Wow, I am pretty stressed out! I still have some last minute changes and modifications to make to my presentation before I leave for Chicago on Monday. On top of that, I'm heading to Tulsa at 1:00 for Melissa's birthday, and I'm also coaching at the BB meet on Sunday.
Last night I picked up some sushi for us. I think we're going to try to do Cliff's birthday dinner on Saturday night. His vision had already improved a lot by last night, and he is doing well today.
This morning I swam with the masters team. I got there a little early and ended up swimming for an hour and 20 minutes.
Workout:
Long warm-up (1,800 yards): 300 free, 300 kick with fins, 200 back kick with fins, 200 free/back, 100 breaststroke kick, 100 free, 600 free
8 x 100's kick with fins @ 2:00
#1-2 50 fly/50 free
#3-4 50 back/50 free
#5-6 50 breast (no fins)/50 free
#7-8 100 free
400 pull, every 4th 25 faster
8 x 100's swim @ 1:45
Repeat pattern above
500 warm-down
200 kick with fins
Total Yardage: 4,500 yards
As you can tell, I threw in some extra garbage yardage. I have been SOOOO ridiculously sore. I felt a little better once practice was over though.
Friday, February 27, 2009
Thursday, February 26, 2009
Happy Birthday, Fiance!
Cliff is asleep right now after lasik surgery. His eyes were stinging a lot on the way home, and he took the sleeping pill they gave him. So I'm thinking his birthday dinner might be postponed to another night, but we thought that might happen.
I took Gus for a walk and didn't think much about the heat. We did our normal 3/4-mile loop, and he was panting SO HARD at the end. It kind of scared me. It's only 80 degrees, so we need to be really watchful in the summer.
I got up early this morning and ran 4 miles around our neighborhood. I can tell I'm pretty wiped out. I held 10-minute pace, and it hurt way more than it should have. During my lunch workout I did 20 minutes on the Stairmaster and 30 minutes of weights.
I went to Express after I dropped Cliff off, and I bought a medium-sized cute top! Hooray for mediums! I am happy, because normally I wear large. I wore mediums in high school. So that made me feel great, especially since I've hit a plateau lately with the weight loss.
I took Gus for a walk and didn't think much about the heat. We did our normal 3/4-mile loop, and he was panting SO HARD at the end. It kind of scared me. It's only 80 degrees, so we need to be really watchful in the summer.
I got up early this morning and ran 4 miles around our neighborhood. I can tell I'm pretty wiped out. I held 10-minute pace, and it hurt way more than it should have. During my lunch workout I did 20 minutes on the Stairmaster and 30 minutes of weights.
I went to Express after I dropped Cliff off, and I bought a medium-sized cute top! Hooray for mediums! I am happy, because normally I wear large. I wore mediums in high school. So that made me feel great, especially since I've hit a plateau lately with the weight loss.
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Sunshine
Wow, the weather is crazy nice. Today was another telework day, so I did a short 3.5-mile run at 9:23/mile pace during my lunch break. I worked from 6-2:30 and hit the gym before coaching. I did 40 minutes on the elliptical followed by 40 minutes of weights and abs. Tonight Cliff and I tried TGI Friday's since I had a coupon for a free (buy one, get one) entree. I tried the Dragonfire Chicken since it was only 437 calories, and it was pretty tasty!
Tomorrow is Cliff's birthday. We're going to carpool to work and then leave early. Cliff is getting lasik surgery, and I am his DD. Hopefully he'll recover quickly and we can go out for his birthday dinner. I am so jealous... I wish I could be a lasik candidate. Sigh....
Tomorrow is Cliff's birthday. We're going to carpool to work and then leave early. Cliff is getting lasik surgery, and I am his DD. Hopefully he'll recover quickly and we can go out for his birthday dinner. I am so jealous... I wish I could be a lasik candidate. Sigh....
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Yep, the Swimming Has Gone Downhill
I worked from 6:00-2:30 at home today, so I was able to do a short 2-mile run during my lunch break and a swim after work. I decided to try the set of 15 x 100's free - 5 @ 1:30, 4 @ 1:25, 3 @ 1:20, 2 @ 1:15, 1 @ 1:10. Normally this is a challenging set, but I am able to work some strokes (other than free) at the beginning and make all of the intervals. I knew I was in for some pain when 5 x 100's @ 1:30 felt like a good aerobic set. I ended up missing the last 3 100's. I did them on 1:20 and went 1:17, 1:16, 1:14. So I think I will be able to make the 1:15 interval the next time I do the set. Gosh, that sounds bad. At least I didn't totally die. I was hoping that losing weight and doing a lot of different conditioning/strength work would carry over to the pool, but not at all... unfortunately. I'm going to have to start spending at least a few days a week in the water between now and Zones (March 27-29).
Oh, I don't think I mentioned on my blog that I signed up for the El Scorcho (http://www.elscorcho.com) 25K. So now I have three races on my schedule: St Patty's Day Sprint Tri, Zones, and El Scorcho. That is pretty good with a wedding, two receptions, and (hopefully) a honeymoon coming up this summer.
I'm leaving for Chicago on Monday for work. I created a spreadsheet to help with data analysis, so I am actually presenting at the training session, which is Tuesday-Thursday. I'll return home on Friday. It is a great opportunity, and I am looking forward to seeing Chicago. It has been awhile (I think my last visit was freshman year of college in 1999 when we swam the Chicago schools and Notre Dame). I am about to check the weather report... I am scared!
I have a massage tonight at 7:00, so it's time to get off the computer and head over to Bedford. Cynthia Luna is a goddess.
Oh, I don't think I mentioned on my blog that I signed up for the El Scorcho (http://www.elscorcho.com) 25K. So now I have three races on my schedule: St Patty's Day Sprint Tri, Zones, and El Scorcho. That is pretty good with a wedding, two receptions, and (hopefully) a honeymoon coming up this summer.
I'm leaving for Chicago on Monday for work. I created a spreadsheet to help with data analysis, so I am actually presenting at the training session, which is Tuesday-Thursday. I'll return home on Friday. It is a great opportunity, and I am looking forward to seeing Chicago. It has been awhile (I think my last visit was freshman year of college in 1999 when we swam the Chicago schools and Notre Dame). I am about to check the weather report... I am scared!
I have a massage tonight at 7:00, so it's time to get off the computer and head over to Bedford. Cynthia Luna is a goddess.
Monday, February 23, 2009
Weekend Recap
First off, my friend (and maid of honor!) Melissa's dad is in the hospital after a pretty big scare, and he is getting some additional tests done today. Please pray, send good vibes, or do whatever you do. This has been really hard on Melissa, especially since her mom passed away only two years ago. She is the sweetest, nicest person I know, and her dad is wonderful. I'm praying that his health improves and that Melissa and her sister feel our support and know how many people love and care about them.
I got to Ardmore at about noonish on Saturday. It was a pretty long ride with Gus since I let him roam around in the front seat. He kept moving between his bed and my lap, and he would occasionally put his paws on the steering wheel or the driver's side window. Fortunately he didn't have any accidents except for one nervous poop about one block away from our house. We stopped in Denton for a quick potty break, and of course he made friends with some random lady who had stopped for a cigarette break. I took a FAT two-hour nap once I scarfed down a Subway, and I felt much better. I cooked a double recipe of my mom's sausage casserole (2 bags of noodles, 2 cans of diced tomatoes, 2 cans of tomato paste, plain fat-free yogurt, 2% cheddar cheese, 2 rolls of light sausage, an onion, a green pepper, and some pepper, garlic, sugar, and chili powder) and Cliff helped me chop the vegetables. We watched a movie (Pride and Glory with Ed Norton and Collin Farrell) that night, and of course I fell asleep during it. I ended up going to bed pretty early even with the two-hour nap. We let GusGus sleep in our bed since we didn't have his crate with us. So we didn't get a very good night's sleep since we were both congested (from the dog) and Gus was moving around and snoring).
On Sunday I did some online shopping at Express.com and got some awesome deals (plaid ankle-length pants, pencil skirt, cardigan, cute going out shirt, regular top). Now I'm anxiously awaiting my package in the mail! I also set up our registries at Macy's and Lowe's, although now we need to add to the registries. Cliff, Jordan, Leslie, Cliff's parents, and I all went to lunch at Interurban. I love that place. They have the best tuna steak sandwich. Mmmm. After that, Cliff's parents showed Cliff and I the horrible tornado damage in Ardmore. I had never seen anything like that. I felt kind of crappy driving through the neighborhoods and gawking (as opposed to helping), but it was interesting to see. Cliff and I drove back separately, so he took GusGus, and I made a pitstop at the Gap outlet store in Gainesville. I always find such great deals there (grey and white capris, black pleated going out skirt, 3 tanks, 1 shirt). I threw together some hot dogs (98% fat-free weiners + sugar-free buns = 130 calories/dog... awesomeness) for dinner once we finished unpacking.
Sunday was my rest day, so I got it in gear this morning. I got up at 4:25 this morning and went to my first masters swim practice in quite some time. It was great to see everyone, especially Papa Chuck and Brian. The workout went by so fast having people to talk to. Chuck was saying how it's like having all of the kids home from college... the family was back together! It was probably more like Brian and I were back to acting like annoying little kids and talking while Chuck was trying to explain the sets :) Our main set was five times through a 300 free (pulling optional, so of course I pulled) @ 4:30 and a 100 IM on 2:00. The focus was on the 100 IM's, mainly the turns. The workout was just under 4,000 yards, but I ended up doing extra and getting in 5,500 yards in an hour and 37 minutes. I am going to Cantina Laredo today for lunch with Hardy and Stephanie, so I won't squeeze in a workout at the federal gym.
My weight is still stuck at 155, but I can't complain, since I managed to make it through a weekend in Ardmore without gaining anything.
I got to Ardmore at about noonish on Saturday. It was a pretty long ride with Gus since I let him roam around in the front seat. He kept moving between his bed and my lap, and he would occasionally put his paws on the steering wheel or the driver's side window. Fortunately he didn't have any accidents except for one nervous poop about one block away from our house. We stopped in Denton for a quick potty break, and of course he made friends with some random lady who had stopped for a cigarette break. I took a FAT two-hour nap once I scarfed down a Subway, and I felt much better. I cooked a double recipe of my mom's sausage casserole (2 bags of noodles, 2 cans of diced tomatoes, 2 cans of tomato paste, plain fat-free yogurt, 2% cheddar cheese, 2 rolls of light sausage, an onion, a green pepper, and some pepper, garlic, sugar, and chili powder) and Cliff helped me chop the vegetables. We watched a movie (Pride and Glory with Ed Norton and Collin Farrell) that night, and of course I fell asleep during it. I ended up going to bed pretty early even with the two-hour nap. We let GusGus sleep in our bed since we didn't have his crate with us. So we didn't get a very good night's sleep since we were both congested (from the dog) and Gus was moving around and snoring).
On Sunday I did some online shopping at Express.com and got some awesome deals (plaid ankle-length pants, pencil skirt, cardigan, cute going out shirt, regular top). Now I'm anxiously awaiting my package in the mail! I also set up our registries at Macy's and Lowe's, although now we need to add to the registries. Cliff, Jordan, Leslie, Cliff's parents, and I all went to lunch at Interurban. I love that place. They have the best tuna steak sandwich. Mmmm. After that, Cliff's parents showed Cliff and I the horrible tornado damage in Ardmore. I had never seen anything like that. I felt kind of crappy driving through the neighborhoods and gawking (as opposed to helping), but it was interesting to see. Cliff and I drove back separately, so he took GusGus, and I made a pitstop at the Gap outlet store in Gainesville. I always find such great deals there (grey and white capris, black pleated going out skirt, 3 tanks, 1 shirt). I threw together some hot dogs (98% fat-free weiners + sugar-free buns = 130 calories/dog... awesomeness) for dinner once we finished unpacking.
Sunday was my rest day, so I got it in gear this morning. I got up at 4:25 this morning and went to my first masters swim practice in quite some time. It was great to see everyone, especially Papa Chuck and Brian. The workout went by so fast having people to talk to. Chuck was saying how it's like having all of the kids home from college... the family was back together! It was probably more like Brian and I were back to acting like annoying little kids and talking while Chuck was trying to explain the sets :) Our main set was five times through a 300 free (pulling optional, so of course I pulled) @ 4:30 and a 100 IM on 2:00. The focus was on the 100 IM's, mainly the turns. The workout was just under 4,000 yards, but I ended up doing extra and getting in 5,500 yards in an hour and 37 minutes. I am going to Cantina Laredo today for lunch with Hardy and Stephanie, so I won't squeeze in a workout at the federal gym.
My weight is still stuck at 155, but I can't complain, since I managed to make it through a weekend in Ardmore without gaining anything.
Saturday, February 21, 2009
Nicole 0, Wind 1
Wow, what a windy run! We didn't really notice it at first since we had the tailwind, but at some points, it felt like I was running with a resistance band. I met up with 6 other people and I got dropped pretty early on. No big deal though... I had my iPod, and I was rocking out and enjoying myself (well, except for the wind, the post-boot camp pain, etc.). I did 9.15 miles in 1:29.16, which was a 9:45/mile average. My miles ranged from 9:06-10:02.
I had high hopes of getting up at 4:00 this morning and swimming before the run, but I turned my alarm off and reset it for 5:50. Hopefully I can squeeze in a swim tomorrow afternoon once I get back from Ardmore. Well I'm off to shower and get ready and hit the road with GusGus!
I had high hopes of getting up at 4:00 this morning and swimming before the run, but I turned my alarm off and reset it for 5:50. Hopefully I can squeeze in a swim tomorrow afternoon once I get back from Ardmore. Well I'm off to shower and get ready and hit the road with GusGus!
Friday, February 20, 2009
Boring Friday Night
Cliff left for Ardmore after work, and I am not going up there until tomorrow morning (after my workout). So I gave GusGus a bath, did laundry, cleaned up a bit, and cleaned out my car (this blog is getting more boring by the minute). I think I'm going to go to bed soon and try to get up at 4:00 tomorrow so I can swim from 5-6:20ish before I meet everyone at 7:00 to run 10 miles. That sounds ambitious though... I'm still uncertain about the swim, but I am definitely running. I feel like I'm packing A TON for one night in Ardmore. I bought a bunch of stuff at the grocery store to make sausage casserole (I'm sneaking the light sausage, fat-free yogurt, and 2% cheese into the recipe... shhh, don't tell!) for everyone on Saturday, and of course I had to buy some Girl Scout cookies too. I'm also bringing Gus and all of his stuff, including the bed and portable crate. Oh, and I'm bringing a few bottles of Mac Shack wine... and this is on top of my overnight bag too... goodness. I hate packing.
Last night was a good night of vegging with Cliff. I picked up some drinks at Liq-O-Rama (no, I'm not kidding about the name of the liquor store) and some salmon at Albertson's. I broiled the salmon with soy sauce, a dash of brown sugar, salt and pepper, and garlic powder. It sounds weird, but it's really tasty. We had a couple drinks (I am a lightweight these days since I've cut back on the alcohol) and watched Hell's Kitchen.
I was going to try to swim this morning, but I have gotten out of the morning workout routine. So I got up with Cliff at 5:40 and I worked from 6-2:30. That allowed me to squeeze in a 3.5-mile run during my lunch break (and it was BEAUTIFUL outside) and hit the gym before I coached at 4:30. I did 45 minutes on the elliptical and 25 minutes of weights and abs. I have gotten right back on the wagon with my diet and exercise following Valentine's Day. I'm still stuck at 155, but I'm hoping I will be in the low 150's soon. Fingers crossed.
It's 8:51 and I am going to get ready for bed! Sorry if you fell asleep reading this.
A picture from Diane's baby shower... she's due in just a few weeks!!!
Sara, Me, Diane, and Jamie
Last night was a good night of vegging with Cliff. I picked up some drinks at Liq-O-Rama (no, I'm not kidding about the name of the liquor store) and some salmon at Albertson's. I broiled the salmon with soy sauce, a dash of brown sugar, salt and pepper, and garlic powder. It sounds weird, but it's really tasty. We had a couple drinks (I am a lightweight these days since I've cut back on the alcohol) and watched Hell's Kitchen.
I was going to try to swim this morning, but I have gotten out of the morning workout routine. So I got up with Cliff at 5:40 and I worked from 6-2:30. That allowed me to squeeze in a 3.5-mile run during my lunch break (and it was BEAUTIFUL outside) and hit the gym before I coached at 4:30. I did 45 minutes on the elliptical and 25 minutes of weights and abs. I have gotten right back on the wagon with my diet and exercise following Valentine's Day. I'm still stuck at 155, but I'm hoping I will be in the low 150's soon. Fingers crossed.
It's 8:51 and I am going to get ready for bed! Sorry if you fell asleep reading this.
A picture from Diane's baby shower... she's due in just a few weeks!!!
Sara, Me, Diane, and Jamie
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Getting Buff
Yesterday I had a great workout at the gym. I did 30 minutes on the stairclimber, 50 minutes on the elliptical, and 20 minutes of triceps & biceps. I can definitely tell that my arms are getting toner. I liked working from 6-2:30, working out from 3-4:40, and then coaching at 5 because it saved me some driving time (since the gym is close to TCC, where I coach). Cliff made some tilapia, rice, and green beans for dinner and we watched American Idol.
Today was my easy day since I worked out for close to 6 hours over the past 3 days. I got to work early (6:00), so I get to leave at 2:30 (hooray!). I did the boot camp class at the federal gym during lunch. I love that class. It's 40 minutes, and it totally pushes me out of my comfort zone (since it's all of the exercises I don't like enough to do on my own) but yet I smile. Compared to Shawna's class, it's like Baby Boot Camp though :)
I was supposed to meet my girlfriends for dinner tonight, but Cliff has had a super tough day. So I am going to hangout with him and either pick up some salmon for dinner or take him out. It seems like we hardly ever venture out of the house these days... but it's hard to resist salmon packets, Hell's Kitchen, and a side of fiance!
Today was my easy day since I worked out for close to 6 hours over the past 3 days. I got to work early (6:00), so I get to leave at 2:30 (hooray!). I did the boot camp class at the federal gym during lunch. I love that class. It's 40 minutes, and it totally pushes me out of my comfort zone (since it's all of the exercises I don't like enough to do on my own) but yet I smile. Compared to Shawna's class, it's like Baby Boot Camp though :)
I was supposed to meet my girlfriends for dinner tonight, but Cliff has had a super tough day. So I am going to hangout with him and either pick up some salmon for dinner or take him out. It seems like we hardly ever venture out of the house these days... but it's hard to resist salmon packets, Hell's Kitchen, and a side of fiance!
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Actually Signed up for a Tri...
After all of the smack-talking on the Tricowtown forum, I had to get in on the St Patty's sprint triathlon action. The tri is on Saturday, March 14 in Keller, so it's super close. Even though I haven't ridden my bike since the October Benbrook Women's Tri, I can definitely handle a sprint. It will be a lot of fun to get out there and race with everyone (Stacy, Jeanne, Heidi, Mikey, Dan, Diesel, Matt, etc.), and it's not an Oklahoma weekend, so Cliff can come watch me. Now I just need to get on my bike :) This will be my first sprint tri in a 50-meter (versus 25-yard) pool, so that will be nice. Plus Keller has a nice facility... cuz we know it's all about the swim!
I had a good mini-workout yesterday between work and coaching. I did 25 minutes on the Stairmaster and 20 minutes on the dreadmill. I booked it over to Wesleyan, and I coached the younger kids (6-9ish). Coaching that group is a lot more work since they need more stroke work and less conditioning. So I worked on breaststroke with them since that is my favorite. There is going to be a HUGE demand for private lessons this summer (another parent spoke to me yesterday), so it's going to be a matter of how much time I want to give up (since I can use the pool in our backyard). I'm thinking I will need the money to fund the wedding budget deficit :)
I have been super lazy today. I'm working from 6:00-2:30, and I took a nice little nap during my lunch break. I'm going to hit the gym before I have to be at the pool at 5:00. That saves me a little commuting time compared to going to the gym at lunch. Hopefully it's not too crowded from 3-4:40.
I had a good mini-workout yesterday between work and coaching. I did 25 minutes on the Stairmaster and 20 minutes on the dreadmill. I booked it over to Wesleyan, and I coached the younger kids (6-9ish). Coaching that group is a lot more work since they need more stroke work and less conditioning. So I worked on breaststroke with them since that is my favorite. There is going to be a HUGE demand for private lessons this summer (another parent spoke to me yesterday), so it's going to be a matter of how much time I want to give up (since I can use the pool in our backyard). I'm thinking I will need the money to fund the wedding budget deficit :)
I have been super lazy today. I'm working from 6:00-2:30, and I took a nice little nap during my lunch break. I'm going to hit the gym before I have to be at the pool at 5:00. That saves me a little commuting time compared to going to the gym at lunch. Hopefully it's not too crowded from 3-4:40.
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Trying to Get Back into Swimming Shape
I had planned to swim with Sara this morning, so I wrote us a workout last night. I ended up swimming solo, and it definitely helped having a workout in front of me because it made me more accountable. I figured that after losing weight and working out quite a bit (doing things other than swimming), that my swimming would be okay. However, that is totally not the case. I'm planning on swimming at least a few times a week between now and zones (late March), and hopefully I won't stink it up too badly!
Today's swim workout:
400 freestyle, 300 pull, 200 kick with fins, 100 IM
8 x 50's freestyle @ 1:00
#1-4: descend stroke count
#5-8: breathe 7 (first 25) and 5 (second 25)
3 x 500's freestyle pull @ 1:00 rest
Times: 7:13, 7:12, 7:09
4 x 100's flutter kick w/ board @ 2:30
50 easy
6 x 75's @ 1:30
Odds - Fly/back/breast
Evens - Back/breast/free
200 warm-down
Total Yardage: 4,000 (short course) meters
I'm coaching the little kids (about 6-9 years old) tonight from 5:30-6:15, so it's going to be a long day. I'm going to workout from 4-5ish and then head over to Wesleyan. I won't be home until 7:00, but at least I will make it home in time for The Biggest Loser!
Today's swim workout:
400 freestyle, 300 pull, 200 kick with fins, 100 IM
8 x 50's freestyle @ 1:00
#1-4: descend stroke count
#5-8: breathe 7 (first 25) and 5 (second 25)
3 x 500's freestyle pull @ 1:00 rest
Times: 7:13, 7:12, 7:09
4 x 100's flutter kick w/ board @ 2:30
50 easy
6 x 75's @ 1:30
Odds - Fly/back/breast
Evens - Back/breast/free
200 warm-down
Total Yardage: 4,000 (short course) meters
I'm coaching the little kids (about 6-9 years old) tonight from 5:30-6:15, so it's going to be a long day. I'm going to workout from 4-5ish and then head over to Wesleyan. I won't be home until 7:00, but at least I will make it home in time for The Biggest Loser!
Monday, February 16, 2009
Happy President's Day
I could totally get used to not working during the week. I slept in until 8:30 this morning and got over 10 hours of sleep. Then I went to the gym and got a good 2-hour workout in. I lifted weights for 38 minutes, did the elliptical for 30 minutes, and then swam for 54 minutes. I am trying to get back into swimming shape for the masters zone swim meet coming up in late March. My workout:
600 warm-up
6 x 50's breaststroke kick w/ board @ 1:00
10 x 50's freestyle - 5 with golf balls @ 1:00, 5 with finger paddles @ :55
5 x 100's flutter kick w/ fins @ 1:30
5 x 100's freestyle pull, breathing every 5 strokes @ 1:30
6 x 50's dolphin kick on back w/ fins @ :55
4 x 25's fly @ :30
200 warm-down
Total Yardage: 3,000 yards
I did our grocery shopping afterwards, and now I have a little down time before I coach from 5:00-6:00.
Yesterday I was planning on going to the gym, but I ended up taking the day off. I did spend over 90 minutes on the Wii Fit, so maybe that counts for something :) Cliff and I went to JC Penny's and I bought him some clothes (4 shirts and 2 pairs of shoes) for his birthday. I also got a work shirt, a going out shirt, a cute dress for Mexico, and 2 pairs of $8 shoes. Afterwards, we grabbed a bite to eat at Which Wich and their sandwiches are AWESOME. I wish they'd build one closer to our house. Cliff made one of my favorite dinners (healthy chicken parmesan with fat-free mayo, reduced fat parmesan, cornflakes, fat-free mozarella, and Hunt's tomato sauce) and we watched 60 Minutes, Amazing Race, and Desperate Housewives. We spent a little time tormenting GusGus with RussRuss, our stuffed animal bulldog that my dad bought me.
600 warm-up
6 x 50's breaststroke kick w/ board @ 1:00
10 x 50's freestyle - 5 with golf balls @ 1:00, 5 with finger paddles @ :55
5 x 100's flutter kick w/ fins @ 1:30
5 x 100's freestyle pull, breathing every 5 strokes @ 1:30
6 x 50's dolphin kick on back w/ fins @ :55
4 x 25's fly @ :30
200 warm-down
Total Yardage: 3,000 yards
I did our grocery shopping afterwards, and now I have a little down time before I coach from 5:00-6:00.
Yesterday I was planning on going to the gym, but I ended up taking the day off. I did spend over 90 minutes on the Wii Fit, so maybe that counts for something :) Cliff and I went to JC Penny's and I bought him some clothes (4 shirts and 2 pairs of shoes) for his birthday. I also got a work shirt, a going out shirt, a cute dress for Mexico, and 2 pairs of $8 shoes. Afterwards, we grabbed a bite to eat at Which Wich and their sandwiches are AWESOME. I wish they'd build one closer to our house. Cliff made one of my favorite dinners (healthy chicken parmesan with fat-free mayo, reduced fat parmesan, cornflakes, fat-free mozarella, and Hunt's tomato sauce) and we watched 60 Minutes, Amazing Race, and Desperate Housewives. We spent a little time tormenting GusGus with RussRuss, our stuffed animal bulldog that my dad bought me.
Sunday, February 15, 2009
Awesome V-Day
Cliff and I went to our nearby sushi restaurant for dinner on Friday night. We had some yummy spicy California rolls, spicy crawfish rolls, spicy tuna rolls (see a pattern?), and Philadelphia rolls. We started watching the 24 movie, but we both fell asleep on the couch (it's been a long week of coughing).
I got up early on Saturday morning and ran 8.6 miles with Dan and Shawna. It felt great to be back out there again and to catch-up with my friends and get a good run in. We averaged about 9:30/mile pace, which was decent for me given that I haven't been running much since my injuries. After that, Dan and I met Heidi, Matt, and Sara at 24 Hour Fitness for a swim. I was hacking up a lung, so I ended up just swimming 1500 meters and cutting it short. It definitely made me realize that I need to swim more if I'm going to compete at masters zones next month! Scary!!!
Cliff and I went to Central Market for lunch and groceries. That place was CRAZY BUSY. I ate a $12.44 (no exaggeration) salad for lunch, and then we bought our Valentine's Day dinner groceries. They had awesome specials (lobster tails for $5.99/4 oz and asparagus for $1.99/pound). We also picked up a good bottle of wine (a Cab from Alexander Valley), a yummy apple/walnut smoked cheddar and super grainy crackers, and a fruit tart for dessert. My parents gave Cliff some Omaha steaks (filets) for Christmas, so we also tried those. Dinner was AWESOME and super easy to prepare. We even ate in the dining room like adults! After dinner we finished up the 24 movie and then watched Hancock, and of course I fell asleep again! :) It was a GREAT Valentine's Day, and I couldn't ask for a better fiance. :)
We tried to sleep in this morning, but GusGus started barking at 7:30. So I got out of bed and cleaned up his huge mess (I think I gave him too many treats yesterday since I didn't want him to feel left out), fed him, and took him on a walk. Now he is asleep in my lap like a cute little butterball. We have Monday off work (President's Day), which makes Sunday feel infinitely better! I think we're going to hit up JC Penny's today (I need to buy Cliff some birthday clothes... his birthday is coming up on the 26th) and maybe start our registry at Lowe's.
Our awesome Valentine's Day dinner:
Dessert (so pretty!):
The bulldog purse that my dad sent me (beware, she's a hottie):
And our cutie pie, GusGus:
I got up early on Saturday morning and ran 8.6 miles with Dan and Shawna. It felt great to be back out there again and to catch-up with my friends and get a good run in. We averaged about 9:30/mile pace, which was decent for me given that I haven't been running much since my injuries. After that, Dan and I met Heidi, Matt, and Sara at 24 Hour Fitness for a swim. I was hacking up a lung, so I ended up just swimming 1500 meters and cutting it short. It definitely made me realize that I need to swim more if I'm going to compete at masters zones next month! Scary!!!
Cliff and I went to Central Market for lunch and groceries. That place was CRAZY BUSY. I ate a $12.44 (no exaggeration) salad for lunch, and then we bought our Valentine's Day dinner groceries. They had awesome specials (lobster tails for $5.99/4 oz and asparagus for $1.99/pound). We also picked up a good bottle of wine (a Cab from Alexander Valley), a yummy apple/walnut smoked cheddar and super grainy crackers, and a fruit tart for dessert. My parents gave Cliff some Omaha steaks (filets) for Christmas, so we also tried those. Dinner was AWESOME and super easy to prepare. We even ate in the dining room like adults! After dinner we finished up the 24 movie and then watched Hancock, and of course I fell asleep again! :) It was a GREAT Valentine's Day, and I couldn't ask for a better fiance. :)
We tried to sleep in this morning, but GusGus started barking at 7:30. So I got out of bed and cleaned up his huge mess (I think I gave him too many treats yesterday since I didn't want him to feel left out), fed him, and took him on a walk. Now he is asleep in my lap like a cute little butterball. We have Monday off work (President's Day), which makes Sunday feel infinitely better! I think we're going to hit up JC Penny's today (I need to buy Cliff some birthday clothes... his birthday is coming up on the 26th) and maybe start our registry at Lowe's.
Our awesome Valentine's Day dinner:
Dessert (so pretty!):
The bulldog purse that my dad sent me (beware, she's a hottie):
And our cutie pie, GusGus:
Friday, February 13, 2009
Three-Day Weekend on the Horizon...
... so we celebrated a little early and had some tasty beverages last night. I had a few glasses of Macaroni Grill Chardonnay, and then I started feeling all inspired and creative. GusGus absolutely LOVES Cliff's kids, and I got this idea.
So we had a fun night... we played a little Wii Fit and watched some TV. I whipped up a quick dinner... chicken, rice and beans, and green beans. Steamer bags are probably the best kitchen invention ever. We both fell asleep on the couch last night. I am so tired. Cliff and I have been coughing a lot, so we haven't been sleeping well. My asthma has been bothering me too, and I've been wheezing. Yuck.
I'm working from home today, so I'm going to do a big workout at lunch. I'm also looking forward to a good workout tomorrow. I am going to run 8-9 miles in the morning (hopefully with the boot camp girls) and then meet Heidi, Sara, and Matt for a swim at 24 Hour Fitness. It's also "bring a friend" day at 24 Hour Fitness, so I might take Cliff to the gym with me in the afternoon (if I'm feeling motivated enough). Yesterday I did boot camp at the federal gym. It was a good change of pace, but it doesn't even compare to the severity of Shawna's boot camp. At least it forces me to do stuff I don't like (squats, mountain climbers, lunges, etc.).
So we had a fun night... we played a little Wii Fit and watched some TV. I whipped up a quick dinner... chicken, rice and beans, and green beans. Steamer bags are probably the best kitchen invention ever. We both fell asleep on the couch last night. I am so tired. Cliff and I have been coughing a lot, so we haven't been sleeping well. My asthma has been bothering me too, and I've been wheezing. Yuck.
I'm working from home today, so I'm going to do a big workout at lunch. I'm also looking forward to a good workout tomorrow. I am going to run 8-9 miles in the morning (hopefully with the boot camp girls) and then meet Heidi, Sara, and Matt for a swim at 24 Hour Fitness. It's also "bring a friend" day at 24 Hour Fitness, so I might take Cliff to the gym with me in the afternoon (if I'm feeling motivated enough). Yesterday I did boot camp at the federal gym. It was a good change of pace, but it doesn't even compare to the severity of Shawna's boot camp. At least it forces me to do stuff I don't like (squats, mountain climbers, lunges, etc.).
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Estrogen Fest
Last night Shawna and I went to see "He's Just not that into You," which was only fitting since Shawna bought me that book in 2005 and sent it to me while I was working in DC :) The movie was really cute and funny. The cast was great... "E" from Entourage, Margene from Big Love, Drew Barrymore, Ben Affleck, and Jennifer Anniston. Go see it and then we can all confirm the fact that the guy who plays Connor totally looks like Dr. Brian (which is something I pointed out on the Tricowtown forum when I first started watching Entourage).
I got in a pretty good workout yesterday - 60 minutes on the elliptical and 40 minutes on the stationary bike. I was going to meet Sara to swim this morning at 24 Hour Fitness, but I didn't get home until 10:00 and then I had a hard time falling asleep. We were supposed to meet DJ Dan for lunch today, but Cliff has a work lunch. So at least I can workout during my lunch hour, and Cliff and I were able to carpool to work.
I haven't lost any more weight this week even though I've been working out a lot and sticking to my calories. I think it was because I had a rather undeserved loss last week while I was sick, so at least I am maintaining that weight (mid 150's).
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
The Shrinking Assets
This is our team, The Shrinking Assets.
We're doing a three-month fitness challenge through GSA where we rack up team points for a whole bunch of different things (8 x 8-ounce servings of water, 3 fruits, 3 veggies, 1 hour of working out, etc.). We get a point a day for not having caffeine and another point for not having diet soda, and I am rebelling against those two concepts. Cliff is on a different team, Three Ducks and a Goose. So of course I want to beat his team :)
Last night after I coached I was super tired and lazy. Cliff made some shrimp pasta, and we watched a couple episodes of Sopranos on Netflix. I went to the gym this morning and did 65 minutes on the elliptical and then 25 minutes of weights and abs. I took GusGus to the vet during my lunch break to get his last round of shots (so now he has his cute tag and he's all official). He is mighty popular at the vet's office. The nurse told me she has some friends who just had a baby, and they have a 2-year old bulldog. They are looking to find him a good home, so we are considering giving Angus a big brother. I'm waiting to hear back from her to possibly set up a play date, so we'll see. Maybe GusGus will poop outside if he has a big brother to look up to :)
We're doing a three-month fitness challenge through GSA where we rack up team points for a whole bunch of different things (8 x 8-ounce servings of water, 3 fruits, 3 veggies, 1 hour of working out, etc.). We get a point a day for not having caffeine and another point for not having diet soda, and I am rebelling against those two concepts. Cliff is on a different team, Three Ducks and a Goose. So of course I want to beat his team :)
Last night after I coached I was super tired and lazy. Cliff made some shrimp pasta, and we watched a couple episodes of Sopranos on Netflix. I went to the gym this morning and did 65 minutes on the elliptical and then 25 minutes of weights and abs. I took GusGus to the vet during my lunch break to get his last round of shots (so now he has his cute tag and he's all official). He is mighty popular at the vet's office. The nurse told me she has some friends who just had a baby, and they have a 2-year old bulldog. They are looking to find him a good home, so we are considering giving Angus a big brother. I'm waiting to hear back from her to possibly set up a play date, so we'll see. Maybe GusGus will poop outside if he has a big brother to look up to :)
Monday, February 9, 2009
Monday - Always a good way to start the week!
I was pretty sore last night because I hadn’t worked out since Wednesday and then I did an hour and 20 minutes of cardio on Sunday (after being sick). I could tell by my performance on the Wii Fit J I had a HORRIBLE night’s sleep since I slept a billion hours these past few days. I got up at 4:10 and hit the gym. I did 45 minutes on the stair climber and then I did 48 minutes of abs and weights. I was so sore, and I couldn’t decide what to do for my lunchtime workout. I ended up running for 30 minutes on the dreadmill and then riding for 20 minutes on the stationary bike. So I got a good 2 hours & 23 minutes of training done today. I am getting a little obsessive since my weight is lower than it’s been in a LONG time (circa 2000), and I know it’s going to be a lot harder to take these next 10 pounds off as opposed to the first 10 pounds.
This is a pretty low-key week. I’m taking GusGus to the vet tomorrow for his shots, and we’re meeting DJ Dan for lunch on Thursday. I need to get cracking on a play list. I ordered the Texas reception invitations, and they should arrive any day now. It will take a bunch of time to get those addressed. Once those arrive, I’ll order the California reception invitations. I found a really cute champagne invitation that I liked, but I want to make sure the other invitations come out okay first.
I am ready for the three-day weekend!!!
This is a pretty low-key week. I’m taking GusGus to the vet tomorrow for his shots, and we’re meeting DJ Dan for lunch on Thursday. I need to get cracking on a play list. I ordered the Texas reception invitations, and they should arrive any day now. It will take a bunch of time to get those addressed. Once those arrive, I’ll order the California reception invitations. I found a really cute champagne invitation that I liked, but I want to make sure the other invitations come out okay first.
I am ready for the three-day weekend!!!
Sunday, February 8, 2009
Finally Feeling Normal Again
I started feeling better yesterday as the day went on. We went to the movies in the afternoon and saw "Taken." I thought it was really good (I love suspense movies), but the guy behind us was incredibly annoying (heavy breathing, constant movie commentary, etc.). I tried to block him out, but Cliff didn't have as much luck. I was able to endulge in a few adult beverages (always a good sign) and eat a normal dinner (we had hibatchi at our favorite sushi restaurant). After a good night's sleep, I felt pretty normal today. I went to 24 Hour Fitness and did an hour and twenty minutes (27 bike + 53 elliptical... and, yes, the odd numbers bothered me) of cardio while watching The Real Housewives of Orange County. I think I've watched about 20 hours of Bravo reality TV these past few days. I am down to 155 now, so only 10 more pounds to go. If I hit the 145 goal before my wedding, Operation Wedding Dress will become "Operation Nicole Richie." I like that name a little better... I envision my ribs sticking out.
GusGus says hi!!!
GusGus says hi!!!
Saturday, February 7, 2009
Ick
I continued to feel pretty bad yesterday. I stayed in bed until about 10:30, took a bath, and spent the rest of the day on the couch watching the Top Chef marathon. I went to bed at 7:00, and when Cliff, Leslie, and Jordan returned from dinner at about 10:30, I got out of bed to eat some applesauce (all I had to eat yesterday was a bagel). Well I sat down at the breakfast table and then felt like I was going to be sick. So I headed to my room and then I fainted in the doorway. I was out for a few seconds... enough to freak everyone out just a bit. I feel much better today... except I still can't stand for very long. I ate a banana and some oatmeal for breakfast, so hopefully having some food in my belly will help. The good news is now I'm down 10.5 pounds, so only 10 more to go before the wedding :)
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Sick Day
I started feeling bad last night when I got home from coaching. Having 30 kids in 3 lanes was probably enough to do it! I felt worse as the night went on, and I went to bed shivering with my sweatshirt, flannel pants, and heavy sock slippers on. I can't tell if I have the flu or if the congestion is just making me queasy. Either way, I made the decision to call in sick today and get some rest.
I think I overdid it a bit these past two days. I ended up doing the kickboxing class and then 18 minutes of weights yesterday during my lunch break (after running 4.35 miles in the morning). Now I'm feeling a ping in my left shin (that's the one that was bothering me). So hopefully if I use today as a rest day, stick to cardio and weights tomorrow (and lay off the running), I will be okay to run longer on Saturday. I'm crossing my fingers that I get healthy and that my shin feels better!
Oh, I finally got around to attempting to book reservations for Valentine's Day. We wanted to go to Texas de Brazil, but they only had reservations around 12-2 and then after 10 pm. So we decided that we're going to hit up Central Market and make an awesome dinner! I am already looking forward to the Valentine's Day three-day weekend (hooray President's Day)!
I think I overdid it a bit these past two days. I ended up doing the kickboxing class and then 18 minutes of weights yesterday during my lunch break (after running 4.35 miles in the morning). Now I'm feeling a ping in my left shin (that's the one that was bothering me). So hopefully if I use today as a rest day, stick to cardio and weights tomorrow (and lay off the running), I will be okay to run longer on Saturday. I'm crossing my fingers that I get healthy and that my shin feels better!
Oh, I finally got around to attempting to book reservations for Valentine's Day. We wanted to go to Texas de Brazil, but they only had reservations around 12-2 and then after 10 pm. So we decided that we're going to hit up Central Market and make an awesome dinner! I am already looking forward to the Valentine's Day three-day weekend (hooray President's Day)!
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Back in the Routine
Fortunately I was able to walk or run everyday in California, but I fell off the wagon a bit with my diet. I am still under 160 though, so that is good news. And now that I think about it, I don't have too much to go to give up my Athena status. Fortunately Jack's scale weighs heavy :) Yesterday I ran 2.55 miles, did the stairclimber for 45 minutes, did the elliptical for 35 minutes, and did some arm weights for 11 minutes. That added up to just under 2 hours. This morning I got up early and ran around my neighborhood so that I could carpool to work with Cliff. I ran 4.35 miles at just under 10-minute pace. It was in the upper-20's this morning... definitely chilly! It feels soooo good to be outside running again though! I love it! I'm going to hit the federal gym at lunch and maybe try kickboxing for a change. There's a wellness challenge at work (although it appears to be with GSA and I no longer work there), and I'm on a team with 3 other people. We accumulate points, so hopefully I will be a FORCE :)
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Sunday, February 1, 2009
Cash Money
Luck was definitely on my side tonight. My dad bought me one square in his pool at work, and I ended up winning with a 7-3 final score. That was a $100 win, which I'll give to my dad to help him pay for his windshield which I cracked on Friday night :( I put $12 down for Cliff and I in the two pools at my aunt and uncle's Super Bowl party. We ended up winning the second and third quarters ($20 each quarter) and we won $5 for the total score with the wrong winning team. So I ended up winning $145 tonight... crazy! And of course I am way too competitive, and I probably need to keep my mouth shut next time and refrain from trash-talking (especially among my extended family, who I rarely see these days). It was a fun night though. It was great to see everyone and spend some time talking to my Grandma Marion. I will post some pictures on Tuesday. I ate way too much and I am ready to get back on Operation Wedding Dress. I ran 5.27 miles today (and Cliff did 3.75 with me!), but I'm sure that didn't even come close to negating the corn beef sandwich, chips and dip, white wine, etc. I need some big field trips to 24 Hour Fitness this coming week! I was down 9 pounds as of Friday morning, but I'm a little afraid to see the damage done from this weekend :(
Chillin'
Well I would have been running the Surf City Marathon this morning, but instead I am wasting time in front of the computer. My injuries are finally getting better. I ran did three runs so far this week - 3.26 miles, 4 miles, and 4.55 miles. I need to take advantage of the gorgeous weather today and go run outside (and burn some calories!).
Our California trip has been fun (and really short). We met my cousin Dana and her boyfriend, Jason, for dinner at the Yardhouse in Long Beach on Friday night. I hadn't seen her in over five years, so it was great to catch up. We got lost on the way there (ended up on the St Vincent bridge to San Pedro) and also cracked my Dad's windshield (a rock hit us on the freeway, and a huge crack appeared the next day). On Saturday my mom, Cliff, and I went to Amy's for brunch. I seriously LOVE that place. If you live in SoCal, you (yes, you!) need to go. It's on Lake in Altadena. I ordered the Eggbeater omelette with spinach, goat cheese, and sundried tomatoes. YUMMMM. After brunch we went to the Colorado Spa for a shiatsu massage. My dad had bought my mom and I gift cards for Christmas, so we used those. I asked for the strongest girl, and she rocked. She spent the first half hour working pretty deep (that's what she said!) and also walking on my feet, legs, and back (there were two bars on the ceiling to help her balance - pretty cool!). The second half hour was more relaxing with hot oil. It was a really great massage, and I will definitely be going back the next time I'm in California. It's only $65/hour, and I highly recommend it. It's over on Colorado Blvd near Lee's Hoagie House. We also stopped at the pet store next door and bought GusGus some toys and treats. In the evening we celebrated my brother's birthday. I think my tummy is still recovering after sloppy joes, baked beans, chips, coleslaw, jello, and cheesecake (and plenty of wine!). Today we're heading over to my aunt and uncle's house to watch the Super Bowl. I'm trying to squeeze in a run beforehand. Operation Wedding Dress is seriously slacking this weekend!
Our California trip has been fun (and really short). We met my cousin Dana and her boyfriend, Jason, for dinner at the Yardhouse in Long Beach on Friday night. I hadn't seen her in over five years, so it was great to catch up. We got lost on the way there (ended up on the St Vincent bridge to San Pedro) and also cracked my Dad's windshield (a rock hit us on the freeway, and a huge crack appeared the next day). On Saturday my mom, Cliff, and I went to Amy's for brunch. I seriously LOVE that place. If you live in SoCal, you (yes, you!) need to go. It's on Lake in Altadena. I ordered the Eggbeater omelette with spinach, goat cheese, and sundried tomatoes. YUMMMM. After brunch we went to the Colorado Spa for a shiatsu massage. My dad had bought my mom and I gift cards for Christmas, so we used those. I asked for the strongest girl, and she rocked. She spent the first half hour working pretty deep (that's what she said!) and also walking on my feet, legs, and back (there were two bars on the ceiling to help her balance - pretty cool!). The second half hour was more relaxing with hot oil. It was a really great massage, and I will definitely be going back the next time I'm in California. It's only $65/hour, and I highly recommend it. It's over on Colorado Blvd near Lee's Hoagie House. We also stopped at the pet store next door and bought GusGus some toys and treats. In the evening we celebrated my brother's birthday. I think my tummy is still recovering after sloppy joes, baked beans, chips, coleslaw, jello, and cheesecake (and plenty of wine!). Today we're heading over to my aunt and uncle's house to watch the Super Bowl. I'm trying to squeeze in a run beforehand. Operation Wedding Dress is seriously slacking this weekend!
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