Red Face

Today was my last PT session :-( Well, I still wanted to do more, as did my therapist, however the prescription ran out. I haven't heard back from my foot doctor, so I cancelled the remainder of my sessions until I hear back. Hopefully I will be able to continue.

And what I should have learned was how to tape my foot. I didn't have a tape job, but went on the treadmill at lunch anyway. It stunk because I was 60 and sunny out - perfect running outside weather. But I had a 2 o'clock meeting, was worried about betting stuck on the mall, having to hobble back due to pain, and miss my meeting. What I wasn't expecting was how HOT the gym was. Within 5 minutes I has sweat marks on my back! Now I am an under arm sweater, but that's really it. Dang, after my 40 minutes, 1. my shirt was soaked. and 2. my face was RED. I mean BRIGHT RED!!

This is actually kind of funny because Charles just got back from New York and brought me back this little surprise. It was basically what I looked like - the shade of red that is, not the eyebrow thing.

Guess How Many Yds???

There are a few positives about being on the board for the tri club. One is being held responsible for showing up to workouts. Today, another swim. I came up with the workout, had to bring it to the pool - so I had to swim. Even though around 5, I just wanted to go home.

But instead I stuck to my plan and went to abs/weights class. Or what I thought was a weights class - they changed it to more of a boot camp type class. Not what I wanted. I like to take my time doing squats, lunges, presses - not 1 set of 8 and rush to another exercise. And I didn't need the cardio, so I walked out when there were more push-ups and the mountain climber. I just did a few weights on my own and headed off to the pool.

This is definitely one of those nights where I would have gone home. But since I was responsible for the swim, I had to go. And I am glad I did. Guess how much?
Guess

3200 yds! Oh, it was tough, but felt so good. Everyone else doing the workout was way faster than me, but whatever, I can do the distance in the amount of time, and that's all that matters. Yay swimming!

(And yes, I think I used this picture before, but it's one of my favorites)

Another Great Weekend

Friday was a local band I like to hear when they are around.

Saturday was spent in Annapolis. With the BEST (open faced) sandwich EVER from The Boatyard! "Blue Crab Sandwich - Lump blue crab, artichokes, spinach, and Parmesan cheese served open-faced on our house Ciabatta bread with tomato slices and cheddar cheese melted to a golden brown." I mean HEAVENLY delicious!! I highly recommend if anyone makes it to Annapolis. This was followed up by a much needed walk around town and checking out the sights (i.e. see photo on the left :-)

The weather was a bit all over the place so that was my excuse for not working out. However after sleeping in today, it really cleared up - or at least long enough to take a chance and get outside with Blain. I did skip out on seeing a movie with Jess and Kristin (sorry!!) but I had a really good ride.

Yay for spring coming!

I Love/Hate Charles

This is Thursday's post - sorry.

After another PT session, and a taped foot, I thought I would try the treadmill again. Charles was up for a trip to the gym but when we got down there, all the treadmills were full :-( Finally someone got off, after 15 minutes on the stationary bike, and Charles let me go first. When I got there, the person next to me was on for 33 minutes! Not right when people were waiting. So Charles got her kicked off and jumped on.

Little did I know - he had sprints planned - and lots of them. 30 seconds on, 30 seconds off - and those 30 seconds on, were F.A.S.T!!! I made it through 7 before I died. I mean, side stitch, thought I was going to be thrown from the treadmill, dead. I even wore my Ironman finisher shirt to help motivate and have a good run... didn't work so well.

But Charles, and all of his positive-ness just said "Okay, you did 7, next time, go for 10." And he is right... there will be a next time and I will go for 10. And maybe a lot more if I can spend my entire gym time on the treadmill!

3000 Yds Baby!

Yes, you read that right. I just finished a 3000 yard swim. Woot! It was pretty good, I mean for not swimming since, since, um, the last time I swam was, um... right.

The point is I cranked out 3000 yards tonight! I was bullied into the fast lane, and I am kind of glad I was. It pushed me a bit to go harder and keep up with the faster person in the lane. Don't get me wrong, I am tired. It was a tough workout, but so glad I did it.

Now I am thinking about dropping the Y and my chances of seeing Rahm. I haven't been in a long time, these workouts (which are Monday and Wednesday's 6:30-8 at CUA) are great, and with summer right around the corner - the 50 meter outdoor pool will be opening...

Either way, hopefully this will get me back in the pool on a regular basis. The 4.4 mile swim is right around the corner...

Humph

Had another PT session this morning, my 6th. It started with a discussion of my progress and expectations. Her conclusion "You have a bone spur". Yes, I know this... but somehow I was really hoping all this PT would help. And it has, my planters fasciitis. But the when she pokes my foot, the pain is due to the bone spur and unfortunately, I only have 2 options. Surgery to shave it down or deal with the pain. Don't get me wrong, I am glad I am in PT, have exercises to stretch, etc. However, I am a bit disappointed. Surgery is not an option so you know which one I am choosing.

So to deal, I went for a run on the treadmill at lunch. It was much better than last week and did a decent 5K (3.1 miles). Right now that's about all I can ask for so I am happy.

And finally, HAPPY BIRTHDAY RACHNA!!

Finding the Balance

This weekend was a good test of balance. I said this year was going to be the year of choices and I am happy to see it's moving over into my goal of balance.

Last night we went out for Rachna's birthday. I had a full day of volunteering and heading to a friend's daughter's 1 year birthday party. By the time I got home, I had just enough time for a quick nap and head out for dinner. I was good about my dinner choice, low on the alcohol intake. We went out after where I had 1 cocktail and left at a reasonable hour. That made getting up this morning for my group ride much easier.

And the ride, it was GREAT! It was my first group ride as my co-leader of the half training group. Janel and I did the ride together and just felt good. I did have to warn her as I was doing my snot rockets - have her ride ahead that way I didn't hit her. HA!!

Overall, I just feel good. I didn't let my ride today interfere with my Saturday night. Saturday night didn't affect my ride today. I hope I can keep this up!!

I'm Out

This morning was another PT session. It's getting better. Some of the exercises were okay, much better than last time. She even said I could try to run today. And I did at lunch. On the treadmill so if things hurt, I would be okay to stop. Also, go no more than 30 minutes and/or 2.5 miles.

It was raining outside so I didn't feel too bad about being on a treadmill. And Ryan and Mark were there so that made things 'easier'. I just wish the running part could have been easier. It wasn't even all the foot. It was me, my body, my breathing, no energy, no stamina, nothing. Barley made the 2 miles, and walked the last 5 minutes.
Needless to say, I am really disappointed. For my own mental sanity - so I don't keep thinking about it, I am saying no to the cherry blossom.

Spinning in a Sauna

Wow. Seriously.

Let me set the scene. Picture a sauna. You walk in with a swim suit, towel, or in your birthday suit. You sweat. A lot. And usually jump into a pool, lake or shower after.

Now let me describe what I did.

Walked into the sauna (aka the preschool classroom where our spin class was located at the community center) with Carlos, set up, start pedaling, for an hour, and there is no pool, lake or shower for 60 minutes. It was H.O.T.

Within 8 minutes there were sweat beads dripping off my nose. 8 MINUTES! When I was done, according to my heart rate monitor, I burned about 80 more calories than last week.

Good times.

No, actually it was. It was a good, burning, spin class. Only 1 more - in two weeks.

I'm Back!!

Okay, I actually got back on Monday but just not sure what happened to the time. I had a great time in New Orleans. Great friends, a few (too many) drinks, lots of rain, flowers, green beads... what's not to enjoy!?!?!

So now I am trying desperately to get back into the swing of workouts. Yesterday I was at PT before work and spent the rest of the day in pain. We built in some balance work and I felt it. A lot. I know it has to be helping, but sooner would be better than later. It was St. Patrick's day and since I went out so much this weekend, I stayed home.

Tonight, I am off to spin class.

I was planning on swimming tomorrow, but remembered I have PT in the morning. I am trying to fit it all in, but having a tough time.

Also, I really need to start cooking/eating better. My weight is out of control! I am at a weight I swore to my self I would never be again. It's all connected, I am trying, I just wish I could get a bit more motivated, a bit quicker.

And I thought I was getting the weekend off

I am in New Orleans and it is beautiful!! Yesterday was 75 and sunny when I landed. Today there is an 80% chance of rain, but it's still a high of 70.

It took some time for the girls to warm up to me, but as soon as I started to toss Kate (a little over 1) into the air, Addison (3 yrs and some) want to join in the fun as well. Oh, my arms! Talk about an upper body workout! After not even 5 minutes, I had to take a break. So, I taught Addison I game I remember playing with my mom - skin the cat. Let's just say Kristen isn't overly happy. HA!!

I have also spent the morning teaching Kate "D'oh" whenever she does something silly.

Yes, I am having a great time and am not sure if I will ever be invited back.

Quick Post

I am off to New Orleans!!! My last outing before I get serious about training.

But first, PT. Rushing a bit right now so don't have time to find a pic. Sorry.

Will post again soon! Happy Weekend!

Steve Hurt Me

I actually didn't ask Steve if I could use his name, but whatever. Him and his dang stupid one legged drills!!! I almost feel broken. Okay, not really.

If you haven't figured it out yet, I just got back from spin class. Steve is pretty awesome and does a phenomenal spin class. A little warm up, some (dang) one legged drills, solid spinning, high intensity spinning, and all out spinning. Sounds like fun, huh... I kiiiid, I kiiiid. It felt good, that burning muscle feeling, where your legs actually turn red. Yay and ouch.

I would say I am going to swim tomorrow, but really, we all know that won't happen. I will be happy with a lunch run. Even though I did have PT today and was in some pain after that, it should be okay for 3-ish miles tomorrow. Oh, and I talked to her about the 10 miler, she didn't think it was a good idea. With only a good 6 and a horrible 8 under my belt for training, the pain I am feeling after an hour of PT, she didn't think it would be worth - knowing what races I have coming up this season. I still have some time, but about 70/30 not doing the race.

Something Different

Well, I did wake up at 5:15 am to go meet Karen at the pool. I promptly rolled over and turned off all my alarms. I proceeded to sleep 3 more hours. Yes, I think that sleep was worth it, however it did screw up my workout schedule.

See, I ran and did weights yesterday so I didn't want to do them again today. Especially the running. Stretching the right foot isn't helping yet... Anyway, tomorrow is spin class so I really didn't want to sit on the stationary bike. I wasn't in a pilates mood so I just went to the gym hoping something would inspire me.

Well, I wasn't inspired, but I did spend 30 minutes on the stair master. According to the machine, it was over 100 flights of stairs and I think around 2 miles. Not too bad, lots of sweating so that was good. It was something and that's all that matters, right???

I really need to find my swimming motivation/mojo and find it soon!!!

Ahhh... Good Double

Today was a good workout day, and good day in general.

I went out for a lunch run. It wasn't great, but it was good. And W.I.N.D.Y!! And never at my back!! Why does it happy that way??? Directly into the wind or side wind, but never at my back. But, it was 65 so really, I can't complain about being able to run outside in shorts and a T-shirt.

After work I went to an abs and weights class. Uffda! I am going to feel it tomorrow! But I did a double so I could go eat a great dinner. Lauren and I met up for a much needed catch up dinner and to our pleasant surprise, Spike was actually there at the grill! No hat, but it was him. And I have to say, my burger was much better than it was last time. Good Job Spike!

My one issue with the restaurant, there is a GIANT cowbell hanging from the ceiling. I didn't get a chance to take a picture, however I did find this one. I couldn't resist posting.

Anyway, dinner was great and that is why I do doubles - so I can eat more.

Blain is BACK!!

This weekend, the weather was perfect!! I slept in on Saturday and took my time getting Blain ready to head outside for the first time since September. I also decided to head to Hains Point for some laps just in case something happened, I wouldn't be more than a few miles from Marcus.

Getting on and started was a bit wobbley, it seemed hard to clip in, took a bit to get my balance... but it was good. Really good. Not perfect, my bike computer isn't reading my cadence or speed, (Warning Dad!!) my lady parts hurt, my right knee started to hurt (tried to go without a knee brace), I didn't quite make it as long as I wanted. Even with all of this, it was still great to be back on Blain.

With my own questionable running ability, it's nice that with the weather getting better, I have options.

PT Time

Friday's Post

I had a really tough time finding a physical therapist for my foot. I called in a favor to a girl I know on the Tri club and she was nice enough to squeeze me in on her lunch break. My foot really wasn't hurting much, but then again, I haven't run more than 4 miles.

So I get there, we chat, she looks at the inserts, and starts poking around. I learned that I have very bendie joints (her words) in my feet, my balance is better on my left leg, my right leg is stronger, my hips are not flexible (which I knew) but stronger than she expected. We went through stretches and holy buckets!! In the good way, but still, it HURT! She followed up with the ultrasounds thing and massage. Again, DANG! Now this is a friend so I didn't want to seem like a wimp, but did it hurt. I finished up with some electrodes and ice. When it as all said and done, I hoped off the table and almost fell over. Oh man did it hurt.

As I walked back to the office, I started to wonder, is running the Cherry Blossom 10 miler worth it? I am not trained the way I should be, have no idea how it would feel during and after. Could I do more damage? Then I wonder if I am just quitting. For me, there is a fine line between listening to my body and quitting.

I don't quit things, I just don't. But is not doing the 10 miler smart or quitting??

Move More, Eat Less

That's really what I need to be doing. I have had all day meetings Wednesday and Thursday which means no lunch workouts (or lunch at all for that matter) and no morning workouts because I have to be in the office over an hour earlier than I normally am. When they are done, I have to do all the other stuff that needs to get done in a day.

I did manage to get in a run after the meetings, but it was so not good. I don't know what is going on. I felt blogish. No endurance. Just not good. I really need to get a move on for races coming up - and just for my self.

So Sweet...

After bailing on yesterday's swim, the day just didn't go well. Missed metro trains, not getting back on a train after letting others off, getting kicked in the back of the leg... All wouldn't have happened had I just gone to the pool. Oh well.

The rest of the day, I was kind of on edge - just jittery, irritable, and everyone and everything bothered me. I went to the gym at lunch, sat next to Jess on the bike, but it didn't help. I knew going to the pool after work, with the annoying-ness that would be swimmers who don't know how to circle swim, would just make things worse. Soooo, ME provided me with a distraction known as vodka. I know this can't keep happening because...

There is something I haven't shared yet on the blog. I think part of it is because if I write it, it's true... which can be kind of scary. So, I mentioned I was elected to the DC Tri club board back in December. Well, they decided to do a new training program, a half Iron distance training program. I couldn't resist so decided to do a half. Also, the head of the program approached me to be one of the co-coordinators, because of my positive energy. So sweet!! I said yes, and tonight was the first meeting/happy hour. 2 people I have not met before came up to me and said they heard my Ironman talk and that I was inspiring. ME! It's really flattering.

It's things like this that remind me how lucky I am. I only got through the Ironman because of my family and friends, and the support the provided me. I really hope I can do the same for others and help them accomplish their goals.

The Cold Won

I just couldn't do it. I could not get out of bed at 5:15 to make it to the pool. Just. Could. Not. Do. It.
No Nike ad for me.

Sorry Karen. It was 13 degrees out.

But the sleep was nice.

Where to Start

Well, today was what is being called "snowpocalypse". The huge threat of 10 inches of snow and only getting a dusting. Yesterday we postponed our book club meeting. Around 4, I laughed because there was nothing. At 6, it started to ice. Not good.

So this morning, there was a 2 hour delay for government offices. But, I had to get into the office so didn't take advantage. Unfortunately, the steps to my apartment had a different idea. This is basically what I looked like. I was okay, have had much worse falls, but still not fun.

I made it to work, just a tad late and to start my Monday. Also, I was feeling a bit blobish so knew I had to go to the gym. It was a run day and had Charles go with me for treadmill fun. We made sure our outfits weren't too matchie and headed down. At first, there weren't 2 next to each other, but about half way in, one opened up and I moved over. I did this because Charles was doing intervals and is very motivating to run next to. He is going 10 mph, and me, well, slower. But the "1 more minute, push hard" and "make it worth it" and "finish strong" is always helpful.

We moved on to abs where I though Jess would be there, but so miscommunication and she wasn't there. :-( We did have partner work and it was just too funny. Charles didn't realize how hard he threw down my legs, and they just flopped down and I couldn't stop laughing. It's hard to do this ab exercise when laughing.

Overall, a very good workout.

And a beautiful day. DC is really pretty when it snows.

Ahhh... Sleep

This weekend was good, and full of SLEEP!!! And not a lot of working out...

Saturday was morning some volunteering. Just floated around with Rahpy, a non verbal 7 year old. We did some kicking, some reaching and pulling for things, but basically floated around on the noodle. His biggest accomplishment, he blew bubbles with his nose. When I told his mom, she hugged me. That is the furthest he has put his head under water.

The rest of the day was running errands and not working out.

Sunday, the weather man said rain, ice, snow, wind, cold, everything but decent running weather. So, I postponed my group run (again) and figured I could go out later. Nope. I slept, slept, and slept. And you know what, it felt GREAT!! See, it's March. That means my first race is next month. My first tri is in May. My swim in in June. All of this means very little weekend sleeping in time. Now I am not complaining, I make those choices. However, I realize my chances of sleeping in are running out, so I took full advantage. Soooooo worth it.