*It was a very merry Christmas.
*I met my neighbor and had tacos at her apartment tonight. She seems very nice and she does triathlons! Who woulda thought?
*I am playing in an indoor soccer game tomorrow night with a team I found on Craigslist. I'm very nervous and excited. HOPEFULLY I won't make a complete fool of myself.
*The next three days have great potential to kill me. I work tomorrow, Wednesday and Thursday-- 7a-730p (ish). The soccer game tomorrow starts at 10pm. I'm hoping to get home by midnight and go STRAIGHT to sleep and be alive enough to not completely fail at work on Tuesday. We'll see. Eek. This is just one example of poor decision making on my part. Who agrees to play in a 10pm game when they have to be at work by 7am the next day?!
*I just realized it's 11:40... I definitely thought it was 9:00.
*After talking about triathlons with my neighbor I was inspired to register for the half ironman in August. I went to the website and it wasn't working, but I stumbled on some race reviews. Apparently it isn't the best race ever. Is this a sign?? Second (or eighty fourth) thoughts for sure.
Tuesday, December 29, 2009
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Merry Christmas Eve. This is perhaps my favorite day of the winter holiday season. This year is even sweeter due to my absence in the family festivities last year. I don't think I ever took said festivities for granted, but I appreciate them even more after having missed out.
I drove home early Tuesday morning to avoid traffic. Since I am still on orientation at work, I can't work holidays (they don't want to pay two people-- my preceptor and me-- holiday pay). Fine by me! So I worked on Monday and don't have to be back until Saturday. I told my mom and we decided to surprise my dad. When he saw me in the driveway Tuesday morning he thought something had gone terribly wrong until I said "Surprise!" Nothing crazy mind blowing or terribly exciting, but fun nonetheless.
It's nice to be home even though I was here just a few weeks ago. I like that more frequent visits are a reality.
Feeling in the Christmas spirit, my dad paid for a guest pass for me to my favorite gym ever this morning. I went to spinning (duh) and enjoyed it thoroughly (double duh). Frequently in the class, the instructor will say "Give your neighbor a thumbs up" after a particularly challenging song. As I turned to give the thumbs up, my neighbor said to me "Don't eat too much tonight." What a tool. I know men don't get women... but seriously, you would think they'd be a little more aware. I was especially grateful to spin because the past two days I've been here I've been running in the hills outside and my knees needed a break from that nonsense. Spinning was the perfect remedy.
The first day I was running outside on a particularly narrow and windy country road. There are either gravel shoulders or no shoulders at all out here in the sticks. As I crested a hill, I saw a car coming towards me with a construction orange sign on top of it that said "OVER SIZED LOAD." I looked behind that car and saw an incredibly over sized load, so I decided to stop running (phew!) and get as far to the side of the road as possible. Unfortunately there was really no where to go. I looked back toward the over sized load, I saw orange flags hanging off the side of the load signaling that it was significantly wider than the road. The flags were coming straight for my head. I didn't panic but I was confused-- I wanted more to figure out what in the world was on this load and why in the world they were using this road to transport it. I snapped out of my curiosity just in time to duck and avoid decapitation. I didn't get a good look at whatever it was, but I didn't lose my head either, so I guess we'll call it even.
Not a lot to report. Work is going well and I am enjoying it. I'd be lying if I didn't say it was overwhelming, but that's to be expected, and it's my sincere hope that in good time it'll be better. I know it will be, I remember feeling even more overwhelmed when I started my old job. So I know there's light at the end of the tunnel, but it's a long tunnel.
My apartment is looking good. My parents were kind enough to come up last weekend and help a lot. I needed some power tools so my dad brought a toolbox for a champion and helped me put my guest bed together (that's right, I have a guest bed!), and helped hang a bunch of things on the walls, and a ton of other stuff. It was great to have the company and the help. My mom brought a fancy pants wall hanging that fits perfectly above the TV. It's starting to look homey!
Merry Christmas-- happy holidays. I'm a Christmas enthusiast, but embrace your holiday of choice. The Wal-Mart bell ringer was quite excited about Winter Solstice yesterday. I love the West Coast.
I drove home early Tuesday morning to avoid traffic. Since I am still on orientation at work, I can't work holidays (they don't want to pay two people-- my preceptor and me-- holiday pay). Fine by me! So I worked on Monday and don't have to be back until Saturday. I told my mom and we decided to surprise my dad. When he saw me in the driveway Tuesday morning he thought something had gone terribly wrong until I said "Surprise!" Nothing crazy mind blowing or terribly exciting, but fun nonetheless.
It's nice to be home even though I was here just a few weeks ago. I like that more frequent visits are a reality.
Feeling in the Christmas spirit, my dad paid for a guest pass for me to my favorite gym ever this morning. I went to spinning (duh) and enjoyed it thoroughly (double duh). Frequently in the class, the instructor will say "Give your neighbor a thumbs up" after a particularly challenging song. As I turned to give the thumbs up, my neighbor said to me "Don't eat too much tonight." What a tool. I know men don't get women... but seriously, you would think they'd be a little more aware. I was especially grateful to spin because the past two days I've been here I've been running in the hills outside and my knees needed a break from that nonsense. Spinning was the perfect remedy.
The first day I was running outside on a particularly narrow and windy country road. There are either gravel shoulders or no shoulders at all out here in the sticks. As I crested a hill, I saw a car coming towards me with a construction orange sign on top of it that said "OVER SIZED LOAD." I looked behind that car and saw an incredibly over sized load, so I decided to stop running (phew!) and get as far to the side of the road as possible. Unfortunately there was really no where to go. I looked back toward the over sized load, I saw orange flags hanging off the side of the load signaling that it was significantly wider than the road. The flags were coming straight for my head. I didn't panic but I was confused-- I wanted more to figure out what in the world was on this load and why in the world they were using this road to transport it. I snapped out of my curiosity just in time to duck and avoid decapitation. I didn't get a good look at whatever it was, but I didn't lose my head either, so I guess we'll call it even.
Not a lot to report. Work is going well and I am enjoying it. I'd be lying if I didn't say it was overwhelming, but that's to be expected, and it's my sincere hope that in good time it'll be better. I know it will be, I remember feeling even more overwhelmed when I started my old job. So I know there's light at the end of the tunnel, but it's a long tunnel.
My apartment is looking good. My parents were kind enough to come up last weekend and help a lot. I needed some power tools so my dad brought a toolbox for a champion and helped me put my guest bed together (that's right, I have a guest bed!), and helped hang a bunch of things on the walls, and a ton of other stuff. It was great to have the company and the help. My mom brought a fancy pants wall hanging that fits perfectly above the TV. It's starting to look homey!
Merry Christmas-- happy holidays. I'm a Christmas enthusiast, but embrace your holiday of choice. The Wal-Mart bell ringer was quite excited about Winter Solstice yesterday. I love the West Coast.
Monday, December 14, 2009
Jesus Crows
My first day on the floor was all sorts of crazy. I definitely feel like a brand new nurse and it's very daunting, but I know it will get better... with time. While some things are the same at my new job as my old, a lot more are very very different. It will be a great challenge to not only learn the new way, but to break my habits of old first. Perhaps my biggest nemesis-- paper charting. That and no medication barcode scanning. I feel like a cave-woman. Despite the 'holy shit' of realizing all that I have to learn and adjust to, I can say that my preceptor is very kind and patient AND articulate. I appreciate that very much.
Today I forced myself off the couch to go running. I have not been the most disciplined at running lately. I shuffled my way up and down several very long and very steep hills to Green Lake. Around Green Lake is a trail that is a hot spot for runners, walkers, bikers, bladers (not my favorite people), etc. I went a little ways on that trail and noticed that the water had a layer of ice on it. I only noticed this because I saw crows walking on it. "Jesus crows!" I thought to myself. I chuckled and shuffled along. It's the little things.
I still get lost every time I drive, but the time it takes me to figure it out is decreasing.
I went to spinning last Thursday morning before work under the impression that the circus clown instructor wouldn't be there. However, I was unpleasantly surprised as she tromped down the stairs, three minutes late no less. Needless to say, I'm not feeling the vibe of ProRobics... I might give 24 Hour Fitness a try... I really don't like the idea of a big chain gym... but I'm not finding much else. The downtown Seattle location has an appropriately sized pool and they have spinning classes, and they're open 24/7. But it's quite a hike to get there from my apartment, and the only parking available is street parking, so it'd be $$$ every time I went. There is an 'express' location much closer to my apartment, so I could use that for running and lifting, but I'd have to make the trek for swimming and spinning. We'll see. If I could convince the Courthouse to move here, that would be fantastic.
Today I forced myself off the couch to go running. I have not been the most disciplined at running lately. I shuffled my way up and down several very long and very steep hills to Green Lake. Around Green Lake is a trail that is a hot spot for runners, walkers, bikers, bladers (not my favorite people), etc. I went a little ways on that trail and noticed that the water had a layer of ice on it. I only noticed this because I saw crows walking on it. "Jesus crows!" I thought to myself. I chuckled and shuffled along. It's the little things.
I still get lost every time I drive, but the time it takes me to figure it out is decreasing.
I went to spinning last Thursday morning before work under the impression that the circus clown instructor wouldn't be there. However, I was unpleasantly surprised as she tromped down the stairs, three minutes late no less. Needless to say, I'm not feeling the vibe of ProRobics... I might give 24 Hour Fitness a try... I really don't like the idea of a big chain gym... but I'm not finding much else. The downtown Seattle location has an appropriately sized pool and they have spinning classes, and they're open 24/7. But it's quite a hike to get there from my apartment, and the only parking available is street parking, so it'd be $$$ every time I went. There is an 'express' location much closer to my apartment, so I could use that for running and lifting, but I'd have to make the trek for swimming and spinning. We'll see. If I could convince the Courthouse to move here, that would be fantastic.
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Circus Cycling
Sooo I really need to find a gym and get my workout on. This weekend I purchased a 10 for $10 pass at a gym very close to my place of employment. It's kinda cool because this deal is a promotion they're running AND all proceeds (the $10 part of the equation) go to Seattle Children's Hospital. When I saw that on their website, I took it as a sign and went to enroll. I've been there a couple of times since and the jury is still out. It's very small, which after being a member of a mega gym, I can appreciate. When I took a tour of the place, the woman showing me around said something to the effect of there is a lot of camaraderie within the gym and it isn't a bunch of meat heads strutting around. That's something I really would like in a gym, so I was pleased to learn that. I'm nervous that it's TOO small though... we'll see.
(RANDOM PS-- I'm watching FRIENDS and it's the episode where Phoebe changes her name to Princess Consuela Banana Hammock-- this show NEVER ceases to make me laugh out loud... I love it)
ANYWAY-- this morning I went to spinning at ProRobics. It was no Group Ride, but I was sweating (which IS significant because it was a whopping TWELVE degrees this morning and their spinning 'studio' is in an un heated basement... I could see my breath and the steam rising off people!). The instructor wasn't my favorite.. she was very... 'west coast' as we called them in Chicago.. earthy-zen-center-your-soul-esque. Also, she didn't DO the workout... she'd be on the bike and do some of it, then she would either like slow down completely or get off and start barking at people... DON'T QUIT! SIX SIX SIX SIX! SEVEN SEVEN SEVEN! (FRIENDS reference-- the one where Monica gets excited about SEVEN... hahahha). So this clown wasn't my favorite. I know that it's my own workout and it'll be what I make of it blah blah blah... but I think there's a lot to be said for the instructor demonstrating what they expect from the participants. The last straw was at the end of the class we were stretching. Several of the stretches were not only life threatening, but also resembled circus like acrobatic moves. One was where she wanted us to stand up on the pedals, and then lean back toward the seat-- still standing... be completely 'stiff as a board' leaning back at like a 45 degree angle to the floor... then put our hands above our head and stretch. I can't even describe the ludicrous nature of this activity. The other one that made me scoff was standing on the pedals, knees bent at 90 degree angles, leaning over the handlebars. Then "like a cobra," you lunge forward so your legs are straight and you're extended out over the handlebars even farther. I was clinging for dear life when she goes "and let go with your hands and reach out to the stars..." all in her flowy mother earth voice. I just looked around at the geezers who get up at 5am for this nonsense and watched their feeble attempts. I'm sorry, I didn't know this was circus cycling. I achieved and maintained my target heart rate, so it wasn't a waste on any level, but I don't know that I will enthusiastically return to this instructors class anytime soon.
I have decided against the half marathon in January because I'm not ready for it and I need to get into a regular flow with life before I can take on diligent training for an event. There is a half marathon here in March that I'm hoping will work. We'll see. Still unsure about the half ironman, but I have to decide by the 25th, I think. Hopefully registration won't close BEFORE then... and hopefully I can scrounge up the $$$ to register... we'll see. I feel like I keep saying "I'll do it next year" but it really won't get any easier the longer I put it off, so let's just get it done now. Perhappers.
Work is going well. I have GENUINELY enjoyed the classroom time and have been engaged and learning a lot. That's huge-- during orientation in Chicago I wanted to gouge my eyes out with boredom. Everyone continues to be ridiculously nice and welcoming. I'm anxious to meet my coworkers and hopefully future friends! It's a very fun time.
(RANDOM PS-- I'm watching FRIENDS and it's the episode where Phoebe changes her name to Princess Consuela Banana Hammock-- this show NEVER ceases to make me laugh out loud... I love it)
ANYWAY-- this morning I went to spinning at ProRobics. It was no Group Ride, but I was sweating (which IS significant because it was a whopping TWELVE degrees this morning and their spinning 'studio' is in an un heated basement... I could see my breath and the steam rising off people!). The instructor wasn't my favorite.. she was very... 'west coast' as we called them in Chicago.. earthy-zen-center-your-soul-esque. Also, she didn't DO the workout... she'd be on the bike and do some of it, then she would either like slow down completely or get off and start barking at people... DON'T QUIT! SIX SIX SIX SIX! SEVEN SEVEN SEVEN! (FRIENDS reference-- the one where Monica gets excited about SEVEN... hahahha). So this clown wasn't my favorite. I know that it's my own workout and it'll be what I make of it blah blah blah... but I think there's a lot to be said for the instructor demonstrating what they expect from the participants. The last straw was at the end of the class we were stretching. Several of the stretches were not only life threatening, but also resembled circus like acrobatic moves. One was where she wanted us to stand up on the pedals, and then lean back toward the seat-- still standing... be completely 'stiff as a board' leaning back at like a 45 degree angle to the floor... then put our hands above our head and stretch. I can't even describe the ludicrous nature of this activity. The other one that made me scoff was standing on the pedals, knees bent at 90 degree angles, leaning over the handlebars. Then "like a cobra," you lunge forward so your legs are straight and you're extended out over the handlebars even farther. I was clinging for dear life when she goes "and let go with your hands and reach out to the stars..." all in her flowy mother earth voice. I just looked around at the geezers who get up at 5am for this nonsense and watched their feeble attempts. I'm sorry, I didn't know this was circus cycling. I achieved and maintained my target heart rate, so it wasn't a waste on any level, but I don't know that I will enthusiastically return to this instructors class anytime soon.
I have decided against the half marathon in January because I'm not ready for it and I need to get into a regular flow with life before I can take on diligent training for an event. There is a half marathon here in March that I'm hoping will work. We'll see. Still unsure about the half ironman, but I have to decide by the 25th, I think. Hopefully registration won't close BEFORE then... and hopefully I can scrounge up the $$$ to register... we'll see. I feel like I keep saying "I'll do it next year" but it really won't get any easier the longer I put it off, so let's just get it done now. Perhappers.
Work is going well. I have GENUINELY enjoyed the classroom time and have been engaged and learning a lot. That's huge-- during orientation in Chicago I wanted to gouge my eyes out with boredom. Everyone continues to be ridiculously nice and welcoming. I'm anxious to meet my coworkers and hopefully future friends! It's a very fun time.
Friday, December 4, 2009
A post in *aStErIsKs*
*For every day I choose to NOT drive to work, I get paid an extra $3.25 for the day. Take notes, Chicago. Shoot-- if I'd had that incentive last year when I didn't OWN a car-- it would have made biking that much more rewarding! I love my new green employer.
*Day two of orientation was... rocky. I woke up that morning feeling crazy nauseous but decided to suck it up and go (via walking) to work anyway. Through the morning talk I got the chills and sweats, then on an afternoon tour, ended up in an observation room in the Emergency Department after essentially fainting (black vision, sounds like underwater...). After three hours of begging them to not admit me (I don't have insurance this month and that is not a bill I can pay) they finally sent me home in a taxi (praise them!). I immediately found my bed, called my dad and lost it, then fell asleep. It was a night of febrile dreams, sweat, dry heaves, ridiculous nausea and dizzy attempts at hydration. I spent Wednesday on my couch in and out of consciousness. I felt a lot better on Thursday, but the hospital has a 24 hour fever free policy that forbade me from going there. Good news is that as quickly as that episode came, it left, and today I went to work without any episodes. What an icebreaker, eh?! m-o-r-t-i-f-y-i-n-g.
*My apartment is slowly looking like an apartment. I have a couch, thanks to Craigs List. My focus is now the spare bedroom. It should have a place for potential guests to sleep, so I'm looking for a bed. And a bed for ME, seeing as how I am borrowing one right now.
*I haven't gotten to explore much yet-- thought I did run on the Burke Gilman Trail once and enjoyed it. The hills really ill my knees... so that will be interesting. I'm looking forward to a mild winter that will allow me to stretch my legs a little.
*I'm ridiculously nervous to drive anywhere, though, out of pure fear of repeating the episode of getting lost that happened on my way back from dropping my mom off. That's a quarter tank of gas I'll never get back. Bah!
*Everyone I've met here has been ridiculously nice and that is SO ENCOURAGING and exciting. Maybe I made a good decision... the first time...! (knock on wood...)
*I'm still looking for a gym. Haven't looked super hard this week because I haven't been able to walk 20 feet without feeling light headed.. but that is atop my TO-DO list for the weekend.
*I feel like I am in school again with all the 'online learning modules' to complete and notebooks of information that I'm "responsible for" I've received in the past few days. Gulp.
*Loving Seattle!!! Pictures later.
*Day two of orientation was... rocky. I woke up that morning feeling crazy nauseous but decided to suck it up and go (via walking) to work anyway. Through the morning talk I got the chills and sweats, then on an afternoon tour, ended up in an observation room in the Emergency Department after essentially fainting (black vision, sounds like underwater...). After three hours of begging them to not admit me (I don't have insurance this month and that is not a bill I can pay) they finally sent me home in a taxi (praise them!). I immediately found my bed, called my dad and lost it, then fell asleep. It was a night of febrile dreams, sweat, dry heaves, ridiculous nausea and dizzy attempts at hydration. I spent Wednesday on my couch in and out of consciousness. I felt a lot better on Thursday, but the hospital has a 24 hour fever free policy that forbade me from going there. Good news is that as quickly as that episode came, it left, and today I went to work without any episodes. What an icebreaker, eh?! m-o-r-t-i-f-y-i-n-g.
*My apartment is slowly looking like an apartment. I have a couch, thanks to Craigs List. My focus is now the spare bedroom. It should have a place for potential guests to sleep, so I'm looking for a bed. And a bed for ME, seeing as how I am borrowing one right now.
*I haven't gotten to explore much yet-- thought I did run on the Burke Gilman Trail once and enjoyed it. The hills really ill my knees... so that will be interesting. I'm looking forward to a mild winter that will allow me to stretch my legs a little.
*I'm ridiculously nervous to drive anywhere, though, out of pure fear of repeating the episode of getting lost that happened on my way back from dropping my mom off. That's a quarter tank of gas I'll never get back. Bah!
*Everyone I've met here has been ridiculously nice and that is SO ENCOURAGING and exciting. Maybe I made a good decision... the first time...! (knock on wood...)
*I'm still looking for a gym. Haven't looked super hard this week because I haven't been able to walk 20 feet without feeling light headed.. but that is atop my TO-DO list for the weekend.
*I feel like I am in school again with all the 'online learning modules' to complete and notebooks of information that I'm "responsible for" I've received in the past few days. Gulp.
*Loving Seattle!!! Pictures later.
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
"Thees ees okay?"
*I love my home gym for several reasons-- one of the most prominent being their spinning classes. If you have access to a facility that utilized the "Group Fitness" program (ie: Group Ride, Group Power, Group Kickboxing, Group _____), seriously go to them. They're freaking hard but awesome. I sometimes feel silly because there are geezers there that are doing so much better than I am doing, but the fact of the matter is I sweat my eyeballs out and can't breathe, so I must be getting a good workout even if the rickety old man next to me is getting a better one. (Note: the Group Fitness program isn't any old spinning or kickboxing class-- it's a very specific curriculum and it is wonderful.)
*Speaking of fitness-- mine is atrocious whether in a group or not. This is upsetting to me and I am not sure what I am going to do about it. I want to do a half marathon in January... not to mention the half ironman in August. I really need to get my act together if either of those are going to happen. I'd LOVE to find a group or something. It is so much more fun/easier to keep up with workouts if there is someone(s) waiting for you to show up.
*Last week I went toSeattle
*Thanksgiving is Thursday, I officially move to theEmerald City
*I still don't have a couch and don't have any promising prospects of getting one. Nauseous-er.
*My dad went with me toSeattle Seattle Seattle
Photos-- enjoy!
After a long day of driving, we (my dad) put the table together and then nourished ourselves!!
After re-energizing, we tackled the shelves...
The finished product!
The muscles (and brains) behind the operation...
My list is getting shorter which pleases me. Still a long way to go, but progress IS being made.
These signs are everywhere in Seattle. Love it!
*Speaking of fitness-- mine is atrocious whether in a group or not. This is upsetting to me and I am not sure what I am going to do about it. I want to do a half marathon in January... not to mention the half ironman in August. I really need to get my act together if either of those are going to happen. I'd LOVE to find a group or something. It is so much more fun/easier to keep up with workouts if there is someone(s) waiting for you to show up.
*Last week I went to
*Thanksgiving is Thursday, I officially move to the
*I still don't have a couch and don't have any promising prospects of getting one. Nauseous-er.
*My dad went with me to
Photos-- enjoy!
After a long day of driving, we (my dad) put the table together and then nourished ourselves!! After re-energizing, we tackled the shelves...The finished product!The muscles (and brains) behind the operation...My list is getting shorter which pleases me. Still a long way to go, but progress IS being made.These signs are everywhere in Seattle. Love it!
Thursday, November 19, 2009
Friday, November 13, 2009
Updates
-I like my new car even though the gas mileage is nauseating.
-I am going to sign a lease on Monday morning, movers will come on Tuesday.
-My government loan pay-back people accidentally took out an extra 500 bones from my bank account this month. They kindly sent me an email saying it will be put back, but that it won't happen before November 16th, and it may be even longer. Of all times, people!!!
-While everything will be in Seattle by Tuesday, I want to stay home for as long as possible.
-I need to find a way to make some money for this interim period. I'm really starting to wish I'd pushed harder for relocation assistance.
-I have a VERY long list of thing I need-- most concerning to me is a couch. Even if I find one that is reasonably priced (...free? jk..kinda), the logistical part-- retrieving it gets hairy. My car won't hold a real sized couch and I don't want to have a dorm-room-esque living room and stick a futon in it. Ugh. If I get one delivered it will be heinously expensive, renting a UHaul isn't an option because they're ridiculously expensive, too-- even if they advertise as $19.99/day, that's BEFORE taxes, gas, insurance, blah blah blah. I have a feeling it will be several months before I solve that little debaucle.
Things are moving along. I have spent almost all of the money I've saved over the past year and that is insanely overwhelming and makes me sick. But it's all towards something good and all that jazz. Ugh.
-I haven't forgotten about triathlon-ing. There is a half ironman in Lake Steven, WA in August (I think) that I am seriously considering. I was about to register for it but then saw the registration fee and decided it can wait. Boo.
...I want a money tree for Christmas.
-I am going to sign a lease on Monday morning, movers will come on Tuesday.
-My government loan pay-back people accidentally took out an extra 500 bones from my bank account this month. They kindly sent me an email saying it will be put back, but that it won't happen before November 16th, and it may be even longer. Of all times, people!!!
-While everything will be in Seattle by Tuesday, I want to stay home for as long as possible.
-I need to find a way to make some money for this interim period. I'm really starting to wish I'd pushed harder for relocation assistance.
-I have a VERY long list of thing I need-- most concerning to me is a couch. Even if I find one that is reasonably priced (...free? jk..kinda), the logistical part-- retrieving it gets hairy. My car won't hold a real sized couch and I don't want to have a dorm-room-esque living room and stick a futon in it. Ugh. If I get one delivered it will be heinously expensive, renting a UHaul isn't an option because they're ridiculously expensive, too-- even if they advertise as $19.99/day, that's BEFORE taxes, gas, insurance, blah blah blah. I have a feeling it will be several months before I solve that little debaucle.
Things are moving along. I have spent almost all of the money I've saved over the past year and that is insanely overwhelming and makes me sick. But it's all towards something good and all that jazz. Ugh.
-I haven't forgotten about triathlon-ing. There is a half ironman in Lake Steven, WA in August (I think) that I am seriously considering. I was about to register for it but then saw the registration fee and decided it can wait. Boo.
...I want a money tree for Christmas.
Monday, November 9, 2009
"A cute car for a cute girl..." CREEPER
While this is a ridiculously exciting time in my life, it is almost equally stressful.
I saw EIGHT apartments last Thursday and came home on Friday with no idea of which one I should live in. Several of them had things I loved, but none had everything I wanted for the right price. I think I've finally decided... I went to fax the application today, but I'd written the number down incorrectly. Is that a sign? Ugh. When all is said and done I will gush about all its features.
I've also been perusing Craigslist fanatically for a vehicle. I'd decided I wanted a Rav4 so that I can take my bike places without worrying it will fall off a bike rack, and so that if I ever DO pursue travel nursing, my car will be able to carry my belongings from city to city. Yesterday my dad and I drove all the way to Forest Grove to look at the perfect car: 2001 Rav4 Blue. There's a lot of other details I could spew out but the fact of the matter is that it looked the way i wanted and was priced within my budget. I'd called on Friday to make sure it was still there (and it was), but by the time we arrived on Saturday morning, it'd been sold. I was so disappointed. Not only did we hoof an hour and a half to get there, but it also decided to MONSOON all day! Thunder, hail, RIDICULOUS rainfall. So we came home, defeated and wet and resolved to try again another day. I'd given up-- maybe I didn't need a car.. maybe I should bike for life. But, I saw another opportunity on Craigslist this morning. I left a voicemail at the number listed and refused to get excited about it. The guy actually called back about an hour later and said he'd go in to the office today (apparently they're closed on Sundays). So we test drove a 1999 Rav4 and despite a funny sound that is apparently nothing (eek), it was great. Given-- it used to be a farm vehicle so there is a ridiculous amount of HAY under the seats... but it runs really well and the previous owner kept every receipt for any service it had done.. and it's good. So we went in to 'make a deal' and as I was sitting down the salesman says "So... a cute car for a cute girl..." Keep in mind that my dad has been with me the WHOLE time. I introduced him "this is my dad, Joe." I muttered something about liking the car for its space rather than its cute factor but that tipped the WEIRD scale beyond return. He later decided to voice his opinion about how marijuana should be legalized. Gotta love Eugene. Anyway, we negotiated... my dad and I used our secret code... and I came home with a car. !!! I am a car owner. AHHH. Yes-- I am significantly poorer than I was this morning.. but I'm excited. Now I need to get insurance... and I need to get this thing detailed or CLEANED a lot.. there's HAY for goodness sake!
It feels good to make some progress toward my future. Apartment and car were the two big things on my list.. then furniture. Ick. FURNITURE IS SO EXPENSIVE! But I have one hurdle cleared and am closing on the second one. Slowly but surely things are happening. =)
AND I got a quickpass membership to my home gym and I love it more and more every time I go!
I saw EIGHT apartments last Thursday and came home on Friday with no idea of which one I should live in. Several of them had things I loved, but none had everything I wanted for the right price. I think I've finally decided... I went to fax the application today, but I'd written the number down incorrectly. Is that a sign? Ugh. When all is said and done I will gush about all its features.
I've also been perusing Craigslist fanatically for a vehicle. I'd decided I wanted a Rav4 so that I can take my bike places without worrying it will fall off a bike rack, and so that if I ever DO pursue travel nursing, my car will be able to carry my belongings from city to city. Yesterday my dad and I drove all the way to Forest Grove to look at the perfect car: 2001 Rav4 Blue. There's a lot of other details I could spew out but the fact of the matter is that it looked the way i wanted and was priced within my budget. I'd called on Friday to make sure it was still there (and it was), but by the time we arrived on Saturday morning, it'd been sold. I was so disappointed. Not only did we hoof an hour and a half to get there, but it also decided to MONSOON all day! Thunder, hail, RIDICULOUS rainfall. So we came home, defeated and wet and resolved to try again another day. I'd given up-- maybe I didn't need a car.. maybe I should bike for life. But, I saw another opportunity on Craigslist this morning. I left a voicemail at the number listed and refused to get excited about it. The guy actually called back about an hour later and said he'd go in to the office today (apparently they're closed on Sundays). So we test drove a 1999 Rav4 and despite a funny sound that is apparently nothing (eek), it was great. Given-- it used to be a farm vehicle so there is a ridiculous amount of HAY under the seats... but it runs really well and the previous owner kept every receipt for any service it had done.. and it's good. So we went in to 'make a deal' and as I was sitting down the salesman says "So... a cute car for a cute girl..." Keep in mind that my dad has been with me the WHOLE time. I introduced him "this is my dad, Joe." I muttered something about liking the car for its space rather than its cute factor but that tipped the WEIRD scale beyond return. He later decided to voice his opinion about how marijuana should be legalized. Gotta love Eugene. Anyway, we negotiated... my dad and I used our secret code... and I came home with a car. !!! I am a car owner. AHHH. Yes-- I am significantly poorer than I was this morning.. but I'm excited. Now I need to get insurance... and I need to get this thing detailed or CLEANED a lot.. there's HAY for goodness sake!
It feels good to make some progress toward my future. Apartment and car were the two big things on my list.. then furniture. Ick. FURNITURE IS SO EXPENSIVE! But I have one hurdle cleared and am closing on the second one. Slowly but surely things are happening. =)
AND I got a quickpass membership to my home gym and I love it more and more every time I go!
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Finally
My final two weeks in Chicago felt like two more years. Ridiculous.
However, I made it back to the west (best) coast-- finally.
I'm staying with my parents until I find an apartment in Seattle. Tonight I'm going up to Portland-ish to stay with a friend from high school. Tomorrow morning circa 4am, I'll leave for the Emerald City. Thursday will be ridiculously busy and I'm sure stressful.
8:30: New Hire appointment at my new place of employment
10:00am: Apartment Viewing
11:00am: Apartment Viewing
1:00pm: Apartment Viewing
2:00pm: Apartment Viewing
3:00pm: Apartment Viewing
5:00pm: Apartment Viewing
8:15pm: Apartment Viewing
Phew! I'm exhausted thinking about it. I'm grateful for a friend from college who now lives in Seattle that will let me crash on her couch Thursday night. My main concern is getting from apartment to apartment in time. They're all fairly close to each other... but still, traffic and life will get undoubtedly play a role. I'm also disappointed because I don't have a buddy to come with me! Everyone is working or busy... apparently Thursdays are busy. Pshhh. I'm notorious for being indecisive... and then changing my mind once I do get around to making a decision. I want someone there that will be able to say "You're crazy" or "Hell no!" or just point out to me what I'm overlooking. I guess it's time to grow up. Yikes.
I am so excited to be home.
However, I made it back to the west (best) coast-- finally.
I'm staying with my parents until I find an apartment in Seattle. Tonight I'm going up to Portland-ish to stay with a friend from high school. Tomorrow morning circa 4am, I'll leave for the Emerald City. Thursday will be ridiculously busy and I'm sure stressful.
8:30: New Hire appointment at my new place of employment
10:00am: Apartment Viewing
11:00am: Apartment Viewing
1:00pm: Apartment Viewing
2:00pm: Apartment Viewing
3:00pm: Apartment Viewing
5:00pm: Apartment Viewing
8:15pm: Apartment Viewing
Phew! I'm exhausted thinking about it. I'm grateful for a friend from college who now lives in Seattle that will let me crash on her couch Thursday night. My main concern is getting from apartment to apartment in time. They're all fairly close to each other... but still, traffic and life will get undoubtedly play a role. I'm also disappointed because I don't have a buddy to come with me! Everyone is working or busy... apparently Thursdays are busy. Pshhh. I'm notorious for being indecisive... and then changing my mind once I do get around to making a decision. I want someone there that will be able to say "You're crazy" or "Hell no!" or just point out to me what I'm overlooking. I guess it's time to grow up. Yikes.
I am so excited to be home.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Torn
There are like twelve days until I say "Peace out, Chicago," and run enthusiastically back into the arms of the West Coast.
I'm torn.
One part of me is ready to go right NOW. Honestly-- I'm done packing (I'm living out of a suitcase), and all of my thoughts are on finding an apartment in Seattle. I can't do that until I'm there. So I want to go NOW. I want to see where I will be living and just start getting settled. I want to go to my place of work, hand in my paperwork and get my ID badge picture taken. I want to ride my bike there to gauge what time I'll have to leave before my shift. I want to find a GYM close by. I want to find the nearest cheap grocery store, the closest Costco, and the Starbucks. I want to figure out the public transportation system and get involved with something-- whether it be coaching soccer or doing something triathlon related. Menatlly, I am already in Seattle, but have to wait twelve more days before I can physically be back on the west/best coast.
The other part of me is realizing how much I like my job here. Given-- once it was publicized that I am leaving, some aspects have taken an ugly turn. Despite stupid scheduling and petty issues, I have come to feel a part of the community of my floor and workplace. I trust my colleagues and I think they're slowly starting to trust me. I know the phone numbers, I know who the attendings are and what residents are on what service. I have my favorite patients and finally know how to get to x-ray without getting lost (...it took awhile). In the past couple of months, things have started to gel a little bit, and now I'm leaving. Don't get me wrong-- each day is something new and for everything I know, there are at least four things I am still trying to wrap my head around. Recently I have seen that indeed I have been making progress and all the stress and anxiety over the year has not been in vain. I genuinely enjoy my job and feel very fortunate and blessed to be able to truthfully make that claim. And I am scared spitless to walk away from it.
As much as I bellyache about Chicago, I know it. Well-- I know how to survive in it for the most part. I know what roads are good to bike on and what roads will get you killed or worse-- doored. I know not to ride on the LakeShore trail during rush hour because it's worse than driving traffic. I have my three grocery stores within a two mile radius where I can get everything I need for a reasonable deal. I know how the El works and am increasingly confident in busses. I have people that I know here and while we may not be best of friends, I KNOW them and they know me. I can go back to North Park and see a handful of friends within seconds of stepping on campus. I am connected in the community and I like that. I have proven to myself that I can survive independently in a big and unknown city, and it was hard! As much as I am looking forward to avoid a six month winter, I am feeling slight twinges of nostalgia for the past five years I've been here.
So I can only hope. Hope that the inevitable stress and anxiety of starting new in Seattle will bear the same, if not better fruit. Hope that I don't mind the rain a lot and that Seattle won't have another freak winter. Hope that biking is the practical option everyone says it will be. Hope that I will be welcomed in my new workplace. Hope that the rotating position opens up in the promised amount of time. Hope that the increased rent doesn't suck me dry and extend my loan repayment period. Hope that I make new friends and grow a social life. Hope that I find a gym that is close to home and close to work, is open 24 hours, reasonably priced, and has a nice pool and good spinning classes. Hope that I find an apartment that fits me and my insane amount of boxes with free laundry. Hope that it works out with few and far between meltdowns.
Only time will tell, and these last twelve days will either fly by or drag on. We'll see!
I'm torn.
One part of me is ready to go right NOW. Honestly-- I'm done packing (I'm living out of a suitcase), and all of my thoughts are on finding an apartment in Seattle. I can't do that until I'm there. So I want to go NOW. I want to see where I will be living and just start getting settled. I want to go to my place of work, hand in my paperwork and get my ID badge picture taken. I want to ride my bike there to gauge what time I'll have to leave before my shift. I want to find a GYM close by. I want to find the nearest cheap grocery store, the closest Costco, and the Starbucks. I want to figure out the public transportation system and get involved with something-- whether it be coaching soccer or doing something triathlon related. Menatlly, I am already in Seattle, but have to wait twelve more days before I can physically be back on the west/best coast.
The other part of me is realizing how much I like my job here. Given-- once it was publicized that I am leaving, some aspects have taken an ugly turn. Despite stupid scheduling and petty issues, I have come to feel a part of the community of my floor and workplace. I trust my colleagues and I think they're slowly starting to trust me. I know the phone numbers, I know who the attendings are and what residents are on what service. I have my favorite patients and finally know how to get to x-ray without getting lost (...it took awhile). In the past couple of months, things have started to gel a little bit, and now I'm leaving. Don't get me wrong-- each day is something new and for everything I know, there are at least four things I am still trying to wrap my head around. Recently I have seen that indeed I have been making progress and all the stress and anxiety over the year has not been in vain. I genuinely enjoy my job and feel very fortunate and blessed to be able to truthfully make that claim. And I am scared spitless to walk away from it.
As much as I bellyache about Chicago, I know it. Well-- I know how to survive in it for the most part. I know what roads are good to bike on and what roads will get you killed or worse-- doored. I know not to ride on the LakeShore trail during rush hour because it's worse than driving traffic. I have my three grocery stores within a two mile radius where I can get everything I need for a reasonable deal. I know how the El works and am increasingly confident in busses. I have people that I know here and while we may not be best of friends, I KNOW them and they know me. I can go back to North Park and see a handful of friends within seconds of stepping on campus. I am connected in the community and I like that. I have proven to myself that I can survive independently in a big and unknown city, and it was hard! As much as I am looking forward to avoid a six month winter, I am feeling slight twinges of nostalgia for the past five years I've been here.
So I can only hope. Hope that the inevitable stress and anxiety of starting new in Seattle will bear the same, if not better fruit. Hope that I don't mind the rain a lot and that Seattle won't have another freak winter. Hope that biking is the practical option everyone says it will be. Hope that I will be welcomed in my new workplace. Hope that the rotating position opens up in the promised amount of time. Hope that the increased rent doesn't suck me dry and extend my loan repayment period. Hope that I make new friends and grow a social life. Hope that I find a gym that is close to home and close to work, is open 24 hours, reasonably priced, and has a nice pool and good spinning classes. Hope that I find an apartment that fits me and my insane amount of boxes with free laundry. Hope that it works out with few and far between meltdowns.
Only time will tell, and these last twelve days will either fly by or drag on. We'll see!
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
A+
Yesterday I booked the movers.
Last night I had a dream that they ripped me off.
It is one of my more sincere hopes that this place lives up to their A+ rating by the Better Business Bureau.
After I got off the phone with the very helpful moving-lady, I realized there are only twelve days before movers show up at my front door. So I made significant packing progress. Still nowhere near done, but much farther along.
I only have six more days of work left. That's craaazy.
Last night I had a dream that they ripped me off.
It is one of my more sincere hopes that this place lives up to their A+ rating by the Better Business Bureau.
After I got off the phone with the very helpful moving-lady, I realized there are only twelve days before movers show up at my front door. So I made significant packing progress. Still nowhere near done, but much farther along.
I only have six more days of work left. That's craaazy.
Friday, October 16, 2009
brr
I am SO COLD.
The warmth wouldn't hang around for me. It's been cold and rainy for the past week or so. I can't help but think "this is what I'm moving TO?!" but then I remember that it will stay like this instead of dropping to ungodly low temperature and snow will be rare. It better be, anyways.
My last day of work theoretically is November 1st. They put me on the next three weekends in a row, and 'asked' me to work nights the 31st and the 1st. I'm a little (a lot) irritated by this and trying to get that worked out.
I have set up a storage place in Seattle. I will have movers take my stuff there, and then when I find an apartment my beloved family will help me move in.
I've been sucked into perusing Craigs List for apartments. I've found a couple that I really like and have set up viewings. I am still paralyzed by the rent, though. It's disgusting.
All this time trying to figure out the logistics of this moving shenanigan has left me little time/motivation to workout. This is bad. I need to get moooving again.
SO COLD!
The warmth wouldn't hang around for me. It's been cold and rainy for the past week or so. I can't help but think "this is what I'm moving TO?!" but then I remember that it will stay like this instead of dropping to ungodly low temperature and snow will be rare. It better be, anyways.
My last day of work theoretically is November 1st. They put me on the next three weekends in a row, and 'asked' me to work nights the 31st and the 1st. I'm a little (a lot) irritated by this and trying to get that worked out.
I have set up a storage place in Seattle. I will have movers take my stuff there, and then when I find an apartment my beloved family will help me move in.
I've been sucked into perusing Craigs List for apartments. I've found a couple that I really like and have set up viewings. I am still paralyzed by the rent, though. It's disgusting.
All this time trying to figure out the logistics of this moving shenanigan has left me little time/motivation to workout. This is bad. I need to get moooving again.
SO COLD!
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
One Way
Yesterday I bought my first one way plane ticket. I will fly back to Oregon November 3rd. My final few days in Chicago look like they'll be a little bit INSANE:
October 31st: work all day
November 1st: work all day (this will get me benefits through all of November)
November 2nd: movers
November 3rd: flight home at 8:30am.
I am so excited for this to all happen. Truthfully, I wish I could fast forward through all the stressful logistical stuff, but know I can't so whatever. I am holding on (desperately) to the fact that it will be worth it when all is said and done. To be closer to my family and out of this subzero climate will be so fantastic.
I'm still focusing on packing which is a much lower process than I'd like it to be... and I'm trying to find movers that won't screw me over. I hope to go up to Seattle on the 4th or 5th to start apartment hunting in order to give said movers a destination sooner than later. I'll probably end up having them move everything into storage then end up recruiting my beloved family to help me actually move into an apartment.
It is all very exciting. And very expensive. Let's not talk about that part, it gives me heart palpitations.
October 31st: work all day
November 1st: work all day (this will get me benefits through all of November)
November 2nd: movers
November 3rd: flight home at 8:30am.
I am so excited for this to all happen. Truthfully, I wish I could fast forward through all the stressful logistical stuff, but know I can't so whatever. I am holding on (desperately) to the fact that it will be worth it when all is said and done. To be closer to my family and out of this subzero climate will be so fantastic.
I'm still focusing on packing which is a much lower process than I'd like it to be... and I'm trying to find movers that won't screw me over. I hope to go up to Seattle on the 4th or 5th to start apartment hunting in order to give said movers a destination sooner than later. I'll probably end up having them move everything into storage then end up recruiting my beloved family to help me actually move into an apartment.
It is all very exciting. And very expensive. Let's not talk about that part, it gives me heart palpitations.
Sunday, October 11, 2009
LIMBO NO MORE
I received a call a few days ago from my future boss asking if I was still interested in the job I interviewed for in SEATTLE. I said "YES. VERY MUCH." (trying-- and failing miserably-- to not sound overly desperate).
On November 30th I will start working at Seattle Children's Hospital on the 4th floor Surgical Unit. I cannot even begin to tell you how elated I am and I swear I was grinning for three straight days-- ear to ear.
Needless to say there is a LOT to be done. To be very honest I am ridiculously overwhelmed by the ginormity of my to-do list. The fact that this cross country move is going to cost so much is the real clincher. In order for my new work place to provide relocation assistance, one has to have two years of experience, and I have just over one year. This is very upsetting, but I'm trying to not let it ruin my sheer joy. However, moving will take a major chunk out of my 'life savings' and, I'm probably going to be getting a car once I get back to Oregon (to avoid sales tax). Those two things, combined with trying to furnish a new apartment (I currently only own bedroom stuff) in a city where it looks like rent will be about $200 more a month than I'm paying now, and don't forget that one's savings should be enough to sustain them for six months of living without any income (thank you Suze Orman).... my frugal nature is absolutely being threatened to the max. And it is making me nutty... and rather beyotchy.
But I'm moving to Seattle and I cannot WAIT.
On November 30th I will start working at Seattle Children's Hospital on the 4th floor Surgical Unit. I cannot even begin to tell you how elated I am and I swear I was grinning for three straight days-- ear to ear.
Needless to say there is a LOT to be done. To be very honest I am ridiculously overwhelmed by the ginormity of my to-do list. The fact that this cross country move is going to cost so much is the real clincher. In order for my new work place to provide relocation assistance, one has to have two years of experience, and I have just over one year. This is very upsetting, but I'm trying to not let it ruin my sheer joy. However, moving will take a major chunk out of my 'life savings' and, I'm probably going to be getting a car once I get back to Oregon (to avoid sales tax). Those two things, combined with trying to furnish a new apartment (I currently only own bedroom stuff) in a city where it looks like rent will be about $200 more a month than I'm paying now, and don't forget that one's savings should be enough to sustain them for six months of living without any income (thank you Suze Orman).... my frugal nature is absolutely being threatened to the max. And it is making me nutty... and rather beyotchy.
But I'm moving to Seattle and I cannot WAIT.
Monday, October 5, 2009
Limboooo
I have never been fond of limbo. If it were a limbo where I knew what the next phase would be and exactly when and where it would start, I could embrace that limbo. But this limbo is far less detailed than I can appreciate.
In 26 days I have to be moved out. Where am I going? GREAT QUESTION. Everything depends on one decision that is taking its sweet sweet time being made. It is near impossible to secure a plan B for if my ideal situation doesn't pan out. I don't want to get a new apartment because I don't want to sign a one year lease. Month to month leases are few and far between, especially when winter is approaching. No landlord wants to try and rent out his/her place when it's bitter cold and snowing. If there is a month to month it is uber sketch and more of a last-resort to take to avoid under-bridge dwelling. So I am slightly stressed out about the whole 'where will I be living in four weeks from now' debaucle.
I am currently trying to focus on purging my life of unnecessary THINGS. Clothes and shoes especially. It can't be normal to have THREE drawers in one dresser solely dedicated to t-shirts. I may have a problem. And, is it bad that I want to keep my planners from (gulp) even high school...? I love looking through them and remembering all the fun that was had... but they take up a lot of room. So does all of my school work/books from college... Am I really a pack-rat?!?! Aye carumba. I have had times where I've done a good job at just getting rid of things that I wasn't using regularly.. and it seems like no matter what it is, a couple of days after it's disposal, I genuinely need whatever the thing was! Okay-- it's officially a problem.
"A couple of weeks" is SO vague. C'mon, I thought we were all type A! Give me a date, a time.. something objective to hold onto.
It is not surprising to me that I heard this whisper in my ear at work yesterday: "I heard a rumor... is it true?" I have come to genuinely enjoy my coworkers and will miss them if my ideal situation DOES work... but man, working with a majority of women (we have ONE male nurse on our floor.. out of.. a lot) makes it hard to keep anything on the down low. Makes me glad I had the discussion with my supervisor before I left. Shoot.
In any regard, I am experiencing chest pain. If this whole shenanigan gives me a heart attack I will be rather fed up. I don't think it's a myocardial infarction though.. I went to sleep with some wicked hiccups... maybe they're the culprit.
In 26 days I have to be moved out. Where am I going? GREAT QUESTION. Everything depends on one decision that is taking its sweet sweet time being made. It is near impossible to secure a plan B for if my ideal situation doesn't pan out. I don't want to get a new apartment because I don't want to sign a one year lease. Month to month leases are few and far between, especially when winter is approaching. No landlord wants to try and rent out his/her place when it's bitter cold and snowing. If there is a month to month it is uber sketch and more of a last-resort to take to avoid under-bridge dwelling. So I am slightly stressed out about the whole 'where will I be living in four weeks from now' debaucle.
I am currently trying to focus on purging my life of unnecessary THINGS. Clothes and shoes especially. It can't be normal to have THREE drawers in one dresser solely dedicated to t-shirts. I may have a problem. And, is it bad that I want to keep my planners from (gulp) even high school...? I love looking through them and remembering all the fun that was had... but they take up a lot of room. So does all of my school work/books from college... Am I really a pack-rat?!?! Aye carumba. I have had times where I've done a good job at just getting rid of things that I wasn't using regularly.. and it seems like no matter what it is, a couple of days after it's disposal, I genuinely need whatever the thing was! Okay-- it's officially a problem.
"A couple of weeks" is SO vague. C'mon, I thought we were all type A! Give me a date, a time.. something objective to hold onto.
It is not surprising to me that I heard this whisper in my ear at work yesterday: "I heard a rumor... is it true?" I have come to genuinely enjoy my coworkers and will miss them if my ideal situation DOES work... but man, working with a majority of women (we have ONE male nurse on our floor.. out of.. a lot) makes it hard to keep anything on the down low. Makes me glad I had the discussion with my supervisor before I left. Shoot.
In any regard, I am experiencing chest pain. If this whole shenanigan gives me a heart attack I will be rather fed up. I don't think it's a myocardial infarction though.. I went to sleep with some wicked hiccups... maybe they're the culprit.
Friday, October 2, 2009
Recap
Well, I'm back in Chicago and freezing! Apparently fall came stumbling in while I was gone, totally ruining my belief that the true 'Chicago summer' would come in September and October, since it never really showed up before then. So it's in the 50s and it's raining off and on. Brr. I had such an excellent trip home. To try and avoid a ridiculously long and wordy post, quick recap:
Saturday: arrived home
Sunday: recovered from lack of sleep
Monday: Hiking with Courtney (see previous post)
Tuesday: Beach with mom and grandma (see previous post)
Wednesday: lazy day!
Thursday: Hiking with dad to Marion Lake
Friday: lazy day!
Saturday: Hiking with Charissa and Stacey
Sunday Funday: Family gathering!
Monday: to Seattle!
Tuesday: begging for my future/ back to Oregon
Wednesday: Back to Chicago
PHEW! I got back to the windy city and trekked back to my apartment via the El. I finally walked in the door around 9:45pm. I putzed around for a little bit then hit the hay only to wake up well before dawn and go to work on Thursday morning. Waste no time, apparently. Work was okay yesterday. I did get an admission pretty late in the day which is always... exciting, but I made it home and have today to catch my breath before working the weekend. I'm not thrilled to be back in the city, and I am super impatient to learn whether or not I will get to relocate soon. In "a couple of weeks" I should know, but I WANT TO KNOW NOW. I have a one month grace period in my apartment. Technically our lease was up yesterday. My roommates will be staying, and someone is coming to take my spot on Wednesday. When I explained that my future isn't developing as quickly as I'd anticipated, they graciously agreed to let me stay through October. So I'd really like to know if I can anticipate a big move now in order to prepare with as little stress as possible (yea right). Oh well-- patience is a virtue... what a great opportunity to develop mine. Hmph.
Below find some more pictures of my super fantastic vacay to OREGON-- aka God's country.
We found another hiker to take our picture
Hiking with Charissa and Stacey-- we found waterfalls!
And of course had to walk through them!
Plane ride back... this is why I belong on the West Coast.
Saturday: arrived home
Sunday: recovered from lack of sleep
Monday: Hiking with Courtney (see previous post)
Tuesday: Beach with mom and grandma (see previous post)
Wednesday: lazy day!
Thursday: Hiking with dad to Marion Lake
Friday: lazy day!
Saturday: Hiking with Charissa and Stacey
Sunday Funday: Family gathering!
Monday: to Seattle!
Tuesday: begging for my future/ back to Oregon
Wednesday: Back to Chicago
PHEW! I got back to the windy city and trekked back to my apartment via the El. I finally walked in the door around 9:45pm. I putzed around for a little bit then hit the hay only to wake up well before dawn and go to work on Thursday morning. Waste no time, apparently. Work was okay yesterday. I did get an admission pretty late in the day which is always... exciting, but I made it home and have today to catch my breath before working the weekend. I'm not thrilled to be back in the city, and I am super impatient to learn whether or not I will get to relocate soon. In "a couple of weeks" I should know, but I WANT TO KNOW NOW. I have a one month grace period in my apartment. Technically our lease was up yesterday. My roommates will be staying, and someone is coming to take my spot on Wednesday. When I explained that my future isn't developing as quickly as I'd anticipated, they graciously agreed to let me stay through October. So I'd really like to know if I can anticipate a big move now in order to prepare with as little stress as possible (yea right). Oh well-- patience is a virtue... what a great opportunity to develop mine. Hmph.
Below find some more pictures of my super fantastic vacay to OREGON-- aka God's country.
Hiking with my dad-- Three Finger Jack in the view
My dad couldn't get enough of the "fall foliage"
We found another hiker to take our picture
Hiking with Charissa and Stacey-- we found waterfalls!And of course had to walk through them!
Despite the jolly nature of this group photo-- it was quite a death defying situation.
Super fun family gathering with an impromptu soccer game. I look forward to the rematch.
Plane ride back... this is why I belong on the West Coast. Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Oregon FUN
Oregon is ridiculously wonderful.
I got off work at 7:45ish Saturday morning. I went back to my apartment and did some last minute packing, then headed to Midway via the El. Oooh the El. I was fighting to stay awake during the two hour trek and miraculously made it. I had a layover in Kansas City (which, for the record, is the WORST airport ever), and finally arrived to Portland around 6pm (pacific time.. so 8pm Chicago time) Saturday evening. I was exhausted and starving, but so happy to be home. Since arriving I've been soaking up this great state as much as possible.
On Sunday I went running outside which was so nice but so terrible. Holy hills! My legs definitely felt the burn, but there's nothing like (slowly) approaching the peak of a hill and seeing the mountains and the entire amazing view. For a small fraction of a second you almost forget that you can't breathe and that every muscle in your body is screaming bloody murder. Monday I signed up for a week membership to the gym and have been LOVING it.
Also on Monday I went hiking with my good friend, Courtney. She knew of a place, Shellburg Falls, that is gorgeous and uncrowded. We saw some beautiful waterfalls that I had no idea existed, and then I had the brilliant idea that we should go off the trail to get to the top of a crazy huge and steep hill to see if there was 'anything exciting up there.' Hiking rule #1: don't go off the trail. We stupidly decided to go for it, and waded through masses blackberries, sticker bushes and the remnants of logging (..sticks) all on an incline that must have been 89ish degrees. Blood, sweat, and close tears resulted-- but we made it to the top. The excitement that met us was a RIDICULOUSLY GORGEOUS view of the mountains. We could even see the coastal range! After we made it to the top we concluded that there was no way we'd go back down the same route, so we searched for something else. There wasn't a lot, but we went through some forest and tried to avoid the blackberries. I still have several thorns stuck in my hands. It was a lot of
fun to be outside in such gorgeous weather and to hang out with a good friend!
One of the small rivers leading to a waterfall
Behind a Silver-Creek-Falls-esque waterfall
My bright idea
At the top-- barely!
A sad attempt to capture the view-- this pic doesn't do justice
I will never get tired of the Oregon Beach!
I got off work at 7:45ish Saturday morning. I went back to my apartment and did some last minute packing, then headed to Midway via the El. Oooh the El. I was fighting to stay awake during the two hour trek and miraculously made it. I had a layover in Kansas City (which, for the record, is the WORST airport ever), and finally arrived to Portland around 6pm (pacific time.. so 8pm Chicago time) Saturday evening. I was exhausted and starving, but so happy to be home. Since arriving I've been soaking up this great state as much as possible.
On Sunday I went running outside which was so nice but so terrible. Holy hills! My legs definitely felt the burn, but there's nothing like (slowly) approaching the peak of a hill and seeing the mountains and the entire amazing view. For a small fraction of a second you almost forget that you can't breathe and that every muscle in your body is screaming bloody murder. Monday I signed up for a week membership to the gym and have been LOVING it.
Also on Monday I went hiking with my good friend, Courtney. She knew of a place, Shellburg Falls, that is gorgeous and uncrowded. We saw some beautiful waterfalls that I had no idea existed, and then I had the brilliant idea that we should go off the trail to get to the top of a crazy huge and steep hill to see if there was 'anything exciting up there.' Hiking rule #1: don't go off the trail. We stupidly decided to go for it, and waded through masses blackberries, sticker bushes and the remnants of logging (..sticks) all on an incline that must have been 89ish degrees. Blood, sweat, and close tears resulted-- but we made it to the top. The excitement that met us was a RIDICULOUSLY GORGEOUS view of the mountains. We could even see the coastal range! After we made it to the top we concluded that there was no way we'd go back down the same route, so we searched for something else. There wasn't a lot, but we went through some forest and tried to avoid the blackberries. I still have several thorns stuck in my hands. It was a lot of
fun to be outside in such gorgeous weather and to hang out with a good friend!
One of the small rivers leading to a waterfall Behind a Silver-Creek-Falls-esque waterfall My bright idea At the top-- barely! A sad attempt to capture the view-- this pic doesn't do justiceYesterday (Tuesday), I went to the beach with my mom and grandma. Those two can sure
cause trouble. Not really, but we all have some imp to our nature. I love the ocean a LOT and it was roaring and awesome. The weather at the beach was really unusual-- warm and sunny! I'm accustomed to bringing a hoodie and sweatpants to the beach, no matter what the season. I couldn't have asked for better weather or better company. It was a fun way to spend the day.
I will never get tired of the Oregon Beach!This 'walking stick' may have turned into a weapon.. more than once.
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
homebound
I'm going home on Saturday and I can't waaait. Hopefully some exciting things will go down in regards to my future-- but that seems to be quite the roller coaster, so I refuse to hold my breath. However any plans made for the home front are rather dependent on potential future excitement... so I just want to know, people! If I have my way I will definitely hit the beach and go hiking-- I seriously miss naaature.
Needless to say I have quite a few things to achieve before I leave. This is complicated by the fact that I work Thursday night and Friday night and will probably head straight from work to the airport. I booked my ticket completely aware of my work schedule, so I m not complaining, just stating the situation. So tonight my goal is to fold all my laundry (there's a lot of it, folks) and get it put away so that packing will be a breeze (pah!). I'll probably end up packing tomorrow.. since when I get home Friday morning (from work Thursday night) I will be useless and to drag myself out of bed early on Friday afternoon is not a safe bet.
Regardless of how frantic the preparation might get, I am so excited to go home. It has been far too long. While I've enjoyed summer (ish) in the city, I can't help but feel smothered here and can't wait to take a deep breath of fresh air.
Another perk: I took ten days of vacation time during my night shift rotation. Muahahaha! AND I got switched back to days for October (I was supposed to be on nights September and October), so really I only have two night shifts left! Praise the Lord! Miracles happen!!!
Needless to say I have quite a few things to achieve before I leave. This is complicated by the fact that I work Thursday night and Friday night and will probably head straight from work to the airport. I booked my ticket completely aware of my work schedule, so I m not complaining, just stating the situation. So tonight my goal is to fold all my laundry (there's a lot of it, folks) and get it put away so that packing will be a breeze (pah!). I'll probably end up packing tomorrow.. since when I get home Friday morning (from work Thursday night) I will be useless and to drag myself out of bed early on Friday afternoon is not a safe bet.
Regardless of how frantic the preparation might get, I am so excited to go home. It has been far too long. While I've enjoyed summer (ish) in the city, I can't help but feel smothered here and can't wait to take a deep breath of fresh air.
Another perk: I took ten days of vacation time during my night shift rotation. Muahahaha! AND I got switched back to days for October (I was supposed to be on nights September and October), so really I only have two night shifts left! Praise the Lord! Miracles happen!!!
Monday, September 14, 2009
I can't move
Today is a very sore day. I cannot move. I was worthless while coaching. I feel like a rusty tin-woman... Squeaking and creaking along. Owwie.
Side note: When biking, if you hear "On your left!" that is code for "move over, clown!" I am so sick of people who ignorantly ride their bikes in the middle of the very crowded bike path! Who do they think they are?! The bike path is very dangerous-- more dangerous than the road in my opinion, and it irritates me when some herb just farts along at a sickly slow pace right in the middle. Honestly-- you should need a license to ride on paths. Equally as annoying is when people ride side by side. I understand sometimes you go on a bike ride with that special someone and want to talk during it. Fine, but when you hear "On your left!" MOVE OVER. For three seconds go back to single file biking, let the person pass, then continue whispering sweet nothings as you ride. C'mon people!
Side note: When biking, if you hear "On your left!" that is code for "move over, clown!" I am so sick of people who ignorantly ride their bikes in the middle of the very crowded bike path! Who do they think they are?! The bike path is very dangerous-- more dangerous than the road in my opinion, and it irritates me when some herb just farts along at a sickly slow pace right in the middle. Honestly-- you should need a license to ride on paths. Equally as annoying is when people ride side by side. I understand sometimes you go on a bike ride with that special someone and want to talk during it. Fine, but when you hear "On your left!" MOVE OVER. For three seconds go back to single file biking, let the person pass, then continue whispering sweet nothings as you ride. C'mon people!
Sunday, September 13, 2009
Lesson Learned?
Well I sure as hell hope so.
Today was the Chicago Half Marathon that I whimsically signed up for because I had a coupon. Despite the fact I registered several months in advance, I did not train for this. Sure I would workout here and there to try to prepare for the triathlon, but up until two weeks ago, these 13.1 miles were the last thing on my mind, and unfortunately it would take far more than two weeks to prepare me for this race.
This was my 4th half marathon. For the first two, I trained fairly appropriately (gradually increasing mileage to slowly build, etc). The third one is what broke my foot. One might think that would have been enough to teach me about proper preparation, but apparently not. Even with #3, I trained a little bit. This time-- nothin. Last Sunday I considered trying to run 13 miles to make sure I could-- but then remembered that's the course I took with #3 and decided against it. So the week preceding today, I ran more frequently and quickly than I have in one week in quite awhile-- it was actually nice. I couldn't get past the fact, though, that the mileage I was logging was not even CLOSE to the distance of the pending race.
The night before I prayed for food poisoning, temporary shut down of public transportation (that would prevent me from getting to the location of the race), any small containable disaster that would be a legit reason for me to sit this one out. Because lack of training is surely NOT a legit excuse. However, my prayers were denied so this morning I ventured down to the very south side of the city not knowing what to expect. I've never showed up at a race so unprepared. It wouldn't have been far fetched for me to not finish. Disappointing and mortifying? Yes. Very possible? Yes. My nerves atwitter I lined up at the start line.
Well it really was a good race: well organized, properly supplied with fluids, really nice weather (warm and humid-- but that's appropriate in this region this time of year.. can't complain)... So that makes me kick myself more for not preparing myself for 13 miles! My, how I would have enjoyed it if I was in shape! However-- painfully out of shape better describes my state of being therefore it was terrrrrrrriiiibblllllee.
I coached soccer late Saturday afternoon and got to play in their scrimmage because we were short on numbers. Whenever I play soccer my knees hurt a lot. Ridiculously a lot, even if it's with high school girls who have a thing or two to learn about the game. In the first mile of my epic journey this morning my knees (the right one in particular) made it known that it was NOT ready to embrace activity yet. Too bad, goose. So by mile two I was limping along at an overly leisurely pace. Each mile was marked very clearly with a clock that I was grateful for. I made sure I was going at least a 9 minute mile and I was shocked that it lasted until Mile 12 (shoot, I was shocked that I lasted until Mile 12). I skipped the water stops until Mile 5-- I had no time to waste. But then I got really thirsty and my calves were threatening cramping which is not conducive to good things. So from then on I paused at each fluid station and awkwardly drank Gatorade whilst running. This just means that Gatorade ended up all over my face and shirt and if I was lucky some got in my mouth. If I didn't swallow Gatorade, I sure swallowed air and belched my way to the next fluid station. I pity the runners around me. At Mile 11 I was sooo hot! It was only high 70s but the humidity was high and the sun was beating down on us as we pounded down Lakeshore Drive. So I decided to skip Gatorade and use a cup of water to pour on my head. I got wetter than I anticipated but it was refreshing nonetheless. I sloshed along grimacing the whole way. My knee was killing me. I was soaking wet-- both with sweat and water. My shirt was causing some chafing in my right armpit and it was (and still is) rather uncomfortable. The 12th miles always sucks. So close, but SO FAR! The sides of the course were well lined with supporters. Generally I like cheer-ers because they provide a good distraction. Today I was annoyed that SO many people were bearing witness to my worst showing ever at an athletic event. Even worse-- each runner had their name printed on their race numbers. So the cheering crowd wasn't saying "Woo! Go! Yea!" they were saying "Go KRISTIN!" Given-- in any other situation I welcome cheering! But today I didn't want to be seen much less identified.
After what seemed like eternity, I finally finished and just wanted to pass out. I was so exhausted. I was really taken aback that I actually finished. I had every reason to quit and secretly expected myself to drop out. Even during the race I thought 'maybe I will just faint right now.' But by the grace of God Almighty I chugged along to the end. Bewildering. My time is not worthy of posting, but I will find some solace in the fact that I finished.
I made the hour and a half trek home: one bus and two trains. Ridiculous. On the bus I was half passed out and staring off into oblivion and some peppy girl (PG) in spandex decided to start up a convo:
PG: HOW WAS YOUR RACE?!
Me: It was okay.
PG: Why so glum?
Me: (confusion related pause) I'm not glum, I'm tired.
PG: Oh. You're upset about the race?
Me: Well.. yea I didn't train, but I'm genuinely TIRED.
PG: Oh, so this was your first half marathon?
Me: No, 4th.
PG: OOOOoooohh. Well what was your time?
Me: Just under (enter my approximate time here)
PG: But what was it exactly
Me: ...I don't know.
PG: But there was a Results tent you could look it up at.
Me: I know-- I didn't want to wait in line.
PG: (confusion related pause) Oh. Well I did really great and I'm not even a runner I just started running ten months ago and I did sooo well and I'm just so happy because I did so great and it was my first half marathon and I did awesome!
Me: ..Congratulations. (believe it or not the first congratulations was genuine)
PG: ON AND ON ABOUT HOW AWESOME SHE IS
Me: Good Job... congratulations... awesome... well done. EXIT BUS.
It was SUCH an odd encounter. While it is ridiculously exciting to do well, I have never seen someone so spirited about tooting her own horn! That's a lie, I know some pretty cocky people, but this clown caught me off guard.
Anyways, I'm home and I feel sick. There's something GI related going on and my legs are pretty useless.
Next time I threaten to not train, remind me of this shenanigan (except you, mom and dad).
Today was the Chicago Half Marathon that I whimsically signed up for because I had a coupon. Despite the fact I registered several months in advance, I did not train for this. Sure I would workout here and there to try to prepare for the triathlon, but up until two weeks ago, these 13.1 miles were the last thing on my mind, and unfortunately it would take far more than two weeks to prepare me for this race.
This was my 4th half marathon. For the first two, I trained fairly appropriately (gradually increasing mileage to slowly build, etc). The third one is what broke my foot. One might think that would have been enough to teach me about proper preparation, but apparently not. Even with #3, I trained a little bit. This time-- nothin. Last Sunday I considered trying to run 13 miles to make sure I could-- but then remembered that's the course I took with #3 and decided against it. So the week preceding today, I ran more frequently and quickly than I have in one week in quite awhile-- it was actually nice. I couldn't get past the fact, though, that the mileage I was logging was not even CLOSE to the distance of the pending race.
The night before I prayed for food poisoning, temporary shut down of public transportation (that would prevent me from getting to the location of the race), any small containable disaster that would be a legit reason for me to sit this one out. Because lack of training is surely NOT a legit excuse. However, my prayers were denied so this morning I ventured down to the very south side of the city not knowing what to expect. I've never showed up at a race so unprepared. It wouldn't have been far fetched for me to not finish. Disappointing and mortifying? Yes. Very possible? Yes. My nerves atwitter I lined up at the start line.
Well it really was a good race: well organized, properly supplied with fluids, really nice weather (warm and humid-- but that's appropriate in this region this time of year.. can't complain)... So that makes me kick myself more for not preparing myself for 13 miles! My, how I would have enjoyed it if I was in shape! However-- painfully out of shape better describes my state of being therefore it was terrrrrrrriiiibblllllee.
I coached soccer late Saturday afternoon and got to play in their scrimmage because we were short on numbers. Whenever I play soccer my knees hurt a lot. Ridiculously a lot, even if it's with high school girls who have a thing or two to learn about the game. In the first mile of my epic journey this morning my knees (the right one in particular) made it known that it was NOT ready to embrace activity yet. Too bad, goose. So by mile two I was limping along at an overly leisurely pace. Each mile was marked very clearly with a clock that I was grateful for. I made sure I was going at least a 9 minute mile and I was shocked that it lasted until Mile 12 (shoot, I was shocked that I lasted until Mile 12). I skipped the water stops until Mile 5-- I had no time to waste. But then I got really thirsty and my calves were threatening cramping which is not conducive to good things. So from then on I paused at each fluid station and awkwardly drank Gatorade whilst running. This just means that Gatorade ended up all over my face and shirt and if I was lucky some got in my mouth. If I didn't swallow Gatorade, I sure swallowed air and belched my way to the next fluid station. I pity the runners around me. At Mile 11 I was sooo hot! It was only high 70s but the humidity was high and the sun was beating down on us as we pounded down Lakeshore Drive. So I decided to skip Gatorade and use a cup of water to pour on my head. I got wetter than I anticipated but it was refreshing nonetheless. I sloshed along grimacing the whole way. My knee was killing me. I was soaking wet-- both with sweat and water. My shirt was causing some chafing in my right armpit and it was (and still is) rather uncomfortable. The 12th miles always sucks. So close, but SO FAR! The sides of the course were well lined with supporters. Generally I like cheer-ers because they provide a good distraction. Today I was annoyed that SO many people were bearing witness to my worst showing ever at an athletic event. Even worse-- each runner had their name printed on their race numbers. So the cheering crowd wasn't saying "Woo! Go! Yea!" they were saying "Go KRISTIN!" Given-- in any other situation I welcome cheering! But today I didn't want to be seen much less identified.
After what seemed like eternity, I finally finished and just wanted to pass out. I was so exhausted. I was really taken aback that I actually finished. I had every reason to quit and secretly expected myself to drop out. Even during the race I thought 'maybe I will just faint right now.' But by the grace of God Almighty I chugged along to the end. Bewildering. My time is not worthy of posting, but I will find some solace in the fact that I finished.
I made the hour and a half trek home: one bus and two trains. Ridiculous. On the bus I was half passed out and staring off into oblivion and some peppy girl (PG) in spandex decided to start up a convo:
PG: HOW WAS YOUR RACE?!
Me: It was okay.
PG: Why so glum?
Me: (confusion related pause) I'm not glum, I'm tired.
PG: Oh. You're upset about the race?
Me: Well.. yea I didn't train, but I'm genuinely TIRED.
PG: Oh, so this was your first half marathon?
Me: No, 4th.
PG: OOOOoooohh. Well what was your time?
Me: Just under (enter my approximate time here)
PG: But what was it exactly
Me: ...I don't know.
PG: But there was a Results tent you could look it up at.
Me: I know-- I didn't want to wait in line.
PG: (confusion related pause) Oh. Well I did really great and I'm not even a runner I just started running ten months ago and I did sooo well and I'm just so happy because I did so great and it was my first half marathon and I did awesome!
Me: ..Congratulations. (believe it or not the first congratulations was genuine)
PG: ON AND ON ABOUT HOW AWESOME SHE IS
Me: Good Job... congratulations... awesome... well done. EXIT BUS.
It was SUCH an odd encounter. While it is ridiculously exciting to do well, I have never seen someone so spirited about tooting her own horn! That's a lie, I know some pretty cocky people, but this clown caught me off guard.
Anyways, I'm home and I feel sick. There's something GI related going on and my legs are pretty useless.
Next time I threaten to not train, remind me of this shenanigan (except you, mom and dad).
*photo courtesy of someone's facebook album
Friday, September 4, 2009
..oh yea..
Truthfully, I didn't forget. The first thing I consciously thought of as I crossed the finish line at last week's triathlon was 'Now on to the half marathon...' However, after a leisurely swim on Monday and starting the night shift (I could-- and might-- go into how terrible this is) on Tuesday, I haven't had a lot of time (or desire) to focus on the approaching race.
I have mixed feelings:
-It's a race-- a competition-- so of course I want to do well.
-It's a running race, so I won't do well.
-There's really nothing I can do at this point (nine days away) to make my chances any better
-...etc.
Ugh who knows. A couple of days ago, I received an informational email about the race. Towards the very end, the race regulations were listed. I stumbled upon this one and started flipping out:
RACE REGULATIONS
Participants will:
� not be allowed to wear headphones.
NO WAY! I can understand this for a triathlon-- swimming with headphones-- not good. Biking with headphones-- not safe. But running with headphones?! COME ON PEOPLE. Admittedly, I'd been warned that this anti headphone movement was coming. Last year at a Team in Training seminar (Triathlon 101) I learned about the no headphones rule for triathlons, and it was mentioned that running races were moving this way, too. I thought 'Psh, that's bogus!' and thought little of it. But apparently it's true. I have a genuine appreciation for rules as they create structure and safety. But honestly, I am planning on breaking this one because if I have ANY chance of finishing this race, headphones will be as necessary as shoes.
An article recently found its way to my inbox that addressed how to be faster (running and biking). "Offseason Intervention: Train Fast to Race Fast" profoundly stated in order to race faster you have to train faster. ..duh. If only it were that simple. Regardless of its '2+2=4' logic, it was interesting and explained physiology behind its concepts which I really appreciate.
..as promised: I hate the night shift SO stinkin' much I can't even handle it! I may have been quite the Pouty-Polly my first night back (Tuesday). I was greeted on Wednesday night by the scheduling-lady saying "You're off nights for October." She says I was 'next on the list' but I am quite curious if my less than awesome attitude played a role in this decision. I hate it when bad attitudes get the Negative Nancies of the world what they want, but this time I will be insanely grateful. Whether it was my crankiness or not-- I am so glad to only have to do this night shift charade for one month instead of two.
I have mixed feelings:
-It's a race-- a competition-- so of course I want to do well.
-It's a running race, so I won't do well.
-There's really nothing I can do at this point (nine days away) to make my chances any better
-...etc.
Ugh who knows. A couple of days ago, I received an informational email about the race. Towards the very end, the race regulations were listed. I stumbled upon this one and started flipping out:
RACE REGULATIONS
Participants will:
� not be allowed to wear headphones.
NO WAY! I can understand this for a triathlon-- swimming with headphones-- not good. Biking with headphones-- not safe. But running with headphones?! COME ON PEOPLE. Admittedly, I'd been warned that this anti headphone movement was coming. Last year at a Team in Training seminar (Triathlon 101) I learned about the no headphones rule for triathlons, and it was mentioned that running races were moving this way, too. I thought 'Psh, that's bogus!' and thought little of it. But apparently it's true. I have a genuine appreciation for rules as they create structure and safety. But honestly, I am planning on breaking this one because if I have ANY chance of finishing this race, headphones will be as necessary as shoes.
An article recently found its way to my inbox that addressed how to be faster (running and biking). "Offseason Intervention: Train Fast to Race Fast" profoundly stated in order to race faster you have to train faster. ..duh. If only it were that simple. Regardless of its '2+2=4' logic, it was interesting and explained physiology behind its concepts which I really appreciate.
..as promised: I hate the night shift SO stinkin' much I can't even handle it! I may have been quite the Pouty-Polly my first night back (Tuesday). I was greeted on Wednesday night by the scheduling-lady saying "You're off nights for October." She says I was 'next on the list' but I am quite curious if my less than awesome attitude played a role in this decision. I hate it when bad attitudes get the Negative Nancies of the world what they want, but this time I will be insanely grateful. Whether it was my crankiness or not-- I am so glad to only have to do this night shift charade for one month instead of two.
Monday, August 31, 2009
Chi Tri '09
Packet Pick Up:
Uneventful which is refreshing. My friend gave me a ride which was much appreciated-- taking the El becomes quite the hike. Got my packet, (lame) t-shirt, purple swim cap (second purple one-- not my fav), allowed a stranger to take a FAT permanent marker to all of my limbs, vomited at the course talk, perused the expo, took advantage of a sale and left. Nothing too terrible.
Preparation:
I recently got a 'bike
computer' because it was on clearance for $10 which is a steal compared to the ones that go for hundreds of dollars elsewhere. Since the reviews of this device were pretty positive, I decided to get it. Of course I waited until the night before the race to install it which was much more difficult than I anticipated. When I was in third grade math I never thought I'd actually NEED to remember the equation for how to determine the circumference of a circle. Lo and behold the wheel circumference has to be programmed into this thing in order for it to be accurate. After measuring eight THOUSAND times and submitting to the fact that I don't know how to use a tape measure much less a mathematical equation, I decided to trust my gut (and my dad) and go with 27. Got it programmed and set up, only to realize I attached to computer 'mount' upside down. I need to get new zip ties before I can turn it right side up. So I definitely raced with it upside down. 16mph... 91mph... same thing. HA. What a doof. The rest of packing was uneventful aside from the large ulcer that continued to grow. I went to bed at 7:30 and fell asleep around 11:30. Ridiculous.
Race Morning:
Woke up at 2am with little effort due to extreme anxiety. After a breakfast of champion
s (oatmeal!) did some last minute packing and panicking and headed out. My friend and I planned to meet at the Lakeshore trail and bike down to avoid major parking fees and mayhem. On our way, we couldn't help but notice the lake-- it was rampant and DEFINITLY resembled The Perfect Storm. I know I have a habit for being dramatic, but this is very factual. I tried to look up some hard proof but failed. The WAVES were splashing all the way up on to the shore-- I have NEVER seen that happen. Not like 'oh, some mist dampened the path' but more along the lines of 'HOLY BUCKETS that wave just swallowed that pedestrian!' Fortunately it was still of the 3am hour so no pedestrians were ingested by the rage of Lake Michigan, but I was VERY nervous to continue on the path and resorted to biking like crazy to get to transition. We barely made it. I was half expecting to see signs: "RACE CANCELLED DUE TO TSUNAMI LIKE CONDITIONS" but all I saw was masses of people flooding into the mini-city of transition. I was certain death was a very real possibility.
I got my spot set up, furrowed my brow at some crazy people, vomited at the professional people, walked the in's and out's then got the heck out of there. I didn't even pause to snap a photo-- too many people!!
Then the wait. I was in wave 29 of 57. The first wave left at 6am then every 4 minutes after that, meaning I took off at 8:08. Two hours to let my anxiety fester. My friend's wave (50/57) didn't leave until 9:30ish so I will consider myself lucky in comparison. The weather was slightly ridiculous. I was FREEZING! The water was 64 degrees-- not warm, but warmer than the 58 at the Worst-Triathlon-Ever back in July. The air temperature was in the upper 50s. Gaaaah! I wore my swimsuit, triathlon shorts, my really flattering triathlon top, under armor (which I had to UNPACK from a box!!!), and a coat. I brought sweatpants anticipating a chill or two, not hypothermia. Honestly, the cold was the worst part of the wait. At 6:55 I planned to go to the porta potty, remebering the heinously long lines last year. By the time I got back to the swim start at 7:30, it was time to line up! AHHHHHH.
Uneventful which is refreshing. My friend gave me a ride which was much appreciated-- taking the El becomes quite the hike. Got my packet, (lame) t-shirt, purple swim cap (second purple one-- not my fav), allowed a stranger to take a FAT permanent marker to all of my limbs, vomited at the course talk, perused the expo, took advantage of a sale and left. Nothing too terrible.
Preparation:
I recently got a 'bike
computer' because it was on clearance for $10 which is a steal compared to the ones that go for hundreds of dollars elsewhere. Since the reviews of this device were pretty positive, I decided to get it. Of course I waited until the night before the race to install it which was much more difficult than I anticipated. When I was in third grade math I never thought I'd actually NEED to remember the equation for how to determine the circumference of a circle. Lo and behold the wheel circumference has to be programmed into this thing in order for it to be accurate. After measuring eight THOUSAND times and submitting to the fact that I don't know how to use a tape measure much less a mathematical equation, I decided to trust my gut (and my dad) and go with 27. Got it programmed and set up, only to realize I attached to computer 'mount' upside down. I need to get new zip ties before I can turn it right side up. So I definitely raced with it upside down. 16mph... 91mph... same thing. HA. What a doof. The rest of packing was uneventful aside from the large ulcer that continued to grow. I went to bed at 7:30 and fell asleep around 11:30. Ridiculous.Race Morning:
Woke up at 2am with little effort due to extreme anxiety. After a breakfast of champion
s (oatmeal!) did some last minute packing and panicking and headed out. My friend and I planned to meet at the Lakeshore trail and bike down to avoid major parking fees and mayhem. On our way, we couldn't help but notice the lake-- it was rampant and DEFINITLY resembled The Perfect Storm. I know I have a habit for being dramatic, but this is very factual. I tried to look up some hard proof but failed. The WAVES were splashing all the way up on to the shore-- I have NEVER seen that happen. Not like 'oh, some mist dampened the path' but more along the lines of 'HOLY BUCKETS that wave just swallowed that pedestrian!' Fortunately it was still of the 3am hour so no pedestrians were ingested by the rage of Lake Michigan, but I was VERY nervous to continue on the path and resorted to biking like crazy to get to transition. We barely made it. I was half expecting to see signs: "RACE CANCELLED DUE TO TSUNAMI LIKE CONDITIONS" but all I saw was masses of people flooding into the mini-city of transition. I was certain death was a very real possibility.I got my spot set up, furrowed my brow at some crazy people, vomited at the professional people, walked the in's and out's then got the heck out of there. I didn't even pause to snap a photo-- too many people!!
Then the wait. I was in wave 29 of 57. The first wave left at 6am then every 4 minutes after that, meaning I took off at 8:08. Two hours to let my anxiety fester. My friend's wave (50/57) didn't leave until 9:30ish so I will consider myself lucky in comparison. The weather was slightly ridiculous. I was FREEZING! The water was 64 degrees-- not warm, but warmer than the 58 at the Worst-Triathlon-Ever back in July. The air temperature was in the upper 50s. Gaaaah! I wore my swimsuit, triathlon shorts, my really flattering triathlon top, under armor (which I had to UNPACK from a box!!!), and a coat. I brought sweatpants anticipating a chill or two, not hypothermia. Honestly, the cold was the worst part of the wait. At 6:55 I planned to go to the porta potty, remebering the heinously long lines last year. By the time I got back to the swim start at 7:30, it was time to line up! AHHHHHH.
*How my friend waited for her start 
*Ridiculously long lines for the port-a-potties
Swim:
I expected the worst and was pleasantly surprised with the start. Don't get me wrong it was chaotic an
d violent, but it seemed to die down much quicker than normal. Maybe I surrenered earlier than normal, haha. It went okay until some MANIAC came barreling from behind me and in passing ripped my goggles OFF MY FACE. That pissed me off. Losing my goggles is close to close to my biggest fear about the swim (minus drowning). I had to stop-- tread water GRAB my eye protection before they SUNK to the mysterious and disgusting bottom, shake the water out of them and then reaffix them to my cranium. UGH. I couldn't help but think 'You're lucky I'm wearing waterproof mascara!" I got appropriately angry and tried to use it to swim faster but my time suggests that I did not swim faster, but since I don't focus on numbers anymore it doesn't (shouldn't) matter. I will blame my slower swim time on the goggle incident. The thing about that is: the swim time INCLUDES the >0.25mile jog from the beach to transition.. When I looked at my watch as I stumbled out of the water (the helper-people said 'Ma'am take off your goggles so you can see!' I'm sorry if I want to focus on STANDING first, c'mon!) it said that I'd gone a MINUTE faster than my time last year, and then the posted time is two minutes slower than my trustee watch time, and one minute slower than last year. Ahhhh! All the more reason to not focus on that jazz.
BIKE
Holy wind. Same as last year-- a two loop course up Lakeshore Drive (two lanes open to vehicular traffic, two closed (the two closest to the median no less) for the bikers-- I may have feared for my life for the second time that morning). The wind while going North was ridiculous and I spent most of my time in crazy easy gears... inching along. Once we turned to go south, it was glorious. I still can't figure out how to go faster on the downhills and it is getting irritating. I pass people on the climbs then get smoked on the downhill. And yes-- there were climbs that were dramatically increased by the wind. Around the turn for the second lap, the wind hit like a brick wall. I hate that I can't control the weather! Bike time was disappointing-- I'd secretly hoped for like 30 minutes faster than last year since I have a legit bike-- but alas, it was a mere 8 minutes faster! The wind was SOOO much more intense this year. That will be my justification.
RUN
The run was better than I thought it would be. I've really made running into this big bad unconquerable thing in my mind. While it still holds that status, this run wasn't quite as terrible as I'd psyched myself out for. Within the first mile I heard someone cheer 'You're almost there!' To which I retorted in between gasps "NO WE ARE NOT WE HAVE SIX MILES TO RUN THAT IS NOT ALMOST ANYTHING!" A girl running next to me said "I hate it when people tell me I'm almost 'there!'" We ran side by side for awhile then she got ambitious and pulled ahead. I could see her the whole time and told myself I had to stay with her. She slowed down between mile 2 and 3. Then I passed her between 3 and 4. The rest of the run I thought "I have to keep going or she'll pass me!" I got Gatorade at the 5th mile and then she popped up right beside me and scared the daylights out of me. I used that adrenaline to get pull ahead and get to mile 6. That last 0.2 miles is so killer. I was sure I'd smoked this girl and she was far behind me and then all of the sudden with the finish line in earshot, she goes by me 'kicking it in.' Dammit! So I looked at my feet and thought "FASTER!" About three second later they started making an awkward effort to go faster and I passed her and finally crossed the finish line.
Aftermath:
I saw that girl down the finish chute and told her that she kept me going the whole time (in a 'thank you' manner) and she looked at me like I was a loon. Whatever. I got my medal (everyone gets one), and my bagel (whole bagels here, but just cups of water/Gatorade..) and meandered down the street in a lemming like fashion. I get so disoriented during downtown races, I had no idea where I was going. I followed until I 
recognized how to 
get to the swim gear check, got my stuff, cheered for some runners until I saw my friend run by, then made the trek back to transition. The wind was still blowing and I got VERY cold very quickly! I'm always appalled at how transition looks as if a tornado has blown through it after the race! I gathered my stuff super slowly, put my coat back on, and went back to the finish line to wait for my friend. Apparently, I took my sweet time because as she was walking out of the festival after the finish chute, I was just getting there. We went back to swim gear check, got her stuff there, walked all the way back to transition and then made the genius decision to ride our bikes back instead of taking the El. I'm always up for saving $2.25, but lordy lordy. I have not come to love the rigid little bike seat on my spee
dy steed and after an already grueling bike leg I wasn't thrilled to re-board. With my crazy heavy soccer backpack and super stiff legs I pedaled back sooo slow on a suuuper easy gear. The ride back was not fun AND I came SO close to getting doored! If that would have happened, I surely would have flipped. I finally got home, looking and feeling absolutely BEAT, and sat down, then woke up an hour later. Pooped, stiff, and sunburned.
All in all-- good day. Went fairly smoothly with the expected unexpected snags. I finished and I didn't die so that has to equal a success, right? Now I'm trying to regain full motion in all of my limbs.. and I feel feverish because I'm sunburned. While I definitely wish I wouldn't have been so lazy in training, I am still glad I participated (definitely had about an hour of 'maybe I will stay home' mentality the day before the race). And I will look forward to doing this race again in the future.
Saturday, August 29, 2009
Race Weekend (GULP)
There is a very clear pattern to my mentality in the realm of triathlon-ing.
Registering: I'm greeted with excitement and a little bit if nervousness-- but mostly excitement.
Training brings an almost equal mix of love and hate-- love how you feel after good training, love having purpose to your training, hate the rough days and PAIN it takes to get to the good training.
Race weekend: I've come to hate race weekend. 'If you hate it why do you do it?' one might ask-- with good reason. The answer is because..
Crossing the finish line is such a ridiculously fantastic feeling that squelches any ounce of negativity one may have ever felt in the pursuit of it.
Soo it's race weekend and right now I want to THROW UP until I am shriveled into a little dry ball so I will have a legit reason for why I can't possibly take on the task that stands before me.
Went to the Expo today with my coworker who I dragged into this mess. Until then I wasn't feeling super fantastic about anything, but I was in a content state of ignorance and helplessness: There's nothing I can do about being unprepared now... However, walking into the expo and listening to the course talk, all that I have avoided thinking about is shoved in my face. I feel the vomit creeping up my throat as he goes through the swim start (honestly my second least favorite part of the race... second only to the run haha). I feel my self start to lose my breath as he talks about transition and bike safety. When he gets to the run I feel faint and check my pulse-- I've reached my target heart rate.
I was thinking back to last year and I realized that while I was nervous and had anxiety then, too, it didn't seem this extreme! Then I realized that I was much more intentional and disciplined in my training than I have been this year. While a significant part of these things is mental, that's not going to help me here because I KNOW how much I SHOULD NOT be able to have a good race because I didn't prepare myself to have a good race. When I think to myself "You can do this you just have to believe you can" I will retort with "But I know I CAN'T because I didn't traaaain!' only to start an inner-squabble that will waste more energy than it will create and therefore potentiate my pitiful performance. However last year, when I knew I worked hard to be ready and do my best, I remember on the run wanting to quit SO bad.. or to walk at least, but I kept thinking 'I didn't work my ass off all summer to pansy out now.' Ugh, I'm doomed.
Thus begins my 24 hour panic attack. Honestly my hands are jittery and I can't get a full breath of air in my lungs. It's a problem. I'm glad to report that I am in wave 29 instead of wave 50-something this year. The pre-race wait is the worst and while I'll still have to wait more than two hours after the first wave, my friend is in wave 50 (out of 59 total!) and has to wait an hour and a half LONGER than I do. So I will be grateful for that.
The weather is going to be rather heinous, although suddenly they're revoking the rain prediction. I am highly suspicious though. At 6am the air temp is supposed to be FIFTY ONE degrees, FEELS LIKE FORTY EIGHT. It's just the end of August, whatever.
..So this stage in the weekend is not a fun one because I am feeling all of the panic that I refused to feel in the weeks building up to the event. But I am hopeful that if I can whale myself to the finish line I will meet the euphoric bliss that I faintly remember. I don't even have a worthy cause to say 'at least it's for a good cause' anymore. Man! I would say 'I've learned my lesson' but this is not the first time this has happened and I doubt it will be the last. What a tool!
Registering: I'm greeted with excitement and a little bit if nervousness-- but mostly excitement.
Training brings an almost equal mix of love and hate-- love how you feel after good training, love having purpose to your training, hate the rough days and PAIN it takes to get to the good training.
Race weekend: I've come to hate race weekend. 'If you hate it why do you do it?' one might ask-- with good reason. The answer is because..
Crossing the finish line is such a ridiculously fantastic feeling that squelches any ounce of negativity one may have ever felt in the pursuit of it.
Soo it's race weekend and right now I want to THROW UP until I am shriveled into a little dry ball so I will have a legit reason for why I can't possibly take on the task that stands before me.
Went to the Expo today with my coworker who I dragged into this mess. Until then I wasn't feeling super fantastic about anything, but I was in a content state of ignorance and helplessness: There's nothing I can do about being unprepared now... However, walking into the expo and listening to the course talk, all that I have avoided thinking about is shoved in my face. I feel the vomit creeping up my throat as he goes through the swim start (honestly my second least favorite part of the race... second only to the run haha). I feel my self start to lose my breath as he talks about transition and bike safety. When he gets to the run I feel faint and check my pulse-- I've reached my target heart rate.
I was thinking back to last year and I realized that while I was nervous and had anxiety then, too, it didn't seem this extreme! Then I realized that I was much more intentional and disciplined in my training than I have been this year. While a significant part of these things is mental, that's not going to help me here because I KNOW how much I SHOULD NOT be able to have a good race because I didn't prepare myself to have a good race. When I think to myself "You can do this you just have to believe you can" I will retort with "But I know I CAN'T because I didn't traaaain!' only to start an inner-squabble that will waste more energy than it will create and therefore potentiate my pitiful performance. However last year, when I knew I worked hard to be ready and do my best, I remember on the run wanting to quit SO bad.. or to walk at least, but I kept thinking 'I didn't work my ass off all summer to pansy out now.' Ugh, I'm doomed.
Thus begins my 24 hour panic attack. Honestly my hands are jittery and I can't get a full breath of air in my lungs. It's a problem. I'm glad to report that I am in wave 29 instead of wave 50-something this year. The pre-race wait is the worst and while I'll still have to wait more than two hours after the first wave, my friend is in wave 50 (out of 59 total!) and has to wait an hour and a half LONGER than I do. So I will be grateful for that.
The weather is going to be rather heinous, although suddenly they're revoking the rain prediction. I am highly suspicious though. At 6am the air temp is supposed to be FIFTY ONE degrees, FEELS LIKE FORTY EIGHT. It's just the end of August, whatever.
..So this stage in the weekend is not a fun one because I am feeling all of the panic that I refused to feel in the weeks building up to the event. But I am hopeful that if I can whale myself to the finish line I will meet the euphoric bliss that I faintly remember. I don't even have a worthy cause to say 'at least it's for a good cause' anymore. Man! I would say 'I've learned my lesson' but this is not the first time this has happened and I doubt it will be the last. What a tool!
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
I'll get back there, there's no option here.
So approximately seven minutes after I wrote my previous post, I walked out the door to go on what was the second most pathetic run of my life. I shuffled just under two miles to the lake then sat and people watched for a good half hour-- long enough that my sweaty shirt dried-- then shuffled back. I am very grateful for the lake and what it offers (a 'beach', a super long trail, (gross) swimming opportunity, etc). I don't know what this running funk is about but it has hung around for far too long and I yearn for the times that I'd run every day-- eight miles or five miles--no matter what. Ever since my foot exploded this winter I've been believing that I'll get back there, but honestly... eight--almost nine months later I'm losing hope. I will try to be happy that I actually attempted a run yesterday, though. Perhaps acknowledging extreme lack of motivation is the key to obtaining a little of it.
-The triathlon is this Sunday and I am all sorts of nervous. This summer and my triathlon experiences have made me realize how essential a team environment is when training for something. I totally took my soccer teams for granted in the aspect of how they kept me accountable to do my best every time. No one was ever breathing down my neck saying DO YOUR BEST but knowing that it was expected was enough to make me push myself as hard as possible. Even in the off season-- I would think I do NOT want to run today, but would realize I have 18ish teammates that are counting on me to be prepared to play for 90 straight minutes-- there's no option here. Team in Training last year provided that, too. While any inadequacies wouldn't affect my teammates in training, they would recognize if I was being a slacker. I wish it didn't take other people to motivate me to consistently push hard.
-As previously mentioned, I have new running shoes as of yesterday.
I love new shoes, and I love that I got them ON SALE and with free shipping. Zappos.com is a site (started by an 18 year old or something crazy) that I have disregarded several times in the past because I thought their prices were too high. Not this time! I found my shoes (in the newer model) for the same price everyone else had them. I figured I might as well get these because shipping on this site is FREE, so I'd save some $$ there comparatively to other places. Then I clicked to change the color and the price went down $17! Yes please, I'll TOTALLY take the orange and lime over the red (which really looked like pink..). So I ordered them on Monday morning and then a UPS man was at my door by 10:30am Tuesday morning! Apparently the 'free shipping' is free overnight shipping! That is very exciting and very conducive to breaking these puppies in before Sunday. If ONLY I could convince myself to run.
-The triathlon is this Sunday and I am all sorts of nervous. This summer and my triathlon experiences have made me realize how essential a team environment is when training for something. I totally took my soccer teams for granted in the aspect of how they kept me accountable to do my best every time. No one was ever breathing down my neck saying DO YOUR BEST but knowing that it was expected was enough to make me push myself as hard as possible. Even in the off season-- I would think I do NOT want to run today, but would realize I have 18ish teammates that are counting on me to be prepared to play for 90 straight minutes-- there's no option here. Team in Training last year provided that, too. While any inadequacies wouldn't affect my teammates in training, they would recognize if I was being a slacker. I wish it didn't take other people to motivate me to consistently push hard.
-As previously mentioned, I have new running shoes as of yesterday.
I love new shoes, and I love that I got them ON SALE and with free shipping. Zappos.com is a site (started by an 18 year old or something crazy) that I have disregarded several times in the past because I thought their prices were too high. Not this time! I found my shoes (in the newer model) for the same price everyone else had them. I figured I might as well get these because shipping on this site is FREE, so I'd save some $$ there comparatively to other places. Then I clicked to change the color and the price went down $17! Yes please, I'll TOTALLY take the orange and lime over the red (which really looked like pink..). So I ordered them on Monday morning and then a UPS man was at my door by 10:30am Tuesday morning! Apparently the 'free shipping' is free overnight shipping! That is very exciting and very conducive to breaking these puppies in before Sunday. If ONLY I could convince myself to run. -A few days ago was the Alumni soccer game at my alma mater. I had very mixed feelings about going-- Hell no! Was my initial reaction as old wounds from my senior year haven't completely healed (as pathetic as it may be). However, I realized how many other alumni would be going and that I'd kick myself for missing the opportunity to catch up. So I convinced myself to clear several hurdles in order to attend, and am SO glad I did. Not only did I see people that I've missed since playing with them, but we WON and it was sooooooooooooo vindicating. It was hardly a good game (the 12 alumni were out of shape (minus the two or three of them that have continued to play) and the pace of the game was really slow), but winning made all the difference. The alumni recognized our lack of fitness and decided we needed to pass the ball up the field instead of hoping someone would be able to run on to a long ball-- THAT IS HOW THE GAME SHOULD BE PLAYED NO MATTER WHAT YOUR PHYSICAL FITNESS. It was good and I am so glad I went. I haven't played in my cleats for .. more than a month or two and I have a blister to write home about! Holy cow it's red and raw and I felt it rip open in my shoe just before half time. I'm nervous about what it will feel like in the triathlon. I also have a nice turf burn and a big ole bruise right beside it. Man, I miss that game.
I woke up early this morning to go lift before work, but it is torrential downpour and I refuse to ride my bike in the rain-- especially if I have to end up at work.
Weather for the triathlon on Sunday: High of 64 and showers. SERIOUSLY?! Why not let it snow? For the love of all humanity the weather is craaazy. If I fall off my bike due to slippery roads or because someone else has crashed due to the slippery roads, I will be VERY upset. However, the saying goes 'if you don't like the weather here, wait for five minutes and it will change.' So perhaps there is still hope...?
I woke up early this morning to go lift before work, but it is torrential downpour and I refuse to ride my bike in the rain-- especially if I have to end up at work.
Weather for the triathlon on Sunday: High of 64 and showers. SERIOUSLY?! Why not let it snow? For the love of all humanity the weather is craaazy. If I fall off my bike due to slippery roads or because someone else has crashed due to the slippery roads, I will be VERY upset. However, the saying goes 'if you don't like the weather here, wait for five minutes and it will change.' So perhaps there is still hope...?
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
wtF
OMG i am out of control.
for the life of me i can't make myself go run-- outside or on the treadmill. here i sit in running attire, NEW RUNNING SHOES, staring out the window at truly ideal running weather, but have absolutely no desire to go. not only do i lack desire, i have an abundance of un-desire. wtf. this is not me and not who i want to be. nooo bueno whatsoever. beyond frustrating and really poor timing considering the fact that, as much as i have chosen to ignore it and deny it, the HALF MARATHON that i whimsically registered for is a mere eighteen days away and i haven't even considered intentionally training for it. omg i am out of control.
for the life of me i can't make myself go run-- outside or on the treadmill. here i sit in running attire, NEW RUNNING SHOES, staring out the window at truly ideal running weather, but have absolutely no desire to go. not only do i lack desire, i have an abundance of un-desire. wtf. this is not me and not who i want to be. nooo bueno whatsoever. beyond frustrating and really poor timing considering the fact that, as much as i have chosen to ignore it and deny it, the HALF MARATHON that i whimsically registered for is a mere eighteen days away and i haven't even considered intentionally training for it. omg i am out of control.
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
The Race
By the time I'd arrived to transition in the morning I was so NOT excited for what was about to go down. Everything had just been building up negative energy: the last triathlon shenanigan, worrying about getting my bike there, barely getting my bike out of the car, CONSTRUCTION up to wazoo, trying to FIND transition... It was all so much more complicated than it should ever be and made everything building up to the race not fun, and well when you do these things for fun it becomes a serious problem when lack of fun is had. So I was grumpy and thinking I should just go home, I'm done with triathlons, this is stupid.
By the time I got into transition and my spot set up I was exhausted from all the worrying I'd done in the past 24 hours. I was in and set up by 4:45am so I had an hour and 15 minutes to kill before they closed it. I walked the in's and out's and hit up the port-a-potties twice. The promised bike guys didn't show up until 5:40am and I wasn't about to move my bike at that point-- the late comers will take any open spot on the bike rack no matter what. The last thing I needed was to find a new spot. I saw a guy a couple of bikes down with a bike pump and stared for a long time hoping he'd get my telepathic messages asking if I could borrow it. He didn't so I swallowed my pride and asked. He hesitated-- I hate that. But he handed it over and after I pumped up the front, I was maneuvering under the bike rack to do the back tire and he goes "oh, I need that back now." I hesitated. haha. What a clown, oh well I got the front one pumped up, better than nothing. I looked around and was taken aback at how many people looked like fancy pants super athletes. Usually there's a fair mix: crazy chiseled and professional folk all the way to the grandmother who decided to give-it-a-tri. However, there weren't any (obvious)grandmas and it was intimidating.
I finally made my way to the swim start. The announcer man who'd been rattling off little facts and tidbits all morning was the same guy from the worst-triathlon-in-the-world. When I heard his voice I cringed a little bit, but then remembered how right he was for the last one, so I gave him due credit. I was in wave 4 for the swim start. When I'm in a later Wave, I love/hate it: it gives me time to see how other people are doing and spectators aren't as enthusiastic about watching wave twenty-something.. but at the same time it adds an hour or so of anxiety and 'I HAVE TO PEE!' time. So the earlier wave was okay this time, the earlier you start the earlier you finish. Theoretically anyways. Sooner than I knew it I was thrashing about with SIXTY other women. Shudder. I hate the swim start. For the first five-ish minutes I think to myself 'There is no way this is going to thin out or get better. There is no way I can do this for a whole mile. This is ridiculous, I should just stop now.' My self defeating attitude is really getting old. I got kicked in the face and in the ribs and have weird bruises on the underside of my arm. My ribs still hurt when I breathe deep! RIDICULOUS. Lo and behold it did thin out and was okay for the most part. The route was weird: a triangle. This is bad because it means you have to look up to make sure you're 'on course' the whole time. Once I finally would get oriented to my straight line it seemed like the next buoy popped up and I'd have to make an awkward turn and get all discombobulated again. Oh well. I finished it and moved on.
The bike. Lordy Lordy. Wisconsin can be known in the Midwest to be hilly. People 'ski' in Wisconsin... Based on the bike leg of this race, I'd say the hilly label is accurate. I wasn't about to go strap on my ski's but it was significantly more incline than I've encountered since my last summer at home when I'd bike to the gym. The hills and the WIND really caught me off guard. I am so grateful for my fancy bike because I really used its functioning gears a lot! I can't figure one thing out: I think I'm in the highest gear possible, but then when going down hill there is a point where it feels like I'm 'free wheeling,' there's zero resistance.. but I can't shift UP anymore. Other people however, are able to find a higher gear on their bikes. I am torn between if it's the fact that I just don't have as many gears or if I am a moron and don't know which way to shift. That was the biggest frustration. I handled the climbs well, I like climbing to be honest, but the on the down hill I had to coast, I couldn't maximize on the advantage gravity was giving me. Hopefully I can figure that out before Chicago, because there are a lot of inclines in that race, too.
After paying EXTRA EXTRA close attention on the bike to ensure I did my two laps (no one will every accuse me of cheating again!) it was on to the run. The run was the worst run of my life! Oh my goodness. During the swim and bike I felt alright. Not awesome, but like I was holding my own. That all faded dramatically when it came time to run/jog/shuffle/limp/waddle. I remember after the Chicago race last year vowing to do more BRICK workouts so that my run wouldn't be as dismal. I have done ONE intentional BRICK since then. Whoops. It was REALLY hot by this point. During the whole bike there'd been clouds so it was CRAZY humid, but as soon as I left transition for the run, there wasn't a cloud in the sky so the sun just BEAT down the whole time. The course was weird, it seemed like it would never end. The first half was on a street but no spectators were allowed on it. There is a lot to be said for those that cheer. It boosts morale a lot. AND headphones are still not allowed in this fantastic sport so it was silent on the run aside from the thud-ing of feet and the gasping for air (to which I was a huge contributor). Dismal. And it's WISCONSIN so the scenery was far from awesome. I've failed to mention until now that this whole time I had to urinate. It's a serious problem. They preach at you to hydrate like a champ, but hellloooo then you have to pee every hour! To make it worse, there weren't ANY porta potties on the whole course, except for in transition, and even then they were really poorly located. So by the time I got to the run I thought I was going to throw up I had to pee so bad. For all you weak stomached individuals, I suggest you stop here. I definitely peed WHILE running. Thank you VERY MUCH. Disgusting? Of course? Dirty? Yes. RELIEVING TO NO END? MOST DEFINITELY. Omygosh I felt sooo much better once I let 'er rip. It really wasn't a conscious decision-- if it were that easy I would have done it ages ago. It just kind of happened and it was glorious in its repulsiveness. I was consistently throwing water on myself at the water stops so it wasn't ...toooo obvious. That's what I tell myself anyways. The run was just awful though I felt like I couldn't move and I couldn't breathe. It stretched on FOREVER and I kept thinking 'HA and you wanted to do a half IRONMAN?!' One way or another, though I finished it. The finish line is always good and bad. Good: you're done, people give you food and drink, you're done, you can breathe, you're done, etc. Bad: Everything tightens up ALL at once no matter what, you can barely stand up straight minus continue to walk, it is SOOO crowded by spectators, finishers, and volunteers-- we know how I feel about crowds, etc. But whatever, I was done. I got my cold towel, water, Gatorade, quarter of a bagel (budget cuts! HA!) and banana and started willing my feet to carry me back to transition to gather my stuff.
I got back to transition and really wasn't focusing well and couldn't make myself DO anything but stand there. I saw a man sitting on the curb behind the bike rack and I dubbed him a GENIUS and followed his example. I decided to finish my bagel and Gatorade, THEN pack up. This man started chatting (he's like 50 something with 4 kids, mom wipe that look off your face) and I looked at him cross eyed and smiled and nodded. He told me he'd done a half ironman earlier in the summer. "One and done," he said-- he didn't enjoy it and didn't plan on doing it again. "Same with a full marathon. One and done." I think I have to agree. While I still want to do a half ironman, I don't see myself doing them often. One. Maybe two. Then I'll stick with International triathlons and half marathons. Just because your body can be forced to run 26 miles or do other crazy things, doesn't mean it was really meant to. I'd rather have my body work for the rest of my life than do crazy long races for a few years then not be able to move. This man also said something that was soo appropriate: "You can't focus on the numbers, then it's not fun anymore. And if it's not fun, then you're in the wrong sport." ZING. Bring it home. I have been so focused on numbers and improving and all that statistical nonsense that it really hasn't been super fun the past month or so. I think he's right. I have to do it to have fun and let that be enough. While wanting to improve isn't bad, too much cookie dough will make you nauseous. That metaphor works for EVERYTHING.
That being said, I choose to keep my times to myself. They're really nothing to boast about and are almost EXACTLY the same as the Chicago race last year-- run and swim are within a few seconds. Except for the bike, that was dramatically better-- appropriately because I have a real bike. So I finally got under three hours and I will be content with that.
Yesterday I woke up and couldn't MOVE. My back was so sore I thought I'd been in a car wreck or something. It's upsetting. I did a short and easy swim yesterday hoping to get some lactic acid out, and today is a little better. I went to spinning this morning. I'm not a big fan of the instructor (she has a big 'I'm a badass' attitude and it's just obnoxious) but I heard her talking and she did the same race. I was about to say 'oh! me too!' but she launched into how awesome she did and I didn't dare interrupt. I'm forcing myself to run tonight even though my back still aches and my lungs don't really expand all the way (that kick in the ribs was extra brutal!) but I think my goal for the Chicago race (in less than two weeks!) will be to feel better about the run, so a run tonight is necessary.
I did take my camera with me but amidst the chaos in getting to the race and pure exhaustion afterwards, didn't snap a single photo. Whoops. We'll see if the event photos are posted soon.
By the time I got into transition and my spot set up I was exhausted from all the worrying I'd done in the past 24 hours. I was in and set up by 4:45am so I had an hour and 15 minutes to kill before they closed it. I walked the in's and out's and hit up the port-a-potties twice. The promised bike guys didn't show up until 5:40am and I wasn't about to move my bike at that point-- the late comers will take any open spot on the bike rack no matter what. The last thing I needed was to find a new spot. I saw a guy a couple of bikes down with a bike pump and stared for a long time hoping he'd get my telepathic messages asking if I could borrow it. He didn't so I swallowed my pride and asked. He hesitated-- I hate that. But he handed it over and after I pumped up the front, I was maneuvering under the bike rack to do the back tire and he goes "oh, I need that back now." I hesitated. haha. What a clown, oh well I got the front one pumped up, better than nothing. I looked around and was taken aback at how many people looked like fancy pants super athletes. Usually there's a fair mix: crazy chiseled and professional folk all the way to the grandmother who decided to give-it-a-tri. However, there weren't any (obvious)grandmas and it was intimidating.
I finally made my way to the swim start. The announcer man who'd been rattling off little facts and tidbits all morning was the same guy from the worst-triathlon-in-the-world. When I heard his voice I cringed a little bit, but then remembered how right he was for the last one, so I gave him due credit. I was in wave 4 for the swim start. When I'm in a later Wave, I love/hate it: it gives me time to see how other people are doing and spectators aren't as enthusiastic about watching wave twenty-something.. but at the same time it adds an hour or so of anxiety and 'I HAVE TO PEE!' time. So the earlier wave was okay this time, the earlier you start the earlier you finish. Theoretically anyways. Sooner than I knew it I was thrashing about with SIXTY other women. Shudder. I hate the swim start. For the first five-ish minutes I think to myself 'There is no way this is going to thin out or get better. There is no way I can do this for a whole mile. This is ridiculous, I should just stop now.' My self defeating attitude is really getting old. I got kicked in the face and in the ribs and have weird bruises on the underside of my arm. My ribs still hurt when I breathe deep! RIDICULOUS. Lo and behold it did thin out and was okay for the most part. The route was weird: a triangle. This is bad because it means you have to look up to make sure you're 'on course' the whole time. Once I finally would get oriented to my straight line it seemed like the next buoy popped up and I'd have to make an awkward turn and get all discombobulated again. Oh well. I finished it and moved on.
The bike. Lordy Lordy. Wisconsin can be known in the Midwest to be hilly. People 'ski' in Wisconsin... Based on the bike leg of this race, I'd say the hilly label is accurate. I wasn't about to go strap on my ski's but it was significantly more incline than I've encountered since my last summer at home when I'd bike to the gym. The hills and the WIND really caught me off guard. I am so grateful for my fancy bike because I really used its functioning gears a lot! I can't figure one thing out: I think I'm in the highest gear possible, but then when going down hill there is a point where it feels like I'm 'free wheeling,' there's zero resistance.. but I can't shift UP anymore. Other people however, are able to find a higher gear on their bikes. I am torn between if it's the fact that I just don't have as many gears or if I am a moron and don't know which way to shift. That was the biggest frustration. I handled the climbs well, I like climbing to be honest, but the on the down hill I had to coast, I couldn't maximize on the advantage gravity was giving me. Hopefully I can figure that out before Chicago, because there are a lot of inclines in that race, too.
After paying EXTRA EXTRA close attention on the bike to ensure I did my two laps (no one will every accuse me of cheating again!) it was on to the run. The run was the worst run of my life! Oh my goodness. During the swim and bike I felt alright. Not awesome, but like I was holding my own. That all faded dramatically when it came time to run/jog/shuffle/limp/waddle. I remember after the Chicago race last year vowing to do more BRICK workouts so that my run wouldn't be as dismal. I have done ONE intentional BRICK since then. Whoops. It was REALLY hot by this point. During the whole bike there'd been clouds so it was CRAZY humid, but as soon as I left transition for the run, there wasn't a cloud in the sky so the sun just BEAT down the whole time. The course was weird, it seemed like it would never end. The first half was on a street but no spectators were allowed on it. There is a lot to be said for those that cheer. It boosts morale a lot. AND headphones are still not allowed in this fantastic sport so it was silent on the run aside from the thud-ing of feet and the gasping for air (to which I was a huge contributor). Dismal. And it's WISCONSIN so the scenery was far from awesome. I've failed to mention until now that this whole time I had to urinate. It's a serious problem. They preach at you to hydrate like a champ, but hellloooo then you have to pee every hour! To make it worse, there weren't ANY porta potties on the whole course, except for in transition, and even then they were really poorly located. So by the time I got to the run I thought I was going to throw up I had to pee so bad. For all you weak stomached individuals, I suggest you stop here. I definitely peed WHILE running. Thank you VERY MUCH. Disgusting? Of course? Dirty? Yes. RELIEVING TO NO END? MOST DEFINITELY. Omygosh I felt sooo much better once I let 'er rip. It really wasn't a conscious decision-- if it were that easy I would have done it ages ago. It just kind of happened and it was glorious in its repulsiveness. I was consistently throwing water on myself at the water stops so it wasn't ...toooo obvious. That's what I tell myself anyways. The run was just awful though I felt like I couldn't move and I couldn't breathe. It stretched on FOREVER and I kept thinking 'HA and you wanted to do a half IRONMAN?!' One way or another, though I finished it. The finish line is always good and bad. Good: you're done, people give you food and drink, you're done, you can breathe, you're done, etc. Bad: Everything tightens up ALL at once no matter what, you can barely stand up straight minus continue to walk, it is SOOO crowded by spectators, finishers, and volunteers-- we know how I feel about crowds, etc. But whatever, I was done. I got my cold towel, water, Gatorade, quarter of a bagel (budget cuts! HA!) and banana and started willing my feet to carry me back to transition to gather my stuff.
I got back to transition and really wasn't focusing well and couldn't make myself DO anything but stand there. I saw a man sitting on the curb behind the bike rack and I dubbed him a GENIUS and followed his example. I decided to finish my bagel and Gatorade, THEN pack up. This man started chatting (he's like 50 something with 4 kids, mom wipe that look off your face) and I looked at him cross eyed and smiled and nodded. He told me he'd done a half ironman earlier in the summer. "One and done," he said-- he didn't enjoy it and didn't plan on doing it again. "Same with a full marathon. One and done." I think I have to agree. While I still want to do a half ironman, I don't see myself doing them often. One. Maybe two. Then I'll stick with International triathlons and half marathons. Just because your body can be forced to run 26 miles or do other crazy things, doesn't mean it was really meant to. I'd rather have my body work for the rest of my life than do crazy long races for a few years then not be able to move. This man also said something that was soo appropriate: "You can't focus on the numbers, then it's not fun anymore. And if it's not fun, then you're in the wrong sport." ZING. Bring it home. I have been so focused on numbers and improving and all that statistical nonsense that it really hasn't been super fun the past month or so. I think he's right. I have to do it to have fun and let that be enough. While wanting to improve isn't bad, too much cookie dough will make you nauseous. That metaphor works for EVERYTHING.
That being said, I choose to keep my times to myself. They're really nothing to boast about and are almost EXACTLY the same as the Chicago race last year-- run and swim are within a few seconds. Except for the bike, that was dramatically better-- appropriately because I have a real bike. So I finally got under three hours and I will be content with that.
Yesterday I woke up and couldn't MOVE. My back was so sore I thought I'd been in a car wreck or something. It's upsetting. I did a short and easy swim yesterday hoping to get some lactic acid out, and today is a little better. I went to spinning this morning. I'm not a big fan of the instructor (she has a big 'I'm a badass' attitude and it's just obnoxious) but I heard her talking and she did the same race. I was about to say 'oh! me too!' but she launched into how awesome she did and I didn't dare interrupt. I'm forcing myself to run tonight even though my back still aches and my lungs don't really expand all the way (that kick in the ribs was extra brutal!) but I think my goal for the Chicago race (in less than two weeks!) will be to feel better about the run, so a run tonight is necessary.
I did take my camera with me but amidst the chaos in getting to the race and pure exhaustion afterwards, didn't snap a single photo. Whoops. We'll see if the event photos are posted soon.
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