My training schedule called for "stretching and strength" training today. I got up at 5 am, I realized my blackberry was not working. I had to get to work early and try to get it fixed. I'd workout tonight. No go. I was in surgery until close to 6 pm. I was fried, kind of like my blackberry that's still not fixed. Friends called and asked me to go to dinner. I accepted and put the workout on ice.
I'm supposed to run tomorrow. 4 miles. It's supposed to rain tomorrow. I'm not going to set my alarm. I'm going to get some much needed sleep, hope it's not raining tomorrow evening, or hit the treadmill. Sometimes we need to adjust.
Also, sometimes we need to recognize things for what they are. My day is spent. I'm spent. I need to rest and rebuild. Exerting myself more than what it takes to brush my teeth wouldn't be beneficial. Tomorrow will be there...tomorrow.
Monday, November 30, 2009
Sunday, November 29, 2009
Sunday Six
Distance: 6 miles
Start time: 8:09 am
Run Duration: 68 minutes
Average Pace: 11.3 minutes/mile
Temperature: 62 degrees
Humidity: 92%
Location: Memorial Park, Houston, TX
I feel like I loafed it this morning. I wasn't exactly hustling as I made my way through my miles but as I give it more thought, I'm right where I should be. This is the pace I want to run for the half marathon. I'm on track. This is good.
My training schedule says I should run a 5K race next weekend. I thought I'd be bumping up to 7 miles, but that's not until the next week. Guess I'll go find a race. Or I'll just run 3.1 as fast as I can.
I am so grateful for these last 5 days off work. I needed it. I was so homesick, though. The holiday was wonderful with my friends but I miss my family incredibly. I'm happy that I was able to talk with them. It's just not the same. I'm packing up all my things, getting ready for this move. I think coming across a photo here, a trinket there is not helping my mood. I should probably get out of this apartment for a little while this afternoon and go for a change of scenery. I'm thinking of buying a running belt to hold my keys while I run. Maybe that will take up an hour or so.
Have a great week, readers. Hopefully all the leftovers have been eaten or otherwise disposed of. Anyone want to run a race with me next weekend?
Start time: 8:09 am
Run Duration: 68 minutes
Average Pace: 11.3 minutes/mile
Temperature: 62 degrees
Humidity: 92%
Location: Memorial Park, Houston, TX
I feel like I loafed it this morning. I wasn't exactly hustling as I made my way through my miles but as I give it more thought, I'm right where I should be. This is the pace I want to run for the half marathon. I'm on track. This is good.
My training schedule says I should run a 5K race next weekend. I thought I'd be bumping up to 7 miles, but that's not until the next week. Guess I'll go find a race. Or I'll just run 3.1 as fast as I can.
I am so grateful for these last 5 days off work. I needed it. I was so homesick, though. The holiday was wonderful with my friends but I miss my family incredibly. I'm happy that I was able to talk with them. It's just not the same. I'm packing up all my things, getting ready for this move. I think coming across a photo here, a trinket there is not helping my mood. I should probably get out of this apartment for a little while this afternoon and go for a change of scenery. I'm thinking of buying a running belt to hold my keys while I run. Maybe that will take up an hour or so.
Have a great week, readers. Hopefully all the leftovers have been eaten or otherwise disposed of. Anyone want to run a race with me next weekend?
Saturday, November 28, 2009
Does Your Wife Know You're Here?
Another etiquette post? Isn't that a bit much? Might I be hitting the rules thing with more vigor than is considered comfortable in polite company? Ah, I do apologize for my enthusiasm around this topic, but it's on my mind.
My training schedule called for forty minutes of crosstraining. What better than dancing? I met my friend for dinner (yes, I had the grilled fish and veggies) and an adult beverage (no, I'm not a saint) and we made our way to our favorite dancing spot.
Upon paying the cover charge and entering the room, we were pleased to hear the band playing Motown. That meant we'd spend more time on the dance floor than in our chairs. Last week the band was not good and certainly not playing anything much worth dancing to. We situated ourselves at a table, left our wraps to claim our spots and began to enjoy the evening.
When the two of us (both female) go out together, we may dance with each other, we may dance with a man or two, but mostly we're just out to dance. It's fun, we like the music and we enjoy the exercise. Most of the time it's just a nice, care-free, evening. Sometimes, there are drunks who get a little pushy. We deal with that, like ladies. This isn't what I'm writing about this morning.
We'd been dancing for about a half hour and decided to take a break, having just returned to our seats, when I noticed many people around us looking toward the other side of the room. That's never a good thing in a bar. Yeah, a woman was on the floor. She wasn't getting up. I told my friend I'd see what was going on and I walked over to the small circle of security guards and club management that was surrounding her. The woman was conscious and moving by then. I ascertained from the manager that EMS had been called (she apparently hadn't even started drinking yet, so she certainly needed to be checked out). I let him know that I was medically trained and available if he needed me and I backed away, back to my chair. I watched from that distance as she was walked out of the club. I didn't give it much more thought.
More dancing, another drink. It was time for a Ladies' Room break. As I walked toward the door, a man reached out and touched my elbow. "Are you medical?"
I stopped to answer his question. I told him I was, so was he. He'd noticed me checking out the situation earlier. He's a radiologist and as luck would have it quite attractive, near my age and charming. We talked for a few minutes. He paid me a compliment on my willingness to help a stranger earlier and asked if I would help him if he developed symptoms right then. "If I fell down right now, would you come to my aid?" I told him I probably would, but I know I flirty line when I hear one. He laughed and said that would be one way to get a kiss from such a pretty woman. Wow, this guy was pouring it on thick, but...he was attractive...we had something in common...
I still needed to get to the loo. I reached out my right hand, introduced myself and told him it was nice to meet him. Then I reached for his left hand. I knew it. Gold wedding band. You know...I just turned and walked away.
His attractiveness level plummeted from about an eight to a minus four. You can't come back from a minus four. It's just plain rude to flirt so blatantly when you're married. It's not rude to the target of your flirtation. It's rude to your wife. Someone should teach that somewhere. Manners matter.
My training schedule called for forty minutes of crosstraining. What better than dancing? I met my friend for dinner (yes, I had the grilled fish and veggies) and an adult beverage (no, I'm not a saint) and we made our way to our favorite dancing spot.
Upon paying the cover charge and entering the room, we were pleased to hear the band playing Motown. That meant we'd spend more time on the dance floor than in our chairs. Last week the band was not good and certainly not playing anything much worth dancing to. We situated ourselves at a table, left our wraps to claim our spots and began to enjoy the evening.
When the two of us (both female) go out together, we may dance with each other, we may dance with a man or two, but mostly we're just out to dance. It's fun, we like the music and we enjoy the exercise. Most of the time it's just a nice, care-free, evening. Sometimes, there are drunks who get a little pushy. We deal with that, like ladies. This isn't what I'm writing about this morning.
We'd been dancing for about a half hour and decided to take a break, having just returned to our seats, when I noticed many people around us looking toward the other side of the room. That's never a good thing in a bar. Yeah, a woman was on the floor. She wasn't getting up. I told my friend I'd see what was going on and I walked over to the small circle of security guards and club management that was surrounding her. The woman was conscious and moving by then. I ascertained from the manager that EMS had been called (she apparently hadn't even started drinking yet, so she certainly needed to be checked out). I let him know that I was medically trained and available if he needed me and I backed away, back to my chair. I watched from that distance as she was walked out of the club. I didn't give it much more thought.
More dancing, another drink. It was time for a Ladies' Room break. As I walked toward the door, a man reached out and touched my elbow. "Are you medical?"
I stopped to answer his question. I told him I was, so was he. He'd noticed me checking out the situation earlier. He's a radiologist and as luck would have it quite attractive, near my age and charming. We talked for a few minutes. He paid me a compliment on my willingness to help a stranger earlier and asked if I would help him if he developed symptoms right then. "If I fell down right now, would you come to my aid?" I told him I probably would, but I know I flirty line when I hear one. He laughed and said that would be one way to get a kiss from such a pretty woman. Wow, this guy was pouring it on thick, but...he was attractive...we had something in common...
I still needed to get to the loo. I reached out my right hand, introduced myself and told him it was nice to meet him. Then I reached for his left hand. I knew it. Gold wedding band. You know...I just turned and walked away.
His attractiveness level plummeted from about an eight to a minus four. You can't come back from a minus four. It's just plain rude to flirt so blatantly when you're married. It's not rude to the target of your flirtation. It's rude to your wife. Someone should teach that somewhere. Manners matter.
Friday, November 27, 2009
I Love Babies and Dogs - I Promise.
It took over 24 hours to find the times posted for the 17th Annual Sheltering Arms Turkey Trot. Initially, only clock times came up and I was disappointed to see mine at 1:07:23. A couple hours later the chip times came up and I was listed at 1:05:46. That was what I thought I ran, so I was happy to see it.
In the time I was waiting for the times to post, I logged onto active.com and watched the comments start to come in. The negative feedback far outweighed the positive around the race and honestly, I agreed with most of it.
The organizers obviously weren't prepared for the large crowd, or they didn't seem to be. The pace markers at the starting line were set very close together and we couldn't hear the announcer. Chip collection at the finish was immediately after we crossed over the line and created a bit of a bottleneck at that point.
But the real problems, the REAL problems...
...walkers, and strollers, and pets, oh my!
Sure, it's a great morning for families to get out and enjoy time together, but for the love of all that's good and safe, get the heck out of the front of the pack and get out of the way! There is no reason on earth that people who are walking need to be standing in the 8, 9, 10, even 11 minutes/mile sections. They're in the way and they're dangerous. Thousands of people were trying to take off and run yesterday morning and they had to navigate past toddlers, people pushing strollers and even dogs on leashes. Not cool, not cute, not sweet. Not. Not. Not.
I know some will say we're grouchy. Some will say we're not friendly. Too freaking bad. I'd rather be grouchy about this than grouchy about a sprained (or broken) ankle on one of us. I'd rather not accidentally knock over your little darling. I like kids, I really do. It would ruin the day for all of us if someone was injured. It's just common sense. You're slower, you don't need to be in the front. Is this that difficult?
Good. Thanks. See you at the next event. Have a great day - and give your kids and dogs a hug from Auntie Michelle.
In the time I was waiting for the times to post, I logged onto active.com and watched the comments start to come in. The negative feedback far outweighed the positive around the race and honestly, I agreed with most of it.
The organizers obviously weren't prepared for the large crowd, or they didn't seem to be. The pace markers at the starting line were set very close together and we couldn't hear the announcer. Chip collection at the finish was immediately after we crossed over the line and created a bit of a bottleneck at that point.
But the real problems, the REAL problems...
...walkers, and strollers, and pets, oh my!
Sure, it's a great morning for families to get out and enjoy time together, but for the love of all that's good and safe, get the heck out of the front of the pack and get out of the way! There is no reason on earth that people who are walking need to be standing in the 8, 9, 10, even 11 minutes/mile sections. They're in the way and they're dangerous. Thousands of people were trying to take off and run yesterday morning and they had to navigate past toddlers, people pushing strollers and even dogs on leashes. Not cool, not cute, not sweet. Not. Not. Not.
I know some will say we're grouchy. Some will say we're not friendly. Too freaking bad. I'd rather be grouchy about this than grouchy about a sprained (or broken) ankle on one of us. I'd rather not accidentally knock over your little darling. I like kids, I really do. It would ruin the day for all of us if someone was injured. It's just common sense. You're slower, you don't need to be in the front. Is this that difficult?
Good. Thanks. See you at the next event. Have a great day - and give your kids and dogs a hug from Auntie Michelle.
Thursday, November 26, 2009
My First 10K!!!
Distance: 6.2 miles
Start time: 8:00 am
Run Duration: 66 minutes (unofficial time - from my watch)
Average Pace: 10.6 minutes/mile
Temperature: 50 degrees
Humidity: 42%
Location: Uptown Park, Houston, TX
See all those exclamation points in the title? I felt them running over the finish line! This was the first event I've entered that I felt real joy running through the final push. This was my longest run - ever. I've run 6 miles, I've never run 6.2 miles. This was my longest race - ever, and I ran the entire way. I also got a little kick at the end. I didn't curse at myself once. (For anyone who knows me and the way I think, the way I run, this is a BIG DEAL.)
I've been following my training schedule. I've been eating right. I've been sleeping (better).
I'm a happy Thanksgiving Runner Girl today.
Today I lift up my gratitude for the friendship of Ken who is always positive, who is always there with encouragement and a smile. He was at the starting line (yet again) today and I really believe that he really believed that I could do this run. Thanks to and for Ken.
Start time: 8:00 am
Run Duration: 66 minutes (unofficial time - from my watch)
Average Pace: 10.6 minutes/mile
Temperature: 50 degrees
Humidity: 42%
Location: Uptown Park, Houston, TX
See all those exclamation points in the title? I felt them running over the finish line! This was the first event I've entered that I felt real joy running through the final push. This was my longest run - ever. I've run 6 miles, I've never run 6.2 miles. This was my longest race - ever, and I ran the entire way. I also got a little kick at the end. I didn't curse at myself once. (For anyone who knows me and the way I think, the way I run, this is a BIG DEAL.)
I've been following my training schedule. I've been eating right. I've been sleeping (better).
I'm a happy Thanksgiving Runner Girl today.
Today I lift up my gratitude for the friendship of Ken who is always positive, who is always there with encouragement and a smile. He was at the starting line (yet again) today and I really believe that he really believed that I could do this run. Thanks to and for Ken.
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
Cruising
Distance: 4 miles
Start time: 4:55 am
Run Duration: 42 minutes
Average Pace: 10.5 minutes/mile
Temperature: 63 degrees
Humidity: 97%
Location: Memorial Park, Houston, TX
I'm sticking to my training schedule. I know what I'm supposed to do on any given day - how far to run, or how long to crosstrain. The question of "if" is gone. I know I will, because I've committed to this. I'm feeling better as I add the mileage. I'm feeling better as I allow my body to rest on off days. The question of "if" is no longer. The answer is simply to look at my calendar and see what my assignment is each day.
This morning my alarm was set for 4:15 am. That's early, really early. I had to get up early enough to get the run in and get to clinic. I was halfway to the park when I realized that I'd risen from my bed, gotten dressed, headed out the door and started driving without resenting the early hour, without wishing I was doing something else. I also noticed that I was driving on cruise control - something I don't think I've ever done on the 610 loop between Buffalo Speedway and Westheimer. There wasn't any traffic and there wasn't any reason to drive any other way.
I arrived at work and pretty much plowed through a massive list of patients. I was still cruising. I started at 8am and I looked up at 3pm to find that I'd seen the last one. The only thing left to do was dictate the notes, set my out of office notice and get the heck out of there.
I'm ready for the holiday now. Oh, and for the race on Thursday. My first 10K race. I feel like I'm ready. I'll just cruise it.
Start time: 4:55 am
Run Duration: 42 minutes
Average Pace: 10.5 minutes/mile
Temperature: 63 degrees
Humidity: 97%
Location: Memorial Park, Houston, TX
I'm sticking to my training schedule. I know what I'm supposed to do on any given day - how far to run, or how long to crosstrain. The question of "if" is gone. I know I will, because I've committed to this. I'm feeling better as I add the mileage. I'm feeling better as I allow my body to rest on off days. The question of "if" is no longer. The answer is simply to look at my calendar and see what my assignment is each day.
This morning my alarm was set for 4:15 am. That's early, really early. I had to get up early enough to get the run in and get to clinic. I was halfway to the park when I realized that I'd risen from my bed, gotten dressed, headed out the door and started driving without resenting the early hour, without wishing I was doing something else. I also noticed that I was driving on cruise control - something I don't think I've ever done on the 610 loop between Buffalo Speedway and Westheimer. There wasn't any traffic and there wasn't any reason to drive any other way.
I arrived at work and pretty much plowed through a massive list of patients. I was still cruising. I started at 8am and I looked up at 3pm to find that I'd seen the last one. The only thing left to do was dictate the notes, set my out of office notice and get the heck out of there.
I'm ready for the holiday now. Oh, and for the race on Thursday. My first 10K race. I feel like I'm ready. I'll just cruise it.
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Running - A Team Sport
Distance: 5 miles
Start time: 10:00 am
Run Duration: 53 minutes
Average Pace: 10.6 minutes/mile
Temperature: 56 degrees
Humidity: 84%
Location: Memorial Park, Houston, TX
"I'm going for a run, want to go?"
"Sure."
It's a great thing to be able to meet up with a friend, spur of the moment, and get miles in on a Sunday morning.
~
I'm signed up for a 10K on Thanksgiving morning. I have at least one friend running the race and I passed on the information to another who will likely sign up. It will be fun to see them at the starting line early Thursday.
~
Another friend gave me a lead on a call for writing submissions. The topic? Running. I had a piece ready to go. Made the deadline.
~
I used to think it was a solo sport. I used to think it (running) was all about being in my own head, running by myself, and working through my thoughts. Somehow keeping them (my thoughts) to myself didn't help much and they seemed to build into something that was bigger - and sometimes more frightening - than the individual components.
Today I lift up gratitude for the sharing.
Start time: 10:00 am
Run Duration: 53 minutes
Average Pace: 10.6 minutes/mile
Temperature: 56 degrees
Humidity: 84%
Location: Memorial Park, Houston, TX
"I'm going for a run, want to go?"
"Sure."
It's a great thing to be able to meet up with a friend, spur of the moment, and get miles in on a Sunday morning.
~
I'm signed up for a 10K on Thanksgiving morning. I have at least one friend running the race and I passed on the information to another who will likely sign up. It will be fun to see them at the starting line early Thursday.
~
Another friend gave me a lead on a call for writing submissions. The topic? Running. I had a piece ready to go. Made the deadline.
~
I used to think it was a solo sport. I used to think it (running) was all about being in my own head, running by myself, and working through my thoughts. Somehow keeping them (my thoughts) to myself didn't help much and they seemed to build into something that was bigger - and sometimes more frightening - than the individual components.
Today I lift up gratitude for the sharing.
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Unsettled
I am unsettled.
I wait-
I watch-
I wonder-
and then I start all over again.
This overtakes me,
this listlessness,
this wishlessness.
Poured in a glass and left to aerate
on the counter,
it sends a memory of better times into the room.
It asks me to drink it down
quickly –
before the bouquet
can develop into something that matters
or that might matter
or that might weigh heavily enough to matter
someday
to someone.
At least I can drink it before the
sediment
(or the sentiment)
collects at the bottom of this
dirty, chipped and recycled tumbler
that pretends to be crystalline.
M. Scofield 11/19/2009
I wait-
I watch-
I wonder-
and then I start all over again.
This overtakes me,
this listlessness,
this wishlessness.
Poured in a glass and left to aerate
on the counter,
it sends a memory of better times into the room.
It asks me to drink it down
quickly –
before the bouquet
can develop into something that matters
or that might matter
or that might weigh heavily enough to matter
someday
to someone.
At least I can drink it before the
sediment
(or the sentiment)
collects at the bottom of this
dirty, chipped and recycled tumbler
that pretends to be crystalline.
M. Scofield 11/19/2009
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Production
Distance: 3.5 miles
Start time: 8:57 am
Run Duration: 35 minutes
Average Pace: 10 minutes/mile
Temperature: 46 degrees
Humidity: 69%
Location: Memorial Park, Houston, TX
I tried to sleep in, I had the best intentions. I was up at 6 am even though it's my day off work. I didn't relish the thought of running in the cold air. I did that the other night and I was reaching for my inhaler as soon as I got through my door. (I'd forgotten to use it in advance of the run.) I've not yet got it through my thick head that I need the silly thing.
This morning I puttered around the apartment for an hour before deciding I had to do something productive today. I packed another box. I can't believe just how much stuff I still have, after unloading so much fluff and flotsam. I can't bring myself to do away with some of my grandmother's things. They're simply too precious to me. They won't really "go" with my new place, but I'll find a spot for them.
By the time I felt it was warm enough for my lungs and my muscles, traffic was snarly and I took the feeder road all the way to the park. There was certainly no problem finding a parking place today. I've not seen the trails with so few runners before. I guess the cool weather really keeps people home.
I used my MP3 player today. I loaded Norah Jones and Adele onto it this week. Their songs aren't exactly peppy, but they are still sweet to listen to and I figured they would be good for distraction as my miles increase over the next few weeks. I wasn't ready to hear Adele's "Melt My Heart to Stone". Ouch. That's still a tough one. I just kept running. What's the alternative, anyway?
I washed my car on the way home and while vacuuming it out found my favorite pair of Ralph Lauren heels, abandoned in the back. Poor things. I'd put them there, planning on getting them repaired. No time like the present. I dropped them off at the Shoe Hospital. It won't be cheap but they're worth it. I've never found a pair of shoes that look so good and feel so comfortable at the same time.
Overall, it's been a good morning. I feel like I've accomplished a lot. The mileage is getting easier (or at least not so difficult), I ran a few errands, and I pushed past a reminder of...
...yeah, I pushed past a reminder. Kind of. One step at a time, right?
Today I lift up gratitude for feeling. It beats the alternative.
Start time: 8:57 am
Run Duration: 35 minutes
Average Pace: 10 minutes/mile
Temperature: 46 degrees
Humidity: 69%
Location: Memorial Park, Houston, TX
I tried to sleep in, I had the best intentions. I was up at 6 am even though it's my day off work. I didn't relish the thought of running in the cold air. I did that the other night and I was reaching for my inhaler as soon as I got through my door. (I'd forgotten to use it in advance of the run.) I've not yet got it through my thick head that I need the silly thing.
This morning I puttered around the apartment for an hour before deciding I had to do something productive today. I packed another box. I can't believe just how much stuff I still have, after unloading so much fluff and flotsam. I can't bring myself to do away with some of my grandmother's things. They're simply too precious to me. They won't really "go" with my new place, but I'll find a spot for them.
By the time I felt it was warm enough for my lungs and my muscles, traffic was snarly and I took the feeder road all the way to the park. There was certainly no problem finding a parking place today. I've not seen the trails with so few runners before. I guess the cool weather really keeps people home.
I used my MP3 player today. I loaded Norah Jones and Adele onto it this week. Their songs aren't exactly peppy, but they are still sweet to listen to and I figured they would be good for distraction as my miles increase over the next few weeks. I wasn't ready to hear Adele's "Melt My Heart to Stone". Ouch. That's still a tough one. I just kept running. What's the alternative, anyway?
I washed my car on the way home and while vacuuming it out found my favorite pair of Ralph Lauren heels, abandoned in the back. Poor things. I'd put them there, planning on getting them repaired. No time like the present. I dropped them off at the Shoe Hospital. It won't be cheap but they're worth it. I've never found a pair of shoes that look so good and feel so comfortable at the same time.
Overall, it's been a good morning. I feel like I've accomplished a lot. The mileage is getting easier (or at least not so difficult), I ran a few errands, and I pushed past a reminder of...
...yeah, I pushed past a reminder. Kind of. One step at a time, right?
Today I lift up gratitude for feeling. It beats the alternative.
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Arrogence
We burned down like wicks in our favorite candles.
Neither of us wanted to admit that there was
no
real
hope
of maintaining
light
after we went to the trouble and pain
of finally sparking a flame.
With our fingertips singed from our efforts
and our eyes stinging from smoke,
we sat in the dark and pretended to romance.
Could we not have used a torch, a lamp, anything different to light our way?
Were we that blinded by habit?
The ashes of arrogance are cooling in the kitchen sink.
It seems to be the only place to put them for safekeeping.
M. Scofield 11/17/2009
Neither of us wanted to admit that there was
no
real
hope
of maintaining
light
after we went to the trouble and pain
of finally sparking a flame.
With our fingertips singed from our efforts
and our eyes stinging from smoke,
we sat in the dark and pretended to romance.
Could we not have used a torch, a lamp, anything different to light our way?
Were we that blinded by habit?
The ashes of arrogance are cooling in the kitchen sink.
It seems to be the only place to put them for safekeeping.
M. Scofield 11/17/2009
Monday, November 16, 2009
A Few Words with Myself
Distance: 3.5 miles
Start time: 4:35 pm
Run Duration: 35 minutes
Average Pace: 10 minutes/mile
Temperature: 59 degrees
Humidity: 51%
Location: Hermann Park
There are 9 weeks until the Houston Aramco Half-Marathon. I pulled out the training schedule today and entered all the mileage from now until January 17, 2009 on my calendar. I can do this.
Sunday miles increase by 1 each week. Only 5 this week, I already know I can do 6.
From everything I've heard and read, getting up to 10 in training is the biggie, come race day, adrenaline will carry me through to the end. Lots of people have done this before me.
This evening's 3.5 felt good (despite the sore toe) and the weather was beautiful. I know the temperature is supposed to plummet overnight so tomorrow morning's directions to "stretch and strengthen" will be perfect with yoga before work.
I can do this.
Start time: 4:35 pm
Run Duration: 35 minutes
Average Pace: 10 minutes/mile
Temperature: 59 degrees
Humidity: 51%
Location: Hermann Park
There are 9 weeks until the Houston Aramco Half-Marathon. I pulled out the training schedule today and entered all the mileage from now until January 17, 2009 on my calendar. I can do this.
Sunday miles increase by 1 each week. Only 5 this week, I already know I can do 6.
From everything I've heard and read, getting up to 10 in training is the biggie, come race day, adrenaline will carry me through to the end. Lots of people have done this before me.
This evening's 3.5 felt good (despite the sore toe) and the weather was beautiful. I know the temperature is supposed to plummet overnight so tomorrow morning's directions to "stretch and strengthen" will be perfect with yoga before work.
I can do this.
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Crossroads
I walked 4 miles today, 2 miles to Reliant Park and 2 miles back. My friend Kerith and I decided it was much better than driving and spending 10 bucks to park.
This afternoon I met Chloe Dao (of Project Runway fame). That was exciting for me. What a thrill to meet someone who lives her life in her art. For weeks now, I've been thinking (obsessing!) about what it would take for me to live my life doing what makes me happy and fulfilled. I'm a firm believer in noticing...
...EVERYTHING!!!
I'm paying more attention to fleeting thoughts as they come my way. Ideas, "what if's", even dreams are little gifts that I don't think I can afford to ignore right now. I'm trying to listen. It feels very important right now.
This afternoon I met Chloe Dao (of Project Runway fame). That was exciting for me. What a thrill to meet someone who lives her life in her art. For weeks now, I've been thinking (obsessing!) about what it would take for me to live my life doing what makes me happy and fulfilled. I'm a firm believer in noticing...
...EVERYTHING!!!
I'm paying more attention to fleeting thoughts as they come my way. Ideas, "what if's", even dreams are little gifts that I don't think I can afford to ignore right now. I'm trying to listen. It feels very important right now.
Friday, November 13, 2009
No Crying
Distance: 3 miles
Start time: 2:06 pm
Run Duration: 29 minutes
Average Pace: 9.67 minutes/mile
Temperature: 77 degrees
Humidity: 48%
Location: Reliant Area
They say there's no crying in sport, but there was plenty of whining in my head as I started out today. I had no confidence in my ability to complete the 3 miles in front of me. I had a list of reasons not to run.
1. I hadn't run in over a week. It would be hard.
2. I have the end of a light cold, or the remainders of really crappy allergies.
3. I haven't been sleeping well because of number 2.
4. The area around the fourth and fifth metatarsals on my left foot hurts like a bastard. It's not my little toe, it's more proximal, deep in my foot. I've been afraid it might be a stress fracture, but I haven't been running for a week. I think it's more a matter of standing hour upon hour in surgery in bad shoes.
Add up 1 through 4 and they're all excuses. They're all outweighed by one big thing.
I WANT TO RUN.
Today, more than anything else, I wanted to put on my shoes, get out in the sunshine and sweat.
So...I put on my shoes, I stepped into the sunshine and I started to run. Oh, mama! My foot hurt, but only for a little while. I was running on pavement, which I haven't done in ages. I'll have to do it more often. The race in January is on city streets. My foot doesn't really hurt now, it's only a slight ache. I'll take some ibuprofen. My lungs burned. Yeah, they really did. I'd used my inhaler, but the pollen is still very, very thick out there and I felt it. I must have sounded like the little engine that could, chugging down the street.
I was more determined than ever to get these miles in today. They're in. I'm happy. It felt very much like when I first started running. I kept a litany of curse words going the entire time. I swore I'd get through it. And I did. Faster than I've gone in awhile. Surprise!
Lifting up gratitude today for the sunshine. It was simply too beautiful to waste.
Start time: 2:06 pm
Run Duration: 29 minutes
Average Pace: 9.67 minutes/mile
Temperature: 77 degrees
Humidity: 48%
Location: Reliant Area
They say there's no crying in sport, but there was plenty of whining in my head as I started out today. I had no confidence in my ability to complete the 3 miles in front of me. I had a list of reasons not to run.
1. I hadn't run in over a week. It would be hard.
2. I have the end of a light cold, or the remainders of really crappy allergies.
3. I haven't been sleeping well because of number 2.
4. The area around the fourth and fifth metatarsals on my left foot hurts like a bastard. It's not my little toe, it's more proximal, deep in my foot. I've been afraid it might be a stress fracture, but I haven't been running for a week. I think it's more a matter of standing hour upon hour in surgery in bad shoes.
Add up 1 through 4 and they're all excuses. They're all outweighed by one big thing.
I WANT TO RUN.
Today, more than anything else, I wanted to put on my shoes, get out in the sunshine and sweat.
So...I put on my shoes, I stepped into the sunshine and I started to run. Oh, mama! My foot hurt, but only for a little while. I was running on pavement, which I haven't done in ages. I'll have to do it more often. The race in January is on city streets. My foot doesn't really hurt now, it's only a slight ache. I'll take some ibuprofen. My lungs burned. Yeah, they really did. I'd used my inhaler, but the pollen is still very, very thick out there and I felt it. I must have sounded like the little engine that could, chugging down the street.
I was more determined than ever to get these miles in today. They're in. I'm happy. It felt very much like when I first started running. I kept a litany of curse words going the entire time. I swore I'd get through it. And I did. Faster than I've gone in awhile. Surprise!
Lifting up gratitude today for the sunshine. It was simply too beautiful to waste.
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
Ah-Choo!!!
No, I didn't run today. I was off work and I spent the day watching movies and doing laundry. I also packed a couple boxes. I'm trying to pack at least one box a day. Hopefully I'll be able to open the door when the movers show up and everything will go smoothly. (Optimism!)
I didn't get out into the "fresh" air until after 5pm and that was only to check my mail. I forgot that there wouldn't be mail delivery today because of the holiday. (Thanks to all of you who served our country. I appreciate you!) It felt good to be out of the apartment but I immediately started sneezing again.
That's me...itchy throat, sneezing, watery eyes. I'm a walking commercial for antihistamines. I didn't think it was wise to push the envelope and run today. Besides, I put in 10+ hours of work yesterday (straight through) and felt entitled to a day of rest. Maybe I'm making excuses. I don't know.
The pollen forecast says it's going to be better later in the week. I hope so. I feel lazy and sluggish.
I didn't get out into the "fresh" air until after 5pm and that was only to check my mail. I forgot that there wouldn't be mail delivery today because of the holiday. (Thanks to all of you who served our country. I appreciate you!) It felt good to be out of the apartment but I immediately started sneezing again.
That's me...itchy throat, sneezing, watery eyes. I'm a walking commercial for antihistamines. I didn't think it was wise to push the envelope and run today. Besides, I put in 10+ hours of work yesterday (straight through) and felt entitled to a day of rest. Maybe I'm making excuses. I don't know.
The pollen forecast says it's going to be better later in the week. I hope so. I feel lazy and sluggish.
Thursday, November 5, 2009
Over That Rainbow
Distance: 2 miles
Start time: 6:30 am
Run Duration: 20 minutes
Average Pace: 10. minutes/mile
Temperature: not a clue
Humidity: again, have no idea
Location: The Gulf of Mexico
I woke most mornings before sunrise. I was on a cruise aboard the Carnival Ecstasy. I only exercised "officially" one day this week. I made my way to the Sports Deck, quickly read the notice that let me know that 11 laps equaled one land mile and started running, counterclockwise as directed. I could see the rain to the South, and we were closing in on it. I thought I could complete my run before getting soaked. I did. This blog entry isn't about the run. But before I get to what it's really about, know that I took the stairs for 90% of the cruise and I danced. I danced a lot. I didn't gain a single pound on this vacation and I ate a thousand-million calories. Well, maybe not that many - but a lot.
Here's what this blog is about.
I just returned from an odyssey - a theme trip I never planned to take. It all started at Frankel's costume shop about a month ago. My friend Daryl wanted us to "really dress up for Halloween". He liked the thought of me being Dorothy, from the Wizard of Oz. (I'm from Kansas, right?) I bent to his will, plunked down my $65 and brought home a sexy little blue gingham number, complete with a petticoat and thigh high stockings. I purchased a wig, a basket and found a stuffed Toto to carry. I was all set for a raucous party on Halloween night.
Fast forward to the drive to Galveston to board the ship. Daryl told me he'd changed his mind. He wasn't going to wear a costume, he wasn't feeling so enthusiastic about dressing up. Uhuh. Fine. I did and so did another friend who went on the trip with us. By the time dinner came around we were tarted up, calling attention to ourselves and dancing the night away. Fun, right? Should have been the end of it, right? Not so simple.
Three of us booked an excursion to snorkel at Cozumel. We boarded our charter speed boat with about 15 other adventuresome folks and zipped off across the pristine waters. After a few hours of fun, sun, beer, chicken and veggies, we noticed the clouds building to the East (in the direction of our Mother Ship). They became darker and more ominous. Soon we saw a finger drop to the water in the form of a water spout. A big, ugly funnel had formed and we needed to pack it up and head back to the ship while we still could. As we grew closer and closer to the pier it became evident that we were about to enter a terrible storm. The clouds were black, the seas were rough and lightening played around us. Suddenly the crew of the boat stopped us dead in the water and told us to pass our belongings to the front if we wanted our things to remain dry. We did, fire-brigade style...and then it hit. We were in a deluge of rain, soaking us with a power that stunned us. At first we attempted to cover ourselves with our beach towels but we soon realized the futility in that effort and opened our faces to the rain, laughing. Our captain pushed onward through the storm, turning the music up. That was an adventure.
A twister.
The next morning brings me to my run. I finished my miles and moved to the front of the ship, noticing a rainbow like I'd never seen. It was just off the ship's bow with both ends of the arc sitting in the water. The ship was moving through the rainbow. As the rain started, the drops moved through the colors of the rainbow and lit up brilliantly, especially when they hit the purple stripe. Fascinated I stood next to a man and woman who were also transfixed, watching the show. I asked them if they'd ever seen anything like it before.
"No, but he told me that we needed to be here this morning. He said so when we woke up, so we're here." This is what the woman told me. This is how she explained their presence. We chatted a bit. We joked about how wet we were getting, but how we didn't care. He said he'd rather be wet than at work. They asked where I worked. I told them. They looked at me in stunned silence.
Their son will be coming to my hospital in 2 weeks with a diagnosis of a tumor that is within my subspecialty. They were so worried. I was able to give them comfort and to reassure them that he will be in good hands. I knew (immediately) about his particular diagnosis and was able to say, "Please rest your minds, please know that he is coming to the best place. Please know that I understand your anxiety, but it sounds like everything is on track."
A rainbow.
I was relaxing on deck yesterday with my friend. This one is simple. I looked up and saw something I'd never seen before. There was a rainbow in the middle of the sky. It wasn't attached to anything. It was simply an arc for the sun. James told me earlier in the day that the sprinkles we were feeling were probably blowing from miles away. I understand that water refracts the light. I get that. I also know that sometimes I need to see things that I've never seen before.
A different kind of rainbow.
This vacation I saw so many things I've never seen before. I thought thoughts I hadn't even considered. I'm lifting up gratitude for my traveling companions: Every day is a good day when I learn. I feel that they hold a mirror for me and I love them for their patience and compassion.
James (heart) was anxious to get home to his little dog. This love for another living being warms me and strikes me as pure and sweet and I am so lucky to call him friend.
Daryl (courage) has taken the steps to know himself and is willing to be himself in a world that is not always ready to hear passion and honesty. His belief in eye contact is inspirational. I feel safe in our friendship.
Bevilee (nerve) drinks this life to the fullest, arms wide, smile even wider. She is steeled for success, yet feminine. We have a friendship that goes deeper than the sea.
I'll take this kind of theme cruise any day. Oh, I guess there was one more thing. I did a little dreaming, about the kinds of dreams that really do come true.
Start time: 6:30 am
Run Duration: 20 minutes
Average Pace: 10. minutes/mile
Temperature: not a clue
Humidity: again, have no idea
Location: The Gulf of Mexico
I woke most mornings before sunrise. I was on a cruise aboard the Carnival Ecstasy. I only exercised "officially" one day this week. I made my way to the Sports Deck, quickly read the notice that let me know that 11 laps equaled one land mile and started running, counterclockwise as directed. I could see the rain to the South, and we were closing in on it. I thought I could complete my run before getting soaked. I did. This blog entry isn't about the run. But before I get to what it's really about, know that I took the stairs for 90% of the cruise and I danced. I danced a lot. I didn't gain a single pound on this vacation and I ate a thousand-million calories. Well, maybe not that many - but a lot.
Here's what this blog is about.
I just returned from an odyssey - a theme trip I never planned to take. It all started at Frankel's costume shop about a month ago. My friend Daryl wanted us to "really dress up for Halloween". He liked the thought of me being Dorothy, from the Wizard of Oz. (I'm from Kansas, right?) I bent to his will, plunked down my $65 and brought home a sexy little blue gingham number, complete with a petticoat and thigh high stockings. I purchased a wig, a basket and found a stuffed Toto to carry. I was all set for a raucous party on Halloween night.
Fast forward to the drive to Galveston to board the ship. Daryl told me he'd changed his mind. He wasn't going to wear a costume, he wasn't feeling so enthusiastic about dressing up. Uhuh. Fine. I did and so did another friend who went on the trip with us. By the time dinner came around we were tarted up, calling attention to ourselves and dancing the night away. Fun, right? Should have been the end of it, right? Not so simple.
Three of us booked an excursion to snorkel at Cozumel. We boarded our charter speed boat with about 15 other adventuresome folks and zipped off across the pristine waters. After a few hours of fun, sun, beer, chicken and veggies, we noticed the clouds building to the East (in the direction of our Mother Ship). They became darker and more ominous. Soon we saw a finger drop to the water in the form of a water spout. A big, ugly funnel had formed and we needed to pack it up and head back to the ship while we still could. As we grew closer and closer to the pier it became evident that we were about to enter a terrible storm. The clouds were black, the seas were rough and lightening played around us. Suddenly the crew of the boat stopped us dead in the water and told us to pass our belongings to the front if we wanted our things to remain dry. We did, fire-brigade style...and then it hit. We were in a deluge of rain, soaking us with a power that stunned us. At first we attempted to cover ourselves with our beach towels but we soon realized the futility in that effort and opened our faces to the rain, laughing. Our captain pushed onward through the storm, turning the music up. That was an adventure.
A twister.
The next morning brings me to my run. I finished my miles and moved to the front of the ship, noticing a rainbow like I'd never seen. It was just off the ship's bow with both ends of the arc sitting in the water. The ship was moving through the rainbow. As the rain started, the drops moved through the colors of the rainbow and lit up brilliantly, especially when they hit the purple stripe. Fascinated I stood next to a man and woman who were also transfixed, watching the show. I asked them if they'd ever seen anything like it before.
"No, but he told me that we needed to be here this morning. He said so when we woke up, so we're here." This is what the woman told me. This is how she explained their presence. We chatted a bit. We joked about how wet we were getting, but how we didn't care. He said he'd rather be wet than at work. They asked where I worked. I told them. They looked at me in stunned silence.
Their son will be coming to my hospital in 2 weeks with a diagnosis of a tumor that is within my subspecialty. They were so worried. I was able to give them comfort and to reassure them that he will be in good hands. I knew (immediately) about his particular diagnosis and was able to say, "Please rest your minds, please know that he is coming to the best place. Please know that I understand your anxiety, but it sounds like everything is on track."
A rainbow.
I was relaxing on deck yesterday with my friend. This one is simple. I looked up and saw something I'd never seen before. There was a rainbow in the middle of the sky. It wasn't attached to anything. It was simply an arc for the sun. James told me earlier in the day that the sprinkles we were feeling were probably blowing from miles away. I understand that water refracts the light. I get that. I also know that sometimes I need to see things that I've never seen before.
A different kind of rainbow.
This vacation I saw so many things I've never seen before. I thought thoughts I hadn't even considered. I'm lifting up gratitude for my traveling companions: Every day is a good day when I learn. I feel that they hold a mirror for me and I love them for their patience and compassion.
James (heart) was anxious to get home to his little dog. This love for another living being warms me and strikes me as pure and sweet and I am so lucky to call him friend.
Daryl (courage) has taken the steps to know himself and is willing to be himself in a world that is not always ready to hear passion and honesty. His belief in eye contact is inspirational. I feel safe in our friendship.
Bevilee (nerve) drinks this life to the fullest, arms wide, smile even wider. She is steeled for success, yet feminine. We have a friendship that goes deeper than the sea.
I'll take this kind of theme cruise any day. Oh, I guess there was one more thing. I did a little dreaming, about the kinds of dreams that really do come true.
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