Another fantastic race for me! I ran the Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving morning with about 800 other people from the area. It was a good run with a challenging beginning.
The first third to half mile of the race was up a very steep incline. I kept my head down and just focused on keeping a good pace for myself. I passed a few people on the hill. I don't think a lot of people were prepared for the intensity of the hill. However, since I moved so well up the hill, a lot of people ended up passing me on the way down or throughout the rest of the race. I finished 99th out of 813 runners, with a time of 24:34. Not my personal best, but still good considering. I finished 6th for women in my age group too.
A lot of the Fentons ran/walked the route too. Pete and Kyle both completed their first 5ks with good times.
I've started tappering down on my running. I've taken 2 days out a week to do Zumba instead. It helps with the cold weather, and I find my muscles like the change. I'd really like to run a half marathon in the spring. I'm going to start looking for a half marathon and start a schedule of distances I'd like to accomplish each week. I am also hoping that with winter picking up the various sports will help strength my muscles for a longer run.
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
My First First
I am happy! And I'm proud to say that my happiness has been self derived. Life has been good. Work has been busy. And running has been great.
My latest race was about a week ago. It was another local fun run. It was a brisk Saturday morning, approximately 30 degrees when I left the house at 8 am. The race was taking place about 5 miles away. When I got there, no one else was around so I was afraid I had gone to the wrong place. After a few minutes, people started arriving, however, it wasn't very many people. Actually only 4 people ran the race. I guess that's what you get for small towns. I think more people would have run, except the route was right on the lake and the wind blowing off the lake made the temperature about 25 degrees. So I ran in full gear. Winter hat, running gloves, pants, three layers and a jacket. All running appropriately gear (wicking, etc.) but my face remained cold the whole time.
So the four of us took off. We stayed together for a few minutes and then two of us broke off ahead. I stayed behind the only other female running until we hit a hill. She slowed down. Since I've done quite a bit of hill running, I knew I could push ahead on the hill, and taper off coming down. I passed her, but I knew she wasn't far behind. I kept up my pace, but eventually I heard her behind me. Since I let someone pass me in the last race, it wasn't about to happen again. So I pushed harder than I ever have probably. I finished first out of all 4 people. My time was 13:37. After I finished, I tracked the distance of the run and it was 1.8 miles. It definitely wasn't the 5k I had signed up for but I was happy for the first.
The next run isn't until the Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving morning. I'm pretty stocked for the run, and I'm hoping in that time I'll have a faster pace for races. Right now, I am staying pretty steady at an 8:30 mile for most runs, short and long.
This weekend will be an exciting time. My Mom and Dad fly in Friday for my swearing in. The last time I saw them was Christmas and since then my Mom and I have both lost 40 pounds. She'll be staying with me for a few days while my Dad visits the rest of the family in Mass. We have a lot planned, so it'll be jam packed but definitely still fun. My swearing in is Tuesday. I'm actually getting sworn into the NH bar and the NH federal bar. Two different bars, but only one test. After that, they'll fly out Tuesday night. I'm pretty sure I'll be quite exhausted after all that but I'm excited just the same.
I'm also happy to say in what has seemed like chaos, I feel like I've finally figured out my social groove up here. Hanging out with new people and getting out more. Its been nice, and I'm hoping to keep it up.
My latest race was about a week ago. It was another local fun run. It was a brisk Saturday morning, approximately 30 degrees when I left the house at 8 am. The race was taking place about 5 miles away. When I got there, no one else was around so I was afraid I had gone to the wrong place. After a few minutes, people started arriving, however, it wasn't very many people. Actually only 4 people ran the race. I guess that's what you get for small towns. I think more people would have run, except the route was right on the lake and the wind blowing off the lake made the temperature about 25 degrees. So I ran in full gear. Winter hat, running gloves, pants, three layers and a jacket. All running appropriately gear (wicking, etc.) but my face remained cold the whole time.
So the four of us took off. We stayed together for a few minutes and then two of us broke off ahead. I stayed behind the only other female running until we hit a hill. She slowed down. Since I've done quite a bit of hill running, I knew I could push ahead on the hill, and taper off coming down. I passed her, but I knew she wasn't far behind. I kept up my pace, but eventually I heard her behind me. Since I let someone pass me in the last race, it wasn't about to happen again. So I pushed harder than I ever have probably. I finished first out of all 4 people. My time was 13:37. After I finished, I tracked the distance of the run and it was 1.8 miles. It definitely wasn't the 5k I had signed up for but I was happy for the first.
The next run isn't until the Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving morning. I'm pretty stocked for the run, and I'm hoping in that time I'll have a faster pace for races. Right now, I am staying pretty steady at an 8:30 mile for most runs, short and long.
This weekend will be an exciting time. My Mom and Dad fly in Friday for my swearing in. The last time I saw them was Christmas and since then my Mom and I have both lost 40 pounds. She'll be staying with me for a few days while my Dad visits the rest of the family in Mass. We have a lot planned, so it'll be jam packed but definitely still fun. My swearing in is Tuesday. I'm actually getting sworn into the NH bar and the NH federal bar. Two different bars, but only one test. After that, they'll fly out Tuesday night. I'm pretty sure I'll be quite exhausted after all that but I'm excited just the same.
I'm also happy to say in what has seemed like chaos, I feel like I've finally figured out my social groove up here. Hanging out with new people and getting out more. Its been nice, and I'm hoping to keep it up.
Saturday, October 16, 2010
Grantham Run for the Rec 5k!
I've happily and successfully completed my second 5k! The past few weeks, I've had some great runs. I've been doing longer distances and kept a pretty good pace. My longer runs usually have me running 9 minute miles, but that's fine with me as long as I can get through the distance. I've been averaging 15 to 20 miles a week, which seems to be a nice healthy balance. I've kept up with taking days off, because I've realized as much as I love running and hate taking a day off, my body needs the rest and I run better when I balance it out.
I woke up this morning a little after 6 am, already thinking about the race. I wasn't planning to get up until well after 7, but I usually wake up early when I know I have something exciting going on. I spent about an hour on the couch, watching re-runs of the OC and reading. It was a very relaxing morning. A little after 7, I made some coffee and had a bagel.
I wasn't feeling as pumped for the 5k as I was last time, partly due to the weather and partly due to a late night last night. I ended up being DD for a friend, which I didn't mind, except this morning on my way to the 5k, I saw that someone had hit my car. At this time, no one has come forward and I'm still steaming about it.
Anyways, I had breakfast and continued to relax. I left the house a little after 8 and made my way to Grantham. Its about a 25 minute drive into the country. On my way, I noticed that the mountain had its first white covering. We got some snow yesterday and it definitely stuck on the higher grounds.
I got to the race location around 9 and immediately saw Chris. We ran the last 5k together. And when I say together, I usually follow him and then towards the end he takes off. I did a lot more warming up today, since it was pretty cold. About 40 degrees out, but with the wind chill, definitely in the 30s. We also ran part of the course, because neither of us knew the route.
A little before 10, everyone lined up. I learned from the last race to get a good front spot, which I did again this time. At 10am, we took off. The first half-mile is all up hill, which is a hard start. But I pushed hard to the top, and I pushed hard. About half way up the hill, I figured out I was in 7th position behind 6 guys, so I was the first girl (I kept this as the motivation for the race). At the top, you turn off onto a wide, steep downhill dirt path. It was a rough run on the legs with the terrain. I was definitely afraid of either slipping on the wet gravel or twisting an ankle. The rest of the run until the half way point was a dirt road.
At the water stop, everyone turned around and ran the same route, except this time, you had to run up the rough dirt path. It was the worst. I've run hills, but this was hard and it was a long hill. I had a few moments that I thought I wasn't going to make it, but I pushed. I could hear women behind me and I was afraid they were going to pass me. I made it to the top, still pushing. The rest was a half-mile down hill on pavement. A little down the hill, SHE passed me! She congratulated me on the pace I kept but she perused right by. I was irritated that I let a woman pass me, but either way I was feeling good about my run. I kept close to her for the remainder of the run.
At the bottom of the hill, I heard someone else behind me, and I wasn't going to let it happen. I knew it was another woman and I was determined to keep my position. And I did. I flew to the finish line. I finished 9th overall, 2nd for women, and 1st for women in my age group. My time was 25:14, which was a minute slower than my last 5k but given the brutal hills, I am definitely happy with my performance.
Overall, I'm really happy that I've taken up running and stuck with it. There are days where I definitely don't want to do it, but I do. Its not just physically beneficial, its definitely beneficial to my sanity as well. Running gives me time to think about everything, and it keeps me focused on something other than the actual run.
Next up might be the Monster Dash on Halloween. Its another 5k but everyone runs in costumes. Its a debatable run, since I don't want to push myself too much. I have registered for the Sunapee Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving Day and I'm trying to recruit more family and Appleseed team members to do it too!
I woke up this morning a little after 6 am, already thinking about the race. I wasn't planning to get up until well after 7, but I usually wake up early when I know I have something exciting going on. I spent about an hour on the couch, watching re-runs of the OC and reading. It was a very relaxing morning. A little after 7, I made some coffee and had a bagel.
I wasn't feeling as pumped for the 5k as I was last time, partly due to the weather and partly due to a late night last night. I ended up being DD for a friend, which I didn't mind, except this morning on my way to the 5k, I saw that someone had hit my car. At this time, no one has come forward and I'm still steaming about it.
Anyways, I had breakfast and continued to relax. I left the house a little after 8 and made my way to Grantham. Its about a 25 minute drive into the country. On my way, I noticed that the mountain had its first white covering. We got some snow yesterday and it definitely stuck on the higher grounds.
I got to the race location around 9 and immediately saw Chris. We ran the last 5k together. And when I say together, I usually follow him and then towards the end he takes off. I did a lot more warming up today, since it was pretty cold. About 40 degrees out, but with the wind chill, definitely in the 30s. We also ran part of the course, because neither of us knew the route.
A little before 10, everyone lined up. I learned from the last race to get a good front spot, which I did again this time. At 10am, we took off. The first half-mile is all up hill, which is a hard start. But I pushed hard to the top, and I pushed hard. About half way up the hill, I figured out I was in 7th position behind 6 guys, so I was the first girl (I kept this as the motivation for the race). At the top, you turn off onto a wide, steep downhill dirt path. It was a rough run on the legs with the terrain. I was definitely afraid of either slipping on the wet gravel or twisting an ankle. The rest of the run until the half way point was a dirt road.
At the water stop, everyone turned around and ran the same route, except this time, you had to run up the rough dirt path. It was the worst. I've run hills, but this was hard and it was a long hill. I had a few moments that I thought I wasn't going to make it, but I pushed. I could hear women behind me and I was afraid they were going to pass me. I made it to the top, still pushing. The rest was a half-mile down hill on pavement. A little down the hill, SHE passed me! She congratulated me on the pace I kept but she perused right by. I was irritated that I let a woman pass me, but either way I was feeling good about my run. I kept close to her for the remainder of the run.
At the bottom of the hill, I heard someone else behind me, and I wasn't going to let it happen. I knew it was another woman and I was determined to keep my position. And I did. I flew to the finish line. I finished 9th overall, 2nd for women, and 1st for women in my age group. My time was 25:14, which was a minute slower than my last 5k but given the brutal hills, I am definitely happy with my performance.
Overall, I'm really happy that I've taken up running and stuck with it. There are days where I definitely don't want to do it, but I do. Its not just physically beneficial, its definitely beneficial to my sanity as well. Running gives me time to think about everything, and it keeps me focused on something other than the actual run.
Next up might be the Monster Dash on Halloween. Its another 5k but everyone runs in costumes. Its a debatable run, since I don't want to push myself too much. I have registered for the Sunapee Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving Day and I'm trying to recruit more family and Appleseed team members to do it too!
Friday, October 8, 2010
Everybody's Working for the Weekend
This week's been good. Been really busy at work, which is a nice change since it was so quiet this summer.
I started the process of applying for new jobs. I haven't led on to my boss that I am looking but with the summer work coming to an end, I have no choice. I've applied for two this week and will keep applying until I find something.
I've got a busy Columbus Day weekend planned with tons of work, and a few social plans here and there. I'm working two boats on Saturday and two boats on Sunday. Makes for long days, but the money's good and hey who couldn't use some extra cash. Secretly I'm planning on finally getting a new laptop and possibly an ipod touch after this weekend.
Running has been somewhat painful lately. I don't know if sometimes I've just pushed it too hard or what, but about once a month I have some ailment that causes pain when running. Right now its my left calf. Last month, I had the same problem with shin splints. I figure I'll take it easy for a few days maybe just do small runs every other day and pick back up next week.
I'm scheduled to run my second 5k next Saturday. Its another small fun run. My friend Chris is running this one again too, so I'm happy I'll have a running buddy, even if I'm just chasing his dust the whole run. I also signed up for the Sunapee Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving morning. I'm hoping that more of Team Appleseed will sign up too.
Its about a month until my swearing in and my parents' trip to NH. I'm more excited to see them than I am for the swearing in. The last time I saw my mom we were both 30 plus pounds heavier, so I think it'll be great to see each other so thin.
My wise words of advice for the week: if you're not happy, you're the only one that change that. Go out and do something about it!
I started the process of applying for new jobs. I haven't led on to my boss that I am looking but with the summer work coming to an end, I have no choice. I've applied for two this week and will keep applying until I find something.
I've got a busy Columbus Day weekend planned with tons of work, and a few social plans here and there. I'm working two boats on Saturday and two boats on Sunday. Makes for long days, but the money's good and hey who couldn't use some extra cash. Secretly I'm planning on finally getting a new laptop and possibly an ipod touch after this weekend.
Running has been somewhat painful lately. I don't know if sometimes I've just pushed it too hard or what, but about once a month I have some ailment that causes pain when running. Right now its my left calf. Last month, I had the same problem with shin splints. I figure I'll take it easy for a few days maybe just do small runs every other day and pick back up next week.
I'm scheduled to run my second 5k next Saturday. Its another small fun run. My friend Chris is running this one again too, so I'm happy I'll have a running buddy, even if I'm just chasing his dust the whole run. I also signed up for the Sunapee Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving morning. I'm hoping that more of Team Appleseed will sign up too.
Its about a month until my swearing in and my parents' trip to NH. I'm more excited to see them than I am for the swearing in. The last time I saw my mom we were both 30 plus pounds heavier, so I think it'll be great to see each other so thin.
My wise words of advice for the week: if you're not happy, you're the only one that change that. Go out and do something about it!
Friday, October 1, 2010
73 Miles!
Seriously, I've been tracking my running, including mileage, times, and my average running time for a mile. Over the course of September, I ran 73.13 miles! I wasn't expecting it to be that much, but I'm excited just the same.
I'd like to hit 80 for October but if I don't, I wouldn't be let down. I feel a whole lot healthier these days, and some days I can't believe what I looked like and felt like a year ago.
Besides running and spending time with friends, life has been pretty quiet lately. I've been meeting up with friends a lot more, which is nice, but I realized the toll of my social life when it took me over 3 hours to clean my apartment yesterday. This weekend its all about working, and getting my resume in order to begin the arduous process of job hunting.
I'd like to hit 80 for October but if I don't, I wouldn't be let down. I feel a whole lot healthier these days, and some days I can't believe what I looked like and felt like a year ago.
Besides running and spending time with friends, life has been pretty quiet lately. I've been meeting up with friends a lot more, which is nice, but I realized the toll of my social life when it took me over 3 hours to clean my apartment yesterday. This weekend its all about working, and getting my resume in order to begin the arduous process of job hunting.
Monday, September 27, 2010
Good News all Around!
Good news all around today! I got my NH bar results, and I passed! Relief has definitely come over me; I'm done with bar exams forever!!! Of course, jokingly, people have asked which state I'll be barred in next, but I'm serious when I say I'm done with these exams. The anxiety of studying, taking the test and waiting for the results is just brutal. I wouldn't put myself through that again, I promise!
I've started to look for something full-time, since my current position is only part-time. I'm still really interested in following something in family law. There is a child support enforcement position that I am really interested in. I need to start working on my resume again, and get myself out there.
I've had a good week of running, as well. I've done a bunch of short runs, but I'm ready to dig in for something longer this weekend, maybe 5 miles. Wednesday, I ran one of the usual routes, but cut it a little short. 2.4 miles, with an average mile of 8:15. Thursday, I ran a mile to softball (a 7:39 mile), played softball for about an hour and a half, then ran the mile home, on a different route (with an 8:05 mile). Friday, I tried anew route. Not new to me at all, actually, I ran down the road I lived on for 12 years, though I hadn't run that route yet. It was a nice change, and definitely a more grueling route. 3.67 miles in 32:25 minutes, an average mile of 8:49. Despite my tiny hangover on Saturday, I ran my usual Southgate route of 2.6 miles. And on Sunday, I set out for a longer run 4.33 miles, with an average mile of 9:29 minutes. I've definitely noticed that I do slow down on my longer runs, but I am still able to run them and finish them. Slowing down doesn't bother me, I'm just anxious to be faster.
I'm determined to run another 5k in two weeks, and then the 5k Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving. Right now, I am debating a 5-miler on Columbus Day weekend at the Warner Fall Foliage Festival. I don't know the route at all and I've been told there is a pretty serious hill involved. If I can run a few longer runs before then, I might just do it. I wouldn't register until the day of, just in case my body isn't ready to do it then.
The only serious issue I've had with running is taking days off. It literally kills me not to run. I enjoy that time so much that I crave it. I'm going to start looking for either a yoga class or a cardio class in the area, because I need something else on those days.
I've started to look for something full-time, since my current position is only part-time. I'm still really interested in following something in family law. There is a child support enforcement position that I am really interested in. I need to start working on my resume again, and get myself out there.
I've had a good week of running, as well. I've done a bunch of short runs, but I'm ready to dig in for something longer this weekend, maybe 5 miles. Wednesday, I ran one of the usual routes, but cut it a little short. 2.4 miles, with an average mile of 8:15. Thursday, I ran a mile to softball (a 7:39 mile), played softball for about an hour and a half, then ran the mile home, on a different route (with an 8:05 mile). Friday, I tried anew route. Not new to me at all, actually, I ran down the road I lived on for 12 years, though I hadn't run that route yet. It was a nice change, and definitely a more grueling route. 3.67 miles in 32:25 minutes, an average mile of 8:49. Despite my tiny hangover on Saturday, I ran my usual Southgate route of 2.6 miles. And on Sunday, I set out for a longer run 4.33 miles, with an average mile of 9:29 minutes. I've definitely noticed that I do slow down on my longer runs, but I am still able to run them and finish them. Slowing down doesn't bother me, I'm just anxious to be faster.
I'm determined to run another 5k in two weeks, and then the 5k Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving. Right now, I am debating a 5-miler on Columbus Day weekend at the Warner Fall Foliage Festival. I don't know the route at all and I've been told there is a pretty serious hill involved. If I can run a few longer runs before then, I might just do it. I wouldn't register until the day of, just in case my body isn't ready to do it then.
The only serious issue I've had with running is taking days off. It literally kills me not to run. I enjoy that time so much that I crave it. I'm going to start looking for either a yoga class or a cardio class in the area, because I need something else on those days.
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
I did it!
After a week of bad runs, horrible shin splints and feeling like my body was hating me, I ran my first 5k (3.1 miles) on Sunday and out performed myself. Throughout the week, I had horrible runs; my body just wasn't handling the runs very well and I was feeling very discouraged. So on Thursday, I decided I really needed to invest in good running shoes if I was going to stick with this. I went to this great store, Runner's Alley in Manchester, and they were amazing. I spent about an hour there trying to decide between two pairs, both of which were great, but just trying to figure out which pair was the best for me.
Thursday afternoon, I took them for a quick test run. Despite the pain in my body, I knew it wasn't a result from the shoes, and I was happy with my purchase. I knew though that if I wanted to do well on Sunday, it meant no running until then. I was nervous because it seems like anytime I take a break, I regress, and I didn't want that to happen on Sunday. So I didn't run Friday or Saturday.
I went to bed early on Saturday night, and woke up feeling refreshed and anxious to run. I arrived at the State Park around 9:30 and immediately ran into a few people I knew. I felt better, because I had gone alone and it was nice to see some familiar faces.
I didn't know where to set myself up. There were more than 200 people and I was afraid of getting bogged down by the crowd. Fortunately the people I knew suggested we head up to the front. When we were there, Jess had mentioned she had seen me running but hadn't seen me at the last local 5k. I mentioned that while I had been running for a little while, this was my first race. She asked what my goal would be for myself. I said I'd be happy if I could get to an 8:00 mile. The fastest I have been so far is a 8:30 mile. I knew 8:00 minutes might be pushing it but maybe I needed the challenge.
There were a lot of kids on the starting line, which I wasn't looking forward to. When the gun shot went off, it was pretty intense. I took off, running pretty hard. I was trying to stay on Jess's heels, because I knew if I could do that, I'd do pretty well. A lot of the kids dropped out quickly which became an obstacle course for everyone trying to get around them.
At mile 1, I glanced down at my watch. I knew I had been running hard, but I didn't expect my first mile to be completed in 7:12 minutes. I also knew I had to slow down because I was breathing harder than I expected and I wanted to finish this race. I kept Jess in my sights for most of the run; it became my goal to keep up with her.
At mile 2, I had slowed down considerably. My second mile was about 8:45 minutes. Which I needed to recover from the first mile, and to keep myself going for the final mile plus. Finally, I heard the crowds, the finish line was much closer than I had expected. So I started pushing myself again. My body was tired and I was breathing hard, but I knew I only had a little more to go.
Finally, after weaving through the wooded roads of the Park, the finish line was in sight and I was running. I just wanted to be there! I crossed the finish line at 24:15. My final mile plus was about 8:15. Doing the math, its about an average of a 7:49 mile. I've never run that fast, but clearly I was determined. Afterwards, I did a lot of walking around, chatting with people and trying to recover with food and beverages.
I stayed for a while, waiting on awards and all the raffles. I didn't win anything, but I won the accomplishment of knowing I could finish a 5k and perform well. My body was definitely sore the day after, but I recovered faster than I thought I would. By today, my shins feel great, and I'm ready to get some more miles in. I did take Monday off, and I ran yesterday. I was pretty sore, but I did my usual 2.6 mile loop in 22 minutes, an 8:27 mile, which is where I like to be.
The official results have now come out. I finished #31 out of 207 participants. I am thrilled with my performance and can't wait to run another 5k, which I've already put on my calendar for next month. Below is a link to the results page, if you're interested.
http://www.kearsarge.org/sutton/lib/sutton/Overall10.pdf
Thursday afternoon, I took them for a quick test run. Despite the pain in my body, I knew it wasn't a result from the shoes, and I was happy with my purchase. I knew though that if I wanted to do well on Sunday, it meant no running until then. I was nervous because it seems like anytime I take a break, I regress, and I didn't want that to happen on Sunday. So I didn't run Friday or Saturday.
I went to bed early on Saturday night, and woke up feeling refreshed and anxious to run. I arrived at the State Park around 9:30 and immediately ran into a few people I knew. I felt better, because I had gone alone and it was nice to see some familiar faces.
I didn't know where to set myself up. There were more than 200 people and I was afraid of getting bogged down by the crowd. Fortunately the people I knew suggested we head up to the front. When we were there, Jess had mentioned she had seen me running but hadn't seen me at the last local 5k. I mentioned that while I had been running for a little while, this was my first race. She asked what my goal would be for myself. I said I'd be happy if I could get to an 8:00 mile. The fastest I have been so far is a 8:30 mile. I knew 8:00 minutes might be pushing it but maybe I needed the challenge.
There were a lot of kids on the starting line, which I wasn't looking forward to. When the gun shot went off, it was pretty intense. I took off, running pretty hard. I was trying to stay on Jess's heels, because I knew if I could do that, I'd do pretty well. A lot of the kids dropped out quickly which became an obstacle course for everyone trying to get around them.
At mile 1, I glanced down at my watch. I knew I had been running hard, but I didn't expect my first mile to be completed in 7:12 minutes. I also knew I had to slow down because I was breathing harder than I expected and I wanted to finish this race. I kept Jess in my sights for most of the run; it became my goal to keep up with her.
At mile 2, I had slowed down considerably. My second mile was about 8:45 minutes. Which I needed to recover from the first mile, and to keep myself going for the final mile plus. Finally, I heard the crowds, the finish line was much closer than I had expected. So I started pushing myself again. My body was tired and I was breathing hard, but I knew I only had a little more to go.
Finally, after weaving through the wooded roads of the Park, the finish line was in sight and I was running. I just wanted to be there! I crossed the finish line at 24:15. My final mile plus was about 8:15. Doing the math, its about an average of a 7:49 mile. I've never run that fast, but clearly I was determined. Afterwards, I did a lot of walking around, chatting with people and trying to recover with food and beverages.
I stayed for a while, waiting on awards and all the raffles. I didn't win anything, but I won the accomplishment of knowing I could finish a 5k and perform well. My body was definitely sore the day after, but I recovered faster than I thought I would. By today, my shins feel great, and I'm ready to get some more miles in. I did take Monday off, and I ran yesterday. I was pretty sore, but I did my usual 2.6 mile loop in 22 minutes, an 8:27 mile, which is where I like to be.
The official results have now come out. I finished #31 out of 207 participants. I am thrilled with my performance and can't wait to run another 5k, which I've already put on my calendar for next month. Below is a link to the results page, if you're interested.
http://www.kearsarge.org/sutton/lib/sutton/Overall10.pdf
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Day of Rest
After a full week of running, 7 days and running 24.43 miles, I needed a rest. So on Monday, I forced myself not to run. I wanted to so bad, but I knew my body needed the rest. On Saturday, I ran 2.6 miles in 21:22 minutes (a 8:33 minute mile) and on Sunday, I ran 3.6 miles in 30:15 minutes (a 8:24 minute mile).
Today was the first bad run I've had. My shin splints really kicked up, and I was in pain during most of the run. I did 3.6 miles, a run I do often, but in 33:00 flat; the worst time I've ever had for this distance (a 9:10 minute mile). The time isn't the worst, but I wanted my day of rest to make my runs better not worst. Afterwards, I came home and iced my shins; they're feeling better now, so I'm hoping to have a good run tomorrow.
I'm also definitely feeling the stress of the pending bar results. Its only a few more days until the results come out, but it feels like a lifetime. I can't wait for September 24th to be here. Its also an exciting time for my friend Sara. The day after I get my results, her husband comes home for a two week break from Iraq. He'll deploy again until January, but at least she'll get to see him for a few weeks.
Today was the first bad run I've had. My shin splints really kicked up, and I was in pain during most of the run. I did 3.6 miles, a run I do often, but in 33:00 flat; the worst time I've ever had for this distance (a 9:10 minute mile). The time isn't the worst, but I wanted my day of rest to make my runs better not worst. Afterwards, I came home and iced my shins; they're feeling better now, so I'm hoping to have a good run tomorrow.
I'm also definitely feeling the stress of the pending bar results. Its only a few more days until the results come out, but it feels like a lifetime. I can't wait for September 24th to be here. Its also an exciting time for my friend Sara. The day after I get my results, her husband comes home for a two week break from Iraq. He'll deploy again until January, but at least she'll get to see him for a few weeks.
Saturday, September 11, 2010
Its official
I've registered for my first 5k, next weekend. I finally decided that since I can handle long runs I should be able to handle an actual race. Its called the Strut in Sutton fun run. Its around a beautiful lake and there's a party afterwards, lots of prizes, etc.
On Thursday, I did 3.6 miles in 30:00 (an 8:20 mile), and yesterday, I did 4.6 miles in 44:15 (a 9:37 mile) . I don't know where my time came from on Thursday, but I'm pretty proud that I can get myself to run a pretty fast mile. My pace definitely slowed yesterday as it was a longer run and since I've been running a lot this week, I was feeling a little bit of muscle fatigue. I think I'll do something short today, and then run a 5k tomorrow to see where my time is at.
I also decided that I'm going to need an iPod soon. Running without the music can be great, since it clears my mind. But running with music will definitely be good too.
Its a beautiful day out. I'm trying to be productive this weekend, but I think I'll definitely get out to enjoy this weather too!
On Thursday, I did 3.6 miles in 30:00 (an 8:20 mile), and yesterday, I did 4.6 miles in 44:15 (a 9:37 mile) . I don't know where my time came from on Thursday, but I'm pretty proud that I can get myself to run a pretty fast mile. My pace definitely slowed yesterday as it was a longer run and since I've been running a lot this week, I was feeling a little bit of muscle fatigue. I think I'll do something short today, and then run a 5k tomorrow to see where my time is at.
I also decided that I'm going to need an iPod soon. Running without the music can be great, since it clears my mind. But running with music will definitely be good too.
Its a beautiful day out. I'm trying to be productive this weekend, but I think I'll definitely get out to enjoy this weather too!
Thursday, September 9, 2010
Run, Forest, Run
As I mentioned in my last blog, I've been getting a lot of satisfaction out of running. Its extremely mind clearing. In fact since my iPod died a few months ago, I don't even listen to music when I run. Its my time to think about whatever is going on; it actually helps me to focus at other times, when I've made my run time to think about everything else.
Most days, I run in the afternoon after work. My main route has been about 2.59 miles, on some back roads, that include both paved and unpaved surfaces. My time usually stays between 22:30 and 23:00 minutes. The fastest I've run that route so far is 22:23, which is actually under a 9 minute mile, but I clearly remember being too sore the next day that I skipped my run. I was even dedicated enough during August that I even ran some days in 90 degree heat. Not the most sane idea, but I wanted to stick to it and see if I could make it a regular exercise routine for myself.
For a while, I was having a really hard time with shin splints, in only one my legs. Someone told me to run in the dirt for that issue. So after I few weeks of sticking to the dirt, I set out yesterday to do a long run. I ran 4.33 miles in 40:32. It averages out to about a 9:21 mile. I ran the entire time with no stops. I even ran uphill for about a quarter mile, without stopping during or at the top (like I promised myself I could, if I made it through the hill). I'm extremely happy with the time, given the distance, and it was first longer run. My shin bothered me a bit, but I pushed through.
I am also signing up for my first 5k. Its on Sunday, September 19th. I figure I'll do it, not make a big deal of it and see how I handle the pressure of a race and running with other people. Right now, I usually run alone. However where I run, everyone sees me and I get a lot of honking and waving. Its not the same as running with other people though. I think if I keep up the running for the next week and a half, I could get closer to a flat 9 minute mile than where I am now. I don't want to pressure myself, but I'd be happy if I had a good result on race day. I'll plan to run the route this weekend, just to see what its like.
Most days, I run in the afternoon after work. My main route has been about 2.59 miles, on some back roads, that include both paved and unpaved surfaces. My time usually stays between 22:30 and 23:00 minutes. The fastest I've run that route so far is 22:23, which is actually under a 9 minute mile, but I clearly remember being too sore the next day that I skipped my run. I was even dedicated enough during August that I even ran some days in 90 degree heat. Not the most sane idea, but I wanted to stick to it and see if I could make it a regular exercise routine for myself.
For a while, I was having a really hard time with shin splints, in only one my legs. Someone told me to run in the dirt for that issue. So after I few weeks of sticking to the dirt, I set out yesterday to do a long run. I ran 4.33 miles in 40:32. It averages out to about a 9:21 mile. I ran the entire time with no stops. I even ran uphill for about a quarter mile, without stopping during or at the top (like I promised myself I could, if I made it through the hill). I'm extremely happy with the time, given the distance, and it was first longer run. My shin bothered me a bit, but I pushed through.
I am also signing up for my first 5k. Its on Sunday, September 19th. I figure I'll do it, not make a big deal of it and see how I handle the pressure of a race and running with other people. Right now, I usually run alone. However where I run, everyone sees me and I get a lot of honking and waving. Its not the same as running with other people though. I think if I keep up the running for the next week and a half, I could get closer to a flat 9 minute mile than where I am now. I don't want to pressure myself, but I'd be happy if I had a good result on race day. I'll plan to run the route this weekend, just to see what its like.
Wednesday, September 8, 2010
I abandoned my blog
Inadvertently, I abandoned my blog about 6 months ago and I have decided to reclaim it!
A year ago, I made the 1,000+ drive back from Kentucky to long-time home of Bradford, NH. If there's one thing I can say about that is that it was one of the best decisions of my life. I have never been so sure that Bradford is where I belong. Although none of my family is here, most of my friends are in Boston or further away, Bradford has been very good to me over the past year. While I've been here, I've lost 40 pounds, I got my first legal job, quit my first legal job, and started another position, and generally begun to realize how much fun you can have in life. I've reconnected with old friends, made tons of new friends, and been able to embrace being happy.
So rewind to my last blog. I had just started working my first firm job and loving it. It went good for a while and then it went down the tubes. Unfortunately, there was a lot of political bullshit going on about what we were doing and how we were doing it. Instead of risking my license and all that I worked for, I very reluctantly resigned. I have to say it was one of the hardest decisions of my life. I felt like I was giving up without giving it enough of a chance. I cried and agonized over the decision. My mom wasn't very supportive and didn't understand everything that was going on, at first. But a few weeks after I left, she started seeing stuff in the NH papers, and soon realized, that I did the best thing I could have. My brother, on the other hand, was hands down there for me and supported my decision 100%.
After I left, the firm really went down hill. They eventually closed their doors, without warning to their employees, and left many people without jobs and the pay they owed them. It was then that I realized even though it was a hard decision, my decision was the right one.
About 3 weeks after I quit, during which time I was unemployed, I accepted a part-time position with a local county. I am now Assistant Legal Counsel for Hillsborough County. It stinks that its part-time, since I drive an hour and a half every day, 5 days a week for work, but the networking is good, and my boss is very willing to help me find a position when I move on. Fortunately, during the summer months, I also had the work on the boats to keep me busy and my wallet full.
As if I didn't have enough going on, I also made the decision in May to sit for the NH bar in July. So I did. It wasn't easy getting back into studying but I worked myself into a routine. I'd work every day til 12:30, get home around 1:30 and hit the books by 2pm. I'd take a dinner/running break, then hit the books again til 9/10pm. It was pretty exhausting, but I made it work.
The test was in late July, and I'll know in about 2 weeks how everything will turn out. I don't have a feeling one way or another, its just so hard to tell. I'm thinking positive and hoping for the best. If all goes well, I'd like to find something permanent and full-time, that's right up my alley.
In April, I also moved into a new apartment, instead of staying with my family. Its actually two floors above the bar, which can be very convenient at times! I also purchased my first new car. Brand new, 2010 Toyota Corolla. It was a big decision, but the Hyundai only had so much more to give and it wasn't fairing well through the winter.
During the bar, I started running. At first, I couldn't run very far. I'd stop and start again, but always trying to keep going as far as possible. Today, I can run 2.6 miles without stopping in under 23 minutes. This week, I bumped myself up to 3 miles and I've still kept a pretty good pace. 9:24 as of yesterday. I have run a few times under 9 minutes, but I'd rather be able to run consistently good days with average times, than have to skip a day because I've pushed it too hard. I enjoy it though; it gives me time to think and if I'm thinking about other things, I generally run better than if I'm focusing on my run
All in all, I'm pretty happy with where I am in life. Looking back on that horrible day in April when I received the news that I had failed the Massachusetts Bar exam, I wouldn't have pictured myself where I am today. But I have to say, even though it was hard facing that news, packing up my life, and moving to Kentucky, I'm more happy today, than I have been in a long, long time. A year can make a big difference, and it has for me.
A year ago, I made the 1,000+ drive back from Kentucky to long-time home of Bradford, NH. If there's one thing I can say about that is that it was one of the best decisions of my life. I have never been so sure that Bradford is where I belong. Although none of my family is here, most of my friends are in Boston or further away, Bradford has been very good to me over the past year. While I've been here, I've lost 40 pounds, I got my first legal job, quit my first legal job, and started another position, and generally begun to realize how much fun you can have in life. I've reconnected with old friends, made tons of new friends, and been able to embrace being happy.
So rewind to my last blog. I had just started working my first firm job and loving it. It went good for a while and then it went down the tubes. Unfortunately, there was a lot of political bullshit going on about what we were doing and how we were doing it. Instead of risking my license and all that I worked for, I very reluctantly resigned. I have to say it was one of the hardest decisions of my life. I felt like I was giving up without giving it enough of a chance. I cried and agonized over the decision. My mom wasn't very supportive and didn't understand everything that was going on, at first. But a few weeks after I left, she started seeing stuff in the NH papers, and soon realized, that I did the best thing I could have. My brother, on the other hand, was hands down there for me and supported my decision 100%.
After I left, the firm really went down hill. They eventually closed their doors, without warning to their employees, and left many people without jobs and the pay they owed them. It was then that I realized even though it was a hard decision, my decision was the right one.
About 3 weeks after I quit, during which time I was unemployed, I accepted a part-time position with a local county. I am now Assistant Legal Counsel for Hillsborough County. It stinks that its part-time, since I drive an hour and a half every day, 5 days a week for work, but the networking is good, and my boss is very willing to help me find a position when I move on. Fortunately, during the summer months, I also had the work on the boats to keep me busy and my wallet full.
As if I didn't have enough going on, I also made the decision in May to sit for the NH bar in July. So I did. It wasn't easy getting back into studying but I worked myself into a routine. I'd work every day til 12:30, get home around 1:30 and hit the books by 2pm. I'd take a dinner/running break, then hit the books again til 9/10pm. It was pretty exhausting, but I made it work.
The test was in late July, and I'll know in about 2 weeks how everything will turn out. I don't have a feeling one way or another, its just so hard to tell. I'm thinking positive and hoping for the best. If all goes well, I'd like to find something permanent and full-time, that's right up my alley.
In April, I also moved into a new apartment, instead of staying with my family. Its actually two floors above the bar, which can be very convenient at times! I also purchased my first new car. Brand new, 2010 Toyota Corolla. It was a big decision, but the Hyundai only had so much more to give and it wasn't fairing well through the winter.
During the bar, I started running. At first, I couldn't run very far. I'd stop and start again, but always trying to keep going as far as possible. Today, I can run 2.6 miles without stopping in under 23 minutes. This week, I bumped myself up to 3 miles and I've still kept a pretty good pace. 9:24 as of yesterday. I have run a few times under 9 minutes, but I'd rather be able to run consistently good days with average times, than have to skip a day because I've pushed it too hard. I enjoy it though; it gives me time to think and if I'm thinking about other things, I generally run better than if I'm focusing on my run
All in all, I'm pretty happy with where I am in life. Looking back on that horrible day in April when I received the news that I had failed the Massachusetts Bar exam, I wouldn't have pictured myself where I am today. But I have to say, even though it was hard facing that news, packing up my life, and moving to Kentucky, I'm more happy today, than I have been in a long, long time. A year can make a big difference, and it has for me.
Tuesday, February 2, 2010
Wild women do, and they don't regret it!
I'm three weeks into my new position, and so far I'm really happy. At my firm, we mostly focus on loan modifications and debt settlement. Most of my clients are my behind on their mortgage and can't afford to pay their mortgage and all their other household expenses. Through a federal program enacted by President Obama, Making Homes Affordable, if you can get a lender to agree to drop the mortgagee's payment to about 38% of their monthly gross income, this program will subsidize the lender the other 7% so that the mortgagee is only paying about31% out of their monthly gross income. While 31% may seem like a high amount, its pennies to what these people have already been paying.
One of my clients was just offered a trial plan, which is a 3 month payment plan, before their are accepted into a permanent plan, that will save her over $600 a month on her mortgage. That's an insane amount.
On top of that, a lot of our clients have serious amounts of credit card debt, and if they're not paying their mortgage, they definitely aren't paying their credits. So I also get to negotiate payments on their debts for pennies on the dollar.
Its really satisfying to help these clients, because they really do need the help. But its also incredibly frustrating to deal with a lot of these lenders. Its always a waiting game. You send something in, they don't upload into their system for 3 days. 2 weeks later, they tell you the form isn't right and they need a new one. And the process starts all over again. A lot of my clients have also already tried to negotiate with their lender or handle their own loan modification, only to be ignored and pushed away. Its incredibly frustrating that you sign a note for this large sum of money, and they'd rather not help you at all.
Its also frustrating because you wonder why on earth a lender would ever agree to giving a person a mortgage of this caliber. Sometimes it seems like they've been waiting for the mortgagee to fail all along. The flipside is though given our economy a lot of clients had no problem paying their bills and had plenty of money left over. But when the economy took a dive, a lot of people lost their jobs, had reduced hours, etc. Its not just that people agreed to a mortgage they could never afford.
I'm sure to anyone reading this, it screams out "NERD," however its actually gratifying when you can get a lender to work with you and you can help someone out their financial mess.
To make a long story short, work is going well. Its a lot of hours and it can be pretty intense, but I seem to handle it well and my clients seem to be happy with my performance. I also manage to make it to the gym about 4 days a week after work and I try to make it there one day on the weekend; however it is a 30 minute drive from home, so sometimes that can be pushing it.
One of my clients was just offered a trial plan, which is a 3 month payment plan, before their are accepted into a permanent plan, that will save her over $600 a month on her mortgage. That's an insane amount.
On top of that, a lot of our clients have serious amounts of credit card debt, and if they're not paying their mortgage, they definitely aren't paying their credits. So I also get to negotiate payments on their debts for pennies on the dollar.
Its really satisfying to help these clients, because they really do need the help. But its also incredibly frustrating to deal with a lot of these lenders. Its always a waiting game. You send something in, they don't upload into their system for 3 days. 2 weeks later, they tell you the form isn't right and they need a new one. And the process starts all over again. A lot of my clients have also already tried to negotiate with their lender or handle their own loan modification, only to be ignored and pushed away. Its incredibly frustrating that you sign a note for this large sum of money, and they'd rather not help you at all.
Its also frustrating because you wonder why on earth a lender would ever agree to giving a person a mortgage of this caliber. Sometimes it seems like they've been waiting for the mortgagee to fail all along. The flipside is though given our economy a lot of clients had no problem paying their bills and had plenty of money left over. But when the economy took a dive, a lot of people lost their jobs, had reduced hours, etc. Its not just that people agreed to a mortgage they could never afford.
I'm sure to anyone reading this, it screams out "NERD," however its actually gratifying when you can get a lender to work with you and you can help someone out their financial mess.
To make a long story short, work is going well. Its a lot of hours and it can be pretty intense, but I seem to handle it well and my clients seem to be happy with my performance. I also manage to make it to the gym about 4 days a week after work and I try to make it there one day on the weekend; however it is a 30 minute drive from home, so sometimes that can be pushing it.
Friday, January 29, 2010
The Deep End
Rarely do I blog about anything other than my life, but I thought I should dedicate some space to the new ABC show "The Deep End." I'm in love. The show depicts the life of first year associates, fresh out of law school, and new attorneys in the legal world. Its hilarious and so realistic, at the same time. So that's my plug!
In other news, I start my new job on Monday. I'm a bit nervous, because of all bad rumors about the office and the sole partner. Of course, once I have finally landed something, the requests for interviews start pouring in. I had another great interview yesterday at a firm in Quincy, that focuses on railroad law. Interestingly enough, my friend Susan recently left the firm. She enjoyed working there, but left for personal reasons.
Unfortunately, I stressed myself out about the interview, because I already have a job. I'm just nervous about what will happen, if this actually comes through. And then of course, I don't know if this is actually what I want. I'm not sure what I want, besides a legal job, where I can put my degree to work. Moreover, I'm freaked about moving etc. Its all stressing about things that haven't even happened yet, but it just let it all get to me!
Finally, some of the most exciting news is that I hit the 20 pound mark today. Actually its 20.5 pounds, but I'm happy all the same!
In other news, I start my new job on Monday. I'm a bit nervous, because of all bad rumors about the office and the sole partner. Of course, once I have finally landed something, the requests for interviews start pouring in. I had another great interview yesterday at a firm in Quincy, that focuses on railroad law. Interestingly enough, my friend Susan recently left the firm. She enjoyed working there, but left for personal reasons.
Unfortunately, I stressed myself out about the interview, because I already have a job. I'm just nervous about what will happen, if this actually comes through. And then of course, I don't know if this is actually what I want. I'm not sure what I want, besides a legal job, where I can put my degree to work. Moreover, I'm freaked about moving etc. Its all stressing about things that haven't even happened yet, but it just let it all get to me!
Finally, some of the most exciting news is that I hit the 20 pound mark today. Actually its 20.5 pounds, but I'm happy all the same!
Sunday, January 24, 2010
Day 20 of 20!
The title says it all. I've stuck to my workout plan and dieting for another week. Tomorrow starts the third week of South Beach, where I can move into Phase 2. There are more foods to eat and enjoy, however, I might try to stick out Phase 1 another week or two. I've seen really good results with the combination of South Beach and working out, so I plan to continue. I've lost an additional 3 pounds since my last post, so my total weight lost is currently 19 pounds.
Next week, I start working a REAL law job. Its almost unbelievable that I'll finally be working, using my degree. I'm excited and nervous about it at the same time. Either way, it'll be good to start working full-time. I'll also continue working the weekend at the restaurant; the extra money is well worth the time!
In other happy news, my mom got denied for lap band surgery. I know it sounds harsh that I'm happy about this, but I truly did not think this surgery would be the best solution for her. I think she's been really unhappy with her weight, so her solution was this surgery so it would be a quick and easy fix to the problem. Unfortunately, most people that make the decision to have lap band surgery as a quick fix, will gain the weight back, because they don't stick to the diet plan that's required after the surgery.
Even though, she's not going to have the surgery, she has been working out everyday and dieting with weight watchers. She seems to be happy with herself and her success so far. If she's determined enough, she'll reach her goals by working out and dieting.
Next week, I start working a REAL law job. Its almost unbelievable that I'll finally be working, using my degree. I'm excited and nervous about it at the same time. Either way, it'll be good to start working full-time. I'll also continue working the weekend at the restaurant; the extra money is well worth the time!
In other happy news, my mom got denied for lap band surgery. I know it sounds harsh that I'm happy about this, but I truly did not think this surgery would be the best solution for her. I think she's been really unhappy with her weight, so her solution was this surgery so it would be a quick and easy fix to the problem. Unfortunately, most people that make the decision to have lap band surgery as a quick fix, will gain the weight back, because they don't stick to the diet plan that's required after the surgery.
Even though, she's not going to have the surgery, she has been working out everyday and dieting with weight watchers. She seems to be happy with herself and her success so far. If she's determined enough, she'll reach her goals by working out and dieting.
Monday, January 18, 2010
Day 14 of 14!
One of my main goals of 2010 is to be truly comfortable with my body. So for the past 14 days, I've been working out almost every day, I've only missed 3 days so far. For the first week, I tried to diet by just eating less. That didn't produce a lot of results, so last week, I started the South Beach diet.
Its not as hard as people made it out to be. While there is a lot of food you can't eat, there's a ton of food you can eat. As of last Thursday, which was only day 4 of South Beach, I'd lost 2.5 pounds. Since I haven't weighed myself in since then, I don't know where I am at now. But I feel good, so I think that's all that really matters.
I enjoy being able to eat a lot of cheese and meat. The only things I really miss is potatoes. Any kind: white or sweet. After phase 1 of south beach, you can start eating sweet potatoes again, which I think will make me very happy! I did have a few instances where I found out after I ate something that it wasn't on the approved food list, but I don't think its going to kill me. I have deliberately cheated yet. If I've gotten through a week of it without cheating, I think I'll be ok.
Happily since May, which is a big measuring point for me, I've lost 16 pounds. I'm hoping to lose about another 15 pounds before the summer.
In addition to dieting, my workout routine includes the Biggest Loser Cardio Max DVD. I always thought workout videos would be a joke, but I have to say I sweat a lot while using this video. And as corny as it is, I like doing it. I'm looking to purchase another one soon, because I know the first 2 routines by heart now.
In other news, my mom is also working hard to lose weight. She got a Wii for Christmas and has been doing the Wii Fit a lot. But she's also currently applying to get the lap band surgery. I'm not crazy about this idea at all. I haven't told her how I feel yet, but I've had a lot of questions. I'm not crazy about unnecessary surgeries. I know she isn't healthy at her current weight, but I also don't think she's worked to find a good plan for her yet. She hasn't been approved yet for the surgery, so hopefully in the meantime she's going to continue working hard to lose weight on her own. I love my mom and want her to be happy, I'm just nervous about the surgery.
A good friend of mine lost her Dad during gastric bypass two years ago. I know gastric bypass is different than the lap band, but its risky surgery none the less. I'd never want to have to live through the nightmare she has.
Its not as hard as people made it out to be. While there is a lot of food you can't eat, there's a ton of food you can eat. As of last Thursday, which was only day 4 of South Beach, I'd lost 2.5 pounds. Since I haven't weighed myself in since then, I don't know where I am at now. But I feel good, so I think that's all that really matters.
I enjoy being able to eat a lot of cheese and meat. The only things I really miss is potatoes. Any kind: white or sweet. After phase 1 of south beach, you can start eating sweet potatoes again, which I think will make me very happy! I did have a few instances where I found out after I ate something that it wasn't on the approved food list, but I don't think its going to kill me. I have deliberately cheated yet. If I've gotten through a week of it without cheating, I think I'll be ok.
Happily since May, which is a big measuring point for me, I've lost 16 pounds. I'm hoping to lose about another 15 pounds before the summer.
In addition to dieting, my workout routine includes the Biggest Loser Cardio Max DVD. I always thought workout videos would be a joke, but I have to say I sweat a lot while using this video. And as corny as it is, I like doing it. I'm looking to purchase another one soon, because I know the first 2 routines by heart now.
In other news, my mom is also working hard to lose weight. She got a Wii for Christmas and has been doing the Wii Fit a lot. But she's also currently applying to get the lap band surgery. I'm not crazy about this idea at all. I haven't told her how I feel yet, but I've had a lot of questions. I'm not crazy about unnecessary surgeries. I know she isn't healthy at her current weight, but I also don't think she's worked to find a good plan for her yet. She hasn't been approved yet for the surgery, so hopefully in the meantime she's going to continue working hard to lose weight on her own. I love my mom and want her to be happy, I'm just nervous about the surgery.
A good friend of mine lost her Dad during gastric bypass two years ago. I know gastric bypass is different than the lap band, but its risky surgery none the less. I'd never want to have to live through the nightmare she has.
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