Virtual Running Buddies, week of January 2, 2009!

[VictoriaL]

HAPPY NEW YEAR, EVERYONE!!!

Robyn-- a down sweater? I’ve never heard of that, but with those windchills (the likes of which I, thankfully, have never experienced) I am sure that it keeps you toasty.

Susan did you ring in the New Year with a hike-in-the-cold?! You know, with my last comment to Robyn and this, I think that I sound like a weenie, but I really don’t like being cold! :o

Kathy the NYE run in Central Park sounds like it would be quite fun. It’s too bad that more cities don’t do that, although here on NYE there were windchills in the low teens, so I wouldn’t have taken part anyway (weenie!). How did your last run of ’08 go?

Nat, how did you get 7 straight days of exercise in at this time of year??? I am in awe... ;)


Les, have you been able to rest and cook and run and get yourself back together after this past week?


No, Julie, it’s not at all pathetic that you were asleep before midnight on NYE. I usually am (not even having had an exhaustive day such as you had at work)! This year, however, I did make it to midnight. Spooky and I were playing with the new boot-lace which Santa put in his little stocking last week, and I lost track of time. Now there’s pathetic (and, woo-hoo, exciting too)!!!

We didn’t get to the lake house to celebrate New Year’s. A storm popped up as we were packing and a quick call to one of our neighbors there told us that it had rained, then snowed, meaning a layer of ice was most likely under the snow on our steep driveway (lined with boulders...). So we unloaded the car and spent the holiday here. The mega-shrimp and champagne were enjoyed just as much in our farm house. :D

I did 30 minutes on the EB this morning. It was forced a bit, but I keep thinking of all the treats I have eaten in the past few weeks (especially the chocolate-covered raspberries which we had with the champagne...) Must pay now (big-time)!

Take care, everyone, and have a nice weekend!

[Natasha]

Vicci, thanks for starting us off this week! Good call to stay home, given the weather. Farm house, lake house... it all sounds so idyllic and wonderful. Sounds like a great way to ring in the New Year, too, playing with Spooky! :D

It's been easy (and fun) to get in all the workouts since I've been off work!

Oh yeah, Vicci, if you found The Kite Runner depressing, I really wouldn't recommend the author's more recent book, A Thousand Splendid Suns ;) Not that you would have picked it up, but just in case. :p It was much bleaker than the other book, IMO.

Meg, forgot to mention that those were great pics on Other Stuff to show your progress in 2008. So inspiring! You rock.

I wanted to swim today but I torqued my neck and needed an adjustment in a big way (and I got one - yay). I did get in a good spin, though, and am doing lots of stretching and alternating ice and heat.

Oh yes! I meant to mention that I have a very important occasion coming up this week: the 10th anniversary of when I began distance running! 10 years ago this coming week I started a 10k clinic at a local running store and while out on our very first run as a group, I became absolutely hooked and have been ever since. I was very fit before that (was a gym rat and hiker, primarily), but always thought I didn't like distance running. Turned out I needed to wait longer after meals before running, and I was all set. Anyway, I'm not sure what I'll do for the occasion, but something is in order :)

Hope everyone is well! :)

[Robyn1007]

Vicci - It's basically a thinner down coat that packs down nice and small if need be. http://www.rei.com/product/770796 I'm absolutely loving mine as a layer for skiing and for around town when not.

Natasha - Happy anniversary!

[Leslie Ferguson]

Drive by... where did the day go? I'm feeling a little better but the plans of the next couple weeks may be a little daunting. Nothing that I can't get through if I stay focused on the present and not on the future.

I'll comment more on the first three posts but I thought I'd claim a spin today of an hour. It felt good to ride and I hope to run long again tomorrow. Maybe another 10-12 miles would be good.

Progress all around and a good break so far. Cooking just enough, sleeping just enough, running and riding just enough.

But now, sleep is king so I'll bid adieu.

Happy trails,
Les

[KValley]

Happy Saturday, everyone. I'm just about to work on this week's menus and shopping list as I wait for my breakfast to settle before heading out to run. I mapped out a new running route yesterday- looking forward some new vistas and streets.

In processing inventory on Thursday, I spent a lot of side-by-side time with our store director, who was in the beginning stages of a miserable cold. I began to feel a tickle in my own throat yesterday and I was soooo tired. Feeling better today and determined NOT to succumb. But in case I do, I am reminded of a NY Times article I read last week- that unless you are feverish, it's okay- even good- to workout with a cold. :cool:

Vicci I have the sweetest image of you and Spooky playing chase with the bootlace. Sounds like a pretty great way to ring in the new year to me! Glad you stayed home and off the icy roads...

Robyn Speaking of frisky felines, how did your gear closet clean-out go? And I love the down "sweater" = may have to look for one of those. Wonder if the Seattle store has them on hand....

Nat Felicitations on your 10 year distance running anniversary. You remain such an inspiration to us all!

Les It's been a stressful week for you and your family. I hope the remainder of your break provides you with some rest and time for renewal as you prepare for the term ahead. Glad you had a great spin and here's to another today.

Wave Wave to Kathy, Kathy, Carrie, Eva, Meg, Susan, Terri & everyone!

[Kathy B]

Just back from the CC and a 30 min TM run with intervals. I am really getting to like the interval thing.....makes me feel like I had a good workout even when it is a short one. Also did a bit of yoga before I went, so I am set for the day.

Julie, I need to do a menu plan today, too. It is my one NY resolution, because I did it for a while last year and it really made things easier. Don't know why I didn't stick with it, but hopefully will this year. Hope you enjoy your new route, and be sure not to overdo it while fighting off the crud! Stay well!!

Les, glad to hear your break has been a good one. Sounds like it came along just in time! Have a good run today.

Robyn, down anything that works as a layer has got to be a great find! Are you skiing this weekend?

Natasha, glad the adjustment helped and that you were able to get it done quickly when it was needed. Wow! I am sure it is hard to believe that it has been 10 years of running. That is quite an accomplishment. I think you can safely say it is a habit! :p Do let us know how you commemorate the occasion.

Vicci, Happy New Year to you, too! Sounds like you had a nice celebration, regardless of location, although any of your locations sound like they would do quite nicely. I hear you on the holiday treats thing. My work did a program called "Maintain, Don't Gain" to help people stay within two pounds of their starting weight during the holiday season. If you are successful, your name goes into a drawing for one of several Gift Cards in varying amounts. It was really a help to have to check in each week....made me ACCOUNTABLE!

Several things on the agenda for today, but none of it pressing. I would like to get the decorations all back in the attic while I have the extra help....kids are back to school on Tuesday. Hope you all have a good weekend. Hi to all that follow. :)

[newsomz]

Long time, no see! Things have been very hectic around here even with DBF & I both not working. Currently we're getting in as many visits with friends as possible and packing up the house. Both are going well but have left me little time to follow the BB :) I'm afraid this is going to be a quick post, too.. Still more packing to do!

Vicci - Sounds like you had a wonderful New Years. Those chocolate covered raspberries sound divine!! Good job on the workout even though it was dragging.

Natasha - Congrats on your 10 year anniversary for distance running! I hope to reach that milestone in 9 more years :)

Robyn - The down sweater looks very cozy!

Les - Great job on the spin! Hope you got in your run today.

KValley - I'll have to go look at that NY Times article.

Kathy - I agree about interval runs! They really get a good workout in a short amount of time. I had to stop doing track workouts because combined with my long distance I felt like I was on the verge of sickness all the time.

I've gotten in all except for one of my scheduled runs lately despite the general business. A 45 min run on Christmas which was quite nice since it was so quiet outside. A 5 miler with my sister the Saturday after Christmas. Two 45 min runs this week and just finished a 15 miler that dragged on and on for the last 5 miles! I had to take my kitty to the vet today so couldn't go out with the running group... I definitely noticed the difference! Companionship on those long runs is huge. Next week I'm planning on two 45 min runs and a 5 miler on Saturday before our flight.

Happy New Years to Everyone!

[Leslie Ferguson]

Welcome back Carrie, sounds like it's been busy for you these past couple weeks. Not working - do you mean without job or just off for a while? Congratulations of getting your runs in too and I know all about having companionship for long runs. I did way too many without much companionship before a couple marathons and vowed that I would run with someone, even if we were running much slower than my normal long run pace (back then). I hope you get the remainder of the your runs in before your trip.

Kathy B - Same to you and your busy holiday. I can imagine that the folks at the hospital were keeping you "honest" with your food intake. I remember all the things that the nurses at Childrens did this summer - not so much for me but for each other. I could definitely use the break right now and I wish it had been less hectic but that's the way things go sometimes.
Julie - I hope you don't come down with a bug from inventory. Fie on the director for giving you a cold. Sounds like you've got your work cut out for you this coming week too.

Nat - Congratulations on 10 years of distance/endurance running. Time has flown hasn't it? Glad you got an adjustment in too - sounds like you needed one. Maybe I should figure out how to squeeze one in over the next couple weeks (right :rolleyes: ).

Greeting to the rest of the gang ktg, Susan, Vicci, Eva, Meg, and all. I had a decent day today, news from the home front is that Dad may be discharged tomorrow afternoon but we probably won't know until tomorrow morning. My younger sister will be down helping for the first 48 hours out of the hospital.

Yippee! I did get my run in today too. It was nice when I started - about 46 with a little breeze but nothing terrible. I did a tad over 11 miles and felt pretty good. That makes 2 weekends in a row that I've picked off decent runs. Maybe I'll be in shape for a race at the end of the year too.

Happy saturday evening and happy trails,
Les

[SusanMac]

Happy New Year, VRBers!

Not organized enough to respond to everyone, but it's very good to see so much running, yoga, family & friend time during the holidays. I'm kind of sad to see it all end. I really love this time of year. It's a good time to reflect, catch up w/old friends, etc.

DH & I went for a great run on Friday. I love, love, love my new Stabilicers! (Nat - I have the running version of yours) I personally like them better than YakTrax for running b/c my feet don't roll around. So, I'll use the Yak's for walking Bode (the dog park was a rolling ice rink yesterday) and the Stabilicers for running.

Bike trainer is on tap for today due to last night's ice storms.

[Natasha]

So I'm getting kind of tired of the multiple login I tend to have to do these days. Small thing, but I had to mention it.

Susan, thanks for the positive review of the Stabilicers! I'll have to keep the sport version in mind if I want to replace my Yaktrax for outdoor running. The jury is still out on my Stabilicers -- haven't really used them enough to get a feel for them yet. I think this week may provide some opportunities, sadly.

Kathy, aren't intervals great? How nice that your kids are not back at school until Tuesday. Lucky them! Did your decorations get put away?

Carrie, you must be getting so excited! Nice work on keeping up the runs with all the other stuff on your plate right now.

Julie, hope you don't come down with anything full-blown. Hang in there!

Les, 11 miles -- very nice. 46 with a breeze is great running weather in my book.

Two training tidbits to report today: a good swim yesterday, and a fun 60-65 minute run with the group this morning, followed by a quick stop at the coffee shop and a much-needed massage. For some reason I got a bit hypothermic when I got home after the run, even though I was dressed appropriately. Much better now, though :) So I've ended up training 12 of the past 13 days, which exceeded my expectations for the holidays. I know this week will be more challenging training wise, but that's life.

Best to all for the coming week! :D

[VictoriaL]

So I'm getting kind of tired of the multiple login I tend to have to do these days. Small thing, but I had to mention it.



Nat, bookmark this to access the community page:

https://community.cookinglight.com

It was mentioned on the technical problems part of the boards as an answer to the multiple-login issue.


I hope to be back later to post a run, if it stops raining!

[Leslie Ferguson]

Drive by but wanted to comment on:
For some reason I got a bit hypothermic when I got home after the run, even though I was dressed appropriately.

One of the things that caused me to feel hypothermic after running was lack of energy. Interestingly, I tended to have those issues at the 9-11 mile distance (I typically didn't gel unless I was running 12 or more miles). Had you fueled before running? (I bet the answer was yes but still worth asking.)

Hope everyone has a great day and I'll be back to chat later in the day.

Happy Trails,
Les

[Natasha]

Yay! Thanks, Vicci. I used a tip on an earlier thread to stop getting the popup about secure portions (or whatever it said), but was still sometimes getting the multiple sign-on (and today it was being particularly cantankerous). Just tried it with https:// and it was all good!



One of the things that caused me to feel hypothermic after running was lack of energy. Interestingly, I tended to have those issues at the 9-11 mile distance (I typically didn't gel unless I was running 12 or more miles). Had you fueled before running? (I bet the answer was yes but still worth asking.)

Happy Trails,
Les

Hi Les,

Yes, I had my usual light snack and water before running. Oh, well - as you say, it was still worth asking because you never know! Thanks :)

Looking forward to hearing what everyone is up to today/this week!

[Leslie Ferguson]

Drive by again... just got good news that dad is being discharged from the hospital this afternoon. Don't know when but that puts him right on schedule.

Happy trails,
Les

[Natasha]

Great news, Les! We're keeping him in our thoughts.

[Kathy B]

Glad to hear your Dad is recovering as expected, Les! That's great news (and a relief to your family, I'm sure)!

Probably a dumb question, Natasha, but what do you mean that you got hypothermic? Did you just feel really cold even after you were inside? Glad it didn't last long, whatever it was. Great job on your 12 days of training!

Carrie, hope things are going well with your packing and all. Good for you with keeping up your workouts over the holidays! I haven't been able to post a lot the past few weeks, either, but the VRBs are always here when you get a chance to check in.

Just got home from the CC after some weights and a little time on the EB. No, the decorations did not get put away, however, we did have a lot of fun playing a new game we got for Christmas. At one point we were all laughing so hard at DH's antics that DD and I both had tears running down our faces! What a hoot!

Good job on your run, Susan, and I hope you and Vicci both are able to get your workouts in today.

[VictoriaL]

So what holidays come next?!?!? :D

Nat, having enjoyed a few books which take place in India, I was very anxious to read The Kite Runner. Imagine my surprise... ;) And I can't imagine his next book being even more sad-- how on earth?! Thanks for the warning, although I think that I will pass by any of his books now.
And I'm glad that I could help with the multiple logging in. Usually, I just go along with these kinds of things but it started to annoy me so much that I had to find a fix.
Have you figure out a celebratory way to recognize your 10th anniversary this week!

Julie, I hope that tickle in your throat went away and you have no signs of a cold any longer. DH and I take echinacea, for the first full week of each month from October through March, to give a "boost" to our immune systems. It seems to have worked for a few years, no bad colds to speak of (knocking on wood as I type this...)

Carrie I, too, am a bit confused. I thought that you were taking a vacation-- are you moving? To France? Hopefully you will have a minute to pop in and shed some light.

Susan, I remember your talking about the YakTrax last year and bought a pair for my Mom last Christmas. Imagine my surprise, and happiness, when I noticed her using them to go on her walks while we were there over the holidays! So many times my practical gifts tend to be unused... :o

Great news about your Dad, Les! And a nice, long run in decent weather, to boot. Has been a good weekend, no?

I bet Robyn has been skiing a little...

KathyB, I wish I could be accountable to someone for my overindulgence, but DH would say "it's Christmas, enjoy it!". Thank heaven, the cookies are almost gone for this year... Good work on the EB and weights, especially on a Sunday when you probably wanted to do something else!

I waited and waited for the rain to go away. So I was in the kitchen, kneading bread, and noticed that the patio stones outside were drying a bit. I glanced at the clock, realized that I had time, put the bread to proof, and got on my running gear. It was a bit soggy, but felt good to get out! I wondered why it seemed to be getting dark so early then realized that, unfortunately, I looked at the clock and thought I saw 4:10 when it was actually 5:10! After 20 minutes, it was too dark for my comfort, even on the trails closer to the house, so I came in and did 15 minutes on the EB. Look! A Vicci-biathlon!!!

Waves to all as I "EB" past..... :)

[Robyn1007]

Susan Glad you like your Stabilicers!

Les Yay! So glad your dad is on his way home.

Natasha I quite frequently get cold after a workout, sometimes to the point of shivering. I know that after skiing as my body cools down it's really cold outside so it makes sense but often it happens in my own home. Not sure what causes it.

Kathy laughing like that always feels so good!

Over the last 12 days I've skied 7 of them. I'd hoped for 8 but felt really tired on Wednesday and didn't go up. It's been a fantastic vacation and I've skied with both new and old friends along with some family. I've really seen the effects of my fitness level on my skiing and am awed by what I can do on skis that I didn't feel comfortable doing last year.

I got in a spin today. It felt good to be back on my bike. I'm a little nervous about my swim tomorrow since I haven't been in a couple of weeks. But, tomorrow starts my serious training again.

I've set a couple of interim goals before my first races come. The first week of March is the Diva Summit and the weekend following is a family reunion and I'd like to loose another 10-15 lbs by then. Then in May I'll be going to Florida for vacation (gift from my aunt and uncle) and I'd like to be down a total of around 25 lbs (from now) for that. How do I plan to get there? Not only will I reinvigorate my training plan but I am also going to get a bit more serious about my nutrition plan (not a diet!). My running needs to start increasing significantly if I'm to do my first 10k in 20 years on Memorial Day. I have this wild hair that I should do the Bolder Boulder which is a fantastic 10k here. Less than a month later would be my first sprint tri.

Okay enough rambling for now.

[Leslie Ferguson]

Thanks all... no time to resond to all the posts but it's been a fine weekend.

Les

[Robyn1007]

I bet Robyn has been skiing a little...

Haha, smart aleck! We were coposting! Sounds like your run was a bit interesting. Glad you made it back safely.

[SusanMac]

Les - excellent news about your Dad!

Robyn - your plan sounds great. And, yes, it's definitely a nutrition plan (not a diet!) Definitely do Bolder Boulder. What a great way to celebrate your fitness boost!

Nat - keep us posted on your 10 year celebrations. I have a hunch you'll celebrate by running.

I'm eyeing a local running club as a way to meet some new folks & increase my motivation for running (I'm always doing the same ol' routes). Not sure when I'll start.

Here are some new running gadgets I've run across recently. I haven't bought them yet, but lemme know if any of you have reviews:

I saw these at a race expo & am kicking myself for not buying one:
http://www.spibelt.com/spibelt.php

DH complains about smelly shoes all the time, so I'm getting him these for his bday:
http://www.stuffitts.com/

Today should be the nicest day of the week, so I hope to get out for a run

[1MegMeg]

Good morning running friends, happy 2009! A quick drive-by from work so I don't have time for proper replies. Sorry!

Thank you all for your positive comments about my pictures in 2008 picture thread. Last year was a wild and crazy year, but it was still fantastic and one of the best ever! Even with my bionic leg hehe!

New Year's was fun, we went out to dinner and then some friends came over to the house and we played the wii way too late and drank too much champagne. :p

Had a good day rock climbing on Saturday, but my muscles were already pretty sore so my run yesterday didn't help things. I will take today off to give my muscles a break. Also, it's been pretty warm lately and I don't think I have been hydrating enough to compensate for the extra sweating.

Robyn - we are finally planning our trip to Denver! We want to do some hiking and rock climbing too, so it probably won't be until late May or June when we come visit, but I'll let you know when we firm up the dates. I would love to get together one day if your schedule allows.

[ktg0930]

You all have been busy! I tried to have a (relatively) computer free weekend, so there were a lot of posts to catch up on this morning!

Meg, hope you enjoy your day off from running and climbing.

Robyn, you have a busy schedule coming up. I hope you achieve all your weight loss, exercise and nutrition goals!

Carrie, I hope that you will check in often while in Paris! What are you doing with your kitty while you are gone? You have inspired me and we are considering a 2-3 month stay in Paris in the future (next 5 years probably).

OKay, I'll have to come back later for everyone else. I started this a while ago and work kept interfering. Now I have an urgent task for today.

[Robyn1007]

Robyn - we are finally planning our trip to Denver! We want to do some hiking and rock climbing too, so it probably won't be until late May or June when we come visit, but I'll let you know when we firm up the dates. I would love to get together one day if your schedule allows.

Yay! We'll have to get Mcgeiger and her husband involved in the rock climbing aspect. Oh, and if you come over Memorial Day you should seriously consider doing the Bolder Boulder with me!

http://www.bolderboulder.com/site3.aspx

[TKay]

Hello from a long-lost VRB. :D

It has been so long since I've posted here. Just wanted to wish everyone a happy, healthy new year. I have been off the running trails (and dreadmills) for a few months. Hence, the lack of updates. We got a new puppy, so I'm out walking her twice a day for a while. That's getting my blood going just enough that I may actually get in some runs again--crazy, I know!

Anyway, just wanted to say hello. So, hello.

[Natasha]

Hi all!

Kathy, yes, that's what I meant about being hypothermic. It's no fun!

Susan, good idea to try to find a fun running club. Keep us posted! I find it's very nice to have the option to run alone or with a group (large or small), and the social events are awesome too :)

Yoga day today, and maybe some core.

Meg, the climbing sounds like it was awesome!

TKay, welcome back and it's lovely to see you!

Hiya Robyn, ktg, Vicci, Les, Carrie, and everyone else :)

Take care, all!

[SusanMac]

Oi - I have blown off my workout today for no good reason whatsoever. OK, really I've gotten sucked into the fun that is iPhoto. We are making 3 calendars for our family (now that we're already into the new year). It's really fun.

Maybe I'll do a few crunches before dinner to make myself feel at least a little productive :-)

And I booked a hotel for an upcoming race this summer. More details on that later (the race reg isn't even open yet, so I'm just being hopeful)

TKay - so good to hear from you! Happy 2009 to you, as well. Would love to see some puppy photos when you get a chance. Training her should offer some great lessons for your boys

[Robyn1007]

Drive by! I logged a 25 minute swim tonight. Felt good to be back in the pool.

[1MegMeg]

Susan - Oooh, what race are you doing this summer? I ordered one of the spibelts! They have free shipping going on right now so I couldn't pass it up. :p Plus I have been wanting to get something for a while to carry my phone when I run since I run alone.

Robyn - Nice swim!! We'll see about the Bolder Boulder... like I said in my email, I fear altitude sickness hehe :o

Hi to Les, Kathy, Nat, TKay, Eva, Carrie, Vicci, Julie, and everyone!

Didn't end up taking yesterday off, but did do an easy/low impact 25 minute ride on the stationary bike. Tonight is yoga....hopefully. I am not feeling very motivated to go right now.

[aggie94]

I only have a few minutes so unfortunately not enough time to respond to everyone individually, although I am caught up on reading all the posts!

I came down with a cold my last day in Houston and have been sick ever since. Taking Julie's advice, after lying in bed doing literally nothing for four days straight and feeling significantly better, I plowed ahead and hit the treadmill last night for 30 minutes, the first real exercise I've had in two weeks. :eek: Felt good at the time, but I promptly woke up this morning feeling ten times worse than I did yesterday. Oops. Perhaps it was too soon. :o

So until I can resume my regular workout routine, I'm at least recommitting to a better nutrition plan. I ventured out Sunday despite feeling like total crud and grocery shopped, then spent a few hours in the kitchen Sunday evening prepping and cooking lots of healthful meals and snacks.

The PF Chang Rock & Roll Arizona Marathon and 1/2 Marathon is coming up in less than two weeks, and I am still uncommitted. I have until Sunday to register online. By then, I should have an idea of the weather forecast for the race. My plan is to hit the road for at least a 10-miler on Sunday. Depending on how it feels, I'll make a decision then. Nothing like waiting until the last minute. AGAIN.

[Natasha]

Hi all!

Eva, glad you were feeling better, but that's too bad that the workout may not have helped. Feel 100% soon!

Had a good yoga session yesterday and today DH and I plan to spin. I'm looking forward to it, as I haven't done a spin for a few days.

Meg, did you go to yoga?

Hope everyone's doing well!

[VictoriaL]

A pop-in to report some weights this morning, and a little yoga beforehand.

I finally have new running shoes on the way. After several weeks of unsuccessfully looking in local stores, I decided to order from Zappos. I've never done this before, but I knew the model which I wanted and have a pretty good idea of the size. And Zappos lets you return and exchange free. So why not? What motivated me was that my feet have really been hurting after runs, and in a way that I knew it was the shoe (arch support compressing, mostly).

I also got a pair of Yoga Toes-- anyone try these? So far, so good, but I have high expectations!

Hope that you're all enjoying your week. I hope to get a run in tomorrow, but the forecast is for snow and ice so that may not happen. Ahhhhh, winter in the northeast! :)

[Natasha]

Hi Vicci! Nice job on the yoga and weights. What kind of shoes did you settle on? Hope they suit you. I haven't tried Yoga Toes but sounds like many others on the CLBB have.

Robyn, good stuff on your swim.

Susan, enjoy the race planning! Isn't it fun?

I had a good spin. Tomorrow is a planned off day. We're also expecting the snow and ice but that's not the reason for my off day... I have a dinner out so there'll be no time for training. Such is life!

Take care, everyone :)

[KValley]

WOWZA! It's been such an active thread this week. So glad to see everyone.

Les, great news about your dad. Certainly he is so much more comfortable at home. I pray that his healing and recovery progress quickly.

Eva- I'm so sorry the bug hit you. Good on you for just laying low and letting your body heal and your immune system recover. If the Rock and Roll is a good thing for you, I hope it happens. If not, the next race awaits!

Vicci I have good experiences with Zappos. It's great to find the shoes you really want!

Natasha Sounds like a scary experience- take good care of yourself!

Susan I had to chuckle about your iphoto suck. I'm feeling the same about Facebook. :rolleyes:

Vicci A belated WAHOO for your Vicci-biathlon! I loved this :)

Robyn Your competition/training plans are amazing. I'm so inspired!

Wave wave to Meg, Kathy, Kathy, Carrie, Tkay

I've had a bit of a tickly throat and runny nose this week, but no cold- hasn't slowed me down at any rate- so I think I've escaped the worst of it. Vicci- I'm a believer in echinacea; I also have a wellness formula that I take when things are going around at work but I was out of this week.

I'm not much of a resolution maker, but the end of the holidays and the return to a normal routine is a good excuse to shake up my w/o a bit and/or recommit to training. My new plan is run 3x/week, followed by yoga. Cross-train at the gym 2x week, followed by a long, intensive core w/o. (Coincidentally, the newest Runner's World focuses on core training!). Day six is outdoor playdate with Brendan- bike ride, hike, long walk. Day 7 is rest.

I don't have any races on the horizon until March and that's a 5K. After that I'll start to focus on 10ks. So I want to use the time between now and March to concentrate on core strengthening, opening my hips and back and interval training.

Have a great rest of the week, all!

[Leslie Ferguson]

Drive by here. For some reason I'm really beat right now (maybe there's a reason below) so I'm without the energy to respond to everyone individually. However, it's been fun on campus this week and lots of tired faces of the seniors who are taking their comps this week. In the past two days they've had 14 hours of testing. Tomorrow is a day off for them (which makes it a day off for me too) to recuperate a little. But I've got some business to take care of outside of campus work - state inspection on a car etc. And I've still got to figure out what I've got to do the rest of the week in preparation for class next week.

But for now I'm beat - LW didn't sleep well last night (which impacted me). She has an infection in two teeth and needs to have root canal on both of them. The infection is bad enough that she can't have the root canal until after the infection clears - which will be Monday.

I'm off to the land of the sleeping so have a wonderful night and peace,
Les

[Kathy B]

Yoga and TM at home the past two days. Off to the CC in a few minutes for weights and EB.

Hope you got a good sleep Les. What a bummer for your wife to have to get over an infection so she can turn around and have a root canal! :eek: I hope the time goes quickly, so she can get all that behind her!

Julie, great plan! You sound very motivated. March will be here before we know it....trust me!

Robyn, reading your plans for the next several months wears me out. You go girl! Good luck with all of your goals and races.

Hope you like your new shoes, Vicci. I remember there was a whole thread about yoga toes a year or two ago. I peeked at it, but don't really remember what they are for.

My aunt is in town, so we may have guests for dinner, and I am working 12 hours tomorrow. Better get going to the CC so I can start cleaning/cooking.

[sunnyshine]

All of you inspire me. You have such dedication.

I run about 4 times a week on a treadmill, usually 5 miles each time. It seems you all run circles around me.

I love the looks of the YakTraks. I must find myself a pair.

After rambling, I do have a question: I fractured my arm over the holidays and I'm wondering when I can start running again. No cast as of now (never break anything over winter break because orthos seem to go on vacation then!). I'm itching to run but I know better. Anyone with experience?

[Robyn1007]

(never break anything over winter break because orthos seem to go on vacation then!).

HAHAHAHAH!! This cracked me up because around here this is money time for the orthos. They love ski season. I have one friend who shattered her shoulder last week (broke the ball into 7 or 8 pieces, now has 11 pins in) and a co-worker that fractured the radial head of her elbow last week.

I haven't a clue about your running with the broken arm but I'm guessing you could. Just don't go out on ice or anything where you're likely to fall.

[Leslie Ferguson]

After rambling, I do have a question: I fractured my arm over the holidays and I'm wondering when I can start running again. No cast as of now (never break anything over winter break because orthos seem to go on vacation then!). I'm itching to run but I know better. Anyone with experience?

Welcome sunnyshine. I've never experienced a broken arm but my running partner seriously broke her finger a couple years ago and ran a half-marathon 3 weeks after breaking it. She started running about 4-6 days after breaking it but she was in a splint for part of her recovery. Her biggest gripe was her cast took her off stride (ran funny with the extra weight on one side). I'd say that having some support for your arm would be helpful - just because the jarring won't do good things to your break. But if you're doing ok without right now then you may be fine without - just be careful and if your arm hurts then stop.

A spin to log later - about an hour. But for now... dinner calls.

Happy trails,
Les

[Robyn1007]

Stopping by to report an hour spin. We're adjusting my heart rate zones so tonight was interesting in a good way.

[Leslie Ferguson]

Sorry I missed you the other day TKay, it's good seeing you back at it and I hope that you come back even if you aren't running all that much.
Julie - Ditto - your plan sounds great and well balanced. I hope that everything works out. How are you all doing with the flooding in WA? Part of the problem of getting a lot of ice and snow up there but at least where you live it shouldn't be an issue.
Robyn - Adjusting your heart rate? Slower or faster? I haven't ever thought about fiddling around with my heart rate, especially on the bike.

It was a great spin this evening considering it wasn't a night fit for man nor beast out there. Picked off just over an hour which felt good considering I haven't done much over the first part of the week except be there for folks taking comps. Tomorrow may be another wild day and I know the weekend will be pretty much a bust - I'm driving to my folks house on Friday to spend the weekend helping with Dad. Needed break for my sister who's been there all week.

LW is doing better but still not lovin' life. That won't happen until after her root canal(s). Hard to believe that she's actually looking forward to root canal(s).

Happy trails all and see you on the 'morrow.
Les

[Robyn1007]

Currently we're working mostly in zones 2 & 3. But, for me when I calculated my zones zone 2 was too easy so I was working more in zone 3 & 4. So we did some adjusting of things so that my zones make me work harder to get into those zones. It paid off, my average speed tonight was up by 1.5 mph. It's all about building fitness and endurance in preparation for later in the season.

[Leslie Ferguson]

Thanks, I think I get it.

[1MegMeg]

Eva - Any decision yet about the 1/2? I hope you're feeling better!

Nat - I didn't go to yoga class, but I did do yoga at home, so I wasn't a total slacker. :p I hope you had a delicious dinner out on your off day!

Vicci - Have you gotten your new running shoes yet? What do you think? I am also interested to hear more of what you think about the yoga toes...I have been eyeing them for a while.

Julie - I think your 2009 workout/be healthy and fit plan sounds wonderful! Is there a specific training program you use for 10ks? I would like to do a 10K this year, but want to follow a training program. I did ok with increasing my mileage on my own up to 5K distance, but I think I need a little more guidance for 10K.

Les - I hope you find some peace and serenity in your busy weeks. So glad to hear your Dad is doing well! Not glad to hear about LW's tooth. :( The same thing happened to my Mom a few weeks before Christmas. She was thrilled to get it all taken care of.

Kathy - Hope you're having a fun week with your aunt! 12 hour work day does not sound fun though!

sunny -Welcome! :) Sorry to hear you broke your arm, broken bones are no fun! If it were me, I would err on the conservative side and not run until it was healed or I got the ok from the ortho. I don't think the swinging motion that running does to the arms would be good.

Robyn - lol! Yeah, ski season is $$ season for the ortho's, that's for sure. Sounds like you're having a good workout week.


Have had a couple of good runs this week and some good climbing last night. I know I've been getting a lot better with climbing, but I had the sudden moment of clarity last night...of feeling strong and seeing my progress. It was good. I ran 3.5 miles this morning and it was a beautiful 48 degrees, my ideal running temperature. It was early, still foggy, and the sun was glowing, but not actually rising yet. With the cold air it felt like the earth stood still for a moment. Really enjoyed it and was good mentally as much as it was physically.

I ordered the SpiBelt (http://www.spibelt.com/spibelt.php) that Susan talked about earlier in this thread. It already came today so I'll report back on it this weekend! I've been wanting a way to carry my phone since I run alone and I think this will be good.

Have a great day everyone!

[TKay]

Cool SpiBelt, 1MegMeg. I usually carry my phone in my hand for runs. Let us know how you like the new carrier.

Les - Thanks for the welcome back. I've mostly been lurking. Hope DW feels better soon. Yikes! How are things with Dad?

Robyn - You continue to rock it, girl. Well done.

Sunnyshine - I have no experience with fractures, but I wish you a speedy recovery. Hope you figure out a way to comfortably (and safely) run.

KathyB - Yoga and the TM sounds perfect to me right now.

KValley - Impressive plan for the New Year!

Nat - How did the dinner go? Great job on the spin.

Vicci - I'm also interested in yoga toes. How are they?

Aggie - Feeling better? I hope so.

Susan - Things are going great with the puppy (see below). The boys are learning, let's just put it that way. :D

I've been walking the pup every morning and then the family's been doing a walk with her every evening. It's amazing how much better I feel just getting in two 20-minute walks each day. I am inspired to ramp those up. I think I'll add weights to the evening walks a few times a week (when someone else can hold the leash and do the puppy correcting). I'm hoping to also add some jogs in the morning. The dog's not equipped for that, so I'm figuring I'll do a warm-up walk with her, drop her at home and do a run on my own afterward.

I let go of my gym membership for various reasons. I'm considering a TM at home. Still up in the air about it.

Hi to Carrie, ktg and all I missed.

[sunnyshine]

Thank you all for the warm welcome and advice. I was able to see the doctor. It is wait and see. He ordered more xrays but was optimistic that they will come back looking good. He said that after he reviews the new films and it looks good I could begin running again as long as, "I'm not a klutz!" I think being a klutz is what got me there in the first place!

[Robyn1007]

Hehe, time for y'all to laugh at me. I am feeling the extra exertion today. My rear end and hamstrings are talking to me. That's what I get for telling coach it was too easy. ;)

Anyone who likes Lucy, they're doing 50% off all sale items. I just got 2 pairs of pants and 4 tanks for $80, all for working out. I'm gonna be stylin'.

More later after tonight's run (or hobble as it may be) and swim.

[SusanMac]

Tkay - I'm very impressed that you actually get your whole family to go on a walk together! You have some pretty cool boys

Sunnyshine - welcome! I was going to lean on the cautious side too, thinking the jarring wouldn't be good. Plus, your body just needs to focus all its energy on healing. But, if the Dr says it's OK, then go for it. Tell us more about your running -- do any racing? do you run w/a group of friends or solo? trails? neighborhood? puppies?

Robyn - at least you kept your pants on ;-)

I finally have a run to report! My first workout since Sun, partially due to busy work week, and partially due to my tendency to procrastinate. I'm not using a watch at all this month, and it feels really good to just get out and go. It was cold, but sunny, crisp & beautiful out. Felt great!

[Natasha]

Hey all!

Dinner yesterday was just lovely - thanks for asking.

Kathy, I didn't mention this before, but it made me smile just reading your post about playing the game with your family and laughing 'til you cried. You seem to do so many cool things together as a family! My sister and I were also very close to our parents as kids and teenagers (we're still very close with my mom; sadly, my dad's no longer with us), and I have a ton of good memories of family time. I'm sure it will be the same with your kids.

Robyn, thanks for the tip; sounds like you did well! I will resist looking as I don't need anything further, but enjoy the new stuff :cool:

Meg, wow, sounds like a beautiful run!

Susan, thanks for the Spibelt note. It looks good. I saw a lightweight belt in a recent issue of Triathlete but I don't know if it was the same one. I'll keep it in mind as I do like to take my phone and a couple of other things with me when I run.

TKay, living where you do, I would probably be sitting on the fence too about a treadmill - but can definitely see why you'd want one, especially since you could then workout and keep an eye on the kids, right? I have to say that I looooove my treadmill. But you guys already know that :o

Howdy Les. Good work on the spin.

Sunnyshine, welcome! Glad you got the go-ahead to run. Do be careful! The klutz comment hit home with me ;)

Debating between a swim and a run. Hmm. The decision will need to be made soon. Both sound good to me.

Take care, everyone! Catch you on the new thread.

[Leslie Ferguson]

Drive by... probably for a few days too. Fading fast as it's been a busy (not run filled though) week. But I did have a productive day on a few fronts. I was hospitible for the comp takersa again - it's good for me too to see the test and how they "take" the questions for the test. It will be different next year but the fact that the comp questions are fair this year is a good omen. Spent a good portion of the day on campus (8:30 to 6:40) but was productive and even got to see my spiritual director - a good check in after all the stuff that has gone on over the past 3 weeks. Also put the finishing touches on getting ready to go south tomorrow until Sunday. I'll be helping around the house until I have to come back for class next week. Missed my workout but had a satisfying day today. Beddy-bye time for me so until tomorrow...

Happy trails,
Les