Okay, so another lesson has been learned... Walking extra miles on top of any increase in mileage running can be problematic. Brad had been quick to acknowledge that his hip flexor was out of sorts at the beginning of last week, so he took the week off from running to prevent further injury. I, on the other hand, had started feeling some tension in what I suppose is my Achilles tendon perhaps on Monday, but as it got better after I got moving or even when I massaged it a bit after the fact, I shrugged it off as a "no-pain, no-gain" situation. So, I continued with my running normal schedule - well besides the fact that I had to run on the treadmill on Monday and Tuesday due to inclement weather. After my normal rest days on Thursday and Friday, I embarked on my longest run alone Saturday, as I've already mentioned that my husband has far more sense than I. I pushed myself and managed to get a little over 8 miles in the allotted 1 hour 20 minute time frame. However, any bliss I might have felt over this feat was rather short-lived.... mainly because a knot arose just an inch or so above my left heel and walking felt even more painful than it had before.
I was devastated at the mere suggestion my husband made that I must abandon running until my tendon is all healed up as it could take anywhere from a couple weeks to a couple of months, and I'm terrified that I might use this as an excuse to gain weight again (especially as this is an eater's "best" time of year IMO). After some more research, it looks like as long as I cut back on my mileage and my speed, I should be okay. I'll be trying to be a bit more diligent about my post-run stretches, although apparently I have to be mindful not to stretch TOO much or else I'll cause myself more problems. So... that's pretty well it.
As an aside note, I can only wonder if you were as unsurprised as I was by the Surprising Ways You're Gaining Weight? I mean, as far as I can tell, there's very little in the way of new information when it comes to nutrition and what not.... but... seriously? Ugh. For the record, no one will guilt me into eating this Thanksgiving or Christmas.... when I splurge, it's because I want to. If I EVER bring my own entree to a dinner party, you will know I'm insane and should be committed. That's part of the holidays. Yes, there are things you shouldn't eat, BUT if you FREAK OUT about every little thing that goes in your mouth every single day.... it is my firm belief that you have lost your mind (unless of course there's like a medical reason to be so obsessive). These Eat-Clean tips for November 2010 are a bit better, but again, #2 strikes me as a bit psychotic if you bring your own food for your own consumption.
Monday, November 22, 2010
Monday, November 15, 2010
6 for 6
When my hubby and I woke up on Saturday morning in our hotel room, we were certainly in for a big day. In honor of our sixth wedding anniversary, we decided to go up to Nashville to watch a Predators game, but as luck would have it before the puck dropped, we had our longest run yet ahead of us - an hour and 10 minutes. Around here, we are something of an oddity when we run, but in Music City - just off the campus of Vanderbilt University, we were in good company. Regardless of the time of day, there was someone out running, which was just amusing to me. While many of these runners ran along the side of the road, we opted to run in Centennial Park, which happened to be right across the road from our hotel. It definitely provided us with a change in scenery, even if we had to run about 6 1/2 laps to fill up our goal time but it was definitely beautiful. The one mile loop was the track of choice for quite a few runners and walkers of all skill levels on Saturday morning, and even some sort of instructor led training toward the end of a run.
Once we clocked our time, we stopped by the McDonald's between us and our hotel for one of the biggest breakfasts I've had in some time - two breakfast burritos, a hash brown patty, a medium orange juice, and a yogurt & fruit parfait. It amazes me that I would have downed such a breakfast without a second thought not so long ago, but at least this time I'd "earned" the calories - the rest of the facts don't impress but what the heck... Travel usually brings out the big eater in me anyway. Sort of figured it'd take the place of breakfast and lunch anyway. For whatever reason, Brad decided he'd try a McGriddle, even though he's never expressed anything but disgust at the idea of it since the time of its release. His bad opinion was confirmed after the "taste test", but apparently, the feeling was mutual, as his stomach was a bit ornery for a couple hours later - needless to say, not what you want especially on vacation.
After we got cleaned up and relaxed for a bit, we went shopping at a pretty nice mall which was about 10 minutes away from the hotel. I must admit that I was rather hopeful that we'd have a fair amount of shopping success, as I enjoy shopping with my hubby.... but... despite the fact that this mall had some good stores, I found nothing that I liked, even though I was able to confirm some suspicions about the sizing of some Lucky Brand jeans I bought on eBay - namely that they were smaller than normal, as I was able to put on some size 4's. Despite that fact, as I was walking around the mall, I saw all these other people and just marveled at how small they were; all the while, I was thinking about how big I was - even though we were probably the same size if I wasn't just taller. I found myself wondering if they saw me and pitied the "big girl". I know getting past the "fat girl thinking" is a long process, but at moments like that - I just feel like it's pretty hopeless because if I don't feel small now - I mean when exactly will I?, but I guess you just gotta keep going - been loving reading some of the blog entries on the Phit-N-Phat website, which have dealt with the struggles other women are having with the same sort of thing. Anyway, I'm at least happy to report that we did find my hubby some jeans as he's been having quite a bit of trouble keeping his britches up. ;)
After just an hour or so, we headed back to the hotel with the intention of grabbing a light bite to eat at one of the restaurants nearby before heading over the Predators Pro Shop. Somehow that morphed into getting a bite to eat after we went to the Pro Shop as we wanted to make sure we made it over in plenty of time before it closed prior to the game, so we walked the 2.1 miles from the hotel to Bridgestone Arena. Of course, about the time we made it there, Brad mentioned that we could just hang around downtown until the game. Would have been a great idea EXCEPT our tickets were still at the hotel. HA! We found a couple of shirts and hats so no one would be able to doubt our "fanhood", and then headed back to the hotel in search of a restaurant where we could grab our "lunner". As we both enjoy a good beer from time to time, we found ourselves in luck because there was a restaurant where they also brewed beer along the way - we'd managed to work up quite an appetite by this point, and our selections didn't disappoint - for me, Shepard's Pie with a German-style pale; for Brad, a half-rack of ribs and a stout English porter.
With our bellies happy once more, we continued the return trip - only to be greeted by about 20-30 Blackhawks fans standing outside the inn, apparently waiting for a shuttle. We donned our Predators gear and tried to give our legs a little rest before we left once more. We managed to hang around for 30 minutes after we got gussied up til about 5 before the excitement of our first real live Preds game got the best of us, even though we knew that it would only take us about 30 minutes to walk over there and the gates weren't supposed to open until 6. While the downtown area was pretty lively on our first pass, it was definitely a bit more so as the residents of Smashville (and their guests from Chicago) filled the streets outside the arena. It seemed as though the gates to our cold new home opened almost as soon as we arrived on the premises, and we did not tarry.
We were both in awe as we passed through the doors and our eyes absorbed the sights and sounds that had only been available to us before on TV. We saw Gnash and could only wonder what the wee man would think of him. We saw stands for the various culinary delights offered there - don't laugh, chocolate caramel apples are awesome! I was a little nervous as I noticed the sheer number of 'Hawk fans in the stands, but the Preds definitely showed up. We sat in the upper lower bowl on the "attack twice" side of center ice. The view was awesome! Brad kept telling me how much more fun it was to see a hockey game in-person than on TV, but I had clung to my doubts... Completely dispelled now. I don't recall a single dull moment. Top it all off with the fact that one of my FAVORITE players, Ryan Suter, was back from injury!
On TV, it just looks like a bunch of guys hitting a puck around the ice.... but just being able to see the precise movements involved in each action, to watch a guy pluck a puck from the air, or knock it down with his stick... it's nothing short of amazing. A thing of beauty even in the midst of the general brutality of the game. In addition to the action on the ice, we acquainted ourselves with the various cheers & chants of our Preds - much to my dismay, the word "sucks" was used quite a bit, but I simply opted to refrain from using the word as it does seem a bit vulgar to chant publicly. Plenty of music and videos on the jumbo-tron topped it all off for quite a lively experience.
Even though I generally get riled up when the "enemy" is close at hand, I found myself pretty upbeat and oblivious to their presence for the most part.... Although I did hear a female 'hawk make a snide remark about what a shame it was that they took away a Predators' goal after review because the puck had been knocked in by a skate as we'd already celebrated - I couldn't help but roll my eyes, and then a male who was with her later tried to hone in on a simple "Let's Go Predators!" cheer by subbing in a "Blackhawks"... That prompted me to be just a bit louder as I turned my head to the side and repeated my chant, but really quite a mild reaction on my part even if I do say so myself.
On the other hand, the children in the row ahead of us (the oldest was maybe 13) were mirror images of what I must have been like at their age when I went to State football and basketball games. They were loud and obnoxious. They made rather ugly, ridiculous statements as they had no doubt convinced themselves that they "hated" the Blackhawks and the 'Hawk fans seated next to them. That was the only part of the whole experience that I really wished I could change. It made me feel ashamed that I'd ever been that way, and sad that they were behaving that way - even if it was only a phase. I hope we can set better examples for Coop so he will always be a good sport and focus more on the game than indulge in the false yet perceived expectations of a "real" fan.
The game was pretty much a down and dirty brawl, with quite a few scuffles breaking out - how I did love to see little Steve Sullivan (my size) put the beat down on a bigger guy. Sullivan took a man down to the ice and even after they pulled him off, you could tell he was telling the guy to stay down. He continued to jaw at the guy from the penalty box. Of course, Shea did not disappoint either. He definitely put some hits on some 'hawks - he had a couple of penalties that he seemed to serve almost consecutively, but the Preds were able to keep the 'hawks in check. Tied at 3 at the end of regulation - we went to overtime and then a shootout, but happily, we were able to come away with the win. Yee haw! It was quite an action packed experience for our first NHL game.
After the game, we made the final 2.1 mile trek back to our room in the drizzling rain. Once we made it to our room, we pretty well collapsed and tried to take in a little ESPN before finally going to sleep. It was definitely an anniversary to remember and last night, when we managed to get back home, we made plans to attend another game next month.
Just so blessed that we were able celebrate this milestone together in style. Happy 6th anniversary, Colonel!
Once we clocked our time, we stopped by the McDonald's between us and our hotel for one of the biggest breakfasts I've had in some time - two breakfast burritos, a hash brown patty, a medium orange juice, and a yogurt & fruit parfait. It amazes me that I would have downed such a breakfast without a second thought not so long ago, but at least this time I'd "earned" the calories - the rest of the facts don't impress but what the heck... Travel usually brings out the big eater in me anyway. Sort of figured it'd take the place of breakfast and lunch anyway. For whatever reason, Brad decided he'd try a McGriddle, even though he's never expressed anything but disgust at the idea of it since the time of its release. His bad opinion was confirmed after the "taste test", but apparently, the feeling was mutual, as his stomach was a bit ornery for a couple hours later - needless to say, not what you want especially on vacation.
After we got cleaned up and relaxed for a bit, we went shopping at a pretty nice mall which was about 10 minutes away from the hotel. I must admit that I was rather hopeful that we'd have a fair amount of shopping success, as I enjoy shopping with my hubby.... but... despite the fact that this mall had some good stores, I found nothing that I liked, even though I was able to confirm some suspicions about the sizing of some Lucky Brand jeans I bought on eBay - namely that they were smaller than normal, as I was able to put on some size 4's. Despite that fact, as I was walking around the mall, I saw all these other people and just marveled at how small they were; all the while, I was thinking about how big I was - even though we were probably the same size if I wasn't just taller. I found myself wondering if they saw me and pitied the "big girl". I know getting past the "fat girl thinking" is a long process, but at moments like that - I just feel like it's pretty hopeless because if I don't feel small now - I mean when exactly will I?, but I guess you just gotta keep going - been loving reading some of the blog entries on the Phit-N-Phat website, which have dealt with the struggles other women are having with the same sort of thing. Anyway, I'm at least happy to report that we did find my hubby some jeans as he's been having quite a bit of trouble keeping his britches up. ;)
After just an hour or so, we headed back to the hotel with the intention of grabbing a light bite to eat at one of the restaurants nearby before heading over the Predators Pro Shop. Somehow that morphed into getting a bite to eat after we went to the Pro Shop as we wanted to make sure we made it over in plenty of time before it closed prior to the game, so we walked the 2.1 miles from the hotel to Bridgestone Arena. Of course, about the time we made it there, Brad mentioned that we could just hang around downtown until the game. Would have been a great idea EXCEPT our tickets were still at the hotel. HA! We found a couple of shirts and hats so no one would be able to doubt our "fanhood", and then headed back to the hotel in search of a restaurant where we could grab our "lunner". As we both enjoy a good beer from time to time, we found ourselves in luck because there was a restaurant where they also brewed beer along the way - we'd managed to work up quite an appetite by this point, and our selections didn't disappoint - for me, Shepard's Pie with a German-style pale; for Brad, a half-rack of ribs and a stout English porter.
Cheesing for the camera in our new duds in the room...
A rare full-body shot....
With our bellies happy once more, we continued the return trip - only to be greeted by about 20-30 Blackhawks fans standing outside the inn, apparently waiting for a shuttle. We donned our Predators gear and tried to give our legs a little rest before we left once more. We managed to hang around for 30 minutes after we got gussied up til about 5 before the excitement of our first real live Preds game got the best of us, even though we knew that it would only take us about 30 minutes to walk over there and the gates weren't supposed to open until 6. While the downtown area was pretty lively on our first pass, it was definitely a bit more so as the residents of Smashville (and their guests from Chicago) filled the streets outside the arena. It seemed as though the gates to our cold new home opened almost as soon as we arrived on the premises, and we did not tarry.
We were both in awe as we passed through the doors and our eyes absorbed the sights and sounds that had only been available to us before on TV. We saw Gnash and could only wonder what the wee man would think of him. We saw stands for the various culinary delights offered there - don't laugh, chocolate caramel apples are awesome! I was a little nervous as I noticed the sheer number of 'Hawk fans in the stands, but the Preds definitely showed up. We sat in the upper lower bowl on the "attack twice" side of center ice. The view was awesome! Brad kept telling me how much more fun it was to see a hockey game in-person than on TV, but I had clung to my doubts... Completely dispelled now. I don't recall a single dull moment. Top it all off with the fact that one of my FAVORITE players, Ryan Suter, was back from injury!
Standing in the aisle before the game....
On TV, it just looks like a bunch of guys hitting a puck around the ice.... but just being able to see the precise movements involved in each action, to watch a guy pluck a puck from the air, or knock it down with his stick... it's nothing short of amazing. A thing of beauty even in the midst of the general brutality of the game. In addition to the action on the ice, we acquainted ourselves with the various cheers & chants of our Preds - much to my dismay, the word "sucks" was used quite a bit, but I simply opted to refrain from using the word as it does seem a bit vulgar to chant publicly. Plenty of music and videos on the jumbo-tron topped it all off for quite a lively experience.
Even though I generally get riled up when the "enemy" is close at hand, I found myself pretty upbeat and oblivious to their presence for the most part.... Although I did hear a female 'hawk make a snide remark about what a shame it was that they took away a Predators' goal after review because the puck had been knocked in by a skate as we'd already celebrated - I couldn't help but roll my eyes, and then a male who was with her later tried to hone in on a simple "Let's Go Predators!" cheer by subbing in a "Blackhawks"... That prompted me to be just a bit louder as I turned my head to the side and repeated my chant, but really quite a mild reaction on my part even if I do say so myself.
On the other hand, the children in the row ahead of us (the oldest was maybe 13) were mirror images of what I must have been like at their age when I went to State football and basketball games. They were loud and obnoxious. They made rather ugly, ridiculous statements as they had no doubt convinced themselves that they "hated" the Blackhawks and the 'Hawk fans seated next to them. That was the only part of the whole experience that I really wished I could change. It made me feel ashamed that I'd ever been that way, and sad that they were behaving that way - even if it was only a phase. I hope we can set better examples for Coop so he will always be a good sport and focus more on the game than indulge in the false yet perceived expectations of a "real" fan.
The game was pretty much a down and dirty brawl, with quite a few scuffles breaking out - how I did love to see little Steve Sullivan (my size) put the beat down on a bigger guy. Sullivan took a man down to the ice and even after they pulled him off, you could tell he was telling the guy to stay down. He continued to jaw at the guy from the penalty box. Of course, Shea did not disappoint either. He definitely put some hits on some 'hawks - he had a couple of penalties that he seemed to serve almost consecutively, but the Preds were able to keep the 'hawks in check. Tied at 3 at the end of regulation - we went to overtime and then a shootout, but happily, we were able to come away with the win. Yee haw! It was quite an action packed experience for our first NHL game.
After the game, we made the final 2.1 mile trek back to our room in the drizzling rain. Once we made it to our room, we pretty well collapsed and tried to take in a little ESPN before finally going to sleep. It was definitely an anniversary to remember and last night, when we managed to get back home, we made plans to attend another game next month.
Just so blessed that we were able celebrate this milestone together in style. Happy 6th anniversary, Colonel!
Thursday, November 11, 2010
Everybody's Got One...
Having a baby in tow definitely changes the way one shops at Wal-mart. Personally, I'm not comfortable with putting my child in a shopping cart. It's not the germs, even though I quite aware of the fact that there are germs - I mean you can always put a cover over it. Instead, it's the restraint part of the seat that is most problematic for me. Most carts do not seem to have them, and even though the cart cover that I own has a nice looking restraint... I'm not confident that I'd be able to secure the cover to the cart well enough to trust the cart. My boy is really rambunctious and can get into trouble lickety-split, so while I'm getting something off the shelf, he could very well try to jump out of the cart. He is a daredevil. For this reason, I am much more comfortable with having him in a baby carrier. I will acknowledge that some baby carriers are unsafe - mostly because of improper use, but I have been nothing but satisfied with our ERGObaby carrier, so unless he's just extremely fussy - that's where my baby will be when he's with me at Wal-mart until such time that I simply cannot physically tote him this way.
Yesterday, I was on the receiving end of some hateful glares - I can only imagine this was the reason. For most of the trip, I shrugged them off, but as I was getting ready to check out, the cashier was giving me the same hateful look I'd noticed from a few others. To top it off, the first thing she said to me was "I wouldn't trust those things". Now, I must admit that as soon as those words left her mouth - my defenses were thrown up, but as I do my utmost to be polite, I simply said that we have had nothing but positive experiences with this carrier since he was an infant. She retorted with a snarl: "I still wouldn't trust it". I just smiled.
Not to be completely rude, but why did she think I gave a care in the world about her snide opinion? I care more about my child's welfare than she ever could, so what did she stand to gain by questioning my decision to wear my baby?
On a lighter note, it was quite sweet to see Coop and this nice fella in another check-out line make goofy faces at one another just before we got up to the register. Coop even let him have his paci for a short bit. Now THAT warms my heart.
Yesterday, I was on the receiving end of some hateful glares - I can only imagine this was the reason. For most of the trip, I shrugged them off, but as I was getting ready to check out, the cashier was giving me the same hateful look I'd noticed from a few others. To top it off, the first thing she said to me was "I wouldn't trust those things". Now, I must admit that as soon as those words left her mouth - my defenses were thrown up, but as I do my utmost to be polite, I simply said that we have had nothing but positive experiences with this carrier since he was an infant. She retorted with a snarl: "I still wouldn't trust it". I just smiled.
Not to be completely rude, but why did she think I gave a care in the world about her snide opinion? I care more about my child's welfare than she ever could, so what did she stand to gain by questioning my decision to wear my baby?
On a lighter note, it was quite sweet to see Coop and this nice fella in another check-out line make goofy faces at one another just before we got up to the register. Coop even let him have his paci for a short bit. Now THAT warms my heart.
Tuesday, November 09, 2010
Podium Type Runner
Okay, so this is random, but I loved this blog entry and wanted to share!
Just seemed like it had an excellent message that I definitely need to work on myself.... Enjoy!
Just seemed like it had an excellent message that I definitely need to work on myself.... Enjoy!
Early Rising
So the past couple days have been really interesting as I have been rolling out of bed and into my running clothes well before I'd previously even THOUGHT of doing so - thanks of course to the end of daylight savings time. While I would technically have most all day to get my runs in, it is nice to think that I get it out of the way while my hubby gets ready for work and the wee man sleeps. Having said that... HOLY COW, IT'S COLD! Now as I've mentioned before, I really enjoy running when it's cold, but I can't help but doubt my own sanity for running when it's near freezing. Of course, if I do wind up running in this half-marathon in Oxford... I need to be prepared for these temps as I can well remember how bloomin' cold it was on campus as I'd trek across campus from one class to the next.
I am impressed with how much easier it is to run for longer periods (still like my walk breaks as jogging is still pretty elusive for me)... While I was dressed in a pretty warm ensemble (5K outfit with a fleece lined headband), the wind was still fairly merciless as it whipped across my cheeks. It presents an interesting situation: if you continue to run, the wind will be a bit more brutal with you, but if you do rise to the occasion and continue on your quest, you might actually generate a little more warmth - of course, there's no telling how long it will take or if it will happen at all. I continually opt for the possibility of more warmth, but my sanity is quite frequently called into question as I do. Which is why it was so fantastic yesterday when the intro of "Clint Eastwood" by Gorillaz started up... made me lose my doubts - just let me revel in what a bad ma'am-a jamma I am for taking this new challenge head on.
Feel so empowered in moments like that. I mean there's quite a few of the "I'm-getting-my-fanny-handed-to-me" moments, but it's those moments when I feel stronger... like mentally stronger than I've ever thought possible... that is why I love running. You can always improve, but it's mostly about just being in the moment. This from the girl who has always looked forward to the future instead of truly loving where she was at that moment in time. It's great to have goals, but the journey is just as important as reaching those goals if not more so, because goals can evolve based on the person I am today (person who has been shaped by the journey). I feel blessed in that knowledge.
I am impressed with how much easier it is to run for longer periods (still like my walk breaks as jogging is still pretty elusive for me)... While I was dressed in a pretty warm ensemble (5K outfit with a fleece lined headband), the wind was still fairly merciless as it whipped across my cheeks. It presents an interesting situation: if you continue to run, the wind will be a bit more brutal with you, but if you do rise to the occasion and continue on your quest, you might actually generate a little more warmth - of course, there's no telling how long it will take or if it will happen at all. I continually opt for the possibility of more warmth, but my sanity is quite frequently called into question as I do. Which is why it was so fantastic yesterday when the intro of "Clint Eastwood" by Gorillaz started up... made me lose my doubts - just let me revel in what a bad ma'am-a jamma I am for taking this new challenge head on.
Feel so empowered in moments like that. I mean there's quite a few of the "I'm-getting-my-fanny-handed-to-me" moments, but it's those moments when I feel stronger... like mentally stronger than I've ever thought possible... that is why I love running. You can always improve, but it's mostly about just being in the moment. This from the girl who has always looked forward to the future instead of truly loving where she was at that moment in time. It's great to have goals, but the journey is just as important as reaching those goals if not more so, because goals can evolve based on the person I am today (person who has been shaped by the journey). I feel blessed in that knowledge.
Thursday, November 04, 2010
Just assume have a cheeseburger...
In case I haven't told you lately, I love food. In my pursuit of a leaner me, I feel like I'm been able to quell my hunger most of the time with healthier choices. I mean, where as we used to have a frozen pizza once a week - we might have one a month.... Things like that. The strange this is... I don't really miss it. I mean I know there's plenty of articles to be found on the topic of the snowball effect of healthy eating on a regular basis, but.... for me... a lover of food... it just seems weird. I mean I'll even have days where I have to make myself eat something because nothing really sounds good and I know just going without is completely stupid. It's weird how things have changed....
Several years ago, about the time my hubby and I tied the knot, I was nutso for Mexican food. In fact, my entire weekend would feel completely flat if I didn't get to eat at a Mexican restaurant AT LEAST once. If we happened to be up at my in-law's, my mother-in-law and I would even cheerfully knock back a margarita.
Then, it sort of morphed to going to eat out once a week. I wasn't as particular about where, but if it was Friday night, we were going out to eat. It was nice to have a little date night as the rest of the week just always felt so hectic. I mean it felt like I rarely ever saw my hubby and when I did, we were both generally too tired to talk, except of course for Friday night. I mean what's more convenient than having someone else worry with the dishes and preparing the food.... just so long as you get to kick back and enjoy... the conversations with your companion... and of course, the food....
Since I've been staying at home with the wee man, our weekly outings are now generally limited to having lunch with "Daddy" once a week. Now, it's more about getting to visit with my hubby and/or his co-workers than it is about the food.... It's not that the food is bad. It's just not the same.
Well, my adventures in Podiatryland have continued since my initial surgery. Glad to have my bum nail long gone and to have both big toes recovering quite well. Still treating for the discoloration and what not that have plagued them for a good little while before the surgeries. While it was really kinda neat to have somewhere to go, to get out of the confines of the house for a while by myself, these biweekly trips have pretty well gotten to the point of being cumbersome... EXCEPT when I get to have lunch with my sister. She always just brightens my day and I love just getting to share lunch and a wonderful conversation with her.
Given that the conversation will be awesome no matter what, it hasn't mattered where we went to eat - just so long as we got to go. We've been to several different types of places - deli, Applebee's, Mexican, sushi... but there was one place that I'd had in the back of my mind... one of those places where you know you cannot go wrong because you know exactly what you will order and just thinking about your entree will make your mouth water if you are so inclined... namely Mugshots Grill & Bar. I kept pushing the idea back into what I guess equates to a mental utility closet or something, because I knew it wouldn't come close to being healthy. I've done fine these last few months... until of course, I discovered my hubby had finally achieved his goal weight after a smorgasbord of unhealthy foods last week (he was out-of-town). After that, I threw down my gauntlet. I would actually have an honest to God splurge. I was tired of minimizing the damage. I wanted a cheeseburger. I wanted the best, so my mission was clear: I would have a McDonald from Mugshots.
Now, cheeseburgers are a food category in which several restaurants get a nod. I mean it's one of those - I eat a burger from my short list of restaurants or one that's homemade and finish with the same thought: "That's the best damn burger I've ever eaten!" But truth be told, I should be more descriptive about the subcategory in which that particular burger is best, because the Mugshots' McDonald is by far THE best overall in my opinion. I don't know if it's the ranch dressing, the bacon, the barbecue sauce, the smoked cheddar, the sweet bun, the patty.... Doesn't matter. Just warms my belly thinking about it. Ahhh....
So, yesterday I had another wonderful visit with my beautiful sister, but in addition, I walked away with one VERY happy belly after the most calories I think I've consumed in a single sitting in months. But... I... do... not... CARE! Take that, LoseIt! *mu ha ha*
Several years ago, about the time my hubby and I tied the knot, I was nutso for Mexican food. In fact, my entire weekend would feel completely flat if I didn't get to eat at a Mexican restaurant AT LEAST once. If we happened to be up at my in-law's, my mother-in-law and I would even cheerfully knock back a margarita.
Then, it sort of morphed to going to eat out once a week. I wasn't as particular about where, but if it was Friday night, we were going out to eat. It was nice to have a little date night as the rest of the week just always felt so hectic. I mean it felt like I rarely ever saw my hubby and when I did, we were both generally too tired to talk, except of course for Friday night. I mean what's more convenient than having someone else worry with the dishes and preparing the food.... just so long as you get to kick back and enjoy... the conversations with your companion... and of course, the food....
Since I've been staying at home with the wee man, our weekly outings are now generally limited to having lunch with "Daddy" once a week. Now, it's more about getting to visit with my hubby and/or his co-workers than it is about the food.... It's not that the food is bad. It's just not the same.
Well, my adventures in Podiatryland have continued since my initial surgery. Glad to have my bum nail long gone and to have both big toes recovering quite well. Still treating for the discoloration and what not that have plagued them for a good little while before the surgeries. While it was really kinda neat to have somewhere to go, to get out of the confines of the house for a while by myself, these biweekly trips have pretty well gotten to the point of being cumbersome... EXCEPT when I get to have lunch with my sister. She always just brightens my day and I love just getting to share lunch and a wonderful conversation with her.
Given that the conversation will be awesome no matter what, it hasn't mattered where we went to eat - just so long as we got to go. We've been to several different types of places - deli, Applebee's, Mexican, sushi... but there was one place that I'd had in the back of my mind... one of those places where you know you cannot go wrong because you know exactly what you will order and just thinking about your entree will make your mouth water if you are so inclined... namely Mugshots Grill & Bar. I kept pushing the idea back into what I guess equates to a mental utility closet or something, because I knew it wouldn't come close to being healthy. I've done fine these last few months... until of course, I discovered my hubby had finally achieved his goal weight after a smorgasbord of unhealthy foods last week (he was out-of-town). After that, I threw down my gauntlet. I would actually have an honest to God splurge. I was tired of minimizing the damage. I wanted a cheeseburger. I wanted the best, so my mission was clear: I would have a McDonald from Mugshots.
Now, cheeseburgers are a food category in which several restaurants get a nod. I mean it's one of those - I eat a burger from my short list of restaurants or one that's homemade and finish with the same thought: "That's the best damn burger I've ever eaten!" But truth be told, I should be more descriptive about the subcategory in which that particular burger is best, because the Mugshots' McDonald is by far THE best overall in my opinion. I don't know if it's the ranch dressing, the bacon, the barbecue sauce, the smoked cheddar, the sweet bun, the patty.... Doesn't matter. Just warms my belly thinking about it. Ahhh....
So, yesterday I had another wonderful visit with my beautiful sister, but in addition, I walked away with one VERY happy belly after the most calories I think I've consumed in a single sitting in months. But... I... do... not... CARE! Take that, LoseIt! *mu ha ha*
Monday, November 01, 2010
Head Games
With our first 5K behind us, it seemed only logical to me to pinpoint the next event/goal. Now, ideally, the next event would either be another 5K or a 10K, but the only 10Ks that I'm aware of aren't until the end of April/beginning of May, so in comes a curveball. Oxford is a beautiful little town. I'm not crazy about all the chain stores that have cropped up there since I graduated 6 years ago, but there's something charming about the area AWAY from West Jackson. On February 26, 2011, there will be a half-marathon there (Run for Hope), and for some crazy reason, I've got it in my head that I'd like to try it. In a way, it sounds like a short period of time to train for 13.1 miles, but my lead time from the 5K to the half-marathon is a respectable 18 weeks, which in theory sounds doable. Maybe. I haven't made the final decision yet. I am following my training schedule for a half-marathon and will make up my mind by December 1st. Hubs is in the same boat.
At any rate, when selecting a training schedule, I decided to upgrade my 5K Coach app to the Run Coach Pro, and then shoot for 4 days of running a week, with my long run on Saturday. By default the other running days are Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday. Last week, instead of giving myself credit for an easy run on Saturday on the new schedule, I swapped the first easy run to Sunday, which put me at running for 5 days straight. I found that to be a bit taxing, so in future, I'll try to stick with my plan.
As we ran our long run on Saturday, we discussed the potential for mental roadblocks on our quest for 13.1. I mean I can already tell you that there's a big difference in my mindset already in my training. Before, it was all about making it through that 20 or so minutes. Just running. Now that there is about twice as much time involved in a run... there's a two part process: 1) need to conserve energy to make it through the whole thing - mostly a physical thing; 2) me trying to wimp out because it's just SOOO long - mental. Now #2 was definitely NOT in play in my 5K training, so this is sort of a new thing. I mean there's a point where you don't want to put too much wear and tear on your body too soon (= smart thing). However, I know for a fact that for the time being at least, the wear and tear is not the reason for me trying to wuss out.
It's just too long. It's just so far. I know it's an easy run, but I'm going too slow. I shouldn't even try to do a half-marathon yet...
Negative garbage. I felt it about half way through my 40 minute run this morning. To the point where I was walking it every 15-30 seconds. Once I focused on just making it to the shorter milestones, just focusing on running my best in the moment... the negative melted away and I ran the rest of the way.
On a different note, the weekend was rough. We'd been planning on going to the Auburn vs. Ole Miss game since the beginning of the season, but knew that Nana wouldn't be there to keep the wee man as she had a delightful trip of her own scheduled that weekend, so my momma was gonna keep him. Well, my aunt, who has been in a nursing home for quite some time, became gravely ill and my momma felt that it might be best if our baby boy went to stay with my sister instead so she would be able to tend to anything that came up. My aunt died around midnight on Friday, and Momma was able to tend to the things that she needed to get done for the most part, but my sister was so excited at the prospect of getting to keep him that Momma went ahead and let her take a turn.
I know my baby had a wonderful time (although the game SUCKED), but I tell you, it was awful being away from him for two whole nights. I realize that it's good to have alone time and to let him get comfortable with other people, but... wow, I guess I just didn't know how hard it would be. We were just so happy to bring him home again yesterday.
At any rate, when selecting a training schedule, I decided to upgrade my 5K Coach app to the Run Coach Pro, and then shoot for 4 days of running a week, with my long run on Saturday. By default the other running days are Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday. Last week, instead of giving myself credit for an easy run on Saturday on the new schedule, I swapped the first easy run to Sunday, which put me at running for 5 days straight. I found that to be a bit taxing, so in future, I'll try to stick with my plan.
As we ran our long run on Saturday, we discussed the potential for mental roadblocks on our quest for 13.1. I mean I can already tell you that there's a big difference in my mindset already in my training. Before, it was all about making it through that 20 or so minutes. Just running. Now that there is about twice as much time involved in a run... there's a two part process: 1) need to conserve energy to make it through the whole thing - mostly a physical thing; 2) me trying to wimp out because it's just SOOO long - mental. Now #2 was definitely NOT in play in my 5K training, so this is sort of a new thing. I mean there's a point where you don't want to put too much wear and tear on your body too soon (= smart thing). However, I know for a fact that for the time being at least, the wear and tear is not the reason for me trying to wuss out.
It's just too long. It's just so far. I know it's an easy run, but I'm going too slow. I shouldn't even try to do a half-marathon yet...
Negative garbage. I felt it about half way through my 40 minute run this morning. To the point where I was walking it every 15-30 seconds. Once I focused on just making it to the shorter milestones, just focusing on running my best in the moment... the negative melted away and I ran the rest of the way.
On a different note, the weekend was rough. We'd been planning on going to the Auburn vs. Ole Miss game since the beginning of the season, but knew that Nana wouldn't be there to keep the wee man as she had a delightful trip of her own scheduled that weekend, so my momma was gonna keep him. Well, my aunt, who has been in a nursing home for quite some time, became gravely ill and my momma felt that it might be best if our baby boy went to stay with my sister instead so she would be able to tend to anything that came up. My aunt died around midnight on Friday, and Momma was able to tend to the things that she needed to get done for the most part, but my sister was so excited at the prospect of getting to keep him that Momma went ahead and let her take a turn.
I know my baby had a wonderful time (although the game SUCKED), but I tell you, it was awful being away from him for two whole nights. I realize that it's good to have alone time and to let him get comfortable with other people, but... wow, I guess I just didn't know how hard it would be. We were just so happy to bring him home again yesterday.
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