Approximate calories burned on three miles, Sunday evening run: 300.
Approximate calories consumed in post run dash to Dairy Queen (small cherry dipped cone): 340.
Score: Dairy Queen 1, Jess 0.
TAT CN Header
Monday, July 31, 2006
Sunday, July 30, 2006
Early Sunday Morning
At 5:15 this morning, my dog, Scooter, was standing on the floor by the foot of the bed looking like he was gonna puke. He'd been to his dog friend's birthday party on Saturday night (a party humans were able to enjoy just as much as the dogs) where he'd been treated to doggie ice cream and other doggies treats, and at 5:15 in the a.m., it seemed that all of that was going to come back up.
So I leashed him up and took him for a stroll in the predawn hour. It was still dark out, but the humidity was already oppressive; I felt vindicated to discover that the early morning was no cooler than the late evening (thus justifying my need to sleep in and save my runs for night). We walked about half a block, and Scooter did not barf but he did attend to other business and that must've settled his stomach. On our return, I spotted another solitary human out, and lo and behold, it was someone running.
He jogged on past us and waved a sweaty "hello" and I immediately felt guilty. Here I was, a supposed runner, counting the seconds until I could return to the cool comfort of my bed when he was out here in the wee hours getting it done. The morning runners always seem more dedicated than the rest of us, and they know it -- smug bastards.
Anyway, the guilt didn't linger long. Once Scooter and I went back into the air conditioned house and snuggled into our cool beds, we were both sound asleep.
So I leashed him up and took him for a stroll in the predawn hour. It was still dark out, but the humidity was already oppressive; I felt vindicated to discover that the early morning was no cooler than the late evening (thus justifying my need to sleep in and save my runs for night). We walked about half a block, and Scooter did not barf but he did attend to other business and that must've settled his stomach. On our return, I spotted another solitary human out, and lo and behold, it was someone running.
He jogged on past us and waved a sweaty "hello" and I immediately felt guilty. Here I was, a supposed runner, counting the seconds until I could return to the cool comfort of my bed when he was out here in the wee hours getting it done. The morning runners always seem more dedicated than the rest of us, and they know it -- smug bastards.
Anyway, the guilt didn't linger long. Once Scooter and I went back into the air conditioned house and snuggled into our cool beds, we were both sound asleep.
Saturday, July 29, 2006
Some Help from "Runner's World"
There was an article in RW this issue that helped unveil some mysteries surrounding my pukey and poopy episode a few weeks ago. As many of you reported, it's not uncommon for you as well, and according to the article, it's a very common running problem. Running, I guess, can be a little tough on the guts.
First of all, all exercise is irritating to the stomach because blood is drawn away from the stomach to the muscles, but runners report more stomach upset than, say, swimmers or cyclists, and RW says this is because running has so much impact, so much jostling, that the stomach and the whole GI tract get upset. This can prompt diahrea, vommiting, and gas (all lovely side effects).
This explains why so many runners have reported similiar stops at gas stations. Runner's World suggests tweaking your diet until you find the right combination that eases your stomach, and to make sure that meals are spaced appropriately before running. And the article suggested a few foods to avoid or replace (obviously having a bowl full of high fiber cereal and a cup of coffee before a run will lead to trouble). The article helped me feel a little more normal, and gave me some helpful suggestions.
First of all, all exercise is irritating to the stomach because blood is drawn away from the stomach to the muscles, but runners report more stomach upset than, say, swimmers or cyclists, and RW says this is because running has so much impact, so much jostling, that the stomach and the whole GI tract get upset. This can prompt diahrea, vommiting, and gas (all lovely side effects).
This explains why so many runners have reported similiar stops at gas stations. Runner's World suggests tweaking your diet until you find the right combination that eases your stomach, and to make sure that meals are spaced appropriately before running. And the article suggested a few foods to avoid or replace (obviously having a bowl full of high fiber cereal and a cup of coffee before a run will lead to trouble). The article helped me feel a little more normal, and gave me some helpful suggestions.
Friday, July 28, 2006
Thursday, July 27, 2006
Oh, it's on!
Tonight, ladies and gentlemen, it was the showdown a la bowling, and let me tell you, the boys are bitter. Especially one in particular. Let me tell you folks, there's nothing more sour than a bitter man who has lost to the ladies.
It was a close match, and in the first two games, I will concede defeat to the team of penises, but the last game was all ours! In the end, it came down to a crucial tenth frame showdown between me and one of the he-demons, and while I fell two pins short, I gave my team the needed pins for victory (with a capital V, baby!)! These boys, well, they shed some tears, but it's nothing a few beers can't solve.
What I learned: A pitcher and a half of beer is the magic combination for me. I didn't light up that dingy alley until I'd consumed my fair share: So long attempt to banish belly fat! I need the empty calories to defeat those muppets who call themselves a bowling team!
It was a close match, and in the first two games, I will concede defeat to the team of penises, but the last game was all ours! In the end, it came down to a crucial tenth frame showdown between me and one of the he-demons, and while I fell two pins short, I gave my team the needed pins for victory (with a capital V, baby!)! These boys, well, they shed some tears, but it's nothing a few beers can't solve.
What I learned: A pitcher and a half of beer is the magic combination for me. I didn't light up that dingy alley until I'd consumed my fair share: So long attempt to banish belly fat! I need the empty calories to defeat those muppets who call themselves a bowling team!
Holy Hell, It's Hot!
Yesterday and the day before, the counties of South Florida issued "heat exhaustion warnings" and people were advised to not exercise outside, and if you work outside, it was advised that you take frequent breaks and drink plenty of water. The temps are not higher than usual for this time of year, but after weeks of cooling rain, the sudden heat does feel overwhelming. Yesterday, with humidity, it was 99 degrees out.
I know that everyone else across the country is broiling as well at this time of year, but I really can't accurately describe how South Florida can literally feel like a steam room: You walk outside and your sunglasses fog over, your car can be 120-140 degrees if it's been sitting in the afternoon sun, and condensation builds up along windows of apartment and office buildings. Merely standing with the dog outside makes me sweat.
So, yesterday I caved and went to the gym to run on the treadmill. I eeked out three miles, but barely. Not because my body was tired, but because I was mind-numbingly bored. While I do listen to music on the treadmill, there's nothing for me to look at but the digital numbers slowly ticking off the time and distance, and you know watched pots -- they supposedly never boil, same idea concerning watched treadmills.
Today is a cross training day, so that offers a little more variety at the gym, but tomorrow when I'm back to a run, I don't know what I'll do. I have three options: get up early, face the treadmill again, or wait until late evening (like 9 pm). Ugh.
I know that everyone else across the country is broiling as well at this time of year, but I really can't accurately describe how South Florida can literally feel like a steam room: You walk outside and your sunglasses fog over, your car can be 120-140 degrees if it's been sitting in the afternoon sun, and condensation builds up along windows of apartment and office buildings. Merely standing with the dog outside makes me sweat.
So, yesterday I caved and went to the gym to run on the treadmill. I eeked out three miles, but barely. Not because my body was tired, but because I was mind-numbingly bored. While I do listen to music on the treadmill, there's nothing for me to look at but the digital numbers slowly ticking off the time and distance, and you know watched pots -- they supposedly never boil, same idea concerning watched treadmills.
Today is a cross training day, so that offers a little more variety at the gym, but tomorrow when I'm back to a run, I don't know what I'll do. I have three options: get up early, face the treadmill again, or wait until late evening (like 9 pm). Ugh.
Wednesday, July 26, 2006
Burn Barbie
Today, my class had a lively discussion concerning Marge Piercy's poem "Barbie Doll" (I just love it when they get excited about something!). Here's the poem:
Barbie Doll
This girlchild was born as usual
and presented dolls that did pee-pee
and miniature GE stoves and irons
and wee lipsticks the color of cherry candy.
Then in the magic of puberty, a classmate said:
You have a great big nose and fat legs.
She was healthy, tested intelligent,
possessed strong arms and back,
abundant sexual drive and manual dexterity.
She went to and fro apologizing.
Everyone saw a fat nose on thick legs.
She was advised to play coy,
exhorted to come on hearty,
exercise, diet, smile and wheedle.
Her good nature wore outlike a fan belt.
So she cut off her nose and her legs
and offered them up.
In the casket displayed on satin she lay
with the undertaker's cosmetics painted on,
a turned-up putty nose,
dressed in a pink and white nightie.
Doesn't she look pretty? everyone said.
Consummation at last.
To every woman a happy ending.
I could be very teacherly and explicate the poem for you, but I think most can decipher the poem's theme about how women's physical appearances dominate people's perceptions of them (but I hope you noted the last stanza's irony: the poem's speaker is finally pretty, but she's dead). My class really got into discussing how the idea of Barbie is detrimental to our concept of how we should look, particularly how women should look, but the men had some astute insight as well about the pressure of physical ideals. (I'm sure some male readers could help us further understand the standards of masculinity that are applied to them -- you guys know you're not doing those bicep curls for the improved time on a mile.)
While I was walking out of class, still fresh from the dialogue, I thought about my own physical appearance, its value, and how running has changed how I see myself. I worry over my physical appearance just like anyone else, and I am certainly critical of myself as well, but running has helped me see my body as a strength, not a liability. Many of us first approach running as a way to lose weight or maintain weight (far more important), but once we discover the other pleasures of running, weight loss is no longer at the forefront of our concerns. Personally, running has helped me realize not what I want to change about my body, but works works well for my body.
For runners, we learn to appreciate what our bodies are capable of, and through running, we often discover new layers of emotional and mental depth (you can't help it -- I swear that the connection between running and thought is like a high-speed internet connection). In the end, I think athletes are still susceptible to societal pressure regarding physical appearance, but most of us value our health more than the mirage of health. And this helps us see the "ideal" of phsyical apperance as nothing more than a sham, a shadow puppet.
As many of my students were quick to note, Barbie is fake, she's plastic, she's hollow inside. So who wants that?
Barbie Doll
This girlchild was born as usual
and presented dolls that did pee-pee
and miniature GE stoves and irons
and wee lipsticks the color of cherry candy.
Then in the magic of puberty, a classmate said:
You have a great big nose and fat legs.
She was healthy, tested intelligent,
possessed strong arms and back,
abundant sexual drive and manual dexterity.
She went to and fro apologizing.
Everyone saw a fat nose on thick legs.
She was advised to play coy,
exhorted to come on hearty,
exercise, diet, smile and wheedle.
Her good nature wore outlike a fan belt.
So she cut off her nose and her legs
and offered them up.
In the casket displayed on satin she lay
with the undertaker's cosmetics painted on,
a turned-up putty nose,
dressed in a pink and white nightie.
Doesn't she look pretty? everyone said.
Consummation at last.
To every woman a happy ending.
I could be very teacherly and explicate the poem for you, but I think most can decipher the poem's theme about how women's physical appearances dominate people's perceptions of them (but I hope you noted the last stanza's irony: the poem's speaker is finally pretty, but she's dead). My class really got into discussing how the idea of Barbie is detrimental to our concept of how we should look, particularly how women should look, but the men had some astute insight as well about the pressure of physical ideals. (I'm sure some male readers could help us further understand the standards of masculinity that are applied to them -- you guys know you're not doing those bicep curls for the improved time on a mile.)
While I was walking out of class, still fresh from the dialogue, I thought about my own physical appearance, its value, and how running has changed how I see myself. I worry over my physical appearance just like anyone else, and I am certainly critical of myself as well, but running has helped me see my body as a strength, not a liability. Many of us first approach running as a way to lose weight or maintain weight (far more important), but once we discover the other pleasures of running, weight loss is no longer at the forefront of our concerns. Personally, running has helped me realize not what I want to change about my body, but works works well for my body.
For runners, we learn to appreciate what our bodies are capable of, and through running, we often discover new layers of emotional and mental depth (you can't help it -- I swear that the connection between running and thought is like a high-speed internet connection). In the end, I think athletes are still susceptible to societal pressure regarding physical appearance, but most of us value our health more than the mirage of health. And this helps us see the "ideal" of phsyical apperance as nothing more than a sham, a shadow puppet.
As many of my students were quick to note, Barbie is fake, she's plastic, she's hollow inside. So who wants that?
Tuesday, July 25, 2006
Down Boys
Perhaps because of a love for Carmen Electra or perhaps because of a love for strippers, my husband ordered Electra's Aerobic Striptease on Netflix for "me." Because I might like it for cross training purposes (and if it was viewed when I wasn't present, well, those things happen). So today I thought I'd give it a try -- I've been to strip clubs and those strippers look like they're working hard; therefore, I figured it had to at least give me a good warm up.These were my thoughts and experiences on it:
1. It's harder than it looks, and a lot harder to do those moves and look sexy while doing them. Granted, I was in a gray tank top and paint splattered sweatpants, so they didn't add to the effect, but truly, it's hard to lift your leg up and over a chair without appearing like a goofus (plus, let me say, that just getting the leg up and over the chair, and straight for that matter, was a difficult feat).
2. The head swivel and hair toss thing makes me nauseous. I just can't whip my head around like that -- I felt my brain slide back and forth.
3. While it was difficult in some regards, it wasn't what I would call "aerobic." Yeah, I felt a little warmer, but I didn't sweat and I didn't find my heart pumping with the exertion -- maybe all beginner strippers feel this way and the real stuff is left to the advanced women, I don't know. And, all I had to work with was a chair; I suppose if given a pole, the workout would be far more strenuous.
4. And I'm disappointed to let you know that I did not come out of the video experience looking like Carmen Electra -- dammit. (Sorry honey.) That's really something they should label on the disc.
So, I don't think I'd recommend it for aerobic purposes, but perhaps it is helpful in other ways (if you know what I'm sayin'.) As far as cross training, I think I'm better off on the eliptical machine or riding bike.
Monday, July 24, 2006
Cloud Cover
I felt like Eeyore this afternoon with a rain cloud over my head while I was running. It appeared that everything around me was dry, but I was getting soaked. Usually, I don't mind getting rained on a little, but this was irksome: Now I know why Eeyore always looked so said; it sucks being the only wet one.
Sunday, July 23, 2006
I'm Back!
Returned this evening from my Tampa weekend getaway. We had a blast! On Saturday, we went kayaking on the Weeki Watchee river and saw 2 turtles, schools of fish, a snake, two manatees, and a partridge in a pear tree. It was an all day trip paddling in the sun, but the river was cool, clean and refreshing, and when we weren't tangled in the trees, it was relaxing (but, lord, did we paddle!). Then, Saturday night we went to Ybor city (party central for Tampa), and had dinner and then went to the bars.
It was a grand time, and because of the generosity of a girl who latched onto my group, it was also a very cheap time (no, I didn't sell her my soul or my body, but let's face it, people like me, and whether those people are boys or girls, they like to buy me beers). So, I had my free beers and danced, danced the night away. And at 2 a.m. we found ourselves eating bacon dipped in cheese, and it was awesome (I always believe in eating something after drinking and before bed, but I have to admit that it is when I eat the worst food).
Today we drove back, but stopped at an outlet mall and shopped some. I got home, enjoyed a burrito for dinner and now I think I will unpack and crash. I think I've had about 8 hours of sleep all weekend, and I can't wait to snuggle into my own bed with my snoring husband and farting dog.
Tomorrow I'll have to return to my running schedule: Beer, bacon and cheese don't burn themselves off!
It was a grand time, and because of the generosity of a girl who latched onto my group, it was also a very cheap time (no, I didn't sell her my soul or my body, but let's face it, people like me, and whether those people are boys or girls, they like to buy me beers). So, I had my free beers and danced, danced the night away. And at 2 a.m. we found ourselves eating bacon dipped in cheese, and it was awesome (I always believe in eating something after drinking and before bed, but I have to admit that it is when I eat the worst food).
Today we drove back, but stopped at an outlet mall and shopped some. I got home, enjoyed a burrito for dinner and now I think I will unpack and crash. I think I've had about 8 hours of sleep all weekend, and I can't wait to snuggle into my own bed with my snoring husband and farting dog.
Tomorrow I'll have to return to my running schedule: Beer, bacon and cheese don't burn themselves off!
Friday, July 21, 2006
Gettin' outta Dodge
I leave this afternoon for a weekend away with the girls. I'm traveling with a friend to the Tampa area. I've never been to that part of Florida and I hope it is every bit of splendor I expect it to be. We're planning on a kayak trip where we hope to interract with manatees and dolphins (and where I'm hoping to find one to take home), as well as a tour of some bars (for educational purposes), and some shopping (as a sociologic study). I think it will be fun to get out of town for the weekend and leave the husband and dog to their own vices (I have a mental image of the dog laying there comatose from the rawhide my husband will dispense like Pez in order to occupy Scooter so that he can concentrate on the video games and meatloaf).
I'll be back on Sunday -- ready to go for my long run to burn off the calorie-laden food and drink I will consume over the next 48 hours. Have a good weekend, and until then: Peace out!
I'll be back on Sunday -- ready to go for my long run to burn off the calorie-laden food and drink I will consume over the next 48 hours. Have a good weekend, and until then: Peace out!
Thursday, July 20, 2006
Thursday-Shmursday
Yes, so I should not be allowed to post when I've been drinking, but it could be worse -- I could be drunk-dialing, so Blogger, in a sense, saves me from even more embarassing repercussions. You, my dear readers, just have to suffer the consequences of such incoherent rambling.
On the schedule for today: It's a cross training day, so I've been doing a combo of lifting/stretching/easy going cardio on these days. Tuesday I walked the dog, focused on arms and abs and did some yoga. Today I plan much of the same except a focus on legs for the lifting part. I also bowl tonight; that must score me some kind of extra credit with cross training.
As a side note, something unrelated to running, but related to drinking: I have terrible breath today. Probably a side effect of beer and, perhaps, the wings that peeled away the top layer of skin on my lips, but might also be from the coffee for breakfast and the onions on my salad for lunch. I feel as though I should be breathing fire. It takes a strong odor to detect your own bad breath, so maybe I need to go get a mint and do a thorough teeth-brushing. Icky.
On the schedule for today: It's a cross training day, so I've been doing a combo of lifting/stretching/easy going cardio on these days. Tuesday I walked the dog, focused on arms and abs and did some yoga. Today I plan much of the same except a focus on legs for the lifting part. I also bowl tonight; that must score me some kind of extra credit with cross training.
As a side note, something unrelated to running, but related to drinking: I have terrible breath today. Probably a side effect of beer and, perhaps, the wings that peeled away the top layer of skin on my lips, but might also be from the coffee for breakfast and the onions on my salad for lunch. I feel as though I should be breathing fire. It takes a strong odor to detect your own bad breath, so maybe I need to go get a mint and do a thorough teeth-brushing. Icky.
Wednesday, July 19, 2006
Drunken Post
Okay, so I haven't had one of these in awhile (not that I haven't been drunk, but I've had the senss to not post -- but not tonghit, baby!). So, I had a small moment of panick when I thought I was playing on the internet and missing Project runway (and I can't have that), but then I realized its only 9:18 and Runway is at 10 -- so, fhew!
Anyways, I went running earlier, around 5 pm (only two miles -- some days you just get it over with and say "good enough") and then met the hubby for "happy hor". With friends. Had some beers, went to new place to have more beers and chicken wings. (Basicallym, I burned enough calories to discount maybe half of one draft beer.) Wings were totally deliciosu but they mad emy lips burn -- seriously had to chek in the bathroom mirror to see if my lips were larger than real life -- so much fire!
But, wings nd beer has made me thirsty for ice cream, so I will eat some double fudge brownie goodness and watch runway. Awesome. Should not type when drunk. Bye!
Anyways, I went running earlier, around 5 pm (only two miles -- some days you just get it over with and say "good enough") and then met the hubby for "happy hor". With friends. Had some beers, went to new place to have more beers and chicken wings. (Basicallym, I burned enough calories to discount maybe half of one draft beer.) Wings were totally deliciosu but they mad emy lips burn -- seriously had to chek in the bathroom mirror to see if my lips were larger than real life -- so much fire!
But, wings nd beer has made me thirsty for ice cream, so I will eat some double fudge brownie goodness and watch runway. Awesome. Should not type when drunk. Bye!
Tuesday, July 18, 2006
Pukey and Poopy
Last night I went for a "destination" run to a friend's house and had my husband pick me up there. It was 5.7 miles and the run went well. It was hot and humid out even though it was late evening, but aside from the heat, I finished the run feeling pretty good. I promptly had a bottle of water (kind gift from friends) and a bottle of Gatorade my husband brought for me, and which he had to open for me.
When I got home, I took a shower and sat down to watch a movie, and then I started feeling crappy. My intestines started to rumble in that familiar way, so I went and pooped and expected to feel just fine, but to my dismay, I had to make a return trip to the bathroom. And again, and again. I had mud butt. But not just mud butt, I also had mudd mouth. Because as I was laying back in bed, praying that the previous trip to the bathroom was the last, I suddenly felt naseous and I ran to the toilet and heaved.
I don't know what was wrong with me, but my stomach hurt for the rest of the night and I got a rough night of sleep full of tossing and turning and making return trips to the bathroom (until there was nothing left in me). I wasn't running a fever and this morning I felt fine. So what happened? Was it related to running? Some kind of effect from, perhaps, the heat? I read in RW that diahrea and vommitting can be symptoms of heat cramps and heat exhaustion, but I was under the impression that they occured in the middle of such a hot run or right after. Could it have been something I ate? Could it be because I started taking vitamins again yesterday? Could it just be a weird intestinal phenomenon?
My husband said it was proof that running is evil, but I'm not certain it was related to the run.
Anyway, today I am fine and I'm drinking lots of water to re-hydrate, but I feel a bit baffled. What went wrong?
When I got home, I took a shower and sat down to watch a movie, and then I started feeling crappy. My intestines started to rumble in that familiar way, so I went and pooped and expected to feel just fine, but to my dismay, I had to make a return trip to the bathroom. And again, and again. I had mud butt. But not just mud butt, I also had mudd mouth. Because as I was laying back in bed, praying that the previous trip to the bathroom was the last, I suddenly felt naseous and I ran to the toilet and heaved.
I don't know what was wrong with me, but my stomach hurt for the rest of the night and I got a rough night of sleep full of tossing and turning and making return trips to the bathroom (until there was nothing left in me). I wasn't running a fever and this morning I felt fine. So what happened? Was it related to running? Some kind of effect from, perhaps, the heat? I read in RW that diahrea and vommitting can be symptoms of heat cramps and heat exhaustion, but I was under the impression that they occured in the middle of such a hot run or right after. Could it have been something I ate? Could it be because I started taking vitamins again yesterday? Could it just be a weird intestinal phenomenon?
My husband said it was proof that running is evil, but I'm not certain it was related to the run.
Anyway, today I am fine and I'm drinking lots of water to re-hydrate, but I feel a bit baffled. What went wrong?
Monday, July 17, 2006
Thought for the Day
I'm not really sure I deserve Gatorade if I can't unscrew the lid. Seriously, I have to use either the hired muscle of my husband or a rubber thingy that I also use to unscrew jars of spaghetti sauce. Gatorade is for athletes, so how much of an athlete am I if I don't have the strength to open the bottle? Am I alone on this?
Sunday, July 16, 2006
Fun in the Sun
It is called Sunday, so this morning, hubby and I packed up and went to the beach. Despite the fact that we live in Florida, and live relatively close to the beach, we hardly ever go. When we first moved here, we were parked on the sand every weekend, but after awhile, the appeal wears off and you have so many things to do at home that soon the beach just became something mythical. But we decided yesterday afternoon that we were going to go today.
So we packed a cooler and got out the towels and sunblock and headed toward the surf. It was great! We sunned, relaxed, read, played in the water some and then headed home (we can't be out there all day -- it's too hot, and we're from the midwest; we're not made for that kind of exposure). It reminded me how rejuvenating it is sitting in the sun (absorbing the Vitamin D). It's just so relaxing. And with the slight breeze off the ocean, the sound of the waves, the strange overheard conversations ("I don't think I'm hungover yet; I think I'm still drunk!" giggled a small blond) ... sigh.
Relaxing can be one of the best things for your health. Running is great for you heart, lungs, brain, muscles, etc, but taking the time to lay out on a beach towel can also reap just as many health benefits, so I hope everyone is taking the time to breathe deep and soak up some free time this weekend. We all need it!
So we packed a cooler and got out the towels and sunblock and headed toward the surf. It was great! We sunned, relaxed, read, played in the water some and then headed home (we can't be out there all day -- it's too hot, and we're from the midwest; we're not made for that kind of exposure). It reminded me how rejuvenating it is sitting in the sun (absorbing the Vitamin D). It's just so relaxing. And with the slight breeze off the ocean, the sound of the waves, the strange overheard conversations ("I don't think I'm hungover yet; I think I'm still drunk!" giggled a small blond) ... sigh.
Relaxing can be one of the best things for your health. Running is great for you heart, lungs, brain, muscles, etc, but taking the time to lay out on a beach towel can also reap just as many health benefits, so I hope everyone is taking the time to breathe deep and soak up some free time this weekend. We all need it!
Saturday, July 15, 2006
Bills, bills, bills
It often feels as though every single bill is rising: Electric is going up because gas prices continue to soar and our electric company needs to recoup costs from last year's hurricane, cable/internet are going up just because they can, and insurance (both car and home) is rising because of the risk of hurricanes. So every time I open a statement, I cringe a little in anticipation. But, yesterday I got a notice from my gym that says they are reducing my monthly membership dues by $5 a month!
I know it's a small amount, but added up over the course of the year, it saves me $60. That could buy me a new running outfit, or could be put toward a new pair of running shoes!
Of course, it could also buy me two tanks of gas (sigh); that's probably where I'll end up spending my savings.
I know it's a small amount, but added up over the course of the year, it saves me $60. That could buy me a new running outfit, or could be put toward a new pair of running shoes!
Of course, it could also buy me two tanks of gas (sigh); that's probably where I'll end up spending my savings.
Thursday, July 13, 2006
Blueberries: The Magical Fruit
Aside from the damage done to Veruca Salt, a blueberry has only good things to give a person; in fact, it seems that everywhere I turn lately I am reading about the wonders of the blueberry.
It can't cure cancer, but I think it would try -- it's that kind of fruit. But while it can't cure cancer, it is supposed to be one of the foods highest in natural antioxidants, so I guees it can be quite helpful in discouraging cancer. Among blueberries' other advantageous qualties are that they are good for your skin (as all antioxidants are), they help prevent urinary tract infections, they can help improve eyesight (even better than carrots), and they can help reduce cholesterol (the bad kind). Those tiny blue orbs do a lot for being so small (and I am always encouraged to see small things doing big tasks).
Keeping the wonders of blueberries in mind, I bought some at the grocery store yesterday and had them with some of the most delicious raspberries I've ever had and some (questionable, but edible) lowfat vanilla yogurt for my lunch. I felt like the healthiest girl in the world -- such a good little eater. So, is it wrong that I want to follow it all up with a bowl-full of double fudge brownie ice cream?
If blueberries are so magnificent, won't they blast away the fat and cholesterol from the ice cream? Are they that powerful?
It can't cure cancer, but I think it would try -- it's that kind of fruit. But while it can't cure cancer, it is supposed to be one of the foods highest in natural antioxidants, so I guees it can be quite helpful in discouraging cancer. Among blueberries' other advantageous qualties are that they are good for your skin (as all antioxidants are), they help prevent urinary tract infections, they can help improve eyesight (even better than carrots), and they can help reduce cholesterol (the bad kind). Those tiny blue orbs do a lot for being so small (and I am always encouraged to see small things doing big tasks).
Keeping the wonders of blueberries in mind, I bought some at the grocery store yesterday and had them with some of the most delicious raspberries I've ever had and some (questionable, but edible) lowfat vanilla yogurt for my lunch. I felt like the healthiest girl in the world -- such a good little eater. So, is it wrong that I want to follow it all up with a bowl-full of double fudge brownie ice cream?
If blueberries are so magnificent, won't they blast away the fat and cholesterol from the ice cream? Are they that powerful?
Wednesday, July 12, 2006
Runnin' in the Rain
This afternoon, it was cloudy and cool out, so I got my run in before dinner (score! I can eat as much as I want!), but I just went for a short run, 2.5 miles. I've been feeling sleepy/tired/sluggish/fueled only by my coffee all day so I just wanted to do my run duty and get it done with, and I wasn't up to anything with any distance. Still, it was enough time to get soaked. We've been getting rain here on a near-daily basis (gotta love hurricane season), and right now, we have a Tropical Wave blowing through (not entirely certain of what that means -- it's not a tropical depression or a tropical storm, and it actually has a rather pleasant sound to it).
But being rained on is not the worst thing that can happen to a girl. In fact, it's a bit refreshing.
Anyway, I gotta get going homies, "Project Runway" premiers tonight and I can't miss it (sure, it's still two hours away, but I must be prepared mentally and emotionally to absorb the fashion drama that will unfold). Check ya later, peeps!
But being rained on is not the worst thing that can happen to a girl. In fact, it's a bit refreshing.
Anyway, I gotta get going homies, "Project Runway" premiers tonight and I can't miss it (sure, it's still two hours away, but I must be prepared mentally and emotionally to absorb the fashion drama that will unfold). Check ya later, peeps!
Monday, July 10, 2006
Too Full
Yesterday afternoon, my husband and I went for a "date" and saw the new "Pirates of the Caribbean" (which I would recommend -- we both enjoyed the antics of Jack Sparrow) and then we went to dinner at The Cheesecake Factory where I scarfed down nearly all of my gigantic Chinese Chicken Salad. This would not be any kind of issue if I hadn't been planning on running last night.
We got home, and I let my food settle for about ninety minutes and then I was out on the road and planned to run five miles. But two miles in, I had a side ache and stomach cramps and felt like I might hurl (more than once I eyed the bushes and the hidden green of the golf course behind them). I pressed on for a bit hoping the pain would pass, but at exactly halfway I decided I had to walk (which is really a crappy dilema: walk the rest of the way on the loop or turn around? when it seems equal distance, it can be a problematic question). I thought I'd be able to walk for a bit, settle my stomach, and then resume running, but my stomach gurgled and protested the whole walk home.
Lesson learned: When planning an evening run, one of two courses of action need to be heeded: 1. Don't eat as much dinner, or 2. Eat much earlier and give the stomach plenty of time to digest.
In the end, after returning home I felt much better and went ahead and consumed half of the slice of cheesecake I brought home (had the other half for breakfast this morning); it was yummy.
We got home, and I let my food settle for about ninety minutes and then I was out on the road and planned to run five miles. But two miles in, I had a side ache and stomach cramps and felt like I might hurl (more than once I eyed the bushes and the hidden green of the golf course behind them). I pressed on for a bit hoping the pain would pass, but at exactly halfway I decided I had to walk (which is really a crappy dilema: walk the rest of the way on the loop or turn around? when it seems equal distance, it can be a problematic question). I thought I'd be able to walk for a bit, settle my stomach, and then resume running, but my stomach gurgled and protested the whole walk home.
Lesson learned: When planning an evening run, one of two courses of action need to be heeded: 1. Don't eat as much dinner, or 2. Eat much earlier and give the stomach plenty of time to digest.
In the end, after returning home I felt much better and went ahead and consumed half of the slice of cheesecake I brought home (had the other half for breakfast this morning); it was yummy.
Sunday, July 09, 2006
Backed Up
I just read this morning in the newspaper that Ft. Lauderdale-Miami (yes, two separate cities, but here, they are referred to as South Florida, kinda like Minneapolis/St.Paul are the Twin Cities -- it's really one metro area) is the ninth most "backed up" city in the US. Not traffic backed up. Constipated.
This is not a statistic to be proud of.
What's going on South Florida? Not enough fiber? Not enough water? Too much stress? Are plastic surgeons now tinkering with buttholes because they are unseemly (the newspaper also reported in the same article that Florida is second only to California as the "vainest" state; that fact is based on the number of plastic surgeons here)?
I know I'm regular. After that gas station scare a week ago, I'm still scared to run in the morning!
This is not a statistic to be proud of.
What's going on South Florida? Not enough fiber? Not enough water? Too much stress? Are plastic surgeons now tinkering with buttholes because they are unseemly (the newspaper also reported in the same article that Florida is second only to California as the "vainest" state; that fact is based on the number of plastic surgeons here)?
I know I'm regular. After that gas station scare a week ago, I'm still scared to run in the morning!
Saturday, July 08, 2006
It's the Clothes that Make the Runner
When I was a kid, I had many categories of clothes, but they could basically be broken down into three categories: school clothes, church clothes, and play clothes. School clothes were purchased new in the fall and refilled as needed throughout the year, but school clothes had to be nice clothes -- no holes or stains, nothing worn or faded -- even though they were mostly jeans and t-shirts. Everyday when I left the house, my mother carefully reviewed what I had chosen, not for style (she insisted I develop that on my own and thus she indured my obscure pairings and strange sense of coordination), but for wear, and she never did understand the grunge faze when I was in high school, so I had to stuff my hole-y jeans and wrinkled flannels into my backpack and change at school. But when I got home, I always had to change out of my school clothes and into my play clothes (in order to preserve the school clothes for as long as possible), and play clothes were often old or ill-fitting clothes that were suitable to get dirty, ripped, or messy.
Church clothes were a whole separate category and mostly consisted of various dresses, skirts and slacks that I was forced to wear for Sunday morning, because God wouldn't love me if I looked like a ragamuffin.
As a child, I thought the clothes stratification silly and vowed that as an adult I would wear what I wanted when I wanted, but the reality of being an adult means that my clothes have become even further subcategorized. I still have "school" clothes since my work is teaching, but I also have clothes for fancy occassions, for going out to dinner/movies/shopping/etc (casual and fancy), for going out to bars/clubs, for wearing around the house, for working around the house, and, of course, to add to these categories are clothes for working out. And even that gets further divided: yoga clothes, clothes for various types of cross training, and clothes for running.
Running clothes are distinctly different from other workout clothes because I wear specific shorts, specific sports bras, even wear specific socks and shoes. And because I have only five running shorts and five running sports bras, this means I end up doing laundry more than I'd like in order to just get my running clothes clean. (Although, I'd probably do laundry just as often anyway since my husband's hamper has a mysterious means for filling quickly.)
Some days, depending upon varying activities or work requirements, I may end up wearing four or five different sets of clothes. It makes me long for the days when things were as simple as "school" and "play" clothes; plus, it might mean less laundry.
P.S. Thanks for all the comments regarding yesterday's survey. It was revealing, and I'm glad to know that the illusion that everyone else is trotting along with their partner holding hands (and in matching running outfits) is merely whimsy.
Church clothes were a whole separate category and mostly consisted of various dresses, skirts and slacks that I was forced to wear for Sunday morning, because God wouldn't love me if I looked like a ragamuffin.
As a child, I thought the clothes stratification silly and vowed that as an adult I would wear what I wanted when I wanted, but the reality of being an adult means that my clothes have become even further subcategorized. I still have "school" clothes since my work is teaching, but I also have clothes for fancy occassions, for going out to dinner/movies/shopping/etc (casual and fancy), for going out to bars/clubs, for wearing around the house, for working around the house, and, of course, to add to these categories are clothes for working out. And even that gets further divided: yoga clothes, clothes for various types of cross training, and clothes for running.
Running clothes are distinctly different from other workout clothes because I wear specific shorts, specific sports bras, even wear specific socks and shoes. And because I have only five running shorts and five running sports bras, this means I end up doing laundry more than I'd like in order to just get my running clothes clean. (Although, I'd probably do laundry just as often anyway since my husband's hamper has a mysterious means for filling quickly.)
Some days, depending upon varying activities or work requirements, I may end up wearing four or five different sets of clothes. It makes me long for the days when things were as simple as "school" and "play" clothes; plus, it might mean less laundry.
P.S. Thanks for all the comments regarding yesterday's survey. It was revealing, and I'm glad to know that the illusion that everyone else is trotting along with their partner holding hands (and in matching running outfits) is merely whimsy.
Friday, July 07, 2006
A Survey
My husband doesn't run. In fact, he has informed me on many occassions that the only possibilty that would prompt him to run would be if something was chasing him, and he has expressed his confidence that if a rabid dog or brain-hungry zombie were after him, he would manage to out-run them. Or, at least give it his best effort.
Reading other bloggers posts about running with their spouse or significant others, sometimes makes me jealous: I have to bribe my husband to go for a walk after dinner, and I can't ever picture him going on a run with me. Yet, most of the time, it doesn't bother me that he and I don't share this activity, and in many ways, I enjoy running alone, and have never sought out a running partner. But I thought I'd like to understand how others feel about the significant other running relationship, so what do you think?
A. It's best when your significant other is also a runner and you can run together while training and for races.
B. It's nice that you both share a love for the sport, but it's best when you don't run together.
C. You don't care if your significant other runs; you just enjoy the support they provide.
D. Being single is the only way to focus on adequately training and racing; friends provide the support a romantic relationship would create.
Or, E: Whatever other way you might be able to categorize your relationship(s) and how it affects your running.
Let me know. I look forward to what everyone thinks.
Reading other bloggers posts about running with their spouse or significant others, sometimes makes me jealous: I have to bribe my husband to go for a walk after dinner, and I can't ever picture him going on a run with me. Yet, most of the time, it doesn't bother me that he and I don't share this activity, and in many ways, I enjoy running alone, and have never sought out a running partner. But I thought I'd like to understand how others feel about the significant other running relationship, so what do you think?
A. It's best when your significant other is also a runner and you can run together while training and for races.
B. It's nice that you both share a love for the sport, but it's best when you don't run together.
C. You don't care if your significant other runs; you just enjoy the support they provide.
D. Being single is the only way to focus on adequately training and racing; friends provide the support a romantic relationship would create.
Or, E: Whatever other way you might be able to categorize your relationship(s) and how it affects your running.
Let me know. I look forward to what everyone thinks.
Thursday, July 06, 2006
Run Home
Last night after dinner, my husband and I took the dog to the dog park and when Scooter had played his heart out and had tired of the park, they drove home while I decided to run home. Six miles.
I like doing that sort of running -- running to or from a destination -- I don't know why but it helps provide better motivation. For me, a running route's quality is assessed in the following descending order:
1. A run with a destination.
2. A loop run.
3. A run in which you retrace your path on the return portion.
4. A run on a track (indoor or outdoor -- doesn't make a difference, still on a repeating loop).
5. A run on a treadmill.
Obviously, I don't like anything that stinks of repetition.
I like doing that sort of running -- running to or from a destination -- I don't know why but it helps provide better motivation. For me, a running route's quality is assessed in the following descending order:
1. A run with a destination.
2. A loop run.
3. A run in which you retrace your path on the return portion.
4. A run on a track (indoor or outdoor -- doesn't make a difference, still on a repeating loop).
5. A run on a treadmill.
Obviously, I don't like anything that stinks of repetition.
Wednesday, July 05, 2006
Post Holiday Slump
Blogger seems to be running at the same speed I am today -- slow. After staying up late to watch fireworks last night, and being duly impressed by the neighbors who had to have hired a Hollywood pyrotechnician to conduct their display, and drinking many beers, and eating way too much food (especially can't get enough of the rhubarb cake!), I was slow to rise this morning. The dog was also tired this morning (he did far more running in an afternoon yesterday than I do in a week, but it's not that often that he gets to run wild in someone's backyard with six other dogs), and he didn't even get up when I left for work.
The husband got to sleep in a little longer today since he didn't have a classroom full of students waiting for him at work. Bastard.
My students had just about as much enthusiasm as I did this morning, and it certainly reaffirmed my belief that the day after the fourth should be the national holiday -- that's when we really need it! (Then, and on November 1st -- I need the day after Halloween off.) But since I took yesterday off of running, that means today is the day to hit the pavement and get back on track; it's not a holiday any longer.
I'll hold off on the run until this evening when the sun sets, and until then, I might need a little nappy nap.
The husband got to sleep in a little longer today since he didn't have a classroom full of students waiting for him at work. Bastard.
My students had just about as much enthusiasm as I did this morning, and it certainly reaffirmed my belief that the day after the fourth should be the national holiday -- that's when we really need it! (Then, and on November 1st -- I need the day after Halloween off.) But since I took yesterday off of running, that means today is the day to hit the pavement and get back on track; it's not a holiday any longer.
I'll hold off on the run until this evening when the sun sets, and until then, I might need a little nappy nap.
Tuesday, July 04, 2006
Happy Fourth!
It's gonna be a warm one here: This morning when I took the dog out for a walk, it was already 83 degrees and the sun was beating down. It's gonna be a hot day out in the sun, so in order to properly prepare for the afternoon BBQing and beer guzzling, I have thus begun the hydration process, and I plan to drink many bottles of water before I switch to bottles of beer this afternoon. (I'm so smart.)And then, after we have had many drinks, we will follow the great American tradition of lighting things on fire -- because that only makes sense. (Actually the only one in danger of losing a hand is my husband since I generally only handle sparklers; still, everyone should say a short prayer for his ten fingers.) That's it for the holiday agenda for us; it's gonna be awesome!
I hope everyone else has a good holiday as well! Enjoy the day.
Monday, July 03, 2006
Long Weekend
It's funny how doing nothing leads to doing nothing, as if inactivity reproduces.
For this long Fourth of July weekend, I have managed to do as little as possible, even though I still got trapped in doing some work around the house and I was tricked into grocery shopping (one of the most evil chores), but today there really are no chores left to do (not entirely true, the house could be cleaned and the last load of laundry that's still sitting in the dryer could actually be folded instead of left to sit in the dryer). And even though this laziness should provide me with extra energy to exercise, it really leaves me with the desire to do nothing.
Although, I did run five miles yesterday evening in the slow drizzle. That's got to count for a lot on a long weekend.
For this long Fourth of July weekend, I have managed to do as little as possible, even though I still got trapped in doing some work around the house and I was tricked into grocery shopping (one of the most evil chores), but today there really are no chores left to do (not entirely true, the house could be cleaned and the last load of laundry that's still sitting in the dryer could actually be folded instead of left to sit in the dryer). And even though this laziness should provide me with extra energy to exercise, it really leaves me with the desire to do nothing.
Although, I did run five miles yesterday evening in the slow drizzle. That's got to count for a lot on a long weekend.
Sunday, July 02, 2006
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