Hot July Night!

Tonight I waited until it "cooled" down to about 85*, so I got out the door a little after 8 pm. Still not feeling well, I was bound and determined to make it through the scheduled 6 miles.

According to my watch, it was a good one.
Mile 1 and 2 - 18:00
Mile 3 - 8:24
Mile 4 - 8:46
Mile 5 - 8:57
Mile 6 - 8:26


According to my body, not so much.
However, I am trying to be positive. So... if I can run these splits in the freaking hot and humid weather while I'm not feeling well, just think how I could do when I'm on top of my game.

Oh, here's a side note. Towards the end of my run, I swore I could smell watermelon. I'm pretty sure it was all in my imagination, but then I started craving it. Mmmmmm ~ cold watermelon after a hot, sweaty run. Yum!


I didn't want to talk health today, but here's an update on the doctor front. I talked to the nurse today and she was going to talk to my doctor and call me back with his recommendation. She never called back. So, they'll be getting another phone call from me tomorrow morning. I'm sorry, but if a patient is having difficulty with a medication shouldn't that be a priority? I don't think this is my case, but people can become very ill from taking the wrong medication. My mom was once on a medication that reacted with another medication she was taking and her doctor didn't want to do anything. It literally almost killed her. Anyway, that's the latest and greatest.

So. Very. Tired.

I called my doctor today to see if I should wait a little bit more to give my body time to adjust to the meds or if I should try another kind. The nurse didn't call me back until after hours and I was in a meeting so I couldn't answer my phone. So, I'll have word tomorrow.

My workout with Ricky was rough. Not that the workout was super hard, but I'm just out of it. Since I didn't get up to run this morning, I tried to do it after my workout. I got about a 1/2 mile in and called it quits. On my way out, I ran into Ricky and sheepishly said I couldn't do it. He laughed, gave me a hug and told me to go home and rest. Good idea!

My meeting tonight was about going back to get my MBA. I thought I missed the deadline to start in the fall and was planning on starting winter semester. But... I found out I can still start in September if I want. Since I was a PR major, I have to take nearly all of the "foundation" courses. So, it's going to be a while before I actually start my core classes. Uggh. There is an accelerated route I can take to get through them faster, so hopefully I won't be in school forever. I've always known I wanted to go back to school, and I wanted to have my master's before I turned 30. If I'm going to make that goal I'm going to have to start NOW.

Alright, need to get some sleep so I'll be ready and refreshed to blast thought my 6-miler tomorrow.

Warning: Do not operate heavy machinery when taking this medicine

Yesterday I was scheduled to up my dose, which made me very nervous. At only 10 mg I was experiencing side effects, so I was sure I was going to start having hulucinations (another, serious, side effect.) I was SO sleepy today I almost didn't get out of bed. I'm talking dead weight tired. And, I'm not so sure I should have been operating a motor vehicle today. The bottle says to not drive until you are sure of how you'll react to the medication. Right. Am I suppose to call into work and say, "Um, I'm waiting to see if I think I'll drive off the side of the road before I come in today." Seriously. All the same side effects as with the 10 mg, but the nasty feeling of dizziness also kicked in. Dizzy standing up and sometimes while sitting. Also, not much of an appetite the last couple of days. But, I make myself eat because I know my body needs it. Uggg.

The worst part of this stuff is it is apparent I'm not myself. Nearly everyone in the office has asked me if I'm okay because I, "just don't seem like my usual peppy self." Most of the time I just smile and say I'm tired. I told a couple that I'm taking a new medication and getting use to it. I just don't feel like talking about it, or really talking in general. That must be the tip off that I'm not myself - I'm actually not talking very much! :)

After work I ran/walked with a co-worker, who is trying to run her first race in October, for about an hour. I decided to do my workout on the treadmill in the clubhouse tonight because I wasn't feeling well and I didn't want to be too far from home if something happened. Today I was scheduled for a 5 mile pace run (2 mile warm up - 10:00 pace, 2 mile race pace or faster - 8:30 pace, 1 mile cool down - 10:00 pace). I kept running off to the side, so I was concentrating more on staying on the damn treadmill than the run itself.

Well, not feeling great so I'm gonna head to bed.

The Wedding Story

Oh the drama...

My family (parents, brother and grandmother) picked me up on Friday morning. Setting up the scene for a long, trying weekend - my grandma, who I love dearly, is in the early-mid stages of alzheimer's. While this could be an entire blog in itself, she has always been spunky, but now she just gets under your skin and is hard on the nerves. It's not really fair, because it isn't her fault but... it's just hard to deal with.

We got up to Traverse early afternoon and decided to walk around the Cherry Festival. It was hot and we had all been stuck in the car for a few hours, so no one was in the best of moods. My grandma didn't want to walk anywhere and every few steps would ask my dad, "how much more do I have to walk? I don't want to walk anymore." There really isn't much to the Cherry Festival, so we weren't there long.

After getting back to our hotel room, we found that my aunt, uncle and four cousins (all boys ages 12-6) had arrived and we went out to dinner together. I don't see them very often, so we had a nice time. Afterwards, the boys went swimming. My brother and I just watched because he was tired and I wanted to go to bed early so I could get up and run. They didn't understand the concept of going to bed early.

At 6 am I got up for my 9 mile run. A trail started nearby the hotel, and it went down to Grand Traverse Bay. Most of the "trail" was the sidewalk through town, but running near the water was so enjoyable. It was so quiet and peaceful. The sun was reflecting off of the water and the boats were a sight to see. My time was a bit fast, and I was pretty sure it wasn't 9 miles like the lady at the hotel desk told me. My mom and I clocked it with the car and it was about 8.5 miles. I was a little upset that I didn't get my full run in, but kept telling myelf to relax. After breakfast I went swimming with the boys. Yeah, I totally made up that 1/2 mile! They kept wanting to race. No big dea,l right? The pool isn't that big. True, but there are FOUR of them and only ONE of me. I was exhausted!!!!!

We did some sightseeing and I was so tired and moody. That stupid medicine! Afterwards, my mom suggested we get sandwiches before the wedding so we weren't starving. I started crying because I didn't want a sandwich! Silly, I know but it really did make me cry.

We went back to the hotel to get ready for the wedding. My grandma didn't want to take a shower, didn't want to get dressed and didn't know why where we were going. My poor mom was trying to be patient, but she was ready for a stiff drink. Plus, we were all pretty pissed at my cousin (the bride) and my aunt (mother of the bride) because grandma wasn't invited to the rehersal dinner and wasn't asked to arrive early for pictures or to see her granddaughter before the ceremony. I know they had a lot to do, and I know having my grandma around is a full time job. But, hello!!!! She is your grandmother.

The outdoor ceremony was beautiful and my cousin looked stunning. Afterwards, my mom was ready to drink so we started in on the merlot. No crazy bouquet stories - it was set up for my cousin's (brother of the bride) girlfriend to catch it. Fine by me. I didn't even go out there. I mean, come on. I know I'm single. Do you need to announce it to a room full of strangers!?! And, if I wanted a guy I didn't know feeling me up, I'd at least want to get a free drink or two out of it! :) I also found out that there is a pool going to see how long the marriage is going to last. I think the high number was 3 1/2 years. They fight a lot, and even started fighting immediately after the ceremony because he thought they were taking too many pictures. Hmmmm.... good luck.

Afterwards, my brother, cousin (Matthew) and his girlfriend(Missy), my cousin's friend (Dan) and my cousin's cousin (chrissy) from the other side of the family all went to the bar. Chrissy was already trashed and we thought the only drama for the night would be her hooking up with Dan. When we got to the bar, Dan opened a tab and said the night was on him. Missy and I were super excited about this. About half way into the first beer, Chrissy got really upset about something and walked out. I thought the little hallway she went down was the bathroom. I lost the draw, so I went after her. Yeah. That little hallways lead to a back door. I went out and Chrissy was NO WHERE to be seen. Finally, Missy and Matthew came out and we went tromping down the sidewalk trying to find our drunk, hysterical friend. We finally found her sitting on a bench outside of McDonald's crying on some stranger's shoulder. After a lot of talking, she calmed down and we started walking her to her hotel, which was just a little bit down the street. Meanwhile, my feet are killing me so I had to take off my heels and was walking down the street barefoot. We got her up to her room (after waking her mother and grandmother) and said goodnight.

Oh, but it doesn't end there. We were down in the lobby when Chrissy's sister's boyfriend came in. His girlfriend (Laura) was passed out in the car and he couldn't get her up. So, Missy and I continued our night of taking care of drunks and went out to the car. We got her up easily (Her boyfriend tried for 45 min. to get her up. We told him girls just have that special touch) and helped her walk to the hotel room. Since we put her sister in one room, we had to put her in their other room. Little did we know they were joining rooms. So, we saw their mom and grandma again. An hour and a half later, we get back to the bar where my brother and Dan had been sitting and drinking the entire time. Last call had already been called, and we were all too tired to drink anyway. Missy and I were so upset that we had an open tab for the night and couldn't even take advantage of it!!

It was a long drive home. We were all tired, ready to not be so "together" and my grandma was in rare form. Again, I love my family but I was SO happy to get home to my nice, quiet apartment!

Finally! Chinese Laundry Boots = Runners calves

After work I ran to DSW to find some shoes for my cousin's wedding, which is Saturday. (Which I should be packing for right now since I'm leaving tomorrow morning.) Got some really cute heels that look perfect with the dress... that I got yesterday.

Then, in the distance I saw them. Boots! Now, I know it's July and I love sandal season, but boot season is so exciting. I've never been able to get the high boots because, well frankly, designers don't keep runners calf muscles in mind while making them. I know I'm not alone when I say how sad it has always been to try on countless kinds, (even the "stretch" ones) only to find you can only zip them up half way.

Wistfully thinking maybe this year would be different, I sat down and began trying them on. One by one. One "stretch" pair fit, but they weren't that nice looking and were poorly made. Then. I found them. A beautiful pair of black boots that gently zipped over my muscular calves. Triumph!!! So, even though it's July I have some sweet ass boots patiently waiting in my closet until it's time!

Yep, those are running shoes in that picture, too. My morning run sucked. It hurt too much and I only could last for 1/2 mile. Since I was up, I jumped on the bike and got in about 5 1/2 miles. Frustrating? Yes. But, I had to remind myself that I was up and working out twice a day. Last year at this time I could barely walk. Tonight's run was much better - 6 miles at 10:00 pace. I didn't want to push it too much tonight because of this morning. Although it was a bit slower than I would have liked, it felt nice and relaxed. What more can you ask for?

So, heading up north for my cousin's wedding this weekend. Looking forward to some new scenery for my long run. Traverse City is so beautiful so I'm sure it'll be a great run. Not really looking forward to the actual wedding though. I love her because she's my cousin (we were close growing up), but don't really like who she became as an adult. Not too fond of the guy either. My mom and I were planning on just drinking a lot, but I'm on these meds now. When I told her this she said, "Hmmmm. Well maybe you should just skip it on Saturday." Is my mom awesome or what.

Lots of complaining - read at your own risk

I have only been on this stupid medication for two days now and I HATE it!!!

Dry mouth - Yes, and it's so damn annoying. They suggest sucking on candy or ice chips. Yeah, because that's what I want to do all day. I've also had this bad taste in my mouth all day. Do you know how many times I brushed my teeth today!?!

Upset stomach - I really think being nauseated is one of the worst physical feelings.

Sleepy - Couldn't get up for my morning run today. Not like I was too tired, more like my body felt like dead weight and I'm still not sure how I made it to work.

Fuzzy feeling - It's like I'm on a fucking cloud and can't get back to my body. This was especially not appreciated during my workout with Ricky today.

Headache - Off and on throughout the day.

Nighmares - Well, not really... After watching the news all day yesterday, I had a dream that North Korea missed the U.S. and hit Europe. I woke up not quite sure if N. Korea declared war on Europe or what. Never mind the geographical differences - it's a dream, right? (I'll say it. I am so fucking weird.)

Breast enlargment - No, not yet. But, I'm keeping my fingers crossed on this one!

Moody - nooooo, not at all. I go back and forth between being pissed off and being really sad. It didn't help that I was in a ton of pain today either. I'd get really pissed that it hurt, then really sad because I hate it, then really pissed off that this stupid medicine doesn't work right away, then really sad because I was being so selfish since this is nothing compared to what others go through (I've been thinking a lot about Mrs. B lately...), etc., etc., etc. It's a vicious cycle.

It's a good thing mouse is on vacation, because I'm pretty sure no one wants to be around me. The thing that concerns me is that this is such a SMALL dose and I'm reacting this way already. Hopefully, my body will begin to adjust soon and this will all go away. I don't think I can handle staying on it if I don't. Damn, now I'm getting all sad again. UGGGGHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!

Option number two

The appointment went okay. Not really sure what I was hoping to come out of it - besides learning that they had suddenly come up with a magical cure. My next option is medication. I am not thrilled about it, but it's what I have to do. They've found that anti-depressions given in low dosage can help with chronic pain. The idea is for the medication to help calm down my over active nerves. Hopefully once that is established, I'll start physical therapy again. With the nerves calmer, my body may be able to tolerate it better. My body has to adjust to it, so it is given in very, very small dosage at first and then increase it in steps.

Possible side effects range from sleepiness (check), upset stomach (check), irritablity (more than usual?) and even breast enlargement (Sweet! Hopefully I'll be able to check that box!) If my body doesn't take to this, there are two other types that we'll try. They weren't sure how long I'll be on these because it ranges from person to person. They did tell me it is a possibility that it could be indefinitely. I told them that that is not an option. I refuse to be on them for the rest of my life.

After that, I insisted on knowing the full game plan. I told them that I've already been dealing with this for a year, and want to make sure they are on always thinking ahead. They kept talking about this stage and that it was going to take a few months until we know if it's working. I assured them I understood that and didn't mind waiting a few months to see if it was working, but I didn't want to wait until then to decide what to do next in the case it didn't work. Unfortunatley, there aren't many more options after this. Injections possibly, but it's difficult in my case because there isn't one known trigger point. That's mostly done with back pain, hip pain, etc. where they know the pain source. They don't know mine. Surgery is really the only other option, which they really don't want to do and I really don't want to go through. I'm not going to dwell on that now, but not going to ignore that as something that is possibly in my future.

The major down side to taking this medication is I can't drink! I still have three weddings and my girls weekend this summer. Not to mention, plenty of happy hours, football season is around the corner or random wine nights... Ricky was happy about this part of my treatment. He wasn't thrilled that I enjoy my alcohol. Hey, I'm not training for the Olympics here.

Speaking of training...
Yesterday, we did a series of explosion exercises, pyrometrics and 6 200m timed repeats. Not too strenuous, but a good workout. Another trainer, who used to work with Ricky, hung out with us and watched. During the pyrometrics, they were commenting on my muscular legs. I believe the quote was, "yeah, she's got some thighs." I chose to take that as a compliment and immediately thought of the Nike ad on my fridge that starts out, "I have thunder thighs and that is a compliment because they are strong"

Today I did 3 miles in the morning in the sweltering sun. I was planning on doing the Tortise and Hare 5k in Ann Arbor, but the medication knocked me out and I didn't hear my alarm. In fact, I slept through it for several hours. Tonight I had a great repeat workout, which I was actually dreading, but it ended up not being bad.

2 mile warm up
6 x 800m (9:00 pace) - 200m walk between
1 mile cool down

Anyway, I've been babbling long enough. Gotta get to bed since the morning workout is going to get here pretty early.

Dreading this afternoon

The office is closed today, so I enjoyed sleeping in a little and having a leisurely breakfast while watching the Today show (Nick Lachey was the summer concert today...).

I started watching the Tour but needed to go for my morning run. I decided to trade in fresh air for a TV, so I (gasp!) walked over to the clubhouse to run on the treadmill and continue to watch the Tour. I'm usually lazy and drive the little bit over to the clubhouse, so I was already ahead.

Ran my morning 3 miles (10:00 pace) and really wanted to do arms. I kept going back and forth, since I have my workout with Ricky tonight. He's always telling me not to worry about time or my workout, just go with what my body is telling me. Well, my body was telling me it wanted to lift weights so I did some light bi's and tri's.

Got back and jumped in the shower to prepare for my doctor's appointment. In other words, do a very complete job of shaving. It's kinda like getting ready for a big date. (Sigh!) No date, just a few more doctors poking, prodding and saying, "... so, we're going to have to do an exam today," as they pull out the good 'ol stirrups.

The purpose of today's appointment is to evaluate my physical therapy and decide next steps. I'd say it's a bust since she dumped me a month or two ago. Hopefully they will have some more options for me to try. I'm tired of fucking around and want to be agressive with my treatment (short of surgery though). That said, I'm going to walk in the door optimistic, yet realistic. I'm going to be confident in my doctor's, yet be confident in myself to take charge of my own medical health. Keep your finger's crossed!

The Tour and Prada

Over the last few years, I've become fascinated with the the Tour de France. Admittedly, it was due to the Lance Armstrong reign... like much of the world. Yesterday's prologue was SO exciting! I'll be cheering on George Hincapie this year. After years of working with his team to help bring Armstrong to a victory, he's earned the chance to now be the one taking the lead. After today's yellow jersey win, I'm excited to follow him through the tour.

The doping scandal saddens me. As the commentators discussed yesterday, my initial thought was, "every rider must have woken up that morning thinking, 'hmmm, I actually have shot at this this year.'" We often hear about doping with the mainstream sports, and brush it aside with a scoff. Those multi-million dollar athletes caught cheating... and no one blinks twice. I tend to be of the mindset that cycling is one of those sports that is pure. Training hard, refined talent and pure athleticism. I hope those athletes are being wrongly accussed and it will come out that they are talented athletes who work hard for their accomplishments.

Now, to my own training. Ran 10 miles yesterday and it was okay. My last three miles were a bit painful, but I still came in with a pace of under 10:00. I started with a stabbing pain on my right, which I woke up with. Towards the middle of the run, I started getting that prickling feelin in the center. It then progressed to a stabbing pain on my left, which stayed with me the rest of the day. Throughout the run, I kept reminding myself that it is still early in my training and I have time to continue getting stronger and continue lowering my time. Not sure if I was trying to remind myself, or convince myself.

I took a quick shower when I got home and decided to take my nap out by the pool. A friend came over to join me and later we had a great dinner at The Melting Pot. I LOVE fondue and this was really good. A little expensive - it cost more than what I spend in a week on groceries - but really good. We were thinking about a night out, but were really tired. We ended up going to see A Devil Wears Prada (LOVED THE CLOTHES!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!) and a quick beer at BW3. We felt a little lame heading to the movies in jeans and t-shirts, while a bunch of barely 21-year-olds wearing little to no clothing lined up at a dance club. :)

I love cars!

It bodes well for me that I am a car girl since I live and work in the Detroit area. Today, I joined one of my GM clients to their all-employee meeting out at the GM proving grounds. I was super excited, because we were going to have the opportunity to drive a bunch of different vehicles on the test track. Now, I've done this before and LOVED it! There is nothing like a bunch of cars sitting there, just waiting to be whipped around curves, taken up and down hills and really letting you see what they can do. Today was no exception. It is a beautiful Friday and after the business portion of the day, we were set loose to have fun.


This big 'ol truck was my feat of the day. Everyone was laughing when I had to jump in and out of it... I'm only 5' tall. Besides a fun day of driving lots of great vehicles (sporty little convertibles to the H2 SUT to the medium duty trucks like this one), it was a good learning opportunity for me to really understand the products I work with on a daily basis.

I was also excited to go today because the proving grounds is only five miles from my house. I got to sleep in, watch the Today show and didn't have to worry about getting stuck in traffic. What a treat. I really need to live closer to the office...

As for running... today is technically a rest day, but since I didn't run last night I may go out on a short run later this evening. Since I'm working out in the morning too, I'm not going to worry about missing a short run. Either way, I'm going to be over my scheduled miles. Plus, running should be fun and if I'm hurting the entire time then that defeats the purpose of running for enjoyment.

Goodbye Space Cowboy

It was a little difficult getting out of bed this morning, but I got up and headed over to the gym. I was feeling like shit, so I could only handle two miles. It just felt forced and my abdomen was killing me.

Work was stressful today. I got in early, but didn't get much done because I was talking with one of the guys about last night's draft. On the way in, I heard we traded Mo Evans ("... some people call me Maurice...") and I was so sad. He hadn't heard that and so we did a mad search to try and find it. There was nothing online (local papers or the NBA or Piston's site). We figured since there wasn't anything I must have been wrong - I was never so happy to be wrong before. It was bothering me so I continued to search. I should have stoped while I was ahead and believed it wasn't true. Yep, we traded Mo for some guy from the Lakers to warm the bench.

And, to add to a stressful day, I unexpectantly started. WTF! No wonder I felt so crappy during my morning run. I also wonder if that is why I've been hurting so much recently.

Our last golf lesson was tonight, but it got pushed back an hour. We were hoping to go to happy hour before but it didn't work out. And, I could have used a drink. :) We learned chipping and pitching today, and practiced our driving. I haven't held a club since my last lesson, but I didn't forget as much as I expected. My abdomen was hurting and I thougt that I was going to have to stop because I could barely stand bending down to put another ball on the tee. Tonight I was scheduled for a 3 mile run, but there was no way I could do it without being in pain the whole time. So, I opted not to do it and hopefully tomorrow will be better. See, positive thinking right here. :)

I looked like a hooker

Last time I got my hair done, my stylist asked if she could use my haircut to enter into an industry-wide contest. I frequently get stopped by random people who comment on how much they like my hair, that I happily agreed to help her out. She cut it a bit more funky, did my makeup and we had a fun little photo shoot. Today, I had an appointment and she had copies of the pictures we took. Yeah. I looked like a hooker. My eye makeup was pretty out there. I don't usually wear that much makeup, so I always think it looks like a lot when someone else does it, but this was very much like I should be standing on a corner somewhere.

Today's workout with Ricky was a little less intense. We did some sprinting/explosion exercises and did a body workout. No weights, just using my own body to get stronger. It never seems like much when I'm doing it, but I'm usually sore the next day.

I hurt like hell today (both sides) and I think that's what put me in such an irritable mood today. Someone from the office brought in tiramisu this afternoon and boy, did it give me a sugar high. I was seriously almost twitching I was so wired. So irritable and wired... funny combo.

But... it's almost a long weekend and I'm looking forward to it!

Whirlwind of a day

What a day. It started with an early morning run (3 miles - 10:00 pace). Surprisingly it wasn't that bad getting up. I only wanted to do two two-a-days a week, but I think I might run two days and cross train the others just so I get use to waking up early. Wow! Did I just say that?

The work day went by in a flash and I felt as though I got nothing accomplished. The culprit? Meetings. I really hate meetings. GM is notorious for their marathon meetings (and meetings to talk about setting up meetings - seriously) and I'm glad to be away from that part of it, but now if I have more than 2 meetings in one day I feel as though my day is completely shot. Today I had 4, which makes it difficult to get any work done. One meeting was so I could learn about budgeting and billing. Whoo hooo. Am I really wanting to get my MBA? Although my head was swimming afterwards, it was interesting to see that side of the business. And, since we charge for our time, it was a little weird to see how the hours I work translate into revenue.

After work, Julie and I did our Tuesday night run/walk. She is improving and I'm proud of her, but I wish she were a little more dedicated. As in, I wish she would run the mileage that she is suppose to run. We were out for about 45 minutes and ran more than last time, and I could tell she was proud of herself. And, that is what it is all about.

Since I'm not sure the mileage breakdowns around the office, I came home to do my speed workout. I was scheduled to do a 5 mile pace run (2 miles easy, 2 miles pace, 1 mile easy) but due to time and the fact that I had already worked out twice, I decided to do 1 easy, 2 pace, 1 easy. My pace miles were actually a bit too fast. I'm going to have to remember how certain paces feel. It's hard when I'm coming from every pace being difficult and feeling forced.

Of course, my pain update. I hate writing about this, but I know I need to keep a record so here it is. Woke up with stabbing pain and it continued through the day, mostly on the right side (Scale 1-10: 5-7). Tonight had the burning feeling, but on the right side instead of the middle, which I don't think I've had before. I've also been having some shooting pains down my left leg, same area as when I was in PT. This started on Sunday and have been off and on through today.

To end on a happier note... a friend of mine from high school called me today and told me she is getting married. And the wedding is Labor Day weekend. And she just accepted a new job in Floriday. CK is one of those friends that I don't talk to on a regular basis, but we've maintained a friendship over the years. I'm so happy for her and can't wait for the wedding!

Two workouts today!

Today I got up early and ran 3 miles (10:00 pace) before work. It wasn't as terrible as the last run and I actually enjoy watching the local news before work.

I wore my KICK ASS red heels today and got lots of compliments. I was the envy of all the girls today! :) Of course, I had to wear a skirt because I didn't want them to be covered up by pants. I LOVE MY HOT RED HIGH HEELS!

Tonight I had a really fun workout wit Ricky. We started with some weigthts - hamstrings, bi's, tri's ad deltoids. From there, we did a pool workout. It was great resistence training, but also helped since my hip/hamstring is still a bit sore. It's definitely getting better though. Ricky is a great coach and I'm really enjoying working out with him.

Part of me really enjoys workout out and I do get excited thinking about a training plan, getting ready for my race, etc. But, there is another part of me that just dreads running and sometimes I don't enjoy doing it once I'm out there (notice, no comments on Saturday's long run... perfect example). Not sure what my deal is, but I need to figure it out and get out of this funk. I woke up with a lot of pain and it was more painful than usual throughout the day - not sure why. That's another frustrating thing. There is no rhyme or reason to it. Next week is my appointment, so I'm looking forward to (hopefully) getting some answers. Or, at least some suggestions for alternatives.

That was one powerful room

Yesterday I spent most of my day downtown for the big pitch. I was a part of the "special forces" team (aka - set up and tear down committee). We were in our staging room when the pitching team arrived. While setting up and tearing down isn't the greatest job ever, it always helps to get in front of the top executives. How great is it that the CEO of our global company and our North American president both know me by name and were happy to see me when they walked in the door. I also met one of our executive vice presidents, who runs the New York office, and Linda Kaplan Thayer. Now, I didn't know who Linda Kaplan Thayer was but she is the CEO of the ad agency, Kaplan Thayer Group. Not only is she a successful business woman, but she was a judge for one of the projects on The Apprentice. How cool is that!?!

My job was to help set up the room when it was our turn to pitch. However, I ended up getting stuck and couldn't leave. It was a great opportunity to watch part of our global executive team doing what they do best. Not only was our powerhouse in the room, but they were pitching to GM's powerhouse. I knew some of them, but had heard of all of them. These were the top people. It was a great chance for me to watch this.

Afterwards, some of us had lunch with the New York office managing director. He was a great guy, very passionate about what he does and was very interested in what we thought and where we wanted to go. He told us that he was glad we were in the room because it gave us a chance to see what we'll be doing in the future. Wow! That's a little scary and really exciting to think about. He offered another co-worker and I the opportunity to come to the New York office - either to work or visit. He told us that if we wanted to work out of NY for just a couple of weeks to try it out, to let him know and he would arrange it. And, he definitely has the power to do so.

When I got back to the office I was exhausted, but had a ton of stuff to catch up on. Here is was a Friday afternoon and I said, "A nice cold beer sure sounds good right now." No sooner had I said that, then one of the supervisors came around passing out ice cold beers. My prayers had been answered and it tasted SO good. Later, I was on the phone and when I got off, I looked at my desk and my empty bottle had magically refilled itself. I tell you, that is what got me through the day. I sure picked the right career!

Two blah runs

Started off the morning by actually getting up for my morning workout. I so am not a morning person! I did my 20 minutes (I intended to do more, but since I haven't done two-a-days for a few weeks, I thought I had better stick with 2 miles - 10:00 pace.) Plus, my brain and body weren't really functioning anyway. Finished up with an ab workout.

Since my day started a little earlier, I was ahead of schedule and got into the office around 7:30 am. For better or worse, I got pulled into a big pitch and my day was totally rearranged. After working a 13+ hour day, I headed to the gym. (I had to miss my golf lesson tonight, too.)

I was set to do 5 miles, but perhaps it was just me today overall because I felt exactly how I did this morning. Blahhhh... Plus, my hip was bothering me quite a bit. I got in three and some sets of push ups and another ab workout. I decided that I'd rather go light at the begining of my training, rather than continue to push an injury and screw up my whole training plan. Wow, I'm getting to be such a mature runner. :)

Oh, that remindes me. I joined the Running Blog Family yesterday... I may not feel like a real runner again, but I figured I signed up for my marathon and said fuck it and joined the group.

Rain, rain, go away...

Last night, the storm woke me up in the middle of the night. I could hear the rain pounding down and the only thought that went through my head was, "I'm so wearing jeans to the office tomorrow." And I went right back to sleep. Everyone was a little cranky today, and it had to have been due to the weather. (Well that and it was one of the girls last day before her wedding... she has slowly been turing into a bridezilla this week and making everyone around her turn into a pissy mood too.) It was so dark outside and the office was cold again. Since it was the first day of summer (and I was given the responsibility of "building morale" in the office) I had the freezer stocked with ice cream treats. It raised the spirits a little bit, but I think they would've been more satisfied with a stocked bar instead.

Work is going well, although getting to be a bit wearing. I had my review this week and it went better than expected. My supervisor is recommending I receive the highest raise I can and that I receive a promotion in October. I guess we only give promotions in July and October, and I have a few boxes to check off yet before I'm ready. I didn't have the opportunity to get these yet-to-accomplish goals in my previous assignment and I've only been at the agency for a little over three months, so I was a little surprised by this. But, definitely ready to further my career.

My workout with Ricky today was a good one. Lots of different leg exercises, most of which I had never done before. One of the other trainers even came over to observe. He's one I probably wouldn't want for myself, but seems like a good guy. Between sets he kept asking me if my quads were buring yet or if I was, "really feeling it yet." My legs were still pretty fresh, so I kept saying, "no, not yet." I was trying to be nice and didn't want to sound cocky, but after awhile I wanted to yell at him, "NO! Please stop asking me if I'm ready to fall down yet!" We finsihed up with about a mile of intervals. The track and my hanstrings don't get along well, and since it was raining outside, we hit the treadmill. Ever 30 seconds the incline or speed changed.

It's Official!

I signed up for the Detroit Marathon today. There's no turning back now!

Yesterday, I had a good workout with Ricky. I'm not sure how the time goes by so quickly, but it just seems to fly. And, we always work out more than the scheduled hour. We did some weights for hamstrings and quads, bi's and tri's. And, lots and lots of running. It's been a long time since I've done a sprinting workout, so I enjoyed it. We did a lot of timed repeats, acceleration drills and explosion drills. He's been showing me things to improve my form and make me run more efficiently. It's really weird because it is like I'm learning how to walk all over again. Anyway, I'm all ears for ways to make this race a tad bit easier.

Tuesday's are the days I run with one of my co-workers, who has decided to try the half marathon in Detroit. We did a walk/run for about 2 miles. She's never worked out on a regular basis, so she's doing well since she's starting from the very beginning. After that, I went on a 3 mile run (a bit more than a 10:00 pace) through one of the sub's around my office. It was a beautiful evening out, but my hip was really bothering me so I didn't really enjoy it too much.

I received an appointment reminder from U of M today in the mail. Wow! It's sad to think that something as simple as a letter in the mail reminding me of my apppointment impresses me. They are slowly restoring my faith in the medical community. This afternoon I was sitting in a meeting and it was hurting so badly I could barely pay attention. This is where I check the box next to the question, "Does your pain interfere with your everyday life?"

Why am I doing this?

You know how when you hear an outside noise while you're sleeping, and it becomes a part of your dream? Shortly before my alarm went off at 6 am, I was dreaming that I was doing a workout of sorts. I think it was swimming because, in my dream, I had to stop because of the stabbing pain on my right side. My mom draped a towel over me and asked I she needed to take me to the doctor. Well... what do you know. I woke up and my right side was hurting like hell. (Scale 1-10: 8) After hitting snooze a few times, I got up and got ready for my run, hoping the pain would go away. I really wasn't in the mood to get up, but I knew I would regret it if I didn't and ended up roasting in the sun.

I got to the metropark shortly before 7am and it was already 70*. ugghh. Thankfully there was a slight breeze. I strapped on my Fuel Belt (the first time I've used it in a year) and was on my way. My hip was a little sore at first, but loosened up a couple of miles in. My right side did not. About halfway through, this thought came flying out of no where. "Why am I doing this?" It literally stopped me cold in my tracks. Really. Why am I doing this? Do I want to be a runner again? Am I doing it because I don't want to say I'm not? Am I doing it because I'm just stubborn and can't admit that maybe I either can't do it or don't want to anymore? Is it still fun? Could it not be as fun because I'm in the "holy shit this sucks because I'm still getting into shape" phase right now and it'll become more fun as I progress?

Ricky had me write my goal on my mirror so I would see it everyday. Both my bathroom mirror and my full length mirror state: "2006 Detroit Marathon Sub 4:00" Sometimes it motivates me. Sometimes I look at it and say to myself, "holy shit, I have a lot of work to do!" Sometimes I look at it and sadly think there is no way I'm going to make it - and I DO NOT like not making my goals.

After a few tears, I decided that even if I want to quit today, I at least need to make it back to my car. :) So, I kept running. Classic me, I shoved those nasty thoughts back down and jammed to my music. I can't believe I never ran with music before - I LOVE my cute, little iPod! (and my great roommate who gave me some new music to listen to). Surprisingly, I finished my 12 mile run in exactly 2 hours (10:00 pace). I thought I was going MUCH, MUCH, MUCH slower!!

So, I'm not sure what I'm suppose to do about this stupid pain. They say that you shouldn't continue working out if you experience pain. Well, what if you experience pain when you're just sitting there? Is it okay to run then? My next appointment at U of M is in a few weeks, so that is one of the questions on my list. Right after, "what the fuck is wrong with me and what else is left that we can try?"

I try to live my life. I try to go on and do everything I enjoyed before. But, it's too hard. Someone told me that he believed things really do happen for a reason and your life won't go on until you learn the intended lesson. I could use a little help here. Not. Seeing. The. Intended. Lesson.

I am cranky!

I was cranky today - must be because I'm still tired from yesterday. I decided not to run tonight because 1) I'm tired and don't really feel like it 2) It's hot out and I don't really feel like it 3) I'm set for a 12-miler tomorrow, so I don't think it'll kill me not to run tonight. Granted, this will be two nights in a row off but oh well. I didn't run for plenty of months in a row and I'm okay.

Early to bed tonight so I can get up before it gets so blasting hot. It's suppose to be 92*. Some of the girls from the office are coming over in the afternoon to enjoy the pool. I got stuff for a nacho bar (and of course my main summer staple - the bucket o' fun!) Oh, I learned of a "new" soon-to-be favorite: lime tequilla. Not sure how new it is, but I just discovered it today. I may or may not have tasted it while I was creating the bucket o' fun...