T-Minus 10 days and counting. 10 Days!! 10 Days until I run the longest race of my life. Am I nervous? For sure? Do I think I can make it? I sure do hope so. I must admit, I’ve really been slacking on my training lately. I have a ½ Marathon Training Schedule that started back in the beginning of January. I have it at my desk at work so every day I can see what’s on tap for that day, that week. I started off strongish… the schedule asked me to run 4 times a week, cross train 1 day and stretch and strengthen 1 day. Yeah, so I only have 1 day off?? I nixed that right away and stuck to a 3 day/week run w/ strengthening 1 of those days.
In the beginning, it wasn’t a problem. My weekday runs were short, starting at 3 miles and increasing ½ mile every 2 weeks. My weekend runs started at 4 miles, and increased by a mile every 2 weeks. Even though it was cold, and I was forced to run the treadmill a lot, I didn’t mind it much. Over the summer, while I was training for Ragnar, I would do the same, but even added in an extra evening run with my coworkers. So if I could do that, this shouldn't be a problem. I started going to the gym after work instead of before and although the gym was more crowded, and sometimes I had to wait for a treadmill, I found I had a lot more energy and it went by much faster.
As February came through, my mileage increased. My runs were getting longer and I was honestly just tired of running. I spent some time on the elliptical every other week instead of doing a run. It’s still strengthening my legs and cardio, so it counts, right? So where am I now? Slacking even more than ever, even though the race is less than 2 weeks away. I was supposed to run 9 miles last week – I didn’t. I told myself I would so it this past weekend, AFTER my 8k race. I didn’t. I was a little tired and although the weather was PERFECT, I couldn’t bring myself to spend 1.5 hours of my lazy afternoon running. I ran a race, that was good enough.
Last night, I was planning on running a short 4-5 mile run after work, foregoing the gym since we now have sunlight longer. Did that happen? Nope. It was a little rainy and kinda cold, so that was my excuse. I do plan on going to the gym tonight, but not to run. I just want to do strength. I plan on tackling a 10 mile run this weekend – I HAVE to. I have to prepare myself for this 13 mile run and having my longest distance only 8 miles, that hardly helps me out.
Part of me feels that since I’m this close to the race, anything I do now won’t really matter. It’s like cramming for an exam. If you don’t know the stuff by the night before, you aren’t going to know it. So what’s the point in running anymore before the race? I’m close enough, right? But the other part is telling me, “Stop being such a slacker!” I paid a lot of money for this race, and I don’t intend on running another. So this is my shot, I have to give it my all. I don’t necessarily have a finish time in mind, I just want to run the whole thing. But I know what I SHOULD finish the race in, and I’m worried that won’t happen because I didn’t train hard enough. I don’t want all this hard work to be all for naught… but I’ve literally run out. I’m so over this running right now that I can’t wait for this race to be done so I can take a break.
I know after the race I will feel an amazing sense of accomplishment, and I am really looking forward to it. But for now, the running isn’t fun for me – the training isn’t fun. And I’m ready to move on.
Wednesday, March 16, 2011
Thursday, February 3, 2011
Everything DOES happen for a reason
It really does. I've had instances in my life where I had felt this was true before... and now we're back around to that point. My place of employment is very fortunate to work on projects that give employees the opportunity to travel around the world. It's pretty awesome and I was elated when I was informed that I would be traveling to India for a project. The news came to me back in the beginning of December and I was "scheduled" to travel in January. Awesome - I have nothing going on in January so this would be perfect. Unfortunately, January came and went and I was not in India. The trip will happen, but we're still sorting through some business stuff before we can determine when we will head over there. But here's where the saying comes in...
Had I gone to India when I was originally slated too, I would have missed my husband's AWESOME show in Baltimore. And if I had missed my husband's AWESOME show in Baltimore, I would have missed the surprise visit from my brother-in-law. He lives in Seattle. Needless to say I was pretty gosh darn excited when I saw him and I was happy to be there. But here's the kicker. My trip to India would have included a side fun trip, after our work was done. To Egypt. I would be in Egypt right now if everything had gone according to plan. Wow. Now I know that my husband isn't the only person happy that I'm here and not there right now. Especially given the current state of violence :/
So is Egypt still on my agenda when I finally get over there? That's still TBD... Don't worry, I will make a safe and smart decision when it comes to my side travel. And if I don't make it to Egypt this time around, I still have plenty of years left to check out the Pyramids and the Sphinx. I just honestly hope all the civil unrest ends soon. I've got a friend staying over there and I'm thinking of her every day.
Had I gone to India when I was originally slated too, I would have missed my husband's AWESOME show in Baltimore. And if I had missed my husband's AWESOME show in Baltimore, I would have missed the surprise visit from my brother-in-law. He lives in Seattle. Needless to say I was pretty gosh darn excited when I saw him and I was happy to be there. But here's the kicker. My trip to India would have included a side fun trip, after our work was done. To Egypt. I would be in Egypt right now if everything had gone according to plan. Wow. Now I know that my husband isn't the only person happy that I'm here and not there right now. Especially given the current state of violence :/
So is Egypt still on my agenda when I finally get over there? That's still TBD... Don't worry, I will make a safe and smart decision when it comes to my side travel. And if I don't make it to Egypt this time around, I still have plenty of years left to check out the Pyramids and the Sphinx. I just honestly hope all the civil unrest ends soon. I've got a friend staying over there and I'm thinking of her every day.
Saturday, January 8, 2011
In my opinion...
LaVar was being a little too sensitive. Let me give you the background to this...
Lately I've been listening to the LaVar and Dukes show on 106.7 The Fan every evening on my way home from work. It's a sports talk show with LaVar Arrington and Chad Dukes (from The Junkies) where they discuss the current issues in sports and what's being talked about the most. Of course it's mostly been about the Redskins and the drama and what's in store for next season. I got to thinking, "What will they talk about when football season is over? Will I still listen because I know I don't care much about NBA and MLB..."
The other night, they were talking about the NBA. Apparently there is something going on about too many tattoos in the NBA (really? who cares). But the NBA commissioner responded with his take on tattoos, comparing them to "fad" fashion statements like afros and earrings.
http://www.yardbarker.com/nba/articles/david_stern_thinks_the_tattoo_phase_will_pass/3923404
Let me tell you, LaVar was up in arms about this. He kept commenting about David Stern being racist for including afros in this conversation. Really? Racist? I mean, I obviously don't have any experience or know what the societal implications of this hairstyle is, but as an outsider, I think he's being a little sensitive. I'm certain that the commissioner was simply stating a trend, and could have easily inserted ponytails or a bowl cut. I just don't see it as a racist comment, and this is just my own opinion. Plus, there are PLENTY of white people with afros too... so I just don't see what he was getting so upset about.
Relax LaVar.
Lately I've been listening to the LaVar and Dukes show on 106.7 The Fan every evening on my way home from work. It's a sports talk show with LaVar Arrington and Chad Dukes (from The Junkies) where they discuss the current issues in sports and what's being talked about the most. Of course it's mostly been about the Redskins and the drama and what's in store for next season. I got to thinking, "What will they talk about when football season is over? Will I still listen because I know I don't care much about NBA and MLB..."
The other night, they were talking about the NBA. Apparently there is something going on about too many tattoos in the NBA (really? who cares). But the NBA commissioner responded with his take on tattoos, comparing them to "fad" fashion statements like afros and earrings.
http://www.yardbarker.com/nba/articles/david_stern_thinks_the_tattoo_phase_will_pass/3923404
Let me tell you, LaVar was up in arms about this. He kept commenting about David Stern being racist for including afros in this conversation. Really? Racist? I mean, I obviously don't have any experience or know what the societal implications of this hairstyle is, but as an outsider, I think he's being a little sensitive. I'm certain that the commissioner was simply stating a trend, and could have easily inserted ponytails or a bowl cut. I just don't see it as a racist comment, and this is just my own opinion. Plus, there are PLENTY of white people with afros too... so I just don't see what he was getting so upset about.
Relax LaVar.
Thursday, December 16, 2010
We need a little Christmas, right this very minute
I can hardly believe Christmas is only a few days away. This holiday really crept up on us, coming out of nowhere. And honestly, this year, I just don’t feel as prepared, or in the Christmas spirit as usual. I think it has to do with the fact that Bruno and I have been so busy the past few weeks, traveling 4 of the last 6 weekends. It really takes a toll on you. We’ve been going going going and haven’t had a time to rest. Our condo is a disaster because we’ve been so busy and haven’t had the time to get things in order. We haven’t gotten our tree yet because we just haven’t had the time. I was finally able to wrap some presents last night, but I still have shopping and wrapping to do. And even though I feel like I started early, I just feel so far behind. I really think it’s the lack of our Christmas tree.
We plan on getting it on Saturday, then spending the early afternoon decorating it and making our place look a little more in the holiday spirit. But it’s sad to think that the holiday will be over a week after we get our tree… so we’ll hardly have any time to enjoy it. Sure, we’ll keep it up after Christmas and through the New Year, but the tree isn’t as pretty without nicely wrapped gifts under it. Maybe I’ll wrap some extra boxes just for the fun of it, but probably not.
I’m not trying to have a sad and gloomy post, but I’m just airing out a little. Maybe some snow later today will bring about the Christmas spirit. I miss it this year… (although the Glee Christmas helped out a little last week)
We plan on getting it on Saturday, then spending the early afternoon decorating it and making our place look a little more in the holiday spirit. But it’s sad to think that the holiday will be over a week after we get our tree… so we’ll hardly have any time to enjoy it. Sure, we’ll keep it up after Christmas and through the New Year, but the tree isn’t as pretty without nicely wrapped gifts under it. Maybe I’ll wrap some extra boxes just for the fun of it, but probably not.
I’m not trying to have a sad and gloomy post, but I’m just airing out a little. Maybe some snow later today will bring about the Christmas spirit. I miss it this year… (although the Glee Christmas helped out a little last week)
So about that 30 Day Blog Challenge...
Yeah, I don’t think I’m going to finish. So sad, I know. How can it be so hard to write on topics that are given to you? But it is. I started off so strong… and then lost interest. I think what did it was the last thing I was to post – a picture taken of me from 10 years ago. I think I only have 1 digital copy that fits that description, and I just didn’t feel like posting it. So that meant I would need to search through old photos and find one, scan it and then post it. Too much work. I didn’t want to give up… but I’ve got to call it quits. My husband is very unhappy at my lack of posting, so I shouldn’t pretend like I’m actually going to finish.
So farewell 30 Day Challenge, perhaps we will meet again someday…
So farewell 30 Day Challenge, perhaps we will meet again someday…
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
30 Days About Me: Day 9
Day 09 — A photo you took
So how do you choose 1 picture, just 1, of all the pictures I have?? But this is actually the first that came to my mind. This photo is from our big fun group cruise back in 2007. I've always thought about getting it blown up, but what would I really do with a large print of a tropical scene? Doesn't exactly fit with our decor :)
So how do you choose 1 picture, just 1, of all the pictures I have?? But this is actually the first that came to my mind. This photo is from our big fun group cruise back in 2007. I've always thought about getting it blown up, but what would I really do with a large print of a tropical scene? Doesn't exactly fit with our decor :)
Monday, November 8, 2010
Foodie Monday
Sorry for the 30 Day Challenge interruption. I’ve been tagged by Deviled Megs and I feel that I must respond…
What is your favorite dessert?
Hmm… well I’m honestly not much of a dessert person. If I’m out to dinner, then usually. And most of the time for holiday/special occasion dinners. But on a normal, everyday sort of thing, no. I think maybe because I’ve filled up to much on the dinner food, who knows. So when I do have dessert… I would have to say my favorite is this Sweet Mascarpone with Strawberry puree that I get at my parents’ favorite restaurant – Carmello’s. It is amazingly delicious and our waitress (yes, we get the same one every time because her and my mom are friends) always makes sure one is saved for us when we come to eat.
A side dessert note – I think the BEST dessert I ever had was when I was in London for work a few years ago. I had a warm strawberry and rhubarb cobbler, served with my own small pitcher of warm custard. Oh my goodness if you have ever had the warm custard in London (or thereabouts) that I am referring to, you know it is so good that you don’t even really need the cobbler for it. But I didn’t want to be super fatty and just drink the thing down. Yum!!
Ever try to cook something and fail miserably?
Well I’ll have to say it was the 2nd time I tried to make Bruno’s favorite dessert – Brigadeiros. It’s a Brasilian treat of yumminess made from condensed milk, butter and cocoa. To make it, you mix all the ingredients over heat, constantly stirring, for about 30-40 minutes. Once the mixture is “good” you let it cool and eventually roll the mixture into small balls. You then coat the balls in cocoa or sprinkles and enjoy!
The tricky part is getting the timing right on how long you cook the mixture. What happened the first time is that I didn’t cook it long enough and the treats were super gooey, but still edible. Why I failed the 2nd time is because I cooked the mixture too long and by the time it had cooled to form into balls, it was as solid as a rock. Obviously completely inedible. But I didn’t give up and by the 3rd time, I had accomplished the treat. And Bruno loved it!
Is there a dish you haven’t made yet that you would like to?
After seeing Julie and Julia I was set on making the famous Beef Bourguignon that poor Julie slaved over in the movie. The fact that it was such an intense process that turns out to be a food masterpiece is a challenge I hope to embark on some day. When I have nothing else to do. For days on end.
What is your favorite food?
Pasta. Mmmm pasta. But to be exact, I would have to go with my mom’s homemade cavatelli. She calls it gnochhi, but technically, it’s not. But boy is it delicious!!! It is a Thanksgiving tradition to have cavatelli before our turkey feast, one that I neglected to inform Bruno about the first time he came over for Thanksgiving. “I guess they just eat pasta – no turkey here!” So of course he filled his stomach on pasta and groaned when the actual traditional Thanksgiving meal came out. Luckily, my aunt gave me my own cavatelli machine a few years ago and I have been able to make it myself. It tastes good, but never as good as my mom’s!
What is your least favorite food?
PEAS!!!!! Peas Peas Peas are gross gross gross. I’m sorry for all of those people that love them… I just can’t stand them! Through deductive reasoning we determined that my hatred for peas started when I was about 3 years old. I have just finished a big plate of them when my uncle decided to twirl me around. I was having a grand old time… until I projectile vomited on the living room wall. Peas and I were not friends after that.
Do you have any seasonal meals that you like?
I will have to follow Deviled Megs on this one with crabs. I really love them, and I love going to crab feasts. Sure, it’s a lot of work. But all you need to do is pile up the meat and eat it at the end and it’s a delicious treasure. My softball team holds a crab feast every year, and we even snacked on crabs for my friend’s birthday this past September. Eating crabs not only tastes yummy, but brings fond memories of being with friends. I like those.
What is your comfort food?
See “What is your favorite food.” I also “go-to” the Trader Joe’s French Onion Soup. Yum.
Chocolate: milk, dark or white?
Well, I tend towards the dark, but I mostly eat milk chocolate because it’s more readily available. White… eh… only if I’m desparate.
What is your favorite dessert?
Hmm… well I’m honestly not much of a dessert person. If I’m out to dinner, then usually. And most of the time for holiday/special occasion dinners. But on a normal, everyday sort of thing, no. I think maybe because I’ve filled up to much on the dinner food, who knows. So when I do have dessert… I would have to say my favorite is this Sweet Mascarpone with Strawberry puree that I get at my parents’ favorite restaurant – Carmello’s. It is amazingly delicious and our waitress (yes, we get the same one every time because her and my mom are friends) always makes sure one is saved for us when we come to eat.
A side dessert note – I think the BEST dessert I ever had was when I was in London for work a few years ago. I had a warm strawberry and rhubarb cobbler, served with my own small pitcher of warm custard. Oh my goodness if you have ever had the warm custard in London (or thereabouts) that I am referring to, you know it is so good that you don’t even really need the cobbler for it. But I didn’t want to be super fatty and just drink the thing down. Yum!!
Ever try to cook something and fail miserably?
Well I’ll have to say it was the 2nd time I tried to make Bruno’s favorite dessert – Brigadeiros. It’s a Brasilian treat of yumminess made from condensed milk, butter and cocoa. To make it, you mix all the ingredients over heat, constantly stirring, for about 30-40 minutes. Once the mixture is “good” you let it cool and eventually roll the mixture into small balls. You then coat the balls in cocoa or sprinkles and enjoy!
The tricky part is getting the timing right on how long you cook the mixture. What happened the first time is that I didn’t cook it long enough and the treats were super gooey, but still edible. Why I failed the 2nd time is because I cooked the mixture too long and by the time it had cooled to form into balls, it was as solid as a rock. Obviously completely inedible. But I didn’t give up and by the 3rd time, I had accomplished the treat. And Bruno loved it!
Is there a dish you haven’t made yet that you would like to?
After seeing Julie and Julia I was set on making the famous Beef Bourguignon that poor Julie slaved over in the movie. The fact that it was such an intense process that turns out to be a food masterpiece is a challenge I hope to embark on some day. When I have nothing else to do. For days on end.
What is your favorite food?
Pasta. Mmmm pasta. But to be exact, I would have to go with my mom’s homemade cavatelli. She calls it gnochhi, but technically, it’s not. But boy is it delicious!!! It is a Thanksgiving tradition to have cavatelli before our turkey feast, one that I neglected to inform Bruno about the first time he came over for Thanksgiving. “I guess they just eat pasta – no turkey here!” So of course he filled his stomach on pasta and groaned when the actual traditional Thanksgiving meal came out. Luckily, my aunt gave me my own cavatelli machine a few years ago and I have been able to make it myself. It tastes good, but never as good as my mom’s!
What is your least favorite food?
PEAS!!!!! Peas Peas Peas are gross gross gross. I’m sorry for all of those people that love them… I just can’t stand them! Through deductive reasoning we determined that my hatred for peas started when I was about 3 years old. I have just finished a big plate of them when my uncle decided to twirl me around. I was having a grand old time… until I projectile vomited on the living room wall. Peas and I were not friends after that.
Do you have any seasonal meals that you like?
I will have to follow Deviled Megs on this one with crabs. I really love them, and I love going to crab feasts. Sure, it’s a lot of work. But all you need to do is pile up the meat and eat it at the end and it’s a delicious treasure. My softball team holds a crab feast every year, and we even snacked on crabs for my friend’s birthday this past September. Eating crabs not only tastes yummy, but brings fond memories of being with friends. I like those.
What is your comfort food?
See “What is your favorite food.” I also “go-to” the Trader Joe’s French Onion Soup. Yum.
Chocolate: milk, dark or white?
Well, I tend towards the dark, but I mostly eat milk chocolate because it’s more readily available. White… eh… only if I’m desparate.
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
30 Days About Me: Day 8
Day 08 — A photo that makes you angry/sad
Well initially I wasn’t sure if I would find a picture to go with this because I couldn’t think of a picture that would make me feel angry or sad. I guess most of the pictures I remember are of happy memories… but then this one came to mind.
It makes me more sad than angry, but the 2 feelings are definitely there. My friends and I drove to Blacksburg the Saturday after the shooting in 2007. It was a spur of the moment trip, obviously. But 5 of us hopped in my parents’ van and drove directly to campus. The drillfield was filled with people, students who were still in school, alumni, family, friends. Just a lot of people.
I didn’t really know many people who were still at Tech when the shooting occurred since I had graduated long before it happened. But I found my friend who was in Vet school and though I knew she was ok, though I knew she wasn’t anywhere near Norris Hall when it happened, I immediately burst into tears when I saw her. I think it was more of a relief and some of a “Wow, this really did happen.” Up until we actually visited the campus, the whole event was still surreal.
This photo is of Norris Hall. I still can’t drive by it without my heart dropping…
Well initially I wasn’t sure if I would find a picture to go with this because I couldn’t think of a picture that would make me feel angry or sad. I guess most of the pictures I remember are of happy memories… but then this one came to mind.
It makes me more sad than angry, but the 2 feelings are definitely there. My friends and I drove to Blacksburg the Saturday after the shooting in 2007. It was a spur of the moment trip, obviously. But 5 of us hopped in my parents’ van and drove directly to campus. The drillfield was filled with people, students who were still in school, alumni, family, friends. Just a lot of people.
I didn’t really know many people who were still at Tech when the shooting occurred since I had graduated long before it happened. But I found my friend who was in Vet school and though I knew she was ok, though I knew she wasn’t anywhere near Norris Hall when it happened, I immediately burst into tears when I saw her. I think it was more of a relief and some of a “Wow, this really did happen.” Up until we actually visited the campus, the whole event was still surreal.
This photo is of Norris Hall. I still can’t drive by it without my heart dropping…
Friday, October 22, 2010
30 Days About Me: Day 7
Day 07 — A photo that makes you happy
First off, let me apologize for the slacking these last few days. I don’t feel that I have failed the challenge just yet because as my friend Deviled Megs pointed out, “It’s not 30 CONSECUTIVE days.” I’m sure you noticed that I didn’t post on Sunday… well I’ll tell you that A) posting a blog every day is pretty exhausting and B) Sunday is a day of rest anyhow. Not posting the last few days was mostly due to the fact that I just didn’t have time. It’s been a busy week and since this post relates to a picture, well, I couldn’t do it during the day because my pictures are at home. Anyhow… moving on…
It is pretty hard to find ONE picture that makes me happy, because there are really so many. Obviously pictures evoke memories, which is why we take them. I have a lot of happy memories, so how do I choose??
This picture is from our wedding… obviously. No doubt there are many pictures from this day that make me happy, but this is one of my favorites. This is during our best man’s speech and I’m pretty certain he’s telling a funny story about Bruno. I mean, that’s what BM speeches are for, right? This photo makes me happy because it’s just pure joy and honest laughter – nothing staged. My photographer did an excellent job of capturing a lot of true moments, and I love her for that. This is the wedding picture I have at my desk at work. I love to see my husband smile and well, laugh. Laughter is a strong part of our relationship so there’s definitely no surprise to see it here.
First off, let me apologize for the slacking these last few days. I don’t feel that I have failed the challenge just yet because as my friend Deviled Megs pointed out, “It’s not 30 CONSECUTIVE days.” I’m sure you noticed that I didn’t post on Sunday… well I’ll tell you that A) posting a blog every day is pretty exhausting and B) Sunday is a day of rest anyhow. Not posting the last few days was mostly due to the fact that I just didn’t have time. It’s been a busy week and since this post relates to a picture, well, I couldn’t do it during the day because my pictures are at home. Anyhow… moving on…
It is pretty hard to find ONE picture that makes me happy, because there are really so many. Obviously pictures evoke memories, which is why we take them. I have a lot of happy memories, so how do I choose??
This picture is from our wedding… obviously. No doubt there are many pictures from this day that make me happy, but this is one of my favorites. This is during our best man’s speech and I’m pretty certain he’s telling a funny story about Bruno. I mean, that’s what BM speeches are for, right? This photo makes me happy because it’s just pure joy and honest laughter – nothing staged. My photographer did an excellent job of capturing a lot of true moments, and I love her for that. This is the wedding picture I have at my desk at work. I love to see my husband smile and well, laugh. Laughter is a strong part of our relationship so there’s definitely no surprise to see it here.
Tuesday, October 19, 2010
30 Days About Me: Day 6
Day 06 — Whatever tickles your fancy
A few weeks, er, probably months by now, my friend left the States to embark on a 2-year adventure in Egypt. She was offered an opportunity to teach over there and decided, “Hey, why not?” So for her friends that miss her dearly, she started her own blog to keep us up to date with the happenings in that far off land.
I of course, started to follow her blog. And by follow, I mean click the little button that says, “Follow this blog.” Pretty simple. So she in turn gets a notification that a certain Blythepoo is following her blog.
“Is this you?” she asks. “The profile seems to say that it is, but I’m not sure.”
“Yep, it’s me.”
I am Blythepoo. So where does this name come from? Well, quite a random story actually…
A few years ago I was shopping in Carytown, (Richmond) and wandered into one of my favorite stores, World of Mirth. Perusing the shelves I came across a small rectangular book that caught my eye, This is Blythe. Who was this Blythe? I had to know!
Turns out, Blythe is a doll, much like Barbie, but with a big head and booming in the Asian culture. Seriously. My mom’s friend went to Hong Kong and brought one back for me – he said it was a madhouse in the toy store for this thing. But what is there to really love about Blythe, because a big head and fun clothes just aren’t going to cut it. Gina Garan, author of This is Blythe and a few other books in the series, uses her time to pose Blythe in various scenes, wither various clothes, and take pictures of her. Yep, she models Blythe and photographs her. It sounds creepy, and most people think it is, but it is also hilarious. The scenarios she photographs Blythe in are so random and funny – it’s great.
So I became slightly obsessed with Blythe shortly after discovering her (again, another trend with the obsessions) and spent my time buying all sorts of things associated with Blythe off of Ebay. It was awesome. Naturally, when I needed a blogger name, I went with Blythepoo. The “poo” at the end roots all the way back to high school, but was definitely appropriate in this case.
A few weeks, er, probably months by now, my friend left the States to embark on a 2-year adventure in Egypt. She was offered an opportunity to teach over there and decided, “Hey, why not?” So for her friends that miss her dearly, she started her own blog to keep us up to date with the happenings in that far off land.
I of course, started to follow her blog. And by follow, I mean click the little button that says, “Follow this blog.” Pretty simple. So she in turn gets a notification that a certain Blythepoo is following her blog.
“Is this you?” she asks. “The profile seems to say that it is, but I’m not sure.”
“Yep, it’s me.”
I am Blythepoo. So where does this name come from? Well, quite a random story actually…
A few years ago I was shopping in Carytown, (Richmond) and wandered into one of my favorite stores, World of Mirth. Perusing the shelves I came across a small rectangular book that caught my eye, This is Blythe. Who was this Blythe? I had to know!
Turns out, Blythe is a doll, much like Barbie, but with a big head and booming in the Asian culture. Seriously. My mom’s friend went to Hong Kong and brought one back for me – he said it was a madhouse in the toy store for this thing. But what is there to really love about Blythe, because a big head and fun clothes just aren’t going to cut it. Gina Garan, author of This is Blythe and a few other books in the series, uses her time to pose Blythe in various scenes, wither various clothes, and take pictures of her. Yep, she models Blythe and photographs her. It sounds creepy, and most people think it is, but it is also hilarious. The scenarios she photographs Blythe in are so random and funny – it’s great.
So I became slightly obsessed with Blythe shortly after discovering her (again, another trend with the obsessions) and spent my time buying all sorts of things associated with Blythe off of Ebay. It was awesome. Naturally, when I needed a blogger name, I went with Blythepoo. The “poo” at the end roots all the way back to high school, but was definitely appropriate in this case.
Monday, October 18, 2010
30 Days About Me: Day 5
Day 05 — Your favorite quote
Hmm… now this one is a toughie in a sense that I don’t often refer to quotes, or think of them in my daily life. But if I had to pick one (which I do) I would chose:
“Only through imitation can we achieve originality.” - Travels with Charley by John Steinbeck
I read this book I think in college, again to fulfill a reading requirement. I’m pretty certain I chose this book because it was short and involved a dog. Turns out, I really liked it. This book is a non-fiction work that follows John Steinbeck through a drive around the country.
I don’t remember where in the book this quote was, or what it was referring to. But I remember liking it. I like it because I feel like it directly relates to my line of work – Interior Design. In our industry, there is so much competition for the best design and honestly I feel that a lot of the top award winners have very similar designs – whatever the trend is. Everyone is imitating everyone else, but adding their own twist. Then sometimes, the twist really stands out and apart from the crowd. Initially there is imitation, but it leads to originality in a design. It has to start somewhere.
Hmm… now this one is a toughie in a sense that I don’t often refer to quotes, or think of them in my daily life. But if I had to pick one (which I do) I would chose:
“Only through imitation can we achieve originality.” - Travels with Charley by John Steinbeck
I read this book I think in college, again to fulfill a reading requirement. I’m pretty certain I chose this book because it was short and involved a dog. Turns out, I really liked it. This book is a non-fiction work that follows John Steinbeck through a drive around the country.
I don’t remember where in the book this quote was, or what it was referring to. But I remember liking it. I like it because I feel like it directly relates to my line of work – Interior Design. In our industry, there is so much competition for the best design and honestly I feel that a lot of the top award winners have very similar designs – whatever the trend is. Everyone is imitating everyone else, but adding their own twist. Then sometimes, the twist really stands out and apart from the crowd. Initially there is imitation, but it leads to originality in a design. It has to start somewhere.
Saturday, October 16, 2010
30 Days About Me: Day 4
Day 04 – Your favorite book
This was a very easy one, and I figure it’s because I don’t read that much.
Lost Boys by Orson Scott Card
No, it’s not the Lost Boys everyone thinks about, that I think they made a movie of. This is a science fiction novel about a Mormon family in North Carolina. Writing that out, it sounds like a pretty odd book. Science Fiction about a Mormon family? But trust me, it’s amazing.
I first read this book in high school, I think to fulfill a reading requirement. I came across the book randomly and decided it looked good. I’ve decided that most of the books I like have children or teenagers as the main character and this book was no different. But when I took this book, I had no idea how much I would love it. I remember reading it and being so enthralled in the story, staying up late to finish it and expressing all emotions as I read through it – happiness, fear and I definitely cried.
And I still do. This is the book I’ll pick up every so often when I need a book to read (mostly at the beach) and I still breeze through it and love it just as much. I told my friend about the book, and she mentioned that Orson Scott Card had a well-known book called Ender’s Game that SHE loved, so we traded. I did enjoy Ender’s Game a lot (a child is the main character, again), though it was way more sci-fi then Lost Boys. I think the only reason my book is classified as sci-fi is because of the author. Apparently all of his other books are very sc-fi. Either way, HIGHLY recommended.
Side note, although Lost Boys is my favorite book, my favorite author is Augusten Burroughs. I have read all his books (ok not his latest one yet) and I really really enjoy them.
Close 2nd
Bee Season by Myla Goldberg (I was SO pumped when this book became a movie)
This was a very easy one, and I figure it’s because I don’t read that much.
Lost Boys by Orson Scott Card
No, it’s not the Lost Boys everyone thinks about, that I think they made a movie of. This is a science fiction novel about a Mormon family in North Carolina. Writing that out, it sounds like a pretty odd book. Science Fiction about a Mormon family? But trust me, it’s amazing.
I first read this book in high school, I think to fulfill a reading requirement. I came across the book randomly and decided it looked good. I’ve decided that most of the books I like have children or teenagers as the main character and this book was no different. But when I took this book, I had no idea how much I would love it. I remember reading it and being so enthralled in the story, staying up late to finish it and expressing all emotions as I read through it – happiness, fear and I definitely cried.
And I still do. This is the book I’ll pick up every so often when I need a book to read (mostly at the beach) and I still breeze through it and love it just as much. I told my friend about the book, and she mentioned that Orson Scott Card had a well-known book called Ender’s Game that SHE loved, so we traded. I did enjoy Ender’s Game a lot (a child is the main character, again), though it was way more sci-fi then Lost Boys. I think the only reason my book is classified as sci-fi is because of the author. Apparently all of his other books are very sc-fi. Either way, HIGHLY recommended.
Side note, although Lost Boys is my favorite book, my favorite author is Augusten Burroughs. I have read all his books (ok not his latest one yet) and I really really enjoy them.
Close 2nd
Bee Season by Myla Goldberg (I was SO pumped when this book became a movie)
Friday, October 15, 2010
30 Days About Me: Day 3
Day 03 — Your favorite television program
Ok so if I thought choosing a favorite song was hard, well that doesn’t even compare to choosing a favorite TV show. You all know how important TV is in my life. It’s sad, I know. But I’ve been like that my whole life – I blame my parents. My dad and I have the exact same approach to coming home from work, or wherever… come through the door, turn on the TV. Most of the time I immediately sit on the couch to watch it, but sometimes, I don’t. I just leave it on as I filter throughout the house. It’s my background noise. Bruno likes music, I like TV. When Bruno’s not home, I sometimes have both TVs on just so I don’t miss anything as I move room to room. We have a TIVO and a DVR because of the overwhelming amount of shows we both watch. Most of them are mine, but Bruno is starting to catch up.
So asking me to choose my favorite show? Oh wow… When I was little, there was no hesitation to answer, “Mr. Ed!” Yes, the old black and white TV show about a talking horse. I loved it. Throughout the years I went through Full House, The Wonder Years and then on to Dawson’s Creek. Oh Dawson’s Creek, how you ruled my life for 6 seasons of bliss. My mild obsession with Katie Holmes may have had something to do with how much I treasured this program, but you could find me keeping up to date, every week. When we were in college and we didn’t get the WB, my mom would record them for me so I could catch up when I had the chance. My roommates and I drove to Wilmington, NC freshman year specifically to scope out the set and the filming locations. Notice a trend here? So yes, my love of Wilmington stemmed from my love of Dawson’s Creek.
But alas, I honestly wouldn’t peg Dawson’s Creek as my all-time favorite show. You are shocked, I know it. But I must come out with the truth. The show that beat out Dawson’s Creek is one that aired at the same time, but I didn’t get into until Dawson’s Creek was over. Drumroll…
Gilmore Girls
This probably isn’t a really big shock to be the show that beat out my beloved DC but just the fact that something beat it out is pretty amazing. Comparing both shows, Gilmore Girls makes me laugh more – the one-liners and dialogues always keep a smile on my face. Granted, DC was obviously more of a drama then GG, but in the end, I think it’s the comedy that wins me over. I like the characters of GG - they aren’t all sleeping with each other. Some of the storylines of DC were a little too far-fetched and I really hated the annual Halloween episode. When I grab a DVD set to watch for a long road trip, GG is the one I will turn to most often.
Close 2nd (after Dawson’s Creek)
Sex and the City – I didn’t get into this show until after it ended because we didn’t have HBO. But I will watch reruns over and over and love them! Bruno can attest to this…
Ok so if I thought choosing a favorite song was hard, well that doesn’t even compare to choosing a favorite TV show. You all know how important TV is in my life. It’s sad, I know. But I’ve been like that my whole life – I blame my parents. My dad and I have the exact same approach to coming home from work, or wherever… come through the door, turn on the TV. Most of the time I immediately sit on the couch to watch it, but sometimes, I don’t. I just leave it on as I filter throughout the house. It’s my background noise. Bruno likes music, I like TV. When Bruno’s not home, I sometimes have both TVs on just so I don’t miss anything as I move room to room. We have a TIVO and a DVR because of the overwhelming amount of shows we both watch. Most of them are mine, but Bruno is starting to catch up.
So asking me to choose my favorite show? Oh wow… When I was little, there was no hesitation to answer, “Mr. Ed!” Yes, the old black and white TV show about a talking horse. I loved it. Throughout the years I went through Full House, The Wonder Years and then on to Dawson’s Creek. Oh Dawson’s Creek, how you ruled my life for 6 seasons of bliss. My mild obsession with Katie Holmes may have had something to do with how much I treasured this program, but you could find me keeping up to date, every week. When we were in college and we didn’t get the WB, my mom would record them for me so I could catch up when I had the chance. My roommates and I drove to Wilmington, NC freshman year specifically to scope out the set and the filming locations. Notice a trend here? So yes, my love of Wilmington stemmed from my love of Dawson’s Creek.
But alas, I honestly wouldn’t peg Dawson’s Creek as my all-time favorite show. You are shocked, I know it. But I must come out with the truth. The show that beat out Dawson’s Creek is one that aired at the same time, but I didn’t get into until Dawson’s Creek was over. Drumroll…
Gilmore Girls
This probably isn’t a really big shock to be the show that beat out my beloved DC but just the fact that something beat it out is pretty amazing. Comparing both shows, Gilmore Girls makes me laugh more – the one-liners and dialogues always keep a smile on my face. Granted, DC was obviously more of a drama then GG, but in the end, I think it’s the comedy that wins me over. I like the characters of GG - they aren’t all sleeping with each other. Some of the storylines of DC were a little too far-fetched and I really hated the annual Halloween episode. When I grab a DVD set to watch for a long road trip, GG is the one I will turn to most often.
Close 2nd (after Dawson’s Creek)
Sex and the City – I didn’t get into this show until after it ended because we didn’t have HBO. But I will watch reruns over and over and love them! Bruno can attest to this…
Thursday, October 14, 2010
30 Days About Me: Day 2
Day 02 — Your favorite movie
Well this one is a no-brainer. If you know me at all, you know the answer to this one:
10 Things I Hate About You
I just love love love this movie. I love the storyline; I love the actors; I love the setting; I love the music. Yep, pretty much just love this movie. I originally set out to see it because one of my favorite actresses at the time, Larisa Oleynik, was in it. I was a tab obsessed with The Secret World of Alex Mack. After seeing it twice in the theaters, there was no turning back. Sure I saw Save the Last Dance in the theater a few times… and by a few I mean 4… but that movie never had the impact that this movie did.
I’m not sure why though. Maybe it had to do with the fact that I’ve always loved Seattle and here comes a movie that is filmed there, filled with young actors and funny lines I could relate to. Ok, maybe the portrayal of high school life was a bit exaggerated, but let’s be honest, how often are they not exaggerated?
A few years ago, Bruno and I took a week-long trip out to Seattle to spend Thanksgiving with his sister and her husband. A day or 2 was all we needed in the city, so what else could we do for the rest of the time? How about we IMDB the movie to find all the filming locations and be movie tourists for the day? So we did. We travelled around the outskirts of Seattle and down to Tacoma, taking pictures of as many sites as we could. It was a dream come true. Ok maybe not really, but kinda. I was definitely oozing excitement all day and had a perma-smile across my face.
Stadium High School
"Can you help me find the Feminine Mystique? I lost my copy."
Bianca and Cameron frolicked here.
Well this one is a no-brainer. If you know me at all, you know the answer to this one:
10 Things I Hate About You
I just love love love this movie. I love the storyline; I love the actors; I love the setting; I love the music. Yep, pretty much just love this movie. I originally set out to see it because one of my favorite actresses at the time, Larisa Oleynik, was in it. I was a tab obsessed with The Secret World of Alex Mack. After seeing it twice in the theaters, there was no turning back. Sure I saw Save the Last Dance in the theater a few times… and by a few I mean 4… but that movie never had the impact that this movie did.
I’m not sure why though. Maybe it had to do with the fact that I’ve always loved Seattle and here comes a movie that is filmed there, filled with young actors and funny lines I could relate to. Ok, maybe the portrayal of high school life was a bit exaggerated, but let’s be honest, how often are they not exaggerated?
A few years ago, Bruno and I took a week-long trip out to Seattle to spend Thanksgiving with his sister and her husband. A day or 2 was all we needed in the city, so what else could we do for the rest of the time? How about we IMDB the movie to find all the filming locations and be movie tourists for the day? So we did. We travelled around the outskirts of Seattle and down to Tacoma, taking pictures of as many sites as we could. It was a dream come true. Ok maybe not really, but kinda. I was definitely oozing excitement all day and had a perma-smile across my face.
Stadium High School
"Can you help me find the Feminine Mystique? I lost my copy."
Bianca and Cameron frolicked here.
Wednesday, October 13, 2010
30 Days About Me: Day 1
Day 01 — Your favorite song
You know, I have to say that choosing 1 favorite song of all-time is pretty hard. My favorite songs change so much… not everyday because that’d be a little much, but probably every few months. I’m certain this is the case for everyone simply based on the fact that our music tastes change along with the music we listen to. I know I wrote in a previous post how much I love the Oldies and for the longest time I would claim my favorite song to be “My Girl” by the Temptations. I think it mostly stemmed from the fact that I loved the movie with the same name and loved the Oldies, so the 2 kind of went hand in hand. But I don’t think I would say the same now. When I think of what a favorite song is, it’s one that you turn up loud and sing along to anytime it comes on. It’s the one that you search specifically on your iPod for every now and then because you want to hear something you love. So what one is that…
Friends of mine would surely chime in saying, “I Want You to Want Me!” since that is my go-to song on Karaoke and is the ending credits song to my all-time favorite movie (save that information for a later post). But as much as I do love singing that song, I wouldn’t call it my all-time favorite. Other friends may say, “It MUST be ‘NSYNC something or other because you were like, obsessed with them.” True, I was. I admit it and I’m not ashamed. But no, they do not reign on the all-time list.
Well folks, I must say that the winner is… and I’ve really put a lot of thought into this because there are a lot of songs I love. But the award goes to:
Ants Marching by Dave Matthews Band
This is by no means a biased decision just because my husband happens to be in a DMB Tribute Band. I was a fan of Dave way before I met Bruno. Under the Table and Dreaming is the only DMB CD I own and I bought it for this song specifically. I DO instantly turn up this song when it comes on and sing to it every time. This song makes me happy, brings me a lot of memories and has such a catchy beat that I can’t help myself. I love that it is such a crowd pleaser and that I’m guaranteed to hear it every time I see Crowded Streets perform. It will never grow old to me.
Close 2nds…
If I Had $1 Million by Barenaked Ladies
Everything by Michael Buble
You know, I have to say that choosing 1 favorite song of all-time is pretty hard. My favorite songs change so much… not everyday because that’d be a little much, but probably every few months. I’m certain this is the case for everyone simply based on the fact that our music tastes change along with the music we listen to. I know I wrote in a previous post how much I love the Oldies and for the longest time I would claim my favorite song to be “My Girl” by the Temptations. I think it mostly stemmed from the fact that I loved the movie with the same name and loved the Oldies, so the 2 kind of went hand in hand. But I don’t think I would say the same now. When I think of what a favorite song is, it’s one that you turn up loud and sing along to anytime it comes on. It’s the one that you search specifically on your iPod for every now and then because you want to hear something you love. So what one is that…
Friends of mine would surely chime in saying, “I Want You to Want Me!” since that is my go-to song on Karaoke and is the ending credits song to my all-time favorite movie (save that information for a later post). But as much as I do love singing that song, I wouldn’t call it my all-time favorite. Other friends may say, “It MUST be ‘NSYNC something or other because you were like, obsessed with them.” True, I was. I admit it and I’m not ashamed. But no, they do not reign on the all-time list.
Well folks, I must say that the winner is… and I’ve really put a lot of thought into this because there are a lot of songs I love. But the award goes to:
Ants Marching by Dave Matthews Band
This is by no means a biased decision just because my husband happens to be in a DMB Tribute Band. I was a fan of Dave way before I met Bruno. Under the Table and Dreaming is the only DMB CD I own and I bought it for this song specifically. I DO instantly turn up this song when it comes on and sing to it every time. This song makes me happy, brings me a lot of memories and has such a catchy beat that I can’t help myself. I love that it is such a crowd pleaser and that I’m guaranteed to hear it every time I see Crowded Streets perform. It will never grow old to me.
Close 2nds…
If I Had $1 Million by Barenaked Ladies
Everything by Michael Buble
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
I know I'm not so great at posting...
So to keep my limited number of followers entertained, I will be embarking on the "30 Days About Me" challenge. I found this challenge through another random blogger and thought it would be a fun thing to do for the next 30 days. I mean, who doesn't like to talk/write about themselves all the time?? I couldn't really find an official list per say of topics, but this one seemed pretty good...
Day 01 — Your favorite song
Day 02 — Your favorite movie
Day 03 — Your favorite television program
Day 04 — Your favorite book
Day 05 — Your favorite quote
Day 06 — Whatever tickles your fancy
Day 07 — A photo that makes you happy
Day 08 — A photo that makes you angry/sad
Day 09 — A photo you took
Day 10 — A photo of you taken over ten years ago
Day 11 — A photo of you taken recently
Day 12 — Whatever tickles your fancy
Day 13 — A fictional book
Day 14 — A non-fictional book
Day 15 — A fanfic
Day 16 — A song that makes you cry (or nearly)
Day 17 — An art piece (painting, drawing, sculpture, etc.)
Day 18 — Whatever tickles your fancy
Day 19 — A talent of yours
Day 20 — A hobby of yours
Day 21 — A recipe
Day 22 — A website
Day 23 — A YouTube video
Day 24 — Whatever tickles your fancy
Day 25 — Your day, in great detail
Day 26 — Your week, in great detail
Day 27 — This month, in great detail
Day 28 — This year, in great detail
Day 29 — Hopes, dreams and plans for the next 365 days
Day 30 — Whatever tickles your fancy
I hope you are looking forward to this challenge as much as I am!
Day 01 — Your favorite song
Day 02 — Your favorite movie
Day 03 — Your favorite television program
Day 04 — Your favorite book
Day 05 — Your favorite quote
Day 06 — Whatever tickles your fancy
Day 07 — A photo that makes you happy
Day 08 — A photo that makes you angry/sad
Day 09 — A photo you took
Day 10 — A photo of you taken over ten years ago
Day 11 — A photo of you taken recently
Day 12 — Whatever tickles your fancy
Day 13 — A fictional book
Day 14 — A non-fictional book
Day 15 — A fanfic
Day 16 — A song that makes you cry (or nearly)
Day 17 — An art piece (painting, drawing, sculpture, etc.)
Day 18 — Whatever tickles your fancy
Day 19 — A talent of yours
Day 20 — A hobby of yours
Day 21 — A recipe
Day 22 — A website
Day 23 — A YouTube video
Day 24 — Whatever tickles your fancy
Day 25 — Your day, in great detail
Day 26 — Your week, in great detail
Day 27 — This month, in great detail
Day 28 — This year, in great detail
Day 29 — Hopes, dreams and plans for the next 365 days
Day 30 — Whatever tickles your fancy
I hope you are looking forward to this challenge as much as I am!
Hey Gross Girl
I just don’t get it. I really don’t. When you work out, especially after an actual Body Pump class, you are sweaty. You are stinky. You are just plain gross and in desperate need of a shower. Most people love that shower right after a tough workout. It takes away the grime, makes you smell good and is really refreshing. Obviously this post is headed in the direction of, “There’s a girl at the gym who doesn’t shower after her Body Pump class!!” You heard it here folks, this isn’t a lie or a one-time deal. This girl is a repeat offender and I just don’t know how she can stand it.
She doesn’t even wash her face. Gross. She comes in, direct from class, maybe towels off a little bit, and puts her WORK CLOTHES on. Overtop of her sweatiness. How do I really know she’s sweaty? Because her hair is wet. Wet with sweat. She doesn’t rinse at all… she actually blow-dries the sweat from her hair.
I always watch in disbelief, but try not to stare. And I think others are doing the same. Today, when she was blowing-drying her sweaty hair, a friend of hers came in and exclaimed, ”Man you’re quick!” clearly thinking that she had already showered and was drying showered hair. The girl simply smiled and said, “Yep.”
Meanwhile, I see another woman looking at the sweaty girl with a disgusted look on her face, thinking the same thing I was… “She didn’t shower and that’s why she’s so quick!” I just don’t get it. Maybe she thinks that her 25 min walk to work will reduce the stinkiness, but I know that couldn’t have been the case this summer. I’m just glad I don’t have to work with her.
She doesn’t even wash her face. Gross. She comes in, direct from class, maybe towels off a little bit, and puts her WORK CLOTHES on. Overtop of her sweatiness. How do I really know she’s sweaty? Because her hair is wet. Wet with sweat. She doesn’t rinse at all… she actually blow-dries the sweat from her hair.
I always watch in disbelief, but try not to stare. And I think others are doing the same. Today, when she was blowing-drying her sweaty hair, a friend of hers came in and exclaimed, ”Man you’re quick!” clearly thinking that she had already showered and was drying showered hair. The girl simply smiled and said, “Yep.”
Meanwhile, I see another woman looking at the sweaty girl with a disgusted look on her face, thinking the same thing I was… “She didn’t shower and that’s why she’s so quick!” I just don’t get it. Maybe she thinks that her 25 min walk to work will reduce the stinkiness, but I know that couldn’t have been the case this summer. I’m just glad I don’t have to work with her.
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Was I born in the wrong year?
Sometimes I amaze myself. I amaze myself at the ability to remember lyrics to songs dated waaaaay before my time. The other day, I was listening to Sirius “60’s on 6” and I found myself singing and harmonizing to the tune of “Summer Song” by Chad and Jeremy 1965. Yeah, who knows that song? And why do I know it?
I grew up listening to Oldies. When we would make our 8hr drive to New York in the middle of the night, my dad would have Oldies on. My first concert was The Beach Boys. I listened to Oldies until 7th grade, when I decided rap music was going to be my thing.
But I love them. I really do. And sometimes I find it amazing that other people don’t love them as much as me. That they didn’t grow up on Oldies. I will ensure that my children listen to the Oldies because although the lyrics are insanely cheesy, it’s just good music. Am I 60 years old for saying that?
I grew up listening to Oldies. When we would make our 8hr drive to New York in the middle of the night, my dad would have Oldies on. My first concert was The Beach Boys. I listened to Oldies until 7th grade, when I decided rap music was going to be my thing.
But I love them. I really do. And sometimes I find it amazing that other people don’t love them as much as me. That they didn’t grow up on Oldies. I will ensure that my children listen to the Oldies because although the lyrics are insanely cheesy, it’s just good music. Am I 60 years old for saying that?
Sunday, September 12, 2010
Talk about a confidence boost
Saturday Bruno and I woke up early to participate in the Chick-fil-a 5k in Sterling, VA. I hadn't ran a race since the crapiness that was the Carribbean Sounds 10k (their course was terrible and was the incorrect distance making my time seem worse then it actually was). I've been training with my Ragnar team once a week and running 2-3x more on my own every week. Since I've been training at about the same pace for a few months and mixing in some hills, I really wasn't sure where I would be when it came to race time. Well I'll tell you what, this weekend I kicked ass, if I do say so myself.
I ran the 5k in 27:28, giving me a mile pace of 8:50. I couldn't believe it! I mean, I was checking my watch and keeping track during the entire race and I knew I was running a little quicker then I train at, but I didn't think it was that big of a difference. To give you an idea, I train at a 9:40 pace. Yeah. It's just really a confidence boost because after all the leg workouts I've been doing and running with my team, I really didn't feel like I was making any progress. I just felt like I was at a standstill. So this weekend was really great. I don't know if it was the atsmosphere of the race or the free Chick-fil-a at the end, but I felt good.
I have my Ragnar Relay in 2 weeks, and I cannot believe it! I'm nervous and excited. My first leg is pretty rough (6.9mi with 2 big hills) but the other 2 legs are relatively easy. I think our team has done really great and I'm really confident in how we'll do in the race. It's going to be quite an adventure, that's for sure!
I ran the 5k in 27:28, giving me a mile pace of 8:50. I couldn't believe it! I mean, I was checking my watch and keeping track during the entire race and I knew I was running a little quicker then I train at, but I didn't think it was that big of a difference. To give you an idea, I train at a 9:40 pace. Yeah. It's just really a confidence boost because after all the leg workouts I've been doing and running with my team, I really didn't feel like I was making any progress. I just felt like I was at a standstill. So this weekend was really great. I don't know if it was the atsmosphere of the race or the free Chick-fil-a at the end, but I felt good.
I have my Ragnar Relay in 2 weeks, and I cannot believe it! I'm nervous and excited. My first leg is pretty rough (6.9mi with 2 big hills) but the other 2 legs are relatively easy. I think our team has done really great and I'm really confident in how we'll do in the race. It's going to be quite an adventure, that's for sure!
Friday, August 27, 2010
Adios Metro
When I started my job in the city, I figured it would not even be an option to drive in, that I would be a full-time metro rider. I had been taking the metro to my Arlington job and had kinda grown accustomed to it. Why would I want to sit in traffic when I could sleep on the metro? I figured rush hour traffic would be ridiculous and parking would be way too expensive. I was content with riding the metro… I always had a seat in the morning and even though I had to stand most of the way home, I was the last stop and never had to worry about missing it.
But then the metro started getting unreliable. The prices started going up. The time between trains started to increase even though the public was PROMISED service wouldn’t be affect/cut to close the budget gap. Riiiiiiight. But I was still set on riding the metro.
A few weeks ago we were pushing out a project and I had to work late every night. I decided that I would try the whole, “driving into the city” thing. The metro runs every 15-20 minutes after rush hour so if I would miss the train coming home from work late or after a Happy Hour, I would have to sit around and then sit on the metro for 30 minutes. It just makes for a long and exhausting trek home. Let me tell you, I became quite a fan of the “driving into work” thing. Traffic really wasn’t that bad in the morning and byt the time I left to go home, there was no one on the roads.
It’s pretty great to have control of the situation, as opposed to being stuck somewhere with no way out if there’s a delay. If there’s a traffic jam, I have an opportunity to take and alternate route. Not with metro. I always have a seat and can listen to the radio or use my phone when I drive… not on the metro. The metro costs me $15/day to use (that includes parking). Driving in is about 15 miles and costs $10 to park.
I kept the argument going in my head that I can pay for metro, pretax, through a program at work, so it’s more economical. But when the difference is $5/day, the difference pretty much offsets any pretax savings. The commute time is the same whether I metro or drive, so why not be comfortable in my car?
So for the month of September, I’m going to try driving in 2 days/week to start. I want to see how rush hour traffic is once school is back in session. I’m pretty certain eventually I will just drive in everyday and take the metro when I need to because honestly, there is no benefit at this point. Not when the metro continues to hike prices and offer crappy service. I am not a fan.
But then the metro started getting unreliable. The prices started going up. The time between trains started to increase even though the public was PROMISED service wouldn’t be affect/cut to close the budget gap. Riiiiiiight. But I was still set on riding the metro.
A few weeks ago we were pushing out a project and I had to work late every night. I decided that I would try the whole, “driving into the city” thing. The metro runs every 15-20 minutes after rush hour so if I would miss the train coming home from work late or after a Happy Hour, I would have to sit around and then sit on the metro for 30 minutes. It just makes for a long and exhausting trek home. Let me tell you, I became quite a fan of the “driving into work” thing. Traffic really wasn’t that bad in the morning and byt the time I left to go home, there was no one on the roads.
It’s pretty great to have control of the situation, as opposed to being stuck somewhere with no way out if there’s a delay. If there’s a traffic jam, I have an opportunity to take and alternate route. Not with metro. I always have a seat and can listen to the radio or use my phone when I drive… not on the metro. The metro costs me $15/day to use (that includes parking). Driving in is about 15 miles and costs $10 to park.
I kept the argument going in my head that I can pay for metro, pretax, through a program at work, so it’s more economical. But when the difference is $5/day, the difference pretty much offsets any pretax savings. The commute time is the same whether I metro or drive, so why not be comfortable in my car?
So for the month of September, I’m going to try driving in 2 days/week to start. I want to see how rush hour traffic is once school is back in session. I’m pretty certain eventually I will just drive in everyday and take the metro when I need to because honestly, there is no benefit at this point. Not when the metro continues to hike prices and offer crappy service. I am not a fan.
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