It's weird, because usually I don't run or workout as much on a Friday. However, I really needed the exercise. I needed to feel the wind against my face and just think about how this week is finally over. I'm 5 weeks closer to getting away for awhile and I couldn't be more excited. So, I need to focus on The Cause Competition and lose my 20 lbs.
I loaded my very impatient running partner, Remington (Lady went out first for some ball throwing in which Remi was not happy) in the car and headed to Hermann Park. I decided to just hit shuffle on my running playlist and start with something new this time for my warmup walk (sorry TikTok). This time, it was The City.
This is a great song and something I may use in my new blog (coming soon); however, the song came on twice in a row. The first time was the normal one and the second one was the remix version. I guess it was good to have the faster version when I started running, but too much of the same song is not a good thing. Oh well, I let it play.
So, why the title of my post? Well, Remi was not good. In fact, I gave him enough time to sniff and take bathroom breaks. However, when we got to the tree shaded area by the Pagoda, Remi just decided that he was done. He stopped A LOT. He sat down at one point. I kept trying to tell him that we haven't even run that much, but this is the farthest we have ran together. At one point, he saw another dog (dogs all over and I had him controlled for the most part) about 30 ft ahead of us. He pulled to get to the puppy. I guess I screamed out, "No" really loud, because the group with the dog turned around and had the puppy laid down until we passed. I thanked them.
After seeing my baby boy's struggles, I ran 1 song and walked 1 song. I did run down and up the stairs with Remi and felt good about it. When I reached the top, I must have yelled out "Wooooo!" The golfers were all looking at me when I started to run on the path again. I laughed. I kept up my run/walk scheme until I got to the stopping point for my final cool down walk.
This wasn't my best run mainly due to my dog. But it was also due to my music. It seemed like every song on my playlist was the slower songs, the more mellow songs. There was no real pump, get your heart racing music. I think Remi didn't really care about the run; he was just glad it was over with and is now passed out. Tomorrow, I get a scale so that Jim and I can do an official weigh in for The Cause. We shall see if I've lost any pounds so that I can be well on my way to winning.
Again, I have to mention that I'm running in the MD Anderson Sprint for Life 5k on May 5, 2012. It's my first real race back. I'm doing this in honor of the Allen sisters' mother who died of Ovarian Cancer. I also found out that my Great Aunt Betty died of Ovarian Cancer, which means that I'm also running for her. If you can, please donate on my page or you can join our team in the run/walk.
Friday, April 13, 2012
Wednesday, April 11, 2012
Running with The Cause in Mind
On Monday afternoon, I landed upon a horoscope site and this is what I read.
This was seriously spooky. Earlier that morning, Jim and I decided to do a transatlantic competition to lose 20 lbs (although, he loses 25 lbs with his height and weight). The first one to lose, wins. For some reason, we don't win an actual prize, but the competition is ON like DONKEY KONG.
My starter weight is 154 lbs...yes, I know. I'm just waddling through life trying to figure out what went wrong. Oh wait....I know what went wrong. I had surgery on my foot and instead of being responsible about my nutrition, I said, "Screw it! I want me some cookays." Okay, it wasn't that bad, but you get my point.
So, we immediately got started. Jim braved the cold, miserable, and rainy English weather to ride around 13 miles on his bike twice this week already. I ate 2 cookies on Tuesday and a cupcake on Wednesday. Things are looking up for me.
Okay, it wasn't THAT bad. I actually really took an effort on what I ate since I knew that I wasn't going to be able to exercise until Wednesday. I even deliberately put brown rice on my plate instead of white rice. This is a first time for me. Go me. Also, I have done 50 crunches, 2 sets of 30 second bicycle crunches, and 2 sets of 30 second planks (4 sets of 25 second planks on Tuesday only). But yeah, that's pretty much it.
And then today happened. I've had one of those days where you feel like everyone is speaking really good Russian, while you are trying to speak Swahili really bad. I got home and just wanted a beer. A beer is what I had and felt just a smidge better. However, I needed to do more. I mean, Jim is really trying and I'm just sitting on the chair drinking a beer and munching on some bon bons. Okay, not really bons bons.
I put on my shoes and headed to Hermann Park for a run sans Remington. When I got there, I noticed that I put on my Columbia walking shoes that look like sneakers instead of my running shoes. Well, wouldn't you know it. My first thought, "This is okay. Don't freak out. You were going to run in these shoes in England. So, maybe this is a good thing to try it out." Plus, it seemed to give me more support on my ankle. So, I got my ipod ready and started walking in the direction of the 1.98 mile loop to TikTok. I decided to walk the whole song since I wasn't sure how these shoes were going to do once I started running.
The next song came on and I picked up the pace. I immediately noticed that my calves hurt, because these shoes aren't made for running. I ran all the way around and stopped somewhere after the Pagoda. I didn't really want to stop, but the shoes didn't give me the ankle support that I liked. It actually made my ankle really hurt. I walked for one song and then picked up the pace when the next song came blasting through the earphones. I ran the entire way around and when LMFAO's I'm sexy and I know it came, I smiled. This is Haley and I's running song. I pushed thoughts of my ankle aside and picked up the pace to finish out my run. I love that song...wiggle wiggle wiggle wiggle. I walked back to the car and headed home. Soon, I will be able to bike up there on my new bike. Yeah, that's right, I got a bike. Ok, really. I begged my parents over and over again to lend me their bike for awhile since they didn't use it. They obliged.
Anyways, that was my run. I was disappointed that nobody seemed to notice my really cool HOU DAT Texans shirt, but I still ran. I also have to decide whether I'm going to actually run in England and France or just bike for my exercise. I won't be able to bring both pairs of tennis shoes and obviously, the Columbia's are not for running. Any thoughts?
Also, tomorrow, I am going to run...with Remi. And I'm not taking it easy on him. He's running the full loop and he will like it!
Sharing your warm, sunny nature will bring you better health. With a focus on your relationship zone, it's time to work in tandem with your partner to create a routine you can do together. You may also decide to buy some exercise equipment for the home. Do what works for you and be happy.
My starter weight is 154 lbs...yes, I know. I'm just waddling through life trying to figure out what went wrong. Oh wait....I know what went wrong. I had surgery on my foot and instead of being responsible about my nutrition, I said, "Screw it! I want me some cookays." Okay, it wasn't that bad, but you get my point.
So, we immediately got started. Jim braved the cold, miserable, and rainy English weather to ride around 13 miles on his bike twice this week already. I ate 2 cookies on Tuesday and a cupcake on Wednesday. Things are looking up for me.
Okay, it wasn't THAT bad. I actually really took an effort on what I ate since I knew that I wasn't going to be able to exercise until Wednesday. I even deliberately put brown rice on my plate instead of white rice. This is a first time for me. Go me. Also, I have done 50 crunches, 2 sets of 30 second bicycle crunches, and 2 sets of 30 second planks (4 sets of 25 second planks on Tuesday only). But yeah, that's pretty much it.
And then today happened. I've had one of those days where you feel like everyone is speaking really good Russian, while you are trying to speak Swahili really bad. I got home and just wanted a beer. A beer is what I had and felt just a smidge better. However, I needed to do more. I mean, Jim is really trying and I'm just sitting on the chair drinking a beer and munching on some bon bons. Okay, not really bons bons.
I put on my shoes and headed to Hermann Park for a run sans Remington. When I got there, I noticed that I put on my Columbia walking shoes that look like sneakers instead of my running shoes. Well, wouldn't you know it. My first thought, "This is okay. Don't freak out. You were going to run in these shoes in England. So, maybe this is a good thing to try it out." Plus, it seemed to give me more support on my ankle. So, I got my ipod ready and started walking in the direction of the 1.98 mile loop to TikTok. I decided to walk the whole song since I wasn't sure how these shoes were going to do once I started running.
The next song came on and I picked up the pace. I immediately noticed that my calves hurt, because these shoes aren't made for running. I ran all the way around and stopped somewhere after the Pagoda. I didn't really want to stop, but the shoes didn't give me the ankle support that I liked. It actually made my ankle really hurt. I walked for one song and then picked up the pace when the next song came blasting through the earphones. I ran the entire way around and when LMFAO's I'm sexy and I know it came, I smiled. This is Haley and I's running song. I pushed thoughts of my ankle aside and picked up the pace to finish out my run. I love that song...wiggle wiggle wiggle wiggle. I walked back to the car and headed home. Soon, I will be able to bike up there on my new bike. Yeah, that's right, I got a bike. Ok, really. I begged my parents over and over again to lend me their bike for awhile since they didn't use it. They obliged.
Anyways, that was my run. I was disappointed that nobody seemed to notice my really cool HOU DAT Texans shirt, but I still ran. I also have to decide whether I'm going to actually run in England and France or just bike for my exercise. I won't be able to bring both pairs of tennis shoes and obviously, the Columbia's are not for running. Any thoughts?
Also, tomorrow, I am going to run...with Remi. And I'm not taking it easy on him. He's running the full loop and he will like it!
Sunday, April 8, 2012
It's Been a Week of Running
I'm finally back to my running self albeit much bigger and slower, but back. So, to celebrate, I spent the week running (not everyday, of course).
It started on Monday when I got some horrible news and needed to basically run it out. And run it out I did at Hermann Park. It felt so good do just do that for a change. I plugged in my ipod and went for it...very slowly. I did the short loop (1.5 miles). It was more or less a walk to warmup, run slowly, and walk again. I couldn't do the full mile without stopping, but at least I was running. When Florence and The Machine's No Light, No Light came on, I felt rejuvenated. The lyrics stirred something inside me, matching my mood perfectly. I started running faster on the last stretch all the way to the stopping point by my car. I roughly burned 167 calories (still working on fixing this Nike + ipod app). I didn't even feel my ankle; I didn't feel anything, but better. And that's how running should be for everyone.
On a side note: This song should have been in the Hunger Games movie. It is so right for Katniss and Peta, especially in the cave. I mean one of the lyrics is "I never knew daylight could be so violent." Is that not perfect for when they get let off the platforms for the first time and there is a lot of death right away? Yeah, I thought so, too.
This week, I headed back to Grand Junction for work. I was determined to exercise at the hotel even though I was run down, because I really needed it. Thursday morning, I did 50 crunches, 2 sets of 30 second bicycle crunches, and 2 sets of 30 second planks (yay! my ankle is strong enough to support the plank). After work, I headed to the hotel gym. I wanted to take a break on my ankle by riding the stationary bike, but someone beat me to the only bike in the gym. So, I got on the treadmill. I set the incline to 1, powered on the TV, and just started walking to 0.10 miles at 2.5 speed. I bumped it up to 4 and ran until I reached 0.60. From then on, I don't really remember where I stopped and started. I did stop running around 1.5 miles and walked until I reached 2 miles. I was pretty happy with going longer than I have before since I started exercising again. I burned almost 200 calories (wished I had walked a little bit more so that I did actually reach 200). Afterwards, I did 25 arm dip thingys behind my head (15 lb dumbbell), 3 sets of 10 butterfly arm raises (5 lb dumbbell), and 3 sets of 10 shoulder curls (same weight). This was a whole day of exercising. Go me!
On Saturday, I woke up early and headed to Hermann Park, but this time, I brought along Remington. It's been awhile since my baby boy and I had a good run together. I walked more than usual at the start to get his bathroom and initial smelling out of the way. I didn't want to take a risk of having him stop and yank me back, which could cause injury to my already weak ankle. We ran the short 1.5 mile loop and I'm proud to say that I mostly ran it. There were 4 stops total: 3 for Remi and 1 for me to fix the music. I swear, if anyone is using the Nike + ipod app and knows how to turn on the music shuffle, please let me know. It's killing me. I don't want to listen to the same order of songs every single time I run. I could tell that Remi wasn't used to the running. He dragged towards the end, but that's okay. I will get him back in shape just like me. I burned roughly 210 calories. After I got home, I played catch with Lady (arm workout). I also did 50 crunches, 2 sets of 30 second bicycle crunches, and 2 sets of 30 second planks. However, that night, I went to the Astros Opening Weekend Saturday game. We had box seats behind homeplate, which included free desserts...lots of desserts. Everything I lost running was put back on in full force. But it was worth it! Great game, great night with Jules, Susan, and Dan, great drinks. Thanks y'all!
Then, Sunday came. I thought I wasn't going to run this morning, but I did. It's a holy day. I woke up earlier than expected, grabbed Remi, and headed back to Hermann Park. I love running at this park. I decided against using the Nike + ipod app, because I wanted to shuffle my songs. We started the 1.5 mile short loop with walking the entire Ke$ha's Tik Tok song (I'm aware this is not Grammy worthy). I don't know why, but this song is my favorite warmup walk song, especially in the morning after a great night. I let Remi get his business done before I picked up the run. I also increased the speed a skoch and tried to focus on my breathing. My runs have been somewhat sloppy and full of fast, heavy breathing. So, I made a mental note to breathe in 1, 2, 3, and breathe out 1, 2, 3. I stopped 2 or 3 times for Remi, but I pretty much ran the entire way. I felt good, real good. And I have decided to step up my next run to the entire 1.98 loop instead of just doing the short 1.5 mile loop. Soon, I will be riding up there on my new bike, running, and then biking back home. I so need to lose this weight and get in shape! Also, I did 50 crunches, 2 sets of 30 second bicycle crunches, and 2 sets of 30 second planks.
If you haven't heard, I'm running in the MD Anderson Sprint for Life 5k on May 5, 2012. It's my first real race back. I'm doing this in honor of the Allen sisters' mother who died of Ovarian Cancer. I also found out that my Great Aunt Betty died of Ovarian Cancer, which means that I'm also running for her. If you can, please donate on my page or you can join our team in the run/walk.
It started on Monday when I got some horrible news and needed to basically run it out. And run it out I did at Hermann Park. It felt so good do just do that for a change. I plugged in my ipod and went for it...very slowly. I did the short loop (1.5 miles). It was more or less a walk to warmup, run slowly, and walk again. I couldn't do the full mile without stopping, but at least I was running. When Florence and The Machine's No Light, No Light came on, I felt rejuvenated. The lyrics stirred something inside me, matching my mood perfectly. I started running faster on the last stretch all the way to the stopping point by my car. I roughly burned 167 calories (still working on fixing this Nike + ipod app). I didn't even feel my ankle; I didn't feel anything, but better. And that's how running should be for everyone.
On a side note: This song should have been in the Hunger Games movie. It is so right for Katniss and Peta, especially in the cave. I mean one of the lyrics is "I never knew daylight could be so violent." Is that not perfect for when they get let off the platforms for the first time and there is a lot of death right away? Yeah, I thought so, too.
This week, I headed back to Grand Junction for work. I was determined to exercise at the hotel even though I was run down, because I really needed it. Thursday morning, I did 50 crunches, 2 sets of 30 second bicycle crunches, and 2 sets of 30 second planks (yay! my ankle is strong enough to support the plank). After work, I headed to the hotel gym. I wanted to take a break on my ankle by riding the stationary bike, but someone beat me to the only bike in the gym. So, I got on the treadmill. I set the incline to 1, powered on the TV, and just started walking to 0.10 miles at 2.5 speed. I bumped it up to 4 and ran until I reached 0.60. From then on, I don't really remember where I stopped and started. I did stop running around 1.5 miles and walked until I reached 2 miles. I was pretty happy with going longer than I have before since I started exercising again. I burned almost 200 calories (wished I had walked a little bit more so that I did actually reach 200). Afterwards, I did 25 arm dip thingys behind my head (15 lb dumbbell), 3 sets of 10 butterfly arm raises (5 lb dumbbell), and 3 sets of 10 shoulder curls (same weight). This was a whole day of exercising. Go me!
On Saturday, I woke up early and headed to Hermann Park, but this time, I brought along Remington. It's been awhile since my baby boy and I had a good run together. I walked more than usual at the start to get his bathroom and initial smelling out of the way. I didn't want to take a risk of having him stop and yank me back, which could cause injury to my already weak ankle. We ran the short 1.5 mile loop and I'm proud to say that I mostly ran it. There were 4 stops total: 3 for Remi and 1 for me to fix the music. I swear, if anyone is using the Nike + ipod app and knows how to turn on the music shuffle, please let me know. It's killing me. I don't want to listen to the same order of songs every single time I run. I could tell that Remi wasn't used to the running. He dragged towards the end, but that's okay. I will get him back in shape just like me. I burned roughly 210 calories. After I got home, I played catch with Lady (arm workout). I also did 50 crunches, 2 sets of 30 second bicycle crunches, and 2 sets of 30 second planks. However, that night, I went to the Astros Opening Weekend Saturday game. We had box seats behind homeplate, which included free desserts...lots of desserts. Everything I lost running was put back on in full force. But it was worth it! Great game, great night with Jules, Susan, and Dan, great drinks. Thanks y'all!
Then, Sunday came. I thought I wasn't going to run this morning, but I did. It's a holy day. I woke up earlier than expected, grabbed Remi, and headed back to Hermann Park. I love running at this park. I decided against using the Nike + ipod app, because I wanted to shuffle my songs. We started the 1.5 mile short loop with walking the entire Ke$ha's Tik Tok song (I'm aware this is not Grammy worthy). I don't know why, but this song is my favorite warmup walk song, especially in the morning after a great night. I let Remi get his business done before I picked up the run. I also increased the speed a skoch and tried to focus on my breathing. My runs have been somewhat sloppy and full of fast, heavy breathing. So, I made a mental note to breathe in 1, 2, 3, and breathe out 1, 2, 3. I stopped 2 or 3 times for Remi, but I pretty much ran the entire way. I felt good, real good. And I have decided to step up my next run to the entire 1.98 loop instead of just doing the short 1.5 mile loop. Soon, I will be riding up there on my new bike, running, and then biking back home. I so need to lose this weight and get in shape! Also, I did 50 crunches, 2 sets of 30 second bicycle crunches, and 2 sets of 30 second planks.
By the way, HAPPY EASTER EVERYONE!!!
Monday, April 2, 2012
First Run Back...OK...Jog.
I finally felt strong enough to run last Friday. I finished Physical Therapy the previous Wednesday and she said I could start light running as soon as I felt comfortable. Well, I did feel comfortable.
I took Remi up to Hermann Park. At least I could use him as an excuse for my slow running and constant stopping. With my dog in tow, we headed for the short 1.5 loop in the park. I walked for awhile until I got to the caged area. I picked up the run...light light lighter jog. I took small steps and paid attention to my ankle. I tried to focus on breathing since my exercise inactivity has my endurance in a nose dive. I was already huffing and puffing like a dying woman...and I had only gone a 100 ft or so. We passed by a little Labrador mix puppy that just wanted to play with Remi; Remi didn't return the feelings, but he didn't growl at the dog. We kept on moving. We would stop, start, stop stop and then kept going on the last turn until we reached the car. I did notice my ankle hurting a bit halfway through and it didn't feel good all weekend.
However, all in all, I think I did okay. I wished it could be more, but I'm patient...I think. I wanted to run all weekend long, but my body gave out. I'm not sure what is going on, but I'm really rundown right now. I barely left my apartment all weekend and for no more than 2 hours at a time. I'm headed to the doctor to figure out what is going on with me.
I do plan to run again, but I'm also supposed to get my mother's bike this weekend. I might have to have this as an alternative if I can't get my ankle to be good.
And I know Remi was happy to have his mommy time at the park.
I took Remi up to Hermann Park. At least I could use him as an excuse for my slow running and constant stopping. With my dog in tow, we headed for the short 1.5 loop in the park. I walked for awhile until I got to the caged area. I picked up the run...light light lighter jog. I took small steps and paid attention to my ankle. I tried to focus on breathing since my exercise inactivity has my endurance in a nose dive. I was already huffing and puffing like a dying woman...and I had only gone a 100 ft or so. We passed by a little Labrador mix puppy that just wanted to play with Remi; Remi didn't return the feelings, but he didn't growl at the dog. We kept on moving. We would stop, start, stop stop and then kept going on the last turn until we reached the car. I did notice my ankle hurting a bit halfway through and it didn't feel good all weekend.
However, all in all, I think I did okay. I wished it could be more, but I'm patient...I think. I wanted to run all weekend long, but my body gave out. I'm not sure what is going on, but I'm really rundown right now. I barely left my apartment all weekend and for no more than 2 hours at a time. I'm headed to the doctor to figure out what is going on with me.
I do plan to run again, but I'm also supposed to get my mother's bike this weekend. I might have to have this as an alternative if I can't get my ankle to be good.
And I know Remi was happy to have his mommy time at the park.
Friday, March 30, 2012
I'm Cleared to Run
I haven't really posted much in the last 2 weeks, because my Physical Therapy was not anything to write about. I mean, I covered PT in many of my blog posts last year and it was a lot of the same stuff. I did learn some new stretches and it has helped my ankle tremendously. I even did some light running from the dumpster to my apartment with dogs in tow. I also asked my parents for their bike that they don't use to help me with some exercising before I start gungho in running. Unfortunately, the bike had to get a tuneup and won't be ready until April 4-5 (darn MS 150...which is a great cause and everyone should donate to it).
My goal is to run a mile this weekend at Hermann Park. I wanted to last night, but the rain has been off and on throughout the day (stormy even). Hopefully, I will get that in today. It is supposed to rain all weekend. I also signed up for my first yoga class in a LONG time. It's not my favorite Yoga for Athletes, but it's still good. I'm doing the Hatha Yoga, which is more about the breathing and stretching.
In the meantime, I have signed up for the Sprint for Life 5K on May 6, 2012, in honor of the Allen sister's late mother. I remembered when Mal approached me 2 years ago to run in this event. I was team training hardcore that year and the only weekend we could get together was that same weekend. I felt bad, but I donated money and Mal got me a shirt. The next year, I donated money, but couldn't run. I was in a car accident a couple of weeks prior and just couldn't run through the pain. This year, I'm free...I hope barring I don't have something ELSE awful happen to me. So, I'm running and I'm totally excited. Mal and BranDee can't be there, but I will get to join MeGan. I feel honored to be a part of this and I'm happy to do this for them. Those girls hold a special place in my heart.
If you can help out in any way, please do so either by giving alittle bit on my donation page at MD Anderson Sprint for Life 5K to help in the fight against Ovarian Cancer or to join my team (looking at you Kate, Haley, and Amy). We could use your help for sure.
My goal is to run a mile this weekend at Hermann Park. I wanted to last night, but the rain has been off and on throughout the day (stormy even). Hopefully, I will get that in today. It is supposed to rain all weekend. I also signed up for my first yoga class in a LONG time. It's not my favorite Yoga for Athletes, but it's still good. I'm doing the Hatha Yoga, which is more about the breathing and stretching.
In the meantime, I have signed up for the Sprint for Life 5K on May 6, 2012, in honor of the Allen sister's late mother. I remembered when Mal approached me 2 years ago to run in this event. I was team training hardcore that year and the only weekend we could get together was that same weekend. I felt bad, but I donated money and Mal got me a shirt. The next year, I donated money, but couldn't run. I was in a car accident a couple of weeks prior and just couldn't run through the pain. This year, I'm free...I hope barring I don't have something ELSE awful happen to me. So, I'm running and I'm totally excited. Mal and BranDee can't be there, but I will get to join MeGan. I feel honored to be a part of this and I'm happy to do this for them. Those girls hold a special place in my heart.
If you can help out in any way, please do so either by giving alittle bit on my donation page at MD Anderson Sprint for Life 5K to help in the fight against Ovarian Cancer or to join my team (looking at you Kate, Haley, and Amy). We could use your help for sure.
Wednesday, March 14, 2012
Physical Therapy #1
I finally had my PT appointment yesterday. The girl was an intern and I think I knew more about where to go and what to do than she did, but that's okay. I did get to work on strengthening my ankle using machines that I just don't have. I had to do a little over 15 leg squat/leg presses on this machine they called the Total Workout. It felt weird at first and my ankle was really shakey, but it loosened after awhile. Then, we moved on to step ups, step downs, with a focus on the down part. I have noticed that my ankle hurts the most when I step down. So, we did alot of those. Next up, I had to stand on one foot for a minute. At first, she tried me on the BOSU, but it was just too unstable for me. So, we used the foam pad. I did that about 3 times. And then we moved on to my old friend...throw a medicine ball at a trampoline thing while standing on my bad ankle. Only this time, I had to do this facing front and then facing to the side (both sides). By the end, my ankle was hurting. She then moved me on to the bike for a 10 minute ride. I liked it and it felt good. I'm confident that if I don't run right now, I am going to bike this weekend. Well, first I have to ask my parents to borrow their bike.
She said that if my Doctor said it was okay to run, then it's okay. However, she understood that I was scared to run. I am. I know I shouldn't be, but I have had so much happen with this foot (and the other foot). I don't want to push too early and risk hurting it even more. I did a few light light light runs around my apartment and I did a light light light, even lighter run from my car to the stairs; it didn't go so well. So, biking it is for me.
Wish me luck!
On a side note, I went to Mythbusters: Behind the Myths Tour with Adam and Jayme. It was awesome.
She said that if my Doctor said it was okay to run, then it's okay. However, she understood that I was scared to run. I am. I know I shouldn't be, but I have had so much happen with this foot (and the other foot). I don't want to push too early and risk hurting it even more. I did a few light light light runs around my apartment and I did a light light light, even lighter run from my car to the stairs; it didn't go so well. So, biking it is for me.
Wish me luck!
On a side note, I went to Mythbusters: Behind the Myths Tour with Adam and Jayme. It was awesome.
Wednesday, March 7, 2012
The Boot is Off for Good!
On Friday, I had my last follow-up appointment (okay, not really since I have 1 in 6 weeks) to see if I got the clearance to stop wearing the boot. He told me to ween, but I have stopped weening. In fact, today, I'm wearing my regular flat shoes without the ankle wrap. I did that knowing that I would be sitting down most of the day.
I start Physical Therapy next week in which I will hopefully get some new exercises. My doctor didn't think it was totally necessary, but wanted me to try it just to be on the safe side. So, I'm going at least once to see what they got and then I can decide to go back or not.
The really good news is that he also gave me the thumbs up to run again as long as it's not painful to me. I haven't tried running as of yet. I have walked more and more, which is great. I'm actually waiting on PT to see what they have to offer before I get out there for a quick run. I guess next week will officially be 6 weeks and I don't want to make things worse. My doctor said that I wouldn't harm my ankle, but it can make it painful for me if I go too strong too early. So, I'm waiting another week.
Due to a fantastic visit from England, I didn't do my ab work or situps all week. This morning, I reinstated 2 sets of 50 front crunches, 2 sets of 30 second bicycle crunches, and 25 situps. Go me!
I start Physical Therapy next week in which I will hopefully get some new exercises. My doctor didn't think it was totally necessary, but wanted me to try it just to be on the safe side. So, I'm going at least once to see what they got and then I can decide to go back or not.
The really good news is that he also gave me the thumbs up to run again as long as it's not painful to me. I haven't tried running as of yet. I have walked more and more, which is great. I'm actually waiting on PT to see what they have to offer before I get out there for a quick run. I guess next week will officially be 6 weeks and I don't want to make things worse. My doctor said that I wouldn't harm my ankle, but it can make it painful for me if I go too strong too early. So, I'm waiting another week.
Due to a fantastic visit from England, I didn't do my ab work or situps all week. This morning, I reinstated 2 sets of 50 front crunches, 2 sets of 30 second bicycle crunches, and 25 situps. Go me!
Tuesday, February 21, 2012
A Quick Update
I'm still not out of the water with this ankle stuff. My final follow-up appointment (and cross fingers I remove this boot for good) is not until March 2, 2012. I'm so very hopeful that I'm going to be done soon. I even think that if I had my appointment this week, I might be told that I can take it off. However, I'm not going to, because I don't want to do anything to jeopardize my recovery. Plus, I'm going out of town this weekend, which will include lots of walking.
But in my attempt to help my body, I'm still doing lots of tummy work every day. I complete 25 situps, two sets of 50 front crunches, and two sets of 30 bicycle crunches. I just recently moved up to 100 crunches total and I'm happy about it. I don't feel like my tummy is getting smaller, because I eat desserts to blow what I have done right out of the water. But at least I'm doing something. I have also done PT on my foot using the exercises from before. I'm not sure if it's helping or not really. Sometimes I think it is and then other times, my ankle is still very stiff.
I'm hoping to start running again in march and I wish I could be ready to skydive by Safety Day (March 2012), but I'm not holding my breath.
Wish me luck on my appointment everyone!
But in my attempt to help my body, I'm still doing lots of tummy work every day. I complete 25 situps, two sets of 50 front crunches, and two sets of 30 bicycle crunches. I just recently moved up to 100 crunches total and I'm happy about it. I don't feel like my tummy is getting smaller, because I eat desserts to blow what I have done right out of the water. But at least I'm doing something. I have also done PT on my foot using the exercises from before. I'm not sure if it's helping or not really. Sometimes I think it is and then other times, my ankle is still very stiff.
I'm hoping to start running again in march and I wish I could be ready to skydive by Safety Day (March 2012), but I'm not holding my breath.
Wish me luck on my appointment everyone!
Friday, February 3, 2012
Still Doing Something
Due to my ankle surgery, I haven't been able to do much working out. I have read many magazines on health, such as Women's Health, Yoga, and Runner's World (UK version). I guess that should count, shouldn't it?
Other than, that, I haven't done any running. I have tried to eat healthy as much as I can. It has been hard since I live alone. I need to have make ready things available, which means more processed and packaged food items that are usually unhealthy. I did try to buy some healthier options (such as Jimmy Deans new breakfast sammiches of turkey sausage, wheat muffin, egg whites, and swiss cheese) as much as I could, but I also noticed an increase in sweets. I guess when you are down and out, people bring you cookies and pies (which I finished off last night) and cupcakes and more cookies.
Even though I'm not my runs like usual, I am getting an arm workout on the crutches. I swear, those are the best ever to fight flabby arms. I've only been on them for 10 days and already my arm muscles have bulged and I have less chicken flabby wings going. So, I will have to say that if you have a spare set of crutches lying around, use them for a day or two.
And since I'm now in a boot and can walk with both legs (even though it's not full weight on both legs), I have started situps again in the morning. I usually don't have time to do a full ab workout, because I have to get on the Game Ready machine for 15 minutes (an ice compression machine) and I'm still slow moving. However, for the last 2 mornings, I have done 40 situps. Next week, I plan to start doing more. Hopefully, this will slow down my walrus exceeding waistline at least somewhat.
Other than, that, I haven't done any running. I have tried to eat healthy as much as I can. It has been hard since I live alone. I need to have make ready things available, which means more processed and packaged food items that are usually unhealthy. I did try to buy some healthier options (such as Jimmy Deans new breakfast sammiches of turkey sausage, wheat muffin, egg whites, and swiss cheese) as much as I could, but I also noticed an increase in sweets. I guess when you are down and out, people bring you cookies and pies (which I finished off last night) and cupcakes and more cookies.
Even though I'm not my runs like usual, I am getting an arm workout on the crutches. I swear, those are the best ever to fight flabby arms. I've only been on them for 10 days and already my arm muscles have bulged and I have less chicken flabby wings going. So, I will have to say that if you have a spare set of crutches lying around, use them for a day or two.
And since I'm now in a boot and can walk with both legs (even though it's not full weight on both legs), I have started situps again in the morning. I usually don't have time to do a full ab workout, because I have to get on the Game Ready machine for 15 minutes (an ice compression machine) and I'm still slow moving. However, for the last 2 mornings, I have done 40 situps. Next week, I plan to start doing more. Hopefully, this will slow down my walrus exceeding waistline at least somewhat.
Wednesday, February 1, 2012
Kayaking in Clear Lake...FINALLY
Since 2011 was a crazy year of trying new things, of course, I wanted to try kayaking. Then, I saw the deal with Groupon. It was a 3 hour guided tour with All Points Sail Sailing School of Lakeside for only $30 some time in August. I immediately told Haley and with a twinkle in our eyes, we bought the deal. I was hoping to use it that very weekend, but they were booked up and then I had my first kayaking trip in Florida with Ashley. Months and months went by and we still hadn't used the deal. It was rescheduled so many times due to injuries, work, weather, and a misunderstanding. Then, I got a reminder via email saying that I needed to use my Groupon deal, because it expires in February. Well, I was having my ankle surgery at the end of January. So, weird and cold weather be damned, Haley and I were going. We got a good weekend in mind and called them to schedule our appointments.
So, on January 21, 2012, Haley and I turned our twinkle of visionary kayaking to the real thing. We tried to get there early, but it just didn't happen. The weather was nasty and drizzling and I wasn't even sure the day would actually happen. But as soon as we got there and filled out the required waivers, the rain stopped. There was a lot of confusion on what kayak to pick. Since Haley and I were one of the last sets of people to get there (total of 9 in the class), we got stuck with the tandem kayak. I have only been in a single kayak, but I was willing to try anything to get us in the water. I personally think that the young couple should have taken the tandem kayak like the other older couple, but I digress since it turned out to be better for Haley and I.
We got in to the water roughly after 10 a.m. (apt time was 9:30 a.m.) and then it was a waiting game. Haley and I chose to use our time to learn how to tandem kayak. It's not as easy as it looks. I learned that I have a strong right. When I put my left oar in, we turned to the right pretty heavily. But once you get it, it's so much fun. And the best part, you get to have an actual conversation with your buddy, while paddling instead of ramming the kayak in to your friend when you just want to tell them about a turtle you saw. Sorry Ashley.
Finally, we were able to get going with a few instructions from our two leaders (Katherine I believe was her name and Steve) on how to paddle. And then, the lady who didn't even know how to swim fell in the water. She stayed calm, but didn't continue with the group.
We got to the edge of the bay and Steve told us to go across it; we were ahead of everyone else, because we were THAT awesome. He told us to stay to the left and go to the flags. So, we started paddling across the huge bay and it was ... WOW...SO LARGE! We just paddled and paddled until we got to the other side. One of the other girls named Julia caught up to us and we got to know her pretty well. She was really nice.
Haley, Julia, and I waited for the rest of the group and when they finally made it to the other side, Steve talked to us about how to paddle. We needed to pick a point on the horizon like a flag and then use that as your line. It's very similar to tracking in skydiving, so, I got it. However, it wasn't easy to stay on target when you have a head in front of you.
We paddled along by the houses and fisherman. Steve talked about how the blue house was rumored to be Beyonce's house and the high rise condo has a lean to it, because someone built it like that to discourage future high rise condos. There was a really cool large bird that we were trying to spot...be very quiet. However, we never saw the bird. We did see this owl like bird, but Haley may have scared it away when she was shushing the younger couple tp be quiet (the girl wouldn't stop talking about Facebook). There were also oysters on the docks.
Finally, we got to the narrow passageways by the really nice houses. Katherine said it reminded her of Florida and I couldn't agree more. The only difference was no manatees and turtles. The houses were beautiful and we saw this interesting tree made of wine bottles. I wished I got a picture of it.
We got out to Kemah where there were boats and "in to the current" paddling galore. It was crazy and hard and Haley and I had to work to stay to the left. They told us to paddle in to the wave, because you could easily tip over if you go in sideways. We finally made it back to the bay and boy howdy was that hard. There were so many boats, way more than last time. I guess since the sun came out, the boats came out, too.
Katherine said to Haley and I that if we wanted to go out some more with her, she would take a separate group down another canal. The rest of the group would go in with Steve. Of course, it was Julia, Haley, and I to keep on going like the strong women that we are. Katherine commented on how she thought Haley and I had done this before since we worked really well together. I responded with, "I'm not going to lie. We are pretty awesome." Well, we are! Actually, I was happy with our performance since that was only the second time that I had been in a kayak and Haley's first time.
When it was the turnaround point, I was happy. My arms and back were tired. I was ready to be done. We got back to the dock and easily got out of the kayaks. We had so much fun and I (believe Haley, too) can't wait to do that again. I'm completely hooked now. Afterwards, Haley and I had our celebratory beer at Boondocks.
That was such a great experience to share with Haley. Katherine was awesome and so sweet (Gosh, I hope that was her name...don't judge me, it's been awhile and I had surgery). Yes, they could have been better with the beginning organization and having a big selection of kayaks to choose from (specifically, more single kayaks). But they were really great and I highly recommend them.
Was this experience better than Florida? No, but that's not fair. I mean, I saw manatees and turtles a plenty. However, it was so beautiful and serene to see the bay from a different view. Oh and after we were done, Haley and I's twinkle turned to learning how to sail. Will we ever stop? Nah. Why would we want to stop?
On a side note, I survived my surgery. I'm not in a boot after 10 days and can finally walk on it somewhat. It's been hard, but my parents and friends have really helped me out. Thank you mom and Jim, Jules, Haley, Susan, and Dan specifically.
So, on January 21, 2012, Haley and I turned our twinkle of visionary kayaking to the real thing. We tried to get there early, but it just didn't happen. The weather was nasty and drizzling and I wasn't even sure the day would actually happen. But as soon as we got there and filled out the required waivers, the rain stopped. There was a lot of confusion on what kayak to pick. Since Haley and I were one of the last sets of people to get there (total of 9 in the class), we got stuck with the tandem kayak. I have only been in a single kayak, but I was willing to try anything to get us in the water. I personally think that the young couple should have taken the tandem kayak like the other older couple, but I digress since it turned out to be better for Haley and I.
 |
| This is your before shot, Haley? For shame. |
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| This is how you do it. I think I had a little captain in me. |
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| The perfect couple, because I make us look good. |
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| Haley practicing. |
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| I let her paddle, while I sit back and enjoy the ride...or is it float? |
We got to the edge of the bay and Steve told us to go across it; we were ahead of everyone else, because we were THAT awesome. He told us to stay to the left and go to the flags. So, we started paddling across the huge bay and it was ... WOW...SO LARGE! We just paddled and paddled until we got to the other side. One of the other girls named Julia caught up to us and we got to know her pretty well. She was really nice.
Haley, Julia, and I waited for the rest of the group and when they finally made it to the other side, Steve talked to us about how to paddle. We needed to pick a point on the horizon like a flag and then use that as your line. It's very similar to tracking in skydiving, so, I got it. However, it wasn't easy to stay on target when you have a head in front of you.
We paddled along by the houses and fisherman. Steve talked about how the blue house was rumored to be Beyonce's house and the high rise condo has a lean to it, because someone built it like that to discourage future high rise condos. There was a really cool large bird that we were trying to spot...be very quiet. However, we never saw the bird. We did see this owl like bird, but Haley may have scared it away when she was shushing the younger couple tp be quiet (the girl wouldn't stop talking about Facebook). There were also oysters on the docks.
 |
| Haley in action. |
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| This house was so cool, because of the lighthouse. |
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| I didn't know oysters hung out like barnacles. |
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| Down by the really nice houses, in.the canals. |
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| It's so pretty and serene. |
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| The group in our wake. |
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| I took a break to photograph this pelican just chillin'. |
When it was the turnaround point, I was happy. My arms and back were tired. I was ready to be done. We got back to the dock and easily got out of the kayaks. We had so much fun and I (believe Haley, too) can't wait to do that again. I'm completely hooked now. Afterwards, Haley and I had our celebratory beer at Boondocks.
 |
| Check out my shirt...that's right, I'm ready for the zombieapoclypse! |
Was this experience better than Florida? No, but that's not fair. I mean, I saw manatees and turtles a plenty. However, it was so beautiful and serene to see the bay from a different view. Oh and after we were done, Haley and I's twinkle turned to learning how to sail. Will we ever stop? Nah. Why would we want to stop?
On a side note, I survived my surgery. I'm not in a boot after 10 days and can finally walk on it somewhat. It's been hard, but my parents and friends have really helped me out. Thank you mom and Jim, Jules, Haley, Susan, and Dan specifically.
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