I just wanted to say..

I wish everyone a happy and healthy 2008.

Feliz Año Nuevo!!!

2mi around the way

The second mile was definitely harder than the first. I actually jogged around the neighborhood today. The way back was full of hilly streets. Yep, the park ain't got nothing on running through the 'hood. Oh and today's run puts me at 60mi for the month. Go me:) Anyway, here are the numbers.

Stats:
2.00mi/19:46min
Avg pace: 9:53/mi
Heart Rate: 95 Avg/144 Max <- This must be wrong.
Calories: 234

1mi @ 9:46
2mi @ 10:00

Breakfast: PB&J w/hot tea
Lunch: Chickpea leftovers w/steamed broccoli
Snack: Smoothie w/strawberry, banana, blueberry, hemp protein, and unsweetened soymilk
Dinner: Baked bbq tofu w/baked potato and mixed veggies (broccoli, cauliflower and carrots)
Snack: Sugar cookies (the perfect NYE food)

7 Miles Easy...

Yeah, no. I don't think so. Believe me, the run was a lot harder than what my average heart rate suggests. My heart rate was way low, but I just wasn't feeling it. I spent a good portion of the run talking myself out of stopping. It's funny because miles 1-3 were identical. Then after that, I had a battle with myself not to end the run at the next mile. The splits after mile 3 are a reflection of this. Good thing is, I stuck with it. I still don't understand the low heart rate though. When I was running up an incline in mile 7, it was at 98 bpm. Mind you, I always speed up on the inclines. Weird. I'm not sure what that means. But when I was done, I felt like I couldn't run another step. Or maybe I just didn't want to run another step. According to my heart rate, I should have run faster. But I couldn't run any faster than I did (not like I was trying to run fast). I was just not feeling it today. Anyway, here are the numbers...

Music: House Nation America, Disk 2 by Ministry of Sound

Stats:
7.00mi/1:18:01
Avg pace: 11:08/mi
Heart Rate: 126 Avg/179 Max
Calories: 843

1mi @ 11:00
2mi @ 11:00
3mi @ 11:00
4mi @ 11:13
5mi @ 11:18
6mi @ 11:25
7mi @ 11:02

Breakfast: Oatmeal w/the usual fixings
Pre-run: Half Clif Builder's bar, mint chocolate
Lunch: Apple and PB&J
Dinner: Curried chickpeas and tomatoes w/basmati rice
Snack: Finished the Clif bar
Late night snack: Edamame

Pace Yourself

Neo-soul was today's distraction of choice. I picked music that I like to sing to. You know, music with lyrics that I actually pay attention to. That should slow me down a bit. I set out for 6mi at 11:00/mi. I figured that should be about right given my progress these days. That's kinda what I did without trying. The last time I ran 6mi I was a lot slower. It's amazing to see how quickly I've improved now that I've been running some decent mileage. Hmm, I just checked the Smart Coach training schedule. Apparently, today was supposed to be a 6mi tempo run with 4mi @ 11:00. Go figure. I nixed the tempo runs and speed work in the beginning. It's just good to see my speed improving without it.

Music: Who is Jill Scott? Words and Sounds, Vol. 1 by Jill Scott

Stats:
6.00mi/1:05:16
Avg pace: 10:53/mi
Heart Rate: 178 Avg/189 Max
Calories: 719

1mi @ 11:06
2mi @ 10:42
3mi @ 10:58
4mi @ 10:55
5mi @ 10:52
6mi @ 10:41

Breakfast: Oatmeal w/the usual (raisins, cinnamon, vanilla, flaxseed, unsweetened soymilk and maple syrup)
Lunch: Smoothie w/banana, strawberry, blueberry, hemp protein, and unsweetened soymilk
Dinner: Pakistani dahl w/basmati rice
Snack: Apple w/peanut butter
Late night snack: Edamame

Quick Christmas Run

I was scheduled for a short one today. I don't know how but it was the shortest run ever. It was a sub 10:00 pace. What in the world? Merry Christmas to me, I guess. I'm scheduled for 6mi on Thursday. Best believe I will take it a lot slower.

In other news, Nancy, a wonderful race director, is planning another race. We're going to do the 9 on the 9th virtual race. I'm really excited about this one. I'm actually scheduled for a 10mi long run that weekend. Feel free to join us.

Anyway, so far I've had some oatmeal and part of a not-so-sweet apple. Yeah, I couldn't finish it it was so bad. I really need to make a smoothie. I'll leave you all with my numbers. Oh and Happy Christmahanakwanzaka! And if you're not celebrating anything, just have a good day :)

Music: Future Listening by Towa Tei

Stats:
2.00mi/19:24min
Avg pace: 9:42/mi
Heart Rate: 180 Avg/194 Max
Calories: 234

1mi @ 9:44
2mi @ 9:40

Well that explains it

I spent the whole run telling myself to slow down. I hadn't checked Garmin til about mile 3. So I didn't see what I did until the run was over. Turns out that mile 1 was the fastest mile. That's odd. I always start out slow. At least I try to. I didn't try hard enough today though.

So I went to the park again. I was actually supposed to run tomorrow. But we're expecting thunder showers with temps around 58*. That's not normal for this time of year, but I'll take it. My training schedule is set up for long runs on Sunday. I haven't run on a Sunday since I started the program. Maybe I should just give up on that. I'm always changing my schedule for one reason or another. I'm just glad that this week was a light one. Running two days in a row isn't an issue when there's no major mileage involved. Mileage is going back up next week, so I'll definitely need my rest days. Anyway, here are my broke down numbers...

Music: Blowout Comb by Digable Planets (I wore this album out in college)

Stats:
4.00mi/41:28min
Avg pace: 10:22/mi
Heart Rate: 179 Avg/191 Max
Calories: 478

1mi @ 10:04
2mi @ 10:21
3mi @ 10:33
4mi @ 10:28

Breakfast: Oatmeal w/cinnamon, raisins, vanilla, flaxseed and unsweetened soymilk
Snack: Apple w/peanut butter
Post-run: Chocolate soymilk diluted w/unsweetened soymilk
Lunch: PB&J
Dinner: VWAV Italian marinated tofu w/steamed collards and baked potato w/S&P and olive oil

Fueled By Cookies

Check out this video: Family Guy - Cookie Monster Rehab



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I didn't sleep well Wednesday night. That turned into yesterday's headache for a good portion of the day. So I put off the run til today. But I did feel well enough to make a healthy batch of sugar cookies, lighted dusted with Ghirardelli sweetened cocoa. And I ate LOTS of them. I can't blame it on the holiday season. I'm not a fan of the holidays anyway. I just wanted some cookies.

Today's run was done in a new hoodie/jacket and injinji socks from REI. I love, LOVE the jacket. There are pockets everywhere to carry whatever I want. I would post a link, but it's no longer available (probably due to the awesome sale). The socks took some getting used to. My feet were fine by the time I started running though. No, I'm not trying to be an uppity runner now. I'm actually getting blisters between my toes and I figured the socks would help. The run wasn't as comfortable as I wanted it to be but I got it done. Not too shabby considering the amount of cookies I ate last night.

Stats:
3.00mi/31:09min
Avg pace: 10:23/mi
Heart Rate: 179 Avg/191 Max
Calories: 356

1mi @ 10:33
2mi @ 10:26
3mi @ 10:10

Breakfast: Hot chocolate soymilk and oatmeal w/cinnamon, raisins, vanilla, flaxseed and unsweetened soymilk
Pre-run: Cashews
Post-run: More hot chocolate
Lunch: Quinoa w/steamed broccoli sprinkled w/braggs and garlic powder

Doing it in the park

I went to the park today. I can't help but to notice cars in the various parking lots, but no one is out IN the park. I'm convinced people are having a midday rendezvous. I mean, why come to the park and not get out of the car. But hey, that's not my business.

Anyway, it's that special time all women hate, and all their partners hate even more. So I wasn't in the mood. I'm surprised I had negative splits. Mile 3 didn't feel as smooth as mile 2. So I figured I'd slow down a bit. I guess I didn't. I wasn't really checking Garmin, just going by how I felt. Oh well. I'm happy with the numbers.

Stats:
3.00mi/30:57min
Avg pace: 10:19/mi
Heart Rate: 178 Avg/191 Max
Calories: 357

1mi @ 10:29
2mi @ 10:18
3mi @ 10:09

Breakfast: Hot chocolate soymilk w/unsweetened soymilk mixed to cut the sweetness. Then I had some TJ's Toasted Oatmeal flakes w/raisins a lil later.
Pre-run: OJ
Lunch: More hot chocolate and cinnamon toast
Dinner: Veg*Triathlete's Greenie Tahini bowl w/collard greens, broccoli, tempeh and quinoa
Snack: Smoothie w/banana, strawberry, blueberry, hemp protein, unsweetened soymilk and OJ

I was craving the Greenie Tahini bowl yesterday. I really wanted to use swiss chard. I went to two stores and they were all out. So collards it was. It turned out pretty good.

I need some rest

Okay, so no snow tomorrow, but we're expecting LOTS of rain. So I ran again today. The run was harder than it needed to be. That's because I could have used a rest day after the 5miler. Mind you, I ran yesterday around 1pm, then again today at 7:20am. So, yeah, definitely not enough rest time there.

Miles 1 and 2 were fine. It didn't take me long to warm up. Potty break in mile 3. I felt a little weird after the break. I wasn't exactly dizzy, but I'm thinking I was lightheaded. Stopped at the car for a water break in mile 4. In mile 5, I started to feel soreness in the bone below my right knee (head of the fibula). I've had that before, but only after a run. But I'm always good to go after a day of rest. Mile 6 was a blur. Finally mile 7, I couldn't wait for the run to be over. I finished the last mile on the path around the pond.

So now that I'm done, both fibula heads are sore. I think I'll do some yoga later. But I need to rest first. No runs til Tuesday.

Music: Lazy Dog by Jay Hannan and Ben Watt

Stats:
7.00mi/1:19:15
Avg pace: 11:19/mi
Heart Rate: 172 Avg/183 Max
Calories: 828

1mi @ 11:54
2mi @ 11:09
3mi @ 11:12
4mi @ 11:12
5mi @ 11:30
6mi @ 11:24
7mi @ 10:54

Pre-run: OJ
Breakfast: Oatmeal w/raisins, cinnamon, vanilla, maple syrup, flaxseed and unsweetened soymilk (only made 1/4 cup worth of oatmeal this time)
Brunch: Last piece of pizza from yesterday
Lunch: PB&J and an orange
Early Dinner: Tofu cacciatore w/garlic toast
Snack: Chocolate mint Clif Builder's bar
Late Dinner: Tempeh burger w/broccoli (because I just can't stop eating today)

I'm Getting Better

Wow. I did 5mi at a sub 11:00 pace. What is going on with the world? It's weird because I didn't set out to pick up the pace today. I just did. I am taking more deep breaths through my mouth. I guess that's what I need to get my lungs to catch up with my legs. When I run, my muscles aren't burning or anything. But I couldn't really speed up because my lungs weren't ready for it. Well, I'm glad they're starting to cooperate now.

I was supposed to run yesterday, but it was raining hard. So I took myself to the park today. I started out on the path through the woods, but had to nix that. The path was slick with wet leaves and I almost slipped on a branch that was hidden under the leaves. In mile 2, I had to stop for a potty break. Good thing there are plenty of porta-potties throughout the park. AND, it was fully stocked with tissue and hand sanitizer. Thank you, God. I ended up jogging on the road through the park in the opposite direction this time (facing traffic). Let me just say, it was a lot more challenging. The parts that I thought were flat definitely were not. There were a whole lot more inclines going on. And is it just me? But I run the inclines faster then slow down (to rest) on the downslope. Not sure if it's supposed to be done like that, but it works for me.

Well, I'm scheduled for 7mi on Sunday. But we're expecting snow, so I'm thinking I'll try to get it in tomorrow. Depends on how my legs are feeling. We'll see.

Music: Nude Dimensions: Naked Music Vol. I mixed by Miguel 'Migs'

Stats:
5.00mi/54:24min
Avg pace: 10:53/mi
Calories: 595
Forgot the heart rate monitor today.

1mi @ 11:25
2mi @ 10:36
3mi @ 11:01
4mi @ 10:52
5mi @ 10:29

Breakfast: Oatmeal w/cinnamon, raisins, vanilla and flaxseed
Pre-run: Chocolate hemp milk
Post-run More hemp milk
Late lunch/dinner Bertucci's pizza w/lots of veggies, no cheese, dinner rolls, glass of Cabernet, lots of water
Snack: Smoothie w/banana, strawberry, blueberry, OJ, unsweetened soymilk, and hemp protein

A Quick One

I was only scheduled for 2mi today. It was chilly and damp, and I just wanted to get it over with as soon as possible. So I ran faster than usual. I figured my heart rate would be through the roof since I was breathing through my mouth the whole time. But it was kinda low. I still don't get the heart rate thing. Anyway, here goes...

Music: Electric Soul mixed by DJ Lil Dave

Stats:
2.00mi/20:58min
Avg pace: 10:29/mi
Heart Rate: 120 Avg/167 Max
Calories: 237

1mi @ 10:47
2mi @ 10:11

Nothing much to report on food. I've only had a granola bar today. I really need to jump on that. I'm starving.

8 on the 8th

Today, I participated in the 8 on the 8th run. My plan was to run 2mi yesterday then 6mi today. But I just didn't feel like running yesterday. It was cold, and I had somewhere to be (2hr drive). So I decided to suck it up and do 8mi today instead. I gave myself 1hr 45min to do it. That should be plenty of time. And if I ran 8mi today, that gives me permission to not do anything productive for 2 days.

Instead of the track, I went to the park. Oddly enough, the park usually bores me. I'm not too sure why. But today, the cars didn't have access to the road through the park. So I jogged on that instead of the path through the woods. It was nice and clear with blue skies. Beautiful day, about 48*. Perfect running weather.

I must say that running 8mi doesn't feel any different than running 5 or 6mi. For the most part, I just have to find something to do with my mind for the time that I'm out there. Today's distraction was some tribal house music. Okay, so here are the numbers...

Music: Global Underground: NuBreed by Steve Lawler

Stats
8.00mi/1:33:44
Avg pace: 11:43/mi
Heart Rate: 167 Avg/188 Max
Calories: 901

1mi @ 12:41
2mi @ 12:36
3mi @ 12:18
4mi @ 11:36
5mi @ 11:37
6mi @ 11:22
7mi @ 11:24
8mi @ 10:08

After mile 5, I was ready to wrap it up. In mile 8, I had to pick up the pace. Lately I try making the last mile my best mile. And as you can see, it was significantly better than the rest. I must give a shout out to track 8, HiFi Freaks, for having a tight bass line. I must give another shout out to the little hills and slight inclines along the way. I ran those faster than when the road was flat. Go figure.

Alright, so today's fuel consisted of oatmeal with raisins, cinnamon, flaxseed, maple syrup and unsweetened soymilk. I had a couple of cold french fries from last night. Then right before I left, I had a lil bit of OJ. Now that it's over, I've had half a banana and a lil bit of water. And on that note, I'm off to do some yoga before something locks up on me.

Have a great weekend, everyone :)

P.S. Race results can be found here.

Change of Plans

I was supposed to do some speed work today, 2x1600 @ 10:24/mi. Well, I was pretty close on the first go round in Mile 2 @ 10:26/mi. But after the recovery jog, my body wasn't up for speeding up again. Oh well. I haven't been running long enough to incorporate tempo and speed work yet. So I'm going to nix that idea for now and just run the scheduled mileage easy. If anything, I'll use the short runs to work on speed.

Music: Dummy by Portishead

Jog Stats
5mi/58:35min
Avg Pace: 11:43/mi
Heart Rate: 162 Avg/185 Max
Calories: 550

1mi @ 12:29
2mi @ 10:26
3mi @ 11:59
4mi @ 12:01
5mi @ 11:38

Yoga: 25min
Yoga For Every Body: Hips, Knees, Ankles and Feet

Breakfast: Tofu scramble w/breakfast potatoes and hemp toast w/Earth Balance
Pre-run: OJ
Lunch: The healthiest sugar cookies ever and hot tea w/turbinado sugar and unsweetened soymilk
Dinner: Stir fry veggies in miso tahini sauce and brown rice sprinkled w/sesame seeds
Snack: An apple and a smoothie w/banana, strawberry, blueberry, flaxseed and unsweetened soymilk

6 Miles...Sorta

First off, let me just say that I am feeling so much better. Solid food and I actually became friends again late Saturday night :)

I postponed Sunday's long run until today. I would have run yesterday, but I was out Saturday night. And well, the party doesn't end until 4am. I went to bed around 6:30am Sunday morning. When I did get up to eat (you know you have to wait a couple hours before running), it was too late to be outside, and the Y was closing. So why bother?

I set my alarm for the crack of dawn today (5:30am). I got up, ate oatmeal, then set my alarm again and went back to bed. I wanted to make sure I had a decent meal before attempting 6 miles. When I got up for good, I decided to run at the Y. It was really, REALLY windy. Not cold, just windy. I didn't want to take the chance of being blown off the track or into a tree if I went to the park. And I didn't want my first attempt at 6 miles harder than it needed to be.

I ran on the treadmill. Little did I know that although I didn't set the timer, it automatically starts the cool down after 60min. So I extended the cool down as long as I could and ran through that. I only got in 5.97 miles. I couldn't get in the extra .03 because the YMCA cops wanted to get me off the treadmill. Yeah, I understand. I'd been on there long enough.

Music: Collected by Massive Attack

I really enjoyed listening to this. I will run with this again.

Jog Stats
5.97mi/70min
Avg pace: 11:44/mi
Incline: 1.0
Calories: 705

1mi @ 13:25
2mi @ 12:35
3mi @ 11:38
4mi @ 11:07
5mi @ 11:04
.97mi @ 10:11

I did a bad thing and didn't cool down or stretch. I didn't do yoga either. I didn't have time. I had somewhere to be. Good thing is, my legs feel like I didn't run today at all. I guess it was just a good running day for me.

Breakfast: Oatmeal w/raisins, cinnamon, vanilla, flaxseed, maple syrup and unsweetened soymilk
Pre-run: OJ
Post-run: Chocolate mint Clif Builder's bar
I inhaled this. I was starving when I got done.
Lunch: Broccoli in garlic sauce w/fried tofu and white rice @ The Dragon House in Wildwood
Drinks: Two glasses of Cabernet @ Flip Flops
Dinner: Finished lunch
Snack: Apple

I feel horrible

It all started when I woke up with a headache yesterday. I should have postponed the 5mi tempo run, but I didn't. I figured I'd make myself a smoothie and all would be okay. And I did feel a little better until I got to the track. The run was very labored. I guess I should have eaten something of more substance. I don't know. My shoulders and arms ended up sore. I could feel it during the run. It wasn't a good situation. I did yoga afterwards since it always helps. I was so tight. I'm not too sure why.

Later, I met up my friend, K, for dinner. I met at her place around 6ish. And up til that point, I only had a smoothie (before and after the run) and water. We went to Zen Palate in Princeton. I started with edamame, because I was seriously lacking in protein at that point. Then I had the Zen burger with yam fries. I needed something fried with calories since I hardly had any. A couple hours later, we ended up at Small World Coffee to pass the time (I helped her grade papers). We were going to meet a couple of her friends for drinks later. At this point, I still had a headache, so I ordered a soy latte hoping that the caffeine would help. Well, I ended up adding a bit too much sugar, so I only drank half.

So off to Winberries we go for drinks. This is when I get really, REALLY sick. Mind you, I didn't have a drink. K asked if I wanted something. But I felt like I was drunk on an empty stomach. Next thing you know, off to the bathroom I go because I couldn't take it anymore. Yes, people, I hurled. I threw up everything I ate. But I felt so much better afterwards.

We left and went to Yankee Doodle Tap Room because Winberries was way too crowded. I spent the evening drinking nothing but water. My stomach was hurting, probably from being empty. I don't know if it was the veggie burger or the sweet coffee, but whatever it was, it didn't agree with me.

I got home around 1am. I had a few pretzels before bed. They made my stomach hurt. Heck, my stomach still hurts now. I got in a good 4hrs of sleep. I woke up with a headache even worse than yesterday's. And I can't go back to sleep because it hurts that bad. I figured I'd spend today in bed being sore from running. But that's not the case. Or maybe I am sore, but I just can't tell because my head hurts that much worse in comparison.

So yeah, that was my day. And here are yesterday's numbers...

Music: Walking Wounded by Everything But The Girl

Jog Stats
1mi @ 13:21 (This was my warm up)
2-4mi @ 11:33 (I walked for about 30 sec in mile 4. I just wasn't feeling it.)
5mi @ 12:23
Avg Pace: 12:05/mi
Calories: 545

Yoga: 30min
Yoga For Every Body: Hip Mobility

Something Different

I decided to try a new yoga routine from a different dvd all together. I did the 16min vinyasa segment twice. There's no way I was ready to move on to the inversion segment. Yeah, that's not for me. Not just yet. Maybe never. Anyway, it definitely got my blood flowing. I should do this routine more. My arms definitely got a workout.

Yoga: 32min
Yoga Journal's Yoga for Strength & Energy

Breakfast: TJ's Toasted Oatmeal Flakes w/raisins and unsweetened soymilk
Lunch: PB&J w/hot tea
Snack: Smoothie w/strawberry, banana, blueberry, flaxseed and unsweetened soymilk
Dinner: Black bean leftovers
Snack: Chocolate Mint Clif Builder's bar

When it's cold and windy...

You pick up the pace. Ain't no sense being outside longer than I have to be.

Music: Dewdrops in the Garden by Deee-Lite

Jog Stats
2mi/21:10
Avg Pace: 10:35/mi
Heart Rate: 176 Avg/192 Max
Calories: 239

Yoga: 30min
Yoga For Every Body: General Practice: Floor

Lunch: PB&J and hot tea
Snack: Cinnamon sugar almonds and an apple
Dinner: Spicy black beans cooked w/tomatoes, corn and baby spinach w/brown rice
Snack: Chocolate Mint Clif Builder's bar

No breakfast today. I know. I'm bad. I got a late start.

Tag

I'm it. I was tagged by Dr. Stonielove.

The rules of the game are:
A). Link to the person that tagged you and post the rules on your blog...
B). Share 7 random and/or weird facts about yourself...
C). Tag 7 random people at the end of your post and include links to their blogs...
D). Let each person know that they've been tagged by leaving a comment on their blog.

1) My last name is British though I am not.
Actually, no one in my family is British.

2) I don't like grass.
I'm actually grossed out by it. I don't like how it feels under my feet, no matter how thick the soles of my shoes are.

3) I still have my wisdom teeth.
I don't think I'm any wiser.

4) I do not enjoy shopping at all.
It takes patience that I don't have. I only shop when I need to, like when my clothes start hanging off of me. Yeah, air in the back of your jeans is not flattering. Must rectify that situation. Otherwise, I'm not shopping. I wouldn't mind having a personal shopper though. Just take my measurements and bring back the clothes.

5) When I was a kid, I had 16 hamsters.
They would actually climb the stairs. They got into my dad's hamper (upstairs) and shred his pants into threads.

6) My grandmom, my mom and I all have the same beauty mark on the right cheek bone.
I guess Grandma has strong genes.

7) I became all health nutty when I turned 27.
The whole fitness thing is completely new to me though.

If you read this, you've been tagged too.

Week 10 Day 3 - Finished One Hour Runner

Yep, I skipped Day 2's 40min run. I felt like crap all week and I wasn't making anything up. AND I don't feel bad about it. The plan was to build up to 1hr worth of running and that's what I did. If I could run 54min last Friday, then I could run 60min today.

Anywho, it took a while for me to settle in and get comfortable, about 35min. That's a bit ridiculous. I couldn't get my breathing together. It's like I couldn't breathe deep enough, but then again I didn't feel like I needed to. I just would have been more comfortable if I had. I don't think I got that part together until I picked up the pace towards the end. Luckily for me, I was accompanied by Marvin Gaye. His voice and lyrics made my time on the track so much better. I was snapping my fingers. The people I passed must have thought I lost it. But hey, I dare you to listen to Come Get To This and see if you can keep from snapping your fingers or tapping your toes. And if it doesn't move you, well you just have no soul. That's right, I said it :P

Yoga: 30min
Yoga For Every Body: Flow Series

Music: The Master 1961-1984, Disk 3 by Marvin Gaye

I have a healthy obsession for Marvin Gaye. He had such a beautiful voice. It's a shame not too many people make music like that anymore.

Jog Stats
60min/5.16mi
Avg Pace: 11:38/mi
Heart Rate: 169 Avg/193 Max
Calories: 609

Yoga: 30min
Yoga For Every Body: Hip Mobility

Yep, more yoga. The hip mobility routine worked wonders after my long run last week. I had no soreness whatsoever. Hopefully I'll have the same results this time.

Breakfast: Tofu scramble w/breakfast potatoes and hemp toast w/soy marg
Pre-run: Little bit of Vitamin Water
Lunch: PB&J w/hot tea
Snack: Cinnamon sugar almonds and a smoothie w/strawberry, blueberry, banana, flaxseed and unsweetened soymilk
Dinner: Walnut, white bean & spinach phyllo rolls from Eat, Drink and Be Vegan along w/steamed broccoli

These tasted really good. But I'm really sure that I jacked up the recipe. I had no idea what I was doing with the phyllo dough. I need some type of tutorial or a Phyllo Dough For Dummies book.

Yoga and Sleeplessness

I woke up tired with the same headache. I figured yoga would help, but it didn't. I was still tired. AND the worst part is I can't fall asleep. Well, I did dose off for about 20min during a horrible movie but that doesn't count. It's not like I'm feeling refreshed. I'm just hoping my high calorie dinner will make me pass out in the next half hour.

Yoga: 25min
Yoga For Every Body: Good Morning

Breakfast: Finished the other half of last night's dinner
Snack: Sugar cookies and a smoothie w/strawberry, banana, blueberry, flaxseed and unsweetened soymilk
Lunch: Soba leftovers
Dinner: Same as last night w/Capri Sun

No, I'm not a juice drink drinker. For the most part I drink water all day everyday. But it was there, so I figured why not?

Week 10 Day 1

I've been feeling pretty lazy and crappy the past couple of days. I had a headache on Saturday and woke up with one today too. I was thinking about running yesterday just so I could get some energy. Well, that didn't happen. I stayed in and watched tv, and I'm not a big tv person. I was going to try a new recipe yesterday, but going to the store for the ingredients and actually cooking it was too much for me. Oh well. I wanted to stay in bed all day, but I didn't. I should have. I ended up getting my period. Yep, that explains it all.

Music: Electric Soul mixed by DJ Lil Dave

Jog Stats
30min/2.68mi
Avg Pace: 11:12/mi
Incline: 1.0

I ran on the uppity treadmill with the tv monitor at the Y. I had no idea how to use the damn thing. I'll figure it out one of these days. Also, I've come to realize that short runs are not for me. A 5min warm up is not enough. About time I get all loosened up, it's time for the cool down.

Breakfast: Oatmeal w/cinnamon, raisins, vanilla, flaxseed, turbinado sugar, and unsweetened soymilk
Snack: Apple
Lunch: Soba noodles w/mixed veggies in miso tahini sauce
Dinner: Half tempeh burger w/spicy oven baked fries and steamed broccoli

Yeah, I'm such a light weight today. I may finish dinner if I don't pass out first.

Week 9 Day 3

It was cold and very windy. I'm surprised I didn't get blown off the track. Part of the run felt like I was running uphill. Yeah, that's a lot of wind.

I was amused when I checked my time and saw that I had 40min to go. I thought to myself.. Oh, I can do that. It takes me 15-20min to get warmed up anyway. I crack myself up. That would have never crossed my mind 4mos ago when I was checking the time during a 60sec running interval. By the way, I started running 4mos ago today. This is the longest I've stuck with anything. Boy have I changed.

Okay, so next week is the last week of One Hour Runner. Here's the plan..Week 10: Run 30 minutes, 40 minutes, 60 minutes Weekly total: 130 minutes. But before all that, I plan to rest up for a night of dancing aka cross-training:)

Music: Northern Exposure, Vol. 1, Disk 2 mixed by Sasha and John Digweed then switched to a mix by DJ Statik 22min into the run

Yeah, Disk 2 isn't good for running at all. Too much non-music going on. Not sure if that makes any sense. You'd have to listen for yourself to see what I mean. So I had to go with old faithful. I did sing a bit after I switched up the music.

Jog Stats
54min/4.78mi
Avg Pace: 11:18/mi
Heart Rate: 164 Avg/189 Max
Calories: 563

Yoga: 30min
Yoga For Every Body: Hip Mobility

This routine is perfect after a run. Hamstrings got a good stretch during Trikonasana. But is it just me? Or does that pose also strengthen your triceps? If it's not supposed to do that, Oh Well. My arms need the work anyway.

Breakfast: Oatmeal w/raisins, cinnamon, turbinado sugar, vanilla, unsweetened soymilk
Snack: Bolthouse Farms Blue Goodness smoothie
Lunch: Finished the smoothie and also had baby carrots, hummus on hemp toast, and hot tea w/soy cream and sugar
Dinner: Tempeh, kale and sweet potato leftovers

Afro Puffs and Yoga

This is a birthday pic on my way to a party. Yes, I know, not party gear. But I'm serious when I go out to dance. No trying to look cute. Come comfortably dressed and wear a hole in the floor. That's how it's supposed to be done. I wish you could see my shoes. I wore Adidas. Running shoes make the best dancing shoes.


Yoga: 45min
Yoga For Every Body: General Practice Routine

Lots of good stretching today. I'm doing better on the Warrior III Pose.

Breakfast: Oatmeal
Snack: Bolthouse Blue Goodness smoothie
Lunch: Last of the tofu cacciatore w/sauteed baby spinach (I ate the whole bag)
Dinner: Smokey grilled tempeh from Veganomican w/kale and a baked sweet potato

Week 9 Day 2

I'm starting to wonder if Garmin is overestimating the calories I burn. But it was a good workout. I did a couple laps in the 9-10:00 range. It felt good. My cardio hasn't caught up to my legs yet though. Good thing is that I've improved since the last time I ran for 38min.

Music: Northern Exposure, Vol. 1, Disk 1 mixed by Sasha and John Digweed

Jog Stats
38min/3.38mi
Avg Pace: 11:14/mi
Heart Rate: 173 Avg/186 Max
Calories: 400

Lunch: Oatmeal
Early Dinner: Leftover tofu cacciatore

I got a late start today. I was up really late, or really early. Don't ask me why. I'm just hard headed. Don't worry. I'll eat more tonight. I just haven't decided what yet.

Week 9 Day 1

The sun was out today. I feel like I haven't seen the sun in weeks. It's been overcast and cold these days. But after the rain, it was sunny and about 60*. I ran with two shirts on. One would have been better. It's supposed to be warm again tomorrow. I must dress accordingly. Moisture wicking shirts to the rescue. Tomorrow, I'm scheduled for 38min, then 54min on Friday. I think it will be cold again by then. So if I don't get a case of the sniffles with the changing weather and all, it should be a good run.

Music: Thirteenth Step by A Perfect Circle

Decent album, but I prefer Mer de Noms to run to.

Jog Stats
30min/2.65mi
Avg Pace: 11:19/mi
Heart Rate: 171 Avg/187 Max
Calories: 313

Yoga: 30min
Yoga For Every Body: Flow Series

Mostly sun and moon salutations. It felt good.


Breakfast: Leftover chickpea cutlets, kale, mashed cauliflower and onion gravy (Wasn't in the mood for breakfast food)
Pre-run: Bolthouse Farms Blue Goodness smoothie
Post-run: Same
Lunch: PB&J (My favorite sandwich in the world)
Dinner: Tofu cacciatore w/artichokes (instead of mushrooms) over pasta, sauteed spinach, and garlic toast
Snack: Granola bar

The chickpea cutlets are from Veganomicon and the onion gravy was a variation of the Sweet Vidalia Onion Sauce recipe. Of course I didn't have vidalia onions and I'm a gravy girl, so I added more wine and mustard, along with water, Bragg's, black pepper and thickened with corn starch. It was very tasty.

Week 9 Day 1 Practice Run

Yeah, that's what I'm calling it because Garmin's foot pod accessory isn't that great indoors. I ran yesterday after 5pm. I ran on the indoor track at the Y since it's pitch black at that time now. Anyway, the thing was no good at calculating my speed. It said I was walking when I was jogging. And in the end, it was about a mile off from the distance had actually done. I ran for 30min, and I improve my distance just a tad every time I run it. Well, Garmin clocked me at 1.69mi. Yeah, that's way off. I actually ran faster than usual trying to get Garmin to stop yelling (beeping) at me. So once the rain clears up, I'm going to do it again outside. And if the rain doesn't clear up, I'll just be bored to death on a treadmill somewhere, but darn it, I want my numbers correct.

In other news, I've completely recovered from this weekend. I did lots of dancing and probably burned off more calories than I ate. I really wouldn't be surprised if I did. If I go out every weekend, I'll have 6-pack abs in no time. But it wasn't the dancing (or drinking) that got me, it was the lack of sleep Friday and Saturday nights. The worst part was I got in at 5:30am on Sunday and had to be at a TIPs seminar by 10am somewhere deep in Philly. I got home around 5pm. I'm really surprised I didn't lose my mind. I was running on a small cup of coffee and a protein bar. And I'm not the nicest person when I haven't eaten or slept. But I was on my best behavior because I actually had to learn stuff and take a test.

That's all for now. I'll report on my official run later.

Week 8 Day 3

Today was a good run. I started out smiling. I was thinking, I'm going to be 31 tomorrow, and I feel great. I've always been healthy, but I've never been fit. I've never had a weight issue, so people assumed that I was active when I was the furthest thing from it. I've never been athletic. Never played a sport in high school. I was in a million clubs and sang in a couple choirs instead. So being physically active was never me. Maybe things would have been different if I wasn't anemic. Who knows? All I know is that I'm more active than I've ever been and I like it. It just gets better from here. I can't wait to start half marathon training. I think it's time to rename my blog.

Yoga: 40min
Yoga For Every Body: Going With The Flow Of Life

I picked a routine from the intermediate section of the DVD. I just felt like doing a new sequence. It was all good. Nothing was too hard for me. If anything, I'm improving on a lot of things.

Jog Stats
49min/4.24mi
Avg Pace: 11:33/mi
Heart Rate: 172 Avg/184 Max
Calories: 501

Yoga: 25min
Yoga For Every Body: Hips, Knees, Ankles and Feet

Yep, I did more yoga after my run. I didn't stretch afterwards, so I figured I'd do yoga instead.

Breakfast: Oatmeal
Snack: Fruit & Nut granola bar
Lunch: PB&J and hot tea w/soy creamer
Snack: Bolthouse Green Goodness juice
Dinner: Amy's black bean enchiladas w/steamed kale

I never do tv dinners but I'm going out tonight and have no time to cook a full meal. I had such a hard time finding the most healthy packaged meal. Is that an oxymoron? Anyway, I'm a BIG label reader and it wasn't easy.

Just Yoga

I can't bring myself to do any strength training. Some members of the Live Journal Runners Club feel the same way. I get no pleasure out of strength training at all. Oh well. From now on, I will not feel bad for not doing something that I truly hate. Okay, hate is a strong word, but you get what I'm saying. I can't stick to something I don't particularly care for. It's like making myself eat a food that's good for me that I really dislike. But there are other good foods that I do like, so I eat them instead. Instead of strength training, I'll stick to yoga. I actually like it. And today's routine included some ab work. So there :P

Yoga: 50min
Yoga For Every Body: General Practice for the Spine

Breakfast: Same as yesterday
Snack: Chocolate mint Clif Builder's bar and a granola bar (I was on the road)
Lunch: The last of the black beans w/tempeh, brown rice and broccoli
Snack: Sugar cookies and Bolthouse Green Goodness juice
Dinner: The last of the soba noodles w/tofu in miso tahini sauce w/broccoli and swiss chard sprinkled with sesame seed (I could never get tired of this. I will definitely make it again.)

Week 8 Day 2

Slight change to the running schedule this week. I doubled up since I don't want to run on Saturday (my b-day). I'm saving my energy to dance the night away. Anyway, it was a good run, but still windy and cold, about 48*. My pace was better than yesterday. I'm guessing that I run faster to keep warm. I really, REALLY dislike cold weather. Other than that, the improvement of my pace doesn't make any sense. But I'll take it.

Music: Mer de Noms by A Perfect Circle

Good album, but luckily I didn't choose it for my long run. It ended in the middle of my cool down.

Jog Stats
36min/3.26mi
Avg Pace: 11:03/mi
Heart Rate: 175 Avg/190 Max
Calories: 394

Breakfast: Oatmeal w/maple syrup, raisins, cinnamon, vanilla, flaxseed, and unsweetened soy milk
Snack: Apple and sugar cookies
Lunch: PB&J (I had a craving after my run)
Snack: Bolthouse Green Goodness juice
Dinner: Leftover soba noodles w/tofu in miso tahini sauce w/broccoli and swiss chard sprinkled with sesame seeds
Late night snack: Apple and sugar cookies again

Week 8 Day 1

Yoga: 30min
Yoga For Every Body: Hip Mobility

My thighs welcomed this routine. They were tight and my right quad was sore from Sunday's run.

Music: The Michael Baisden Show on WDAS

I really wasn't in the mood for much music. Mike is entertaining and makes me laugh too. I found myself laughing on the track.

Jog Stats
30min/2.68mi
Avg Pace: 11:12/mi
Heart Rate: 116 Avg/146 Max
Calories: 320

This is my best pace yet. I'm surprised because it was 51* (cold in my book) and very windy. I had to run through the wind. So how my pace increased is beyond me. I felt like I was slower. I'm really not understanding the heart rate thing. I did concentrate on breathing. I guess that played a role, but it's still weird that my heart was barely beating. Oh well.

Here's today's grub...

Breakfast: Cereal w/raisins and unsweetened soy milk
Pre-run: Fruit & nut granola bar
Post-run: Chocolate soy milk diluted with unsweetened soy milk (It's just too sweet for me now)
Lunch: Leftover black beans w/tempeh, brown rice and broccoli
Dinner: Leftover soba noodles w/tofu in miso tahini sauce w/broccoli and swiss chard sprinkled with sesame seeds(Good eats)
Late night snack: Sugar cookies (I baked another batch tonight. I subbed half the oil for apple sauce. They seemed too oily the first time I made them.)

100th Post

I'm surprised it's my 100th post already. I really don't chit chat this much in person. I'm more of a listener. Anyway, I've been away from here for a bit. I've been out and about. My friend, Nisa, is in town from Minneapolis, and I've been running all over the place ever since her arrival. I've been all over Jersey, Philly, and I went to NYC. I had to put off Friday's run til today and didn't get a chance to blog Wednesday's run til now. So here goes...

Week 7 Day 2 on 10/31/07

Jog Stats
34min/2.95mi
Avg Pace: 11:30/mi
Heart Rate: 176 Avg/186 Max
Calories: 347

I sped up towards the very end. First I thought, what was I thinking? Then it started to feel better. My best pace was 6:22/mi. Of course that didn't last long.

Week 7 Day 3 on 11/4/07

Music: Nude Dimensions, Vol. 1 mixed by Miguel 'Migs'

Jog Stats
45min/3.93mi
Avg Pace: 11:26/mi
Heart Rate: 172 Avg/191 Max
Calories: 458

Today was the best run ever. My longer runs usually average around 12:00/mi. Well not today. I started out slow then picked the pace up. It took a bit to get warmed up. My pace in the first 18min ranged from about 11-14:00/mi. After that, my pace ranged from 10-12:00/mi. I'm just glad that my average pace is in line with a short run day. I guess that means I'm getting better at this. At least I hope I am. I got into a groove and I don't think it had anything to do with my choice in music. I don't know. I had a couple things on my mind, nothing major. But enough to keep my mind occupied. I'll ponder the meaning of life for my 60min run. Well, the best part about today's run is that at no point did I feel like I was overdoing it. I could have gone longer. I may run tomorrow. I really don't feel like extending my week through Saturday. We'll see.

On to Week 8...Run 30 minutes, 36 minutes , 49 minute Weekly total: 115 minutes

Week 7 Day 1

I ran in the park today. It was about 46*, definitely not my cup of tea. But I was fine once I warmed up. It took a while for my hands to catch up though. I need some thin gloves.

In other news, I took my speed test today. I made 15 correct drinks in 8 min. I am now a certified mixologist. It's bar hopping time, I mean uh, time to research potential employers.

Yoga: 25min
Yoga For Every Body: Hips, Knees, Ankles and Feet

Music: Global Underground: NuBreed Disc 2 by Steve Lawler

Jog Stats
30min/2.63mi
Avg Pace: 11:23/mi
Heart Rate: 175 Avg/188 Max
Calories: 311

Breakfast: TJ's Toasted Oatmeal Flakes w/raisins and unsweetened soy milk (Finished the box)
Lunch: Chocolate Mint Clif Builder's bar
Dinner: Veg*Triathlete's Greenie Tahini bowl (This could feed two grown men)
Snack: More cereal (On my 2nd box)

I have a serious sweet tooth. I want a smoothie, but my bananas aren't ripe yet. It's just not the same without bananas :(

Week 6 Day 3

Just because I'm feeling better doesn't mean that I feel like running. But I did it anyway. When I started, I felt like I couldn't go slow enough. I just wasn't comfortable. I couldn't get into a groove. I had to switch up music a couple of times too. The fact of the matter is I really didn't want to be on the track today.

And I just don't get the whole heart rate thing. On days I feel like I can speed up and keep running, my heart rate is off the hook. On days I just want to get it over with and think that speeding up will be uncomfortable and unnecessary, my heart rate is lower than it should be. Today for the first 20min or so, my heart rate is in the 160s. My target heart rate is 151 or something like that. After that time, it dropped drastically like all the sudden I went for a walk. It ranged from 156 to 77 bpm. I'm convinced that my heart beats when it wants to, how it wants to, and is determined not to follow the guidelines of some generic chart. I just have to go by how I feel.

In other news, I ran for 41min and I didn't want to die. So here's next week's plan...Week 7: Run 30 minutes, 34 minutes, 45 minutes Weekly total: 109 minutes

Music: Surrender to Love by Kindred the Family Soul
A lovely husband and wife team from the city of brotherly love and sisterly affection, and home of the Eagles who always choke :)

Jog Stats
41min/3.41mi
Avg Pace: 12:02/mi
Heart Rate: 127 Avg/168 Max
Calories: 390

Breakfast: TJ's Toasted Oatmeal Flakes w/raisins and unsweetened soy milk (I finally went shopping:)
Snack: Same
Lunch: Black beans w/tomatoes, corn, and quinoa (I actually broke down and cooked the other day.)
Dinner: More cereal because I miss it so

**Updated**
I baked sugar cookies and I'm waiting for them to cool off. I have one heck of a sweet tooth today.

Week 6 Day 2

Yep, it's that kinda day when I don't want to get out of bed. Honestly, I'm surprised I did. Because I sho nuff didn't go to class today. I could have taken my speed test and been done with it, but I didn't feel like going a whole 20min out of my way. And that requires me to put a comb through my hair to look halfway decent. Not happening. Yep, just that kinda day. And the weather isn't helping. It's rainy and 20* colder than last time I ran 2 DAYS AGO?!?!? If I get sick, you know why. Anyway, my yoga routine explains it all. It made me feel a bit better though.

Yoga: 20min
Yoga For Every Body: Practice During Menstruation

Music: Musique, Vol. 1: 1993-2005 by Daft Punk
Instead of listening to Kanye West's blatant jack of a Daft Punk song, I'd rather listen to the original. Come on, people!! Make your own music, please.

Jog Stats
33min/2.85mi
Avg Pace: 11:35/mi
Heart Rate: 176 Avg/189 Max
Calories: 337

You see the time stamp, right? Well, so far I've had PB&J with hot tea and a few cashews before the run. I really don't eat that much around this time. I'm debating about cooking a little something. Or just having PB&J again and calling it a night.

I'm Tired

So this will be short and sweet.

Yoga: 30min
Yoga For Every Body: Hip Mobility

2x10 Modified Push Ups
3x20 Crunches w/Twist
2x15 Tricep Dips w/Bent Knees
2x12 Lying Leg Raises
2x15 Forward Lunges

Breakfast: Leftover tofu scramble w/toast and soy marg
Snack: Chocolate Clif's Builder bar
Lunch: Falafel sandwich w/fries from Norma's
Dinner: Smoothie w/banana, strawberry, blueberry, flaxseed and unsweetened soy milk

I really need to do some grocery shopping.

Week 6 Day 1

Today's run started out good but ended up annoying me. I jogged on a bike path that's supposely 4mi long. I figured I'd go 1.5mi out then back. Well, the bike path ended at about a mile or less. So I had to jog pass my car and around the neighborhood. I like to have things all planned out so I know what to expect. It was also pretty warm, about 76*. I was burning up and the bandanna didn't help. I never wear one when I'm jogging, but I looked like who did it and ran and didn't feel like doing my hair since I was going to wet it in the shower anyway. Bad move. My pace was cool, it could have been better if I didn't have to stop to cross the street about 3 times. There were some little hills and inclines too. You can't get that on the track. Maybe I'll do the park next. Well, another park in a neighboring town that my aunt told me about. It would be good to see some new scenery.

In other news, I passed my midterm and final today. I wasn't even expecting to take them, but my instructor insisted that I knew the stuff. And he was right. I got a 95% on the midterm and 99.3% on the final. Now I just have to pass the speed test. Drinks anyone? I'm not buying, but dammit I'll make 'em.

Music: The Real Thing: Words and Sounds, Vol. 3 by Jill Scott
Mature listening only for the grown and sexy:)

Jog Stats
30min/2.61mi
Avg Pace: 11:30/mi
Heart Rate: 180 Avg/193 Max
Calories: 303

Pre-run: Half apple
Post-run: The other half
Breakfast: PB&J
Snack: Another apple and part of a chocolate Clif Builder's bar
Dinner: Veggie combo from Norma's
Falafel, tahini, hummus, tabbouleh, stuff grape leaves and pita bread
Drinks: Pineapple rum w/Pepsi, pineapple rum on the rocks, and a shot of pineapple rum (Good stuff, can't you tell?!)
Late night snack: Finished the Clif bar

Oh, I have to share this song, Hate On Me by my girl Jilly from Philly. It's my new theme song for when you're surrounded by folks with negative energy and have nothing good to say.

Plans

The One Hour Runner program should be wrapped up by Thanksgivingish. What will I do next? I'm seriously thinking about half marathon training. Runner's World has personalized training programs for whatever distance you want to run and how long you want to train. It sets your pace and includes tempo runs and speed work. You can also choose your long run day. It should be interesting, especially since I have a good feeling that I'm going to hate speed work.

No, I don't plan on running a half marathon although it's not totally out of the question. I like knowing that I can do something. Maybe I will one day. But for now I want to get better at running. It's only been 3mos and some change, but I have no doubt that I can run 13 miles. The hardest part would be planning the route and music, and finding a comfortable contraption to carry all my crap. Oh, and let's not forget I have to talk myself out of throwing in the towel. Okay so the whole mental thing is the hardest of hard parts. But after that, if my body doesn't go on strike, it should be an attainable goal.

Oh, and here's this week's plan...Week 6: Run 30 minutes, 33 minutes, 41 minutes Weekly total: 104 minutes

Week 5 Day 3

I was pretty busy yesterday. I was decorating, up and down subway stairs, all over the place in the downtown Brooklyn Macy's (which has 6 floors) to help my Auntie J (bday girl) find an outfit, serving food (just a tad grossed out by the meat and having ham juice flung on me, eww), and being bar wench. I should have strapped on the Garmin to make an official workout out of it. The good thing is that lots of family came together. I saw a cousin I haven't seen since we were babies (we were born 3 days apart). I got to see the bday girl and her boyfriend do the Hustle (I've always wanted to learn that dance). There was an awesome Soul Train line that kept me laughing. I saw my dad dance for the first time in ages. My grandmom was happy to see all her children together for once. Auntie J and Uncle C (her twin) were both very teary eyed to see that family and friends came out to celebrate their 50th. It was a good night.

On to today...my schedule is all jacked up. I got in from NY this morning before 9am. I've been in and out of sleep since I got home. I still don't feel rested. I was still tired when I went to the track around 6ish. I took it really slow. I got my mosey on to some neo-soul. It's amazing how much I listened to the lyrics. It kind of had me zoned out. Then when I checked the time, I had a minute and some change left. Yep, a slow, easy peasy run. Honestly, I just wanted to get it over with so I could get home and get back to bed. No good food today. I'll work on that once I'm fully rested.

Music: Floetic by Floetry

Jog Stats
38min/3.12mi
Avg Pace: 12:11/mi
Heart Rate: 171 Avg/181 Max
Calories: 343

Breakfast: Starbuck's tall vanilla soy latte at a rest stop
Snack: Some of a chocolate Clif Builder's bar
Lunch: PB&J
Snack: Apple and finished the bar
Dinner: Tofu scramble leftovers w/salsa, hemp toast, soy marg and OJ

Week 5 Day 2.5

Change of plans. I'm heading to NY in the morning. So I figured I'd update my blog with something other than a rant. I went to the track, did my thing. But did my thing to the wrong program. Yes, I mistakenly programmed the Garmin with Day 2's workout. I didn't realize it until I finished. I already cooled down, so I wasn't going back to finish it. I'll get it in on Sunday and just rearrange my schedule next week. Anyway, my heart rate was high yet again. Would that have anything to do with the stalker? The run wasn't hard at all. I spent most of the time thinking about that fool. Hmm, maybe it had something to do with the weather? It was disgustingly humid. I woke up hot and uncomfortable.

I ended up doing yoga afterwards. Boy was I tight. Maybe I should do yoga after running instead of before? I don't know. Well, here are my stats...

Music: Who Is Jill Scott? Words and Sounds, Vol. 1 by my girl Jilly from Philly

Jog Stats
32min/2.79mi
Avg Pace: 11:28/mi
Heart Rate: 181 Avg/191 Max
Calories: 334

Yoga: 30min
Yoga For Every Body: General Practice: Floor

Breakfast: Tofu scramble w/red bell peppers, salsa and hemp toast w/soy marg

Snack: Smoothie w/strawberry, banana, blueberry, flaxseed and unsweetened soy milk

Lunch: Tofu veggie leftovers

Dinner: Tempeh burger

Pepper Spray

Where can I get some? The creepy, stalker guy was at the track today. We crossed paths. I was coming as he was leaving. I didn't realize it was him until he spoke to me. I had my headphones on and I was looking down at my mp3 player trying to decide what to listen to. Then this fool asks me if I want a personal trainer. This fool who appears to be well entrenched in his 40s with a stomach is bigger than my behind couldn't come up with a better line than that? No wonder why you're single. In any case, whatever he decides to come up with next, my answer will still be NO.

The last time I saw him at the track a couple months ago, I simply said Good Morning. And apparently, Good Morning is an invitation to enter my life in fool language. He wanted to chit chat and decided to wait for me in his car. That day I stayed on the track in the rain longer than I wanted to. While I was running, I was half listening to my music. I spent most of the time thinking about that situation. Every time I jogged by the parking lot I'd look to see if he was lurking anywhere. I was trying to remember the car he drove and wondering if he'd follow me. I decided that if someone was tailing me, I'd drive straight to the police station. It's in walking distance from my house.

So now it's time to switch up from the track. I guess I'll do the park next time or run around this boring residential neighborhood. Really, there's nothing to see. I need scenery. But I should still get pepper spray. I don't wanna be ghetto and make some bootleg pepper spray with a spray bottle and tabasco sauce. So where can I get some?

Guess What?

I may have a running partner. The bartender at Bertucci's offered to run with me. He used to run marathons and whatnot. I'm sure he can run 3x faster than me, which I think would annoy him. But he did say that we all gotta start somewhere. That is true. We've all had to do something at least once. And the more you do it, the better you get. It should be interesting because I've never run with anyone. Also, I want to check out the running community at Moorestown Running Company. They run Thursday nights. But of course, I wouldn't dare show my face until I have a decent pace. Otherwise, I'd end up being left behind and jogging alone anyway.

In other news, today is another rest day. Yes, I'm a wuss and haven't strength trained all week. Just been too tired to be bothered. And, I'm not going to fit it in either. Tomorrow I will be running, cooking for my aunt's b-day party (which is Saturday), getting finger prints for my title license, then driving with my other aunt to NYC in the afternoon to help decorate. Decorate? I can cook, but crafts are not my thing. Oh, and I'm bringing my textbook to study and possibly make drinks. Someone mentioned apple martinis. I got my shaker tins, mixing glass, and jigger. I'm ret to go.

Oh and for the record, I did not drink today. Just good food, good conversation and lots of water at the bar in Bertucci's. I was in the mood for pizza.

Week 5 Day 2

I just wasn't in the mood. Went to bed late again. Got up too early again. Annoyed again. I didn't feel like doing anything. So I picked a short yoga routine then headed to the track. No Y today. Not in the mood to figure out Garmin's foot pod. And I wanted to get the run over with as soon as possible. The track is about a 5min drive from the here. The Y is 15min.

Today's theme was breathing. I figured since my heart rate has been off the hook recently that I should pay more attention to breathing. Well, it's amazing how much deep breathing I don't do. I realized that as I damn near got high during yoga. So that's how you're supposed to do it? Same approach on the track. Take deep breaths, keep it moving, you're almost done. Anyway, my heart rate was kinda low. I just can't win.

Yoga: 25min
Yoga For Every Body: Open & Strong Heart

Music: Some unknown mix by DJ Statik that I forgot I had. Starts off with underground hip hop, then moves into Latin rhythms. Good stuff.

Jog Stats
32min/2.77mi
Avg Pace: 11:34/mi
Heart Rate: 128 Avg/170 Max
Calories: 332

Breakfast: Hemp toast w/hummus, tomato, S&P and salad w/tahini dressing

Lunch: Falafel sandwich

Dinner: Tofu veggie leftovers

Snack: Smoothie w/strawberry, banana, blueberry, flaxseed and unsweetened soy milk

Late night snack: Apple

Resting, Studying and Drinking

No workout today. I was beat. Sleep and I are not getting along. Sleep is not speaking to me at all. I went to bed tired with a headache. Those are the perfect conditions for a good sleep, right? Not!! I can count the hours of sleep I got on one hand. Oh, and I'm coming down with something with the weather changes. It's hot, it's cold, it's hot again. Dammit, make up your mind!!! Anyway, when I did finally get to sleep, I woke up before my alarm. That sucks. So I studied a bit. I haven't studied since I've been in the class (last Monday). I've been too tired. Class last week was from 1-5pm then 6-10pm. I'm supposed to take my midterm and final this week, along with a speed test. The speed test consists of 12 correct drinks made in 8 min. One of my instructors did 28 drinks in that time. Yeah, so not happening.

Anywho, I had a good food day, well, except for the liquor. Many peeps brought alcohol, so I had to partake. Okay, well not had to, but since I think I don't drink enough, I had some. I'm a social drinker and I was socializing, so that meets my requirements. I stayed for the shooters night class even though I took it last week. I'm terrible at shooters. So many recipes, so little time to remember them. So I practiced them behind the bar. Still not totally confident with them, but we'll see. Okay, best thing about tonight is that I got to play some house music and everyone screwed up my age big time. I've come to the conclusion that everyone doesn't look old. I just look young.

So here's my grub...

Breakfast: Hemp toast w/hummus, tomato, S&P and hot tea w/soy cream and sugar

Snack: Smoothie w/strawberry, blueberry, banana, flaxseed, and unsweetened soy milk

Lunch: Falafel sandwich w/veggie soup from Norma's

Drinks: Captain & Sprite, American flag shooter, Barcardi & Coke w/grenadine (and if I had something else, I sho nuff don't remember now)

Snack: Apple

Dinner: Tofu veggie leftovers

WATER, WATER, WATER!!!

Week 5 Day 1

Well, I did a bit more yoga than usual, but the time flew. I'm getting better at Warrior III Pose.

You know, I'm really surprised that I'm not at all sore from dancing. Wouldn't it be nice if I could turn the track into a dance floor with a disco ball in the center? I'd have a 5:00 pace:) Okay, I'm exaggerating, but you get the picture.

I'm tired of all the weather changes, so I ran at the Y. I haven't quite figured out the foot pod accessory for the Garmin yet. So I have no pace or distance today. But I do know that my pace was faster, because I started out fast on purpose. My heart rate was way high. I wonder if it has anything to do with being tired. I just can't get enough sleep these days.

Yoga: 45min
Yoga For Every Body: General Practice Routine

Music: The Sunlounge 2 mixed by DJ Statik (same DJ who spun Saturday night)

Jog Stats
30min
Heart Rate: 179 Avg/186 Max

Pre-run: OJ

Breakfast: Hemp toast w/hummus, tomato, S&P (something in this bread reminds me of tuna. I like it though..very nutty)

Snack: Honey BBQ Fritos (salt craving)

Lunch: Tuscan bean polenta w/spinach

Dinner: Tofu w/steamed broccoli and red peppers with ginger miso-tahini sauce over brown rice (I'm not a big picture person, but I liked the colors)

Resting and Dancing

I was tempted to workout yesterday, but I let it go. I ended up at an after hours party in Philly. Let me just say that dancing is so much more intense than running on any day. I'm sure I burned about half the calories I ate yesterday. Well, that's what happens when DJs spin really good music. And you won't hear any of it on the radio. I heard Redman, Biggie Smalls, A Tribe Called Quest, Stevie Wonder, Michael Jackson, Roy Ayers, Bob Marley, Parliament, just to name a few. My friend said I was like VH1. I named a lot of songs as they came on. Hey, I love music. That's what my profile says.

It was good to be out and around a bunch of different people. People you think you'd never see in one place. People you'd think couldn't dance. Then next thing you know, they're battling each other on the dance floor. It was also good to be out in a place where no one bothers you. A typical club has people standing, holding up the wall trying to look cute to collect phone numbers. Here, people dance and have a good time. Oh, and running shoes make the best dancing shoes. I could easily slide across the dance floor. No, I was not out trying to be cute with shoes that have your toes overlapping. I was comfortably dressed in jeans and a breathable top. I came to get it in, which I did.

Cool stuff about last night...

**I knew the bartender. I went to ask her where the rest room was, then next thing you know we're catching up. I taught her how to make Sex on the Beach. Yes, I actually remembered something from class.

**One of the DJs came to talk to me. He meets so many people, I figured he may have forgotten me. I love him to death. I sometimes play his mixes for running. He's going to give me another CD. A couple of years ago, he told me that I have impeccable taste in music. That is the best compliment I can get from a professional DJ.

**I was twirled around on the dance floor. It was so much fun. My friend said it looked like we coordinated the dance.

**I made new friends, Ram, who did the twirling, and Lauren, who was celebrating her birthday and stressing about turning 23. 23? That's not old.

**I got to party til 4am. Well, actually 4:14am. Yes, I said it was an after hours spot.

**I had a tasty black bean burger in a South Philly diner. I'm going to assume it was vegan since it didn't make me sick.

**I found out that my friend is half Jamaican. So am I!!

**I laughed and smiled all night :)

Week 4 Day 3

Today's yoga routine included some twists, ab exercises, thigh/hip stretches and sun salutations. But what about the butt area? My butt is really sore today. Must be those darn lunges. I guess that means I'm doing it right.

I told myself to take it slow on the run. For one, my butt is sore. Two, I didn't eat enough yesterday. And three, 35min is technically my long run, so I need to slow down to make sure I get through it. I'm not sure why my average heart rate is higher. That's something I have to read up on. I'm wondering if the weather has anything to do with it. It was pretty cool, 63 and windy. Maybe your heart beats faster to warm you up? It felt chilly to me. But I ended up taking off my jacket around lap 2. Anyway, the run felt really easy. Nothing was sore, well except for my butt which was already sore. Other than that, it felt like I didn't work hard enough. Well, there's always next time.

Okay, so on to Week 5. Here's the plan: Run 30 minutes, 32 minutes, 38 minutes Weekly total: 100 minutes

Yoga: 30min
Yoga For Every Body: Self Esteem Booster

Music: The Michael Baisden Show on 105.3 WDAS FM

Jog Stats
35min/2.95mi
Avg Pace: 11:51/mi
Heart Rate: 165 Avg/184 Max
Calories: 343

Breakfast: Two multi-grain pancakes (blended oats, walnuts, wheat flour, corn meal, flaxseed) w/soy marg and maple syrup
Snack: A few black bean tortilla chips
Lunch: Grilled tofu w/veggies and a baked potato
Dinner: PB&J and grapes

Ah yes, no class today. I actually cooked something.

Yes, I know I was wrong

I was a bad girl. Today was frozen drink day. It wasn't the rum that got me, but I think the high fructose corn syrup. Ugh, it was way too sweet. But unfortunately, that didn't stop me. I may not run tomorrow. Definitely not enough nutrients in my diet today. I'll just have to see how I feel in the morning. I'm off to drink lots of water.

Yoga: 30min
Yoga For Every Body: Getting in Balance

2x15 Dumbbell Shrugs
2x12 Back Extension
2x15 Crunches w/Twist
2x30 Plank (I graduated from the modified plank:)
2x15 Tricep Dips w/Bent Knees
2x15 Seated Dumbbell Tricep Extension w/3lb weights
2x15 Dumbbell Chest Press w/3lb weights
2x15 Forward Lunges
2x12 Squats w/10lb weights

Breakfast: Smoothie w/banana, strawberry, blueberry, flaxseed and unsweetened soy milk

Snack: Orange

Drinks: Shot of rum, strawberry daiquiri, pina colada and strawberry colada
The shot wasn't necessary, but my instructor was having a bad day, so I did a shot with him.

Dinner: Same as last night
Yeah, I'm hooked on Norma's. That's what happens when you spend a good portion of the day in the same shopping center as an awesome Middle Eastern restaurant.

Week 4 Day 2

My hips and thighs are still tight. I'm not sure why. So I focused on those areas in yoga. I ended up stretching again on a barstool in class. Actually, I left class early today. I've been taking day and night classes. I have a headache and I'm just tired. I haven't had a chance to cook or make a smoothie. And smoothies are quick. I have just enough time to workout, shower and go. I'm going to bed early tonight. Hopefully that means I'll get up earlier and have more "Me" time.

I ran outside. It was sunny, but the air was cool. This older guy I sometimes see on the track asked me if I was just getting warmed up. No, sir. The warm up would be me walking. I always jog this slow. Ha ha! But I told him that I've been jogging for only 3mos and this is the fastest I'll be going for a while. Oddly enough there was someone there who was slower than me. It made me feel like a pro. And I'm so far from it.

I'm not sure what happened, but I completely lost track of time. I left the track at 12:25pm and I had to be in class by 1pm. I'm not a chatty person at all, but I ended up talking to the same guy after the cool down. He had some good advice. He said to just get out there and make it fun. I'm out there, don't know about the fun part though. I can't say that I enjoy running yet. So why do I run? Because I can.

Yoga: 30min
Yoga For Every Body: Hip Mobility

Music: James Brown 20 All Time Greatest Hits

Jog Stats
29min/2.56mi
Avg Pace: 11:20/mi (used to be around 13:00/mi)
Heart Rate: 151 Avg/181 Max
Calories: 308

Pre-run: OJ
Snack: Banana
Lunch: Chocolate Mint Clif Builder's Bar
Dinner: Vegetarian platter from Norma's
Falafel, tahini, tabbouleh, hummus, stuffed grape leaves and pita bread

Yoga, Strength and Drinking

I had so much trouble waking up today. Not sure what that's about. I wish I got up sooner. I like to have "Me" time. I only had time to workout, eat, shower and run out the door. I hate rushing.

I was glad to do yoga today. I was so tight. Oddly enough, the standing routine included ab exercises. It was cool though. I haven't worked my obliques in a while. Strength was different today. Change is good. I need to work on lunges. My balance is off.

Yoga: 35min
Yoga For Every Body: General Practice: Standing

2x12 Back Extension
2x15 Crunches w/Twist
2x15 Seated Dumbbell Tricep Extension w/3lb weights
2x15 Dumbbell Chest Press w/3lbs weights
2x15 Forward Lunges
2x12 Squats w/10lb weights

Breakfast: TJ's oatmeal flakes w/raisins and unsweetened soy milk
Snack: Apple and grapes
Lunch: Veggie couscous leftovers
Drinks: Various shooters and shots for class
Dinner: Falafel sandwich from Norma's
Snack: Another apple and more grapes

In case you're wondering, you read it right. Drinks were for class. I started bartending school yesterday. It's funny because just last week I passed the state exam for my title insurance producer license. Yes, two very different things. I really didn't get into it here but my office closed 2mos ago. The mortgage industry is a nightmare with companies closing/laying off everyday. And they don't expect it to get any better until about 2009. Time to change fields and learn something new. So I'll be working for a friend at a title company by day, and making buttery nipples and red headed sluts by night. Oh, and a good thing about today..I got carded for buying Bacardi for class (extra credit) and my instructor asked if I was old enough to drink. Then when he tried to guess my age he was WAY off. How cool is that?!?!

Week 4 Day 1

No yoga today. I really need to get that in tomorrow. I feel like I'm missing something when I skip a day. Anyway, I was annoyed when I left the house. My mom's in town, and I'll just leave it at that. Not sure if that has to with how I felt on the track though. No matter how slow I went I just wanted to stop. But I stuck with it. There was nothing really wrong with me, I just wasn't with it. The apple I ate was in my throat after the run. It was a small apple (about the size of a plum). So I'm not sure what that was about.

In other news, I bought a Garmin. I was going to get it next month for my birthday. But there was a sale and rebate going on so I figured I'd get it now. I was really excited before it got here. I haven't taken it out of the box yet, so I guess the excitement just came and went.

Music: Electric Soul mixed by DJ Lil Dave

Warm up: A bit more than 5min (forgot to set my watch)
Jog: 30min
Cool down: 5min

Pre-run: Small apple
Lunch: Falafel w/tahini, hummus over mixed greens and pita bread from Whole Foods on my way to class
Snack: Vegan chocolate chip cookie from Whole Foods
Dinner: Tabbouleh salad w/pita bread and veggies w/couscous from Norma's
Snack: Another cookie
The cookie was a bad idea. I ate it about 2hrs ago and it's still in my throat.
Late night snack: Grapes

I really didn't feel like it

But I did some strength training. Then I went to the gym.

2 x 15 Dumbbell Shrugs w/3lb weights
3 x 15 Squats w/10lb weights
3 x 15 Wall Push Ups
2 x 15 Tricep Dips w/Bent Knees
3 x 15 Crunches w/3lb weights
2 x 12 Lying Leg Raises
1 x 30 Modified Plank (I really wasn't feeling this today)

Music: Earthtones mixed by DJ Lil Dave
Elliptical: 35min (includes 5min cool down)

Week 3 Day 3

Today was so much better. First of all, I didn't wake up with a headache. That's kind of weird considering I got about 4hrs of sleep last night. I was up at 5am for yoga, then headed off to the Y. I'm heading to NYC this morning to visit family so I had to get it in early.

Well, the run was good. I took it slow and sped up for the last minute. This time I didn't let the other jogger on the track influence my pace. I really felt it in my quads and hips. The stretches I did afterwards felt so good.

On to Week 4 where I'll begin increasing time. It should start getting interesting from now on. Here's next week's plan: Run 30 minutes, 29 minutes, 35 minutes. Weekly total: 94 minutes

Yoga: 30min
Yoga For Every Body: Flow Series

Music: A Rush of Blood to the Head by Coldplay

Warm up: 5min
Jog: 30min
Cool down: 5min

Pre-run: A bit of a chocolate Clif Builder's bar
Post-run: Smoothie w/strawberry, blueberry, banana, kale, flaxseed and unsweetened soy milk
Breakfast: Quinoa porridge
Snack: Apple and mint chocolate Clif Builder's bar
Lunch: Broccoli and tofu in garlic sauce w/brown rice from Tak Hing in Brooklyn and watered down V8 Splash (because it was WAY too sweet)
Dinner: Same
Midnight Snack: Some of a chocolate Clif Builder's bar for the ride home