Wish me luck! Tomorrow I meet b/f 's parents, and siblings, and cousins, and nieces and nephews. All. At. Once. I guess it is only fair as he has met virtually all of the relatives that I seen in any given year, and some that I only see occasionally (at my brother's wedding reception).
After thinking we were going to make the 9 hour drive to El Paso, b/f threw me a curve on Thursday by showing me the airline tickets. Not that it was a bad curve ball. Just not what I had been mentally adjusting to. I had bought several books on tape, and had visions of us having nice, long relationshipy talks. Visions of one less afternoon/evening with his family :) But this will be good. He can finally try out the cool sound blocking head phones I got him for his birthday. Yes, that was in August. Apparently they work so well he can't use them at work, because he needs to hear some sounds like his phone, or his girlfriend talking to him.
And it will be good - less wear and tear on my car (he drives a totally uncomfortable truck), and less of a sore butt. Ask me again after I return from two of the most busiest airport days of the year. I may have wished we drove :)
Anyway, here it is almost 10:00 and I haven't started packing yet. Our flight doesn't leave until 1:15 tomorrow, but I still have a lot to do. But I can make it. I'm on vacation. Sort of. I will ignore the fact that I just got finished working. But at least my work gives me the laptop, so I can bring it and just surf when I need to get away from all this family togetherness. And my wireless data card will be a real life-saver as well.
I feel that if I think it will be a bad trip, then when it is fun, it will totally beat my expectations. I have a sneaky feeling that his family will be so much funner than mine, so I'm probably deep down jealous.
Oh! And b/f got me a GPS ! So now I can try to go back to Luke's Locker without getting lost the next time I need shoes. And he totally loved the gifts I got him. Two I was unsure about, but he loved them! I think if I focus and pay attention and have money, then maybe I can be a good gift-giver after all.
Happy Holidays! Merry Christmas! Happy Hanukkah! Happy Kwanzaa! And God bless us one and all!
Sunday, December 21, 2008
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
The snow is always snowier on the other side of the snow pile
Everytime we come to Minneapolis for business trips in the winter, we joke to our clients that they must either be crazy or gluttons for punishment for living up here (It was about 15degrees F. when we landed). And they laugh and say that while it is cold, it's not that cold, it could be worse. The people up in Delouth, off the shores of Lake Superior, are the really crazy ones. It may snow as late in the year as June. They will wear shorts as soon as it gets above 30 degrees. I wonder what the Delouthians say when people ask if they are crazy. What, -20? That's nothing. You should go to Canada. Those people are crazy!
Of course, we get the same comments in reverse in August. 30 consecutive days of 100+ temps? You must be crazy. Yes, we in Dallas are crazy, but you should try living in Houston. Oh, the humidity!
Of course, we get the same comments in reverse in August. 30 consecutive days of 100+ temps? You must be crazy. Yes, we in Dallas are crazy, but you should try living in Houston. Oh, the humidity!
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
1 Out Of Every 5 Statistics Is Made Up
This month, I paid off my second mortgage! My original goal was to put down 20%, but I only put down 12%. I possibly could have put down more, but then I would have had no money to buy the cool electronic lawn mower I needed. So long story short, I took out a second loan for 8%, at a much higher interest rate, and a weird 15-year balloon term. I didn't like the terms, so I wanted to pay it off as soon as I could. Turns out that took me about 15 months. That is a bit of a relief.
So I now own 20% of my house! One-fifth. Which is about 300 square feet and some grass. I'll say it is my living room. Hands off! It's all mine. I wish I only had to clean 1/5th of the house.
Friday, November 21, 2008
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Eco-what?
I did it. I finally remembered to bring my recycled bags INTO the grocery store. You don’t save the earth by leaving the bags in your house. Or your car.
The nice people at Kroger still act a little surprised that I brought in bags. The lady asked if I only wanted the chicken in there. I was like, no, put everything you can. All the heavy stuff.
I bought $70 worth of groceries, and it all fit in 2 recycled bags and 2 plastic. It probably would have been about 6-8 plastic bags normally. It hasn't become a habit yet, but I'm working on it.
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Anyone else?
Is anyone else excited about the temperature change...because we can now wear corduroy pants? I am! That is all.
Sunday, October 19, 2008
Instead of cleaning the house
I will tell you about my wonderful weekend. After being disappointed about not going to the fair on Thursday due to bf not getting off work, we planned to go Friday. After being disappointed about not leaving as early as I wanted, we finally left for the fair about 3:30. Which meant we did hit some traffic, and we didn't enter the gates until almost 5. But we had all night. And it was pretty much perfect! The weather was amazing. I brought a little jacket, but didn't need to put it on until about 9pm.
We didn't see many shows, but we did eat. and eat. And ride rides. I didn't know my bf was a ride kinda guy. I guess I shouldn't assume with him anymore. He used to work in the summers at an amusement park, so he ran the rides. But not in a carney type of place. A regular place. Makes a big difference :) Anyway, the rides we did were pretty tame. But still expensive.
After getting a lemonade, on my recommendation, we watched a dog show. It was Dancing With The Dogs. Kind of lame in my opinion. I've seen better dog training at the fair before. A few were pretty good. A little wiener dog walking backwards was pretty precious. Anyway, then we went on the hunt for corny dogs. We were going to attempt to eat only pork and corn products all night :) We were mostly successful.
We also ate grilled corn on the cob (roasted is much better, this was kinda soggy). Then we did the Ferris wheel. I didn't know it was the tallest ride in the western hemisphere. It was pretty nice...at sunset. On a cloudless day. Did I mention the weather was perfect? Not even windy up there. Then we went on the hunt for the deep fried bacon. You heard me correctly. It was good, but not exactly something you want to eat every day. We ran into bf's old boss and his wife. I never run into anyone I know. We missed the pig races though :( Then we did the tall slide going down on a sack. You have to climb all the way to the top! It was tiring. Only because you would do something like this at the fair and no where else...we went into the little booth with the sign that says World's Smallest Horse. Every time I have been to the fair, I have always wanted to go look. Because the people coming out never have a readable expression, like ha ha that was lame, or OMG that was incredible. So my curiosity bloomed. I will leave it for you, and not spoil it with my opinion. Other than to say, I'm guessing miniature ponies must not have counted in the contest.
We headed over to the little pond to the swan paddle boat. It was fun, although the water was pretty rank smelling at times. But again, it was perfect...we hadn't been in the water very long when the fire works show began. And we could see most of them from our spot. The show was very short and disappointing, but I wouldn't have picked a better vantage point to watch it. Then we saw the pyramid sand sculptures...pretty neat.
Then it was time for dessert! I let him pick, and we got the fried peanut butter and jelly and banana sandwich. I'm not a big fan of bananas with stuff, but this was pretty good. The second section I had had more jelly and less banana, and it was yummy. The bread was like french toast consistency. The milk beverage choice was the best decision of the night. It was ice cold and very complementary to the sandwich.
We did walk by the main stage to see Jessica Simpson. I wasn't impressed for the 2 minutes we listened. And it wasn't overflowing with people, like I expected. After breezing through the car show, we had spare tickets. We were stuffed, so we decided to do one of the fun houses. Again, not something I would have done on my own, but that's the fun of it, right? We did the house of mirrors. It was hard to get the maze! So much harder than I thought.
We left a little after 10, and it was a very short walk to our car since we got there when lots were leaving. It was perfect!
We didn't see many shows, but we did eat. and eat. And ride rides. I didn't know my bf was a ride kinda guy. I guess I shouldn't assume with him anymore. He used to work in the summers at an amusement park, so he ran the rides. But not in a carney type of place. A regular place. Makes a big difference :) Anyway, the rides we did were pretty tame. But still expensive.
After getting a lemonade, on my recommendation, we watched a dog show. It was Dancing With The Dogs. Kind of lame in my opinion. I've seen better dog training at the fair before. A few were pretty good. A little wiener dog walking backwards was pretty precious. Anyway, then we went on the hunt for corny dogs. We were going to attempt to eat only pork and corn products all night :) We were mostly successful.
We also ate grilled corn on the cob (roasted is much better, this was kinda soggy). Then we did the Ferris wheel. I didn't know it was the tallest ride in the western hemisphere. It was pretty nice...at sunset. On a cloudless day. Did I mention the weather was perfect? Not even windy up there. Then we went on the hunt for the deep fried bacon. You heard me correctly. It was good, but not exactly something you want to eat every day. We ran into bf's old boss and his wife. I never run into anyone I know. We missed the pig races though :( Then we did the tall slide going down on a sack. You have to climb all the way to the top! It was tiring. Only because you would do something like this at the fair and no where else...we went into the little booth with the sign that says World's Smallest Horse. Every time I have been to the fair, I have always wanted to go look. Because the people coming out never have a readable expression, like ha ha that was lame, or OMG that was incredible. So my curiosity bloomed. I will leave it for you, and not spoil it with my opinion. Other than to say, I'm guessing miniature ponies must not have counted in the contest.
We headed over to the little pond to the swan paddle boat. It was fun, although the water was pretty rank smelling at times. But again, it was perfect...we hadn't been in the water very long when the fire works show began. And we could see most of them from our spot. The show was very short and disappointing, but I wouldn't have picked a better vantage point to watch it. Then we saw the pyramid sand sculptures...pretty neat.
Then it was time for dessert! I let him pick, and we got the fried peanut butter and jelly and banana sandwich. I'm not a big fan of bananas with stuff, but this was pretty good. The second section I had had more jelly and less banana, and it was yummy. The bread was like french toast consistency. The milk beverage choice was the best decision of the night. It was ice cold and very complementary to the sandwich.
We did walk by the main stage to see Jessica Simpson. I wasn't impressed for the 2 minutes we listened. And it wasn't overflowing with people, like I expected. After breezing through the car show, we had spare tickets. We were stuffed, so we decided to do one of the fun houses. Again, not something I would have done on my own, but that's the fun of it, right? We did the house of mirrors. It was hard to get the maze! So much harder than I thought.
We left a little after 10, and it was a very short walk to our car since we got there when lots were leaving. It was perfect!
Monday, October 13, 2008
For the last time
Hopefully for the last time this year, I mowed, edged, weed ate, and generally wore myself out on Saturday.
I had a full day of outsideness Saturday. I was outside playing tennis, or waiting around to play tennis, or waiting around for the other people to finish playing tennis, from about 8:30 until 11:30. Then I went home, ate some lunch, and headed out to do yard work. I figured since I was already sweaty and stinky, might as well get more gross. Trying to save shower water, being the environmentalist that I am.
Yard work didn't start out well. I began by edging (which I dislike...mowing is ok). I got about a good 10 feet down the driveway when I ran out of string on the edger. Before buying a house and a yard, I had no idea that the edger uses a plastic string that is spun around very fast and slices the grass. I assumed there was a blade. So there's your lesson for the day. I was positive that I didn't have anymore, and I was p.o.'d that I couldn't get through the season without having to go buy some more. So I put it away and started mowing, trying to decide if I would be brave enough to go to Wal-Mart or Lowe's all stinky and grassy. Luckily for me, I didn't have to. As I was cleaning out the garage after mowing, I found one last disc of string. Yippee! So I was able to finish making my yard perfection...or as close as I am going to get. I stayed away from the poison oak, but probably inhaled it since I was weed eating around the tree.
Then I took a shower, and played around on the computer, stupid facebook. Didn't even get a real good nap in!
Much later than I would have wanted, bf came over and we went to a local Greek Food Festival. Opa! I got very tired of hearing that. It was much more crowded than I expected. There was only one line for food, and we waited for close to an hour. We had beers and it was a nice night, and my hunger pains had faded, so it was a pleasant time. We could partially see the Greek dancers on stage, too. By the time we got our food, it was after nine, and they had run out of every meat except the gyro meat. So that's what we had. Bf had roasted garlic, and we split a fried cheese dish. I didn't like the cheese (too strong and stinky for me), but bf loved it all. I enjoyed the gyro very much. The food and drinks were all relatively expensive (free entrance and parking), but for a good cause, I'm assuming. The Greek Orthodox Church is planning to build a new church.
It was strange to see priests there with their children, since I am used to the celibate priestly life. But it was overall a very nice and different evening. Otherwise, we probably would have been on bf's couch watching hockey. The Stars lost anyway, so it was a good choice to go. Opa!
I had a full day of outsideness Saturday. I was outside playing tennis, or waiting around to play tennis, or waiting around for the other people to finish playing tennis, from about 8:30 until 11:30. Then I went home, ate some lunch, and headed out to do yard work. I figured since I was already sweaty and stinky, might as well get more gross. Trying to save shower water, being the environmentalist that I am.
Yard work didn't start out well. I began by edging (which I dislike...mowing is ok). I got about a good 10 feet down the driveway when I ran out of string on the edger. Before buying a house and a yard, I had no idea that the edger uses a plastic string that is spun around very fast and slices the grass. I assumed there was a blade. So there's your lesson for the day. I was positive that I didn't have anymore, and I was p.o.'d that I couldn't get through the season without having to go buy some more. So I put it away and started mowing, trying to decide if I would be brave enough to go to Wal-Mart or Lowe's all stinky and grassy. Luckily for me, I didn't have to. As I was cleaning out the garage after mowing, I found one last disc of string. Yippee! So I was able to finish making my yard perfection...or as close as I am going to get. I stayed away from the poison oak, but probably inhaled it since I was weed eating around the tree.
Then I took a shower, and played around on the computer, stupid facebook. Didn't even get a real good nap in!
Much later than I would have wanted, bf came over and we went to a local Greek Food Festival. Opa! I got very tired of hearing that. It was much more crowded than I expected. There was only one line for food, and we waited for close to an hour. We had beers and it was a nice night, and my hunger pains had faded, so it was a pleasant time. We could partially see the Greek dancers on stage, too. By the time we got our food, it was after nine, and they had run out of every meat except the gyro meat. So that's what we had. Bf had roasted garlic, and we split a fried cheese dish. I didn't like the cheese (too strong and stinky for me), but bf loved it all. I enjoyed the gyro very much. The food and drinks were all relatively expensive (free entrance and parking), but for a good cause, I'm assuming. The Greek Orthodox Church is planning to build a new church.
It was strange to see priests there with their children, since I am used to the celibate priestly life. But it was overall a very nice and different evening. Otherwise, we probably would have been on bf's couch watching hockey. The Stars lost anyway, so it was a good choice to go. Opa!
Monday, September 29, 2008
Friends Like You, Who Needs Friends?
Here's a fun little game.
1. Put your MP3 player on shuffle.
2. For each question, press the next button to get your answer.
3. You must write that song name down no matter how ridiculous it sounds.
4. Put any comments in brackets after the song name.
****************************************************************************
1. If 1someone says, "Is this okay?" You say? - Surrendering [Alanis Morissette. I guess I am a pushover.]
2. How would you describe yourself? - These Are the Days [Jamie Cullum. Yes, but what does that have to do with it?]
3. What do you like in a guy/girl? - All You Need Is Love [Beatles. True dat. Love, and a little money don't hurt.]
4. How do you feel today? - Oh Yoko! [John Lennan. I feel Yoko quite often.]
5. What is your life's purpose? - Painters [Jewel. Cool. Does that mean that I need to go save some painters? Or I get to paint?]
6. What is your motto? - Hello, It's Me [Todd Rundgren. Just so you don't get confused. It's me.]
7. What do your friends think of you? - Home Again [Carol King. Yes, I am quite the homebody.]
8. What do you think of your parents? - 21 Things I Want In A Lover [Alanis. Highly inappropriate, I know.]
9. What do you think about often? - The Ballad of John and Yoko [Beatles. Only when I'm in a Yoko-kind of mood.]
10. What is 2+2? - Rue St. Vincent [Yves Montand. Obviously. That new math is working out well.]
11. What do you think about your best friend? - These dreams of You [Van Morrison.]
12. What do you think about the person you like? - The First Cut is the Deepest [Sherly Crow. I hope he doesn't cut me!]
13. What do you want to be when you grow up? - Too Much Food [Jason Mraz. That sounds like a great occupation.]
14. What do you think of when you see the person you like? - Red House [Jimi Hendrix. I grew up in a red house.]
15. What will you dance to at your wedding? - Somewhere Only We Know [Keane. Ah, I like that song.]
16. What will they play at your funeral? - Chariot [Gavin Degraw. Hmm.]
17. What is your hobby/interest? - Maybe I [Five For Fighting. Maybe I would like to finish my sentences for a hobby.]
18. What is your biggest fear? - A Minor Incident [Badly Drawn Boy. They are so underrated in terms of scariness. Everyone always talks about the big incidents.]
19. What is your biggest secret? - If God Will Send His Angels [U2. Shh..Don't tell.]
20. What do you think of your friends? - Tribal Gathering [The Byrds. Have you seen the girls when they're all together? In their pink face paint? Very tribal.]
21. What will you title this note? - Friends Like You, Who Needs Friends? [Mark Mothersbaugh. Well said. I mean, they are so tribal!]
Thursday, September 25, 2008
Can't wait for this week to be over, and not for the usual reasons
After having a good, but busy, weekend in Austin, this week hasn't been very good. I got the flu shot Monday afternoon, and started feeling bad that right before I left work. I threw up Monday night (which I think was a stomach bug going around the office), but then felt a little better in the morning. I went to work Tuesday, but went home in the afternoon and was running a fever, which I guess was from the shot. I felt the fever break in the middle of the night and felt much better Wednesday.
But then on Wednesday the spots on my arm that I've had for a week started itching. I thought it might have been poison ivy/oak, because I had tried to clear some vines around my big oak tree last Monday night (I wore gloves and washed off afterwards, but I guess didn't do a good enough job). I had a few spots, but they didn't bother me all week until yesterday. Then they started itching, and oozing (yummy!) and I noticed more spots. When I woke up this morning, I had a spot right next to my eye, so I figured I better go to the doctor just in case since I've never had it before and since I had had the fever.
After a full 10 second evaluation and medical history, he prescribed a cortisone shot and some prescriptions for a cream and more steroids. The shot on my "hip" still kind of smarts.
The itching isn't really bad, but I don't like that it on my face. I feel like a leper. At least this week has been somewhat slow at work, and I didn't have to visit any clients. And that it's not picture day.
I will spare you and not post any pictures.
But then on Wednesday the spots on my arm that I've had for a week started itching. I thought it might have been poison ivy/oak, because I had tried to clear some vines around my big oak tree last Monday night (I wore gloves and washed off afterwards, but I guess didn't do a good enough job). I had a few spots, but they didn't bother me all week until yesterday. Then they started itching, and oozing (yummy!) and I noticed more spots. When I woke up this morning, I had a spot right next to my eye, so I figured I better go to the doctor just in case since I've never had it before and since I had had the fever.
After a full 10 second evaluation and medical history, he prescribed a cortisone shot and some prescriptions for a cream and more steroids. The shot on my "hip" still kind of smarts.
The itching isn't really bad, but I don't like that it on my face. I feel like a leper. At least this week has been somewhat slow at work, and I didn't have to visit any clients. And that it's not picture day.
I will spare you and not post any pictures.
Sunday, September 14, 2008
3 Weeks Off = Starting Over From Scratch
I hadn't been to the gym in 3 weeks. After a few minutes on the treadmill, it felt like 3 months. I could barely make it .75 miles. After that I did sprint intervals. All on a 1.5 mile incline, which I haven't done before. Then swam for a little bit. Would have swam longer, but old lady started talking to me in the pool (in the middle of my workout!) I would have like to continue, but I felt sorry for her. She said her husband died a month ago, so I guess she was lonely. Or just one of those people who talk to strangers. Anyway, I said I was sorry, and guessed it was hard on her, and she said "No, not really." Earlier I saw her in the locker room. She pulled stuff out a bag into the locker, and then pulled out a big box of Whoppers. Not sure what that was all about.
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
Blogged Out
You would think with all my time that I've not been spending at the gym lately, I would have time to blog every minute detail of my day. But not really. I've reverted to spending more time with my first love, my couch. Yep, been falling asleep on the couch a lot lately. I did go bike riding once, and tennis season is starting back up again. So I am somewhat active.
Anyway, I will try to come up with something to say.
Since I'm always thinking of new and better ways to blow my money, the issue of new car has been creeping around my little brain. My car now is 5 years old. So as you can obviously see, I'm in dire need of something new. I justify my need for a new car because I am single. I do not have the expertise to fix my own car. So if it gets broken, I have to take it somewhere. Which leaves me car-less. And I have to get to work. To pay for the car repair. Yes, there are car rentals and loaner cars and blah, but it is inconvenient. I do that when I have to. But when my car gets passed the warranty stage, and the little problems start creeping up, I get rid of it like a blackened banana. (ok, I really put black bananas in the freezer for future banana bread).
So the new car bug has been itching for about the last year or so. I actually put myself off until this year, you know, because of the whole buying a house thing. And now I want to wait until I pay off my 2nd mortgage loan. So responsible of myself. But just when I tell my self I can hold off, my car gives me reason to want to get rid of it. I think my brake fluid is leaking. It's most likely a small repair, but it is still frustrating. It makes me want to rush out and get a new car. I have to take care of it soon because, I think, that brake fluids are pretty important to the whole stopping process. And also I'm planning to drive to Austin next weekend. I think Austin is hilly, which requires braking.
Also, I haven't been giving to charity as much as I had been. I keep putting it off. After I feel better about where I stand on the whole owing money thing. After next month. Always after. Will turn that around soon. After next month.
I also haven't been paying myself a car payment lately. I paid off my car early, so I had been building up my savings account to put a bigger down payment on my next car. My goal is to be able to pay cash for my next car (after this one). We will see. So maybe that is a sign that I shouldn't buy a new car, if I'm not able to pay myself. I could probably pay myself, I just haven't wanted to make any sacrifices. Of course, if I get the 2nd loan paid off, I can rededicate that part of my budget to the car. It is a viscous cycle.
Anyway, I will try to come up with something to say.
Since I'm always thinking of new and better ways to blow my money, the issue of new car has been creeping around my little brain. My car now is 5 years old. So as you can obviously see, I'm in dire need of something new. I justify my need for a new car because I am single. I do not have the expertise to fix my own car. So if it gets broken, I have to take it somewhere. Which leaves me car-less. And I have to get to work. To pay for the car repair. Yes, there are car rentals and loaner cars and blah, but it is inconvenient. I do that when I have to. But when my car gets passed the warranty stage, and the little problems start creeping up, I get rid of it like a blackened banana. (ok, I really put black bananas in the freezer for future banana bread).
So the new car bug has been itching for about the last year or so. I actually put myself off until this year, you know, because of the whole buying a house thing. And now I want to wait until I pay off my 2nd mortgage loan. So responsible of myself. But just when I tell my self I can hold off, my car gives me reason to want to get rid of it. I think my brake fluid is leaking. It's most likely a small repair, but it is still frustrating. It makes me want to rush out and get a new car. I have to take care of it soon because, I think, that brake fluids are pretty important to the whole stopping process. And also I'm planning to drive to Austin next weekend. I think Austin is hilly, which requires braking.
Also, I haven't been giving to charity as much as I had been. I keep putting it off. After I feel better about where I stand on the whole owing money thing. After next month. Always after. Will turn that around soon. After next month.
I also haven't been paying myself a car payment lately. I paid off my car early, so I had been building up my savings account to put a bigger down payment on my next car. My goal is to be able to pay cash for my next car (after this one). We will see. So maybe that is a sign that I shouldn't buy a new car, if I'm not able to pay myself. I could probably pay myself, I just haven't wanted to make any sacrifices. Of course, if I get the 2nd loan paid off, I can rededicate that part of my budget to the car. It is a viscous cycle.
Sunday, August 31, 2008
Anniversaries
Can you believe it is one year since I signed the papers on the house?? I sure can't. Yep, Labor Day weekend last year, I was moving in the hot, hot sun. Major differences between then and now....I have less money now, more furniture, a year of equity in the house, and a true home.
Also, can you believe it has been one week since I did my triathlon?? I sure can't. Yep, last Sunday, I was sweating in the hot, hot sun. Major differences...I gained back3 pounds of the weight I lost training during this week of no exercise and eating what I wanted. I will go the gym some time this week. Maybe even tomorrow.
Also, can you believe it has been one week since I did my triathlon?? I sure can't. Yep, last Sunday, I was sweating in the hot, hot sun. Major differences...I gained back3 pounds of the weight I lost training during this week of no exercise and eating what I wanted. I will go the gym some time this week. Maybe even tomorrow.
Sunday, August 24, 2008
"Jennifer needs" game
Here's a fun little way to spend 5 minutes. Go to google and enter "your name needs" and post the first ten appropriate entries.
I'm a little scared.
1. Jennifer needs to be in a mental health facility right now (If I say that I am crazy, does that mean I'm really not, because only a sane person would realize they need help?)
2. Jennifer needs a smack daddy (I don't even know what to say about that)
3. Jennifer Needs To Give Birth In The Next Week (My gestation period is obviously much faster than the normal human's. In that case, I am proud of myself for doing the triathlon in my condition)
4. Jennifer Needs... My friend Jen over at Mythbuster Beauty tagged me in this fun little game. Google your first name and the word "needs" to find out the top (It's like deju vu all over again)
5. Jennifer Needs A Shave (No one laughed at me in my bathing suit today...surely it can wait until morning?)
6. Jennifer Needs a Cane (Yes, I can barely hobble)
7. Jennifer Needs Your Support (No, thanks, a cane will do)
8. Jennifer Needs Help! (Ok, if you won't give me a cane, I will accept your help)
9. Jennifer H. really needs your help to help her reach her goal of 3000 this month (How did they know my last initial??? I should be more specific in my goals. I forgot what my goal was. 3000 hours watching the Olympics - check)
10. Jennifer Needs To Go This Week (I usually try to go every day, not just weekly. I find it much more comfortable. Except when you have to go in a yucky port-a-potty before your triathlon)
I could have used more spin classes
I survived my first (only?) triathlon! That is the most I can say about it. I finished. That was the goal. My friend also finished. It took me exactly 2 hours.
I will just say that I was not prepared for the biking part. So hilly. And being on a mountain bike instead of a road bike didn't help matters. And that led me to not be prepared for the run part. I only jogged maybe half of it. But even with all the walking, I finished the 5k in about 35 minutes. That just shows how slow my jog pace is since I was finishing with minimal walking on the treadmill in 31 minutes. I actually felt better at the end of the run than the beginning - perhaps due it to being downhill and shady at the finish line.
Maybe after I rest for a week I will give more details.
Yours truly,
Triathlete,
I will just say that I was not prepared for the biking part. So hilly. And being on a mountain bike instead of a road bike didn't help matters. And that led me to not be prepared for the run part. I only jogged maybe half of it. But even with all the walking, I finished the 5k in about 35 minutes. That just shows how slow my jog pace is since I was finishing with minimal walking on the treadmill in 31 minutes. I actually felt better at the end of the run than the beginning - perhaps due it to being downhill and shady at the finish line.
Maybe after I rest for a week I will give more details.
Yours truly,
Triathlete,
Saturday, August 23, 2008
24
Just over 24 hours to go. I hope I am ready!
I didn't get another workout in yesterday or today, but I got tons of prep work done on my bike that I didn't even know I needed. Thanks to b/f, I now have two new slime tubes in my tires (supposed to be better against flats) and a seat bag, that contains stuff to help me fix a flat.
To be honest, the thought of a flat tire had never crossed my mind concerning the race. He showed me how to change my tire, and I hope I could do it again if I have, too. It was pretty complicated and lots of little steps. But I have to do something several times before I get the hang of it. I decided it would be much easier to just never get a flat. He agreed. I wonder if my AAA membership would extend to a bike flat?
After a lot of sweat and struggle and only a little help from b/f, I was able to put my bike in my 2-door car without having to take off the front wheel, something which I have not mastered yet. I didn't want to put it back in at 4 in the morning, so I just left it in the car. I sure hope I can get it back out. That would be an embarrassing reason to forfeit.
I am about to print off the directions now. I will have to leave my house around 5 am. Yikes! I guess that is about it! I will let you know how I did after I take a massive hibernating nap tomorrow. Yes, I'm pretty sure someone will bring me my laptop at the hospital.
I didn't get another workout in yesterday or today, but I got tons of prep work done on my bike that I didn't even know I needed. Thanks to b/f, I now have two new slime tubes in my tires (supposed to be better against flats) and a seat bag, that contains stuff to help me fix a flat.
To be honest, the thought of a flat tire had never crossed my mind concerning the race. He showed me how to change my tire, and I hope I could do it again if I have, too. It was pretty complicated and lots of little steps. But I have to do something several times before I get the hang of it. I decided it would be much easier to just never get a flat. He agreed. I wonder if my AAA membership would extend to a bike flat?
After a lot of sweat and struggle and only a little help from b/f, I was able to put my bike in my 2-door car without having to take off the front wheel, something which I have not mastered yet. I didn't want to put it back in at 4 in the morning, so I just left it in the car. I sure hope I can get it back out. That would be an embarrassing reason to forfeit.
I am about to print off the directions now. I will have to leave my house around 5 am. Yikes! I guess that is about it! I will let you know how I did after I take a massive hibernating nap tomorrow. Yes, I'm pretty sure someone will bring me my laptop at the hospital.
Thursday, August 21, 2008
In the homestretch
Tonight I rode my new bike around the neighborhood for about 30 minutes. Lots of hills. I was tired.
I picked up my race packet today. Got my number...365. There are 365 days in the year, so it is a lucky number, right? I will ignore the fact that it means I gave the 365th slowest swimming time of all the competitors.
This week will probably be the most days I have woken up early ever. One day at 4:45 to catch a flight, one day at 5:45 to catch a flight, two days at 6 for work, and who knows what time I will get up to make sure I am signed in by 6:30 am at a place that is an hour away from where I live. I'm not looking forward to doing that math.
I picked up my race packet today. Got my number...365. There are 365 days in the year, so it is a lucky number, right? I will ignore the fact that it means I gave the 365th slowest swimming time of all the competitors.
This week will probably be the most days I have woken up early ever. One day at 4:45 to catch a flight, one day at 5:45 to catch a flight, two days at 6 for work, and who knows what time I will get up to make sure I am signed in by 6:30 am at a place that is an hour away from where I live. I'm not looking forward to doing that math.
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
An Army Of One...Or I Don't Wanna Be A Soldier!
On the treadmill, I took the "Army fitness test". I scored a 5.5. That's great. Or I'll tell everyone it is great, because they didn't explain it. 5.5 out of what? What is the minimum? Would Uncle Sam want me??? Inquiring minds want to know. Maybe I need some career options, people.
I can't believe I spent $11 to work out. Since I am traveling for work, and I haven't worked out since Sunday, I felt it was pretty necessary. What with the whole triathlon coming up in like 3.5 days, I decided to use the hotel's gym. It is an actual gym that regular people use, so I had to pay for a daily rate. And that is the discount hotel price.
So let's break down how the $11 was spent. Refrigerated towels (nice!) - $4. Polite but not particularly helpful front desk attendants (no tour or any words about where things were) - $2. Water cooler that ran out of water when I needed to fill up - $2. Huge Lysol wipe dispenser - $2. Fancy equipment with individual TV screens that I couldn't figure out how to use the volume or closed-captioning - $1. Working out instead of being lazy on the huge, fully-pillowed king bed - priceless. OK, not priceless - $11. I already told you that.
Back to why you are here. I did 30 minutes on the bike (8 miles), followed by 2 miles on the treadmill (21 minutes). Guess what??? I ran the 2 miles without stopping! I think if I can get past the first .75 mile desire to stop, I can run for much longer than I think I can.
I am worried after the bike ride though. I selected the hill program. I was shocked to discover after being on the bike for 3 minutes, it said I had only gone .25 miles. Normally, I go a whole mile in less than 3 minutes. So I seriously hope that either this bike was on drugs or that the race path does not have many hills.
I'm not sure about training the rest of the week. I figured I would rest on Saturday. I definitely need to swim at least one more time. So maybe another semi-long workout tomorrow night, and take it easy Fri/Sat. All I know for sure is that I plan to go to IHOP tomorrow to eat lots of carbs in the form of pancakes.
I can't believe I spent $11 to work out. Since I am traveling for work, and I haven't worked out since Sunday, I felt it was pretty necessary. What with the whole triathlon coming up in like 3.5 days, I decided to use the hotel's gym. It is an actual gym that regular people use, so I had to pay for a daily rate. And that is the discount hotel price.
So let's break down how the $11 was spent. Refrigerated towels (nice!) - $4. Polite but not particularly helpful front desk attendants (no tour or any words about where things were) - $2. Water cooler that ran out of water when I needed to fill up - $2. Huge Lysol wipe dispenser - $2. Fancy equipment with individual TV screens that I couldn't figure out how to use the volume or closed-captioning - $1. Working out instead of being lazy on the huge, fully-pillowed king bed - priceless. OK, not priceless - $11. I already told you that.
Back to why you are here. I did 30 minutes on the bike (8 miles), followed by 2 miles on the treadmill (21 minutes). Guess what??? I ran the 2 miles without stopping! I think if I can get past the first .75 mile desire to stop, I can run for much longer than I think I can.
I am worried after the bike ride though. I selected the hill program. I was shocked to discover after being on the bike for 3 minutes, it said I had only gone .25 miles. Normally, I go a whole mile in less than 3 minutes. So I seriously hope that either this bike was on drugs or that the race path does not have many hills.
I'm not sure about training the rest of the week. I figured I would rest on Saturday. I definitely need to swim at least one more time. So maybe another semi-long workout tomorrow night, and take it easy Fri/Sat. All I know for sure is that I plan to go to IHOP tomorrow to eat lots of carbs in the form of pancakes.
Sunday, August 17, 2008
One, Two, Three Times the Fun (and pain)
With the scary T Minus One Week countdown looming, I kicked my butt in gear and did the full mini-triathlon at the gym. All I will say at this moment is that I did it without throwing up and I'm still alive. I will wait until the morning to see if I can still feel my legs.
It took me less than 2 hours. But that was inside. I wonder what it will feel like in 90% humidity.
At the very least, I needed a good calorie burn. I skipped working out for 3 days, and this weekend was a major piggy contest. Wedding dinner with wine and cake, homemade pizza with 2 Dr. Peppers in one day (one of which had some Malibu mixed in...solely for medicinal purposes), cookies, and more.
I emailed the triathlon and asked if they could bump my time up to 15 minutes for the swim instead of 10. He did, but said big mistake. Although he hasn't seen me swim. I actually lost count of my laps today, so I either did 10 laps in 10:20 or 12 in 10:20 .... and 12 laps in12:30 or 14 laps in 12:30. Who knows.
It took me less than 2 hours. But that was inside. I wonder what it will feel like in 90% humidity.
At the very least, I needed a good calorie burn. I skipped working out for 3 days, and this weekend was a major piggy contest. Wedding dinner with wine and cake, homemade pizza with 2 Dr. Peppers in one day (one of which had some Malibu mixed in...solely for medicinal purposes), cookies, and more.
I emailed the triathlon and asked if they could bump my time up to 15 minutes for the swim instead of 10. He did, but said big mistake. Although he hasn't seen me swim. I actually lost count of my laps today, so I either did 10 laps in 10:20 or 12 in 10:20 .... and 12 laps in12:30 or 14 laps in 12:30. Who knows.
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
A Success!
B/f birthday went well. I was a little nervous about both the restaurant and present. But he said he loved both.
I was nervous about the present because they were these headphones that are supposed to isolate the music, while reducing outside noise. And he is a major music guy, so after I bought them, I thought he probably already has what he wants, and would know more about the kind to buy. And after I decided to get them for him b/c he mentioned he can't really listen to music on planes b/c he can't hear well b/c of the plane noise, so I thought perfect...then he said he wouldn't really like to mess with them. But he was referring to the next upgrade in technology that blocks all sound, and has a battery. He said the kind I bought were perfect. Hopefully he isn't just being nice. Anyway I gave him the gift receipt and permission to exchange/take-back.
I wasn't really that nervous about the restaurant choice. I thought we had discussed the fact that he hadn't ever been there before a long time ago, but then at the last minute, I thought maybe it was someone else I had the conversation with.
We went to a place in Addison, the Brazilian steak house place. He had been to a different chain in Ft. Worth, but he said he enjoyed this one much better. I think it was due to the company :) The service and food were both excellent. I was glad I made reservations b/c it was crowded. And he did get a free dessert! He picked the cheesecake and it was delicious. I was afraid they weren't going to do anything, but they pulled through. They even wrapped up the wine bottle so we could take our leftover home. He loves surprises, and I was able to pull off one at least.
Since neither of us could move after stuffing our faces, we just finished the night watching the Olympics on his couch. I dozed off with only one apparatus left for the US. Woke up around 11:20, and then didn't get home until midnight. But it was worth it!
Oh, and I gained 2.2 pounds at dinner. Yes, I weighed myself both before and after dinner. So definitely going to the gym tonight. And yes, it was still worth it. Although might not be saying the same thing when my credit card bill comes ;)
I was nervous about the present because they were these headphones that are supposed to isolate the music, while reducing outside noise. And he is a major music guy, so after I bought them, I thought he probably already has what he wants, and would know more about the kind to buy. And after I decided to get them for him b/c he mentioned he can't really listen to music on planes b/c he can't hear well b/c of the plane noise, so I thought perfect...then he said he wouldn't really like to mess with them. But he was referring to the next upgrade in technology that blocks all sound, and has a battery. He said the kind I bought were perfect. Hopefully he isn't just being nice. Anyway I gave him the gift receipt and permission to exchange/take-back.
I wasn't really that nervous about the restaurant choice. I thought we had discussed the fact that he hadn't ever been there before a long time ago, but then at the last minute, I thought maybe it was someone else I had the conversation with.
We went to a place in Addison, the Brazilian steak house place. He had been to a different chain in Ft. Worth, but he said he enjoyed this one much better. I think it was due to the company :) The service and food were both excellent. I was glad I made reservations b/c it was crowded. And he did get a free dessert! He picked the cheesecake and it was delicious. I was afraid they weren't going to do anything, but they pulled through. They even wrapped up the wine bottle so we could take our leftover home. He loves surprises, and I was able to pull off one at least.
Since neither of us could move after stuffing our faces, we just finished the night watching the Olympics on his couch. I dozed off with only one apparatus left for the US. Woke up around 11:20, and then didn't get home until midnight. But it was worth it!
Oh, and I gained 2.2 pounds at dinner. Yes, I weighed myself both before and after dinner. So definitely going to the gym tonight. And yes, it was still worth it. Although might not be saying the same thing when my credit card bill comes ;)
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
New Kicks, New Lease On Life?
I had a strange day yesterday...lots of wasted gas running errands. At lunch, I planned to go to Lowe's to buy a gift card for a wedding this weekend. After I drove through construction zone and lunch hour traffic, I realized that the store I was heading to was a Home Depot. And I didn't know where Lowe's was by work. So decided to do that later since there is a Lowe's close to the house. But it wasn't a total loss...there was a Taco Bueno on the way back :0
On my way home, I decided to stop by a Luke's Locker with a recommendation from a friend. I mapquested the location, but didn't print the map. Instead, like I do for errands (not important events), I didn't want to waste the paper printing, so I just drew myself a little map on scratch paper. And like it happens regularly, I got lost. I couldn't find the place. I drove around for 30 minutes, but got to see some really nice houses in Colleyville. I was about to call and ask for directions, but the store closed at 7:00, and there wouldn't have been time to do any actual shopping. I was frustrated, and saw my chance of doing an outside running before night time slipping away.
Since I was on that side of the highway, after I got to a familiar landmark, I decided to go to that Lowe's and there happened to be a Kohl's across the street. They had way more running shoes than I expected (but no knowledgeable sales people)...so it took me awhile. I tried on about 5 pairs of shoes, and finally decided on these (I think).
http://www.asicsamerica.com/products/product.aspx?PRODUCT_ID=240010971&TITLE_CATEGORY_ID=250001549
I have never bought this brand of running shoes, so hopefully they fit well with my feet. They were on sale, and I'm sure Kohl's will put them even more on sale with the no tax holiday weekend. Oh well, I'd rather not shop in that mess.
I rushed home, petted the cats for about 2 seconds, threw on my clothes, grabbed my ipod and water bottle, and drove to the track (only .6 miles away, but I didn't have time to dawdle..it was after 8 by this point.
Running outside is hard! Even in the new shoes. I only did 2 miles (getting too dark, I was very sad :) in about 23 minutes. And sweated a ton. It felt good to know the pace though. Felt so much slower than on the treadmill, but my time was about where I expected it to be. I didn't have the energy to bump up the speed - the treadmill makes it easier since it forces you to go that extra speed.
So far, no blisters from the new shoes. They were pretty comfortable.
Almost halfway done with my "hell month." Tonight is b/f b-day...going to big dinner so I should eat light for lunch. Oh was that me that just went to the vending machine to get some chips for my sandwich? I actually called and made reservations last week! McDonald's employees act like I'm crazy when I try to do that. They asked if it was a special occasion, so maybe we will get a free dessert!
On my way home, I decided to stop by a Luke's Locker with a recommendation from a friend. I mapquested the location, but didn't print the map. Instead, like I do for errands (not important events), I didn't want to waste the paper printing, so I just drew myself a little map on scratch paper. And like it happens regularly, I got lost. I couldn't find the place. I drove around for 30 minutes, but got to see some really nice houses in Colleyville. I was about to call and ask for directions, but the store closed at 7:00, and there wouldn't have been time to do any actual shopping. I was frustrated, and saw my chance of doing an outside running before night time slipping away.
Since I was on that side of the highway, after I got to a familiar landmark, I decided to go to that Lowe's and there happened to be a Kohl's across the street. They had way more running shoes than I expected (but no knowledgeable sales people)...so it took me awhile. I tried on about 5 pairs of shoes, and finally decided on these (I think).
http://www.asicsamerica.com/products/product.aspx?PRODUCT_ID=240010971&TITLE_CATEGORY_ID=250001549
I have never bought this brand of running shoes, so hopefully they fit well with my feet. They were on sale, and I'm sure Kohl's will put them even more on sale with the no tax holiday weekend. Oh well, I'd rather not shop in that mess.
I rushed home, petted the cats for about 2 seconds, threw on my clothes, grabbed my ipod and water bottle, and drove to the track (only .6 miles away, but I didn't have time to dawdle..it was after 8 by this point.
Running outside is hard! Even in the new shoes. I only did 2 miles (getting too dark, I was very sad :) in about 23 minutes. And sweated a ton. It felt good to know the pace though. Felt so much slower than on the treadmill, but my time was about where I expected it to be. I didn't have the energy to bump up the speed - the treadmill makes it easier since it forces you to go that extra speed.
So far, no blisters from the new shoes. They were pretty comfortable.
Almost halfway done with my "hell month." Tonight is b/f b-day...going to big dinner so I should eat light for lunch. Oh was that me that just went to the vending machine to get some chips for my sandwich? I actually called and made reservations last week! McDonald's employees act like I'm crazy when I try to do that. They asked if it was a special occasion, so maybe we will get a free dessert!
Sunday, August 10, 2008
Goggles, not just for swimming anymore
I have a new marketing direction for swimming equipment manufacturers: Speedo in the Kitchen.
I used my swimming goggles while I cut up an onion. The last few times I have chopped that veggie, whether white or red, my eyes burned uncontrollably. So I thought if my goggles prevent water from contacting my eyes, why not fumes? And it worked perfectly! No tears! I probably wouldn't recommend it for people who have a tendency to cut themselves while chopping. The goggles give you a slightly distorted view.
Friday: nothing, except shopping. Ann Taylor had a pretty good sale. And I finally put away all of the laundry that was piled on my bed. I can now return to sleeping in it instead of the guest bed.
Saturday: mowed. Decided to rest my knee one more day. And also didn't feel like going outside to run.
Sunday: did a mini-mini-triathlon. Wanted to swim first to see if I could do the other parts of the triathlon in my wet bathing suit since I still don't' know for sure what I will be wearing. But the pool was packed, and I didn't' feel like waiting. So I headed upstairs in my dry bathing suit. I did 20 minutes on the bike (just slightly over the halfway mark of the distance of the race). Then got on the treadmill after a few stretches. I did my 3 miles in 33 minutes! Not bad. I ran for 1 mile, 0.8 miles and then finished strong by running the last 0.9 miles...only 0.3 of walking. And my knee felt pretty good. Now my hamstring hurts, but we won't talk about that unless the pain doesn't go away. Then headed back to the pool. While I was able to do all those activities in my suit comfortably, I smelled really bad. I think the suit sucks in the odors. I don't' know. Anyway, after a shower, I finished with 14 laps in the pool and a nice little soak.
Now it is nap time. I'm trying to pick up some tips from watching the Olympics.
I used my swimming goggles while I cut up an onion. The last few times I have chopped that veggie, whether white or red, my eyes burned uncontrollably. So I thought if my goggles prevent water from contacting my eyes, why not fumes? And it worked perfectly! No tears! I probably wouldn't recommend it for people who have a tendency to cut themselves while chopping. The goggles give you a slightly distorted view.
Friday: nothing, except shopping. Ann Taylor had a pretty good sale. And I finally put away all of the laundry that was piled on my bed. I can now return to sleeping in it instead of the guest bed.
Saturday: mowed. Decided to rest my knee one more day. And also didn't feel like going outside to run.
Sunday: did a mini-mini-triathlon. Wanted to swim first to see if I could do the other parts of the triathlon in my wet bathing suit since I still don't' know for sure what I will be wearing. But the pool was packed, and I didn't' feel like waiting. So I headed upstairs in my dry bathing suit. I did 20 minutes on the bike (just slightly over the halfway mark of the distance of the race). Then got on the treadmill after a few stretches. I did my 3 miles in 33 minutes! Not bad. I ran for 1 mile, 0.8 miles and then finished strong by running the last 0.9 miles...only 0.3 of walking. And my knee felt pretty good. Now my hamstring hurts, but we won't talk about that unless the pain doesn't go away. Then headed back to the pool. While I was able to do all those activities in my suit comfortably, I smelled really bad. I think the suit sucks in the odors. I don't' know. Anyway, after a shower, I finished with 14 laps in the pool and a nice little soak.
Now it is nap time. I'm trying to pick up some tips from watching the Olympics.
Thursday, August 7, 2008
Ouch!
Tues: Nothing
Wed: Played tennis. Sweated a lot. I will not tell you how my b/f, who has only played tennis maybe 5 times in his life, came close to beating me. I will chalk that up to my good coaching.
Thurs: I was 2.6 miles into my jog...feeling decently strong. Starting to run my last .4, and then my knee felt funny. I slowed to a walk for a minute, and then tried again. Still there. It was a slight pain, but not sharp. I definitely could have worked through the pain. But it felt like my knee was giving in when I put pressure on it.
So I stopped early, since I was almost done anyway. Didn't try to push it with weights, even though that didn't seem to aggravate it when I tried one or two reps. I don't think it is anything major b/c I am able to walk on it normally. I will ice it and hope that tomorrow is another day.
Saturday: the PLAN is to get up super early and try to jog at the track outside. See if outside jogging can compare to inside climate controlled exercise. My guess is no. Or that I won't make it out of bed before it gets to be beastly hot.
Wed: Played tennis. Sweated a lot. I will not tell you how my b/f, who has only played tennis maybe 5 times in his life, came close to beating me. I will chalk that up to my good coaching.
Thurs: I was 2.6 miles into my jog...feeling decently strong. Starting to run my last .4, and then my knee felt funny. I slowed to a walk for a minute, and then tried again. Still there. It was a slight pain, but not sharp. I definitely could have worked through the pain. But it felt like my knee was giving in when I put pressure on it.
So I stopped early, since I was almost done anyway. Didn't try to push it with weights, even though that didn't seem to aggravate it when I tried one or two reps. I don't think it is anything major b/c I am able to walk on it normally. I will ice it and hope that tomorrow is another day.
Saturday: the PLAN is to get up super early and try to jog at the track outside. See if outside jogging can compare to inside climate controlled exercise. My guess is no. Or that I won't make it out of bed before it gets to be beastly hot.
Monday, August 4, 2008
It was such a Monday today
Monday: Surprisingly, I wasn't very sore in my leg muscles from the spinning class. However, I do feel slightly bruised in a certain area that we don't need to name. If they make gender-specific seats for bicycles, why can't they make exercise bikes with different seat types?
Even though I didn't want to, and it would mean 3 days in a row at the gym, I went tonight. Monday nights are always packed. I did 14 miles on the bike in 37 minutes (at a measly 4 out of 20 intensity setting on the bike). Then I went to the treadmill and did 2 miles in 24 minutes. I only went 0.5 miles jogging in a row, but it felt like a pretty good workout. I was able to go at 6.5 and 7.0 mph at the very end.
After pigging out on two Mexican meals in about 15 hours, I think I back-slid a little on the weight loss. Oh well. I can't say that is exactly our primary objective, as the shy scientist Fairaday said on Lost.
Since I was already sweaty when I got home, I put out the trash and recycling for tomorrow, and watered my little growing trees and a few shrubs who aren't looking so good. Hopefully these 107 degree days won't last much longer. It is a good feeling waking up and knowing that these tasks are done already.
Even though I didn't want to, and it would mean 3 days in a row at the gym, I went tonight. Monday nights are always packed. I did 14 miles on the bike in 37 minutes (at a measly 4 out of 20 intensity setting on the bike). Then I went to the treadmill and did 2 miles in 24 minutes. I only went 0.5 miles jogging in a row, but it felt like a pretty good workout. I was able to go at 6.5 and 7.0 mph at the very end.
After pigging out on two Mexican meals in about 15 hours, I think I back-slid a little on the weight loss. Oh well. I can't say that is exactly our primary objective, as the shy scientist Fairaday said on Lost.
Since I was already sweaty when I got home, I put out the trash and recycling for tomorrow, and watered my little growing trees and a few shrubs who aren't looking so good. Hopefully these 107 degree days won't last much longer. It is a good feeling waking up and knowing that these tasks are done already.
Sunday, August 3, 2008
Spinning Class Is The Debil.
I made it to the 10:00 class. I was ready to leave by 10:05. Everyone else stayed for the hour, I left at a little after 10:30. Satan, I mean the instructor, was actually very nice. I was the only "first-timer" so he helped me adjust my seat height, and sat next to me for a few minutes to show me proper form. But I had to sit A LOT when everyone else was standing doing the hill climb thing. He said I was doing a good job, but I hear the devil lies. I felt a little sick afterwards.
I don't imagine I will return to the class. But who knows. Maybe, like childbirth, I will forget the pain and think it is something I will want to do again.
I swam for 16 laps, mostly backstroke.
I rewarded myself with a Sonic cherry slush. It is summer after all, right?
I don't imagine I will return to the class. But who knows. Maybe, like childbirth, I will forget the pain and think it is something I will want to do again.
I swam for 16 laps, mostly backstroke.
I rewarded myself with a Sonic cherry slush. It is summer after all, right?
Gratuitous Cat Pictures
I don't remember putting him in the dryer! This is why I need to fold my laundry immediately. So next time you see cat hairs on my clothes, you will understand a little more about my life.
And next on the runway is Tigger, sporting a 100% pure plastic Target bag halter dress. I don't understand cats' fascination with bags, but it is very pervasive and annoying. He gets it caught around his neck, and then it gets caught on his collar. And he freaks out a little. Speaking of freaks, check out his possessed eyes.
Despite all the growling and hissing and scratching, occasionally there is some harmony in the house. Enjoy the peace while it lasts.
Saturday, August 2, 2008
Foiled Again (but I'm not really sad about it)
Thursday: No workout. Had some digestive issues that morning and didn't want to find out at the gym that it hadn't gone away. That was my lame excuse anyway.
Friday: No workout. Made a lovely dinner for b/f and a nice relaxing evening.
Saturday: I keep forgetting about the early closing hours on weekend evenings. I planned to both jog and swim, but ended up only running, with a few weights thrown in.
I actually had a pretty good run today. 3 miles in 34 min and 45 seconds, 2 minutes less than last time! Apparently, if I walk less of the distance, my time improves. I must remember that. I did 1.25 miles jogging, walked .15, jogged 1.01 (yes, the .01 is a big deal), walked .2, and then finished jogging for .6 miles.
I may have found a secret to my success. I downloaded 2 short podcasts, one was a news piece from Onion radio (who knew that existed), and the other was a This American Life story from NPR. While listening to these, my first half mile flew by. Maybe it was because it was my first half mile and I am getting in a little better shape, but it seemed to distract me more than the music usually does. I wish I had more of them downloaded for this jog. Maybe next time. I hope I can wear my iPod in the race. I don't see why not. I'm guessing it is not a good idea on the bike portion, but hopefully it will be a legal distraction during the running.
There's another thing to add to my to-do list...create my race day playlist! Fun!
Friday: No workout. Made a lovely dinner for b/f and a nice relaxing evening.
Saturday: I keep forgetting about the early closing hours on weekend evenings. I planned to both jog and swim, but ended up only running, with a few weights thrown in.
I actually had a pretty good run today. 3 miles in 34 min and 45 seconds, 2 minutes less than last time! Apparently, if I walk less of the distance, my time improves. I must remember that. I did 1.25 miles jogging, walked .15, jogged 1.01 (yes, the .01 is a big deal), walked .2, and then finished jogging for .6 miles.
I may have found a secret to my success. I downloaded 2 short podcasts, one was a news piece from Onion radio (who knew that existed), and the other was a This American Life story from NPR. While listening to these, my first half mile flew by. Maybe it was because it was my first half mile and I am getting in a little better shape, but it seemed to distract me more than the music usually does. I wish I had more of them downloaded for this jog. Maybe next time. I hope I can wear my iPod in the race. I don't see why not. I'm guessing it is not a good idea on the bike portion, but hopefully it will be a legal distraction during the running.
There's another thing to add to my to-do list...create my race day playlist! Fun!
Thursday, July 31, 2008
Busy month: update
Let's throw in a business trip for fun! Watch her juggle all the balls!
I get to go on a 2, possibly 3, night trip! Yippee! I guess I may actually have to bring workout clothes on a business trip. The hotel we usually stay at has a gym.
And guess what? It is the week before the triathlon, and the day I get back is the day I need to pick up my registration packet. I sure hope my plane isn't delayed.
I get to go on a 2, possibly 3, night trip! Yippee! I guess I may actually have to bring workout clothes on a business trip. The hotel we usually stay at has a gym.
And guess what? It is the week before the triathlon, and the day I get back is the day I need to pick up my registration packet. I sure hope my plane isn't delayed.
Late Night
Wednesday: Due to the storms, and me wanting to eat properly and digest my food even more properly, and a nap, and some bills that needed to be paid, and 2 recipes that needed to be found online so I could go grocery shopping tonight, I did not get to the gym until after 9. So I knew it wouldn't be a marathon workout.
But I did do 3 miles on the treadmill in 37 minutes (1 minute less than last time I did 3 miles). While I never ran more than 1 mile consecutively, I did feel good about the workout because I had 3 long stretches of running, instead of breaking it up more. I ran 1.0 miles, then walked 0.15, then jogged 0.85, walked 0.4 and then jogged 0.6.
It is so hot in there, even though I was under the fan. I felt a little sick afterwards, so I tried to cool down more than usual. Then I did lift weights for a little while. Anyway, I didn't get home until Dave Letterman came on. After a little snack, and more cooling down and relaxing time, I didn't get out of the shower until 11:30. I didn't bother drying my hair, which resulted in major bedhead this morning. I was running late so I didn't have time to wash my hair and start over. Which resulted in me wearing a headband today.
But I did do 3 miles on the treadmill in 37 minutes (1 minute less than last time I did 3 miles). While I never ran more than 1 mile consecutively, I did feel good about the workout because I had 3 long stretches of running, instead of breaking it up more. I ran 1.0 miles, then walked 0.15, then jogged 0.85, walked 0.4 and then jogged 0.6.
It is so hot in there, even though I was under the fan. I felt a little sick afterwards, so I tried to cool down more than usual. Then I did lift weights for a little while. Anyway, I didn't get home until Dave Letterman came on. After a little snack, and more cooling down and relaxing time, I didn't get out of the shower until 11:30. I didn't bother drying my hair, which resulted in major bedhead this morning. I was running late so I didn't have time to wash my hair and start over. Which resulted in me wearing a headband today.
Sunday, July 27, 2008
I chickened out...but it wasn't all my fault!
Saturday: Just did the treadmill and some weights. I didn't even make one mile without stopping. But did 2 miles in about 25 minutes, mostly running. Didn't want to tire myself out so that I could pig out Saturday night at dinner with old friends!
Sunday: Today was supposed to be the day of me taking my first group class at the gym. I decided I wanted to try "coached cycling" which I assumed was like the spinning class I've heard about. The sign on the wall said the class was at 10 and at 10:30 in the bike room. I planned to go to the 10:00 class, but the snooze button just kept getting pressed and then my brother called, so of course I had to talk to him. Anyway, I got there in plenty of time for the 10:30 class. The classroom has one wall of windows, so I could see the 10:00 class was still going on (and boy were they sweaty). So I did a few crunches while I was waiting. Well, 10:30 came and went. I was waiting for the class to let out and they never did. About 10:35, a guy walked by and then entered the class, and joined in. There were only a few empty bikes. Well, I didn't feel like walking in during the middle of class, so I didn't. I guess there is one hour long class, and then you can join in at the halfway mark if you want. Seems weird to me. I will try again next week, and show up at 10. Then that means I have to be there for an hour!
Anyway, since I had my padded bike shorts on, I got on the stationary bike not in the classroom. I did 12 miles in a little over 30 minutes. After cooling down a bit, I went to the pool and did 14 laps! Pretty good for me. I think I swam every stroke there is, plus a few that I made up struggling just to get to the end of the pool. Finished with a hot tub soak. I realized it doesn't matter if I pee 2 minutes before the hot tub, I will still get the sensation that I need to go again. But it usually goes away after the first few minutes.
***NEW SUBJECT. I consider August 1st the day I really need to get in gear with the whole triathlon workout thing. In my head, i thought that I would be able to do all of the events individually without stopping by now. Then I would use the three weeks in August to really work on my conditioning to be able to do the multiple events in one day. Well, I can't do the swimming without stopping, and I sure can't do the 3 mile jog without stopping. The biking is a maybe - I can do it indoors, not sure about outside with hills.
Incidentally, August is the busiest single month for my at work. I have two major reports that I work at this time of year. I usually work about an hour late on most days and few hours on the weekend to make the process smooth. The guy that was hired to help me out is going to be gone for two weeks in August. He asked my boss if he could take the time out, and he said yes without checking with me. I don't begrudge him the time he will be spending in Europe - just because he's 23 and has been several times, and I haven't been at all. I just wish someone could have checked with me. Anywhoo...
And as the fates would have it, August is shaping up to be the busiest social month of the year for some reason. I have at least one (many times 3) event to go to each weekend. I know people with kids and more friends with me do this every month, but not me! This is from my memory, so I may be leaving something out:
Sunday: Today was supposed to be the day of me taking my first group class at the gym. I decided I wanted to try "coached cycling" which I assumed was like the spinning class I've heard about. The sign on the wall said the class was at 10 and at 10:30 in the bike room. I planned to go to the 10:00 class, but the snooze button just kept getting pressed and then my brother called, so of course I had to talk to him. Anyway, I got there in plenty of time for the 10:30 class. The classroom has one wall of windows, so I could see the 10:00 class was still going on (and boy were they sweaty). So I did a few crunches while I was waiting. Well, 10:30 came and went. I was waiting for the class to let out and they never did. About 10:35, a guy walked by and then entered the class, and joined in. There were only a few empty bikes. Well, I didn't feel like walking in during the middle of class, so I didn't. I guess there is one hour long class, and then you can join in at the halfway mark if you want. Seems weird to me. I will try again next week, and show up at 10. Then that means I have to be there for an hour!
Anyway, since I had my padded bike shorts on, I got on the stationary bike not in the classroom. I did 12 miles in a little over 30 minutes. After cooling down a bit, I went to the pool and did 14 laps! Pretty good for me. I think I swam every stroke there is, plus a few that I made up struggling just to get to the end of the pool. Finished with a hot tub soak. I realized it doesn't matter if I pee 2 minutes before the hot tub, I will still get the sensation that I need to go again. But it usually goes away after the first few minutes.
***NEW SUBJECT. I consider August 1st the day I really need to get in gear with the whole triathlon workout thing. In my head, i thought that I would be able to do all of the events individually without stopping by now. Then I would use the three weeks in August to really work on my conditioning to be able to do the multiple events in one day. Well, I can't do the swimming without stopping, and I sure can't do the 3 mile jog without stopping. The biking is a maybe - I can do it indoors, not sure about outside with hills.
Incidentally, August is the busiest single month for my at work. I have two major reports that I work at this time of year. I usually work about an hour late on most days and few hours on the weekend to make the process smooth. The guy that was hired to help me out is going to be gone for two weeks in August. He asked my boss if he could take the time out, and he said yes without checking with me. I don't begrudge him the time he will be spending in Europe - just because he's 23 and has been several times, and I haven't been at all. I just wish someone could have checked with me. Anywhoo...
And as the fates would have it, August is shaping up to be the busiest social month of the year for some reason. I have at least one (many times 3) event to go to each weekend. I know people with kids and more friends with me do this every month, but not me! This is from my memory, so I may be leaving something out:
- Boyfriend's birthday, I already have something planned, I just need to figure out what day to do it on. Hoping to buy the present today.
- Good friend's 30th birthday - I really hope I can get together sometime to celebrate with her (she lives out of town).
- Co-worker/friend's wedding, which entails: shower, bach party, and Friday night wedding (on previous friend's actual birthday) on 3 consecutive weekends...may bow out of the shower.
- Niece's bday - need to get a present...have no idea what to get
- My brother and his gang are coming one weekend to hang out and go to Six Flags before school starts.
- My regular book club meeting
- BBQ for another good friend who is coming in town from California
- Party barge lake party thing (this is actually the weekend after the triathlon)
- Baby shower (also weekend after triathlon). Hope to buy the present today (Sorry if you are reading this...I won't post I what I buy ;)
How am I supposed to work out 6 days a week with all this going on and still keep my boyfriend and keep my clients happy? I told b/f he would just have to bear with me during August (except for his bday, I will give up all for him on that day), like he told me during the hockey playoffs. I guess less TV for me, although MadMen starts tonight, and I will be watching that every week, even if it means shortening my work out.
Friday, July 25, 2008
No good stories today
Thursday: 14 miles on the bike (not treadmill, sorry) which was very boring! Then about a mile on the treadmill. Didn't lose any more weight, even with the haircut.
My lower back is always very sore/tired/tense after I do my workouts.
If I leave work early today, then I will go swim. Otherwise, no workout for Friday, and I'm ok with that. And you're ok. In fact, we are all ok.
My lower back is always very sore/tired/tense after I do my workouts.
If I leave work early today, then I will go swim. Otherwise, no workout for Friday, and I'm ok with that. And you're ok. In fact, we are all ok.
Wednesday, July 23, 2008
Decent workout
Wednesday: I finally made it back to the gym. Started off pretty strong on the treadmill. Did my first mile in a little over 10 minutes. Then got a sharp pain in my side, and tried to walk it out. Ended up doing 3 miles in 38 minutes. Some walking but finished strong.
Did a few reps on the leg weights machine.
Headed to the pool. I bought a watch so I could more accurately gauge my swimming time. A little disappointing. Did the 12 laps in 14 minutes. I have to improve on swimming. I don't' know if the race is conducive to being able to rest between laps.
Then did 10 minutes in the hot tub. I made sure and tinkled before the swimming workout, but still as soon as I hit the hot water, the urge presented itself. Using mind over matter, I was able to have a somewhat relaxing time.
Avoided the urge to stop at Taco Bell on the way home. Don't know if I did much better by eating about a gallon of home made popcorn.
Did a few reps on the leg weights machine.
Headed to the pool. I bought a watch so I could more accurately gauge my swimming time. A little disappointing. Did the 12 laps in 14 minutes. I have to improve on swimming. I don't' know if the race is conducive to being able to rest between laps.
Then did 10 minutes in the hot tub. I made sure and tinkled before the swimming workout, but still as soon as I hit the hot water, the urge presented itself. Using mind over matter, I was able to have a somewhat relaxing time.
Avoided the urge to stop at Taco Bell on the way home. Don't know if I did much better by eating about a gallon of home made popcorn.
Laziness Runs Rampant At Local House! And To Install Or Not To Install? (Bonus Post)
Monday AND Tuesday - no workout. I am super lazy.
Since I have nothing to say about that, I have a house dilemma to discuss.
I love my front door. It is my favorite upgrade. Maybe I have mentioned, maybe I haven't. But the love is there. It is dark and wooden, and has a design in it. For some reason, I don't have a picture of it. And I know it is just not me. Several people have commented on it. How it makes the house complete, it is beautiful from the street, etc. And the door has two sides, so I can enjoy its beauty from the inside as well. Now I know how proud parents must feel for their offspring.
I have been toying with the idea of putting in a glass storm door in the front. The reasons are two-fold. During the day when I am at home, I could open the wood door, and let more sun into the living room. The cats would love to look out into the world from another vantage point. Maybe it is because I grew up with the front door open, and I just like the welcoming feel to it...not sure. But I like the idea. Also, I think there is some airflow happening around the door. When it is windy, there is a loud, howling noise. I know some of it comes from the shape of the porch and roof. But I think some comes from a draft under the door. Maybe a storm door would limit that.
Now for the dilemma part. A storm door would interfere with the natural beauty and elegance of the wood door. Sure, it is mostly glass, but there is a frame around it, and the glass causes a reflection, so you can't see the door in some angles.
Also, it is not an exactly easy install. My parents were in town this weekend, so we went to check it out. My beautiful door is not a standard size, apparently. The storm door is much smaller than the entrance it needs to fit. So my dad would have to fill in some extra space. It can be done - my neighbor got one installed.
In addition, storm doors come in only 5 colors, none of which look particularly good with my trim or door color. So we would have to match the color and paint it. But my dad says he can do all of that...he just needs to bring the right tools.
So what do you think? I'm leaning towards doing it since I spend most of my time indoors. My friend is against because she is an even bigger fan of the door.
Since I have nothing to say about that, I have a house dilemma to discuss.
I love my front door. It is my favorite upgrade. Maybe I have mentioned, maybe I haven't. But the love is there. It is dark and wooden, and has a design in it. For some reason, I don't have a picture of it. And I know it is just not me. Several people have commented on it. How it makes the house complete, it is beautiful from the street, etc. And the door has two sides, so I can enjoy its beauty from the inside as well. Now I know how proud parents must feel for their offspring.
I have been toying with the idea of putting in a glass storm door in the front. The reasons are two-fold. During the day when I am at home, I could open the wood door, and let more sun into the living room. The cats would love to look out into the world from another vantage point. Maybe it is because I grew up with the front door open, and I just like the welcoming feel to it...not sure. But I like the idea. Also, I think there is some airflow happening around the door. When it is windy, there is a loud, howling noise. I know some of it comes from the shape of the porch and roof. But I think some comes from a draft under the door. Maybe a storm door would limit that.
Now for the dilemma part. A storm door would interfere with the natural beauty and elegance of the wood door. Sure, it is mostly glass, but there is a frame around it, and the glass causes a reflection, so you can't see the door in some angles.
Also, it is not an exactly easy install. My parents were in town this weekend, so we went to check it out. My beautiful door is not a standard size, apparently. The storm door is much smaller than the entrance it needs to fit. So my dad would have to fill in some extra space. It can be done - my neighbor got one installed.
In addition, storm doors come in only 5 colors, none of which look particularly good with my trim or door color. So we would have to match the color and paint it. But my dad says he can do all of that...he just needs to bring the right tools.
So what do you think? I'm leaning towards doing it since I spend most of my time indoors. My friend is against because she is an even bigger fan of the door.
Sunday, July 20, 2008
Closing Time
Friday & Saturday: Big fat nothing for a work out. But I did eat a Sonic hamburger, fries and Dr. Pepper for lunch for Friday, since I had been pretty good all week. I didn't get cheese because I am on a strict regimen. I followed that up with chipotle fajitas at a new mexican place we tried Friday night. It is a keeper! Their salsa is full of cilantro, which I must say is very tasty. Neither of my parents or my boyfriend are a fan of cilantro. I love it! They are obviously insane. Saturday and Sunday were full of bbq beef, beans, potato chips, beer, broc & cauliflower salad, and brownies.
Sunday: The song "Closing Time" was playing on my iPod as they announced that they gym was closing. I had forgotten that 24 hour fitness gym closed at 8pm on Sunday nights. Perhaps it is the name of the gym that made me forget. Because I actually had to do some work work today and I didn't want to go workout, I didn't make it there until a little after 7. I had planned to do some part of a work out on all three legs of my triathlon. So I jumped on the bike. I wanted to do a good 30 minutes. I had almost reached the time when I heard they were announcing something over the speaker. I assumed they were saying the babysitting service was closing at 8. But then I had a sneaking suspicion that I recalled someone at sometime saying that the gym closed early on Sundays. While I wasn't done with my 30 minutes, I was approaching 10 miles, a good round number. So I quickly got to that mile marker, jumped off and went to the treadmill. I knew swimming was out because I only had less than twenty minutes. What with the costume change the shower, that just wouldn't allow me to work up a good sweat. So onto the endless road machine. I didn't want to be a bad guest and wait until 8 to finish my workout and then head to the locker room and then mosey out. I wanted to be in my car by 8. Tthat meant if I really wanted to get a mile in, I would have to go fast, and no walking. So I started off strong at 5mph and kept shifting up. With the announcements coming fast and furious every 5 minutes, I did my fastest mile time so far - 10 min 20 secs. I had to increase to 7mph for the last .10 to do it, but I accomplished my altered goal with a few minutes to spare. I didn't give myself adequate cool down time so I felt kinda yucky...but the knowledge that I could go harder if I was motivated felt good. Goodnight...I'm sure I will sleep good tonight. The beer and Tylenol Nighttime (my knee has been hurting a little) will hopefully insure that :)
Useless footnote: I tend to start a lot of sentences with "So..." I have already cleaned out a few, but there are plently more left. It is hard for me to tell a story without "so then...". Will try to improve.
Sunday: The song "Closing Time" was playing on my iPod as they announced that they gym was closing. I had forgotten that 24 hour fitness gym closed at 8pm on Sunday nights. Perhaps it is the name of the gym that made me forget. Because I actually had to do some work work today and I didn't want to go workout, I didn't make it there until a little after 7. I had planned to do some part of a work out on all three legs of my triathlon. So I jumped on the bike. I wanted to do a good 30 minutes. I had almost reached the time when I heard they were announcing something over the speaker. I assumed they were saying the babysitting service was closing at 8. But then I had a sneaking suspicion that I recalled someone at sometime saying that the gym closed early on Sundays. While I wasn't done with my 30 minutes, I was approaching 10 miles, a good round number. So I quickly got to that mile marker, jumped off and went to the treadmill. I knew swimming was out because I only had less than twenty minutes. What with the costume change the shower, that just wouldn't allow me to work up a good sweat. So onto the endless road machine. I didn't want to be a bad guest and wait until 8 to finish my workout and then head to the locker room and then mosey out. I wanted to be in my car by 8. Tthat meant if I really wanted to get a mile in, I would have to go fast, and no walking. So I started off strong at 5mph and kept shifting up. With the announcements coming fast and furious every 5 minutes, I did my fastest mile time so far - 10 min 20 secs. I had to increase to 7mph for the last .10 to do it, but I accomplished my altered goal with a few minutes to spare. I didn't give myself adequate cool down time so I felt kinda yucky...but the knowledge that I could go harder if I was motivated felt good. Goodnight...I'm sure I will sleep good tonight. The beer and Tylenol Nighttime (my knee has been hurting a little) will hopefully insure that :)
Useless footnote: I tend to start a lot of sentences with "So..." I have already cleaned out a few, but there are plently more left. It is hard for me to tell a story without "so then...". Will try to improve.
Friday, July 18, 2008
Why didn't I pee before working out?
Wednesday: I didn't feel well again, so I skipped the workout.
Thursday: Yoga class at lunch. This is a cool thing at work.
Just a so-so workout Thursday evening. I started out on the ole treadmill. I could only do a
little over a mile before needing a break. Did a total of 2.6 miles in 30 minutes or so. Had to take walking breaks often.
Then I did some weights.
Then I went to the pool. I did the 12 laps, all free style strokes. But it took me 18-20 minutes. And I could only do 2 without breaking. For some reason I kept getting water in my nose. I may have to buy nose plugs.
Before I headed to the pool, I felt the slight need to pee. But decided it would go away. And it kind of did...didn't notice it during the workout. But as soon as I got in the hot tub, the sensation returned. The ability to relax in a hot tub is inversely related to the fullness of your bladder. Don't worry...I didn't let loose in the hot tub. After soaking for about 10 minutes, I got up to leave. Do you remember as a child how hard it was to go to the bathroom in a wet one-piece suit? Well, it is still as difficult.
That's about it.
Thursday: Yoga class at lunch. This is a cool thing at work.
Just a so-so workout Thursday evening. I started out on the ole treadmill. I could only do a
little over a mile before needing a break. Did a total of 2.6 miles in 30 minutes or so. Had to take walking breaks often.
Then I did some weights.
Then I went to the pool. I did the 12 laps, all free style strokes. But it took me 18-20 minutes. And I could only do 2 without breaking. For some reason I kept getting water in my nose. I may have to buy nose plugs.
Before I headed to the pool, I felt the slight need to pee. But decided it would go away. And it kind of did...didn't notice it during the workout. But as soon as I got in the hot tub, the sensation returned. The ability to relax in a hot tub is inversely related to the fullness of your bladder. Don't worry...I didn't let loose in the hot tub. After soaking for about 10 minutes, I got up to leave. Do you remember as a child how hard it was to go to the bathroom in a wet one-piece suit? Well, it is still as difficult.
That's about it.
Wednesday, July 16, 2008
Not Another Workout Blog Movie
Cynic: A person whose outlook is scornfully negative.
That is me lately. And it is related to my job. Or more to the point, the people on my team. Or certain people on my team.
You see, I work in a team that is lead by someone who is, shall we say flexible on the issues of attendance and work hours. The general philosophy I am fine with…as long as the work gets done, and the clients are happy, then why do we need to be here the entire 40 hours out of the week?
However, in practice, this doesn’t work as smoothly as some would like. Because while it is nice to have the flex time when emergencies come up or whatever, it tends to get quickly abused. The “my kid is sick and I need to run him to the doctor” excuse quickly becomes the “I need to go get my oil changed, so I will be gone for the rest of the afternoon (leaving at three hours early)”. Yes, most places are open on Saturdays.
The other reason I don’t like how things have progressed is that since a person is not in the office until closing time, they don’t see the work not getting done. Because someone else on the team has to do the work. Phone calls get forwarded to whoever IS there, even if it’s not strictly their project. Emails get forwarded; people looking for you come to whoever they can find. But since we do work in a team environment, it is generally expected that you will have to cover for someone at some point. But it seems that it happens very regularly.
There are 7 people on my team. I would say there has not been a full week in an entire year where every person on the team worked all 5 days, for the full day.
But hey, our team is doing pretty well. We are one of the top three sales teams. So who cares if we don’t have to put in as much effort as everyone else does? The point is we could probably sell twice as much if people put in a full effort. We probably wouldn’t have had to hire a new person.
However, the real reason I am writing this is because I don’t like who I have become as a result of this. People on the team have been giving lame excuses for so long, that now that they have serious family issues and probably legitimate reasons for missing work, I don’t give a flying flip. It is like the little boy that cried wolf. I mean it has gotten so bad that another woman in the office was actually crying about one of my team member’s trials right now, and I barely give it another thought. Each day I listen to her news, but it is not really affecting me. Sure, I feel bad that she is going through all of this, but I do not have real empathy for her anymore. She will be off for a few days because of the emotional trauma. And each day that I hear she is gone, my first reaction, is, of course. And so far her being gone hasn’t impacted my work load. So imagine if I did have to lay a finger for her. My blood would start boiling I’m sure. And she’s definitely not the worst offender. That’s what makes it bad…she really hadn’t had any bad reasons for missing work in the past. But it is my cynical viewpoint that casts a black cloud over everyone now.
My attitude about actually doing work has also been bad. In my head, I say, well I’m here everyday, all day. So I can justify goofing off too much. At least I’m available to take calls or answer emails. I know that is not right either, but that’s where I’m at.
That’s about it. I could go into more detail, but it is their private lives, and it won’t do any good. But I guarantee it would make you wonder how these people keep their jobs. I just need to vent. And don’t suggest I go to my boss, b/c he set the tone for the whole team and he is the worst.
I really hope no one at work knows about my blog.
That is me lately. And it is related to my job. Or more to the point, the people on my team. Or certain people on my team.
You see, I work in a team that is lead by someone who is, shall we say flexible on the issues of attendance and work hours. The general philosophy I am fine with…as long as the work gets done, and the clients are happy, then why do we need to be here the entire 40 hours out of the week?
However, in practice, this doesn’t work as smoothly as some would like. Because while it is nice to have the flex time when emergencies come up or whatever, it tends to get quickly abused. The “my kid is sick and I need to run him to the doctor” excuse quickly becomes the “I need to go get my oil changed, so I will be gone for the rest of the afternoon (leaving at three hours early)”. Yes, most places are open on Saturdays.
The other reason I don’t like how things have progressed is that since a person is not in the office until closing time, they don’t see the work not getting done. Because someone else on the team has to do the work. Phone calls get forwarded to whoever IS there, even if it’s not strictly their project. Emails get forwarded; people looking for you come to whoever they can find. But since we do work in a team environment, it is generally expected that you will have to cover for someone at some point. But it seems that it happens very regularly.
There are 7 people on my team. I would say there has not been a full week in an entire year where every person on the team worked all 5 days, for the full day.
But hey, our team is doing pretty well. We are one of the top three sales teams. So who cares if we don’t have to put in as much effort as everyone else does? The point is we could probably sell twice as much if people put in a full effort. We probably wouldn’t have had to hire a new person.
However, the real reason I am writing this is because I don’t like who I have become as a result of this. People on the team have been giving lame excuses for so long, that now that they have serious family issues and probably legitimate reasons for missing work, I don’t give a flying flip. It is like the little boy that cried wolf. I mean it has gotten so bad that another woman in the office was actually crying about one of my team member’s trials right now, and I barely give it another thought. Each day I listen to her news, but it is not really affecting me. Sure, I feel bad that she is going through all of this, but I do not have real empathy for her anymore. She will be off for a few days because of the emotional trauma. And each day that I hear she is gone, my first reaction, is, of course. And so far her being gone hasn’t impacted my work load. So imagine if I did have to lay a finger for her. My blood would start boiling I’m sure. And she’s definitely not the worst offender. That’s what makes it bad…she really hadn’t had any bad reasons for missing work in the past. But it is my cynical viewpoint that casts a black cloud over everyone now.
My attitude about actually doing work has also been bad. In my head, I say, well I’m here everyday, all day. So I can justify goofing off too much. At least I’m available to take calls or answer emails. I know that is not right either, but that’s where I’m at.
That’s about it. I could go into more detail, but it is their private lives, and it won’t do any good. But I guarantee it would make you wonder how these people keep their jobs. I just need to vent. And don’t suggest I go to my boss, b/c he set the tone for the whole team and he is the worst.
I really hope no one at work knows about my blog.
When does this get fun?
Monday workout: Nothing. I feel asleep about 7 pm and didn't do anything. :( That is a typical night for me.
Tuesday workout: Even though I took a nap after work, and even though it was stormy, I went to the gym last night. I did 5 minutes on the stair climber thing. I didn't intend to do it, but I got a little turned around in the gym, and didn't want to look like I didn't know where I was going, so I did that torture machine for a few minutes. If you need a warm up, that will get your heart pumping. I'm pretty surprised that I'm not sore in my booty today. But my knee does hurt, so I think I will stay away from that thing again.
Then I proceeded to the bikes, where I was intending to go in the first place. I planned to do 45 minutes, which would be well over the 14 mile mark. But I did the random program, and the hills were much more challenging than I expected. So I decided to stop after 30 minutes and 11 miles. Because I wanted to do some running, too. Or that was my excuse anyway. Sweat was literally dripping off of me onto the floor. Gross. Did I tell you they keep it pretty hot in there, and by the bikes there aren't any fans.
So then I headed to the treadmill. My legs weren't too shaky. Maybe the weight lifting is helping some. I did a full mile run in 12 minutes...I could have possibly done more, but stopped because it was getting pretty late already.
This triathlon is going to be a bit of a pain in other ways. I have to go pick up the registration packet before the event, and none of the locations are super convenient for me. And then I have to take my bike and helmet into a shop to make sure it is safe. I didn't know about all this. That is another thing. I need to decide what bike I'm riding. I have a trail bike I could use, but the course is on country roads. So a road bike would be more efficient, which means less work on my legs. That sounds pretty good to me. So I may be in the market for a new or gently used bike. As I said before, hobbies are expensive.
Sunday, July 13, 2008
Why does swimming bring out the snot in your nose?
Saturday workout:
2.9 miles on the treadmill, almost 40 minutes...warmup...1 mile jogging/running...walking...1/2 mile jogging...walking...then about another 1/2 mile jogging/sprinting. Felt ok, but I was definitely ready for the rest after the first mile. There was no way I could have done 2 miles in a row today.
Did some weights.
12 laps in the pool, 4 without really resting! I did them all in about 15 minutes. Not too bad, although my form was pretty bad.
10 minutes in the hot tub. Nice! Do you call it a hot tub, whirlpool, or sauna? It is the big bathtub with bubbles. I've heard people call it all three. But isn't the sauna the steam room?
Sunday workout: Big fat nothing. Unless shopping at Target counts. The day is not over, but I'm not getting my hopes up.
2.9 miles on the treadmill, almost 40 minutes...warmup...1 mile jogging/running...walking...1/2 mile jogging...walking...then about another 1/2 mile jogging/sprinting. Felt ok, but I was definitely ready for the rest after the first mile. There was no way I could have done 2 miles in a row today.
Did some weights.
12 laps in the pool, 4 without really resting! I did them all in about 15 minutes. Not too bad, although my form was pretty bad.
10 minutes in the hot tub. Nice! Do you call it a hot tub, whirlpool, or sauna? It is the big bathtub with bubbles. I've heard people call it all three. But isn't the sauna the steam room?
Sunday workout: Big fat nothing. Unless shopping at Target counts. The day is not over, but I'm not getting my hopes up.
Thursday, July 10, 2008
The Agony And The Ecstasy
Even though it is out of time sequence, I will start with the good. Because I’m positive like that. I jogged for 2 miles without stopping on Tuesday night on the treadmill (about 26 minutes)! I have not been able to do that in a long time, and can probably count the times I have done it in my life one 3 fingers. After the first several minutes, it felt pretty good. I could have gone on a little longer, but didn’t want to do too much. Apparently the session with the trainer was a motivation, but not in the good way.
Now here’s the rest of the story, as Paul Harvey would say. I met with my trainer for my fitness evaluation. He was all of 12. He asked me my goals, and what I had been doing, and how tall I was, and my eating habits. Then he did the weigh in…I had gained a pound since the day before L But whatever, that’s not my primary focus, up until this point.
Then he proceeded to measure me in all sorts of locations with a tap measure, and then used the little pincer thing to measure my body fat. And here’s the kicker. He said I had 33% body fat, which was way over the unhealthy range. I figured I would be about 24%, right on the edge of healthy and unhealthy. I definitely knew I wasn’t in the athlete portion, as much as that hurt my ego. But the scale only went up to 32% + and I was 33%. I was the “and up” range! I seriously hope he did it wrong. He didn’t act very confident with the whole process. So being called fat in the nicest, chart-topping way motivated me to run 2 miles.
Again, since he didn’t seem alarmed at my body fat % and didn’t really focus on getting me immediately on a diet and exercise regimen, I’m assuming he was just a little uninformed on this section. But he gave some advice on eating…eat 7 small meals a day. And the week of the race to start carb-loading (IHOP, anyone?). He also said the day of the race to eat as much carbs as I could. I told him it was at 7 am. He said well, then get up at 5 and eat pancakes. I can’t imagine eating that early, and eating that much before exercising.
Wednesday was happy hour after work, so I ate not good and exercised not good.
Thursday, about to go play tennis with b/f.
Friday is book club, so I doubt I'll exercise. I guess I could make use of the 24 hour aspect of the gym, but let's not get carried away.
Monday, July 7, 2008
Mylanta
Sunday - no work out.
Am now a 3-month member of gym.
Monday - disappointing. I did 12 laps in the pool again - about 20 minutes, 2 laps without stopping. That part was ok. Still way out of breath. I can't get the whole breathing thing down. But maybe making progress.
Then my plan was to try to jog/walk for 3 miles. Then I was going to just do a light walk/jog because I kinda felt weird after the swim. Started off poorly as I had to run in no socks. My water bottle spilled, and my socks were soaking (2nd time, you would think I would learn). But after the initial jelly feeling in my legs, I was actually feeling good. I started jogging, and felt like I could make it past my usual 1 mile mark without stopping. I made it to around 3/4 mile distance when I got horrible heart burn. I'm sure it had nothing to do with the half can of pringles I ate an hour before working out.
I have yet to figure out the eating schedule. There is no way I could make it straight from work, to working out, and then come home and eat dinner. So I had some soup before I left work, and then I just couldn't pass up watching Jeopardy, and then the open can of pringles was calling me. Really the only option for me is to exercise in the morning. That would mean getting up around 5. A. M. That is eons before my usual 6:45 wake up call. I just don't know about that. Maybe I will give it a try.
Anyway, so instead of pushing, I decided to call it a workout. Still better than no work out.
Oh I forgot to tell you. I went all out. I bought a new 1 piece suit, goggles, and the head cap. I feel, if not look, like a professional swimmer now. Save for the masculine shoulders. And 0.2% body fat. This is the first pair of goggles that actually work. Imagine, no water coming in to my eyes. It's great. I can wear my contacts and not have to worry about taking them in and out.
Anyway, I signed up for the free health inspection/orientation. So I'm meeting with a personal trainer tomorrow night. Maybe he'll find something wrong with me, and I can back out of this gracefully. Nothing too bad, just like an abnormal muscular displacement of the 3rd lower vertebrae Cartesian planes in Spain, which in everyday jive means no triathlon. A girl can hope!
Am now a 3-month member of gym.
Monday - disappointing. I did 12 laps in the pool again - about 20 minutes, 2 laps without stopping. That part was ok. Still way out of breath. I can't get the whole breathing thing down. But maybe making progress.
Then my plan was to try to jog/walk for 3 miles. Then I was going to just do a light walk/jog because I kinda felt weird after the swim. Started off poorly as I had to run in no socks. My water bottle spilled, and my socks were soaking (2nd time, you would think I would learn). But after the initial jelly feeling in my legs, I was actually feeling good. I started jogging, and felt like I could make it past my usual 1 mile mark without stopping. I made it to around 3/4 mile distance when I got horrible heart burn. I'm sure it had nothing to do with the half can of pringles I ate an hour before working out.
I have yet to figure out the eating schedule. There is no way I could make it straight from work, to working out, and then come home and eat dinner. So I had some soup before I left work, and then I just couldn't pass up watching Jeopardy, and then the open can of pringles was calling me. Really the only option for me is to exercise in the morning. That would mean getting up around 5. A. M. That is eons before my usual 6:45 wake up call. I just don't know about that. Maybe I will give it a try.
Anyway, so instead of pushing, I decided to call it a workout. Still better than no work out.
Oh I forgot to tell you. I went all out. I bought a new 1 piece suit, goggles, and the head cap. I feel, if not look, like a professional swimmer now. Save for the masculine shoulders. And 0.2% body fat. This is the first pair of goggles that actually work. Imagine, no water coming in to my eyes. It's great. I can wear my contacts and not have to worry about taking them in and out.
Anyway, I signed up for the free health inspection/orientation. So I'm meeting with a personal trainer tomorrow night. Maybe he'll find something wrong with me, and I can back out of this gracefully. Nothing too bad, just like an abnormal muscular displacement of the 3rd lower vertebrae Cartesian planes in Spain, which in everyday jive means no triathlon. A girl can hope!
Saturday, July 5, 2008
Friday, July 4, 2008
Splish, splash, I was out of breath
Today's workout (for my personal record, not for your entertainment, unless you find the lack of progress as funny as I do):
Location: the gym
Time: afternoon
1) Treadmill: total of 2 miles [1.01 miles without stopping, average speed 5.2 mph for that mile, excuse me, 1.01 mile]. Man, the gym felt hot today.
2) Weird torture machine: a few sets of crunches
3) Lap pool: total of 8 laps (25 yds each, 200 yds), 2 laps without stopping. Man, this was much harder than I thought. The last "lap" was pathetic. There were old, fat men who were swimming before I got there, swam the whole time I was swimming, plus my 10 minutes in the spa, and they didn't even rest at all.
Granted I could have speed up the process a little, and if I had swam first, I could have eliminated 1 shower, but it took like 1.5 hours to do all this. Who has the time for this? I do...only on the weekends. I don't see making this a regular part of my routine.
Location: the gym
Time: afternoon
1) Treadmill: total of 2 miles [1.01 miles without stopping, average speed 5.2 mph for that mile, excuse me, 1.01 mile]. Man, the gym felt hot today.
2) Weird torture machine: a few sets of crunches
3) Lap pool: total of 8 laps (25 yds each, 200 yds), 2 laps without stopping. Man, this was much harder than I thought. The last "lap" was pathetic. There were old, fat men who were swimming before I got there, swam the whole time I was swimming, plus my 10 minutes in the spa, and they didn't even rest at all.
Granted I could have speed up the process a little, and if I had swam first, I could have eliminated 1 shower, but it took like 1.5 hours to do all this. Who has the time for this? I do...only on the weekends. I don't see making this a regular part of my routine.
Thursday, July 3, 2008
My healthy ego has got me into trouble again
Believing the theory that it's not really true until I blog about it, I've delayed typing this post.
I must have been drunk when I agreed to it. I know I was on vacation, so maybe my feet were in the sand, and my head in the clouds. But I said yes. I even registered. It's official. I'm signed up to do a triathlon in less than 2 months. Sure, its a "mini" triathlon. That just means you are supposed to do it faster. I want to quit already and I'm only in training...if you call not doing anything for the past, oh 3-4 days training. At least it has got me to exercise more than I had been. Cue "The Life Of Brian"'s "Look On The Bright Side Of Life."
The plan is to swim 300 yards, bike 14 miles, and then jog 2.9 miles. Each part is the hardest part.
I think maybe, just maybe I could work up to 2.9 miles. I'm only at 1 now without stopping. And maybe I could bike 14 miles...7 of which will be coasting. The wild card is the swim. I have never ever swam in a real race, or even in a class or anything. After a futile attempt of swimming laps at the public pool on a Sunday evening, I decided to join a gym for the summer. At least now maybe I will know what I'm in for. I'm going today or tomorrow to check out the week-free trial at 24 Hour Fitness, which is not open 24 hours on the weekend, surprisingly.
If I don't post much anymore, its because my arms will no longer be able to lift up to the keyboard.
I must have been drunk when I agreed to it. I know I was on vacation, so maybe my feet were in the sand, and my head in the clouds. But I said yes. I even registered. It's official. I'm signed up to do a triathlon in less than 2 months. Sure, its a "mini" triathlon. That just means you are supposed to do it faster. I want to quit already and I'm only in training...if you call not doing anything for the past, oh 3-4 days training. At least it has got me to exercise more than I had been. Cue "The Life Of Brian"'s "Look On The Bright Side Of Life."
The plan is to swim 300 yards, bike 14 miles, and then jog 2.9 miles. Each part is the hardest part.
I think maybe, just maybe I could work up to 2.9 miles. I'm only at 1 now without stopping. And maybe I could bike 14 miles...7 of which will be coasting. The wild card is the swim. I have never ever swam in a real race, or even in a class or anything. After a futile attempt of swimming laps at the public pool on a Sunday evening, I decided to join a gym for the summer. At least now maybe I will know what I'm in for. I'm going today or tomorrow to check out the week-free trial at 24 Hour Fitness, which is not open 24 hours on the weekend, surprisingly.
If I don't post much anymore, its because my arms will no longer be able to lift up to the keyboard.
Monday, June 30, 2008
Happy Birthday, You know who you are!
Special shoutout to my good friend who is turning 30 today! I was nice enough to do it first to make sure it was safe, like the royal food taster. I'm still alive!
I miss having you in the same state, but hopefully I will see you soon!
Enjoy your day!
I miss having you in the same state, but hopefully I will see you soon!
Enjoy your day!
Friday, June 27, 2008
It's My Turn!
I got tagged me for a meme. At least you get something new to read, right? Right?
A. Attached or Single? Only emotionally, not physically. And not a permanent, legally binding attachment. Just more of a Friday and Saturday night, occasional weekday type arrangement.
B. Best Friend? Not sure, haven't really sorted my friends since middle school. I have good friends I talk to on a regular basis, and some good friends that I don't to very often.
C. Cake or pie? Yes. Probably cake, with warm chocolate and whipped cream on top.
D. Day of choice? Probably Saturday. Full day of no commitments.
E. Essential item? DVR. I can now watch Jeopardy every week day, not just on the occasional vacation day. It has changed my life.
F. Favorite color? blue
G. Gummy bears or worms? Bears, but no real preference. Not a big consumer.
H. Home town? Grew up in Longview, TX.
I. Favorite indulgence? Eating a pint of ice cream, when you know you should get a bowl, but you think you have the will power to only eat a few bites, but before you know it, the whole thing is gone. Don't tell me I'm the only one?
J. January or July? Eh, both not good. July I guess.
K. Kids? ( I just noticed the letters coincide with the first letter of the question. Yea for being observant.) Unsure. I just checked. Nope. Don't have any.
L. Life isn’t complete without? good food, good people to be with, and sunny days.
M. Marriage date? Yes, I brought a date to the last marriage I went to.
N. Number of brothers and sisters? 903-759 - oh, you don't mean phone #. 3.
O. Oranges or Apples? I eat apples more regularly, but I love oranges.
P. Phobias? Having my arms tied up, like a straight jacket or being tucked in too tight. And being buried alive.
Q. Quotes? I'm not good about remembering quotes. Probably lately, "that's what she said"
R. Reasons to smile? funny stuff. And I have a job. And I've been carpooling! So gas prices haven't really affected me yet.
S. Season of choice? Spring.
T. Tag 5 people: probably not.
U. Unknown fact about me? I used to think that real tornadoes would come when you swirled around the "tornado in a jar" science project.
V. Vegetable? summer squash and zucchini medley
W. Worst habbit? Lately, it's been falling asleep on the couch in the evenings and waking up about 1:30 am to go to bed.
X. Xray or Ultrasound? I don't get this question. Which superpower would I rather have? I guess it would depend on the reason. I'll let my doctor make the call.
Y. Your favorite food? chicken fried chicken, mashed tators, cream gravy, homemade rolls
Z. Zodiac sign? Aries
Monday, June 16, 2008
Friday, June 13, 2008
No longer at the kids table, but still stuck on the pullout sofa bed in the living room
Guess where I am right now? If you guessed on the road in Louisiana, you'd be right! This state doesn't seem that big on a map, but it covers quite a bit of this road trip.
So we are heading home after a successful trip. My brother did get married, after 2 different location changes. The original spot was having stormy weather, so they changed it to the private hotel beach in town. They hurriedly set up the little alter thing and the chairs, and the bride was about to walk down to the beach when the storm caught up with us. So everyone quickly grabbed some chairs and ran into the hotel lobby. They ended up performing the ceremony in the atrium of the hotel, which was actually quite pretty. It had a fountain and lots of greenery. The only drawback was it was noisy, so we couldn't actually hear much of the vows and stuff. But they did get to go back to the beach and take pictures. So I now have another sister and a new niece.
The beach was beautiful and the house was great. More so on this vacation than others I really felt like a 3rd wheel (or the 19th wheel on a semi?). It is difficult being a single adult when everyone around you is married and/or has kids. The younger kids don't really understand that you can be an adult and not married. They either think that you are a teenager, or wonder what is wrong that you aren't married. Maybe it was because I actually have a b/f now and I was missing him, and trying to picture him on the trip with me that I was feeling a bit left out. Who knows. My "bedroom" on this trip was the living room, and I slept on the pullout couch. Which meant that I was awake until the last person went to bed, and I was awakened with whoever made the first pot of coffee (or more accurately whenever the baby woke up for his first sippy cup of milk, usually about 6:15). I actually had the choice to sleep there or the top loft room, but that room was pretty hot. My nephew took it.
I know that logistically, it was really the only arrangement that made sense. And all and all, it was fine. And since I didn't pay for the house, I can't complain.
The beaches were gorgeous! No matter how much sunscreen I put on, I still usually manage to get sunburned. I wore a t-shirt most of the time. My ears even got red from yesterday.
Back to the real world again on Monday!
So we are heading home after a successful trip. My brother did get married, after 2 different location changes. The original spot was having stormy weather, so they changed it to the private hotel beach in town. They hurriedly set up the little alter thing and the chairs, and the bride was about to walk down to the beach when the storm caught up with us. So everyone quickly grabbed some chairs and ran into the hotel lobby. They ended up performing the ceremony in the atrium of the hotel, which was actually quite pretty. It had a fountain and lots of greenery. The only drawback was it was noisy, so we couldn't actually hear much of the vows and stuff. But they did get to go back to the beach and take pictures. So I now have another sister and a new niece.
The beach was beautiful and the house was great. More so on this vacation than others I really felt like a 3rd wheel (or the 19th wheel on a semi?). It is difficult being a single adult when everyone around you is married and/or has kids. The younger kids don't really understand that you can be an adult and not married. They either think that you are a teenager, or wonder what is wrong that you aren't married. Maybe it was because I actually have a b/f now and I was missing him, and trying to picture him on the trip with me that I was feeling a bit left out. Who knows. My "bedroom" on this trip was the living room, and I slept on the pullout couch. Which meant that I was awake until the last person went to bed, and I was awakened with whoever made the first pot of coffee (or more accurately whenever the baby woke up for his first sippy cup of milk, usually about 6:15). I actually had the choice to sleep there or the top loft room, but that room was pretty hot. My nephew took it.
I know that logistically, it was really the only arrangement that made sense. And all and all, it was fine. And since I didn't pay for the house, I can't complain.
The beaches were gorgeous! No matter how much sunscreen I put on, I still usually manage to get sunburned. I wore a t-shirt most of the time. My ears even got red from yesterday.
Back to the real world again on Monday!
Saturday, June 7, 2008
Louisiana is getting so old
For the second time in a month, I'm in LA. This time, just passing through on my to the white sandy beaches of Florida.
Thanks to my spiffy new wireless Internet thingy, I can surf on the road! I'm actually in the car right now. Pretty cool. Except my laptop battery doesn't last very long. Bummer. Oh well...there's only so much Internet I should do in one day.
Have a good weekend!
Thanks to my spiffy new wireless Internet thingy, I can surf on the road! I'm actually in the car right now. Pretty cool. Except my laptop battery doesn't last very long. Bummer. Oh well...there's only so much Internet I should do in one day.
Have a good weekend!
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
Louisiana is like a whole other state
I went to the Mudbug Festival in Shreveport this weekend with a friend from work. Mudbug is another, less classy name for the Crawfish. The actual festival was smaller than I was imagining...I guess any comparisons to the Texas State Fair should not have been made in my mind. But the food, oh my. Booths and booths of things steamed and stewed and fried and smothered in cajun sauce. I had red beans and rice and hamburger (I'm not really the seafood lover) and Dip'n Dots. I did taste some fried alligator and I had several bites of the boiled crawfish...not too bad! I'm not saying there really needs to be a festival for them, but not bad at all.
This is a pile of mudbug shells. Disgusting looking, I know. The corn and potatoes that were served with them were possibly the best I have ever eaten. Now I was so hot about 5pm. But after seeing those poor men cooking over the huge vats of steaming crawfish, I had to stop complaining. It takes dedication to share your crawfish love with the world.
Okay, I may have grown up only 50 minutes from the Louisiana border, but I felt almost as if I were in another country. And we were in north Louisiana. Imagine if I had traveled to the coast of Acadia. These are a few of the oddities I noticed:
1. The accents - There was a cajun guy who came up to the table we were at. He started talking to us, but it was a full minute until I could half-way understand what he was saying. It turned out he was only saying "Your red beans and rice sure do look good." But what I heard was The Waterboy assistant coach, "Yoourn red beenz n rizze surre dough luk good, un huh."
2. Drive through daiquiri barns - Come on! A little shack selling a very strong 20 oz frozen daiquiri with all kinds of liquor for only $6! And like the piece of tape covering the straw hole is really going to stop anyone from drinking and driving.
3. Dressing up 2 giant mudbugs as Santa and Mrs. Claws...in May! I'll let the picture speak for itself. 
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
This post doesn't have to have a point
Because now I can blog anytime I want. I don't have to carefully consider my topic and pre-plan it and write a well-composed message. I can whip out any little thought that crosses my mind. Sucky for you, reader.
Yep, my new little data card came yesterday...super fast. The installation was pretty easy too. No CDs , no download, just plug and play-practically.
I can be being lazy, too! Right now, I"m laid out on the couch, watching tv, and typing. Ouch...I'm wearing shorts, and my laptop gets hot! The speed isn't that fast, but it gets me online.
This is one of my fav pics from NYC trip. Not b/c it is a great picture of me, hardly. I love tulips and there were tulips all over the city. Very gorgeous ones.
The other picture captures NYC's essence to me. There were signs everywhere saying no honking, $350 fine. But that doesn't stop New Yorkers! There was honking right and left. I would think it would be hard to police that.
Monday, May 12, 2008
Can you feel the excitement?
You life may never be the same again. In the not too distant future, expect more mind-blowing, exciting posts that enrich your lives. At 12:24 pm on Monday, May 12, 2008, I vow to post with a little more frequency. Why? Because I will finally be getting Internet access at home.
I signed up for Sprint's broadband through a data card. I should be receiving somewhere around high-speed Internet access. That is assuming I can get a good signal at my house. Because I can't get a good signal on my AT&T phone at the house. I have to stand outside. Now while I do love to inform you about my comings and goings, I do not have a power cord that will allow me to cart my desktop outside to update my blog. So, hopefully Sprint will be better. I have reason to hope. And I have a 30 day money back guarantee.
In 2 to 4 days, this sweet little lady will be mine.
http://nextelonline.nextel.com/NASApp/onlinestore/en/Action/DisplayPhones?filterString=Data_Cards_Phone_Char
The service is pretty expensive, but I'm about out of choices here. A girl can only live unconnected for so long. I guess it's time to put the cats on the store brand of cat food. So long Iams, hello Kitty's Choice. OK, probably not. But there will have to be cuts somewhere. I guess it will come from the eating better/throwing less food away/eating out less budget. Except that money was going to more expensive gas. I'm really glad I am carpooling. If only my pesky b/f didn't live 25 minutes away. We might have to start living like a long-distance couple :) Make a date out of weekly work meetings. Or not.
I'll let you know when I am able to post on my own free time...not constrained by quick lunch-time work posts. I feel the pressure now. I shouldn't have brought this up.
I signed up for Sprint's broadband through a data card. I should be receiving somewhere around high-speed Internet access. That is assuming I can get a good signal at my house. Because I can't get a good signal on my AT&T phone at the house. I have to stand outside. Now while I do love to inform you about my comings and goings, I do not have a power cord that will allow me to cart my desktop outside to update my blog. So, hopefully Sprint will be better. I have reason to hope. And I have a 30 day money back guarantee.
In 2 to 4 days, this sweet little lady will be mine.
http://nextelonline.nextel.com/NASApp/onlinestore/en/Action/DisplayPhones?filterString=Data_Cards_Phone_Char
The service is pretty expensive, but I'm about out of choices here. A girl can only live unconnected for so long. I guess it's time to put the cats on the store brand of cat food. So long Iams, hello Kitty's Choice. OK, probably not. But there will have to be cuts somewhere. I guess it will come from the eating better/throwing less food away/eating out less budget. Except that money was going to more expensive gas. I'm really glad I am carpooling. If only my pesky b/f didn't live 25 minutes away. We might have to start living like a long-distance couple :) Make a date out of weekly work meetings. Or not.
I'll let you know when I am able to post on my own free time...not constrained by quick lunch-time work posts. I feel the pressure now. I shouldn't have brought this up.
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
NYC Odd Sighting #1 (Not Siting #1)
While walking to the NYC library, the great bastion of learning and culture, we came across this scene.
The traditional art form of body painting.
I felt inspired to write a haiku:
Brush on my nipple
A tickle, as people watch
I turn red from paint
Fabulous!
I heart NYC and have a t-shirt to prove it. We had a wonderful time! The weather was gorgeous for the first time this year, so everyone was in a good mood. The cherry blossoms and other trees were blooming. The pope was in town. There was a cool breeze, so the city was fresh and clean smelling. Nothing went wrong on the trip, and everything went right.
Day 1: Arrived at LaGuardia about 2:30. My bag arrived as well! Typical cab ride to Brooklyn. I was scared. It was great. Arrived at the Saints and Sinners B&B about 4. We were on the 3rd floor of a 4 story brownstone. It wasn’t as “nice” as a hotel, but it was a cool place to stay. It showed me what it would be like to live in the neighborhood. There were lots of families and kids. It was a 10 minute walk to the subway, and it had lots of little shops and restaurants in the area. We took a power nap, and b/f called and ordered tickets to a show later in the week. Then he called his friends and made tentative plans for meeting up with them for the week. We took a cab to a Columbian restaurant. Had great empanadas, and then I had arroz con pollo with black beans. It was all very tasty. One of his friends ended up not having to work that night, so he met up with us at the restaurant for drinks. Then we went to the bar where he works sometimes (he’s also a music teacher). At the bar, there was a demonstration of a new musical instrument thing invented by a Japanese guy. It was weird. Sort of an electric piano crossed with a music box and a go board. Went back to B&B.
Day 2: Woke up late. Had brunch at Lobo’s Tex Mex. Couldn’t go very long without some good familiar food:) Then we took the subway into the city. Arrived at Rockefeller Center to a mad rush of a lunchtime crowd. So many people. Went to St Patrick’s Cathedral. Beautiful building, inside and out. Walked to the Guggenheim Museum, but it was closed. Needed to go to the bathroom, so we snuck into the Met. Since we were there, we walked around a bit. Saw Monets and Picassos, and Manets, and Rodins and huge asian sculptures and tons and tons of stuff. Walked to Central Park. Beautiful. Subway back to Brooklyn to meet up with his friends for dinner and drinks. Had an excellent burger at a French restaurant. I know, I know but it was too good.
Day 3: Met up with friend 1 at the subway station. Had lunch at a quirky little family owned “restaurant”. They had 3 tables. Walked along the Lower East Side. Bought some sunglasses from a street vendor (mine got broken on the plane). Went to Grand Central Station. It certainly is a grand place. I don’t know why they would spend so much money on a public place like that. But it was gorgeous. Walked some more (are you sensing a theme here?) Stopped in the NYC library – also very gorgeous and massive. Went up the Empire State Building. Beautiful day and we could see for 10 miles. Pigeon pooped on my hair. But not much. And I give him credit. It took him guts to fly up that high. Took a pedicab (a rickshaw with a bicycle) ride during rush hour back to south Central Park area. Almost got hit. Had dinner on a patio overlooking the park. Walked to Times Square to go to The Lion King. That was amazing! We had really good seats, and the show was spectacular. The kids who did Simba and Nala were very talented, and there was a South African lady who did Rafika, who had an amazing voice. Got out of the show about 10:45pm and entered a crazy world of lights and people and vendors and madness. Walked to the Hello Deli from Letterman fame, but it was closed of course.
Day 4: Met friend #2 for brunch in Brooklyn. Walked to the Brooklyn Promenade along the waterfront. Very cool neighborhood. I never really pictured kids living in the city, but they have parks everywhere and they act like its normal to play 2 feet from the busy streets. We walked across Brooklyn Bridge. Impressive and long! Took a subway to Battery Park. Then we went on a helicopter ride around Manhattan. Wasn’t my idea, but I went along. It was good – that was the closest we came to seeing the Statue of Liberty. The heights didn’t scare me, but when he turned around, I started to get a little green. The whole ride was 10-12 minutes. It gave a good view of Ground Zero as well. Then walked to dinner at a pizza place. But it wasn’t my idea of NY pizza. It was good, but the brick oven type, so it tasted like something I could have gotten in Dallas. Walked along Canal Street and bought cheap t-shirts and got the offer to buy handbags, watches, DVDS, VHS (ha), and even a dime bag! My NY experience was complete. Which was great b/c I was running out of days and money! Got back to the B&B and b/f went to have drinks with friend #3. I chilled and packed and went to bed.
Day 5: Travel day. Back in town about 3pm.
It was a wonderful trip, but at least I have a reason to go back. I still didn’t get my Grey’s Papaya hot dog, or to taste real NY pizza. I highly recommend going. I hope this entry wasn’t too long!
Day 1: Arrived at LaGuardia about 2:30. My bag arrived as well! Typical cab ride to Brooklyn. I was scared. It was great. Arrived at the Saints and Sinners B&B about 4. We were on the 3rd floor of a 4 story brownstone. It wasn’t as “nice” as a hotel, but it was a cool place to stay. It showed me what it would be like to live in the neighborhood. There were lots of families and kids. It was a 10 minute walk to the subway, and it had lots of little shops and restaurants in the area. We took a power nap, and b/f called and ordered tickets to a show later in the week. Then he called his friends and made tentative plans for meeting up with them for the week. We took a cab to a Columbian restaurant. Had great empanadas, and then I had arroz con pollo with black beans. It was all very tasty. One of his friends ended up not having to work that night, so he met up with us at the restaurant for drinks. Then we went to the bar where he works sometimes (he’s also a music teacher). At the bar, there was a demonstration of a new musical instrument thing invented by a Japanese guy. It was weird. Sort of an electric piano crossed with a music box and a go board. Went back to B&B.
Day 2: Woke up late. Had brunch at Lobo’s Tex Mex. Couldn’t go very long without some good familiar food:) Then we took the subway into the city. Arrived at Rockefeller Center to a mad rush of a lunchtime crowd. So many people. Went to St Patrick’s Cathedral. Beautiful building, inside and out. Walked to the Guggenheim Museum, but it was closed. Needed to go to the bathroom, so we snuck into the Met. Since we were there, we walked around a bit. Saw Monets and Picassos, and Manets, and Rodins and huge asian sculptures and tons and tons of stuff. Walked to Central Park. Beautiful. Subway back to Brooklyn to meet up with his friends for dinner and drinks. Had an excellent burger at a French restaurant. I know, I know but it was too good.
Day 3: Met up with friend 1 at the subway station. Had lunch at a quirky little family owned “restaurant”. They had 3 tables. Walked along the Lower East Side. Bought some sunglasses from a street vendor (mine got broken on the plane). Went to Grand Central Station. It certainly is a grand place. I don’t know why they would spend so much money on a public place like that. But it was gorgeous. Walked some more (are you sensing a theme here?) Stopped in the NYC library – also very gorgeous and massive. Went up the Empire State Building. Beautiful day and we could see for 10 miles. Pigeon pooped on my hair. But not much. And I give him credit. It took him guts to fly up that high. Took a pedicab (a rickshaw with a bicycle) ride during rush hour back to south Central Park area. Almost got hit. Had dinner on a patio overlooking the park. Walked to Times Square to go to The Lion King. That was amazing! We had really good seats, and the show was spectacular. The kids who did Simba and Nala were very talented, and there was a South African lady who did Rafika, who had an amazing voice. Got out of the show about 10:45pm and entered a crazy world of lights and people and vendors and madness. Walked to the Hello Deli from Letterman fame, but it was closed of course.
Day 4: Met friend #2 for brunch in Brooklyn. Walked to the Brooklyn Promenade along the waterfront. Very cool neighborhood. I never really pictured kids living in the city, but they have parks everywhere and they act like its normal to play 2 feet from the busy streets. We walked across Brooklyn Bridge. Impressive and long! Took a subway to Battery Park. Then we went on a helicopter ride around Manhattan. Wasn’t my idea, but I went along. It was good – that was the closest we came to seeing the Statue of Liberty. The heights didn’t scare me, but when he turned around, I started to get a little green. The whole ride was 10-12 minutes. It gave a good view of Ground Zero as well. Then walked to dinner at a pizza place. But it wasn’t my idea of NY pizza. It was good, but the brick oven type, so it tasted like something I could have gotten in Dallas. Walked along Canal Street and bought cheap t-shirts and got the offer to buy handbags, watches, DVDS, VHS (ha), and even a dime bag! My NY experience was complete. Which was great b/c I was running out of days and money! Got back to the B&B and b/f went to have drinks with friend #3. I chilled and packed and went to bed.
Day 5: Travel day. Back in town about 3pm.
It was a wonderful trip, but at least I have a reason to go back. I still didn’t get my Grey’s Papaya hot dog, or to taste real NY pizza. I highly recommend going. I hope this entry wasn’t too long!
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