The long run today was 9 miles. It's still below 0 windchill, so I was on the treadmill. I felt pretty good during the run (I even increase my speed when I got to the 7.5 mile mark); it took me over 90 minutes. That's a long time to be on the treadmill, staring at the wall. Since the run, I've felt a little blah, like lethargic. The IT bands did okay though, so I can't complain. I've settled into a routine for before and after I run. Before I run, I massage them out for about 5 minutes before I stretch them. After I run, I stretch them out and ice them for 15-20 minutes. At night, I massage them as I sit on the couch. Then I stretch and ice. It's time consuming, but so far it seems to be doing the trick. I'm also trying to take my rest days and not increase my mileage too quickly. I am being careful. I can't go through another spring and summer of not running.
I did my "typical" weekend run deal this morning again--when I plan to run run at about 8 or 9 a.m. and don't start until 11:30 or so. During the week, I wake up and proceed directly to the run. I'm not nearly so motivated on weekends. I guess it doesn't really matter as long as I don't have too many plans for the day. Yet it makes me disappointed in myself for some reason.
On another note, Bill and I tried Domino's "new and improved" pizza today. It wasn't too bad. Then we got some cookies in the mail from a former student's mother. All in all, I've eaten enough junk today to last me a while.
Off to put some laundry away...
Saturday, January 30, 2010
Saturday, January 23, 2010
Happy Saturday!
It's a dreary, rainy Saturday. I just got done running. I meant to run at about 9 a.m. In reality, I started thinking about running at 9 a.m. However, the physical act of running didn't begin until about 1 p.m. So much for motivation on this Saturday morning. I can't be too hard on myself because I did get my 8.5 miles in. The run felt better the further into it I got. The first 2-3 miles were a drag. Miles 5-7 or so really felt pretty good.
I'm nervous about some tightness in the IT bands. I'm trying to stay on my training plan but I've got to keep up with stretching, icing, etc. The whole IT band routine takes almost as much time as running itself. Yet, I know that the alternative (taking time off, surgery, whatever) is worse. I have learned this the hard way. Hopefully if I take care of myself I won't have any real issues this "season," but I am nervous about it every time I run. Today I stopped to stretch about once a mile. I don't like that because it's harder to get into a groove.
I have 4 half marathons planned for this year (April through Oct). I have decided that my goal will be to get to each starting line injury free. If I get that done, I will consider it a success, not matter what my times are. Last summer, I wondered if I would ever get back to running. Now that I'm there, I don't want to get hung up with times and stuff like that. I am just glad to be running.
I bought new shoes. A pair of Nikes and a pair of Sauconys that I will alternate. I love both of them so far. I've become a fan of Saucony the last couple of years. I tend to have an issue with my heels being narrow, and Saucony accommodates that. Nike typically does as well. I've tried New Balance, and they tend to run wide through the heel. I started wearing Saucony when I got "fitted" for running shoes at a running store in Cedar Falls, the Runner's Flat. It's a far cry from how I used to choose running shoes. (I would just look at them and decide how fast they looked.) If you live near me, I do recommend the Runner's Flat if you are looking to buy some shoes. They'll put you on the treadmill and watch your gait, diagnosed your pronation, etc. I learned a lot from them.
Off to the showers!
I'm nervous about some tightness in the IT bands. I'm trying to stay on my training plan but I've got to keep up with stretching, icing, etc. The whole IT band routine takes almost as much time as running itself. Yet, I know that the alternative (taking time off, surgery, whatever) is worse. I have learned this the hard way. Hopefully if I take care of myself I won't have any real issues this "season," but I am nervous about it every time I run. Today I stopped to stretch about once a mile. I don't like that because it's harder to get into a groove.
I have 4 half marathons planned for this year (April through Oct). I have decided that my goal will be to get to each starting line injury free. If I get that done, I will consider it a success, not matter what my times are. Last summer, I wondered if I would ever get back to running. Now that I'm there, I don't want to get hung up with times and stuff like that. I am just glad to be running.
I bought new shoes. A pair of Nikes and a pair of Sauconys that I will alternate. I love both of them so far. I've become a fan of Saucony the last couple of years. I tend to have an issue with my heels being narrow, and Saucony accommodates that. Nike typically does as well. I've tried New Balance, and they tend to run wide through the heel. I started wearing Saucony when I got "fitted" for running shoes at a running store in Cedar Falls, the Runner's Flat. It's a far cry from how I used to choose running shoes. (I would just look at them and decide how fast they looked.) If you live near me, I do recommend the Runner's Flat if you are looking to buy some shoes. They'll put you on the treadmill and watch your gait, diagnosed your pronation, etc. I learned a lot from them.
Off to the showers!
Sunday, January 17, 2010
Beautiful Iowa January Day
It's a pretty nice day here in Iowa for January. It's overcast, but about 35 degrees. It's one of those Iowa winter days when everyone flocks to the car wash. Bill ran 3 miles outside a little bit ago, but I decided to do my 8 miles on the treadmill. I decided I wanted to be on the treadmill so I could have my water bottle nearby. It's odd for me to make the choice to run on the treadmill when there's any possibility (much less a probability) of a pleasant run outside, but my feelings about the treadmill have taken a turn for the positive in the last couple of weeks.
I used to think heading to the treadmill made me sort of a wimp, but as long as I am staying on my training plan and enjoying my runs, I guess it shouldn't matter if I'm outside or on the treadmill. I do feel like the treadmill protects my knees a little bit because the surface is softer than asphalt or concrete. I will admit that I am afraid of injury, mainly IT band stuff.
I've started reading a book called "Running with the Buffaloes" about the University of Colorado cross country team in 1996-1997. Adam Goucher, who goes on to lots of success a nationally competitive runner along with his wife Kara, was on that team. I'm only a few pages into it (and I'm having a really hard time keeping all of guys on the team straight) but it seems interesting. The guys' team is running 90-95 miles a week. I just think it's amazing that they can run that much without getting injured. I guess some people can do that, and I'm not one of those people. I also bought "My Life on the Run" by Bart Yasso, who is the editor of Runners' World magazine. It got pretty decent reviews on Amazon, and I usually do enjoy reading about running.
I just finished a book called "Waking" about a guy who was in a car accident at age 13 and became a parapalegic. As an adult, he becomes interested in yoga and intruiged by the mind-body connection among people who have spinal cord injury. I sometimes got a little lost in his philosophy in the book, but I did enjoy it. The guy ends up becoming a yoga teacher for individual with disabilities and able-bodied people. I'm typically not much of a free reader, but I guess I've been on a roll lately. When I find a book I like, I usually power through it pretty quickly, but sometimes I feel guilty spending time free reading when I could be reading stuff for work.
For the first time ever, I got flu shots. I got the H1N1 shot as well as the regular seasonal flu shot. I had to stop in at the doctor last week for something else, and he talked me into it. According to my physician's assistant, it decreases the chance of getting the flu by 40%. I decided I'd do it because I would be bummed if I couldn't run for a week or so due to illness and then lost some of my fitness. My arms are actually sore from the shots. My right one hurts the worst by far, and that's the regular seasonal flu shot, not the H1N1. I have been wondering if the H1N1 usually hurts less, or if it's just a coincidence. I guess maybe I'm exaggerating...it doesn't hurt that bad, but it's achy. Much more achy than I expected. I mean, it's just a shot, and the needle wasn't even very big.
I used to think heading to the treadmill made me sort of a wimp, but as long as I am staying on my training plan and enjoying my runs, I guess it shouldn't matter if I'm outside or on the treadmill. I do feel like the treadmill protects my knees a little bit because the surface is softer than asphalt or concrete. I will admit that I am afraid of injury, mainly IT band stuff.
I've started reading a book called "Running with the Buffaloes" about the University of Colorado cross country team in 1996-1997. Adam Goucher, who goes on to lots of success a nationally competitive runner along with his wife Kara, was on that team. I'm only a few pages into it (and I'm having a really hard time keeping all of guys on the team straight) but it seems interesting. The guys' team is running 90-95 miles a week. I just think it's amazing that they can run that much without getting injured. I guess some people can do that, and I'm not one of those people. I also bought "My Life on the Run" by Bart Yasso, who is the editor of Runners' World magazine. It got pretty decent reviews on Amazon, and I usually do enjoy reading about running.
I just finished a book called "Waking" about a guy who was in a car accident at age 13 and became a parapalegic. As an adult, he becomes interested in yoga and intruiged by the mind-body connection among people who have spinal cord injury. I sometimes got a little lost in his philosophy in the book, but I did enjoy it. The guy ends up becoming a yoga teacher for individual with disabilities and able-bodied people. I'm typically not much of a free reader, but I guess I've been on a roll lately. When I find a book I like, I usually power through it pretty quickly, but sometimes I feel guilty spending time free reading when I could be reading stuff for work.
For the first time ever, I got flu shots. I got the H1N1 shot as well as the regular seasonal flu shot. I had to stop in at the doctor last week for something else, and he talked me into it. According to my physician's assistant, it decreases the chance of getting the flu by 40%. I decided I'd do it because I would be bummed if I couldn't run for a week or so due to illness and then lost some of my fitness. My arms are actually sore from the shots. My right one hurts the worst by far, and that's the regular seasonal flu shot, not the H1N1. I have been wondering if the H1N1 usually hurts less, or if it's just a coincidence. I guess maybe I'm exaggerating...it doesn't hurt that bad, but it's achy. Much more achy than I expected. I mean, it's just a shot, and the needle wasn't even very big.
Friday, January 15, 2010
Crystal Light Energy
Maybe I've turned a corner. Yesterday morning I rolled out of bed and got running nearly right away...and perked up at about a mile or so. My body seems to be waking up before mile 3 or 4--maybe just because I'm getting in a routine of morning running now. Tomorrow is my long run. It's 8 miles again. Next week it increases to 9 miles. I won't be doing 10 on the training plan for about another month.
I realized that I put together my training plan using the wrong date for my April 1/2 marathon. It is actually April 24, but I put in April 17--so I should recalculate the mileage I am doing each week. Not sure why I thought it was April 17.
I should mention my Crystal Light Wild Strawberry Energy Mix. I have sort of a love/hate relationship with it. You add it to your water bottle. There are other flavors but I should mention that the energy contains a ridiculous amount of caffeine. I slurp some as I get to running in the morning. I'm not sure what it's like to be on crack, but it has to be something like this. The stuff is potent. I have to be careful not to drink too much or I am way too hyped up (almost anxious) for the day. I learned this the hard way. If I have any after about 3 p.m., there's no way I'm getting to sleep at night. I have a student who swears she's addicted to it. She needs it every morning or she just doesn't function. I'm sure it's just a caffeine deal.
I realized that I put together my training plan using the wrong date for my April 1/2 marathon. It is actually April 24, but I put in April 17--so I should recalculate the mileage I am doing each week. Not sure why I thought it was April 17.
I should mention my Crystal Light Wild Strawberry Energy Mix. I have sort of a love/hate relationship with it. You add it to your water bottle. There are other flavors but I should mention that the energy contains a ridiculous amount of caffeine. I slurp some as I get to running in the morning. I'm not sure what it's like to be on crack, but it has to be something like this. The stuff is potent. I have to be careful not to drink too much or I am way too hyped up (almost anxious) for the day. I learned this the hard way. If I have any after about 3 p.m., there's no way I'm getting to sleep at night. I have a student who swears she's addicted to it. She needs it every morning or she just doesn't function. I'm sure it's just a caffeine deal.
Wednesday, January 13, 2010
Morning Person? Not So Much
I've gotten my runs done in the mornings this week, before work, and it's been tolerable. I find that it takes me until about mile 3 to get going--so it's about a 1/2 hour of blah before I really actually feel glad to be running. I am hoping I can get in more of a morning routine and perk up faster. I'm proud of myself for sticking with the morning deal. Of course, I shouldn't give myself too much credit since it hasn't even been a whole week.
This morning was speedwork, which made me confront the reality that I am not at all speedy. I was never the fastest kid when we had to run sprints for volleyball and basketball in high school. Not surprisingly, I haven't gotten much faster on the sprint in the 13 or so years since high school. I can certainly run longer distances now, though.
Tomorrow is a 5 mile run at an easy pace. My goal is to be running by 6:30 a.m. Like I said, I'm hoping this is all about routine and each day will be a little easier. Plenty of people run at 5 in the morning; 6:30 isn't even that early. I think the issue is more that my body is used to exercising in the afternoon or early evening. It does feel good to get to work and know I've already got the run finished...I am hoping the knowledge of that post-run feeling can help me get my butt out of bed to go running when my alarm goes off!
This morning was speedwork, which made me confront the reality that I am not at all speedy. I was never the fastest kid when we had to run sprints for volleyball and basketball in high school. Not surprisingly, I haven't gotten much faster on the sprint in the 13 or so years since high school. I can certainly run longer distances now, though.
Tomorrow is a 5 mile run at an easy pace. My goal is to be running by 6:30 a.m. Like I said, I'm hoping this is all about routine and each day will be a little easier. Plenty of people run at 5 in the morning; 6:30 isn't even that early. I think the issue is more that my body is used to exercising in the afternoon or early evening. It does feel good to get to work and know I've already got the run finished...I am hoping the knowledge of that post-run feeling can help me get my butt out of bed to go running when my alarm goes off!
Saturday, January 9, 2010
Neil and Me on the Treadmill
By Neil, I mean Neil Diamond, of course. I put 3-4 Neil Diamond songs on my new CD for running on the treadmill. Who knew he was so motivating? You should also notice that I am no longer calling the treadmill the dreadmill. This is a big step for me, and hopefully the treadmill and I are building a more positive and healthy relationship than we've had in the past. I got my planned 8 miles in this morning. A new treadmill record! I have to say, the 1st 6 or so miles were delightful, or at least quite tolerable. Miles 6 and 7 got a little long, but there's hope for the treadmill and me yet.
If you've known me the last few years, you know that I've battled illiotibial band syndrome chronically. You know this because I've probably annoyed the hell out of you by explaning this issue in detail. My wonderful friend Leslie (bless her) who is a massage therapist and works in a PT clinic is the only one who really at least appeared to be somewhat interested in the anatomy of my gluts, outer thigh, knee, etc., but that didn't stop me from explaning the issue to the rest of the world as well. Anyway, the IT band was the reason for my knee surgery. The IT band deal has not reared its ugly head for some time, although I did feel a twinge as my distance was showing as 7.97 on the treadmill today. It wasn't painful, but just enough of a feeling to be aware that things might get worse if I kept going. I'm not panicking about it, but I do need to be cautious and back off it starts bothering me.
I've learned that lesson the hard way. Being tough is sometimes being stupid. Going an extra mile one day is not worth it if it means having to take a month off of running. Tomorrow, according to my training plan, is a rest day or a cross training day. I could take the day off completely, or maybe I could ride my spin bike.
So it's been Neil and me on the treadmill...other artists on my burned CD: Lady GaGa, the Jayhawks, Brittney Spears (how embarassing), Pink, Taylor Swift, Ray Charles, Ryan Adams, Naughty by Nature (yes, seriously), Run DMC, Katy Perry, Sugar Hill Gang, the Fray, Sugarland, Michael Franti, Warren Zevon, Toby Keith, Lucinda Williams, Coldplay, Five for Fighting, Joshua Radin, Lady Antebellum, Toto, Fountains of Wayne, Howie Day, REM, Meatloaf, Shawn Mullins, Glenn Miller, Queen, and U2.
If you've known me the last few years, you know that I've battled illiotibial band syndrome chronically. You know this because I've probably annoyed the hell out of you by explaning this issue in detail. My wonderful friend Leslie (bless her) who is a massage therapist and works in a PT clinic is the only one who really at least appeared to be somewhat interested in the anatomy of my gluts, outer thigh, knee, etc., but that didn't stop me from explaning the issue to the rest of the world as well. Anyway, the IT band was the reason for my knee surgery. The IT band deal has not reared its ugly head for some time, although I did feel a twinge as my distance was showing as 7.97 on the treadmill today. It wasn't painful, but just enough of a feeling to be aware that things might get worse if I kept going. I'm not panicking about it, but I do need to be cautious and back off it starts bothering me.
I've learned that lesson the hard way. Being tough is sometimes being stupid. Going an extra mile one day is not worth it if it means having to take a month off of running. Tomorrow, according to my training plan, is a rest day or a cross training day. I could take the day off completely, or maybe I could ride my spin bike.
So it's been Neil and me on the treadmill...other artists on my burned CD: Lady GaGa, the Jayhawks, Brittney Spears (how embarassing), Pink, Taylor Swift, Ray Charles, Ryan Adams, Naughty by Nature (yes, seriously), Run DMC, Katy Perry, Sugar Hill Gang, the Fray, Sugarland, Michael Franti, Warren Zevon, Toby Keith, Lucinda Williams, Coldplay, Five for Fighting, Joshua Radin, Lady Antebellum, Toto, Fountains of Wayne, Howie Day, REM, Meatloaf, Shawn Mullins, Glenn Miller, Queen, and U2.
Friday, January 8, 2010
Back to the grind
As I mentioned, school starts on Monday. I'll be a little more pressed for time in getting my training runs in, but sometimes a routine helps me. I was in the my office today. I posted my training schedule and also my race plan for the spring above my desk. I am planning to do half marathons in April, June, August, and October--maybe more races, not sure. I am hoping that posting them in my office will force me to stay accountable.
I also put up a string of lights in the treadmill room and cleaned that up room a little. Tonight I burned a CD to use when I'm on the treadmill. It's almost 4 hours of music--should do me for a while. I am hoping I can make the treadmill a little more appealing until we get out of the extreme winter weather we are having. I've realized that I do better with music than with TV.
I've always struggled with treadmill running. Maybe these new strategies will help me out...I've got an 8 mile run tomorrow and I think it's going to be a treadmill run. That will be further than I've ever run on a treadmill before. I think the longest treadmill run I've ever done is about 6 miles. I'm not sure what sounds less appealing--running in my basement for an hour and half and going nowhere or running outside for an hour and a half and not being able to feel my face and extremities. I have a new rule for myself, however, and that's that I won't be running outside if there is a wind chill warning.
I had to give a speech at transfer student orientation today. I wanted to start by saying, "I know there are places colder than Cedar Falls, but the only one I can think of right now is hell." In the end, I wasn't sure it would go over well, so I didn't say it.
Ironically, after I gave in to the treadmill last night, I came upstairs to find my new issues of Runner's World. It had an article on treadmill running and how to fight boredom. It also talked a lot about how it can be great for parents. Kids can play nearby while mom or dad runs. There was also an article about winter running, and I was disappointed that Yaktrax were not mentioned. In my mind, you cannot mention winter running with mentioning Yaktrax. Have I mentioned that I love Yaktrax? Maybe the state government should give everyone who moves to Iowa a pair. I think we'd probably see about 25% less emergency room visits in the winter.
Speaking of half marathons (wasn't I speaking of half marathons at some point?), the April, June, and October ones are in Des Moines--keeping travel and cost to a minimum. August is a fun one in Chicago that Bill will be doing as well. There are also a couple of local ones (in Waterloo or Cedar Falls) that I don't have on my race calendar. One is the Sturgis Falls 1/2 and the other is the Park to Park 1/2. I may consider doing those...I don't have dates for them at this point. Of course, I could also do some local 10ks if I want to.
I'm thinking I'll not do any full marathons, but I'm not 100% sure and still have time to change my mind. It's not the full marathon that frightens me; it's getting injured doing the training. I've been there, and I swore I'd be smarter this time around.
I also have the option of triathlons. The cross-training involved is great for me, but the truth is that they sort of stress me out. When I go to a race that only includes running, I need my shoes and some weather appropriate gear. When I go to a triathlon, the list of stuff I need to remember is ridiculous--for swimming, biking, and running. There's the bike, any tools for the bike, the helmet, swimsuit, goggles, cycling shoes, running shoes... When you are getting ready to leave for a race at 4 in the morning, it's a little overwhelming. I'm not sure everyone feels that way, but I like just getting up and grabbing my shoes when I am headed to a race.
My husband, our friend Dan, and I did a triathlon as a team in September. I did the swim. It was nice to only have to focus on one of the events, rather than three. The cool thing about that was the swim is first, so I was finished and got to support the guys while they biked and ran. It was a half ironman (I am now trying to get Bill to do the whole thing by himself in 2010. I'm not sure if he'll do it.). I recommend the race that we did if you are interested in triathlons. It was in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, which is a beautiful area, close to the Illinois border. It reminded me a little of Lake Tahoe, if you can believe it. The half ironman was the longest tri they offered; they also had Olympic distance, sprint, and super sprint.
On the healthy eating front...I am making a soup in the crockpot. Here is my very simple recipe:
1 can of kidney beans (drained)
1 can of black beans (drained)
1 can of corn (drained)
1 can of tomatoes
1 can tomato paste
2 green peppers (chopped)
1 yellow pepper (chopped)
1 red pepper (chopped)
Dump all of this in your crockpot. I then added some garlic salt. (I think I may have added too much to this batch.) Another idea would be to add green beans. I didn't have any to add tonight but they'd be a good addition. Onions would work well, too. You really only need to cook it in your crockpot until the peppers soften up a little, but you can certainly leave it on low for 8-9 hours if you like. I'm trying a little in a mug right now--topped with fat free cheddar cheese. It's sort of a vegetarian chili, very colorful and very healthy. This would be the first time I've really cooked anything in quite some time. If this even counts as cooking...I used to make soup like this one the stove when I lived in Kansas City. However, once Bill moved in with me, I basically gave up cooking since he is so much better at it than I am.
Bill has made two soups this week: a white bean and sundried tomato soup and also a minestrone. Our idea is to have a bunch of individual frozen portions of soup that we can take to work. We don't meat, and it seems like many of the same ingredients go into each soup: particularly beans and veggies. I am hoping we are not all "souped" out in a couple of weeks. Soup goes a long way, and our soups are healthy and filling, so it is a good cost effective choice for us. So far, the new crockpot has been a great purchase.
I also put up a string of lights in the treadmill room and cleaned that up room a little. Tonight I burned a CD to use when I'm on the treadmill. It's almost 4 hours of music--should do me for a while. I am hoping I can make the treadmill a little more appealing until we get out of the extreme winter weather we are having. I've realized that I do better with music than with TV.
I've always struggled with treadmill running. Maybe these new strategies will help me out...I've got an 8 mile run tomorrow and I think it's going to be a treadmill run. That will be further than I've ever run on a treadmill before. I think the longest treadmill run I've ever done is about 6 miles. I'm not sure what sounds less appealing--running in my basement for an hour and half and going nowhere or running outside for an hour and a half and not being able to feel my face and extremities. I have a new rule for myself, however, and that's that I won't be running outside if there is a wind chill warning.
I had to give a speech at transfer student orientation today. I wanted to start by saying, "I know there are places colder than Cedar Falls, but the only one I can think of right now is hell." In the end, I wasn't sure it would go over well, so I didn't say it.
Ironically, after I gave in to the treadmill last night, I came upstairs to find my new issues of Runner's World. It had an article on treadmill running and how to fight boredom. It also talked a lot about how it can be great for parents. Kids can play nearby while mom or dad runs. There was also an article about winter running, and I was disappointed that Yaktrax were not mentioned. In my mind, you cannot mention winter running with mentioning Yaktrax. Have I mentioned that I love Yaktrax? Maybe the state government should give everyone who moves to Iowa a pair. I think we'd probably see about 25% less emergency room visits in the winter.
Speaking of half marathons (wasn't I speaking of half marathons at some point?), the April, June, and October ones are in Des Moines--keeping travel and cost to a minimum. August is a fun one in Chicago that Bill will be doing as well. There are also a couple of local ones (in Waterloo or Cedar Falls) that I don't have on my race calendar. One is the Sturgis Falls 1/2 and the other is the Park to Park 1/2. I may consider doing those...I don't have dates for them at this point. Of course, I could also do some local 10ks if I want to.
I'm thinking I'll not do any full marathons, but I'm not 100% sure and still have time to change my mind. It's not the full marathon that frightens me; it's getting injured doing the training. I've been there, and I swore I'd be smarter this time around.
I also have the option of triathlons. The cross-training involved is great for me, but the truth is that they sort of stress me out. When I go to a race that only includes running, I need my shoes and some weather appropriate gear. When I go to a triathlon, the list of stuff I need to remember is ridiculous--for swimming, biking, and running. There's the bike, any tools for the bike, the helmet, swimsuit, goggles, cycling shoes, running shoes... When you are getting ready to leave for a race at 4 in the morning, it's a little overwhelming. I'm not sure everyone feels that way, but I like just getting up and grabbing my shoes when I am headed to a race.
My husband, our friend Dan, and I did a triathlon as a team in September. I did the swim. It was nice to only have to focus on one of the events, rather than three. The cool thing about that was the swim is first, so I was finished and got to support the guys while they biked and ran. It was a half ironman (I am now trying to get Bill to do the whole thing by himself in 2010. I'm not sure if he'll do it.). I recommend the race that we did if you are interested in triathlons. It was in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin, which is a beautiful area, close to the Illinois border. It reminded me a little of Lake Tahoe, if you can believe it. The half ironman was the longest tri they offered; they also had Olympic distance, sprint, and super sprint.
On the healthy eating front...I am making a soup in the crockpot. Here is my very simple recipe:
1 can of kidney beans (drained)
1 can of black beans (drained)
1 can of corn (drained)
1 can of tomatoes
1 can tomato paste
2 green peppers (chopped)
1 yellow pepper (chopped)
1 red pepper (chopped)
Dump all of this in your crockpot. I then added some garlic salt. (I think I may have added too much to this batch.) Another idea would be to add green beans. I didn't have any to add tonight but they'd be a good addition. Onions would work well, too. You really only need to cook it in your crockpot until the peppers soften up a little, but you can certainly leave it on low for 8-9 hours if you like. I'm trying a little in a mug right now--topped with fat free cheddar cheese. It's sort of a vegetarian chili, very colorful and very healthy. This would be the first time I've really cooked anything in quite some time. If this even counts as cooking...I used to make soup like this one the stove when I lived in Kansas City. However, once Bill moved in with me, I basically gave up cooking since he is so much better at it than I am.
Bill has made two soups this week: a white bean and sundried tomato soup and also a minestrone. Our idea is to have a bunch of individual frozen portions of soup that we can take to work. We don't meat, and it seems like many of the same ingredients go into each soup: particularly beans and veggies. I am hoping we are not all "souped" out in a couple of weeks. Soup goes a long way, and our soups are healthy and filling, so it is a good cost effective choice for us. So far, the new crockpot has been a great purchase.
Thursday, January 7, 2010
The Dreadmill or "The Weather Wins!"
Ah, yes, the dreadmill. I gave in. For the first time this winter, I decided I wasn't going to run outside but rather venture down to a very scary place--our basement--for my run. Our basement is scary because it's unfinished and is home to more than one litterbox. It also grows cobwebs at an alarming rate. We have a nice enough treadmill that is about 5-6 years old. It doesn't get a lot of use because I am usually into running outside, but I jumped on it tonight for my 4 miles. We used to have a TV down there, but we don't anymore, so I turned up the music. It really wasn't so bad, and I admit that hesitantly. It was nice that it didn't take me 15-20 minutes to get on my appropriate winter attire, it was nice that my run didn't depend on how my neighbors had or hadn't shoveled, and it was nice that I didn't have to climb over any snow banks.
I should add that the reason I jumped on the treadmill tonight was that there is a windchill warning across the Midwest. The windchill is well below zero (I mean, like negative 20), and the wind is just whipping snow around. Yet, for some strange reason, I feel a bit of disappointed in myself that I didn't brave it. I know that's ridiculous. Yet, I don't like it when the weather sends me inside because it's like I let the weather win. Like I said, I know it's ridiculous. I'm not sure why I see myself in a battle with the weather in the first place.
I may be doing some of my long weekend runs on the treadmill if the weather doesn't change. I heard tomorrow's windchill is negative 30-35...Yes, below zero...I have 8 miles on Saturday, and it may be a dreadmill run. It certainly wouldn't be the end of the world. There are a few benefits...you can't slow down...you would fly off the back of the treadmill. So you gotta keep your pace. Also, you can create hills which is a great benefit when you live in Iowa and typically do flat runs. You can get off the treadmill if you need to use the restroom and you can keep your water bottle nearby without having to carry it. The risk of injury is decreased because it's a softer surface, and I don't have to worry about falling on ice. It also creates less laundry this time of year because I'm not having to wash the layers and layers of clothes I wear to run outside. And no one can see how fat my butt is in running tights (actually, I really don't care so that shouldn't count as an advantage). See? I am trying to be positive.
Of course, you also have to stare at the wall and tonight I ran for over 40 minutes--without going anywhere. I think it can be tougher mentally than running outside. I may work on making a few new CDs to play on treadmill days, if there are more to come...which there probably are. Tonight I actually ran with the lights off and only the light of the Miller High Life clock lighting the room. For some reason, this seemed more motivating. I can't explain it but it made me feel bad ass. Maybe if I put some Christmas lights down there....
I contacted the Garmin folks and sent them our Forerunner today. (Well, Bill actually packed up and sent the Forerunner. Thank you, Bill!) The good news is that we should be receiving a refurbished Garmin 7-12 days after they receive our Forerunner. I'm pleased with that. The place is in Olathe, Kansas, a suburb of Kansas City, Kansas, and very close to where Bill and I lived 4-5 years ago. I'm pretty excited that they got back to me and actually seemed sincere in saying they were sorry about the problem.
I should note something that I've been thinking about lately. An old friend from college died of cystic fibrosis. She was 31. I hadn't kept in touch with her consistenly, but my mother-in-law works with her parents, so I've known she's been ill. I knew she had CF in the first few minutes that I met her (when I asked her how she was lucky enough to have an AC unit in a building where they were not allowed and she told me that she had CF!!! Foot in mouth...) but she'd always seemed pretty healthy, all things considered. She got married a few years back and adopted a little girl. I remember her as someone who lived life to the fullest and wanted to experience every moment without holding back. She was well-liked on my dorm floor. Also, Dana was very social, wanted to be out doing things all the time (which I admired because it's unlike me). Even though we hadn't kept in touch in the last several years, I've thought about her death a lot and it's made me realize how so much of the stuff I get frustrated by is absolutely miniscule. It also reminded me a of a little girl who went to elementary and middle school with me, Jamey. Jamey was a really positive and bright little girl, and she passed away from CF when we were maybe in the 7th grade. It's sad that this disease takes so many lives...Dana made it much longer than many people with CF, but what's hard is that the disease took her after she had established herself as a wife and mother.
Tomorrow is Friday--my last day before my college students return! Of course I love breaks, but it will be good to get back in a routine.
I should add that the reason I jumped on the treadmill tonight was that there is a windchill warning across the Midwest. The windchill is well below zero (I mean, like negative 20), and the wind is just whipping snow around. Yet, for some strange reason, I feel a bit of disappointed in myself that I didn't brave it. I know that's ridiculous. Yet, I don't like it when the weather sends me inside because it's like I let the weather win. Like I said, I know it's ridiculous. I'm not sure why I see myself in a battle with the weather in the first place.
I may be doing some of my long weekend runs on the treadmill if the weather doesn't change. I heard tomorrow's windchill is negative 30-35...Yes, below zero...I have 8 miles on Saturday, and it may be a dreadmill run. It certainly wouldn't be the end of the world. There are a few benefits...you can't slow down...you would fly off the back of the treadmill. So you gotta keep your pace. Also, you can create hills which is a great benefit when you live in Iowa and typically do flat runs. You can get off the treadmill if you need to use the restroom and you can keep your water bottle nearby without having to carry it. The risk of injury is decreased because it's a softer surface, and I don't have to worry about falling on ice. It also creates less laundry this time of year because I'm not having to wash the layers and layers of clothes I wear to run outside. And no one can see how fat my butt is in running tights (actually, I really don't care so that shouldn't count as an advantage). See? I am trying to be positive.
Of course, you also have to stare at the wall and tonight I ran for over 40 minutes--without going anywhere. I think it can be tougher mentally than running outside. I may work on making a few new CDs to play on treadmill days, if there are more to come...which there probably are. Tonight I actually ran with the lights off and only the light of the Miller High Life clock lighting the room. For some reason, this seemed more motivating. I can't explain it but it made me feel bad ass. Maybe if I put some Christmas lights down there....
I contacted the Garmin folks and sent them our Forerunner today. (Well, Bill actually packed up and sent the Forerunner. Thank you, Bill!) The good news is that we should be receiving a refurbished Garmin 7-12 days after they receive our Forerunner. I'm pleased with that. The place is in Olathe, Kansas, a suburb of Kansas City, Kansas, and very close to where Bill and I lived 4-5 years ago. I'm pretty excited that they got back to me and actually seemed sincere in saying they were sorry about the problem.
I should note something that I've been thinking about lately. An old friend from college died of cystic fibrosis. She was 31. I hadn't kept in touch with her consistenly, but my mother-in-law works with her parents, so I've known she's been ill. I knew she had CF in the first few minutes that I met her (when I asked her how she was lucky enough to have an AC unit in a building where they were not allowed and she told me that she had CF!!! Foot in mouth...) but she'd always seemed pretty healthy, all things considered. She got married a few years back and adopted a little girl. I remember her as someone who lived life to the fullest and wanted to experience every moment without holding back. She was well-liked on my dorm floor. Also, Dana was very social, wanted to be out doing things all the time (which I admired because it's unlike me). Even though we hadn't kept in touch in the last several years, I've thought about her death a lot and it's made me realize how so much of the stuff I get frustrated by is absolutely miniscule. It also reminded me a of a little girl who went to elementary and middle school with me, Jamey. Jamey was a really positive and bright little girl, and she passed away from CF when we were maybe in the 7th grade. It's sad that this disease takes so many lives...Dana made it much longer than many people with CF, but what's hard is that the disease took her after she had established herself as a wife and mother.
Tomorrow is Friday--my last day before my college students return! Of course I love breaks, but it will be good to get back in a routine.
Wednesday, January 6, 2010
The holidays at our house
Karl is the big guy (English mastiff), Murphy is the little reddish guy, and Gus-Gus is black and white.
Today Sucks
The Garmin broke. A button fell off. I can't start the timer without a pin. I emailed the Garmin company and am awaiting the response of their customer service department. It's only about a month old, so I am not pleased.
It was 5 degrees when I started my run. I was supposed to go 5 miles on a tempo run but only went 4. I can't really blame that on the weather. It's not like I was completely freezing. I just wasn't feeling it. I was already in a bad mood because the Garmin was busted, and was just suffering from an overall bad attitude. I'm not sure if I'm getting sick as well. Last night my stomach wasn't doing too well, but I thought that was because I spent part of day in the air on the way home from New Mexico. So those are all of my excuses...Tomorrow is an easy 4 mile run.
In good news, we got a crock pot. Bill made some fantastic soup for dinner, and we have plenty to freeze and eat later! This is a good thing for me. I've been a little (or a lot) out of control with my eating. Hopefully the crock pot will provide some new, fun, and healthy options. I realized this weekend that I've put on some weight. I don't weigh myself often, so I'm not sure if this has just been very gradual or what. Doesn't matter, need to get it under control. And I will! When I get back to work next week, I can get into a healthy routine. Of course, it's a little easier when the holidays are over. I know how much better I feel what I eat what I should be eating; I need to keep reminding myself of this when I am tempted to eat ridiculous amounts of junk food. I have cut back significantly on soda recently, and I know that's made a big difference in how I feel--maybe because it forces me to drink more water and Crystal Light instead. I also don't take in nearly as much caffeine as I used to. When I do have caffeine now, it's almost like taking speed. I'm all over the place. It's not a bad tool to have in my arsenal for when I can't get going or need to motivate myself for a run.
It was 5 degrees when I started my run. I was supposed to go 5 miles on a tempo run but only went 4. I can't really blame that on the weather. It's not like I was completely freezing. I just wasn't feeling it. I was already in a bad mood because the Garmin was busted, and was just suffering from an overall bad attitude. I'm not sure if I'm getting sick as well. Last night my stomach wasn't doing too well, but I thought that was because I spent part of day in the air on the way home from New Mexico. So those are all of my excuses...Tomorrow is an easy 4 mile run.
In good news, we got a crock pot. Bill made some fantastic soup for dinner, and we have plenty to freeze and eat later! This is a good thing for me. I've been a little (or a lot) out of control with my eating. Hopefully the crock pot will provide some new, fun, and healthy options. I realized this weekend that I've put on some weight. I don't weigh myself often, so I'm not sure if this has just been very gradual or what. Doesn't matter, need to get it under control. And I will! When I get back to work next week, I can get into a healthy routine. Of course, it's a little easier when the holidays are over. I know how much better I feel what I eat what I should be eating; I need to keep reminding myself of this when I am tempted to eat ridiculous amounts of junk food. I have cut back significantly on soda recently, and I know that's made a big difference in how I feel--maybe because it forces me to drink more water and Crystal Light instead. I also don't take in nearly as much caffeine as I used to. When I do have caffeine now, it's almost like taking speed. I'm all over the place. It's not a bad tool to have in my arsenal for when I can't get going or need to motivate myself for a run.
Sunday, January 3, 2010
Hello from New Mexico
Hello from beautiful New Mexico! I am visiting my mom here for the weekend. Yesterday I did a 7 mile run--for the first time in a long time I got to run without Yaktrax and gators. It was a little cool when I started (maybe 25 degrees) but warmed up quickly. I took Lucy, my mom's Wheaten terrier mix, on the 1st 4.5 miles, and Thompson, my mom's shepherd mix, on the next 2.5 miles. They both tired; Lucy much more slowly than Thompson! It was a nice run. I hardly felt like I did 7 miles. Legs felt great the rest of the day. According to my training plan, I had a day off today, and I'll do 3 miles easy tomorrow. Not sure if I'll take a dog or not. I fly home late tomorrow afternoon. It's cold back in Iowa. I mean, cold. We are talking negative 10 without the wind chill.
One more week off before classes start for spring (I'm a college professor). Then I'll have to start packing my running clothes and running from work in the afternoons. I love my breaks, but a part of me always yearns for a routine. I feel a little blah without it. Unfortunately, it appears for the next several weeks those runs will continue to be very cold. I'd prefer more reasonable weather, but I'm trying not to let it keep me inside. Obviously, I have access to plenty of treadmills and ellipticals, but I have trouble getting motivated to run inside--even more trouble than I have getting motivated to run when it's zero degrees! I never thought I'd say that. I've become a much more hearty winter woman recently--I'm proud to say. I guess it's part of being a Midwesterner. Or maybe it has to do with my sudden obsession with buying winter gear.
I bought a new 3/4 zip technical shirt today at Eddie Bauer that I'll use for running. It's incredibly soft and I think it will feel great against my skin. I'll probably try it out tomorrow. My mom bought one for Bill as well. I'll be excited to see what he thinks. They were about $34--with 30% off today. Had them in crewneck and hoodies as well.
One more week off before classes start for spring (I'm a college professor). Then I'll have to start packing my running clothes and running from work in the afternoons. I love my breaks, but a part of me always yearns for a routine. I feel a little blah without it. Unfortunately, it appears for the next several weeks those runs will continue to be very cold. I'd prefer more reasonable weather, but I'm trying not to let it keep me inside. Obviously, I have access to plenty of treadmills and ellipticals, but I have trouble getting motivated to run inside--even more trouble than I have getting motivated to run when it's zero degrees! I never thought I'd say that. I've become a much more hearty winter woman recently--I'm proud to say. I guess it's part of being a Midwesterner. Or maybe it has to do with my sudden obsession with buying winter gear.
I bought a new 3/4 zip technical shirt today at Eddie Bauer that I'll use for running. It's incredibly soft and I think it will feel great against my skin. I'll probably try it out tomorrow. My mom bought one for Bill as well. I'll be excited to see what he thinks. They were about $34--with 30% off today. Had them in crewneck and hoodies as well.
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)