Jingle Bell Run 5K

Hi. Well, where do I begin. I let this school year dominate me .... again. GRRR. But, not anymore. I'm done letting school control my life. I've ballooned back up in weight, I'm back to 220!! I'm fed up, I'm frustrated, and I'm making changes.
This past week I rearranged my living space to accommodate my exercise equipment, as well as a HUGE dry erase board to track my progress. I got two Biggest Loser Calendars to keep me inspired, and added the "Total Gym" to my exercise stuff. (Mine didn't come with the hot guy though :( lol.)I've also purchased a new Wii game -- a workout "game" where Jillian Michael's is my trainer. The first time I played it had a few glitches, but I'll try again. I've also decided to start tracking my food better again. I also joined the Biggest Loser Club Online.

So... I've been at best inconsistent on my exercise. The last run (aside from the race) was mid November, I worked out at the gym right before Thanksgiving. Then I let family issues (my Aunt passed away, my cousin's husband has been in Intensive care since mid Decemeber -- after having bypass surgery) and my being sick for 2 weeks (I did finally go to the doctor) get the best of me. As race day approached, I debated whether or not to run. The friends who were supposed to run with me had to work, the weather was looking frightful, and well, I was OUT OF SHAPE and not at all prepared to run. (I had, at least, bought some winter running gear.) But I decided- I said I was going to run in that race... so golly, I was gonna do it. Even if I came in last- at least I kept my word.

Race Day-
Brrr. It snowed overnight the night before, there was about 2 inches of snow on the ground, the temperature was in the low 20s at race time, with very strong wind gusts. I'm sure the windchill was in the single digits. According to the final race results, over 300 people came out to run. I was amazed by the prizes and refreshments they had - Panera Bread Bagels, Dunkin Donuts, Cookie Trays, Pizza, plus the usual oranges, bananas, protein bars, gatorade, etc.
I let my lack of practice, and lack of knowledge of myself influence how warmly I dressed. I had my outfit chosen but when I got there I decided I was still way too cold and left my coat on too -- BIG MISTAKE. I was way too hot. I ended up taking off my gloves, putting my hoods down, and even unzipping my coat (which was UNDER my sweatshirt). I also realized my cardio level was much lower than I thought. My legs didn't bother me at all - during the race -- they are sore now! But my cardio, and breathing the cold air, slowed me down - as did the snow/ice covered route. I ran when I could, but found myself walking to keep from falling. I showed up. I competed. I finished. That's what counts. Next year will be better.

After the finish:

Reality Check

I've been so well intentioned. Now it's time to truly act on those intentions. My race - the big one I've been aiming at - is in 70 days. Wow. I've worked out a schedule that will have me READY for the 5k. Today I ran another 3k, part of the "week 1" training. I am quickly realizing it is a lot harder to run when it's cold out. (It's 41, but feels like 37) I'll have to do some research. I've also realized I've been spending too much time at work. But I guess that's not anything new - ask anyone who knows me, however- it NEEDS to change. I've set the alarm on my phone to go off at 4pm to Shoo me out the door. (I still won't get home until 5, since I have an hour commute). I figure I really need to train outside since this 5k is an outdoor race, and I prefer to run in daylight, so as the days get shorter and shorter, I need to get home sooner and sooner.

I saw two deer on my run again today. They rather startled me. I kept hearing leaves rustling behind me and for the first few times I assumed it was the person that had just run past me going the other way, but then they were getting closer and closer - like someone was approaching. But whenever I'd look there would be no one there. Finally I looked INTO the woods and there was a doe and her fawn coming toward me - rather quickly. Then they headed across the path and into the woods on the other side. COOL. =)

What else is new? Not much. My food has been a roller coaster. Sabotage on every corner. But today has been great:
Breakfast- protein shake
Lunch- 2 pieces of papa johns, a 100 calorie rice krispy treat, and a mini bag of pretzels.
After School Snack - A slimfast breakfast bar
Dinner- 6in Chicken Sub on wheat, bag of baked BBQ lays, and a bag of sliced apples (Subway)
Plus I'm currently drinking my gatorade.

I need some support. A buddy. Someone to keep me honest and on task. I'm trying to think of who would be a good support on THIS side of the continent!!

I guess that's it for now. Time for a shower then i'm going to hit the stores looking for Halloween Costume Accessories and GROCERIES. I'm sick of living in a house with NOTHING GOOD to eat. (And I mean GOOD in the GOOD/HEALTHY way).

Today's Run:



New Favorite Picture- I finally got some pictures back from my Birthday party and some other outings. I'll post a link to them as soon as I upload them. But here's one I really like :)

Best $1.99 ever spent

Hello!! Wow it's been awhile. I'm sorry.
Life has been crazy as ever once school started. I'm getting things back on track now. I'm so out of it I didn't even realize the new Biggest Loser Season had started!!! So - my $1.99 was to download the first episode to my iTunes. I watched it - and in fact finished the episode while running on the treadmill. That was 2 weeks ago.
That week was crazy as I got ready to go to see NKOTB in concert as well as photograph my college roommate's wedding in Niagara Falls. Last week I spent getting ready for a Birthday Golf Outing for... well.. ME. Last Saturday was my 30th birthday. It was great. I'll post some pictures soon of all my latest endeavors really soon.
On the weight loss front things are ok. I mean my weight has fluctuated - but not too badly. As I was getting re-inspired by the Biggest Loser I joined their website. You can check out my profile there:
My Profile on the Biggest Loser Official Site
I'm going to be updating this site much better. I NEED to.
Thanks for checking in on me.
Talk to you all real soon!!!

I DID IT!!!

1:33:22
Whew! I did it. My plan was to walk for a song then run for a song. I pretty much held to that. I couldn't run up the hill, heading to halfway(home), so I missed a song there and during the second 5k sometimes I couldn't run for the whole song, but I did as much as I could, and I ran to the finish. I'm happy and then I saw my time! Woohoo! Right about where I had hoped it would be. I stopped for a drink 4 times, 3 water and my gatorade, but those stops were less than 20 seconds each (I don't know exact times- probably even less).
What I thought was really cool is that there was another girl running the same thing down in the park. We passed by each other several times and her dad (assumingly, he was running with her) offered me some words of encouragement too. It was such an energy boost to see someone else running the same race.
A few things a little on the negative side:
This shirt is totally not comfortable, perhaps if I had bought the right size I would have liked it better. But I wore it- proudly.
If I never run another 10k, I'd be ok with that. It's a long race (of course I made it even longer by walking a lot) but still I think 5k is definitely my race. Of course if they offer this race again, I'll probably do it, but I don't think I'd do any other 10k.
My race:

As of 11:00 this morning (my time) I'm ranked 8398th. I'll take it :)

Here I go

Well In about 20 minutes I will be heading out on my 10k run. I'm excited. I'm also excited because I got a new computer yesterday and I think it's just awesome. (It's a Mac). I'll tell you all about it (well maybe not- I realized it's very hard for non-techies to understand my excitement- or that I have a hard time explaining why it's soo cool. ) Let's just say I really like it. In fact before I head out I'll take a picture WITH MY COMPUTER and upload it. Yep, the computer has a BUILT IN camera!

Here it is!

My plan for the 10k, since I get to make my own route, is to essentially run 2 5ks. The route I picked is very close to my normal route- which I figured was a good idea- and I plan to pass a water fountain twice in the first half, halfway being at my house where I can grab a Gatorade, then I'll pass that same water fountain twice in the second half. I'm also heading out while it is still cool - in the 60s. It's going to 85 here today. So with that.. I best be going to get dressed.!! YIPPEE.

I've been running... I swear

Sorta. I can't believe summer is over! These past two weeks have been crazy. Boring- but crazy, if that's possible. I spent most of last week at school. We had summer school in the morning, then I stayed late to set up computers.
I have been running- every now and then.
This one is from August 17

This one is from August 23

And this one is from tonight:

Today was rainy and humid, but I really wanted to run. That 10k is on Sunday. Am I ready? No! Am I going to do it anyway? Hell, yeah!
On Sunday night - in my sleep- I managed to scratch a mosquito bite and in the process tore off quite a bit of skin on my foot. So I was out of commission most of this week. Today I decided to try running- it was fine. I went for 5k instead of my usual just 30 minutes. I'm trying to plan out how to do my 10k and figured I better go a little further to get ready :)

School has been different. There are kids there, but I haven't really been able to interact with them too much - that makes me sad. I miss my classroom. I've had some issues of when I get home I have nothing to do and I'm bored. So I decided while I was running tonight, that I'll come home and dedicate myself to working out. I have no excuses- it will keep me occupied, plus I've heard it has great side effects lol.

In other news,
the golf guy and I are... well I don't know. Lately just hanging out on the golf course and on the weekends. I don't mind. I'll take what time I can get, he's been exhausted from his new job. We'll see how things go tomorrow - it's our last day of golf. :(

Well I'll talk to you all soon. (sooner than recently) I promise!!!

I FINALLY ADDED MY PICS FROM THE CONCERT. CHECK THEM OUT IN THE POST BELOW :) Isn't Bob cute??

I'm in love. . . . with a Band!

UPDATE- HERE ARE MY PICTURES, FINALLY

Wow. What a day. I'm totally exhausted and ready to fall asleep, but I really need to write this while it's all fresh.

This morning I had a golf outing, my cousin nearly got a hole in one on a par 4! Quite Awesome. Anyway I was playing golf with Lynne, the woman I mentioned in the previous post. We were discussing "the new guy" and what's been going on. I was asked what he looked like, and felt kinda silly because I couldn't describe him. I could probably draw a picture of him but I can't verbally tell you anything. (I can see him in my head though!) My brain sometimes can't connect from one side to the other I think. lol. Anyway the early afternoon went by without too much.

We sold a lot at the garage sale the last few days and I helped my parents move some furniture. I then headed to Akron (about an hour away) to see a concert. Unfortunately no one knows who this band is and so no one wanted to go with me (a few who probably would were out of town) But I was determined, I REALLY wanted to see this concert. Oh yeah, they are called Great Big Sea. So I got there, got myself a chair, a slushy, and then spotted the merchandise table. YAY. I bought 2 shirts and a signed picture. While I was in line I started talking to another girl in line. She has seen them in concert and was telling me about how awesome it was etc.

The opening act was Jeremy Fisher - who was surprisingly entertaining. I saw that my "new friend" had her chair way up front and there appeared to be room near her, so I asked if I could sit up with her and her friend- she said sure. They were a lot of fun, and it was nice to have some people to enjoy the concert with.

Photos of Jeremy Fisher. (will be inserted on Sunday)

I have a slight confession to make. While I love the music of GBS, I had no idea what they looked like or who they actually were- I didn't know their names or anything! That's one of the reasons I bought the picture. I noticed that in the picture they all had long hair. Cool enough.

So I was kinda surprised when the band came out and only the lead singer had long hair. But I also received the COOLEST surprise ever. The "all purpose musician, Bob" (he plays the whistle, mandolin, guitar, accordian, shakers and I don't even know what else!) looked JUST LIKE the guy I'm interested in. I mean they could be twins!! Talk about a great treat- I pretty much stared at him all night long :) He even had the same mannerisms and smile! WOW. So anyway I will post my pictures from the concert tomorrow- I'm way too tired right now. But here are few pics of GBS from their websites. The one with all three of them resembles my interest best, but the resemblence is still very strong in the other one, too. Of course seeing the mannerisms, a slightly different goatie, and being a little further away - made the look alikeness much stronger at the concert. But still- you get the idea! (These pictures are of Bob from Great Big Sea and The 3 leads of Great Big Sea)






















I am most likely going to see GBS again in September and Bridgette (the girl I met at the concert) invited me to hang out with her at that concert, too!

COOL.
Well as I said, I'm exhausted. And so happy!!! =) YAY.

True Contentment

Happy: characterized by or indicative of pleasure, contentment, or joy.
Content: satisfied with what one is or has; not wanting more or anything else.

At this current juncture I feel both of these. It's strange. I'm not sure I've truly felt these before and if I have it was LONG LONG time ago. And yes, a guy has to do with SOME of it. A lot of it though comes from the fact that I'm looking forward to the school year. I like my new principal, I feel like I will be supported (and defended when necessary) - something that was greatly missing in my past boss. I have been much more outgoing lately, people at the golf course seem to be taking notice of me. I have little kids that are my fans. - Today the kids' of the golf course owner learned my name and everytime they saw me they shouted "Megan!" (they are 4 and 2) - cute!

I also have a Grandma replacement. The mother of the golf course owner has been great to me. She is not old enough to be MY Grandma, but she reminds me of my Grandma when I (and she) was younger. She's been so excited for me as I tell her of my newest interest and she cheers whole-heartedly for me. She knows the right things to say and knows when it's best just to listen.

Things are just GREAT. I can't put it in words, really. I find myself with just a huge smile on my face whenever I think about my new golf friends, my "new" job, my new boss, the possibilities of this school year, the fact that my weight is finally starting to drop again, and of course- the new guy ;).

A few more details...
We went out Tuesday with my friends and had a great time. Last night we were supposed to watch a movie, but got too engrossed in the Olympics - but I'm ok with that. Especially since he promised we'd rent it again =) He's out of town for the weekend, but promised to call when he gets back. I learned that he is 37, 7 years older than me and I don't care. We have too much in common and we have fun together. I've also realized I don't care about the smoking. I mean obviously I'd rather he didn't - for health, etc- but overall it doesn't bother me. Right now we are just hanging out, and I'm totally ok with that.

It's all good. =)

Speaks for itself....

Still Happy

OK, I don't care about the age thing at all anymore. We have so much in common, it's soo cool :)

Beautiful Saturday

Today's Run:


It really looks like it should.. you can see my 2 4min runs and the 2 min in the middle :)
Perhaps you would like to see my mishmash of varied musical tastes.. here's today's playlist:

1. Jump -Van Halen
2. Learning to Fly - Tom Petty
3. Save Tonight - Eagle Eye Cherry
4. One Tin Soldier- Me First and the Gimme Gimmes
5. Maybe Baby- Buddy Holly
6. Fun, Fun, Fun - Beach Boys
7. Picture Perfect- Michael W. Smith
8. You Get What You Give - New Radicals
9. See You Again- Miley Cyrus

Oh.. you wanted to know why I was so happy? Well.. I'll get to that... lol. OK, well if you remember about a week ago I mentioned that there were a few guys that I was interested in.

Well.. in a nutshell, I think one might be interested back.

Here's the story -
It all started last Tuesday I went to the "In Between Lounge" again - in hopes of seeing the cute kid from the week before. Instead I met a completely drunk guy from Dayton. He was nice, kinda cute, but well.. drunk. I was kinda glad when my friend Andy finally arrived. I was talking to him (Andy) about a few of the guys I was interested in (Andy is not one of them), so we were discussing this guy from my golf league. Andy told me that if I invited him (golf) to the bar next week, Andy would do Karaoke. Hee hee. Andy gave me some pointers on what I could say, etc.

So as golfing arrived on Friday I was a ball of nerves. I got to golf with this guy again and go figure, I was too nervous - I've golfed with him virtually EVERY week with no problem - now today I'm nervous?? Anyway, he was having a bad golfing day too. And of course the whole time I'm golfing I'm trying to figure out how to invite him to the bar. Finally on the 7th hole I got an idea. I bet him drinks that I could beat him on the last two holes. HE AGREED! So this means, even if I play horribly, I'll still get him to the bar =)

We tied the first hole, then I fell apart- kinda. I had two HORRIBLE shots. He beat me by 1. (I won overall though, 47 to 49) So I was pretty happy. Our league has a little cookout after we play and we all sit around and talk. I try to be social with everyone, but this guy and Joe (yes, I'm purposely not using his name) seem to captivate my attention most. They tell the best stories and I love just sitting and listening. Last night was no different - they were sharing stories of their juvenile mischief making. (some happening just a few years ago!)

So as we were leaving, we started discussing plans for Tuesday. So I gave him my phone number. :) Then he asked if I watch movies, and if I was doing anything THIS WEEKEND. (of course I'm not!) So he said he'd call. When he got home last night. We kept talking in the parking lot. About movies, music, cell phones, etc. (soon we were the only ones left) And sure enough he called last night. We talked for over an hour- about all kinds of stuff. We have even more in common than I thought. He's supposed to call me this evening and perhaps we will watch a movie or something tonight.

So there you have it. That's why I have such a huge smile (but I'm going to make it a little smaller now- only because it takes up so much room) my actual smile has not faded by a long shot.

I do have a few small hiccups/concerns that I'm trying to deal with- the biggest of which is he smokes. I don't know if it's just a golf thing, or all the time. Like I said I'm trying to figure out this stuff, like does that out-weigh all the things we have in common, etc. The other much more minor issue, I think, is I think he's at least 5 years older than me. But that's ok right?

MY biggest issue is to just RELAX, enjoy whatever this is, not rush things, not push things, JUST ENJOY.

But I can't stop smiling. It feels good. =)

I'm Happy

Details to come...

Feeling the burn

The weather was a bit warmer than I expected..of course being sucked in by Walker Texas Ranger and wasting about 45 minutes, could have affected my weather expectations. When I checked the weather before heading out it said it was 67, which would be great, however after watching Walker, apparently the temperature rose about 11 degrees! I check the weather after coming in and it's 78. I don't usually run when it's about 75, I like the cooler weather. So anyway, it was hot- but a beautiful day. My first running segment is always roughest. I feel so out of sorts, not comfortable. My 2 minutes segment was great, after running these 4 min segments, the 2 minute is a breeze. I think I'm also more in a groove. The last 4 minute is tough, but today I could feel my calves a lot and while I was breathing hard, I think I pushed myself pretty good. I also had a great breakthrough the Saturday that I forgot to mention: You know those quad stretches (like the one in the picture)? Well until very recently, the only way I could do this stretch was to use the opposite arm. In other words, when stretching the right quad, I'd have to use my left hand because I couldn't reach with the right. I'm sure exactly WHY, I mean it could be because my leg wouldn't come up high enough (due to the size of my legs) or it could be that I was too wide and my arm couldn't reach down far enough (around me). But whatever the reason I couldn't do it before... I CAN DO IT NOW! and without holding on to anything too!!

So here is today's run. I've also included the elevation of my runs (in general). This route goes from my house down the entire length of the park walking trail. It's an out and back route. Right now I don't go all the way to the end but the middle of the route is generally flat- it's the hill that I go up and down at the beginning and end I wanted you to see :)
Week 2: Day 2-

I love projects

I've added like 3 posts in the last 2 days. Make sure you check them all out!

Early Morning Run - technically posted on Saturday, but it's all about Friday 8/1/08
Wake Up Call - Saturday 8/2/08 8:27 pm
Newest Helper - Saturday 8/2/08 10:24 pm




OK so in my last post I mentioned going to a baby shower and that I had some projects to work on. Well... 3 hours later and I'm finally done. I had one minor glitch but overall I can't wait for them to open the presents! I doubt either the mom-to-be or dad-to-be will read this before the shower, so I'll spill all for you to see.

Some background on the Mom and Dad... That's them. Chris and I are cousins. My dad and his mom are actually twins. Anyway, we have an Irish heritage (see our Family Reunion Site) and I'm so incredibly jealous but My Aunt, Uncle, Chris and Missy went to Ireland in May. In fact, the name they chose for their new daughter is inspired by the Irish performer on American Idol, Carly. So I wanted to give them something Irish-like. My original idea was to make her (the baby) a t-shirt that said "My parents went to Ireland and all I got was this T-shirt" Except, the t-shirt wouldn't be from Ireland and the baby went too! So I decided instead to find some other Irish goodies. I found a pair of booties that have shamrocks on them (I don't have a pic of those). I also found a great Irish blessing for new babies and I designed a page and printed it (I got to see the nursery today - so I made it to match) . Here's what the framed image looks like (click to see it bigger) the frame is actually pewter in color.

I also decided to personalize a onesie to match the personality of this family. Actually I personalized 3 of them. I'll tell you about the other two in a minute. Here's the Irish one: It says "Irish Princess"

As I mentioned earlier, I got to see the nursery today and they picked a good one. Lady Bugs by Kidsline. It's great, they won't have to update the room until little Carly is at least 8 or 9. I decided to be cute and I designed the other two onesies to match the room. Below I have included a general picture of the Lady Bug line from Kidsline and then a close up of the images I made and the final onesies.

This is NOT my cousin's room. This was a pic I found on the web. They painted the bottom half of the room about that same green, they have the border cutting across. They do have the dark wood furniture though. It's kinda hard to see the ladybugs, so here are the close-ups of the images I used on the shirts. You can see all the Kidsline accessories at their website.

OK I'm done now. I'm going bed.

Newest Helper

I've also recently remembered something that always helped me before... chewing sugar free gum. I've been trying to utilize that more often. Here's my new fave:

And while I'm adding pictures, here's a few from my Dad's retirement party. The first one is all the cousins. (Yes, Missy is 8+ months pregnant! - in fact her baby shower is tomorrow - I'll post pics of the cute things I'm making her) The boys are actually my cousins - the girls are wives and fiancees. Anyway the other one is our whole family (minus a few- long family story-I'll explain another day) My parents are the ones in yellow. I don't think they planned it :)

The Cousins

The Whole Family

Wake Up Call

First of all.. before I start rambling- I started week 2 today.

I need to change a few songs in my playlist, they were a bit slow- even for walking. Week 2 has me warming up for 8 minutes, then run 4 min, walk 2, run 2, walk 2, run 4, cool down(walk) 8. So I did actually run for 1/3 of the time! 10 whole minutes.

So now down to business of the many revelations coming to me in the last 24 hours.

1) Cute Boys Men
This week I have encountered 3 cute guys (well more than that I'm sure, but 3 with whom I became familiar or know) This acted as a reminder to me that I am a girl woman who wants to fall in love, etc. I know- more than anyone- that you can't lose weight for anyone but yourself. But I also know that the type of guy I want to fall for, deserves more than what I can offer right now. I've come to this conclusion over a lot of thought and reasoning. I've long thought the guys I liked were always just "out of my league" however, I haven't been doing a good job (over the years) on my end. I've realized that I only see them as out of my league because I don't think highly enough of myself. (physically- believe me- I know the rest of me is well above average :) hee hee. ) I want to be the kind of girl woman that attracts men, and I want to FEEL that I do.
I don't want to get into specific details about who these guys are - you never know if they read this or not. I will say one I met at a bar, and the two others are from the golf course.

2) Bridal Shower
Ok this kinda matches with the above comments. But it was a family gathering and well, I didn't get any compliments. Which is ok, since I hated the ones I was given last week. People are commenting that I lost more weight, or asking me how much more I've lost, and truthfully- I'm up. Today I was around 211. I'm HOPING some of this is because I've been running more, and such - perhaps I'm building some muscle up and soon it will start shedding again.

3) Clothes Shopping
Ugh. I was at WalMart today and was trying on some pants, getting ready to go back to school. And nothing was fitting correctly. I didn't like the sizes that I would be required to purchase, so I gave up shopping. However, it reminded me of what my end goal is, and what I need to do to get there. While I was at Walmart, I did a little grocery shopping and picked up some good turkey, yogurt, cereal, supplies for english muffin pizzas, brown rice, and some low sugar jelly. I also stopped at Subway for dinner. (no cookies!)

4) Arrival of Purchase
As I was heading out to my run, I received a package. It's my official Human Race Shirt with my own Bib number on it. It's really cool- and looks kinda small (see comments #3). However, I now have it hanging prominently so the next time that I feel like brushing off a run, I will see that I have a deadline - August 31. I want to be decent at a 5k by then (even though the race is a 10k).

5) My birthday is coming up
Ok not really THAT close, it's in October. However, I know where I'd like to be by then. I know who I want to BE by then. And I think I have time to make significant progress to get there.

So what am I doing about all this?
Well I'm back on track, I'm consciously choosing my foods, I making sure I work out more often.
I have some deadlines to work toward - look forward to:

August 22 - report back to school (2 weeks 6 days)
August 25- first day of school (3 weeks 2 days)
August 31 - Human Race 10K (4 weeks)
September 27- Cousin's Wedding (almost 8 weeks)
October 2- NKOTB Concert (9 weeks)
October 11- My 30th Birthday (10 weeks)

If I could lose 2lbs a week, I could be down to about 190 by my birthday.

Then a few further down the road:
Thanksgiving
Christmas
New Years :)

Early Morning Run

I was feeling enthusiastic - or more likely I convinced myself I would like the way I felt after I ran, so I set my alarm and got up at 6:00. (I had to be at the golf course at 8, so I had just enough time for my 30 minute run). I have to admit that it didn't feel as "great" as the last one, but I did it, I survived and was glad I did!


This morning's run: (the big dip is where I stopped for water at the water fountain)


On my way out of the park on my way home I thought I saw a dog coming toward me across a lawn, before my brain properly registered it, I saw an even bigger one taking a few steps toward me. It was then I realized it was a doe and her fawn (a cute one too, with her white dots) I slowly moved to the other side of the road and the deer quietly went back to their grazing, although the mom kept checking on me as I went by. :)

At the course today I worked an outting, one that Kelly Pavlik sponsored actually that benefits the Akron Children's Hospital. There were over 150 people golfing. It was a nice day. I was a bit tired by the time I got to my evening league, so I rode (not to mention we were playing the back nine which is WAY too hilly - although I'm sure Michelle would laugh at "my hills" compared to hers.
I had a good night. (see tomorrow's posts for more reasons why).

A real RUN.

Today was a great run. I can say that. It was a RUN. I am still on Week 1. But I felt that on my 3 2minute running increments, I was really running- not jogging (at least not compared to what I've done before)
It was a very surreal run. I didn't head out until about 5 minutes till sundown. (I am smart- my route is very low traffic) As I was running through the park, a light fog rolled in. I had the park mostly to myself, there were a few couples wandering through. But the one part I had the road to myself, the big trees all around me and the fog rolling in. If it weren't for the pavement under my feet I would have thought I was running through Sherwood Forest. Kinda like this (this is a pic I found on the web- not one of mine)
I had a lot of energy tonight and it felt so good. Maybe it's because I went out last night and met a kid (no idea if I'll ever see him again- but that's not the point) I'm socializing, getting out there. I feel re-energized.
So now that I feel incredibly icky (sweaty) I'm gonna go take a shower and cuddle up with a movie. I should be around more often now. :)

Today's run:



Note about distances: I guess progress has been made. Last time I ran this "song list" I only went 2.98k today was 3.03k yeah, yeah it's not a lot, but it's something.

Oh yeah, about my route (not sure if I mentioned this before) It starts off going down a pretty steep hill, which of course means I end coming back UP that hill. I think it's between 1/8 and 1/4 mile hill.

Getting back out there.

Another week spent at the golf course. I'm finding myself a bit overwhelmed by my new addiction to golf (it truly has become an addiction- I can't get enough) and my classes. Although my last class is done at the end of this week. Which means lots of time spent on the computer this week.
I went running this morning. I'm still working on my "week 1" but I did pretty well. The running part is getting easier. I'd like to think my miles and miles of walking the golf course helps a little too!
Here's today's run:

The program has me walk for 10 minutes, run 2, walk 2, run 2, walk 2, run 2, walk 10. Can you see that in my graphic? ;)

Well we are having a retirement party for my Dad today, so I better get back to helping set up.

102!

I've been a bit busy this week. I've played 102 holes of golf. I did ride a lot, however it has been in the 90s all week and very humid - great weather for golfing, but man can that sun take it out of ya! I didn't have any earth-shattering rounds, but I played well. Shooting low to mid 40s on all the individual rounds and today my scramble came in 8 under par. (A scramble, for any non-golfers out there, is when everyone hits a ball and you all play the best ball, then pick the best again, etc) It was tough today to beat the team that had a hole in one! (although I did win 2 closest to the pin contests among my team.)

That being said, I'm very far behind on my classes - although I think my internet is FiXED for real this time, now. I need to get back to a schedule. I haven't run at all since Sunday. But I spent Monday on the golf course from 8 am until 9 pm, Wednesday I was there 2:30 pm until 9pm, Thursday 9am until 9 pm, Friday 8 am until 10 pm, and today 8am until 4pm. So I haven't really had a whole lot of time. (I spent Tuesday catching up on some school work- check out my new webpage -in progress)

Anyway, next week I think I may golf a little less, and work on WORKING OUT more.

It's Official!

I'm crazy. I'm nuts. I didn't do anything I should have. I was unprepared, untrained, and most definitely not ready... but I did it anyway. What you ask? Well my first 5K! How did that happen? Well last night I was looking up the golf even that I'm in tomorrow (a Cancer Society benefit) and I saw that there was a 5K being run this morning, about 20 minutes from where I live. I had figured that I was going to go run for 30 minutes (week 1) anyway, so why not go do it there? OK yeah, I know it was a bit much. Do I regret it? NOT A CHANCE!
I got a number. 474.
I've always wanted one of those. It made me feel like a real runner.
I didn't know anybody there, but quickly befriended 4 girls (women). Two were training for marathons, another is back after having kids, and the fourth - this was her first 5k too. (although she's been running a lot more than me).They warned me about not starting out too quick.Although my plan was to follow my week 1 routine and then just do whatever I could to finish the last mile.
Well my bra helped out with that. Have I mentioned my sports bras issues lately? I had found a good one, but it has these STUPID velcro straps. The left side keeps coming undone. It's very annoying. In fact I was finally so upset, that I ordered an ENELL bra last week - now if it would only get here! But anyway, I was not 50 yards into the race, feeling great, cruising with the others, when BAM, not only did the velcro come undone, but it completely came out of the front of the bra. So I was trying to keep at least a decent walking pace as I tried to feed the bra strap back through the bra. I even took off one of my safety pins to try to get it to hold, but it was too small. But I must say, as annoying as it was, it did keep me from going out to fast. I did make up some ground to keep a few of my new friends in view as I went. I kept at my own pace. I ran during the times I was supposed to, and more when I could. I figure I ran a minimum of 10 minutes, but realistically more like 15. Here is my run according to my iPod.

I did have one problem towards the end of the race. I ran the last loop backwards!! oops. It didn't matter though, I mean it was a LOOP. (and no one was really near me. (and I wasn't in medal contention :) ) ME FINISHING... RUNNING!Here are some more pics of me from the race (my new friends took some of me afterward, and the people in charge of the race took some, too.My official time was 46:09 And I'm ok with that. Now I know what I can do in a real situation, and I can work on it!! (especialy knowing the next one ought to be better without the wardrobe malfunction!!) I actually finished 6th in my age division (out of 8, but still) and I finished 94th out of 108 altogether. Not bad for my first venture :)

The weather was overcast, muggy and 80 degrees. I did get a little wet toward the end of the race (a few sprinkles) I was also proud of myself for pushing and running most of the last loop. Definitely making sure I ran through the finish line.

This last picture was of everyone standing around waiting for the race to begin.

My internet is still on the fritz so even though I'm posting this now, I actually wrote it last night.

Starting Over

First things first. I've been without internet for the past 2 days.. AHHH. But it appears to be at least pseudo-fixed. YAY.
Thursday I golfed 9 holes, then played a 9-hole scramble. Our scramble won! YAY. We finished 3 under.
Yesterday I spent the morning at the golf course then went out and golfed. I did well. I shot a 42, with several GREAT par saves and a birdie. It was a fun night.
I've been listening to some great podcasts(GolfSmarter.com) - if you are a golfer you should really check them out.

-- so I lost connection mid message-- BLAH! (But I kept writing, in case it came back on)

I'm learning a lot and finding out about a bunch of books I'd love to read.
I also bought a few books about running - Sole Sisters (I've read 3 stories so far- Wendy was right. This is definitely a must read for EVERY runner! I also bought a Women's Running books that has a lot about training and equipment and mentality and racing, just kind of an all in one book. So it is after reading through some of this that I am going to start over in my running training. (especially considering everything I've done has been my own creation- and I don't know anything - lol.) So I'm going to use the beginning guide in the book. Instead of trying to go a full 5k everytime, I'm going to work on building up to running for 30 minutes straight. Now I have to see if my ipod will help me with this. I don't wear a watch, so I may have to change my "running increments" into number of songs rather than minutes. The suggested running plan is as follows:
Each workout should add up to 30 minutes and should be done 3-5 days a week.
Week 1: Walk 10min, Run/walk 10min (running segments 2 min), Walk 10 min
Week 2: Walk 8mins, Run/walk 14min (run 4 min segs.), Walk 8 min
Week 3: Walk 5mins, Run/Walk 20min (run 6 min segs), Walk 5min
Week 4: Walk few mins, Run 7 min, recover, Run 7 min, Walk to end. (build 7 mins to 10 mins by end of week)
Week 5: Walk 3 mins, run 12 mins, Walk 3, Run 12 - build run to 15.
Week 6: Walk 5 run, run 20, walk 5- increasing run to 30 over week.

Well in terms of songs, I will make a playlist that is very close to these times. I think I like being motivated by song changes rather than watching a clock. In fact, right now I'm going to go over (to the other computer) and make the playlists. I'll post them when I've finished making them.
6 weeks from today will be August 23, which will give me one more week before the 10k. My plan will be to run 5k (or at least 30 minutes) and walk the rest.

Well - since I had no internet most of the day, I went out and tried my new playlists. I like it. It was hard (it was well into the 90s today) but I think I'll be more successful trying this training than on my own.



(The dip was where I had to jog in place before crossing the street.)

Depending on my internet.. I'll be checking back in soon :)

Day 1

This is what a DAY 1 workout involves. (this workout is intended to help female golfers)

Warm Up
Generally this is at least 5 minutes of cardio

• 07/08/08 - 1 mile run/walk at the track

Arms and Shoulders
Hammer Curl to Overhead
3 sets of 8 reps each arm

• 07/08/08 -10lbs

Dumbell Shoulder Rotation
3 sets of 8 reps each arm

• 07/08/08 -5lbs

Twisting Bicep Curl
3 sets of 8 reps each arm

• 07/08/08 -10lbs

Dumbell Shoulder Rotation with Cable
3 sets of 8 reps

• 07/08/08 -20lbs

One-Arm Cable Pull
3 sets of 8 reps each arm

• 07/08/08 -20lbs

One-Arm Cable Push
3 sets of 8 reps each arm

• 07/08/08 - 20lbs

Cool Down
Interval Training for 10 minutes.

• 07/08/08 - Recumbent bike, easy 1 min, fast burst 20 secs. repeat for 10 mins.

Workout From Golf For Women.

Unexpected Surprise

Yes I know that's a bit redundant. But it's worthwhile. First off though, I had a great day at the golf course. I shot a 39, had 2 birdies, a par, won 2 skins, and tied for low gross score. Yeah it was a good day. Food was great - for the most part.
Breakfast- tea and a breakfast bar
Snack: Apple
Lunch: Turkey and non-fat cheese on wheat bun, light yogurt.
Early Dinner: Hot dog at the course (ok- not so good, but I was hungry)
Snack: My Monday night treat- small cookie dough blizzard from DQ
Late Dinner: Large Italian Lettuce Salad (light croutons and low fat cheese) with light balsamic vinaigrette dressing.
oh yeah- and I had a gatorade in there too - I've become a big fan.

Since I got done at the golf course, I've been siting on the couch, munching on my salad, perusing people's blogs. I updated my exercise log to include today's information and THAT'S WHEN IT HIT. What you might ask? Well, a few posts ago I mentioned that I was trying to stay busy because an "anniversary" type date was approaching and my all too good memory would probably cause the day to be bad- again. I am in total shock. I kid you not. Here it is well over 12 hours of awakeness on this day and NOT ONCE did that terrible thought cross my mind. And in fact now that it has- nothing. Not even a flip flop or a hint of queasiness. I'm TOTALLY OKAY. It's a very empowering feeling, to know that this day will not haunt me forever, as I feared. I'm ok. I'll be ok. In fact... I'm MORE than ok- I'm great. I had a totally awesome day. Wow.

I guess now I just have to get back down to business on my running and working out. I've gotten the food back on track. I've decided to "treat" myself to DQ on Mondays (since small blizzards are only $2). I know the key to my fitness success is to get OFF MY BUTT and SWEAT a little (or a lot.)

It is definitely a new day for me!!! Woohoo!!:)

Walking With Dad

So I was sitting on the couch working on my school stuff (I'm taking classes this summer) when my Dad gave me a message to relay if my cousin called. I asked where he was going and long story short- he was going for a walk! I asked if I could tag along.
We walked at his pace. His back has been bothering him, but I'm ecstatic that he wants to exercise. Every little bit helps. So I grabbed my iPod - no I didn't listen to the music, but I recorded how far/fast we went. The big dip is where we came across a downed cable and talked to the policeman for a little bit, helping him set up the caution tape. We went for a total of 2 blocks around our house.

The picture above is of Dad and I at his retirement reception at work on June 26, 2008. Here's another one of my favorite ones of me and Dad. It's from April 2007.












But this has to be my ALL TIME favorite one! (yes, I know it's blurry- but i Love it!)


So as I was uploading and getting the code to add the visual of our run, I came across a really cool thing that's happening on August 31, 2008. It's the Nike+ Human Race. It's a 10k that's being held in 25 cities worldwide PLUS you can participate at home by using your Nike+ and uploading the data. I know it is WAY too soon for me to actually run a 10k right? But I figure I'd try the training program and since I'm just doing it at home, if I have to walk 5k of it- then fine. It just seems like such a neat thing to be a part of. You can also order a t-shirt that has a unique runner's number on it. OK I'm frustrated, I've been trying to load the Nike store and it's not working. But the shirts look really cool- trust me!
Am I crazy? As of right now I'm planning on just heading down to the park and going the 10k, but I might see if there is an actual race in this area. What do you think?

New Friends Paying Off

LOL So I already got a helpful tip- actually it's the same tip I got on Friday - so I guess 2 people telling me means I ought to do it.
I found a running club in my area! I really didn't think there were any. For those of you that are part of them what do you think? Is this a good one? It's the Youngstown Road Runners Club.
I worry because I still walk more than I run when I go out.

ok I'm going to bed. THANKS!!!

I have VIRTUAL friends

First off.. mad props to Michelle for advertising me on her blog and getting me new friends!! It's nice knowing people are reading my blogs. I found that when I was most successful was when I blogged/journaled on a regular basis and I knew that people were reading it. Maybe I'm just selfish or something- but I seem to be MORE inspired when I know I'm helping others to be inspired.

On a little sadder note, I hate the fact that currently 99% of my friends are virtual. Now don't get me wrong, I'm not trying to insult anyone- it's just that most of the people I talk to are hundreds if not thousands miles away. And while I treasure each and every one of them- I desperately need some REAL friends-- that I can go hang out with and play golf with, and meet cute boys with.
Anyone have any ideas how to MAKE friends? I was never good at.

Well I have some more technology work to do before bed.


Umm food and exercise.. I'll tell ya about it tomorrow! (it's not bad)

New Toy

So the reunion went really well. I have pictures posted if you're interested.
I also went out to watch some fireworks and took about 200 pictures - I'm still sorting through them looking for the good ones. I'll post some when I'm done.
I did ok food wise yesterday - save the absolutely way too delicious chocolate chip cookies my cousin brought. (I had 3 - and 2 oreos)

Today I spent most of the day getting those pictures (above) done. Then I went to Golf Headquarters and got some new tees, some head covers and a new toy.
After setting up my new GPS range finder, I went out to the golf course to try it out. I still like my clubs. :) Although today I couldn't quite hit my driver. I shot a 44 though- on a pretty tough course, Mill Creek North. It was nice being able to see exactly how far I hit each club and how far various hazards are from where I was.

And in a WAY EXCITING side note - my best friend (virtual sister) FINALLY had her 3rd son. She's been on bed rest for over a month! He's a real cutie! So now I'm an "Aunt" 3 times! YAY!!

Lincoln Reese - born 7/4/08

Olypically Inspired

My Dad and I were watching the Track and Field Olympic Trials last night. A friend of mine, Adriane Blewitt, is competing in it (shot put). But anyway it re-inspired me to get out there and run. That and the fact that I watched "A Lot Like Love" last night and I realized I'm ready to fall in love - I just need to get my body where I want it to be.
So this morning I woke up and went running. It was a beautiful morning- cool, crisp, damp. There were a lot of other people down in the park running, walking, biking, and walking their dogs. I realized that my cardio has lapsed terribly. My legs are shaky, but I think golfing has helped keep them toned. I'm definitely getting back to the gym.
I hope you all have a great 4th of July. I have to get ready for our Family Reunion.
Here's my run:

Confused.

So, I'm guessing that most of you that read this don't know the history of my life or at least not the last year.

My boyfriend of 3 years and I broke up last summer. (we're coming up on the 1 year anniversary of that day - I'm trying not to think about that, but my brain is kinda screwy that way. I remember dates WAY too well.) Anyway, Luke (my ex) made the right decision. We may have had a great romance in the beginning, but in reality we were much better friends. I know it took me a long time to be honest enough with myself to admit that we weren't really as happy as we pretended to be. He finally had the guts to speak up about it. I know things were complicated by having a third party involved. And before anyone dogs on him because of this- I truly believe to my core- that he would NEVER do anything to intentionally hurt me. I believe he was kinda blindsided by his feelings for this other woman and was truly confused as to what he SHOULD do. He maybe didn't make all the BEST choices, but he tried his best. He went out of his way to keep my esteem up, and he acted as the best friend I could ask for.

In October he moved to Wisconsin. We talked on the phone and tried to keep in touch. It's been pretty touch and go. I do really wish we could be friends. But, well, I'm starting to get the feeling that he doesn't want to. That hurts all over again. Maybe that's what's bothering me today.

About today-
I have a photography company (Luke was in it with me). When he moved to Wisc I let him take one of the company cameras because I thought he would actually still be part of the company. That didn't quite happen. I'm starting to get more bookings and was feeling uneasy about not having my backup camera. I had to ask for it back (along with some money I was still owed from our "parting ways").

I received that package today. And it made me sad. Really sad. And I've spent the day trying to figure out why. I think I was most bothered by the fact that in the box was the camera, lens, and check. No note, nothing personal. That's what makes me think he doesn't want to be friends anymore. We haven't talked since the end of April and our text/emails have been strictly business-like. It makes me sad.

We have one more piece of business still connecting us. I'm torn. Part of me thinks I'm ok, and completely ready to cut all ties. Then there's the other part that wants to still try to be friends.
I know he made the right choice, and lately I've kinda been thinking about how there are things about him that well.. aren't what I'm looking for. I'm very OVER him. I still care about him, don't get me wrong, but I'm definitely NOT still in love with him or anything like that! So why would this stupid package bother me?

I don't know. I've been in a mood all day. I snapped a little at my parents, I'm hoping they both kinda understood since they both knew I got something from Luke today.

In general I'm doing good. I mean my fitness level has been less than desirable, but I've been eating much better. I'm golfing several times a week. I'm actually kind of excited about my new position at school. I'm getting back in touch with my best friend - the girl I've been friends with since 1st grade! I'm getting along with my parents (surprisingly well). I'm learning lots of new computer stuff.

Well thanks for listening to me unload. I needed it. I think I might cry a little tonight. It'll be the first time since January. (in regards to Luke) Am I crazy? Why did I have this reaction? Any thoughts?

New Clubs

I got my new clubs and absolutely love them. I played 18 holes yesterday and can't wait to play more. I would have written more about them in my true excitement, but I was stupid and didn't eat correctly (in a timely fashion) and came home right on the brink of a migraine.
And today my mood is... surprising and not good (see next post).

All about Running

The Rules:

Tagging is easy. Just copy the following onto your post. The rules of the game are posted at the start of your blog post. In this case, I'm asking you 5 questions about running. Each player answers the 5 questions on their own blog. At the end of your post you tag 5 other people and post their names. Go to their blogs and leave a comment on their blogs telling them they've been tagged and to look at your blog for details. When they've answered the questions on their own blog, they come back to yours to tell you. Got that? This was copied from Michelle, the only person I know with a blog.

1. How would you describe your running 10 years ago?
10 years ago, I didn't even think about running. I am a short, large busted woman. Even when I was not terribly overweight, the idea of me running was a joke. I tried a few times but it hurt. (part of that I now realize may have been because I didn't wear sports bras - but it's really hard to find them in my size) Seriously, 10 years ago, I "walked" for fitness, but the idea that I could run never even entered my head.

2. What is your best/worst running experience?
As of today I haven't had very many running experiences period. I can remember being in elementary school and chasing the boys around the playground. I remember I was fast, quicker than them. I remember running before gym class in middle school and crashing into a wall. OUCH!
But perhaps my worst running experience happened when I was in 7th grade. We were MADE to participate in Olympic Day. I remember being able to run when I was younger, but didn't realize how out of shape I really was. I was supposed to run the 50 yard dash, the shortest of the possible races. I came in DEAD LAST. I was mortified. I blamed it on the gravel track we were running on, I had no traction whatsoever. It was just very embarrassing - I was teased enough as it was, and now I had just waddled 50yards and came in last. I guess it was at that point that I came to the conclusion, "I just wasn't built for running." This is a picture of me around that time.

3. Why do you run?
In three words - Because I can! Now that I know it is possible for me to run, I love the feeling of running. I feel athletic, it makes me feel normal. I feel like I am BEING the person on the outside that I feel on the inside. I love the rush that comes from sprinting (which I do sparingly - until I'm in better shape) I can't explain the way it feels, running full force, the wind hitting me, as the ground rushes past underneath me.
In a less whimsical answer- I run to lose weight. I still have at least 50 pounds to go and running feels like a good workout and I've read that it's one of the BEST ways to exercise.

4. What is the best or worst piece of running advice that you've been given about running?
I don't know that I've really been given any advice on the matter. I guess to answer the question I would have to refer to my personal trainer who convinced me that I COULD RUN and that it was ok to start out slow and build my way up.

5. Tell us something surprising about yourself that not many people would know.
Something surprising about me? Hmmm.. Something I learned- the hard way, running shoes hurt to walk in, it adds a little motivation to run more on my journeys. I guess really, most people wouldn't know that the person I am on the inside is vastly different from what I portray on the outside- although I am working on that. I see myself so differently from how I think others see me. It's one of the challenges of making this transformation while being surrounded by people who only know the old me- and expect me to BE the old me. I have an image in my head of who I want to be and how I want to be. I'm making changes... some progress.. but still have a long way to go.


I know I'm supposed to tag a bunch of people and tell them to come read this or something - but as I posted at the beginning- I don't know anyone besides Michelle. Hopefully through her I can meet some new people.