First, I wanted to send a special thank you to Dianna for her extra special support and encouraging words. Your friendship is a wonderful blessing to me my friend. And to all of you who take a moment to stop and share I send my sincere Thanks to you as well.
The Running
I'm only able to get in about 30 minutes, or thereabouts, to run these days, so my distance has dropped to about 5 km route and it's heartbreaking. I keep telling myself it's all okay and the extended break may have many hidden advantages. I've tried to make up for it with extra pushups, dips and situps. My training is right off track, but then again life is on it's own tangent itself of course. ~shakes head~
Next week I'm back to full workouts & running since I'll be in the big, bad city of Edmonton, going to school. Whenever I need to be away from my family I focus on studying (or working etc.), work out, run long & far and sleep. It keeps me sane while dealing with the lonliness.
My New Career
It was so hard to find what it was I wanted to 'be' next now that I'm no longer a soldier. I knew I wanted to help others but boy does that leave you with a tonne of options! :-) I've been mentoring in the Dispute Resolution Centre as a mediation student for 3 weeks now and doing a lot of primary study on conflict resolution as well. I've never felt so happy or peaceful about anything in my life ever before. When I joined the military it was always one test after another and I worked very hard and becoming good at all the different aspects: fitness, battle readiness, trade etc. With mediation I seem to be a 'natural,' and it takes so little effort. The studying is like learning names for something I already know intrinsically and now I'm developing a skill set to go with what already feels 'right.' It's the most remarkable thing really. I'm hoping that when I get back to my real training I will feel the positive energy flow through into that aspect of my life as well.
Well, just wanted to ramble a bit...thanks for listening. Beijos runners!
Sunday, August 29, 2004
Saturday, August 21, 2004
Ear Aches & Mediation
Okay, two things occupying my time these days (besides the 'Mr' ~winks~). I am pursuing my second-career education, curtesy Army medical retirement program, in the field of Chartered Mediator/Arbitrator while doing my OJT in a Mediation office here on base AND my ear is killing me. So, the result is a serious juggling of my schedules for working out, running, working, studying etc; and, then remember ear aches as a kid? I mean they distract your entire thinking and operating process. I'm maxed out on pain meds and it still hurts (I ignored the pain too long and it got rather nastily infected and damaged). I'm usually very good about listening to my body and taking care of matters but for some reason I just kept thinking, "oh it will pass;" it didn't.
Running has been weird because I'm strong and making good time & distance, and the pain meds for my ear make my knee a non-issue, but I can't think of anything except the throbbing, burning, explosive energy in my right inner ear. I find myself tensing my upper body and when I get home I'm one giant chain of knots under both scapulae. ~whiny sigh~ Still, I'm not wet, dirty, hungry and cold with soggy combat boots so all is well right?! LOL
I'm nervous about not being able to have a regular time of day to work out in the next few months. My schedule for classes is all over the place. Because this program is a series of 'certificate' courses that lasts 2-9 days in length, the timings change from one week to the next of when I will be in class, driving to or from Cold Lake and working. I have to be max flexible, something I dispensed with when I returned my uniform to the QM. Well, running is such second nature to me that I always find the time but weight training is another issue all together. I'm so easily intimidated by new environments, different equiptment etc. now, every new scenario is like a lead weight in personal drive department. ~sigh~
CHANGE CHANGE CHANGE!! :-)
Oh well, my family is together, I'm 98% physically healthy, as are they and really we are very blessed. A few challenges are necessary to keep you focussed and growing I suppose. Well, I feel much better now. ~smile~
Running has been weird because I'm strong and making good time & distance, and the pain meds for my ear make my knee a non-issue, but I can't think of anything except the throbbing, burning, explosive energy in my right inner ear. I find myself tensing my upper body and when I get home I'm one giant chain of knots under both scapulae. ~whiny sigh~ Still, I'm not wet, dirty, hungry and cold with soggy combat boots so all is well right?! LOL
I'm nervous about not being able to have a regular time of day to work out in the next few months. My schedule for classes is all over the place. Because this program is a series of 'certificate' courses that lasts 2-9 days in length, the timings change from one week to the next of when I will be in class, driving to or from Cold Lake and working. I have to be max flexible, something I dispensed with when I returned my uniform to the QM. Well, running is such second nature to me that I always find the time but weight training is another issue all together. I'm so easily intimidated by new environments, different equiptment etc. now, every new scenario is like a lead weight in personal drive department. ~sigh~
CHANGE CHANGE CHANGE!! :-)
Oh well, my family is together, I'm 98% physically healthy, as are they and really we are very blessed. A few challenges are necessary to keep you focussed and growing I suppose. Well, I feel much better now. ~smile~
Saturday, August 14, 2004
13 More Hours
In 13 hours I get to pick up the 'Mr' and even though this was only a little 2 week jaunt, I'm so incredibly butterfly anxious. I'm really missing him. I guess 6 weeks home after a 9.5 month deployment just wasn't enough for me. :-) I suppose if the 6 weeks was leave time it would be a little different. Okay I'm babbling...oooohhh I'm sooooo excited!!!
Dehydration
So, I mentioned I was back to work and it's full time now, well my eating and drinking pattern is all off. Here's how I found out: I was out for my run on Wednesday and when I got to 3K I started shivering like crazy. It was 32 degrees celcius out without even a gentle breeze!! Thank goodness for my camelback and Gu...it got me home. When I thought about it, I realized that I had consumed maybe two glasses of water in the last 2 days!! HELLO???!!! That is so not me. Well hard wake-up call but now I'm focussed on making sure I eat and drink right...requires preparation when you are a working lady. Like a 1 year hiatus can be that effective in wiping away my strategies for daily survival. Good golly.
Well, I'm on my SIL's computer so I should go. Hope everyone is well, goodness knows I'll be really well in 13 hours. ~winks~
Dehydration
So, I mentioned I was back to work and it's full time now, well my eating and drinking pattern is all off. Here's how I found out: I was out for my run on Wednesday and when I got to 3K I started shivering like crazy. It was 32 degrees celcius out without even a gentle breeze!! Thank goodness for my camelback and Gu...it got me home. When I thought about it, I realized that I had consumed maybe two glasses of water in the last 2 days!! HELLO???!!! That is so not me. Well hard wake-up call but now I'm focussed on making sure I eat and drink right...requires preparation when you are a working lady. Like a 1 year hiatus can be that effective in wiping away my strategies for daily survival. Good golly.
Well, I'm on my SIL's computer so I should go. Hope everyone is well, goodness knows I'll be really well in 13 hours. ~winks~
Monday, August 9, 2004
Today
The Run
Well, has anyone ever been on a run that feels like you were shovelling your body parts like pieces of a puzzle along the trail? Good golly but everything felt wierd, broken, sore etc. And there were strange little squeaky noises coming from my left knee...the good one! Well for all that, and a really atrocious time for the distance covered, I was outside and who can ask for more? The clouds were heavy laden with dark moisture and they hung so low in the sky I was sure I could just reach up and snag a piece to eat like cotton candy. Ironically, in spite of the heavy, blackness the sun still rose high and bright in the sky, well above the clouds and the effect was brilliant trickling down through the trees and onto the path. And the aromatheraputic effect on the foilage danced up a jig in my nose. (I was 'sneezy' as my daughter says) LOL :-)
A Little Note On Breathing
When my daughter takes a walk break while she is running, she calls it a 'breathing' break. Now, I assure her that it is not only PERMITTED to breathe while running but it is strongly ENCOURAGED as well. ~giggles~ But I think I know what she means. My first year of running I felt like I was suffocating and trying to breathe through every hole in my head. It's just that adjustment stage for some folks, who are perhaps so in tune with their physiology, that anything out of the ordinary is awkward and uncomfortable even. As your VO2 Max increases you find the difference becoming more and more subtle all the time until it is almost negligable. Well, that's been my experience. Now lately I find myself re-adjusting to breathe comfortably again. The humidity in Northern Alberta has been abnormally high this summer. The barometric pressure dance is really quite uncommon for this area. I'm wondering what the fall will bring?
Before The Run
Hmm, this post keeps getting re-written. Okay, well basically I'm off for my run...in the morning because I've decided that I would send the kids to their caregiver today even though I'm off. Being back to work has been great but the holidays came to quickly after starting up again. I've chosen the provincial park trail today as my place to run. I live right in the middle of the woods but I'm going to drive 20 minutes for different woods. Go figure?! ~shakes head and chuckles~ As you can see from the pic though, it is gordgeous. I'll let you know how it goes, today will be my first time at over 90 minutes in a very long time. :) Hope that pack stays light for most of it.
Well, has anyone ever been on a run that feels like you were shovelling your body parts like pieces of a puzzle along the trail? Good golly but everything felt wierd, broken, sore etc. And there were strange little squeaky noises coming from my left knee...the good one! Well for all that, and a really atrocious time for the distance covered, I was outside and who can ask for more? The clouds were heavy laden with dark moisture and they hung so low in the sky I was sure I could just reach up and snag a piece to eat like cotton candy. Ironically, in spite of the heavy, blackness the sun still rose high and bright in the sky, well above the clouds and the effect was brilliant trickling down through the trees and onto the path. And the aromatheraputic effect on the foilage danced up a jig in my nose. (I was 'sneezy' as my daughter says) LOL :-)
A Little Note On Breathing
When my daughter takes a walk break while she is running, she calls it a 'breathing' break. Now, I assure her that it is not only PERMITTED to breathe while running but it is strongly ENCOURAGED as well. ~giggles~ But I think I know what she means. My first year of running I felt like I was suffocating and trying to breathe through every hole in my head. It's just that adjustment stage for some folks, who are perhaps so in tune with their physiology, that anything out of the ordinary is awkward and uncomfortable even. As your VO2 Max increases you find the difference becoming more and more subtle all the time until it is almost negligable. Well, that's been my experience. Now lately I find myself re-adjusting to breathe comfortably again. The humidity in Northern Alberta has been abnormally high this summer. The barometric pressure dance is really quite uncommon for this area. I'm wondering what the fall will bring?
Before The Run
Hmm, this post keeps getting re-written. Okay, well basically I'm off for my run...in the morning because I've decided that I would send the kids to their caregiver today even though I'm off. Being back to work has been great but the holidays came to quickly after starting up again. I've chosen the provincial park trail today as my place to run. I live right in the middle of the woods but I'm going to drive 20 minutes for different woods. Go figure?! ~shakes head and chuckles~ As you can see from the pic though, it is gordgeous. I'll let you know how it goes, today will be my first time at over 90 minutes in a very long time. :) Hope that pack stays light for most of it.
Saturday, August 7, 2004
House Exercise
I'm having such a great day. My house was killer cleaned from top to bottom today by moi and a dear friend. It smells like sunshine in here! Then, guess who managed to land a phenomenal deal on a free weights set for home? Yup, me. I'm setting up a super-circuit in my basement and I'm so excited. My neighbour is building me a little three step box for the cardio (along with my jump rope of course) and when we move to the new house my DH will get a buddy to rig up a light with timer! Can you believe how cool this is for me?!
AND that is NOT all folks. Can you believe there is more? I know, I was thinking the same thing..."what more could she possibly hope for in a simple Saturday?" Well, I was accepted into my vocational rehabilitation program. Which means that the Canadian Army will pay me a decent portion of my normal wages to go back to school and they pick up the tuition and books. Then, to sweeten the pot I get a 24 month, interest free loan to purchase the new laptop I need for the program.
I feel like I've won the lottery. Oh, and my run was great today...imagine that?! ~giggles~
AND that is NOT all folks. Can you believe there is more? I know, I was thinking the same thing..."what more could she possibly hope for in a simple Saturday?" Well, I was accepted into my vocational rehabilitation program. Which means that the Canadian Army will pay me a decent portion of my normal wages to go back to school and they pick up the tuition and books. Then, to sweeten the pot I get a 24 month, interest free loan to purchase the new laptop I need for the program.
I feel like I've won the lottery. Oh, and my run was great today...imagine that?! ~giggles~
Thursday, August 5, 2004
At a loss for words
Hard to believe that a Franco-Italian-Canadian can be at a loss for words...but there you have it. I keep my training log and it only has the bare minimum. I got 'the look' from a friend of mine about that just the other day when we were doing our logs in the change room. ~chuckles~ What would I do without you L?!
I'm on meds for my condition again and that makes me even more sleepy than I've already been. Granted the extra water, vitamins and meditation seem to be helping a great deal with that issue.
So, as to my training, well it's been steady and routine. Nothing particularly bad (except the fatigue) and nothing especially noteworthy I suppose. Then again, slow and steady finishes the race and that's not so bad for me right now.
One awesome thing is that the beauty of this place never fails to impress and move me. I couldn't ask for a more gorgeous piece of country to live and run in. And I discovered why the tap water here tastes like pure nectar of the gods. It turns out our water supply is directly tapped from underground, mountain tributaries from Jasper. Pure mountain water! How cool is that?! Well actually it is always quite cold. ~big grin~
Say a prayer or send a postive thought out to the universe for the crazy lady will you?! ~winks~
Oh, before I forget. Please check out my friend Emily's Blog as she has a post about Cell Phones For Soldiers. It's a noble cause to help keep American soldiers connected to their love ones while they are deployed. All you have to do is donate your old cell phones that you may be using for a door stop right now after getting the newest and coolest version. (I have 2 on the way now: one was a door stop and one a paperweight...hope they don't mind the Scooby Doo stickers?! :-) Canadian soldiers are more blessed in this area because even though it is scarce on communications for us sometimes, these poor American soldiers will go through very long stretches without contact home.
I'm on meds for my condition again and that makes me even more sleepy than I've already been. Granted the extra water, vitamins and meditation seem to be helping a great deal with that issue.
So, as to my training, well it's been steady and routine. Nothing particularly bad (except the fatigue) and nothing especially noteworthy I suppose. Then again, slow and steady finishes the race and that's not so bad for me right now.
One awesome thing is that the beauty of this place never fails to impress and move me. I couldn't ask for a more gorgeous piece of country to live and run in. And I discovered why the tap water here tastes like pure nectar of the gods. It turns out our water supply is directly tapped from underground, mountain tributaries from Jasper. Pure mountain water! How cool is that?! Well actually it is always quite cold. ~big grin~
Say a prayer or send a postive thought out to the universe for the crazy lady will you?! ~winks~
Oh, before I forget. Please check out my friend Emily's Blog as she has a post about Cell Phones For Soldiers. It's a noble cause to help keep American soldiers connected to their love ones while they are deployed. All you have to do is donate your old cell phones that you may be using for a door stop right now after getting the newest and coolest version. (I have 2 on the way now: one was a door stop and one a paperweight...hope they don't mind the Scooby Doo stickers?! :-) Canadian soldiers are more blessed in this area because even though it is scarce on communications for us sometimes, these poor American soldiers will go through very long stretches without contact home.
Monday, July 26, 2004
Fatigue
Ideas to beat serious fatigue please?
Did the above seem short and abrupt? ;-) Sorry, I've been 'run off my feet' so-to-speak these days. I'm a pretty laid back girl (libra type) and this frenzy is just dragging me arse. Other than fatigue, it was an awesome week. Went camping on the weekend which was glorious...running in the woods totally, totally rocks.
Did the above seem short and abrupt? ;-) Sorry, I've been 'run off my feet' so-to-speak these days. I'm a pretty laid back girl (libra type) and this frenzy is just dragging me arse. Other than fatigue, it was an awesome week. Went camping on the weekend which was glorious...running in the woods totally, totally rocks.
Sunday, July 18, 2004
What Makes You Run Faster?
So as I ran along on a short 8km today (it's supposed to be a rest day but I couldn't help myself!), I was wondering what it is that makes us run faster. I mean if we are committed to running and we've been doing it awhile, what is that forces you to dig in and find a faster you? Really it would be easy to just do what you can do and accept that, but then there are those moments where you want more right? I'm wanting more, thus the heavy program of course, but when I'm out there and I'm supposed to be poring it on to reach a longer stride, better pace etc. I have to find my reason. To be honest most of my reasons used to involve "a responsible soldier is a fast, heathly, strong soldier." So who am I now and why do I want to be fast?
Here's the funny part, I used the bombing run demonstration to make me go faster today! LOL Honestly, airshow going on and they were doing a bombing run demo and I pretended I was a pearl harbour resident running for the hills! So it was imagination, I was reaching okay?! :-) Just like the proverbial bear chase.
I'm feeling very hot and silly tonight for some reason. ;-)
Here's the funny part, I used the bombing run demonstration to make me go faster today! LOL Honestly, airshow going on and they were doing a bombing run demo and I pretended I was a pearl harbour resident running for the hills! So it was imagination, I was reaching okay?! :-) Just like the proverbial bear chase.
I'm feeling very hot and silly tonight for some reason. ;-)
Saturday, July 17, 2004
To Lift or Not To Lift
Well I must say this new weight training program is quite the challenge! My trainor brought it up a notch last week and wants me to do 2 week divisions as follows: 2 sets of 15 reps at slightly reduced amount of weight with only 30 second rests. Sound a bit like a super-circuit to you? Me too. Then the following 2 weeks will be the normal 2-3 sets of 10-12 reps with 60 second rests. The final 2 week period is 2 sets of 8 reps at increased weight load. I do this for 12 weeks and then get new direction. :-)
My running has really taken off. It's like I was in waiting process and then bang I shot out of the gate. My calf and shin pain is gone, my breathing is strong and my legs feel tireless seemingly. Now that's not to say every day is great. I have piano butt often enough but I seem to shake it off in the 3rd kilometre most times. Those days that the piano won't leave me alone, I still feel like I've done well. ~tilts head~
I've not been able to take the time to visit much but I do hope everyone's summer and health is holding strong.
My running has really taken off. It's like I was in waiting process and then bang I shot out of the gate. My calf and shin pain is gone, my breathing is strong and my legs feel tireless seemingly. Now that's not to say every day is great. I have piano butt often enough but I seem to shake it off in the 3rd kilometre most times. Those days that the piano won't leave me alone, I still feel like I've done well. ~tilts head~
I've not been able to take the time to visit much but I do hope everyone's summer and health is holding strong.
Fallen Colleague
Murray was one of those truly wonderful men who made this world a better place simply by smiling and helping. From wiring the surround sound in a friend's home (ours :-) to healing a sick soldier or just visiting a lonely wife waiting for her husband to come home from deployment. He was a strong soldier, a great medic and with any given 3 PPCLI sergeant-major behind him, he was a great runner too! Mark and I miss him so very much already and always will. His beautiful wife Susie and 2 year old son Josh remain with us as a testament to his love and devotion, may they find peace and light upon their path again one day.
Catch you on the flip Murray!
Sergeant Murray Thomas Folkins, Army Medic
Sergeant Murray Thomas Folkins, Army Medic
December 28, 1961 - July 15, 2004
FOLKINS, Sgt. Murray Thomas - 42, Dartmouth, passed away peacefully Thursday, July 15, 2004, at home after a long and courageous battle with cancer. Born December 28, 1961, in Dartmouth, he was a son of Ronald Folkins, Cole Harbour and the late Jean (Walton) Folkins. Forever missed by his loving wife and son; sisters, Charmaine, Cheryl, Rhonda; brother, Ronald; numerous nieces and nephews. Murray had a zest for life and was dedicated towards his 18 year career with the Department of National Defence. He touched the lives of many and will be remembered with smiles by those fortunate enough to know him. Arrangements have been entrusted to Atlantic Funeral Home, 771 Main St., Dartmouth, where the family will receive friends from 2-4, 7-9 p.m. today. Military funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday in Shearwater Chapel, Padre Marian Korzeniowsky officiating. Interment in St. Andrew's Church Cemetery, Eastern Passage. Reception to follow in Atlantic Funeral Home Family Reception Centre.
FOLKINS, Sgt. Murray Thomas - 42, Dartmouth, passed away peacefully Thursday, July 15, 2004, at home after a long and courageous battle with cancer. Born December 28, 1961, in Dartmouth, he was a son of Ronald Folkins, Cole Harbour and the late Jean (Walton) Folkins. Forever missed by his loving wife and son; sisters, Charmaine, Cheryl, Rhonda; brother, Ronald; numerous nieces and nephews. Murray had a zest for life and was dedicated towards his 18 year career with the Department of National Defence. He touched the lives of many and will be remembered with smiles by those fortunate enough to know him. Arrangements have been entrusted to Atlantic Funeral Home, 771 Main St., Dartmouth, where the family will receive friends from 2-4, 7-9 p.m. today. Military funeral service will be held at 10 a.m. Saturday in Shearwater Chapel, Padre Marian Korzeniowsky officiating. Interment in St. Andrew's Church Cemetery, Eastern Passage. Reception to follow in Atlantic Funeral Home Family Reception Centre.
Flowers welcome or a donation in Murray's memory to Canadian Cancer Society, 1-5826 South St., Halifax, NS B3H 1S6, would be appreciated. Special thanks to the nurses, doctors and volunteers of the 7th and 8th floors, VG Site, QEII. On-line condolences may be sent to the family by visiting: www.atlanticfuneralhomes.com
Wednesday, July 7, 2004
Ummm...
Not the greatest in running lately, slow and difficult mostly, too much rain, body is a bit sore, life is very busy and my mind is going loopey again. Recharging, will be back with a smile soon I hope. Off on another business trip to Edmonton...see ya soon.
Tuesday, June 29, 2004
OMG My Watch/HR Monitor is OFF!!
Okay my DH (Darling Husband) is just playing with my HR monitor/watch thingy. Yes, I call all mechanical things...thingies!! He says it's all wonky and not working right. That means my times are likely not correct so perhaps my HR is wrong as well I suppose. Now as it stands I have never paced myself, I'm a feel good runner. Last time I kept stats the coach did it in university and I just nodded and smiled while he read my monitor. Honestly, I'm really quite a lovely person and rather intelligent in a conceptual kind of way but I don't like 'figuring' things out. So, all this to say I need to start over again on my times. DH thinks I should scrap the last two workouts in terms of stats and begin the recording again tomorrow?!! ~Sad face~
And did I mention he pipes up with "I figured your times were way too good?!" This from the skinny fat man (he's very tall and lean but turn him sideways and you'll see the little pot belly he grew on this last deployment! ~shock and giggles~ He's still gordgeous of course)
The up side you ask? Why DH is going to buy me a pretty new HR montior/watch thingy and it might even have a compas on it so there! I wonder if he can get it in red? That is my all time favourite color. Well, until we get to Edmonton to purchase this little gem on the weekend I guess I'll just use a regular watch, try and count the thumps in my neck and see if I can't get an honest stat!!
And did I mention he pipes up with "I figured your times were way too good?!" This from the skinny fat man (he's very tall and lean but turn him sideways and you'll see the little pot belly he grew on this last deployment! ~shock and giggles~ He's still gordgeous of course)
The up side you ask? Why DH is going to buy me a pretty new HR montior/watch thingy and it might even have a compas on it so there! I wonder if he can get it in red? That is my all time favourite color. Well, until we get to Edmonton to purchase this little gem on the weekend I guess I'll just use a regular watch, try and count the thumps in my neck and see if I can't get an honest stat!!
BBBBBUUUUUGGGGSSSS...YUMMY!!
Yummy Bugs, well if I didn't get enough to eat at dinner my desert of bugs did the trick. Sheesh Louise but running in the evening equals buggy yummies for sure.
8Km with 25lbs in 58:32 min and HR stayed in the 160s(which the latter is EXCEPTIONALLY good for me).
My hubby was waiting on the porch with an ice cold 'free' beer for me. Free Beer meaning the non-alcoholic stuff. It went down rather nice I must say. :-) It's so good to be loved.
8Km with 25lbs in 58:32 min and HR stayed in the 160s(which the latter is EXCEPTIONALLY good for me).
My hubby was waiting on the porch with an ice cold 'free' beer for me. Free Beer meaning the non-alcoholic stuff. It went down rather nice I must say. :-) It's so good to be loved.
Monday, June 28, 2004
Lots of Running, Lots of Life But Not So Much Weight Training
So I started my official trg program today...well, lets back up, I didn't get the weight trg in!! AARRGHH I hate when my schedule changes because everything is all wanky for what feels like weeks until I get a pattern. Mark is at home on leave, the girls are on summer vay, as they call summer vacation, and we are re-organizing the entire house and yard with a million social engagements to boot. Many of our friends are being posted out of course so there are all the goodbyes both official and unofficial.
Okay so today was 6Km with 25lbs in 42:37 which felt incredibly easy. Since hitting the gym was not going to happen I just doubled up on sit-ups, push-ups and my wanna-be pull-ups. Toss in a way too quick stretch and I had rounded up today's health mission in a whopping 1 hour and 2 minutes.
Don't get me wrong, I'm not all that cranky or nearly as whiny as I sound but I am disappointed. So it's all about priorities...not hard to tell I'm addicted to the run eh?!
Okay so today was 6Km with 25lbs in 42:37 which felt incredibly easy. Since hitting the gym was not going to happen I just doubled up on sit-ups, push-ups and my wanna-be pull-ups. Toss in a way too quick stretch and I had rounded up today's health mission in a whopping 1 hour and 2 minutes.
Don't get me wrong, I'm not all that cranky or nearly as whiny as I sound but I am disappointed. So it's all about priorities...not hard to tell I'm addicted to the run eh?!
Sunday, June 20, 2004
Rockin' Legs
Happy Father's Day to my sweet, devoted Husband Mark!!
And Happy Father's Day to all you wonderful, loving Dads out there!
Today's run totally rocked. Technically today was a day off but since tomorrow is jammed packed with an interview, some detailed 'military administration' (~rolls eyes~ it's always 20 copies of each of the 40 forms I swear) and a trip to the city, I decided I'd get the run in today and just catch the weight training in the early morning.
The Run
Did I mention it totally rocked?! I was a bit gunky in the congestion department at first but my legs were tireless and strong. My stride was long and my pace was kick-ass! I did my 8k in 43 minutes, which is definitely awesome for me. I'm still not recording until 1 July though and I didn't wear my HR monitor either. Stubborn eh? ~shakes head~
Running high...later folks!
And Happy Father's Day to all you wonderful, loving Dads out there!
Today's run totally rocked. Technically today was a day off but since tomorrow is jammed packed with an interview, some detailed 'military administration' (~rolls eyes~ it's always 20 copies of each of the 40 forms I swear) and a trip to the city, I decided I'd get the run in today and just catch the weight training in the early morning.
The Run
Did I mention it totally rocked?! I was a bit gunky in the congestion department at first but my legs were tireless and strong. My stride was long and my pace was kick-ass! I did my 8k in 43 minutes, which is definitely awesome for me. I'm still not recording until 1 July though and I didn't wear my HR monitor either. Stubborn eh? ~shakes head~
Running high...later folks!
Saturday, June 19, 2004
Family & Then Some
Good golly miss molly! I've had so much family here visiting since Wed and they all finally just left. God bless 'em but adios (sp?) dear ones. Whenever I hit the trail or the gym you'd think I was somehow abandoning them for a torrid affair or some such; as though working out was a dreadful crime. How is it, do you suppose, they imagined I developed the ability to run 10km with 35lbs on my back anyway...by eating bon bons and watching soap operas?
Well, my running was good and really strong. My legs are becoming quite the powerful little machines I must say. Plus, needing to burn the stress off was like having a personal little after burner! ~winks~ Oh and the new Wt training program was WAY too much fun.
Richard, I may have gotten carried away with the whole swinging arms things while on my hill run the other night. A friend of mine (Warrant Officer) slowed down in his car as I ran and asked why I was marching as I ran?! LOL Still, it really did seem to 'shake it all loose' and it felt quite natural to exaggerate the swing beyond what I'm used to. It felt like I was pulling myself forward if that makes sense. Haven't spoken to the trainors about the shins yet unfortunately but hopefully I'll catch her on Monday.
Before I leave, please hit Mark's most amazing post on children and running. It is nothing short of marvelous and inspired...and not just because he posted it for my sweet little bug. Aaron and Mark are the two awesome running mentors behind these children...check them out.
Well, my running was good and really strong. My legs are becoming quite the powerful little machines I must say. Plus, needing to burn the stress off was like having a personal little after burner! ~winks~ Oh and the new Wt training program was WAY too much fun.
Richard, I may have gotten carried away with the whole swinging arms things while on my hill run the other night. A friend of mine (Warrant Officer) slowed down in his car as I ran and asked why I was marching as I ran?! LOL Still, it really did seem to 'shake it all loose' and it felt quite natural to exaggerate the swing beyond what I'm used to. It felt like I was pulling myself forward if that makes sense. Haven't spoken to the trainors about the shins yet unfortunately but hopefully I'll catch her on Monday.
Before I leave, please hit Mark's most amazing post on children and running. It is nothing short of marvelous and inspired...and not just because he posted it for my sweet little bug. Aaron and Mark are the two awesome running mentors behind these children...check them out.
Wednesday, June 16, 2004
MMC Training Highlights Phase I
Okay there are 4 Phases broken into 3 month groups. Since I have this program long-hand I'm typing in, i.e. being lazy, so I'll just do phase I tonight.
Jul/Aug/Sep
(25lb ruck on med and long runs; weekends off; X-Train should be canoeing at least 2/mnth and last week of month = active recovery w/o ruck)
Jul
Mon 6k + wts
Tue 8k
Wed X-train (wk 1 30 min, wk 2 45 min, wk 3 60 min= 30/45/60 rule )
Thr light cardio @ 30/45/60 rule + wts
Fri 10k
Wts for Jul - Strength and muscle mass
Aug
Mon 4 hills + wts
Tue 10k
Wed X-Train 30/45/60 rule
Thr light cardio @ 30/45/60 rule + wts
Fri 13k
Wts for Aug - Strength
Sep
Mon 8k + wts
Tue 10k
Wed X-Train 30/45/60 rule
Thr light cardio @ 30/45/60 rule + wts
Fri 16k
Wts for Sep - Endurance
Wt Program
(formulated for back injury @ SI joint dislocation and knee injury @ PFS)
Wts - Strength + Muscle Mass
8-12 Reps @ 2-3 sets w/ 30-90 sec rest
barbell squats
standing leg curls
calf raises
crunches - ball
back extensions
x-overs - ball
1 arm dumbbell row
bench press
shoulder press
bicep curl
tricep extension
Wts - Strength
6-10 reps @ 3-4 sets w/ 2-5 min rest
leg press
lying leg curls
chest press machine
lateral raise machine
knee lifts/hanging knee lifts
back extensions
Wts - Endurance
15-20 reps @ 2 sets w/ 30-60 sec rest
ball squats
ball supine hamstring curls
seated row
dips machine
pull-ups machine
dumbbell shoulder raise - front, side, back
core stabilizer - plank (1 min)
back extensions
core stabilizer - side holds (1 min)
Jul/Aug/Sep
(25lb ruck on med and long runs; weekends off; X-Train should be canoeing at least 2/mnth and last week of month = active recovery w/o ruck)
Jul
Mon 6k + wts
Tue 8k
Wed X-train (wk 1 30 min, wk 2 45 min, wk 3 60 min= 30/45/60 rule )
Thr light cardio @ 30/45/60 rule + wts
Fri 10k
Wts for Jul - Strength and muscle mass
Aug
Mon 4 hills + wts
Tue 10k
Wed X-Train 30/45/60 rule
Thr light cardio @ 30/45/60 rule + wts
Fri 13k
Wts for Aug - Strength
Sep
Mon 8k + wts
Tue 10k
Wed X-Train 30/45/60 rule
Thr light cardio @ 30/45/60 rule + wts
Fri 16k
Wts for Sep - Endurance
Wt Program
(formulated for back injury @ SI joint dislocation and knee injury @ PFS)
Wts - Strength + Muscle Mass
8-12 Reps @ 2-3 sets w/ 30-90 sec rest
barbell squats
standing leg curls
calf raises
crunches - ball
back extensions
x-overs - ball
1 arm dumbbell row
bench press
shoulder press
bicep curl
tricep extension
Wts - Strength
6-10 reps @ 3-4 sets w/ 2-5 min rest
leg press
lying leg curls
chest press machine
lateral raise machine
knee lifts/hanging knee lifts
back extensions
Wts - Endurance
15-20 reps @ 2 sets w/ 30-60 sec rest
ball squats
ball supine hamstring curls
seated row
dips machine
pull-ups machine
dumbbell shoulder raise - front, side, back
core stabilizer - plank (1 min)
back extensions
core stabilizer - side holds (1 min)
Tuesday, June 15, 2004
Praise for Rays & New Program
Don't get me wrong folks. I honestly am not a 'fair weather runner,' BUT I am definitely happier when I am running beneath the rays of the sun. I struggle with some seasonal moods issues in conjunction with my PTSD so I tend to be a sun worshipper. Not the bronzing tanner type but in that I look up to the bright yellow orb and breathe in the joy it seems to impart. I have this incredibly lovely dark brown farmer's tan. Okay, make that runner's tan. I try to remove my glasses long enough to take care of the racoon problem but it's still a bit noticeable if you're paying attention! ~big grin~ Doesn't matter to me, my brown aspects are visible marks of my joyful wanderings. And if the sun has not ever been enough, this new posting of ours is truly a remarkable place. It's very wild and untouched by human hands in so many ways. I've run into bears a couple times lately, including today. I make enough noise that we each keep our distance to be sure. It feels so odd that I get to share the earth with such noble brothers and sisters. I feel like such a small inconsequential part of this giant Mother Earth all of the sudden. Oddly, I also feel tremendously blessed and unique for being allowed to be running and living in such natural presence.
Emotions and Stretching
I've noticed that I am definitely an emotional runner. I was feeling strong and at peace today. With my husband home, my cornerstone, I feel like I could leap tall buildings, catch speeding locamotives or simply gaze tirelessly at his sleeping face. (jet lag takes awhile to get over :-) Subsequently, my run was strong, and my stride was noticeably longer. I've been adding a great deal of time to my stretching lately. My breathing was stable too even though I often struggle in this area when spring changes to summer. (pollins perhaps?)
I do need to learn to 'let go' of my upper body however. I'm still tensing up a great deal in the shoulders. Especially when I run hills. The result is early fatigue of course and tight muscles with nasty lactic acid build up. I could likely circle the spots under my scapula with a marker where the knots show up to show the trouble areas and they would never change by more than a milimetre or two after every single run.
As to stretching, I'm needing to stretch out my shins more but I'm stumped. I have only the basic flex and point stretch. Any advice would be awesome?!
The New MMC Program
I'm more excited than a kid in a candy store over the 12 month program my trainers came up with for me to compete in next year's MMC. I'm truly beginning to feel like I can absolutely accomplish this goal without any injury. It's incredibly well balanced and the two gals that created it have different areas of speciality (strength for one and endurance for the other), so they were like a match made in heaven. I start the real program 1 July but I'm doing a modified version of the first week this week and next. The weight training portion is really exciting. It cycles from focus on Mass to Endurance to Strength. (had no idea they were separate issues!!)
I'll try and post the actual program as I go. I know it's important for me to start training and logging properly. This is such a hard change for a free, emotional spirit like me. Wish me luck. ~winks~
Thanks
Thanks to all of you for your wonderful and kind support. I can honestly say, without doubt, this support system adds a large dimension of motivation to my goals and healing.
Beijos and Blessing Runners!
Emotions and Stretching
I've noticed that I am definitely an emotional runner. I was feeling strong and at peace today. With my husband home, my cornerstone, I feel like I could leap tall buildings, catch speeding locamotives or simply gaze tirelessly at his sleeping face. (jet lag takes awhile to get over :-) Subsequently, my run was strong, and my stride was noticeably longer. I've been adding a great deal of time to my stretching lately. My breathing was stable too even though I often struggle in this area when spring changes to summer. (pollins perhaps?)
I do need to learn to 'let go' of my upper body however. I'm still tensing up a great deal in the shoulders. Especially when I run hills. The result is early fatigue of course and tight muscles with nasty lactic acid build up. I could likely circle the spots under my scapula with a marker where the knots show up to show the trouble areas and they would never change by more than a milimetre or two after every single run.
As to stretching, I'm needing to stretch out my shins more but I'm stumped. I have only the basic flex and point stretch. Any advice would be awesome?!
The New MMC Program
I'm more excited than a kid in a candy store over the 12 month program my trainers came up with for me to compete in next year's MMC. I'm truly beginning to feel like I can absolutely accomplish this goal without any injury. It's incredibly well balanced and the two gals that created it have different areas of speciality (strength for one and endurance for the other), so they were like a match made in heaven. I start the real program 1 July but I'm doing a modified version of the first week this week and next. The weight training portion is really exciting. It cycles from focus on Mass to Endurance to Strength. (had no idea they were separate issues!!)
I'll try and post the actual program as I go. I know it's important for me to start training and logging properly. This is such a hard change for a free, emotional spirit like me. Wish me luck. ~winks~
Thanks
Thanks to all of you for your wonderful and kind support. I can honestly say, without doubt, this support system adds a large dimension of motivation to my goals and healing.
Beijos and Blessing Runners!
Monday, June 14, 2004
Slipped Away
Life
Ever go through a space in time when it feels like your life was sucked into a vortex of such trivial business that you're totally tired but have almost nothing to show for your efforts? Well that has been the last week and a half of our lives. Not that this is bad, just a little dizzying I think. However, our Daddy (my dear Husband) is finally home from abroad. Word on the street is that he may be here for as much as 3 months before he's off again. WooHoo!!
Running
I've only been able to run lately. My weight training was limited to a day here or there. I ended up with bursitis in my left elbow which put upper body on hold so I only popped in for the lower body and ab work. I'm back in the game now and today was wonderful, strong though quite a short run. The rain over the last 10 days has been a royal bummer however.
Stuff
So I have 10 minutes to catch up on other running friends and post for Bug on her blog. (Bug has been kicking my butt in the dedication department this week. Never lags to get out the door at all...she's my inspiration!)
Ever go through a space in time when it feels like your life was sucked into a vortex of such trivial business that you're totally tired but have almost nothing to show for your efforts? Well that has been the last week and a half of our lives. Not that this is bad, just a little dizzying I think. However, our Daddy (my dear Husband) is finally home from abroad. Word on the street is that he may be here for as much as 3 months before he's off again. WooHoo!!
Running
I've only been able to run lately. My weight training was limited to a day here or there. I ended up with bursitis in my left elbow which put upper body on hold so I only popped in for the lower body and ab work. I'm back in the game now and today was wonderful, strong though quite a short run. The rain over the last 10 days has been a royal bummer however.
Stuff
So I have 10 minutes to catch up on other running friends and post for Bug on her blog. (Bug has been kicking my butt in the dedication department this week. Never lags to get out the door at all...she's my inspiration!)
Saturday, June 5, 2004
Mixing It Up?
Well 10Km felt like forever today. I couldn't get on the elyptical because I had the girls with me so it was on foot. God bless my little ladies, they were on their bikes and were absolute troopers I must say. However, there were lots of stops with them along. Not that it was bad...just long. Actually I had a friend come and pick them up at about 7Km and take them for popsicles while I finished up. Those walkie talkies were originally for emergancy but I think this was a valid use too. ~smiles~ (Dad coming home in the next week is going to be such a treat in SO many ways!!)
The Run
The pace was not hard of course given the 'family forum version' but it occurred to me that without a troop Warrant making recommendations for push-ups, sit-ups, burpees etc. on the route, there aren't any surprise physical challenges on the way. I wonder if I'm selling myself short on potential physical development areas as a result? I have of course added the weight training program but I can't yet fit in the spinning class or the aqua-jog at this point because of the change in schedules at the fitness centre. The goal I've selected is certainly challenging enough; even with the prolonged and modified 1 year program. So it occurs to me that I'm not doing so well at just 'making it up' on my own at all. I am waiting for Tammi to give me the official 1 year program to work with, however, I want to feel like I can somehow create and learn how to improve my fitness and reach personal potentials on my own.
Running Thoughts
I think perhaps I'm having follow the leader withdrawels. ~sigh~ I started running in grade 6 by joining the cross-country team and then when I went off to university I truly started adding running to my daily life. It was a fix for study stress. (I'm a serious worry wart) I've been thinking about my 'beginning' a great deal lately as I watch my daughter begin to develop serious interests in various sports and now running. My goals were always simple: in the beginning it was stress reduction so distance and speed etc were irrelevent. I did races for fun because the people were so wonderful and I only cared if I finished. When I joined the military my goal was to keep up and not be singled out for 'discipline.' Of course I also focussed on passing the yearly fitness test but daily PT and the Troop Warrant's program took care of that. Even as the preagnancies came and went I just ran to feel good about myself and keep my required fitness level in check for 'my job.' Now I'm suddenly wanting something entirely different. I don't want trophies or placements BUT I want more than to just do it. I want to improve, progress and develop. I'm just not sure exactly what that means or how to translate it into my daily program. And in spite of my newfound desires I worry that I will take away the joy that running has always brought to me.
The wind and sun are like the Great Spirit's hand upon my face. The centre of my soul is like a calm pool after I run. The ripples of that silence and peace echo out into my whole being. Running is fundamentally a part of who I am and yet it continues to change, shift and demand a different form in my life as I myself grow and change. In the words of the great Pooh Bear, I must 'think think think.'
Perhaps I should rename my blog to: the philosophical meanderings of my running soul? ~smiles~
The Run
The pace was not hard of course given the 'family forum version' but it occurred to me that without a troop Warrant making recommendations for push-ups, sit-ups, burpees etc. on the route, there aren't any surprise physical challenges on the way. I wonder if I'm selling myself short on potential physical development areas as a result? I have of course added the weight training program but I can't yet fit in the spinning class or the aqua-jog at this point because of the change in schedules at the fitness centre. The goal I've selected is certainly challenging enough; even with the prolonged and modified 1 year program. So it occurs to me that I'm not doing so well at just 'making it up' on my own at all. I am waiting for Tammi to give me the official 1 year program to work with, however, I want to feel like I can somehow create and learn how to improve my fitness and reach personal potentials on my own.
Running Thoughts
I think perhaps I'm having follow the leader withdrawels. ~sigh~ I started running in grade 6 by joining the cross-country team and then when I went off to university I truly started adding running to my daily life. It was a fix for study stress. (I'm a serious worry wart) I've been thinking about my 'beginning' a great deal lately as I watch my daughter begin to develop serious interests in various sports and now running. My goals were always simple: in the beginning it was stress reduction so distance and speed etc were irrelevent. I did races for fun because the people were so wonderful and I only cared if I finished. When I joined the military my goal was to keep up and not be singled out for 'discipline.' Of course I also focussed on passing the yearly fitness test but daily PT and the Troop Warrant's program took care of that. Even as the preagnancies came and went I just ran to feel good about myself and keep my required fitness level in check for 'my job.' Now I'm suddenly wanting something entirely different. I don't want trophies or placements BUT I want more than to just do it. I want to improve, progress and develop. I'm just not sure exactly what that means or how to translate it into my daily program. And in spite of my newfound desires I worry that I will take away the joy that running has always brought to me.
The wind and sun are like the Great Spirit's hand upon my face. The centre of my soul is like a calm pool after I run. The ripples of that silence and peace echo out into my whole being. Running is fundamentally a part of who I am and yet it continues to change, shift and demand a different form in my life as I myself grow and change. In the words of the great Pooh Bear, I must 'think think think.'
Perhaps I should rename my blog to: the philosophical meanderings of my running soul? ~smiles~
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