Running Down A Dream...

A New Start...

2011-01-26T17:23:00.000-08:00

Starting next Tuesday, I am embarking on a somewhat completely new career, in a new city, with new responsibilities, and LOTS of new people to meet and work with. I am nervous, excited, anxious, and...(after I finish packing up my apartment) ready!

Stay tuned...

Back to blogging...

2010-06-14T15:13:00.000-07:00

Once again, something has occurred in my personal life (ahem, it's personal!) to inspire me to work on this blog again. Since I last wrote, a few things have changed, but much is the same:

Changes:

Practically graduated with my Masters degree in Political Science. I walked at the May Commencement ceremony and, after completing 2 more hours of independent study and my comprehensive exams next month, I'll officially be finished!
I'm playing softball this summer and returning to the community band. While I'm really enjoying both activities, they take up three nights a week (band rehearsal, softball practice, band concert) and almost every Sunday (games) of my summer. I am glad to have things to keep me busy, but just when I thought I'd have more time after classes were over...

Part of why I started this blog initially was to keep myself accountable for running and working out. Since it began I am still trying to run regularly. Before softball started I had fired up the old Couch to 5K plan again. However, between doing some traveling and a softball hit to my left knee (resulting in a GIANT bruise), I haven't been as faithful. I am planning to start back this week (honest!).

I am also really interested in cooking, trying new recipes, and learning how to eat healthier. I hope to post some new dishes and old favorites here for your perusal. Tonight's menu includes an old favorite of steak, baked potato, and corn. Probably going to wash it down with a Leinenkugel's Sunset Wheat or Honey Weiss for good measure. :)

Thanks for reading and stay tuned!

No Excuse November

2009-11-03T13:50:00.001-08:00

For a few months now I've been posting my minimal workouts on a site called Daily Mile. It's a nice online way to keep track of what you're doing, receive motivation, motivate others, and just generally share your goals with a community.

Feel free to join and keep track of my progress as well as track your own with your goals.

Until then, yesterday began what a friend of mine called "no excuse November." (Much better than those lame "no shave November" or any other weird month-long boycotts.) So, I worked out last night, will go again tonight after band practice and hopefully keep up some sort of activity each day for the rest of the month. Who knows, it might become a habit!!

I'm baaaaaack!!!!

2009-11-03T13:47:00.000-08:00

OK kids, I'm back. Yay. Seriously though, as I was placing the New Year's and Chrismas holidays on my Outlook calendar today, I got to thinking about resolutions already. Yes, already.

So, in order to get a head start on those resolutions, I resolve to not again take three weeks off from the gym. I went last night and rode about 10 miles on the bike and did some chest/shoulders lifting. All I have to say is "ouch." It's a good pain, but pain nonetheless.

Stay tuned for more progress!

P020109PS-0339

2009-04-29T09:11:00.001-07:00

P020109PS-0339
Originally uploaded by The Official White House Photostream

So cool!!

Motivation

2009-03-04T20:26:00.000-08:00

...is seriously lacking. I don't know why either. Somehow, for more than a week now, I've been in a slump. Despite the fact that The Librarian Diaries and I have been talking about seriously doing the half-marathon in St. Louis next month (almost literally), I haven't been to the gym in more than a week now. Nothing, nada, zilch.

I think at first it began has simply having too much going on in the evenings: Panther Service Day meetings, class, band rehearsal, homework, basketball games, etc. Then, after spending the weekend in Chicago and Decatur, my knees hurt. Nothing that bothers me during the day or anything, but it's definitely been an excuse.

Tonight, I had intentions of going, but as per usual lately, I was distracted. I got out of class early and decided to be a giant nerd and go check out Student Government instead. (There was talk of a feisty meeting in the DEN.) However, when I arrived, they had just adjourned and I spent the next half hour talking to my good friend and the org.'s adviser instead.

Tomorrow though, it's gonna happen...it has to. I'm running a 3K next weekend for St. Pat's Day weekend. It's only a little over a mile and a half, but since I haven't done anything active since last Monday, I know I'll be rusty. I'm sure I can run a mile and a half, but considering the half is a month away, I have some work to do to catch up.

Wish me luck!

Pet Peeves

2009-02-16T21:05:00.000-08:00

...when people refer to the state legislature as the "state congress" or "congress" in general.

1. There is only one Congress and it's the U.S. House of Representatives
2. State legislative bodies are referred to as Legislatures!

Grad School Annoyances

2009-01-27T20:42:00.000-08:00

Someone asked me recently how I felt about some of the other grad students in my program. Simple, I don't know, I don't hang out with them. A few I have classes with this semester, I had class with last semester so there are some I enjoy, but for the vast majority, I really don't know.

However, having almost three weeks of class under our belts now, I can safely make the following observations about grad school and my classmates:

A guy in one of my classes has a rat tail. I'm not even kidding. I hadn't noticed it the first week of class, but as I walked behind him (still seated) this week, I saw this glorious, braided, approximately 2 ft. long, rat tail streaming down his back. WTF. Jordan Knight called from 1991 and wanted his hair back.
We have a first-semester gunner. Now, I thought these people were reserved for conversations and things I've read about law school, but as we all know, these are the same people known as "suck ups, teacher's pets," or any other name for someone who talks too much, asks too many questions, tries to one-up the professor (seriously, why?), or tries to undermine or annoyingly challenge the views of anyone else in the class. Unfortunately for this guy, he probably made a lot of enemies when, in talking about how we were politically socialized, told everyone he used to listen to 6 hrs. a day of talk radio. Yes, I know what you're thinking, and yes, I mean Rush Limbaugh, Sean Hannity, and probably a variety of other idiots. Good for you buddy.
I have no use for the grad lab, mostly because I'm working during the hours it is open. If I need to use SPSS, I'll just go to the library or the 24-hr lab, thankyouverymuch. Also for the reasons listed above, I'd rather not spend any more time in the departmental areas than I have to. I do enjoy seeing my profs, especially those I had in undergrad and don't see often now, but working full-time doesn't exactly allow me hours to kill in the grad lab during the day. However, on one of my syllabuses (syllabi?), it states that additional reading is available on e-reserve and in the grad lab. Apparently this is not entirely true however because one of this week's readings is ONLY available in the grad lab...which I never visit. So, tomorrow morning - because I am a champion procrastinator - I will be there, copying whatever it is I should have read tonight and frantically coming up with a paragraph to turn in at class time in the evening.

In conclusion, why don't you help me out and just pray for classes (including night classes!) to get canceled tomorrow for this crazy snowstorm! Thanks!

Getting after it...

2009-01-24T12:42:00.001-08:00

In order to make my 5K and half-marathon goal this year, I hopped back on the bandwagon with my "Couch to 5K" buddy, Robert Ulrey. This dude took the Cool Runnings "Couch to 5K" program and set it to podcasts. This way you don't have to time yourself, figure out when to run, walk, etc. He tells you when to do each and sets it to some motivating techno music.

Speaking of the music, I chuckle at it now, but it was extremely motivating about a year ago when I started using this plan. It was a bit of a rough patch and the song lyrics just kept reminding me that despite what had happened, I was stronger. Listening to it now reminds me of that and just makes me laugh a little to myself when I think about those times. 180 degrees.

Anyway, for some reason, although I got through the week 1 program with no trouble earlier this week, I just couldn't finish the last running interval. I felt lightheaded so I just slowed down and walked for a bit longer instead. My plan this semester is to run Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday. I have an evening class on Wednesday so instead of waiting until the weekend for a rest day, I'm going to use Wednesday as such.

For anyone who is interested, here's the link for the podcasts and the program itself. If you're already pretty athletic or doing some running, here's another good beginner 5K training program.

Happy weekend peeps!

My Inauguration Day Playlist

2009-01-20T07:12:00.001-08:00

Get pumped people!!

Chicago - Sufjan Stevens
Beautiful Day - U2
Signed, Sealed, Delivered, I'm Yours - Stevie Wonder
Waiting on the World to Change - John Mayer
Change is Gonna Come - Gavin DeGraw
Pride (In the Name of Love) - U2
Changes - David Bowie
The Rising - Bruce Springsteen
It's a Great Day to be Alive - Travis Tritt
What a Wonderful World - Louis Armstrong
America the Beautiful - Ray Charles
Somewhere Over the Rainbow - Israel Kamakawiwo'ole

YES WE CAN

2009 Resolutions...or, things I'd like to do before I'm 30.

2009-01-09T18:58:00.000-08:00

**So I realize today is January 9th. I don't care. I put a lot of thought into these resolutions/goals and am just now posting them.

1. Take more risks - at work, with my personal life, fashion, etc. Not the "get yourself fired" kind of risks or anything, but try to push the envelope and encourage progressive thinking at work as much as I can. And, life is too short not to take risks that could result in happiness!

2. WORK OUT! I've been on quite a bit of a slump since I ran my 5K in September. Between the crunch of midterms through the end of the semester and the typical holiday sloth, it's time to kick it back into gear. I'd like to run a half marathon sometime before the end of the year and generally, be in as good, if not better shape than I was in September.
(*As of this posting I've been to the gym everyday this week.)
2(a). If you have any ideas, suggestions, races to run, etc. please pass those along. :)

3. Curb procrastination! Do homework and readings when assigned instead of at the last minute. Stay ahead of the game if possible.

3. Keep track of finances using (shameless plug) mint. com. So far, I love it.
3(a). Pay off car payment. Should be done this year!!!
3(b). Start an IRA.

4. Read the remaining unread books on my shelves and read 15 new, preferably some classics.

5. Say NO! Sometimes you just have to prioritize and say no to some things.

6. Learn to play guitar and/or piano. (Not sure when or how I will accomplish this just yet. Summer project?)

7. Take my lunch to work. Or, don't waste gas driving less than a mile home for lunch. It's nice to get out of the office during the day, but it's just as easy to make something ahead of time and take time to read the newspaper at the office instead. I will miss my guilty pleasure of "Days of Our Lives" though. :(

8. Visit friends more often. Travel more.

9. Entertain friends new and old at home.

10. Get my apartment more organized, purge things/clothes/items/paperwork I don't need, and simplify.

Need some fun ideas for your own resolutions/future plans? Check out this fun list:
http://www.womenshealthmag.com/life/new-year-resolutions-you-can-keep?cat=11678

**EDIT: 11. Buckle down, sign up for the June 2009 LSAT, study, and get the darn thing over with so part II of my 5-year plan can begin.

NY Resolutions...

2009-01-06T21:09:00.000-08:00

...aaaand I'm still working on them. Can't get motivated to finish. Is that a bad omen?

On the up side, I've worked out every day this week (I know, it's only Tuesday, but I'm on a roll people), I'm going shopping (for a bridal shower gift), ice skating, and hanging out with a new friend this weekend!

Here's to leaving 2008 behind and welcoming 2009!

2009 Races

2009-01-04T09:44:00.000-08:00

Since I've set a goal of running a half-marathon before the end of the year, I've decided to track down a few races (5K) that I could use as motivation and training until then, and my options for half-marathons. So far, these are the options I find most intriguing:

3/7/09 - Miller Park Stampede, Bloomington IL
3/14/09* - Run to LSB 3K, Decatur IL (beer at the end...bonus)
(*Usually on St. Patrick's Day weekend, kicking off the Decatur parade.)
3/28/09 - Penguin in the Park, Decatur IL
4/11/09 - Illinois Marathon (and 5K), Champaign IL
4/11/09 - Lake Sara Dam Run, Effingham IL

5/2/09 - Indianapolis 500 Mini-Marathon, Indianapolis IN
9/13/09 - Chicago Half Marathon, Chicago IL

So, who is coming with me??

A long December, and there's reason to believe, maybe this year will be better than the last...

2009-01-03T18:20:00.000-08:00

2008 - The Good

Spent NYE 2007 with a group of good friends from home, dressed as a pirate.

I had the pleasure and honor of attending the weddings of: Katie (Strejc) & Sean Fischer, Aimee (Showers) & Shine Lin, and Caleb & Kim Judy

Spent a wonderful weekend visiting awesome college friends in Findlay, OH. The bad: puked on twice by Baby Alex.

Shared good times with friends in Decatur.

Learned to trust my instincts, see red flags, listen to and trust my friends' and family's instincts (even after the fact), and really figure out what I want and deserve.

Lake of the Ozarks - almost dying in a potentially capsized pontoon boat, but meeting new friends :)

Visited old college friends in Chicago while taking an LSAT prep course. (Still trying to decide when to actually take the exam.)

Spent a weekend in Tennessee with college friends, went whitewater rafting and learned of Baby Minton!

Deciding to return to grad school and getting an A and a B!!!

Ran my first EVER 5K!!!

Helped to plan and host an extremely successful 10-year high school reunion

Jamby Crawl 2008 - 80's Hollywood (Flashdance baby!)

Home for the holidays, always good.

Celebrating the impending arrival of Baby Jacob and learning about Peanut Weber-Johnson!

Spending a fun NYE 2008 with pals in Memphis, TN!

2008 - The Bad & Ugly

Continued family drama over the death of Great-G'ma

The break-up and, I'm not too ashamed to admit it, lingering hostility and a little pleasant vindication for myself.

My friends' family health issues

Co-workers' family health issues/deaths

All in all, I give 2008 a B-. It could have been worse I suppose and I am truly thankful for the many, many, many blessings I do have. Not the least of which have been my friends near and far that have listened to me cry, complain, speak in triplicate when inebriated, put up with whatever I throw down. I hope I've done the same for them and will continue to work toward that end in the coming year.

Speaking of...resolutions coming shortly.

2008 in Review

2008-12-29T21:03:00.000-08:00

I've been thinking of a "Year In Review" type post for the last few days and just happened upon this meme instead. Stay tuned for a similar post though after the New Year!

1. What did you do in 2008 that you’d never done before?

Rolled down a hill in a plastic bubble (Zorb)

Traveled to Arizona, California, and North Carolina for work.

2. Did you keep your new years’ resolutions, and will you make more for next year?

I'll have to find them, but I think I did pretty well considering an interesting (shiteous) first third of the year.

3. Did anyone close to you give birth?

Sarah A., Sarah B. and learned Lindsay M. was pregnant!

4. Did anyone close to you die?

Not this year.

5. What countries did you visit?

None

6. What would you like to have in 2009 that you lacked in 2008?

More time to spend with friends and family.

7. What date from 2008 will remain etched upon your memory, and why?

Honestly? For better or worse, March 10.

8. What was your biggest achievement of the year?

Maintaining my sanity while working full-time and attending graduate school part-time.

9. What was your biggest failure?

I've come full circle, but I'd say trying, and usually failing, to think positively in painful situations. Additionally, not thinking really hateful things about some people who crossed my path this year.

10. Did you suffer illness or injury?

Nothing more than a cold or two. Oooh, and some hangovers. Yikes.

11. What was the best thing you bought?

My new laptop in February!

12. Whose behavior merited celebration?

Tough one! I'm sure I couldn't narrow it down to just one.

13. Whose behavior made you appalled and depressed?

Fortunately, it occurred early in the year (thus not spoiling the rest of my time!) and anyone who knows me, knows who I am referring to.

14. Where did most of your money go?

Rent, car payment, then credit card debt.

15. What did you get really, really, really excited about?

New Kids on the freakin' Block!

16. What song will always remind you of 2008?

"Wanted Dead or Alive" - Tennessee trip

"I'm Yours" - just for fun

"Stupid Boy" - on repeat

"So What" - also on repeat

17. Compared to this time last year, are you:

i. happier or sadder? Happier!
ii. thinner or fatter? Thinner!
iii. richer or poorer? Richer!

18. What do you wish you’d done more of?

Work out, practice my trumpet, study for the LSAT (still have a while though), play with Hunter

19. What do you wish you’d done less of?

Surfing the internet, doubting/blaming myself, being angry

20. How will you be spending New Year’s?

Celebrating on Beale St. in Memphis with Kathy, Lydia, Mike, Ben and Chuck

22. Did you fall in love in 2008?

Delusion might better describe it.

23. How many one-night stands?

Hmm...hey! I'm a good girl!

24. What was your favorite TV program?

The Office

25. Do you hate anyone now that you didn’t hate this time last year?

I'm stealing this comment: "I resent certain peoples' behaviors and I make conscious choices to minimize my exposure to these behaviors...I just hate peoples' choices at times." I tend to agree, but I kinda hated on some folks. Meh.

26. What was the best book you read?

Before I had to read a pile of journals for class, I read "Dreams of My Father" by the President-Elect. Starting on the "Audacity of Hope" now.

27. What was your greatest musical (re)discovery?

Thunder Road - The Boss

28. What did you want and get?

A speaker dock for my glorious iPod

29. What did you want and not get?

Nothing much really. Pretty darn satisfied.

30. What was your favorite film of this year?

I'm going with "The Dark Knight" or "Juno."

31. What did you do on your birthday, and how old were you?

Hm, not much really. I turned 28.

32. What one thing would have made your year immeasurably more satisfying?

Studying for, taking and rocking the LSAT. February (or June) or bust!

33. How would you describe your personal fashion concept in 2008?

Work clothes or jeans and t-shirts.

34. What kept you sane?

Facebook

35. Which celebrity/public figure did you fancy the most?

David Gergen

36. What political issue stirred you the most?

Seriously? This is a question? The election of President-Elect Barack Obama. DUH!

37. Who did you miss?

Family and friends I don't get to see often. Decatur friends, Weller friends, Southern Illinois friends.

38. Who was the best new person you met?

I can't narrow that down!!

39. Tell us a valuable life lesson you learned in 2008:

To not reflect too much on the past, but learn from it.

Forgive (sort of), but don't forget.

40. Quote a song lyric that sums up your year:

"I get by with a little help from my friends"

Home for the Holidays!

2008-12-23T13:43:00.000-08:00

After a trip that normally takes two hours took almost four, I made it home. The St. Louis area is pretty much covered in ice and is super slick. I just heard on the TV that Interstate 70 has been shut down (where, I don't know) for a crash, so thank goodness I left when I did.

Here's what I'm excited about for week and coming weekend:

One "A" and one "B" in my graduate classes this semester! Not entirely surprised about the B, but pleasantly surprised about the A!
Going to see some old friends at Fast Eddie's
Christmas Eve at my Aunt and Uncle's and bagnacalda
Christmas lights, luminaries, and Midnight Mass
After-Christmas shopping
Seeing the college gang for the baby shower on Sunday
Family, friends and FOOD!

No Edgar

2008-12-02T22:30:00.001-08:00

No Edgar
Originally uploaded by mitch.surprenant

Wow!
A. That's a really old sticker

B. It's paid for by my former "seasonal" employers, classic.

C. It was found in the MLK Jr. University Union at EIU where Jim Edgar is pretty much still regarded as a God

Hilarious.

Negative Ads?

2008-10-23T19:42:00.000-07:00

In this time of campaign ads, both positive and negative, it has me thinking about actual product advertising. Just in the last week, I've noticed two product ads that are seemingly positive, but in reality are essentially bashing their competitors, albeit a bit more subtly than black and white photos, newspaper headlines, quotes, and using that creepy dude's voice. However, isn't there a twinge of negativity? You decide...

Apple Ad

There's also a Claritin ad (that I can't find on YouTube) that keeps talking about Zyrtec and how it "may cause drowsiness." From what I recall the announcer even says "there's one thing Zyrtec won't tell you." Sounds an awful lot like political commercials to me.

Thoughts?

Minutes just ticking away...

2008-10-12T10:35:00.000-07:00

For the last few weeks it's felt as though the minutes and days are just ticking away without much recollection or productivity. Some are better than others, but overall, it's sort of felt like a daze.

I haven't worked out much mostly for lack of motivation - no 5K looming on my calendar anymore probably doesn't help - and lack of time. It seems free moments outside of work or class are spent procrastinating on homework or actually doing it.

Classes are going well I guess. Research methods is what it is...a bunch of stats and math I don't remember from 6 years ago and need to reteach myself. This weekend I'm working on a paper assignment this weekend for my Subnational Gov. class. Basically, we're suppose to synthesize about 12 journal articles into about 6 factors necessary to understand modern politics. It's weird though because I feel like 6 years ago I could have sat down in an evening or two and cranked out a paper with no problem, but now it feels as overwhelming as the idea of writing a thesis. I'm probably just over-thinking it.

I think today might be a good day to pick up running again...stress relief!

Results

2008-09-22T07:20:00.000-07:00

Race results are posted here today.

My results:
85th of 153 women with a time of 33:42 and a 10:51 pace
8th in my age group (25-29)
190th of 275 overall

Not too shabby.

RACE DAY!!!

2008-09-21T12:57:00.000-07:00

Ah, it's all over. It was definitely...an experience. :) I did get a sweet long-sleeved t-shirt though:

Let's begin with the weekend as a whole. I went out with some grad students from my program Friday night, stayed out too late, had awkward flashbacks of my undergrad career, and woke up about 7 hours later. I made my way to Decatur Saturday afternoon to meet up with my friend Tracy (and running partner for today) before going to Bloomington to watch the EIU Panthers play the ISU Redbirds in football.

EIU WINS!!!

Sack that guy!!!

After jumping around all night, screaming, yelling and clapping I thought for sure I'd ruined myself for my first ever 5K run the next morning. But, we got to bed "early" (10:30ish) and got up at 6:30am to get ready and get to the race so Tracy could get registered. Plenty of time. We walked to and from the car a couple of times, I did some stretching and before I knew it, we were off!

The course starts at Nelson Park in Decatur and stretches along Lake Decatur. To start, you head up a gradual hill (past my old apartment), zig-zags around a few streets at the top of Lake Shore Dr. and then back down Lake Shore to the starting line. It was a beautiful morning and definitely not hot, in fact, a bit cool at 8am, but pretty humid. As I was running, it was hard to get my breath, but I tried to keep my gasps for air as regular as possible. After a while I felt like I sounded like I was on a freakin' respirator.

I only walked a few steps during the entire race when we came upon our water stop. I'm coordinated, but not THAT coordinated. It felt good to drink something since my mouth was getting dry from gasping for air most of the time and it felt good to slow down, even if it was only for a minute or so.

During the last half mile, I really felt like I couldn't go on, but somehow I did. Fortunately, Tracy and a friend of hers were just a few steps ahead and my friend Adam H. from college had caught up to me. Although I barely spoke during the race, it was nice to at least have people by your side, keeping you honest and motivated. When we finished, Adam was right next to me, but for fun, I found a few ounces of energy and kicked it up through the chute. Since I'm not a "serious" runner I wasn't wearing a watch and I really didn't pay attention to the clock except for the minutes...33. So, I'll have to wait until the results are posted on the website to find out my exact time.

We grabbed some water, hit the bathroom, and then started up the hill to the pavilion where food and Powerade were waiting. The Powerade and a banana hit the spot before I felt like I wanted to eat a sandwich. We didn't stick around long enough for the awards, but received our medals and took off.

Overall, it was a good experience. I would do it again, but not soon! When I do, I will be a lot more serious about running outside and sticking to a training program more religiously. Until then...I rewarded myself with a Frisco Melt from Steak 'n Shake on my way home from Decatur and I will be taking a nap shortly.

Thanks for reading and thanks to my partners today!!!

T-minus 2 days

2008-09-18T21:52:00.000-07:00

The race is on Sunday and I'm starting...wait, continuing, to be excited/nervous. I really haven't run since last Friday, but I've been at the rec center every day since on the bike. I've "ridden" every night anywhere between 35-60 minutes. I plan on running tomorrow or Saturday morning so I took it easy tonight and only did 30 minutes and did some work on the "guns." I think I'm back to my high school "buff arms" that I had after doing numerous push-ups in marching band.

But, that's neither here nor there...although I haven't followed the plans I had to a T, I do feel like I will successfully complete this race on Sunday. I probably won't come in first, and I guarantee that if I'm last I will trip the person in front of me just before the finish line. Just kidding...sort of. But I will sprint past them and most likely collapse at the end to avoid being last if I have to.

So I probably won't blog much between now and then, but I'll have a whole recap after Sunday!!! Wish me luck!!!

Next project: Staying the workout course before next weekend's high school reunion.

T-minus 8 days

2008-09-12T21:17:00.000-07:00

For Matt...

8 days until the race

Tonight I went to the Rec but was quickly distracted in the parking lot by the marching band rehearsal. Anyone that knows me knows I'm a total band nerd and don't care. I love it. Anyway, I watched for a while, and then decided a half hour was enough. I'll see the show tomorrow night at the EIU home opener.

So, on to the Rec. I spent 32 minutes on the bike and did some leg exercises and a bunch of crunches. I have a feeling my ass (muscles) will be sore tomorrow...literally.

According to plan I'm supposed to be running 3.5 miles the Saturday/Sunday the week before the race. However, I'm going to take another day off of running in order to further rest the shins. It's not as though I'm in excruciating pain or anything, but it's annoying that I start to feel it the minute my foot hits the pavement/treadmill.

Besides that, EIU's 1st home football game is tomorrow night! Go Panthers!!!

T-minus 9 days

2008-09-11T21:52:00.000-07:00

9 days until the race...

I ran a little under 30 minutes tonight. I took a couple of walking breaks though because, again, my shins were bothering me. I tried a couple of stretches I saw here, but it still didn't keep my shins from hurting whenever I thudded my feet down on the treadmill. Maybe if I ran faster, I wouldn't feel like I was stomping along and rather gliding....ah, sounds lovely, but realistically I'm afraid I won't be able to sustain a faster speed (usually I've set the treadmill to about 5.4-5.5) and will get burnt out. Besides, from what I read about shin pain it's from doing too much too soon. The last thing I want to do is expedite that.

Suggestions are welcome for exercises, stretches, whatever for shin stress. Write me at amormino@gmail.com or, since these updates show up there, Facebook me. Thanks!

Days 15 & 16

2008-09-10T21:46:00.000-07:00

Although my shins were burning and I took a short walking break, I finished 2.5 miles last night!!!

Tonight I did 30 minutes on the elliptical machine. Tomorrow another 20 on the treadmill!

Day 14

2008-09-08T20:50:00.000-07:00

Well...I was supposed to run 2.5 miles today. But, I "played" some softball after work and then went for pizza buffet. My stomach had been feeling weird all afternoon and it's possible the pizza/pasta/salad buffet didn't do much to help. So, I skipped. I know, I'm a loser. But, when you don't feel good, you don't feel good. I feel much better now of course, but I'm sleepy.

I've entertained thoughts of getting up early, getting the run in and then doubling up on the 20 minutes of cross-training in the evening, but I think I'll settle for the running in the evening after my classes and some reading.

Whew. It's only getting busier.

Days 12 & 13

2008-09-07T20:52:00.000-07:00

Day 12: I traded my Sunday "rest" day for Saturday this week. Not to say I didn't do my fair share of walking to and from my parking spot at the EIU vs. Illinois game, but I sure didn't work out. However...

Day 13: My friend Lori and I (who graciously allowed me to stay at her apartment after Alicia's going-away party in Decatur), went for an approximately 6 mile walk this morning. Whew! I know I did more than the 20 minutes of work I was supposed to do yesterday but since we were walking it didn't seem that bad.

Day 14 (tomorrow): 2.5 miles...wish me luck!

Day 11

2008-09-05T20:51:00.000-07:00

20 minutes on the treadmill...2.25 miles total (with walking warm-up and cool down)

Check!

10 Days Down, 25 to Go

2008-09-04T20:22:00.000-07:00

10 days down...this week: Cross-trained Tuesday, ran for 15 minutes yesterday and did the elliptical again today. I'm supposed to run 20 minutes tomorrow but I need to be sure to stretch out better than I did Wednesday. Toward the end, my shins and calves were burning.

Other than that, I'm also working on my abs and doing some toning lifting for my arms and legs.

Watch out high school reunion!

On a roll

2008-08-30T09:45:00.000-07:00

Ok, so the new plan is working well. I cross-trained the first day, ran 10 minutes the next, golfed (rested) yesterday and ran 15 minutes today. According to plan, I am supposed to walk or cross-train tomorrow so I'll be walking 'round the neighborhood at home.

Feels good!

Back at it!

2008-08-27T20:34:00.000-07:00

Ok kids...I'm back. I took some weeks off, kept working out sporadically, but didn't do much hard-core running training.

But, all that changes this week. I have just about a month to go before the race in Decatur. I found a new plan that takes about 5 weeks to work on and I'm two days in. So, here's the deal:

Hopefully, you can see that. If not, it's basically some short runs during the week, resting or cross-training on alternate days and then a longer run on the weekend. Piece of cake, right???

We shall see. I was at the Rec last night and did 26 minutes on the elliptical trainer, day one complete. Tonight, I ran for 10 minutes on the treadmill with a 5 minute warm-up and 5 minute cool-down. And the verdict? I feel great! 10 minutes wasn't so bad at all (although around the last 2 minutes not even Joe Biden was enough to keep me from looking down waiting for the seconds to tick away).

Now tomorrow, as has been my experience all summer, I am getting derailed on my plan. Just when I have a few days under my belt, something comes up. I am NOT a morning person and I don't see myself getting up early to get the cardio in tomorrow morning, I have class right after work until about 5:15pm and then I'm heading to Decatur to watch the Democratic convention with some of my Democratic pals until late in the evening I'm sure. The question remains then, do I count tomorrow as an "off day" and then hit it again with running 15 minutes cold on Friday? To further complicate plans, I'm playing golf Friday afternoon. The last thing I'll want to do is get up early Friday morning to run or come home after golfing and then run.

But, stay tuned friends, I'm going to make a better effort to stay on track and keep you all (?) updated as to my progress. Thanks for reading!

I suck at this

2008-07-24T11:47:00.000-07:00

Ok...starting Monday I'm back on track. I took advantage of my first week without Community Band to just veg and hang out this week and not run or work out. I did however, meet up with the Wills' in Champaign for dinner Tuesday night, hit some golf balls and bowled Wednesday and tonight I'm headed to Chicago for the weekend. I'm bringing shoes and clothes to work out in, but we'll see if it happens.

Have a good weekend!

Week 2: Glazebrook Park, Godfrey

2008-07-14T18:09:00.001-07:00

Whew! So I brought my "gear" (my running shoes and my armband for my iPod) home with me this past weekend. Sunday, after stopping at Target for some wrapping supplies for a bridal shower my Mom and I attended, I went to Glazebrook Park in Godfrey to do some running.

I never realized how nice this park is! It has a great bike/walking/running trail around the perimeter, a playground, lake, gazebo, etc. It was a somewhat tough run only because there are a few inclines around the path...not something I've really been used to. I usually run around campus if I'm outside, but there aren't that many inclines. It felt good though and I'm ready to hit it again tomorrow. One more day on the Week 2 plan and then I'm on to Week 3!

Peace out.

On a completely random note...

2008-07-11T08:49:00.000-07:00

Last night at Community Band we played a song called "Star Dust" by a dude named Hoagy Carmichael (yeah, not even joking). Anyway, we basically sight read it, which surprisingly went well.

Right before it started though, one of the other trumpet players, and former Psychology professor at EIU, leaned over to tell me that he proposed to his wife while dancing to this song 43 years ago. She happened to be sitting behind us playing euphonium. It was the cutest thing ever!

Week 2 Training

2008-07-11T08:44:00.000-07:00

Ok, so the 4th of July weekend hit me pretty hard...mostly just Friday night. I had these great intentions of running Saturday morning at the hotel before we had to take off for game #2 of the weekend. Didn't happen.

So instead, I felt like I could start over (as usual) this week and instead get started on the week 2 program - 90 sec. running/2 min. walking intervals. I did it Wednesday it wasn't horrible. I was tired after finishing, but I wasn't sore the next day or anything.

I'm still having trouble figuring out when to run since I am busy each night of the week Tuesday-Thursday. I ran this past Wednesday before I had to be at bowling and barely had time to get cleaned up and have some dinner. Once community band is over after next week, so my Tuesday and Thursday nights will be free (at least until school starts). I plan to keep up with a Saturday, Monday, Wednesday schedule until then. And, once school begins at least the Rec Center will be open later than 8pm so I can still run there after my classes.

So far so good!

Day 1...again

2008-07-02T08:02:00.000-07:00

Starting from scratch...I didn't want to burn myself out or start up again too hard and injure myself
so I started the 5K podcasts from scratch last night.

I stretched out at home and geared up to go for a run/walk. The 5 minute walk took me from my apartment almost to Lincoln Ave. (I was headed to campus to finish the rest.) I ran past Morton Park and slowed down in front of Chubby's Pizza (mmmm). Outside of the pizza shop though, I found a few dollars just laying on the sidewalk. I didn't have any pockets so I just went inside Chubby's and gave it to the guys working. The one who talked to me for a second acted like it was totally weird I just gave them money I found. Dude, it's money...take it. Don't give me a weird look. Most likely you're going to get stiffed a tip this week so consider it even. In fact, I'll probably stiff you the tip just for your attitude.

Anyway, the first few intervals of running were a piece of cake! I guess those few weeks of giving this running thing a try paid off. I was tired at the end, but not exhausted. My 5 minute cool down walk almost got me the rest of the way home, but I had to switch to some music when it was over. "Don't Stop (Thinking About Tomorrow)" by Fleetwood Mac came on and it was totally inspiring! (Actually, that song always reminds me of Bill Clinton's '92 campaign. Not too shabby either.) If the Mac can stick together through all of their drama in the 70's and 80's, I can kick this 5K. Bring it on.

I'm ready for run #2 on Thursday!!!

Weekend Warrior

2008-06-29T20:29:00.000-07:00

As most people that know me know, I'm usually not to be found in my apartment or in Charleston on the weekends. This past weekend was no exception. I got together with some friends from college on our semi-annual reunion. This time, we all met up in the Great Smokey Mountains in Tennessee. About 14 of us (including a cousin and a sister & brother-in-law) had a cabin in Sevierville, TN and spent the weekend beating ourselves up.

My friend Pat and I finally arrived at the cabin around 2am Thursday evening. The next morning we waited for the last family to arrive (Heather, Dewey and Baby Alex) before going to "Zorb." Basically, they put you in this big inflatable ball and roll you down a hill. Yeah, exactly. You can either be strapped in and roll head over heels or you can sit in about a gallon or two of water and pretty much slide around in the thing - while getting the biggest wedgie of your life - and ride it like a waterslide down the hill. I chose the latter. Wedgie does not cost extra.

(PS This isn't me.)

After getting dried off, we went to drive up one of the Smokey Mountains and hike to the lookout on top. However, our group got separated into those that needed a snack at Wendy's (after waiting about 3 hours to Zorb) and those that forgot dry clothes and stopped at Wal-Mart. Once we got everyone caught up, I slept most of the way up the mountain, walked about 20 feet before finding the rest of our group, and then we left. Eh, I was tired...I'll live.

Saturday we went white water rafting on the Occoe River! We drove about 2 hours to get to the rafting outfitter and were on our way. My battle wounds include a bruise on my lower back where my friend Melissa's knee aggressively met my back when we were told to "get down!" in a rapid, and a giant swollen bruise on my left shin where my own leg hit the air cap on the seat in front of me when we were "getting down." Yikes. Other than that, I was the first crew member tossed in during a rapid (no thanks to my "friend" Melissa who claims she inadvertently pushed me out), the river guide let me steer for a while, and upon taking the reins back from me, pushed me out again...on purpose. It was funny though and I'm sure he wouldn't have done it if he knew he couldn't get away with it.

I sure could use a massage right now, but instead I'll settle for a good night's sleep in my own bed and some reading. G'night!

Countdown 'til Tuesday

2008-06-29T20:26:00.000-07:00

All right gang, as promised, I start this week seriously training for this 5K in September. I have some prior commitments each evening, Tuesday-Thursday through the next month at least so I've decided to run on Sunday, Tuesday, Thursday. I think I can get a run in each Tu/Th evening before I have to be at community band. If nothing else, I can do it afterwards or in the morning. (Yeah right, have you met me in the morning? Not pretty.)

Tomorrow though (Monday) I am headed to the Rec for some strength training and summer Abs class. Hopefully the bruise I sustained on my lower back from rafting over the weekend doesn't hinder that workout.

Peace out.

Decatur Shoreline Classic

2008-06-26T06:38:00.000-07:00

Ok, so I've decided to run the Decatur Shoreline Classic on September 21. I'm having trouble getting myself motivated to run without a goal in mind (besides the overall health benefits and to look smokin' hot). After this weekend, I have exactly 12 weeks to prepare, which is just as many weeks as the Couch to 5K program requires.

I've started this program about three times now in the last two months, but due to travel and other time constraints, I've gotten off for a week and then had to start over. I'll continue to blog about my progress to keep myself honest.

Wish me luck!

Hey, I put some new shoes on and suddenly everything is right...

2008-06-08T14:29:00.000-07:00

I bought some genuine running shoes Saturday morning. A friend (and runner herself) recommended I get my stride analyzed and buy shoes accordingly. So, I went to a place called Body 'n Sole in Champaign, IL and got both. Here are my new shoes!

My right leg is giving me some weird hip pain, so I might wait another day before trying them out, but I'm excited!

I have to go where??? And when???

2008-06-05T20:41:00.000-07:00

The City of Charleston, due to some budget restraints, had to move the 24-hr. recycling container that used to reside near McDonald's. Apparently the good people of the Chuck were recycling TOO MUCH!! The city and Coles County split the cost of having it picked up every time it's full and apparently pick-ups were needed too frequently and they couldn't afford to have it open all the time.

So, instead, they moved the "dumpster" to some remote location I have yet to find and it's only open on weekends. If I can help it, I'm usually not here on weekends, and haven't been since Memorial Day. Since I'm a good little re-cycler (but could probably do better), I have trash piling up around my kitchen! I will be here this weekend and can't wait to get rid of this stuff tomorrow or Saturday.

On a sidenote, a group within the Leadership Coles County class I participated in studied the feasibility of having curbside recycling in Coles County, or the very least, Charleston. I have reached out to the Mayor to volunteer for any efforts they might take on to make this happen, but haven't heard anything substantive just yet.

Week Two

2008-06-05T20:31:00.000-07:00

I started Week 2 of the Couch to 5K program tonight. Unfortunately, the only time I had to run was this evening, but at least it was a bit cooler than it has been during the day and the humidity has taken a break.

Week 2 consists of the same 5 minute warm-up and cool-down with intervals of 90 seconds of running and a 2 minutes of walking for a total of around 20 minutes.

I messed up and didn't have much to eat for dinner. I got busy after work (read: I took a nap) and then had to go to community band. After that I rushed home, got changed, stretched, and took off from my apartment. However, I got sidetracked. The Cavaliers Drum & Bugle Corps are rehearsing in Charleston this week until next Tuesday and I could hear the drumline from my apartment. I walked over to O'Brien Stadium to watch with what turned out to be a couple of friends and other community band members.

When they finished I took off for my run. For those familiar with the layout of Eastern Illinois University, I started near the fieldhouse, ran/walked through the Weller Hall alley, through the South Quad, north to the Union and about that time I thought I might give up...I was worried since I hadn't "fueled up" enough, I wouldn't be able to make it to the end. Instead, I kept going. I continued in front of the Union, past Stevenson Hall, up Division St. and then west on Lincoln to the corner of Lincoln and University. It timed out pretty well since that was when my cool-down walk was to begin and I was about 5-6 minutes from home.

So, now I'm beat!!!! I'm hitting the showers and having a bowl of cereal. Yum!

2008-06-02T12:58:00.000-07:00

This is pretty much what I feel like while I am actually running/jogging as I am teaching my body to do so. Homer...you are my inspiration.

Seriously though, I half-heartedly started the "Couch to 5K" program a few weeks ago, but only after a day into it, I left for a work trip to San Francisco. I started up again last week and ran on Tuesday and Thursday of last week (2 of the 3 days a week suggested.) I'm doing day 3 today.

In order better complete this goal of mine, I downloaded podcasts of this program from a dude named Robert Ullrey. He has the whole program timed out along with some hip, techno music for you to listen to as you run/walk. He provides a 5 min. walking warm-up and cool-down, and then has the running intervals timed out so you don't have to. He even tells you what a great job you did at the end (even if you think you look like you run like Phoebe from Friends and are a giant sweaty mess).

So, two days down, one more to go for Week 1. 8 weeks to go.

Alison

PS Still upset that I can't take my recyclables to the collection dumpster by McDonald's and instead have to wait for the weekends to unload. I'm never here on weekends!

Welcome

2008-01-15T12:01:00.000-08:00

Welcome all, I have tired of the "notes" on Facebook and the blog-type format of Myspace and retreated to the more "grown-up" version of blogging, right here.

(Random thought: Does anyone besides me think it's weird that "blogging" is not recognized by spell-check?)

I hope you enjoy reading and sharing the journey with me. Thanks for tuning in!