Yesterday I finally was able to get my husband to videotape both my running and my swimming. Feeling a little on the ridiculous side while at the pool, I got over it and did my planned 200 yards of swimming. Prior to that I got my long run out of the way and also got Todd to videotape my running stride.
My goodness! What a wake up call it all was. Not so much the swimming, but my running. It did not look pretty. And here I thought I ran pretty good.
After struggling to get the videos out of the camera and into a decent sized file, I shot them over to coach. The running one first and the swimming second.
The critique came in that order... While I must admit it was not pretty, and a blow to the ego, after mulling over it for a couple of minutes I decided that was exactly what I had asked for. I asked coach to look at my mechanics and provide me with some feedback as to how I can improve to become more efficient.
I am now armed with new running knowledge and a set of swimming drills that are "just for me". Focusing on the things that I need to improve upon will make me a better athlete; a more efficient one. I must admit, letting go of the old "comfortable" way of doing things is not easy. This new technique will require me to focus, be more present during the workouts and make sure that I give 100% if not more at each single one of them.
I had a rough week in terms of self esteem. I did a lot of thinking, I felt myself sinking in a hole; and instead of letting myself go down, down, down; I asked for help. I tend to internalize everything; keep to myself. Know what I mean? I knew this time around that I needed to be proactive and reach out. And you know what? It helped. Voicing my fears and concerns actually helped me overcome them and put them behind. Will they never happen again? Heck no! I am sure they will return. But I will be armed with all the tools that I know helped me this time around.
This morning I went to hot yoga and that practice actually helped re-inforce the things I came to terms with during the week. I was able to focus on myself and myself only and with each breath I became more aware of the things I hold dear in my heart. It was fabulous.
I am ready to start this new week and focus on improving myself; both athletically and spiritually. I have some focus words that I will write down and put in my mirror next to my inspiration board. Just as a gentle reminder of the good things, both the ones to come and the ones that are already here.
Sunday, February 15, 2009
Sunday, February 8, 2009
Buddies and workouts
Sunday morning and I sit here with my daughter the early riser. Now, I can understand the need for me to get up at 6 am to eat breakfast 2 hours prior to my 2 hour brick; but her?? She was up at 6:30. Ready to kick start her day with some hot milk and a waffle.
I had every intention of doing my brick yesterday but I woke up with a fairly bad migraine. I took over the counter medicine for it right away, but it did not help. After a couple of hours it had gotten so bad that I went to bed and took the prescription medicine. I try to stay away from it. I am not a fan of ingesting drugs if it can be avoided; but I do not think I had an option yesterday.
After laying down with my eyes closed for what seemed an eternity, the migraine finally started to subside. What a relief!!! Unfortunately it was already 4 PM and my body was wiped out! I took the rest of the day easier and after emailing coach I postponed the workout until today.
This past week was interesting to say the least. Work was hectic, busy and gave me my fair share of headaches; the weather was crazy (we even got snowed/iced in one day); and the workouts were pretty intense.
At work, since the merger is complete we were assigned a person from Corporate Finance to help us navigate throught the systems and such. They call this person our "buddy". Well, I am going to say that the word is indeed small. Of all the people up in corporate finance, i get paired with a guy, who not only is extremely helpful and patient; but who also likes soccer, my favorite sport to watch (he is also a fan of my Argentine Team); loves running and shares my sense of humor.
We work together quite well, share some jokes, talk smack and get the job done. Our small firm has been so focused on all the things we are having to do differently since the merger that most of the people have forgotten that the company that acquired us is working quite hard at making us feel comfortable as well. And we are a tough crowd to please. I have sat on countless conference calls where the air can be cut with a knife and the people are mostly on edge looking for ways to "attack" the other side. I have been that way for quite a while; but lately have been trying to cut people slack and put myself in their shoes. So I have been making a point of giving credit to people where credit is due. Since my "buddy" helped me tremendously I made sure that his boss knew how pleased I was with his help. It is only fair.
Training has been going well. I have managed to pretty much get ALL my sessions in; with the exception of one strength training routine, which might get squeezed in today while Megan takes her nap. Most of them have been indoors,, not only because it has been pretty cold outside, but also because I am making a point about staying safe. I do not want to run by myself outside at 5 am when it is dark and there is no one near by. The other night I went for a run after work, and it was starting to get dark; so even though I was in a very transited area I ran with my pepper spray in had; sans music.
We have started base training, so long runs have started, along with long bike rides and countless yards at the pool. The swimming is coming along, I think I might have discovered how to properly swim (yes it took me only 4 years ;-) ); and I will be working on that in the coming weeks. Next week I have a long swim that calls for 2x1000 continuous.... Should be interesting.
I have always loved biking, so I have no problem with spending time in the saddle. Even if it is indoors. Husband bought me the complete series of one of my favorite short lived Vampire shows and I have been watching those episodes each time I get on my bike. The new Tacx computer has proved to be awesome, the feedback I get from it is fantastic and it also offers much more resistance than my regular trainer; which makes more even more entertaining training sessions.
I think my running legs are finally starting to come back. I still feel slow, but as the year progresses and the sun starts coming out earlier and earlier, I will be able to run outside more and more; and that is the key to improve my running (I don't do as good on the 'mill).
So after a rough couple of weeks, I think I am finally able to gather myself, lift my head up and look ahead. For the next few weeks the road looks promising and challenging and I can't wait to get started.
I had every intention of doing my brick yesterday but I woke up with a fairly bad migraine. I took over the counter medicine for it right away, but it did not help. After a couple of hours it had gotten so bad that I went to bed and took the prescription medicine. I try to stay away from it. I am not a fan of ingesting drugs if it can be avoided; but I do not think I had an option yesterday.
After laying down with my eyes closed for what seemed an eternity, the migraine finally started to subside. What a relief!!! Unfortunately it was already 4 PM and my body was wiped out! I took the rest of the day easier and after emailing coach I postponed the workout until today.
This past week was interesting to say the least. Work was hectic, busy and gave me my fair share of headaches; the weather was crazy (we even got snowed/iced in one day); and the workouts were pretty intense.
At work, since the merger is complete we were assigned a person from Corporate Finance to help us navigate throught the systems and such. They call this person our "buddy". Well, I am going to say that the word is indeed small. Of all the people up in corporate finance, i get paired with a guy, who not only is extremely helpful and patient; but who also likes soccer, my favorite sport to watch (he is also a fan of my Argentine Team); loves running and shares my sense of humor.
We work together quite well, share some jokes, talk smack and get the job done. Our small firm has been so focused on all the things we are having to do differently since the merger that most of the people have forgotten that the company that acquired us is working quite hard at making us feel comfortable as well. And we are a tough crowd to please. I have sat on countless conference calls where the air can be cut with a knife and the people are mostly on edge looking for ways to "attack" the other side. I have been that way for quite a while; but lately have been trying to cut people slack and put myself in their shoes. So I have been making a point of giving credit to people where credit is due. Since my "buddy" helped me tremendously I made sure that his boss knew how pleased I was with his help. It is only fair.
Training has been going well. I have managed to pretty much get ALL my sessions in; with the exception of one strength training routine, which might get squeezed in today while Megan takes her nap. Most of them have been indoors,, not only because it has been pretty cold outside, but also because I am making a point about staying safe. I do not want to run by myself outside at 5 am when it is dark and there is no one near by. The other night I went for a run after work, and it was starting to get dark; so even though I was in a very transited area I ran with my pepper spray in had; sans music.
We have started base training, so long runs have started, along with long bike rides and countless yards at the pool. The swimming is coming along, I think I might have discovered how to properly swim (yes it took me only 4 years ;-) ); and I will be working on that in the coming weeks. Next week I have a long swim that calls for 2x1000 continuous.... Should be interesting.
I have always loved biking, so I have no problem with spending time in the saddle. Even if it is indoors. Husband bought me the complete series of one of my favorite short lived Vampire shows and I have been watching those episodes each time I get on my bike. The new Tacx computer has proved to be awesome, the feedback I get from it is fantastic and it also offers much more resistance than my regular trainer; which makes more even more entertaining training sessions.
I think my running legs are finally starting to come back. I still feel slow, but as the year progresses and the sun starts coming out earlier and earlier, I will be able to run outside more and more; and that is the key to improve my running (I don't do as good on the 'mill).
So after a rough couple of weeks, I think I am finally able to gather myself, lift my head up and look ahead. For the next few weeks the road looks promising and challenging and I can't wait to get started.
Sunday, February 1, 2009
RENT!!!!
Wow, wow, wow. That is how I left the theatre after watching my all time favorite musical: RENT. I have seen this musical once before when we lived in Minnesota, and I have watched the movie countless times; but what made this show extra special is that the 2 main characters: Mark & Roger, were portrayed by the actors from the original Broadway cast.
What a rush! It was a perfect night, a bit chilly, but perfect.
We started the evening with dinner reservations at about 5:15. I know, I know; a bit early, but if you have ever been to the Melting Pot, you know it takes at least 2 hours to eat all 3 courses. Just in case you didn't know, the Melting Pot is a fondue restaurant. I love fondue! We never eat it because it is kind of an expensive treat when you eat out; and a bit of a mess to make at home; not to mention that I do not have any of the necesary utensils (pots and skewers). This time we lucked out, and were able to go during Charlotte's restaurant week. Charlotte restaurant week is an event that comes around once a year, where the participating restaurants offer a 3 course meal for a fixed price. It is quite a deal if you ask me!
We got to the restaurant a bit early and were seated immediately. The booth we got was cozy and romantic. It was a small corner booth perfect for 2 people to snuggle up, but at the same time with enought space to eat comfortably. It must not be forgotten that this was a date night between the hubby and I.
The food was delicious, and after stuffing ourselves with 3 kinds of fondue, a salad, some wine and of course, water; we were ready to bolt and head to the theatre for the night's main event. I had sort of dressed myself up in a cute black jumper that I got for Christmas, but I had no luck with the shoes I put on. See, I do not wear skirts much, not to mention dresses; so all of my winter shoes are short boots that get hidden under pants; hence I had no cute winter shoes that go with a dress. Following me so far?? So I had to resort to my most wintery looking summer shoes. I know, confusing. Long story short, it was chilly, I was wearing a dress, with no stalkings (the broke during the day at work), and summer shoes. That spells: COLD.
We got to the venue and it was a full house. Every seat was taken, and there was a wide array of people. Young, old, dressed up, in jeans; you get the idea. We had pretty good seats, row O, towards the right of the stage. I would have loved to be closer, but can't complain of the view we had. We could see the entire stage.
After waiting for what seemed like forever, Roger (main guy #1) comes on stage, and the place just BURSTS into applause. Enter chills #1. Mark (main guy # 2) comes on stage shortly after and the applause gets more deafening. I was LOVING every minute of it. I could go on with extreme detail about this play; but I do not want to get you all bored with it.
Let's just say, it did not disappoint. I loved it. The performers poured their heart into each of the songs; and they threw in little "off script" bits to make it even more entertainment. I cried, yes, at the same exact spots that I ALWAYS cry; but it is one of those cries that does not make me embarrased. It is odd, because this play fills me. I know it sounds corny, but it speaks to my soul and makes me whole. It made me want to stay until the performers left the theatre to go and hug them and thank them personally for the wonderful play (as much as I wanted to be a groupie that night, I didn't).
I guess what gets to me is the message. People trying to accomplish their dream, following their hearts and being faced with some of life's thoughest times. Death of a loved one, the knowledge that you have an incurable disease, the realization that even though your ideals might not be the easiest ones to accomplish; they ARE there and not listening to them will not do you any good; fighting addiction; surviving. Friendships and relationships are the things that will get you through anything and everything. You get to chose HOW you want to live your life. Face the reality with a positive attitude, live each day to the fullest; or stay within yourself, angry and passive.
Each time I see this play, or the movie at home (which by the way, it does NOT come even close to watching it on stage) I am left speechless. I feel full of love, and much more appeciative of what I have and the relationships I have buit throughout the years.
The night was great. The best date (my husband), good food, a great show. Everything I could have asked for.
If you have the opportunity to go see RENT live, I say: GO. Do not think about it twice. You will leave the place feeling all warm and fuzzy inside. I know I did. And even today, a couple of days later, I am still feeling that way.
"There's only us. There's only this. Forget regret or life is yours to miss. No other road. No other way. NO DAY BUT TODAY"
What a rush! It was a perfect night, a bit chilly, but perfect.
We started the evening with dinner reservations at about 5:15. I know, I know; a bit early, but if you have ever been to the Melting Pot, you know it takes at least 2 hours to eat all 3 courses. Just in case you didn't know, the Melting Pot is a fondue restaurant. I love fondue! We never eat it because it is kind of an expensive treat when you eat out; and a bit of a mess to make at home; not to mention that I do not have any of the necesary utensils (pots and skewers). This time we lucked out, and were able to go during Charlotte's restaurant week. Charlotte restaurant week is an event that comes around once a year, where the participating restaurants offer a 3 course meal for a fixed price. It is quite a deal if you ask me!
We got to the restaurant a bit early and were seated immediately. The booth we got was cozy and romantic. It was a small corner booth perfect for 2 people to snuggle up, but at the same time with enought space to eat comfortably. It must not be forgotten that this was a date night between the hubby and I.
The food was delicious, and after stuffing ourselves with 3 kinds of fondue, a salad, some wine and of course, water; we were ready to bolt and head to the theatre for the night's main event. I had sort of dressed myself up in a cute black jumper that I got for Christmas, but I had no luck with the shoes I put on. See, I do not wear skirts much, not to mention dresses; so all of my winter shoes are short boots that get hidden under pants; hence I had no cute winter shoes that go with a dress. Following me so far?? So I had to resort to my most wintery looking summer shoes. I know, confusing. Long story short, it was chilly, I was wearing a dress, with no stalkings (the broke during the day at work), and summer shoes. That spells: COLD.
We got to the venue and it was a full house. Every seat was taken, and there was a wide array of people. Young, old, dressed up, in jeans; you get the idea. We had pretty good seats, row O, towards the right of the stage. I would have loved to be closer, but can't complain of the view we had. We could see the entire stage.
After waiting for what seemed like forever, Roger (main guy #1) comes on stage, and the place just BURSTS into applause. Enter chills #1. Mark (main guy # 2) comes on stage shortly after and the applause gets more deafening. I was LOVING every minute of it. I could go on with extreme detail about this play; but I do not want to get you all bored with it.
Let's just say, it did not disappoint. I loved it. The performers poured their heart into each of the songs; and they threw in little "off script" bits to make it even more entertainment. I cried, yes, at the same exact spots that I ALWAYS cry; but it is one of those cries that does not make me embarrased. It is odd, because this play fills me. I know it sounds corny, but it speaks to my soul and makes me whole. It made me want to stay until the performers left the theatre to go and hug them and thank them personally for the wonderful play (as much as I wanted to be a groupie that night, I didn't).
I guess what gets to me is the message. People trying to accomplish their dream, following their hearts and being faced with some of life's thoughest times. Death of a loved one, the knowledge that you have an incurable disease, the realization that even though your ideals might not be the easiest ones to accomplish; they ARE there and not listening to them will not do you any good; fighting addiction; surviving. Friendships and relationships are the things that will get you through anything and everything. You get to chose HOW you want to live your life. Face the reality with a positive attitude, live each day to the fullest; or stay within yourself, angry and passive.
Each time I see this play, or the movie at home (which by the way, it does NOT come even close to watching it on stage) I am left speechless. I feel full of love, and much more appeciative of what I have and the relationships I have buit throughout the years.
The night was great. The best date (my husband), good food, a great show. Everything I could have asked for.
If you have the opportunity to go see RENT live, I say: GO. Do not think about it twice. You will leave the place feeling all warm and fuzzy inside. I know I did. And even today, a couple of days later, I am still feeling that way.
"There's only us. There's only this. Forget regret or life is yours to miss. No other road. No other way. NO DAY BUT TODAY"
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