Carpe Diem

Towpath Half Marathon

2009-10-16T14:04:00.003-04:00

Completed my first 13.1 - YES!!! and completed it in 2:27 just under my hopeful goal of 2:30. Was a beautifully cool day and had no hydration issues. When all was said and done it was hard to believe what I'd actually accomplished. Even now, I'm not even sure I did it - except I did!!

It's official

2009-08-28T13:42:00.001-04:00

Registration Details Confirmation #: 24590093-xxxxxx
Date & Time: 10/11/09
Location: Cuyahoga Valley National Park (Map)
Purchased at: 08/28/09
Category: Half Marathon
Name: Stephanie Graham

Drabble.... 'ish

2009-08-06T13:30:00.016-04:00

So, one of my stalkee's, Peter DeWolf is having a "contest'ish" - it's a Drabble contest. (ish).

Now a drabble has NOTHING to do with running, or does it?!... A drabble is a fictional story of 100 words (no more, no less) and Peter has decided that the theme of said drabble be the subject of.... Love.... awwwwww....

anywho... here's my first try:

(sigh) What the… That cannot be the alarm. Shit. 3:50am already. The blankets are warm and toasty and I love having my feet intertwined with his. I hate leaving this way. But it’s 4:05am already. I have to go before it gets much later. I whisper “I really do love you” in his ear and tiptoe out of the room to get dressed. Suddenly… I’m another person, I have somewhere else to be, I fumble with my keys, I’m nervous. The pit of my stomach aches. There! I see it. I make my way. I smile. Yes. It’s race day!

See a drabble about love and running... perfect!!

and since I'm not real busy, here's attempt number two:

I don’t know what it is?
I hadn’t planned on staying this long.
I looked forward to leaving.
But I will miss being here.
I already miss it.
He will find someone else.
Friends, we are just friends, nothing more, remember that.
No not just friends, but best friends.
No, not lovers.
Friends.
But we used to be lovers…
We used to connect on that level, he used to make me want to scream in passion. Sweat running down my spine.
The touch of his finger tips caressing my back.
The feel of his lips against…
No, not lovers.
Friends.

Before and After Running Photos

2009-07-30T14:51:00.004-04:00

I still have a LOOONG way to go...but what a difference two years makes!

Picture on the left is from A Shot In The Dark, Winking Lizard 2-miler in 2007 and the one on the right is from the 4-miler completed this past Saturday.

Like I said...there is still a long way for me to go, but it's nice to see the side-by-side changes so far.

Yikes

2009-07-29T11:11:00.005-04:00

Crap. Ok. Here goes. I'm putting it out there, so no backing out...right?!

On October 11th, I am going to do the Towpath 1/2 Marathon . I am really hoping that completing the 10-miler earlier this year will help me to be prepared a little more for this race...I mean it's ONLY another 3.1 miles...Right?!?... Ha...

I am running away to Canada this weekend (ok, not literally running there) but then once I am back I will have 10 weeks to get it together and figure out this whole nutrition/hydration thingy because THAT is where I am really lacking. Well that and completing 13.1 miles...

"Dance like no one is watching. Sing like no one is listening. Love like you've never been hurt and live like it's heaven on Earth." ~ Mark Twain

2009-07-24T13:52:00.002-04:00

Thursday morning (yesterday) I did something I have never really done before, or at least not as an adult and most definitely never before on purpose. I ran in the rain. Wait, did I say rain?, was that rain? or was it a mini-monsoon? Irregardless, there was lots of water falling from the sky when I woke up and yet I still proceeded to get dressed put on my running shoes and headed out the door...on purpose.

Previously I was always able to come up with a really good reason to not run outside when it is raining but I decided it was time to get back out there and run a race, the Winking Lizard race this Saturday in downtown Cleveland, and with a look at this weeks rainy forecast and more importantly the dismal looking forecast showing for Saturday night I figured I'd better just suck it up and go run. End result - I survived all 3 miles, it wasn't miserable, I think I actually came back smiling and most importantly I did not melt!

While out playing in the rain lots of things happened to me. I found out that although I may not melt in the rain, it has been charged as an accessory to murder in the death of my iPhone :( I remembered what it's like to not run with music and only with the voices in my head for company. I found out that I run at the same pace no matter what the weather brings. I accepted the internal fear I have for running on Saturday and ultimately for a race that is still 3 months away. I found out important things like my running socks although wringing wet when I got home where not squishy in my shoes and kept my feet feeling oddly dryish. I remembered the joy you can feel when splashing in a puddle. I remembered that I run for ME and no one else.

...it was a great morning.

Politics and my job - Scene & Heard

2009-06-17T14:20:00.004-04:00

Article and it's link about what's happening in my little world and how it may effect you all in Cuyahoga County...

http://www.clevescene.com/scene-and-heard/archives/2009/06/17/elsewhere-in-buyahoga-county

ELSEWHERE IN BUYAHOGA COUNTY …
Posted by Frank Lewis on Wed, Jun 17, 2009 at 12:03 PM
When county Democrats chose Bedford city manager and ex-police chief Robert Reid to be the county’s new sheriff last month, they were clearly going with the shaker and not the mover. They passed over the candidate who so many on both sides of the vote believed was the more obvious candidate for a county with so much swindle at its oft-rotten core: Clayton Harris, a police academy chief and ex-Cleveland police commander from Collinwood who vowed to actually start enforcing all the laws for everyone, from county boss Jimmy Dimora on down. It was a perfect measure for how the county’s balance of political power clearly tilts toward the cozy ’burbs and away from the ailing city. But how often does the better candidate lose out to the better ass-kiss? Apparently, more often than not.

Last December, as part of a push to streamline costs and services, county commissioners voted to merge the Cuyahoga County Board of Mental Health and the Board of Alcohol and Drug Abuse Services of Cuyahoga County. The new model gets unveiled July 1.

The two final candidates to lead the new monster came from dramatically different backgrounds: Dr. Russell Kaye holds a PhD in experimental psychology and is the head of the county’s alcohol and drug abuse services, working locally for nearly two decades. Bill Denihan (pictured) is a well-connected Dem party animal with no direct experience before taking his job at the helm of the county’s mental-health board five years ago. He’s a former Cleveland safety director who also worked, in recent years, as the appointed leader of the county’s Department of Children and Family Services and the claims director for the Ohio Bureau of Workers Compensation.

So what does the new board do? They give the job to Denihan, of course, and they don’t even offer Kaye a chair on the new board. Jim Joyner, another top former board member who worked first as a drug counselor and then as training manager for the county drug board, was also left out of the new planning. Both men tendered their resignations.

“Philosophically, across the nation, whenever the two [types of programs] have merged, it tends to submerge alcohol and other drug programs,” says Joyner.

Differing views on the nature of addiction now divide the new board, he added, and could affect future funding. He hopes the winner takes all … the advice he can: “Whatever Mr. Denihan may or may not have in terms of being qualified, it’s important for any leader to recognize what those limitations are and that they hire the right people with the right knowledge base. That’s what’s waiting to be seen in terms of formation.”

Kaye, who isn’t sure where he’ll work next, took Buddha’s path in recounting the last year: “The skill set he brings is what the new board of directors felt were more valuable at this time, and I respect that. Beyond staff and leadership, the most important thing in this are those in Cuyahoga County who need addiction and mental-health services. The true litmus test will be whether they benefit from this move. If services aren’t at least consistent or improved from where they’ve been, it doesn’t matter how much is saved.”

So experimental, his psychology.

Another county worker, who asked to remain anonymous to keep his mortgage paid, didn’t mince words: “I don’t understand why [Denihan] was picked. The only thing I could see was that it was political. When you match the qualifications of these two people, Dr. Kaye was head-and-shoulders above his competition. Denihan is one of the best at being a political animal. He knows how to play and maneuver, and he’s part of the Democratic machine here in the county, so people can make whatever conclusion they want.”

Maybe Kaye should have ponied up for some trips to Vegas. — Dan Harkins

Uncertainty

2009-06-15T14:02:00.004-04:00

Somehow several weeks have passed with my updates, and yet the world continues to go on? That is odd....

So life has been flying by and yet creeping along at the same time. Summer is almost upon us and some mornings have been beautiful and some still a bit chilly...welcome to Cleveland! My running has been coming along, I haven't really been following my training schedule due to all the ups and downs going on around me but I have managed to keep on moving...and that is a good thing.

Week of May 18 - 24; I managed to get in just over 28 miles.
Week of May 25 - 31; 25 1/2 miles for the week.
Week of June 1 - 7; just over 31 miles for the week.
Week of June 8 - 14; just shy of 23 miles for the week.

So all-in-all the past four weeks haven't been bad. Last week and possibly the next couple weeks my miles will probably be in the low 20's or possibly below...but I am still keeping myself moving and that's where I need to keep my focus at right now. During this "down-time" of sorts though I am getting myself off the treadmill and am running outside. My heel is feeling it, but with continuing my stretching after 1 week of outside running it is actually feeling pretty good. This is a PLUS.

As for the rest of my life...I've mentioned my lay-off and we received the official paperwork and even though I knew it was coming, it still was enough to make you feel like you'd gotten punched in the gut. As of today there are 12 business days left and we are STILL waiting to find out who is and isn't going forward. As a quick recap - I work the government, the county government. They are closing two departments and opening one combined department supposedly with a mix of people from each of the previous two departments. They have hired the directors (all from the department I am not in) and have interviewed and selected a few of the manager positions. As for the rest of us "line-staff", we are waiting to be interviewed...and rumors are surfacing and drama is ensuing and tensions are rising. It's good times!

But as I get sucked into all that is going on I try to remind myself every so often that whatever is best for me, is what will happen and whatever happens I will make the most of the situation! It's like my running...just keep moving, in the end you always feel better than you did at the start! Sometimes you stumble and fall but you just pick yourself up, make sure your not exposing yourself, dust yourself off and keep right on moving...

oh and running blogger Steve is hosting a great contest to win free shoes!!!! SHOES, FOR FREE!!!! check him out to see how to get your name into the contest - http://iwannagetphysical.blogspot.com/

Moving Along

2009-05-20T14:51:00.003-04:00

Not much going on, just more of the same. Still struggling with my left foot some from my vacation back at the beginning of the month. Decided to hold off on running the 10k at the Cleveland Marathon...there are plenty more races to come this summer and I really want to get things right with my foot again.

Week of May 4th - May 10th, even with the foot issues managed to get in about 18 miles. Was in Put-In-Bay over Mother's Day weekend and before heading home on Sunday I got out to run the 5k course for the race there the end of September.

Week of may 11th - 17th, got in just shy of 27 miles, so not too bad.

I'm a little bummed since it doesn't look like I'll be getting in a race this month although the Magnificat Run is really close to home, who knows it may be a Saturday night/Sunday morning decision. I'd like to try my hand at another race longer than a 5k, but again the summer has yet to begin and there are plenty of races left.

Re-Running

2009-05-05T14:23:00.004-04:00

So...I ran my 10-miler, de-hydrated and beat down but as I mentioned in my last update (if you managed to make it alllllll the way through to the end), I got back up on the horse or well the treadmill and gave it a go again. It was tough and a little uncomfortable, but I ran a couple miles on Monday, then pushed it to five miles on both Tuesday and Wednesday, and then squeaked out 8 on Thursday knowing I'd be on vacation and not see the gym until Monday... I'm not going to lie, there were glimpses of the way I felt laying in bed Saturday after completing the race, I think there may have even been a few dry heaves in there...but I ran. I ran because it's what I've been working so hard towards being able to do. I ran because that's what I started doing after my brother and my Dad died -- if I quit running now, it might be like saying good-bye to them all over again. I ran because it is who I want to be. It was uncomfortable. But then again, don't we usually have to get through the uncertainty of things, the uncomfortable areas in our lives in order to get to the sweet sweet rewards in the end -- and oh how much sweeter they are when you've had to really work towards getting them. So, I ran.

Thursday evening a friend and I headed out to South Carolina for a couple of days. We drove straight through the night alternating drivers every 3 or so hours. The time went by amazingly quick and the hours were filled with laughter and good conversation. We finally stopped at a rest area just outside of Charleston and crashed for a couple of hours then headed off for breakfast and a few other stops before heading to the resort we were staying at on Isle of Palms. We got there and our bungalow was ready...it was beautiful. The beach was just a minute from our spot and we were practically pool-side. There were only a few other people in the surrounding bungalows in our little area, it was great!! I ran on the beach for the first time ever on Saturday. Not really sure how far I ran, but I ran for 60 minutes which is about 5 miles for me, so that's what I'm sticking with. It was tougher than I thought it would be and my hips tightened up after about the first 20 minutes -- but it was beautiful, the sounds of the ocean and people living and loving life on the beach. I had my music going but had it turned so far down I could barely hear it, I was loving just taking in the sounds of my surroundings. Time passed fairly quick, a whole lot quicker than the treadmill that is for sure! A few hours after running, my left heel was a little sore. Woke up early on Sunday to get in a run before leaving and my heel really hurt...so I ran. Ok, I'm not the brightest -- yes, and this has been well documented if you've read previous posts. Was windier on Sunday, so stopped and walked for a bit mid-way through the run but still put in my 60 minutes -- so since the effort was the same, I'm going with calling it another 5 miles.

Totals for the week somewhere around 34 miles. Worked out twice with Trainer-Steve, who is finally back from his vacation.

Injury update, I clearly caused the plantar fasciitis to flair up in my left foot with running on the beach so have taken both yesterday and today off from running. Most of Monday at the gym was spent with Trainer-Steve getting stretched out followed by a short workout. Scheduled to workout with him again on Wednesday and Friday morning (before heading out for another weekend away).

Trainer-Steve brought up the Cleveland Marathon and running the Half. However with the current soreness and being away this past weekend and this next weekend I just don't think I'm ready to try my hand at it. I was however, on the website this morning checking out fees and I noticed the 10k registration...I'd forgotten about them doing the 10k also...hmmm, what to do, what to do...

More of the normal stuff and a race report

2009-04-28T15:19:00.003-04:00

Long Long post (although most of 'em are...I am rather wordy...)

Workouts for the week of the 20th were pretty status quo, this was my 2nd week of workouts without Trainer-Steve due to his vacation time in Florida.

4/20 - Monday - I started out the week with running another 13.1 miles. The miles went by easy enough but was really bored by time the first two hours had passed and was REALLY wishing I could run faster just to get it all over with, but I refused to give in to the temptation to increase my speed.

4/21 - Tuesday - scheduled rest day, that I actually took and actually did nothing other than a few stretches and some use of the foam roller on the legs.

4/22 - Wednesday - run 5 miles

4/23 - Thursday - weight training, lower body. Didn't do a killer session like I had last week, followed up with some walking on the treadmill to help stretch out the legs after the weights.

4/24 - Friday - weight training, upper body. Run for two miles.

4/25 - Saturday - Hermes 10 miler.

4/26 - Sunday - scheduled rest day.

Saturday I ran my first race longer than a 5k and for some crazy reason I decided a 10-miler would be appropriate...

Seriously don't know what I was thinking...

But anywho... Had a rough time falling asleep the night before, definitely a case of pre-race, "what were you thinking when you registered for 10 miles" jitters. Somewhere around 11:30'ish I finally fell asleep, only to wake up about 3 times during the night thinking I'd overslept! The alarm finally went off sometime around 6:15 or so and was shortly followed by a text from Trainer-Steve telling me to get my ass in gear cause he was sure I was laying in bed doubting myself and that it was a great day for a race, that I'd do great and he had confidence in me and reassured me that I'd trained correctly (scary how well he knows me sometimes, lol). I texted him back saying thanks and that I was just getting moving and I'd let him know how it went once it was over. Got up took a shower to help ease the nerves, got dressed and grabbed something to eat.

I got to Edgewater way early, especially since I'd picked up my race packet the day before but I wanted to be sure to get a good parking spot. I called my Mom's house to see if she and my **sister** were still there, but they'd already left. I walked up to the top of where the race was to start and it was crazy, the lines for the port-o's was nuts so I walked back down the hill where the lines were basically only two people deep, then walked back up the hill to the the starting area. The 5-K had already taken off and we had about 15 minutes before we'd start. Suddenly I heard my name and looked around and there was my sister and my Mom! (I was SO happy to see them before the race). They'd come prepared with their homemade cowbells (stones inside soda cans closed up with duct tape) - thanks to my niece Miranda for telling them about the noisemakers! So chatted with them for a few minutes and then got in line with the mass of people waiting to start, I could hear my family off to the side and it just made me smile...I was ready!, and then we were off.

**side note** - My sister Linda, from Michigan came in for the weekend JUST to bring my Mom to the race so that they could cheer for me. I'd mentioned it to her a couple weeks ago that I was really excited doing this race and how it was a really big deal to me. I hadn't really expected her to come down, but earlier in the week my Mom had mentioned that my sister was coming in for the race. Very Very Cool!

People were passing me alot on the little downhill out of the park, but I just kept repeating to myself to take it slow, run my race, don't start fast cause there is LOTS of miles ahead! Mile one came up, 10:31...hmmm, ok, not so bad, faster than I had really expected or wanted since I've only just started running at 11:30 on the treadmill. Before I knew it we'd crossed over into Lakewood and were coming up on the first water stop and runners were stopped everywhere so I moved to the left of the cones and just kept on moving...my new focus was to get to Lakewood Park and then the turn-around at Webb. My friend Esther would be at Webb...get to Lakewood Park, get to Webb, see Esther...my mantra began... Before the race I'd written down a few mantra's to help get me through the race, I'm used to running on the treadmill with my music and wasn't running the race with any so figured the repetition of mantra's would help get me through. As I approached the 3-mile marker I briefly wished I'd signed up for only the 5-k, lol (I realize now I had similar thoughts later in the race after passing the 5 and 6 mile posts - I mean seriously shouldn't I had tried a 5 miler or a 10-k before advancing to a 10-miler!!! - lol - just like me though to leap before looking).

As I approached Webb and the turn-around there was no sight of Esther. The turnaround was congested with the water stop right there and the road was actually slick from runners tossing their water, I actually slipped a little and ran into two other runners who'd decided to start walking suddenly. The turnaround wasn't exactly the halfway point and a few of the relay folks were a little confused. I continued to look for my friend but alas, she'd either not been able to make it or I had somehow missed her - bummer. The 5 mile mark was just before passing Lakewood Park on the way back and from there until the Cleveland line things were uneventful and not really sure what went through my mind. The temp was starting to rise and some folks had a sprinkler set up on their tree lawn that most of us took advantage of running through... It was nice to feel like a little kid again, apart of me wanted to turn around and go through again but figured I'd better just keep moving forward, lol.

Once we passed the entrance to Edgewater Park, we continued into Cleveland. Now this area I was a little less familiar with but was really happy I'd decided to drive it on Friday just so I knew what was to be expected. And I knew once I hit this section I was almost there...8 miles done! There was a water stop at 8, and I'd only grabbed one cup of water that immediately went down my back to help cool me down...I wished I'd grabbed a second to pour down the front of me. It's not that it was THAT hot, but between the temp rising and my internal temp increasing realizing that with each step I was ACTUALLY getting closer and closer to pulling this thing off!!!

Once we passed the mile 9 marker I knew I'd had this thing completed and actually wondering in one second if I could pull off running another 3 miles for a half-marathon distance and in the next thought thinking that I just needed to get to the finish line and I'd NEVER have to do this again, and in the next thought I laughed at myself -- "yeah, at least not until the next race"... As we came out from a little tunnel and a couple of turns I could hear it in the distance...not exactly a cowbell, but that wonderful sound of stones in a couple of cans!!! My Mom!! My Sister!! There they were shaking those cans like crazy and cheering for me and all the other runners!

Within the last quarter-mile of the race, there was a somber moment...an ambulance was off to the side and lots of folks were tending to a runner that was down. I then could hear the huffs and puffs of some runners breathing hard and passing me literally on my left and right. Now this is usually where I try to find that extra kick, but I knew I was tired and hot and I'd come way to far to fail now so I let them pass without giving chase. It was ok. This was my race to finish, on my terms, in my own comfort level. A couple of people who work out at the gym I do were near the finish and gave me a cheer (they also gave me a cheer during the race when we crossed paths, they were on their way back towards 5 miles, I was just getting to 3 or 4 -- again, thanks to them and to Trainer-Steve for texting them while on vaca to tell them I was running my first 10-miler).

Found my Mom and Sister after the race and walked a bit and sat a bit. They told me that after seeing me off at the start of the race they'd hopped into the car and tried tracking me down on the course. They ran into my friend Esther around Webb, but I was no where in sight... I was running faster than I'd anticipated so they'd just missed me. The family tried to catch me at a couple other points and finally decided to head back to the Park so as to not miss me at the end of the race.

The final results - well aside from the numbers, I was reminded that I have some VERY AWESOME people in my life!!

As for the numbers -

1st Leg - 49/59 AG; time - 52:13.84; pace - 10:27
2nd Leg - 45/59 AG; time - 54:23.50; pace - 10:53
Finish - 46/59 AG; 792 Overall; time - 1:46:37.34; pace - 10:40

My personal goals for this race
1) expect to finish in over 2 hours, 2 hours if lucky
2) finish the race
3) try to finish the race running

Goal 1, accomplished by more than 14 minutes. Goal 2, check. Goal 3, check - I ran the entire race, other than a very brief moment at a water stop when another runner and myself both reached for the same cup and I had to pause for a moment for the volunteer to grab another.

Just a few more brief comments...
I've questioned whether I'd ever run this distance or longer and then I questioned if I'd ever run again a few hours after this race. It was a very sad and confusing time. I was happy and I completely awful! I hadn't drank enough water leading into this race and apparently didn't keep hydrated enough during...I was apparently suffering some pretty intense heat exhaustion. I hadn't felt so lost or confused before. Within 4 hours of the race I wasn't able to keep anything down, my head was pounding and all I could do was sleep. I felt awful, my sister had come from Michigan and more family was over at my Mom's and I couldn't be there, I wanted to share my joy of completing this race and I could barely do anything but move between my bed and the bathroom. Trainer-Steve was back in town on Saturday evening and had called to see how my legs were doing and to congratulate me and instead was greeted with a sobby, disoriented person. Thankfully, he guided me through and even came by to check on me on Sunday and called several times to make sure I was doing better. Yesterday, Monday, I had a training session with Steve and after the thought of running made my stomach turn, but with some gentle guidance I got on the treadmill to just run a mile, which turned into 2 and I was suddenly feeling better about running in general. Today I managed to squeak out 5 and am already planning on 10 for Thursday, maybe...

Decisions made

2009-04-19T09:11:00.003-04:00

My bank account is $35 less. On a whim while sitting at my Mom's watching the awesome Cavs and Indians games, I did it, I registered for the Hermes 10-miler next weekend. There's some mixed feelings towards this, but mostly amazement since just 4 months ago I was just barely starting to run again and now I'm looking at a 10-miler and have thoughts of running a half marathon possibly much sooner that my December goal.

The rest of my week following Mondays 13.1 mile run was good. I took my scheduled rest days and ran according to plan. Trainer-Steve is on vacation for two weeks so am on my own...

4/13 - run 13.1
4/14 - rest day
4/15 - run 5 miles
4/16 - lower body workout
4/17 - run 5 miles, legs sore from workout
4/18 - upper body workout
4/19 - rest day, stretching back and foam rolling legs - really over did that lower body workout on Thursday!

Decisions...

2009-04-14T13:47:00.002-04:00

Well the countdown of "days left of employment" has begun in these here parts (55 business-days including today), and that is just sort of depressing. What once may have held a vague interest and excitement of changes has turned to basically political mud-slinging...and unfortunately we/I am on the receiving end. Some of us that are trying to remain light and up-beat (I mean you can either laugh or cry about this...and laughing is so much better for the soul) about the situation have envisioned an 'American Idol' sort of first day at the new job...as we file into the office we are separated into two groups and sent into two different conference rooms; suddenly the "man" walks in and says you are dismissed, while simultaneously the other group of staffers is being told they have been accepted. But there is always hope that our soon to be new "boss" will select me and/or a few others from these parts to move forward for at least a couple more months. I suppose only time will tell, in 55 business-days to be exact.

On to other stuff now -- I am continuing to follow the plan that trainer-Steve has laid out for me with my running (even though I still protest rest days). So my schedule for the past two weeks went something like this:

3/30 - scheduled rest day - walked for 15 minutes on treadmill, lots of stretching, little bit of ab work.
3/31 - run 5 miles
4/01 - training session with Steve, elliptical for 4.68 miles
4/02 - run 6 miles
4/03 - elliptical for 7.36 miles
4/04 - elliptical, bike, walking on treadmill for a combined half hour and 4.5 miles then training session with Steve followed up by walking 4.62 miles on the treadmill.
4/05 - run 10 miles

4/06 - scheduled rest day - walked for 1.5 miles on treadmill, stretching and ab work
4/07 - training session with Steve followed by 4.25 miles walking on treadmill
4/08 - run 5 miles
4/09 - training session with Steve followed by 3.47 miles walking on treadmill
4/10 - run 5 miles
4/11 - training session with Steve followed by 4.66 miles walking on treadmill
4/12 - scheduled day off -- and I actually stayed away from the gym and rested, I suppose being Easter helped!

With the upcoming work merger I have lots of time off coming that I need to take so am hoping to work in my days off work with scheduling my longer runs. I am basically taking off Monday's and Friday's from now until the end of June and then scheduling a bunch of other days off as well. Anyhow, I was off work yesterday, April 13th. I slept in some (not on purpose really) and headed off to the gym and got there about 9am. Did my normal stretching and assessing of how my back was feeling and then found a treadmill in the front row directly in front of the only tv now scheduled to show ESPN. I did a little more stretching, a little walking warm-up and then set the treadmill up for my slow 12 minute mile pace for 60 minutes...when that time was up, I stretched just a little bit, grabbed some water and some gum and re-set the machine for another 60 minutes...things were going well until about halfway through when ESPN was now repeating headlines and the gym was pretty empty so there was no one to really watch and my music was also repeating; for a brief moment I thought of giving up, I began to imagine that my legs and feet were hurting. I took my headphones off for a bit and tried to just focus on running. My thoughts turned to all I have come through in the past year to be in this moment right here and now! I wished trainer-Steve wasn't on vacation, I could use his butt-kicking right about now, but just thinking about him for a moment and I could hear his voice "U CAN DO IT...U WILL DO IT". Meanwhile while all this was going on in my head, the last 30 minutes had ticked by and it was time to re-set the treadmill one last time, and this time for 38 minutes. I was refreshed, I was re-energized, a new batch of people had come into the gym and this was it...I was just 3.1 miles away from completing my first 13.1 half-marathon distance run! With just a mile and a half to go I'd received a text from trainer-Steve asking how it was going, I responded saying I was almost done and that I'd text him when it was complete. 12:01pm - text message was sent - I had just completed by first half-marathon distance run *. Yeah Me!!

Now, comes the decision making time...the Hermes 10-Miler. It is just 11 days away, I need to decide if I should sign up and attempt it or not. I am still leery about running on pavement, even though my foot did not bother me after the 5k, I'm pretty sure the fear is all psychological... Ugh, a decision needs to be made...

*note, yes I did just say that it was my first, meaning there will be more to follow...

The Times They Are A Changing...

2009-03-30T16:14:00.003-04:00

Wow. Ok, so basically an entire month has passed-by with out an update (bad blogger!).

Life here has been experiencing so many ups and downs lately... About three weeks ago the "blahs" came to visit and settled in for a while and they didn't come empty handed! They brought with them some really bad eating habits and that nasty cough/cold thing that's been visiting folks all winter long. I was surprised at just how easy it was to fall into all of those bad food habits again, and the result was about 6 pounds! So, how exactly do you get rid of un-wanted guests that seem so persistent to stay put -- apparently the answer is persistence in return! I managed to maintain my workout during their visit and figured if I'd ignore them for a while they would go away...I even went so far as to leaving the country for a nice relaxing weekend up North. So as of today, the "blahs" have appeared to have vacated my premises (I think I've discovered that planning to run 8 miles in one day, for the first time ever in my life was enough to make those "blahs" head for the hills!!).

With the impending work "take-over" just 66 business days away, I am sure the "blahs" will be looming looking for a place to come in and claim squatters-rights or something. But, with every door that closes another will open... (and if anyone stumbling across this blog is looking for, or knows someone looking for an Accountant drop me an email...I'm just sayin'). I've never been one to look forward to changes but on a clearer day, like today, I can look back at all that has changed for me and with me in the past year and I can say that sometimes a change is just what we need!

As for working out and running... My big goal that I set for myself for this year, in spite of all the foot and back issues, was to run the half-marathon in LasVegas in December. So slowly I have been allowed to increase the length of time I've been running and I've been making progress. Then, about three weeks ago Trainer-Steve pulled out a half-marathon training schedule and declared to me that based on where I was at with my running times that I could pick up the training and start following the 8-week schedule starting at about week 3. Hmmmm...I hadn't seen that one coming...at all! He also informed me that all was on track still for me to run the "Bridges..." 5k that I've been hoping to run on March 29th. Yeah.

So here's a breakdown of what's been going on for the past three weeks...

Week of 03/02 - 03/08
41.71 miles - 24.43 on elliptical and 17.28 running on treadmill

Week of 03/09 - 03/15
42.95 miles - 16.84 on elliptical and 26.11 running
my run on 03/15 was a 5 miler outside - this was my first outside run since the 5k I ran in November and messed up my feet. It felt good to be outside, but boy-oh-boy was it tougher than running on the treadmill. This was also the first time I've run 5 miles since about October!! It was a good day! This is also the week that I started to follow the half-marathon training schedule.

Week of 03/16 - 03/22
24.86 miles - 7.96 on elliptical 16.90 running
this is the week that the cold kicked my butt, followed by a nice relaxing weekend in Canada - I had honestly planned on working out that weekend but it just didn't happen.

Week of 03/23 - 03/29
45.81 miles - 13.59 on elliptical and 32.22 running
ok this was an AWESOME week for me! I was a little off the training schedule from the previous week but was back on track by mid-week. I ran my 5k on the 29th with a finishing time of 32:58, which isn't so bad considering I've been running on the treadmill at a 12 minute pace and it was pretty darn windy outside and there were those two bridges to cross... After finishing the race, my foot and back were on the verge of protesting so I chilled out for a bit, watched everyone get their awards and then headed off to the gym to run the additional 5 miles that I needed for the day in order to hit the scheduled 8 miles for the day. Trainer-Steve came into the gym (on his off-day mind you) to stretch me out.

So there ya have it. All up to date now. And today, the foot is a little sore, but nothing I'm really concerned about and the back is feeling great. The schedule has me listed for 10 miles this Sunday and then technically being able to run the 13.1 half marathon distance the following week! I'm still a little uncertain about this, after all the 8 miles I did yesterday was not consistent...but I'm going to do what I can. And then there was this crazy thought that entered my mind....The Hermes 10-miler is coming up in about four weeks.... hmmmm....

Ah yes, the times...they are a changing....

Finding Peace...

2009-03-03T10:53:00.002-05:00

So another week has come and gone and although there were a few days of warmth and a few glimpses of sunshine...it is still cold and it is still winter in Cleveland. And somehow, I am still amazed at the fact that it is cold and wintry, you think after 41 years I'd know better, you think we'd all know better and yet at this time of year, each and every year we all dream on warm and sunny days, when the breeze off the lake is refreshing.

Since I've embarked on this journey of health and running, I have been also unknowingly at the onset, embarked on a journey or self-awareness. It has been a wonderful process and much like my running it has had it's ups and downs, its good days and its not as good days. But overall...all is much improved, I feel lighter on my feet and I am learning to enjoy the scenery!

I got to run on 4 occasions this week; Wednesday for 35 minutes, Thursday for 40 minutes, Saturday for 10 minutes and Sunday for 40 minutes. Although I am still running at a 12-min pace, running lately has been like a walk in the park. I am not struggling at all. The running feels easy and is relaxed and I have had no problems with my breathing. I have always looked forward to running but running longer periods of time always worried me, mostly because of my struggled breathing...but now, bring it on! My long term goal (presuming I have a job and the cash and all that jazz) is to run in the LasVegas Marathon in December, well not the marathon distance but the half marathon distance. I know I get frustrated with my slow pace, but the mystical/magical/all-knowing Trainer-Steve insists on me getting my endurance set...my goal is to complete the race, not to break records. So for now, I'm at peace with running my 12-minute miles. Which also means...now that I am up to running for 40 minutes, I am running just over a 5k distance (yeah), which also means I am literally a few steps closer to running the Bridges to Recovery 5k on March 29th!

The week all summed up:
2/23 - M - 6.00 miles elliptical
2/24 - T - 3.58 miles elliptical
2/25 - W - 5.04 miles treadmill (run 35 minutes, just shy of 3 miles) - 1 hr training with Steve
2/26 - T - 4.34 miles treadmill (run 40 minutes, just over 3.3 miles)
2/27 - F - 8.88 miles elliptical (0.66 miles warm-up on treadmill)
2/28 - S - 10.18 miles elliptical (1.90 miles on treadmill, run 10 minutes) - 1 hr training with Steve
3/01 - S - 6.04 miles treadmill (run 40 minutes)
TOTALS 44.06 miles - 6:20:17 - 4,065 calories burned on cardio

February ended on some positive notes and although I may be in a funk today...I am looking forward to seeing what is in store for March.

Now, separate from all my running, training junk I want to give another shout out to G. I am truly inspired by his dedication to a sport and to doing his best and giving it his all! G is playing in three hockey leagues. On his west side league he was voted in to play in the All-Star game this past weekend at the "Q" and although his line didn't give him much to work with and he didn't get any points it was still AWESOME to see him out there on the "big ice". On one of his east side leagues, his team made it to the playoffs but didn't get past the 2nd round, however during that last game they didn't manage to hold on to the lead they had...but they did push the first place team to a double overtime followed by a shoot out. And on his "other" east side league, his team is in first place AND he is the top scorer for the league, and it's playoff time there now. Way to go G! And thanks for letting me a part of the ride...-

Pleasant Surprises

2009-02-23T13:57:00.002-05:00

So it appears as though I can not keep track of time anymore, since again it has been two weeks since I last updated things. I am going to say it's due to it being that time of year...I (like most people) am just really really DONE with winter and being cold. I mean REALLY! Enough is enough. But alas, I also know better...this is Cleveland, it is only February, it will snow again. However, I also believe that it is the brief glimpse of sunshine coming through my office window that is motivating me to get things updated and back on track!

Week of February 9th - 15th; ok so I think I only ran twice this week, I've started logging my time via my iPhone and have stopped using my log books...this process still needs to be perfected since I appear to be missing the ability to ad on notes about aches and pains on the iPhone app, and am using it primarily to track calories burned since that's my current focus and assignment from Trainer-Steve. Anywho, I digress.... For the week in question, using the two different elliptical machines and walking and running on the treadmill, I logged in 38.67 miles and burned exactly 4,000 calories during just my cardio workouts and granted myself a long overdue day of rest on Sunday the 15th. Although I must admit, my day was all off kilter with not going to the gym in the morning...

Week of February 16th - 22nd; for the first time since waaaaay back in November I was able to string two days of running together. On Monday, the 16th I ran for 30 minutes and then again for 30 minutes on Tuesday, the 17th. It felt AWESOME... well, that is until the pain set in. Yup, my left heel is really being stubborn with this whole returning to running thing. But the good news is it felt fine come Wednesday morning. So I was able to get in two more running sessions in the week; one on Friday and another on Sunday and each was for 35minutes! I think I just need to come to terms with my new running routine...if I choose to run, then I will be icing my foot later that day or evening AND my night splint is pretty much needing to be worn every night. My totals for the week 40.32 miles and 4,000 calories burned during my cardio workouts.

So with my frustrations mounting around my running and heel pain I have been concerned with whether I will be able to run the "Bridges..." 5k next month. Trainer-Steve isn't sure where my frustrations are coming from, he's comfortable with the way things are progressing and if I can come to terms with not pushing myself during the race, that I should be able to run it...well that and presuming the weather that day is decent. If it's too cold or icy, he says I should pass on it -- THAT is going to be a tough one for me to do! He also feels that since the heel pain typically dissipates fairly quickly and is never more than a 1 or 2 in pain AND as long as I remember to ice and stretch that things are getting better. I guess I just want no pain, and I want to be able to run 2 -3 minutes faster than I did when I was running more frequently. What? Is that asking too much? Hmmmph. WhatEVER...

Finally my friend G and I decided to go do some shopping, clothes shopping!!! He wanted to pick up a couple new work shirts and pants that fit and me, well I just really wanted to buy a new pair of jeans. Now I went shopping a couple of weeks ago with my Mom to look for some work clothes that I am seriously in need of...I have not done any clothes shopping (other than workout apparel) since I've been with Trainer-Steve and well one day walking up the hill to work, well I almost lost my skirt!!! -- it was slipping right down over my hips! Now I had no clue what size to even try on...Trainer-Steve had said probably an 8 or a 10. An 8 or a 10?!? I thought maybe he was on crack or something....I have never EVER worn an 8 and after thinking back I remembered being in a size 10 for about a second back in the summer before I started my junior year of high school, which was back in 1983...yeah 24 years ago! So anyhow I grabbed a few 10's for laughs and my Mom and I headed into the dressing rooms. And MUCH to my surprise and amazement....they fit. OMG! So I ended that first shopping excursion with two pair of work pants both in a size 10! And then this past weekend, while trying on jeans and making poor G look at me in each pair and tell me what he thought, I just wasn't overly thrilled with the way ANY of them looked. So, I grabbed a pair of 8's.... And yes they were a little snug (snug, not tight....I mean not like the "tight" i wore back in the day when you'd have to lay down in order to zip em up!! lol... they were snug, ya know where ya have to take a little hop to get em on -- this IS COMPLETELY DIFFERENT!!). G insisted the 8's looked the best.... So I bought the 8's! I even took the jeans over to my Mom's to pass the Mom test -- they passed! Now, although I really think the a size 10 is more of where I am at, I also think it is going to depend on the style and cut of the pants. BUT, that doesn't change the fact that I get to say this -- for the first time in my life E-V-E-R -- "I am in a size 8!"

Long Overdue Updates

2009-02-09T17:14:00.002-05:00

I think maybe it's the weather... I can't believe I haven't updated my blog in so long (is that a sign of a boring life?, hmmm, maybe...lol). Anywho, rather than providing lots of boring detail I'm going to do a couple of weekly updates to bring things up to speed!

For the week of January 19 - January 25: I managed to get in a total of 43.39 miles which was mostly elliptical work, with a little bit of running tossed in. As a reminder, Trainer-Steve got me started out running for 1 minute and then walking for 2 on the treadmill. I was then able to advance to a 2 minute run - 2 minute walk. All of this is at a 12 minute mile pace. The good news is that the foot has been feeling pretty good and I'm not having any of the breathing issues I used to have! During this week though, Trainer-Steve informed me that now that I'm starting to run a little more my goal is not miles per week, but instead it is to burn 4,000 calories in cardio per week. Now that may not seem like much to some of you but the thing is I know that that 4,000 goal is going to be increasing which means I will probably be having to start adding in some additional workouts...which means evenings or figuring out something at lunch time. So, calories burned for the week 4,067.

For the week of January 26 - February 1: 40.84 miles; 4,131 calories. I did the 2 and 2 run/walk routine 3 out of 6 days that I did cardio.

For the week of February 2 - February 8: 45.86 miles, 4,009 calories. This was a truly great and exciting week for me!! On February 2nd I got to run for 20 minutes straight, at a 12 minute/mile pace and let me tell you it felt WONDERFUL!! Then on February 5th I got to run for 25 minutes straight, 12 minute/mile pace and then on February 8th I ran for 30 minutes!! WooHoo!

Now for the bad news...my left foot was bothering me some the rest of the day after running the 30 minutes. But, when I woke up this morning it felt fine. I'm supposed to do cario with Trainer-Steve in the morning and I'm technically scheduled to run but we'll see what he lets me do...

As of right now I am really hoping and aiming for running my first 5k for the season on March 29th - Bridges to Recovery race. Which I think is an appropriately named race to be my first one back, lol Ok, I know it's reference is recovery from alcohol and drugs but for me it is taking on another meaning. This is also the first race I ever ever ran 2 years ago so I am really hoping I will be ready for it this year!

and now for something completely different...

2009-01-23T12:25:00.005-05:00

So a good friend of mine is currently playing in 3 different hockey leagues and on the rare occasion he has a game that starts before I'm long asleep I go and watch him play. I may be a little biased here, but he is good. When he joined the 3 leagues he set a goal for himself of playing 50 games and having 50 goals (he later amended this goal indicated he'd also like 50 assists, giving him a total of 100 points). Now, he played hockey growing up (he's Canadian, he really had no say in the matter), but he hasn't played in almost 20 years...so his goal seemed reasonable, maybe a little lofty but reasonable. Apparently I have underestimated him (please forgive me, I should have known so much better than that by now).

He currently has played in 38 games and has 45 goals and 35 assists and has been voted on to an All-Star team for one of the leagues and will get to play in a game down at the "Q" before a Monsters hockey game (how effing sweet is that!!!!) Now the only question is which of his upcoming games will he hit that 50th goal in?... I am going to watch him play again next Wednesday, I am hoping he hits it then (he however is playing a game this evening and is hoping to get all 5 tonight).

So, as a little break from my tedious workout updates I am providing a copy of my little commentary that was written up from this past Wednesday's game... Please read, and Enjoy... (and his blog can be found here)

A Race To The Finish

Game started out fast and before the first 2 minutes was up Graham was upside down, on his head, in the opponents net. But followed shortly thereafter with the first goal of the game. The second team goal came shortly after and White B was off to a nice 2-0 lead. But you can't underestimate the Red team who quickly tied things up. Graham's second point came on a nice assist to put the team up by 1. But once again Red came back. End of first period tied 3-3. With 2 points for Graham and 1 point for arch scoring nemesis Red#77 . (side note Red #77 and Graham are in a race for the lead scoring position for this league.)

Three minutes into 2nd and White prevailed with another goal (4-3) while down a man. Once again Red went on the attack and two min later things were tied up again. Five and a half minutes in and Red took it's first (and only) lead of the game (4-5), but I missed who got the points (ends up Red #77 got an assist on that one). And now with 5 on the clock Graham was back on the ice to make things happen.... And things happened! He drew a double penalty on player 10. Then with 30 seconds, he shoots, he scores! (5-5).

Third Period. Graham on the ice to start things off and had a great drive but no goal. Great crazy shot by Phil to put things back into perspective (6-5), followed immediately by another White B goal (7-5). With just under 7 to go Red scores again (7-6). Then with just over 2 min, Phil came up with his 3rd goal of the game (8-6). Minute and a half left, down by 2 and Red calls for a time out... And with 30seconds and some pushing and shoving Graham drew another penalty but found himself in the penalty box as well.

Final score 8 - 6, White B WINS!

2 goals and 1 assist for Graham!
1 goal and 1 assist for Red #77

These two are now tied in stats with total points for this league:
Graham - 34 points 20 goals 14 assists
Red #77 - 34 points 21 goals 13 assists

Weekly Update...

2009-01-21T15:05:00.005-05:00

The middle of January is upon us and so far it's been a great year!

Just as I adjusted to running on the treadmill, I've come to adjust to life on the elliptical, although I still long for a day when I can get outside and run... But, now is the time for building up strength and listening to trainer-Steve since he ALWAYS seems to be right about these things. I had a pretty good week and have really been focusing on 1)adding Sunday workouts and 2)getting in some long workout sessions on the weekends. Again both of these tasks are being achieved thanks to trainer-Steve coming in on his Sunday off day to work out with me! So here's what the middle of January looked like for me:

01/12
0.50 miles - treadmill, warm-up then 1 hr. PT session with trainer-Steve
7.20 miles - elliptical

01/13
4.00 miles - elliptical, after ab workout

01/14
4.00 miles - elliptical, after 1 hr. PT session with trainer-Steve

01/15
0.50 miles - treadmill, warm-up then light ab workout
6.00 miles - elliptical
1.15 miles - treadmill, first attempt back at running; run 1 min, walk 2 min.

01/16
7.50 miles - elliptical

01/17
0.50 miles - treadmill, warm-up then 1 hr. PT session with trainer-Steve
9.76 miles - elliptical

01/18
3.75 miles - elliptical
1.57 miles - treadmill, run 1 min, walk 2 min
1.00 miles - treadmill
(this was a solo Sunday workout w/instructions of no more than 60 minutes of cardio; which I actually followed)

TOTALS 47.43 miles

Now in looking at my numbers I completed the total miles in about 7 1/2 hours which leaves me averaging around 10 minutes/mile for the elliptical... but that seems a little high, my hours or working out may be wrong since I typically complete a mile on the elliptical in about 9 minutes. But anyhow, the real question is will this have any effect at all on my running time? I was averaging about a 10 minute mile on the treadmill and coming in at about a 10-11 minute mile in my 5k's. I so would like to be faster. However, that being said, going 7 1/2 weeks without being able to run at all... well, it sort of put the whole "speed"complex I have into perspective.

Will most likely finish out the month of January taking it easy with the running and working on the run 1 min, walk 2 min with increasing the amount of time I'm actually on the treadmill (first two times was 20 minutes, and the third time was for 30 minutes). Would like to sign up for my first race in February, but realistically it may not be until March or maybe even April...I don't know, we will have to see. For right now it is just getting through one step at a time...

Great Day for Running

2009-01-15T17:36:00.004-05:00

I didn't care that it was only 6 degrees when I got up this morning, because I knew what the day had in store for me and I knew it was going to be GREAT! Ok, maybe not earth shattering and basically it would go unnoticed by all but me.

But today was it.

Today's the day I'd been waiting for....

After 7+ weeks - 53 days, today I got to RUN.

It wasn't for long and it was really super slow (12 minute pace)and may have been on the treadmill, but I was running again. And it felt great to be back and the best news being the pain in my foot was minimal and had subsided after a few hours.

YEAH.

Judgement Day

2009-01-12T21:01:00.003-05:00

The end of December left me about a week to put in some great long workouts.

12/29 - 6.00miles on elliptical after session with trainer-Steve
12/30 - 7.52miles on elliptical
2.48miles on treadmill, walking
12/31 - 5.00miles on elliptical after session with trainer-Steve; checked weight and still 2 pounds from goal; kept things in check for New Years Eve and was in bed around 10pm!
01/01 - 0.60miles on treadmill for a quick warm-up
6.00miles on elliptical after LOTS of ab work; total time at gym = 4hours! Great start for the new year!
01/02 - 8.00miles on elliptical after More abs
01/03 - 1.00miles on treadmill
7.76miles on elliptical followed by some lifting and abs and another 3 1/2 hour workout all after measurements.
01/04 - 1.00miles on treadmill; abs and then a food hour working out side by side with trainer-Steve (think this was tougher than his training sessions)
4.21miles on elliptical
1.00miles on treadmill while trainer-Steve ran
50.66miles for the week elliptical and trainer combined

So January 3rd was my judgement day and time to see if this last round of hard work has paid off and to what extent... Missed my target weight goal by 2 pounds (again, missed by the same 2 back in November). So totals to date - 43 pounds lighter. 43!!! And my waist is down by 6 inches and I'm down about 3 dress sizes (think it's time to go shopping!!!!!). And (drum roll please) my body fat is down to 18%,which is down A LOT from where I had started. What a great journey this has been. And, one last note....new goal, 12 pounds over the next 12 weeks. These are going to be the toughest ones yet, but now is no time to back down from a challenge.

The first full week of the new year was off to a good start, my orthotics were finally in and my doctor even dropped them off at my house for me! So, about a week of breaking in and I just may be back to running around mid-month. Unfortunately the week didn't end up quite as productive as I'd originally hoped but sometimes a week of rest is good. Right?

01/05 - 5.07miles on elliptical
01/06 - skipped gym up late the night before watching OSU game.
01/07 - 4.00miles on elliptical after an hour with trainer-Steve, not feeling 100%.
01/08 - 4.21miles on elliptical with trainer-Steve and some abs.
01/09 - skipped workout, trainer-Steve sent me home from gym, ended up back in bed and sleeping for another couple hours.
01/10 - 0.51miles on treadmill, followed by abs and some lifting
8.28miles on elliptical
0.46miles on treadmill
22.58miles for the week elliptical and treadmill combined

This next week finally allows me to start doing some light impact work during my training sessions and see how 7 weeks of rest has paid off. Fingers and toes crossed!

Hope to update again soon with more great news!

A Time for Reflection

2008-12-29T16:42:00.002-05:00

I hope everyone had a wonderful Christmas and enjoyed any and all Holidays that you celebrated. My Christmas was amazing, spent some time with great friends and my great family. And for those I was unable to spend time with, for whatever the reasons may have been, they were all in my heart and mind as they always are!

So now as 2008 comes to a close it seems inevitable that it also brings with it a time to sit back and reflect upon the past 365 days and all that has happened...and as I begin this process I realize how grateful I am for all that this year has provided! I began 2008 in such a different mind set and just overwhelmed with sadness and grief...I thought I had it together, but in looking back I was just basically lost. And slowly, as the year progressed, I began to find myself again. There is still much progress to be made, but isn't that what life and living is all about anyway? -- Goals and progress, self-awareness and then remembering to be truly grateful for all that is bestowed upon us! I like to believe that I have always been thankful of the things in my life, but learning to be truly Grateful and not just thankful, that is the one greatest gift I have received this year. There is such a difference between being conscious of a benefit received and being appreciative of benefits received.

So to those of you out there who read this and especially to those who comment (Frank, Elizabeth) -- I am grateful for the time you take to catch up on what is going on in my little life, and the comments provide more encouragement than I think you could ever even begin to imagine. Thank You!

Now for some running updates, since it's been a couple of weeks... Still not running, and still waiting for orthotics to come in, was hopeful that I could start running January 1st but it appears as that is being set back a bit further. But that is ok, it will all happen in time!! So, until the actual "running" starts up again I continue my new appreciation for the elliptical machine.

12/15 - 4 miles
12/16 - off
12/17 - 4 miles, 1 hour training session with trainer-Steve
12/18 - cardio workout with trainer-Steve - 1 mile on stepper; 2 miles on elliptical; 4 miles on bike
12/19 - 3 miles
12/20 - 4 miles, 1 hour training session with trainer-Steve
12/21 - off
Totals for the week - 17 miles elliptical; 1 mile stepper; 4 miles bike

12/22 - 6.10 miles
12/23 - off
12/24 - 7.42 miles, 1 hour training session with trainer-Steve
12/25 - off
12/26 - 6.00 miles with trainer-Steve by my side -- got on scale at gym and have gained 4 pounds, which puts me 7 pounds from my goal set for January 3rd.
12/27 - 6.83 miles, training session moved to Monday 12/29
12/28 - 6.25 miles with trainer-Steve by my side again, also got in .9 miles walking on the treadmill
Totals for the week - 32.60 elliptical; .9 treadmill/walking

Hope you all have a safe and joyous New Year!

Just Passing Time and Getting By...and how many days til Christmas!!?!?!

2008-12-16T15:10:00.002-05:00

Not much going on over here and yet there is so much happening.

Still waiting on the orthotics to come in, and my estimated return to running is still around abouts the first of the year. I can not even imagine how much slower I will be, but I do know how great it is going to feel to run again! Am finally waking up and not limping around for the first couple of hours of the day, but still feeling the pains by the end of the day. I have tried keeping up with the elliptical use but my mileage isn't where I'd like it to be; some days my legs are just so dead...

12/08 - 3.70 miles
12/09 - skipped, woke up super tired and sleep won over
12/10 - 3.50 miles after one hour session with trainer-Steve (lots and lots of ab work!!)
12/11 - 4.14 miles side-by-side with Steve, having the competition was great
12/12 - 4.00 miles
12/13 - 4.00 miles after 45-minute session with trainer-Steve
12/14 - off - Christmas shopping!!!!

19.37 miles for the week

And now for the other parts of my life....

The 12th was our office 'Consolidation Fest' - it was bringing the two County Boards that are being consolidated on July 1st together so that staff could start to meet each other. I know this isn't easy for staff from either location, especially knowing about the staff cuts that come with the consolidated Boards. All-in-all it was not a terrible afternoon, the food was good and we all laughed a little, and lets face it these decisions are all beyond our control at this point so there is no point in stressing over it all... it's either start looking for a new job and get out now OR wait and see what happens once the dust has settled! I have finally decided on the later, and am actually quite comfortable with it (most of the time) since I am hoping that there are at least two positions I could be placed in, I feel my chances are on the plus side of 50/50. However, that being said...the 18th is the Board Meeting where the Executive Director will be named and obviously that may change my somewhat easygoing attitude towards all this -- but again, that's Thursday, this is only Tuesday and there's plenty of work to be dealt with in the here and now.

Christmas has somehow crept up on me and is now only, what, 9 days away.... I have shopping to finish (and some to even start) as well as a very small get together planned for this Sunday to prepare for... I had toyed with not decorating this year, but a very good friend convinced me otherwise, so basically Santa came and threw-up in my house again this year leaving his little Santa/Christmas-sy remnants everywhere. I still have not picked up a tree. I have a great pre-lit tree that I bought about 4 years ago that I love, but here's a question for ya -- what happens when the lights decide to stop working?, which is what happened last Christmas and I've changed fuses, checked bulbs and have no clue what the deal is and last year ended up having to put lights on tree (which was no fun). So anyhow, I decided a real live tree would be great to have, I haven't had a live tree since moving into my house (6 years now), maybe it was more fun when I had them in the apartment when I wasn't supposed to?, I don't know...anyhow, with guests coming by this weekend if I'm getting a tree I better do it pretty darn soon! tick-tock

I hope everyone is having a great time and enjoying this current snow-free zone we are experiencing here in Cleveland -- we all know it'll be here by the shovels full soon enough!

What Doesn't Kill You...

2008-12-09T15:34:00.003-05:00

Had a podiatrist appointment on December 1st and x-rays were taken and my left foot was taped up... I was back in the doctor's office on the 5th getting my feet molded for orthotic inserts and Yes, there is a bone spur (albeit a small one) on my left heel. Wonderful. The doctor is hopeful that after the inserts come in (in about 2 weeks) and some break in time (about 1 week), that I should be able to start getting back into running. So 2 weeks + 1 week = crossed fingers that I can start back running by either the end of the year or in the New Year! -- presumptuous to look for a 5k for New Year's Day?! lol, maybe a little.

So since the current situation dictates "minimal to no impact" I guess the elliptical machines will become my new best friends at the gym. yippee. And here's the totals for the past week:

12/01 - 4.68 miles
12/02 - 3.57 miles
12/03 - 3.03 miles; 1 hour training session with trainer-Steve
12/04 - off
12/05 - 3.37 miles
12/06 - 3.00 miles; 1 hour training session with trainer-Steve
12/07 - off
17.65 miles for the week -- need to get those numbers up!

So December 6th would mark my halfway point from when my new target weight goal was set and the target completion date. Now, this whole fitness thing and signing up with trainer-Steve has never been about the number on the scale, it was about getting in shape and feeling better; but after reaching that first goal, I've been pretty excited about reaching this new number and I know with my vacation and the Holiday's in between that it wouldn't be the easiest and so I am trying to keep myself in check by not getting hung up on the "number"... so that being said, I got on the gym scale on the 3rd (just to get an idea of how I had fared through New Orleans and Thanksgiving) and I was down 6 more pounds! Which puts me right on target. Now it's just staying motivated and getting through the Christmas lunches, dinners and parties (we just had boxes of chocolate delivered to the office!!!), there's 4 weeks and 6 more pounds to get through...

Monthly totals

2008-12-02T10:41:00.003-05:00

So here's what I ran for the rest of November...

11/10 - 5.00 miles treadmill
11/11 - 5.40 miles treadmill
11/12 - 3.10 miles treadmill - session with trainer-Steve
11/13 - 3.00 miles treadmill
11/14 - 4.00 miles treadmill (now granted this was all walking due to my left heel, but I'm counting it anyways!)
11/15 - 3.36 miles elliptical - session with trainer-Steve
11/16 - off - signed up for New Orleans 5k, bought new shoes

Total for week - 23.86

11/17 - 5.00 miles treadmill - morning
2.00 miles outside - evening
11/18 - off - unscheduled off day, up late night before watching the Browns
11/19 - 5.00 miles treadmill
11/20 - 5.00 miles treadmill
11/21 - 5.00 miles treadmill
11/22 - off - travel, trip to New Orleans
11/23 - 3.1 Ole Man River 5k

Total for week - 25.10

11/24 - off - travel, back from New Orleans :(
11/25 - off - left foot/heel hurts to put weight on; think the 4-5 hours walking around after the 5k really took its toll...crap...
11/26 - 9.50 miles bike - session with trainer-Steve (first session in 11 days)
11/27 - 5.00 miles bike, before heading out for turkey at my sisters had to skip the turkey run in Avon due to heel issues
11/28 - 3.75 miles elliptical, back was tightening up and it felt good to be moving
4.00 miles bike
11/29 - 4.60 miles elliptical
11/30 - off

Total for week - 18.50 miles bike; 8.60 miles elliptical

Totals for month (adding elliptical and running together):

week ending 11/02 - 21.40
week ending 11/09 - 24.00
week ending 11/16 - 23.86
week ending 11/23 - 25.10
week ending 11/30 - 8.60
** 102.96 TOTAL **

Hopefully the rest and stretching will help clear up the plantar fasciitis soon... Bypassing the Reindeer Run this Saturday (unless of course if everything miraculously feels better come Saturday morning -- hey one can always hope!)

Time for Thanks

2008-11-29T11:03:00.003-05:00

Again, it's been a while since I've posted. The training sessions with trainer-Steve are moving along well and up until last weekend I'd really improved on my consistency with eating and hitting my daily calories. I'm trying to avoid getting on a scale until my goal date of January 3rd but it's difficult, maybe next week when I'm at my halfway point...but so far it's worked if I just focus on the workouts and not so much the number on the scale.

Last weekend I was in New Orleans for a couple of days; what a great, fun place to visit. Got into town Saturday around 3:00 and had a show to see that started at 7:30 so not a lot of tome for seeing much. Sunday morning I ran a 5k and then spent the rest of the day walking the town, watching the Browns stink things up and eating. Before I new it, it was Monday morning and time to head home.

A couple of weeks ago when I decided to increase my weekly running goals, plantar fasciitis set in on my left foot. But an evening of icing and a day off here or there seemed to keep things in check...until New Orleans. Apparently running the 5k and then walking around for about 4 hours, yeah not so good! Needless to say it's been a slow week of recovery and the injured foot has we to some back issues and I haven't run now since the race and have a podiatrist appointment on Monday.

As for the 5k, it's nice run somewhere completely unfamiliar. The race was in a new location this year and the course was in a region that was slightly hit by Katrina. And other than one or two boarded up homes, the recovery process was moving along. The stadium that we had started and ended the race at had just celebrated its reopening. The course was mostly flat and I had hopes to run a quicker race, but with my foot issues I guess I can not really complain.

56 days

2008-11-10T14:39:00.005-05:00

With the exception of a few work issues, it was a Great week! I started off positive knowing I'd hit my weekly mileage goal the previous week and then deciding to play hokey mid-week helped some more.

11/03 - 4.5 miles
11/04 - 3.5 miles -- gym time cut short, wanted to vote before work - only took 13 minutes
11/05 - 7.0 miles -- split this up, 5 miles then an additional 2 miles just for fun!
Took the day off work (mental health day, sorely needed!); beautiful day out got all of my yard work done!
11/06 - 0.0 miles -- session with trainer-Steve, took day off from running having issues with sore feet, painful left heel and tender right shin.
11/07- 4.0 miles
11/08 -5.0 miles on elliptical
11/09 - off

Totals for week - 24 miles

Got weighed and measured on Saturday the 8th, it's been just over 5 months since I started working out with trainer-Steve. This is a couple weeks past due on my targeted goal date, but I was in no hurry to remind trainer-Steve, since I absolutely dread getting on the scale and being measured. BUT, I tried to approach it this time with a more positive attitude (key word there being "tried"). First thing was the scale...ok, now I KNOW I'm down almost 3 sizes from where I was when I started so I don't really know why I don't look forward to this part but I don't...I missed my target weight by 2 pounds! (dang it), total lost 33 lbs (yes, I need to focus on the 33 lost not the pesky 2 that I missed). Next came the body fat count and the measuring...total body fat is down 10% - AWESOME! (this is down a whole 5% from just 8 weeks ago), and total inches I don't remember because I was really happy with that body fat percentage, I forgot to grab my print out with all the numbers on it so I will have to get that from him.

Finally, since my target date has come and gone it means that it is time to set a new goal. My intention was another 5 lbs; trainer-Steve's intention was another 10 lbs. -- which would take me to a weight that I probably haven't been at for at least 13 years and even then I don't think I was there for very long, and I explained this to trainer-Steve and how I felt that number might not be realistic. However, as per usual, trainer-Steve stuck with his intentions and then informed me that the target date for this goal is January 3rd! What?!?! Is he nuts?

I was really fretting about this new targeted goal and date. 12 lbs in 8 weeks. I just was not confident that I would ever be able to drop a pound and a half a week. Then, I did some math. My last time I was weighed was 59 days earlier and in that time I lost 10 lbs... hmmm, my new target date is 56 days away and it's only an additional 2 lbs that I need to drop. It's been 24 weeks since I started up with trainer-Steve -- 24 weeks and 33 lbs, that's 1.38 lbs/week on average. Crap. This is do-able, isn't it? I mean since my last weigh in I'd dropped my calories and really focused on eating better than I had during the summer months, but although I've been doing much better I still miss the mark about 40-50% of the time. If I start hitting that mark consistently, I can do this!

So here it begins...my 56 day challenge is on! And a challenge it may be with New Orleans in less than 2 weeks, then Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Years. But I've come such a long way in these 24 weeks, there's no turning back now!

Upcoming races: November 22nd - Ole Man River 5k in New Orleans; November 27th - Turkey Dash 5k in Avon; December 6th - Reindeer Run 5k in Lakewood.

Getting Caught Up...again

2008-11-02T12:15:00.003-05:00

Side note observation: apparently having the iPhone isn't helping me keep my blog updated...will try to do better in the upcoming weeks...

When last I left off I had decided to start adding up how many miles I am logging each week, with the hopes of this to motivate me to do more, go father, get stronger, be faster! Since I usually take Sunday's off I was adding up my hours basically from Monday through Saturday but now the last couple of Sunday's I've been tossing in some running to try and help to hit the 20 mile mark -- I know, it is a far far cry from some of the 50 and 100 mile weeks some people do but hey, it's a beginning!! So to recap (and since I've changed my weeks to end on Sunday's) here's what I've done since the beginning of October:

week ending 10/05 - 14.65
week ending 10/12 - 12.79
week ending 10/19 - 15.62
week ending 10/26 - 23.65
Total for the month - 66.71

week ending 11/02 - 21.40

So all-in-all not too bad and about where I am wanting to start this all out at.

Other quick notes, I ran a 5k back on October 26th out in Amherst and even though side-stitches once again plagued me around the 2 mile mark I was able to finish in 32:36... which is a PR for this year, and only 1.5 seconds off of a PR since I started running last year.

Future races -- there is one in Euclid next Saturday that I am thinking about running with a cousin, but it that fall through then I may not run another race until I am in New Orleans on the 22nd.

The Weekend is here and Setting Goals

2008-10-17T14:28:00.010-04:00

Why do the short work weeks always feel like they are twice as long as they are?...

Other than clearly not getting enough sleep lately (4 or 5 hours is just not cutting it!) and missing the gym twice, it has actually been a pretty good week and looking back it appears as though I made the most of the three workouts that I was able to get in.

10/13 - (recapped) skipped gym due to knee issues and a tender back
10/14 - barely got in 4 hours of sleep due to staying up to watch that awesome Browns game (seriously, who the hell was that team out there in our uniforms playing? and clearly that could not have really really been DA -- maybe Quinn was trying out his Halloween costume?...lets just hope they bring it again this week). Anywho... with little sleep in the system, no energy and a little crabby I headed to the gym. Put in 4 miles on the treadmill and felt 100% better and cheerier when done.
10/15 - got a whopping 5 hours of sleep and had a kick-butt session with trainer-Steve. I was completely exhausted when my hour was up but managed to get in 3.6 miles on the treadmill.
10/16 - skipped gym, another night of sleep deprivation but somehow managed to get in 5 hours and just not enough energy to hit the gym for a workout or a run.
10/17 - just 4 hours of sleep, went and watched G play hockey and didn't get home until 11pm, then took me a whole hour+ to fall asleep. Managed to wake up energized though and headed to the gym -- treadmill - 5.27 miles!

Okay, so this is sorta big for me here. Since the month of October has started I have been toying around with starting to set more goals with my running. Currently my goal is something like, "...just get your butt up in the morning and try to pretend you are a runner". But the thing is, I don't think I want to keep pretending, I think I really want to be a real runner. A couple weeks back my friend G and I were talking about running and how much he hates it and how he thinks of me as a "runner"...I liked the way that sounded and felt. So, I have been toying with this idea of setting more concrete goals. I was looking at what I've done so far for the month of October:

week ending 10/04 - 14.65 miles for the week
week ending 10/11 - 12.79 miles for the week
week ending 10/18 - 12.87 miles for the week so far...

This morning trainer-Steve told me that he has the time from 6-7am open tomorrow and asked if I wanted to come in and run with him, granted it's more treadmill work but again I really think it's helping me to understand what pacing feels like and to know where my heart rate is and all that jazz. SO, I am heading to the gym to run with Steve at 6am tomorrow and then having my training session with him at 8am. If it's a good day I am hoping to put in another 5 miles (again...i am slow...it takes me about an hour to crank out 5 miles) which would put me at 17.87 miles for the week -- this would be the most miles ever for me... like as in first time EVER in the 41 years I have been on this earth. And here's the accountant in me coming out maybe, I am sort of wanting to round that off to an even 20, I mean that'd only be another 2.13 miles right?... Hmmmm.... that would mean 7.13 miles, ok today's 5 miles is only the 2nd time I've ever run that far, I am just not sure I am going to pull out the extra and then still be able to move to get through my training session (lol)... Ok, so I will plan for the 5 miles tomorrow (fingers and toes crossed -- well maybe just fingers, it'd be tough to run with the toes crossed) and then just sort of see what happens...

Ok, well, it appears as though I have just set a minor goal.

Now to think about a mileage goal for next week...
"hmmmm, how many miles..." it looks like I've given myself something to think about on my run tomorrow.

Happy Friday and Happy Weekend!!

Getting Caught Up and Finally Becoming a "Cool Kid"...

2008-10-13T16:42:00.006-04:00

Ok, let me start with the last thing first -- I am now the proud owner of an iPhone! And for someone who knows nothing about computers (more about that later) and does not adapt well to changes (my old phone was only 2 years old, and was only the 2nd (or maybe 3rd) cell phone I have owned in about 8-9 years) this is just the COOLEST thing in the world. Ok, well maybe I am just a big dweeb and need to get a real life.

Whatever!

Anyway, now that I have a cool iPhone, I will have no excuses for not updating my blog...unless of course if it is because I am doing something with my iPhone!

Now, in my defense for not updating for more than two weeks, ok well it's not really a valid defense plan...I accidentally clicked on some pop-up and flooded my computer with crap, and messages saying I'd done terrible awful things to my computer and if I'd just click some more I could download programs for mere $$$ to fix the problems I caused by clicking in the first place.... aaaaggghhh... so I immediately shut everything down and did what needed to be done, I texted G and told him in a panic that I thought I'd totally screwed up my computer. THANKFULLY G is a great, awesome, terrific, patient and just my bestest friend EEVER!!!! So, he came over early on a Sunday and installed programs to make it all better -- thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you, thank you!!!!! (I so wish the extent of my computer knowledge was more than knowing how to turn the thing on.)

So with that breaking news out of the way lets get back to things... so, where did I leave off in this blog...oh yeah, I was sick -- well I have finally kicked that mess, took probably about a good 2 weeks plus a day or two to finally get that thing out of my system (and just think the cold/flu season is just beginning!).

On the exercise front... still working out with trainer-Steve at least twice a week and I've re-signed for additional sessions that should take me through mid-January. I am almost at my initial weight goal and since nothing is ever good enough for myself I figured it is time now to set new goals and seriously get motivated!

Running... I've been running a lot on the treadmill and completed another 5k. I've even been out running with G twice now and wouldn't mind making this a weekly thing, but we will see how that goes and for now I'll just take what I can get.

9/27 - training session (fairly easy, still recovering for cold)
9/28 - woke up feeling crappy again, took the day off from working out
9/29 - training session (hard); treadmill - 3.75 miles
9/30 - treadmill - 3.8 miles; deep-deep tissue massage in the afternoon (awesome)
10/01 - training session; treadmill - 4 miles
10/02 - off
10/03 - training session (hard); elliptical machine - 2.6 miles (first time ever)

10/04 - Nature's Bin 5k, Lakewood - 32:54; ran pretty consistent in first two miles, but a side stitch crept up just before the 2 mile mark and I had to stop a couple of time to walk and try to stretch it out. Was hoping for a better time especially since this course is completely flat, but am not complaining since it's my 2nd best 5k time (best time for this year though). Decided while running that I will probably do the Pumpkin Race 5k on the 26th.
10/05 - Dad's birthday, he'd of been 82 today -- love him and miss him still every single day!!! G was over today to help me with my computer woes then we went out for a 3.1 mile run...just what I needed to help me get my head straight for the day!
10/06 - treadmill - 3.6 miles; abs
10/07 - off; sister Linda's birthday!!...happy bday sis, I Love Ya (even if I never mailed out your cards).
10/08 - training session; elliptical - 2.1miles
10/09 - treadmill - 1.8 miles (running really late, but figured some time is better than no time)
10/10 - treadmill - 2.45 miles

10/11 - training session; treadmill - 1.88 miles; run with G - about 1.75 miles
10/12 - off; Apple Butter festival in Burton with my Mom, walked for 1 3/4 hours.
10/13 - off; knee was really hurting yesterday and woke up with back pains today, despite wanting to run today was advised to take the extra day to rest and make sure the knee and back are ok.

The circle of life continues... I am so pleased and happy to welcome Michael into our family; my niece Miranda who lives in San Diego got married on Saturday, October 11th!! I hope they both know we thought of them often that day!! We also received the very very happy news that Miranda is pregnant! and so our family continues to grow -- I am positive that my brother John is looking down from heaven above and pleased as can be in his little girl!! I am so sorry though that he won't be here to become a grandpa...

And just one final note - Way To Go at Chicago Frank! Frank finished in just 3:07!!!! I can not even imagine...Congrats again!!

Now it's time for dinner and wait for the Giants vs. Browns game to start! Let's go Browns!!

Early Morning Ramblings

2008-09-27T06:40:00.008-04:00

It's 6:38am and I've been up and awake now for about two and a half hours, about an hour and a half until I need to be at the gym for trainer-Steve... My sleeping lately has been so messed up, as if being sick isn't bad enough. It then takes me about a week to get back into any semblance of a "normal" sleep routine unless of course a bout of insomnia hits (which it does about 90% of the time for me after being sick).

There really is no update to provide since last Saturday's 5k, but it's early, I'm awake and therefore I shall talk...

I woke up Sunday morning with a sore throat and it has all pretty much gone downhill since then. Pretty much just laid around on Sunday, watched what I believe was supposed to be an NFL game between the Browns and the Ravens -- I don't need to go into that, I'm pretty sure we've ALL got the same or at least similar opinions there... I'm seriously considering a boycott on football this year (ok, ok, not really serious about that, I don't really think I could do it anyhow, I mean IT'S FOOTBALL, the only reason I look forward to summer being almost over every year, I mean really who could survive a true boycott of such an awesome spectator sport! Go Browns. Go Bucks. Go Irish).

Monday and Tuesday I stayed home from work, medicated myself and slept.

Ventured to work on Wednesday, but couldn't make it through the whole day. Went home, medicated myself and slept more.

Thursday I felt much better, no really I felt great (as long as you didn't listen to me talk or pay any attention to the coughing) and even headed to the gym, but trainer-Steve immediately put a kibosh on those plans and sent me home (I really didn't get why...). I headed to work, honestly believing I was better, to what turned out to be an 11-hour work day! -- The last 4 hours spent in meetings where the major topic of conversation revolved around our impending merger, er, um I mean "c-o-n-s-o-l-i-d-a-t-i-o-n" yes, yes because THAT sounds so much better and makes this whole friggin' process easy and carefree, just one big happy family, it's not "them-against-us" it's improving upon two separate and distinct already establish processes, it's for the good of the general public, it's... oh, um, ok...I digress, um, as I was saying -- it turned out to be an 11-hour work day.

Needless to say, Friday morning I woke up with a sore throat, slight fever and coughing. It was a short workday so I ventured in, but was glad when 2:00pm rolled around and I could head back home to my sofa and blanket where I caught up on some missed TV action. Was supposed to go out with a girlfriend, but just wasn't really up to the bar-scene, so I opted out there. Completely forgot about the debate being on and instead watched E.T. Classic movie, and yes I still cried at the end...I'm such a sucker! But from what I've heard, I probably made the better choice in watching a classic.

So, that brings us around to this morning. I am feeling ok, but am leery about it. There's been minimal coughing, throat feels good, temp where it should be, sinuses a little stuffy but nothing really any worst than any other given day. I guess we'll see how the day progresses. Mom and I don't have a lot on the agenda for today, pretty much just hanging out locally, doing a little shopping, and grabbing a bite to eat somewhere (I'd like something a little different, but not sure what...) Talked with trainer-Steve already this morning (yes, already, at like 5:20am, ugh-morning people, i just don't get 'em!) and he's given me a green light to come on in today for a session. Since it's been a whole week since I've had a workout he says we'll ease into it today, but then I'm scheduled for Monday-Wednesday-Friday next week and he's already telling me that we're going to hit it hard. Which I am actually looking forward to. Ever since the back issues started and then going through the treatments, we've been unable to get in any good, hard, kick-your-butt sessions and then to have three in a week (oh I foresee lots of lunges and plank positions in my future) and then a 5k next Saturday morning....yeah-baby, that's what I'm talking about, let's bring it on!!

So of the many topics that trainer-Steve and I have been having is my nutrition. I've been keeping a diary of what I'm eating and when for several months now and I've improved my eating habits dramatically, with the minor exceptions of cook outs (but I've gotten better as the summer progressed) and being sick (I crave salt and vinegar chips and milkshakes when I have a cold... I know, but cravings rarely make sense, and well shouldn't you pamper yourself when you're sick?). The biggest issue I am having is my protein intake, so I guess my next step is to maybe plan out my meals more than I do now. Typically I go shopping, buy miscellaneous groceries and then I like to create whatever when it comes time to make dinner. There isn't always a lot of rhyme or reason to what I buy as far as for a specific dinner. I think where I'm lacking most though is in the lunchtime arena (I still tend to skip lunches sometimes). So since I'm a list-freak anyhow, I guess I need to start pre-planning my meals and start trying to stick with that.

Ok, time to finish the tea grab some p.b. toast and head out to the gym.

Have a great week-end y'all and chat soon! Later-bye.

Run For The Cheetah and Mums

2008-09-20T21:14:00.004-04:00

I've been wanting to get in a 5k this month, so last night I decided that I would get up this morning to head to the Cleveland Zoo for the first Run For The Cheetah 5k run and walk. Now, I haven't been to the zoo in probably about 6 or 7 years, but I've been there enough times to remember that there's a fairly good sized hill that I would have to contend with and hills are not my friends! It appears as though running hills really agitates my back issues...but for some reason I just really wanted to do this race. -- I guess it's my way of trying to convince myself that 1) yes I am a runner and 2) my back is fine.

Well of course, when I woke up this morning my back was not feeling great...see, this just goes to show what the sub-conscious can do to you! I talked with both trainer-Steve and G prior to the race and they both basically gave me the same advice, "put the thought of pain in your back OUT of your mind", and to be honest, once I started running my focus changed to finding my place in the pack and who I might try to pace myself with and my back never became an issue during the race -- but I digress... So I got up this morning, talked with trainer-Steve and G and waited around for my Mom to show up, which she did right on time at about 7:30am. My Mom really enjoys coming to the races and it also gets her out of the house a little more and it's really convenient since she gets to hang on to all my crap I bring and all the stuff ya get at races - so, if you ever see me at a race fell free to drop your stuff off with my Mom, she really won't mind, lol.

We got to the zoo at about 7:50am and I got myself registered and we walked around a little, went to the Lion exhibit since they are my favorites (they weren't up yet), and milled around waiting for it to be time to start the race. Finally, time to line up and listen to the few instructions they had to announce. Now, I hadn't really thought much about the course other than I knew I'd have to face a hill. Well what's one of the first things I hear "...so you'll be running the course twice..." me, to myself: "HUH?, sh*t, that means the hill Twice! Aggghh. Ok, well I'm here, I've paid, I guess I'm going up that hill twice." With that the race was off... Now again it has been a while since I was at the zoo and as we rounded a corner I noticed the incline ahead and thought "ok, there it is, let's go"...and I ran it..."woo hoo, hmmm, that wasn't soo bad, maybe my memory of the hill was off?"...around another corner, and another... "oh crap, HERE's the hill I remembered, hmmm, I don't remember there being two hills, ok, I ran that first one, I can do this one, ok, there's a turn ahead and it'll level off...omg, it's not leveling off, it's not going downhill, it's going UP." Needless to say, I did not run the entire second hill, figured I'd save myself since I knew I'd be coming this way again...lol.

I was finishing the first lap I hear lots of cheering and yelling and look around and see 2nd place overall runner is finishing the race...nothing like a nice gently reminder of how slow I am, LOL. Made it through the 2nd round of the course and ended up walking both hills (dang it). Had allot of kick left in me by the end of the race and I know it probably looks silly to those who have completed the race many minutes before me to have someone actually try to kick it in at the end of the race, but even though I am slow, it's still MY race. I finished in about 35 1/2 minutes, clock time (race wasn't chip timed, so in my mind I am going to think that I was maybe closer to 34 or 34 1/2 minutes). All-in-all not so bad considering I walked the hills. And if they deem this 1st year for the race a success (which I think they will), I will definitely be back next year!

Once the race was done and the awards handed out, and the raffle drawing was complete my Mom and I walked around the zoo for a little while. Mom couldn't handle the hills so we left out around 11:00. Once I got cleaned up and changed we then headed down to Barberton for its Mum Festival and spent a couple of hours there walking around and enjoying an absolutely beautiful day.

Since my last update:
9/18, Thursday - had some great "venting" time with trainer-Steve but that didn't leave much time for the treadmill, but managed to squeak out 2 1/2 miles.

9/28, Friday - session with trainer-Steve followed by 2.5 miles on the treadmill.

9/29, Saturday - Run For The Cheetah 5k, walk around Barberton at the Mum Festival.

Next race is the Nature's Bin 5k on October 4th!

Margarita Tuesday

2008-09-16T15:11:00.003-04:00

Happy Mexican Independence Day aka Margarita Tuesday!

Now, for a quick recap on running and working out:

9/08 - Monday - 62 minutes on the treadmill (yes i posted this last time, but i am really really excited about getting in that much time). Final spinal block.

9/09 - Tuesday - got to the gym and stretched out, back still achy from injections so headed out for coffee and and a rainy walk in a nearby park with trainer-Steve. I have really come to cherish some of these times that we spend talking.

9/10 - Wednesday - training session, time to be poked and prodded and measured and weighed (ugh, i so do not enjoy these days). Overall, in the approximate 14/15 weeks I've been working out with trainer-Steve i am down 23 pounds and about 6% in body fat. All-in-all it is a good thing, I know this and I am truly truly pleased, especially considering the back issues I've been dealing with for about 5 weeks...just always wish it was more.

9/11 - Thursday - training session, did a good mix of upper and lower body.

9/12 - Friday - on treadmill for 40 minutes. About 11:30am, Thursday's workout lunges caught up with me big time (major butt-cramps...lol).

9/13 - Saturday - training session, one of the best workouts I've had in a long time, back was feeling great and my legs were still tired from Thursday, but trainer-Steve didn't seem to care (are all personal trainers this sadistic?), walking out of the gym to my car was a challenge.

9/14 - Sunday - skipped gym - walked around the Yankee Peddler with my Mom for about 3 hours.

9/15 - Monday - skipped gym - overslept when power went out overnight.

9/16 - Tuesday - treadmill for 55 minutes.

Now, to deviate from the exercise:
Saturday night went to Blossom with my friend G to see the Montgomery Gentry/Toby Keith concert (which I have been waiting for since April) and it was AWESOME. I stood, danced and sang the entire 3 hours...sorry G hope it wasn't too embarrassing, but if it was you should have joined me! - lol. YeeHaw. Thank you so much for going to all the country concerts with me this summer, I had a blast.

In regards to some previous posts about forgiveness and old friends... as i indicated previously I held some anger towards this person for not being there when my brother and father passed, and their coming back into my life was a challenge I was not certain I was up for. As it turns out, it may have been just what I needed as in the process I was able to find some forgiveness for myself and put some additional closure to the grieving process I am enduring.

Still trying to decide if I'm heading up to Put-in-Bay for an annual trip with friends in two weeks. It's a trip that I have been making for probably 8, maybe 9 or more years with my friend E and her beau R. I really enjoy these trips (sometimes too much -- or at least that's what the pictures seem to reveal, lol), so I hate to pass on it. But I've been watching what I eat and drink and with paying for trainer-Steve (who doesn't come cheap) and keeping my fingers crossed for a possible trip in November to New Orleans, I am not sure about the putting up the money to head to the island this year.... Oh, what to do, what to do...

I have also been kicking around the idea of when I should look for a running group to join, I know I am not ready for that yet since I have just gotten myself barely past the 3-mile mark for running, but I am thinking ahead and trying to set my goals for the fall and winter months. So how far and how fast do I need to go to be able to join a group and not be the one always lagging behind and running alone... Maybe I should make sure my back is going to hold up first?, nah, what fun would that be?...

9/11

2008-09-11T11:26:00.005-04:00

It is difficult to believe that it has been 7 years already and yet it is amazing how well I can vividly recall so many factors about that day in such detail...not thinking much of hearing about the first plane other than it being a tragic accident, learning about the plane that was hijacked right above me in downtown Cleveland as I stressed out about work and deadlines and then practically having to be escorted out of the building when we were told to evacuate because I wanted to stay in the quiet empty office to "get the job done" and then getting home and turning on the tv and coming to the slow realization of what was actually unfolding before us. Trying to make sure all my family was safe and secure in their homes, and the phone lines being completely tied up. And then the feeling of watching the first tower fall....and then the second. The looks on the peoples faces... How quiet it was with no planes overhead; and then walking up the hill to work and seeing my first plane in the sky again and just stopping and staring in awe, as if I'd never seen a plane before and the stranger stopped beside me doing the same thing and then the two of us looking at each other for reassurance that it was ok to see a plane in the sky.

I am sorry to admit that I have again been so busy with work deadlines, that it wasn't until I actually really looked at my calendar this morning that I honestly realized that TODAY was/is 9/11. But I have not forgotten the feeling of how proud I felt to be an American in those following days, and the immense love, appreciation and admiration that I felt and will always feel towards all the families who lost loved ones, to the men and women digging through the rubble, to all the policemen and firemen, and to the men and women serving for us here and overseas. To all the people on that day, and every day before then and every day since...the words of "Thank You" just do not seem to be good enough, but for lack of better words - Thank You, for having that special something to put your life on the lines for me, for us everyday of your lives!

http://www.gratitudecampaign.org/fullmovie.php

Happy September!

2008-09-08T19:01:00.003-04:00

September is upon us, and I've just realized that it's been over two weeks since my last update.

8/23, Saturday - training session with Steve, he made me face my fear of treadmill running head on and I go in 30 minutes walking and running, with the focus on getting me to feel comfortable on it and not focusing on distance....yet. This was followed by being stretched out, which was fabulous!

8/24, Sunday - woke up frustrated with some back pain, skipped the gym since I knew I was heading to the Lorain County fair with my Mom, sister and bro-in-law. Walked at the fair for 4 hours.

8/25, Monday - lots of stretching and ab work, walked on the track. Chickened out of using treadmill and headed to Cahoon Park for a run. Spinal block on right side, didn't hurt near as bad as first round of shots.

8/26, Tuesday - training session with Steve, back felt a little achy at injection sites but overall felt great, did lots of leg work today.

8/27, Wednesday - lots of stretching then hit the treadmill for 40 minutes; got in just over 3 miles in warm up, run and cool down.

8/28, Thursday - stretching and abs, didn't feel well headed home after 1/2 an hour and went back to bed for about an hour before heading to work.

8/29, Friday (would have been brother John's 58th b-day) - skipped work out, had chiro appt -- still recommend everyone go at least once. Brad Paisley concert at Blossom, great concert and only got hit with about 10 minutes of rain!

8/30, Saturday - training session with Steve, lots of stretching and upper body work, back bothered me at very end of session.

8/31, Sunday - skip gym, Geauga County fair with my Mom...walked for about 3 hours was really really really bad and had a deep-friend twinkie with strawberries on top (heaven), hadn't had one in about 6 years, it was worth the wait!

9/01, Monday - skipped gym, went into work for about 3+ hours (yes i went into work on Labor Day, that is just wrong!), had my Mom over for a cook-out and grilled lots of veggies on the grill (mmmmmm...)

9/02, Tuesday - skipped gym again, three days in a row in NOT good but had a nice chat with trainer Steve in the morning. Busy at work right now and a little stressed, worked late.

9/03, Wednesday - friend G's bday!! - training session with Steve, back has been bothersome (think it's work stress related) did lots to loosen up back. chiro appt before work. Left work on-time and went out to dinner with G for his bday, Red Lobster all you eat shrimp...that is just wrong, good, but wrong.

9/04, Thursday - treadmill at gym for about 43 minutes, hips were extremely tight so followed up with lots of stretching. Worked late again.

9/05, Friday (brother Dale's bday) - training session with Steve, upper body work. Just was not in a good place today mentally, struggled with everything all day. Work was a pain, and ended up staying late....again.

9/06, Saturday - skipped gym, left early to head down to the OSU vs. OU game! Go Bucks!!

9/07, Sunday - skipped gym, headed to the Fairport Harbor Perchfest with my Mom, got in maybe about an hours worth of walking. Watched the dismal Browns game...but being optimistic that SOMEHOW they'll pull it together for next weeks game against the Steelers.

9/08, Monday - have final spinal block session (left side today) at 9am so headed to the gym to get in a good run in case I have to skip tomorrow; got on the treadmill for 62 minutes and felt awesome!, about 13 minutes was spent walking between warm up, cool down, and once for water. Spent lots of time stretching, working calves and abs ended up at the gym for over 2 hours...what a great start to the morning! Final spinal block session went ok, in some discomfort this evening but will hopefully subside by morning and I'll be able to head back to the gym for another run!

Long Slow Week

2008-08-22T15:37:00.004-04:00

Not really much going on since the 5k last Sunday:

Monday - had some back issues so avoided the gym and running.

Tuesday - still having back issues, but walked about 3 miles before work.

Wednesday - worked out with Steve (my trainer) and focused A LOT on legs (still feeling it some, two days later!).

Thursday - had intentions on running. Was supposed to meet up with Steve, but his knee was acting up, so headed out alone to the park we run at but only one car was at the park and i just didn't have a good feeling -- had a minor incident running there before that had freaked me out a little but I hadn't been alone that time -- so anyhow, i turned the car around and headed to the gym and focused on stretching and then did lots of abs!, followed by more stretching and some walking.

Friday - feeling Wednesday's workout more than I did on Friday, and woke up with a head ache so opted out of running again plus had no one to run with so back to the gym for a repeat of my Thursday workout focusing on stretching and abs.

AND, since my back issues weren't as sever after the 5k I am really wanting to do another one next month, just have to find one now.... any suggestions would be greatly appreciated! I also go for my second spinal block on Monday morning, not looking forward to that again but am looking forward to seeing what the doc has to say and how the pictures compare from the first one (wish me luck).

Happy Friday to all and here's hoping for Awesome weekends for everyone!!!

Run, Jane, Run

2008-08-17T14:16:00.003-04:00

Didn't really do much most of the week after having the spinal block on Monday. Wednesday, I had my morning session with Steve. Needless to say I was REALLY apprehensive to do much of anything, I was just really worried about my back. Steve took it easy with me and we went slow through the stretches and the workout and it felt great to get in a workout and work up a bit of a sweat!

On Friday (My Birthday), I had my 2nd weekly session with Steve. He had me do a ton of stretching and then informed me we were going out for a short run and that he'd cancelled his 6am appointment. So off we went to this nice little 1/2 mile course, it was a little cool and the sun hadn't come up yet. We walked the course once, did some stretching and then off we went... I took it really easy and kept going over my checklist in my head: back, feels good; feet, feel good; shins, feel good ; back, still feels good; overall legs, feel strong; breathing, a little heavy need to calm down; back, still feels great. I must have repeated this checklist 20 times during the 1/2 mile run. Steve knew I was tense and nervous about running so every now and then he'd ask how i felt and then remind me to checkout the sunrise over Lake Erie. Before I knew it we were done with the 1/2 mile run and we walked the course once more. I was thrilled, everything felt great and I had done it! Yes, it's just a half mile...but it was MY half mile and I wasn't in pain, and my back felt fine! What a GREAT way to start my birthday off! Saw my chiro and told him about my little jaunt and he thought that was great and told me to just play it by ear on Sunday. Was supposed to call my pain mgmt doc to give him an update of how I felt and see if he gave me the go ahead to run on Sunday, thought about it at 8:30am (office not open yet) and then remembered again at 4:45pm (oops, a little to late).

Saturday involved lots of recovery from my birthday celebration on Friday night. As I laid in bed I thought about how a nice little run would feel great and would be a good way to get the blood flowing, but as I rolled over I felt it, my back had tightened up. Obviously not going for a run so I took it easy for the day and eventually my back felt better but there were moments throughout the day that there was the slightest twinge of something.

This morning was the day I've been waiting for, the Run, Jane, Run 5k/10k down at Edgewater Park to benefit Women's Center of Greater Cleveland. Rolled out of bed around 6:30am to try and be ready by the time my Mom showed up at 7:00am. Headed to Edgewater around 7:30am and still wasn't sure what I was going to do. Finally by 8:15am I decided I was going to run (ok, guess I really knew all along that I was going to run...not sure why I put myself through the agony of even toying with the idea of just walking the course). I ran the first mile in 10:03 and that took me to the base of the hill (obviously not a great time, but actually about my normal speed). Decided to try running as much of hill as possible since it was after the hill last time that my back gave out. I made it not quite half way, but I did turn it on strong at the base and passed about 6 folks along the way...suppose if I'd just maintained a steady pace I might have made it up the whole thing. Once to the top I ran until the water station, walked through that and walked while sipping my water before dumping the rest of it around my neck and down my back. Felt great and kept a good speed going down the hill until a side stitch kicked in and I found myself walking yet again, about this time my back knotted up a little so I stepped off to the side and stretched out for a few minutes and was given some great motivational "almost there's" by a few of the other runners so decided to get back to it! Stopped two more times to walk (argh) and then decided to just push myself through to the end since it wasn't my back causing me to stop, just overall fatigue from not having been out running for a couple of weeks. Teamed up with another gal who'd been walking some also and we both agreed we weren't fond of the finishing part that was in the grass. Asked her if she had any kick left in her, she said yes and off we went but she then decided she didn't have the sprint in her and finished off jogging in. Two other girls who were running must of heard my heavy breathing as I was sprinting and they moved off to the side a little (thanks girls!) and I sprinted my way through the gate...that felt great too! The first place 10k guy had just finished before me and was there to say thanks for all my cheering out on the course (yeah considering I saw the guy three different times during the course - LOL), he congratulated me on a strong finish which I found funny, but appreciated it all the same! Not certain of my final time I think it was around 35 or 36 minutes. My back is a little sore, but am resting it up and going to hit it with some ice. But I did it! I finished! And more importantly I remember how much I love the atmosphere of running a race -- even if I am not at the front of the pack or even the middle of the pack, I am still competing and I am still out there giving it my ALL; and there is no greater feeling than that!

Ugh...

2008-08-11T22:16:00.003-04:00

Here's the latest...

Sunday the 3rd. With finally hitting 3 miles again, somewhat comfortably even though there was still some walking I decided to take my run outside to get used to the pavement and temperatures again. So I headed down to Edgewater Park for a nice 3 mile run to see how it'd feel to not only be outside but to attempt that awful hill that I've been seeing in my sleep. I figured I'd hit this run on Sunday the 3rd, Thursday the 7th, Sunday 10th, Thursday the 14th and then be ready for the 5k there on Sunday the 17th -- pretty good plan, right? HA. So I ran the race route and even managed to make it halfway up the hill, then finished the hill walking. Once at the top I resumed running but felt a twang in my back. Now with most of my back issues I've been able to keep up the running and then the back issues just sort of work themselves out. Not this time though, I ran about 3 minutes before I had to stop and walk and stretch out my back some. Things felt a little better so I resumed the run again but suddenly found myself alternating running and walking for about three minutes each. I finished the 5k course in under 38 minutes -- which considering my goal is to finish in under 40 wasn't so terrible after all even with all the walking. Little did I know that this slight bit of running joy would be my last for a while... As I headed home I noticed my back twang had turned into more of back spasms and by the time I got home I was unable to move my left leg to get it out of the car --- hmmm, well this can't be good can it? --- so between deep relaxing breathes and what was becoming a slow steady stream of tears I sat in my car for close to 20 minutes before I was able to get out. So into the house I went and got myself to the sofa where I pretty much stayed unable to move for close to 2 hours. Slowly the spasms calmed and I was able to crawl my way upstairs and gingerly get into a HOT shower and then onto my bed for about another half hour. Then once I started moving things felt a little better.

Monday the 4th, was grueling and between my back pains and a funeral to attend (Aunt Adele you were always the sweetest, you will be missed), I decided to not venture into work and sleep and rest and watch movies as much as possible. Went to the chiro and he took x-rays and suggested I visit a pain management specialist who specializes in spinal issues.

Tuesday the 5th, was a little less painful, actually it felt as though someone had spent a few hours kicking me in my back non-stop, I ventured into work...my usual 7 minute walk from my parking lot to the office took me almost 20 minutes! After much self-debate and encouragement from G, I called and made an appointment with the pain mgmt doc for Friday. Cancelled my personal training session for Wednesday morning.

Wednesday the 6th, was weird, after a difficult nights sleep due to my back I woke up feeling great and almost wishing I hadn't cancelled my session but figured a day's rest might be good. Went into see the chiro and get results from the x-rays. He suggested I keep my appointment for Friday and to be prepared to be told I wouldn't be able to run my 5k -- but really, my back was feeling great...ok, yes I know what makes sense but most of what I do in life doesn't make sense.

Thursday the 7th, even less back pain then Wednesday and hit the gym for a training session. We took it easy so as to not irritate or do much rotation with the spine. Then Steve and I headed out for iced coffees and a trip to a little park with a pier to watch some of the sunrise and to just talk about life... In spite of the pains and such it was a beautiful way to start a morning -- I am working on keeping positive, but let me tell you something about stopping your day and your life for a moment to watch the sun rise is an AWESOME reminder of how great it is to be alive!

Friday the 8th, made it to my doc appointment and was told that an MRI wouldn't be scheduled for right away and that a spinal block should be able to help point him in the direction of where my treatment needs to take me. So, I scheduled the spinal block for Monday the 11th.

A spinal block...I have never had this done before but let me tell you the thoughts of needles in my spine, just couldn't imagine it being much of a good time.

Saturday the 9th, another easy workout at the gym with Steve. Then off to spend the day with my Mom we hit a farmer's market and then Trader Joe's and lunch at Herb's in Rocky River then back to my house to catch some Olympics updates. Was a very nice day.

Sunday the 10th, knowing my spinal block was only a day away and the fact that my back wasn't really bothering me I so wanted to go for a run...but alas, maybe my better judgement or the haunting words from friends drifting in and out of my every thought kept me from running. Headed off to spend another day with my Mom and we headed out to Valley City for their annual Frog Jumping Event and then onto Medina for a craft even they had going on in the square and followed that up with a very nice lunch at Miss Molly's Tea Room.

Monday the 11th. Spinal Block day. For those of you who have not had the "pleasure" of going through this experience and wonder if it hurts. Yes. Yes it hurts. Ok, well actually the first two injections were just that, they felt like getting a shot with a long needle. Then came the third injection -- ouuuuuuuch. Ok, we were done with the right side, not so bad (but mind you the majority of my pain IS NOT on the right side). Onto the left side. First needle, think I may have actually yelped a little...and the conversation went something like this: the doc, "did that hurt?... me, "um, Yeah I Felt IT"...doc, "You know why that hurt?"... me, "Yes, because you just stuck a needle in my spine!"... doc, "That is where your problem is"... me quietly to myself, "NO SHIT". Second shot, not so bad. Third shot, I felt my reflexes kick into my left leg and think my entire body jolted up off the table: the doc, "did that hurt?"....me, "YES, THAT HURT". The doc's preliminary diagnosis, "arthritis and no running... me, "oh, ok I can't run the 5k on Sunday, ok well I can just walk it then"... the doc, "no more running".... me, "WHAT?, you mean never? But (long pause) what???"... the doc, "why do you want to run, it bad for knees"...me, "because I like to, it makes me feel better"... at this point both the tech and the doc stop what they are doing and just stared at me...me, "ok, well other than this current back thing it makes me feel better". At this point the doc sent me out of the room into a recovery room and I just sat there completely dazed. After a few moments he came over and asked me about running and I told him I need to run, I may not be fast or run for long but I need to run. After some hesitation on his part he told me to call him Friday and let him know how I am doing and he'll decide if I can give it a try on Sunday, but if not he will come up with a plan for me to run....eventually.

I go back in two weeks on the 25th for my 2nd set of shots and then depending on how things go, possibly a 3rd set two weeks after that.

There is so much going through my mind right now...damn a run would feel great about now, just help sort some of it out...is that somewhat ironic or what...anyhow all I can say is --- Ugh... and try to remain positive.

Trying My Hardest to Staying Positive and Motivated

2008-08-01T15:40:00.004-04:00

It's August 1st. I mean it is August. Already?! What happened to my summer, how is it that August is here already? Wasn't it just May or June...and July how did thirty-one days get past me so quickly? Does time really go by quicker as we get older? And speaking of older, my birthday is in just two-weeks! I've had a rough time with my birthdays the last couple (2, 3, 6, 10) years but, as of today, I'm not totally freaking out about it...

So I have been working on this whole "The Secret" concept and trying to clear my thinking and focusing on happy thoughts. I've always described myself as a optimistic pessimist (lol), so the whole happy thought concept is really a lot for me to embrace and I may be reading the book for the second time in less than two weeks but I am trying really really hard to make this change in my life. I actually think this is the first time in my 40 years that I've actually embraced making a change like this. I have had a few ups and downs in the last couple of weeks, but it really is amazing how I can relate it all back to what I was focusing on.

On the running/workout front I have also had some ups and downs, but focusing on the happy thoughts I will only report on the ups...lol. Had my measurements taken on July 26th, which marks 2 months with my trainer Steve. My numbers all decreased (yeah), the pounds not quite as much as I had really hoped (actually the weight didn't go down hardly anything - 4 lbs) but I lost inches and I can notice it in my clothes and that is what I am going to focus on! My body fat is also down by another 4.75%, which is huge for me. I also got in 3 miles on Monday and Tuesday of this week (July 28th and 29th), which is Awesome, especially since my 5k is just over 2 weeks away (August 17th - yikes). Had a sore knee after my training session on Wednesday so skipped any workout on Thursday and then slept in on Friday morning and didn't make it to the gym again. BUT, tomorrow I am back on my game, I am not going to beat myself up over missing, I will just have to work my ass-off to make up for the couple of missed days. I am going to start running outside for a couple of days next week to get used to it again in preparation for the 17th.

Chiropractor update - still in love! Go see a chiropractor, it is awesome!! Am actually done with my sessions but asked the doc if we could schedule a few more appts to just check on stuff after I start running on pavement next week. My back feels GREAT.

Other miscellaneous stuff -- still working on letting go and in-line with the positive thinking and happy thoughts concept, I am working on just enjoying life and the people that have come into it and those that have come back into it as well. Still trying to figure out about second-chances....that one gets confusing to me still. Is it possible that Love lasts forever?

Long Overdue Update

2008-07-24T21:16:00.002-04:00

Can't believe it's been two weeks since I've posted. So much and yet so little has happened in that time span...

Ok, well when last I wrote I had been having some pretty major back issues and had made an appointment with a chiropractor. Now, I have never been to one before but I've got to tell you if you have Ever thought of going have haven't yet -- WHAT are you waiting for, I'm telling you I am in love. It was/is AWESOME. I'm currently going twice a week and have had a total of five visits to date. I was pretty sore after one of the sessions but that is to be expected a little at the beginning; actually I think I felt so great after the session that I overdid it a bit and don't think that helped much. Anyhow, if you're having any back issues, what are you waiting for -- GO! And if you live on the west side of Cleveland contact me and I'll give you the name of my doctor, I'm telling you he's been a God-send! Anyhow I needed to take about a week off of running, or reduce my running...which when you're only running a mile or two reducing it by much pretty much means you're not running.

To summarize the running and working out it's been slow and only 3 weeks until the Run, Jane, Run 5k...ugh, it's going to be rough, but it's also going to be Great! I am really looking forward to being back in another 5k, even if my time is going to suck oh, and that hill at Edgewater...ok, not going to think about that right now am going to stick with the feeling of looking forward to being signed up for a 5k!! So far for the month of July I've only run 9 days, walked 1 day, had 7 personal training sessions and have skipped 7 days at the gym. Monday (7/21) is the last day I ran and I got in 2 1/4 miles with a little bit of walking intermingled in there. I've sort of set a goal in my head that if I can finish this 5k in 40 minutes I will be happy, under 40 would be awesome. (I know, I know people will be finishing the 10k in the same amount if not quicker and that is awesome for them; I am slow, I will in time get quicker, I may never get hardware but that doesn't make me any less competitive! I know you speedsters out there may not get that, but those of us at the end of the pack want it just as badly as you do!).

As for the rest of my life...it has been good, I might even dare say it's been great! I've working a lot on forgiving and letting go, second chances, letting love in and learning how to re-direct my life path. Steve (my trainer) recommended an awesome book (yes I do say 'awesome' a lot don't I?!). If anyone is looking for a great read on figuring out your place with God, the Universe or whatever you want to call it, and wonder why your life sometimes takes turns your not sure of then I'd recommend getting 'The Secret'. I know it's been out for a while and if any of you are familiar with Dr. Wayne Dyer this book is the following the same philosophy. I am already looking forward to re-reading as well as putting it into practice! If you have already read it and ever wish to discuss it, let me know!

Ok, well there's the long and the short of it all. The underlying key is that I am staying positive, the minor set-backs and the slow start with my return to running will just make me stronger in the long run!

What Was I Thinking...

2008-07-10T21:25:00.003-04:00

Ok that sentiment covers MANY MANY MANY aspects of my life currently, social, business, but the one instance I am talking about here is I signed up to run the Run Jane Run 5k for Women's Center of Greater Cleveland in the middle of August (and happens to be my birthday weekend!). Ironically this is the last run I participated in last year. So, I've got 5 weeks to get myself together....

One Step Forward, Two Steps Back

2008-07-09T20:24:00.004-04:00

That's what it's felt like lately with running, working out, and everything! It was just a week ago that I'd not only broken that awful 10 minute mile by 30 seconds but then followed that up by completing a 9:11 mile. I was totally thrilled! And then...

Well here's the breakdown of my running:

Wednesday - 1 1/2 miles in 17 minutes -- back to an 11 minute mile and minor left foot pain that prevented me from trying to make a go at 2 mile.

Thursday - off; went to see Tim McGraw Wednesday night and didn't get home and in bed until 1:30 am!

Friday - 1 1/2 miles in just under 15 minutes -- ok back to about a 10 minute mile. Right foot bothering me after first mile and then...a sharp stabbing pain under my left shoulder blade that hurt every time I'd take a breath. Decided to not push it for the final 1/2 mile.

Saturday - Personal Training session -- feet and back felt not bad when I woke up, decided to take another running break. Bought new running shoes!! Am certain that will heal ALL my pains!

Sunday - 2 miles in 19 1/2 minutes -- under 10 minutes. Woke up in the morning with feet hurting, tight calves, and pain (under the shoulder blade and lower back). Started off walking at the gym and then broke into a run. Everything felt great while running -- the new shoes must be MAGIC! But alas, late that night, the back pain returned with a vengeance.

Monday - 2 miles in 22 minutes -- i walked the last two laps, dang it if I would have just run it out I'd of been closer to 10 minutes. Felt back pain towards end of run.

Tuesday - 2 miles in 24 minutes -- ugh, I'm going the wrong way!! Debated skipping the gym due to how my back was feeling but it doesn't hurt for the most part when I'm running, it's just once I stop and try stretching that it all comes flaring back.

Wednesday (today) - Personal Training session -- the back was not happy, spent the better part of the first half of my session getting stretched out, which lasted until about 2:00pm. Steve insists I not run until I get to a chiropractor...found one right near my house (literally, like a block from my house) and they were able to get me in for this Friday.

So now the question is, for the next two days to run or not run? It is frustrating. I really want to be running, and honestly thought I'd be up past 3 miles a day by now and thought I'd be back running 5k's as well. I question if I will ever get there. I just don't know what the deal is. Why am I hitting this wall? Ugh! I want to run!! Really, I do. I don't know how to explain it, I feel great once I start and then I get to this point at around 1 1/2 miles where I just lose it and I start to fall apart, the running slows (as if that were even possible!) and then these last couple days at 2 miles, I am completely exhausted! No really, completely! I'm finding myself falling asleep during the day and just wanting to crawl into bed once I am home -- which I have been fighting doing but maybe I need to just listen to my body more and give in for a nice good loooong nights sleep.

Taking it slow

2008-07-01T21:03:00.002-04:00

I've been consistent with getting to the gym daily, with the exception of Sunday -- but a day of rest is usually suggested anyway. My goal after last Wednesday was to get in at least 2 miles running on Thursday and Friday.

Thursday, I ran 2 miles in about 22 minutes.

Friday, I ran only 1 1/2 miles and didn't run them consistent...but I ran 1 mile in 10 minutes (yeah), walked a couple of laps then ran 1/2 mile in 5 minutes (double-yeah). Ok. I reached goal number one a 10 minute mile. I can't believe I actually did it, again I understand this isn't any great accomplishment to some, but for me, right now, it's something.

Saturday I had my one hour training time with Steve, and after there was no running, my feet were really sore...Steve says it sounds like the onset for plantar fasciitis and that I need to take a couple of days off from running. I need to get new shoes too, mine are pretty worn.

Sunday was an off day.

Monday, still feeling pretty sore from Saturday's workout so did lots of abs and lots of stretching. I ran, but only a mile...but I pushed myself more than I usually do when running and I got the mile in, in 9 1/2 minutes!! Walked a couple of laps and then did a real slow run for about 3 minutes, then followed it all up with more stretching. Shins, calves and feet felt pretty good.

Tuesday (today), had my hour with Steve since he'll be out of town tomorrow. Got to the gym early and walked a little, then decided to run - 1 mile in 9.11 -- YES. I am REALLY excited about this time; and again shins, calves and feet felt good. Spent some time stretching then did my hour with Steve -- he kicked my butt good again today, not looking forward to how this is going to feel when I get up tomorrow.

So, I may not be getting my miles up there...I'd like to be running a minimum of 3 miles each day, but I have gotten my time down way more than I had even begun to think about doing. New goal, keep on keeping on, take it slow as far as miles covered; push myself to get the mile time in and then take it real slow for a several minutes. Hmmm, I may actually get to a point where I'm going to have two different paces to run at, albeit s-l-o-w and extremely s---l---o---w, but it's still two different paces!

Personal Training update

2008-06-25T19:39:00.003-04:00

The personal training workouts are moving along. As of today it has been one month since I started my sessions with Steve so today rather than working out I had the opportunity to get my self weighed and measured and pinched for body fat counts. Oh Yeah!

When I'd had my measurements and all done at the beginning I didn't ask to see them and didn't want to know, all I wanted to be told was after the next "check-up" if I'd improved. Now I did accidentally see my weight last time and that was fairly traumatic in itself (and was glad I didn't know the other numbers). So, following suit, I didn't want to know today either... I've already signed up for the additional sessions, he can see the numbers, he knows my goals, just work my ass of til I'm there (or my cash runs out). BUT, he had other plans, he shared. I've lost 7 pounds and a total of 6 inches. My body fat is still high, but Steve reassured me that in comparison to the Amer. Heart Assoc. I wasn't that far off from the "normal" range. Personally, I'm a little disgusted with my body fat count percent -- but then again 0% isn't a healthy percentage, body's need to have fat on them. Guess I have a few self image issues eh? lol, and if you knew me you'd know how true that is...

So after spending my hour of personal training time becoming frustrated... I went and ran! Tried to funnel my frustrations into pushing myself harder (which is something I've decided I am not doing enough of). I got in 2 miles and some good stretching time. Hopefully be able to match those 2 miles the next two days... I ran without the ipod again and it went well. Thinking of trying to go without it the next couple of days and see how it continues to go.

Dealing with Life in general

2008-06-25T19:07:00.008-04:00

The reason behind this blog was to keep me in check with my workouts and my training and with trying to re-kindle my enjoyment of running. But, the things that happen in the rest of my life CLEARLY have an effect on my workouts and health habits (that and since nobody reads my blog, what difference does it really make what I write about on here... right? ok, well sort of right).

I think I'm living a page out of my life in bizarro world. Here's my thing... what's the statue of limitations on apologies?

If a situation occurs between two people and after the occurrence you have no contact or interactions of any sort with that person... Is it "ok" for that person to come out of the blue three years later and apologize? I have basically written this person off, they are no longer a part of my life and I have come to terms with it. Or at least I thought I had...

Does the situation change depending on the type of friend the person was; a life long/childhood friend, a co-worker friend, a boyfriend/girlfriend? I suppose the seriousness of the infraction plays a part, too, maybe.

Anyhow, I've had a blast from the past and had this other person come up out of the blue and apologize. The problem is, I am not certain of their intentions for this... (yes, I have trust issues on day-to-day basis but seriously not sure I can trust this person anymore after all that has happened). Now, lets say this person showed up two and a half years ago with this apology or even two years ago... I would have most likely jumped at the situation to make amends with this person. But so much has happened in my life in these three years...and I would have expected this person to be there for me during the times of my brother and Dad's illnesses. The truth is, this person wasn't there during my saddest darkest moments and I am not sure I can forgive that. Is that unfair? Selfish? or Human?

Ugh....

Running with demons

2008-06-20T13:05:00.009-04:00

Been fighting lots or running demons and other internal demons alot over the past couple of weeks...I can't seem to run even a mile lately without just feeling exhausted and hyper-ventalating, been having some restless nights with out much sleep so I have slept in and skipped the gym more than I care to admit. Last night was a long evening, but a good one so that helped; went to see a midnight showing of the new "Get Smart" movie. By the time I dropped my friend off and then got myself home it was almost 3am...guess getting up at 4:15 to head to the gym wasn't going to happen! Woke up around 6 and decided that maybe I was in need of a good "mental health day" so I call into work, rolled over and went back to sleep.

I woke up about 9am...the kitties just couldn't wait for breakfast any longer!...checked my emails, had a quick breakfast, chatted with my friend who was on his way to Canada for the weekend and then headed out to the gym! Was a beautiful day out and thought about heading down to the park to run, but the mile markers aren't marked real well and I was afraid I'd give up too early. Besides, somewhere in my head I had decided that I was going to run 3 miles or 30 minutes today! Ok, now first off, I haven't run a solid non-stop 3 miles in probably about 10-12 months and second well with running about a 11-12 minute mile I sure wasn't going to get in those 3 miles in the 30 minutes...seriously, what the hell was I thinking?!?!

I got to the gym did some ab work then lots of stretching then onto the track to warm up and then run! As I walked the track to warm up those demons that have bugging me lately woke up and started chattering...they were some strong ones today. What was going to only be 3-4 lap walking warm-up turned into almost 20 minutes of walking and fighting with those demons. To top it all off i'd left my i-pod at home, usually the music lulls the demons back to sleep or I just turn it up louder to drown them out and I focus on getting through the next song...but today no music, just me and the demons! They reminded me of the weight I've gained and the clothes that don't fit that did last year, reminded me of the skittles and diet Coke I'd had at the movies last night, and how slow I am when I do run, they brought up work and that with the merger I could be out of a job within the next year, they even brought up personal relationships, they had no boundaries today... I kept trying to quiet them and rationalize with them telling them - I am at the gym, I am working out, I have my trainer, overall I am eating better, I have proved myself at my job and if/when one door closes another will open, I have at least one good friend and others who care about me. Then I glanced at the clock, 11:30 exactly, and for a brief moment I ignored everything else in my head and all i heard was "Run!".... And I did...I ran. I turned their taunts into conversations and then into debates...I was going to dispell their aweful ideas. Suddenly a couple other people , faster people, came up to the track to run and I wondered if they had demons they were conversing with...or maybe it's just me and I am crazy?! I looked at the clock and 20 minutes had passed, I was already over a mile and a half, I did a quick check and everything was feeling fine. 30 minutes, that was basically my initial goal but I only have 8 more laps to go and I'll have my 3 miles...keep pushing, nothing comes easy, sometimes we have to find our limits... I can feel blisters forming on my big toe..."stop running on your tip-toes", "control your breathing"...Oh Now the Demons are Giving Running Advice!!...

When all was done I'd ran 50 laps (a smidge over 3 miles) in 35 minutes! I did it! I ran 3 miles without stopping. I know this is no real feat to some people, I read blogs of real runners who are doing a 3 mile warm-up before their 30 mile runs, some run 50k's and even 100-miles, but for me, today, my victory came at just a smidge over 3 miles long and I did it!

So now I am home and have the rest of the afternoon to myself and I feel content.

I know those demons will be back and I will be ready for them!

Personal Training update

2008-06-11T10:48:00.006-04:00

So had my 6th training session this morning and will be re-signing this Saturday for at least another 8 sessions, if I can figure out the finances though I may sign up for 16 -- that'll get me through to my birthday. I just find it hard to believe that the first set of sessions is almost over. Time sure does fly when you are having fun - lol.

My trainer (Steve) insists that I'm getting stronger and says it looks like I've lost some weight. But it's only been a couple of weeks, and I don't feel it or see it. All I see is the negative stuff, like I'm still not able to do lunges all that well and my form is all off and my lower back is really fighting me the past week and I don't know what's up with my running but I'm lucky to complete a mile without stopping and blah, blah, blay. I know BE POSITIVE! I am re-building my leg muscles and getting them stronger so they fatigue quicker once I run after training...it WILL get better. The weight didn't really come on over-night, so don't expect it to come off over-night. I am eating healthier and making better choices when I eat out.

A Looong Week

2008-05-30T11:58:00.005-04:00

So, Saturday was my first session with my personal trainer, I woke up feeling a little crummy and was not really looking forward to being tortured so I was really happy when I got to the gym that I'd forgotten our first "session" wasn't working out but going over eating habits and goals and measurements and such not. I didn't even look to see what my body fat figure ended up being...I know it's bad! I wasn't going to look on the scale either, but at the last second I glanced down and saw the number I'd pretty much expected. But, as was said many times during that hour, "it is what it is". I am looking forward to getting back on track, getting healthier, and looking better is never a bad thing either!

After all the info was gathered I did stick around the gym and worked out some, still feeling crummy though I opted out of doing any running. Sunday ended up being an off day -- not purposely, but laundry and other miscellaneous house cleaning duties called before heading over to get my Mom and head out to my sister's for the day.

Recap for the rest of the week --
Monday, hour workout consisting of upper body, arms and abs then hit the track for about 20 minutes. Spent the rest of the day with my Mom, she came over to my place this time and helped me clean up the lawn furniture and hung out while I cleaned out the garage. Hung out at a friend's house later in the day for a few hours. All-in-all a relaxing Memorial day.

Tuesday, abs, lots of pre and post run stretching, run for about 20 minutes; total time at gym 70 minutes. Work was crazy busy. But busy is so much better than the alternative!

Wednesday, hour workout session with trainer followed by an hour consisting of pre and post run stretching and doing a run/walk offset for 40 minutes. Today would have been my parents 59th wedding anniversary; so I took the day off work to spend it with my Mom. Got to her house early and headed out to Lodi to do a little shopping and walking followed by a nice late lunch/early dinner out.

Thursday, abs, stretching and 20 minute run. Expected with being off on Wednesday that work would be busy, but instead it was just a nice steady day. Headed over to a friend's house to catch up on some of the daily happenings at Roland Garros and to watch LOST! (I like the show, just wish I didn't always feel quite so lost after it's over...lots of great story twists.)

Friday, abs, stretching and 40 minute run/walk offset. Work is obviously slow today since I'm here updating things...

As of Monday I started keeping a log of what I'm eating and the calories, fat calories, protein and carbs as well as logging my workouts. I know when I check out other runner's logs and see their recaps it motivates me to do more and work harder...hoping my own personal logs/recaps will help push me even more!

Countdown

2008-05-21T19:54:00.003-04:00

Only three days until my new workout routine starts with Steve, my personal trainer. I am looking forward to getting started, I only wish I felt better. While on vacation a week and a half ago I caught a cold and boy has it sunk its teeth into me the last couple of day. Needless to say, I'm not sleeping much and have missed a several days at the gym and the whole running agenda has been non-existent -- I tried running the day after vacation but not being able to breath didn't seem to help my cause and I was walking within 5 minutes of starting. I'm not giving up though, I will get a running routine established and am hopeful that working with a trainer will help solidify things for me.

Ok, off to get a new box of tissues and a fresh pack of cough drops...

New Beginnings

2008-05-18T22:26:00.000-04:00

So I've decided to make some changes in my life...and let me tell you, I am not a fan of change! But this is long overdue and I am hoping that maybe by keeping tabs with myself I'll stay motivated. I want to get serious about running...again. I started running last year, a good friend from work and I started entering 5k's. The goal was to do one each month! I am not the fastest runner, but I did find solace in running and I found myself having lengthy conversations with my brother and my Dad (my brother passed away in October 2005 and my Dad in January 2007). Now, I know running a 5k may not seem like much to many, but the feeling I had after that very first race...I've never experienced anything like it (is it possible to experience a runner's high from just 3.1 miles?...lol). Anyhow all was well until mid-August of last year, when everything just sort of caught up with me and everything stopped, running, working out, pretty much everything. About a month ago (April 25th) I decided that enough was enough, and life is way too short for all the self-pity I was wasting time with and I got my butt to the gym! My short-term goal was to drop about 40 lbs before heading on vacation on May 9th...hmmm, 2 weeks and 40 lbs...ok, so I guess my initial goal was a little unreasonable, but everyone wants to look great before vacation! Ok, so the point was I got up and got myself back into the gym, and that is something. Got back from vacation on Thursday, May 15th and was back into the gym on Friday and signing up for 4 weeks with a personal trainer!

My sessions start on Saturday, May 24th and will go until Tuesday, June 17th. So here's to change, and improving one's health physically and mentally. And who knows, maybe I'll be back on the 5k course before the end of the season this year!!