pace and I was pleased with myself for not wimping out.
Tomorrow will be a quickie 2-miler followed by some chest and back exercises! Have a very happy new year's eve...be safe!
Happy running, biking and swimming!
I did several months of spin in 2009 when I was preparing for my 1st triathlon. Never during that time, did the instructor work hand weights into the routine. You can imagine my surprise when the instructor at yesterday's class told us to get 2 hand weights - one slightly heavier than the other. The spin class focused mainly on spin - break aways, hill climbs and jumps - but, for a portion of the class we used the weights while we pedaled. We worked out our shoulders, lats, biceps and triceps and during our cool down we did about 8 push-ups. Overall, it was a good workout...the music, not my favorite. Rob Thomas? I can do without Rob Thomas.
This morning, I headed out in the wee early hours to run. I had 5 easy miles on the schedule (a break from the speedwork, since I ran 13 over the weekend). In all honestly, I didn't want to get out of bed. This was my internal conversation:
"Just do 3 miles."
"Three easy, peasy miles and then come home."
I also remembered that it was an easy run day, so I told myself:
"Just take it easy, run at a comfortable pace. Five miles is no big deal"
I did manage to get out of bed, get dressed and go outside...but still did not want to run. But I did. The weather pretty much sucked - 65 degrees and 1000% humidity. It was even foggy enough to make the neighborhood look a little spooky.
Once I got going:
"Okay, let's go 4 miles. Four miles and you're done."
Then I made it to 3 miles:
"WTH, just HTFU, do your damn 5 miles and get it the hell over with!"
grumble. grumble.
Hopefully, I am not the only weirdo who not only talks to themselves, but also bargains. :-) My run was done at a very comfortable 10:29 pace and I was pleased with myself for not wimping out.
Tomorrow will be a quickie 2-miler followed by some chest and back exercises! Have a very happy new year's eve...be safe!
Happy running, biking and swimming!
Thursday, December 09, 2010
Still here...
I'm still here.
Tri season is over, but I am still running and biking! Running about 3x per week, biking once a week on the weekends and doing P90X for strength training 2x per week. All in the wee hours of the morning (read: 4:00 am!). Well, except for the bike riding - I only do that during the daylight hours. I have been diligent about sticking to my training schedule and doing my speedwork and tempo runs like a good girl, and I've been pleased with the results. Two years ago, my average long run pace was an 11:30+ minute mile. Last year, I got that down to about 10:45 - 11:00. So far this year, it's been around 10:15-10:30. My shorter tempo runs up to about 7 miles have been a sub-10 minute pace, so I'm pleased as punch about that.
What can I say? Life is busy - I'm back to working full-time...this time last year, I was working a reduced work schedule, and later laid off. Being back full-time took some getting used to, but it's working well. The Kiddo just finished up the fall season of soccer and is still taking dance and gymnastics. The Munchkin just finished his first session of Soccer Tots, which was fun but a bit trying because he'd only cooperate if I was participating with him (and not the Hubby). The hubby is still doing martial arts 2 evenings per week and he decided to train for his 1st 1/2 marathon! I am super proud of the Hubster, because he's been consistent with his training and doing great! He selected Austin as his first....not necessarily the easiest course for a 1st timer. I am planning to run it with him...hopefully I can keep up!
The only area I don't feel I am doing as well in is my eating. Ugh, I am a stress eater and food addict. So, being super busy has not helped with the stress level, which in turn, has not helped with the stress eating. I've really been working on it though...only 8 weeks until the Aramco Houston 1/2 Marathon and I don't want any extra pounds on me to slow me down!
I am trying to decide if I want to commit to doing the Lone Star IM 70.3 in April. I REALLY, REALLY want to do it, but I feel stretched thin already and can barely stay on top of everything. Plus, our busiest time at work coincides with what I think will be the hardest training weeks (Feb/April). More to come on that decision....
Well, back to being busy! I'll be back again soon (I hope)!
Tri season is over, but I am still running and biking! Running about 3x per week, biking once a week on the weekends and doing P90X for strength training 2x per week. All in the wee hours of the morning (read: 4:00 am!). Well, except for the bike riding - I only do that during the daylight hours. I have been diligent about sticking to my training schedule and doing my speedwork and tempo runs like a good girl, and I've been pleased with the results. Two years ago, my average long run pace was an 11:30+ minute mile. Last year, I got that down to about 10:45 - 11:00. So far this year, it's been around 10:15-10:30. My shorter tempo runs up to about 7 miles have been a sub-10 minute pace, so I'm pleased as punch about that.
What can I say? Life is busy - I'm back to working full-time...this time last year, I was working a reduced work schedule, and later laid off. Being back full-time took some getting used to, but it's working well. The Kiddo just finished up the fall season of soccer and is still taking dance and gymnastics. The Munchkin just finished his first session of Soccer Tots, which was fun but a bit trying because he'd only cooperate if I was participating with him (and not the Hubby). The hubby is still doing martial arts 2 evenings per week and he decided to train for his 1st 1/2 marathon! I am super proud of the Hubster, because he's been consistent with his training and doing great! He selected Austin as his first....not necessarily the easiest course for a 1st timer. I am planning to run it with him...hopefully I can keep up!
The only area I don't feel I am doing as well in is my eating. Ugh, I am a stress eater and food addict. So, being super busy has not helped with the stress level, which in turn, has not helped with the stress eating. I've really been working on it though...only 8 weeks until the Aramco Houston 1/2 Marathon and I don't want any extra pounds on me to slow me down!
I am trying to decide if I want to commit to doing the Lone Star IM 70.3 in April. I REALLY, REALLY want to do it, but I feel stretched thin already and can barely stay on top of everything. Plus, our busiest time at work coincides with what I think will be the hardest training weeks (Feb/April). More to come on that decision....
Well, back to being busy! I'll be back again soon (I hope)!
Tuesday, September 21, 2010
Rest (sorta)
After finishing both P90X and then Insanity, I decided to take a little hiatus from everything Beachbody.com related.
The week before my tri, I only ran...then, last week (the week after my tri) I did one day of Insanity (I caved) and ran.
Tuesday, 9/14 - 3 miles, indoor track - took it easy...
Wednesday, 9/15 - Insanity - I only did the shorter, 45 minute workout
Thursday, 9/16 - 3 miles (again)
Saturday, 9/18 - 10 miles
That 10-miler on Saturday went well...I decided that I was going to push the pace a bit. In the heat, my pace sucks. Seriously. But, I usually finish my long runs feeling like I could have pushed a bit more. And, I end up pushing the pace a bit on the final mile or two. This week I pushed it and my pace was about 30 - 40 seconds faster per mile. I didn't have much left to pick up the pace at the end, but it felt great!
Now, I am only 2 weeks away from Ten for Texas and I am concerned that I might not PR. Last year, I maintained a consistent 10:30 pace for the entire race...totally unexpected and rather "fast" for me. This year, my pace has been faster with my shorter runs, but not so much with the longer runs.
The weather also plays a huge role in performance. Last year, we had a nice cool front come through just in time for the race - it was a nice 50-something degrees. I'll be hoping and praying that we're lucky enough for similar temps this year!
The week before my tri, I only ran...then, last week (the week after my tri) I did one day of Insanity (I caved) and ran.
Tuesday, 9/14 - 3 miles, indoor track - took it easy...
Wednesday, 9/15 - Insanity - I only did the shorter, 45 minute workout
Thursday, 9/16 - 3 miles (again)
Saturday, 9/18 - 10 miles
That 10-miler on Saturday went well...I decided that I was going to push the pace a bit. In the heat, my pace sucks. Seriously. But, I usually finish my long runs feeling like I could have pushed a bit more. And, I end up pushing the pace a bit on the final mile or two. This week I pushed it and my pace was about 30 - 40 seconds faster per mile. I didn't have much left to pick up the pace at the end, but it felt great!
Now, I am only 2 weeks away from Ten for Texas and I am concerned that I might not PR. Last year, I maintained a consistent 10:30 pace for the entire race...totally unexpected and rather "fast" for me. This year, my pace has been faster with my shorter runs, but not so much with the longer runs.
The weather also plays a huge role in performance. Last year, we had a nice cool front come through just in time for the race - it was a nice 50-something degrees. I'll be hoping and praying that we're lucky enough for similar temps this year!
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Needed: Direction and Purpose (a/k/a A PLAN)
It's that time of year - time for a shift in focus. I went straight from training for the 2009 Houston 1/2 and Zooma Austin to training for sprint distance triathlons to training for the 2010 Houston 1/2. (I swore I'd take a week long break in between each, but never did...I don't do well with breaks.) Now that Houston is almost here, it's time to shift the focus to triathlons again.
The problem?
Last year, I was just about covering the distance. I swam, I rode, I ran...but, I didn't really come up with a PLAN. I am a complete and total Type A personality, so how I just jumped in and "winged it" this year is beyond me. All I know is that I want to be stronger, faster and better in the upcoming season and for that, I need a PLAN. Guess I will start by checking out what beginnertriathlete.com has to offer and go from there. I know I really, really need to focus on my swimming again this year. I definitely improved last year, but I still pretty much suck....so, I imagine I will be spending lots of quality time in the pool. I'd love to join a training group, but with DH's work schedule and hobbies, it can be hard to work out with a group. But a group might help me get to that "next level". Plus, I have this thing about minimizing time away from the family....I did a lot of workouts during lunch or after the kids were in bed. Sucks, but it's worth it to have more family time (and to avoid the dreaded "mommy guilt").
That being said, does anyone know a woman who works full-time outside the home, has young children at home, and a hubby who doesn't do triathlons and has successfully trained for triathlons...maybe even a 70.3 or (gasp) an IM? If you do know this person, I'd love to meet her. I would love to pick her brain for tips on how she juggles it all!
The problem?
Last year, I was just about covering the distance. I swam, I rode, I ran...but, I didn't really come up with a PLAN. I am a complete and total Type A personality, so how I just jumped in and "winged it" this year is beyond me. All I know is that I want to be stronger, faster and better in the upcoming season and for that, I need a PLAN. Guess I will start by checking out what beginnertriathlete.com has to offer and go from there. I know I really, really need to focus on my swimming again this year. I definitely improved last year, but I still pretty much suck....so, I imagine I will be spending lots of quality time in the pool. I'd love to join a training group, but with DH's work schedule and hobbies, it can be hard to work out with a group. But a group might help me get to that "next level". Plus, I have this thing about minimizing time away from the family....I did a lot of workouts during lunch or after the kids were in bed. Sucks, but it's worth it to have more family time (and to avoid the dreaded "mommy guilt").
That being said, does anyone know a woman who works full-time outside the home, has young children at home, and a hubby who doesn't do triathlons and has successfully trained for triathlons...maybe even a 70.3 or (gasp) an IM? If you do know this person, I'd love to meet her. I would love to pick her brain for tips on how she juggles it all!
Tuesday, December 01, 2009
If it's not one thing....
It's another.
My training was going well for so long. No, it was going GREAT. Then, I get the sore throat, earache, fever thing. Next week is the holiday and well, life happens. I get in my 12 miler and the next day - a stomach bug! Doh!
This, coming from the girl who almost NEVER gets sick. Before kids I NEVER got sick...well, maybe once every 5 years I'd get a cold, but that was it. Since having kids (and before this year), I'd picked up a cold and a stomach bug from them. But this year...jeeze! Enough already! I'll admit, I was sore on Sunday from my 12-miler, but overall it wasn't too bad. But I also had this weird feeling in my stomach. Not exactly queasy, but just not quite right either. I had afternoon lunch plans with some of my girlfriends and by that time, I was feeling pretty good. I had a salad, some chicken with a pesto sauce and 2 Bellini's (dumb, especially when your stomach isn't feeling 100% right). On the way home, I had to stop at Target to pick up a few things and I noticed that my stomach was kind of growling and churning. By the time I made it home, the old tum tum was feeling icky. An hour later....well, I won't go there.
On Monday, the stomach still felt "off", but much better than Sunday night. I consumed a total of 725 calories throughout the day - trying toast, then a banana, finally a meal and later some almonds. I decided the scheduled 6-miler on the dreadmill was going to have to wait until the next day. I hadn't consumed enough calories to have a good run, plus I figured I better make sure the stomach was back to normal.
There's only 7 weeks left until the 1/2 marathon here in Houston...I'm keeping my fingers crossed that there are no more weird bugs, illnesses or injuries in my future!
My training was going well for so long. No, it was going GREAT. Then, I get the sore throat, earache, fever thing. Next week is the holiday and well, life happens. I get in my 12 miler and the next day - a stomach bug! Doh!
This, coming from the girl who almost NEVER gets sick. Before kids I NEVER got sick...well, maybe once every 5 years I'd get a cold, but that was it. Since having kids (and before this year), I'd picked up a cold and a stomach bug from them. But this year...jeeze! Enough already! I'll admit, I was sore on Sunday from my 12-miler, but overall it wasn't too bad. But I also had this weird feeling in my stomach. Not exactly queasy, but just not quite right either. I had afternoon lunch plans with some of my girlfriends and by that time, I was feeling pretty good. I had a salad, some chicken with a pesto sauce and 2 Bellini's (dumb, especially when your stomach isn't feeling 100% right). On the way home, I had to stop at Target to pick up a few things and I noticed that my stomach was kind of growling and churning. By the time I made it home, the old tum tum was feeling icky. An hour later....well, I won't go there.
On Monday, the stomach still felt "off", but much better than Sunday night. I consumed a total of 725 calories throughout the day - trying toast, then a banana, finally a meal and later some almonds. I decided the scheduled 6-miler on the dreadmill was going to have to wait until the next day. I hadn't consumed enough calories to have a good run, plus I figured I better make sure the stomach was back to normal.
There's only 7 weeks left until the 1/2 marathon here in Houston...I'm keeping my fingers crossed that there are no more weird bugs, illnesses or injuries in my future!
Saturday, November 07, 2009
Super Duper Sucky Run
It was bound to happen sooner or later. I've been having so many great runs lately, that a bad one was bound to sneak in there eventually.
Friday should have shaped up to be a great run...the skies were sunny, the temps were low (mid 50s) and the humidity was pretty low as well. I took the kiddos to school, got a few little things done around the house and was off. I'll admit, for some reason that 1st mile is always the toughest. I have to get the cobwebs out, get my rhythm - both pace and breathing - and get into the groove. In that 1st mile, I usually question my sanity and do the internal whining. Fortunately, after that 1st mile, I usually get those thought out of my head and really enjoy my run. Even in those final miles, I've been loving it!
However, Friday was different. I made it past the 1st mile, but never really found my groove. In fact, my legs felt like lead, my breathing was not right (I was out of breath) and I just did not feel like myself. Before I even hit mile 3, I was ready for a walk break. A long one. And I gave in and walked. I looked at my watch...my effort felt like a good 10:30 pace kind of effort. Maybe faster. But my pace was 10:50. I started running again and before I finished mile 4, I felt like I needed to walk again. And I did. It was a quick break, but within 5 minutes I was ready to walk again. And I did...for what felt like a looooonnnngggg time. Then I proceeded to run again and walk again. As I was approaching my section of the neighborhood again, where I would normally get some energy gels/chews and refill my bottle, I decided to call it a day. Rather than put myself through the misery of another 4 miles, I decided to stop. Besides, at the pace I was going, I wouldn't have time for another 4 miles! So, my ten miler ended up being 6.35. With all the walking, my pace was close to a 12/minute pace. Yeah, I am almost embarrassed to type that!
I don't know what happened but I figure it could be one of the following....
1) The lack of sleep for 4 days straight catching up to me - having a sick kiddo and hubby has been hard. I slept on the couch one night, with a 4 year old who was throwing up every hour the next night, then in the kiddos bed another night and then with the kiddo and hubby the next night (where I had a 4-year old's arms and legs all over me...we need a king-sized bed!).
2) The lack of good nutrition the day before - I worked from home on Thursday in order to stay with the kiddo who was not quite ready to return to school. I've been great about not touching the Halloween candy all week, but when I am home all day with the bowl just a few feet away, I tend to lose all will power. I SWEAR that candy was calling my name!!!
3) I was getting whatever crap the kiddo and hubby had earlier in the week. I was hoping that this was not the case.
4) It was just one of those running days. We all have them.
5) A combination of one or more of the above.
Regardless, I think I can honestly say this was the worst run I've ever had. Ever. Not even the gorgeousness of the sun shining through the trees or the 3 deer that crossed the road in front of me could inspire me to get my legs moving...they just wouldn't go. I swear my perceived effort was much, much greater than the actual effort! I am trying not to beat myself up about being such a wuss. We'll see how the coming week goes...hopefully, it will be MUCH better!
Friday should have shaped up to be a great run...the skies were sunny, the temps were low (mid 50s) and the humidity was pretty low as well. I took the kiddos to school, got a few little things done around the house and was off. I'll admit, for some reason that 1st mile is always the toughest. I have to get the cobwebs out, get my rhythm - both pace and breathing - and get into the groove. In that 1st mile, I usually question my sanity and do the internal whining. Fortunately, after that 1st mile, I usually get those thought out of my head and really enjoy my run. Even in those final miles, I've been loving it!
However, Friday was different. I made it past the 1st mile, but never really found my groove. In fact, my legs felt like lead, my breathing was not right (I was out of breath) and I just did not feel like myself. Before I even hit mile 3, I was ready for a walk break. A long one. And I gave in and walked. I looked at my watch...my effort felt like a good 10:30 pace kind of effort. Maybe faster. But my pace was 10:50. I started running again and before I finished mile 4, I felt like I needed to walk again. And I did. It was a quick break, but within 5 minutes I was ready to walk again. And I did...for what felt like a looooonnnngggg time. Then I proceeded to run again and walk again. As I was approaching my section of the neighborhood again, where I would normally get some energy gels/chews and refill my bottle, I decided to call it a day. Rather than put myself through the misery of another 4 miles, I decided to stop. Besides, at the pace I was going, I wouldn't have time for another 4 miles! So, my ten miler ended up being 6.35. With all the walking, my pace was close to a 12/minute pace. Yeah, I am almost embarrassed to type that!
I don't know what happened but I figure it could be one of the following....
1) The lack of sleep for 4 days straight catching up to me - having a sick kiddo and hubby has been hard. I slept on the couch one night, with a 4 year old who was throwing up every hour the next night, then in the kiddos bed another night and then with the kiddo and hubby the next night (where I had a 4-year old's arms and legs all over me...we need a king-sized bed!).
2) The lack of good nutrition the day before - I worked from home on Thursday in order to stay with the kiddo who was not quite ready to return to school. I've been great about not touching the Halloween candy all week, but when I am home all day with the bowl just a few feet away, I tend to lose all will power. I SWEAR that candy was calling my name!!!
3) I was getting whatever crap the kiddo and hubby had earlier in the week. I was hoping that this was not the case.
4) It was just one of those running days. We all have them.
5) A combination of one or more of the above.
Regardless, I think I can honestly say this was the worst run I've ever had. Ever. Not even the gorgeousness of the sun shining through the trees or the 3 deer that crossed the road in front of me could inspire me to get my legs moving...they just wouldn't go. I swear my perceived effort was much, much greater than the actual effort! I am trying not to beat myself up about being such a wuss. We'll see how the coming week goes...hopefully, it will be MUCH better!
Thursday, October 08, 2009
Slacker
I don't know what my problem is this week. I didn't work out last night. Instead, I caught up on Glee and tried to catch up on some So You Think You Can Dance.
This is so NOT like me.
I am not a couch potato. I am the opposite. I suck at being a couch potato! But, for some reason, I just haven't felt like working out this week. I've only done P90X once and I ran 5 miles on Tuesday. That's it. I'm not being too hard on myself this week about my slackerness. I know that I have days that I work out harder than the average Jane works out in an entire week. I know I will be back to my normal self soon. I think I've just been going and going so much lately, that I really need time for myself. Time to veg. I'm not good at it, but I am enjoying it.
Let's face it - getting up at 5 am everyday, getting yourself and kids ready each morning, getting them off to school followed by sitting in traffic for an hour, followed by a day of work with a lunchtime workout, then off to pick up kids after sitting in traffic for another hour, making everyone dinner, getting the kids bathed and in bed, getting everything ready for the next day (my clothes, kids clothes, lunches, etc), trying to keep the house clean and then working out in the evening usually starting around 8:45 pm - well, it does get kinda tiring. You know? Fortunately, DH does help with all the evening stuff when he's not at Hapkido...without him, I'd be an even bigger mess!
Not that I mean to complain. I love my hubby, kiddos and I love to be busy...I'd hate it if I were bored. :-) I guess I'm just sayin' is that sometimes we all need a little break. I'm taking mine now. It wasn't planned, but I am enjoying it while it lasts.
Sunday, October 04, 2009
A Quick PSA
If you own this veggie slicer from Pampered Chef....
photo from Pampered Chef website
Please, please, please watch your fingers! Better yet, do not operate this thing without the handy, dandy veggie holder (which also protects your fingers). I know the veggie holder is a pain in the ass sometimes - and I do have an older version of this thing, so maybe it's better now - but use it anyway!
We had invited friends over on Saturday night for burgers and beer, so I was using my slicer to slice tomatoes and onions. I had a huge tomato, so I didn't think I needed the holder just yet. As I was slicing away, I managed to slice of a huge chunk of skin (and nail too) from my right pinky finger. I know, I know - disgusting! But, just let that be a warning! I am now sporting a not-so-fashionable white bandage on my finger and I'm not sure if my nail and finger will ever look "normal" again. Sigh. Thank God my hubby was home to help me bandage the finger up!
Oh well, at least I know the blade is still sharp after having this contraption for about 10 years now! :0) I think it might be awhile before I am ready to use it again.
photo from Pampered Chef website
Please, please, please watch your fingers! Better yet, do not operate this thing without the handy, dandy veggie holder (which also protects your fingers). I know the veggie holder is a pain in the ass sometimes - and I do have an older version of this thing, so maybe it's better now - but use it anyway!
We had invited friends over on Saturday night for burgers and beer, so I was using my slicer to slice tomatoes and onions. I had a huge tomato, so I didn't think I needed the holder just yet. As I was slicing away, I managed to slice of a huge chunk of skin (and nail too) from my right pinky finger. I know, I know - disgusting! But, just let that be a warning! I am now sporting a not-so-fashionable white bandage on my finger and I'm not sure if my nail and finger will ever look "normal" again. Sigh. Thank God my hubby was home to help me bandage the finger up!
Oh well, at least I know the blade is still sharp after having this contraption for about 10 years now! :0) I think it might be awhile before I am ready to use it again.
Wednesday, August 12, 2009
The countdown is on!
Holy crap, my next tri is just a few days away!
I haven't practiced transitions - and I still need some work on these!
I am still pushing off the pool wall - there are no walls in the open water!
I never bought a new tri top - 'cause I am sick of wearing the same one over and over!
Aaaauuuggghhh!
Okay, I'm calm now.
Actually, I am feeling pretty good about the upcoming tri. I've gotten in a couple of OWS practices (although I'd still like more), my running is getting stronger and my biking is not so bad either. Unless the conditions are just crazy awful, I think I will do just fine!
My goal for the swim is to just finish. Well, okay...my goal is to actually freestyle a majority of the swim and maybe finish in the same time I finished Memorial Hermann. I don't know if that's realistic since Memorial Hermann was a pool swim. But it was a sucky, slow pool swim even for me! And, let's face it, my freestyle is coming along but my sidestroke is still faster. (Weird, I know!) I've upped my swim schedule from 2 days each week to 3, which I really think has helped.
My goal for the bike...to be faster than Memorial Hermann (18.7 mph). TriGirl has a nice flat course, so I am hoping that I can maintain a decent pace. My only concern is that there are several turns...Memorial Hermann had very few turns. However, when I did TriGirl in May, I was still pretty slow on the turns on my bike. I've been practicing turns, so that I don't have to slow down to 12 mph every time. :-) And, I've continued to hit the lunchtime spin class when the work schedule allows, so that has helped with my endurance.
My goal for the run is to maintain a 10:15 pace, which is fast for me. I *think* I can do this. At TriGirl in May, I maintained a 9:50 pace. However, that run was only 2 miles. I think I am pretty consistent an maintaining that pace over 2 miles. Memorial Hermann had a 3 mile run and I maintained a 10:37 pace. Something about that additional mile after swimming and biking makes me doubt my ability to run faster than a 10 minute pace. (God, can you imagine me in a 1/2 IM or an Oly? All kinds of freaking out would be going on!). But as a side note, I seriously think that if I had worn my Garmin at Memorial Hermann and known my pace, I would have pushed myself to go a faster.
So there you have it...now bring it!
I haven't practiced transitions - and I still need some work on these!
I am still pushing off the pool wall - there are no walls in the open water!
I never bought a new tri top - 'cause I am sick of wearing the same one over and over!
Aaaauuuggghhh!
Okay, I'm calm now.
Actually, I am feeling pretty good about the upcoming tri. I've gotten in a couple of OWS practices (although I'd still like more), my running is getting stronger and my biking is not so bad either. Unless the conditions are just crazy awful, I think I will do just fine!
My goal for the swim is to just finish. Well, okay...my goal is to actually freestyle a majority of the swim and maybe finish in the same time I finished Memorial Hermann. I don't know if that's realistic since Memorial Hermann was a pool swim. But it was a sucky, slow pool swim even for me! And, let's face it, my freestyle is coming along but my sidestroke is still faster. (Weird, I know!) I've upped my swim schedule from 2 days each week to 3, which I really think has helped.
My goal for the bike...to be faster than Memorial Hermann (18.7 mph). TriGirl has a nice flat course, so I am hoping that I can maintain a decent pace. My only concern is that there are several turns...Memorial Hermann had very few turns. However, when I did TriGirl in May, I was still pretty slow on the turns on my bike. I've been practicing turns, so that I don't have to slow down to 12 mph every time. :-) And, I've continued to hit the lunchtime spin class when the work schedule allows, so that has helped with my endurance.
My goal for the run is to maintain a 10:15 pace, which is fast for me. I *think* I can do this. At TriGirl in May, I maintained a 9:50 pace. However, that run was only 2 miles. I think I am pretty consistent an maintaining that pace over 2 miles. Memorial Hermann had a 3 mile run and I maintained a 10:37 pace. Something about that additional mile after swimming and biking makes me doubt my ability to run faster than a 10 minute pace. (God, can you imagine me in a 1/2 IM or an Oly? All kinds of freaking out would be going on!). But as a side note, I seriously think that if I had worn my Garmin at Memorial Hermann and known my pace, I would have pushed myself to go a faster.
So there you have it...now bring it!
Monday, August 10, 2009
A Wiggly Day
Warning: this isn't a running related post...just thought I'd get that out there before you read it. :-) If you don't have kids, you may not wanna read this. Trust me on this.
Ahhh rest day - gotta love it! The hubby had to work, so I took the kiddos to church and then went searching for a sleeping bag for the kiddo to use at tomorrow's indoor camp out at school. Academy had 3 girly sleeping bags - a plain pink one with teddy bears on it, Dora the Explorer and Hanna Montana. On the academy website, they also had a Disney Princess sleeping bag, but that one was not in the store. Can you guess which one she picked??? Yep, Hanna Montana! I guess my girl is getting to the age where she's too old for Dora...yet, in my opinion, is still a little young to get the whole Hanna Montana thing. At least Hanna Montana might last her a few years. You know, before she thinks HM is lame and moves on to something else. Like punk rock.
Once the hubby made it home from work, we hopped in the car and headed downtown for The Wiggles concert. Yeah, you read that right - THE WIGGLES. We took the kiddo to see them 2 years ago. She was at a good age to see them, but still too young to realize that those were REALLY The Wiggles. This year, she's on the cusp of considering herself too old for The Wiggles, so we thought why not take her one more time? Kids grow up way too fast and next summer, she'll probably be begging us to take her to see Miley Cyrus, Madonna, Coldplay or something. We had great seats, but there would be no mosh pit here...lol, ever try to crowd surf on toddlers? Not easy.
Here's the kiddo with her Wiggly souvenier...
Ahhh rest day - gotta love it! The hubby had to work, so I took the kiddos to church and then went searching for a sleeping bag for the kiddo to use at tomorrow's indoor camp out at school. Academy had 3 girly sleeping bags - a plain pink one with teddy bears on it, Dora the Explorer and Hanna Montana. On the academy website, they also had a Disney Princess sleeping bag, but that one was not in the store. Can you guess which one she picked??? Yep, Hanna Montana! I guess my girl is getting to the age where she's too old for Dora...yet, in my opinion, is still a little young to get the whole Hanna Montana thing. At least Hanna Montana might last her a few years. You know, before she thinks HM is lame and moves on to something else. Like punk rock.
Once the hubby made it home from work, we hopped in the car and headed downtown for The Wiggles concert. Yeah, you read that right - THE WIGGLES. We took the kiddo to see them 2 years ago. She was at a good age to see them, but still too young to realize that those were REALLY The Wiggles. This year, she's on the cusp of considering herself too old for The Wiggles, so we thought why not take her one more time? Kids grow up way too fast and next summer, she'll probably be begging us to take her to see Miley Cyrus, Madonna, Coldplay or something. We had great seats, but there would be no mosh pit here...lol, ever try to crowd surf on toddlers? Not easy.
Here's the kiddo with her Wiggly souvenier...
yes, she has a talent for picking out the most expensive one at every event we've ever been to.
This show was no exception.
Here she is with her sign. The Wiggles make a point of reading each and every sign in the audience!
Here she is with her sign. The Wiggles make a point of reading each and every sign in the audience!
Can you tell we've been to see The Wiggles before? We were prepared, lol!
The baby stayed with my parents, but in retrospect I think he would have loved all the lights, music and dancing. I have to admit, when the show started I realized that I was actually excited. The first Wiggle walked out - the purple one, also known as Jeff and the kiddo looked at me with an "OMG THAT'S A WIGGLE! A REAL WIGGLE" look on her face and I looked at her (probably with the same expression) and said "IT'S JEFF!" They came out together in the "Big Red Car" and the crowd went crazy. I'm not just talkin' the kids here people...the grown-ups went apeshit too.
The madness begins...The Wiggles in their "Big Red Car"
More singing, dancing and good times!
At one point, two of The Wiggles - Sam, the yellow Wiggle and Murray, the red Wiggle - came out into the audience. Parents were scurrying around getting their cameras ready (including us). Fortunately, we were sitting on a wide row and both of the guys walked right past us and the kiddo got to give each one a high-five. She was ecstatic! In the row in front of us, one kid was so excited that he kept jumping up and down when Sam stopped to tell him hello. Sam put his hand up in the universal "gimme a high five" sign, but the kid kept jumping up and down. Finally, the kid realized what Sam was doing and he stopped just long enough to give him the high five before continuing to jump up and down. Hilarious!
My camera has that annoying delay...Here's the kiddo with Sam, the yellow Wiggle.
The baby stayed with my parents, but in retrospect I think he would have loved all the lights, music and dancing. I have to admit, when the show started I realized that I was actually excited. The first Wiggle walked out - the purple one, also known as Jeff and the kiddo looked at me with an "OMG THAT'S A WIGGLE! A REAL WIGGLE" look on her face and I looked at her (probably with the same expression) and said "IT'S JEFF!" They came out together in the "Big Red Car" and the crowd went crazy. I'm not just talkin' the kids here people...the grown-ups went apeshit too.
The madness begins...The Wiggles in their "Big Red Car"
More singing, dancing and good times!
At one point, two of The Wiggles - Sam, the yellow Wiggle and Murray, the red Wiggle - came out into the audience. Parents were scurrying around getting their cameras ready (including us). Fortunately, we were sitting on a wide row and both of the guys walked right past us and the kiddo got to give each one a high-five. She was ecstatic! In the row in front of us, one kid was so excited that he kept jumping up and down when Sam stopped to tell him hello. Sam put his hand up in the universal "gimme a high five" sign, but the kid kept jumping up and down. Finally, the kid realized what Sam was doing and he stopped just long enough to give him the high five before continuing to jump up and down. Hilarious!
My camera has that annoying delay...Here's the kiddo with Sam, the yellow Wiggle.
He was bending down more, but my camera missed the moment.
Damn camera!!! I clicked right when the kiddo was giving Murray a high five (you guessed it, he's the red Wiggle),
Damn camera!!! I clicked right when the kiddo was giving Murray a high five (you guessed it, he's the red Wiggle),
but with the camera delay I missed the moment.
Grrrr...but, you can tell from the look on the kiddo's face that she is super happy!
I have to admit, I am envious of The Wiggles...not because they get to live out their dream of being musicians and perform on stage night after night with their entourage of dancers, making kids all over the world happy. No, that wouldn't be why. It's because these dudes (four of them) are freaking GENIUSES! They were all musicians, some were trying to start a college rock band. The children's music they created was originally just a project for their college early childhood education program. When they came to the realization that they were getting nowhere with the rock band, they went with the whole Wiggles thing. In fact, there's even a rumored "fifth Wiggle" much like the Beatles had a "fifth Beatle".
Now, they have a long-running television show, close to 30 dvds, multiple platinum cds, Taiwanese and Latin American versions of their show, and now there are "Wiggles World" areas in theme parks all over the country (including Fiesta Texas in San Antonio) and "Wiggles World" is even branching out to theme parks in Dubai. They had to replace the original Yellow Wiggle a few years ago, but are still going strong. And don't even get me started on all the products - dolls, lunch kits, backpacks, t-shirts, books - you name it. They have employees in both Australia and Dallas, and they even have their own recording studio. Geniuses, I tell ya!
Yeah, sign me up to be a Wiggle.
I have to admit, I am envious of The Wiggles...not because they get to live out their dream of being musicians and perform on stage night after night with their entourage of dancers, making kids all over the world happy. No, that wouldn't be why. It's because these dudes (four of them) are freaking GENIUSES! They were all musicians, some were trying to start a college rock band. The children's music they created was originally just a project for their college early childhood education program. When they came to the realization that they were getting nowhere with the rock band, they went with the whole Wiggles thing. In fact, there's even a rumored "fifth Wiggle" much like the Beatles had a "fifth Beatle".
Now, they have a long-running television show, close to 30 dvds, multiple platinum cds, Taiwanese and Latin American versions of their show, and now there are "Wiggles World" areas in theme parks all over the country (including Fiesta Texas in San Antonio) and "Wiggles World" is even branching out to theme parks in Dubai. They had to replace the original Yellow Wiggle a few years ago, but are still going strong. And don't even get me started on all the products - dolls, lunch kits, backpacks, t-shirts, books - you name it. They have employees in both Australia and Dallas, and they even have their own recording studio. Geniuses, I tell ya!
Yeah, sign me up to be a Wiggle.
Thursday, July 09, 2009
Running Solo (a rambling post)
Here in Houston it's time for all the marathon training groups to begin!
The fall marathon groups began a few weeks ago, but the Houston Marathon is a mere 27 weeks away and it's time to get the training going! With the exception of training for my 1st 1/2 marathon in 2001, I've always trained with a group. First, it was Houston Fit in 2002, 2003, 2005 & 2006. Next, it was Woodlands Fit in 2008. I skipped 2004 and 2007 due to a little thing called pregnancy - yeah growing a baby in the belly doesn't go well with running 12, 15, 18 or 21 miles - unless you're Paula Radcliffe.
Quite frankly, I think training alone sucks. Although I was a member of Houston Fit in 2006, I had just begun a Saturday MBA program and was forced to do a few of the really long runs alone. Like I said, it sucked!
This year, the hubby's schedule is all goofy and not really conducive to running with any of the local programs. No weekends off, plus he leaves at the ass-crack of dawn to get to work (out the door by 5 am) - that means no early morning Saturday runs with the peeps. (Unless I want to recruit my parents to be babysitters - I'd rather save that for the occasional "date nights"!) And, because I am training for tri's all the way to August (or possibly even October), I use Tuesday evenings as my swim day - that means no track workouts with the peeps. Trust me, I'm a slow runner and need the track workouts, but my swimming sucks even more than my running!
So while my running peeps are training with Strides this year (they opted not to return to Woodlands Fit for various reasons), I will be running solo. My usual Saturday morning runs will be done on Friday nights...at least for as long as I can stand this frickin' heat. I am guessing that one of two things will happen
The fall marathon groups began a few weeks ago, but the Houston Marathon is a mere 27 weeks away and it's time to get the training going! With the exception of training for my 1st 1/2 marathon in 2001, I've always trained with a group. First, it was Houston Fit in 2002, 2003, 2005 & 2006. Next, it was Woodlands Fit in 2008. I skipped 2004 and 2007 due to a little thing called pregnancy - yeah growing a baby in the belly doesn't go well with running 12, 15, 18 or 21 miles - unless you're Paula Radcliffe.
Quite frankly, I think training alone sucks. Although I was a member of Houston Fit in 2006, I had just begun a Saturday MBA program and was forced to do a few of the really long runs alone. Like I said, it sucked!
This year, the hubby's schedule is all goofy and not really conducive to running with any of the local programs. No weekends off, plus he leaves at the ass-crack of dawn to get to work (out the door by 5 am) - that means no early morning Saturday runs with the peeps. (Unless I want to recruit my parents to be babysitters - I'd rather save that for the occasional "date nights"!) And, because I am training for tri's all the way to August (or possibly even October), I use Tuesday evenings as my swim day - that means no track workouts with the peeps. Trust me, I'm a slow runner and need the track workouts, but my swimming sucks even more than my running!
So while my running peeps are training with Strides this year (they opted not to return to Woodlands Fit for various reasons), I will be running solo. My usual Saturday morning runs will be done on Friday nights...at least for as long as I can stand this frickin' heat. I am guessing that one of two things will happen
- I will become less of the social runner, forcing myself to focus more on my times and get faster, or
- I will lose some of the motivation I usually get from my running peeps, be a wuss, take more walk breaks, etc.
The goal is to go with #1, although I am sure there will be the occasional days when #2 will win. Those days better be few and far between!
I've also made another decision. I'm doing the 1/2 marathon again this year. Maybe San Antonio and then Houston. There's a part of me that wants to train for a full again, but I decided against it for 3 reasons:- Call me a pansy, but I don't wanna train for a full solo. Hours at a time on the road with out the running peeps is just not fun to me.
- I have small kiddos who are very, very active and want my full attention. Let's face it, after some of those long runs I am toast! Weekends and evenings are the only precious moments I get to spend with my kiddos and I wanna make the most of that! Maybe when they don't want me around (like in their teens), I will get back into the higher mileage.
- I am enjoying the triathlons too much. Originally, I was going to make TriGirl in August my last tri for the year and then start increasing my running mileage. But now I am leaning towards doing a Tri as late as October and probably won't be increasing the mileage a ton between now and then.
So there you have it...my decisions for the training season. Hope you have a great one!
Thursday, July 02, 2009
The Bug
For the 2nd time in 3 months, the hubby came home from work early with some sort of weird stomach bug. Yeah, complete with a high fever and chills!
And for the 2nd time in 3 months, I managed to catch it (although both times it's been a much weaker version of his - thank God!).
Soooo...after taking the kiddo to gymnastics, I decided to take it easy and hope that I'm all better after a good night's sleep. I better be okay by Friday! I have the day off and I'm looking forward to a nice, long bike ride!!! Now let's just hope that the kids don't get it!!!
And for the 2nd time in 3 months, I managed to catch it (although both times it's been a much weaker version of his - thank God!).
Soooo...after taking the kiddo to gymnastics, I decided to take it easy and hope that I'm all better after a good night's sleep. I better be okay by Friday! I have the day off and I'm looking forward to a nice, long bike ride!!! Now let's just hope that the kids don't get it!!!
Thursday, June 18, 2009
That kinda week...
I dunno what the frick my problem is, but my mojo is missing this week.
If you find it will you return it to it's owner please?
Monday I rested. I probably didn't need to, because my 5-miler on Sunday was so full of slackage that I didn't really need a rest. The parking lot at the Y near my work has been such a fiasco due to the construction going on, I opted to eat lunch at my desk rather than go run on the dreadmill....well that, and I gotta work a little extra to get outta here early on Friday for the kiddo's 1st real dance recital. :-)
Tuesday, I did spin class and as always it kicked my arse. But, I opted to skip my evening swim in order to have tex-mex and 'ritas with the neighborhood mom's group. Muy bueno!
Yesterday, I had a working lunch. No biggie, it's all good. But, I have sooooo gotten out of the habit of getting in a late night (read: after the kids are in bed) treadmill run, that I just couldn't bring myself to do it. The munchkin was asleep my 7:15. Next, the kiddo was in bed and I was in my workout clothes by 8:30 pm.
No problem, I could get in 3-miles and still have some "me" time before bed.
But, I wanted to make sure she was asleep first. You see, she's a sneaky one. She wants to get up multiple times and come see what you're doing if she knows you're awake. On Monday, I was watching TV upstairs and she must have come in the room 10 times. I don't think she was asleep until almost 10 pm, which might be why she had a mini-meltdown when I took her to school the next morning.
So anyway, today I will have to pay the price of being lazy and do a brick! Sort of...I am going to run my 3-mile loop around the 'hood despite this frickin' heat and hope that all the kids are out of the pool by the time I'm done, so I can get in a good swim.
Workout Stats
Spin class, 1 hour
If you find it will you return it to it's owner please?
Monday I rested. I probably didn't need to, because my 5-miler on Sunday was so full of slackage that I didn't really need a rest. The parking lot at the Y near my work has been such a fiasco due to the construction going on, I opted to eat lunch at my desk rather than go run on the dreadmill....well that, and I gotta work a little extra to get outta here early on Friday for the kiddo's 1st real dance recital. :-)
Tuesday, I did spin class and as always it kicked my arse. But, I opted to skip my evening swim in order to have tex-mex and 'ritas with the neighborhood mom's group. Muy bueno!
Yesterday, I had a working lunch. No biggie, it's all good. But, I have sooooo gotten out of the habit of getting in a late night (read: after the kids are in bed) treadmill run, that I just couldn't bring myself to do it. The munchkin was asleep my 7:15. Next, the kiddo was in bed and I was in my workout clothes by 8:30 pm.
No problem, I could get in 3-miles and still have some "me" time before bed.
But, I wanted to make sure she was asleep first. You see, she's a sneaky one. She wants to get up multiple times and come see what you're doing if she knows you're awake. On Monday, I was watching TV upstairs and she must have come in the room 10 times. I don't think she was asleep until almost 10 pm, which might be why she had a mini-meltdown when I took her to school the next morning.
So anyway, today I will have to pay the price of being lazy and do a brick! Sort of...I am going to run my 3-mile loop around the 'hood despite this frickin' heat and hope that all the kids are out of the pool by the time I'm done, so I can get in a good swim.
Workout Stats
Spin class, 1 hour
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