this is me.

modern dollhouses

2010-04-20T11:38:00.001-05:00

too adorable.

{slideshow here}

space nails

2010-03-15T12:50:00.003-05:00

right now, my nails are purple, which is pretty wild for me... until i saw this. i want these nails. asap.

{owner}

Don't Break My Heart!

2010-02-12T12:59:00.004-06:00

i wish i had an extra $500-1100 in my back pocket...

"Created by Eva Milinkovic of Tsunami Glassworks this gorgeous piece is a fusion of color and creativity. Inspired by the many emotions of the heart, the Ventricle Vase intertwines passionate purple, loving red, ranges of moody blue, and pure white to create an artistic expression that is as complex and compelling as the human spirit itself. Made of glass – a material that is both delicate and enduring." - found here via svpply

stripes!

2010-02-04T11:39:00.003-06:00

i never knew i wanted a living room with stripes until i saw this...

{tori mellot's living room, via cup of jo}

girl crush verses jealousy

2010-01-10T15:55:00.003-06:00

i can't decide if i have a girl crush on this lovely lady or if i just want to be her. this is my favorite photo from the shoot.. if you like what you see, visit the sunroom.

{photo by lisa warninger, styled by rebecca westby}

get excited: it's friday.

2010-01-08T11:42:00.001-06:00

this american infographic

2010-01-07T11:57:00.007-06:00

Some magical man made this new year's resolution: "Make an infographic on every This American Life ever made. The idea is to expand and add context to the stories and information contained in the shows. Basically, anything I am curious about while listening to the pieces."

Have I mentioned how much I love "This American Life"? If you also love it, you can donate by texting LIFE to 25383 and then confirming your donation. $5 will be added to your monthly cell phone bill.

(via for me, for you)

Book Record

2010-01-05T22:45:00.006-06:00

Completed Books 2009
:: kite runner - khaled hosseini
:: pillars of the earth - ken follet
:: the lovely bones - alice sebold
:: loving frank - nancy horan
:: a thousand splendid suns - khaled hosseini
:: three cups of tea - greg mortenson and david oliver relin
:: in dubious battle - john steinbeck
:: into the wild - jon krakauer
:: while you were out - sue miller
:: the last time they met - anita shreve
:: running with scissors - augusten burroughs

Completed Books 2008
:: the pact - jodi picoult
:: naked - david sedaris
:: love the one you're with - emily giffin
:: nineteen minutes - jodi picoult
:: my sister's keeper - jodi picoult
:: certain girls - jennifer weiner
:: the secret lives of bees - sue monk kidd
:: the history of love - nicole krauss
:: shear abandon - penny vincenzi
:: water for elephants - sara gruen
:: the memory keeper's daughter - kim edwards
:: what is the what - dave eggers
:: the friday night knitting club - kate jacobs
:: goodnight nobody - jennifer weiner

holiday project #27 - FELT

2009-12-16T18:20:00.003-06:00

okay, so maybe.. i don't have 27 projects but this elf has a lot going on. xmas is a time for crafts. my latest inspiration is... you guessed it.. FELT. look at this!!!

{awesome xmas wreath by pickles seen
via CarrieCan (along with other homemade wreaths)}

{necklaces by wikstenmade}

{felted window drapes by pickles}

tutorial for felts balls: here
online shop to buy your own: here
{both links from the felt master: pickles}

DIY: cork placecards

2009-11-23T16:07:00.002-06:00

i need to throw a dinner party... so i can make these..

{tutorial and photo credit}

50 people, one question

2009-11-20T16:19:00.000-06:00

Fifty People, One Question: New York from Fifty People, One Question on Vimeo.

via hello lindello

print print print

2009-11-13T10:53:00.002-06:00

{mark weaver: flickr / shop}

love these... seen via of paper and things

Lovely Sunday

2009-11-08T13:42:00.001-06:00

I am reading my book club book (In Dubious Battle: Steinbeck) and
drinking a gingerbread latte... Lovely Sunday.

iLOVE

2009-11-04T21:49:00.003-06:00

ALL images are from iLOVE

{found here}

{not listed}

{found here}

say what?

2009-11-03T10:28:00.000-06:00

List of Beers with Less Alcohol By Volume than Smirnoff Ice

(via 99 problems but the bink ain't one via consumermachine)

Amstel Light
Anchor Steam
Boddington’s
Bud Light
Coors Light
Corona
Dos Equis
Guinness
Michelob Light
Miller High Life
Negro Modelo
Newcastle
O’Doul’s
Red Stripe
Rolling Rock
Sam Addams Boston Lager
Tecate
Widmer Hef
Yuengling

x-stitching = adorable

2009-10-29T14:48:00.006-05:00

I am thinking about adding "cross-stitching" to my bag of craft tricks because these are adorable.

{chez-sucre-chez, via darling dexter}

tiny town, but oh so cute.

2009-10-22T10:08:00.000-05:00

{mini Colorado Springs}

delightful work jams

2009-10-21T09:56:00.000-05:00

One Fast Move Or I'm Gone: Music From Kerouac's Big Sur

listen to the entire album on NP until 10/20...

so cute.

2009-10-20T10:28:00.003-05:00

adorable anniversary card... too bad i've been with my guy for more than a year... otherwise, he would be getting this card asap.

{Bird and Banner, via Unruly Things}

I work better with a plan.

2009-10-01T23:07:00.001-05:00

I have been slacking... that's over now. (S.T. - strength training, my
#1 enemy)

I heart The Office

2009-09-23T22:31:00.000-05:00

I give you the wedding website of Pam and Jim.

http://www.halpertbeesly.com

{seen on annie.tumblr.com}

everyone is just smitten with zooey

2009-09-21T22:50:00.003-05:00

including me. she is just too adorable.

Best thing about having a real job...

2009-09-20T13:53:00.002-05:00

No work on Sunday (at least in my line of work)... Cinnamon strawberry pancakes topped with homemade (by me!) strawberry jam.

necklaces....

2009-09-17T13:21:00.007-05:00

{urban outfitters}

{gabriel & schwan}

{jcrew}

{darling dexter}{anthropologie}

View from Balcony

2009-09-16T18:23:00.002-05:00

This is the view from my new place in Colorado Springs, CO!

{taken w/ iPhone}

Hubble Telescope

2009-09-10T18:06:00.002-05:00

"The upgraded Hubble telescope shows off its new talents."

Colorado Springs

2009-09-07T19:24:00.003-05:00

{taken by my iPhone at the Hot Air Ballon Festival}

aka my new home....

craft project in my near future..

2009-08-02T18:53:00.004-05:00

I have been eying this for a while..

{sold by: for me for you (on etsy)}

but I can't justify buying it... I want to make my own. Just a few more days and I can do what I want.

sleeping under the stars

2009-07-31T12:24:00.003-05:00

want to sleep under the stars? get this roll-away bed, a deck, and huge opening windows.... I think I'll add this to my "dream home list"

{desire to inspire}

bama!

2009-07-02T17:55:00.005-05:00

Bryan and I went to visit his parents in Alabama(north-west-ish, in the middle of nowhere)! Here are some photos! We had a great time!

"a pretty wild ordeal"

2009-07-02T15:13:00.002-05:00

Black bear knocks down Vernon man, steals sandwich.. read the whole article here.

{story found via facebook (k-fresh)}

2009-06-29T10:56:00.000-05:00

3 months of planning + 4 days shooting + 6,000+ post-it notes = awesome

Filmed by Jay Tseng and edited by Bang-yao Liu, see how they did it here. {found via a black eiffel}

we the people...

2009-06-28T15:21:00.001-05:00

{etsy, seen on mint}

summer-ish

2009-06-26T18:27:00.001-05:00

Is this too much yellow?{anthropologie}

i love cards.

2009-06-23T12:30:00.005-05:00

{buy on etsy}

have you seen my boyfriend? he is pretty awesome.

danskin

2009-06-22T13:25:00.002-05:00

This race was awhile ago, but I just got the photos from a friend. I did this race last year.. and this time around, I beat my time by 17:43. It was awesome.

{pre-race}

lovely

2009-06-19T11:46:00.002-05:00

I hope that one day, I will have a wedding invitation that warms the heart like this one:

{found via Oh, hello friend made by Matt Dorfman for his own wedding}

Gus's

2009-06-12T11:08:00.006-05:00

Tomorrow, I am headed to Alabama with the boyfriend.... which means that we get to make a pit stop at Gus's because when you drive from Austin to Alabama, Memphis, TN is "on our way." I am SO EXCITED. I went to Gus's... oh 3 years ago and I still dream about it.

{found here}

i can't stop...

2009-06-11T11:37:00.004-05:00

i can't stop listening to Bon Iver... click on the album and lala will let you listen for free..

WALL-E

2009-06-01T13:16:00.004-05:00

found via: littlebink (blogged by many)

I love this movie and I love pixar, so magical.

summertime... come quick.

2009-05-14T15:00:00.000-05:00

{cheezorg}

{ms_boomer}

{hugohum}

2+2=4

2009-05-10T16:43:00.004-05:00

i have always loved math...

{newmath}

found via oh hello, friend

Half Marathon Report

2009-04-25T18:11:00.006-05:00

So I realized I never posted about my 2nd half marathon... its not because it was meaningless and not because I didn't do well... I was just plain lazy about posting to my lovely blog. Therefore... I am posting this super late.

The good news: I set a new PR!
The bad news: I was sore for a week because of the ridiculous hills! My hamstrings were on fire!

I started the same way I started my first half... saying all along, I would pace myself, follow a pacer, speed up at the end if possible... and then, getting to the starting line and going as fast as a I can... until I get tired and slow down. I still set a PR with a time of

2:12:21 (10:07 pace)

Maybe next time, I will stick to my plan.. somehow I doubt it.. I just get so excited at the beginning and run my little heart out... This race was pretty awesome because it was a ladies race.. a few men did sign up, but it was mainly women. The course was out and back so you got to see everyone in the race some where along the course. My good friend also ran the race, she was running her first half marathon, and we both had a great time. We run at different paces but enjoyed the pre-race jitters and the post-race festivities together. The hills were pretty terrible and my hamstrings were on fire for quite some time after the race. The were really up and down rolling hills rather than slowly increasing ones.. so there was little "flat" ground on the whole course. I am glad I completed a second half marathon.. but I think I'll be waiting until next spring to do another one. I need a break on the long runs. But I have achieved one of my year goals... :)

pre-race! (where was my flash?)

It's raining in Austin...

2009-04-17T15:00:00.006-05:00

It has been raining all day in Austin... here are a few rainy photos via flickr.

{!.keesssss.!}

{3whiteroses}

{3amfromkyoto}

{Maggie's World}

{Tapio Hurme}

{borealnz}

{byocom, not flickr..}

Don't forget your taxes!

2009-04-15T12:09:00.004-05:00

I hope you didn't forget to file your taxes. Luckily, I am still in school... so I get a refund. But this is the last time... maybe I'll find a tax break someday?

Also, for my running readers... the Boston Marathon is Monday!!! I can't wait to watch the race. I just read a great article about Kara Goucher on Runner's World and I got all pumped up...

I like.

2009-04-07T11:12:00.011-05:00

I like this photo/outfit. (by Brian Lopiccolo)

I like carrot cake pancakes. (Joy the Baker).

I like this photograph. (originally seen on ohhellofriend, source)

I like these shoes. (Seychelles via Solestruck)
I like this outfit. (academichic)
I like this photograph. (blissful images)I like this book. (Three Cups of Tea)

I just finished Three Cups of Tea last night and I loved it. You should go read it!

something sweet...

2009-04-05T18:15:00.004-05:00

Last weekend, after my 10k, I was craving something sweet... homemade cinnamon rolls. It was a baking adventure, but I survived and the rolls were delicious.

Unfortunately, I can't source the recipe because I can't find it online! The whole process took about an hour and it was worth it. I only wonder, can you freeze a cinnamon roll? I would love to pre-make these and pull one of my freezer at any given moment... Also, the rolls were topped with a cream cheese frosting... so good.

It was a perfect way to celebrate a good run.

p.s. If I find the link, I will post it.

new blogs...

2009-04-03T11:02:00.012-05:00

This morning, I found few new blogs (yay!).

warning (to my running readers out there) : these are not fitness related

Academichic

Lately, I have been thinking about expanding my blog topics to include more things about my life since the name of this blog is.. this is me.... stay tuned.

April Goals

2009-04-03T08:20:00.000-05:00

As a new month starts, I want to set some goals and what way to better commit than to post them on my blog. Then they are in writing and there is no going back. I have two races this month, a half marathon and a 10k. I will post those goals separately.

April Goals
1. Read 1 book
2. Stay on a loose budget
3. Attend spin class 6 times
4. Weight train 8 times
5. Find / apply to 5 appealing job reqs

Reasoning behind these choices..

I wanted to read 12 books this year, I am about to finish book #2. I am behind on my yearly goal..
I never really use a budget... but I have a few trips coming up and I am just trying to watch what I spend. I am also trying to upgrade my wardrobe because a lot of my clothes are too big.. so I am very budget consciences. Really, it boils down to not spending lots of money on eating out and drinks.
I have been slacking on my spinning... I keep giving it up for running/swimming/yoga. I don't have time to go 2x/week so I will try for 6 times, about 1.5x/week. I need to stay on top of because I have a sprint triathlon this summer. I also bought the pass.. granted it was only $40 for a whole semester.. but still. I should use what I pay for.
I was really good about weight training at first.. I would go before swimming.. then I decided I would rather be sleeping... the last 5 times I was supposed to be in the gym. ooops. So I hope this set goal will encourage me to get back in there.. have I mentioned I really don't enjoy weight lifting..
I graduate in August and I need a job.

Half Marathon Goals
a) finish
b) finish around the same time as the Austin Half (2:14)

I haven't been training that much so my goals are set pretty low. Of course, I would like to PR... but I am doubtful. This course should be hillier and I have trained less the last time I ran a half.

Capitol 10 K Race Report

2009-03-30T23:28:00.000-05:00

Guess what?

I have a new PR for the 10 k!!!!

My previous personal record was 1:01:06. So I was quite pleased with this race, even though I thought a PR would be tricky. First of all, this race is has a lot more hills than the course that corresponds to my best time. Also, there was about 18,000 people walking/running in this race. It was a gorgeous day, so no one seemed to stay home. Last year, it rained and it was a lot less crowded. Finally, I overslept and woke up at 8:30 when the timed run (my race time) started at 8:45. What the heck!!! Luckily, Bryan was there to save the day. He got me to the race and it started late. I was able to squeeze through the gate and start with the timed runners. whew. In the morning rush, I left my watch at home and forgot to glance at the starting time... so I spaztically ran the whole 10k. I tried to run fast because I felt I was running slow then I would slow down because my hamstrings got tight and then speed up.. it was not a consistent pace.. I guess if I want to PR, I should show up late and forget my watch. Anyways, it was a great day for a run and I am super pleased with my time.

New Layout!

2009-03-24T00:20:00.004-05:00

I found this layout online at

http://www.bloggerblogtemplates.com/2009/03/magazeen-blogger-template.html

and edited it!

I hope you like!

update:: I think the comment links work now! Thanks Mica!

Zilker Park Kite Festival

2009-03-23T23:31:00.008-05:00

Just a bit ago, I went to the Zilker Park Kite Festival. It was wonderful. The weather was great and perfect for kite flying. At the park, lots of people were flying kites. By the way, most of these photos are courtesy of Bryan. He is becoming quite the photographer!

I also enjoyed heaven on earth (aka funnel cake). sooo good. I think I need to find a state fair or circus STAT so that I get another one.... yum.

We also stumbled upon a band that was just enjoying the afternoon. Have I mentioned how much I love this town?

The camera that Bryan is wearing did not take these photos. Who knew flying a kite could be so much fun?

I hope you enjoy these photos!!!

ps. I will recap spring break 09 soon!

Completed Books 2008

2009-03-12T14:48:00.000-05:00

:: the pact - jodi picoult
:: naked - david sedaris
:: love the one you're with - emily giffin
:: nineteen minutes - jodi picoult
:: my sister's keeper - jodi picoult
:: certain girls - jennifer weiner
:: the secret lives of bees - sue monk kidd
:: the history of love - nicole krauss
:: shear abandon - penny vincenzi
:: water for elephants - sara gruen
:: the memory keeper's daughter - kim edwards
:: what is the what - dave eggers
:: the friday night knitting club - kate jacobs
:: goodnight nobody - jennifer weiner

Brrr.

2009-03-12T11:29:00.003-05:00

It's cold outside! Last weekend it was 80 and now its..

Brr. So I did not run this morning. I am still hoping to convince myself that it is a good idea and I should go run... we'll see how that goes. I doesn't say above, but its raining off and on, it is very gross out.

I would like to welcome some new readers. Bryan tipped off a few of my closest friends about the blog a while ago... I thought they would read it once and move on.. I found out that is not the case. I have been bookmarked, so Hello Ladies! In your honor, a photo.

Chelsea, Coatney, Kallie, Me, Taylor

Last weekend, we got together and celebrated Kallie's last night of freedom... her bachelorette party. I was a wonderful time. Lots of great food, drinks, chats, and more. It was awesome.

Then I was swamped with school and therefore, no blog posting. But I am back! I still have a paper due but I can take a little break... which reminds me, I am searching for a new template. I will have this super boring one until I get a new one.

Workouts
Friday: run 2.8 miles
Sunday: 45 spin + 45 yoga
Monday: weights + swim class
Tuesday: run 2.2 miles outside + 3.8 miles treadmill
Wednesday: swim class

Biggest Loser nonsense: I am so sad Mandi went home. She was my favorite! Also, I think that Ron can't loose the same amount of weight as everyone else and will continue to bring down the blue team... its sad but true. I just hope blue team can win next time... so sad. As you can tell, I am still really addicted to that show. My run on Tuesday was split into 2 so that I could watch some of the show while I ran. I had a lot of work to do and didn't want to waste 2 hours on the Biggest Loser, so I ran during it. Also, I Jillian's 30 day Shred from Netflix.. maybe I will do that today!

TGIF

2009-03-06T11:56:00.005-06:00

Last night, I made this Smashed Chickpea Salad by Smitten Kitchen. I love the Smitten Kitchen blog because there are wonderful recipes and fabulous pictures (like the one below). I used pita bread to eat the salad and added a roasted red pepper to my "sandwich". I also neglected the tahini suggestion.

This recipe was

a) yummy
b) easy
c) cheap
d) mayo free

aka a winner in my book! Enjoy!

photo by: Smitten Kitchen.

Workout Summary:
Monday: weights + swim class
Tuesday: run/walk (treadmill) 3.4 miles + abs + push ups
Wednesday: swim class
Thursday: spinning 1 hr

Workout Details:

I saw DARA TORRES, you may remember her from the Olympics, in the locker room after my swim class on Wednesday.... there is a swimming competition at my college (University of Texas at Austin) this weekend.
Tuesday, I ran while watching part of the The Biggest Loser and I included sprints and added incline. It was good. I am starting to really like the treadmill for runs <>
I can not believe The Biggest Loser is 2 hrs and NBC has the nerve to put "to be continued" at the end. I was furious... and I can't wait for Tuesday to roll around..
I slept through weights on Wednesday morning.. oops.

Also, I am so excited for the weekend. TGIF.

BPA... say what?

2009-03-05T10:26:00.003-06:00

I don't know about you.. but I do not support buying disposable water bottles. It is a waste of money and resources. If you don't agree, watch Flow. So I use a reusable water bottle... but there is a BPA Controversy... check out

The Health Nut

She is giving away a Nalgene BPA free water bottle and did research on the harm of BPA!

weekend, dont leave me!

2009-03-01T21:20:00.003-06:00

I would like the weekend to stay. I do not want next week to start. I have a lot of working out, school work, and job hunting to do by Friday. Next weekend, my friend is having her bachelorette party so nothing productive will be happening..

Anyways, I want to finish posting my workouts for this week..

Thursday: rest

Friday: run/walk intervals (treadmill) 40 min + 10 min stair master

Saturday: 40 min yoga + pushups

Sunday: run 6 miles + core + pushups

I am terrible at pushups. I am trying to incorporate them.. and then when I get a little better, I might attempt the 100 push up challenge. Trust me, I am not there yet.

I am pleased with my efforts this week and hoping for greatness next week too. Also, I spent a lot of time outside today at a kite festival (pictures and post some day).. and my face is on fire. How did I forget sunscreen... sigh. fyi, my 6 miles today were to get to the festival. It was great to run to a destination. Bryan met me there and drove me home... I also ate part of a funnel cake. delicious. too bad it cancelled out the 6 miles... maybe I should have ran home too?

Chocolate to die for...

2009-03-01T10:19:00.000-06:00

I realize this post is super late... better now then never?

This Valentine's Day, Bryan surprised me with the best present I have ever received on 2/14. He did so good, that I am not sure how he will top himself next year. He presented me with this..

This might seem like an ordinary box of chocolates... but it is not. This chocolate is to die for... as the saying goes..

The box included dark and milk chocolate truffles, a chocolate covered cherry, orange and lemon rind, white chocolate goodness... these are ridiculously amazing chocolates. I have been savoring each one..

Teuscher Chocolates of Switzerland and Coffee (of Austin)

Fitting Back In

2009-02-26T11:18:00.000-06:00

On Monday, I came across a fitness blog that I had not seen before. There are tons of blogs out there and you never know if you will relate to the blog. I started reading blogs because they are inspiring. I love reading about someone else's journey. It is also really encouraging to see their success. Anyways, so this new (to me) blog was really inspirational... She weighed 136 in September and now weighs 114! Check it out, if you are interested.. there are great before / after photos.

http://fittingbackin.blogspot.com/

So then I started thinking about my weight loss and got really annoyed. Basically, I have been maintaining my weight for the past 3 months. Granted, this is great and all, but I would prefer to lose weight (who wouldn't?). I think I just need to kick up my workouts a notch and try to eat really healthy when I drink. At this time in my life, I am unwilling to sacrife all adult beverages.. so I just try to eat really good and workout on those days. Like most women, I want to lose some weight before swimsuit season!

My workouts so far this week:

Monday: weights / swim class (1550 yds)
Tuesday: 10 min stair master / 50 min spin class
Wednesday: weights / swimming (1200 yds) / 15 min core

So far so good...

Also, I updated my upcoming races (seen to your right). I love having goals so that I am working out for something. I have a reason. Then, I am less likely to bail and take a nap instead. I am excited to run in a 2nd half marathon and also 2 10Ks. I want to set a new PR in at least one of those 3 races.

Austin Botanical Gardens

2009-02-22T23:02:00.006-06:00

Awhile ago, Bryan (the boyfriend) and I took his parents to the Austin Botanical Gardens. These pictures were taken mainly by him, but I suggested photos. There was an orchid festival going on which was crazy! I had no idea orchids were so expensive. Orchid growers were selling plants for $50 that hadn't even bloomed yet! Here are few of my favorite ones..

Then we walked around the gardens, but there was little in bloom. It was February... But this flower was wild!

There was also this adorable owl... I love owls, fake ones only (screen printed on tshirts, little owl bank, paintings of owls... etc)

Also, a picture of Bryan and me.. I really like this one. :)

I FINISHED!

2009-02-18T15:40:00.000-06:00

I finished the half marathon!!! whoo hooo! I was really pleased with the whole experience and I beat my goal time!!! Here is a picture before the race with my brother and mom. They decided to come down from Dallas to watch me run and the boyfriend was also there to watch me. I was awesome to have fans!
and after the race....

I just loved it. Should I sign up for one in April???

So a little recap of the 13.1 miles:

mile 1: very crowded and I was getting slightly emotional. I kept thinking about how I would feel when I finished, and that I would probably cry. I saw a group of 3 runners with the following shirts, "Cancer Survivor," "Running with My Dad who Survived Cancer," and "Running with a Cancer Survivor." Very moving. I also saw a woman with a tag saying "I run for everyone who hated gym class!"
I decided I would stalk the 4:30 marathon pacer (10:18) and then try to run faster at the end... but after 3 miles of stalking, I decided that I could run faster...
running faster lasted until about mile 9 and then BOOM marathon pacer guy is about to pass me... this is why you PACE yourself.
So miles 1-7 were all good, nothing too exciting. 3 girl friends from school running were in the full and just a little behind me. I got to see their boyfriends (on bikes) a few times so that was nice. I also saw the girls before the race which was great.
miles 8-9 were kinda slow for no real reason.. well I was tired. This is when the pace guy caught up to me.
the course split at mile 10 and then I picked back up my pace.
there were 2 HUGE hills, one at mile 11 and mile 12. I ran up the hills and then at the peak, I literally felt like I was in a dead stop I was so tired.. but then the downhill was there and I just kept running..
the finish was AWESOME! my really good friend and my roommate (also sisters) volunteered to hand out medals. So when I finished, they gave me my medal!
Also, I am really happy with my time!

Finish Time: 2:13:57 (10:13 pace)

photo tuesday?

2009-02-10T11:33:00.003-06:00

I just came across this! I loved it. Enjoy!

exhausted.

2009-02-03T22:46:00.003-06:00

All day long, I have been exhausted. I drank coffee, a chai tea, and a coke zero but I was not revived. I decided to take a rest day and bail on my 3 mile run. Hmm... I also ran 11 miles on Saturday!!! Go me! It was my longest run to date and honestly, it went pretty good.

total time: 1:53:49 (avg pace - 10:20!!!)

woo hoo! I was very pleased with the time. I will not bore you with my split times. They didn't have a trend, if that matters. I wasn't too sore either. I feel more prepared for my half marathon (2/15). It is so soon! I am starting to get really excited. :)

I also finished a book! I read Loving Frank by Nancy Horan and really enjoyed it. I checked it out from the Austin Public Library. Yay free books! This photo was borrowed from Amazon..

The book tells the story of an affair involving Frank Lloyd Wright and Mamah Borthwick. It is a true story and occurs in the early 1900's. Divorce wasn't exactly common back then.. There is a lot of women's rights, women's roles, the purpose of love, and architecture stories / info intertwined with the affair. It is also the authors debut novel. I liked it.

Sunday, I rested. Monday, I lifted weights, went to swimming class, and went to a 1:15 not hot yoga class.. maybe that's why I am exhausted?

check out this giveaway!

2009-02-03T13:54:00.002-06:00

Chic Runner is giving away this awesome book. Check it out!

Friday!

2009-01-30T09:50:00.003-06:00

Let me recap my workouts... I haven't posted since Monday... oops.

Tuesday: 3 miles on the treadmill while watching the Biggest Loser.. 3 TVs away from the TV in front of me.. Luckily, I did not have a creak in my neck.

Wednesday: weight training (25 min) + swim class + 20 min yoga for runners from yogadownload I loved it. They have a lot of 20 minute classes for FREE. I like FREE.

Thursday: 2.5 miles on trail.. (9:48 / 10:00 / 5:10 = 24:58) terrible run. my foot hurt, my ipod died, i was cold and therefore my 5 mile run became 2.5 miles.

Friday: REST!

Tomorrow I am scheduled for 11 miles and I am pretty excited.

In other news, go listen to This American Life. I just realized you can stream episodes. Yesterday, I listened to Switched at Birth while I was working at school. It was really interesting.

le tired

2009-01-26T22:25:00.010-06:00

I had my first swim class at UT today. I wanted to take Swimming: Triathlon and it was cancelled so I am stuck in Swimming: Conditioning. For some odd and wacko reason, my workout buddy / office mate (who is also in the swim class) decided to lift weights before swimming. We never lift weights and we don't wake up early. So miraculously, we got to school at 815 and lifted weights / went to swim class. The first class went okay, but I am the 2nd worse swimmer. You have to be able to swim a 50 (meter/yard?) in 50 seconds.

My time: 52 seconds.

The coach said I had good breathing technique and I just needed to work on strength so I could stay in the class. Yippee. I know I am the 2nd because he told the worst student, "I can tell you aren't comfortable in the pool. Have you ever been taken a swimming class before?" All day long, I was tired. Sleepy tired. Lots of coffee, a chocolate santa and a coke zero helped.. but did not cure the sleepiness.

But when I got home tonight, I wanted to make some blueberry muffins. I have made them before. Delicious!

Third Annual Chili Cold Blood Chili Cook Off

2009-01-25T16:56:00.000-06:00

Yesterday, the boyfriend and I went to the Third Annual Chili Cold Blood Chili Cook Off at Jo's Coffee on South Congress. There was a chili contest and live music in a parking lot. It was very Austin-y and let me just say again, I love this city! The headlining band was Chili Cold Blood. We got there kinda late and missed the Chili Cook Off. However, we were still able to order frito chili pies. YUM. I also sampled a vegetarian chili. As you can see from the photos, we were quite happy.

The band, Chili Cold Blood, was pretty good. Their outfits were also awesome.

just do it.

2009-01-24T21:19:00.005-06:00

Nike.. how I love you. Today, I ran 8.5 miles with the help of my lovely ipod. A new playlist can really do wonders. I would list it but I basically added my last 8 lists to make a jumbo playlist. So I had 8 miles on my "schedule" and at about 7.5 miles I decided to run 8.5. I thought about next week and decided I should run 11 instead of 10 (my original plan) and jumping from 8.5 to 11 is just 2.5 miles. This week I jumped from 6 to 8.5, also 2.5 miles. I've got a plan, kinda. The run went better than expected. My splits are

1) 9:38
2) 9:47
3) 9:39
4) 10:13
5) 10:17
6) 10:24
7) 10:24
8) 11:00
.5) 5:36

total: 1:27:01

I was really pleased with the first 3 miles and also happy with the next 4. The last mile, I was just getting tired and my ankle was starting to hurt. At first, the weather was not the best. It was about 45, which is cold, and a surprise since yesterday it was 75. My hands were frozen for the first mile but after that, I felt okay. I warmed up and didn't mind the weather. I also ate some chewy things (much like the clif shot blocks). I threw away the wrapper and can't find the name online. They were delicious. They were cherry flavored with honey and all natural. I will go back to REI to buy some more and I will let you know!

I am starting to get really excited for the half marthon... :)

MIA

2009-01-23T09:53:00.003-06:00

Whew. Apparently, I have been missing in action! The last time I posted was Sunday... I guess I have been busy. I think a bullet list is in order.

School started, reminding my adviser that work should be getting done
Presidential Inauguration, amazing! I am very excited to see what happens.
I found Podcasts, check out This American Life
LOST. soooo much happened in the premiere. It was pure madness.
Biggest Loser. OMG, I was shocked. I could not believe they kept Joelle. Also, I feel sorry for Bob. Detroit did not look like a walk in the park...

Also, I worked out a few times.

Monday, I went to hot yoga for 90 minutes. It was as sweatastic as usual.

Tuesday, I ran around my neighborhood for 37 minutes to ensure that I would run 3.5miles. I figure I usually run about 10:00-10:30 but when I don't know where the next mile marker is located, I tend to be on the slower side. I found some great hills so I was pleased with the workout. I need to learn the streets better (I just moved there...) so I can gmap-pedometer the route.

Wednesday, REST! Yippeee!

Thursday, I ran 4 miles at Town Lake. Since that trail has mile markers, I have splits and I am quite pleased with these times.

1) 10:00
2) 10:01
3) 10:03
4) 10:34
total: 40:38

Tonight, I am going to a hot yoga class. I am dreading it.. but I know once I go I will be happy I went...

Have a great Friday!!!

victory!

2009-01-18T18:31:00.003-06:00

I ran 6 miles today! Woo hoo! I went running at town lake on the 6.9 mile loop. I ran 6 miles and walked the 0.9 as a cool down. During the run, I wanted to quit and find someone to drive me back to my car... after the run, I was sooo happy that every minute was worth it. I wanted to stop and walk many times but I kept on trucking. I think in the end, it was good for my running confidence level. Just because I want to walk, doesn't mean that I needed to stop. I forgot my watch so I don't have split times. I checked my ipod at 1 mile (10:12) and 4 miles (41:32). I am good at remembering pointless information... like seconds. I finished the 6 miles (I had to guess where the end was because the mile markers get messed up on the loop.. if anything, I went over .15) in 64:34.

When I got home, I showered and ate... Then I ended up napping.. for 1.5 hrs . Oh well. Technically, school doesn't start until Tuesday... I can waste a Sunday, right?

Also, this weekend, there was a sale at BettySport (adorable/expensive workout clothes store). So I went there on Friday and bought a pair of yoga pants for 30% off. After taxes, they were only 35. However I went to their 2nd location yesterday and I found another pair that I loved. However these pants were $70 and only 20% off... So I could not justify buying them... But they were sooo soft and fit great. Did I mention that I love these pants.. So I want these pants. I think I want to set a goal and when I achieve the goal, I get the pants! Or maybe I will get a coupon for the store in my next race packet.... I can only hope.

2009-01-17T23:50:00.000-06:00

Friday, I went to another hot yoga class. I am not sure how it was possible, but I sweated more than I did the first time I went to a class. I left feeling awesome and disgusting all at once. I met up with a friend that also goes there. I like having friends that workout. It's encouraging. Then, I went out to eat with some friends. After dinner, we went out to celebrate my friend's birthday and played a lot of shuffleboard. I love it! I also won... so that helps.

Today, I wanted to run 6 miles. But my foot felt a little tender... so I decided to let it rest. I am not sure if it is sore because of the 4.5 miles or from the hot yoga. My foot cramped in yoga. I think I am just worried! I hope I can run tomorrow...

I took a picture of my breakfast this morning. I had coffee and vanilla yogurt with granola and berries. Tasty as usual...

Then I went to the Austin Public Library and checked out two books.. I'll let you know as a I read them. I've decided I am not paying for books anymore. Then I just unpacked and cleaned my room. Tonight, my roommate made me dinner and I watched a movie with the boyfriend. Very relaxing :)

doc knows best

2009-01-15T23:14:00.002-06:00

I went for a 4.5 mile run today with the following split times...

:: 9:53

:: 10:22

:: 10:17

:: 10:14

:: 4:54 (0.5 miles)

= 45:42

I was happy with the run. I ran at Town Lake and I wore a new running shirt.. that I LOVE. It's a Nike dry-fit warm sweatshirt thing. The first half, I kept thinking, "when is this going to end?" and then the second half I was thinking, "whew, this is easy. I got this.." So in other words, it is a typical run for me. If I can get half way done, I somehow feel okay about the 2nd half. Oh, I completely forgot to mention the latest Doc update!

The Doc thinks I can do the half!!!!

The Doc told me this on Monday. Last week, I ran twice (3 miles each) with no pain. He said that since I ran okay and my muscles are loose that I can run 3 times a week. He said I should aggressively increase my milage and run the half. I was super excited. I can't believe I forgot to mention it! So as of last Sunday, I had 5 weeks until my half. So he suggested I run 3 times a week (1 recovery, 1 medium, 1 long) with the following long runs..

6 miles / 8 miles/ 10 miles/ 8 miles / half

I am looking forward to my 6 miles this weekend :)

Sweat Fest

2009-01-14T12:47:00.006-06:00

.... aka Bikram (HOT) Yoga. Last night, I went to a 90 minute hot yoga class. Whew. I have never sweated so much in my life. And I live in Texas where it is hot. I've worked out in the heat before.. but nothing like hot yoga. I should back track some...

On Sunday, I went with my new roommate (note: I moved. I have a new roommate. I didn't blog about it because moving = complaining.) to her gym and did the following workout:

:: walk 5 min
:: run 15 min
:: walk 5 min
:: hot yoga 60 min

The hot yoga classes were new and they were having some heating issues. The room was only 87 degrees. I loved the class! I felt so relaxed and the heat in the room really helped with my flexibility. There was calming music and we did some poses I hadn't done before. It was great.

So I went home to find a deal online because yoga is expensive. I found a place in Austin, somewhat close to my new home, that offers an introductory offer of 28$ for 30 days of unlimited yoga. The studio only does Bikram yoga. Both the boyfriend and I signed up. Last night we went and on the down side, it was completely different than the other class. In this class, the instructor talked the WHOLE time and there was no calming music. We did 26 different postures and 2 breathing exercises. I was not a fan of the breathing ones. On the up side, it was a great workout and such a sweat fest! It's the only time I have ever seriously considered taking off my shirt and working out in a sports bra. A lot of people in the class where only wearing tiny shorts and sports bras. It must have been somewhere between 90-95.

The whole experience was still good, but not exactly what I was looking for in a yoga class. I will go back (maybe friday?) but I think I'll try another studio after 30 days. Oh and I ran into a friend there which was nice. I found out via facebook that another one of my friends also goes to that studio.

OH. I forgot to mention. I went running around my new neighborhood before the hot yoga. I did the following:

:: run 30 min
:: walk 3 min

There was about and 1 1/2 hours between when I finished running to when I started the yoga class. So needless to say, it was a great workout day :)

Now onto... THE BIGGEST LOSER (warning: spoiler if you didn't watch...)
Joell is sooo annoying. I really hope this past week has shown her that she needs to be more dedicated. Or else, she will be sent home. It was ridiculously sad to watch the contestants have to choose between Jerry and Dan. I was happy to see Jerry and Estelle at the end. They looked great! It proves that anyone can do it and it can be done at home. I love that show.

I am it!

2009-01-11T23:38:00.001-06:00

Mica tagged me! This was fun to fill out. I hope you enjoy.

4 Favorite Memories of 2008:

:: Finishing my 1st Triathlon

:: Camping at Big Bend National Park

:: Buying a car

:: Dinner at Uchi

4 Favorite Movies of 2008:

:: High Fidelity (I saw it in 2008....)

:: Spirit of the Marathon

:: The Dark Knight

:: Wall E

4 Favorite Foods of 2008:

:: Slow Churned Ice Cream

:: Chocolate Covered Graham Crackers

:: Laughing Cow Cheese

:: Soup

4 Places I loved in 2008:

:: Austin, Tx

:: Fredericksburg, Tx

:: Hamilton Pool

:: Lambert's (Fancy BBQ)

4 Things I Liked in 2008:

:: Running

:: Biking

:: Reading

:: Blogging

4 Things I am Looking Forward to in 2009:

:: Finishing a Half Marathon

:: Danskin Triathlon

:: Graduating from Graduate School

:: Getting a "Real" Job

4 People I Tagged:

:: Jen

:: Angela

:: Alisa

:: Jess

The Splits

2009-01-09T18:51:00.000-06:00

I forgot to mention that I recorded split times for my 3 miler on Wednesday:

Wednesday 3 miles

1st mile: 10:04

2nd mile: 10:12

3rd mile: 10:26

Total: 30:42

This morning I went to Town Lake and ran the same 3 miles.

Friday 3 miles

1st mile: 10:22

2nd mile: 10:11

3rd mile: 10:35

Total: 31:08

The times are consistent enough for me so I am pleased. I love my new watch. Also, I still felt pain free! Things are looking good. Around 5 I did the Zen in your Den and Pilates Abs courtesy of Hulu. In conclusion, it has been a great workout day. Now, I need to find something to eat for dinner. ASAP.

Woo hoo!

2009-01-08T18:18:00.007-06:00

You might notice that I have included some photos in this post... the lovely/amazing boyfriend bought me a camera for Christmas. :)

Lately, I have been having a few technical difficulties. In a single day, I washed my phone in the washing machine and my computer cord "burst" into pieces. I wasn't home but my mother swears it just "burst", quite random and it makes for a funny photo. Don't worry, I bought another one on my parents dolla. I am still working out the phone situation. I can make calls if I plug in the phone, sometimes.

Also, in running news, something good happened. Yesterday, I went running at Town Lake for 3 miles and guess what... I didn't feel any pain during or after the run! I was quite happy. Recently, I have been doing running and walking intervals. When I did 5.5 miles, I was a in some pain. So I was really pleased to run 3 miles (without walking) and be hurt free. I am still somewhat panicked about the half marathon. Its less than 6 weeks away and I still don't know if I will be able participate. If I can't, I have already been eyeing a half marathon in May..

I don't normally photograph my food, but I do read several blogs where people do.. and this morning my yogurt just looked adorable. Vanilla yogurt topped with fresh strawberries and granola. YUM.

This afternoon, I went to the outlet mall to return 2 things. One was at Nike.. I was going to go in and return the item (a gift I bought for someone and then found something better) and hurry out so that I didn't get sucked into the wonderfulness of the Nike outlet store and buy something. But those mofos at Nike scammed me. They gave me a 20% off coupon for anything in the store that day because I made a return. How is a girl to pass that up? I couldn't. I ended up purchasing this sweatshirt. I loved the color. It was already marked down 40% and then I got another 20% so with tax it was only $20 and some change! I am so happy.

The last time I saw the doc, he recommended that I not workout hard (aka run/elliptical) two days in row. I had done 3 days in a row last week and then my foot/leg was really achy. So today, I wanted to do some yoga. I did a 20 minute video from Hulu: Zen in your Den. Then I decided to throw in some abs too, Pilates Abs. The abs video was only 10 minutes. Both videos were from Exercise TV and I like them both! Surprisingly, neither one of the hosts were annoying. I think I will try them again. Both were beginner friendly, which is nice since I haven't done very much yoga and I rarely do abs. I am trying to do more though and these videos help!

Goodbye 2008, Hello 2009

2009-01-04T22:59:00.001-06:00

I am aware this post is 4 days overdue. But I have been busy drinking/sleeping/eating. I will recap those adventures later...

In 2008,

ran/walked approximately 350 miles
bought a bike
competed in 2 sprint distance triathlons
started this blog
ran 3 official 10ks
purchased/financed a brand new car
read 14 books

For workout info and major purchases, I think that is it. As for 2009, I hope to

PR in the Danskin Sprint tri (my 1st tri course)
run a 1/2 marathon
run/walk 400 miles
participate in a relay Olympic distance tri
read at least 12 books (an average of 1 book per month)

It is weird making year long goals. I can't remember the last time I did this. I hope I can keep them. Just the other day I told some one that I thought New Year Resolutions were stupid... some how, I just came up with 5. I like to think of them as goals and not resolutions. As the year goes on, they will filter into a month goal. (speaking of which, I achieved my December goal and maintained my weight. woo hoo!)

Hello 2009...

bootie bustin...

2009-01-04T21:54:00.003-06:00

HBBC week 4:
Thursday: stretching 30 min = 1 pt
Friday: stretching 30 min+ walk/run 5.5 miles = 6.5 pts
Saturday: stretching 30 min + elliptical 30 min = 3 pts
Sunday: walk/run 3 miles = 3 pts
total: 13.5

Recap:
week 1 = 11.5
week 2 = 22.5
week 3 = 6.5
week 4 = 13.5

HBBC TOTAL: 54 points

I am so happy that Amanda from Run to Finish hosted this Holiday Bootie Buster Challenge. I know that I am no where close to winning, but I still enjoyed the challenge. It is amazing to see how much people work out! I hope to participate in more blog activities because it is a good time.

Holiday Fun!

2008-12-26T22:13:00.004-06:00

Well as you can see from my last post, I have been enjoying the holidays! I had a few whiskey/cokes and 2 micheladas at Lee Harvey's in Dallas before that last post. The bar has fire pits outside and you can buy s'more materials. We didn't buy any that night but we have before. It is an awesome dive bar. We had a great time, hence the post. I was a little hungover the next day but I quickly got over it.

I have been quite busy with elf duties and enjoying the holidays so I haven't been blogging. I had a great Christmas. I got some clothes, some dishes, bike lights and a new running watch.

I have been slacking on my HBBC points. So far this week,

Thursday: stretching 30min = 1 pt

Friday: stretching 30 min + 4.5 miles = 5.5 pts

pathetic, I know. Also, I need to catch up on my blog reading. I am super behind! I hope you had a great holiday too!

this is an sos

2008-12-24T03:19:00.000-06:00

melinda is drunk. happy holidays.

HBBC week #2

2008-12-23T03:48:00.002-06:00

HBBC Week # 2

Monday: Spinning 1 hr + 30 min stretching = 5 pts

Tuesday: 30 min elliptical + 30 min stretching = 3 pts

Wednesday: 30 min stretching = 1 pt

Thursday: 3 miles = 3 pts

Friday: walk/run 3 miles (3 pts) + resistance bands 15 min (1 pt) + 30 min stretching (1 pt) = 5 pts

Saturday: 1.5 miles (1.5 pts) + 15 min abs (.5 pts) + 30 min stretching (1 pt) = 3 pts

Sunday: walk/run 2.5 miles (2.5 pts)

:: total = 22.5

On Sunday, I went walking with my Mom at a one mile loop trail. I was just going to walk with her but after one mile she said, "You are not even tired. Run." So I ran one mile and then walked a half mile with her again. I was really glad she encouraged me to run. I had encouraged her to come to the trail with me and get a workout in during the holidays. She likes to go walking but sometimes losses motivation. Too bad she doesn't read blogs. :) I ran the mile in 8:40 which I thought was great. I normally run slower but since I was just running one, I picked up the pace. I really hope I run that half I am signed up for.

It is really late but I can't sleep. I had a head ache but it seems to be going away. Also, I ate chick-fil-a tonight at the mall. I love it but I haven't had it in a really long time. I guess I haven't been eating any fast food lately. My tummy keeps making all of these weird noises. I think it's mad at me. As my boyfriend says, "There is a monster inside."

In other news, I still have several elf duties. I made the 2nd batch of chex mix tonight but I had to sub in garlic salt for garlic powder. And maybe used too much. The chex mix is too salty and terrible. I guess I could only make it perfect for so many years... I need to re-do the batch. I also have tons of presents to wrap for my family. I need to make fudge. Oh and a lemon pie. I still have 2 gifts to buy. Maybe instead of blogging I should get to work!

elf errands

2008-12-20T11:50:00.003-06:00

I am heading out the door to run a bunch of elf errands. But I wanted to post about my workout yesterday so I can keep track of my HBBC points...

Friday 5 pts -

:: walk/run 3 miles (3 pts)

:: resistance bands 15 min (1 pt)

:: 30 min stretching (1 pt)

Also, I saw Doubt last night. It was very thought provoking. The movie was good but I am not sure if it is "one of the best movies of the year" as some people are claiming...

Have great Saturday!

home!

2008-12-18T22:51:00.006-06:00

I made it home to my parent's house and it's nice to be home. On Tuesday, I watched the season finale of The Biggest Loser. I love that show. I have only watched the last few episodes but I am addicted. Everyone looked so awesome! Michelle lost 110 pounds! That's insane. I wish I could see the past 5 seasons.. So I missed my workout on Tuesday afternoon but then I watched the finale and I was so inspired I hurried to the gym! I was only able to crank out 30 minutes on the elliptical before the gym closed. Since finals are over, the gym has different hours. I was really glad I did.

I went to the physical therapist on Monday and Wednesday. I am feeling better about the whole thing and they said I could do running and walking intervals. Oh and I went to a spinning class on Friday. Tonight I tried running and walking intervals. It was nice. I used my parents treadmill which was nice. Also, I just found out they have On Demand! I am super excited. I think I'll try a yoga video (On Demand).

My mom turned 60 tonight so my brother and I made a delicious dinner consisting of:

:: pork tenderloin with balsamic gravy

:: roasted potatoes with rosemary

:: glazed carrots

:: brussels sprouts with bacon

:: butternut squash soup (not homemade..)

Yummy! I also baked a cake with 60 candles. Awesome, but almost a fire hazard.

HBBC Update:

Monday: Spinning 1 hr + 30 min stretching = 5 pts

Tuesday: 30 min elliptical + 30 min stretching = 3 pts

Wednesday: 30 min stretching = 1 pt

Thursday: 3 miles = 3 pts

Holiday Explosion

2008-12-16T22:40:00.001-06:00

OH my. I apologize for the lack of posting. But have no fear, this past weekend was a Holiday Explosion. First, let's recap the week... I went to physical therapy and had some tissue immobilization done on the ankle/foot. I really like the new Doc. He'd like to see me running asap. So he wins in my book. So my running spirits are back up! Thanks for all of the great comments on my last post! Now onto the weekend of fun!!!

The Nutcracker
The boyfriend and I went to see the Nutcracker. It was awesome! I love watching ballets. The dancers are soo impressive. We bought really cheap college tickets but it was still wonderful. I was so happy we went. Then directly after that...

Holiday Beer Potluck Party
We hosted a Holiday Beer Potluck Party. I only had a morning after photo...

it was a lot of beer! Everyone brought great beer and it was a wonderful party. My brother and three of our friends came down from Dallas as a surprise! It was awesome! We had so much fun. I was super happy they came and was really surprised.

Tacky Christmas Sweater Party
Saturday night was a Tacky Christmas Sweater Party and I believe the next picture explains it all. Please note, the boys sweaters were homemade... I love the photo of the boyfriend wearing a snowman and eating a snowman... love it!

Trail of Lights
Sunday, we ventured out to the opening of Trail of Lights held at Zilker Park. It's a 1.25 mile long display of lights. It was way too crowded. We should not have gone opening night.

Whew. Okay onto..

Bootie Buster Challenge Week #1
Monday: run 4 miles = 4 points
Thursday: stretching 15 min + resistance bands (arms) 15 min = 1.5 points
Friday: walk 1 mile = 1 point
Sunday: walk 3.5 miles + resistance bands (arms) 15 min + abs 15 min = 5 points

Total: 11.5 points

Not as many points as I would like, but I am still happy.

new header!

2008-12-15T23:46:00.002-06:00

I made a new header tonight! yay! It was my first attempt and I like it... but I don't love it.. I might make another one soon. I hope you enjoy!

Don't worry, a long post is on its way... I am sorry for the lack of posting!

what's up, doc?

2008-12-09T22:33:00.004-06:00

Today, I went to the foot/ankle specialist. But before I get into all of that, I ran last night at town lake trail. 4 miles (41:47) and everything felt okay. The boyfriend and I made Vegetable Lover's Chicken Soup
and was delicious, healthy and inexpensive. Only 291 calories per serving! I highly recommend it.

Onto the Doc, he thinks I have a different issue than the pernonal tendinitis and that he wouldn't sugar coat it, I have a lot of issues in my left foot/ankle. When I was 15, I broke my left ankle and I have hardware in my leg and ankle. So, I have issues. The Doc gave me a steroid shot in my foot and I can't work out for 7 days. Boo. So I am thinking about dropping out of the Holiday Bootie Buster Challenge. Sigh. Also, the Doc prescribed physical therapy. I go on Thursday. He said that I have chronic inflammation and that I need to take care of the issue now or it won't go away. My case is very unique. So don't worry, this probaly won't happen to you. He said that maybe I shouldn't be running that often or for that far because I need to think about the long term effects and how I want to be active when I am 40. In conclusion, I am kind of depressed about the whole thing. I was talking to Mom about it and telling her how I'm concerned since I am already signed up for the half marathon on Feb. 15th and I would rather not quit. She said, "Oh Melinda.. you shouldn't be so competitive.." I thought this was midly amusing because I am quite competitive and she knows that. I kind of regret that I didn't see this Doc earlier but I thought the pain would go away. Oh well. I guess I will just have to see how things go. The Doc had a lot of advice and hopefully, this issue will get resolved and maybe I can still run the half marathon.

Also, lately I have been watching The Biggest Loser. I just love it. It is so inspirational and I am so proud of all of the contestants. I also wish that Bob or Jillian would train me! Anyways, if you don't watch it, you should check it out. Especially if you are trying to lose weight.

weekly total

2008-12-08T11:00:00.002-06:00

Yesterday, I went to town lake and ran 3.5 miles (35:04) and walked 0.17 ish so that I could get a whole number for my miles last week...

Weekly Total: 14 miles

I felt okay with the run yesterday. My foot didn't bother me too much. I don't think I've mentioned this yet, but I've made an appointment with an ankle and foot podiatrist who specializes in sports medicine. I am going tomorrow and hopefully he can shed some light on this issue.

outrageous...

2008-12-05T19:25:00.008-06:00

Before I tell you what is SO outrageous.. let me tell you about my recent workouts.

Wednesday - 1 mile (on treadmill) + 45 min of "the toughest spin class of the semester" (where I almost puked.)

Thursday - 3 mile run/walk at town lake... left foot issues... not a good "run"

Friday - walk 3 min / run 30 min / walk 3 min = 3.33 miles on treadmill... decent run.

I went running on the treadmill today so that I could get a workout in since I was going to happy hour. I do love a happy hour. It was the last day of classes so me and a bunch of people from my department went to drink. Fun times.

On to the outrageous-ness...

Dean Karnazes

The man is out of control. and quite impressive. and somehow annoying too. Here are some of his accomplishments (provided by Wikipedia):

350 miles in 80 hours and 44 minutes without stopping (2005)
North Face Endurance 50: fifty marathons in fifty U.S. states in fifty consecutive days
inaugural South Pole Marathon in running shoes
148 miles in 24 hours on a treadmill (2004)
single-handedly completed the 199 mile Providian Saturn Relay six times

I started reading about him and its just outrageous. Did you see.. fifty marathons in fifty U.S. states in fifty consecutive days or 24 hours on a treadmill... I guess the next time I complain about running 3 miles on a treadmill.. I will just think of him. Speaking of.. here is his incredibly fit body from his Runner's World cover..

I do like a challenge..

2008-12-03T17:24:00.002-06:00

MicaPie tipped me off about the Holiday Bootie Buster Challenge hosted by Run to Finish and I do like a challenge... so I joined in on the fun. One time I had a competition with a friend to see who could workout more.. and let me tell you.. it didn't go so well. I was running and she was using the elliptical machine. We were competing to see who worked out the most via minutes. I am glad to see the HBBC has a point scale. :)

3 miles...

2008-12-02T17:02:00.004-06:00

Last night, I went to the track at my school and ran 3 miles (30:17). It was somewhat boring because the loop is only 0.25 miles. I had too much work to do so I couldn't get to town lake before sunset. I didn't want to run around my place because I've got a new plan. I needed a plan to deal with my tendon issues, ankle issues and really just my left leg because its 11 weeks -2 days until my half marathon. This is not how I wanted to train whatsoever. But I have to make the best of the situation and be grateful I have a left leg. So the new plan..

run only on trails/treadmills aka no concrete
wear an ankle brace
icy/hot the ankle and foot after running

I didn't run with the ankle brace yesterday but thats because I need to buy one. Also, I LOVE icy/hot. It smells and feels great. :) I think this will help with the left leg issues until the tendon regains some strength and my running can get back to normal. Tracks and trails provide a little cushion. The 3 miles felt good to run and I felt little pain. So things are looking up! I know the half is still far away, but I'm getting excited and I feel unprepared. I just wish I could have been running the past few weeks. But like I said, I've got to make the best of my situation. A pulled tendon is a lot better than a broken leg.

December Goals

2008-12-01T12:33:00.004-06:00

On a blog I found awhile ago, the writer would post monthly goals. I would site them but I can't find their blog again!Anyways, I thought it was a good idea. (EDITED!!! it was Girl on Top, silly me.) So since its December 1st, I've got a goal. I am starting off with only one goal.

December Goal: Maintain my weight.

You might say, "Man thats easy." But since its the holiday season and I will be eating/drinking everything in site... I think it will take some work. Basically, I just cant skip out on workouts. Also, I am going to try to eat healthy foods when I am not celebrating the holidays.

In blog news... you might notice I am capitalizing words.. jump back and watch out! This blog is improving.

I will post later about my Thanksgiving break.. and the horrible traffic.

Congrats to everyone who ran in a Turkey Trot!

Boo traffic

2008-11-30T17:50:00.000-06:00

happy thanksgiving!!!

2008-11-26T09:26:00.004-06:00

happy thanksgiving! i hope everyone is having a great holiday!

i knew i would gorge on turkey today, so i woke up and went running. i only made it 2 miles because my ankle started to hurt. the tendon in my foot felt okay but the joint part of ankle was aching. i am not sure why but i am starting to get really annoyed with my left leg. when i got home, i iced it and that helped but still... its annoying. hopefully, my left ankle/tendon gets it together soon so i can start running again! i miss it.

thanksgiving day has been great. i love food. we just got done eating. it was delicious.

recap of the week:

on monday, i started this week off right.. with a 7am spin class. it was a tough one too. the spin instructor was a little intense, as usual.

tuesday, i rested because my quads were hurting. i couldnt take another spin class.

however, on wednesday, i skipped my workout in the morning. sigh. all of the spin classes were canceled due to the break. so i was going to go to the gym and use the elliptical machine. but ended up working on my hw instead. oh well. then the boyfriend and i drove to irving (suburb of dallas) to spend thanksgiving with my parents. also last night, we (my brother, the boyfriend, and a few friends) went out to an awesome bar in dallas called the old monk. they had a very good selection of delicious beer! we also had cheese fries with bacon and jalapeno. its a holiday right? let's indulge. :) i had a black velvet (ace pear cider + guinness), a pearamasous (ace pear cider + maredsous 8), and a la fin du monde! they were very good.

okay, time for dessert!

workouts....

2008-11-23T21:48:00.003-06:00

so even though i was out of town this past week, i should have worked out while i was in boston. there was a gym in the hotel. i should have brought workout clothes. i feel somewhat guilty about it... i only worked out twice this week. oh well. it's okay to have a bad week here and there. it was just one week. ill be sure to work out this upcoming week because of turkey day, where i will eat everything.

tuesday - 2 miles (foot hurt)
sunday - 60 min spin class

i am still alive!

2008-11-23T19:12:00.005-06:00

first of all, i want to apologize for the lack of posts. i went to boston and did not have internet! in boston, i almost died... from the cold. it was colder than 32! i am not used to such cold weather. i am super impressed that people run in such cold weather. i think i might be able to survive if i was properly dressed....

so on monday, i offered an on-site interview for a company outside of boston. the boyfriend is also applying to this company and was already planning on going to his on-site interview on thursday. so i casually asked the HR person if they could book my flight around the same time as his... and she did! so i left early wednesday. therefore, we both got to go visit boston for free (hotel/rental cars/food.. etc) it was AWESOME. the boyfriend and i were really excited to see boston.

my friend's sister lives there so she hooked us up with a to-do list. i had most of a day free while the boyfriend interviewed so i did some shopping and checked out:

the little italy of boston (north end)
the back bay area, lots of shops
the freedom trail
boston commons

i will try to post pictures when i get them developed... i know "developed".. no i am not living in 1990, my digital camera decided to finally crap out on the trip. so i had to buy a disposable one. i will get digital copies, dont worry.

now i have a ton of school work to do before thanksgiving break starts. but it was worth it. oh also, i finished another book on the plane. i have actually been reading this book for quite some time. its taken me awhile to finish because it is a book composed of short stories.

it was really funny at times, but i didnt find it too engaging. i guess i just dont like short stories. i want a book that captures my attention so that i cant put the book down. i have already started another book and i have been captured. its too bad i have to work on school stuff... the boyfriend made curry chicken pot pie and it just finished. i must go now and enjoy a delicious dinner!

monday

2008-11-17T20:49:00.006-06:00

a few of my friends and the boyfriend wanted to have an "alternative" thanksgiving before everyone goes to their respective homes for thanksgiving. so we picked yesterday. however, it turned out to be just a regular thanksgiving. it was delicious. there was a turkey stuffed with 40 cloves of garlic (yum!), mashed potatoes, asparagus, rolls, stuffing, and the only thing non-thanksgiving.. dessert: s'more bread pudding, if you click the link, it calls for making chocolate bread. we just bought cherry chocolate bread from central market and it worked beautifully. but as usual, the turkey made everyone super tired.

on saturday i got this movie from nexflix: run for your life i went home and tried to watch it after thanksgiving but i fell asleep during part of it. also, i didnt think it was amazing. i liked the spirit of the marathon much better.

in other news, i finished another book.
and it wasnt that great. emily giffin has 3 other books.. and they were all much better. however, i still finished it. so i guess it wasnt too terrible. it was about a married woman who runs into an ex-boyfriend and then doubts her marrige. i would call it: depressing. and i am not one of those people who just hate the character, i just thought it was kinda boring too. i would recommend her other books. i loved all three.

3 miles...

2008-11-13T11:16:00.000-06:00

yesterday, i went for a 3 mile run. i had been looking forward to the run all day. i ended up leaving school late and got stuck in traffic on the way to the running trail (town lake hike and bike). so the sun was already "set" according to weather.com. luckily, the trail was full with other runners so i felt somewhat safe. the last have of my run was really dark. but i made it through without falling on my face. the foot felt fine during the whole run. it was actually a great run besides the fact i was running in the dark. then afterwards...

my foot started to ache. so lame. so i think ill keep doing my stretches and just take it day-to-day. today ill be going to spinning. i do love spinning. also, sometimes i just love the texas weather. i was reading some blogs where people are running in temps less than 32! yesterday, i wore shorts and a tshirt. :) hopefully, i get to run again this week... i guess i'll just have to wait and see...

weekend recap

2008-11-10T09:24:00.002-06:00

this weekend was filled with grad school social activities. on friday, my adviser took all of his students to happy hour. then we all went to a department bbq. saturday, i made cupcakes with my grad school friend. then on sunday, my adviser had us over to his house for another bbq! the cupcakes were for bbq#2. whew. it was good times but not the healthiest weekend food-wise.

in other news... saturday i went running! the game this weekend was at 11am and i woke up late so i was only able to run about 2.25 miles. my foot felt okay. at one point, it kinda hurt so i stopped and walked and the pain went away. i think i will do some light running this week. im just annoyed with my foot because.. i am ready to start training for my half marathon! i did still get in some good workouts because of spinning. my favorite spinning instructor always says,

"motivation gets you started. habit keeps you going."

and its so true. i went this morning :). also this weekend i watched a great movie. you should watch the trailer...

alright, im off to do work!

obama

2008-11-06T09:50:00.001-06:00

amazing...

tendinitis

2008-10-29T09:49:00.003-05:00

so last week, after my 10k, my foot started hurting. i went to the doctor because i didnt want to end up causing more damage by just working through the pain. i had read online it could be a lot of things, some serious. anyways, it turns out i have...

peroneal tendinitis

so i have to do some stretches and strengthening exercises and then i can run again. maybe in two weeks. until then, it will just be spin spin spin. and maybe a yoga thrown in. what can i say, i live in austin.. im practically required to do yoga.. oh and eat organic food. im a little annoyed about the tendinitis. turns out its common in weak ankles / feet. so of course it happend the left ankle (aka the bad one). its worthless. i would probably be better off with a pirate peg leg.