10 For 10
1) Run/walk the Mothers Day Classic in May - done!
2) Ride at least 3000kms - have added a bit to this but not sure exactly how much. Am over the 700kms mark, but obviously need to do a lot more. It hasn't helped that I have been without my bike for the last week and a half, but I should have it back tomorrow.
3) Finish the knitted blankets - finished about another 4 or 5 squares. It is currently on hold while I knit myself some legwarmers though. :o)
6) Send at least one childrens story to a publisher - done! I posted Becky's Smile off last week. Now starts the 4 month wait for a response....
Day Zero Project
Marked off 3 more items
1) Make Chocolate Crackles
2) Hold a cancer Council biggest Morning Tea
3) Do a Tarot Class
And have made progress on several of the bigger ones.
Not a bad effort for the month I think
xox
Monday, May 31, 2010
Sunday, May 30, 2010
Tarot
Yesterday I did my Tarot Class at the WEA. It was a lot of fun. There is so much to learn (78 cards) however the tutor explained it in a way that made perfect sense.
The Tutor was Elizabeth Wheldrake. She was really lovely and explained things is a way that was easy to understand. I was quite surprised at the number of people in the class. And at the average age. I expected a lot of young new-agey types, but I would say the average age was around 40-45. There were even 2 men there which really surprised me!
I have been interested in Tarot for a long time. Over the years I have collected 4 sets of true Tarot Cards and 6 sets of Oracle Cards. The problem is I never knew how to read them. When you have 78 cards with all different meanings it is hugely daunting. What I didn't know is that you can work out the meaning from the suit (traditionally Cups, Pentacles, Wands and Swords), from the corresponding number, and from the symbols within the picture. It was really interesting.
At the end we played a Tarot Game which resulted in our giving readings to ourselves and each other. That was a lot of fun. And considering we were complete newbies to it, surprisingly accurate. I am looking forward to playing with my new (5th) set of cards, and then working out which of the 5 sets I now own I would like to continue to work with. I also hope to do a more advanced class down the track if it is something I find I have an affinity for.
xox
Friday, May 28, 2010
Inner Dialogue
Since I did my Reiki 1 course I have been thinking along about my own inner dialogue and the power of our words, both spoken and in thought. Caitlin over at Operation Beautiful talks a lot about this, but in some ways I think you need to have your own awakening before you can fully grasp it.
Since my class I have been very aware of how I speak to myself. Can I just say, it is not good. The things I say to and about myself are often horrific. I would never speak to or about another person in this way. So why do I believe it is okay to speak to myself this way?
In some cultures and belief systems, it is believed that the phrase “I am” carries with it the power of 40,000 suns. That’s a lot of power. And used in a positive way can only be good, great in fact, for your sense of self-worth. But what about when we use this phrase for negative.
Phrases that constantly go through my head include (but are not limited to):
- I am fat
- I am lazy
- I am useless
- I am tired
- I am crappy at xxx
- I am a loser
- I am poor
If each one of these phrases (said constantly over and over again day after day after day) carries with it the power of 40,000 suns, is it any wonder I am where I am personally and professionally right now. I am nowhere near where I thought I would be by my age (fast approaching the big 4-0)
For the last couple of weeks every time I hear one of the above phrases (or any of the multitude of others that compete for space within the confines of my mind) going through my head, I have consciously tried to come up with the opposite.
- I am healthy
- I am strong
- I am confident
- I am a winner
- I am energised
- I am wealthy
- I am worthy
- I am abundant
It is actually quite amazing the difference. The big one for me is “I am tired”. Replacing this with “I am energised” has made a massive difference. I feel myself standing or sitting taller, throwing my shoulders back and my head up, and moving through the next part of my day with energy.
It is hard to change these thought patterns. But it needs to be done in order for me to move forward and grow. It helps me keep negativity at bay, and induces a feeling of wholeness and positivity.
What thought patterns do you have that could do with some alterations?
xox
Since my class I have been very aware of how I speak to myself. Can I just say, it is not good. The things I say to and about myself are often horrific. I would never speak to or about another person in this way. So why do I believe it is okay to speak to myself this way?
In some cultures and belief systems, it is believed that the phrase “I am” carries with it the power of 40,000 suns. That’s a lot of power. And used in a positive way can only be good, great in fact, for your sense of self-worth. But what about when we use this phrase for negative.
Phrases that constantly go through my head include (but are not limited to):
- I am fat
- I am lazy
- I am useless
- I am tired
- I am crappy at xxx
- I am a loser
- I am poor
If each one of these phrases (said constantly over and over again day after day after day) carries with it the power of 40,000 suns, is it any wonder I am where I am personally and professionally right now. I am nowhere near where I thought I would be by my age (fast approaching the big 4-0)
For the last couple of weeks every time I hear one of the above phrases (or any of the multitude of others that compete for space within the confines of my mind) going through my head, I have consciously tried to come up with the opposite.
- I am healthy
- I am strong
- I am confident
- I am a winner
- I am energised
- I am wealthy
- I am worthy
- I am abundant
It is actually quite amazing the difference. The big one for me is “I am tired”. Replacing this with “I am energised” has made a massive difference. I feel myself standing or sitting taller, throwing my shoulders back and my head up, and moving through the next part of my day with energy.
It is hard to change these thought patterns. But it needs to be done in order for me to move forward and grow. It helps me keep negativity at bay, and induces a feeling of wholeness and positivity.
What thought patterns do you have that could do with some alterations?
xox
TGIF
This has been a looooong week. Thankfully it is Friday! YAY! Thank you for all your kind wishes regarding Ross. He is completely fine. It looks like it was a virus and it is clearing up and everyone is doing well. It is so scary when this happens though. He feels like he wasted hospital time, however with his history he HAS to be vigilant and be wary of any pain. I am glad we got it checked out and that all is okay.
Tomorrow I am doing a Learn Tarot class at the WEA. I am really excited about it. I have several sets of Tarot cards that I have collected over the years, but I have never really learned how to use them. I feel like now is the time so off I go to class! I have several other things like this on the go right now as well. I am feeling more and more drawn to all things spiritual and new-age-y. I have had a very keen interest in these areas for well over 15 years, but this year I am moving from someone with an interest, to someone who is active in this area. It is exciting, and scary, and exhilarating all at the same time.
Next week I am doing my first Reiki session on someone outside of my immediate family. Em has kindly donated her body to science and is allowing me to practice on her. I hope it goes well.
Other than that I am relaxing and focusing on me. The cooler it gets the more I tend to withdraw into myself. Not in a negative way, in an introspective recharging way. I love winter for that element, and I am actually looking forward to camping this winter as I am feeling more and more drawn to nature right now as well. For a born and bred city girl, being drawn to nature is slightly obscure. But I am trusting in my own intuition, and if nature is where I need to be, then that is where I'll be.
Other than that I am hoping to get out for a run on Sunday. It has been 2 weeks. I am not feeling bad about that, I just needed a break. I have altered my planned runs to enter (in sidebar) to compensate for the fact that I need to rest and recharge. I am looking forward to getting out there again though.
Hope everyone has an amazing Friday. Catch you all on the weekend!
xox
Tomorrow I am doing a Learn Tarot class at the WEA. I am really excited about it. I have several sets of Tarot cards that I have collected over the years, but I have never really learned how to use them. I feel like now is the time so off I go to class! I have several other things like this on the go right now as well. I am feeling more and more drawn to all things spiritual and new-age-y. I have had a very keen interest in these areas for well over 15 years, but this year I am moving from someone with an interest, to someone who is active in this area. It is exciting, and scary, and exhilarating all at the same time.
Next week I am doing my first Reiki session on someone outside of my immediate family. Em has kindly donated her body to science and is allowing me to practice on her. I hope it goes well.
Other than that I am relaxing and focusing on me. The cooler it gets the more I tend to withdraw into myself. Not in a negative way, in an introspective recharging way. I love winter for that element, and I am actually looking forward to camping this winter as I am feeling more and more drawn to nature right now as well. For a born and bred city girl, being drawn to nature is slightly obscure. But I am trusting in my own intuition, and if nature is where I need to be, then that is where I'll be.
Other than that I am hoping to get out for a run on Sunday. It has been 2 weeks. I am not feeling bad about that, I just needed a break. I have altered my planned runs to enter (in sidebar) to compensate for the fact that I need to rest and recharge. I am looking forward to getting out there again though.
Hope everyone has an amazing Friday. Catch you all on the weekend!
xox
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Where have I been?
Sorry for the absence folks. I was planning on blogging yesterday, but alas, life stepped in as it often does...
Saturday after my Biggest Morning Tea was a lovely relaxing day. Mum came over for dinner and we had a great time. I am so glad my Mum and Mother-In-Law get along, and actually have a lot in common. They are both quilters, are both serious cat-lovers, and both love to garden. It gives them hours of conversation.
Sunday morning we got up early to go for a walk. Both of us were feeling the after effects of bowling. If you haven't done it for a long time it does wonders for your gluts. Needless to say we both had sore butts for a few days... From there Sunday was a truly Chillaxing day. We sorted through around 15 boxes of books that have been in storage for way too long. We separated 2 boxes to go to the Book Exchange, and kept 2 boxes at the house we are staying at, and the rest got sent back to storage. I found several books I had forgotten all about which got me all excited. Other than that, we did nothing. It was lovely.
Yesterday Ross woke with pain in his chest. He decided it wasn't too bad and decided to go to work. By lunch time he was in pain, so took himself off to hospital. Those of you who have been readers for a long time know that he had a collapsed lung in April last year, and he was concerned it was happening again. Thankfully, his lung is okay, however they have kept him in hospital overnight for observation and to do a few more tests this morning. What they are concerned about is that he may be developing heart disease. His Dad passed away last year from heart disease and he was only 67. He had his first bypass operation at 50. We are in our late 30's now and the doctors want to make sure that it isn't starting with him. By last night they were reasonably confident that he is okay, but want him to do a stress test today to make sure. I am glad they are being careful, but I really wish he was home already... I just want him home...
So I am at work this morning and will be heading off after my appointments to (hopefully) pick him up and bring him home. Our plans for last night to check out a meditation group were obviously put on hold. But there is always next week.
The only other thing happening is that I am probably going to pull out of the current Start Running Group and join in with the next one next term. I have not been running much and feel like I have put too much pressure on myself. I improved a lot really quickly, and now just want to let this solidify before I move on. I will make my decision on that by tomorrow.
Hope everyone is well. Sorry I haven't been commenting on blogs, I have been reading them, just mainly on my phone and I can't comment from there.
xox
Saturday after my Biggest Morning Tea was a lovely relaxing day. Mum came over for dinner and we had a great time. I am so glad my Mum and Mother-In-Law get along, and actually have a lot in common. They are both quilters, are both serious cat-lovers, and both love to garden. It gives them hours of conversation.
Sunday morning we got up early to go for a walk. Both of us were feeling the after effects of bowling. If you haven't done it for a long time it does wonders for your gluts. Needless to say we both had sore butts for a few days... From there Sunday was a truly Chillaxing day. We sorted through around 15 boxes of books that have been in storage for way too long. We separated 2 boxes to go to the Book Exchange, and kept 2 boxes at the house we are staying at, and the rest got sent back to storage. I found several books I had forgotten all about which got me all excited. Other than that, we did nothing. It was lovely.
Yesterday Ross woke with pain in his chest. He decided it wasn't too bad and decided to go to work. By lunch time he was in pain, so took himself off to hospital. Those of you who have been readers for a long time know that he had a collapsed lung in April last year, and he was concerned it was happening again. Thankfully, his lung is okay, however they have kept him in hospital overnight for observation and to do a few more tests this morning. What they are concerned about is that he may be developing heart disease. His Dad passed away last year from heart disease and he was only 67. He had his first bypass operation at 50. We are in our late 30's now and the doctors want to make sure that it isn't starting with him. By last night they were reasonably confident that he is okay, but want him to do a stress test today to make sure. I am glad they are being careful, but I really wish he was home already... I just want him home...
So I am at work this morning and will be heading off after my appointments to (hopefully) pick him up and bring him home. Our plans for last night to check out a meditation group were obviously put on hold. But there is always next week.
The only other thing happening is that I am probably going to pull out of the current Start Running Group and join in with the next one next term. I have not been running much and feel like I have put too much pressure on myself. I improved a lot really quickly, and now just want to let this solidify before I move on. I will make my decision on that by tomorrow.
Hope everyone is well. Sorry I haven't been commenting on blogs, I have been reading them, just mainly on my phone and I can't comment from there.
xox
Saturday, May 22, 2010
Cancer Council Biggest Morning Tea
This morning I held my annual "Biggest Morning Tea" for the SA Cancer Council. But first things first...
Last night Ross and his mate decided we should all go bowling. I'll be honest, I didn't want to go, but I am glad I did. We had a great night.
Ross used to bowl in a league so it was a great chance for him to dust off the bowling ball and strut his stuff in the lanes. I am terrible at bowling, always have been. I have a funny shaped thumb and struggle with the ball. But I did okay and even ended up with a 94 in the last game, which I thought was pretty good. The guys had a great night though and I think it is going to become a regular thing.
This morning was out Biggest Morning Tea. We decided to make it different from last year so we had it in a park. Luckily it was a beautiful autumn day and the sun was shining. There was so many yummy eats to choose from...
It was a great morning with great friends
And a couple of dogs!
My niece Larissa enjoyed the food...
It was a really fun morning and we raised $90 for the SA Cancer Council which I was super stoked with. Not quite as much as last year, but still a great effort considering how many people were there. We had a few games with some lovely wine for prizes, but mostly just sat and chatted and ate some lovely food. I really enjoy these morning teas, but I will have to think of something new for next year so that they don't get boring.
This afternoon I am going to relax for a couple of hours then Mum is coming up for dinner. Ross has made his Tiramisu for dessert and I am making a Lentil Pilaf with a fresh green salad.
xox
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Chocolate Crackles
Not much more to say on that except for YUMMMMM!!!!!!!!!!! LOL
No time for much else today. Am running massively late. Slept in a bit but not too much, showered, dressed, got my helmet on, grabbed my bike. DAMN! A flat tyre. Not just a flat - a whopping great 3 corner jack has torn the tube. Not time to change it so run inside, change shoes and run for the tram. Just missed it.
Needless to say I got to work about 40 minutes later than I normally would so I have to fly today.
Hope you all have a great day!
xox
Wednesday, May 19, 2010
Quiet Night
Last night was lovely. I got home from work at the usual time and made the decision not to run. My legs are really achy and I think I just need a rest. I will take Thursday night off as well, and get back into it on Saturday. My MIL had made Pumpkin Soup and Pumpkin Damper for dinner - YUMMO! After dinner I sat with my feet up and knitted while watching TV. That probably sounds incredibly boring to many, but it is very rare for me to get to sit for a whole hour just knitting and watching TV. I usually have a myriad of other things that need doing.
Tonight I am making chocolate crackles for my Cancer Council Biggest Morning Tea on Saturday morning. Believe it or not, I have never made chocolate crackles before. I am doing a double batch so I can bring some into work and so Ross can have some for his work as well. Hopefully they taste as good as I remember from my childhood.
Daily Goals
1) Drink lots of water
2) Tidy my desk (looks like a bomb site)
3) No twisties for morning tea
4) Make Chocolate Crackles
5) Get an early night
Have a great day everyone!
xox
Tonight I am making chocolate crackles for my Cancer Council Biggest Morning Tea on Saturday morning. Believe it or not, I have never made chocolate crackles before. I am doing a double batch so I can bring some into work and so Ross can have some for his work as well. Hopefully they taste as good as I remember from my childhood.
Daily Goals
1) Drink lots of water
2) Tidy my desk (looks like a bomb site)
3) No twisties for morning tea
4) Make Chocolate Crackles
5) Get an early night
Have a great day everyone!
xox
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
Nothing Much Going On
I wanted to Blog today but then I realised, I really have nothing to say. I haven't run since last week and I didn't go to cooking class last night. I have had tummy issues. Occasionally "that time of month" triggers a severe case of flatulence and bloating. This is one of those months. The bloating and general icky feeling is why I haven't been running. The flatulence is why I chose not to go to cooking class last night. I didn't really think it was fair on the other class members.... LOL
I found out yesterday to camp I was meant to go on with Camp Quality in July has been cancelled for various reasons. The kids won't miss out, but it means I am not needed for camp until next year. This frees up a week of holidays for me. YAY! Ross & I have a Travel Voucher to the Yorke Peninsula. I was thinking we could use that. Go late July or early August. The general plan is that we would ride there (approx 200kms) over 2 days, stay 4 nights, then ride home again. We don't have the logistics worked out but I think we can do it. We are upping our exercise for the trek in October anyway, and this type of endurance can only help that. We still have a few things to work out, but at this point I am thinking this will be the way to go.
The other thing I am thinking about, now that we have a car again, is to start focusing on my Reiki. Once cooking class is over I will put aside Monday or Tuesday nights to go out and do some Reiki. I have some friends lined up who want a session. I am doing free practice sessions for a while until I am more confident. Once I have a grip on it I will do my Reiki 2 then think about maybe starting a small sideline business. It is exciting but scary.
That's it from me for now. Hopefully I am feeling up to a run tonight. If I don't run tonight it is doubtful I will go to Running Group on Thursday, but we will see how I go. I just want to do a 2km and try and run it a bit faster. Fingers crossed I am feeling okay.
Have a great Tuesday everyone!
xox
I found out yesterday to camp I was meant to go on with Camp Quality in July has been cancelled for various reasons. The kids won't miss out, but it means I am not needed for camp until next year. This frees up a week of holidays for me. YAY! Ross & I have a Travel Voucher to the Yorke Peninsula. I was thinking we could use that. Go late July or early August. The general plan is that we would ride there (approx 200kms) over 2 days, stay 4 nights, then ride home again. We don't have the logistics worked out but I think we can do it. We are upping our exercise for the trek in October anyway, and this type of endurance can only help that. We still have a few things to work out, but at this point I am thinking this will be the way to go.
The other thing I am thinking about, now that we have a car again, is to start focusing on my Reiki. Once cooking class is over I will put aside Monday or Tuesday nights to go out and do some Reiki. I have some friends lined up who want a session. I am doing free practice sessions for a while until I am more confident. Once I have a grip on it I will do my Reiki 2 then think about maybe starting a small sideline business. It is exciting but scary.
That's it from me for now. Hopefully I am feeling up to a run tonight. If I don't run tonight it is doubtful I will go to Running Group on Thursday, but we will see how I go. I just want to do a 2km and try and run it a bit faster. Fingers crossed I am feeling okay.
Have a great Tuesday everyone!
xox
Monday, May 17, 2010
New Blog
I have a new blog. It is not going to replace Kylie's Curiosities - I need somewhere to ramble daily - it is a sideline. It is called Saving The Environment, One Bike Ride At A Time and it is about, well, the environment. It is something I have been thinking about for a long time. It will probably be a little slow to start off with, but if you are interested in all things environmental, then I would love it if you would stop by occassionally.
xox
xox
Sunday, May 16, 2010
Million Paws Walk
Today was the RSPCA's Million Paws Walk. I have never gone to this event before, but as I am living with my Mother In Law and her dog Millie, I decided to go along with them. It was a really fun day. Lots of doggies - mostly well behaved - walking and playing and having a ball. It made me want my own dog even more...
Millie is a 10 year old Sheltie and she got tired after about 4kms so she got carried for a while. It was a fun day.
xox
Friday, May 14, 2010
Running Group
I did it. I was a very brave little girl and I went to the Running Group. I was so scared. I even told the coach I was terrified. He thought that was funny.
So we started with a little chat. He talks abut a different topic at the beginning each week. This week was shoes and gear. Then he told us where we were going, and we were off.
Right away it was clear I was the slowest. There was another lady just a teensy bit faster than me, but yes, I was the slowest. David, the coach, ran with me for quite a while and we chatted the whole time. I don't normally talk and run, so this was new to me. I coped pretty well which just shows that my fitness is improving. We stopped twice to gather everyone together and have mini chats. The first one was about 3 mins and the second one only about 2 mins. All up I ran for around 40 minutes (not sure exactly) and I did somewhere around the 4km mark. The others went further than me. Several parts of the run were out and back, and when the leaders caught me up going the other way I turned around with them. But I ran the whole way. Most of the others walked several times. So even though I am painfully slow still, even David remarked on the fact that not once did I stop for a walk break.
The we all stretched (I learnt a few new ones that felt good) had another quick chat and it was time to head home. David has suggested that I do 2 actual runs during the week and skip the sprints for now. Happy with that! :o) I know I can't do 2 long runs though so here is the plan.
Tuesday night - 2km run and work on doing it faster than my normal shuffle
Thursday night - running group
Weekend - 5km run
I am so glad I went. Everyone was so nice. The regular running group came past us at one point and the ladies were so encouraging and made me feel really good. I am now looking forward to next week.
Weekly Personal Challenge Update
Cycling - 59.7/80kms
Running - 40/60 mins
Other - 1/2
Daily Goals
1) Drink lots of water
2) Don't buy any crap food
3) Ride home the longer way
4) Finish my daily to-do list (putting that on here really seems to help me get through it)
5) Chillax with Ross tonight
Have a great day everyone!
xox
So we started with a little chat. He talks abut a different topic at the beginning each week. This week was shoes and gear. Then he told us where we were going, and we were off.
Right away it was clear I was the slowest. There was another lady just a teensy bit faster than me, but yes, I was the slowest. David, the coach, ran with me for quite a while and we chatted the whole time. I don't normally talk and run, so this was new to me. I coped pretty well which just shows that my fitness is improving. We stopped twice to gather everyone together and have mini chats. The first one was about 3 mins and the second one only about 2 mins. All up I ran for around 40 minutes (not sure exactly) and I did somewhere around the 4km mark. The others went further than me. Several parts of the run were out and back, and when the leaders caught me up going the other way I turned around with them. But I ran the whole way. Most of the others walked several times. So even though I am painfully slow still, even David remarked on the fact that not once did I stop for a walk break.
The we all stretched (I learnt a few new ones that felt good) had another quick chat and it was time to head home. David has suggested that I do 2 actual runs during the week and skip the sprints for now. Happy with that! :o) I know I can't do 2 long runs though so here is the plan.
Tuesday night - 2km run and work on doing it faster than my normal shuffle
Thursday night - running group
Weekend - 5km run
I am so glad I went. Everyone was so nice. The regular running group came past us at one point and the ladies were so encouraging and made me feel really good. I am now looking forward to next week.
Weekly Personal Challenge Update
Cycling - 59.7/80kms
Running - 40/60 mins
Other - 1/2
Daily Goals
1) Drink lots of water
2) Don't buy any crap food
3) Ride home the longer way
4) Finish my daily to-do list (putting that on here really seems to help me get through it)
5) Chillax with Ross tonight
Have a great day everyone!
xox
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Winter is here...
OMG - it was FREEZING this morning on my way to work! All my long trackie pants (all 2 pairs of them) are in the wash so I had to wear my 3/4 ones. I forgot my gloves. There were no clouds in the sky. And it was COLD! I think now that I am riding to work just about every day I need to invest in some more long trackies.
I am not as sore today as I was yesterday, but there is still one spot, back of my leg, just above my knees, that is really tight. Should be alright for the Running Group tonight though.
Speaking of that. I am terrified. I don't want to go. I want to hide in the corner and cross my arms and stomp my feet and say NO! Luckily I am no long 2 years old and can move past that and will make myself go. But I am terrified. I have warned the coach how slow I am and he said I will be fine. Yet terror prevails...
Quick update on my weekly goals I set for myself.
Cycling - 41.16/80 kms
Running - 0/60 mins
Other - 1/2 sessions
Not too bad so far. I should hit all the goals by Sunday night I think.
Daily Goals
1) Drink lots of water
2) Don't buy any crap food
3) Go to running group
4) Get through my To Do List
5) Have an early night
xox
I am not as sore today as I was yesterday, but there is still one spot, back of my leg, just above my knees, that is really tight. Should be alright for the Running Group tonight though.
Speaking of that. I am terrified. I don't want to go. I want to hide in the corner and cross my arms and stomp my feet and say NO! Luckily I am no long 2 years old and can move past that and will make myself go. But I am terrified. I have warned the coach how slow I am and he said I will be fine. Yet terror prevails...
Quick update on my weekly goals I set for myself.
Cycling - 41.16/80 kms
Running - 0/60 mins
Other - 1/2 sessions
Not too bad so far. I should hit all the goals by Sunday night I think.
Daily Goals
1) Drink lots of water
2) Don't buy any crap food
3) Go to running group
4) Get through my To Do List
5) Have an early night
xox
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Sprints and Eating
Last night I did sprints for the first time, and can I just say...
OUCH!!!!!
Everything hurts!
I only did 3 sprints, 30 seconds, 24 seconds, and 23 seconds. But I truly did sprint. I went as hard and as fast as I possibly could. I also ran up the tram bridge at a pace slightly faster than my normal shuffle and made it about 3/4 of the way up.
By bed time last night I could barely move. Getting up to go to the toilet in the night felt like an endurance event. And riding to work this morning... Well, let's just say I am surprised I am here! I can not believe how much pain I am in. I have pain in muscles I did not know existed. Let's just hope it settles down in the next 34 hours or so as I have my first running group tomorrow night and I would like to be able to move at least a little bit.
I am still thinking about food a lot, trying to work things out. I know that the best way for my running speed to improve is to start dropping weight. The less I weigh, the less I have to lug around with me, and the easier it will be to move. I know this. But I just can't get my head around calorie counting again. I will NOT do a fad diet or a shake type diet. I know that I need to make better food choices. Last night I realised that I am fine at home. We bought chocolate on Saturday, and most of it is still there. Last night I felt like a bit, so I broke off a couple of rows, savoured it, and I was done. I guess that means that my old way of eating-everything-in-the-house-just-because-it-is-there has gone. Finally. I no longer have to eat everything that is there, I can put it aside once I am satisfied.
At home that is.
At work I still go nuts. And I am sure it is related to my boredom levels and my personal satisfaction level. At home things are fine. I am usually busy with something, we all get along great, the cats are there, life is good. At work I am bored, I don't like what I do, I am often dealing with crappy customers/agents/banks etc. And I deal with this in the old way - with food.
I haven't worked out how I am going to get through this, but I do believe that if I can break through this work hurdle, I may be on my way to having a somewhat normal relationship with food, which will hopefully translate into lower weight. I'll keep on mulling it over.
Daily Goals
1) Drinks lots of water
2) Get up from my desk and walk around as much as possible to loosen the muscles
3) Make good food choices
4) Try to get through my whole To-Do List
5) Relax tonight and take some time out.
xox
PS - Mel, I would LOVE to do Tri Pink but there isn't one in Adelaide yet. Last years was cancelled due to issues with the venue, and when I emailed them a couple of weeks ago they said they were "getting close" to securing a new venue. Hopefully they will be here next year and then I am IN!
OUCH!!!!!
Everything hurts!
I only did 3 sprints, 30 seconds, 24 seconds, and 23 seconds. But I truly did sprint. I went as hard and as fast as I possibly could. I also ran up the tram bridge at a pace slightly faster than my normal shuffle and made it about 3/4 of the way up.
By bed time last night I could barely move. Getting up to go to the toilet in the night felt like an endurance event. And riding to work this morning... Well, let's just say I am surprised I am here! I can not believe how much pain I am in. I have pain in muscles I did not know existed. Let's just hope it settles down in the next 34 hours or so as I have my first running group tomorrow night and I would like to be able to move at least a little bit.
I am still thinking about food a lot, trying to work things out. I know that the best way for my running speed to improve is to start dropping weight. The less I weigh, the less I have to lug around with me, and the easier it will be to move. I know this. But I just can't get my head around calorie counting again. I will NOT do a fad diet or a shake type diet. I know that I need to make better food choices. Last night I realised that I am fine at home. We bought chocolate on Saturday, and most of it is still there. Last night I felt like a bit, so I broke off a couple of rows, savoured it, and I was done. I guess that means that my old way of eating-everything-in-the-house-just-because-it-is-there has gone. Finally. I no longer have to eat everything that is there, I can put it aside once I am satisfied.
At home that is.
At work I still go nuts. And I am sure it is related to my boredom levels and my personal satisfaction level. At home things are fine. I am usually busy with something, we all get along great, the cats are there, life is good. At work I am bored, I don't like what I do, I am often dealing with crappy customers/agents/banks etc. And I deal with this in the old way - with food.
I haven't worked out how I am going to get through this, but I do believe that if I can break through this work hurdle, I may be on my way to having a somewhat normal relationship with food, which will hopefully translate into lower weight. I'll keep on mulling it over.
Daily Goals
1) Drinks lots of water
2) Get up from my desk and walk around as much as possible to loosen the muscles
3) Make good food choices
4) Try to get through my whole To-Do List
5) Relax tonight and take some time out.
xox
PS - Mel, I would LOVE to do Tri Pink but there isn't one in Adelaide yet. Last years was cancelled due to issues with the venue, and when I emailed them a couple of weeks ago they said they were "getting close" to securing a new venue. Hopefully they will be here next year and then I am IN!
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
More Races
I think I must be insane!
I just entered the Joggers World Fun Run Series, which is a series of 4 races over the next 4 months. I am in the 2km run. The reason I went in the shorter event is that I want to use it to work on my speed and I can compare the same distance and the same course over a series of weeks. Also, it will get me used to a race situation so hopefully I can work on some of the issues I had in the MDC.
I don't have my diary with me today and I have a vague feeling I can't actually do either the June or July one, but I only paid for 3 (if you registered for all 4 you got a discount) so it didn't cost me extra to register.
Ross is thinking about doing the 4km events. I hope he does!
xox
I just entered the Joggers World Fun Run Series, which is a series of 4 races over the next 4 months. I am in the 2km run. The reason I went in the shorter event is that I want to use it to work on my speed and I can compare the same distance and the same course over a series of weeks. Also, it will get me used to a race situation so hopefully I can work on some of the issues I had in the MDC.
I don't have my diary with me today and I have a vague feeling I can't actually do either the June or July one, but I only paid for 3 (if you registered for all 4 you got a discount) so it didn't cost me extra to register.
Ross is thinking about doing the 4km events. I hope he does!
xox
MDC Official Times are In
Thank you all so much for your amazing comments yesterday. You are all so wonderfully supportive and I do thank you for that. So here it is...
Official Times for MDC
Kylie - 38:43 mins
36-40 year old females - 59/63
All women - 495/512
Overall - 683/708
Ross - 22:52 mins
36-40 year old men - 14/24
All men - 96/196
Overall - 219/708
I am happy with that. Actually I am really happy. My watch said 38:46 but I thought the official timing would be quite different which is why I said around the 39 minute mark. And I didn't come last in ANY category! YAHOOO! LOL
Last night was cooking class. No photos yet I am sorry. We made Sweet Potato & Cashew Croquettes with Tangy Salsa - SO yum! - and Sticky Date with Toffee Sauce. We only cooked up 1 croquette to try, and I took the mix home. I will make them tomorrow night and you can have photos then. And the Sticky Date looks great, but we are going to do the sauce tonight and serve it up and will take pics then.
Tonight I am walking home from work. The way I will probably go is about 8.2kms. I am still a bit stiff from the weekend and I won't be timing myself, this is just to get some distance in my legs. We head off to Heyson in 5 months so we need to start concentrating on that. I will do a few sprints on the way home too.
My next running goal is to get to 5kms, then after that it is time to look at speed. I am hoping the sprints will help with that.
Have a great day everyone!
xox
Official Times for MDC
Kylie - 38:43 mins
36-40 year old females - 59/63
All women - 495/512
Overall - 683/708
Ross - 22:52 mins
36-40 year old men - 14/24
All men - 96/196
Overall - 219/708
I am happy with that. Actually I am really happy. My watch said 38:46 but I thought the official timing would be quite different which is why I said around the 39 minute mark. And I didn't come last in ANY category! YAHOOO! LOL
Last night was cooking class. No photos yet I am sorry. We made Sweet Potato & Cashew Croquettes with Tangy Salsa - SO yum! - and Sticky Date with Toffee Sauce. We only cooked up 1 croquette to try, and I took the mix home. I will make them tomorrow night and you can have photos then. And the Sticky Date looks great, but we are going to do the sauce tonight and serve it up and will take pics then.
Tonight I am walking home from work. The way I will probably go is about 8.2kms. I am still a bit stiff from the weekend and I won't be timing myself, this is just to get some distance in my legs. We head off to Heyson in 5 months so we need to start concentrating on that. I will do a few sprints on the way home too.
My next running goal is to get to 5kms, then after that it is time to look at speed. I am hoping the sprints will help with that.
Have a great day everyone!
xox
Sunday, May 9, 2010
Mothers Day Classic 2010
Yes, that is a rare photo of just me you see to the side. I don't usually do photos, but I figured today was a bit special. For today was the Mothers Day Classic, my first ever fun run! I woke up absolutely terrified. In fact, I went to bed absolutely terrified. LOL Lets start with yesterday. Yesterday we went out in the morning to do some shopping. I wore my old grungy sneakers as I often do. An hour or so out and I realise, they are causing blisters on the back of my heels. NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! So I took them off and finished the shopping in true Adelaide Bogan-style, in bare feet. Thankfully my MIL is a Registered Nurse and has a multitude of dressings and bandages, and gave me some wicked dressings to cover them up. Add my ankle braces to the mix and no rubbing today, thankfully. We got there bright and early, me completely terrified, Ross seemingly calm. I say seemingly because after it was over he admitted he was scared about his lung holding up. He was to run his own race and since he mainly runs at my pace he was concerned that even though it is over a year since his pnuemothorax that something would happen. Thankfully, everything was A-OK.
In the last 20 minutes I went to the toilet 3 times. The last time I think I squeezed out half a drip, but I seriously thought I needed to go. They asked for the fast runners to go to the front and the slow ones to go to the back, which I was more than happy with. Unfortunately I got caught up in the crowd and ended up somewhere in the middle.
I had asked Ross to run with me for 10 minutes, but 30 seconds before we crossed the start line I told him to run his own race, then we were off and I was on my own. I was too close to the middle of the crowd, and although I pulled right over to the left I got swept up and struggled to find my pace. Linda had said to me to make sure I didn't start out too hard, and that was going through my head, but there were too many people and I found it hard to slow down. I ran up the first hill (even though I had decided to walk up every hill since I have not trained on them) and I ran it too fast. The result, 750m in and I was hurting.
Thankfully it soon started to thin out and I could drop back to my shuffle pace. I was still hurting though but kept plowing though until the next hill, then used that as an opportunity to catch my breath. I was constantly getting overtaken, but I kept plodding along. Despite the lungs screaming and the legs hurting, I only walked about 3 or 4 minutes in total, and I made it through with an unofficial time of 39 minutes, which is slightly faster than my normal pace. I think my official time will be a bit longer coz they didn't zap me at the end right away to trigger my time finishing.
The end was awesome, all the walkers and those who had already finished the race were along the sides cheering, and Ross was there and ran along the edge with me for the last 50m telling me how awesome I am (gotta love hearing that!) The marshalls were giving encouragement at every turn which was also great. When I finished I truly couldn't breathe, but I recovered in quite a short timespan so I was happy with that.
I stretched out a bit, grabbed some water and some fruit a sat down to enjoy the morning.
Watching the walkers leave was amazing. Check out the photo below, If you make it bigger and have a look you can see the line of people all the way up along the river. The last walkers were still going through the start line when the front walkers were on the other side of the river at the 2km mark. It was an incredible sea of pink and purple surrounding the river and it was a truly awesome sight.
I am so glad I did this. It was a 'safe' event for my first run because no one was taking it too seriously. I learnt a lot (particularly to start at the back next time) and feel really proud that I completed it.
Thanks so much to everyone for their support over the last few months. I think you all believed I could do it long before I did. And I really appreciate that.
xox
PS - I should add Ross did the 4km in somewhere around 20-25 minutes with very little training at his real pace. My husband ROCKS!
Friday, May 7, 2010
She-Wee
Last night I finally got my She-Wee. What is a She-Wee I hear you ask? Well, a She-Wee is a "portable urinating device for women".
I got it for long rides in the country and for when we hike the Heyson Trail in October. The idea is you can pee standing up like boys. One of the guys in my office called it a Girlie Doodle. It is a very bizarre little contraption, and I believe I will need to practice with it before I go... I will keep you updated!
I have been think a lot about my fitness and how far I have come in the last 3 months. Once the MDC is over I don't want that to stop. I am enjoying my new found fitness and energy levels and want to continue to improve on that. So I have worked out an exercise plan for the next month.
Cycling - 80kms per week
Running - 60 mins per week
2 other exercise sessions a week
I am riding about 60kms just commuting to and from work, so need to add longer rides home or an extra ride. The plan for running is to get myself up to a 5km run (nearly there) and do that on the weekends. Thursday night I will have my Start Running Group. And Tuesday night I am going to walk home from work and do a few sprints within the walk. No other running, just a few 30 second sprints. There is also one bridge I want to run up to start getting used to running up hills. As for the other exercise sessions, they can be anything - swimming, yoga, football with the kids, boxing, hiking, whatever comes my way.
I have started reading the Intuitive Eating book and so far it has some good messages. So as far as eating, I am going to start trying to listen to what my body needs, rather than what my head wants. There is a difference, I just need to be able to identify it.
Daily Goals
1) Drink 1.5 L of water
2) Add an extra few kms to my ride home
3) Listen to my body with regards to food
4) Relax tonight, and sit down and knit in front of the TV
5) Try not to go insane at work considering I am the only one in the office today
Have a great day!
xox
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
Working and running and cooking
Yesterday was a horrible day. Work was nuts. All the yucky clients we have had a problem, the banks were going berserk, the Real Estate Agents and Conveyancers were cranky, and the guys in the office were not doing things they should have which made my job more time consuming and frustrating. I also had a personal situation come up that was scary and worrying that was (and is) consuming my thoughts.
By 5pm I wanted a Strongbow and a couch. The thought of going for a run was mortifying. But it was the absolute last chance I had to go for a run before the MDC so I geared up and headed off. From the first step I knew it was gonna be yuck. I couldn't find a rhythm and everything hurt. I was really hoping I could find a good rhythm and the motion would help ease the stress of the day. But no such luck. It was cold, it was windy, and 2/3 of the way through, it started raining. The good thing about the rain is it made me want to get inside, and the quickest way to do that was to keep running.
The result, I ran the entire 4.2km course with no walk breaks. It took 43 minutes, 30 seconds. It hurt. There was no runners high, and although it is the absolute best I have done, I did not feel good at it. I tried really hard on the ride home (in the wind and rain) to get excited about my run, but it just wasn't there. I guess sometimes that just happens. Sometimes the runners high and the joy just ain't there.
Today I had a training course off site for the morning. I didn't learn a lot as most of it was stuff I was already doing, but I came back with a couple of improvements I can implement. I didn't get back to the office until 1.30pm, of course with a full day of work on the desk. Thankfully the cranky clients were nowhere to be seen, so I just worked through what I could and I will deal with the rest tomorrow.
Tonight I wanted to make the Parsnip Soup from Monday nights class. I had sent Ross out for supplies and I got cooking as soon as I got home.
By 5pm I wanted a Strongbow and a couch. The thought of going for a run was mortifying. But it was the absolute last chance I had to go for a run before the MDC so I geared up and headed off. From the first step I knew it was gonna be yuck. I couldn't find a rhythm and everything hurt. I was really hoping I could find a good rhythm and the motion would help ease the stress of the day. But no such luck. It was cold, it was windy, and 2/3 of the way through, it started raining. The good thing about the rain is it made me want to get inside, and the quickest way to do that was to keep running.
The result, I ran the entire 4.2km course with no walk breaks. It took 43 minutes, 30 seconds. It hurt. There was no runners high, and although it is the absolute best I have done, I did not feel good at it. I tried really hard on the ride home (in the wind and rain) to get excited about my run, but it just wasn't there. I guess sometimes that just happens. Sometimes the runners high and the joy just ain't there.
Today I had a training course off site for the morning. I didn't learn a lot as most of it was stuff I was already doing, but I came back with a couple of improvements I can implement. I didn't get back to the office until 1.30pm, of course with a full day of work on the desk. Thankfully the cranky clients were nowhere to be seen, so I just worked through what I could and I will deal with the rest tomorrow.
Tonight I wanted to make the Parsnip Soup from Monday nights class. I had sent Ross out for supplies and I got cooking as soon as I got home.
Now I am not really a soup person. I like it well enough, but it's not something I get excited about. I also don't necessarily like parsnips. But can I just say, this soup ROCKS!!!!!!!!!!!! It is SO yummy and filling and absolutely devine. The recipe is meant to serve 6, but the 3 of us all had a serve and there is only enough left for 1 more. :o) Ross is taking it for lunch tomorrow.
That's it for me today. I just read back over this and realised the beginning is quite negative. I was going to apologise, but then I realised that would be apologising for my own feelings and I don't do that any more. I am sure things will be back to normal next post!
xox
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
Thinking About Food
Last night was our first Cooking Class for this course which is the Gourmet Vegetarian class. As with the last one we did, week 1 was a demonstration and information night. Natalie made Parsnip Soup (which I plan on making tomorrow night), a Ricotta Flan with honey roasted vegetables, and Dreamy Pavlova. We got to have a little taste of it all and everything was SO good! Next week we are doing 2 recipes on our own - a sweet potato croquette with a tangy salsa, and sticky date and toffee pudding. Ross is going to do the pudding, and I will do the croquettes. I can't wait!
I have actually been thinking a lot about food lately. While I am content with my plan to not focus on my weight, I am interested in being fit. And part of fitness is what we eat. In the last 2 months or so I have been getting out of control with my eating again. Not all day like I used to, but in the mornings. I have a good breakfast, then about 9.30ish I lose it. I am not hungry but I start eating crap. It finishes at lunch time when I am so full. Then I don't eat in the afternoon, have a healthy dinner and go to bed. The hours between 9.30am and 1pm are really ruining things for me.
I want to eat good whole foods - not crap. And I want to be in control of my eating. Not control it as in calorie counting, but be in control of myself. So I am going to start slowly. The one thing I have noticed I have started doing again is using butter. I hadn't used it in a couple of years, now all of a sudden everything is slathered in it. So the first thing I am going to do is stop with the butter. The other thing is to stop visiting the bakery. If I can do those 2 things I think I will be well on my way to starting to get this under control.
I have a book called "Intuitive Eating" by Evelyn Tribole at home. I think I will dig that out and start reading it. It teaches you to be aware of your bodies hunger signals and to eat what your body needs, not stuff it full of crap. I really want to get control of this as I know that if I fuel my body right, my fitness will benefit.
Daily Goals
1) Drink 1.5L of water
2) Go for my final run before the MDC
3) Dig out the Intuitive Eating Book
4) Try not to get too annoyed at work
5) Don't binge this morning
xox
I have actually been thinking a lot about food lately. While I am content with my plan to not focus on my weight, I am interested in being fit. And part of fitness is what we eat. In the last 2 months or so I have been getting out of control with my eating again. Not all day like I used to, but in the mornings. I have a good breakfast, then about 9.30ish I lose it. I am not hungry but I start eating crap. It finishes at lunch time when I am so full. Then I don't eat in the afternoon, have a healthy dinner and go to bed. The hours between 9.30am and 1pm are really ruining things for me.
I want to eat good whole foods - not crap. And I want to be in control of my eating. Not control it as in calorie counting, but be in control of myself. So I am going to start slowly. The one thing I have noticed I have started doing again is using butter. I hadn't used it in a couple of years, now all of a sudden everything is slathered in it. So the first thing I am going to do is stop with the butter. The other thing is to stop visiting the bakery. If I can do those 2 things I think I will be well on my way to starting to get this under control.
I have a book called "Intuitive Eating" by Evelyn Tribole at home. I think I will dig that out and start reading it. It teaches you to be aware of your bodies hunger signals and to eat what your body needs, not stuff it full of crap. I really want to get control of this as I know that if I fuel my body right, my fitness will benefit.
Daily Goals
1) Drink 1.5L of water
2) Go for my final run before the MDC
3) Dig out the Intuitive Eating Book
4) Try not to get too annoyed at work
5) Don't binge this morning
xox
Sunday, May 2, 2010
I Know I'm Not Perfect, But I'm So Close It Scares Me
That is what it says on my new soup mug. I saw it in the Post office on Friday and just couldn't resist. I used it this morning for my oats with honey and cinnamon. It was so delish, and I am sure it tasted even better coz it was in such a cool bowl.
I have had a great weekend. Yesterday was long and exhausting, and so much fun. It started with a trip to my new favourite shop - Smiggle!
Em introduced me to Smiggle several weeks ago, but this was my first little splurge. I had so much fun, and of course, everything has to be pink!
From our shopping trip we got on the bus up to Gumeracha, and headed off to the Medieval Fair. Rather than tell you everything, I figured the best way to show you what we got up to is with photos.
The portrait at the bottom there is meant to be of us. I think it is a good likeness of Ross, but not so much of me. My lips are NOT that plumped unfortunately. But it was fun to have it done, and look at my boobs and my upper abs! Hot hot HOT! LOL We did have an amazing day as you can see. There was jousting, and dancing, and sword fighting, and food, and art, and shopping, and everything else you can imagine for a medieval fair. A great day.
Today was errands, and shopping and housework. Plus an afternoon of relaxing and cooking. I wanted to make pasta cups, but I couldn't find the big pasta shells I wanted. So I decided to use similar ingredients and make my own version of a ricotta and summer veg lasagne.
It tasted really good and I will definitely be making this one again. The only thing I might do a bit differently next time is perhaps add a bit of fetta. It didn't necessarily need it, but I love fetta!
That's my weekend in a nutshell. This week I start my next cooking class, I have my last run before the MDC, some cycling, cooking, the MDC, and who knows what else.
xox
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