Well, it's Friday again, and I'm having a pretty good day so far. This, obviously, is a good thing, but I'm trying something new. Typically, I set expectations. I set expectations for how I think a weekend will go, for how I think others should be, for how I should be and so on... I'm learning that may not be the smartest thing to do. Last weekend, I had high hopes that it was going to be a great weekend. It wasn't bad, but it certainly had its low points (there were good points as well). So, I've decided to put expectations to the side as best I can. People will let you down, but it's not such a big deal if you didn't expect too much from them in the first place. It's easier to be pleasantly surprised by people than it is to face a situation where they don't pull their weight, or what you expect their weight to be. This all sounds negative, but that's not my goal with this post.
"I find my life is a lot easier the lower I keep everyone's expectations."
-Bill Watterson
So, I am going to try to rely less on others and focus more on taking things as they come. I want to try to make the best out of every situation, no matter what happens. That will be much easier if I don't have a certain picture in my mind of how things should or will go. I'm going to attempt this new method of thinking starting now. I really think it's agood idea, although it is coming across as a pretty dreary outlook on like... Don't expect too much from people, but it's the truth. People aren't generally "bad." But everyone has their own things going on, so who am I to have my own list of expectations for them? That being said, I do have a wonderful group of fiends who I know I can count on no matter what, but I really hope that when they are helping me with whatever it may be, they are doing it because they want to. And I really hope that I'm not subconsiously expecting them to do anything. I definitely don't think I am. Part of the issue could be that I love helping others and being there for them, but not everyone is like that.
I think that, ultimately, I am trying to give everyone a fair shot with this. Hopefully, this will keep me from being disappointed in others for no real reason. I'd love to get better at letting things go... As I've said in other posts, this is something that I'm really working on, but it isn't easy. I may sound terrible, but I'm being honest, so there is something to be said for that, I think. I'll let you know how all this goes.
"Anger always comes from frustrated expectations."
-Elliott Larson
I really like this one:
"The best things in life are unexpected - because there were no expectations."
-Eli Khamarov
"Blessed is he who expects nothing,for he shall never bedisappointed."
-Alexander Pope
"There are two ways to be happy: improve your reality, or lower your expectations."
-Jodi Picoult
"I'd rather be pleasantly surprised than fatally disappointed."
-Julia Glass
Friday, June 29, 2012
Thursday, June 28, 2012
Thankful Thursday
Well, today has been interesting, and there is still plenty of day left. Already, I've been tested a little. Nothing major, just minor car problems, but of course, in my world, that's traumatic. I'm dramatic, but when it comes to cars and other things that I don't know much about, I tend to get overwhelmed easily. This is a good time for me to work on letting things go. It is also a good time for me to practice finding the good in a situation. Now, I try to do this often, but it's not always easy, especially when I'm caught up in the situation.
But on to what I can be thankful for today:
But on to what I can be thankful for today:
- I am thankful that this weekend, we are going to my Mother In Law's lake house for some pre 4th of July festivities! It'll be fun to see some family that I haven't seen in awhile.
- I am thankful that I have done really well with working out this week. I'm rewarding myself with a day of rest tomorrow, and possibly Saturday, depending on how things go in the morning with Husband and me getting out of the house early enough to get to the lake house on time. I may get two days off!
- I am thankful (man, this sounds pretty pathetic...) that I got a little lesson in being a big girl today. I handled the car situation reasonably well, but the big accomplishment is that I handled it with no emotional breakdown. Like I said, I don't do well with things I'm not comfortable with. Something I'm working on, on my own and out of necessity. Sometimes I swear I'm the youngest 27 year old out there.
- I am thankful that I was in good company today at lunch. Lunch with a sweet friend whose presence is enough to cheer me up is always a great thing. :)
- Hair appointment today. Self explanatory.
- I'm thankful for my dad, who always answers the phone when I really need him to. He has a way of putting things, like a little car battery issue, into perspective, while helping me figure out what to do about a given problem. (Goodness, I sound like a little kid...) Thanks, Dad. Love you.
- I am thankful that I get to see the sunrise almost every morning. I've found that this is such a peaceful time of day, and I typically get my head in the right place during my morning runs. Doesn't mean it necessarily stays there... But we're working on that.
- I am thankful that tomorrow is Friday.
Insurgent
Well, I finished Insurgent yesterday! I really liked this book and how it all came together in the end. It was an easy read, but when analyzing it, I found that, if you wanted to, you could look at it as a study of the human species in general. I won't go into detail, and instead, I'll just say I think the author wrote a very entertaining story, with just enough twists and turns. Plenty of unexpected elements made putting the book down difficult at times. There was definitely a lot of character development, which I like. Although the ending was a bit abrupt, I'm happy with how things are wrapped up, or as wrapped up as the ending really allows them to be. I wasn't left haning or wanting more. Overall, it was a really good book to change up the pace after 50 Shades, but two books in this little series was just enough. There isn't too much worse than running a series into the ground and then beating it like a dead horse. I'm ready to change up the pace now with something in a different genre. I've got plenty of options, so no I've just got to decide which book on my list is next!
Wednesday, June 27, 2012
Weekend Update... A Few Days Late!
I've had a lot going on lately and really haven't had a chance to write much. So, while I have a few minutes, I figured I'd take a little time to give an update on some things! This past weekend started off kind of rough, but I can happily say that it ended on a good note! Saturday I was way to productive in the morning. Such a strange thing to say! I woke up early, got a really good run in, worked out, cleaned the house a bit, got dressed and went to the grocery store all before 10:00 a.m.! I was amazed with myself. I figured I would spend the rest of the day being lazy. I thought I'd want to be lazy for a day... Turned out I got a little stir crazy. The problem was, I didn't know what I wanted to do. This turned into me running random and almost pointless errands, reading (which I love to do, but just couldn't really get into) and trying to find other ways to occupy my time. Husband has been wanting a new mattress, and he had mentioned that he wanted to go look at some on Saturday. Of course, we forgot about it until about 5:00 Saturday evening. Thankfully, the mattress store was open until 6, so we rushed out the door. Long story short, we picked one out. He's been all about these Tempurpedic mattresses for what seems like forever now. A couple of his friends have them and LOVE them, so he figured there must be something to them. I wasn't overly crazy about it, but we got one anyway. It was delivered that evening...
We were expecting a good night's sleep on our new mattress. Nope. That thing is not easy to get used to. First, if you've never experienced one, you basically sink into it, as it "curves" to fit your body. Well, I move around a lot when I sleep, so whenever I changed position, I felt like I had to put effort into moving out of the indention my body had made. This isn't a huge deal, but it is definitely something that I was not used to. I've adjusted over the past few nights, and it isn't so awkward anymore, but when I get into bed every night I still have to give myself a minute to adjust. I'll save my review of the Tempurpedic until after I've given it a fair shot.
And I can't give it a fair shot until I get to have a few consecutive nights where I'm not woken up 10 times! Vegas has been sick and throwing up several times at night... I feel bad for him, but there isn't much we can do until we figure out if this is just a little bug, if his food is upsetting his stomach or if we need to take him to the vet for something more serious. We're going to give it a few days before we take him to the vet because he's acting fine; playing with, and tormenting, Pepper, etc... But he makes a lot of noise when he gets sick, and on top of him playing with anything that makes noise (bags, paper, litter) all night AND him wanting attention throughout the night, it makes it really hard to get a good night's sleep. It seems like ever since we got the new mattress on Saturday, he's been determined to keep us awake. So, since Saturday, I really haven't had anywhere near a descent night's sleep. Last night was an exception. I say that, but I still woke up, or was woken up, a few times. I think I was just so exhausted from the previous nights' lack of sleep, the getting up early and the golf lesson yesterday (the heat will really wear you out, and it was HOT), that I was just so tired, I didn't notice the cats or the strange mattress.
But back to this weekend! Sunday was a really great day! We spent it with my parents and celebrated a belated father's day! Golfing and Mexican food! We played on a course that is kind of out in the middle o nowhere, but is very nice, so we ended up having lunch at a Mexican restaurant that I've passed on the side of the highway a hundred times, but have never stopped at. Not healthy AT ALL, but pretty tasty! It was so great to see my parents! Didn't do so well with the golf, but that didnt bother me much. My mom even played a few holes!
We were expecting a good night's sleep on our new mattress. Nope. That thing is not easy to get used to. First, if you've never experienced one, you basically sink into it, as it "curves" to fit your body. Well, I move around a lot when I sleep, so whenever I changed position, I felt like I had to put effort into moving out of the indention my body had made. This isn't a huge deal, but it is definitely something that I was not used to. I've adjusted over the past few nights, and it isn't so awkward anymore, but when I get into bed every night I still have to give myself a minute to adjust. I'll save my review of the Tempurpedic until after I've given it a fair shot.
And I can't give it a fair shot until I get to have a few consecutive nights where I'm not woken up 10 times! Vegas has been sick and throwing up several times at night... I feel bad for him, but there isn't much we can do until we figure out if this is just a little bug, if his food is upsetting his stomach or if we need to take him to the vet for something more serious. We're going to give it a few days before we take him to the vet because he's acting fine; playing with, and tormenting, Pepper, etc... But he makes a lot of noise when he gets sick, and on top of him playing with anything that makes noise (bags, paper, litter) all night AND him wanting attention throughout the night, it makes it really hard to get a good night's sleep. It seems like ever since we got the new mattress on Saturday, he's been determined to keep us awake. So, since Saturday, I really haven't had anywhere near a descent night's sleep. Last night was an exception. I say that, but I still woke up, or was woken up, a few times. I think I was just so exhausted from the previous nights' lack of sleep, the getting up early and the golf lesson yesterday (the heat will really wear you out, and it was HOT), that I was just so tired, I didn't notice the cats or the strange mattress.
But back to this weekend! Sunday was a really great day! We spent it with my parents and celebrated a belated father's day! Golfing and Mexican food! We played on a course that is kind of out in the middle o nowhere, but is very nice, so we ended up having lunch at a Mexican restaurant that I've passed on the side of the highway a hundred times, but have never stopped at. Not healthy AT ALL, but pretty tasty! It was so great to see my parents! Didn't do so well with the golf, but that didnt bother me much. My mom even played a few holes!
Monday, June 25, 2012
Let's Talk Training!
I have so many things that I want to write posts about, but, as I've said, my MAIN goal right now is making sure I'm adequately prepared for my big race, and I've been doing some research and talking to some people about training tips and race tips in general. So, this post is going to focus on where I am in my training, and I'm going to share some hopefully helpful tips for marathons, 1/2 marathons, training, what to eat, etc...
Well, here is an update on how my training is going and what I've been doing. I still am feeling that the second day run tends to be a better run for me, so I'm going to try to stick with that for awhile, until my schedule calls for runs that are so long they require me to not do them two days in a row. As always, we will see how this goes. So, I ran on Friday (3.26 miles in 29 min 15 sec), and I was very happy with that! So Saturday rolls around, and I decide (I got up SO early, on my own) to try for a longer run. 4.29 miles in 37 min. 38 sec.) was a great!! It was early and cool out, and I tried a new route. The whole thing was great! My plan was to get up early on Sunday for a short run before Belated Father's Day golf and lunch... Due to circumstances beyond my control (Vegas keeping me awake ALL night, more on that in another post... Bad kitty.), I couldn't pull myself out of bed in enough time. Golfing was a bit of a workout, but it was definitely more fun than effort. I didn't think I'd get any exercise in after the golfing, but I managed to pull off some cardio on the elliptical and a little light weight training.
Today I managed to pull myself out of bed to get a 2.5 mile run in. It wasn't great, but I had a rough night with Mr. Vegas again... So, just getting out of bed was a struggle in itself. It is nice that, even if it is hard to get out of bed, running 2.5 miles is becoming very easy. I'm seeing the progress! My time is improving a little... But that's not a focus, really; it's just a nice little bonus. Not sure if I'll take tomorrow off. I probably should, because I'll have to take Friday and most likely Saturday off, so tomorrow would be the best day to skip so I could have a rest day and then 2 workout days before I take a possible two day break. We'll see though. Trying to not over do it, but a short run really helps in the morning... And I don't like the idea of taking multiple days off in a row.
I've started doing some research on what else I need to do to prepare for the race, and I'm starting to realize just how huge this thing is... And I'm only doing 1/2 of a marathon!! I can't fathom facing a 26.2 mile race at the moment. It just seems crazy. 13.1 miles seems pretty crazy in itself right now! So, I want to be super prepared! Overly prepared even!! So, the research begins. Some initial questions I have are what to eat in the days leading up to the race (especially the day before) and what to have for breakfast that day. I'm not a huge breakfast person, but you cannot run 13.1 miles on nothing. I've read not to try anything new on in your tummy right before the race... Especially the morning of. I'm thinking I will probably stick with a banana and yogurt, although that may not be enough. My fear is of having a sloshy feeling in my stomach. That wouldn't be good. I'll have enough time to figure out what works best for me, but that is my initial guess. Obviously, lots of water in the days before, the day of and during the race. I've read that the day before the race, 70% of the calories you take in need to be from carbs, which makes sense, and you're supposed to double your water intake. And after the race, you must replenish. That won't be a problem! I'll look more into that, but I have a feeling that will be easy to figure out.
I found a website that I think will be pretty helpful, but I haven't spent too much time on quite yet. It's runersworld.com. One article on the website is tips for first time half marathon. Some tips from the article (that I feel are very accurate) are:
From a great TRAINING article on A Foodie Stays Fit, here are some great tips to keep in mind, but for the time leading up to the big race:
I also think I'll have a few people cheering for me on the sidelines, which will be nice and will definitely keep me going. Like I said, I'll be running with friends, but for my area, this is a jam packed race, so most likely, I won't stay next to them for the entire race. Knowing I'm not doing it alone is very comforting. Whether or not I'm running next to a complete stranger or my best friend, I will not be running alone!
Still have plenty of time to get ready, and I'm getting excited, but also nervous! Already!
Well, here is an update on how my training is going and what I've been doing. I still am feeling that the second day run tends to be a better run for me, so I'm going to try to stick with that for awhile, until my schedule calls for runs that are so long they require me to not do them two days in a row. As always, we will see how this goes. So, I ran on Friday (3.26 miles in 29 min 15 sec), and I was very happy with that! So Saturday rolls around, and I decide (I got up SO early, on my own) to try for a longer run. 4.29 miles in 37 min. 38 sec.) was a great!! It was early and cool out, and I tried a new route. The whole thing was great! My plan was to get up early on Sunday for a short run before Belated Father's Day golf and lunch... Due to circumstances beyond my control (Vegas keeping me awake ALL night, more on that in another post... Bad kitty.), I couldn't pull myself out of bed in enough time. Golfing was a bit of a workout, but it was definitely more fun than effort. I didn't think I'd get any exercise in after the golfing, but I managed to pull off some cardio on the elliptical and a little light weight training.
Today I managed to pull myself out of bed to get a 2.5 mile run in. It wasn't great, but I had a rough night with Mr. Vegas again... So, just getting out of bed was a struggle in itself. It is nice that, even if it is hard to get out of bed, running 2.5 miles is becoming very easy. I'm seeing the progress! My time is improving a little... But that's not a focus, really; it's just a nice little bonus. Not sure if I'll take tomorrow off. I probably should, because I'll have to take Friday and most likely Saturday off, so tomorrow would be the best day to skip so I could have a rest day and then 2 workout days before I take a possible two day break. We'll see though. Trying to not over do it, but a short run really helps in the morning... And I don't like the idea of taking multiple days off in a row.
I've started doing some research on what else I need to do to prepare for the race, and I'm starting to realize just how huge this thing is... And I'm only doing 1/2 of a marathon!! I can't fathom facing a 26.2 mile race at the moment. It just seems crazy. 13.1 miles seems pretty crazy in itself right now! So, I want to be super prepared! Overly prepared even!! So, the research begins. Some initial questions I have are what to eat in the days leading up to the race (especially the day before) and what to have for breakfast that day. I'm not a huge breakfast person, but you cannot run 13.1 miles on nothing. I've read not to try anything new on in your tummy right before the race... Especially the morning of. I'm thinking I will probably stick with a banana and yogurt, although that may not be enough. My fear is of having a sloshy feeling in my stomach. That wouldn't be good. I'll have enough time to figure out what works best for me, but that is my initial guess. Obviously, lots of water in the days before, the day of and during the race. I've read that the day before the race, 70% of the calories you take in need to be from carbs, which makes sense, and you're supposed to double your water intake. And after the race, you must replenish. That won't be a problem! I'll look more into that, but I have a feeling that will be easy to figure out.
I found a website that I think will be pretty helpful, but I haven't spent too much time on quite yet. It's runersworld.com. One article on the website is tips for first time half marathon. Some tips from the article (that I feel are very accurate) are:
- Warn your family and friends that you'll have the stability of a 3-year-old child on race day. Oh, how I hate to admit this, but it's probably going to be the case for me... Only, I'll probably have that mentatlity for about a week or so before the race.
- Have faith in your preparation, especially in the taper. I'm sure I will have trouble tapering off before the race. I do understand why it is important, but this will definitely be one of those things I have to MAKE myself do... I have the tendancy to over do things, but you may have caught on to that already!!
- Don't try anything new during the taper. Again no new foods, stick with the same cothes, and definitely stick with the same shoes!!
From a great TRAINING article on A Foodie Stays Fit, here are some great tips to keep in mind, but for the time leading up to the big race:
- You are allowed to walk. This is also true during the race. Sometimes you need to walk for a bit and give your body a break or catch your breath.
- Especially in the beginning, you don't have to stick to your training schedule religiously. I've definitely NOT been the best at following my schedule. I've used it as a guideline, but I've done my own thing more days than not. The biggest thing that I've taken away from the schedule as of right now is to give myself rest days. As unnatural as they may seem to be at the time, they do make a big difference. I also have taken away the belief that I do not need to run as far as I can, or stay on the elliptical for an extended period of time, every day that is not a rest day. Some days can be easier days, especially if I notice I'm really struggling for whatever reason. So, LISTEN TO YOUR BODY!!
- That being said... trust your training plan. As the article says, most plans don't have you running a full 13.1 miles before the race, but if you've followed it as best you can, and you've improved as the schedule says you should have, especially as the race gets closer, you'll be able to pull off the total distance. The particular training schedule I'm using only has me run 12 miles once before the big day. But once you get to 12 miles, you can certainly pull off 1.1 more mile (says the first time 1/2 marathoner).
- I really like this tip, and I'm looking forward to using it, but I'm not quite to the point where my runs are considered "long runs." Use your "long runs" to figure out what works for you. This is in regard to food and hydration. The writer of the article says that she brings water if she's running over six miles and some sort of food for over 7 miles. I'll be at 6 miles soon (hopefully), so after that, I'll probably make a loop back to my house to rehydrate.
I also think I'll have a few people cheering for me on the sidelines, which will be nice and will definitely keep me going. Like I said, I'll be running with friends, but for my area, this is a jam packed race, so most likely, I won't stay next to them for the entire race. Knowing I'm not doing it alone is very comforting. Whether or not I'm running next to a complete stranger or my best friend, I will not be running alone!
Still have plenty of time to get ready, and I'm getting excited, but also nervous! Already!
Friday Night, Part II: Be the Coffee
Well, if you read my last entry, you know that Friday evening didn't start off so well. So, in an attempt to lighten my mood and get my mind in a more positive place, I asked people to post their favorite or most helpful quote or saying in a Facebook post. I got some really good responses. Some were classic quotes that I've head before, but hearing them again was definitely a good thing. Others were completely new to me. Some were just fun... And those are always definitely appreciated. It was nice to hear what people use as their "go to" for a mood lifter.
One of my friends shared a story with me. His favorite quote was "Be the coffee." He said I'd understand it after he explained it, and after he did, I fell in love with this quote. It's something that can really apply to anyone. It's all about making the most out of a bad situation. It, of course, doesn't apply to all occasions, but most inspirational stories and quotes don't. This applies to the majority, I think.
So, this is how it goes: people are like either coffee, a corrot or an egg. When you subject each item to the same heat and presure, it will have a completely different reaction. An egg will turn hard and crack when heated, a carrot will fall apart, but the coffee does something much different than falling apart or turning hard. The coffee change into something better when put under the same heat as the egg or carrot. The coffee changes the essence of everything around it. It turns into something that is desired by those who enjoy it. I know not everyone likes coffee, but you get the point. Under pressure, or when times get rough, we react (typically) one of three ways. We turn hard and crack, we fall apart or we become better for the struggle. My friend and I both thought it was so cool that the little explanation of the "be the coffee" quote emphasized that these reactions come from being put under pressure. We can take times of adversity and use them to become better. But you have to face the tough situations with the right attitude for the change to take place.
So, next time you're facing an obstacle or a setback, whether it's a bad day, receiving bad news, fighting with a loved one... Be the coffee. Set an example, become better and turn a negative into a positive; FIND the positive. I know; easier said than done, but it is worth a try. Maybe being the coffee is just having a good attitude when you are in a negative situation... Think about it... Your attitude could impact so many people around you in a positive way. I know at my office, my friends and I hover over the coffee pot every morning... The yummy smell of the coffee alone is enough to perk us up a bit (or a lot, depending on the day). Be the one whose presence perks those around you up and makes them see the good in any situation.
I'm gong to try to be the coffee... Be the coffee with me!
Other great responses I received on this post:
One of my friends shared a story with me. His favorite quote was "Be the coffee." He said I'd understand it after he explained it, and after he did, I fell in love with this quote. It's something that can really apply to anyone. It's all about making the most out of a bad situation. It, of course, doesn't apply to all occasions, but most inspirational stories and quotes don't. This applies to the majority, I think.
So, this is how it goes: people are like either coffee, a corrot or an egg. When you subject each item to the same heat and presure, it will have a completely different reaction. An egg will turn hard and crack when heated, a carrot will fall apart, but the coffee does something much different than falling apart or turning hard. The coffee change into something better when put under the same heat as the egg or carrot. The coffee changes the essence of everything around it. It turns into something that is desired by those who enjoy it. I know not everyone likes coffee, but you get the point. Under pressure, or when times get rough, we react (typically) one of three ways. We turn hard and crack, we fall apart or we become better for the struggle. My friend and I both thought it was so cool that the little explanation of the "be the coffee" quote emphasized that these reactions come from being put under pressure. We can take times of adversity and use them to become better. But you have to face the tough situations with the right attitude for the change to take place.
So, next time you're facing an obstacle or a setback, whether it's a bad day, receiving bad news, fighting with a loved one... Be the coffee. Set an example, become better and turn a negative into a positive; FIND the positive. I know; easier said than done, but it is worth a try. Maybe being the coffee is just having a good attitude when you are in a negative situation... Think about it... Your attitude could impact so many people around you in a positive way. I know at my office, my friends and I hover over the coffee pot every morning... The yummy smell of the coffee alone is enough to perk us up a bit (or a lot, depending on the day). Be the one whose presence perks those around you up and makes them see the good in any situation.
I'm gong to try to be the coffee... Be the coffee with me!
Other great responses I received on this post:
- Pretty much any Bob Marley quote... Lol!
- Here's a bunch of money; go buy some clothes! (Haha, Tish! I have a feeling this was in response to my asking for thoughts that make you happy! :)
- "If you can change it, don't worry about it... If you CAN'T change it, don't worry about it!" ...think about it. I really like it!
- If God brings you to it, he'll pull you through it...
- I believe I can fly, I believe I can touch the sky, I think about it every night and day, spread my wings and fly away. ...again, a mood lifter, when you think about it in the context of it being sung at the top our my lungs, while driving down the street... :) (Franchesca!)
- Courage doesn't always roar. Sometimes courage is the quiet voice at the end of the day saying "I will try again tomorrow." - Mary Ann Radmacher ...a beautiful though, send from Rosary!
- "in life, you have to realize...sometimes you're the windshield and other times, you're the bug." ...so true Jennie, so true... And on the days where we get to be the bug, just remember that one day, maybe tomorrow, you'll be the windshield.
- The will of God will never take you where his grace will not protect you. ...again, something that we need to remember. Thank you, Michelle!
- prayer of serenity: God, grant me the serenity to accept the things i cannot change, the courage to change the things i can, and the wisdom to know the difference :) ...LOVE this, thank you, Stephanie!
Friday Night's Near Incident
So, Friday wasn't the best of days... Sort of discouraging, only because I had high hopes for this past weekend. I'd set expectations that it was going to be a low key, but really nice weekend. Now I'm really starting to do a lot of thinking about having expectations... But there is a lot that goes into that, so expectations, and setting them, is a post for another day. Friday, I'd wanted a semi-busy day at work, but nothing too stressful and a nice evening. That's not asking for a lot, so my expectations really weren't set that high.
Well, work was more stressful than I'd anticipated or wanted, but that wasn't really a big deal. I got a bunch of things accomplished, and that was definitely good. But I was still counting down the minutes untl 5:00 so that I could get started on my weekend. My Friday routine is to go to Husband's office after I get off work and hang out until he's finished with his work. After that, we'll go have dinner, and then, we typically go home and hang out. Very low key, but it's so nice to relax and be ready for Saturday.
There was a slight incident on the way to dinner... Totally my fault, but had anything actually happened, it would have been an accident. A complete accident. We took separate cars to dinner, and, long story short, I was so focused on finding the right street to turn on, that I nearly missed it and turned almost too late... And almost had what would have been a really bad accident. But I managed to avoid the accident (thank you, Lord). So, this really shook me up. To the point that by the time I got to the next stop ligh, I was shaking pretty bad. Not only from the accident, but from the look I could see on my husband's face in my rearview mirror. I was dreading when we would park, and he would actually speak to me about my near collision... I knew he was not happy with me. I wasn't happy with myself. So, we had a heated moment about how I need to pay better attention (which I do), but I couldn't seem to articulate my side of how the incdent actually went down, so I shut down. I do that when I'm confused or overwhelmed. Not the best quality, but it's how I work, and I can only try to work on my communicating, as can most people. He was not happy, but we went to dinner. It was a pretty quiet dinner, and I spent most of it beating myself up over my mistake.
I let that one thing really get to me... It basically ruined my night. That's my fault. I need to be better about letting things roll off my back; I need to be better when it comes to communicating my feelings about how situations make me feel. Had I communicated better, I'm sure my evening could have been salvaged, but I let it get the best of me. It really isn't any fun feeling awkward when you're with your family, trying to have a nice dinner to start off what you had hoped would be a great weekend.
I'm still disappoined with myself for letting one thing really get me down. It wasn't only that I nearly destroyed my car and the car of the person I nearly hit, it was that the siuation seemed to get worse AFTER what should have been the really bad part.
Just an FYI, I am not a terrible driver. Yes, I've had my fair sahre of "incidents," but overall, I'm very careful. I was actually being overly cautious this time, and that's what caused the near collision. I truly was trying to hard to pay attention to the names of the street. And I'm not sure what it is about this one street that I just have so many problems with. Next time, I will most definitely be taking the long route there. Call me crazy, but I'll show up a few minutes later and sit in traffic very willingly, if it will keep my car in one piece and keep my night from getting ruined. I'm also going to continue to work on not letting one thing get me down and keep me down. So, it happened... It's over, and thankfully, everyone is okay, and no damage was done. No reason to dwell on it for two days. Seriously... I know that... Okay, that's my rant on that. Moral of the story: things happen... accidents happen... Face the music, calm down, and then get on with the rest of your night. And smile! Don't let it ruin an evening, or a day, or a dinner...
Well, work was more stressful than I'd anticipated or wanted, but that wasn't really a big deal. I got a bunch of things accomplished, and that was definitely good. But I was still counting down the minutes untl 5:00 so that I could get started on my weekend. My Friday routine is to go to Husband's office after I get off work and hang out until he's finished with his work. After that, we'll go have dinner, and then, we typically go home and hang out. Very low key, but it's so nice to relax and be ready for Saturday.
There was a slight incident on the way to dinner... Totally my fault, but had anything actually happened, it would have been an accident. A complete accident. We took separate cars to dinner, and, long story short, I was so focused on finding the right street to turn on, that I nearly missed it and turned almost too late... And almost had what would have been a really bad accident. But I managed to avoid the accident (thank you, Lord). So, this really shook me up. To the point that by the time I got to the next stop ligh, I was shaking pretty bad. Not only from the accident, but from the look I could see on my husband's face in my rearview mirror. I was dreading when we would park, and he would actually speak to me about my near collision... I knew he was not happy with me. I wasn't happy with myself. So, we had a heated moment about how I need to pay better attention (which I do), but I couldn't seem to articulate my side of how the incdent actually went down, so I shut down. I do that when I'm confused or overwhelmed. Not the best quality, but it's how I work, and I can only try to work on my communicating, as can most people. He was not happy, but we went to dinner. It was a pretty quiet dinner, and I spent most of it beating myself up over my mistake.
I let that one thing really get to me... It basically ruined my night. That's my fault. I need to be better about letting things roll off my back; I need to be better when it comes to communicating my feelings about how situations make me feel. Had I communicated better, I'm sure my evening could have been salvaged, but I let it get the best of me. It really isn't any fun feeling awkward when you're with your family, trying to have a nice dinner to start off what you had hoped would be a great weekend.
I'm still disappoined with myself for letting one thing really get me down. It wasn't only that I nearly destroyed my car and the car of the person I nearly hit, it was that the siuation seemed to get worse AFTER what should have been the really bad part.
Just an FYI, I am not a terrible driver. Yes, I've had my fair sahre of "incidents," but overall, I'm very careful. I was actually being overly cautious this time, and that's what caused the near collision. I truly was trying to hard to pay attention to the names of the street. And I'm not sure what it is about this one street that I just have so many problems with. Next time, I will most definitely be taking the long route there. Call me crazy, but I'll show up a few minutes later and sit in traffic very willingly, if it will keep my car in one piece and keep my night from getting ruined. I'm also going to continue to work on not letting one thing get me down and keep me down. So, it happened... It's over, and thankfully, everyone is okay, and no damage was done. No reason to dwell on it for two days. Seriously... I know that... Okay, that's my rant on that. Moral of the story: things happen... accidents happen... Face the music, calm down, and then get on with the rest of your night. And smile! Don't let it ruin an evening, or a day, or a dinner...
Thursday, June 21, 2012
Thankful Thursday
- I am SO thankful it's Thursday! That means tomorrow is Friday! Pretty obvious observation, but it's also a very, very important observation!
- I am thankful that I get to see my parents this weekend. We're doing our Father's Day celebration this Sunday. Golf, then food. :)
- I'm thankful that I scheduled a shoot with my photographer friend, the amazing Heather Hensley, with Studio 88, to do a wedding dress shoot! Woo Hoo! I get to play dress up in my wedding dress and play model!! She's so much fun. It isn't until the end of July, but I'm already so excited about spending the day with her!
- Althought I'm having a hard time with this one, I'm thankful that today is a rest day for me. My workouts haven't been stellar this week. :( I spent two days on the elliptical and only ran one day, but I think taking the fourth day off after three consecutive days of working out is probably best, especially for this almost threatening to be sore knee. So, it's a forced day off. But tomorrow, I'm back at it! Pavement, here I come! So, I'm thankful for that, too! I just feel lazy taking today off, and I don't like that one bit.
- I'm thankful for my shopping finds from yesterday! A swim suit that fits correctly! Yay! Saving it for Vegas, I think. :) And a very cute dress from Target. I love Target. It makes me happy!
- I'm thankful for the torrential rain we got for a few hours yesterday. We needed it, and since I ran in the morning, it didn't affect my workout. Plus, since it cause my golf lesson to be delayed, I got to spend some time with one of my wonderful friends!
- I'm thankful that I was pretty productive today at work! I should be this productive every day, but I was on a roll today. :)
Happy day before Friday!
Oh My... Eyebrows!
Okay, let me start off my saying that I'm not one of those girls who has a set eyebrow waxing appointment set up for every 3 weeks. Not even close. I do my own plucking, but I've only had my eyebrows actually waxed once. Until today...
I have been neglecting them a bit more than normal lately. Pure laziness, so it had gotten to the point I knew I needed to spend some quality time with the tweezers. That thought even crossed my mind this very morning as I was getting ready for work. So, when I made a little trip to Ulta on my lunch break, and the sweet eyebrow girl asked me if I wanted her to do my eyebrows because she had an opening (of course she did), I figured, "well maybe this is just something that someone higher up is telling me it's time to do." Especially after I told her that I was on a really tight schedule, and she insisted that it would only take about 10 minutes. Okay, let's do this.
Now, let's talk about how my eyebrows have always been in the past. Never have I had, nor wanted, pencil thin eyebrows. Mine were more along the lines of (but much less thick than) Brooke Shields. Like I said, not her's, but more on that side, I guess you'd say. Well, not anymore! I figured my little eyebrow girl would just do a little cleaning up, as was implied (ladies, take note. ALWAYS discuss what exactly they mean when they say clean up). This girl reshaped those suckers. I was a bit shocked at first. All the bright red skin and the partially removed/totally smeared makeup didn't help my first impression either. Don't get me wrong. I liked them, but the difference was MAJOR, and I was, to say the least, very much not expecting what I saw after I saw the first one. But, seriously, what are you going to do after one is done? You're committed to the other one, or you can just look silly. But like I said, it wasn't bad, just much different that I wanted or expected.
Here is a picture of me just a few minutes after...
Excuse the awfulness of the picture; I wanted to capture the eyebrows and surrounding red area, and that was all I was focused on. So, not bad, but much different. And LOTS of red!!!
Now that I've gotten used to them (sort of), and the red is gone, and, for the most part, the make up is as fixed as I could manage, the new look is warming up on me. They certainly aren't pencil thin or anything like that, and I've gotten nice reviews from my co-workers, so that helped. But there is something to be said about the SHOCK factor involved in a noticable change in facial features!
The final result:
I'm happy with them! Just wish there had been a little chat before it all went down! :)
I have been neglecting them a bit more than normal lately. Pure laziness, so it had gotten to the point I knew I needed to spend some quality time with the tweezers. That thought even crossed my mind this very morning as I was getting ready for work. So, when I made a little trip to Ulta on my lunch break, and the sweet eyebrow girl asked me if I wanted her to do my eyebrows because she had an opening (of course she did), I figured, "well maybe this is just something that someone higher up is telling me it's time to do." Especially after I told her that I was on a really tight schedule, and she insisted that it would only take about 10 minutes. Okay, let's do this.
Now, let's talk about how my eyebrows have always been in the past. Never have I had, nor wanted, pencil thin eyebrows. Mine were more along the lines of (but much less thick than) Brooke Shields. Like I said, not her's, but more on that side, I guess you'd say. Well, not anymore! I figured my little eyebrow girl would just do a little cleaning up, as was implied (ladies, take note. ALWAYS discuss what exactly they mean when they say clean up). This girl reshaped those suckers. I was a bit shocked at first. All the bright red skin and the partially removed/totally smeared makeup didn't help my first impression either. Don't get me wrong. I liked them, but the difference was MAJOR, and I was, to say the least, very much not expecting what I saw after I saw the first one. But, seriously, what are you going to do after one is done? You're committed to the other one, or you can just look silly. But like I said, it wasn't bad, just much different that I wanted or expected.
Here is a picture of me just a few minutes after...
Excuse the awfulness of the picture; I wanted to capture the eyebrows and surrounding red area, and that was all I was focused on. So, not bad, but much different. And LOTS of red!!!
Now that I've gotten used to them (sort of), and the red is gone, and, for the most part, the make up is as fixed as I could manage, the new look is warming up on me. They certainly aren't pencil thin or anything like that, and I've gotten nice reviews from my co-workers, so that helped. But there is something to be said about the SHOCK factor involved in a noticable change in facial features!
The final result:
I'm happy with them! Just wish there had been a little chat before it all went down! :)
Wednesday, June 20, 2012
Don't Take the Fun Out of the Game
So, when I started this blog, one thing I wanted to blog about was my adventures with golf. Well, I haven't had all that many yet. I've got a lot of other things going on, so I can't make it out to the driving range as much as I probably need to and I don't go with Husband every time he plays. This is fine with me. I'm not trying to get great; I got involved because it was fun. Husband has taken a more serious turn on the golf front. He goes to the driving range more, he's taken lessons, and he plays much, much more often than I do. So, he has gotten significantly better than I have. From what I've seen, guys typically hit the ball further down the fairway in general. When I tee off, the ball normally doesn't go fifty yards. Basically, I sort of putt my way down the fairway. Let me point out that this isn't the worst thing because I don't lose balls in the rough, but it does take me longer to get to the green. I'm okay with that, but I understand that it can be irritating to the people I play with, unless, while I'm putting my way down the green, they're searching for balls that they can't find.
I got a little off topic. I never intended to get super absorbed in golf, but I understand how it can become absorbing for people, like my husband. He's got lots of friends that play, he has a strong desire to get really good, and he seems improvement pretty much every time he plays. He plays pretty much every weekend, and he's gotten crazy a couple of times and played two days in a row!
Now, all that is great, and I'm not complaining about the time he spends playing golf or the dedication he is putting into it. I really think it's great. My dad is an avid golfer, and I really like that they play golf together. But that kind of dedication, that love for the game, doesn't come to everyone. Yes, I like the game. If I had a ton of extra time, of if I had a bunch of friends that played, maybe my desire to get better and play all the time would be stronger. But as it is right now, when I play, I'm "one of the guys." Not that I really mind that either... Until whoever I'm playing with, Dad or Husband, gets frustrated with me for not hitting the ball very far. Yes, I know lessons and going to the driving range would help, but lessons don't jump out at me as something I want to spend a lot of time or money on, and in the evenings, I don't have a lot of extra time to go to the driving range... Especially if I need to work on the training for my race. To be honest, running and working out in the morning started, in part, so I could have time here and there to go to the driving range after work.
But I decided to try a ladies' group lesson. It's a little workshop that will be from 6-8 tonight and next Wednesday. I'm not really all that excited about it to be honest. It's going to take up my evening, and there are other things that I kind of need to do, but I figured this can't hurt, and it will give me a better idea of whether or not this game is for me. It may help me out a little bit, and at least I can say I tried it. I just don't know how much more I can take of people getting irritated with me for not hitting the ball very far (although, if I'm really far behind, I certainly have never minded picking up my ball and dropping it closer to the green to catch up; it's not like I even keep score).
I guess the initial fun of the game has gone away... I feel too much pressure to get better, but I'll never be good enough. At least not any time soon. I get frustrated, not in my own game, but in how others talk to me. I appreciate the critiques, but sometimes what they think is enough or is an acceptable amount oh "help" is actually too much. I've already got a million pointers running through my head, in addition to the pressure of trying to get a decent drive down the freaking fairway so I don't hold everyone else up... I just wanted to play for fun, and if it's not fun, I am not going to enjoy it. If I feel like I'm just being a nuisance to the people I'm with, I'm not going to have fun. I don't, nor will I ever, take this game too seriously. I'm not a competitive person at all, and when people get really frustrated with the game (start banging or throwing clubs or acting angry), I get uncomfortable. Maybe this isn't the game for me, but I'm going to give it a chance. I'm giving it a chance, but because golf is one thing for one person doesn't mean it's that same thing for someone else. I'd hoped that it would be something Husband and I could do together. Maybe it is, but it isn't something we can really learn together because we are learning at very different paces, and we have very different levels of passion for it. Maybe golf is something that you can only play with people who share your mind set about it... My hopes are still high, but frustration is setting in. It's actually making me a bit sad. Maybe this little golf class will make the tides turn. We'll see...
As for something that I have set as my own goal for, I made it outside for a run today. The first time since Saturday's great run! I've been inside on the elliptical for the past two days. The run went really well, but the app did that little screw up again where it started me off already about .6 miles in, and I didn't notice until I got my 5 minute update and was already at 1.23 miles or something like that, so my distance and pace aren't accurate. :( Minor, but still irritating.
Happy Wednesday. :)
I got a little off topic. I never intended to get super absorbed in golf, but I understand how it can become absorbing for people, like my husband. He's got lots of friends that play, he has a strong desire to get really good, and he seems improvement pretty much every time he plays. He plays pretty much every weekend, and he's gotten crazy a couple of times and played two days in a row!
Now, all that is great, and I'm not complaining about the time he spends playing golf or the dedication he is putting into it. I really think it's great. My dad is an avid golfer, and I really like that they play golf together. But that kind of dedication, that love for the game, doesn't come to everyone. Yes, I like the game. If I had a ton of extra time, of if I had a bunch of friends that played, maybe my desire to get better and play all the time would be stronger. But as it is right now, when I play, I'm "one of the guys." Not that I really mind that either... Until whoever I'm playing with, Dad or Husband, gets frustrated with me for not hitting the ball very far. Yes, I know lessons and going to the driving range would help, but lessons don't jump out at me as something I want to spend a lot of time or money on, and in the evenings, I don't have a lot of extra time to go to the driving range... Especially if I need to work on the training for my race. To be honest, running and working out in the morning started, in part, so I could have time here and there to go to the driving range after work.
But I decided to try a ladies' group lesson. It's a little workshop that will be from 6-8 tonight and next Wednesday. I'm not really all that excited about it to be honest. It's going to take up my evening, and there are other things that I kind of need to do, but I figured this can't hurt, and it will give me a better idea of whether or not this game is for me. It may help me out a little bit, and at least I can say I tried it. I just don't know how much more I can take of people getting irritated with me for not hitting the ball very far (although, if I'm really far behind, I certainly have never minded picking up my ball and dropping it closer to the green to catch up; it's not like I even keep score).
I guess the initial fun of the game has gone away... I feel too much pressure to get better, but I'll never be good enough. At least not any time soon. I get frustrated, not in my own game, but in how others talk to me. I appreciate the critiques, but sometimes what they think is enough or is an acceptable amount oh "help" is actually too much. I've already got a million pointers running through my head, in addition to the pressure of trying to get a decent drive down the freaking fairway so I don't hold everyone else up... I just wanted to play for fun, and if it's not fun, I am not going to enjoy it. If I feel like I'm just being a nuisance to the people I'm with, I'm not going to have fun. I don't, nor will I ever, take this game too seriously. I'm not a competitive person at all, and when people get really frustrated with the game (start banging or throwing clubs or acting angry), I get uncomfortable. Maybe this isn't the game for me, but I'm going to give it a chance. I'm giving it a chance, but because golf is one thing for one person doesn't mean it's that same thing for someone else. I'd hoped that it would be something Husband and I could do together. Maybe it is, but it isn't something we can really learn together because we are learning at very different paces, and we have very different levels of passion for it. Maybe golf is something that you can only play with people who share your mind set about it... My hopes are still high, but frustration is setting in. It's actually making me a bit sad. Maybe this little golf class will make the tides turn. We'll see...
As for something that I have set as my own goal for, I made it outside for a run today. The first time since Saturday's great run! I've been inside on the elliptical for the past two days. The run went really well, but the app did that little screw up again where it started me off already about .6 miles in, and I didn't notice until I got my 5 minute update and was already at 1.23 miles or something like that, so my distance and pace aren't accurate. :( Minor, but still irritating.
Happy Wednesday. :)
Tuesday, June 19, 2012
Divergent
I finished up reading Divergent last night, and I have to say that, overall, it was a pretty good book! It was such a change in pace from my previous read, 50 Shades of Grey, that it took some time to adjust to something written for a younger audience. That being said, Divergent, is certainly a book that can be enjoyed by adults, as well as teenagers I feel. It did take me some time to get into the book, probably because it was such a change of pace from the last one. But as I gave it time, I got to know the characters, and they were very believable... something that is very important to me!
The main character is a 16 year old girl who lives in a society that has been "rebuilt" after civilization (our way of life as we know it today) fell. Think along the lines of The Hunger Games, only instead of having a capitol with submissive districts, there are five fractions. Each fraction values one quality above all others. For example, one fraction values bravery, one knowledge, one honesty, one selflessness and one amnity. People are, for the most part, confined to their fraction. Every year, the 16 year olds take a test which determines what other fraction they may fit into. Then, they must choose if they would like to switch to another fraction or stay put. If they leave, they give up their lives as they know it. They will no longer be able to stay with their family, and in most cases, they won't see their families ever again.
So, our main character is faced with the decision as to what she wants to do with her future. Okay, here come some spoilers, so if you haven't read the book, and plan to, stop reading here. I was skeptical at first of Tris. I can't say exactly why. She obviously did not fit into the fraction she was born into, and she adapted so quickly into the Dauntless. I think it could have been how, at times, she was so... hardened? I'm not sure if that is the right word, but it was almost out of character. But as the book progressed, I liked her character more and more... He emotions seemed pretty in line with those of a 16 year old. All of the characters seemed very believable. The storyline was easy to follow, and the book in general didn't make you think too hard. It was, however, a thinking book. It made me think about what I would do if I were in situation like that. Would I be able to leave my life and my family and everything I knew for a value that I thought I had, only to be thrown into a world I knew nothing about? Of course, if society as we know it fell, I don't think it would be reborn under these conditions. I find a society such as the one in The Hunger Games much more likely to come to fruition. I don't think that many people would be able to segregate themselves into fractions based solely on one value that they hold stronger than any other, as we see many of the characters struggle with. It works for the story, but it would not work in real life.
I've strarted the second book, and I'm looking forward to seeing where the war is taken. I also look forward to seeing more character development is Tris and Four. I hope that they don't "grow up" too fast, as I could see happening... If you know what I mean...
The main character is a 16 year old girl who lives in a society that has been "rebuilt" after civilization (our way of life as we know it today) fell. Think along the lines of The Hunger Games, only instead of having a capitol with submissive districts, there are five fractions. Each fraction values one quality above all others. For example, one fraction values bravery, one knowledge, one honesty, one selflessness and one amnity. People are, for the most part, confined to their fraction. Every year, the 16 year olds take a test which determines what other fraction they may fit into. Then, they must choose if they would like to switch to another fraction or stay put. If they leave, they give up their lives as they know it. They will no longer be able to stay with their family, and in most cases, they won't see their families ever again.
So, our main character is faced with the decision as to what she wants to do with her future. Okay, here come some spoilers, so if you haven't read the book, and plan to, stop reading here. I was skeptical at first of Tris. I can't say exactly why. She obviously did not fit into the fraction she was born into, and she adapted so quickly into the Dauntless. I think it could have been how, at times, she was so... hardened? I'm not sure if that is the right word, but it was almost out of character. But as the book progressed, I liked her character more and more... He emotions seemed pretty in line with those of a 16 year old. All of the characters seemed very believable. The storyline was easy to follow, and the book in general didn't make you think too hard. It was, however, a thinking book. It made me think about what I would do if I were in situation like that. Would I be able to leave my life and my family and everything I knew for a value that I thought I had, only to be thrown into a world I knew nothing about? Of course, if society as we know it fell, I don't think it would be reborn under these conditions. I find a society such as the one in The Hunger Games much more likely to come to fruition. I don't think that many people would be able to segregate themselves into fractions based solely on one value that they hold stronger than any other, as we see many of the characters struggle with. It works for the story, but it would not work in real life.
I've strarted the second book, and I'm looking forward to seeing where the war is taken. I also look forward to seeing more character development is Tris and Four. I hope that they don't "grow up" too fast, as I could see happening... If you know what I mean...
Monday, June 18, 2012
Crash! Listen to Your Body.
Well, I felt like giving an update on the training, because things definitely took an unexpected turn this weekend.
Things started off great! I'd been getting up early to get a pre-work run in, and that was going really well! I guess I didn't really see how hard I was pushing myself until things got a little weird Friday night... Husband and I went to dinner with friends to an Indian restaurant Friday night, and that was a lot of fun! Very interesting, but a very cool dining experience. We went early, as Husband had a very early tee time on Saturday. When we got home from dinner, around 7:45, I changed clothes and went to bed! I didn't plan on really going to sleep that early. I think it was more of a "I'll just close my eyes for a few minutes before I read for a bit" type of thing (haha, we all know how that goes). Well, obviously, my body was much more tired that I though. I slept for about 1 1/2 hours, got up to wash my face and brush my teeth, and then I went back to bed! Saturday morning, I started waking up at 5:30... That's super early. But I went with it. There was no more going back to sleep, so Husband and I decided that we'd just get up and get going and take a nap once he got back from playing golf. So I went running, then had a really great workout, got to talk catch up with a friend via a phone call, then met with another friend to catch up. When I was getting home from visiting with my friend, Husband was just pulling in from (what was unfortunately a very bad game of) golf... :/ So, he wasn't too thrilled with that.
Neither of us was tired, despite being out in the heat and on the go since about 6:00 that morning, and we decided to go get some food and sit on a patio and have a margarita! It was a beautiful day, perfect for a patio afternoon! I don't know why, but we never got really tired, so we were up later than we expected or should have been on Saturday night.
Sunday... Sunday rolls around, and I have that same overwhelming sense of exhaustion that I had Friday night. I just could not pull myself out of bed, and when I finally did... Yuck... I got sick. Back to bed I went, and I stayed there the entire morning and into the afternoon. I don't ever do that. I really don't like wasting a day, but my body was definitely telling me it needed some serious recovery. And I let it have it! Once I pulled myself out of bed, it was movies and reading and relaxing.
Moral of the story: Listen to your body. It's good to push yourself, but not too hard. Learn to listen. Don't fight going to bed just because you feel like it's weird to go to bed at 7:45. If you need sleep, make it a priority to get it. Don't make yourself workout or force a run if you're body isn't feeling up to it. You'll do more damage than you will good. Give yourself plenty of time to recover, but get back out there as soon as you can! I guess we all have days where pushing ourselves catches up with us. It's not easy, especially for me, to take more than one day off, but all the sleep that I got tells me that working out may need to take a back seat to giving myself adequate time to rest and recover.
One of the main purposes of this blog is to keep an accurate record of my training, good days and bad days both, so that is what this is. It's a documented account of a lesson on taking a step back and listening to what my body needs. I urge you all to do the same. In the long run, it's safest, and it will get you the best results. :)
Things started off great! I'd been getting up early to get a pre-work run in, and that was going really well! I guess I didn't really see how hard I was pushing myself until things got a little weird Friday night... Husband and I went to dinner with friends to an Indian restaurant Friday night, and that was a lot of fun! Very interesting, but a very cool dining experience. We went early, as Husband had a very early tee time on Saturday. When we got home from dinner, around 7:45, I changed clothes and went to bed! I didn't plan on really going to sleep that early. I think it was more of a "I'll just close my eyes for a few minutes before I read for a bit" type of thing (haha, we all know how that goes). Well, obviously, my body was much more tired that I though. I slept for about 1 1/2 hours, got up to wash my face and brush my teeth, and then I went back to bed! Saturday morning, I started waking up at 5:30... That's super early. But I went with it. There was no more going back to sleep, so Husband and I decided that we'd just get up and get going and take a nap once he got back from playing golf. So I went running, then had a really great workout, got to talk catch up with a friend via a phone call, then met with another friend to catch up. When I was getting home from visiting with my friend, Husband was just pulling in from (what was unfortunately a very bad game of) golf... :/ So, he wasn't too thrilled with that.
Neither of us was tired, despite being out in the heat and on the go since about 6:00 that morning, and we decided to go get some food and sit on a patio and have a margarita! It was a beautiful day, perfect for a patio afternoon! I don't know why, but we never got really tired, so we were up later than we expected or should have been on Saturday night.
Sunday... Sunday rolls around, and I have that same overwhelming sense of exhaustion that I had Friday night. I just could not pull myself out of bed, and when I finally did... Yuck... I got sick. Back to bed I went, and I stayed there the entire morning and into the afternoon. I don't ever do that. I really don't like wasting a day, but my body was definitely telling me it needed some serious recovery. And I let it have it! Once I pulled myself out of bed, it was movies and reading and relaxing.
Moral of the story: Listen to your body. It's good to push yourself, but not too hard. Learn to listen. Don't fight going to bed just because you feel like it's weird to go to bed at 7:45. If you need sleep, make it a priority to get it. Don't make yourself workout or force a run if you're body isn't feeling up to it. You'll do more damage than you will good. Give yourself plenty of time to recover, but get back out there as soon as you can! I guess we all have days where pushing ourselves catches up with us. It's not easy, especially for me, to take more than one day off, but all the sleep that I got tells me that working out may need to take a back seat to giving myself adequate time to rest and recover.
One of the main purposes of this blog is to keep an accurate record of my training, good days and bad days both, so that is what this is. It's a documented account of a lesson on taking a step back and listening to what my body needs. I urge you all to do the same. In the long run, it's safest, and it will get you the best results. :)
Happy Father's Day!
One day late! Oops! I really intended to get this up yesterday, but yesterday was a sick day, and all I did was sleep and watch movies. I think I over did the early morning workouts and didn't get enough sleep, which caught up with me Sunday. I should have known something was up when I went to be at 7:45 Friday night... Oh well, I'm still figuring it all out, and I continue to make progress, so once I find my balance, things should get better.
Love,
P
But on to more important things! Unfortunately, we didn't get to spend Father's Day with my family this year. We decided to celebrate my dad on a less crazy weekend, so next weekend will be our Father's Day! But I'm going to go ahead and say a little bit about my wonderful dad! If you know me at all, you probably know that I am absolutely a Daddy's girl and that he hung the moon in my world. If you've had the chance to meet him, you know what a wonderful person he is in every single way. I know that the father/daughter relationship is one that cannot really be explained, but it is certainly something special that cannot be replicated. My dad has lovingly made sacrifices for our family for as long as I can remember, and he has always done so very willingly and with a smile on his face. He is also a teacher. He has taught me so many things and continues to do so... From how to use a camera to how to accept my imperfections, and even how to embrace them. He is always there for me, and he is always ready to listen to me or give me advice. If I need him to, he'll even drive up to see me for lunch. I love my dad.
I hope that every single person gets to experience this relationship from one side or the other, as it is truly a blessing; an enrichment to every life it touches.
I love you, Dad! I'm sorry we didn't get to celebrate yesterday, but, as we said, the actual day we celebrate really doesn't matter. Father's Day is whatever day we choose for it to be... And we chose to celebrate it on a day that will be less crowded on the golf course and at any restaurant. I hope you know how much I love you! I can't wait to see you!
Love,
P
Some of my favorite pics with my Dad!
I hope you all had a wonderful Father's Day!
Saturday, June 16, 2012
New Personal Best
Taking a second to just pat myself on the back! :)
Today was a new personal best in the running department! 3.53 miles in 31:02 minutes! That's an average pace of 8:48 minutes a mile, and I am HAPPY about it!! It wasn't a struggle, and I know I could have gone about another 1/2 mile or so pretty easily (kind of kicking myself for not doing so now...), but I stopped at 3.53 for whatever reason. I even got an e-mail from my little RunKeeper app notifying me of my new record (I was already very much aware of it ;), and that was pretty cool!!! So... I'm a happy little runner right now!
Looking at my progress, it seems that the way things typically go is that the first day of actual running after a day off or a day of elliptical training is harder (to varying degrees) than the second. So, if anyone is trying to get into running, (and they happen to be reading this blog) and they find that they are just not getting into it and keep getting frustrated, keep it up... This takes time, and everyone is different in how they will progress. I thought I'd try to not run two days in a row... Well, now I think that maybe that's not best for me. If I take every other day off, every day I run may be a run that frustrates me. That would be no fun, and I'd hate the whole process. I don't want that! Possibly, every 3rd day off is best for me. I'll figure it out as I go. My main goal, as any runner's should be, is to not over do it and injure yourself. If you hurt yourself, you're pretty much out of luck... You'll have to take an extended period of time off, which isn't ideal if you have a deadline for your goal, like my half marathon.
A few other tips that have helped me:
I also have a picture that I took for the photo challenge that I'll hopefully get up here later today, along with another post I have brewing in my mind! Two, actually, are in the works! So, I will get those going soon! I hope everyone is having a fabulous morning!
Today was a new personal best in the running department! 3.53 miles in 31:02 minutes! That's an average pace of 8:48 minutes a mile, and I am HAPPY about it!! It wasn't a struggle, and I know I could have gone about another 1/2 mile or so pretty easily (kind of kicking myself for not doing so now...), but I stopped at 3.53 for whatever reason. I even got an e-mail from my little RunKeeper app notifying me of my new record (I was already very much aware of it ;), and that was pretty cool!!! So... I'm a happy little runner right now!
Looking at my progress, it seems that the way things typically go is that the first day of actual running after a day off or a day of elliptical training is harder (to varying degrees) than the second. So, if anyone is trying to get into running, (and they happen to be reading this blog) and they find that they are just not getting into it and keep getting frustrated, keep it up... This takes time, and everyone is different in how they will progress. I thought I'd try to not run two days in a row... Well, now I think that maybe that's not best for me. If I take every other day off, every day I run may be a run that frustrates me. That would be no fun, and I'd hate the whole process. I don't want that! Possibly, every 3rd day off is best for me. I'll figure it out as I go. My main goal, as any runner's should be, is to not over do it and injure yourself. If you hurt yourself, you're pretty much out of luck... You'll have to take an extended period of time off, which isn't ideal if you have a deadline for your goal, like my half marathon.
A few other tips that have helped me:
- Not every run has to be your fastest or your farthest. Something is better than nothing, so as long as you're out there trying on the days you need to be, you're helping yourself.
- If you can, try getting up and running in the morning. This has made a huge difference for me. It doesn't work every day... And many people are not in a position to pull off morning workouts (lucky me doesn't have to be at work until 9 a.m.! :), but if you're able to, and if afternoon/evening workouts are really not "clicking," try switching up your time. Getting up early does get easier. Also, some people may do better in the evenings. After work runs are good for burning off steam, plus, you've had time to wake up (and possibly get tired again) and you have fuel to burn. So, if mornings are giving you trouble, maybe you'd do better later in the day. Just be careful... It's hot out there.
- Switch up your route. Keep it interesting. I'm not very good at this, but when I do go down different paths, my run seems to go quicker. It's sort of like exploring. I've gotten lost before (yep, I really did), so don't go too far or take too many turns.
- Download Run Keeper. It's the app I use to track my distance and time. There are so many out there, and I'm sure many are really good, but I like this one, and it was free. This will also help you from getting lost, fyi.
I also have a picture that I took for the photo challenge that I'll hopefully get up here later today, along with another post I have brewing in my mind! Two, actually, are in the works! So, I will get those going soon! I hope everyone is having a fabulous morning!
Thursday, June 14, 2012
The "B" Word
Babies!!! I've been contemplating doing a post on the topic of babies and having a family for some time now, and I just decided, "why not?" Let me say RIGHT AWAY BEFORE YOU GET ANY FURTHER that I am not pregnant or trying to get pregnant right now. No decisions have been made about babies in the Bates house. Let's talk pressure: It comes from so many directions, from family to colleagues, friends, strangers... When people find out that Husband and I will have been married for four years this October, sometimes the immediate reaction I get is, "Where's the kid?" When people find out that I'll be 28 soon (yikes!), sometimes the immediate reaction is, "Where's the kid?" When people find out that Husband is older than me, sometimes the immediate reaction is, "Where's the kid?" Well, the kid isn't here. We live very care free lives, considering how much we both work (Husband especially). We travel frequently, eat out very often, play golf, work out... We're selfish in that we love our time and having the ability to not be accountable for a little one. Not that there is one thing wrong with kids. I get so happy when I hear about a friend being pregnant, and I lovelovelove all my friends' precious babies. I love seeing pictures of them on Facebook or having dinner with them. I love babies! I love kids!
But I see the pictures, and I'm obsessed with baby and pregnancy blogs and birth stories (kind of weird, yes), and I still don't think I'm quite ready. Everyone says that you're never ready completely, whether you're trying and have millions stashed away in the bank, or it's a surprise... I've never heard anyone say that they were totally ready. I've heard that "it's time" quite a bit, but when is it really time? I've still got seven years where I'm in the "safe zone," but part of me (at times) thinks that now is the time. I really want my parents to have a close relationship with any kids I may pop out. I don't want to be an older mom, and I want more than one kid if we do the kid thing, so those are all heavily weighing on this decision. But I am selfish. I can't say that enough. And I would obviously have to give up a lot. I think I really wouldn't mind, but until you're in the situation, and that's your life, it's hard to fathom. Having kids changes everything. That is one constant I've heard from everyone. And for the vast majority, it's all good changes. Challenges and sacrifices, but I hear it's worth it. But, again I say, until you are in the situation where you are a parent, you just don't truly get it. How can you? How could anyone expect you to? But a lot of things change life, and we adapt to life with those changes, and I think this is one of those things that people adapt to.
And, really, although they may be challenging 99.9% of the time in some cases, I've never heard anyone say that they'd like to return their baby, so the benefits have to outweigh the struggles. ...unless people just don't want to sound terrible by saying that they seriously want to return their kid, which could really be the case in some situations. ;)
Just thoughts! :) We will see how it all plays out!
But I see the pictures, and I'm obsessed with baby and pregnancy blogs and birth stories (kind of weird, yes), and I still don't think I'm quite ready. Everyone says that you're never ready completely, whether you're trying and have millions stashed away in the bank, or it's a surprise... I've never heard anyone say that they were totally ready. I've heard that "it's time" quite a bit, but when is it really time? I've still got seven years where I'm in the "safe zone," but part of me (at times) thinks that now is the time. I really want my parents to have a close relationship with any kids I may pop out. I don't want to be an older mom, and I want more than one kid if we do the kid thing, so those are all heavily weighing on this decision. But I am selfish. I can't say that enough. And I would obviously have to give up a lot. I think I really wouldn't mind, but until you're in the situation, and that's your life, it's hard to fathom. Having kids changes everything. That is one constant I've heard from everyone. And for the vast majority, it's all good changes. Challenges and sacrifices, but I hear it's worth it. But, again I say, until you are in the situation where you are a parent, you just don't truly get it. How can you? How could anyone expect you to? But a lot of things change life, and we adapt to life with those changes, and I think this is one of those things that people adapt to.
And, really, although they may be challenging 99.9% of the time in some cases, I've never heard anyone say that they'd like to return their baby, so the benefits have to outweigh the struggles. ...unless people just don't want to sound terrible by saying that they seriously want to return their kid, which could really be the case in some situations. ;)
Just thoughts! :) We will see how it all plays out!
Thankful Thursday!
I almost forgot about the Thankful Thursday post!
1. I am thankful for the massage I'm getting tonight! Husband signed up for a membership at Elements, so we got a massage a month at a discounted rate. We both need one! He's been playing golf so much, his back is pretty sore. Golf (apparently "golfing" isn't an actual word....? Did you know that? I didn't...) uses muscles that don't get used very often, so with all the golf he's been playing, no wonder he's sore. I've been working out and running so much that I just ache. So, this evening will be very nice. I'm also very thankful for the membership that he got us!
2. I am thankful that today is my "rest" day! It should be tomorrow, but today I had an early meeting at work, and then we have massages tonight, so today is my day to rest (from running and working out, not everything)! Fridays typically are really nice days to take off, but I won't mind getting up in the morning to get my run in!
3. I am thankful that getting up in the morning has become so easy so quickly and that I actually enjoy it! I really do like running in the morning. It's so peaceful, and it isn't nearly as hot as it is in the evenings. Not only does it give me energy that I normally wouldn't have, but it frees up my evenings, too. Maybe I'll start cooking... Maybe.
4. I am thankful that I got to spend some quality time with my wonderful friend, Franchesca, last night. She's such a great person to be around, and she's been a very good friend since I met her. We are very different, but it is definitely one of those situations where opposites attract! We compliment each other very well, I think. I love her!! She'll be moving away in probably a little over a year, which makes me very sad... But I'm thankful for the time she's here, and I look forward to visiting her where ever she ends up when she moves. It won't be fun seeing her leave, but I'm thankful that I can honestly say that I know she'll be one of my best friends forever.
5. Of course, I'm thankful that today is Thursday, and tomorrow is Friday!! Another weekend, here we come! I hope it's relaxing and productive at the same time. I don't have too much planned, even though it's Father's Day weekend. We will probably celebrate my dad on a weekend where the golf courses are less crowded, seeing as we planned to play golf with him to celebrate. I would still like to see my parents, so maybe we can meet them for dinner or something. The crowds are just so crazy on Father's Day. No matter what I actually do end up doing this weekend, I fully intend on catching up on all the pictures I've missed for the photo challenge!!
6. I'm thankful for my dad and my mom. They're just great!
7. Happy Birthday to the United States Army! Happy Flag Day! I am thankful for our freedom. I am thankful for those who serve or have served our country. Thank you. We should all be thankful for these things, today and everyday.
I'm thankful for so many things, really. But that will do for now! :)
1. I am thankful for the massage I'm getting tonight! Husband signed up for a membership at Elements, so we got a massage a month at a discounted rate. We both need one! He's been playing golf so much, his back is pretty sore. Golf (apparently "golfing" isn't an actual word....? Did you know that? I didn't...) uses muscles that don't get used very often, so with all the golf he's been playing, no wonder he's sore. I've been working out and running so much that I just ache. So, this evening will be very nice. I'm also very thankful for the membership that he got us!
2. I am thankful that today is my "rest" day! It should be tomorrow, but today I had an early meeting at work, and then we have massages tonight, so today is my day to rest (from running and working out, not everything)! Fridays typically are really nice days to take off, but I won't mind getting up in the morning to get my run in!
3. I am thankful that getting up in the morning has become so easy so quickly and that I actually enjoy it! I really do like running in the morning. It's so peaceful, and it isn't nearly as hot as it is in the evenings. Not only does it give me energy that I normally wouldn't have, but it frees up my evenings, too. Maybe I'll start cooking... Maybe.
4. I am thankful that I got to spend some quality time with my wonderful friend, Franchesca, last night. She's such a great person to be around, and she's been a very good friend since I met her. We are very different, but it is definitely one of those situations where opposites attract! We compliment each other very well, I think. I love her!! She'll be moving away in probably a little over a year, which makes me very sad... But I'm thankful for the time she's here, and I look forward to visiting her where ever she ends up when she moves. It won't be fun seeing her leave, but I'm thankful that I can honestly say that I know she'll be one of my best friends forever.
5. Of course, I'm thankful that today is Thursday, and tomorrow is Friday!! Another weekend, here we come! I hope it's relaxing and productive at the same time. I don't have too much planned, even though it's Father's Day weekend. We will probably celebrate my dad on a weekend where the golf courses are less crowded, seeing as we planned to play golf with him to celebrate. I would still like to see my parents, so maybe we can meet them for dinner or something. The crowds are just so crazy on Father's Day. No matter what I actually do end up doing this weekend, I fully intend on catching up on all the pictures I've missed for the photo challenge!!
6. I'm thankful for my dad and my mom. They're just great!
7. Happy Birthday to the United States Army! Happy Flag Day! I am thankful for our freedom. I am thankful for those who serve or have served our country. Thank you. We should all be thankful for these things, today and everyday.
I'm thankful for so many things, really. But that will do for now! :)
Wednesday, June 13, 2012
Keep Up the Good Work
Yesterday, I posted that my run was less than great, but I was okay with that. Through the training, I've gained an actual appreciation for the days that running is difficult. I certainly would rather have fewer of them than good days, but the bad days will happen. And they make me appreciate the good runs I have. Yesterday wasn't great day, but today was! I knew I was "off" yesterday for whatever reason (muggy, tired, who knows...), but today was really great! I knocked 2 minutes off my 5k! It was more where I should be at this point, and it was just a huge relief that yesterday really was a fluke.
My point is, even if you aren't feeling it, if you need to get out there and do it, do it. Just do what you can. You'll be so happy you did. No one ever says, "Goodness, I really hate that I just did that workout." They may say, "I can't believe I did so poorly on that workout," but they don't regret it. Something is better than nothing.
This is in all aspects of life. Some days won't be great, but get through them... Maybe reward yourself for a hard day with some ice cream or a bubble bath... Whatever makes you happy. Get through the bad days; they will eventually be followed by a good day! :)
All for now! :)
My point is, even if you aren't feeling it, if you need to get out there and do it, do it. Just do what you can. You'll be so happy you did. No one ever says, "Goodness, I really hate that I just did that workout." They may say, "I can't believe I did so poorly on that workout," but they don't regret it. Something is better than nothing.
This is in all aspects of life. Some days won't be great, but get through them... Maybe reward yourself for a hard day with some ice cream or a bubble bath... Whatever makes you happy. Get through the bad days; they will eventually be followed by a good day! :)
All for now! :)
Tuesday, June 12, 2012
Happy 36th Anniversary to Mom and Dad! ...& othe things.
Thirty six year ago today, my parents got married! :) Pretty awesome! Although their wedding had a few minor bumps (banana cake, or maybe it was lemon? my mom not curling her hair, yellow being their wedding color, a color with neither of them likes... little things in the grand scheme), it was obviously the start of a wonderful marriage! I'm sure that they've had their ups and downs; who hasn't? In 36 years, you're bound to butt heads on occasion, and you are certainly going to encounter a hard time here and there, but 36 years also give you so much time to fill with wonderful memories and cherished experiences! And they've got many, many more to go! So, Mom and Dad, thank you for serving as absolutely great examples of how parents should be and how a husband and wife should treat each other. I love you both so much!
Sorry about the really poor quality of this picture, but I couldn't download it from my dad's photo gallery website, so I had to resort to taking a picture of the picture on the computer with my phone. I'm glad I was able to come up with a way to get it on here without having to ask my dad to change the settings. So... Surprise to them! :) Aren't they cute! And isn't my mom beautiful, even though her hair isn't curled? :)
On a similar note, the past Sunday, I went to a reception for my boss and his wife for their 50th wedding anniversary! That was very special. I know them so well, and I know their story so well... They are definitely a pair made specifically for each other. It was so nice to see so many people come out to their celebration. Again, another couple that serves as an exceptional example of how to love and make a marriage last through the years. Happy 50th anniversary to you both. :)
This past weekend was very low key, which was nice! Friday, we went to dinner, then came home and Husband pretty much crashed. As you may know, I stayed up a little later to finish 50 Shades. Saturday was a SUPER lazy day. Again, you probably know I ran (yay for training! We're 180 days out as of today! OMG!), but the only other thing that got me out of the house was Italian food. Nice lazy day. Then Sunday was indoor cardio (yay!). I really like the days where the training specifically calls for elliptical training... Somedays that heat is just hard to beat, and yes, it's only going to get hotter for the next few months. The reception Sunday afternoon was nice, and then I visited some of my friends who own a winery here in town. Such a fun family. I hung out there until Husband was finished with golf for the day, and then we headed over to a friend's for some pool time. So, it was a very nice weekend, all in all... Just too short! But isn't that always the case?
The photo assignment for Sunday was "Best Bit of Your Weekend." There were a lot of great parts to this weekend, but here are a few pics I got from Instagram captured moment:
10. (Best Bit of Your Weekend) (These are just the ones from the weekend that I haven't posted yet. The picture of me and 6:00, the "drink" picture, and the view of the sun from the car were all really good bits of my weekend as well. :)
On a similar note, the past Sunday, I went to a reception for my boss and his wife for their 50th wedding anniversary! That was very special. I know them so well, and I know their story so well... They are definitely a pair made specifically for each other. It was so nice to see so many people come out to their celebration. Again, another couple that serves as an exceptional example of how to love and make a marriage last through the years. Happy 50th anniversary to you both. :)
This past weekend was very low key, which was nice! Friday, we went to dinner, then came home and Husband pretty much crashed. As you may know, I stayed up a little later to finish 50 Shades. Saturday was a SUPER lazy day. Again, you probably know I ran (yay for training! We're 180 days out as of today! OMG!), but the only other thing that got me out of the house was Italian food. Nice lazy day. Then Sunday was indoor cardio (yay!). I really like the days where the training specifically calls for elliptical training... Somedays that heat is just hard to beat, and yes, it's only going to get hotter for the next few months. The reception Sunday afternoon was nice, and then I visited some of my friends who own a winery here in town. Such a fun family. I hung out there until Husband was finished with golf for the day, and then we headed over to a friend's for some pool time. So, it was a very nice weekend, all in all... Just too short! But isn't that always the case?
The photo assignment for Sunday was "Best Bit of Your Weekend." There were a lot of great parts to this weekend, but here are a few pics I got from Instagram captured moment:
10. (Best Bit of Your Weekend) (These are just the ones from the weekend that I haven't posted yet. The picture of me and 6:00, the "drink" picture, and the view of the sun from the car were all really good bits of my weekend as well. :)
Sorry it's a little fuzzy... But this was at my boss's reception. I'm with two of my sweet friends from work, Priscilla and Julie. Love them and the rest of my work family!!
This was just a cool picture (I thought). You can see my Nook, which got plenty of use this weekend, and reading was definitley one of the best bits of my weekend, so it counts! This is at the winery, while I was visiting with my friends. It was a very nice way to spend a few hours while waiting for the golfers to finish up. :)
Kelsie and me
I didn't get any pictures from our friend's house after this, but that's okay because it was hot outside, and I was all sweaty and gross! Lol!
And this morning...
It isn't supposed to be the picture of the day until the 25th, but this morning, I got some pictures of some pretty cute creatures!!
25. (Something(s) cute)
After my run, I got a little more working out in. I was in the computer/work out room, and I hear Husband calling me... This was what he wanted me to see! It's hard to make out, but these are two doves just hanging out on the windowsill! I found it very cute! But wait... It gets cuter!!
At one point, both kitties were on the windowsill looking at the birds, but I missed that. She was just watching them walk around out there! She wasn't making any noises or acting silly; she was just watching them! Again, VERY cute!! I'm sorry I missed both kitties up there!
And of course... Miss Pepper herself!!
So, my morning was full of cuteness!
The run wasn't great, but I did pull off a 5k (I think 5k sounds better than 3.1 miles) in under 30 minutes... My time was very off, but I did it. From the pictures, you can probably tell how muggy it was outside. That might have added to the difficulty, not sure though.
Other happenings today include getting soaking wet getting from the grocery store to my car, then even wetter getting inside the house from my car (definitely not fun) and realizing that I left my phone at work (once I was home, of course). So, I had to go get it. Not having it wasn't an option... But now I'm home, nice and cozy and dry and with phone within reach! Hope everyone has a nice night! :)
Other happenings today include getting soaking wet getting from the grocery store to my car, then even wetter getting inside the house from my car (definitely not fun) and realizing that I left my phone at work (once I was home, of course). So, I had to go get it. Not having it wasn't an option... But now I'm home, nice and cozy and dry and with phone within reach! Hope everyone has a nice night! :)
Saturday, June 9, 2012
9. Your View Today
With Instagram...
Both out the windshield of Husband's car on the way to dinner tonight. Pretty nice view, I'd say! :)
Updates! The race is exactly SIX months out!
Training update: Well, I had a pretty good week with the training. I was VERY happy with Wednesday's a.m. run, which was such a relief because I'll have to do another a.m. run this Thursday (we have massages Thursday evening! :). But today... Different story. I did not want to run. I had sort of set a goal for myself to go for four miles today, but I knew instantly this morning that that was not going to happen. I did manage to talk myself into going, and I'm so glad I did. It wasn't a hard run, but I never really got into it today. There will be days... That's to be expected, so I'm okay with it, but it is slightly frustrating when it is one of those days. On the positive side, my running has improved. Although I'm not really trying to focus on pace, it's improved, which is nice. I'm also not totally spent anymore after a 25 minute run, which I was for awhile. I just wasn't expecting to have so much difficulty when I started to run again because I had continued to work out, just not run outside as much. I'm glad I'm falling back into the outdoor routine pretty quickly. So, actually today was 2.58 miles in 22 minutes 44 seconds. I can say I'm happy with that. Six months to go!! Eek!!
Photo challenge:
Still having trouble finding a worthy "hat" picture... So, it's been skipped for now...
7. (Drink)
Yummy margarita from last night! It has been awhile since I've had a margarita, and I could only have one... It was tasty, but a bit too sweet for more than one. Fun though! Everyone loves the occasional margarita!
8. (6:00)
This would be me! I tried to pull off a picture of me at 6:00, but this is actually at 5:59. What I really wanted to do was get a picture of me at 6:00 with my margarita, but that didn't work.
Then, at 6:00, I took a picture of 6:00! Creative, I know! Haha! :)
Book update:
Taking a break from 50 Shades and will be reading Divergent!!
Book buddy and good friend, Rosary, recommended it as a good thinking, but still easy, read! Looking forward to it!! It's just finished downloading! :)
Photo challenge:
Still having trouble finding a worthy "hat" picture... So, it's been skipped for now...
7. (Drink)
8. (6:00)
Book update:
Taking a break from 50 Shades and will be reading Divergent!!
50 Shades of Grey
WARNING: This book is NOT for the sheltered, naive type. Neither is this review. You've been warned! ;)
Well, I finished 50 Shades last night, and... I'm really not sure what I think. I was very critical of it in the beginning. Probably too much so. I will try to not give too much of the book away, but still give my thoughts and a good idea of what it's about. We will start with what it's about. Ana, the main character, is a very naive college grad, entering the post college real world. She's never had a boyfriend, she's a virgin and lacks so much knowledge about life in general. I don't understand how she's so sheltered, but she is, and that is a large and very important part of the story. Well, of course, she meets the exact opposite of everything she is in Christian Grey. He is over the top. Everything that is not naive. He's definitely got some skeletons in his closet... His very scary closet is actually a referred to as the Red Room of Pain. Yep, this book goes into some pretty heavy BDSM. It is very uncomfortable to read at times.
So, he decides that he wants her to be his next "conquest." The book is basically about their relationship, her growth, them trying to make it work. So from the surface, this book comes across as a trashy sex novel, but now that I'm done with it, I'm reading in between the lines. And I'm glad I am because now I see that this book can be so much more than I initially gave it credit for. It's really about a young, inexperienced girl who gets involved in her first relationship. Not only would that be hard enough for a girl just graduating college and trying to get a job and moving to a new city, but her first relationship happens to be with a very disturbed man, who has serious control issues. It's quite sad, actually. This book is about two very different people who clearly have deep feeling for each other, but have a real tough time meeting in the middle. It's all about trying to find compromise. She wants certain things, and he wants certain things. He demands things that she's uncomfortable with, but she cares so much for him, she compromises what she is comfortable with for him. I've already given too much away, but I'll end with this: can they make it work? should she accept the relationship on his terms if he tries to redefine his terms as best he can? would that be enough? I mean, imagine being this girl. Most of us had our "first loves" when we were much younger... Holding hands and such... Crushes... Most of us had our hearts broken in middle school, when, really, things were simple. They didn't seem simple, but they were (Oh, the days). But she didn't have that; this is her first love, and it is anything BUT simple.
It's a three part series, so I'm sure I'll read the other two books eventually, but I need to read something MUCH less risque first. Gotta get my head out of the gutter, per se... I can only take so many (graphic) scenes of intimacy. Not really my normal read (at all). I am intrigued, and want to know how it ends with these two... Just need a break.
So, this book really got me thinking about relationships in general. Why things work, why things don't work, how we make things work, what we give up... Relationships take work. A lot of work. There has to be compromise, but the compromise shouldn't be a chore. It should be something that you do with a smile. So, if you find that special person (like I did :), and they two of you are able to compromise were necessary and communicate (which is a whole other post) effectively, you've got a really good basis on which to build a healthy and successful relationship. Communication is hard. I'm not a very good communicator, but I've worked on it, and it's really helped in ALL of my relationships. But, like I said, that's another post for another day.
If you do choose to read this book, try to do so with an open mind. Try to read between the lines and see what you can take away from it about relationships and people in general. Don't get caught up in the sex... If you do, you'll miss the character development, along with the positive messages that are sort of hidden throughout the book. If you have read the book, please share your thoughts.
Thanks!
So, he decides that he wants her to be his next "conquest." The book is basically about their relationship, her growth, them trying to make it work. So from the surface, this book comes across as a trashy sex novel, but now that I'm done with it, I'm reading in between the lines. And I'm glad I am because now I see that this book can be so much more than I initially gave it credit for. It's really about a young, inexperienced girl who gets involved in her first relationship. Not only would that be hard enough for a girl just graduating college and trying to get a job and moving to a new city, but her first relationship happens to be with a very disturbed man, who has serious control issues. It's quite sad, actually. This book is about two very different people who clearly have deep feeling for each other, but have a real tough time meeting in the middle. It's all about trying to find compromise. She wants certain things, and he wants certain things. He demands things that she's uncomfortable with, but she cares so much for him, she compromises what she is comfortable with for him. I've already given too much away, but I'll end with this: can they make it work? should she accept the relationship on his terms if he tries to redefine his terms as best he can? would that be enough? I mean, imagine being this girl. Most of us had our "first loves" when we were much younger... Holding hands and such... Crushes... Most of us had our hearts broken in middle school, when, really, things were simple. They didn't seem simple, but they were (Oh, the days). But she didn't have that; this is her first love, and it is anything BUT simple.
It's a three part series, so I'm sure I'll read the other two books eventually, but I need to read something MUCH less risque first. Gotta get my head out of the gutter, per se... I can only take so many (graphic) scenes of intimacy. Not really my normal read (at all). I am intrigued, and want to know how it ends with these two... Just need a break.
So, this book really got me thinking about relationships in general. Why things work, why things don't work, how we make things work, what we give up... Relationships take work. A lot of work. There has to be compromise, but the compromise shouldn't be a chore. It should be something that you do with a smile. So, if you find that special person (like I did :), and they two of you are able to compromise were necessary and communicate (which is a whole other post) effectively, you've got a really good basis on which to build a healthy and successful relationship. Communication is hard. I'm not a very good communicator, but I've worked on it, and it's really helped in ALL of my relationships. But, like I said, that's another post for another day.
If you do choose to read this book, try to do so with an open mind. Try to read between the lines and see what you can take away from it about relationships and people in general. Don't get caught up in the sex... If you do, you'll miss the character development, along with the positive messages that are sort of hidden throughout the book. If you have read the book, please share your thoughts.
Thanks!
Thursday, June 7, 2012
Thankful Thursday
Today, I'm sick and at home, so I'm not in the best mood, but I'll still find plenty of things to be thankful for, and, hopefully, it'll improve my mood a little. And that will at least make me feel mentally better.
1. I'm thankful (not for being sick, but) for having a rest day. I'll be able to nap and catch up on reading.
2. I'm thankful that I have a much needed hair appointment today. It's bad....
3. I'm thankful for the birthday trip husband booked for me.
4. I'm thankful that we had a nice dinner with fun friends last night
5. I'm thankful for the noticeable improvement in my running and that I've been consistent in my working out. :)
6. I'm thankful that I was able to participate in National Running Day.
7. I'm thankful for the ability to read. I think it's sad that so many people can't read. I wish I could help them.
All for now.
1. I'm thankful (not for being sick, but) for having a rest day. I'll be able to nap and catch up on reading.
2. I'm thankful that I have a much needed hair appointment today. It's bad....
3. I'm thankful for the birthday trip husband booked for me.
4. I'm thankful that we had a nice dinner with fun friends last night
5. I'm thankful for the noticeable improvement in my running and that I've been consistent in my working out. :)
6. I'm thankful that I was able to participate in National Running Day.
7. I'm thankful for the ability to read. I think it's sad that so many people can't read. I wish I could help them.
All for now.
Wednesday, June 6, 2012
I Did It!! & a bunch of other random things...
Well, I said I'd get up this morning and run, and I DID!!! Goal accomplished! It wasn't hard to get out of bed, and it wasn't hard to run; it was actually a really good run! My pace was even noticeably improved! I'm going to try to start doing more a.m. runs now that I know that I can, and that will give me some evening time back. Sometimes there just aren't enough hours in the day. So, today was off to a very good start! It was, however, off to an early start, so we'll see when and how bad the "crash" is!
That would be a close up of my eye lid. Wow... It looks like I have on WAY too much make up, but I don't think I had that much on the day I took the picture. Hmm... May have to take more eye make up pictures to see if this is just a fluke! Either way, I like eyeshadow about as much as I like pink lipstick! But I don't like my eyeshadow as bright as my lipstick (thankfully!! Although this picture may lead you to believe otherwise...). :)
5. (Sign) (Oh, how you'll appreciate this if you know my boss!)
Royce is my boss. Royce is not a cardboard sign; he's an actual person, but that's his face on Waldo's body. I don't know why we still have this around the office. It's from a golf tournament years ago!!! We don't use it, but it seems like we just can't part with him. The best part... where this sign is kept. Let's just say that if I look over my shoulder, it's right there, so, theoretically, my boss (close enough) is always looking right over my shoulder. Funny, huh?
I'm a few days behind on the June photo challenge, but I've got 2 to get me a little more caught up:
4. (Close up)
5. (Sign) (Oh, how you'll appreciate this if you know my boss!)
Today's assignment is "hat." That could be a hard one.
Something else I wanted to discuss was in regards to a post I made on Facebook. I said, "I feel very blessed right now. Is everything perfect? Of course not; but right now is one of those rare times where I'm able to focus on all the good I have in my life. Lots and lots of really good people in my life. Lots of great experiences I've experienced. So many I have to look forward to. Just felt like sharing, in the hopes maybe you'll see how blessed you are! :)"
Yesterday, I was a little emotional and cranky. Yes, I will admit that I get that way from time to time! Lol! But I decided to turn it around. We can't always do that, but sometimes we can. Sometimes we can take those less than stellar days and make them good, great even! Really, even making them bearable is a welcomed improvement. Next time you're feeling down, really try to separate yourself from the negatives. They are so consuming, and they seem to be everywhere, especially when you're having a rough day. The reason I referred to that time of happy reflection as rare was because I was bound and determined to let go of the nagging little things that were getting me down. I made myself appreciate all the many blessings I've got, and I've got tons. Most of the time, we can't put everything aside for whatever reason. Sometimes a racing mind won't let you let go. That's why this was a rare moment, because I was able to honestly focus on the good, and nothing got in my way. A lot of people 'liked' that comment, which made me wonder how many people really try to fix a bad day. Yes, I will also admit that sometimes we all need a bad day, a day to just be in a cranky mood. But sometimes you think you need one of those days, and you don't. So, if you're having a bad day and want to turn it around, try! It won't make all of your problems go away, but it may help brighten your day. Who doesn't benefit from reminding themselves that they've got people who love them, remembering great vacations or looking forward to something great in your future. Worth a shot!
Aren't I? ;)
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