February 27, 2009
I Can't Get Anything Done
February 25, 2009
On A Postive Note
I spend a lot of time on here complaining. I actually do not find myself to be negative in general, but do use this blog as my outlet ... and it seems as though the stuff that I am trying to get out is generally the cranky, complaining, pessimistic stuff. That being said, I did find a positive thing about the fact that I have to run over mounds of snow, in freezing temperatures, while dodging black ice.
According to a blip in Time Out Chicago, when "jogging on a frosty, snowy day compared to a dry, temperate one" you burn as many as 1.6 times more calories. Since the average person burns about 100 calories per mile running, that means I'm burning 160 just because Chicago weather sucks so much.
See? I can blog about good things too.
Training Log
Time:26:13 Distance:2.52 mi Pace:10:26
I knew I needed to up my mileage, but wasnt ready for the "big" numbers that this week asks for. I bumped up to 2 1/2 miles with a new route, and finally got to go out early (5PM) before the sun set! It wasnt far into the run when I was pretty sure I wasnt going to make it. I couldnt breathe, my legs hurt ... and I began to panic. How am I going to do an 8K in just a few weeks if 2.5 miles is so challenging?
I kept pushing myself not to walk, finding a little point ahead each turn that I could focus on and run towards. At one point I hit a pretty busy intersection and the light was red. THANK GOODNESS I COULD STOP! I prayed for a nice, long light. No luck, as soon as I stopped it went to green and I was off again. With my house almost in sight I hit another busy intersection, and was trying to rationalize why I should just walk home from the corner because of the traffic. As I hit the corner, I felt like Moses as the sea was parting. It was all clear. Again, I kept running.
I got home and checked Run Keeper. 10:26 pace? WHOOPS. The sad thing is, I was so tired during this run that at times I was running so slow I could have walked faster (seriously, Run Keeper logged me in at almost 14 minutes a mile at one point). So I am feeling a little better about myself now. I made it through 2.5 miles without stopping (though I prayed for reasons to stop) at a pace much faster than I could handle. I have to believe that had I run a more realistic pace that I would have easily completed this run ... and thats my goal for next time!
According to a blip in Time Out Chicago, when "jogging on a frosty, snowy day compared to a dry, temperate one" you burn as many as 1.6 times more calories. Since the average person burns about 100 calories per mile running, that means I'm burning 160 just because Chicago weather sucks so much.
See? I can blog about good things too.
Training Log
Time:26:13 Distance:2.52 mi Pace:10:26
I knew I needed to up my mileage, but wasnt ready for the "big" numbers that this week asks for. I bumped up to 2 1/2 miles with a new route, and finally got to go out early (5PM) before the sun set! It wasnt far into the run when I was pretty sure I wasnt going to make it. I couldnt breathe, my legs hurt ... and I began to panic. How am I going to do an 8K in just a few weeks if 2.5 miles is so challenging?
I kept pushing myself not to walk, finding a little point ahead each turn that I could focus on and run towards. At one point I hit a pretty busy intersection and the light was red. THANK GOODNESS I COULD STOP! I prayed for a nice, long light. No luck, as soon as I stopped it went to green and I was off again. With my house almost in sight I hit another busy intersection, and was trying to rationalize why I should just walk home from the corner because of the traffic. As I hit the corner, I felt like Moses as the sea was parting. It was all clear. Again, I kept running.
I got home and checked Run Keeper. 10:26 pace? WHOOPS. The sad thing is, I was so tired during this run that at times I was running so slow I could have walked faster (seriously, Run Keeper logged me in at almost 14 minutes a mile at one point). So I am feeling a little better about myself now. I made it through 2.5 miles without stopping (though I prayed for reasons to stop) at a pace much faster than I could handle. I have to believe that had I run a more realistic pace that I would have easily completed this run ... and thats my goal for next time!
February 24, 2009
I AM WEAK
All day long today my shoulders have been sore. I couldnt figure it out. Logically, I assumed I needed to carry around my 18 pound baby a bit less. But I carry her all the time, so why the soreness today? Perhaps because I did my abs class and ran yesteday? Yes, that must be it. But why would doing some exercise yesterday suddenly make me sore from carrying around Brooke?
Light goes on in head
We added a new exercise in my abs class yesterday. Push ups. Modified push ups (yes, the "girly" ones). The class focuses on the core, but we do some other things too (and push ups do involve the core anyway). So I did maybe 10 modified push ups, and my arms are sore today. If I had done the 100 push up challenge instead of just blogging about it, this might not be a problem. But instead, here I am. I can barely run two miles and I am sore after doing 10 girly push ups.
Light goes on in head
We added a new exercise in my abs class yesterday. Push ups. Modified push ups (yes, the "girly" ones). The class focuses on the core, but we do some other things too (and push ups do involve the core anyway). So I did maybe 10 modified push ups, and my arms are sore today. If I had done the 100 push up challenge instead of just blogging about it, this might not be a problem. But instead, here I am. I can barely run two miles and I am sore after doing 10 girly push ups.
February 23, 2009
Hal Higdon - Week 4!
Week 3 was a bust, this time I blame my husband. Due to him being sick, I didnt have anyone to watch Brooke, which made going out for a run a bit difficult (ok, impossible). Here I am, week 4, and I havent done any running since week 1. I had such high hopes, and now instead I am beginning to panic. I'm supposed to be up to a long run of 3.5 miles, and the longest I have run is 2 miles ... two weeks ago.
I was complaining to Jeff last night about the looming 8K, and how I worry I might not be able to do it. I know I can finish it without training, but I want to run it, not walk it. He didnt seem to get the scope of my issue.
When you were training for the marathon, you started with three miles. Whats the big deal?
The big deal is that when I started training for the marathon I was already in great shape. I was working out 4-5 days a week, doing cardio each time. The challenge to doing a marathon was that I had never run a step in my life ... not that I needed to get into shape. This is a whole new world. I havent done any cardio since my 1st trimester, and now have a five month old baby. (Thats about a year of no cardio.)
Anyway, I am still optimistic and now onto Hal Higdon's 4th week of my 8-week training!
Monday: stretching & strengthening
Tuesday: 2.5 miles
Wednesday: 35 minutes cross training
Thursday: 2 miles and stretching & strengthening
Friday: rest
Saturday: 45 minutes cross training
Sunday: 3.5 miles
My ab class is going great and at least I am doing the "stretching & strengthening" part! Of course, Brooke has a doctors appointment this week during one of my classes, so again I am falling behind :) Jeff is better and I plan to get back on track this week. Although I will likely have to alter the plan a bit from Hal's suggestion, I think I will still be on track ...
Training Log Time:??? Distance:1.95 mi Pace:??? Darnit Run Keeper! I went out tonight for 2 miles, knew if I didnt today that my "tomorrow" excuse would become too permanent. It was tough for two reasons: 1) my lack of running over the past weeks and 2) my pre-existing lethargy from this mornings ab class. I finished my run, and looked at my iPod ... only to notice that RunKeeper had screwed up again. The screen indicated that I had been running for only a few seconds and ran about .05 miles, despite the fact that I hit start when I left and didnt touch it again until I hit stop. I dont know what happened! Jeff said I had been gone about 25 minutes, with the 2 minutes or so I spent stretching out in front thats about 23 minutes (in the general area where I have been doing this run).
For my next run I plan on doing 2.5. I know it doesnt sound like a lot, but I'm already getting nervous ;)
I was complaining to Jeff last night about the looming 8K, and how I worry I might not be able to do it. I know I can finish it without training, but I want to run it, not walk it. He didnt seem to get the scope of my issue.
When you were training for the marathon, you started with three miles. Whats the big deal?
The big deal is that when I started training for the marathon I was already in great shape. I was working out 4-5 days a week, doing cardio each time. The challenge to doing a marathon was that I had never run a step in my life ... not that I needed to get into shape. This is a whole new world. I havent done any cardio since my 1st trimester, and now have a five month old baby. (Thats about a year of no cardio.)
Anyway, I am still optimistic and now onto Hal Higdon's 4th week of my 8-week training!
Monday: stretching & strengthening
Tuesday: 2.5 miles
Wednesday: 35 minutes cross training
Thursday: 2 miles and stretching & strengthening
Friday: rest
Saturday: 45 minutes cross training
Sunday: 3.5 miles
My ab class is going great and at least I am doing the "stretching & strengthening" part! Of course, Brooke has a doctors appointment this week during one of my classes, so again I am falling behind :) Jeff is better and I plan to get back on track this week. Although I will likely have to alter the plan a bit from Hal's suggestion, I think I will still be on track ...
Training Log Time:??? Distance:1.95 mi Pace:??? Darnit Run Keeper! I went out tonight for 2 miles, knew if I didnt today that my "tomorrow" excuse would become too permanent. It was tough for two reasons: 1) my lack of running over the past weeks and 2) my pre-existing lethargy from this mornings ab class. I finished my run, and looked at my iPod ... only to notice that RunKeeper had screwed up again. The screen indicated that I had been running for only a few seconds and ran about .05 miles, despite the fact that I hit start when I left and didnt touch it again until I hit stop. I dont know what happened! Jeff said I had been gone about 25 minutes, with the 2 minutes or so I spent stretching out in front thats about 23 minutes (in the general area where I have been doing this run).
For my next run I plan on doing 2.5. I know it doesnt sound like a lot, but I'm already getting nervous ;)
February 20, 2009
Warning: Reading This May Cause You To Waste More Time!
Just when you think you have reached the end of the internet, something comes along that gives you hope! Today, its "The 20 Wildest Webcams"! I have seen a couple of these webcams before, but most of them are brand new to me.
Last night I watched a couple get married in a chapel in Las Vegas! How cool (and kind of creepy) is that? I also watched a bunch of tourists taking pictures in front of the Duke Kahanamoku statue in Waikiki as the waves crashed onto the nearby beach (make sure to have the sound on, for an opportunity to get all depressed and realize how much better your life would be if you were in Hawaii right now). I tried to watch a karaoke version of "Forever in Blue Jeans (Neil Diamond) by a Key West tourist in ugly shorts (who was obviously tone deaf) but only made it a few seconds through the song until I had to opt out.
Today my goal is to spend some time watching other people do work as I peep in on Mandy hanging out at her office job, and check out Niagara Falls (last night it was too dark to see)! I have a very busy day today :)
Update: 12:34 pm
I checked in on Mandy, she wasnt at her desk. I looked at Niagra Falls, cool ... but nothing amazing. I decided to see if anyone was getting married in the chapel, but nobody was. So I went back to Hawaii ... and boy to I regret it. IT IS SO BEAUTIFUL! I have been to Waikiki (Honolulu) a few times and am actually familiar with the statue in the video. I dont know if that makes it better or worse - I can literally picture the scene. It looks awesome there, sunny, warm, people walking along the beach. Then, just because I HAD to, I did this:
Boy, am I an idiot :(
Last night I watched a couple get married in a chapel in Las Vegas! How cool (and kind of creepy) is that? I also watched a bunch of tourists taking pictures in front of the Duke Kahanamoku statue in Waikiki as the waves crashed onto the nearby beach (make sure to have the sound on, for an opportunity to get all depressed and realize how much better your life would be if you were in Hawaii right now). I tried to watch a karaoke version of "Forever in Blue Jeans (Neil Diamond) by a Key West tourist in ugly shorts (who was obviously tone deaf) but only made it a few seconds through the song until I had to opt out.
Today my goal is to spend some time watching other people do work as I peep in on Mandy hanging out at her office job, and check out Niagara Falls (last night it was too dark to see)! I have a very busy day today :)
Update: 12:34 pm
I checked in on Mandy, she wasnt at her desk. I looked at Niagra Falls, cool ... but nothing amazing. I decided to see if anyone was getting married in the chapel, but nobody was. So I went back to Hawaii ... and boy to I regret it. IT IS SO BEAUTIFUL! I have been to Waikiki (Honolulu) a few times and am actually familiar with the statue in the video. I dont know if that makes it better or worse - I can literally picture the scene. It looks awesome there, sunny, warm, people walking along the beach. Then, just because I HAD to, I did this:
Boy, am I an idiot :(
February 19, 2009
Another Change Of Plans
I mentioned that Jeff was out of town and my sister was in town (a convenient swap) for a few days. Jeff came back on Monday night, went to work on Tuesday, and started feeling lousy Tuesday night. Today is Thursday and he is still feeling lousy.
Of course I feel bad for him ... but this blog is about me, so lets focus on that. Essentially, since last Friday, I have felt like a "single parent". My sister was here to spend time with me and her (adorable) niece, and was a great source of entertainment. I would have gone stir crazy without her, and thanks to her I had an excuse to eat out for lunch about four days in a row. But she wasnt here to share in childcare responsibilities, despite the fact that she quickly learned how things worked. Aunt Jean would swoop in when Brooke was fussing, grab the diaper bag when my arms were full, and help strap a screaming baby into the dreaded car seat. She was a great help, but the majority of the work still fell on me.
Jeff came home Monday night and didnt get to see Brooke much, and by Tuesday he knew something funny was happening so he limited his contact with her. I have essentially been doing all the parenting for a week now. A week is not long in the scope of things, but I keep thinking about what life would be like if this was my life. I am so lucky for all of the people I have in my life, for all of the help we have with Brooke, for all of the support and love we are fortunate enough to have surrounding us. I already knew that the life of a single parent is challenging, but this small taste I have received has given me newfound respect. How those individuals manage to balance all things is truly amazing as a single parent is a Jack of All Trades. Single parents are so awesome, they should have their own holiday. Oh wait, they do!
The Point Of My Rambling
Ultimately, my point is this:
The gods do not want me to run
How did I come to this conclusion? It just seems like there is always something out there preventing me from finding the time, energy, or ability to run. While my sister was here it was hard to schedule, and difficult to go running while leaving my guest in charge of my infant. I knew I could put it off a day or two until Jeff came back, but then another road-block. With Jeff being sick he cannot come into contact with Brooke, to prevent the chance of him transferring his cooties. That means he cannot hang out with her while he is displaying symptoms ... but also should refrain from being with her for 48 hours after his symptoms are gone! I cannot leave her in his care to go out for a run, and thus I am back "off the wagon" until he recovers.
Thank goodness I started this ab class. I have gone twice so far, and today did my "homework" instead of going for a run. We have a list of 15 or so exercises that we are supposed to complete twice in-between classes. It isnt much, but I feel a bit better that I am doing something (compared to the absolute nothing I was doing pre-8K training) to get myself back in shape. I am also eyeing another race, but maybe I should try to make it though this one first!
Of course I feel bad for him ... but this blog is about me, so lets focus on that. Essentially, since last Friday, I have felt like a "single parent". My sister was here to spend time with me and her (adorable) niece, and was a great source of entertainment. I would have gone stir crazy without her, and thanks to her I had an excuse to eat out for lunch about four days in a row. But she wasnt here to share in childcare responsibilities, despite the fact that she quickly learned how things worked. Aunt Jean would swoop in when Brooke was fussing, grab the diaper bag when my arms were full, and help strap a screaming baby into the dreaded car seat. She was a great help, but the majority of the work still fell on me.
Jeff came home Monday night and didnt get to see Brooke much, and by Tuesday he knew something funny was happening so he limited his contact with her. I have essentially been doing all the parenting for a week now. A week is not long in the scope of things, but I keep thinking about what life would be like if this was my life. I am so lucky for all of the people I have in my life, for all of the help we have with Brooke, for all of the support and love we are fortunate enough to have surrounding us. I already knew that the life of a single parent is challenging, but this small taste I have received has given me newfound respect. How those individuals manage to balance all things is truly amazing as a single parent is a Jack of All Trades. Single parents are so awesome, they should have their own holiday. Oh wait, they do!
The Point Of My Rambling
Ultimately, my point is this:
The gods do not want me to run
How did I come to this conclusion? It just seems like there is always something out there preventing me from finding the time, energy, or ability to run. While my sister was here it was hard to schedule, and difficult to go running while leaving my guest in charge of my infant. I knew I could put it off a day or two until Jeff came back, but then another road-block. With Jeff being sick he cannot come into contact with Brooke, to prevent the chance of him transferring his cooties. That means he cannot hang out with her while he is displaying symptoms ... but also should refrain from being with her for 48 hours after his symptoms are gone! I cannot leave her in his care to go out for a run, and thus I am back "off the wagon" until he recovers.
Thank goodness I started this ab class. I have gone twice so far, and today did my "homework" instead of going for a run. We have a list of 15 or so exercises that we are supposed to complete twice in-between classes. It isnt much, but I feel a bit better that I am doing something (compared to the absolute nothing I was doing pre-8K training) to get myself back in shape. I am also eyeing another race, but maybe I should try to make it though this one first!
February 17, 2009
I Didn't Run Today, And I'm Not Running Tomorrow Either
I had a bit of a rough day today. It was long, and exhausting, and I am tired. I just couldnt find a way to squeeze in time (and the energy) for this run. My days are filled with baby blabber and diaper creme, and when I have a free minute I try to squeeze in a load of laundry or dishes ... but I often have a hard time finding time for "me". Today was one of those days. I'm relaxing right now and catching up on old episodes of shows I love, but no longer have the time to watch.
Tomorrow I have an event at school. Since I havent shown my face on campus in almost a year, I thought it might be a good idea to make sure they remember me. Luckily, its an evening event, which means that I dont need anyone to watch Brooke. Unfortunately, the evening is the only time I have to run (or get anything done in general) so that wont be happening tomorrow either. I have my 2nd ab class tomorrow, which makes me feel a bit less guilty. Considering the level of pain I am currently experiencing from yesterday's class, I can assure you its a good workout! I have checked my schedule for the coming days and warned Jeff that I need to run every day (after tomorrow) for the rest of this week :)
Tomorrow I have an event at school. Since I havent shown my face on campus in almost a year, I thought it might be a good idea to make sure they remember me. Luckily, its an evening event, which means that I dont need anyone to watch Brooke. Unfortunately, the evening is the only time I have to run (or get anything done in general) so that wont be happening tomorrow either. I have my 2nd ab class tomorrow, which makes me feel a bit less guilty. Considering the level of pain I am currently experiencing from yesterday's class, I can assure you its a good workout! I have checked my schedule for the coming days and warned Jeff that I need to run every day (after tomorrow) for the rest of this week :)
February 16, 2009
Hal Higdon - Week 3
Ok, week 2 was a bust. I blame my sister. Not only did I only do one out of three runs last week, but I spent the entire weekend eating candy and various pastries and other not-so-good-for-you-stuff.
Now onto Hal Higdon's 3rd week of my 8-week training!
Monday: stretching & strengthening
Tuesday: 2.5 miles
Wednesday: 35 minutes cross training
Thursday: 2 miles and stretching & strengthening
Friday: rest
Saturday: 40 minutes cross training
Sunday: 3 miles
I was going to run today to try to make up for last weekend, but since tomorrow is a 2.5 miler (which was what I was supposed to do yesterday) I think I will just stick with this weeks program.
I started my ab class today - which is 2X a week for 45 minutes. Today we didnt do much because it was introductory, and Brooke decided she needed some attention 1/2 way though ... but I got the exercises to do for homework and perhaps will go through all of them tonight ;)
Now onto Hal Higdon's 3rd week of my 8-week training!
Monday: stretching & strengthening
Tuesday: 2.5 miles
Wednesday: 35 minutes cross training
Thursday: 2 miles and stretching & strengthening
Friday: rest
Saturday: 40 minutes cross training
Sunday: 3 miles
I was going to run today to try to make up for last weekend, but since tomorrow is a 2.5 miler (which was what I was supposed to do yesterday) I think I will just stick with this weeks program.
I started my ab class today - which is 2X a week for 45 minutes. Today we didnt do much because it was introductory, and Brooke decided she needed some attention 1/2 way though ... but I got the exercises to do for homework and perhaps will go through all of them tonight ;)
February 14, 2009
Change of Plans
My sister is in town this weekend (and Jeff is out-of-town) and this has caused a bit of a stir in my daily routine. Between all of the eating, dancing, and karaoking, I just couldnt find time (or the energy) to put in my 2 mile run. Perhaps I will do it today, perhaps I wont. I'm not so good at sticking to a plan when there is a bump in the road, I tend to just enjoy the ride on the new path offered to me :)
February 12, 2009
McDonalds Has Failed Me
their "McCafe" coffees, a mocha. I'm not impressed! It pretty much
tasted like a gas-station mocha, in my opinion.
Honestly, I'm glad. I've been a bit worried I would like them ... And
the last thing I need is another excuse to go to McDonalds :)
February 11, 2009
I Might Have Screwed Up
Yesterday was beautiful and I opted to do a lot of walking with Brooke instead of my run, assuming I could just do my run today. Well, its been raining all day. I dont think it has stopped for more than 10 minutes. And, as I have mentioned before, I dont have a treadmill ... or a gym membership. That means I have to run outside.
I dont have time to do my run until about 7:30 tonight, so who knows what the weather will be like. What I do know is that its not going to be 62 and sunny like it was yesterday :( I dont mind running in a little drizzle, but it is really worth it to go out there in the middle of a rainstorm? Hmm.....
Update:
Training Log
Time:??? Distance:1.95 mi Pace:???
Around 7 pm the rain actually stopped, so I sucked it up and headed out for my run. It was a bit of a mess ... first I screwed up the RunKeeper, then it just stopped working altogether (it is too sensitve to other applications on the iPhone!). For some reason my earbuds wouldnt stay in and I messed with them the whole run. My headband wouldnt stay on either. Then to top it off, I seemed to be running directly into the wind no matter which direction I was running. Essentially, I am glad I got it in, but it wasnt the most fun I ever had. Due to Run Keeper's error, I do not have a time for the run ... but can guarantee you due to my fiddling and the wind, it was pretty darn slow ;)
I dont have time to do my run until about 7:30 tonight, so who knows what the weather will be like. What I do know is that its not going to be 62 and sunny like it was yesterday :( I dont mind running in a little drizzle, but it is really worth it to go out there in the middle of a rainstorm? Hmm.....
Update:
Training Log
Time:??? Distance:1.95 mi Pace:???
Around 7 pm the rain actually stopped, so I sucked it up and headed out for my run. It was a bit of a mess ... first I screwed up the RunKeeper, then it just stopped working altogether (it is too sensitve to other applications on the iPhone!). For some reason my earbuds wouldnt stay in and I messed with them the whole run. My headband wouldnt stay on either. Then to top it off, I seemed to be running directly into the wind no matter which direction I was running. Essentially, I am glad I got it in, but it wasnt the most fun I ever had. Due to Run Keeper's error, I do not have a time for the run ... but can guarantee you due to my fiddling and the wind, it was pretty darn slow ;)
February 10, 2009
Schedule Change!
We have unseasonably warm temps in Chicago today - 62 degrees! Since Brooke has never seen anything like this, we went out for several walks today - in total we walked about 6 miles.
Even though there were some breaks taken during this walking (like for coffee, and later a milkshake), I'm still thinking this is enough exercise for today. I'm going to count today as my cross-training day and move my run for today until tomorrow :)
Even though I ate a lot of junk today, I did stop in at the running store (one of my main reasons for such a long walk) to get some items I need ... including some Mizuno Breath Thermo gloves. Despite the warm temps today, Chicago winter is definitely not over, and after the finger incident I decided I may want to try some different gloves :)
Even though there were some breaks taken during this walking (like for coffee, and later a milkshake), I'm still thinking this is enough exercise for today. I'm going to count today as my cross-training day and move my run for today until tomorrow :)
Even though I ate a lot of junk today, I did stop in at the running store (one of my main reasons for such a long walk) to get some items I need ... including some Mizuno Breath Thermo gloves. Despite the warm temps today, Chicago winter is definitely not over, and after the finger incident I decided I may want to try some different gloves :)
Best Cup of Coffee - Consumer Reports
I've talked a bit how Starbucks has been suffering a downturn as more people are turning to home-brewed coffee. I myself am doing this as well, but its honestly because the weather is so bad I can't get to Starbucks ... not because of the economy (though that should be my reason). I am having some concerns now about the amount of caffeine I am consuming with the home-brew option. At Starbucks I know my latte has two shots of espresso in it, but at home I am brewing a pot of coffee and adding only some cream to my mug. So a mug of coffee (maybe two?) versus a lattee might not be adding up right.
But, as I sit worrying about my caffeine intake, the Consumer Reports comes out with their ranking of the Best Cup o'Brew. Interestingly enough, the #1 ranked brand is one I have never heard of before - Eight O'Clock Coffee. So, despite the fact I worry about my caffeine intake, I went out and bought some.
Luckily I am not out of my existing coffee yet (Folgers) so I have yet to crack into the new stuff. Now I worry a bit that it will be so amazing that I will have the desire to increase versus decrease my coffee consumption. Maybe I should just throw out all of my coffee and head to Starbucks regardless of the weather ... it might be good for my health :)
But, as I sit worrying about my caffeine intake, the Consumer Reports comes out with their ranking of the Best Cup o'Brew. Interestingly enough, the #1 ranked brand is one I have never heard of before - Eight O'Clock Coffee. So, despite the fact I worry about my caffeine intake, I went out and bought some.Luckily I am not out of my existing coffee yet (Folgers) so I have yet to crack into the new stuff. Now I worry a bit that it will be so amazing that I will have the desire to increase versus decrease my coffee consumption. Maybe I should just throw out all of my coffee and head to Starbucks regardless of the weather ... it might be good for my health :)
February 9, 2009
Hal Higdon Week 2
Week 1 has been completed with mixed reviews. I found getting back on the wagon (or pavement) to be both difficult and rewarding. My cardio strength has definitely decreased after all of those months on the couch, but I completed each 2 mile run without having to stop. I had a hard time (as in, didnt do it) finding opportunities for cross-training. I dont have a gym membership, any sort of at-home workout equipment, or any DVD's or things of the sort. I am starting an ab class in a week or so, and that will fit nicely into the plan, and getting my butt to Stroller Strides would help as well.
Week 2:
Monday: "Partial rest" (Use today for stretching and strengthening)
Tuesday: 2 miles, easy pace
Wednesday: 30 min cross-training
Thursday: 2 miles + strength training
Friday: Rest
Saturday: 30 min cross-training (it should be aerobic)
Sunday: 2.5 miles
Week 2:
Monday: "Partial rest" (Use today for stretching and strengthening)
Tuesday: 2 miles, easy pace
Wednesday: 30 min cross-training
Thursday: 2 miles + strength training
Friday: Rest
Saturday: 30 min cross-training (it should be aerobic)
Sunday: 2.5 miles
February 8, 2009
Run Keeper Round Two!
I gave Run Keeper a second try, with the same route to see if the problem I had last time was random, my fault, or something about the system that stinks. I mentioned that I was going to give Fitnio another try but after checking out both tools a bit more online I decided to give Run Keeper another shot. As a whole I like all that it has to offer - the only problem with it that I have is that it starts a week on Sunday (which is pretty common) and my training schedule begins on a Monday. My weekly tally for Week 1 of training was 6 miles (a bit less cuz of my funny numbers) but the weekly tally on Run Keeper doesnt match that because my 2-miler today counts for "next week". It might be nice to have the option to select which day of the week your week starts on (what if I started training on a Wed? Maybe I want my weeks to start and stop on a Wed!)
According to Run Keeper, the same route that was 1.87 miles last time mapped out to 1.95 miles this time ... which is the same (well, practically) as Favorite Run quoted it. I honestly cannot figure out what happened last time, but I assume that the GPS must have dropped, perhaps multiple times. I did turn off the wi-fi on my iPhone as recommended, and maybe that was the difference?
Training Log
Time:22:05 Distance:1.95 mi Pace:11:20
It may seem like I ran a lot faster here than in my other 2 milers. Perhaps I was a bit faster because I am feeling a bit more confident - after not running at all for over a year, starting back was scary and challenging. With a couple of 2 mile runs under my belt, I know I can run 2 miles ... so mentally the run is easier. But, most likely the change in my speed has to do with the weather. The other 2 runs I had to navigate snow and ice - but thanks to some warmer temps that was not an issue tonight! That means I ran more of a road-run than a trail-run: didnt have to veer and dogde as much, or slow down to avoid slick spots ... and I guarantee that was the minute or so difference in total time I took for this route :) (But lets just pretend I got faster, ok?)
According to Run Keeper, the same route that was 1.87 miles last time mapped out to 1.95 miles this time ... which is the same (well, practically) as Favorite Run quoted it. I honestly cannot figure out what happened last time, but I assume that the GPS must have dropped, perhaps multiple times. I did turn off the wi-fi on my iPhone as recommended, and maybe that was the difference?
Training Log
Time:22:05 Distance:1.95 mi Pace:11:20
It may seem like I ran a lot faster here than in my other 2 milers. Perhaps I was a bit faster because I am feeling a bit more confident - after not running at all for over a year, starting back was scary and challenging. With a couple of 2 mile runs under my belt, I know I can run 2 miles ... so mentally the run is easier. But, most likely the change in my speed has to do with the weather. The other 2 runs I had to navigate snow and ice - but thanks to some warmer temps that was not an issue tonight! That means I ran more of a road-run than a trail-run: didnt have to veer and dogde as much, or slow down to avoid slick spots ... and I guarantee that was the minute or so difference in total time I took for this route :) (But lets just pretend I got faster, ok?)
February 7, 2009
RunKeeper Review, 1.87 mile run?
My last run I used the Fitnio application, which showed a similarity to Favorite Run regarding my distance. Last night I used RunKeeper and something interesting happened ... the mileage was different. At first I thought it was screwed up and that the Fitnio application was better, but now I think I might understand what happened:
According to Favorite Run, my route was a total of 1.96 miles
According to Run Keeper, the same route was a total of 1.87 miles
In the beginning of my run I screwed up the Run Keeper system, and accidentally hit "stop" and then "resume". The cool thing is that it mapped me in between those two points and counted the mileage so I think it came out about even.
I havent used Fitnio for this route, but plan to next time. From what I can tell though, Fitnio is mapping me according to a street map (which is why it compares to Favorite Run) and RunKeeper is working more like a Garmin and tracing my actual running path. As Fitnio does not offer a map of my route I am not actually sure how it is determining my distance. Both programs link into the iPhone GPS system, so I would assume that they are similar ... but results so far indicate perhaps they are not.
Because of the map feature alone, I am leaning towards favoring Run Keeper. In addition, the online version of the program will chart out weekly and monthly totals by activity (running, cycling, hiking, skiing...). On my next time out I will retrace this same route with Fitnio and compare an actual route-to-route comparison just to be sure!
Training Log
Time:23:16 Distance:1.87 mi Pace:12:26
Again, this run went pretty smoothly. 2 miles isnt as big of a stretch for me as I imagined it would be...but I cannot imagine running an extra mile to make it 3. I'm definitely pretty pooped at the end.
I can imagine this software being incorrect with mileage beause of problems with the GPS, but have to assume the time is accurate. I used to run a lot faster (obviously a lot has happened since then) but still didnt feel like I was running as slow as 12:26 a mile. If I adjust for the distance to equal Favorite run, my pace is still only 11:52. There was a lot of ice, snow and water out that I had to slow down to navigate over (almost lost a finger the other day, didnt want to break my leg this time!) but still...12 minute miles seem really slow to me. I guess thats the point of training, right? Eventually to get back to my former self I need to get myself back in the habit of running, building both my physical and cardio strength. Expect to see quicker paces soon!
According to Favorite Run, my route was a total of 1.96 miles
According to Run Keeper, the same route was a total of 1.87 miles
In the beginning of my run I screwed up the Run Keeper system, and accidentally hit "stop" and then "resume". The cool thing is that it mapped me in between those two points and counted the mileage so I think it came out about even.
I havent used Fitnio for this route, but plan to next time. From what I can tell though, Fitnio is mapping me according to a street map (which is why it compares to Favorite Run) and RunKeeper is working more like a Garmin and tracing my actual running path. As Fitnio does not offer a map of my route I am not actually sure how it is determining my distance. Both programs link into the iPhone GPS system, so I would assume that they are similar ... but results so far indicate perhaps they are not.
Because of the map feature alone, I am leaning towards favoring Run Keeper. In addition, the online version of the program will chart out weekly and monthly totals by activity (running, cycling, hiking, skiing...). On my next time out I will retrace this same route with Fitnio and compare an actual route-to-route comparison just to be sure!
Training Log
Time:23:16 Distance:1.87 mi Pace:12:26
Again, this run went pretty smoothly. 2 miles isnt as big of a stretch for me as I imagined it would be...but I cannot imagine running an extra mile to make it 3. I'm definitely pretty pooped at the end.
I can imagine this software being incorrect with mileage beause of problems with the GPS, but have to assume the time is accurate. I used to run a lot faster (obviously a lot has happened since then) but still didnt feel like I was running as slow as 12:26 a mile. If I adjust for the distance to equal Favorite run, my pace is still only 11:52. There was a lot of ice, snow and water out that I had to slow down to navigate over (almost lost a finger the other day, didnt want to break my leg this time!) but still...12 minute miles seem really slow to me. I guess thats the point of training, right? Eventually to get back to my former self I need to get myself back in the habit of running, building both my physical and cardio strength. Expect to see quicker paces soon!
February 5, 2009
I Chickened Out
Info from The Weather Channel:
Now for Chicago, IL (60618)
22F
10F (feels like)
Clear
Humidity: 65%
Wind: SSW at 11 mph
Last Updated: 2/5/09 8:25 PM CST
Tomorrow is supposed to be 38 degrees - I've decided to keep my
fingers and just do the 2 miles tomorrow. What I do need to figure
out are some crosstraining options...
Still Cold ... A Bit Scared To Run
Today's training calls for another 2-miler. We have warmed up a bit, but the forecast says at 7pm (about when I have a chance to run) it will be 21 degrees, but feel like 9. When I had the little finger problem, it "felt like 0". So is 9 degrees a big difference?
Sure, its two miles. Maybe you are thinking I should skip it. Perhaps, on the contrary, you think I am a big baby and should just suck-it-up and do the two miles. The problem is, yesterday was a cross train day. I didnt have a chance to get out of the house and dont own any exercise equipment. That means I need to count dancing-with-baby and going-up-and-down-stairs-with-baby as my cross training. Despite the fact that Brooke and I did some pretty vigorous dancing yesterday, I dont think my cardio strength is all that improved ;) Tomorrow is a rest day, which I can handle. Saturday is another cardio day - since Jeff will be home I think I will go join the gym (finally) and do my cardio there.
But this still doesnt solve todays dilemma. I'm going to wait out the day and see how it unfolds, and check the temps before I decide. I'm thinking if I could run the other day and feel fine (except for the issue with the frozen digits) I should be able to manage today ... but my hand throbs just thinking about it.
Sure, its two miles. Maybe you are thinking I should skip it. Perhaps, on the contrary, you think I am a big baby and should just suck-it-up and do the two miles. The problem is, yesterday was a cross train day. I didnt have a chance to get out of the house and dont own any exercise equipment. That means I need to count dancing-with-baby and going-up-and-down-stairs-with-baby as my cross training. Despite the fact that Brooke and I did some pretty vigorous dancing yesterday, I dont think my cardio strength is all that improved ;) Tomorrow is a rest day, which I can handle. Saturday is another cardio day - since Jeff will be home I think I will go join the gym (finally) and do my cardio there.
But this still doesnt solve todays dilemma. I'm going to wait out the day and see how it unfolds, and check the temps before I decide. I'm thinking if I could run the other day and feel fine (except for the issue with the frozen digits) I should be able to manage today ... but my hand throbs just thinking about it.
February 3, 2009
I Almost Lost A Finger, So Run Cut Short
I planned out my 2 mile run and waited all day to finally have the time to run it. Jeff came home from work and I reminded him that I had to run, and he informed me that today was the coldest he has felt all winter and maybe you should skip this run. Trust me, I wanted to skip the run. I have been thinking of excuses all day. But, I knew I had to do it. Mentally in order to get on a training program for the Shamrock Shuffle, I need to actually start it - and today was my first scheduled run.
The weather channel says its 16 degrees but "feels like 0", so I put on all the layers of clothing I had. I then set up my new iPhone App, Fitnio, hit play on the iPod and took off. I felt pretty good the whole run. I actually felt much better than the NYD5K. I was actually enjoying myself, listening to the new Kanye West album and feeling the freedom of my minutes without an 18lb baby hanging from my hip.
But then...
I noticed that I had no feeling in the fingers of my right hand. I kept pulsing and shaking my hand, but nothing. I clenched it in a fist. Nothing. At this point I was past the halfway point in my run and had no choice but to continue. I cut about a block off at the end and entered my house in a panic, sure that I sacrificed my fingers for a stupid 2 mile run.
I ran my hand under water and the pain was almost unbearable. My middle finger was numb and without any feeling. Jeff looked up what to do for "frostbite" and suggested I wrap my hand in a warm towel, which I did. He got me a bucket of warm water and I put it in there. There was a delay, but eventually I got feeling back in my fingers.
Training Log
Time:22:08 Distance:1.93 mi Pace:11:29
In conclusion, I felt pretty good on my run if it wasnt for the panic attack I suffered when I was imagining the rest of my life with less than 10 fingers. I had to cut it a tiny bit short and head straight home, but basically ran the 2 miles. The Fitnio program worked pretty well - it synced up with the GPS function on my iPhone. I didnt have a secondary device (like a Garmin) so I dont know if it was accurate, but I did check my alternative route on Favorite Run and it said it was 1.90 miles. Assuming I ran a little bit crooked here and there, I think Fitnio was probably right on target!
Update: And to answer what may seem like an obvious question (immediately asked by my husband) "Were you wearing gloves?". YES! Of course! I told him it wasnt both hands, just my right hand, and primarily the middle finger on my right hand. "Well, were you wearing a glove on that hand?". NO, I was trying the Michael Jackson style of running. Duh, yes, I had gloves on both hands :)
The weather channel says its 16 degrees but "feels like 0", so I put on all the layers of clothing I had. I then set up my new iPhone App, Fitnio, hit play on the iPod and took off. I felt pretty good the whole run. I actually felt much better than the NYD5K. I was actually enjoying myself, listening to the new Kanye West album and feeling the freedom of my minutes without an 18lb baby hanging from my hip.
But then...
I noticed that I had no feeling in the fingers of my right hand. I kept pulsing and shaking my hand, but nothing. I clenched it in a fist. Nothing. At this point I was past the halfway point in my run and had no choice but to continue. I cut about a block off at the end and entered my house in a panic, sure that I sacrificed my fingers for a stupid 2 mile run.
I ran my hand under water and the pain was almost unbearable. My middle finger was numb and without any feeling. Jeff looked up what to do for "frostbite" and suggested I wrap my hand in a warm towel, which I did. He got me a bucket of warm water and I put it in there. There was a delay, but eventually I got feeling back in my fingers.
Training Log
Time:22:08 Distance:1.93 mi Pace:11:29
In conclusion, I felt pretty good on my run if it wasnt for the panic attack I suffered when I was imagining the rest of my life with less than 10 fingers. I had to cut it a tiny bit short and head straight home, but basically ran the 2 miles. The Fitnio program worked pretty well - it synced up with the GPS function on my iPhone. I didnt have a secondary device (like a Garmin) so I dont know if it was accurate, but I did check my alternative route on Favorite Run and it said it was 1.90 miles. Assuming I ran a little bit crooked here and there, I think Fitnio was probably right on target!
Update: And to answer what may seem like an obvious question (immediately asked by my husband) "Were you wearing gloves?". YES! Of course! I told him it wasnt both hands, just my right hand, and primarily the middle finger on my right hand. "Well, were you wearing a glove on that hand?". NO, I was trying the Michael Jackson style of running. Duh, yes, I had gloves on both hands :)
Please Tell Me They're Talking About Raspberry Scones
More info on Starbucks, after the company continues to suffer in this economy. Now there is word that the company will be offering "several breakfast pairings" at "attractive" prices. There is little detail, but information is expected later this week. Whenever people try to be mysterious about something and try to raise suspense, it always leads to disappointment. I seriously hope the "breakfast pairings" include the return of the raspberry scone.On A Running Note...
Yes, according to Hal Higdon I am supposed to run two miles today. I have wait until tonight so Jeff will be home with Brooke - which should time nicely with the snowstorm we are expecting. I am eating a lot of junk food to prepare for this evenings festivities, so things should go swimmingly.
February 2, 2009
But Did He Inhale?
So, Michael Phelps acknowledged this photo of him smoking a bong is real.Honestly, I dont think it is that big a deal. The guy is 23 and was having fun at a party. But, I do have to admit that I used to think he was awesome ... and now think he is a bit of a loser. He spends his time hanging out in LA and Las Vegas trying to act like he is some sort of hot shot. Yes, he is a great athlete. Yes, he did amazing things at the Olympics. But he isnt a super-hero and he just isnt as cool as he thinks he is.
And now he is majorly screwed. The only reason people still pay attention to him is because his performance in the next Olympics is already being talked about. There supposedly isnt anyone out there that can beat this guy, and even four years from now he is still expected to dominate. That is, unless he doesn't even get to compete. The World Anti-Doping Agency has set quite a few rules regarding drugs and athletic performance. The agency basically has a zero tolerance for any substances on their banned list, and the consequence is a 2-4 year suspension. Unfortunately for Phelps, marijuana is on their prohibited list ;)
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