I am not off to a fantastic start with my marathon training. I missed a 3 mile run last week and I failed to do my long run today. I'll squeeze it in during the middle of the day on Monday, but that means I'll have to bump the rest of my runs off by a day. Ugh. Serves me right for not getting out there and just doing it! What was my excuse? I didn't want to get my brand new running shoes muddy. NOT acceptable!
Why didn't I just run on the treadmill? I'm not certain, but I have a feeling it has to do with laziness. I told myself all day long that I'd "go to the gym in an hour." Well, hour after hour went by and no trip to the gym was made.
The day was not a total loss, however. Charlie and I spent a few hours first at the public library then at a local bakery/coffee shop studying. I can't remember the last time I studied on a Saturday outside of finals. Go me! I knew there would be no time to get anything done tomorrow, so I committed to getting my Con Law reading out of the way.
I also got in a few hours of physical activity, despite not going for my run. I put off some of my choreography for Objection and had to finish it tonight. I was ridiculously sore from my intense workout yesterday, so the process took longer than normal. I gingerly moved my body while attempting to avoid moves that felt like something was either cramping or tearing. For some odd reason, I decided that the beginning of one dance and the middle of another needed A LOT of low booty shaking, which meant that I did the equivalent of roughly 100 squats. Seeing as I get to teach these routines tomorrow morning, I'll probably get to claim another 100 squats before the weekend is over. I'm off to rest my body in preparation of the 6 hour Objection practice tomorrow. Good night!
Sunday, January 30, 2011
Saturday, January 29, 2011
Day 109 - Whip My Hair...
Although I don't have class on Friday, this was not a day I could sleep in. I had to be at Rogers High School bright and early to teach Street Law during first period. I was assigned to a new classroom, so it was fun to get to know the new kids. It was a much more talkative group and they seemed genuinely excited that we were there. It makes the hour go by SOOOOO much faster if the class is engaged. There were a couple little buggers who drove me up the wall, but I won't let them spoil an over all great class. Have a mentioned before that I am not real patient with kids??? Yeah, I'm working on it.
After Street Law, I went to the library to burn Cd's for Objection and to catch up on some reading (HOW AM I BEHIND IN WEEK 3?!?!?!). Then it was off to lunch with a couple of my law school favorites. It is so nice to be around people who allow you to be Y.O.U. Around the law building, everyone seems to put up a front of arrogance and superior intellect (whether true or not). It's hard to let your guard down around people who always try to engage you in competition. That's why I cherish a couple of my close friends and enjoy the time we spend de-stressing together (Shout out to the Ladies, this needs to become a weekly routine).
I only had a few minutes to say hello to the hubs and change before I had to hustle down to Objection practice. I taught the closing number and it went fabulously. The girls worked hard and we were able to get out of there sooner than expected (not the norm for Objection). Well, everyone else got out of there. I had to stick around and teach a Zumba class. I've never taught a full Zumba class and it's been ages since I taught it with a friend. That said, I was PRAYING that nobody would show up. They did.
I haven't experienced too many truly humbling moments in my life, but teaching a fitness class to a room full of girls with 6 packs is now definitely one of them. The skinny little shits showed up for class, so I was going to make them pay. I may have some extra meat on my bones, but I'll be damned if I was going let them get away with thinking they'd get an easy class out of the fat girl. Oh NO! Their cute little behinds were worked until we were all drenched in sweat. I may not be able to walk tomorrow, but mission accomplished. Work out complete. After a glass of wine in the bath tub, I was ready to call it a night.
After Street Law, I went to the library to burn Cd's for Objection and to catch up on some reading (HOW AM I BEHIND IN WEEK 3?!?!?!). Then it was off to lunch with a couple of my law school favorites. It is so nice to be around people who allow you to be Y.O.U. Around the law building, everyone seems to put up a front of arrogance and superior intellect (whether true or not). It's hard to let your guard down around people who always try to engage you in competition. That's why I cherish a couple of my close friends and enjoy the time we spend de-stressing together (Shout out to the Ladies, this needs to become a weekly routine).
I only had a few minutes to say hello to the hubs and change before I had to hustle down to Objection practice. I taught the closing number and it went fabulously. The girls worked hard and we were able to get out of there sooner than expected (not the norm for Objection). Well, everyone else got out of there. I had to stick around and teach a Zumba class. I've never taught a full Zumba class and it's been ages since I taught it with a friend. That said, I was PRAYING that nobody would show up. They did.
I haven't experienced too many truly humbling moments in my life, but teaching a fitness class to a room full of girls with 6 packs is now definitely one of them. The skinny little shits showed up for class, so I was going to make them pay. I may have some extra meat on my bones, but I'll be damned if I was going let them get away with thinking they'd get an easy class out of the fat girl. Oh NO! Their cute little behinds were worked until we were all drenched in sweat. I may not be able to walk tomorrow, but mission accomplished. Work out complete. After a glass of wine in the bath tub, I was ready to call it a night.
Friday, January 28, 2011
Day 108 - Champion!
Victory!!! Today I conquered two of my worst fears, needles and blood. The thought of either is enough to make me cringe, but the combination undoubtedly reduces me to tears. As was the case this morning when I donated blood.
Charlie and I are broke and I have practically no free time, so donating blood is an ideal way for me to give back to my community. Well, ideal except for the fact that I would rather run naked through a parade route while suffering from a severe case of the chicken pox with my hair set on fire than have a needle and a bag of blood anywhere near me.
Although the blood bank workers made the process as simple and comfortable as possible, I was a wreck. The blood mobile felt like a tiny torture trap. As I sat waiting in the reclining chair, I became more and more visibly distraught. The workers kept asking me my name just to make sure I was still lucid. I politely asked the gal working with me to skip any information that wasn't necessary and to go ahead and do what she needed to do.
Two of my classmates got a good laugh as I proceeded to silently cry when "the action of which we do not speak" occurred. Although I'm embarrassed they saw me in that state (I try to go for a more intimidating persona over blubbering baby), but I was happy to have them there for comic relief. With their help, I was able to get through the rest of the process relatively stress free. Up until the point I made the mistake of looking down, that is. Let's just say I didn't wear water proof mascara and anyone who looked at my cheeks knew it.
After enjoying some juice and crackers, I was more than happy to be on my way. I felt off for a few hours, but nothing too bad. After class and a street law meeting, I crawled into bed and stayed there for the rest of the night. The folks on the blood mobile said no exercise tonight, so I listened (as if they really had to twist my arm... then again, I don't want to think about what they did to my arm... those bad bad people...).
Tomorrow is full of street law, objection and Zumba. Yes! Good night!
Charlie and I are broke and I have practically no free time, so donating blood is an ideal way for me to give back to my community. Well, ideal except for the fact that I would rather run naked through a parade route while suffering from a severe case of the chicken pox with my hair set on fire than have a needle and a bag of blood anywhere near me.
Although the blood bank workers made the process as simple and comfortable as possible, I was a wreck. The blood mobile felt like a tiny torture trap. As I sat waiting in the reclining chair, I became more and more visibly distraught. The workers kept asking me my name just to make sure I was still lucid. I politely asked the gal working with me to skip any information that wasn't necessary and to go ahead and do what she needed to do.
Two of my classmates got a good laugh as I proceeded to silently cry when "the action of which we do not speak" occurred. Although I'm embarrassed they saw me in that state (I try to go for a more intimidating persona over blubbering baby), but I was happy to have them there for comic relief. With their help, I was able to get through the rest of the process relatively stress free. Up until the point I made the mistake of looking down, that is. Let's just say I didn't wear water proof mascara and anyone who looked at my cheeks knew it.
After enjoying some juice and crackers, I was more than happy to be on my way. I felt off for a few hours, but nothing too bad. After class and a street law meeting, I crawled into bed and stayed there for the rest of the night. The folks on the blood mobile said no exercise tonight, so I listened (as if they really had to twist my arm... then again, I don't want to think about what they did to my arm... those bad bad people...).
Tomorrow is full of street law, objection and Zumba. Yes! Good night!
Wednesday, January 26, 2011
Day 107 - Surprise!!!
owe Owe OWE!!! After a TERRIBLY long day of studying, meetings and class, I was really looking forward to unwinding in my very Zen Wednesday night Piyo class. It wasn't until I saw pilates instructor Carol walking up the stairs to the fitness room that I remembered that Jaci, the usual instructor, was going to a concert and was getting a sub.
Don't get me wrong, I LOVE Carol. When I could take her 8 AM Pilates classes, I was feeling so strong and could see a difference in my body. Now I have Conflicts of Law at 8 AM. No pilates for me. : ( Or so I thought. Carol chose not to teach Piyo tonight, but instead did a full on Pilates with weights class. The others who were expecting our sweet little Jaci and her soothing voice leading as through a series of challenging but relaxing poses in a dimly lit room got a rude wake up call. Unfortunately, my good friend Tracy was one of those people. I had convinced her to come do Piyo on her day off, but instead we were put through the workout of our lives. I'm already sore, so I can only imagine what tomorrow will be like.
I got new running shoes in the mail today and I had hoped to give them a whirl on the treadmill after piyo. That didn't happen. I'm excited to try them tomorrow on a 4 mile run. I also tried a new recipe tonight for baked buffalo chicken strips. They actually turned out pretty darn well! A healthy option that tastes good?! We'll definitely be trying this one again.
Tomorrow should be an interesting day. I'm donating blood in the morning... Wish me luck!
Don't get me wrong, I LOVE Carol. When I could take her 8 AM Pilates classes, I was feeling so strong and could see a difference in my body. Now I have Conflicts of Law at 8 AM. No pilates for me. : ( Or so I thought. Carol chose not to teach Piyo tonight, but instead did a full on Pilates with weights class. The others who were expecting our sweet little Jaci and her soothing voice leading as through a series of challenging but relaxing poses in a dimly lit room got a rude wake up call. Unfortunately, my good friend Tracy was one of those people. I had convinced her to come do Piyo on her day off, but instead we were put through the workout of our lives. I'm already sore, so I can only imagine what tomorrow will be like.
I got new running shoes in the mail today and I had hoped to give them a whirl on the treadmill after piyo. That didn't happen. I'm excited to try them tomorrow on a 4 mile run. I also tried a new recipe tonight for baked buffalo chicken strips. They actually turned out pretty darn well! A healthy option that tastes good?! We'll definitely be trying this one again.
Tomorrow should be an interesting day. I'm donating blood in the morning... Wish me luck!
Day 106 - Just Say No!
Today seemed to drag on and on and on. To put it succinctly, this semester's mid-week schedule sucks. I've got more work to do than there are hours in the day. I've got to hammer done a new study schedule and stick to it as if my life depends on it ASAP.
My only exercise came in the form of teaching my little dancers. I had new girl attend my tots class today. Although she is as cute as any thing can be, the little darling JUST turned 4. I have a few other girls who started the year at that age who really struggled, but thankfully now have gotten used to the routine. This new girl, however, ran a muck. I had to focus 90% of my energy on helping her understand where she was supposed to stand and what she was supposed to do, meaning I missed opportunities to work with anyone else in the class.
I focused ONLY on RHYTHM with my advanced tappers today. We didn't do any hard steps or new tricks. We just turned on music and tried to stay to the beat. NOTHING gets me more frustrated than a dancer (particularly a tap dancer) who is completely unaware of the music he or she is dancing to and I blame their instructors for not making the connection early in their dance education. Therefore, my girls are going to learn the steps and dance them to the beat of the music. Period.
My diet today was perfect... until 6 when I returned to GU for Community Property. I decided to let my self have a hot chocolate as a treat for surviving the first portion of the day and it was a slippery slope from there that ended with Charlie picking up pizza for dinner. SOOO not my fault, the chicken he was supposed to thaw was frozen solid. The many things I ate before he got home with the pizza, however, were indeed my fault. I think I'll try writing down what I eat before I eat it to see if that can help me identify when I am snacking out of boredom. I've got an early morning tomorrow to prepare for class and will likely be up by 3 AM. Hopefully that will give me enough time to get it all done. Off to bed!
My only exercise came in the form of teaching my little dancers. I had new girl attend my tots class today. Although she is as cute as any thing can be, the little darling JUST turned 4. I have a few other girls who started the year at that age who really struggled, but thankfully now have gotten used to the routine. This new girl, however, ran a muck. I had to focus 90% of my energy on helping her understand where she was supposed to stand and what she was supposed to do, meaning I missed opportunities to work with anyone else in the class.
I focused ONLY on RHYTHM with my advanced tappers today. We didn't do any hard steps or new tricks. We just turned on music and tried to stay to the beat. NOTHING gets me more frustrated than a dancer (particularly a tap dancer) who is completely unaware of the music he or she is dancing to and I blame their instructors for not making the connection early in their dance education. Therefore, my girls are going to learn the steps and dance them to the beat of the music. Period.
My diet today was perfect... until 6 when I returned to GU for Community Property. I decided to let my self have a hot chocolate as a treat for surviving the first portion of the day and it was a slippery slope from there that ended with Charlie picking up pizza for dinner. SOOO not my fault, the chicken he was supposed to thaw was frozen solid. The many things I ate before he got home with the pizza, however, were indeed my fault. I think I'll try writing down what I eat before I eat it to see if that can help me identify when I am snacking out of boredom. I've got an early morning tomorrow to prepare for class and will likely be up by 3 AM. Hopefully that will give me enough time to get it all done. Off to bed!
Monday, January 24, 2011
Day 104 - Failure
When I woke this morning, I was fully committed to this being day 1 of my new gluten free life style. I've been feeling low and over all gross for a while and have heard that some who cut out gluten see an amazing increase in their energy levels. I had oatmeal and berries for breakfast and grapes and cheese for lunch. 2/3 of the day's meals were successfully gluten free! Then 4:30 hit and I would have rather crashed my car into a telephone poll than to go another minute with out a saltine cracker. I had a package of 2 crackers in my purse that came with my cheese and grape cup, and I'll be damned if every pore of my body wasn't proclaiming "EAT THE CRACKERS!" So I did. Plus some peanuts, a scoop of peanut butter, some chocolate chips, a handful of craisins and 5 or 6 mini pretzels. All this was in addition to a small steak and potato for dinner. This is precisely why I can't diet. I just wind up binge eating everything in sight.
I'm back to the original game plan. Make exercise the priority and make smart choices about what I put into my body. That said, I pushed myself in yoga to the point that I was afraid I was going to fall over from exhaustion and then put in 3 miles on the treadmill. Go me! Good night.
 |
| My happy place... the yoga mat. |
I'm back to the original game plan. Make exercise the priority and make smart choices about what I put into my body. That said, I pushed myself in yoga to the point that I was afraid I was going to fall over from exhaustion and then put in 3 miles on the treadmill. Go me! Good night.
Day 103 - Memories
Of the four years Charlie and I were at WSU, Moo never got to enjoy the delicious glory that is Old European in Pullman. That simply is not acceptable. So, we took her to Old European in Spokane. Charlie and I have gorged ourselves on the delectable Hungarian Goulash that Old European is famous for on many occasions. Today we tossed in a few abelskivers and a dutch baby. The three of us feasted until we were physically uncomfortable.
In an attempt to make a dent in the total calorie overload, Moo and I took Tucker for a walk and let him chase a ball at the park. The little guy was as happy as good be. The sun was out, the temp was above 40 degrees (barely, but still...) and he had his 2 favorite gals with him.
After dropping Moo back off at the train station, I got ready for my trial team potluck. I had forgotten just how much time I had spent with these people last fall. When we met for dinner it wasn't a group of friends or acquaintances, but we were our own dysfunctional but loving family. We joked and reminisced and ate. Good times.
In an attempt to make a dent in the total calorie overload, Moo and I took Tucker for a walk and let him chase a ball at the park. The little guy was as happy as good be. The sun was out, the temp was above 40 degrees (barely, but still...) and he had his 2 favorite gals with him.
After dropping Moo back off at the train station, I got ready for my trial team potluck. I had forgotten just how much time I had spent with these people last fall. When we met for dinner it wasn't a group of friends or acquaintances, but we were our own dysfunctional but loving family. We joked and reminisced and ate. Good times.
Day 102 - Shoe Heaven
What a great day with my Moo! It started with a 5 mile run while Moo prepped Charlie for stitches removal. THANK GOD that was not something I had to do by myself. Just hearing the dialogue from the other room was enough to make me queasy.
Then came a trip to shoe heaven, aka DSW. Haven't been to DSW? You are missing out! It is a warehouse full of amazingly cute shoes at fantastic prices! Moo treated me to an early birthday present (REALLY early) of two pairs of Steve Maddens. They are perfectly practical for the courtroom and cute! Double Bonus!
Jeffery came up for dinner (which didn't quite turn out as planned, sorry Jeffery!) and then stayed for a few games of Banana Grams. We've always been big game players in my family and winning is serious business. Banana Grams is like a personal scrabble game in which you make your own words in front of you as quickly was possible. Once all of the letters have been taken from the community stash, the person who uses all their letters first wins. Although Jeffery gave me a run for my money, I won three of the 4 rounds. Moo took the last win. Charlie enjoyed making up his own words and wasn't quite as concerned about the rules as the rest of us.
Moo and I planned to go see the Black Swan, but decided that neither of us would stay up through the entire 10 o'clock showing. We crashed on the couch and enjoyed a movie and some popcorn at home instead.
Then came a trip to shoe heaven, aka DSW. Haven't been to DSW? You are missing out! It is a warehouse full of amazingly cute shoes at fantastic prices! Moo treated me to an early birthday present (REALLY early) of two pairs of Steve Maddens. They are perfectly practical for the courtroom and cute! Double Bonus!
Jeffery came up for dinner (which didn't quite turn out as planned, sorry Jeffery!) and then stayed for a few games of Banana Grams. We've always been big game players in my family and winning is serious business. Banana Grams is like a personal scrabble game in which you make your own words in front of you as quickly was possible. Once all of the letters have been taken from the community stash, the person who uses all their letters first wins. Although Jeffery gave me a run for my money, I won three of the 4 rounds. Moo took the last win. Charlie enjoyed making up his own words and wasn't quite as concerned about the rules as the rest of us.
Moo and I planned to go see the Black Swan, but decided that neither of us would stay up through the entire 10 o'clock showing. We crashed on the couch and enjoyed a movie and some popcorn at home instead.
Day 101 - Objection, Panties and Moo
Today I cleaned, cleaned and then cleaned some more. Moo (my mother) is coming to visit for the weekend, and the apartment wasn't anywhere near mother ready. Charlie was instrumental in making sure everything was ready. Got to love a man who knows his may around a vacuum!
After ensuring the bathroom was sparkling, I hurried down to the first Objection practice. Objection is a drag show fundraiser that benefits the Spokane Aids Network. Dempsey's Brass Rail provides the venue and the queens and GU law provides the audience and back up dancers. The goal for the day was to learn the opening number. Fortunately, we've got a great group of performers. As one of the choreographers, I take extreme pride in the show and excited to see how well it is coming together.
After practice, I went straight to an engagement party for one of my law school buddies. I didn't have time to go all the way home to change, so I was the only person in attendance who wasn't dressed to the 9's and looked just slightly better than homeless. Good thing my friends accept me as I am and I have a very healthy self-esteem!
Moo's bus (yes, the poor woman took the bus) arrived late, but I got her picked up safe and sound. After laughing at her stories of the "interesting" people she met on the bus, we called it a night.
After ensuring the bathroom was sparkling, I hurried down to the first Objection practice. Objection is a drag show fundraiser that benefits the Spokane Aids Network. Dempsey's Brass Rail provides the venue and the queens and GU law provides the audience and back up dancers. The goal for the day was to learn the opening number. Fortunately, we've got a great group of performers. As one of the choreographers, I take extreme pride in the show and excited to see how well it is coming together.
After practice, I went straight to an engagement party for one of my law school buddies. I didn't have time to go all the way home to change, so I was the only person in attendance who wasn't dressed to the 9's and looked just slightly better than homeless. Good thing my friends accept me as I am and I have a very healthy self-esteem!
Moo's bus (yes, the poor woman took the bus) arrived late, but I got her picked up safe and sound. After laughing at her stories of the "interesting" people she met on the bus, we called it a night.
Day 100 - Review
For the last 100 days, I've documented my successes and shortcomings as I train to run a marathon and climb a mountain. Though there hasn't been a dramatic difference in my weight, I have gotten significantly stronger (I can do real push ups! Forgot those girly ones!) and more fit (read, I no longer am concerned about dying before I get back home from a run). For the most part, my energy levels have gone up and my stress levels have gone down.
Here's a quick look at what I've been up to over the last 100 days:
-25 runs totaling 101.5 miles
-3 Piyo classes
-11 Pilates classes (5 pilates with weights)
-8 Yoga classes
-2+ Zumba classes (the + representing the classes I started and walked out of due to the presence of my fitness instructor nemesis)
-13 sessions on the rotating stair machine
-5 days lifting weights
-2 times on the stationary bike
-4 sessions on the elliptical (mostly while watching Bravo or TLC)
-3 swims in the pool
-5 days walking (2 in San Fran)
-1 attempt at the rowing machine
-1 half day skiing (other half spent in the ER)
-1 8 mile hike at Mt Si
I can assure you, this has been the most active I've been since starting law school. For the first year and a half, my butt was either glued to a seat in class, the chair at my table at home where I study or the couch. It hasn't been easy to get myself to the gym. I missed a lot of days I could have exercised out of sheer laziness. I've got a long way to go, but I'm proud of where I've come so far.
Here's a quick look at what I've been up to over the last 100 days:
-25 runs totaling 101.5 miles
-3 Piyo classes
-11 Pilates classes (5 pilates with weights)
-8 Yoga classes
-2+ Zumba classes (the + representing the classes I started and walked out of due to the presence of my fitness instructor nemesis)
-13 sessions on the rotating stair machine
-5 days lifting weights
-2 times on the stationary bike
-4 sessions on the elliptical (mostly while watching Bravo or TLC)
-3 swims in the pool
-5 days walking (2 in San Fran)
-1 attempt at the rowing machine
-1 half day skiing (other half spent in the ER)
-1 8 mile hike at Mt Si
I can assure you, this has been the most active I've been since starting law school. For the first year and a half, my butt was either glued to a seat in class, the chair at my table at home where I study or the couch. It hasn't been easy to get myself to the gym. I missed a lot of days I could have exercised out of sheer laziness. I've got a long way to go, but I'm proud of where I've come so far.
Wednesday, January 19, 2011
Day 99 - Rays
The sun was out today, hurray! What a difference a few rays make on my general outlook on life. I've been pretty cranky for the last few days, but now that the sun is out I am back to my typical energetic and happy self! Huzzah! Plus, I found this AMAZING youtube video that has kept me chuckling all day. I don't know if Double Dream Hands man is single, but if he is, I'd like to introduce him to my mom. He is precisely the type of guy my little bro would declare should be my Mom's new BF.
After class, I tortured Tucker for an hour. All I did was cut his hair, but he looked at me with eyes that whimpered "If you really loved me, you wouldn't do this!" It kind of broke my heart for a second. Then I went back to buzzing his backside.
After the haircut, I was off to PiYo. I hadn't taken the Wednesday class in a while, and oddly enough it felt easy. I still worked hard, but it wasn't the epic struggle of my body v. the teacher's demands like it used to be. I had planned to run after the class, but the treadmill I was on was just far to damaging to myself esteem. The upper display area was lose, which meant that with every foot strike it would rattle. Hmm... Rattle doesn't do the sound justice. It was more like an elephant jumping from one foot to the other as if he was playing hot lava and his feet were burning. For the sake of my pysche, I try to avoid any direct comparisons between me and an elephant. So I went home.
I had planned to hit the treadmill at the apartment (it has a broken side rail, but fortunately lacks giant mammal sound effects) and watch Toddlers and Tiaras. But that didn't happen either. Once I settled down to eat my dinner, I was done for the night. I'll squeeze in the run tomorrow and then do tomorrow's run on Friday... Or so the plan goes. We'll see what really transpires. Good night!
After class, I tortured Tucker for an hour. All I did was cut his hair, but he looked at me with eyes that whimpered "If you really loved me, you wouldn't do this!" It kind of broke my heart for a second. Then I went back to buzzing his backside.
After the haircut, I was off to PiYo. I hadn't taken the Wednesday class in a while, and oddly enough it felt easy. I still worked hard, but it wasn't the epic struggle of my body v. the teacher's demands like it used to be. I had planned to run after the class, but the treadmill I was on was just far to damaging to myself esteem. The upper display area was lose, which meant that with every foot strike it would rattle. Hmm... Rattle doesn't do the sound justice. It was more like an elephant jumping from one foot to the other as if he was playing hot lava and his feet were burning. For the sake of my pysche, I try to avoid any direct comparisons between me and an elephant. So I went home.
I had planned to hit the treadmill at the apartment (it has a broken side rail, but fortunately lacks giant mammal sound effects) and watch Toddlers and Tiaras. But that didn't happen either. Once I settled down to eat my dinner, I was done for the night. I'll squeeze in the run tomorrow and then do tomorrow's run on Friday... Or so the plan goes. We'll see what really transpires. Good night!
Day 98 - Oscar
Call me Oscar and send me to live in a garbage can on Sesame Street. Today, I was a grouch. Again, nothing bad happened to cause me to be so grumpy. I just couldn't seem to get myself out of my poor mood. I haven't used my Happy Light in a few days, so maybe that will help.
Besides glaring at people, class and sighing every time I looked out the window, the only other productive thing I accomplished today was teaching my dance classes. I am so impressed with my advanced tap group. One of my girls has mastered a step in only a matter of weeks that can take months to learn and perform properly. The other girls are really progressing quickly too. The most I can say for my 4-6 age group tots tap and jazz class is that I survived another day. I love kids, but I do not possess the patience to constantly hear "Teacher, I have a cousin name Lennie," and "Ms. Katie, my bird died and now he lives in a box in the dirt," while little fingers tug at the seam of my shirt.
Enough for today. Tomorrow is going to be brutal in terms of the amount of studying to be done, so I am off to bed. Good night!
Besides glaring at people, class and sighing every time I looked out the window, the only other productive thing I accomplished today was teaching my dance classes. I am so impressed with my advanced tap group. One of my girls has mastered a step in only a matter of weeks that can take months to learn and perform properly. The other girls are really progressing quickly too. The most I can say for my 4-6 age group tots tap and jazz class is that I survived another day. I love kids, but I do not possess the patience to constantly hear "Teacher, I have a cousin name Lennie," and "Ms. Katie, my bird died and now he lives in a box in the dirt," while little fingers tug at the seam of my shirt.
Enough for today. Tomorrow is going to be brutal in terms of the amount of studying to be done, so I am off to bed. Good night!
Monday, January 17, 2011
Day 97 - Good Vibrations
Oh Marky Mark, how do I love thee? My poor husband agreed to go see The Fighter with me tonight. It is an over-all great movie, made even better by the significant amount of time Wahlberg is shirtless.
Prior to our dinner and a movie date, I put in four miles on the treadmill. I wasn't jogging quickly by any means, but I felt great! This marathon is soooo going to happen.
Too tired to write more now. Good night!
Prior to our dinner and a movie date, I put in four miles on the treadmill. I wasn't jogging quickly by any means, but I felt great! This marathon is soooo going to happen.
Too tired to write more now. Good night!
Sunday, January 16, 2011
Day 96 - Pizza and Brownies
To soothe our sorrows over the Seahawk loss, Charlie and I over indulged in homemade pizza and brownies. My friend Tracy joined me for yoga and then came over for dinner. Ordinarily, I would have chosen either wine or dessert. But since we had company, I decided to have both! Sorry Tracy, I shouldn't pin my lack of self-control on your visit!
Seriously though, I don't know what it is going to take to get my eating under control. My fitness level has significantly improved from the beginning of this blogging journey, but my diet remains roughly the same. To be in the physical shape necessary to confidently climb Mt. Rainier, I need to have both my diet and exercise working for me.
I was excessively sore during yoga today. My muscles were CRAZY tight from yesterday's run and I was shaking and sweating through each pose. I think the stretching component of yoga will be a beneficial component in keeping me injury free as the marathon training progresses.
Classes are cancelled in honor of MLK day, so I am going to try to make it to Pilates in the morning. Keep your fingers crossed that the awful fill-in fitness instructor isn't there to ruin my life like she was last Monday.
My chipped finger and toenails are driving me insane, so I must sign off so I can put polish on. Have a great night!
Seriously though, I don't know what it is going to take to get my eating under control. My fitness level has significantly improved from the beginning of this blogging journey, but my diet remains roughly the same. To be in the physical shape necessary to confidently climb Mt. Rainier, I need to have both my diet and exercise working for me.
I was excessively sore during yoga today. My muscles were CRAZY tight from yesterday's run and I was shaking and sweating through each pose. I think the stretching component of yoga will be a beneficial component in keeping me injury free as the marathon training progresses.
Classes are cancelled in honor of MLK day, so I am going to try to make it to Pilates in the morning. Keep your fingers crossed that the awful fill-in fitness instructor isn't there to ruin my life like she was last Monday.
My chipped finger and toenails are driving me insane, so I must sign off so I can put polish on. Have a great night!
Saturday, January 15, 2011
Day 95 - On Your Mark
Let the marathon training begin! My 5 mile run marked the beginning of my official marathon training. I'm still fine tuning what the full training schedule is going to look like in relation to my school/study schedule. Other runs this week will include 4 miles on Monday, 3 miles and PiYo on Wednesday, 4 miles on Thursday (not sure when I'm going to fit that in) and rest on Friday. Chances are, I'll switch Thursday and Friday, but I'll cross that bridge when I come to it.
After my run and a mini-photo shoot at the dance studio, I was off with the Hilen boys to celebrate Jeffrey's 21st birthday at the casino. We had quite the interesting night. At dinner, an inebriated attorney tried to talk me out of the area of law I want to practice and into a CPA. He told Jeffery that he should find a niche in engineering like being the guy to figure out why grain silos in the mid-west were imploding. Then he basically just told Charlie that he was fat and looked like hell for only being 26. As I am sure you can imagine, we were big fans of this guy.
We started to like him a little more, however, after he gave Jeffrey $50 in chips to go put on red or black and see what happens. We chose red, the roulette ball chose black. Good thing it wasn't our $50!
I spent the rest of my night at the craps table. I played for an hour or two and walked away with the same $40 that I started with. I wish I could say the same for the boys...
Oh well. I don't think we'll be heading back anytime soon, but it was a fun way to celebrate!
After my run and a mini-photo shoot at the dance studio, I was off with the Hilen boys to celebrate Jeffrey's 21st birthday at the casino. We had quite the interesting night. At dinner, an inebriated attorney tried to talk me out of the area of law I want to practice and into a CPA. He told Jeffery that he should find a niche in engineering like being the guy to figure out why grain silos in the mid-west were imploding. Then he basically just told Charlie that he was fat and looked like hell for only being 26. As I am sure you can imagine, we were big fans of this guy.
We started to like him a little more, however, after he gave Jeffrey $50 in chips to go put on red or black and see what happens. We chose red, the roulette ball chose black. Good thing it wasn't our $50!
I spent the rest of my night at the craps table. I played for an hour or two and walked away with the same $40 that I started with. I wish I could say the same for the boys...
Oh well. I don't think we'll be heading back anytime soon, but it was a fun way to celebrate!
Day 94 - Teenagers
Yoga and teenagers. To elaborate, my day consisted of going to yoga and then dj'ing another high school dance. Not my ideal night, but it was nice to spend some time with the hubs.
Friday, January 14, 2011
Day 93 - Daniel Powter
Cause ya had a bad day... Ya had a bad day.
Nothing about today went wrong or was in itself bad, but as the day progressed I felt myself becoming more and more depressed. At this time last year, it took me several weeks to realize that my constant bad attitude, complete lack of energy, unexplained feelings of anxiety and zero desire to accomplish anything was likely related to my being depressed. When I started to feel that way again today, I put myself on code red alert and tried to combat the all consuming emotions associated with depression: loneliness and despair.
I felt even lower when after calling out for help, those closest to me didn't respond. I don't expect my friends to drop what ever they're doing because I'm having a bad day, but I would be lying if I said I wasn't disappointed. Fortunately a phone call to my mom and some hard work at the gym was enough to get me out of my funk. After 45 grueling minutes on the rotating stair machine (at level 8!), I felt like I was back to my happy upbeat self. God bless the power of exercise! Life would have been much better last winter if I had found peace on the treadmill and on the yoga mat instead of hiding on the couch.
I'm not sure what brought on the feelings of sadness today. I definitely don't care for the cold and darkness of winter and law school will NEVER be something I think of fondly, but there really was no trigger or event that caused me to feel down.
If there is any silver lining to this day, it's that I was able to quickly recognize what I was experiencing so that I could proactively work to change it. I've got WAY to much to be excited about and to work towards to waste any time feeling depressed.
Nothing about today went wrong or was in itself bad, but as the day progressed I felt myself becoming more and more depressed. At this time last year, it took me several weeks to realize that my constant bad attitude, complete lack of energy, unexplained feelings of anxiety and zero desire to accomplish anything was likely related to my being depressed. When I started to feel that way again today, I put myself on code red alert and tried to combat the all consuming emotions associated with depression: loneliness and despair.
I felt even lower when after calling out for help, those closest to me didn't respond. I don't expect my friends to drop what ever they're doing because I'm having a bad day, but I would be lying if I said I wasn't disappointed. Fortunately a phone call to my mom and some hard work at the gym was enough to get me out of my funk. After 45 grueling minutes on the rotating stair machine (at level 8!), I felt like I was back to my happy upbeat self. God bless the power of exercise! Life would have been much better last winter if I had found peace on the treadmill and on the yoga mat instead of hiding on the couch.
I'm not sure what brought on the feelings of sadness today. I definitely don't care for the cold and darkness of winter and law school will NEVER be something I think of fondly, but there really was no trigger or event that caused me to feel down.
If there is any silver lining to this day, it's that I was able to quickly recognize what I was experiencing so that I could proactively work to change it. I've got WAY to much to be excited about and to work towards to waste any time feeling depressed.
Day 92 - Morning Person
Much to my brother and husband's chagrin, I am the definition of a morning person. I bounce out of bed ready to greet the day with showtunes and jazz hands. Having not had a morning class in quite a while, I had forgotten how many of my classmates do not share my passion for the AM. I'm taking Conflicts of Law at 8 AM three days a week, and I think I may be one of only a few students awake enough to understand and subsequently laugh at my professor's hilarioisly cheesy jokes.
That said, I have a feeling I'll regret taking Community Property until 8:30 on Tuesday night to return less than 12 hours later on Wednesday morning. Wednesdays are definitely going to be my longest days. I've got 4 classes to prepare for and attend. Yuck. I am certain I'll be silently repeating my mantra, "graduating in December," over and over again.
I had wanted to go to Piyo tonight, but got held up on a conference call. Although my contribution to the call lasted only 5 minutes, I foolishly remained on the line for another hour and a half just in case someone were to ask me a question. Nope. Should have gone to Piyo. It breaks my heart a little to know how precious life is and that I'll never get those wasted 85 minutes back.
No exercise to report for the day. I'll try again tomorrow.
That said, I have a feeling I'll regret taking Community Property until 8:30 on Tuesday night to return less than 12 hours later on Wednesday morning. Wednesdays are definitely going to be my longest days. I've got 4 classes to prepare for and attend. Yuck. I am certain I'll be silently repeating my mantra, "graduating in December," over and over again.
I had wanted to go to Piyo tonight, but got held up on a conference call. Although my contribution to the call lasted only 5 minutes, I foolishly remained on the line for another hour and a half just in case someone were to ask me a question. Nope. Should have gone to Piyo. It breaks my heart a little to know how precious life is and that I'll never get those wasted 85 minutes back.
No exercise to report for the day. I'll try again tomorrow.
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Day 91 - tired
4 mile run + teaching dance classes + first day of class + helping mom get up-to-date with social media = exhaustion.
Monday, January 10, 2011
Day 90 - Pilates Let Down
After rolling out of bed just in time to make it to pilates, I was completely let down to find the the regular wonderful instructor was out sick and the world's most obnoxious fitness instructor was filling in. Yeah, I walked out before she could make eye contact and guilt me into staying.
Instead of heading home, I summoned my stick-to-it strength and did two sets of the old circuit weight routine that got me in NFL Cheerleader shape. Generally, it consists of 45 seconds of work with a 15 second transition to the next exercise. I alternate working my upper and lower body with a set of abs in between. I used to be able to plow through 3 full sets, so I'll have to work back up to that level. For now, I can take pride in the fact that I'll definitely be sore tomorrow.
I also went to have lunch with my friend Haley from school. I love that she wholly accepts me as I am (good days and bad) and that she didn't look at me like I was nuts for wanting a margarita at 11:30am on a Monday. If that's not true friendship, I don't know what is.
The rest of the day has been spent exactly how the last day of any vacation should... on the couch. School starts again tomorrow. Wish me luck! Good night!
Instead of heading home, I summoned my stick-to-it strength and did two sets of the old circuit weight routine that got me in NFL Cheerleader shape. Generally, it consists of 45 seconds of work with a 15 second transition to the next exercise. I alternate working my upper and lower body with a set of abs in between. I used to be able to plow through 3 full sets, so I'll have to work back up to that level. For now, I can take pride in the fact that I'll definitely be sore tomorrow.
I also went to have lunch with my friend Haley from school. I love that she wholly accepts me as I am (good days and bad) and that she didn't look at me like I was nuts for wanting a margarita at 11:30am on a Monday. If that's not true friendship, I don't know what is.
The rest of the day has been spent exactly how the last day of any vacation should... on the couch. School starts again tomorrow. Wish me luck! Good night!
Sunday, January 9, 2011
Day 89 - Oh yoga
I finally felt healthy enough to attempt some serious cardio today after this week of cold, sniffles and coughing. That said, the three miles I ran on the treadmill were rough. The poor people around me probably rushed home to down mugs of Airborne and EmergenC because I was hacking and coughing the whole way. Although my energy level is back up to normal, I am clearly still having a few respiratory issues.
After the run, I hightailed it upstairs for Yoga. The Sunday yoga class is an hour and 15 minutes long and those extra 15 minutes certainly make a difference. Having just finished running, I was a little fatigued when class started. By the time it was over, I was dead. We had the option to push up into a bridge position towards the end of class, but ultimately decided to stick with the easier option after my arms gave out and I fell on my head. Did I mention I was in the front row? Awesome. Fortunately, most people were doing the exercise properly and were upside down facing the back of the room.
In addition to time at the gym, I finished another book, made a Costco run with the hubs, FINALLY got rid of our x-mas tree and made a roast with fruit salad and broccoli for dinner.
Tomorrow is my last day of vacation. Sad. I've got to do some reading to be prepared for class on Tuesday, but other than that I hope to exercise, fill the fridge with healthy grab and go lunch options and then watch hour after hour of trashy reality TV until it's time for bed. Hope you have a great Monday!
After the run, I hightailed it upstairs for Yoga. The Sunday yoga class is an hour and 15 minutes long and those extra 15 minutes certainly make a difference. Having just finished running, I was a little fatigued when class started. By the time it was over, I was dead. We had the option to push up into a bridge position towards the end of class, but ultimately decided to stick with the easier option after my arms gave out and I fell on my head. Did I mention I was in the front row? Awesome. Fortunately, most people were doing the exercise properly and were upside down facing the back of the room.
In addition to time at the gym, I finished another book, made a Costco run with the hubs, FINALLY got rid of our x-mas tree and made a roast with fruit salad and broccoli for dinner.
Tomorrow is my last day of vacation. Sad. I've got to do some reading to be prepared for class on Tuesday, but other than that I hope to exercise, fill the fridge with healthy grab and go lunch options and then watch hour after hour of trashy reality TV until it's time for bed. Hope you have a great Monday!
Day 88 - Homemaker
Call me Susie Homemaker. Today I did little besides clean, clean, clean!!! Oh, and watch the Seahawks DOMINATE the Saints. But yeah, our apartment was one red phone call away from being declared a national disaster by Pres. Obama. On a side note, I think it is absolutely ridiculous that this program is saying that I have misspelled the President's last name. What does it suggest instead of Obama? Obadiah, Obadias, Bamako, or Alabama. RIDICULOUS!
Anyway, today's exercise came in the form of scrubbing floors; cleaning the kitchen top to bottom; vacuuming; bathroom disinfecting; laundry washing, folding and putting away; Christmas present storing; etc. Our place practically sparkles now.
I settled in on the couch with hubs to watch a few episodes of LOST (I LOVE Netflix!) and I fully intended to stay up for SNL. Nope. I was passed out on the couch before hearing "Live from New York..."
Anyway, today's exercise came in the form of scrubbing floors; cleaning the kitchen top to bottom; vacuuming; bathroom disinfecting; laundry washing, folding and putting away; Christmas present storing; etc. Our place practically sparkles now.
I settled in on the couch with hubs to watch a few episodes of LOST (I LOVE Netflix!) and I fully intended to stay up for SNL. Nope. I was passed out on the couch before hearing "Live from New York..."
Friday, January 7, 2011
Day 87 - Let the Good Times Roll
As if the last week or so hasn't been enough fun, today we got to add a trip to the ER for stitches. Charlie and I decided to take advantage of $10 lift tickets at Silver Mountain for Jackass Day (their title, not mine). Despite the whole me falling of the chairlift incident that occurred on January 7, 2010 (Jackass Day), we decided to give it another go.
The mountain was fairly busy, but not terrible. The snow was perfect, but the conditions in terms of visibility were horrendous! The wind speeds must have been in excess of what is recommended for safe chair lift operation, so that's not cool. Add in falling snow, LOTS of FOG and a narrow cat track with a steep downhill drop-off and the scene was set for Charlie's knee-first crash into a jagged rock. JACKASS DAY STRIKES AGAIN!!!
Oddly enough, Charlie got up and skied a few more runs before we realized how serious his injury was. He noticed some blood on the snow so we pulled up his pants to see if he had a cut that was bleeding. I've tried to expunge the mental picture from my brain, but I'm pretty sure I saw bone. We got him up to the lodge as quickly as possible, had ski patrol clean and bandage the area and then headed to the ER. I don't handle blood, needles, doctors or hospitals very well, so I'll spare you the graphic details (mostly because I've also suppressed those memories).
After his local anesthetic wore off, Charlie's pain level went from a 2 to a 9 within a few seconds. I canceled the other plans we had made for the night, got dinner to go and set Charlie up on the couch. I CLEARLY am not cut out to be a nurse, but I'm doing my best to be there for the most recent victim of Jackass Day.
Besides Charlie only needing stitches and nothing more serious like surgery or a cast, the only good news came in the form of my report card. I was SHOCKED by what I saw when I finally had enough cell service to check my grades. Let's just say my lowest grade was a 'B' in evidence and I got enough 'A-'s to spell the word banana. Now that I am certain I didn't fail any classes, I should definitely be able to graduate in December.
I'm going to bed with my fingers crossed, hoping that tomorrow is disaster free!
The mountain was fairly busy, but not terrible. The snow was perfect, but the conditions in terms of visibility were horrendous! The wind speeds must have been in excess of what is recommended for safe chair lift operation, so that's not cool. Add in falling snow, LOTS of FOG and a narrow cat track with a steep downhill drop-off and the scene was set for Charlie's knee-first crash into a jagged rock. JACKASS DAY STRIKES AGAIN!!!
Oddly enough, Charlie got up and skied a few more runs before we realized how serious his injury was. He noticed some blood on the snow so we pulled up his pants to see if he had a cut that was bleeding. I've tried to expunge the mental picture from my brain, but I'm pretty sure I saw bone. We got him up to the lodge as quickly as possible, had ski patrol clean and bandage the area and then headed to the ER. I don't handle blood, needles, doctors or hospitals very well, so I'll spare you the graphic details (mostly because I've also suppressed those memories).
After his local anesthetic wore off, Charlie's pain level went from a 2 to a 9 within a few seconds. I canceled the other plans we had made for the night, got dinner to go and set Charlie up on the couch. I CLEARLY am not cut out to be a nurse, but I'm doing my best to be there for the most recent victim of Jackass Day.
Besides Charlie only needing stitches and nothing more serious like surgery or a cast, the only good news came in the form of my report card. I was SHOCKED by what I saw when I finally had enough cell service to check my grades. Let's just say my lowest grade was a 'B' in evidence and I got enough 'A-'s to spell the word banana. Now that I am certain I didn't fail any classes, I should definitely be able to graduate in December.
I'm going to bed with my fingers crossed, hoping that tomorrow is disaster free!
Thursday, January 6, 2011
Day 86 - Almost healthy
I feel much better today. A few sniffles and a slightly sore throat are all that's left of my first cold of 2011. Tonight I did the elliptical in our gym for 40 min while I watched the Real Housewives of Beverly Hills. Such a guilty pleasure. It's a good thing we don't have cable, as it forces me to go to the gym to get my trashy tv fix.
Day 85 - Aspirations
Tonight I walked at an incline on the treadmill for 50 min while I watched Toddlers and Tiaras. I LOVE THAT SHOW!!! The parents are so nuts and their poor daughters are completely brain washed to believe that pageants and being beautiful are the only things that matter in life. That said, I am already in the planning and practicing phases of preparing Sarah (John and Shannon's daughter) for her first on stage appearance. We're going to win!!!
Tuesday, January 4, 2011
Day 84 - I'm Listening!
Just the other day I stated that I was going to try harder to listen to my body. I got today's message loud and clear. Every inch of my body shouted "Hey! Guess what?! You're sick!" The only exercise I got today was teaching my two dance classes. Just working with my girls was enough to leave me short of breath and exhausted. After sneezing and wiping snot on my sleeve the entire drive home, it was clear that this girl has a cold.
Not only did I not make it to the gym, but I reverted to a wimpering baby. For example, here is a transcript of the two text messages I sent to Charlie within a 1 hour window. First, "Sick sick sick. No good. No dinner. No cleaning. No exercise. Just sleep, tv and self pity." And second, "No happiness in the world."
I better feel better by tomorrow because I am in serious need of some cardio.
Not only did I not make it to the gym, but I reverted to a wimpering baby. For example, here is a transcript of the two text messages I sent to Charlie within a 1 hour window. First, "Sick sick sick. No good. No dinner. No cleaning. No exercise. Just sleep, tv and self pity." And second, "No happiness in the world."
I better feel better by tomorrow because I am in serious need of some cardio.
Day 83 - Getting Better
Today was more productive than yesterday, but I still didn't do much worth noting. I got a fantastic massage (one of my x-mas gifts), but was basically told that I would need serious work to get the knots out of my back. God bless the gal for trying, but I inherited my mother's shoulders. Even with her digging her elbow into my shoulder blades with all her weight, I'm afraid she barely made a difference. I felt more calm and at peace, but I'm a long ways away from my muscles relaxing.
After the massage, I was fortunate to get an eye appointment for get new glasses and contacts. Apparently, my eyes have gone from bad to worse. I had no idea how poorly I had been seeing until I got an updated prescription. It was like seeing the world for the first time in HD!
I quickly stopped by the law school to confirm that I could add a class to my Spring schedule. As it stands now, I should be set to graduate this December. Sooo.... in 2011 I will climb a mountain, run a marathon, look fantastic and Maui and GRADUATE FROM LAW SCHOOL!!! Whoo Hoo!!!
When I got home, I promptly passed out on the couch and woke up an hour later in a state of complete panic. The sun had set and I had no idea if it was 6:40 AM or PM. Thinking I had slept through the night, I ran to the bedroom to make sure Charlie had gotten up to go to work (we accidentally overslept this morning due to our iPhone alarms not going off). Charlie was no where to be found (he was at class) and it took me turning on the tv to figure out what was going on. Turns out it was PM.
I grabbed my yoga mat and set off for the gym. I fully anticipated having to fight for a space with all the new gym going resolutioners, but I was pleasantly surprised the gym was no more busy than usual. Yoga was hard, but it felt great. I've gotten comfortable enough with the different poses we do regularly that I am now challenging myself to stretch further and work harder.
I hope those of you that went back to work today had as nice of a Monday as possible. Good night!
After the massage, I was fortunate to get an eye appointment for get new glasses and contacts. Apparently, my eyes have gone from bad to worse. I had no idea how poorly I had been seeing until I got an updated prescription. It was like seeing the world for the first time in HD!
I quickly stopped by the law school to confirm that I could add a class to my Spring schedule. As it stands now, I should be set to graduate this December. Sooo.... in 2011 I will climb a mountain, run a marathon, look fantastic and Maui and GRADUATE FROM LAW SCHOOL!!! Whoo Hoo!!!
When I got home, I promptly passed out on the couch and woke up an hour later in a state of complete panic. The sun had set and I had no idea if it was 6:40 AM or PM. Thinking I had slept through the night, I ran to the bedroom to make sure Charlie had gotten up to go to work (we accidentally overslept this morning due to our iPhone alarms not going off). Charlie was no where to be found (he was at class) and it took me turning on the tv to figure out what was going on. Turns out it was PM.
I grabbed my yoga mat and set off for the gym. I fully anticipated having to fight for a space with all the new gym going resolutioners, but I was pleasantly surprised the gym was no more busy than usual. Yoga was hard, but it felt great. I've gotten comfortable enough with the different poses we do regularly that I am now challenging myself to stretch further and work harder.
I hope those of you that went back to work today had as nice of a Monday as possible. Good night!
Sunday, January 2, 2011
Day 82 - Rocky Start
Got a lot accomplished but little to no exercise. 2011 is off to a rocky start.
Saturday, January 1, 2011
Day 81 - 2011
The first day of 2011 was spent lounging and it felt like HEAVEN (if Heaven were a bath tub with a never ending supply of hot water and a pleasure read book). My body is still pretty spent from the hike on Thursday, so I decided to give myself another day before getting back to exercise. The last thing I need is an overuse injury or muscle strain to start the new year. I've chosen not to declare any new resolutions for 2011, but one thing I hope to continue to improve is how well I listen to my body. I want to be able to push myself and reach my maximum potential, which means also knowing when I need to take it easy and give my body a break.
Speaking of resolutions, good luck to all of you that are working towards goals or have decided to achieve something new in 2011. My goals for the year are still to run a marathon, climb a mountain and to look DAMN fine in a bikini in Maui (plus the whole being an awesome wife and kicking butt in law school thing).
As far as the blog goes, I promise to do better with keeping up with it daily. I also promise that there will be days I post late, that there will be MANY MANY typos, and that I will be as honest as possible while trying not to embarrass anyone other than myself.
HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!
Speaking of resolutions, good luck to all of you that are working towards goals or have decided to achieve something new in 2011. My goals for the year are still to run a marathon, climb a mountain and to look DAMN fine in a bikini in Maui (plus the whole being an awesome wife and kicking butt in law school thing).
As far as the blog goes, I promise to do better with keeping up with it daily. I also promise that there will be days I post late, that there will be MANY MANY typos, and that I will be as honest as possible while trying not to embarrass anyone other than myself.
HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!
Day 80 - FINALLY!
It is finally the last day of 2010. This year has been tough and I have to say I'm happy to see it go. Today started with many phone calls to my insurance company and different glass repair shops. And then A LOT of crying. Not only could no one in western Washington work on my car today, but once they did get the necessary piece of glass in it was going to cost over $500 to fix. AWESOME. The damage is really starting to add up. New contacts and glasses alone are probably going to cost a few hundred and I can assure you these expenses were NOT in the budget.
After getting my window hazard wrapped (thanks SAFELITE!) and meeting my mom (THANKS A MILLION Moo for all you did to help get me on the road!), I was off to Spokanistan. The drive was LONG and COLD, but Tucker and I made it. I swear he glared at me when I pulled into the drive and he saw all the snow on the ground.
After everything that had transpired, I was not up for doing anything. Charlie has a pretty nasty cold, so we decided to get a Papa Murphey's pizza and watch a movie. We both fell asleep before midnight, but woke up for a few minutes at midnight to watch the broadcast of the Space Needle fireworks.
Looking back, 2010 held plenty of hardships. I fell of a chairlift, lost my grandpa, contracts happened (worst law school class to date), diamonds fell out of my ring twice, car got broken into twice, I had an anxiety attack while on Spring Break in front of my poor brother's girlfriend (sorry again Shaina!), gained weight, etc.
On the other hand, 2010 wasn't completely awful. My family members were healthy and for the most part happy, Charlie and I somehow kept a roof over our heads, we enjoyed a weekend with our friends at the beach cabin, celebrated friend's marriages and the births of children, Moo and I had a great time taking a road trip to San Diego, Charlie has been on the Dean's List at school for three straight quarters, I won my first two cases, and I set and am working toward some pretty exciting goals.
You tested my strength over and over again, 2010, but I survived you and have come out stronger! On to 2011. Happy New Year!
After getting my window hazard wrapped (thanks SAFELITE!) and meeting my mom (THANKS A MILLION Moo for all you did to help get me on the road!), I was off to Spokanistan. The drive was LONG and COLD, but Tucker and I made it. I swear he glared at me when I pulled into the drive and he saw all the snow on the ground.
After everything that had transpired, I was not up for doing anything. Charlie has a pretty nasty cold, so we decided to get a Papa Murphey's pizza and watch a movie. We both fell asleep before midnight, but woke up for a few minutes at midnight to watch the broadcast of the Space Needle fireworks.
Looking back, 2010 held plenty of hardships. I fell of a chairlift, lost my grandpa, contracts happened (worst law school class to date), diamonds fell out of my ring twice, car got broken into twice, I had an anxiety attack while on Spring Break in front of my poor brother's girlfriend (sorry again Shaina!), gained weight, etc.
On the other hand, 2010 wasn't completely awful. My family members were healthy and for the most part happy, Charlie and I somehow kept a roof over our heads, we enjoyed a weekend with our friends at the beach cabin, celebrated friend's marriages and the births of children, Moo and I had a great time taking a road trip to San Diego, Charlie has been on the Dean's List at school for three straight quarters, I won my first two cases, and I set and am working toward some pretty exciting goals.
You tested my strength over and over again, 2010, but I survived you and have come out stronger! On to 2011. Happy New Year!
Day 79 - Highs and Lows
I didn't have to work today, but I was still up and out of bed bright and early. Once the gear was packed, we set out to climb Mt. Si. Having never truly hiked in the snow before, I was unsure of what to expect. This was going to be my first taste of what is to come on Mt. Rainier where I will spend 4 days hiking, sleeping and living in the snow.
It is only four miles to the top of Mt. Si, but the journey took several hours. I felt like I did fairly well, but it certainly was not easy. A few of the steeper inclines left me panting for air while my heart beat out of my chest. On more than one occasion, I was ready to call it quits and bid all mountains without chairlifts farewell. For example, my pride took a serious hit when we were passed by a woman who appeared to be in her early 70's.
Although the climb was strenuous and a significant cardiovascular challenge, we took several rest breaks and I was able to quickly recover. That said, I think I will need to incorporate more sprints into my runs so I can continue to get comfortable with spiking my heart rate to work maximum capacity, slowing it down and then doing it again. Fun, huh?!I learned two other important lessons at the top of the mountain. First, never leave your food unattended. We brought chicken soup that my dad made that morning and I set mine down for just a moment to switch jackets. In the brief moment it took to unzip, a bird splashed down into my soup and made off with a piece of chicken. Ummmm.... Gross!!! I wasn't willing to continue eating what I then dubbed "bird soup" until my dad first took a bite. He didn't immediately perish, so I took a few more bites. Just thinking about it now triggers my gag reflex. Lesson learned. From now own, my meals will be bird free (unless I'm intentionally eating chicken...).
The climb to the top was physically demanding, but it was the descent that required me total mental focus. I slipped and slid the entire way down through the snow. Exposed rocks and tree roots proved to be pesky obstacles that twice landed me on my backside. The next time I attempt a similar feat, I will be sure to invest in crampons so I have some degree of traction. I eventually gave up trying to fight gravity and just jogged down the path. My knees ached by the time I reached the bottom.
Despite the pain, I felt tremendously proud for making it to the top and surviving to tell the tale. I've got a long way to go with my training, but I'm glad to have a better idea of where I stand.
After the hike, my good friend Hooligan allowed me to shower and primp at her place before we headed off to Seattle for an engagement party. Our friends Carin and Ryan are tying the not in September and it was fun to celebrate with all of their families and friends. The party was at a swanky restaurant in Seattle called the Black Bottle and I swear one of the servers was Brian Austin Green. I totally felt like I was hanging at the Peach Pit and that Brenda and Kelly should be walking through the front doors at any moment.
On my way out of the restaurant, I noticed a man standing on the other side of my car. Then I noticed a gaping hole in my window and shattered glass all over the ground. I try to avoid profanity (because it drives my mother insane and I love her oh so much), but my first thought was "you've got to be fucking kidding me."
Assuming the jerk who smashed my window was still lurking nearby, I quickly called the police and went back into the restaurant to get someone to escort me to my car. It turns out that the shadowy man I saw was not the perpetrator, but rather the parking lot attendant busy writing tickets to those who had failed to pay the $8 fee. Anyone could see from the street that my car had been broken in to, but did this prick who obviously got close enough to my car to make sure I had paid up bother to report the crime? Of course not! Apparently it is against company policy to be a decent human being.
The vandal made off with my law school back pack which ordinarily would contain hundreds of dollars in text books and my laptop. Fortunately today it only contained my bathroom essentials. Still, the loss stung and the thought of someone touching my belongings left my infuriated. I no longer have glasses and only have the pair of contacts that I am currently wearing. Replacing these items will not be cheap. I also lost an expensive straightener that had been a gift from my mom, my bare minerals makeup, and many other items that you don't realize are missing until you need them (deodorant, razor, sonicare toothbrush, etc.). It was clearly a smash and grab job, because the thief missed my brand new and ridiculously expensive climbing jacket and gloves.
I doubt they read this blog, but I'd like to send HUGE 'thank yous' to Carin's dad, brother and fiance who helped me sort out the mess and get my car in operating order and to Carin and the others who helped keep me calm and stayed by my side. I'd like to say my night improved, but I had no such luck. Some unfortunate family drama left me exhausted and emotionally drained. After the evening's series of events, I am eager to leave 2010 behind and move on to a brighter and better year in 2011.
Day 78 - Oh Baby!
Sarah is only 6 weeks old and is quite possibly the best baby in the universe. She got a little fussy when she was hungry, but even her little cries are adorable (she squeaks!). The majority of the time I was with her, she was passed out in a milk induced coma. We watched and episode of Toddlers in Tiaras and Sarah and I practiced for her pageant debut. She is going to be a star!
Even though I could have loved on that girl all night long, it became abundantly clear that I am not ready for a baby of my own. I found just watching her and trying to guess at what she needed to be exhausting. Even so, there is no way that after a long day at school I would want to do any homework if I had a baby to play with. Much to Charlie's dismay, passing the bar must come before babies.
I stopped by one of my favorite restaurants in Puyallup to grab a salad for dinner. When I entered, I immediately knew that something was wrong. Two adult men were swaying and speaking loudly to the two young boys working behind the counter. Upon further inspection, it became quite clear that these gentlemen were both homeless and inebriated (each clutching a now illegal can of 4 loko). The man on the left grabbed on of the boys hands and held on to it while his speech got louder and more angry. The man on the right stood over a basket of steak knives. The situation could have gone from uncomfortable to ugly in an instant, but fortunately my presence seemed to have caused the men to grow uncomfortable and leave. I didn't think I was frightening, but who knows...
Apparently, the man on the right had been there the night before. I encouraged the staff to lock the doors, turn off the open sign, and to call the owner and the police. The two men lingered outside the door and began to yell things like "WHY CAN'T I GET A WOMAN!!!!" I am a pretty confident person who enjoys taking risks, but there was no way I was walking out that door back to my car alone. The staff kindly insisted on ushering me out the back door and the police arrived just as I approached my car. By the time I got home, it was after 10 and I was too tired to exercise. Oh well, good thing I'm hiking tomorrow!
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