I was actually dreading this event as I haven't been running as frequently as I used to and I've put on a few pounds (oops!). But I managed to finish the race and felt pretty OK all the way around despite the sweltering heat. Some poor guy actually died just before the finish line. He was only 25. There were a lot of seriously out of shape people running that race and way too many walkers. What are they thinking!
Anyway, my official time was 1:38:41, which was in the top third of women and my age group. (This is the same as my Garmin time, but my Garmin distance was 10:17 mile. My actual 10 mile time was 1:37:20, but I guess everyone was in the same boat). I was pleased with that as it was faster then the Garden of the Gods 10 which I finished in 1:45, but that was very hilly. DH ran 1:30, which was the same as his GOG time. He doesn't like the heat.
So I have been busy sorting out our new house and looking for jobs. I've had a couple of interviews and it looks like one will result in a job. So I'm going to have to get back into work mode pretty soon. There is a shuttle bus from right outside our door to the metro, which will make commuting very easy.
We haven't made it to a hash yet as we have been busy with other things, including exploring all the running and biking trails. Ironically almost everywhere we have been we have seen fresh hash markings! That must be a sign to get our asses to the hash.
"I Like Your Boobs" was in town the other weekend and we met up with him for an evening of drinkling and dancing in Clarendon. It was good to see old friends.
Wednesday, October 10, 2007
Wednesday, August 22, 2007
WHY MEN ARE NOT SECRETARIES...
Husband's note on the refrigerator to his wife:"Someone from the Gyna Colleges called. They said the Pabst beer is normal. When did you start drinking beer?"
Thursday, August 16, 2007
If anyone is interested....
I'm still alive!!
We made it over to DC and after some intense house hunting we found a nice town house in a cool developement called Cameron Station in Alexandria. It has a pool, gym, basketball court which also has aerobic/weights/yoga classes, two large parks and it is right on one of the many bike trails through Alexandria. We don't close until Sept 24 so I am stuck out at Ft Belvoir for 6 weeks. Dh started work yesterday so I guess I no longer have an excuse for not looking for a new job. Fortunately there are quite a few possibilities. I just hate filling in job application forms. Time to put the BS brain cells into use again.
We made it over to DC and after some intense house hunting we found a nice town house in a cool developement called Cameron Station in Alexandria. It has a pool, gym, basketball court which also has aerobic/weights/yoga classes, two large parks and it is right on one of the many bike trails through Alexandria. We don't close until Sept 24 so I am stuck out at Ft Belvoir for 6 weeks. Dh started work yesterday so I guess I no longer have an excuse for not looking for a new job. Fortunately there are quite a few possibilities. I just hate filling in job application forms. Time to put the BS brain cells into use again.
Tuesday, July 24, 2007
At last an update!!
I am still in the UK and haven't had much time to email. My sister has dial-up which makes for slow progress! Return to US on Saturday. Having a great time. The weather totally sucks. There has been massive flooding here. Went over to France for a few days which was wonderul and warmer. Great to see family and old friends.
And before I left Colorado Springs I did manage to climb Pikes Peak for the first time. It was hard work but rewarding to have completed it. Fortunately the weather was perfect all day.
And before I left Colorado Springs I did manage to climb Pikes Peak for the first time. It was hard work but rewarding to have completed it. Fortunately the weather was perfect all day.
Monday, June 18, 2007
Weekend activities
Friday night was the PMS hash with the ladies. It was great fun and thanks for everyone who showed up to wish me bon voyage. We met up with the guys later on at the Thirsty Parrot. DH was very drunk so we headed home at about 11.
Then up bright and early on Saturday to do the Sailin' Shoes 10k at 7am downtown. DH wanted to bail as he felt terrible. I reminded him that it was his idea to do the 10k (I was going to opt for the 5k) and he who had suggested to me that I should pace myself with the drinking on Friday night!! Anyway we crawled out of bed and made it to the race. The irony is that when we started running DH felt fine and I started to feel terrible. Thankfully he ran with me and pushed me all the way otherwise I think I may have quit. A mini sprint at the end to beat a girl I knew and a time of 56:45 ish. 2 and a half minutes slower than last year but no bad with the hangover from hell. My quads were killing me afterwards. As that doesn't usually happen with a 10k I assume they are still shot from last weeks 10 miler in GoG. Anyway, that is my last race now for several months until the Army 10 miler in October. Yippee!!
Saturday was spent recovering and sleeping. I didn't even have the energy for the hash or going to The Famous on Saturday night. Sunday we cleared out the basement. Fun!
Then up bright and early on Saturday to do the Sailin' Shoes 10k at 7am downtown. DH wanted to bail as he felt terrible. I reminded him that it was his idea to do the 10k (I was going to opt for the 5k) and he who had suggested to me that I should pace myself with the drinking on Friday night!! Anyway we crawled out of bed and made it to the race. The irony is that when we started running DH felt fine and I started to feel terrible. Thankfully he ran with me and pushed me all the way otherwise I think I may have quit. A mini sprint at the end to beat a girl I knew and a time of 56:45 ish. 2 and a half minutes slower than last year but no bad with the hangover from hell. My quads were killing me afterwards. As that doesn't usually happen with a 10k I assume they are still shot from last weeks 10 miler in GoG. Anyway, that is my last race now for several months until the Army 10 miler in October. Yippee!!
Saturday was spent recovering and sleeping. I didn't even have the energy for the hash or going to The Famous on Saturday night. Sunday we cleared out the basement. Fun!
Monday, June 11, 2007
The post-race analysis
Oooooouuuucccchhh!
My time was 1:44:53. I'm disappointed on one-hand that my time was not as fast as I would have liked but on the other hand I am just pleased I finished. The first 5 miles went well, then next 2 were OK and then I died over the last 3. I was walking all of the hills after that. I really haven't done any hill training, not even the incline or any mountain hikes, and that took its toll on my legs. I know it was a poor performance because there were people I have been beating easily all year that ran 4-5mins faster than me!!
DH did a great run, finishing in 1:30:35.
At least I know I will be able to do the Army 10 miler in October without too much trouble!! Roll on Washinton DC - no more hills!!!
My time was 1:44:53. I'm disappointed on one-hand that my time was not as fast as I would have liked but on the other hand I am just pleased I finished. The first 5 miles went well, then next 2 were OK and then I died over the last 3. I was walking all of the hills after that. I really haven't done any hill training, not even the incline or any mountain hikes, and that took its toll on my legs. I know it was a poor performance because there were people I have been beating easily all year that ran 4-5mins faster than me!!
DH did a great run, finishing in 1:30:35.
At least I know I will be able to do the Army 10 miler in October without too much trouble!! Roll on Washinton DC - no more hills!!!
Thursday, June 7, 2007
The pre-race analysis
I have just registered for the Garden of the Gods 10 mile run on Sunday.
I am dreading it for a number of reasons:
1. I have never run that far before.
2. I hate hills.
3. I thought it was on Saturday but it's on Sunday, so I have to re-psych myself.
4. It starts at 7am; I am NOT a morning person especially where running is concerned.
5. Did I mention, I HATE hills.
It is certainly going to be a challenge for me. I ran 9 minute miles for the 5 mile race and while I would like to maintain that pace over the 10 mile course I think that may be optimistic. I definitely want to finish under 1:40 and provided I don't get any unexpected injuries, that should be possible.
On the upside I now have a very cool long sleeve tech shirt to add to my collection. This one I will keep and not ship off to ARC as I do with all my other race shirts.
Wish me luck!
I am dreading it for a number of reasons:
1. I have never run that far before.
2. I hate hills.
3. I thought it was on Saturday but it's on Sunday, so I have to re-psych myself.
4. It starts at 7am; I am NOT a morning person especially where running is concerned.
5. Did I mention, I HATE hills.
It is certainly going to be a challenge for me. I ran 9 minute miles for the 5 mile race and while I would like to maintain that pace over the 10 mile course I think that may be optimistic. I definitely want to finish under 1:40 and provided I don't get any unexpected injuries, that should be possible.
On the upside I now have a very cool long sleeve tech shirt to add to my collection. This one I will keep and not ship off to ARC as I do with all my other race shirts.
Wish me luck!
Tuesday, June 5, 2007
Back in blogland
I thought it was about time I wrote something. I've lost the bloging bug just recently, mainly because I am pretty busy at work as I am into my last three weeks and also I haven't really been doing that much of interest to write about
Saturday we went to Testiclees wedding. It was a fun and very drunken affair up in Woodland Park.
On Sunday we ran 8 miles in training for the Garden of the Gods 10 mile race on Saturday. I did a particualry non-sepactular time of 1:21. I was majorly hungover however and thought I wouldn't make the last 2 miles without puking. But I survived and feel that I can complete the 10 mile run, hopefully in sub 10 minute miles.
So now I am resting from running until Saturday. As it is a beautiflu day today, a long bike ride tonight may be on the cards.
Saturday we went to Testiclees wedding. It was a fun and very drunken affair up in Woodland Park.
On Sunday we ran 8 miles in training for the Garden of the Gods 10 mile race on Saturday. I did a particualry non-sepactular time of 1:21. I was majorly hungover however and thought I wouldn't make the last 2 miles without puking. But I survived and feel that I can complete the 10 mile run, hopefully in sub 10 minute miles.
So now I am resting from running until Saturday. As it is a beautiflu day today, a long bike ride tonight may be on the cards.
Thursday, May 24, 2007
Wednesday, May 23, 2007
In response to Brownies derogatory comment about "soccer", I would like to respond as follows:
Football, to give it its correct name, is by far the most superior sport for a number of reasons:
1. The players do not have to wear ridiculous skin tight knickers or knee length shorts - you actually get to see their sexy legs.
2. They do not wear helmets or shoulder pads as they are not gay or stuck in the 80s.
3. They are physically fit and can actually play for a 45 minute period without having to take a break. And they play for another 45 mins. And sometimes extra time.
4. The clock doesn't stop every time play stops so you know exactly how long the game will last and you don't get any annoying tactical plays in the last 30 seconds of the game.
5. Its name of football is justly deserved as 95% of contact with the ball is with the foot. IT IS NOT CALLED SOCCER.
6. The football assoication was founded in 1863 in England. Was America even a country then? Anywho, I think we own the term.
7. The Football World cup is actually a competition between different countries all around the world. Now isn't that a novel concept. Where the heck did baseball get off with calling their stupid competiton the World Series?
8. Finally it is by far the most popular sport in the whole wide world.
Nuf said.
Football, to give it its correct name, is by far the most superior sport for a number of reasons:
1. The players do not have to wear ridiculous skin tight knickers or knee length shorts - you actually get to see their sexy legs.
2. They do not wear helmets or shoulder pads as they are not gay or stuck in the 80s.
3. They are physically fit and can actually play for a 45 minute period without having to take a break. And they play for another 45 mins. And sometimes extra time.
4. The clock doesn't stop every time play stops so you know exactly how long the game will last and you don't get any annoying tactical plays in the last 30 seconds of the game.
5. Its name of football is justly deserved as 95% of contact with the ball is with the foot. IT IS NOT CALLED SOCCER.
6. The football assoication was founded in 1863 in England. Was America even a country then? Anywho, I think we own the term.
7. The Football World cup is actually a competition between different countries all around the world. Now isn't that a novel concept. Where the heck did baseball get off with calling their stupid competiton the World Series?
8. Finally it is by far the most popular sport in the whole wide world.
Nuf said.
Go LIVERPOOOOOOOOOOOL!!!!
Today is the final of the European Champions League and my team are in the final against AC Milan. It's on ESPN at 12:30pm, but I am going to McCabes to watch it tonight at 5:00pm. So don't tell me the result!
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
Running shoe recommendation.
While I have previously extolled the virtues of my Nike Air Max 360's (see below), on Friday I bought a new pair of running shoes. I went up to Colorado Running Cub with the intention of replacing my 360's but with half a size bigger as they are a bit tight and make my feet go numb when I run (not good). When I got there I noticed they had the Nike Triax 10 which I had read about in Runners World. These are designed especially for women, narrower in the heel, wider in the front and with a special 'roll' on the heel to account for the fact that women's hips are generally wider then men's. Hopefully this will cure my knee problems! Also the extra width is more comfortable. While the 360s have excellent cushioning they are very narrow (and I don't have particularly wide feet). Other benefits of the Triax 10 is the extra stability, which is good for someone prone to sprained ankles, and the better then average grip for a road running shoe, which means they can double as trail shoes as well (no point buying new trail running shoes now that I am moving to DC!). They are also light weight and very breathable and only $90, compared to the $160 price tag of the 360's!
I ran on Sunday and Monday in my new shoes and they didn't hurt one bit, which is very unusual, as new shoes usually take a while to break in and I will get a bit of foot cramp initially.
Anyway, if your interested, check out the Nike Triax 10 running shoes here. (I just noticed that they also come in narrow and wide fitting).
I ran on Sunday and Monday in my new shoes and they didn't hurt one bit, which is very unusual, as new shoes usually take a while to break in and I will get a bit of foot cramp initially.
Anyway, if your interested, check out the Nike Triax 10 running shoes here. (I just noticed that they also come in narrow and wide fitting).
Monday, May 14, 2007
What is a budgie?
In answer to @ssgaggers question "what the F is a budgie" (on NHW's blog), courtesy of Wikepedia:
The Budgerigar (Melopsittacus undulatus, nicknamed budgie), the only species in the Australian genus Melopsittacus, is a small parrot belonging to the tribe of the broad-tailed parrots (Platycercini); these are sometimes considered a subfamily (Platycercinae). In the latter case, the budgerigar is sometimes isolated in a tribe of its own, the Melopsittacini, although it is probably quite closely related to Pezoporus and Neophema.[2] Though budgerigars are often called parakeets, especially in American English, this term refers to any of a number of small parrots with long flat tails. The budgerigar is found throughout the drier parts of Australia and has survived in the inlands of that continent for over 5 million years.[3]
The Budgerigar (Melopsittacus undulatus, nicknamed budgie), the only species in the Australian genus Melopsittacus, is a small parrot belonging to the tribe of the broad-tailed parrots (Platycercini); these are sometimes considered a subfamily (Platycercinae). In the latter case, the budgerigar is sometimes isolated in a tribe of its own, the Melopsittacini, although it is probably quite closely related to Pezoporus and Neophema.[2] Though budgerigars are often called parakeets, especially in American English, this term refers to any of a number of small parrots with long flat tails. The budgerigar is found throughout the drier parts of Australia and has survived in the inlands of that continent for over 5 million years.[3]
Tuesday, May 8, 2007
Just for Dani....
An update to my blog to keep Dani happy.
Something interesting:
As you asked, these are the running shoes I use. If you go to the Nike web site you can customize your shoes with any color combination you like. It's fun to play with but cheaper to get them from Colorado Running Co.
http://nikeid.nike.com/nikeid/index.jhtml?sitesrc=uslanding#pdp,running,_6169724d61783336304949303730315f77,female
[BTW: how do you compress the hyperlink into one word like everyone else seems to be able to do except me!]
Something funny (and seasonal):
What did the hurricane say to the palm tree?
"Hold on to your nuts baby this is no ordinary blow job!"
Tee! Hee! That joke must be 30 years old but I still love it.
Something interesting:
As you asked, these are the running shoes I use. If you go to the Nike web site you can customize your shoes with any color combination you like. It's fun to play with but cheaper to get them from Colorado Running Co.
http://nikeid.nike.com/nikeid/index.jhtml?sitesrc=uslanding#pdp,running,_6169724d61783336304949303730315f77,female
[BTW: how do you compress the hyperlink into one word like everyone else seems to be able to do except me!]
Something funny (and seasonal):
What did the hurricane say to the palm tree?
"Hold on to your nuts baby this is no ordinary blow job!"
Tee! Hee! That joke must be 30 years old but I still love it.
Monday, May 7, 2007
Garden of the Gods 5 miler
I ran this race on Saturday and was a little disappointed with my performance. Last year I ran it in 44:58 and was determined to beat my time this year. Last year I also won the Athena category and wanted a repeat. According to my Garmin I ran 45:00, but my official time was 45:06. What is really frustrating is that I had to stop to tie my shoe laces and that few seconds could have made all the difference!! I also came second in the Athena category by about 30 seconds. There are a couple of turns in the race and I could see my competitor for the Athena title but I just didn't have any extra umph to catch her. I felt I was running harder then last year, but obviously not. I seem to run better when DH runs the race as well as he pushes me to start hard, whereas this time I took it pretty easy on the first hill. Being about 4 lbs heavier this year probably didn't help either!!
Ironically I did better overall and in my age group this year then last. Overall 41/166 (45/133 in 06) and age group 8/26 (12/35 in 06).
It was still a great race and the rain stayed away until after we had finished.
Then it was on-on to the stinko de mayo hash which was lots of fun and I was sorry to have to leave early for a very boring retirement party.
Ironically I did better overall and in my age group this year then last. Overall 41/166 (45/133 in 06) and age group 8/26 (12/35 in 06).
It was still a great race and the rain stayed away until after we had finished.
Then it was on-on to the stinko de mayo hash which was lots of fun and I was sorry to have to leave early for a very boring retirement party.
Thursday, May 3, 2007
Wednesday, May 2, 2007
Going home....
Booked my flight back to the UK for the summer. Headed out on July 2 and returning on July 28. That pretty much sets our moving itinerary (see left). I'm excited about going home and seeing friends and family. I haven't seen mum for 3 years and she's getting old now (78?) so it will be good to see that she's doing OK. Also looking forward to reliving my regular Friday nights out 'down the local' with my friend Amanda.
We are also going to go across to France & Holland to retrace my father's wartime footsteps. Maybe I'll find one of his mortar shells (he was mortar platoon commander). Of course we will also do a little wine tasting along the way as well!!
We are also going to go across to France & Holland to retrace my father's wartime footsteps. Maybe I'll find one of his mortar shells (he was mortar platoon commander). Of course we will also do a little wine tasting along the way as well!!
Hashing again.
I went to the DIM hash on Monday. My first hash in 5 months. DH is doing an exercise for three weeks plus having to complete his research paper for his MA by Friday. So this means I get to go out and play a bit more. He's actually being pretty cool about it. Hopefully I will also make it out to the hash on Saturday.
The DIM was great as always. By far my favorite hash. I ran an extra half mile just to avoid the water crossing. I made out it was because I didn't want to turn my sore ankle on the rocks but it was really because I had my good, expensive running shoes on as I had forgoten my hashing shoes!
I also went to Jack Quinns last night after a couple of weeks abscence and did an easy 5k in the rain.
The DIM was great as always. By far my favorite hash. I ran an extra half mile just to avoid the water crossing. I made out it was because I didn't want to turn my sore ankle on the rocks but it was really because I had my good, expensive running shoes on as I had forgoten my hashing shoes!
I also went to Jack Quinns last night after a couple of weeks abscence and did an easy 5k in the rain.
Monday, April 30, 2007
Wooo-freakin'-hoooooooo!!!!
What a fantastic weekend in Fruita. The party started Thursday night with a VIP party with free beer (Belgium brewery) , free food and a band so bad it was entertaining. If you like mountain biking and you've never been to Fruita you are missing out on the best trails ever. Much better then Moab in my humble opinion as there is much more variety in trail terrain, length and location. It's also not as far as Moab and not as hot, a perfect 80f all weekend.
There are 5 main areas with a bunch of trails in each. We hit three of them, a different one each day. The first involved a long climb up a very technical ridge - Moore Fun Trail. This is a grade 5 trail (i.e. most difficult). And I confess I had to get off a few times, especially near the top. But I was the only girl that we saw on this trail so I deserve kudos for that. The next day we did Zippity Doo Daa (grade 4) which was a very exposed rolling relatively unobstructed trail. I got a little freaked at a couple of points as it went along a ridge that fell away both sides. I do not have a great head for heights so I just focused on the trail. There were a few very steep down hill sections which I wimped out on. Even DH didn't attempt one and we nearly lost Testiclees as he slid sideways down the hill. Again, I was the only girl on this trail. After that we did another ride which was less technical but very scenic and the down hill return was like a rollercoaster with banks and bumps. Too much fun. I could do that one every day. Final day we hit an area near Grand Junction on the way home. We did Andy's /Ribbon trail (grade 3/4) which was beautiful but very tough with a long technical uphill slog which we all did hike-a-bike on for a while. There was even one bit where we had to carry/lift our bikes up a cliff. I wouldn't have managed it alone as I need both hand just to climb the darn thing (no other girls doing this bit either!!).
There are 5 main areas with a bunch of trails in each. We hit three of them, a different one each day. The first involved a long climb up a very technical ridge - Moore Fun Trail. This is a grade 5 trail (i.e. most difficult). And I confess I had to get off a few times, especially near the top. But I was the only girl that we saw on this trail so I deserve kudos for that. The next day we did Zippity Doo Daa (grade 4) which was a very exposed rolling relatively unobstructed trail. I got a little freaked at a couple of points as it went along a ridge that fell away both sides. I do not have a great head for heights so I just focused on the trail. There were a few very steep down hill sections which I wimped out on. Even DH didn't attempt one and we nearly lost Testiclees as he slid sideways down the hill. Again, I was the only girl on this trail. After that we did another ride which was less technical but very scenic and the down hill return was like a rollercoaster with banks and bumps. Too much fun. I could do that one every day. Final day we hit an area near Grand Junction on the way home. We did Andy's /Ribbon trail (grade 3/4) which was beautiful but very tough with a long technical uphill slog which we all did hike-a-bike on for a while. There was even one bit where we had to carry/lift our bikes up a cliff. I wouldn't have managed it alone as I need both hand just to climb the darn thing (no other girls doing this bit either!!).
Great bands every night (except the first!!) and lots of good beer. Other then a few scrapes and bruises no serious injuries. I twisted my ankle when I slipped off the ramp going into a bar (yes, i had been drinking!).
Here's a photo of me and DH at the top of Moore Fun Trail.
And here's me tackling Andy's Trail.
Tuesday, April 24, 2007
On my way to DC
It's official, we move to DC in the summer. DH has his orders and starts his new posting on August 15. We are going to Go to UK /Europe for July and then head out to DC when we return.
So we will be leaving the Springs at the end of June; not decided on the exact date yet. I told my boss yesterday to give them plenty of notice as I have a HUGE workload right now.
I have mixed feelings. I will miss the beauty of Colorado and the friends I have made but I am really excited about getting back to a more cosmopolitan environment and finding a kick-ass job.
Monday, April 23, 2007
Yey...it's mountain biking season!
Got out on my mountain bike at the weekend for the first time this year (other then biking to work, but that doesn't count). We hit Ute Valley Park which I know pretty well, although some of the terrain had changed due to erosion from the bad weather. At first I was a little hesitant and had to get off a couple of times for obstacles/ 3ft drop. But we did a second loop and having got my balance and confidence back I flew around no problems. Out again tonight. Getting in training for the Fruita Fat Tire festival this weekend. It's going to be in the 80s. This will be more bearable then the 95-100f temps we had in Moab last May! I'm so excited!!!
Dani, you still going?
Dani, you still going?
Friday, April 20, 2007
Back from Philly
Had a great time in Philly. The weather sucked but it didn't stop us from partying hard. A few bars I remember - Independence Brew Pub, Monks, McKillans, Jons, some Irish bar and others. We went to a couple of receptions hosted by consultants where the booze & snacks were free. Most nights we got to bed at 1:30-2:30am and missed the morning sessions at the conference. I went on a mobile tour to Atlantic City and won $50 in the 5 minutes we had to go play. Did lots of sight seeing and ate a Philly Chicken Cheese Steak. Philly reminds me of Leeds where I used to live and work, especially with all the rain! And yes, I did the run up the "Rocky" steps. There really aren't that many steps and it's not steep. I'd like to have seen Rocky run up the steps to the Sacre Coeur in Paris!
A few photos below. As you can see Brownie managed to make his mark in Philly.
A few photos below. As you can see Brownie managed to make his mark in Philly.
Wednesday, April 11, 2007
Philadelphia here I come...
I am going to Philly on Saturday for the American Planning Association National Conference, returning Wednesday next week. The weather forecast is shitty, but that doesn't matter too much as I intend to spend most of my time either in the conference or in a bar. Talking of which, can anyone recommend any good bars in downtown Philly. We are staying at The Sheraton and we are going for Happy Hour with the Colorado contingent at The Independence Pub on Saturday night. Fortunately I am going with my friend Mike, who is about the only other person in our Department who can drink like a fish. Also, I am taking my running gear, so some suggested safe running routes would be welcome.
Thursday, April 5, 2007
A Christmas Story
The guy who directed A Christmas Story and co-directed Porkies (apparently based on his school experiences in the 50s) was killed together with his 22 year old son in a head-on car crash on the pacific highway. He was 67. I didn't catch his name. The driver of the other car had minor injuries and apparently was DUI and driving on the wrong side of the road. Tragedy.
Tuesday, April 3, 2007
Another dead-ringer for NBN
Just saw the above poster on the vacant building on the corner of Tejon & Colorado. I think he looks just like NBN.
If your going to Jack Quinns tonight or just happen to be passing, check it out!!
Monday, April 2, 2007
A relaxing weekend
It was nice to have a weekend where there was no pressure to go anywhere or do anything I didn't want to. Friday night after work we were going to go to the movies but instead went out for happy hour with my work colleagues as it was one of the guys 40th birthday. We also crashed a retirement party for someone at work at the Thirsty Parrot.
On Saturday morning I went to the gym for my usual hour and a half gruelling cardio class. When I got home DH persuaded me to go out for a run around the bluffs. The sun was shining so I couldn't say no. In the afternoon I went shopping, one of my favorite pastimes, and picked up a couple of cool pieces from Express. Then to the Commissary for food and home to watch the final four. Later we went to The Famous for wine & snacks and good music. They didn't bill us for 2 glasses of wine and a salad, so it was a relatively cheap night!!
Sunday, a lazy morning then out for a 2 hour bike ride around Manitou Springs, downtown then back home. We then sat outside in the 70f sunshine and proceeded to drink our way through 3 bottles of wine, plus beer and v&t.
Bliss.
On Saturday morning I went to the gym for my usual hour and a half gruelling cardio class. When I got home DH persuaded me to go out for a run around the bluffs. The sun was shining so I couldn't say no. In the afternoon I went shopping, one of my favorite pastimes, and picked up a couple of cool pieces from Express. Then to the Commissary for food and home to watch the final four. Later we went to The Famous for wine & snacks and good music. They didn't bill us for 2 glasses of wine and a salad, so it was a relatively cheap night!!
Sunday, a lazy morning then out for a 2 hour bike ride around Manitou Springs, downtown then back home. We then sat outside in the 70f sunshine and proceeded to drink our way through 3 bottles of wine, plus beer and v&t.
Bliss.
Wednesday, March 28, 2007
Just call me Athena, the Warrior Goddess
I just picked up my award for the first place Athena in the St Pats Day 5k. So I now have a glass shamrock-shaped plaque and a $20 certificate for Runners Roost. Eventually the award will end up in the box with all my old volleyball trophies but for the time being it is taking pride of place on my desk at work.
I not only won the Athena, but I won it quite convincingly by 1:30 over the woman who came first last year!! Whooooyaaahhh!
My next goal is to keep my Athena title for the Ggarden of the Gods 5 mile race in May, which I won last year. I didn't bother to pick up my award last year, which I kinda regret now!!
I not only won the Athena, but I won it quite convincingly by 1:30 over the woman who came first last year!! Whooooyaaahhh!
My next goal is to keep my Athena title for the Ggarden of the Gods 5 mile race in May, which I won last year. I didn't bother to pick up my award last year, which I kinda regret now!!
Monday, March 26, 2007
Yes, I am alive....
Although there were times last week I didn't think I would make it! After the St Pats Day 5k I was hit by the flu which started with avengence on Sunday afternoon. I was off work all week and only started feeling vaguely human on Friday. I caught the flu from DH who started with it the day before the race, hence his personal worst of 32 mins!!
We still went skiing this weekend as the room was already booked and I wasn't going to sacrifice $400!! We had a pretty good time, especially on Sunday as there was 9 inches of new snow at A-Basin (my favorite place to ski).
I am going to run at lunch, which will be the first time since the 5k. I was going to do the Platte River half marathon on Saturday but I am going to pass on that as I know I'm not up to it.
We still went skiing this weekend as the room was already booked and I wasn't going to sacrifice $400!! We had a pretty good time, especially on Sunday as there was 9 inches of new snow at A-Basin (my favorite place to ski).
I am going to run at lunch, which will be the first time since the 5k. I was going to do the Platte River half marathon on Saturday but I am going to pass on that as I know I'm not up to it.
Saturday, March 17, 2007
Personal best...
My results for the St Pats Day 5k, according to my Garmin, 25:30 over a distance of 3.14 miles. As I crossed the finish line the clock read 25:40 so that will be the official time, but that doesn't take into account how far back in the field you start.
I am sooooo happy with that result. Resting up for the last 3 days certainly paid off.
I don't know how I did in the Athena class yet but will post it as soon as the results are out.
Now I am going back into town for the parade and to drink lots of beer!!
Next goal - sub 25 mins.
I am sooooo happy with that result. Resting up for the last 3 days certainly paid off.
I don't know how I did in the Athena class yet but will post it as soon as the results are out.
Now I am going back into town for the parade and to drink lots of beer!!
Next goal - sub 25 mins.
Friday, March 16, 2007
5k on St Patricks Day
My goals for the 5k tomorrow are:
1. To run under 26 mins (last year I ran 26:01).
2. To win the Athena Class (last year I came second and was 20 secs off the winner).
I have been running much more then last year but I am currently 4 lbs heavier then I was last year which may take it's toll. On Tuesday night at Jack Quinn's I ran 5k in 26:30. I was running hard but did have a little more in me, plus my legs were aching from 3 consecutive days running. So I have not run since Tuesday to rest my legs (although I have biked to work, done a muscles class and played basketball!!). But hopefully my running muscles will be rested on Saturday and I can achieve my goals.
Good luck to Brownie in his Zeb Pike marathon tomorrow and also to Dani in her first half marathon with no training. Girl, I always thought you were crazy, now I know it for sure!!
1. To run under 26 mins (last year I ran 26:01).
2. To win the Athena Class (last year I came second and was 20 secs off the winner).
I have been running much more then last year but I am currently 4 lbs heavier then I was last year which may take it's toll. On Tuesday night at Jack Quinn's I ran 5k in 26:30. I was running hard but did have a little more in me, plus my legs were aching from 3 consecutive days running. So I have not run since Tuesday to rest my legs (although I have biked to work, done a muscles class and played basketball!!). But hopefully my running muscles will be rested on Saturday and I can achieve my goals.
Good luck to Brownie in his Zeb Pike marathon tomorrow and also to Dani in her first half marathon with no training. Girl, I always thought you were crazy, now I know it for sure!!
Monday, March 12, 2007
Saturday
After my gruelling skiing weekend last week, I was determined to have a relaxing weekend so I started off with 1 1/2 hours of an intense cardio class at the gym followed by an hour of yoga (which for me is more exhausting then the cardio as I'm not very flexible). So by the time I got home at 11:45 I was ready to collapse. But I eventually found enough energy to go to the shops and spend some money!!
On Saturday night we went to The Famous. This is becoming a regular haunt for us, despite being stupidly expensive. Ken who plays the piano knows us and plays my requests (usually Joe Jackson) and Craig the bar man knows my tipple (Penfold Shiraz - which is OK but is also the cheapest wine on the list!!!). We rarely eat there as the portions are ginormous. If we do we either share an entree or just get appetizers, which is what we did on Saturday.
We also saw Drill n Fill, a hasher friend who we hadn't seen for a while. He is recovering from his split with Clit Eatswood, after 6 years together. He seemed in pretty good spirits and we had a few drinks together.
Altogether an very enjoyable evening.
On Saturday night we went to The Famous. This is becoming a regular haunt for us, despite being stupidly expensive. Ken who plays the piano knows us and plays my requests (usually Joe Jackson) and Craig the bar man knows my tipple (Penfold Shiraz - which is OK but is also the cheapest wine on the list!!!). We rarely eat there as the portions are ginormous. If we do we either share an entree or just get appetizers, which is what we did on Saturday.
We also saw Drill n Fill, a hasher friend who we hadn't seen for a while. He is recovering from his split with Clit Eatswood, after 6 years together. He seemed in pretty good spirits and we had a few drinks together.
Altogether an very enjoyable evening.
GPS test
I went for a run yesterday on the Sante Fe trail from Woodmen Road north. I decided to test the accuracy of my Garmin Forerunner as I have been doubting its integrity.
I ran out on the trail exactly 3.5 miles. The trail is pretty straight, just a few bends here and there. I turned around and ran back the same way and when i got back to the car the GPS read 7 miles exactly. So it seems it is pretty accurate in itself.
I also thought I would test it against an external measure. On this trail there are mile markers so I checked my mileage at the first marker - 4.03m and then at the second mile marker - 5.01m. So a little off the actual mileage (maybe due to a windy section) but close enough for me!
I ran the first 2.5 miles with DH but he was not feeling well (full of cold) so we ran very slow. Eventually I took off and met him back at the car. As a result my overall time was slow. I ran the first 3.5 miles in 39 mins and the complete 7 miles in 1hr 14 mins. At least I ran the second half 4 mins faster but still a slow run. But the weather was fantastic and I really enjoyed just taking it easy.
I ran out on the trail exactly 3.5 miles. The trail is pretty straight, just a few bends here and there. I turned around and ran back the same way and when i got back to the car the GPS read 7 miles exactly. So it seems it is pretty accurate in itself.
I also thought I would test it against an external measure. On this trail there are mile markers so I checked my mileage at the first marker - 4.03m and then at the second mile marker - 5.01m. So a little off the actual mileage (maybe due to a windy section) but close enough for me!
I ran the first 2.5 miles with DH but he was not feeling well (full of cold) so we ran very slow. Eventually I took off and met him back at the car. As a result my overall time was slow. I ran the first 3.5 miles in 39 mins and the complete 7 miles in 1hr 14 mins. At least I ran the second half 4 mins faster but still a slow run. But the weather was fantastic and I really enjoyed just taking it easy.
Thursday, March 8, 2007
Biking again...
So I biked to work this morning after about a 3 month hiatus due to the crapola weather we have been having. It meant getting up a bit earlier and then trying to remember what I needed to take with me. Having got out of my regular routine that took quite a while especially as I was still half asleep.
As always, it was a very refreshing 10 mile ride. It was a bit chilly at 30f and as my morning journey is downhill it felt much colder. I had forgotten how much I enjoy biking to work as I feel so much more alive when I get into the office. It is actually the perfect commute - downhill on the way to work so I don't get all hot & sweaty and uphill on the way home so I can get in a good work out.
Going to run at lunchtime as well.
Feeling very virtuous today!
As always, it was a very refreshing 10 mile ride. It was a bit chilly at 30f and as my morning journey is downhill it felt much colder. I had forgotten how much I enjoy biking to work as I feel so much more alive when I get into the office. It is actually the perfect commute - downhill on the way to work so I don't get all hot & sweaty and uphill on the way home so I can get in a good work out.
Going to run at lunchtime as well.
Feeling very virtuous today!
Tuesday, March 6, 2007
Ski Weekend
Well, much to my surprise I had a great weekend. The brother-in-law was bearable. Since his wife walked out on him in October he has been having therapy which has significantly improved his demeanor. No longer an old grouch!
It was freezing cold on Saturday but the snow conditions were excellent. Sunday and Monday were toasty warm. Skied Breck again Sunday and then over to Keystone on Monday. My knees are killing me today as I was hitting the moguls a lot. I like mogul runs as it gives me an excuse to go slow! But 3 days intense skiing (8:30am-4:00pm with half an hour for lunch) is a lot for me and my body is sore today.
On Saturday night I stayed out with my 24 yr old nephew-in-law(?) at The Gold Pan which is my favorite bar in Breck. There was a great band playing and I downed about 8 whiskey shots! That was after drinking several vodka & tonics and lots of red wine with dinner. My head hurt the next day.
A fun weekend and despite being sore today I plan to run at lunchtime (long & slow) and tonight at Jack Quinn's (short & fast). It's such a beautiful day today. Yey!
It was freezing cold on Saturday but the snow conditions were excellent. Sunday and Monday were toasty warm. Skied Breck again Sunday and then over to Keystone on Monday. My knees are killing me today as I was hitting the moguls a lot. I like mogul runs as it gives me an excuse to go slow! But 3 days intense skiing (8:30am-4:00pm with half an hour for lunch) is a lot for me and my body is sore today.
On Saturday night I stayed out with my 24 yr old nephew-in-law(?) at The Gold Pan which is my favorite bar in Breck. There was a great band playing and I downed about 8 whiskey shots! That was after drinking several vodka & tonics and lots of red wine with dinner. My head hurt the next day.
A fun weekend and despite being sore today I plan to run at lunchtime (long & slow) and tonight at Jack Quinn's (short & fast). It's such a beautiful day today. Yey!
Friday, March 2, 2007
Thursday, March 1, 2007
Are you in good hands?
A wealthy hospital benefactor was being shown around the hospital when during her tour she passed a room where a male patient was masturbating furiously."Oh my GOD!!" screamed the woman, "That's disgraceful!!! Why is he doing that?". The doctor who was leading the tour calmly explained, "I'm very sorry that you were exposed to that, but this man has a serious condition where his testicles rapidly fill with semen, and if he doesn't do that at least five times a day, he'll be in extreme pain and his testicles could easily rupture"."Oh well, in that case, I guess it's ok," commented the woman. In the very next room, a male patient was lying in bed and it was obvious that a nurse was performing oral sex on him. Again, the woman screamed, "Oh my GOD!! How can THAT be justified?" Again the doctor spoke very calmly, "Same illness, better health plan."
Wednesday, February 28, 2007
Jack Quinns
It was good to get down to Jack Quinn's last night after a couple of weeks absence. Great to see the hashers. I ran pretty hard with DH and I timed myself for the first time on this run. Quite pleased with my 26:02. Only got passed by 3 girls (much younger then me!!). Unfortunately my GPS didn't pick up a signal in time so I didn't clock the distance. I think it was a little less then a full 5k. I'm a bit peeved with my GPS as it takes for ever to get a signal. Maybe that's the disadvantage of buying the cheapest model (Garmin 101). Does anyone who has a better model have the same problem?
Tuesday, February 27, 2007
So what day of the week is it?
I sometimes differ from others about how to refer to days of the week.
To put in context, I refer to the week we are currently in as "this week", the week to follow as "next week" and the week just past as "last week". With me so far?
So, for example, if I wanted to refer to Friday of this week (i.e. 3/2/07) I would say "this Friday", Friday of next week would be "next Friday" and Friday of last week would be "last Friday". Still following?
Now that seems perfectly logical to me. However, others will refer to Friday of this week as "next Friday" because chronologically it is the next Friday in the calendar. I can't really fault that logic either.
You can see how this may cause a problem. I say to my friend "let's do lunch next Friday" and we turn up on different days.
So I was just curious to know what YOU would say. Is my logic totally out of kilter with the way everyone else thinks or is this a common difference in approach?
To put in context, I refer to the week we are currently in as "this week", the week to follow as "next week" and the week just past as "last week". With me so far?
So, for example, if I wanted to refer to Friday of this week (i.e. 3/2/07) I would say "this Friday", Friday of next week would be "next Friday" and Friday of last week would be "last Friday". Still following?
Now that seems perfectly logical to me. However, others will refer to Friday of this week as "next Friday" because chronologically it is the next Friday in the calendar. I can't really fault that logic either.
You can see how this may cause a problem. I say to my friend "let's do lunch next Friday" and we turn up on different days.
So I was just curious to know what YOU would say. Is my logic totally out of kilter with the way everyone else thinks or is this a common difference in approach?
Monday, February 26, 2007
So it is a beautiful sunny day, 50f - perfect conditions for a run you might think. Well that's what I thought too until I got outside and a gale force wind nearly knocked me off my feet. But I persevered and still did my run although I cut it shorter then normal, about 3.5 miles (I say about as I forgot to replace the batteries in my Garmin). It was hard work on the way out - uphill (slightly) and into the wind. But on the way back I was cruisin' !!
The anticipated elation at having a warm shower was short lived. It was barely warm at best. Actually I seem to recall that pre-broken boiler days the water wasn't particularly warm either. Heaven forbid they should provide us with hot water so that someone may scald themselves and sue the City. Sheesh!
The anticipated elation at having a warm shower was short lived. It was barely warm at best. Actually I seem to recall that pre-broken boiler days the water wasn't particularly warm either. Heaven forbid they should provide us with hot water so that someone may scald themselves and sue the City. Sheesh!
Halleluhah!!!
I just went to the bathroom at work and washed my hands with warm water. Yipeeeeee!!!!
What's the big deal, I hear you say?
Well, we have been without hot water at work since mid December. The boiler broke down and they had to order a new one (from Peru!). The boiler arrived sometime at the end of January but it was the wrong one! Anywho, on Friday I saw the new boiler had arrived as there was quite a debacle as they tried to get it into the elevator to take it down to the basement.
The reason for my ecstasy is that now when I go for my lunchtime run I will be able to have a warm shower, not a freezing cold one as has been the case for the past couple of months.
What's the big deal, I hear you say?
Well, we have been without hot water at work since mid December. The boiler broke down and they had to order a new one (from Peru!). The boiler arrived sometime at the end of January but it was the wrong one! Anywho, on Friday I saw the new boiler had arrived as there was quite a debacle as they tried to get it into the elevator to take it down to the basement.
The reason for my ecstasy is that now when I go for my lunchtime run I will be able to have a warm shower, not a freezing cold one as has been the case for the past couple of months.
Friday, February 23, 2007
A kid or a dog?
Dh & I have often talked about having a kid. Apart from the fact I think I am too old, I'm not sure I would cope well with the lifestyle change. The alternative maybe is to get a dog but I am not really a dog lover so I don't think that is the answer either.
So I am looking for some help in making my decision. Maybe some photos of the endearing creatures would help....
Aghhhh!! Is that what I would have to deal with? Now I'm scared, really scared. I am such a tidy freak (typical virgo). I need your help. Please vote in my poll.
So I am looking for some help in making my decision. Maybe some photos of the endearing creatures would help....
Aghhhh!! Is that what I would have to deal with? Now I'm scared, really scared. I am such a tidy freak (typical virgo). I need your help. Please vote in my poll.
Tuesday, February 20, 2007
Running in circles?
Just ran 5 miles in 46:27, which is 9:17 min miles. I felt like I ran really hard but I am disappointed that I can't seem to consistently break the 9 min mark. Last May I did the Garden of the Gods 5 mile run in 44:58 and won the athena class. That was a tough run as there were a few big hills but I guess they were compensated for by the long downhills which I hit hard. But with all the running I have been doing I should be getting better, not worse!! That's what turning 40 does for you!!
Back from CA.
Great weekend in CA. Temps in the 80s. Fortunately trip to Disneyworld was cancelled. Did a couple of long runs which counter-acted some of the alcohol/food excesses. Hung out by the pool and got a bit of color back in my cheeks. Almost felt like a real vacation. Went to a party at UCI which made me feel really old. Oh to be 21 again (NOT!!!).
Thursday, February 15, 2007
California here I come.....
Well tomorrow morning we are heading out to Newport Beach for a long weekend. It is DH niece's 21st birthday. I am particularly looking forward to the warmer weather. The forecast is mid 70s but with the possibility of some rain. I plan to get in a long run around the bay and enjoy the sea level air. There is also a track near their house so I may try some speed work.
Typically, SIL has an itinerary which much to my horror includes a trip to Disneyworld. I told DH that I absolutely do NOT want to go. But of course he hasn't bothered to mention this to his sister so I will have to deal with that when i get there. Disneyworld is my idea of a living hell screaming kids, junk food, tacky gimmicks, people wearing stupid costumes, screaming kids, rides (I don't do rides as I am happy to admit they absolutely terrify me), crowds of people, lines for everything, oh, and did I mention the screaming kids. I'm not really sure why Disneyworld is even on the itinerary - of the 9 people in the family party, there is one child of 12 who has probably been a million times.
The rest of the weekend should be fun. I get on pretty well with his family. the party is likely to be a blast because all of Laura's college friends will be there. Plus Garret, the rather cute 25 yr old nephew, will take us to the fun party places.
Typically, SIL has an itinerary which much to my horror includes a trip to Disneyworld. I told DH that I absolutely do NOT want to go. But of course he hasn't bothered to mention this to his sister so I will have to deal with that when i get there. Disneyworld is my idea of a living hell screaming kids, junk food, tacky gimmicks, people wearing stupid costumes, screaming kids, rides (I don't do rides as I am happy to admit they absolutely terrify me), crowds of people, lines for everything, oh, and did I mention the screaming kids. I'm not really sure why Disneyworld is even on the itinerary - of the 9 people in the family party, there is one child of 12 who has probably been a million times.
The rest of the weekend should be fun. I get on pretty well with his family. the party is likely to be a blast because all of Laura's college friends will be there. Plus Garret, the rather cute 25 yr old nephew, will take us to the fun party places.
Wednesday, February 14, 2007
So, it's Valentines Day.....
The things that have annoyed me thus far:
1. If one more person wishes me "Happy Valentines Day" I will scream. I am not YOUR Valentine. The only person who is entitled to say Happy Valentines Day to me is DH (which he did in the nicest possible way!). Agh!
2. It is not a holiday so don't ask me "so how's your Valentines Day going". Aghhh!!!!
3. Yet again Americans find an excuse to eat, eat, eat. Our office has cake, donuts, bagels, chocolates - all heart-shaped of course. Aghhhhhh!!
4. My friend ( a particularly flaky example of a female), after she had wished me Happy Valentines Day (agh!), asked me what we are doing tonight. I replied dusting off the vinyl bustier, crotchless panties, cat-o-nine-tails and handcuffs (I couldn't find a policewomans outfit) and taking DH to heaven and back! After she had finished blushing, she said that she and her BF were going to see a movie. I recommended Notes on a Scandal, but she said she wanted somthing more romantic, not a film about lesbians. So she said she was going to see the new Hugh Grant film (yuuuukkkkk!!) where he plays a rock star. Now she and her BF are very good musicians/singers and she said she was hoping the film would inspire them to write new songs. My reply: "If Hugh Grant is your inspiration for writing new songs, I'd hang up your guitar for good, right now"!
5. Same friend gives me a pair of size 6 jeans that don't fit her anymore to see if I want them. Kind gesture and I am very pleased that they fit very comfortably as I am a size 8. However, said friend is 5'3". I am 5'7". So needless to say they were too short, plus they were high-waisted "granny pants".
6. Same friend has JUST come in to tell me she went to Victoria's Secret and bought some "sexy" lingerie with hearts on it. I had heard about VS "sexy lingerie" reputation before I moved here and just had to laugh when I saw what they had to offer. It's nearly all plain molded cup stuff, of the same boring design and with hardly any lace (or other sexy materials) in sight. Stuff you can get in the mall in the UK you have to go "adult" shops for here.
Sheesh, I'm grouchy today.
I am going for a long run which will hopefully improve my mood.
I AM looking forward to tonight though!!!!
1. If one more person wishes me "Happy Valentines Day" I will scream. I am not YOUR Valentine. The only person who is entitled to say Happy Valentines Day to me is DH (which he did in the nicest possible way!). Agh!
2. It is not a holiday so don't ask me "so how's your Valentines Day going". Aghhh!!!!
3. Yet again Americans find an excuse to eat, eat, eat. Our office has cake, donuts, bagels, chocolates - all heart-shaped of course. Aghhhhhh!!
4. My friend ( a particularly flaky example of a female), after she had wished me Happy Valentines Day (agh!), asked me what we are doing tonight. I replied dusting off the vinyl bustier, crotchless panties, cat-o-nine-tails and handcuffs (I couldn't find a policewomans outfit) and taking DH to heaven and back! After she had finished blushing, she said that she and her BF were going to see a movie. I recommended Notes on a Scandal, but she said she wanted somthing more romantic, not a film about lesbians. So she said she was going to see the new Hugh Grant film (yuuuukkkkk!!) where he plays a rock star. Now she and her BF are very good musicians/singers and she said she was hoping the film would inspire them to write new songs. My reply: "If Hugh Grant is your inspiration for writing new songs, I'd hang up your guitar for good, right now"!
5. Same friend gives me a pair of size 6 jeans that don't fit her anymore to see if I want them. Kind gesture and I am very pleased that they fit very comfortably as I am a size 8. However, said friend is 5'3". I am 5'7". So needless to say they were too short, plus they were high-waisted "granny pants".
6. Same friend has JUST come in to tell me she went to Victoria's Secret and bought some "sexy" lingerie with hearts on it. I had heard about VS "sexy lingerie" reputation before I moved here and just had to laugh when I saw what they had to offer. It's nearly all plain molded cup stuff, of the same boring design and with hardly any lace (or other sexy materials) in sight. Stuff you can get in the mall in the UK you have to go "adult" shops for here.
Sheesh, I'm grouchy today.
I am going for a long run which will hopefully improve my mood.
I AM looking forward to tonight though!!!!
Tuesday, February 13, 2007
It's official....
I am well and truly sick of this crapola Colorado weather. This is my 3rd winter here and by far the worse. Previously there has been the odd cold day and the odd snow blizzard, interspersed with glorious 50/60f sunny days. But not his year. It's just been cold, cold, cold and snow, snow, snow.
I just walked back from my spin class at the gym and it was freezing. I thought my ears were going to drop off and now I have ear ache. It is 18f but "feels like" 6f with the wind chill. It is steadily snowing also. DH just called me and it was a unanimous decision to boycott JQs run tonight. I have run in worse conditions so I am not a wus, just really getting tried of this cold miserable weather.
Come back UK, all is forgiven. I'd trade your drizzly, foggy, not so cold climate for this any day!
I'll drink for whining when I get home.
I just walked back from my spin class at the gym and it was freezing. I thought my ears were going to drop off and now I have ear ache. It is 18f but "feels like" 6f with the wind chill. It is steadily snowing also. DH just called me and it was a unanimous decision to boycott JQs run tonight. I have run in worse conditions so I am not a wus, just really getting tried of this cold miserable weather.
Come back UK, all is forgiven. I'd trade your drizzly, foggy, not so cold climate for this any day!
I'll drink for whining when I get home.
Monday, February 12, 2007
Oh, the pain...
This was me at the end of the race. You can see the pain in my face!! Why do I do this to myself?
I'm hanging up my running shoes!
I was really disappointed with my performance at my race on Saturday. The weather was great but the ground conditions sucked. There was between 6-12 inches of soft snow for about 70% of the trail and it was very difficult to run on. I am always very hesitant over uneven terrain as I have weak ankles and sprain them very easily. My legs felt like lead from the outset and my recurring sciatica reared itself so that for the first 3 miles my left leg was completely numb. The one saving grace is that they cut the run short as they couldn't get any further down the trail due to the snow. So my 10 mile run turned into 7 miles, much to my relief, as I contemplated turning around more than once. Fortunately, on the return leg I started to feel better, possibly because it was slightly downhill. I spotted ahead of me a girl who had past me earlier who I had "weighed up" as an Athena competitor. I made it my goal to pass her, which I did on one of the few unsnowy stretches of trail and finished 38 seconds ahead. That gave me second place in the Athena category, although a good 7 mins behind the winner! My final time was 1:15. A slow pace but I was just pleased to finish. I have resigned myself to a life of short road races!!
And yes, I have already drunk considerably for whining. Saturday night at the Famous drowning my misery with copious amounts of red wine.
The highlight of the weekend was a good long bike ride yesterday on a glorious Colorado winter day at 51f.
And yes, I have already drunk considerably for whining. Saturday night at the Famous drowning my misery with copious amounts of red wine.
The highlight of the weekend was a good long bike ride yesterday on a glorious Colorado winter day at 51f.
Friday, February 9, 2007
My first big race...
I have what I consider to be my first big race tomorrow. I have done a bunch of 5 and 10ks and even a 7+mile cross country run. But the race tomorrow is 10 miles and that's the furthest I have ever run (other than hashes but they con't count). It is an out and back along a quality trail, gradual uphill on the way out and downhill back. My goal is to complete it in an hour and a half which will be 9 min miles. Now I have my garmin I should be able to keep better track of my pace. I actually aim to stay under 9 min miles on the way out, so that on the way back I may be able to up my pace as its downhill.
My other goal is to win the Athena class. This is for women who weigh over 150lbs, which much to my annoyance I still do, and I affectionately call it the Fat Lass Class. I actually think it should be based on your BMI, as 150lbs at 5'2 is way different to 150lbs at 5'10. Being an average 5'7 I usually fair pretty well. I won this class a couple of times last year and came second twice as well. The problem is I spend half my time on the run literally "weighing" up my opposition!!!
As I have the day off work, I was going to go and check the trail conditions to see if I need my Yaktrax. Anyway, I decided not only is that a bit anal, but I have better things to do, like shopping!! The weather forecast for tomorrow is cloudy, 38f (feels like 33f). Fortunately the snow is likely to hold off until later in the evneing. For me that is perfect conditions because I like running when its cooler.
So wish me luck!!
My other goal is to win the Athena class. This is for women who weigh over 150lbs, which much to my annoyance I still do, and I affectionately call it the Fat Lass Class. I actually think it should be based on your BMI, as 150lbs at 5'2 is way different to 150lbs at 5'10. Being an average 5'7 I usually fair pretty well. I won this class a couple of times last year and came second twice as well. The problem is I spend half my time on the run literally "weighing" up my opposition!!!
As I have the day off work, I was going to go and check the trail conditions to see if I need my Yaktrax. Anyway, I decided not only is that a bit anal, but I have better things to do, like shopping!! The weather forecast for tomorrow is cloudy, 38f (feels like 33f). Fortunately the snow is likely to hold off until later in the evneing. For me that is perfect conditions because I like running when its cooler.
So wish me luck!!
Thursday, February 8, 2007
Garmin has arrived
Yipee!! I just checked my Amazon account and my Garmin Forerunner has arrived. So now have no excuse not to improve my running time and I am all set for my 10 mile race on Saturday.
I forgot to mention that I played 2 hours of baskeball last night. It is the first time I have played in a long time and I was very rusty. It's just a recreational thing with a few guys from work. I made 3 outside shots and 1 lay-up (I fluffed 2 lay-ups but they resulted in points as one of my team mates followed me up the court and tipped it in). Not spectacular scoring but this needs to be put in the context of (a) I'm the shortest player so could only really shoot from way outside which is not my strongest point (fast breaks and lay-ups were my strong point in the day but clearly I need to work on that!) (b) I was only one of 2 girls, the other girl being a 6' former college player so, yes, I felt a bit intimidated and (c) I'm British - we don't DO basketball!!
It's a great work out though and lots of fun and should be good for improving my speed.
I forgot to mention that I played 2 hours of baskeball last night. It is the first time I have played in a long time and I was very rusty. It's just a recreational thing with a few guys from work. I made 3 outside shots and 1 lay-up (I fluffed 2 lay-ups but they resulted in points as one of my team mates followed me up the court and tipped it in). Not spectacular scoring but this needs to be put in the context of (a) I'm the shortest player so could only really shoot from way outside which is not my strongest point (fast breaks and lay-ups were my strong point in the day but clearly I need to work on that!) (b) I was only one of 2 girls, the other girl being a 6' former college player so, yes, I felt a bit intimidated and (c) I'm British - we don't DO basketball!!
It's a great work out though and lots of fun and should be good for improving my speed.
Fartlek
Early today I was reading Late Nite Drive Thru's blog and she was talking about fartlekking. This is a form of training where you do short sprints during your normal run and then recover at your normal running speed. So I thought I would try this during my lunchtime run. I didn't begin until I was down on the trail, which comprises about 3 out of the 4 miles of my run. For ease I will refer to the sprint as the fart (as I have visions of farting and then being jet propelled to run faster) and the recovery the lek. On the outward leg of my run I was farting for 30 seconds with a 2 min lek. On the return leg, as I was getting a bit tired, I extended the lek to 3 mins. However, my last fart I managed to squeeze out for a whole minute and then I just continued my recovery run back to the office. All in all, I think I did about 8 farts. Doing this actually made my "normal" running pace seem easy. I don't know what pace Ii was actually running but I think around 8:45 for the lek and under 7:30 for the fart ( I base this on the fastest mile I have run recently which was 7:30). So my aim is to do this once a week and hopefully my running speed will improve.
I hope when I get home that my Garmin forerunner will have arrived (ordered from Amazon monday) so I will know for sure what pace I am running.
I hope when I get home that my Garmin forerunner will have arrived (ordered from Amazon monday) so I will know for sure what pace I am running.
"The fog on the Tyne is all mine, all mine, the fog on the Tyne is all mine..
It is foggy this morning in Colorado Springs, which bought back happy memories of the UK. I haven't been back since I moved here in May '04. Our plan is to make a trip this summer, assuming DH gets reassigned to DC, then we can take a month or so off as I will be finishing my job anyway.
The fog here of course is nothing like we would get in the UK. I remember several occasions driving somewhere and not being able to see the road signs, car lights or even the curb. It was an adventure, although it would take forever to get anywhere. The term "pea soup fog" is not exaggerated.
It also reminds me of one particular hash trail. Every year at the end of January Yorkshire H3 would have its AGPU (Annual General Piss Up). We would book a hotel out in the sticks where the running terrain was excellent. The trail on Saturday was traditionally long, about 10 miles. One year (1996 I think) I volunteered to lay that trail together with Burglar Bill. We started at a trail head and finished at a village rugby club, going over hill and vale in between. When we lay the trail in the morning it was just cold & a little icy. When the pack came to run the trail however, the fog had set in and there was one point where the trail went randomly across a field and it was impossible to find the trail because the fog was so thick. Eventually we had to lead the hashers to safety (at YH3 the hares lay the trail and then go around the trail at the back of the pack to make sure no-one gets lost). (The other thing we used to do on these weekends was bus people to the start and back to the hotel, which meant you could get into some really good terrain. I'm always surprised that they don't do that here!).
I just went out for coffee and it seemed like it was trying to snow. That wasn't in the forecast. Please, no more snow!!
The fog here of course is nothing like we would get in the UK. I remember several occasions driving somewhere and not being able to see the road signs, car lights or even the curb. It was an adventure, although it would take forever to get anywhere. The term "pea soup fog" is not exaggerated.
It also reminds me of one particular hash trail. Every year at the end of January Yorkshire H3 would have its AGPU (Annual General Piss Up). We would book a hotel out in the sticks where the running terrain was excellent. The trail on Saturday was traditionally long, about 10 miles. One year (1996 I think) I volunteered to lay that trail together with Burglar Bill. We started at a trail head and finished at a village rugby club, going over hill and vale in between. When we lay the trail in the morning it was just cold & a little icy. When the pack came to run the trail however, the fog had set in and there was one point where the trail went randomly across a field and it was impossible to find the trail because the fog was so thick. Eventually we had to lead the hashers to safety (at YH3 the hares lay the trail and then go around the trail at the back of the pack to make sure no-one gets lost). (The other thing we used to do on these weekends was bus people to the start and back to the hotel, which meant you could get into some really good terrain. I'm always surprised that they don't do that here!).
I just went out for coffee and it seemed like it was trying to snow. That wasn't in the forecast. Please, no more snow!!
Tuesday, February 6, 2007
You spin right round baby right round...
Well despite the beautiful weather here today, I decided not to run at lunchtime as I will be running tonight at Jack Quinn's, and when I've done a double before I suffer the next day. So instead I decided to do a spin class at the gym. It was not my first spin class. I did one once before when I had sprained my ankle (hashing) and couldn't run. Needless to say, the spinning wasn't too easy with a sprained ankle either so it wasn't the best experience. Anyway the class today rocked. I can't remember the last time I have sweated so much and my heart rate was way up there. At one point my legs felt like jelly but I just kept pushing myself harder. I will definitely be doing that again. Probably on Tuesdays when I don't have City Council meetings and maybe on Sunday mornings as there is a 90 min class at my local gym.
I also saw Broken Rubber working his ass on the elliptical.
I also saw Broken Rubber working his ass on the elliptical.
Monday, February 5, 2007
Mud, mud, glorious mud...
So I went for a 4 mile run at lunchtime, thinking I would take it easy after my 8 miler yesterday. On the return leg I hooked up with Steve from City Engineering and ran back with him. Well this guy recently did an iron man triathlon so needless to say he kicked my butt. I was puffing and panting when I finished. The trail is a bit wet & muddy now the snow is starting to melt, so everyone on the trail (including Steve) was pussy footing around to avoid getting dirty. I, of course, just ran through the middle splashing myself and everyone in my vicinity. Steve asked if I am a masochist I said "no, I'm a hasher"!!
Weekend activities
I had a kick-ass double work out at the gym on Saturday. A few of us did the double session and I was the only one still full of energy at the end of the second. Put the younger chicks to shame!
Yesterday I decided that I must do a long run if I had any chance of completing my 10 mile race next Saturday. So DH & I headed out on the Santa Fe trail from Woodmen Road towards the airforce academy. After checking the map we figured that the air force academy north entrance was a little over 4 miles, so an out and back would be 8 + miles. The weather was good, sunny, about 40f and no wind. The trail looked in good shape so I decided not to wear my yaktrax. That was a big mistake. A few yards into the trail revealed that it was still very snow and ice packed with some areas of deep snow and some lethal icy areas. Anyway, I persevered, leaving DH behind along the way. I made it to the north entrance, turned around and eventually caught up with DH who had turned around early. We ran together for a while but then I went passed him and finished a couple of minutes ahead. My total time was approx 1hr 12mins which is pretty good going given the conditions and the fact that was the furthest I have run ever!
Finished the weekend by going to a superbowl party at my friend Mike's house. Much fun, booze and food had by all.
Yesterday I decided that I must do a long run if I had any chance of completing my 10 mile race next Saturday. So DH & I headed out on the Santa Fe trail from Woodmen Road towards the airforce academy. After checking the map we figured that the air force academy north entrance was a little over 4 miles, so an out and back would be 8 + miles. The weather was good, sunny, about 40f and no wind. The trail looked in good shape so I decided not to wear my yaktrax. That was a big mistake. A few yards into the trail revealed that it was still very snow and ice packed with some areas of deep snow and some lethal icy areas. Anyway, I persevered, leaving DH behind along the way. I made it to the north entrance, turned around and eventually caught up with DH who had turned around early. We ran together for a while but then I went passed him and finished a couple of minutes ahead. My total time was approx 1hr 12mins which is pretty good going given the conditions and the fact that was the furthest I have run ever!
Finished the weekend by going to a superbowl party at my friend Mike's house. Much fun, booze and food had by all.
Friday, February 2, 2007
Well I was going to go to my friend Cherry Picker's birthday celebrations last night at the Bristol Brewing Co. But I had a few things to do after work and by the time I was done it was 7pm and the weather was crappy so we just went out for dinner at Marigolds, our superb local restaurant. I drank lots of wine!
I did run yesterday and felt pretty good. I will give it a miss today because it is very cold, -4f right now. I am going to the gym instead to my turbo kick class which is so much fun. I have a couple of classes in the morning - hour of power & cardio express. Then sometime over the weekend I intend to do a longish run, about 8 miles. I need to do this in preparation for the 10 mile winter series run the following weekend. My aim for that is sub 9 minute miles which should be very doable as it is not really cross-country (which slows me down considerably), just up and down the Santa Fe trail.
Tonight I think we are going to the movies to see Notes on a Scandal.
Have a great weekend.....
I did run yesterday and felt pretty good. I will give it a miss today because it is very cold, -4f right now. I am going to the gym instead to my turbo kick class which is so much fun. I have a couple of classes in the morning - hour of power & cardio express. Then sometime over the weekend I intend to do a longish run, about 8 miles. I need to do this in preparation for the 10 mile winter series run the following weekend. My aim for that is sub 9 minute miles which should be very doable as it is not really cross-country (which slows me down considerably), just up and down the Santa Fe trail.
Tonight I think we are going to the movies to see Notes on a Scandal.
Have a great weekend.....
Thursday, February 1, 2007
Happy February!
So my blog has entered the land of sucksville as I haven't updated it for a week.
My ski weekend was fun. I did take a lesson which will hopefully help me improve. I was totally exhausted at the end of each day because I did a full day of hard skiing (mainly moguls) . Drank lots of beer and wine and vodka. Good times.
The rest of my week has been a bit of a blur. I went in for a colonoscopy on Wednesday. Monday was spent dreading it. Tuesday was spent preparing for it (which involves fasting and taking stuff to flush out the intestines - nice!!). The actual procedure itself was straight forward and as I was under general anaesthetic I don't remember a thing. It's the first time I have had any type of operation and the first time I have been under general anesthetic. It was all very uneventful. The nurse warned me that I would be sleeping all afternoon, have amnesia, feel groggy, etc. but I felt fine and just laid on the couch watching TV all afternoon. The only negative effect was feeling a bit weak from the absence of food and a bit depressed from the absence of alcohol (2 whole days). The results were negative so it was worth the hassle. And I lost 2lbs!!
As a result of the above I have done little running this week. I managed a quick 5k on Monday and hope to get out this afternoon for another. I think I have my strength back. It snowed yet again today and more is expected tonight. It's pretty soft snow this time and is melting quickly so the trail should be OK.
And tonight I am going to have a drink or several!!
My ski weekend was fun. I did take a lesson which will hopefully help me improve. I was totally exhausted at the end of each day because I did a full day of hard skiing (mainly moguls) . Drank lots of beer and wine and vodka. Good times.
The rest of my week has been a bit of a blur. I went in for a colonoscopy on Wednesday. Monday was spent dreading it. Tuesday was spent preparing for it (which involves fasting and taking stuff to flush out the intestines - nice!!). The actual procedure itself was straight forward and as I was under general anaesthetic I don't remember a thing. It's the first time I have had any type of operation and the first time I have been under general anesthetic. It was all very uneventful. The nurse warned me that I would be sleeping all afternoon, have amnesia, feel groggy, etc. but I felt fine and just laid on the couch watching TV all afternoon. The only negative effect was feeling a bit weak from the absence of food and a bit depressed from the absence of alcohol (2 whole days). The results were negative so it was worth the hassle. And I lost 2lbs!!
As a result of the above I have done little running this week. I managed a quick 5k on Monday and hope to get out this afternoon for another. I think I have my strength back. It snowed yet again today and more is expected tonight. It's pretty soft snow this time and is melting quickly so the trail should be OK.
And tonight I am going to have a drink or several!!
Thursday, January 25, 2007
Progress Report - Week 3.
A better running week. My 2nd place in the cross country caper was the highlight.
Total miles: 23.3 miles
Furthest Distance: 5.5 miles
No weight loss this week!!
I did a kick-ass 5 miler last night with Colorado Running Company. The guy I was running with (at the head of the "slow" group) said we were running about 8:30 min miles which is pretty good for me over that distance.
Off up to Keystone tonight for a ski weekend. Hopefully no falls this time. I think I will take a lesson tomorrow. DHs friend from DC is joining us tomorrow & Saturday, so should be fun.
Total miles: 23.3 miles
Furthest Distance: 5.5 miles
No weight loss this week!!
I did a kick-ass 5 miler last night with Colorado Running Company. The guy I was running with (at the head of the "slow" group) said we were running about 8:30 min miles which is pretty good for me over that distance.
Off up to Keystone tonight for a ski weekend. Hopefully no falls this time. I think I will take a lesson tomorrow. DHs friend from DC is joining us tomorrow & Saturday, so should be fun.
Tuesday, January 23, 2007
Good intentions....
So I started the week with the intention of abstaining from alcohol until Thursday night. My reasons for this have nothing to do with a desire to remain sober, but everything to do with calorie intake. Anyway, an old friend of DH's is in town for a conference this week and came over for dinner last night, during which I managed to polish off a bottle of wine by myself. Great start to the week!! And then there is Jack Quinns tonight. I thought I would just do the run and shoot off early tonight but as DH and his pal are now planning to do the run as well, they are sure to want a few beers afterwards. Ah well, so much for good intentions. I will just have to run extra hard on the two runs I have planned for today.
My time for the Cross Country Caper was 33:29. I'm happy with that given the yukky conditions.
Sunday, January 21, 2007
Another run in the snow..
So DH forced me to go out running again today. I really didn't want to go as it was snowing, windy and cold. 22f the same as yesterday but it felt much colder due to the wind chill. We headed out on the Santa Fe trail from Woodmen Road, north toward the Air Force Academy. Again I left DH straggling behind. I waited a couple of times but after a while decided to go for it because it was too darn cold for hanging around. I'm not sure how far I went before I turned around but it was probably about 5k. On the way back it was better as the wind was behind me and it was generally down hill. I must get me a Garmin Forerunner so I can work out how far I am running!! When the weather improves I am going to pick up the distance.
Cross Country Caper
I woke up Saturday morning with a hangover from hell. I looked out of the window and it had been snowing. "great day to stay in bed" I thought to myself. Then DH says, "what time is the run?". Me: "what run?". DH: " the 5k you signed us up for". Me: "oh, we don't have to do it if you don't want - it only cost 10 bucks each". DH: "It's up to you, but I'm happy to do it". So I crawled out of bed at about 9:15am (the race starts at 10 and it's a good 20 min drive to get there) and say "OK let's do it before I change my mind". It has more or less stopped snowing but it is a chilly 22f and no sun in sight. We make it just in time, as I think I know where it starts but I am totally wrong. We eventually find it. When I get out of the car I comment to DH "look there's some crazy SOB running in this weather in shorts and sleeveless top". On closer inspection I realise that it's Brownie in a feeble attempt to try to look macho to prove he isn't gay. So we set off, DH goes charging ahead as he is determined to beat me as I beat him in the last two 5ks we have run. I take a while to warm up, but once I get in my stride I feel GREAT! I pass DH after the first hill and keep him in my sights (behind me) all the way. Hills usually kill me but I managed to run almost all on this race. The last one kicked my butt and I started to walk, but when I turned around and saw DH catching me up, so I made one final push. The last section was downhill so I kicked out and increased my lead. As I crossed the finish line I heard the organiser say "you get a prize". Me? What for? I never win anything! In the excitement I forgot to look at my time and then I was waiting to cheer DH in. I then looked at my watch and it said 34 something, so I guess my time was 33 something, which given the weather conditions, hangover, and damn tough course was pretty respectable. It turns out I got second place in the women's class. It was a pretty small group so I'm not letting it go to my head. However, I had thought I would be miles behind everyone as I expected only the stalwart/really good cross-country runners to turn out for this one. Before the race they said they were doing the awards inside. So we waited for ages by the building and then someone came over to tell us that they had decided to do the awards at the start. Great! I went back over and got my prize - a Colorado Running Company mug and a $25 gift certificate from CRC. (sorry this is all one paragraph but my enter key is not having any effect in getting the cursor to go on the next line).
Monique's farewell...
Well we had a blast on Friday night. Monique is a popular girl and it seemed half the City employees were there. We started at the Thirsty Parrot at 4:30pm. Then we headed over to Southside Johnny's at about 9:00pm because Martini Shot were playing. Everyone raves about them (including many hashers). They started off well with a rendition of Take On Me by AHA and I was the first one out on the dance floor, then they must have played some heavier stuff as I have stiff neck from head banging, but then they deteriorated into rap (I hate rap) and I soon got bored. Went home at about midnight pretty drunk from endless rum & cokes.
Friday, January 19, 2007
Sad Day
My very good friend Monique is leaving work today to go to live in New York. I will miss her. We are going out for leaving drinks tonight. I will probaly get drunk.
On another note, I have told a couple of people at work that I am probably moving to DC in the summer and now it is around the whole darn office. I should have know better.
On another note, I have told a couple of people at work that I am probably moving to DC in the summer and now it is around the whole darn office. I should have know better.
Week 2: Progress Report
Miles Run: 12
Other workouts: power hour; cardio express; snowshoeing; muscles; turbokick
Weight loss: 1lb
Not a good running week as the race on Saturday was cancelled and Monday was a holiday so I missed my usual lunchtime run. The weather over the weekend was also not very conducive to running as it was sooooo cold. I made up for it with other indoor workouts, all of which are kick-ass.
Other workouts: power hour; cardio express; snowshoeing; muscles; turbokick
Weight loss: 1lb
Not a good running week as the race on Saturday was cancelled and Monday was a holiday so I missed my usual lunchtime run. The weather over the weekend was also not very conducive to running as it was sooooo cold. I made up for it with other indoor workouts, all of which are kick-ass.
Tuesday, January 16, 2007
Snowshoeing
We went snowshoeing yesterday and had a wonderful time. It was only 10f but it was sunny and no wind, so perfect conditons. I was recommended a 6 mile loop called Lovell Gulch up by Woodland Park and it exceeded expectations. A beautiful trail throught the trees coming out onto a ridge which had fantastic views of the back side of Pikes Peak. It was hard work but fun - 6 miles is tough going in snow shoe!!
A couple of photos below. I was wearing a lot of clothes to stay warm, hence the vague resemblance to a yeti!
Friday, January 12, 2007
Race Cancelled
Well my race tomorrow is cancelled. Apparently the race organisers and search & rescue couldn't even get to the pavilion to set up the staging area because of the snow & ice. i can't tell how disappointed I am!!!
Instead I will do my usual hour of power 9-10am, followed by cardio express 10-10:30am. I also have the option of a muscles class 8-9am and yoga 10:30-11:30am. Yoga is not my strong point as i am not very flexible (a good reason to be doing it, I hear you say!!).
I had a great work out a lunch doing turbo kick. It's a new class that has just started. It's like kickboxing/aerobics on speed. The instructor was impressed at how quickly I picked things up and asked me if I have ever been a dancer. If you knew me you would find that hilarious. I am not the most graceful/flexible of creatures although I do have pretty good rhythm, balance and co-ordination. I told her it was years of aerobics, step aerobics and, more recently, kick boxing. It was super fun and was warmer then running!!
We're going to the movies tonight to see "Perfume" - the story of a murderer. It stars Alan Rickman whom I adore. It's showing at our small downtown theatre which shows more artsy films. It's the only place I like going because you can get drinks at the bar and take them in with you! I also prefer to support the small local businesses when I can.
Instead I will do my usual hour of power 9-10am, followed by cardio express 10-10:30am. I also have the option of a muscles class 8-9am and yoga 10:30-11:30am. Yoga is not my strong point as i am not very flexible (a good reason to be doing it, I hear you say!!).
I had a great work out a lunch doing turbo kick. It's a new class that has just started. It's like kickboxing/aerobics on speed. The instructor was impressed at how quickly I picked things up and asked me if I have ever been a dancer. If you knew me you would find that hilarious. I am not the most graceful/flexible of creatures although I do have pretty good rhythm, balance and co-ordination. I told her it was years of aerobics, step aerobics and, more recently, kick boxing. It was super fun and was warmer then running!!
We're going to the movies tonight to see "Perfume" - the story of a murderer. It stars Alan Rickman whom I adore. It's showing at our small downtown theatre which shows more artsy films. It's the only place I like going because you can get drinks at the bar and take them in with you! I also prefer to support the small local businesses when I can.
Progress Report
This is not a full week as I only started my new regime on Monday:
Miles run: 15 approx. (I haven't started timing them yet).
Other work outs: intervals class; muscles class and turbokick.
Weight loss: 3lbs.
I need to increase my running distance but that's difficult at the moment as the only time I really have to run is during my lunch hour. And with the bad weather we are having (yes, its snowing again today!!) it's hard to get motivated at the weekend as well. I am waiting to see if the first run of the Winter Series is going to be cancelled tomorrow.
I am happy with the weight loss, but putting it into perspective, it's only half of the 6 lbs I gained over the holidays!!
I am going to invest in a garmin forerunner so I have a more accurate record of my mileage and time.
Just found out that my usual gym is having the aerobics floor resurfaced next week (about time too!). That will effect my Monday night intervals class and next Saturdays hour of power/cardio express (was planning on doing a 5k then anyway).
Starting up on the basketball again next Wednesday. Can't wait for volleyball to start agian.
Miles run: 15 approx. (I haven't started timing them yet).
Other work outs: intervals class; muscles class and turbokick.
Weight loss: 3lbs.
I need to increase my running distance but that's difficult at the moment as the only time I really have to run is during my lunch hour. And with the bad weather we are having (yes, its snowing again today!!) it's hard to get motivated at the weekend as well. I am waiting to see if the first run of the Winter Series is going to be cancelled tomorrow.
I am happy with the weight loss, but putting it into perspective, it's only half of the 6 lbs I gained over the holidays!!
I am going to invest in a garmin forerunner so I have a more accurate record of my mileage and time.
Just found out that my usual gym is having the aerobics floor resurfaced next week (about time too!). That will effect my Monday night intervals class and next Saturdays hour of power/cardio express (was planning on doing a 5k then anyway).
Starting up on the basketball again next Wednesday. Can't wait for volleyball to start agian.
Thursday, January 11, 2007
So I had a pretty kick ass muscles workout yestereday. Idecided to push myself harder then normal and use heavier weights. My arms were shaking by the end of the work out. The only thing Ii had problems with was squats, not because my legs were tired, but because my neck & shoulders are still sore from my skiing fall and having to have the heavy bar across my shoulders was painful.
Wednesday, January 10, 2007
A good day training yesterday. I ran 5k at lunchtime at a steady pace. I then ran another 5k in the evening at Jack Quinns at a pretty fast pace. I ran with 'I like Your Boobs' who is a much faster runner then I am usually but he is recovering from a knee operation. We were both motivation for each other and agreed we would have run much slower if we had run alone.
It was great to see everyone again after my months break from JQs and concurrent banishment from the Hash.
I need to start increasing my distance again and doing some speed work. I read Tiffany's blog about doing 400m splits and thought I might try that. I have a friend who does this with a group of runners down at the CC track on Thursdays at noon, so I may join them tomorrow. When I was at school I could run 100 yards in 14 seconds, which would equate to a 61 second 400m split. However that was nearly 30 years ago!! Today I will take a break from running and do a muscles class at the gym.
DH went to the hosptial last night to get his injury checked out. Apart from the insane bruising nothing serious, other then a bit of amenia (all his blood is in the bruise!!).
It was great to see everyone again after my months break from JQs and concurrent banishment from the Hash.
I need to start increasing my distance again and doing some speed work. I read Tiffany's blog about doing 400m splits and thought I might try that. I have a friend who does this with a group of runners down at the CC track on Thursdays at noon, so I may join them tomorrow. When I was at school I could run 100 yards in 14 seconds, which would equate to a 61 second 400m split. However that was nearly 30 years ago!! Today I will take a break from running and do a muscles class at the gym.
DH went to the hosptial last night to get his injury checked out. Apart from the insane bruising nothing serious, other then a bit of amenia (all his blood is in the bruise!!).
Tuesday, January 9, 2007
Help needed
How do I put a photo into my profile so that it shows when post. It asks for a url but I don't know how to do that!!
Back on Track
Yesterday I ran at lunchtime and went to the gym for an intervals class in the evening. So my first day back on track went pretty well. I didn't time my run but I know it wasn't particulary fast. The forecast for the weekend is another snow storm so that may affect whether or not I do the 10k on Saturday. I know, I'm a wimp!
I hope to run at lunch today, although I have to be at City Council at 1pm. Then Jack Quinns tonight. The first time I will have been there in a while. I hope the trail dries up a bit today, it was very slushy and wet yesterday.
I've been trying to plan my running/cycling schedule for the next 6 months while still in Colorado. If any of you know of any races that aren't on the Pikes Peak Road Runners web site, please let me know. I also would be interested in a duathalon. Triatholons are out for me as my swimming sucks!
I hope to run at lunch today, although I have to be at City Council at 1pm. Then Jack Quinns tonight. The first time I will have been there in a while. I hope the trail dries up a bit today, it was very slushy and wet yesterday.
I've been trying to plan my running/cycling schedule for the next 6 months while still in Colorado. If any of you know of any races that aren't on the Pikes Peak Road Runners web site, please let me know. I also would be interested in a duathalon. Triatholons are out for me as my swimming sucks!
Monday, January 8, 2007
Goals for 2007
Run a road 10k in under 50 mins (PR 52:16 Classic 10K).
Run a road 5k in under 25 mins (PR 25:48 St Pats Day 5k).
Run my first half marathon.
Run my first full marathon.
- Lose 20lbs (to include the 5lbs I put on in the last 2 weeks!!).
I will provide updates on my training every Friday, or thereabouts. I plan to do the first of the Winter series this weekend which is a 10k. I can't sign up for the whole series as I won't be able to make the next run as we are skiing (Snowfest).
Can anyone recommend a device for tracking how far and how fast I am running. In particular I want something that tells me my pace while I am running. I think Garmin do something like that and I've also heard of something like Oni?
Sunday, January 7, 2007
Skiing Adventure
We had a pretty good time in Breckenridge last week. I didn't get out to ski as much as usual as I was entertaining my sister who doesn't ski, hence lots of shopping!!! I still managed to get a few hours skiing in during which I had a pretty spectacular fall. I was skiing horseshoe bowl, which is a double-black, and lost my footing on a turn near the top and proceeded to hurtle about 200 feet down the side of the mountain. I could see there were no rocks or trees to impeded my passage so I just lay back and enjoyed the ride. My attempts to try to stop my fall were pretty futile. It was actually a bit scary and when I eventually came to a stop I felt like lying there for a while but thought I had better get up to let my husband and brother-in-law, who were at the top of the run, know I was still alive. I then hiked up to retrieve one of my poles while hubby and BIL collected my other pole and skis, which were scattered along the hillside. This incident did not enhance my love of skiing. Fortunately my only injury is neck and shoulder muscle strain. The next day hubby also had a bad fall and landed very hard on a sharp rock. Fortunately he landed on his butt as anywhere else could have been really nasty. He now has an enormous black-red bruise which goes from his lower back, covering the whole of his left butt cheek, to the top of his leg - about 18" long by 12" wide. Ouch!! I also took my sister snow shoeing which was great fun and much safer!
New Years Eve Photo
Better late then never. Here's a pic of me and my sister before we went out to party on New Year's Eve. We brush up pretty good, eh!
Monday, January 1, 2007
HAPPY NEW YEAR!!
And may it be a healthy and prosperous one to all those who read my blog!! We had a fun time at the Famous on New Years Eve with my sister, her hubby and a couple of friends. Also there was Chucky Cheeks and Allnighter with some of their friends. When I work out how to download the pictures from the new camera I got for Christmas I will post some photos!! Didn't make it to the Rescus Run 10k but did go for a good long run in Monument Valley.
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