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August 31, 2008
Glad for an extra day
We watched another movie last night that I fell asleep halfway through. I am very predictable. I slept on the couch for probably an hour of what was left of the movie and then whatever Matt watched after that. I don't think that counts as quality sleep because once again, I had a hard time waking up! But it was much less humid and cooler out when I finally did get outside for my little run, so it wasn't too bad.
I ran basically the same route as I invented yesterday, but in the opposite direction. It was much hillier this way and I was probably a little slower. But I had no major complaints, just a few twinges, and I managed to pick up the pace a little toward the end. My knee has been a little sore for the rest of the day; that seems to be how it goes. I biked when I got back while watching a random movie that was on TV--I think it was "Anywhere But Here," featuring Natalie Portman back when she was a kid and not yet a sexy movie star. I biked easily the whole time because my legs were really sore and tired from the hills!
Matt and I took a walk up to the shopping area that is near the Friendship Heights Metro, the stop closest to our house, this afternoon. It is about a 15-20-minute walk each way and the sun was really hot so I was not too happy until I got into the nice and cool stores. One of our goals was to look at couches at Bloomingdale's, but the furniture department at this particular store was very small. We ended up each getting a couple of summer items on sale at various stores, so it wasn't a totally unsuccessful outing.
When we got home, Matt went to play basketball and I just did some abs and stretching because I wasn't in the mood to go to the gym. I was sweaty enough from our walk anyway. Now I am going to go make dinner, the first time I've cooked a meal in a few days so it better be good!
Posted by becky at 7:28 PM | Comments (0)
August 30, 2008
Charting my own course
We stayed up pretty late watching a movie last night (I nodded off toward the end) and I slept way later than intended. But like I always say, I guess I needed it. I had a run/bike combo planned today and it was quite humid out when I got outside. I deliberately stayed away from the Capital Crescent Trail so that I could just focus on myself and my form, and that ended up being a good decision. I ran in American University Park, a not-terribly hilly neighborhood on the other side of the D.C./Maryland line. I was slow and deliberate, but I did not have much pain. I was sweaty but relieved when I got home and on the bike. A few larger hills at the end really tired me out (sad but true) and I took it pretty easy on the bike out of necessity and watched last night's episode of "Swingtown." By the time I was done with working out and all showered, it was almost noon and I was ravenous.
I spent another couple of hours vigorously cleaning our house since I hadn't had a chance to do that last weekend because I was away. That was a workout in itself although the a/c was on. Later in the afternoon we went up to an outdoor jazz concert/family fun day in Rockville and I got to explore the new, awesome Rockville Library. When we got back home, we were graced with a visit from our friends who just got back a few weeks ago after spending six months in Namibia. I don't really know where the day went, but now it is time to figure out what we're doing for dinner and the rest of the evening.
Posted by becky at 7:18 PM | Comments (0)
August 29, 2008
Working and supervising from home
Today was the day of house stuff and deliveries for me. I worked from home and supervised all the action. We had our alarm installed too, and that took way longer than I expected and distracted me from doing my actual work (loud sirens will do that). By the time all my "guests" left, it was mid-day and I was glad I had woken up early to get in a trainer ride. It was a good one--my knee felt okay and I was in a groove and working hard. I started watching "The Jane Austen Book Club" after my "House" DVD was finished and it's another one of those I'm not sure I'll finish. Really, how could there be so many bad movies out there??
Matt took the car to work this morning and I needed to get it, so I ran there (20 minutes) to pick it up. It was during the afternoon and raining, so there were fewer people out, which is good for me. I really think I subconsciously pick up my pace when there are a lot of people around. I think I need to avoid the bike trail on weekends and early mornings but it is the only relatively flat stretch around so I'm not sure if that is a good decision. I guess I won't know until I try.
We have a quiet but hopefully relaxing and productive weekend planned. Happy long weekend to all!
Posted by becky at 8:26 PM | Comments (0)
August 28, 2008
Repeating myself
I feel like I end up writing the same thing most days--I am definitely most comfortable in a routine! Today I tried to wake up earlier than usual because I had a dentist appointment before work, but I either didn't hear my alarm or it didn't go off. I bolted out of bed at 6:30 and knew I would have to make the most of my hour on the bike. I think I did a pretty good job of cramming my workout into a shorter time; I did longer hill intervals and distracted myself with "House."
Then it was off to the dentist because yet again, I am having problems with one (or two, it turned out) of my teeth. He found two smallish cavities, one on the top and one on the bottom, and filled them both, even though he said that might not be the source of my pain. Right now things are still pretty sore, so we'll see.
I was surprisingly productive at work this afternoon. I am working from home tomorrow because we are having a few deliveries so I tried to get as much done as I could today so there's less to worry about while I am distracted by new furniture and other such things. By gym time, I was tired and didn't feel that great because I ate too many wasabi peas (note to self--take it easy on the wasabi peas next time). I ran for about 5 minutes and it was one of those rare instances where my stomach was not up for it. I switched to the bike, drank lots of water, and went light on the lifting. Hopefully the pasta I ate for dinner with neutralize things.
I haven't been paying close attention to the DNC (just reading the highlights in the paper) but I am excited to hear Barack's speech tonight. I feel like the anticipation has been building and I doubt he will disappoint.
Posted by becky at 9:43 PM | Comments (0)
August 27, 2008
Another quick day
Today was another day that went by quickly. Matt came home from all of his travels very late last night and I barely opened my eyes enough to say hello. Next thing I knew, it was morning and I was on the bike again. Yesterday's knee soreness seemed to be a lot better and I had a good workout while watching "House" and "Weeds."
We continue to have a lot going on at work despite the fact that it is the week before Labor Day, the last holiday of the summer! But I guess that's what happens when you expect a quiet week--you don't get one. And as I always say, being busy definitely makes the day go by faster.
Fast-forward to the gym tonight. I was nervous about running because yesterday's run wasn't so hot, but I promised myself I would stop if anything hurt. I felt fine on the treadmill and wasn't even too sore afterwards. I did have to keep reminding myself to clench my butt...I thought it was ingrained in me now, but maybe not.
I am going to try and stay awake to watch some TV with Matt tonight. Somehow, I don't think I'll make it very long.
Posted by becky at 9:51 PM | Comments (0)
August 26, 2008
On the go
Whew, today went by fast! It started out with an early wrong-number call (or some other reason why the person hung up). I was kind of annoyed but as soon as I knew there wasn't some emergency, I was glad for the hint to get my butt moving. I had both a run and a trainer ride planned. My knee felt fine when I left and I think I subconsciously ran the first half of the run too fast and then paid the price when I was done with some aches. On the treadmill, I can very clearly control my speed and I do not deviate, so I am going to hope that it was my overzealousness that led to my minor setback. And in fact my knee did not really hurt during the run (or on the bike afterwards), but it has been bothering me all day. It was a real bummer because I loved being outside on a morning that almost felt like fall. It was a little humid but almost chilly and I was glad to at least have spent 33 minutes jogging. I think I just forget sometimes to correct my form right from the get-go when I am outside because I don't have the same cues as on the treadmill. I will be more careful next time and hopefully that will help.
My day at work was quick because I was busy and then I left the office at about 2 to go downtown for the rest of the day. Then I came back up to the gym, did my thing (biking and lifting) and met a good friend for dinner and a tour of our house since she hadn't seen it yet. Of course we were gabbing longer than we should have and now I am ready to fall into bed even without folding the laundry that is waiting for me!
Posted by becky at 10:22 PM | Comments (0)
August 25, 2008
Blah day
Mondays are always tough, especially after a long weekend. I must have pressed the snooze bar ten times! Finally I got my butt out of bed and onto the bike. I was kind of excited because I had the most recent season of "House" to watch! I got the right cord to connect my computer to the TV in my biking area, so I was good to go (except I don't have the settings right and it kept going to sleep). I watched one episode and part of the next one and then it stopped for no reason, so I just watched the news (well, commercials mostly). My legs were a little heavy and my pes was bothering me a little bit--it's been sore for a few days and I think I may not have had the spin bike adjusted correctly this weekend because my back has been hurting too. Still, nothing too terrible, especially for a Monday morning workout.
I had a doctor's appointment before work so I felt like I was behind schedule walking in the door. It doesn't seem like it is going to be a quiet week at all! I have a bunch of meetings and calls scheduled all week but as long as I am occupied, I'm happy.
My legs felt tired just walking to the gym this afternoon (it might have been the extreme humidity) and I just got the sense that I should skip my planned treadmill run after three solid runs in a row. I biked instead as a lifting warm-up and hopefully I will feel like running a little in the morning. The gym was quite crowded today--yet another sign that summer is coming to a close.
Posted by becky at 10:07 PM | Comments (0)
August 24, 2008
End of a nice weekend
I'm back home after my weekend in New York. My flight was inexplicably canceled ("mechanical problem") but luckily I got on the next shuttle with no problem. I am grateful to my parents for driving me to the airport, which takes about as long as the flight from LGA to DCA. And much longer if there is baseball traffic, which apparently they hit on the way home. Grrr.
My morning was similar to yesterday. I went to the gym to run on the treadmill (35 minutes) and ride the spin bike. I was a little worried before the run because my legs were actually a little sore, mostly in the hamstring area. But it went just fine and I did some increasing of speed but very little and not a big bump or anything. Sometimes I can't believe that I took it for granted that my starting treadmill speed was like 7.5 or something. Sigh. Anyway, I felt good and then moved on to the bike. This time the woman next to me decided to ask me how long I had been biking for and let me know that "she gives me a lot of credit." Thanks, I was wondering. She also was drinking a Starbucks drink and spilled some of it on the floor and asked me to wipe it up when I was down there taking care of my sweat puddles. New Yorkers, I swear...and this was in the suburbs!
Soon after I got back from the gym, my mom and I drove down to the Bronx to pick up my grandmother and bring her back to our house for lunch. It was nice to see her without a ton of people around, since generally when Matt and I are in for a weekend it involves all of our New York family members, and that is a lot of people! We sat in the backyard and talked and just hung out and it was a nice way to end the weekend.
Now it's back to the grind, I guess. Matt is in San Francisco until very late Tuesday night so it's just me again. Here's to hoping for a quiet pre-Labor Day work at week, although my gut instinct is telling me otherwise!
Posted by becky at 9:57 PM | Comments (0)
August 23, 2008
Beachy
My poor dad has an awful case of carpal tunnel syndrome--he is having surgery on Monday--so he can't sleep and walks around the house all night. I kept hearing him during the night so I didn't think I was having a good night's sleep, but I woke up feeling very well-rested. A new New York Sports Club location just opened up about a five-minute drive from my parents' house so that was very convenient. It was a really nice gym, actually. I found a treadmill not near any other people (for sweat flicking purposes) and had a good run (33 minutes) with a few minutes of "speed" (i.e. one speed level up) thrown in. Once I had finished that, I moved to a spin bike and tried to prevent sweat puddles by lining the floor with towels. A guy got on the one other spin bike (next to me) for a few minutes at one point and told me I looked like a "hard worker." All in all I felt like I got in a pretty good workout and I also did most of my hip/glute strengthening things.
It occurred to me today that I hadn't been to the beach all summer, so it was great that I got to go today. I was careful about putting on sunscreen but I still got a little burn on my cheekbones and hairline. My parents and I picked up my sister and her fiance from the train and we had a nice, relaxing day on one of the most pleasant weather days all summer (at least in my opinion). Then we came home, rinsed the sand off, and went out to dinner at a Chinese place we like. It was a great day (although I did miss Matt)!
Posted by becky at 6:28 PM | Comments (0)
August 22, 2008
Weekend 'off'
I'm not sure why this day felt long, but it did. Long in a good way, I guess. Matt's day started early as he had a 7am flight to Nevada (but for a bachelor party so he should have a fun time). I tried to use his getting up to spur me on to an early wake-up, but it was not meant to be. I had taken the day off because my flight to NY was in the morning, so I slept in until almost 7. It felt great after being so tired yesterday. I finally got up and headed out to try another outside run. I promised myself that I would only do about 30 minutes (it was 32) and just do an out and back on the Capital Crescent. It wasn't perfect, but it was better than last time and that's all I can hope for right now. It also happened to be a really nice, not-too-humid morning, so I was grateful to be out there.
When I got back I hopped on the bike and finished "No Reservations" from yesterday. Very cheesy and predictable, but watchable. Again, can't ask for too much more. My knee was a little sore from the run when I first started biking but it warmed up quickly.
The Delta Shuttle is awesome when there are no weather delays and I was even early getting into NY. My mom picked me up and we had a fun day lunching and shopping and then met my dad back on home for a nice home-cooked meal. It is nice to be away for a weekend from my house/adult responsibilities.
Happy weekend to all!
Posted by becky at 8:35 PM | Comments (0)
August 21, 2008
So tired today
Today was one of the sleepiest days I've had in a long time. I don't know why, but I just woke up feeling like I didn't get a great rest. It took me longer than usual to get out of bed, get on the bike, etc. etc. I was just dragging. Even my legs felt tired on the bike. I watched part of "No Reservations," which did the job of entertaining me but I am not that motivated to finish it. Usually I feel pretty energetic during my morning workout but today just felt long. What are you going to do? Sometimes you have those days, I guess.
The rest of the day dragged, too, and I was very drowsy. I think it was a little warm in our office and that did not help. It is a terrible feeling (in my opinion) to be sleepy at work and I often have nightmares where I can't keep my eyes open! I ended up taking a walk around 3pm and that woke me up enough so the rest of the day was bearable. I think all the Olympic-watching is taking its toll! I have been following most of the track races as they happen and been disappointed with the outcomes. I am very excited, however, to see what happens in the 5K tomorrow (or tonight in China time).
I was surprised I felt okay biking and lifting at the gym tonight. I decided to forgo a treadmill run because I had two runs close in a row on Wed. night and Thurs. morning. Still, I was glad to be finished and know that I am heading home to NY tomorrow for a visit with my parents. Matt has a bachelor party so I am going to just have hopefully a relaxing weekend with my family. At least there are a lot of gyms in Westchester...
Posted by becky at 10:32 PM | Comments (0)
August 20, 2008
Morning run; afternoon aches
I am falling asleep and am itching to get to bed, so this will be brief! Matt had an early train and I wanted to get to the gym this morning because I had plans tonight, so we coordinated. Actually, I woke up even earlier than I needed to for some inexplicable reason and got in a few minutes on the bike before we left. I then hopped on the treadmill and felt good for the entire run (3 miles). But when I headed upstairs to the bike, my knee was bothering me, kind of like it was after my attempt outside last weekend. It didn't get worse during the day but was somewhat noticeable--ugh. I tried to ignore it as best I could and in any case I got in a good running-biking workout this morning and also had time for some of my hip/butt exercises. No time for lifting, but hopefully I'll make it up tomorrow.
Work went by quickly today because I got a bunch of stuff dumped in my lap. My team headed out to happy hour/dinner while it was still light out and we had a great time enjoying the beautiful, non-humid weather. We don't get days like this very often in August so we are all grateful for them.
OK, that's it for me. Eyes are closing...no time even for Olympics tonight...
Posted by becky at 10:42 PM | Comments (0)
August 19, 2008
It's not Wednesday
For some reason, I've been thinking that today is Wednesday all day when it is really only Tuesday. I woke up when Matt's alarm went off because I must have turned mine off, so I was already a little late--that kind of morning. I did what I had time for on the bike and was able to get a good workout in. I watched some of last night's Olympics coverage, the season premiere of "The Hills" (so "US Weekly"--I love it), and most of "Weeds" from last night. It was a busy TV morning. My knee was feeling okay, meaning a little stiff but nothing too concerning.
I really was dragging today and even a 2pm iced coffee didn't help too much. I know I shouldn't watch TV at night because I get sucked in. I am going to try to be more disciplined tonight. Plus, I already know what happened in the track events (but I kind of want to see them for myself).
I did another treadmill run this afternoon and felt strong (same slow pace except for about 6 minutes when I bumped it up a little). I always have a little soreness when I get off the treadmill and am walking around doing my lifting routine, but as long as it gets better, I am not super worried about it. I don't like it though and my dream is to bound off the treadmill with no lingering effects of the run. We'll see...I won't hold my breath just yet.
Posted by becky at 9:29 PM | Comments (0)
August 18, 2008
I guess I'll stay on the treadmill
I was looking forward to watching the women's triathlon this morning while I biked, but the Olympics coverage that I DVR'd did not have that on it. It did have some track, though, including the women's steeplechase. Very cool to see and I was happy that the Americans held on to finish in the solid middle of the pack. I was actually wondering what happened to Ro McGettigan from Ireland--she seemed to be with Anna and Jenny for awhile and then ended up finishing last, way off her PR pace. Having sports to watch motivated me through a good workout. The discomfort I felt after yesterday's jog was pretty much gone and I actually felt pretty decent. I thought I would be more sore from the swimming but I was okay.
I got a little held up at work tonight so I was rushing to get to the gym. I knew it would be hard to find a treadmill since I would be arriving at the busiest time, but I didn't have to wait too long. I was nervous about how I'd feel after yesterday but I actually felt surprisingly good with little pain. I am still slow, but I'd rather just progress like that than keep setting myself back. I had just enough time for a quick lifting session after my treadmill run and everything went fine except that was where the swimming soreness hit me!
Off to watch some Olympics...hopefully I won't force myself to stay up too late.
Posted by becky at 9:10 PM | Comments (0)
August 17, 2008
Shuffle Sunday
I wanted to run today (as in what I do at a slow pace on the treadmill) but I was feeling lazy about going to the gym. I figured I have to eventually see if I can replicate my new stride outside, so why not try it today? Well, it went okay for about 25 minutes, and then my old inner knee pain started to flare up again. I stayed on the bike paths close to my house so I didn't have to negotiate any hills, and I must have gotten passed by every runner out there, even the old men. Extremely depressing, but I didn't even mind until my knee started to bother me. Luckily I was almost home. I got on the bike for awhile when I got back and caught most of the coverage of the women's Olympic marathon. I felt so bad for Deena--what horrible timing for an injury.
Matt went to the office this afternoon, so I entertained myself by doing a lot of ironing that had been building up, taking a nap and going to exchange some towels at Expo. When I came home, I decided to go to the Bethesda pool for a swim. The lap pool was super crowded--everyone has Olympics mania! I didn't swim very long but it was fun. I'm not in swimming shape to really call it a workout, but I can tell you that my shoulders are already sore!
I can't believe there's only a week left of the Olympics. I'm going to enjoy it while I can!
Posted by becky at 9:24 PM | Comments (0)
August 16, 2008
Biking, cleaning, shopping, and relaxing
It's only 5 pm but I feel like I have accomplished a good amount today already. I woke up after having a bad dream having something to do with traveling (it's unclear what the scary part was, but I definitely woke up remembering being scared) and promptly rolled out of bed and smashed my side/hip into the bedside table. What a way to wake up! It was just a little bruise though so not too bad. I headed down to the bike to work out and to watch the coverage of the 10K from last night. I wasn't too impressed with NBC's call of the race--I don't think the announcers expected Shalane to be a factor and they had miked Adam Goucher so I guess they were hoping that Kara would. We only got to see a few laps so it was unclear how Shalane moved up to third but it was impressive nonetheless. As for me, I definitely worked hard on the bike judging by how tired and hungry I was when I got off.
I refueled with breakfast/brunch and then engaged in a cleaning marathon. I had to change my shirt afterwards because I was so sweaty. But the house is pretty clean! After that, we went back to Pottery Barn to pick up a few things including the buffet that goes with our dining room table. Now Matt is playing basketball and I am just hanging out. We need to head out soon to a surprise party, actually, and we are going to have sushi at our old neighborhood joint first. I am hoping to get back early enough to see some of the marathon coverage but it may have to wait until the morning.
Posted by becky at 4:51 PM | Comments (0)
August 15, 2008
Yay for Friday and Shalane
I just could not stay awake to watch the last two events of the women's all-around competition in gymnastics last night, so I DVR'd it and avoided all media until I got on the bike in the morning. As much as I love watching my shows on the bike, watching sports is so much better. I was very into the whole competition and psyched to see the Americans go 1-2. As for my own workout, I actually didn't feel that amazing. My knee bothered me a little during the hill intervals so I stopped doing those but then my butt hurt from sitting for so long! You can't win.
I left work around 3:30 because it was another one of our "August Fridays" (awesome) and went to do another treadmill run, still slow. I was worried because my knee had been twinge-y all day, but it actually went well. I was very careful about my form. I wish I could just zone out, but alas, I cannot. I left the gym after doing the two lifting things I didn't get a chance to do yesterday.
I was planning on waiting to watch the women's 10K in Beijing, but it's pretty much impossible to avoid finding out, so I checked results early on in the day. I was so psyched to see that Shalane had gotten the bronze, especially after being sick earlier in the week. I love that her husband said the forced rest made the difference! I think the media was hyping up Kara a bit more because she is such a good interview, but Shalane's talent, dedication and smart racing really paid off. I am looking forward to watching the coverage tomorrow!
Happy weekend to all!
Posted by becky at 10:27 PM | Comments (0)
August 14, 2008
Careful progress
I am baffled by the fact that this week has seemed long, because it has actually been short. At least tomorrow is Friday. We did not watch any Olympics last night (I watched a bit on the bike this morning) and thus I went to bed a little earlier, but I had a harder time waking up. I was in a fog for part of my bike workout and the tiredness came and went periodically for the rest of the day. My knee was feeling okay on the bike and I was able to work hard while I watched my shows. Nothing out of the ordinary--my usual hill intervals, but it was a good effort, especially for being tired.
Tonight I was very careful to keep the treadmill speed low and really focus on my form. It helped. I was able to run 30 minutes feeling pretty good--at least better than the last couple of attempts. I am hoping that I just forgot to do what I needed to do last weekend and might have tried to progress a little too quickly. I definitely feel like my legs are working a lot harder than my heart at this slow speed; I feel like I could have a whole conversation while I'm running and I am never breathing hard (just sweating a lot). I guess I just need to get the legs caught up to the heart. Patience is hard for me!
I am looking forward to the Olympics tonight and then track starts tomorrow--hooray!
Posted by becky at 8:55 PM | Comments (0)
August 13, 2008
Pressing on
I still haven't made up my mind about my blogging break. But there's not much exciting to report today anyway. My knee did feel less sore today, so that's a plus. Even though I stayed up way too late (actually, fell asleep on the couch) watching women's gymnastics, I managed to feel somewhat energetic on the bike this morning. After watching "Tori and Dean," I watched "Today" from Beijing, which was weird. I felt like Meredith and co. were getting confused about whether Michael Phelps had won his 11th gold medal "last night" or "this morning." But as for my knee, things were fine. I did my usual hills and had no problems. It's always a bit stiff when I get off the bike, but I'm used to that by now.
Work went by quickly today, and that was good because I wasn't sure how I would fare after the aforementioned late Olympics night (many of my Gmail and Facebook friends apparently also stayed up past their bedtimes!) I headed to the gym after work but I did not run--I just biked a little more and lifted, then walked home. It has been really nice out so a 30-minute walk is actually pretty enjoyable right now. I'll take it while it lasts!
Posted by becky at 10:00 PM | Comments (0)
August 12, 2008
Time for a blogging break?
I recently marked my fourth anniversary of keeping this blog, and I am wondering if I should continue, mostly because I haven't had much running to write about during the last couple of years, and I feel like I just repeat myself over and over about my aches and pains. I think it's helpful for other runners to read about people who rehab through injuries and come out okay, but in my case...I'm not sure where I'm headed. I haven't made up my mind for sure but taking a blogging break is definitely something I'm considering.
So, anyway...I was back on the bike this morning watching the last episode of "Hopkins", which I really enjoyed. I thought it showed a lot of interesting things about the hospital through the eyes of different kinds of doctors, nurses, patients, and family members. I'm sure it's not the kind of show that gets great ratings, but I certainly tuned in. I also watched "Weeds" although the power went out right as I was almost done with the episode! It was the entire house so it must have been the whole block. In any case my workout was almost done so it didn't bother me too much (except for the fact that it freaked me out). My knee wasn't feeling amazing today but I am so hypersensitive to everything these days that I don't really know what to say about it.
My knee felt okay during the day and during my longish walk to the gym, so I decided to do my treadmill run as scheduled. I just felt like I couldn't get my (new) stride right--I kept having to remind myself to clench my butt even though it had been feeling more natural. I ran for 30 minutes but it was not too enjoyable because I got way too many twinges. I will take tomorrow off from running and see if that helps. Lifting went fine after that, but I was down about the discomfort.
Ah, well. Maybe a good dose of the Olympics will cheer me up.
Posted by becky at 9:42 PM | Comments (2)
August 11, 2008
Heading home
Our lovely New England weekend is drawing to a close--we are at the airport right now, in fact, waiting to hear just how delayed our flight will be. It turned out to be a pretty rainy day in N.H. today so we were mostly inside and it was great napping weather. I had some company at the gym this morning--Matt's sister and cousin joined me at the University of New Hampshire rec facility and it was pretty nice. I didn't know how my knee would do, so I tried running and promised myself that I would stop if it hurt. I made sure to really focus on clenching my butt and it actually felt fine. I did run a little less than I have been the past few days and hopefully that will calm things down.
I tried ellipticalling after the treadmill but ruled it out after about 30 seconds because it forces my leg into a position that bothers my knee. No point in exacerbating the situation. They had a bunch of good stationary bikes so I did a hill intervals workout instead and it ended up being a really good workout. Once again I did not have time for too much other than abs when I was finished because my workout partners did not want to stay much longer (and I was starving). I have taken 5 days off from lifting but I think it is probably for the best since I haven't done that since my surgery in the beginning of April. I am always trying to force myself out of my routine and the combination of my cold and the travel this week definitely did that.
I think we are boarding soon, so that's it for me. I am not looking forward to returning back "to the grind" but getting back to my own gym will be good!
Posted by becky at 6:56 PM | Comments (0)
August 10, 2008
Not the best knee day
I am hoping that my knee was bothering me on my treadmill run this morning because I upped the "speed" a little too much both yesterday and today. It wasn't too bad, but any setback upsets me, of course. I went back to Planet Fitness despite the half-hour drive to get there (I was feeling lazy this morning and grumbling about it). The treadmill run was unremarkable except for the aforementioned twinges. Perhaps I am getting a little too over-ambitious in terms of the speed I think I am able to run at and still keep my new form in check. I'll see how I feel tomorrow and decide whether I will press on with the running schedule or take a day of total cross training.
Speaking of cross training, I also biked while I was at the gym, on a spin bike. I was sweating like I do on my trainer and it was great. The only problem was that they don't have towels there and I ended up making quite a mess. They are probably glad that I don't live in the area :) Like yesterday, I just did a cardio (and abs) workout and scrapped the lifting so I could get back and enjoy hanging out by the lake.
I did get in a little lake swim this afternoon. Matt followed me in the kayak so I wouldn't get nailed by any errant boats. It took me forever to get in the water because it wasn't very hot out (love it!) but once I did, it felt really good. I swam along the coastline for awhile until I was stymied by another bloody nose. Having the kayak there to grab on to was very fortuitous. It didn't take long for it to stop but it wasn't super enjoyable.
Tonight we are having lobsters (home-cooked) and will probably watch more of the Olympics. Matt and I took tomorrow off and will return to D.C. in the evening. Might as well enjoy the vacation while we can!
Posted by becky at 5:33 PM | Comments (0)
August 9, 2008
More gym tourism
Another city, another gym. I woke up to a beautiful (and cool!) morning in New Hampshire and it totally killed me to have to get in the car and drive to the nearest gym--which wasn't all that close. (There is actually a treadmill here in the house where we are staying so I may take advantage of that this weekend too.) I had to go about 30 minutes into Dover and I passed several runners, walkers and bikers taking advantage of what I hear was the first non-rainy day in a long stretch. I got my fix inside at a decent gym called Planet Fitness. The day pass fee is ridiculous though and obviously aimed at people who are thinking about joining (it is refundable if you join) and not out-of-towers.
If the gym wasn't so far away, I would have done more than my treadmill run (3 miles) and biking--I wished I could have lifted a bit--but we are "on vacation" and I didn't want to spend it all inside. The run went pretty well but I did have a few twinges from time to time. The rest of the workout was fine and by the time I got back, several hours had passed and I felt like half the day had too.
But we had plenty of time left and for relaxing and even a little lake swimming (well, just out to the dock a few feet away to sunbathe) and I realized that my cold is now on its way to being completely gone. Tonight we all watched the Olympics, which was fun and made me look forward to seeing it in HD when we get home! The prime-time coverage is hard to tear yourself away from, even when you know it is late and you should be in bed. Which is exactly where I am going now!
Posted by becky at 11:03 PM | Comments (0)
August 8, 2008
Time for a mini vacation
I knew today would be another one-workout day, so I tried to get up as early as possible to make the most of my free time in the morning. Of course, I was still tired from my long day yesterday, so I snoozed through my alarm a couple of times. Luckily the hotel gym wasn't far away! Although they do charge extra for the gym, it was really nice. It was quite unfortunate that I only had time for a cardio workout. As for my cold, I felt a smudge better when I woke up--as in, I could finally breathe again.
I did my stretches and then I hit the treadmill. I think my gait retraining program is officially over, so now I am supposed to see how I can progress. Today I ran 32 minutes. Mostly I felt pretty good. Sometimes my mind drifts and I will get a twinge that reminds me to clench. I am still really slow but at this point my main focus is running pain free.
After the run, I biked while watching the morning news. I hoped that I wouldsee more of the olympics but they seem to be saving the good stuff for prime time. I had just enough time after that for a good ab workout and some more hip and flute strengthening.
Now I am on the plane waiting to take off. Matt and I are meeting in Chicago and going to NH from there. I am hoping for a quiet and relaxing weekend! I hope for the same for everyone else!
Posted by becky at 3:58 PM | Comments (0)
August 7, 2008
Tired in the Twin Cities
I am really surprised that I am still awake. I had trouble falling asleep last night because I didn't feel well (very stuffed up) but somehow managed to wake up and bike for an hour from 4:40am to 5:40am. It was all I could fit in and it is probably for the best for me to have had a light day today anyway. I watched "Swingtown" and then channel-surfed.
My travel to Minneapolis was straightforward, but the plane ride was rather uncomfortable on my ears, probably due to my stuffed sinuses. I was so glad to get off. I met up with my boss for lunch and then we went to the training session we were helping to run, where I promptly got a bad nosebleed. Let's just say I wasn't at the top of my game for this training session. Luckily I did my best to pretend I was feeling just fine.
Tonight was fun; I had the pleasure of having dinner at the home of our friends who live right outside Minneapolis (and occasionally read my blog). It was a nice, relaxed night and it was cool to catch up and hang out.
I am falling asleep as I type--that's definitely my cue.
Posted by becky at 11:38 PM | Comments (0)
August 6, 2008
Not my favorite day
Today wasn't really so bad, but I have a cold and I am just feeling sorry for myself. I felt all right biking in the morning but I could tell that things were progressing and it was going to be one of those sniffling, coughing, headachy days. I managed to get a pretty decent workout in and caught up on "Weeds" and "Tori and Dean." My knee felt fine and less stiff than yesterday while I was biking, but I was babying it for the rest of the day because I'm a little worried.
I had a doctor's appointment in the morning and then I came back home. I had decided even before I got a cold that I would work from home today because we were expecting a Pottery Barn delivery, but it turned out to be very fortuitous. Things were pretty quiet on the work email front and I was able to multitask (laundry, etc.) and prepare for my trip tomorrow (first to Minneapolis for work and then to New Hampshire). I've still got to pack, my least favorite task in the world, and I have a 7:45am flight. Ugh.
I did rally to go to the gym this evening and did a 30-minute treadmill run. A little soreness afterwards but otherwise felt good. I lifted a little but wasn't feeling so great so headed out.
Stay tuned for some on-the-road updates.
Posted by becky at 9:02 PM | Comments (0)
August 5, 2008
Moving right along
My little cold is progressing in its little way and now I am all stuffed up (poor me, I know). I have been tired all day and I am soon going to hit the sack and try to finish "Eat, Pray, Love" which I have on 7-day loan from the library.
But first, the obligatory recap of my day. As effortless as my bike workout was yesterday, today's was not. I was sleepy and my knee was a little sore and I just didn't have it. I did my usual hill intervals and just felt flat. Thankfully I had the season finale of "Dexter" to keep me occupied, plus the remainder of the "Swingtown" ep I started yesterday. Finishing "Dexter" was bittersweet because although the new season starts in 6 weeks, I doubt our free trial of SHO lasts that long.
My tiredness continued during the day and it was kind of grey outside, which didn't help matters. I did perk up later when I met a former Cornell professor for coffee--he is one of the only undergrad profs I still keep in touch with and he is great, so it was nice to catch up. I headed to the gym after that although it was already almost 7 so I felt a little rushed. I did a 27-minute run and felt good although I have a little tightness in my knee--different from the area that has been hurting though but perplexing all the same. I am keeping my eye on it and iced it tonight. In addition to the treadmill run tonight, I did do some lifting but it was an abbreviated session to make sure I would get home at a decent hour.
Posted by becky at 10:03 PM | Comments (0)
August 4, 2008
Kicking off another week
I would have been happy to run outside this morning--I was shocked at how non-humid it was when I left for work. I think it's all about to change, but you take what you can get in August here in Washington. In any case, the point is moot because I was inside on the bike this morning. I didn't feel any knee pain or discomfort while biking today so I was able to really hammer while watching the second-to-last "Dexter" episode of the second season along with part of another "Swingtown." It was one of those days where time passed quickly enough that I was surprised to look at my watch and see that I only had five minutes before I needed to get in the shower. We all know those days are few and far between so we should be grateful when they come along.
A lot of people are on vacation or on business travel this week, it seems, but although the office was quiet, I had enough to keep me occupied. The only negative part of the day was a disappointing lunch. I used to really like this deli a few blocks away and now the sandwiches disappoint me every time. I need to find a new one, I guess. I was actually thinking today that I have been at my new job for six months now. It actually feels like much longer, and I think that is a good thing because I am really enjoying it. (Most days, anyway!)
This afternoon I got to appreciate the low humidity on my walk to the gym, although it was hot enough for me to want to get into the air conditioning. Almost all the treadmills were taken because it was prime gym time but I snagged one that looked broken but just needed to be turned off and on. I did a 25-minute butt-clench run and am glad to report that things went well. After that I lifted, and I guess I was tired because I had a hard time motivating. I also have a sore throat so that was bugging me a little. But all in all it was a good couple of workouts for me today.
Posted by becky at 9:34 PM | Comments (0)
August 3, 2008
Busy day
Today was busy, but not hectic-busy, just good-busy. I spent the first part of the day on the bike, watching a new (to me) show, "Swingtown." I had heard about this show when it first premiered and then forgot about it when it didn't get as much critical acclaim as expected. I realized that a few episodes were available On Demand for free when I was browsing today, so I tried it. It is definitely edgy for broadcast (i.e. non-cable) television! Watchable, though. I should start DVR-ing it because I think it is currently on. I am excited because I think the latest season of one of my old biking standbys, "House", is being released soon. Anyway, as for the biking, I felt a little tired today. Matt has had a little summer cold and my throat started getting scratchy today so maybe I am getting it as well. I didn't feel too bad but I just didn't have that extra gear (no pun intended).
We read the paper for a little while in the late morning and then headed off to Dulles to drop Matt off for his 3pm flight to L.A. He is spending the week there training the new analysts at his company and we will be meeting up on Friday for our annual Wexler New Hampshire lake house weekend. Since I was already "deep" in Northern Virginia for the airport trip, I took advantage and went grocery shopping at Wegmans. We Cornellians identify Wegmans with our carefree college days and it is always fun to go--although this was the first time I had been there on a Sunday afternoon and it was totally packed. I didn't spend too long there though and despite the crowds, the lines moved really quickly. The best purchase was, as always, gummy candy from the pick-and-mix candy area.
After making the trek home and putting the groceries away, I did a couple of errands and then ended up at the gym to do my 21-minute butt-clench run. I was able to get the speed up a tiny bit. It is amazing how concentrating on my form makes such a difference. I am still having some issues with my knee when I step a certain way, but so far I've been feeling okay--certainly not worse--during my runs. I finished up with some biking and then my stretching/hip strengthening exercises.
So now I'm all alone in our house. This week is supposed to be super-hot, so I guess I should be glad that I'll be on the bike/treadmill for a few more days...
Posted by becky at 10:15 PM | Comments (0)
August 2, 2008
Summer Sat.
Today I did a bunch of different (gym) activities for my workout. I had a 21-minute butt-clench run on the schedule so first I did that on the treadmill. My knee felt a little sore when I woke up, but doing my pre-run hip/butt exercises seemed to remind it to behave and the run felt okay. Of course, I am keeping the treadmill at quite a slow pace, so that could be why it has been feeling better, but I am hoping the gait change is doing something, too. Next I was thinking of ellipticalling, but there weren't any older models available and the newer Precors bother my knee because they seem to force it into an awkward angle. I biked for awhile instead and then finished with some time on this non-Precor elliptical that really uses your glutes and hamstrings. You can't really hammer on it like I like to, but it turned out to be a good workout once I got into a rhythm. While I was biking, I started reading this book I had gotten out of the library, and it seemed so familiar. After about 25 pages, I realized I had read it a couple of years ago--sad, but true. Good thing I had my iPod to entertain me after that.
We spent the rest of the day doing errands/shopping--I went back to the library and to get my hair cut, and then Matt and I did some furniture shopping, focusing on bar stools for the kitchen. We identified something we like and now we just have to measure to make sure they will fit.
As is common for me on weekends, I sat down on the couch when we got back this evening and promptly fell asleep. It was a nice nap and now hopefully I won't fall asleep during the movie we have picked out for tonight!
Posted by becky at 8:46 PM | Comments (0)
August 1, 2008
It's August
The start of August always fools me into thinking that the end of summer is approaching. Not true in terms of weather--in fact, we are probably about halfway through the uncomfortable months, which according to me are May-early October. Nevertheless, we're inching closer to fall so I've got to be happy about that!
Not that I had to suffer in the heat too much today. I was on the bike in the morning, watching the second-to-last installment of "Hopkins" and then some more "Tori and Dean" (I have eclectic tastes, what can I say?). My knee felt a little sore today but I wasn't too worried because I knew I didn't have a run planned.
Our office closes at 2 on Fridays in August, which is a nice bonus. Of course, most of us were still there when 2 rolled around. My co-worker and I went to get pedicures after we had wrapped things up and then I tried to get a hair cut but they were booked. I was getting really hot walking around Bethesda so I decided to go home, change into my bathing suit, and go for a swim at the pool near us. My lack of recent swimming fitness was completely apparent but I made it through about 30 minutes without drowning! The lap pool wasn't too crowded at that hour and admission is only $5, so I was pleased with my spur-of-the-moment decision!
Happy weekend to all!
Posted by becky at 8:19 PM | Comments (0)