Having a broken toe sucks.
It's been a little over 2 weeks and I am still wearing sandals to work. It's making my workouts a bit of a challenge - I can't do Insanity, can't run and until recently, I couldn't bike either.
The 1st week after the broken toe debacle, I did P90X 2x and swam 2x...not too terribly shabby. Last week, I did Ab Ripper X twice (which is only 16 minutes), swam 2x and rode the bike trainer 1x. On Sunday morning, I decided to get brave and try to ride my bike out on the road. I knew from my time on the bike trainer earlier in the week that it would hurt to clip out (or unclip...whatever) with the right foot. That kinda stinks, since that is the foot I am used to using the most. But, I decided to ride anyway. Luckily, the ride went pretty well! My running/tri buddy, Jen, and I rode 22 miles and while the toe did hurt the entire time, it wasn't excruciating-gotta-stop-now pain. It was bearable. The most painful part was clipping out and starting up after stopping. I could definitely tell that I had not been on my bike in 3 weeks...my legs wouldn't move as fast as I would have liked.
I did attempt to go out and run a quickie 2-miler yesterday, but that didn't work out so well. The broken toe is not quite ready for that yet. I ended up walking/jogging 1.5 miles and that was about all I could handle. Yes, I should have stuck to swimming!
So, the family's annual "Race for the Pennant" was out this year. I offered to watch the kids so the hubby could run it, but he wasn't interested. And, the Tejas Tri on Sunday is out, too. I hope everything will be healed in time to train for the Shadow Creek Ranch tri in July....we'll see!
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
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, May 06, 2011
Saturday, April 23, 2011
I'm Baaaaaaccccccckkkkkk!
- Do NOT let your 2 year old and 6 year old sit next to each other on an airplane. Chaos will ensue and it's not pretty.
- Walt Disney was a true visionary. He had amazing foresight. AMAZING.
- Never, ever take an almost 3-year old to Disney. NEVER. Disney can be overwhelming for an adult, so can you imagine how a 2-year old might feel? Can we say meltdown? How about meltdown 2-3x daily? NEVER DO IT. NEVER. In fact, don't take the kids at all.
- Disney is a total and complete racket. They are a marketing machine. From the freaking princesses to the collectible pins, it is a total and complete racket. I love it! From a business perspective, they are geniuses.
- You will not find Giselle from Enchanted at Disney. She was there once, but will more than likely never be there again. Bummer, because I loved Enchanted.
- The buses that run from the resorts to the parks run every 20 minutes. Do not expect them to arrive any faster.
- Remember the 2 year old meltdowns? They are not fun when riding on a bus.
- It is actually cheaper to buy strollers than rent them. We are now proud owners of 2 new, but definitely well used umbrella strollers.
- It is HOT in Florida in April. I don't know what I was thinking, but standing in line in the sun when it's almost 90 degrees didn't sound so bad when I planned the trip.
- The week of Easter is busy at Disney. But it doesn't get really busy until Wednesday/Thursday.
- Do not get sucked into the collectible pin racket. It is addictive. We are now proud owners of over 20 pins between the two kids.
- You will wait for 2 hours to see fireworks shows if you want a good seat.
- There really is a Pizza Planet and your 2-year old will want to eat there. Too bad he fell asleep in his stroller right before we arrived.
- You will pay $15 for a spinning light up toy to preoccupy your kids while waiting for 2 hours to see the fireworks shows. Hell, you might even be willing to spend $100 on these toys to preoccupy your kids...anything to preoccupy the kids!
- You will spend more time waiting in lines than riding actual rides. For our kids, most of that time was spent waiting in line to meet characters. Don't even ask me how long we waited to meet Rapunzel from Tangled. I will never admit how long we waited. NEVER.
- You cannot be on the Disney Meal Plan during vacation and NOT gain weight. Seriously, you get an entree, drink and dessert with each meal...technically, it is already paid for so you should eat that dessert, right?
- You can bring snacks and water into the parks if you are discreet about it. Thank God, because having fruit snacks on hand helped stop the meltdowns before they got really bad!
- At some point, your kids will decide they are just as happy at the hotel pool as they are at the theme parks...gee, we could have saved a ton of money if we had known that sooner.
- Your kids will decide that they want the most expensive and largest toy from the hotel gift shop as a souvenir - thank you to Grandma and Grandpa for giving them the spending money. :-) The kiddo's souvenir was so large, we had to ship it home!
- Your kids will hug you often and tell you how awesome you are for taking them to Disney. And that alone is well worth the cost, the lines and the heat!
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Sprinklers!
The weather has been awesome here...at least for the 1st 1/2 of the week. That's the way it works in TX.
Tuesday, 4/12 - Insanity and Bike
Tuesday morning, the weather rocked! In the 50s in the morning with almost no humidity. For whatever reason, I did Insanity indoors. As soon as I went outside, I was wishing that I had opted for a run instead. In the afternoon the temps reached the low 80's, but the humidity was low. Lately, Tuesday has been my spin class day, but there would be none of that today - I had jury duty instead. I did get to take the bike outside for a spin though. We had some errands to run, so I didn't have much daylight...30 minutes on the bike @ 17 mph pace. Better than nothing!
Wednesday, 4/13 - Run, 3 miles 10:12 pace
This time, I was going to enjoy the weather. I figured I could do Insanity in my living room any day! It was awesome - around 58 and low humidity. I got in 3 miles and wished I had time for more! This was just a "get out there and enjoy the weather" kinda run....no pace goals, just do what feels comfy.
Thursday, 4/14 - Run, 4 miles, 10:21 pace
Okay, so obviously I am not making attempts at getting in my true tri training this week. Between jury duty, coming home and catching up on work e-mails and getting ready for our vacay, there just hasn't been time. But, I did want to get in one more run before we head to Florida. The weather was back to typical Houston weather - 70 degrees and humid. Ick! The goal was to just run at an easy pace. I was thinking of keeping the run around a 10:30 pace, but everytime I looked down I was a little faster than that. I had the perfect opportunity to re-live my childhood during this run - right as I was about to pass a house, the sprinklers came on. It was perfect timing, because I hopped up on the sidewalk and ran right through them. It felt great! When I got back to my house, I was sweating like crazy for some reason...even after my shower. It made putting on make-up a little bit of a challenge, lol!
The rest of my Thursday was spent getting the luggage all packed for our trip! Fun, fun! The kids are going to be so surprised - I can't wait!
Tuesday, 4/12 - Insanity and Bike
Tuesday morning, the weather rocked! In the 50s in the morning with almost no humidity. For whatever reason, I did Insanity indoors. As soon as I went outside, I was wishing that I had opted for a run instead. In the afternoon the temps reached the low 80's, but the humidity was low. Lately, Tuesday has been my spin class day, but there would be none of that today - I had jury duty instead. I did get to take the bike outside for a spin though. We had some errands to run, so I didn't have much daylight...30 minutes on the bike @ 17 mph pace. Better than nothing!
Wednesday, 4/13 - Run, 3 miles 10:12 pace
This time, I was going to enjoy the weather. I figured I could do Insanity in my living room any day! It was awesome - around 58 and low humidity. I got in 3 miles and wished I had time for more! This was just a "get out there and enjoy the weather" kinda run....no pace goals, just do what feels comfy.
Thursday, 4/14 - Run, 4 miles, 10:21 pace
Okay, so obviously I am not making attempts at getting in my true tri training this week. Between jury duty, coming home and catching up on work e-mails and getting ready for our vacay, there just hasn't been time. But, I did want to get in one more run before we head to Florida. The weather was back to typical Houston weather - 70 degrees and humid. Ick! The goal was to just run at an easy pace. I was thinking of keeping the run around a 10:30 pace, but everytime I looked down I was a little faster than that. I had the perfect opportunity to re-live my childhood during this run - right as I was about to pass a house, the sprinklers came on. It was perfect timing, because I hopped up on the sidewalk and ran right through them. It felt great! When I got back to my house, I was sweating like crazy for some reason...even after my shower. It made putting on make-up a little bit of a challenge, lol!
The rest of my Thursday was spent getting the luggage all packed for our trip! Fun, fun! The kids are going to be so surprised - I can't wait!
Monday, April 11, 2011
Workouts...
And now for the boring stuff...
Saturday, 4/9 - Long run, 9 miles
It was warm, it was humid. At least there was a breeze. The goal was to run 10 miles, but my car is in the shop and we had to pick up a rental before heading to the Kiddo's soccer game. We were told that the rental car place opened at 8 am, so I cut my run short...turns out they open at 9 am. Guess I could have run that extra mile. Grrrr... My pace was a less than spectacular 10:43. I think I can do better...heat and all.
After soccer, the Kiddo told me that she didn't want to play soccer anymore. Guess that all works out, since it was her last game of the Spring season. I just wish she would have told me that before I bought her a brand new pair of soccer shoes. Oh well! So in 3 weeks, both the Kiddo and Munchkin will start swim lessons again. Then, we had to head to a wedding shower, the grocery store and a few other errands. Before I knew it, it was 8 pm!
Sunday, 4/10 - Rest day
Okay, I skipped the bike ride this week for a very good reason. I went to Galveston to cheer on my tri friend, Kelly, and a few other folks at the Texas 70.3. It was a great day! I am super sunburned, and I have no voice after all that yelling and cheering, but it was worth it. I will post pics later.
Monday, 4/11 - Insanity
Is it sad that I've already forgotten the name of this workout? It was the one I despise the most - with the push-ups, running in plank position, ski abs and in and outs in plank....ugh, misery! But I love it! :-)
It's been an interesting day, to say the least. My car has been in the shop since Friday. Turns out the dealership who repaired my car 4 years ago after an accident did really crappy work...we've already had to have one repair redone and now we're paying about $1,000 to replace another part that was not repaired properly. That doesn't include the original repairs we took the car in for - new breaks and belts. Yeah, not exactly what we need right before leaving for vacation.
On top of the car repairs, I was selected for jury duty! Oh well, on Friday we will be in Florida and making great memories with the kids...can't wait!
Saturday, 4/9 - Long run, 9 miles
It was warm, it was humid. At least there was a breeze. The goal was to run 10 miles, but my car is in the shop and we had to pick up a rental before heading to the Kiddo's soccer game. We were told that the rental car place opened at 8 am, so I cut my run short...turns out they open at 9 am. Guess I could have run that extra mile. Grrrr... My pace was a less than spectacular 10:43. I think I can do better...heat and all.
After soccer, the Kiddo told me that she didn't want to play soccer anymore. Guess that all works out, since it was her last game of the Spring season. I just wish she would have told me that before I bought her a brand new pair of soccer shoes. Oh well! So in 3 weeks, both the Kiddo and Munchkin will start swim lessons again. Then, we had to head to a wedding shower, the grocery store and a few other errands. Before I knew it, it was 8 pm!
Sunday, 4/10 - Rest day
Okay, I skipped the bike ride this week for a very good reason. I went to Galveston to cheer on my tri friend, Kelly, and a few other folks at the Texas 70.3. It was a great day! I am super sunburned, and I have no voice after all that yelling and cheering, but it was worth it. I will post pics later.
Monday, 4/11 - Insanity
Is it sad that I've already forgotten the name of this workout? It was the one I despise the most - with the push-ups, running in plank position, ski abs and in and outs in plank....ugh, misery! But I love it! :-)
It's been an interesting day, to say the least. My car has been in the shop since Friday. Turns out the dealership who repaired my car 4 years ago after an accident did really crappy work...we've already had to have one repair redone and now we're paying about $1,000 to replace another part that was not repaired properly. That doesn't include the original repairs we took the car in for - new breaks and belts. Yeah, not exactly what we need right before leaving for vacation.
On top of the car repairs, I was selected for jury duty! Oh well, on Friday we will be in Florida and making great memories with the kids...can't wait!
SURPRISE!
I like (most) surprises. Most as in - surprise flowers - yes, surprise visit from the inlaws - no, surprise cupcakes - yes, surprise car repairs - no. Friday, I received a pretty good suprise.
I don't think I've officially announced this, but I am running the NYC Marathon in November. Last year, I decided to enter the lotto for the race and in June. Much to my surprise, I was selected! However, after being laid off for 2 1/2 months and just starting a new job, I didn't feel like I was in the best position to 1) spend lots of time training, 2) ask for days off from work and 3) spend a lot on money on a trip. So I deferred. This year, I WILL be running! Back when I ran this race in 2003, I had the most awesome time and I promised myself I would be running again to celebrate my 40th birthday...that birthday will be in January (yikes!).
Last week, I went out to the NYC Marathon website to check out some information and noticed that the 2010 shirts and gear were still posted. Nothing was out there for 2011. So...imagine my surprise when I received this in the mail:
At first, I thought the Hubby had ordered it as a surprise (I did the same thing for him with an Austin shirt). But no, he admitted that he hadn't even given the race much thought with our Disney vacation just a week away. So, I don't know if everyone who is already in received one...or if I have a little marathon gift elf out there or what. I mean, the lotto for NYC hasn't even taken place yet. So to the NYC Marathon (or my marathon gift elf) I send a big THANK YOU! I love it!!!!!!
Now to start planning the trip!!!
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!
Wednesday, April 06, 2011
Wine and Snooze
Monday, 4/4 - Rest Day
As much as I love my weekend workouts, sometimes they tire me the heck out. I was feeling that weary feeling on Monday and decided it was time for a rest.
Tuesday, 4/5 - Insanity, Spin and
I woke up at the insanely early 4:30 am and made it through an insanely tough Inasanity workout - Cardio Power and Resistance. At lunch I headed over to the gym at work for spin class. This time, the instructor had some great music! Lots of upbeat re-mixes that helped me survive the climbs, rolling hills, jumps and running. Tuesday nights are normally my swim nights, but I had dinner with a good friend and former co-worker instead....it was a lot of fun catching up! And yes, there was wine and dessert, too!
Wednesday, 4/6 - Run, 3 miles, 9:38 pace
A big thank you goes out to Mother Nature this week! She blessed us with much cooler temperatures this week and it is GREATLY appreciated. On Monday morning, it was 76 degrees and very humid. Yesterday morning, we had a cool 43 degrees and this morning it was in the 50s - LOVE IT! I figured I could do Insanity later...I was gonna enjoy these temps! I wanted to run forever, but unfortunately there was only time for 3 miles. (Yes, I pushed the snooze button a few too many times.) And by the time I do my long run this weekend, it will be warm and humid again. Grrr....Mother Nature is just bi-polar.
Monday, April 04, 2011
Workout Love
I love the weekend workouts.
My favorite? The bike!
I hate it when the weather is bad on the weekend mornings, because without my weekend morning workouts, I am a grump (okay, I am really a biotch, but I was trying to keep the blog PG-13). Once I've got my workout in, I am ready for the rest of the day - fun with the kids, hanging with the hubby, grocery shopping, etc.
Saturday, April 2 - Bike/Run Brick
I would have loved to ride my bike for about 45 miles, but the kiddos had soccer games so time was limited. Plus, I really need to start working brick workouts into my routine again...so I compromised and rode 30 miles and ran 2 miles.
I seem to be stuck - my pace on the bike has been 16.2 mph for the past few weeks. The bike is one area where I really think I have room for improvement. The past 2 years, my training rides were closer between 14.8 - 15 mph, and my race pace always stayed around 18 mph. This year, I've been on my bike a lot more and for longer distances. Now my average training ride pace is around 16 mph...I'd like to get faster, but I am clueless when it comes to the bike. Is it the same as running? Do speedwork and tempo rides? Someone clue me in. :-)
After my ride, I ran my bike up my driveway into my garage for a little T2 practice. I removed the helmet, changed shoes and was off. And then I turned around and ran into the house for a quick potty break. Doh! I am always surprised at how much faster I tend to run after being on the bike. I managed to finish my 2 miles in 18:40 (a 9:20 pace). The fastest brick I've done was last summer - bike 15 miles, run 2 @ a 9:25 pace, so I was super pleased with this run! I don't think I could have held that pace for another mile, but it gives me something to shoot for at CB&I next month.
Sunday, 4/3 - Long run, 9 miles, 10:45 pace
That pace says it all - warm, humid, tired legs. I'll admit it, my glutes were still sore from Friday's Insanity workout and my legs were a little tired from my brick the day before. I didn't notice the sore glutes at all on the bike the day before, but I definitely noticed it on my run (for at least the 1st mile)! Ouch!
This run was pretty uneventful. I tried to run every loop in every section of the neighborhood, just so I didn't=t have to see the same scenery more than once. But, I started the run in the dark, pre-dawn areas and there are some sections of my neighborhood that are just too dark to venture into before daylight. I was going for 10-miles, but by the time I reached my section of the neighborhood, I was already at 9 miles and a little change...rather than do another loop of my section, I decided that I'd call it a day.
The rest of the weekend consisted of grocery shopping, a birthday party for one of the kiddo's school friends, a baby shower for my cousin, more fishing at the neighborhood lake and a trip to Target for a new Chi. It doesn't seem like a lot, but it certainly felt like a busy weekend!
My favorite? The bike!
I hate it when the weather is bad on the weekend mornings, because without my weekend morning workouts, I am a grump (okay, I am really a biotch, but I was trying to keep the blog PG-13). Once I've got my workout in, I am ready for the rest of the day - fun with the kids, hanging with the hubby, grocery shopping, etc.
Saturday, April 2 - Bike/Run Brick
I would have loved to ride my bike for about 45 miles, but the kiddos had soccer games so time was limited. Plus, I really need to start working brick workouts into my routine again...so I compromised and rode 30 miles and ran 2 miles.
I seem to be stuck - my pace on the bike has been 16.2 mph for the past few weeks. The bike is one area where I really think I have room for improvement. The past 2 years, my training rides were closer between 14.8 - 15 mph, and my race pace always stayed around 18 mph. This year, I've been on my bike a lot more and for longer distances. Now my average training ride pace is around 16 mph...I'd like to get faster, but I am clueless when it comes to the bike. Is it the same as running? Do speedwork and tempo rides? Someone clue me in. :-)
After my ride, I ran my bike up my driveway into my garage for a little T2 practice. I removed the helmet, changed shoes and was off. And then I turned around and ran into the house for a quick potty break. Doh! I am always surprised at how much faster I tend to run after being on the bike. I managed to finish my 2 miles in 18:40 (a 9:20 pace). The fastest brick I've done was last summer - bike 15 miles, run 2 @ a 9:25 pace, so I was super pleased with this run! I don't think I could have held that pace for another mile, but it gives me something to shoot for at CB&I next month.
Sunday, 4/3 - Long run, 9 miles, 10:45 pace
That pace says it all - warm, humid, tired legs. I'll admit it, my glutes were still sore from Friday's Insanity workout and my legs were a little tired from my brick the day before. I didn't notice the sore glutes at all on the bike the day before, but I definitely noticed it on my run (for at least the 1st mile)! Ouch!
This run was pretty uneventful. I tried to run every loop in every section of the neighborhood, just so I didn't=t have to see the same scenery more than once. But, I started the run in the dark, pre-dawn areas and there are some sections of my neighborhood that are just too dark to venture into before daylight. I was going for 10-miles, but by the time I reached my section of the neighborhood, I was already at 9 miles and a little change...rather than do another loop of my section, I decided that I'd call it a day.
The rest of the weekend consisted of grocery shopping, a birthday party for one of the kiddo's school friends, a baby shower for my cousin, more fishing at the neighborhood lake and a trip to Target for a new Chi. It doesn't seem like a lot, but it certainly felt like a busy weekend!
Thursday, March 31, 2011
Workout Summary
Since I started tracking my workouts on the Beginner Triathlete website, I can get my month totals - love it!
March's totals:
Bike: 11h 34m 32s - 192.25 Mi
Run: 8h 59m 41s - 53.83 Mi
Swim: 6h 00m - 9700 Yd
Plyometrics: 2h 10m (this is Insanity)
So here’s what I’ve been up to over the past week:
Thursday, March 24 – Run, 3 miles, 10:15 pace
Evening run, temps in the low '80s and I survived! Amazing sunset! Friday, March 25 – rest
No trip to the lake this week, since we did an OWS on Wednesday.
Saturday, March 26 – Long bike, 25 miles, 16.3 mph
Neighborhood fishing tournament was this morning, so cut the ride super short!
Sunday, March 27 – Long run, 10 miles, 10:50 pace
Ugh, warm and steamy…I used my task avoidance skills and walked the 1st 1/2 mile so I could toss newspapers from the curb to the driveway, lol!
Monday, March 28 – Insanity? Yes please!
I’m not sure why, but I decided that I’d like to do another round of Insanity. Maybe because I truly am insane? Fit test - showed me that I was not "Insanity" fit!
Tuesday, March 29 - More Insanity, please...and add a little spin and swim, just for fun!
Cardio Circuit, lunchtime spin class and 1800 in the pool. You know when you’re in a great spin class (i.e. one that kicks your butt) when you start to hate the instructor before it’s all said and done!
Wednesday, March 30 – No workouts, sick (ack!)
Thursday, March 31 – Random workout day
Run - 55 degrees, did 2.5 miles at a 9:52 pace (thank you cooler temps!)
Insanity - I managed to do the Insanity workout – something with the word “recovery “ in the title…it was tougher than it sounded!
OWS - I just re-confirmed that I really do suck in open water…big thanks to Coach Kim Hager for the encouraging words...I'm sure she wanted to tell me to HTFU!
Friday, April 1 - more Insanity!
Friday was "Pure Cardio" day - 38 minutes of cardio with no breaks. Ugh!
March's totals:
Bike: 11h 34m 32s - 192.25 Mi
Run: 8h 59m 41s - 53.83 Mi
Swim: 6h 00m - 9700 Yd
Plyometrics: 2h 10m (this is Insanity)
So here’s what I’ve been up to over the past week:
Thursday, March 24 – Run, 3 miles, 10:15 pace
Evening run, temps in the low '80s and I survived! Amazing sunset! Friday, March 25 – rest
No trip to the lake this week, since we did an OWS on Wednesday.
Saturday, March 26 – Long bike, 25 miles, 16.3 mph
Neighborhood fishing tournament was this morning, so cut the ride super short!
Sunday, March 27 – Long run, 10 miles, 10:50 pace
Ugh, warm and steamy…I used my task avoidance skills and walked the 1st 1/2 mile so I could toss newspapers from the curb to the driveway, lol!
Monday, March 28 – Insanity? Yes please!
I’m not sure why, but I decided that I’d like to do another round of Insanity. Maybe because I truly am insane? Fit test - showed me that I was not "Insanity" fit!
Tuesday, March 29 - More Insanity, please...and add a little spin and swim, just for fun!
Cardio Circuit, lunchtime spin class and 1800 in the pool. You know when you’re in a great spin class (i.e. one that kicks your butt) when you start to hate the instructor before it’s all said and done!
Wednesday, March 30 – No workouts, sick (ack!)
Thursday, March 31 – Random workout day
Run - 55 degrees, did 2.5 miles at a 9:52 pace (thank you cooler temps!)
Insanity - I managed to do the Insanity workout – something with the word “recovery “ in the title…it was tougher than it sounded!
OWS - I just re-confirmed that I really do suck in open water…big thanks to Coach Kim Hager for the encouraging words...I'm sure she wanted to tell me to HTFU!
Friday, April 1 - more Insanity!
Friday was "Pure Cardio" day - 38 minutes of cardio with no breaks. Ugh!
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.
Friday, March 25, 2011
Humble Pie
Tuesday, 3/22 - Spin and Swim
I managed to push the snooze button a few too many times, so my 1 hour, 15 minute ride on the trainer ended up only being 45 minutes. Grumble, grumble....I need to get to bed earlier! In the evening, I went to the pool for a 30-minute swim. Only 1200 yds on the schedule, which actually worked out well, because I had time to get the swim done and still get back home in time to help get the kids to bed.
Wednesday, 3/23 - Run and Sputter
I was planning for a 4-miler, but once again I "snoozed" too long. There was only time for a 3-miler after that. Again, I need to get to bed earlier if I am going to wake up at 4:15 am! And, that 3-miler was extremely slow - 10:53 pace. Why? Because I had a major cough attack and finally just stopped until it passed (thank you Springtime pollen!). I also stopped to walk in the final mile, because my heart rate felt all wonky...not sure what that was about.
My 2nd lack luster workout of the day was an OWS practice. The awesome folks at Out Rival Racing coordinated a swim at Lake Conroe. It's a bit of a drive from where I work, but it's much closer to home than Lake 288. The water in Conroe is much murkier and there are some boats, so you get that lovely scent and taste of exhaust now and then (yuck!). But, the swim was so organized - they had buoys and kayakers, plus is was just great to swim with a group.
This is Lake Conroe after our swim...pretty isn't it?
Unlike our swims at 288, I decided to go out with a group to do the 500m loop that was set up (I think it might have been a little long - maybe 600?)....usually I warm up first to get acclimated to the water. Dumb move on my part, because at some point I went in to "freak out" mode and ended up side-stroking more than I care to admit. (Something I rarely do these days) It was bad. I was the last one in the group to finish...and not as in a few seconds after the group. More like a good 3 minutes after the group. Mmmm, nice taste of humble pie....yum, yum (NOT).
Luckily, after meeting a few other folks and talking for a few minutes, I managed to swim a little more and felt much better. I've felt pretty good in the water over the past few weeks, so I'm not sure what happened. I do know that OWS can be challenging mentally...you have to get out of that freak out mode fast, or your swim is not going to be pleasant. If there is one thing that will keep me from doing an Oly or a HIM (besides the schedule issues I had this year), it's the freaking open water swim. Just last week, I was feeling more confident in the water than ever and this week...well, not so much! Anyway, after swimming a little more, I did feel better and at least ended the evening on a positive note.
Thursday, 3/24 - Run do-over, 3 miles (10:15 pace)
I felt like Wednesday run was so bad, that I wanted a do-over on Thursday...just to prove that I can run. Unfortunately, I did not sleep well at all on Wednesday night, which is highly unusual for me. I woke up several times and eventually re-set my alarm clock and slept as long as I could. That meant I'd be doing an evening run. So, after the Kiddo's gymnastics class, I headed out for a 3-miler. It went much better than the run on Wednesday, and I had a gorgeous sunset to look at!
Friday, 3/25 - Rest Day
It's a rest day, but I am determined to get in the Ab Ripper X workout tonight. The Kiddo has a make-up soccer game tonight and one in the morning, so GO SHARKS!!!
I managed to push the snooze button a few too many times, so my 1 hour, 15 minute ride on the trainer ended up only being 45 minutes. Grumble, grumble....I need to get to bed earlier! In the evening, I went to the pool for a 30-minute swim. Only 1200 yds on the schedule, which actually worked out well, because I had time to get the swim done and still get back home in time to help get the kids to bed.
Wednesday, 3/23 - Run and Sputter
I was planning for a 4-miler, but once again I "snoozed" too long. There was only time for a 3-miler after that. Again, I need to get to bed earlier if I am going to wake up at 4:15 am! And, that 3-miler was extremely slow - 10:53 pace. Why? Because I had a major cough attack and finally just stopped until it passed (thank you Springtime pollen!). I also stopped to walk in the final mile, because my heart rate felt all wonky...not sure what that was about.
My 2nd lack luster workout of the day was an OWS practice. The awesome folks at Out Rival Racing coordinated a swim at Lake Conroe. It's a bit of a drive from where I work, but it's much closer to home than Lake 288. The water in Conroe is much murkier and there are some boats, so you get that lovely scent and taste of exhaust now and then (yuck!). But, the swim was so organized - they had buoys and kayakers, plus is was just great to swim with a group.
This is Lake Conroe after our swim...pretty isn't it?
Unlike our swims at 288, I decided to go out with a group to do the 500m loop that was set up (I think it might have been a little long - maybe 600?)....usually I warm up first to get acclimated to the water. Dumb move on my part, because at some point I went in to "freak out" mode and ended up side-stroking more than I care to admit. (Something I rarely do these days) It was bad. I was the last one in the group to finish...and not as in a few seconds after the group. More like a good 3 minutes after the group. Mmmm, nice taste of humble pie....yum, yum (NOT).
Luckily, after meeting a few other folks and talking for a few minutes, I managed to swim a little more and felt much better. I've felt pretty good in the water over the past few weeks, so I'm not sure what happened. I do know that OWS can be challenging mentally...you have to get out of that freak out mode fast, or your swim is not going to be pleasant. If there is one thing that will keep me from doing an Oly or a HIM (besides the schedule issues I had this year), it's the freaking open water swim. Just last week, I was feeling more confident in the water than ever and this week...well, not so much! Anyway, after swimming a little more, I did feel better and at least ended the evening on a positive note.
Thursday, 3/24 - Run do-over, 3 miles (10:15 pace)
I felt like Wednesday run was so bad, that I wanted a do-over on Thursday...just to prove that I can run. Unfortunately, I did not sleep well at all on Wednesday night, which is highly unusual for me. I woke up several times and eventually re-set my alarm clock and slept as long as I could. That meant I'd be doing an evening run. So, after the Kiddo's gymnastics class, I headed out for a 3-miler. It went much better than the run on Wednesday, and I had a gorgeous sunset to look at!
Friday, 3/25 - Rest Day
It's a rest day, but I am determined to get in the Ab Ripper X workout tonight. The Kiddo has a make-up soccer game tonight and one in the morning, so GO SHARKS!!!
Thursday, March 24, 2011
Playing Catch Up
Here's what I've been up to for the past 2 weeks:
Wednesday, 3/9 - 4 mile run, 10:29 pace
Warm and humid - yuck and yuck!
Thursday, 3/10 - Rest day (unscheduled)
Friday, 3/11 - 2 mile run, ~1,000 OWS swim
Planned on doing my 10-miler on Friday since I had the day off. However, I had been having some pain above my right ankle (on the inside). One mile out and I had to turn around - ouch! Also, tri-buddy, Kelly, and I went to lake 288 for OWS practice #2. We're definitely getting more comfortable in the water and in our wetsuits!
Saturday, 3/12 - 1 mile run, 16 mile bike (16.0 mph)
Tried to go for that 10-miler again, but after only .5 miles I called it quits due to that weird pain. I had to do some sort of cardio though, so I hopped on the bike for an hour ride.
Sunday, 3/13 - 29 mile bike, 16.3 mph
Just my regular, weekly bike ride. It should have been 30 miles, but I started late and was already pressed for time.
Monday, 3/14 - rest day
First day of spring break for the kiddos...it was a messy, rainy, yucky day.
Tuesday, 3/15 - 3 mile run, 10:12 pace
It was time to see how the ankle would hold up. Lucky for me it held up just fine! It was cool outside, so perfect weather for a run!
Wednesday, 3/16 and Thursday, 3/17 - rest days
Okay, so these weren't supposed to be rest days, but I had the day off on Wednesday and really just wanted to sleep in. Thursday, I'll just admit - I had lost my mojo and we feeling lazy.
Friday, 3/18 - 1600m OWS
Okay, lazy days are over - time to get back to it. Headed back to the lake with Kelly. After a warm up, we did our first full loop around the lake! Yay us! We followed that with a couple of mini-loops around the lake. This is probably the farthest I've managed to swim in open water. Feels good to make progress.
Saturday, 3/19 - long ride - 41 mile bike (15.10 mph)
This is only my 2nd time to ride 40+ miles on the bike. I could tell my body was getting used to 30, because my legs wanted to stop shortly after hitting that point. Luckily, tri-girl Kelly was there and having a biking companion always makes the miles go by much faster! The pace was a bit slower than my previous 2 rides - this could have been because 1) we started in my neighborhood where it's hard to maintain a faster pace and 2) we were talking a bit too much? Still a great ride!
Sunday, 3/20 - long run - 8 miles (10:33 pace)
Okay, so 8 miles is not that long, but since I skipped my long run the week before and I hadn't run much due to the mysterious ankle pain, I decided to do 8 again and the increase next week. First, let me just day that I could feel the fatigue in my legs from the previous day's bike ride. Second, it was warmer than I had hoped..and humid too. But, it felt great to get back out there for more than just a few miles!
Wednesday, 3/9 - 4 mile run, 10:29 pace
Warm and humid - yuck and yuck!
Thursday, 3/10 - Rest day (unscheduled)
Friday, 3/11 - 2 mile run, ~1,000 OWS swim
Planned on doing my 10-miler on Friday since I had the day off. However, I had been having some pain above my right ankle (on the inside). One mile out and I had to turn around - ouch! Also, tri-buddy, Kelly, and I went to lake 288 for OWS practice #2. We're definitely getting more comfortable in the water and in our wetsuits!
Saturday, 3/12 - 1 mile run, 16 mile bike (16.0 mph)
Tried to go for that 10-miler again, but after only .5 miles I called it quits due to that weird pain. I had to do some sort of cardio though, so I hopped on the bike for an hour ride.
Sunday, 3/13 - 29 mile bike, 16.3 mph
Just my regular, weekly bike ride. It should have been 30 miles, but I started late and was already pressed for time.
Monday, 3/14 - rest day
First day of spring break for the kiddos...it was a messy, rainy, yucky day.
Tuesday, 3/15 - 3 mile run, 10:12 pace
It was time to see how the ankle would hold up. Lucky for me it held up just fine! It was cool outside, so perfect weather for a run!
Wednesday, 3/16 and Thursday, 3/17 - rest days
Okay, so these weren't supposed to be rest days, but I had the day off on Wednesday and really just wanted to sleep in. Thursday, I'll just admit - I had lost my mojo and we feeling lazy.
Friday, 3/18 - 1600m OWS
Okay, lazy days are over - time to get back to it. Headed back to the lake with Kelly. After a warm up, we did our first full loop around the lake! Yay us! We followed that with a couple of mini-loops around the lake. This is probably the farthest I've managed to swim in open water. Feels good to make progress.
Saturday, 3/19 - long ride - 41 mile bike (15.10 mph)
This is only my 2nd time to ride 40+ miles on the bike. I could tell my body was getting used to 30, because my legs wanted to stop shortly after hitting that point. Luckily, tri-girl Kelly was there and having a biking companion always makes the miles go by much faster! The pace was a bit slower than my previous 2 rides - this could have been because 1) we started in my neighborhood where it's hard to maintain a faster pace and 2) we were talking a bit too much? Still a great ride!
Sunday, 3/20 - long run - 8 miles (10:33 pace)
Okay, so 8 miles is not that long, but since I skipped my long run the week before and I hadn't run much due to the mysterious ankle pain, I decided to do 8 again and the increase next week. First, let me just day that I could feel the fatigue in my legs from the previous day's bike ride. Second, it was warmer than I had hoped..and humid too. But, it felt great to get back out there for more than just a few miles!
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Quickie
Not much time to blog today, so I thought I would post this picture...
Each time I fill my gas tank, I reset my tripometer - yes, it's a Type A thing!
A couple of weeks ago, I filled up, reset and drove to work. When I eased into a parking space and put my car in park on the 7th floor of the parking garage, I looked down at the trip A and this is what I saw - 26.2 miles exactly!
Maybe it's a sign? Of what, I have no clue!
Each time I fill my gas tank, I reset my tripometer - yes, it's a Type A thing!
A couple of weeks ago, I filled up, reset and drove to work. When I eased into a parking space and put my car in park on the 7th floor of the parking garage, I looked down at the trip A and this is what I saw - 26.2 miles exactly!
Maybe it's a sign? Of what, I have no clue!
Tuesday, March 22, 2011
Real or Not Real?
This past weekend, the Warrior Dash came to Houston. I had several friends participate and have a great time at this event. In fact, I have friends all over the country who are doing this event (both runners and non-runners). You know - running through mud, crawling under barbed wire, leaping over fire, climbing rope walls...I'll admit, it's a little cheesy and gimmicky, but it does look kinda fun! Besides, what's not fun about earning a horned, Viking-style helmet and a beer? (Never mind that in addition to the entry fee, you have to pay $10 for parking...wtf?)
So this brings me to a debate that recently came up - do "real" runners do this kind of race? One of my non-running friends planned to race the Warrior Dash and asked her friend (a runner) if she was going to sign up. The runner friend made a comment about how "real" runners don't do the Warrior Dash. This runner friend has run a 1/2 marathon and has a boyfriend who is an Ironman. And, this is not the 1st time I've heard similar sentiments - I saw a few comments like this on Facebook, too.
So tell me...what makes a "real runner"? And, do these so-called "real runners" do races like the Dash?
Give me your wisdom.
IMO, if races like the Warrior Dash are getting couch potatoes excited about running, then more power to it. If the dedicated runners enjoy the craziness of the obstacle course, the by all means - GO FOR IT!
Monday, March 21, 2011
Spring Break 2011
Sorry for the hiatus! It was a busy week for this runner mom - the kiddos were on Spring Break and I took a few days off so that we could have some quality time together. Fun times!
Day 1
It was rainy and nasty with a cool front coming through. What else is there to do besides head to Chuck E. Cheese? The Munchkin hasn't been there since he was about 18 months and the Kiddo loves the place, so I figured I could endure a few hours oftorture fun. Afterwards, we colored and played with Play Doh - perfect indoor activities for a rainy day!
Day 2:
All of my stay-at-home-Mom friends swore up and down that they'd NEVER take their kids to the zoo on Spring Break because of the crowds. Unfortunately, us work-outside-the-home-Moms, don't have a choice! And you know what? It wasn't that bad. We arrived at the Houston Zoo about 15 minutes after it opened, and I'll admit I was a bit freaked out to see so many cars already there. But, we parked and got through the gate and saw everything we wanted to see with no issues at all. It was fun! My favorite part was watching the kids feed the giraffes at the new exhibit - it was awesome being that close!
Here's the Munchkin getting into the African spirit at the new African Forest exhibit:
Here are the Kiddo and Muchkin waiting to feed the giraffes:
Here's the Munchkin right after feeding the lettuce to this guy. The Muchkin let out squeals of delight when the giraffe took the leaf!
Yes, you really are that close to the giraffes!
After feeding the giraffes the kids decided to practice on each other!
And no, I don't support child labor, but hey, he wanted to pull the wagon. Who am I to object?
We ended the day on the train. Other than standing in line for tickets, then standing in line for the train with two tired, cranky little ones, this was my favorite part of the day. The ride is relaxing, the kids are quiet (for the most part) and the views of Hermann Park are spectacular. See, Houston really is a pretty city...
The Munchkin was totally in awe of the engine on the little train...we sat up near it and when we were leaving he wanted to stop and just stare, lol!
Day 3:
The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo is a time honored tradition in Houston. In February of every year, traffic is stopped on main thoroughfares for covered wagons and horses that participate in the annual trail ride. It's the one time you can actually call in late to work because of horses blocking traffic, and your boss will actually believe you. :-)
The rodeo is kicked off with a 5k/10k race, followed immediately by a huge parade. Then, the fairgrounds open and each day for 3 weeks there's carnival fun, the livestock show, tons of scholarships for students and concerts - this year it was everything from Kid Rock and Kiss, to Alan Jackson and Jason Aldean.
I'll admit, I don't usually attend. To be honest, it's a whole different sub-culture that I just don't "get" - the boots, the wranglers, the country music, the cows and horses - it's just not me. But, I don't want my preference to influence the kiddos and their judgement, so the hubby and I decided we'd spend a day on the grounds - experiencing the animals at the livestock show and enjoying the rides and games of the carnival. We all had a great time, so yes, we will be back next year!
Here's the Kiddo on a big tractor. Yes, she's even sporting a cowboy hat...she has pink boots too, but they aren't comfortable for all the walking we'd be doing!
Here's the Munchkin on his very first amusement park ride:
Here's the Kiddo on the kiddie roller coaster. Yes, she is hanging on for dear life, lol!
The Kiddo and I enjoyed a ride on the ferris wheel...glad she's like me and knows how to enjoy the spectacular view! You can see by the picture on the right how huge the rodeo carnival is...and this is just one section of it. We also had an amazing view of downtown Houston from up high, but I didn't get the best pic with my cell phone camera...
So that was it. It was so much fun! On Thursday and Friday, the kids went back to daycare and I returned to work. :-( I will update you on my workouts next...not that there were many of them during spring break!
Day 1
It was rainy and nasty with a cool front coming through. What else is there to do besides head to Chuck E. Cheese? The Munchkin hasn't been there since he was about 18 months and the Kiddo loves the place, so I figured I could endure a few hours of
Day 2:
All of my stay-at-home-Mom friends swore up and down that they'd NEVER take their kids to the zoo on Spring Break because of the crowds. Unfortunately, us work-outside-the-home-Moms, don't have a choice! And you know what? It wasn't that bad. We arrived at the Houston Zoo about 15 minutes after it opened, and I'll admit I was a bit freaked out to see so many cars already there. But, we parked and got through the gate and saw everything we wanted to see with no issues at all. It was fun! My favorite part was watching the kids feed the giraffes at the new exhibit - it was awesome being that close!
Here's the Munchkin getting into the African spirit at the new African Forest exhibit:
Here are the Kiddo and Muchkin waiting to feed the giraffes:
Here's the Munchkin right after feeding the lettuce to this guy. The Muchkin let out squeals of delight when the giraffe took the leaf!
Yes, you really are that close to the giraffes!
After feeding the giraffes the kids decided to practice on each other!
And no, I don't support child labor, but hey, he wanted to pull the wagon. Who am I to object?
We ended the day on the train. Other than standing in line for tickets, then standing in line for the train with two tired, cranky little ones, this was my favorite part of the day. The ride is relaxing, the kids are quiet (for the most part) and the views of Hermann Park are spectacular. See, Houston really is a pretty city...
The Munchkin was totally in awe of the engine on the little train...we sat up near it and when we were leaving he wanted to stop and just stare, lol!
Day 3:
The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo is a time honored tradition in Houston. In February of every year, traffic is stopped on main thoroughfares for covered wagons and horses that participate in the annual trail ride. It's the one time you can actually call in late to work because of horses blocking traffic, and your boss will actually believe you. :-)
The rodeo is kicked off with a 5k/10k race, followed immediately by a huge parade. Then, the fairgrounds open and each day for 3 weeks there's carnival fun, the livestock show, tons of scholarships for students and concerts - this year it was everything from Kid Rock and Kiss, to Alan Jackson and Jason Aldean.
I'll admit, I don't usually attend. To be honest, it's a whole different sub-culture that I just don't "get" - the boots, the wranglers, the country music, the cows and horses - it's just not me. But, I don't want my preference to influence the kiddos and their judgement, so the hubby and I decided we'd spend a day on the grounds - experiencing the animals at the livestock show and enjoying the rides and games of the carnival. We all had a great time, so yes, we will be back next year!
Here's the Kiddo on a big tractor. Yes, she's even sporting a cowboy hat...she has pink boots too, but they aren't comfortable for all the walking we'd be doing!
Here's the Munchkin on his very first amusement park ride:
Here's the Kiddo on the kiddie roller coaster. Yes, she is hanging on for dear life, lol!
The Kiddo and I enjoyed a ride on the ferris wheel...glad she's like me and knows how to enjoy the spectacular view! You can see by the picture on the right how huge the rodeo carnival is...and this is just one section of it. We also had an amazing view of downtown Houston from up high, but I didn't get the best pic with my cell phone camera...
So that was it. It was so much fun! On Thursday and Friday, the kids went back to daycare and I returned to work. :-( I will update you on my workouts next...not that there were many of them during spring break!
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.
Tuesday, March 08, 2011
Spin and Swim
Not much to report today...I managed to get to spin class over my lunch break for the first time since I don't know when (January, maybe?). I've been riding the bike trainer at home while watching TV in the wee hours of the morning and just felt like doing something different. Our instructor, Jennifer, handed me my butt on a platter with lots of hills, jumps and intervals...it's a great way to get your blood pumping and ready for the afternoon, that's for sure! I also met a few co-workers who live in my area and invited me out for some local group bike rides...see spin class can be very productive!
I have no idea how fast or how far I rode during class this time, because the rpm/mileage computer thingy wasn't working on my bike. In fact, I tried 2 different bikes and had the same problem on both! Maybe I broke both of them? Who knows? What I do know is that I hate not knowing the rpms, calories and distance during spin class! I am an information junkie!
After work, I headed home and hung out with the family for awhile and then hit the gym to swim. I only had 45 minutes on the schedule, which was perfect - I'd have time to swim and then get home again in time to help tuck the kiddos into bed. Gotta love that! My swim was pretty uneventful...I did 100 warm up, followed by drills - fist swim, dps work, one arm, etc. I managed to do a total of 1,400 yds, which is slower than normal for me. Maybe my rests between drills was longer than it should have been?
Speaking of swimming, I've seen two people in the last week wearing something like this:
It's a waterproof thingy for your ipod! After about 1,200 yds, I'll admit that I get extremely bored in the pool. There's nothing terribly exciting about looking at the black line at the bottom of the pool. Maybe this will help? But, I am not an ipod runner. I prefer to just use that time to think and enjoy the sound of my footsteps and nature. Pretty zen, right? :-) So, I'm not sure I'd want to listen to my ipod while swimming. Besides, I'd like to be able to hear if someone in the lane next to me (or in the lake) is calling for help, lol!
I have no idea how fast or how far I rode during class this time, because the rpm/mileage computer thingy wasn't working on my bike. In fact, I tried 2 different bikes and had the same problem on both! Maybe I broke both of them? Who knows? What I do know is that I hate not knowing the rpms, calories and distance during spin class! I am an information junkie!
After work, I headed home and hung out with the family for awhile and then hit the gym to swim. I only had 45 minutes on the schedule, which was perfect - I'd have time to swim and then get home again in time to help tuck the kiddos into bed. Gotta love that! My swim was pretty uneventful...I did 100 warm up, followed by drills - fist swim, dps work, one arm, etc. I managed to do a total of 1,400 yds, which is slower than normal for me. Maybe my rests between drills was longer than it should have been?
Speaking of swimming, I've seen two people in the last week wearing something like this:
It's a waterproof thingy for your ipod! After about 1,200 yds, I'll admit that I get extremely bored in the pool. There's nothing terribly exciting about looking at the black line at the bottom of the pool. Maybe this will help? But, I am not an ipod runner. I prefer to just use that time to think and enjoy the sound of my footsteps and nature. Pretty zen, right? :-) So, I'm not sure I'd want to listen to my ipod while swimming. Besides, I'd like to be able to hear if someone in the lane next to me (or in the lake) is calling for help, lol!
Monday, March 07, 2011
Rest Day
Monday is my rest day. Seeing as how I've had quite a few rest days lately, thanks to being busy with other stuff, I feel like a total slacker. However, I also know the importance of rest for recovery - my legs were feeling tired after the bike ride on Sunday, so I know it's necessary....it's just difficult to do nothing.
So, I did Ab Ripper X. It's only 15 minutes. That's rest, right?
Tomorrow is spin and swim...definitely the opposite of rest!
Anyone else get all antsy and edgey on rest days?
So, I did Ab Ripper X. It's only 15 minutes. That's rest, right?
Tomorrow is spin and swim...definitely the opposite of rest!
Anyone else get all antsy and edgey on rest days?
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