Hi All,
Two posts in one night, you say? Yep! What gives? I am upset and writing it out, I hope, will help get me to a point where I can turn off my brain and sleep. It was quite the day.
As a history major, the events starting with Inauguration Day on January 20th, 2017, to the present have been deeply upsetting. I do not watch TV, except Netflix and shows I get through CBS Access. I do have an active Twitter feed with some news sources and I pickup the news based upon Facebook feeds.
The actions of the new administration during the past 14 days deeply upset me. I am not one to speak out against authority. Nor am I one to protest, march, or attend rallies to speak out against something that I find wrong. Why? I have worked for 9.5 years in a field that is constantly pulled in one direction or another by politics. My chosen profession and those I support are not stagnant. If they were, I would not be in my field. Life is all about conquering the challenges.
The outcome of the United States 2016 election presents a giant challenge for me on top of a newish job and a return to running. This morning, I found peace while running and appreciating the gorgeous white snow covering the sidewalks. Then a dog changed it. I recovered, but it was not the run I hoped it would be. That dog, in some respects, reminds of me what is happening in the United States.
Elections change all of us. I hope the changes in me are for the better, but I cannot say this for sure. What I cannot stand and refuse to support in any election, however, is the excuse of a person to take on rude, inappropriate, or unethical behavior. An election is just that. It is an opportunity to express an opinion and it lasts for all of one day. The outcome can last for four years or more, depending on how popular or not the elected official is. In 1998, I learned all about the impeachment process. It is a two step process. It is rarely used, but it holds great power. A president can be impeached but not ousted.
Our thoughts, actions, and words - even in private conversations with family, friends, co-workers, etc - are a reflection of how we feel. This has not changed. What could have changed, however, is the emotion with which we converse about such situations.
My goal - until I can feel more at peace - is to keep an eye on the area of interest to me. It will impact those, who I serve daily, and for whom I provide training. If I feel that action is required, I will take it, but I am not putting myself in harms way to do so. Will I stand with those who object, sure - but I will do so only, if I can participate and not compromise my beliefs, training, background, and ethics.
Let's all keep exercising and hope the peaceful and good times are around the next bend.
Until Wednesday, Happy Exercising!
Monday, January 30, 2017
Why dogs are scary...or could be scary!
Hi All,
The first 2.5 miles of my run were uneventful. It was glorious and slightly slick due to some snow and ice, but I will take it.
Then...an itty bitty dog started barking. I am pretty sure the dog started barking as I passed the back of the house, but it only got louder as I passed the front of the house. It came running out and chased me 10 feet or so past the drive. It circled me and kept on barking. I thought it lost interest and resumed running, but no it then followed me and continued to bark. The owner, who was not awake, came out and ineffectively tried to catch the dog, who found a car and decided to bark at the car instead.
I truly enjoy pets of all sorts (except snakes - creepy)! When I am running, however, I prefer not to disrupt the pets or the people. Evening and morning runs can be done without doing this, but it is not necessarily a possibility.
It was not a fun way to start my day. The run was complete followed by myrtl. Let's hope for less exciting running adventures the rest of this week, eh?
Happy Monday!
The first 2.5 miles of my run were uneventful. It was glorious and slightly slick due to some snow and ice, but I will take it.
Then...an itty bitty dog started barking. I am pretty sure the dog started barking as I passed the back of the house, but it only got louder as I passed the front of the house. It came running out and chased me 10 feet or so past the drive. It circled me and kept on barking. I thought it lost interest and resumed running, but no it then followed me and continued to bark. The owner, who was not awake, came out and ineffectively tried to catch the dog, who found a car and decided to bark at the car instead.
I truly enjoy pets of all sorts (except snakes - creepy)! When I am running, however, I prefer not to disrupt the pets or the people. Evening and morning runs can be done without doing this, but it is not necessarily a possibility.
It was not a fun way to start my day. The run was complete followed by myrtl. Let's hope for less exciting running adventures the rest of this week, eh?
Happy Monday!
Sunday, January 29, 2017
Headaches Begone: Why I really want to run after 3 days away!
Hi All,
This was quite the week for many reasons. I am glad to say I have pushed through the headaches and I am pretty sure I know the cause. Medication does not work over extended time periods for me and 2-3 years is my limit. I will be curious to see how a meeting with a specialist goes on Thursday. Rest assured, if it resembles my previous specialist appointment, then I am restarting the search.
Due to splitting headaches Tuesday-Friday, I spent much of Saturday doing nothing. Today, I woke up knowing the headache was gone but realizing that running would only bring it back.
Do I feel bad having had to miss two scheduled runs? Yes. I persisted through a workout on Tuesday, though, even not feeling the best, because I did not expect the headache to return. Take home point - listen to your body. If you push it, injuries or permanent damage will result.
I am hoping to find a holistic or natural way to handle the issue the medication clearly cannot keep at bay anymore. Or maybe the issue will run away? I can hope.
Right now, I am thankful for the support of my coach, family, and friends. Our support groups are critical to personal and professional success.
If I can ever answer a question or point you in the direction of someone who can, say the word.
Happy Sunday!
This was quite the week for many reasons. I am glad to say I have pushed through the headaches and I am pretty sure I know the cause. Medication does not work over extended time periods for me and 2-3 years is my limit. I will be curious to see how a meeting with a specialist goes on Thursday. Rest assured, if it resembles my previous specialist appointment, then I am restarting the search.
Due to splitting headaches Tuesday-Friday, I spent much of Saturday doing nothing. Today, I woke up knowing the headache was gone but realizing that running would only bring it back.
Do I feel bad having had to miss two scheduled runs? Yes. I persisted through a workout on Tuesday, though, even not feeling the best, because I did not expect the headache to return. Take home point - listen to your body. If you push it, injuries or permanent damage will result.
I am hoping to find a holistic or natural way to handle the issue the medication clearly cannot keep at bay anymore. Or maybe the issue will run away? I can hope.
Right now, I am thankful for the support of my coach, family, and friends. Our support groups are critical to personal and professional success.
If I can ever answer a question or point you in the direction of someone who can, say the word.
Happy Sunday!
Monday, January 23, 2017
Listen to your body - Four Rest Days followed by an easy run!
Hi All,
Last week, I did a few things that I had not planned. I skipped my long run (This had not happened since the holidays!). I skipped a run on Friday and I skipped core work on Thursday. I was exhausted. I woke up in the morning and thought, "please do not let me get sick." It took until Saturday afternoon for this to pass. Sunday - I could have run, but I decided to take one last day to be safe. I did some lunges and myrtl work.
Have I mentioned how lucky I am to have found a coach who gets me? I am excited to support her, as best I can, while she works towards her goals. It is neat to see how she can get my body to do things, which on its own I can tell you would not happen. She also said my taking a few days to recover was perfectly ok. So, guilt, go far far far away!
I am fortunate to have gotten some good news on Friday, which helped me relax after a good 3-6 months of stress. Does this mean the stress will disappear? No - it does mean I am heading in the right direction. I am sorry I could not handle it and prevent the running from getting the worst of it, but that is my goal for the next twelve months.
Running four miles felt good and, yes, I felt my lunges from yesterday. Myrtl did its magic and I feel just fine.
Happy Monday!
Last week, I did a few things that I had not planned. I skipped my long run (This had not happened since the holidays!). I skipped a run on Friday and I skipped core work on Thursday. I was exhausted. I woke up in the morning and thought, "please do not let me get sick." It took until Saturday afternoon for this to pass. Sunday - I could have run, but I decided to take one last day to be safe. I did some lunges and myrtl work.
Have I mentioned how lucky I am to have found a coach who gets me? I am excited to support her, as best I can, while she works towards her goals. It is neat to see how she can get my body to do things, which on its own I can tell you would not happen. She also said my taking a few days to recover was perfectly ok. So, guilt, go far far far away!
I am fortunate to have gotten some good news on Friday, which helped me relax after a good 3-6 months of stress. Does this mean the stress will disappear? No - it does mean I am heading in the right direction. I am sorry I could not handle it and prevent the running from getting the worst of it, but that is my goal for the next twelve months.
Running four miles felt good and, yes, I felt my lunges from yesterday. Myrtl did its magic and I feel just fine.
Happy Monday!
Thursday, January 19, 2017
8 Years Ago Tomorrow....
Happy Friday Eve! Tomorrow, some will gather to celebrate and cheer the during the inauguration. Others will stay home, get fired up, and then March on downtown in Washington DC or in other cities around the United States. Still others will acknowledge what is happening, but refuse to take part in it. Many are ignoring the news and canceling subscriptions to television. Eight years ago, I left DC and retreated to a spot about 2.5 hours away to relax and to put things in perspective. I am heading to the same location tomorrow, but the drive is around 5 hours.
I can only hope that the people taking over leadership positions will think and get good council before making decisions. Meanwhile, those groups and people, who are in opposition, march, protest, join your causes and state why things must change. One of the greatest parts about living in the United States is our ability to speak freely.
Without a doubt, though, I would hope those in favor or opposition express the emotions candidly but in a non-violent fashion. We do not need any additional cruelty in this world.
This blog will not reflect - to the best of my ability - my views on the election. Due to nature of my work, politics will always play a substantial role. I can only hope the good of the people (electorate) are put first, when our newly elected president, cabinet, and leaders begin tomorrow.
Stay safe!
I can only hope that the people taking over leadership positions will think and get good council before making decisions. Meanwhile, those groups and people, who are in opposition, march, protest, join your causes and state why things must change. One of the greatest parts about living in the United States is our ability to speak freely.
Without a doubt, though, I would hope those in favor or opposition express the emotions candidly but in a non-violent fashion. We do not need any additional cruelty in this world.
This blog will not reflect - to the best of my ability - my views on the election. Due to nature of my work, politics will always play a substantial role. I can only hope the good of the people (electorate) are put first, when our newly elected president, cabinet, and leaders begin tomorrow.
Stay safe!
Monday, January 16, 2017
Say Goodbye to Weekly Recaps (Mileage and Workouts)
Good Morning!
Despite my best intention of getting back to a semi-normalish schedule, I caved and slept in again. I have zero regrets. Leading into this weekend, I was sleep deprived, exhausted on levels, and kind of a mess. And so, I will get my six miles in today per the schedule, but I am going with how I feel time wise.
I going to cease posting the weekly recap of mileage and workouts. Last year, I signed up to run the year in miles and quickly realized it was not what I thought. For me, having someone else keep track of my mileage buildup is essential. I am have a tendency to push harder than I should. This is another reason why I am not posting the weekly miles. It sounds selfish, perhaps, but it not helping me accomplish my goals.
This year - 2017 - marks the first year where I ended a year (2016) and started the next (2017) pretty healthy overall. Sure - some things will change in the New Year. I am hoping these changes will be minimal, but one never can tell. I am unbelievably thankful that my body has bounced back in ways I never expected. It is as if, in some ways, I am back to my early days of running with a few restrictions.
I won't deny being a bit anxious about the election cycle. This is something that happens - for me at least - whenever a new President takes the oath. I can only hope the next four years brings positive change in some areas or at least does not completely reverse some of the positives of the past eight years.
And now...it is time to eat my banana and remember we are just people. We can be influences for change in positive ways, but we need to think carefully about how we do this.
Happy Monday!
Despite my best intention of getting back to a semi-normalish schedule, I caved and slept in again. I have zero regrets. Leading into this weekend, I was sleep deprived, exhausted on levels, and kind of a mess. And so, I will get my six miles in today per the schedule, but I am going with how I feel time wise.
I going to cease posting the weekly recap of mileage and workouts. Last year, I signed up to run the year in miles and quickly realized it was not what I thought. For me, having someone else keep track of my mileage buildup is essential. I am have a tendency to push harder than I should. This is another reason why I am not posting the weekly miles. It sounds selfish, perhaps, but it not helping me accomplish my goals.
This year - 2017 - marks the first year where I ended a year (2016) and started the next (2017) pretty healthy overall. Sure - some things will change in the New Year. I am hoping these changes will be minimal, but one never can tell. I am unbelievably thankful that my body has bounced back in ways I never expected. It is as if, in some ways, I am back to my early days of running with a few restrictions.
I won't deny being a bit anxious about the election cycle. This is something that happens - for me at least - whenever a new President takes the oath. I can only hope the next four years brings positive change in some areas or at least does not completely reverse some of the positives of the past eight years.
And now...it is time to eat my banana and remember we are just people. We can be influences for change in positive ways, but we need to think carefully about how we do this.
Happy Monday!
Sunday, January 15, 2017
Body Image - Let's get real!
As a girl with three brothers and an outspoken father, I tend to dress conservatively. If I am feeling in shape, then I might wear a tighter more form-fitting outfit or shorts in public. Skirts happen, but it depends again on how I am feeling. How does this fit on running blog? Stay tuned!
I just listened to a podcast on Runners Connect interviewing Lanni Marchant. The podcast host, Tina Muir, makes a point of sharing stories about hiding her scale, eating chocolate, and "humanizing the role" of a professional athlete. In this podcast, which is fantastic, hits on all the image issues many people fail to discuss. You can listen to the podcast by clicking here. Better yet, check out the weekly episodes of Runners Connect or pop over and read about the adventures of Tina Muir on her blog available here.
By now, it is quite obvious that I will never compete at the level of Tina and Lanni. That's ok. I read and follow blogs of many professionals, because they inspire me in a way my professional colleagues do not. Exercise for me is first and foremost for myself. Having played soccer for 10 years, I have substantial quads. I can tell when I am getting back into shape by how well defined the muscles are. Then, I also did Irish Step Dancing for parts of four years. Basically, I have calf muscles that defy the odds in size. I did find some knee high boots, but I won't bother to describe the gymnastics required to get in and out of them. I enjoy them and that is why I purchased them.
Friday and Saturday, I tested out the Wazzie Wool leggings from Oiselle. They work perfectly and you can tell a professional running company designed them. For me, personally, these will likely always hide under sweatpants or another layer. I get cold easily and I have Raynaud's. Essentially, I wear extra layers or clothes almost all the time. When I am running in the summer, I have to be careful not to over heat and then reverse course and get exceedingly cold. It is not pleasant and it has happened. These leggings are saving me from some gear I purchased many years ago, which has not held up to my expectations. Also - I am living in a colder climate than when I purchased them.
I think what I learned most from this podcast is that people will view and comment on how we look regardless of what we do or not do to hide it. Looks, when I am in shape, do not bother me as much as when I feel out-of-shape. In my dress and attitude, however, my goal is to blend not stand out in a crowd. This goal gives me the chance to observe. Comments about my clothing and lack of attention to "in style fads and trends" are nasty parts of relationships I have had (professional and personal) in the past, which I am always fighting. It would be lovely if I stop needing to fight, but I am not holding my breath.
My professional colleagues and I frequently are not on the same page when it comes to exercise. They do not know, unless I say something, that I am training for a half marathon or that I frequently exercise before work. At work, our focus is on just that - work. I will discuss it, if someone mentions running.
I am a runner and I am female. My clothing reflects more of how I am feeling than what the latest trends or styles happen to be. I have learned that I will feel awkward and ungainly in most dance classes, which does not apply for Irish Dancing, because I have a body that builds muscles. I choose clothing that I enjoy and I hope my mind and attitude - not what I am wearing - catches the attention of others.
If you are still reading, congrats - I did not mean to rant, but this body image debate needed to happen.
I just listened to a podcast on Runners Connect interviewing Lanni Marchant. The podcast host, Tina Muir, makes a point of sharing stories about hiding her scale, eating chocolate, and "humanizing the role" of a professional athlete. In this podcast, which is fantastic, hits on all the image issues many people fail to discuss. You can listen to the podcast by clicking here. Better yet, check out the weekly episodes of Runners Connect or pop over and read about the adventures of Tina Muir on her blog available here.
By now, it is quite obvious that I will never compete at the level of Tina and Lanni. That's ok. I read and follow blogs of many professionals, because they inspire me in a way my professional colleagues do not. Exercise for me is first and foremost for myself. Having played soccer for 10 years, I have substantial quads. I can tell when I am getting back into shape by how well defined the muscles are. Then, I also did Irish Step Dancing for parts of four years. Basically, I have calf muscles that defy the odds in size. I did find some knee high boots, but I won't bother to describe the gymnastics required to get in and out of them. I enjoy them and that is why I purchased them.
Friday and Saturday, I tested out the Wazzie Wool leggings from Oiselle. They work perfectly and you can tell a professional running company designed them. For me, personally, these will likely always hide under sweatpants or another layer. I get cold easily and I have Raynaud's. Essentially, I wear extra layers or clothes almost all the time. When I am running in the summer, I have to be careful not to over heat and then reverse course and get exceedingly cold. It is not pleasant and it has happened. These leggings are saving me from some gear I purchased many years ago, which has not held up to my expectations. Also - I am living in a colder climate than when I purchased them.
I think what I learned most from this podcast is that people will view and comment on how we look regardless of what we do or not do to hide it. Looks, when I am in shape, do not bother me as much as when I feel out-of-shape. In my dress and attitude, however, my goal is to blend not stand out in a crowd. This goal gives me the chance to observe. Comments about my clothing and lack of attention to "in style fads and trends" are nasty parts of relationships I have had (professional and personal) in the past, which I am always fighting. It would be lovely if I stop needing to fight, but I am not holding my breath.
My professional colleagues and I frequently are not on the same page when it comes to exercise. They do not know, unless I say something, that I am training for a half marathon or that I frequently exercise before work. At work, our focus is on just that - work. I will discuss it, if someone mentions running.
I am a runner and I am female. My clothing reflects more of how I am feeling than what the latest trends or styles happen to be. I have learned that I will feel awkward and ungainly in most dance classes, which does not apply for Irish Dancing, because I have a body that builds muscles. I choose clothing that I enjoy and I hope my mind and attitude - not what I am wearing - catches the attention of others.
If you are still reading, congrats - I did not mean to rant, but this body image debate needed to happen.
Tuesday, January 10, 2017
Bad Workouts or Runs Happen - Don't Panic!
Today I did something that I have not had to do in years. Namely - I could tell the workout was not going well and, worse, it started before I left in the morning to do it. The run in the late evening the previous day was good and it helped workout the frustrations of the day. So - I looked at the time and quit it. I will do it tomorrow, where I had hoped to do it today.
Sometimes, even the professionals discuss it, we have bad days or bad workouts. My non-running time has not been easy for awhile and it all came home to roost today - complete with me getting turned around and asking someone to reopen a locked locker in a gym, because I exited the wrong way. To the person, who did not refuse, thank you - it was quite the morning, before I even finally accomplished the task provoking the frustration in the first place.
We all have bad days. Tomorrow, I will try a second time to accomplish this workout and I am confident it will go better. At least this time I will not frighten someone, right?
Happy Tuesday!
Monday, January 9, 2017
The truth about running clothes: Updates are necessary!
Hi!
Up until my one semester of college cross-country, I never had issues most runners experience. Namely - chaffing, injuries, extreme soreness cramped muscles, etc. This all changed. I bought my first pair of true running shorts. I fell in love and, as they say, "the rest is history."
Fast forward to my post-graduate school years, I purchased some mail order running shorts. It turns out that I am good with sizing for my upper body (mostly), but am bad with choosing the appropriate shorts.
In the past two years, I was desperate and purchased a few things from local non-athletic stores and athletic stores. Fast forward to working on your house in hot condition with no air conditioning and suddenly the quality appears. Since my move in late June, I have donated lots of old cotton running shirts, which I was not wearing, and I have begun to slowly sort through running tops and outfits that I work.
This past Saturday, I did 7 miles outside and my muscles felt horrible the entire time. In fact, some of the muscles were still tight and cramping today. Why? I was not wearing appropriate layers. As someone with type 2 (less severe) Raynaud's, I am more sensitive than most to extreme temperatures. Given a choice, I will pick cold over heat any day. Fall is my favorite. My first pair of winter base layers - beyond those for daily wear - were ordered to go along with a jacket (2 years old) and an Under Armour upper layer - old but good.
While I am not a big shopper, I have learned the importance of purchasing fewer but more top quality items. If I ever mention anything on this blog, the review will be honest and candid.
Happy Monday, all!
Up until my one semester of college cross-country, I never had issues most runners experience. Namely - chaffing, injuries, extreme soreness cramped muscles, etc. This all changed. I bought my first pair of true running shorts. I fell in love and, as they say, "the rest is history."
Fast forward to my post-graduate school years, I purchased some mail order running shorts. It turns out that I am good with sizing for my upper body (mostly), but am bad with choosing the appropriate shorts.
In the past two years, I was desperate and purchased a few things from local non-athletic stores and athletic stores. Fast forward to working on your house in hot condition with no air conditioning and suddenly the quality appears. Since my move in late June, I have donated lots of old cotton running shirts, which I was not wearing, and I have begun to slowly sort through running tops and outfits that I work.
This past Saturday, I did 7 miles outside and my muscles felt horrible the entire time. In fact, some of the muscles were still tight and cramping today. Why? I was not wearing appropriate layers. As someone with type 2 (less severe) Raynaud's, I am more sensitive than most to extreme temperatures. Given a choice, I will pick cold over heat any day. Fall is my favorite. My first pair of winter base layers - beyond those for daily wear - were ordered to go along with a jacket (2 years old) and an Under Armour upper layer - old but good.
While I am not a big shopper, I have learned the importance of purchasing fewer but more top quality items. If I ever mention anything on this blog, the review will be honest and candid.
Happy Monday, all!
Sunday, January 8, 2017
Week in Review & Questions
Hi All!
Since I actually have mileage to report, yay, I will get to it for weekly report of how things went.
Monday - 5.05 miles - cold but ok and it sure was nice to run outside on trails not pavement.
Tuesday - speedy day workout 3.78 - after describing it to my coach, it seems the pace was pretty much spot-on for where it should have been.
Wednesday & Thursday - bodyweight exercises
Friday - 5.45 miles - outside and the first inkling that newer, warmer, outdoor gear might be good!
Saturday - 7.01 miles - I kid you not, when stating, "my leg muscles never warmed up" the entire time. By the end, I was numb and maintaining form was a challenge. I ordered some better layers last night and I will not be disappointed at all to get them!
Sunday - rest day - I was just a bit worn from Saturday.
Animals spotted - two deer, who I scared when plodding past them on Saturday.
High points of the week:
Since I actually have mileage to report, yay, I will get to it for weekly report of how things went.
Monday - 5.05 miles - cold but ok and it sure was nice to run outside on trails not pavement.
Tuesday - speedy day workout 3.78 - after describing it to my coach, it seems the pace was pretty much spot-on for where it should have been.
Wednesday & Thursday - bodyweight exercises
Friday - 5.45 miles - outside and the first inkling that newer, warmer, outdoor gear might be good!
Saturday - 7.01 miles - I kid you not, when stating, "my leg muscles never warmed up" the entire time. By the end, I was numb and maintaining form was a challenge. I ordered some better layers last night and I will not be disappointed at all to get them!
Sunday - rest day - I was just a bit worn from Saturday.
Animals spotted - two deer, who I scared when plodding past them on Saturday.
High points of the week:
- I did all my runs outside even in cold temperatures, go me!
- Ear plus made my sleep the best ever in the past couple of days. I am loving it!
Questions (I forgot to include it!) - Have you ever tried Magnesium or Vitamin B2 supplements? If yes, did you notice any chanages?
Happy Sunday!
Margaret
Thursday, January 5, 2017
Ear Plugs - Ugly but Essential
Hi All!
Happy Thursday! I learned recently that two companies decided not to accept me as an ambassador. I am ok with that, since I figured both were a stretch. If you have not figured this out yet, I am all about the stretching, when it comes to professional goals and really in life. So - I got a coach to help keep my stretching tendency in line. I still intend to purchase products from both companies and, who knows, maybe I will be an ambassador at some point.
Last night, I finally purchased ear plugs. For the past ~3 months and really since the move for the most part in late June, my sleep has not been the best. Up until two years ago, sleep was never an issue. As I get older, my sensitivity to noises has grown and my locations have not been the quietest. I used ear plugs and slept soundly last night. It was LOVELY! Yes, I am using capital letters for emphasis. Do I need to catchup on sleep? Yes - I will do so by going to bed earlier and not by sleeping extra on weekends. I can tell you that does not work at all for me! Schedules - or at least the structure of one - are crucial for me. On weekends, I am a bit more lax, but I am working towards getting more structure for waking up and going to bed on those as well.
Now why might I be talking about ear plugs on a running blog? Simple - rest is crucial. Some people can nap and use this as a way to get rest. Others only need a little bit of sleep. Still others (pointing at me) need a good 8.5-9 hours nightly or we are just not feeling 100%. The point here is that each of us know what we need to get this adequate rest. I am also using a white noise maker. Adding the ear plugs makes the noise dull enough that I can sleep well. Now - I am using my phone not clock-radio for the first time ever as a regular alarm clock. This way I will not bother people.
This week has been full (Tuesday-Friday). I am hoping tomorrow is productive, but I also hope to leave at a semi-normal time. Numerous long days are in my future, but I am determined to start keeping Fridays as the semi-normal departure time and to relax on weekends. By the by...relaxing includes getting in my long runs!
Be Happy and Enjoy the small things!
Happy Thursday! I learned recently that two companies decided not to accept me as an ambassador. I am ok with that, since I figured both were a stretch. If you have not figured this out yet, I am all about the stretching, when it comes to professional goals and really in life. So - I got a coach to help keep my stretching tendency in line. I still intend to purchase products from both companies and, who knows, maybe I will be an ambassador at some point.
Last night, I finally purchased ear plugs. For the past ~3 months and really since the move for the most part in late June, my sleep has not been the best. Up until two years ago, sleep was never an issue. As I get older, my sensitivity to noises has grown and my locations have not been the quietest. I used ear plugs and slept soundly last night. It was LOVELY! Yes, I am using capital letters for emphasis. Do I need to catchup on sleep? Yes - I will do so by going to bed earlier and not by sleeping extra on weekends. I can tell you that does not work at all for me! Schedules - or at least the structure of one - are crucial for me. On weekends, I am a bit more lax, but I am working towards getting more structure for waking up and going to bed on those as well.
Now why might I be talking about ear plugs on a running blog? Simple - rest is crucial. Some people can nap and use this as a way to get rest. Others only need a little bit of sleep. Still others (pointing at me) need a good 8.5-9 hours nightly or we are just not feeling 100%. The point here is that each of us know what we need to get this adequate rest. I am also using a white noise maker. Adding the ear plugs makes the noise dull enough that I can sleep well. Now - I am using my phone not clock-radio for the first time ever as a regular alarm clock. This way I will not bother people.
This week has been full (Tuesday-Friday). I am hoping tomorrow is productive, but I also hope to leave at a semi-normal time. Numerous long days are in my future, but I am determined to start keeping Fridays as the semi-normal departure time and to relax on weekends. By the by...relaxing includes getting in my long runs!
Be Happy and Enjoy the small things!
Wednesday, January 4, 2017
Commencing Buildup: Cue Exhaustion!
What can I say, 2017 is off to a wicked start. After a 9+ hour workday, speed workout, and then time required for errands...I got to bed much later than I should have. Getting up this morning was not fun and I crawled into a work a few minutes late. OOPS! I definitely wanted to the following periodically throughout the day:
This week marks the begin of mileage buildup. Despite the frigid temperatures, I am hoping to get in some swimming along with running. If I can swing it, I will resume evening workouts next week. I won't deny being excited yet terrified. I rebuilding my ability to go into potentially frightening situations and make it work as best I can. It develops quite the nerves of steel for sure and I am hoping I regain the courage quickly.
I have an extra strength resistance band. Now - I have tried to use it twice, but I am not sure I am doing it as effectively as it could be. We shall see. Friday, I might trying running and swimming! If I do that, it will be a really slow swim I assure you, since my long run is the following day.
Happy Running!
This week marks the begin of mileage buildup. Despite the frigid temperatures, I am hoping to get in some swimming along with running. If I can swing it, I will resume evening workouts next week. I won't deny being excited yet terrified. I rebuilding my ability to go into potentially frightening situations and make it work as best I can. It develops quite the nerves of steel for sure and I am hoping I regain the courage quickly.
I have an extra strength resistance band. Now - I have tried to use it twice, but I am not sure I am doing it as effectively as it could be. We shall see. Friday, I might trying running and swimming! If I do that, it will be a really slow swim I assure you, since my long run is the following day.
Happy Running!
Tuesday, January 3, 2017
Speedwork: Necessary and Challenging
Today, I did my prescribed speed workout. It was supposed to happen last week, but I was in a warmer climate and my body decided to not enjoy the 30+ degree temperature shift. It is fun that way.
I set my Garmin to tell me when to push, rest, and so forth and I think it went ok, although the first part definitely went better. It was my first attempt at 10 minutes at 80% with a 2 minute rest. Being me, I struggle with the first "new" workout attempt, but I love the variety. My paces were off by 12-20 seconds. I ignore the pace setting and I will admit to being a bit bummed, when I noticed the pace per mile readout. That's life. I can add on distance till I am blue in the face, but the speed workouts are tough for me. This is why I do them, because I know it is what I need. It also helps to have a coach, who can help me troubleshoot why I am off, and have I mentioned I am glad to not be racing until April 23rd? My return to running is progressing and I am excited to see the positive changes of the past few months.
Also - to note - I got quite warm by the time I stared the latter half of the workout. Safety is important, but it sure does make shedding layers a bit tough. I will plan better next time. My vest - although not in a two-pack - resembles this one available through Amazon.
For those of you who had to return to work yesterday, I am sorry! Today is my first day back post-holiday and, while returning is never easy, I am so thankful I had time away to gain perspective.
This morning - for the first time in ages - I managed to run, get ready, eat, and load up on caffeine before leaving. Yes - this will become more of a challenge as I run longer distances pre-work, but I will take it.
Happy Tuesday!
I set my Garmin to tell me when to push, rest, and so forth and I think it went ok, although the first part definitely went better. It was my first attempt at 10 minutes at 80% with a 2 minute rest. Being me, I struggle with the first "new" workout attempt, but I love the variety. My paces were off by 12-20 seconds. I ignore the pace setting and I will admit to being a bit bummed, when I noticed the pace per mile readout. That's life. I can add on distance till I am blue in the face, but the speed workouts are tough for me. This is why I do them, because I know it is what I need. It also helps to have a coach, who can help me troubleshoot why I am off, and have I mentioned I am glad to not be racing until April 23rd? My return to running is progressing and I am excited to see the positive changes of the past few months.
Also - to note - I got quite warm by the time I stared the latter half of the workout. Safety is important, but it sure does make shedding layers a bit tough. I will plan better next time. My vest - although not in a two-pack - resembles this one available through Amazon.
For those of you who had to return to work yesterday, I am sorry! Today is my first day back post-holiday and, while returning is never easy, I am so thankful I had time away to gain perspective.
This morning - for the first time in ages - I managed to run, get ready, eat, and load up on caffeine before leaving. Yes - this will become more of a challenge as I run longer distances pre-work, but I will take it.
Happy Tuesday!
Sunday, January 1, 2017
Happy New Year & Ideas for 2017!
Happy New Year! 2016 was the quite year - mostly good - and yet I was ready and excited to get 2017 started. The blog has now been active for about one-and-a-half years. For those of you who are new, welcome and thanks to those of you who read regularly and put up with my sporadic posts.
For two years, the temperature swing (cold to warm and back) has gotten to me a bit over the holidays. This year I learned that, even though I am not good at swimming, it is a great way to exercise all your muscles. I managed two runs in ten days and got in daily walking and swimming most days. Quite simply - on holidays, I step away from social media and (sometimes) running. Thankfully, my coach was ok with this. Oh and having a migraine did not help matters!
My unofficial goals for 2017 include:
1)Blogging more regularly and keeping most posts to discussing running goals or tips!
2)Starting to race - not just register and then back out of doing - longer distances (ie 10ks and half marathons).
3)Running more in 2017, but also making core work, weights, and cross-training a bigger priority.
4)Stay Healthy! I have had a rough couple of years and this is my top priority for the year.
In the upcoming weeks, I will share some ideas for foods that are helping me remember to eat after running (I am bad at this!) and potentially suggest some recipes that are also working for me.
Happy New Year!
For two years, the temperature swing (cold to warm and back) has gotten to me a bit over the holidays. This year I learned that, even though I am not good at swimming, it is a great way to exercise all your muscles. I managed two runs in ten days and got in daily walking and swimming most days. Quite simply - on holidays, I step away from social media and (sometimes) running. Thankfully, my coach was ok with this. Oh and having a migraine did not help matters!
My unofficial goals for 2017 include:
1)Blogging more regularly and keeping most posts to discussing running goals or tips!
2)Starting to race - not just register and then back out of doing - longer distances (ie 10ks and half marathons).
3)Running more in 2017, but also making core work, weights, and cross-training a bigger priority.
4)Stay Healthy! I have had a rough couple of years and this is my top priority for the year.
In the upcoming weeks, I will share some ideas for foods that are helping me remember to eat after running (I am bad at this!) and potentially suggest some recipes that are also working for me.
Happy New Year!
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