or the things that I obsess over the things that regularly deplete my checking account.
It's no secret I love running. I absolutely adore it. Which is why when I was sick over the weekend and didn't manage to run (let's not talk about it, k?) I actually spent the rest of the weekend in tears and major depression. I had let myself down. I've run sick before! I've run injured, exhausted, 24 hours out of the hospital--you name it. But, ::knocks on wood:: I've been blessed this training cycle and couldn't risk messing it all up because of my stupidity (which we all know I am 100% capable of). (still pretty damn pissed off at myself though) (although, I ran this morning which was awesome considering I can rarely pull myself out of bed on Monday mornings) (oh, and then I lifted weights at lunch. And spent 30 minutes looking for parking near my office after that outing)
I finally pulled myself together for a quick Valentine's shopping trip and a trip to REI for hiking boots (omg, don't get me started--short story: 2 days after running up hill upon hill in Catalina, I'm taking a group of teenagers on a 3 day hike in the muddy N. Texas woods. Did I mention I have to pull a handcart? And get no soda? yeahhh.... hiking boots= it's really happening).
While at REI, I loaded up on ShotBloks and the like as I gear up for marathons and long runs which led me to this lovely list of things that make my running hall of fame (or, loves).
With Valentine's Day less than a week away, here are some of my running loooooves:
Fuel Belts: Cannot go more than 8 miles without one. I get dehydrated like whoa, so, I needs me some water. If it's anything less than 8, I can make it with the water fountains along my neighborhood or at the lake, anything longer and I freak the heck out.
Cliff Shot Bloks: With caffeine please! These babies pull me through pre-dawn treadmill workouts (I eat one or two before leaving the house--they amp me up enough to where I know I better just go to the gym, otherwise I'll just lay in bed wide awake=fail), races and long runs. Sure, not the tastiest, but, at mile 9 of a run/race, I'm hungry and need somethin' to keep me going. They do the trick.
Powerade Zero: Goes in my fuelbelt for long runs and races and is my beverage of choice Friday-Sunday as I prepare and recover from long runs. (I usually dilute it a bit with water)
Nike shorts/capris/pants: I wear a lot of on-sale or less expensive running gear, but, my Nike bottoms are my hands down favorites and one of the few things I will pay full price for. Not too tight, dry material and they last. Love them (and I just bought a new pair over the weekend since I wear my capris all.the.time and never seem to have a clean pair. Solution? More pairs!)
My Garmin: Yes, I'm a Garmin junky. I get all twitchy and weird without it. For real. I don't have a great ability to pace myself (yet) and having the pace alerts is really helpful. And it's sad that I kind of live for the little jingle of it ticking off another mile. (honestly, sweetest sound in the world on a long run)
Body Glide: I'm the queen of weird chaffing (my lower back?!) and do not go out without this stuff. There's nothing worse than being mid way into a good run only to be hit with some nice chaffing. It kind of ruins it all from that point (at least for me). I forgot it a few weeks ago and was hurting major by the time I got home.
Tech/Dri tees: Best.invention.ever. I'm not brand picky on these, they rock no matter what. How I ever ran in cotton will forever be a mystery (of course this was back when I wasn't running all that long, but, still!)
Compression socks: I fully attribute my success in this training cycle to these bad boys. I bought them 3 weeks before my first marathon and pretty much wear then after anything 6 miles or more. I'm injury prone and battled a nasty calf injury for months and these have really made a huge difference in recovery and overall soreness. I fully recommend these to anyone.
SweatyBands headbands: Obviously, these are lady specific, and they are my favorite. They aren't too tight (I find the Goody ones to be too tight) and they have fun patterns and prints and have a soft underpart that keeps them locked on your noggin. I wore one in my Nov. 1 half marathon, my first marathon and on 90% of my training runs. My current favorite print is my green one with blue turtles--turtles are my running symbol, if you will.
Well, lovelies, there you have it, my running loves. (there are many, many more as my closet and gym bag would tell you, but, that's a nice lil summary, yes?)
Now, I'm dying to hear, what are some of yours??
Monday, February 8, 2010
Friday, February 5, 2010
10 reasons I should totally be a spy
So, last night I had to do some spy work via my job, and I wasn't really looking forward to it because lying is not something I love to do (I realize this clashes with my 'reasons I should be a spy', but, whatever).
But, I had no choice so I sucked it up and put on a happy face. Let me just tell you, the lovely people from a rival had me like putty in their hands--I was ready to pack up and move to Arkansas. Free tuition? And you're going to pay me? And I get a guaranteed job? Sign me the heck up.
If I had any desire to work in those specific industries, you can bet your bottom dollar I would have signed in blood for that deal. Yes, even leaving behind my beloved house--kids, that's how desperate things are around here. I'm willing to go back to school and move to Arkansas. Who am I? (not that I have anything against Arkansas, I actually quite like it, I just can't imagine leaving my house, my city and my life here)
On that note, since I was so awesome at my sneaky spy skills, I'm pretty sure that's the field I'm cut out for.
Watch out Michael Westen.
1. I'm nondescript--I mean, really, who's going to to suspect a little readheaded girl? No one. Obviously, I'm innocent.
2. I'm tough. I took kickboxing for like 6 months (which automatically makes me a badass). I could roundhouse your ass. I mean, I might be short, and not particularly fast, but, I bet I could outrun a terrorist or bad guy. I mean, can they run 26.2 miles? Probably not.
3. I enjoy foreign travel, dressing up and whatnot. I'd be happy to learn to languages and tackle accents. Just sayin'.
4. I might have gluten and lactose sensitivities, but, I'm willing to pretty much eat anything, so, I'd be fine in the mountains of Afghanistan or whatever.
5. My dad is a chemist and I like to cook, thus, I'm pretty sure I could come up with poisons and explosives and stuff that the others guys wouldn't expect (poisoned warm chocolate chip cookies, anyone?).
6. My dad? Also a pyrotechnic. I'm good with explosives. I could figure out C4.
7. I like fancy cars. I'm willing to drive an Aston Martin for the team.
8. I could live pretty much anywhere (except Siberia, don't send me to Siberia).
9. I'm a quick learner--for real. And a good memory.
10. James Bond, Jason Bourne, Michael Westen, anyone? Sign me up.
See, obviously, I'm overqualified. I'm not really one for office jobs anyway.
Where's the dotted line?
But, I had no choice so I sucked it up and put on a happy face. Let me just tell you, the lovely people from a rival had me like putty in their hands--I was ready to pack up and move to Arkansas. Free tuition? And you're going to pay me? And I get a guaranteed job? Sign me the heck up.
If I had any desire to work in those specific industries, you can bet your bottom dollar I would have signed in blood for that deal. Yes, even leaving behind my beloved house--kids, that's how desperate things are around here. I'm willing to go back to school and move to Arkansas. Who am I? (not that I have anything against Arkansas, I actually quite like it, I just can't imagine leaving my house, my city and my life here)
On that note, since I was so awesome at my sneaky spy skills, I'm pretty sure that's the field I'm cut out for.
Watch out Michael Westen.
1. I'm nondescript--I mean, really, who's going to to suspect a little readheaded girl? No one. Obviously, I'm innocent.
2. I'm tough. I took kickboxing for like 6 months (which automatically makes me a badass). I could roundhouse your ass. I mean, I might be short, and not particularly fast, but, I bet I could outrun a terrorist or bad guy. I mean, can they run 26.2 miles? Probably not.
3. I enjoy foreign travel, dressing up and whatnot. I'd be happy to learn to languages and tackle accents. Just sayin'.
4. I might have gluten and lactose sensitivities, but, I'm willing to pretty much eat anything, so, I'd be fine in the mountains of Afghanistan or whatever.
5. My dad is a chemist and I like to cook, thus, I'm pretty sure I could come up with poisons and explosives and stuff that the others guys wouldn't expect (poisoned warm chocolate chip cookies, anyone?).
6. My dad? Also a pyrotechnic. I'm good with explosives. I could figure out C4.
7. I like fancy cars. I'm willing to drive an Aston Martin for the team.
8. I could live pretty much anywhere (except Siberia, don't send me to Siberia).
9. I'm a quick learner--for real. And a good memory.
10. James Bond, Jason Bourne, Michael Westen, anyone? Sign me up.
See, obviously, I'm overqualified. I'm not really one for office jobs anyway.
Where's the dotted line?
Wednesday, February 3, 2010
Love, love, love
Since it is after all the month of loooove with Valentine's Day and all, and since I'm feeling especially happy and sappy today (thanks in part to my kick ass 6 miler--dude, in 54 minutes, that's like super fast for me--this was also intervals, so, that's my overall time, but, whatever) I thought I'd ramble about a few things that I love right now (and since happiness is fleeting this week--ugh, work, work, job, bleh! we better take it while we can)
In no particular order...
The crazy happy sounds my Ella Mae beagle makes whenever I come home. It's like "Hi, hi, hi Mom! You're home. I missed you so. What if you never came back? Squirrel!". Makes me so happy.
Boxer wiggles. If you've ever seen a boxer, you know they're wiggle machines, and my Butchie boy is no exception.
Hand me down family heirloom quilts like the one currently on my bed. Handmade (handmade!) by my grandma.
Snuggling on said quilt before bed with the beagle. She gets in bed early and waits for me as we're both early to bed. Me because I wake up to run, she just needs a good 11hrs+ for her beauty sleep.
Candles. My collection is out of control!
Chips & salsa. My snack of choice and a dietary staple as far as I'm concerned!
Congratulations on a job well done (rare, like Bigfoot, but, still, very exciting).
The Dallas Running Club. I love those crazies. Wouldn't have run a marathon without them!
Blog friends--y'all rock my face off! I heart you big time. Be my Valentine?
Horribly tacky but super warm sweatshirts. No shame in my game, kids.
Chocolate. Another dietary staple. Nope, couldn't be a vegan--I've made peace with that.
Diet Coke. Cause really, y'all don't want to see me without it.
Vacations. We finally might be able to go on one! It looks like Florida or Mexico this summer (we haven't booked anything because we're currently still trying to figure out how on God's green earth we are going to get to Catalina, get to the race, get off the island, and get home. It's kind of a drama and using all our travel energy).
Marathons. Marathons equal finisher shirts and medals. And hopefully, a present from the hubs. (he spoils me just a bit)
Cute movies. Currently obsessed with Up. The dog? Yeah, that's Ella Mae. "Please oh please be my prisoner!". Love it!
Cookies. Because who doesn't love cookies? I currently can't make any because I'm out of regular sugar! Brown sugar? Check? Powdered? 3 bags--check! White cane sugar? Notsomuch. WTF.
Sleep. Yep, there, I said it. If there was a job in which I could sleep, I'd be so awesome at it it's not even funny.
Now, what about you, what are some things you love? (besides me, of course)
In no particular order...
The crazy happy sounds my Ella Mae beagle makes whenever I come home. It's like "Hi, hi, hi Mom! You're home. I missed you so. What if you never came back? Squirrel!". Makes me so happy.
Boxer wiggles. If you've ever seen a boxer, you know they're wiggle machines, and my Butchie boy is no exception.
Hand me down family heirloom quilts like the one currently on my bed. Handmade (handmade!) by my grandma.
Snuggling on said quilt before bed with the beagle. She gets in bed early and waits for me as we're both early to bed. Me because I wake up to run, she just needs a good 11hrs+ for her beauty sleep.
Candles. My collection is out of control!
Chips & salsa. My snack of choice and a dietary staple as far as I'm concerned!
Congratulations on a job well done (rare, like Bigfoot, but, still, very exciting).
The Dallas Running Club. I love those crazies. Wouldn't have run a marathon without them!
Blog friends--y'all rock my face off! I heart you big time. Be my Valentine?
Horribly tacky but super warm sweatshirts. No shame in my game, kids.
Chocolate. Another dietary staple. Nope, couldn't be a vegan--I've made peace with that.
Diet Coke. Cause really, y'all don't want to see me without it.
Vacations. We finally might be able to go on one! It looks like Florida or Mexico this summer (we haven't booked anything because we're currently still trying to figure out how on God's green earth we are going to get to Catalina, get to the race, get off the island, and get home. It's kind of a drama and using all our travel energy).
Marathons. Marathons equal finisher shirts and medals. And hopefully, a present from the hubs. (he spoils me just a bit)
Cute movies. Currently obsessed with Up. The dog? Yeah, that's Ella Mae. "Please oh please be my prisoner!". Love it!
Cookies. Because who doesn't love cookies? I currently can't make any because I'm out of regular sugar! Brown sugar? Check? Powdered? 3 bags--check! White cane sugar? Notsomuch. WTF.
Sleep. Yep, there, I said it. If there was a job in which I could sleep, I'd be so awesome at it it's not even funny.
Now, what about you, what are some things you love? (besides me, of course)
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Say what you will
aka, "yes, I'm fully aware that I'm crazy. Thanks".
Last night, I forked over the cash and signed up for The Cowtown Marathon.
I thought about it all weekend and I thought about my training for Tulsa and I thought about how much better I feel now than I did 25 days out from Tulsa and about how I just feel better about running and yes it will probably be 150% detrimental to me in Catalina, but, I can't run Catalina for time, it's basically all uphill--and, a week post Tulsa I felt great (hoping that translates to two weeks post Cowtown). Obviously, I'm hoping I'll be feeling up to the challenge of Catalina, but, I also hope that Cowtown will give me a much needed confidence booster before those 26.2 miles of hills on a damn island. I'm actually going to great lenghts for torture!
Also, this will be the first and only marathon this year that I'll run at home. I'll get to wake up in my own bed, eat my happy normal breakfast, run my heart out, hop in the car, drive home, eat at my favorite restaurants and nap in my bed versus the car. This is reason enough people. Plus, I've totally picked out my post marathon food (since post Tulsa was McD's french fries and ice cream--don't judge, it was sooooo good!) (this time it will include a burger from Jake's and fro yo from I Heart Yogurt where one of my sweet youth girls works).
I accept that it may be a huge mistake, but, I'm not telling anyone (except you guys!)--no one from work knows, etc so, there's no added pressure. And, it's a Saturday marathon which means I can be back to work on Monday.
I think it's kind of perfection.
Yes, I'm still scared. Yes, 26.2 is a long way (I know, I've been there). But, with a successful 18 miler under my belt and time enough to get two 20 mile runs in, I know I can handle it. And honestly, I'm probably not going to PR at this, and that's fine with me (which is sad considering I had a total meltdown in Tulsa which probably cost me a good 10 minutes or so). 26.2 mile training run, I do believe.
Yes, my knees might kill and my IT band might hurt like the dickens (although, kids, honestly, soooo much better than I felt at the beginning of November--seriously) but, I'm so looking forward to Catalina and know that it will seriously kick my butt that anything before that is childs play.
I have a body that can run (for the time being) so I might as well take advantage of that. It's not like I have anything else that exciting going on in my life right now.
Plus, I'm just so gosh darn excited! (and that always helps)
So, shh, don't tell anyone. This is our little secret.
Last night, I forked over the cash and signed up for The Cowtown Marathon.
I thought about it all weekend and I thought about my training for Tulsa and I thought about how much better I feel now than I did 25 days out from Tulsa and about how I just feel better about running and yes it will probably be 150% detrimental to me in Catalina, but, I can't run Catalina for time, it's basically all uphill--and, a week post Tulsa I felt great (hoping that translates to two weeks post Cowtown). Obviously, I'm hoping I'll be feeling up to the challenge of Catalina, but, I also hope that Cowtown will give me a much needed confidence booster before those 26.2 miles of hills on a damn island. I'm actually going to great lenghts for torture!
Also, this will be the first and only marathon this year that I'll run at home. I'll get to wake up in my own bed, eat my happy normal breakfast, run my heart out, hop in the car, drive home, eat at my favorite restaurants and nap in my bed versus the car. This is reason enough people. Plus, I've totally picked out my post marathon food (since post Tulsa was McD's french fries and ice cream--don't judge, it was sooooo good!) (this time it will include a burger from Jake's and fro yo from I Heart Yogurt where one of my sweet youth girls works).
I accept that it may be a huge mistake, but, I'm not telling anyone (except you guys!)--no one from work knows, etc so, there's no added pressure. And, it's a Saturday marathon which means I can be back to work on Monday.
I think it's kind of perfection.
Yes, I'm still scared. Yes, 26.2 is a long way (I know, I've been there). But, with a successful 18 miler under my belt and time enough to get two 20 mile runs in, I know I can handle it. And honestly, I'm probably not going to PR at this, and that's fine with me (which is sad considering I had a total meltdown in Tulsa which probably cost me a good 10 minutes or so). 26.2 mile training run, I do believe.
Yes, my knees might kill and my IT band might hurt like the dickens (although, kids, honestly, soooo much better than I felt at the beginning of November--seriously) but, I'm so looking forward to Catalina and know that it will seriously kick my butt that anything before that is childs play.
I have a body that can run (for the time being) so I might as well take advantage of that. It's not like I have anything else that exciting going on in my life right now.
Plus, I'm just so gosh darn excited! (and that always helps)
So, shh, don't tell anyone. This is our little secret.
Monday, February 1, 2010
Anatomy of an 18 mile run
Scene: alarm goes off at 5:15 on Saturday (as it does every Saturday) and I hit snooze (as I do every Saturday). Lie in bed for 3 minutes before getting up. Look outside to make sure it has stopped snowing. It has. Check the weather via the Blackberry. 25 right now with a high of 34 today. Not going to warm up while I'm running. Get dressed, go outside to do a temperature check. I'm always one of the runners who gets accused of being overdressed, but, I very rarely get too hot in the fall and winter. So, I go in to change--overdressed? Maybe. I don't care! (was so not overdressed)
Off I go!
0-0.5 Mile: OK, not too bad. It's cold, but, I'm warming up. Good thing I changed. La, la, la lovely running. Thank goodness the trail is open, la, la, la. Step in giant mud sink hole. Awesome, freezing feet. Run in grass to avoid frozen mud on trail. I'm officially hardcore.
0.5-1.0 Mile: Headband slips off, reach for headband and lose an earbud. Yikes--what's that sound? I'd know that sound anywhere. Coyotes. Awesome. I see them all the time at night, but, I'm the only person on this trail at 5:30 AM. Run faster.
1.0-2.0 Mile: Have outrun the coyotes (side note: full moon) only to hear barking dogs. This part of the trail skirts kind of a rough neighborhood. I'm picturing being attacked by packs of rabid dogs that control most major cities. (yes, stupid movie reference, I'm 5) Run faster.
2.0-6.0 Mile: Safely escaped death via dogs and have made it to the lake. It's not too cold and I take my hood off several times to cool down. Arrive at the clubhouse and meet up with the rest of the crazies.
6.0-8.00 Mile: Holy mother of all things I will die here. The temperature has dropped and now it's windy. My hands are so cold that they're hot and I can't move them. And yes I'm wearing gloves. And yes, I'm wiggling my fingers trying to warm them up. It hurts so bad I think I might die. Hate running, hate, hate, hate running.
8.00-10.00 Mile: Try to talk with the running friends to keep my mind off the mind numbing cold. Everyone agrees although it's not the coldest day temperature wise, the wind is killer. My face is numb.
10.00 Mile: Stop for water and fuel. Water fountains are all frozen (I had water with me). My shot blocks are frozen. My face is so numb that when I try to talk, I sound like a drunk slurring her words.
10.00-15.00 Mile: Running buddies force conversation so we don't all end up like me. Rounding another corner of the lake we're out of the wind and things are not as miserable. Did I mention there was a half marathon going on that day? Crazies.
15:00-18.00 Mile: Have said adios to running buddies and must venture out into the cold world alone to meet my husband. Run a mile into the wind to get to the turnaround point. Want to die. Hands are just giant ice pops at this point. Finally get turned around--only 2 miles! I can do this! No, I really can't. I'm hungry, I'm cold, my legs are shutting down. This involved lots of stopping. The racers inspire me to keep going and I run my little heart out to the parking lot where I'm to meet my husband. Who, by the way isn't there.
Post 18.00 miles: Wait a few minutes for the husband who's stuck in race day traffic. Thaw out in the car and inhale a bowl of oatmeal when I get home--usually not my post run meal but by goly I was cold! Hottest shower ever + slippers + sweats = semi warm.
I wasn't nearly as sore as I thought I'd be and although it literally was one of the hardest runs of my life, I felt great afterwards and really, really proud of myself. (because I'm not used to running in this weather and all)
Sidenote, I'm having dreams about marathons, so, I think I'm signing up for The Cowtown Marathon today (it's only 26 days away--holy hell!).
Off I go!
0-0.5 Mile: OK, not too bad. It's cold, but, I'm warming up. Good thing I changed. La, la, la lovely running. Thank goodness the trail is open, la, la, la. Step in giant mud sink hole. Awesome, freezing feet. Run in grass to avoid frozen mud on trail. I'm officially hardcore.
0.5-1.0 Mile: Headband slips off, reach for headband and lose an earbud. Yikes--what's that sound? I'd know that sound anywhere. Coyotes. Awesome. I see them all the time at night, but, I'm the only person on this trail at 5:30 AM. Run faster.
1.0-2.0 Mile: Have outrun the coyotes (side note: full moon) only to hear barking dogs. This part of the trail skirts kind of a rough neighborhood. I'm picturing being attacked by packs of rabid dogs that control most major cities. (yes, stupid movie reference, I'm 5) Run faster.
2.0-6.0 Mile: Safely escaped death via dogs and have made it to the lake. It's not too cold and I take my hood off several times to cool down. Arrive at the clubhouse and meet up with the rest of the crazies.
6.0-8.00 Mile: Holy mother of all things I will die here. The temperature has dropped and now it's windy. My hands are so cold that they're hot and I can't move them. And yes I'm wearing gloves. And yes, I'm wiggling my fingers trying to warm them up. It hurts so bad I think I might die. Hate running, hate, hate, hate running.
8.00-10.00 Mile: Try to talk with the running friends to keep my mind off the mind numbing cold. Everyone agrees although it's not the coldest day temperature wise, the wind is killer. My face is numb.
10.00 Mile: Stop for water and fuel. Water fountains are all frozen (I had water with me). My shot blocks are frozen. My face is so numb that when I try to talk, I sound like a drunk slurring her words.
10.00-15.00 Mile: Running buddies force conversation so we don't all end up like me. Rounding another corner of the lake we're out of the wind and things are not as miserable. Did I mention there was a half marathon going on that day? Crazies.
15:00-18.00 Mile: Have said adios to running buddies and must venture out into the cold world alone to meet my husband. Run a mile into the wind to get to the turnaround point. Want to die. Hands are just giant ice pops at this point. Finally get turned around--only 2 miles! I can do this! No, I really can't. I'm hungry, I'm cold, my legs are shutting down. This involved lots of stopping. The racers inspire me to keep going and I run my little heart out to the parking lot where I'm to meet my husband. Who, by the way isn't there.
Post 18.00 miles: Wait a few minutes for the husband who's stuck in race day traffic. Thaw out in the car and inhale a bowl of oatmeal when I get home--usually not my post run meal but by goly I was cold! Hottest shower ever + slippers + sweats = semi warm.
I wasn't nearly as sore as I thought I'd be and although it literally was one of the hardest runs of my life, I felt great afterwards and really, really proud of myself. (because I'm not used to running in this weather and all)
Sidenote, I'm having dreams about marathons, so, I think I'm signing up for The Cowtown Marathon today (it's only 26 days away--holy hell!).
Friday, January 29, 2010
Watching education programming doesn't make me smarter
Scene: The husband and I are watching something on National Geographic (don't be so surprised, I can venture outside my usual territory of Burn Notice and The Office--it's rare, but, it happens). We're watching something on Alaska and fish and stuff and because my husband is in love with Alaska, I'm willing to sacrifice for the common good (also, The Office was a re-run).
Also, this show is about salmon sharks. I kid you not.
Me: What's a salmon shark?
Husband: A shark.
Me: Like a shark shark, or a really big salmon that people call a shark because it's so big?
Husband: A normal shark, like a maco or great white.
Me: Does it look like a salmon? Why is it called a salmon shark?
Husband: Because 90% of their diet is salmon. They eat salmon.
Me: That's kind of misleading. I was picturing some sort of hybrid. Like a really big salmon--which would be cool because salmon is yummy.
Husband: That's not misleading--they eat salmon, thus, salmon shark. They probably taste like salmon.
Me: So then we should change the name of great whites to Surfer Sharks--since they tend to eat surfers.
Husband: ::blank stare::
Me: I'm just sayin', I was expecting some sort of damn hybrid. This is false advertising.
National Geographic Narrator: While humans have only been naming these salmon sharks for the last hundred years, they have been ruling these waters for centuries.
Me: Obviously, humans named these sharks stupidly. I still want to see a salmon/shark hybrid. This is dumb. I bet there's a bunch of people watching this excitedly hoping for some giant salmon. They're really disappointed.
Husband: Doubtful.
Yes my dears, I know nothing about sea life. Amazing that I have a college degree, isn't it? (it's not like I majored in marine biology people!) And am still sad that there really isn't some sort of giant salmon.
Hmph.
I guess I shouldn't become a teacher anytime soon......
P.S. Regarding running the Cowtown Marathon on Feburary 27th--we'll see how I feel on Saturday after my long run. Cowtown is two weeks before Catalina and I don't want to die and have a terrible race in Catalina, so, we'll see. In theory, I could use Cowtown as my last training run (er, 26.2 miles vs. 21 miles) and it's a difficult course, which could help me in Catalina since we all know I'm not running Catalina for time. Anyways, thanks for your comments and support--I don't want to let y'all down, but, I also don't want to ruin my chances of enjoying Catalina. I'll be at Cowtown either way :)
Also, this show is about salmon sharks. I kid you not.
Me: What's a salmon shark?
Husband: A shark.
Me: Like a shark shark, or a really big salmon that people call a shark because it's so big?
Husband: A normal shark, like a maco or great white.
Me: Does it look like a salmon? Why is it called a salmon shark?
Husband: Because 90% of their diet is salmon. They eat salmon.
Me: That's kind of misleading. I was picturing some sort of hybrid. Like a really big salmon--which would be cool because salmon is yummy.
Husband: That's not misleading--they eat salmon, thus, salmon shark. They probably taste like salmon.
Me: So then we should change the name of great whites to Surfer Sharks--since they tend to eat surfers.
Husband: ::blank stare::
Me: I'm just sayin', I was expecting some sort of damn hybrid. This is false advertising.
National Geographic Narrator: While humans have only been naming these salmon sharks for the last hundred years, they have been ruling these waters for centuries.
Me: Obviously, humans named these sharks stupidly. I still want to see a salmon/shark hybrid. This is dumb. I bet there's a bunch of people watching this excitedly hoping for some giant salmon. They're really disappointed.
Husband: Doubtful.
Yes my dears, I know nothing about sea life. Amazing that I have a college degree, isn't it? (it's not like I majored in marine biology people!) And am still sad that there really isn't some sort of giant salmon.
Hmph.
I guess I shouldn't become a teacher anytime soon......
P.S. Regarding running the Cowtown Marathon on Feburary 27th--we'll see how I feel on Saturday after my long run. Cowtown is two weeks before Catalina and I don't want to die and have a terrible race in Catalina, so, we'll see. In theory, I could use Cowtown as my last training run (er, 26.2 miles vs. 21 miles) and it's a difficult course, which could help me in Catalina since we all know I'm not running Catalina for time. Anyways, thanks for your comments and support--I don't want to let y'all down, but, I also don't want to ruin my chances of enjoying Catalina. I'll be at Cowtown either way :)
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Insane? Or best idea ever?
Probably the first.
This is where y'all weigh in (also, regarding weight, I've lost 2 lbs! ::does happy dance:: stupid Weight Watchers and counting points like a crazy person really does work--I would sell my left arm to be one of those naturally skinny people--and I'm left handed!).
So, today has been a rough day. Like, really, really bad. Which I hate because I don't need to be all Debbie Downer and trust me, my husband and sis in law do not need it either. Plus, in generally, nobody likes Debbie Downers. It's a known fact.
While I'm all trying to figure out when the crap a door or window will be opened for me to leave my current job or learn whatever lesson it is I'm supposed to learn while I'm here (ugh!). I had a thought. (and profound because usually these thoughts fall along the lines of 'what kind of disease could I come up with today?' or 'could I go back to school for a master's in something? How much could I get in student loans?' and other rather ridiculous thoughts because hate it or not, I'm not goin' anywhere anytime soon)
You see, I want to be a Marathon Maniac (yes, I know). I am running a marathon in March (Catalina) and one in April (Oklahoma City). To qualify for Maniac status, I need to run a marathon in May. Sam has this all figured out and says I should run the Orange County Marathon in California the first week in May (ahem, which is also a week after the Oklahoma City Marathon, which I am running because I just paid for hotel and race so, come hell or high water, I'm there!). This is all well and good because then I could go on vacation at the end of May (and that's really what we care about, yes?).
However... However, if I can't fly to California for that, (because I'm sure my employer would be thrilled to know I'm running two marathons on back to back weekends--they frown on this behavior enough) it will leave me high and dry as May is a sloooooow marathon months around these parts.
Solution? February, March, April.(I know, I'm a genius)
I haven't signed up for The Cowtown (half) yet, so, should I just buck up and sign up for the full?
It's 4 weeks away. (I just died a little)
Discuss.
This is where y'all weigh in (also, regarding weight, I've lost 2 lbs! ::does happy dance:: stupid Weight Watchers and counting points like a crazy person really does work--I would sell my left arm to be one of those naturally skinny people--and I'm left handed!).
So, today has been a rough day. Like, really, really bad. Which I hate because I don't need to be all Debbie Downer and trust me, my husband and sis in law do not need it either. Plus, in generally, nobody likes Debbie Downers. It's a known fact.
While I'm all trying to figure out when the crap a door or window will be opened for me to leave my current job or learn whatever lesson it is I'm supposed to learn while I'm here (ugh!). I had a thought. (and profound because usually these thoughts fall along the lines of 'what kind of disease could I come up with today?' or 'could I go back to school for a master's in something? How much could I get in student loans?' and other rather ridiculous thoughts because hate it or not, I'm not goin' anywhere anytime soon)
You see, I want to be a Marathon Maniac (yes, I know). I am running a marathon in March (Catalina) and one in April (Oklahoma City). To qualify for Maniac status, I need to run a marathon in May. Sam has this all figured out and says I should run the Orange County Marathon in California the first week in May (ahem, which is also a week after the Oklahoma City Marathon, which I am running because I just paid for hotel and race so, come hell or high water, I'm there!). This is all well and good because then I could go on vacation at the end of May (and that's really what we care about, yes?).
However... However, if I can't fly to California for that, (because I'm sure my employer would be thrilled to know I'm running two marathons on back to back weekends--they frown on this behavior enough) it will leave me high and dry as May is a sloooooow marathon months around these parts.
Solution? February, March, April.(I know, I'm a genius)
I haven't signed up for The Cowtown (half) yet, so, should I just buck up and sign up for the full?
It's 4 weeks away. (I just died a little)
Discuss.
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
It's a good thing I'm married
And not because I'm like fighting the men off or anything like that--trust me, that has never been an issue. (and my poor husband thinks he got all lucky and crap because despite what you think I am an excellent cook and I like me a clean house--he's just blissfully unaware that I was totally un popular in high school and obviously that is the be all end all of the world and I stayed with a terrible guy because good Lord I was too scared to be single....obviously, I have issues. Sucker.)
But, it is a good thing.
Also a good thing? The fact that I got married young. As in really young. As in what the crap was I thinking young (but am so happy I did because I love my husband and our crazy life) (wow, did this just turn into a gush about my marriage?). I digress.
I'm a very independent little lady (weird, I know). I don't mind being home alone and I'll get up and run in the dark at 5:15 all by my lonesome, no problemo. Also, I like things a certain way. If the husband offers to finish cooking a dinner that I've started, it ain't gonna happen because I have it visualized (?) how it should taste and he'll mess it up (trust me, I love him, but, it will not turn out the right way). This is weird and bitchy, I'm aware. And then I get all bitter about how I have to cook every single night. But, until Giada de Laurnetiis moves in with me, I'm pretty much going to cook because I like things a certain way.
Also, I'll eat anything my mother in law puts in front of me. This is bizarre because those folk? They like steak. And pork. I eat neither of those things. Except I was tricked into eating pork at a funeral recently. Let's not discuss this. It's a good thing I'm not Jewish.
Where was I?
Oh yes, good thing I'm married because even though I'm super independent and so clearly don't need anyone to tell me how to do anything (at one point today, I installed toner in a fax machine all by myself. If that isn't a victory, I don't know what is) (also, it's 2010, why are there still fax machines?) I refuse to learn certain other things. (this includes figuring out the pool filter and the lawn mower)
As in, ask me anything about my health insurance, property taxes and or why our windows are ghetto and I've got nothin. You want me to stash away money in my savings account like a damn squirrel with nuts? I'm you're girl. Want me to weigh the benefits of an HMO vs. PPO? Nothin.
I make the husband do that.
And before y'all get all feminist on me, chill. We did the whole open enrollment thing together when I started my job--looked through all the paperwork and all the costs and the breakdowns, etc. But, that was two years ago, it hasn't changed and I have no idea which plan we're on. I could of course look it up on my company's HR site, but, I don't really want to.
And money stresses me out and I figure he's way calmer under pressure than I am so if anyone is the smarter one with the taxes it's him because I would freak out way to much and then just not do my taxes and then go to federal prison and let's be honest I'm too pretty for prison. Federal or otherwise.
(this is also why I'm a rule follower. Super afraid of consequences and cops. In my husband's words "you don't have any rebel in you"--which is odd because I have two tattoos. But, we were all stupid and 18 once, yes? Yes).
So, at the end of the day, I might be a little June Cleaver in my "let the man handle it", in terms of some things, but, if you want someone to wig out on the cable guy, internet people or B of A for falsely charging you for something--I'm your gal. I'll even get you a month of internet for free. (The people at Time Warner Cable hate me)
That said, thank goodness I'm married otherwise, there's a good chance I'd be living on the lamb in Canada for tax reasons.
I like Canada and all, I just don't like the cold.
But, it is a good thing.
Also a good thing? The fact that I got married young. As in really young. As in what the crap was I thinking young (but am so happy I did because I love my husband and our crazy life) (wow, did this just turn into a gush about my marriage?). I digress.
I'm a very independent little lady (weird, I know). I don't mind being home alone and I'll get up and run in the dark at 5:15 all by my lonesome, no problemo. Also, I like things a certain way. If the husband offers to finish cooking a dinner that I've started, it ain't gonna happen because I have it visualized (?) how it should taste and he'll mess it up (trust me, I love him, but, it will not turn out the right way). This is weird and bitchy, I'm aware. And then I get all bitter about how I have to cook every single night. But, until Giada de Laurnetiis moves in with me, I'm pretty much going to cook because I like things a certain way.
Also, I'll eat anything my mother in law puts in front of me. This is bizarre because those folk? They like steak. And pork. I eat neither of those things. Except I was tricked into eating pork at a funeral recently. Let's not discuss this. It's a good thing I'm not Jewish.
Where was I?
Oh yes, good thing I'm married because even though I'm super independent and so clearly don't need anyone to tell me how to do anything (at one point today, I installed toner in a fax machine all by myself. If that isn't a victory, I don't know what is) (also, it's 2010, why are there still fax machines?) I refuse to learn certain other things. (this includes figuring out the pool filter and the lawn mower)
As in, ask me anything about my health insurance, property taxes and or why our windows are ghetto and I've got nothin. You want me to stash away money in my savings account like a damn squirrel with nuts? I'm you're girl. Want me to weigh the benefits of an HMO vs. PPO? Nothin.
I make the husband do that.
And before y'all get all feminist on me, chill. We did the whole open enrollment thing together when I started my job--looked through all the paperwork and all the costs and the breakdowns, etc. But, that was two years ago, it hasn't changed and I have no idea which plan we're on. I could of course look it up on my company's HR site, but, I don't really want to.
And money stresses me out and I figure he's way calmer under pressure than I am so if anyone is the smarter one with the taxes it's him because I would freak out way to much and then just not do my taxes and then go to federal prison and let's be honest I'm too pretty for prison. Federal or otherwise.
(this is also why I'm a rule follower. Super afraid of consequences and cops. In my husband's words "you don't have any rebel in you"--which is odd because I have two tattoos. But, we were all stupid and 18 once, yes? Yes).
So, at the end of the day, I might be a little June Cleaver in my "let the man handle it", in terms of some things, but, if you want someone to wig out on the cable guy, internet people or B of A for falsely charging you for something--I'm your gal. I'll even get you a month of internet for free. (The people at Time Warner Cable hate me)
That said, thank goodness I'm married otherwise, there's a good chance I'd be living on the lamb in Canada for tax reasons.
I like Canada and all, I just don't like the cold.
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Dear excess poundage that refuses to leave,
You suck. I hate you. You're basically the anti Christ.
The irony of the situation? I'm running like a ca-razy person. Like, I'm kicking major asphalt (and treadmill belts) and slowly getting faster. Intervals, the works. As in everything that's supposed to make the pounds just melt away. (lies!)
And, I'm back to counting points (annoying as all get out) (and I'm usually up around 2AM starving in which I find myself with a half empty jar of peanut butter and am now noticing my almond butter stash is dwindling--nope, not sleep eating, I'm fully 100% awake) (also, when craving cookies, just make the cookies. Eating a box of crackers which equals like 500 points, is still not going to end the cookie craving--eat the damn cookie)
Obviously, I'm getting some bad juju for being all "I'm skinny!" last year and karma is biting me in the two sizes bigger than EVER butt. Thanks, karma for the reminder. You win. I'm not skinny.
So, extra tummy (and butt, thigh and upper arm) (gross, gross, gross) fat, take note. I'm totally onto you and your ways (box of whole wheat crackers anyone?) and it's coming to an end.
Come hell or high water, I will enjoy that damn In-N-Out burger in March after one hell of a marathon. And I will do it several (read: ten! ten!) pounds lighter.
Even if that means going to bed hungry every single night (and buying a safe for me to stash the peanut butter in and only letting my sis in law have the combo) (the chocolate can go in the safe as well) (crap).
Yes, bloggies, I realize we've been down this road before. But, I will be damned if it doesn't take this time.
I really want that burger.
(also, I'm so damn hungry right now that I could eat my arm. But won't, lest I be known as the girl who eats her own extremities)
The irony of the situation? I'm running like a ca-razy person. Like, I'm kicking major asphalt (and treadmill belts) and slowly getting faster. Intervals, the works. As in everything that's supposed to make the pounds just melt away. (lies!)
And, I'm back to counting points (annoying as all get out) (and I'm usually up around 2AM starving in which I find myself with a half empty jar of peanut butter and am now noticing my almond butter stash is dwindling--nope, not sleep eating, I'm fully 100% awake) (also, when craving cookies, just make the cookies. Eating a box of crackers which equals like 500 points, is still not going to end the cookie craving--eat the damn cookie)
Obviously, I'm getting some bad juju for being all "I'm skinny!" last year and karma is biting me in the two sizes bigger than EVER butt. Thanks, karma for the reminder. You win. I'm not skinny.
So, extra tummy (and butt, thigh and upper arm) (gross, gross, gross) fat, take note. I'm totally onto you and your ways (box of whole wheat crackers anyone?) and it's coming to an end.
Come hell or high water, I will enjoy that damn In-N-Out burger in March after one hell of a marathon. And I will do it several (read: ten! ten!) pounds lighter.
Even if that means going to bed hungry every single night (and buying a safe for me to stash the peanut butter in and only letting my sis in law have the combo) (the chocolate can go in the safe as well) (crap).
Yes, bloggies, I realize we've been down this road before. But, I will be damned if it doesn't take this time.
I really want that burger.
(also, I'm so damn hungry right now that I could eat my arm. But won't, lest I be known as the girl who eats her own extremities)
Monday, January 25, 2010
I'm officially one of those crazy people with the endorphins
True story my friends, true story.
Remember a few months back when I was all "woe is me and I want to die"? Yeah, that was a sucky time, not going to lie. Things in general sucked, so, obviously, my mood was foul. It didn't help matters that I was not running, like at all.
Fast forward to now, and I'm running pretty regularly (but could not pull myself out of bed today--we'll discuss later) and even though things are actually pretty much 50% worse than they were back in October, I'm not nearly as bitchy as I was.
Reason?
I've gotten my act together and been running almost every morning. Lord help me, but, really, when I don't run before work, I get all grumpy and whiney about going to work. If I run? Sure, I'm still a bit annoyed because, yeah, it's work, but, I'm not contemplating ramming my car into a telephone pole for a day off.
I didn't run this morning, like I said, so, naturally, I'm just a peach to deal with right now. This will be resolved at lunchtime--thank heavens.
Which leads me to believe that I have somehow mysteriously morphed into one of those crazy endorphins people who really do get a high from a good workout (read: run).
Never.in.a.million.years.
On that note, on Saturday, I managed to drag my scary weight (yes, I have one and yes, I'm there, shut up) ass out of bed early and managed to not only get in 16.5 kick ass miles, but, move up a pace group (this is huge for me--huge!). And my sweet husband came to pick me up since it was too far to run home (ran to the clubhouse, ran the loop, ran to the nearest parking lot).
Now, can someone just give my sweet husband a job? Preferably one that allows me to have children and be a semi stay at home mom? Puh-leeze! K, thanks.
Happy Monday y'all.
Remember a few months back when I was all "woe is me and I want to die"? Yeah, that was a sucky time, not going to lie. Things in general sucked, so, obviously, my mood was foul. It didn't help matters that I was not running, like at all.
Fast forward to now, and I'm running pretty regularly (but could not pull myself out of bed today--we'll discuss later) and even though things are actually pretty much 50% worse than they were back in October, I'm not nearly as bitchy as I was.
Reason?
I've gotten my act together and been running almost every morning. Lord help me, but, really, when I don't run before work, I get all grumpy and whiney about going to work. If I run? Sure, I'm still a bit annoyed because, yeah, it's work, but, I'm not contemplating ramming my car into a telephone pole for a day off.
I didn't run this morning, like I said, so, naturally, I'm just a peach to deal with right now. This will be resolved at lunchtime--thank heavens.
Which leads me to believe that I have somehow mysteriously morphed into one of those crazy endorphins people who really do get a high from a good workout (read: run).
Never.in.a.million.years.
On that note, on Saturday, I managed to drag my scary weight (yes, I have one and yes, I'm there, shut up) ass out of bed early and managed to not only get in 16.5 kick ass miles, but, move up a pace group (this is huge for me--huge!). And my sweet husband came to pick me up since it was too far to run home (ran to the clubhouse, ran the loop, ran to the nearest parking lot).
Now, can someone just give my sweet husband a job? Preferably one that allows me to have children and be a semi stay at home mom? Puh-leeze! K, thanks.
Happy Monday y'all.
Friday, January 22, 2010
An open letter to those who bring grapefruits to the office and call it a 'treat'
We’re on to you.
Grapefruit is not a treat heretofore to be included in sweet treat Friday. Although, I do give you points for bringing in muffins. However, the grapefruit cancels it out, so you’re still at like zero points.
Reason? Because the grapefruit gives people the opportunity to be all ‘I’m really watching my calories, but, otherwise I would totally have a muffin’. And then, I look like a total fatty cause Weight Watchers or not, I’m totally taking a muffin. (because who turns down a muffin, I mean really?) (also, I'm back on Weight Watchers. So far, I've gone over my points because apparently I wake up starving in the middle of the night and eat like 3 peanut butter sandwiches. Therefor undoing my points for that day since it's already like 3 AM at this point)
And while everyone does the modest ‘oh, they aren’t very good’ or ‘oh, some of them are burned’ that’s just what you say. I’m a full on Betty Crocker with baked goods, but, I like to be humble and modest so I’ll tell you they might be burned. This also lowers your expectations so when they aren’t burned, they’re even more yummy and you love me more. Obviously, this is genius. This plan does not work however if they really are actually majorly burned. Then we're just annoyed that you brought us burnt muffins (and grapefruits).
Don’t test new recipes or break in your oven on us. We aren’t guinea pigs and we like actual treats (and look forward to them like children at Christmas because after all isn't that what growing up and having a job is all about? Getting excited for Friday?). They can even be store bought—we don’t care. Really, all we're looking for is the sugar and calories.
Besides, to get me to eat a grapefruit, it’s going to involve a lot of Splenda.
I like sweet, so sue me.
So, next week, I’ll bring the treats. I’ll even use real butter.
You’re welcome.
PS. I have nothing against people who like grapefruit (although I am not one of them) (hi mom who's not alive and might be reading this in the beyond!)--I'm whining about people who consider grapefruit part of 'swett treat Friday'. That is all.
Grapefruit is not a treat heretofore to be included in sweet treat Friday. Although, I do give you points for bringing in muffins. However, the grapefruit cancels it out, so you’re still at like zero points.
Reason? Because the grapefruit gives people the opportunity to be all ‘I’m really watching my calories, but, otherwise I would totally have a muffin’. And then, I look like a total fatty cause Weight Watchers or not, I’m totally taking a muffin. (because who turns down a muffin, I mean really?) (also, I'm back on Weight Watchers. So far, I've gone over my points because apparently I wake up starving in the middle of the night and eat like 3 peanut butter sandwiches. Therefor undoing my points for that day since it's already like 3 AM at this point)
And while everyone does the modest ‘oh, they aren’t very good’ or ‘oh, some of them are burned’ that’s just what you say. I’m a full on Betty Crocker with baked goods, but, I like to be humble and modest so I’ll tell you they might be burned. This also lowers your expectations so when they aren’t burned, they’re even more yummy and you love me more. Obviously, this is genius. This plan does not work however if they really are actually majorly burned. Then we're just annoyed that you brought us burnt muffins (and grapefruits).
Don’t test new recipes or break in your oven on us. We aren’t guinea pigs and we like actual treats (and look forward to them like children at Christmas because after all isn't that what growing up and having a job is all about? Getting excited for Friday?). They can even be store bought—we don’t care. Really, all we're looking for is the sugar and calories.
Besides, to get me to eat a grapefruit, it’s going to involve a lot of Splenda.
I like sweet, so sue me.
So, next week, I’ll bring the treats. I’ll even use real butter.
You’re welcome.
PS. I have nothing against people who like grapefruit (although I am not one of them) (hi mom who's not alive and might be reading this in the beyond!)--I'm whining about people who consider grapefruit part of 'swett treat Friday'. That is all.
I'm too lazy for 'fancy'
I really, really am. And I've no idea how this has happened. When I was in college, I was married (gasp!), often worked two jobs, taught a very emotionally taxing Sunday school program every.single.Sunday (which meant prep work) and you know, took classes and managed a household.
Somehow, I still found time to go to the mall and buy nice-ish things.
Fast forward and now unless it's on my way home from work, there's a 99.5% chance I won't go there. This is why getting me to Whole Foods is a miracle (even though I'm obsessed with it) and I'll go several weeks hijacking my husband's shampoo because the salon I get mine from is just too far (read: 10 minute drive).
All this to say, my fancy work appropriate skirt, sweater, faux croc heels ensemble I'm sporting today? All from the le Target that is halfway between the office and mi casa.
Who says lazy can't look good? (ok, I look semi-good--the hair is a hot mess, but, we'll move on)
And yet, I manage to run 30 miles a week. Hmmm.
Hope y'all have a fabulous weekend!
PS. Thanks for the great travel/vacation recommendations. We've still not decided on anything but are leaning towards Mexico/Central America. Yay for beaches!
Somehow, I still found time to go to the mall and buy nice-ish things.
Fast forward and now unless it's on my way home from work, there's a 99.5% chance I won't go there. This is why getting me to Whole Foods is a miracle (even though I'm obsessed with it) and I'll go several weeks hijacking my husband's shampoo because the salon I get mine from is just too far (read: 10 minute drive).
All this to say, my fancy work appropriate skirt, sweater, faux croc heels ensemble I'm sporting today? All from the le Target that is halfway between the office and mi casa.
Who says lazy can't look good? (ok, I look semi-good--the hair is a hot mess, but, we'll move on)
And yet, I manage to run 30 miles a week. Hmmm.
Hope y'all have a fabulous weekend!
PS. Thanks for the great travel/vacation recommendations. We've still not decided on anything but are leaning towards Mexico/Central America. Yay for beaches!
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