pictures

Here are a few pictures from our work Christmas party two weeks ago.

Dennis was off that day and came up to eat, very unusual.  Love the look on his face

 We had a pass the present game.  This is the look on my face when I realized one more pass and I would have gotten a bottle of Patron Silver.

This was a group picture, I cut myself out since I am not sure everyone would want their picture on my blog.  This sums up my feelings towards my boss perfectly!!

And a 'normal' picture.  Not sure if it is the boots or what but I look TALL

check it out

I just signed up for a virtual run for the Sandy Hook Elementary school victims.  Of course I can't verify that it is legit, but I am going to take the gamble.

http://www.active.com/half-marathon/tampa-fl/sandy-hook-elementary-memorial-half-marathon-and-5k-2013

It is virtual so the miles are done on the honor system from where ever you happen to be.  There is a link to the facebook page on the registration page. 

another addition to my list of running injuries

Went to the chiropractor yesterday to see what he could do to fix my ankle.  Turns out my ankle is fine, so is my knee for that matter.  The issue is my foot.  Seems as if it is collapsing inward. 

This is causing everything else to hurt because of the overcompensation.  He taped the hell out of my foot using regular medical tape instead of K-Tape (which is too flexible) and said that it is better than any brace or splint he could put on it.  Sure enough my inner foot is pretty immobile and the pain is much more tolerable.  I go back in on Friday to have him retape it and see if it is well enough for me to run a few miles on.

I had planned on starting the Barre classes this week but not going to happen just yet since I am suppose to limit the weight I put on my foot.  I guess it will wait until next week, since I am off most of next week it will probably work out better anyway.

On a totally unrelated side note, I never put a lot of faith in chiropractors, they tend to make a lot of claim that I don't think they can deliver on.  This chiropractor is an elite runner and has told me more than once to go to the ortho and have something checked out.  He does a great job with soft tissue and knows his limitations. 

OK, back to my regularly scheduled blog. 

So looking forward to next week.  I have my fingers crossed that they make Monday, Christmas Eve a paid holiday.  Who knows with the state of things, but it has been done in the past when Christmas is on a Tuesday.  I have the rest of that week off to do nothing and enjoy every minute of it.  Dennis is also off but I am sure he is going to be busy working on his new project, a 2006 wrecked Trailblazer that he bought off someone at work...we now have 6 cars for the two of us!  No matter what, it will be better than work!!

Hope everyone has a great day!!

you think I would learn

The half marathon wasn't quite a personal worse but it was probably in the top three (followed closely by trying to run a half marathon with whooping cough and the time the guy collapsed and died on the race course right in front of me).  But I got my bling!!

There was lots of things that I did wrong that I should have done differently and totally knew better going in, but I didn't and thus sucky finish time.  Oh well, it is done and I met some great people and got to hang out with some old running friends.  The worse day running is better then work, always, and it is what this stuff is all about isn't it?

My ankle is still jacked from a few weeks ago.  I ended up walking/limping pretty much the last 6 miles.  It made me appreciate how great I felt during the last half marathon in November that much more.  I NEVER got tired or felt like I needed to slow down at that one.  It makes you realizes that if you train like you are supposed to and listen to your inner voice about starting slow, leaving some energy "in the tank", and not letting people passing you worry you, you may just surprise yourself.

I am going to the chiropractor at 3:15 to have him work on the ankle and tape it up so maybe I can do a short recovery run tonight.

In weight news, it was way up but that is to be expected after a long run.  It totally doesn' count. 

So totally not related to anything band/weight loss/exercise, do any of you watch Dexter and/or Homeland?  I fell asleep pretty early on in Homeland so I can't wait to get home and watch it.  I am taking off early for the Dr. but I want to take off at noon so I can go home and watch it!!  Dexter, holy crap!!!  I didn't see that coming!  Next season is going to be amazing.

TTT

1.  I really feel like I need a fill.  I am able to eat pretty much whatever I want, as much as I want and  believe me, it ain't pretty.  Yesterday, if it wasn't tied down I ate it.  I know my doctor won't give me a fill but I know I would feel better if I had a little more restriction to control my insatiable need for food through the holiday season.

2.  Tomorrow is the Christmas party for the building.  A bunch of people are bringing their kids to work with them.  Have I mentioned on here that I am not much of a kid person?  My friends 1 1/2 year old old little girl is OK because I am around her and she isn't a whine bag but some of the other people I work with have horrible kids that act like they have never been in a public place before.  Between that and the food, I am not looking forward to it.

3.  I haven't ran over 3 miles in 3 weeks and Sunday I am running a half marathon.  This could be interesting.  I know I can do it but it might not be pretty.  At least I know I will get in a long run this week.

4.  I am finally going to get my hair done Saturday.  I am pretty sure I am going to cut it short again.  I am tired of having to flat iron my hair everyday, I want something I can just put some styling product on and go. 

5.  Tonight is going to be super busy.  I have to pick up some prescriptions, pick up my running packet, go to my parents house and get some food they made for me to take to the party at work tomorrow (I don't really cook) and get my B-12 shot.  Of course none of these things are even remotely close to each other.  I hope to be able to make it to the pharmacy at lunch so I will have one thing off my list.

6.  I still don't have a gift or an idea for a gift for Dennis.  He is just so hard to buy for.  Its so not fair because I am so easy to shop for.  I ask him what he wants and he tells me he doesn't need anything.  Well hell neither do I but I would LIKE to have an IPhone 5 or the new Kindle.  I am telling him not to get me anything since my tooth is going to cost over $3,000 when it is over with. 

7.  Ha, all I want for Christmas is my #13 premolar tooth.

8.  Looking forward to a short break from work.  I took off the three days after Christmas.  I really hope the President gives us Christmas Eve off.  Although unlikely with the state of things, it has happened before. 

9. I got into a discussion with Dennis last night about how fat I feel.  He told me I am not allowed to say that anymore.  So lets just say I feel unhealthy today.  I really need to start taking better care of myself.

10.  Side zip pants SUCK.  I found a pair that I bought over the summer at Ann Taylor Loft really cheap but put up because 1) they were a little tight and 2} they are winter weight.  I went to put them on this morning and they are a little big but I still managed to zip a nice little chunk of skin into the zipper!!  I have a little bruise there now.  But the pants are super cute.  Remember, it's not how you feel, it's how you look that really matters ;)

who took my mojo

So I am running a half marathon on Sunday.  Ask me how much I have ran since the last half marathon about 3 weeks ago....about 3 miles.  I am a slacker.  I know I will get through the run but not so sure how I will feel afterward.  I  am not even making a time goal, just going to run and hope for the best.  I doubt my friend runs it, she told me she didn't have the money and would have to bandit the run but I haven't heard from her since.  No big deal.  I see myself more of a solo distance runner anyway.  Yesterday I kept having to remind myself that the run is this week, not next.  oy.

I took off work yesterday to get some stuff done and fell like I got a lot accomplished.  I saw the oral surgeon and he said everything looks good.  I told him that I have a slight metal taste in my mouth and he said that is normal and I will get used to it.  Um, yea?  I thought he would tell me to come back in a couple of weeks and we would start the second step.  Nope, I don't go back until April!!  I won't get a tooth for probably 6 months!!  I have had family members who got implants and they literally pulled the teeth and set the implants that day.  I am not sure why this is different, although it does seem safer this way in my mind.  Oh, and I can eat whatever I want again so my weight should come up a little.

My work mojo has joined my exercise mojo in the beyond.  I have a lot to do but really just don't care.  I had my performance appraisal on Monday and as I expected it wasn't as good as last year.  I told my supervisor that I am perfectly away of how my performance has been lacking and there is nothing she can say that I wasn't already aware of.  She told me that she is aware that I have had family issues but she expects more out of me next year.  It was painless.  Probably no bonus this year but whatever.  I know I haven't been working at the lead level lately.  I went in knowing all of this was going to happen.  I do have to step up though and start doing better.  I don't want to be demoted back to a lower level, even though I have talked about it some this year just to get rid of some of my stress.  I don't want to make less money.

Speaking of family issues, my mom has chemo today and it is my sisters turn to go up there.  Well she is sick, running a fever, so I told her to skip it this time.  I called my mom and talked to her and asked her if she wanted me to come up at lunch and bring her something.  She said it wasn't necessary and that my dad can go get something.  My dad goes with her every time but he can't sit still and ends up pacing in the lobby instead of sitting back with her.  Since I only have like $8 to my name until payday tomorrow food options are greatly limited.  Anyway, it looks like I might be taking more time off work this afternoon to take her something to eat.  The cancer place isn't that far away but it is located on a medical corridor and the traffic is horrible, then there is the construction.  I usually take half a day off because by the time you get there you might as well stay until she is finished because it takes so long to get in and out. 
I got a massage yesterday from a guy who I swear had had softer hands than any woman I have ever been to.  I am the kind of person that like to feel like I have had a good work out when I leave a massage.  This guy, not so much.  He did do some stretches and made my ankle and knee feel better.  But I want my muscles to be sore the day after and I can't even tell that I had a massage.  Oh well, it was a groupon and you get what you pay for.  I went to a girl for years who I loved, actually had me almost jumping off the table with some of her IT band stuff but I felt so much better afterwards.  But she moved and I have yet to find a replacement.  Back to the Groupon and Living Social drawing board.

Alrighty then, I guess I better get on that work stuff....

Let me tell you about my Port

My port sticks out.  It kind of looks like a golf ball under my skin.  It isn't so bad when I am sitting down and the skin kind of covers it, but when I am standing up and especially when I am laying down, there it is. 

The surgeon said that he put a low profile port in but he was going to check and see if there was something else he could replace it with.  I am not sure I want to undergo all that, plus the expense of having to have it done would be totally cosmetic and I am not sure I want to spend the money for it.  I know I don't want to have to go under anesthesia for it.  I am probably strange (ok I know I am strange) because I can of take comfort in looking down and seeing that little buldge.  When I am nervous I kind of rub on it.  It is a good luck charm that has helped me reach a goal that I would have never reached if not for its help. I am just kind of worried that my mother will see it and freak out because she will think I have a tumor (she doesn't know about the surgery).  I try not to wear anything that would show my stomach when I go to my parents pool.  She is really bad about walking into the dressing room with me at stores so I am careful to turn away from her.  But what if I forget?

I understand that a lot of the problem is that I am down to 108, of course things are going to stick out more than normal. 

So, can you see your port?

Come on weekend

I swear by all things holy this day will never end!!  I am so burned out at work it isn't even funny.  But before I vent about work issues I did get in a run yesterday!! 

I have never ran the work neighborhood by myself, my work running friend goes with me, I run with the running club, or I wait until I get home.  Well it is too dark to run after I get home and if I run from work I can change, run, and be home before the running club even starts.  Not to mention the running store is on the other side of town.  I have no clue how far I went, I kept screwing up my Garmin.  I almost freaked out when I looked down and it said I was doing a 39 m/m pace, um, no!!  Ended up cutting the run a little short because it started to get dark and there are some creepy apartments that we run by.  To add to that, my right side was really tight.  Once I got warmed up my right ankle started to hurt.  I probably shouldn't have ran on it but I did.  Maybe 2.5 miles?  Who knows.  Today my ankle is still sore and I catch myself walking on the outside of my foot which will screw up my knee.  I am taking off on Tuesday so if it isn't any better I will call the chiropractor and have him work his magic.  He can tape it up so maybe it won't be as sore for the half marathon next Sunday.  Probably won't be doing any long runs this weekend.

Work is driving me nuts and it really shows in the quality of my work.  There is no excuse for it really, I haven't been screamed at in two weeks.  I think I am just checked out.  I turned in a document today and even proof read it and my supervisor gave it back to me with a bunch of formatting problems.  Since I am a lead I that shouldn't be happening but I just didn't look at the formatting.  The really bad thing is, it is performance appraisal time.  I know I am going to get a do better speech and I just don't want to hear it.  I probably need to start looking for another job but it is so hard when you work for the gov.  I really want to move but not possible with the dogs and the significant other.  Plus having a parent going through chemo.  Maybe I need a B-12 shot?  I do have pernicious anemia which can cause "brain fog".  I will give myself a shot when I get home, or better yet I will go to the walk in clinic and let them give me a shot.  It is worth the $10 they charge not to have to stab myself in the thigh.

I have a lot of things to do this weekend.  I am going with HMF to a holiday market downtown at some point tomorrow but not sure when since she is going to the TU basketball game.  Grocery shopping is a must.  We have no real food in the house and I have eaten out every day for lunch this week.  Thankfully I don't eat a lot for dinner.  Need to make Christmas cards with the pictures I posted yesterday and get them sent out.  Oh, and don't forget Christmas shopping.

Tuesday is my follow up with the oral surgeon.  I turned in for leave all day.  I hope I can get a lot done.  I don't think the dentist is going to actually do anything besides look and see how my mouth is healing and schedule me for the abutment.  Can't wait for that, it is going to look wicked strange.

Ok, enough of my negative rants.  I hope you guys have a great weekend.

TTT bandwagon

1.  We had our Christmas dinner yesterday at work.  The food was amazing.  Chiefy bought two smoked turkeys from a local BBQ place and it was one of the best I had ever eaten.  When we were cleaning up yesterday there was a half a turkey that hadn't even been carved.  I was so looking forward to eating it for lunch.  Well some asshat TOOK ALL THE TURKEY!!  I am not sure if it was one asshat or multiple asshats but who does that?  It would be different if they had bought it but nope, they just helped themselves to some awesome turkey.  There are a few of us in the office that are pretty mad about the whole thing.

2.  My work running friend isn't running tonight so I am going to run the work route solo for the first time ever.  It is just so freaking dark so early.  Plus if I go home the odds are that I get interested in Dr. Phil or some mundane thing and than Dennis gets home, than we eat, by that time the day is just shot.  So, I am running by myself.  I have my ICE dot bracelet on so if anything happens they will have all of my medical information.

3.  I am creeping people out by listening to the Handel's Messiah station on Spotify. Coming from the desk of someone who usually listened to things like Nine Inch Nails and Tool people are really worried about my music choice.  But I was in choir in high school and we always did a Messiah performance which made everyone in my family want to slit their wrists.  Makes me think of Christmas....not sure which one but I love it none the less.

4.  Speaking of dark creepy things  (we were weren't we?) I love the new show on SyFy called Deals from the Dark Side, about a guy who buys and sells historical torture devices from antique stores.  There is no limit to how cruel people can be.  I went to an exhibit in 2008 in McAllen, TX of all places that featured torture devices though out history.  It both intrigued me and made me sick to my stomach at the same time.  What the strange thing is, I hate to watch overly violent movies because they make me sick.  Yeah, I know I can't figure it out either.

5.  This is my Hunter at his Christmas pictures.  I am supposed to get an 8X10 but I am so impatient.  The place that took them is called Wild Heart Ranch, it is a wildlife rehabilitation place.  They were on PBS Nature last month about strange animal relationships.  They had a deer and a blind Golden and a horse and a goat that were inseparable.  After my half marathon next week I really want to start volunteering with them.  I used to volunteer with dog rescue but I am a) a foster failure.  I just can't let them go once I have bonded to them - which is why I have 7 dogs. b) got tired of the people.  Most animal people are not people people so personalities tend to get in the way of helping at times.  I had enough of that and figured I had enough dogs at home that I really didn't have time to devote to others.  I really miss it sometimes.  Regardless, Hunter is the bestest dog in the world (my first) and at 11 years old is still a little monster at times.

6.  My work running buddy had her husband drop off their 16 month old little girl  for a few minutes while he was running errands.  She is so freaking cute.  I am not a kid person, but this little thing is just so freaking cute!!  Since I don't want any of my own I just use her as my fill in kid.  She is spoiled rotten.  Kind of sad that she doesn't remember me though, I haven't seen her in a few months.  I think we should have manditory puppy/toddler breaks at work to make the day better.

7.  My I haven't gotten in trouble at work for probably two weeks, although there was a note on my desk this morning that asked me if I had changed my hours since I have been about 15 minutes late a few days.  OK, maybe more than a few days.  I am going to have to stop going to Sonic for a drink before work.  It just takes way too long. 

8.  Is it bad to send out pictures on Christmas cards that were taken in the summer?  I don't want to use an old picture but the only good recent pictures we have are from the ones we had done on my one year bandiversary and I am in shorts.  These are the ones I am talking about...

9.  I really need to get my hair colored but I just don't want to take the time or spend the money.  Last time I just went to Ulta and bought some OTC stuff and did it myself.  Dennis likes my hair a little less vibrant than I do.  My stylist is a little on the edge so she has a hard time reining it in.  I like it bright but since Dennis has agreed to not grow a mustache and beard this winter I would keep my hair in a more natural color.  As soon as the facial hair comes back the bright copper will return.

10.  I ate tacos for lunch.  Don't tell my oral surgeon.  I am not supposed to have anything that can break off and "stab" the screw in my mouth.  I swear I picked the worse time of the year to do this.  I go in on Tuesday and have him look at it and make sure everything is healing alright.  I am thinking about taking the entire day off work and go to the mall Christmas shopping without the weekend crowd.  I am holding my breath that he says I can eat whatever I want.  I love Mexican food and can't be trusted around the chips.  I WILL eat them.  I am drooling all over my keyboard just thinking of chips and salsa.  But I digress.  I am not sure when I will get to the next step in the process, having the abutment put in, I guess it depends on how well I am healing?  My jaw/gums/face is still a little swollen.  It looks so freaky...

You can see Marcy Pants in the background very concerned about why Daddy was so far up in her Mom's grill.  She is my dog for sure.

another holiday party

I broke down and weighed at work yesterday.  I was wearing my dress and lacy leggings so it was as close to naked as I would get in the locker room.  My weight was 110.8!!  I am really shocked.  After I had fluid removed I keep waiting for the day when I start to gain but so far that hasn't happened; thank God.  Maybe my metabolism is finally normal for the first time in my life?  I know that I eat like a "pig" some days, but it isn't like it used to be.   I don't clean my plate or go back for seconds, it is just more than I am normally able to eat.  The doctor said if I go below 110 I HAVE to have fluid removed.  So I haven't called to make an appointment like I am supposed to for December.  In my defense, I am also broke because of Christmas and the dental surgery.  I will call and get in after the New Year.  I must admit, it feels good not to be really stressed out about my weight for the first time ever.

Today is our Christmas party at work.  We have a lot of really bad food.  I know I will eat it but I just have to keep it in moderation.  I doubt I will be eating dinner tonight after all the food we will have here.  Dennis is supposed to come up for the lunch, I know he will keep me in check, lol.

I was supposed to run last night but my HMF text me and wanted me to go to dinner for my birthday (a month late).  It was fine and we talked a lot but I kind of wish I would have stayed and ran and told her we would have to meet up another day.  All these people kept running in front of the restaurant and I felt really bad for skipping.  Especially since I ordered chicken strips and they were the frozen kind you get from any fast food place for a fraction of the price.  I should have ordered the pasta.  Oh well.

I will run either today or Thursday.  It depends on how cold it is because I didn't bring anything for cold temps. 

I really don't have a whole lot going on.  Work is great this week.  Next week should be good, our Company party is Friday and we literally don't do a damn thing all day.  I also have my dentist appointment on Tuesday to have my screw checked.  I have my fingers crossed that he will tell me I can eat whatever I want.  There will be Mexican food in my near future if that is the case.  I really love chips and salsa and can't be trusted around it.  Come to think of it, I am tempted to take off all day and get some shopping in.  Hum....

nightmares

Yesterday I went to a Christmas party for the Ham Radio club Dennis is involved in.  I ate A LOT.  What can I say, I never get tired of turkey and dressing, mashed potatoes and gravy.  I didn't go back for seconds and I only ate two bites of the chocolate delight, aka better than sex, they served for dessert. 

Not sure if it was the dinner or the happy meal (about 3/4 of a burger) I had for lunch, but I dreamt that I had gained back a lot of weight.  Funny thing is, it was in my legs and butt and I am for sure an apple shape with toothpick legs.  Regardless, I woke up almost in tears.  Maybe a warning to slow down a little over the holidays or just a random dream?  Who knows? 

I am going running after work today.  Even if my work running buddy can't go I will go by myself.  It is just too dark by the time I get home and get the dogs settled.  It is way dark when I get home.  I am not fond of running around my neighborhood in the dark.  I have safety equipment out the yingyang but it is still scary. 

One more hurdle this week.  Tomorrow is our work party for the office.  The boss is providing smoked turkey and everyone else is bringing sides.  I am sure it won't be diet friendly in the least.  I am also limited in what I can eat because of the tooth situation.  That takes anything crunchy out of the equation, but it will be a struggle for me to stay away from the chips.  Dennis has to take a day off this week and I told him to take off Wednesday and come eat so he can keep me honest.  I swear he is like a prison warden.

impulse control

So, I just signed up for a half marathon December 16th mostly on a whim.  I text messaged the girl I met at the Joplin Half earlier this year and she is going to run with me.  She tried to run Route 66 but didn't finish because she is coming back from a stress fracture.  This run is on the river trail so it will be mostly flat until the last mile or so.  Not exactly sure what I was thinking.

I went Christmas shopping yesterday and bought myself two pairs of shoes, two shirts and a dress, icebreaker socks, and Coach perfume sticks.  I seriously have to stop doing that.  I suck at Christmas shopping!  I have no clue what to get anyone.  I picked up a pair of icebeaker socks, some sports socks and a Titanic documentary DVD for Dennis, but I gave them to him when he got home.  Again I suck at Christmas.  I can't wait to give people the stuff I bought them.  I won't see the in-laws until Christmas so when/if I find stuff for them I won't have a problem keeping it.  When I got home from shopping I went on Pintrest and found a lunch crock pot on SIL's board.  I went on Amazon and bought one.  I hope she doesn't have one already, she never likes anything I get her anyway, but that is a story for another day.  Our work party is Wednesday so I had to get a dirty santa gift for that.  I ended up getting two DVDs, one that has Sixteen Candles, The Breakfast Club, and Fast Times at Ridgemont High the other DVD is Office Space. 

My 'tooth' is healing nicely.  Dennis has to look at it every day and offer to tighten the screw for me.  Really getting tired of eating soft foods (sound familiar).  I would love to go out and eat Mexican but I can't be trusted around chips and salsa, or pizza!! 

OK, Dexter just came on so I am signing off, only two left this season after tonight.

I broke down and weighed last night on my questionable scale.  With my clothes on, which included heavy socks, crocs, and fleece pj's I was 113.  This was right before bed so I am not as stressed out about it as I was at the beginning for the week.  My doctor told me that I may have to eat 2,000 calories a day to maintain but it just seems like so much sometimes.  Probably good I had some fluid removed.

I am really tight right now.  Not really sure why.  The band is so fickle, one day I can eat the side of a cow and the next I can't even eat a cracker without feeling stuck.  Today is going to be another tight day, I can feel it already.  Now, what to eat for lunch?

This weekend I have got to start Christmas shopping!!  I still haven't bought any presents, unless you count the Christmas CD I bought for my mom on amazon.  I will give it to her the next time I see her since it is a Christmas CD. 

My "tooth" is doing better.  One of my stitches came out last night while I was putting Orijel on it with a q-tip.  I kind of freaked out a little.  I called the oral surgeon this morning and he said not to worry about it.  In a way I was looking forward to taking off work early to have it fixed.  How sad is it that I would rather be at the oral surgeon than at work.

Speaking of work, I am the whipping boy of choice for our chief lately.  Nothing I do is right and everything I haven't done is essential and should have been done weeks ago.  Yet they keep giving me crap.  It is frustrating.  What really sucks is it is time for our performance appraisal so his pointing out my every perceived flaw is not going to get me a bonus.  Asshat.  Not to mention it is doing wonders for my self esteem.  So glad he is retiring this summer.  I just have to hang in there until then.  Maybe he will transfer me to a different division to get rid of me since I am so worthless!!

So, I probably better actual do some work.  I just heard we are going to Ruby Tuesday for a birthday lunch.  I gotta pop over to the website and see if they have any toothless friendly food.

Happy Friday!!

wow, already TTT

1.  for all of you guys who asked me wtf thumb hole shirts are, here is a picture.

it is pretty much an extra long cuff with a hole for your thumbs to go through.  It covers your hands up to about the first knuckle.  I am really cold natured and love the ones that I have that I can wear to work; it is hard to type with gloves on.  I also have a lot of running shirts like this and it helps keep the cuff of your sleeves down under gloves so they don't ride up.  Of course while I was googling to find an image I also found a shirt on amazon I had to buy. 

2.  My tooth/screw is felling much better today.  I made the huge mistake of grabbing some gobstoppers from a friend at work to take to the funeral to kind of distract my attention from the saddness.  Recent dental surgery, fresh stitches, and hard candy is not a good combo.  The entire side of my face was sore last night.  It was hard to even take my make-up off.  NO MORE HARD CANDY

3.  Since there is a not more hard candy rule, I bought some candy cane kisses and can't seem to stop eating them.  I am not sure what I was thinking when I put them in my grocery cart.

4.  Next week is our division christmas party!!  I can't believe we are having it so early, but if you wait until later in the month then people are on leave.  Plus we have the christmas party for the building on December 14.  I need to come up with a good present with a $20 max.  By good I don't necessarily mean nice.  We are doing a game where you pick out a present and the read the christmas story and when they say and you pass it to the left and something else (can't remember) you pass to the right.  This will be a good change from the usual dirty santa we do. 

5.  I still haven't bought a single present.  I am not sure if my family is exchanging gifts and I normally just wing it for the inlaws.  They never even ask what I want, they just get me whatever they want to get me.  They do, however, ask me what they should get Dennis.  He says they never ask him what they sould get me.

6.  Pictures for Austin 10/20 were released on facebook today!!  They aren't as cool as last year but they are still awesome.

7.  I have to start training again next week.  So far I am thinking I will do Austin in April, OKC in May and Joplin in May.  I may do the half and half, which is in a couple of weeks here in town.  I'm not sure though I wish I knew what the weather would be like.  Also, I am sure most everyone will be running both halfs (half on trail and half on roads).  I don't do trails but I don't want to be the only one not doing both.  The medals are a yin and yang symbol.  What good is yin with yang?  I will have to think on it a few more days.  I will probably also sign up for the color run, which is also in April.  They have an early registration deal, which makes the registration fee $35.

8.  I am so busy at work that I have pretty much thrown up my hands and said screw it.  I got my friend to help me out on one nagging project but I still have 100 more.  There are 3 in particular that should have been done already but they were handed off to me at a late date and I haven't even had time to look at it.  But I do make time to blog.  I should be ashamed but I'm not.

9.  Today is payday!!!

10.  I am kind of afraid to weigh.  I am pretty sure my scales are shot, they weigh heavy.  No matter what I am 112.2.  I need to find a new set of scales but I can't seem to find any that I like.  I could go downstairs to the medical grade scales we have at work but I am thinking I would freak everyone out when I take all my clothes off to weigh.  Hey socks can be heavy!!

catch up time

Wow, I haven't been on here in a long time!!  Obviously I survived Thanksgiving.  We went out to eat with a portion of my family; my parents, my little sister and Dennis and I (little sister's husband got called to work) at Mimi's.  They had all they typical food you would expect.  It was pretty good and I am pretty sure I ate more than I have eaten in a month and by that I mean in 30 combined days!  I even ate almost an entire piece of cheesecake.  Dennis ended up taking it away from me and telling me not to make myself sick. 

The in-law portion of the day was fine.  They had lunch as well so we got there in time for pie.  I hate pie (except peanut butter) so I didn't have to worry about eating there.  They still had the turkey out and I ate a few small pieces before they put it up, but nothing substantial.

Later that night, Dennis and I went to Sears so I could get thumb hole shirts.  I tried like hell to order them online but the system was just too overloaded.  We got in and out pretty quickly since thumb hole shirts weren't one of the hotter items...go figure.  We stopped at McDonald's on the way home and I ate about half of a happy meal. 

The next morning I met my sister at JC Penny to see what thumb hole shirts they had on sale.  I ended up spending $90 on myself.  I think I am pretty much set for thumb hole shirts for awhile ;)

Spent the next few evenings with the in-laws because the royal family was in town (Dennis' brother, wife, and kid who are the center of the freaking universe apparently) so we spent a lot of time with them.  Since I have seen the Royal wife she has had 2 stays in rehab for alcohol abuse and anorexia.  She acted better, no mode swings or fights with other family members, but she is still too freaking skinny and doesn't eat enough to keep a bird alive. 

Monday I had dental surgery to have the screw put in my jaw to start the implant process.  I didn't want to have to stay at the in-laws, so I opted for no medication to knock me out and I hate the way the gas makes me feel (I have the most sadistic thoughts on it and they make me giggle.  It is enough to give me nightmares later.)  Anyway, I had the surgery with just the Novocain.  The worst part was when they cut into my gums!!  I could feel the resistance and hear it crunch.  It was worse than him actually drilling the screw into my bone.  I thought I was going to pass out but I didn't.  Yesterday I had the worse headache.  No real pain where the screw is, just a sinus like headache.  So I stayed home from work yesterday.  I probably could have made it fine but I really didn't want to.  It goes without saying that I am back on mushies for a week or so.

I am back to work today but forgot there is a funeral for a former co-worker this afternoon.  I think it goes without saying that I hate funeral (I hate when people say that, I mean who looks forward to them?) but I think she deserves my respect.  She went through a lot; the death of her college aged son, a kidney transplant, and renal failure twice, and I feel the least I could do is pay my respects.

OK, I have to get some actual work done before I have to leave.  I will catch up with y'all this evening.

post half soreness

My quads are still not happy with me.  I would say about 99% of my training was on a pretty flat trail.  Not so much for the half course, it was a very hilly course...which makes my PR that much more exciting to me!!  I am going to see the chiropractor at 11:30 and let him do his magic with the acupuncture needles.  Plus, my ankles are kind of locked up (whatever that means, but that is how he describes it when they feel like this) and I need to get them adjusted.  Dennis, being the sweetest person on the face of the plant; sometimes ;) rubbed my feet for 30 minutes after I got out of a hot tub last night.  He thinks that my ankles/feet will be my biggest hurdle to overcome in the back to back half marathon if I get to go.

I broke down and weighed this morning.  I was given 112 but again, I am not sure I trust my scale.  My doctor scale is almost a half pound lighter last time I was in.  After eating a lot more and with the swollen muscles from 13.1 miles it just doesn't seem right.

I really should have walked and/or taken a short slow jog last night but I really needed to go see my friend in the hospital.  This is the lady that had her lung just spontaneously collapse.  She is still in the hospital a week later, now with 2 chest tubes.  The did surgery Sunday afternoon to repair a hole and remove two spots on her lung.  They also glued her lung to the inside of the chest cavity to try and keep in inflated.  I have been friend with Paula for years and I have never seen her so tired.  This is a lady that owns her own business and works 7 days a week.  She is just not used to being sick.  She hopes to be home on Thanksgiving. 

OH, and in very exciting news, HMF has a boyfriend!!!  I have my fingers crossed that she doesn't screw it up and will go from being a high maintenance friend to just a really good friend.  Of course they are still in the new stages where she can't make time for her freinds.  I am happy for her and really hope it works out.

OK, I have to do real work now.  Only full day I work this week.  I am taking off early for my mom's last chemo appointment tomorrow and taking off Friday!!  Next week I am starting the process of getting the implant put in for my missing tooth Monday morning so I am only working a half day.  I'm not sure I will feel like working on Tuesday, I have never had any kind of dental work done before.  I am more than a little nervous.

A new half marathon PR!

My finish time for the half marathon was 3:06:26!!!  That is a PR by 10 minutes, almost a minute a mile faster than I normally run!!  I know I am not breaking any speed records but I am so freaking happy with my finish time!!  I was really pushing for under 3.  My splits were really good with only few that had some pretty slow times.  I figure those were either when I needed a gel or had to text Dennis that I was getting close to the finish.  I will get my sub 3.

My first half fanatic medal, and I got to spend some time in the marathon maniac/half fanatic tent.  I am so ready for the next one.  Maybe a back to back half, one on new year's eve one on new years day in Allen Texas.

OK, enough about my running exploits. 

I have to leave in a few minutes to court over that whole work crap.  Rumor has it that she sent an email saying that she wanted to drop the whole thing, although she still felt unsafe.  She asked to be reassigned to a Lake Office close to her lake house.  Yeah that won't happen.  Oh, and she called in and said she had a death in her family and would be out all week.  How convenient.

I suspect it will be a long boring trip to court for us since nothing was officially dropped.  I brought my Kindle so it will be better than sitting at my desk!!

11 Q and A's and an updated on the "good"sister adventure

I really do enjoy the questions people are sending.  Not only does it help you get to know fellow bloggers better, it makes you think a little.  So, here are the Questions Connie sent me.

How many states/countries have you lived in? I have lived in OK all my life.  I have done extended assignments in other states but I never had to change my DL or anything so I would say they don't count.


Shopping: online or in real-life stores?  It depends.  If it is a store I am familiar with I will shop online.  It is hard to find my size in stores.

If you had to pick between making more money but having a difficult boss or making less but having a boss who thinks you walk on water, which would you pick? Let’s say the difference is at least $5,000. Oh, this is an easy one.  Having an asshat for a boss I would totally pick less money/stress/better boss.

What do you drive: big or small, fast or sedate? I drive a lime green Ford Escape.  I love that car!!

What is your favorite book? That is a hard question to answer.  The first classic I read and enjoyed was To Kill a Mockingbird.  I also loved the Lottery. 

Is music important to you? If so, what kind?  Not like it used to be.  I still enjoy music but I don't have the time to get immersed in the scene like I used to.  I think it is important to support local musicians.

What was your first live concert? No making fun!!!  Poison and Warrant.

What is your favorite physical activity that you do for fun, not just for exercise? I took dance lessons my entire adolescence and loved it.  If I could find a regular dance class for adults I would totally take it; ballet or jazz, not hip hop.
Sweet or salty? both.  Pretzels in white chocolate, yes please.

What do you sound like—deep or high, loud or soft? I am loud though I try not to be.  I really try to tone it down.

If you could be any height, how tall would you be? I like being petite 5'3"


So on with the blog.  I know y'all can wait to hear about the evening with my sister. 

I met her at a restaurant with a nice bar next door to the Performing Arts Center.  I got there at 6:30, an hour before the show started.  My sister and her husband were there. I really like her husband and I hadn't seen or talked to him in ages.  They had ordered some happy hour food and we sat and ate, drank and talked.  Well, my sister gets a text message from a lake friend of hers who is also going to the show and is on her way to meet us at the bar.  Whatever, I am pretty laid back and get along with most everyone.  This lady shows up with her mother.  My sister says that she sees this lady every weekend at their lake house.  Again whatever.  They do kind of include me in the conversation but I had kind of checked out because they were being snobby mcsnobberson (my husband designs jewelry for me all the time).  Finally my sister asked me what we were doing for Thanksgiving.  I told her were are going out to eat.  The look of shock on her face was priceless.  She asked me why we were going out and I told her Mom had to have chemo the day before and we weren't sure how she would feel.  Her husband, not my sister, but her husband, asked how she was doing.  I briefly went over some of the problems including the one where she can't eat/drink/touch anything cold after her treatment.  Snobby friend said she didn't know that, my sister asked what, about touching something cold?  And the friend said, no that your mom was having chemo.  Again, she sees this lady every weekend.  Apparently my mom going through this isn't important enough for her to share.  However, they knew all about this lady's husband flying to New York to have shoulder surgery because "he is the best".  WHATEVER. 

Anyway, something was said about watching the voice.  I said I didn't watch it because I am the anti-fan of X-Tina.  She spent years making fun of people being fat and now she looks horrible and still dressed like a tramp with her fat belly roll showing.  I made the comment that since I had lost 70 pounds I feel like I can criticize her.  I saw my sister literally roll her eyes.  The two ladies of course had a fit.  I showed them my before picture and they couldn't believe it was me.  The BFF asked my sister what she thought about it and my sister said she couldn't tell a difference, I still look the same.  She kept insisting that she really couldn't tell I had lost a ton of weight. They asked what size I was before and after.  I told them I went from a 14/6 to a 0/2 and they gave my sister a hard time for not noticing.   But of course she can't, it isn't about her.  As we left, her husband gave me a hug and told me I looked great.

Once we got into the PAC I saw the line for the alcohol and that they now have sippy cups you can put your beverage in and take it to your seat (you used to have to slam it down before you went to your seats.  So I got a double "Mary Poppins Punch"  The rest of the night was fine from there. 

I have no idea how we are sisters.

Food Porn

What a week it has been, and it is only Wednesday!!

Gone last week, off Monday, then a water leak at the office forced us to leave at 11 yesterday.  I feel like I haven't worked in a month. 

I went to another food truck festival Saturday with my little sister.  We split several dishes and I ended up taking some of the food home with me but we did manage to sample 3 out of the 15 or so trucks that were there.  3 of the trucks were chains; like Dickie's BBQ so they didn't count. 

These were Kimchi fries with lemongrass chicken.  I had my doubts but they were really good!!

Meatloaf slider topped with mac & cheese.  I liked them both, but not together.  I ended up taking most of this home to Dennis.  It was ok but a little dense.

Fried chicken slider with honey chipotle sauce.  It came with cole slaw on top but I loathe cole slaw so I got it without.  It was really freakin' good!!

Lemonade with fresh basil.  It was also really good.

By the time we had made it this far the lines (according to Facebook) were 50 people long.  We made a stop at a t-shirt place to get a shirt I have wanted for several months and headed out.  On the way to the car another truck was just opening up.  We were first in line for chicken tamales.

The salsa was amazing.  I am kind of glad the dessert tamales were not finished yet or I would have stuffed that down and probably made myself sick. 

Tonight I am going to meet my sister downtown at a bar, of course, and then to see Mary Poppins.  I haven't really spoken to my older sister since before my Mom had her cancer surgery.  I would say this could be an issue but my sister is so self centered and egotistical that she probably doesn't even realize we haven't been talking to her.  She is such a bitch, but I am doing my part to keep the peace in the family.  She is my Mom's favorite so if I piss her off she will take it out on our mom and I will be the bad guy.  I may have some interesting stories to tell tomorrow. 

3 days and 16 hours until the half marathon.  I just hope to finish under 3:15.  I am not going to push for under 3 hours. 

The Liebster Award

Karen from Banded in Texas and Ashlee from My Lap Band Adventure have nominated me for the Liebster Award!!

http://uiwleelee.blogspot.com/2012/11/liebster-award.html

The Rules

- Once you're nominated, write 11 facts about yourself.

- Then, take a look at the 11 questions the person who nominated you asked and answer them.

- Get your thinking cap on and come up with 11 questions of your own for your nominees to answer

- Then choose the 5 bloggers you want to nominate (they must have less than 200 followers) & let them know they've been nominated (there are no tag backs - you can't nominate the person who nominated you).

- Complete this post and then link it to the person who nominated you (in the comments of their blog).

Hum, 11 facts about myself...

1.  My weight was down to 110 this morning, although I doubt the accuracy of my scale.  If this is right I am losing because I am actually eating more calories. Strange how that can happen.

2. Having Lap Band surgery was one of the best decisions I have ever made for myself.  My doctor tells me I am the model lap band patient and he tells all of his new clinic participants about me.

3. I am a homebody. Most of the time I would rather sit at home with one of my dogs in my lap than go out.

4.  I am definitely a dog person.

5. I have two tattoos.  One on my wrist that is done in black light ink so it is only noticeable to me unless I am under a black light.  I got it after my first half marathon.  The other one is the finishers medal from my first (and only) full marathon.  I want to get another one to commemorate making it into the half fanatics but I can't seem to find the time.

6.  I'm an NPR geek.  I took Dennis to see a live taping of Wait Wait Don't Tell Me.

7.  I love to dye my hair funky colors.  I am sure my boss hates it and I know I m getting too old for it, but I just get bored with the norm.

8.  I have a new fascination with food trucks. I have had some great food that I would have never tried otherwise.

9.  The holiday's make me sad.  It really brings back a lot of memories from my childhood and makes me miss my grandparents and can really put me in a funk.

10. I have a little bit of a shopping addiction.  I still go straight for the XL section even though.  I wonder if I will ever snap out of that.  I have to limit my access to the Coach website also, purses always fit.

11.  I love to read.  My Kindle Fire is one of my most treasured possessions.

Q and A from Banded in Texas

1) Your dream travel destination?  Norway, My great grandfather was a Norwegian immagrant.
2) Favorite movie?  Despicable Me and Up
3) Favorite book or magazine?  It depends on my mood I guess.  I like the movie Once and I am dying to see the broadway musical version.
4) Where do you see yourself in 5 years?  I hope to have a new house, still at goal weight.
5) You just won $10 million dollars. How would you spend it?  Set up a private trust to try and hide the fact that I won the money.  Travel, go to Best Friends in Utah and volunteer for as long as they will have me.
6) If you could meet/interview anyone living or dead, who would you meet and why?  Jimmy Carter.  I have so much respect for him as a humanitarian and peace keeper
7) What is the weirdest/craziest thing you have ever eaten?  Kimchi Fries?
8) Any phobias?  WORMS!!
9) What is your best trait?  That is hard for me to answer.  Hum, I will do almost anything for my family and friends.
10) What is your least-favorite trait?  I tend to be lazy when I lose interest in something
11) Why do you blog?  To help me remember my journey.  When things get hard I can look back and see that I have been through worse.

Q and A from My Lap Band Adventure

1. Favorite color? Green, I even drive a lime green car!!
2. Do you have any pets?  I am the crazy dog lady.  I have 7 rescued dogs that were supposed to be fosters, turns out I am a foster failure
3. Who has been your biggest supporter during your weight loss journey?  My boyfriend, even though he complains that I am getting too skinny
4. What's your favorite Band-friendly food?  soup, my favorite is El Chico Tortilla and Chilli's Enchillada
5. Do you have any guilty pleasures?  cupcakes
6. What's your favorite thing to do for exercise?  running, it is a love hate relationship
7. What is one of your long-term goals?  to maintain my goal weight.
8. How long have you been blogging? On Blogger a little over a year.  I also have a blog on CK that I have maintained for probably 5 years
9. Do you drink alcohol? If so, what's your favorite drink?  seldom but I love Heuberts Strawberry Dac.  I think it is a local thing.
10. What do you want for Christmas?  A new Kindle Fire HD but since I have to have a tooth replaced with an implant I am probably going to get a tooth.
11. How do you hold yourself accountable during your weight loss journey?  Used to have daily weigh ins.  Now that I am actually below my goal weight I try to just weigh in once a week to keep from being OCD.

No Place Like Home!!

After being out of town for work since Sunday night I am finally home with my little Sidney in my lap sucking up my body heat. 

The trip is/was a cluster.  I was mad when I left work on Friday because I had to miss the Bass Pro Half and a little distracted by the gazillion questions that people were asking me last minute.  So I left my computer access card in the card reader.  When I got my card I couldn't get internet connected.  When I got internet I couldn't get VPN to work.  So here I am at home working yet again.

Work itself has been excruciating.  They way overstaffed for the visits and instead of setting us free, the organizer is making us sit until time to go home, 10 hour days.  Without my CAC card/internet/VPN I couldn't even work on my regular work.  I ended up reading my Kindle most of the day yesterday.  I may sound nuts but I would rather be busy, makes the day go by so much faster.

Of course food has been meh.  I have been eating a larger than normal to me lunch and a light dinner.  It is so funny to see how people from out of state view Oklahoma and the cuisine here.  They all wanted a good steak.  I was like, yeah, go to Logan's...

Today we didn't break for lunch until 1:30 and I was so hungry that I over ate chips and queso and ate very little of my soup.  I will be nice and bloated up tomorrow. I need to make a grocery run tonight and get some not so sinful snacks for tomorrow. 

Tomorrow we are supposed to go to dinner at a place called Joe Mamma's in downtown.  They have a pizza called the incenerator that has wasabi sauce, jalapanos, habaneros and hot links topped with a ghost chili drizzle.  It was on man vs. food this season and the guys I am working with can't wait to try it.  I don't want any part of that but I will probably go with them.  I can guilt Dennis into going with me for a change since it is my birthday.  Normally he would have no part of work group gatherings.

I am just glad that the inspections are at the Tulsa Airport tomorrow.  I can sleep in my own bed and not go into the office.  I came up with a good strategy to work at the hotel the group is staying at on Friday and not go into the office for the rest of the week!!

I am not going to weigh until my normal weigh in day on Monday.  I know this trip will have an effect on me. 

OK, gotta get back to catching up on email.

NSV? WTF

I had a lady at work that I barely know come up to me and ask me, in front of a group of people if I had been sick because I have lost weight! Really?

quick ten things

because I am in a time crunch but really not ready to dive into the work stuff just yet...

1.  I am getting my first unfill today.  I have been ignoring a lot of symptoms that I really shouldn't have been.  Truth is, I am scared to death to gain any weight back. 

2.  Maybe with some more calories I will be able to run better, not get worn out as quickly. Just in time for my last long run (13.1miles) before route 66!!

3.  Today is the deposition because of crazy lady at work.  I am glad I have so much going on because I don't have time to dwell on it much.

4.  Next week I will be traveling around on a project for work!  A whole week out of the office.  Best part is I will be working in Tulsa Thursday and Friday.  Thursday is my birthday so I will be home for that.  Not that I celebrate it or anything but still.

5.  Not a lot of trick or treat monsters last night.  We used  have so many more.  I think people do the church thing more.  I only stayed out until 8:30 because I hate when the packs of teenagers come up, it just makes me and my dogs nervous.

6.  Leftover candy was sent to work with Dennis.  Of course with the way food makes me feel (reflux) chocolate doesn't even sound good.

7.  Route 66 half/marathon November 18!! 

8.  I can't believe the holidays are so close!!  Not that we will be able to do much with the whole dental surgery thing but wow, time flies.

9.  Need to figure out where and when I can do the early voting thing since I will be gone next week.  Not that it really matters so much, my ideals are completely opposite of the majority opinion in my crimson red state.

10.  Hope all of you guys in the east coast are safe and sound!!

UPDATE-------

Doctor Atkins took .5 cc from my band.  I made him promise that if my weight got above 115 he would give me another fill.  At home I had been at 112.2 for ever but it was to the point that I thought something was up with my scale.  I weighed at the doctor's office and I was 111.6.  He said that I probably wasn't having reflux, it was probably just my food moving so slow through my band that it was jut sitting there.  Either way, he said he suspected I was too tight for awhile but was doing a good job at finding easy band food (if that makes any sense)

There is a nutrition supplement store in the same complex as his clinic, he wanted me to walk over with him and talk to the guy to come up with some kind of supplements that will help me with endurance during running.  I got a couple of things.  I hope to be able to run tonight and give it a try, I really don't want to try it out for the first time on a 13 mile run.  My side is kind of sore where the fluid was removed.  I never have any problems after a fill so I'm not sure what is up with that.

Doctor Atkins also said he was going to see if he can find a port that is more low profile than the one I have.  Mine sticks out pretty far when I lay down.  Not sure I want to go through the whole process though.  I will try and take some pictures an show you what I mean.

thanks for your advice

I called an got an appointment with my surgeon on November 12.  I want to make a few changes and see if that will help.  I have been stopping at Sonic and getting a Root Beer on my way to work every morning.  Maybe that is causing the acid in my stomach to go on overdrive.  I have been planning for awhile on giving up my daily root beer because I know it isn't the best way to start the morning but I just haven't been very motivated to do it.  Now I don't have a choice.

Yesterday's food included
root beer for breakfast
McAlester's for lunch - about 3 bites of a cheese potato and a few spoon fulls of soup (it was a little spicy and made my tummy angry).  So I have lots of leftovers for lunch
Dinner was two crackers with cheese.

I knew I didn't have enough calories to push myself to run.  I walked a little but didn't want to make myself sick.

This morning, without the root beer I do feel better.  I am eating a Fiber One brownie very slowly and it is going down fine with out any reflux symptoms. 

It is a little crazy how scared I am that I will gain weight if the doctor removes any fluid.  I need to talk to him about getting a counselor because I obviously have some deep seated weight issues.  DUH.

So enough of the heavy stuff.  Here are a few pictures from the Tulsa Run

My posture is not it's best in the last picture.  I am not sure if that is one of the 3 shirts I was wearing making the tummy bulge or the loose skin.  Funny that is the first thing I see.  I do love the hollywood glasses though.  Since I was so late I just had to grab a pair out of my car.  Hey, they worked!!

I am hoping to eat at least 1,000 calories each day for the rest of the week to fuel up for the mock half Saturday, the last long run before Route 66 half/marathon.  As much as practical it is on the actual route so it really helps to have it fresh in your mind and know what to expect in two week. 

unfill...maybe

First off, I hope all the east coast bloggers are doing well and staying warm and dry. 

So I am thinking that maybe I need to get a small unfill.  I have been at goal for several months and was told by my doctor that if my weight gets below 110 he would make me have an unfill.  Well my weight is steady at 112.2.  I like being this weight.  I like my size and am starting to feel comfortable in it; although sometimes when I ask for a size 2 or zero I feel like the sales clerk is looking around to see who I am buying for. 

Here is my problem.  I am still having some issues with my eating.  I am not throwing up, I have learned the art of eating slowly and taking small bites, but there are days when I am just not hungry and have no interest in food.

- I order a cup of soup when I go out for lunch and can't finish it.
- I can't eat spicy food at all because it will cause really bad pain.
- The last two nights I have realized I hadn't eaten anything for dinner so I eat a cracker with cheese too late and have night coughs.
-I will have "hungry" days where I can almost eat like a normal person, like last week at the Olive Garden I ate some salad, a half a breadstick and maybe a little over a 1/4 of my pasta.  The next day, the day of the run, I ate half a half order of nachos and more of the cheese fries then I thought I would be able to.  Since then the thought of food makes me gag. 

So I am not sure what to do.  I know I am not getting enough calories but I am scared to death to gain weight back.  Yes, I am crazy. 

What should I do?

Tulsa Run wasn't my best

Much like I suspected my performance in the Tulsa Run SUCKED!! But I got another medal to add to my ever growing collection.


To recap….

Friday I went to pick up my packet. Usually it is at a University in mid-town that is across the street from a mall. Even though the street is busy if you had to cross, there was plenty of parking at one of the two places. This year they moved it to downtown. There is a big push to revitalize the downtown area and they are trying to force everyone into moving activities there. It took forever for me to find a parking spot, and then I had to parallel park, not pretty. Pick-up wasn’t organized very well. They didn’t email race numbers so everyone had to stand in line to get their numbers. I found a list of numbers on a vacant table so I got in and out fairly quickly considering. I really wanted to buy a shirt that says “I run so I don’t kill people” and wear it to work on Halloween just for the crazy lady who thinks I might “physically harm her” but they only had short sleeve burn out shirts in my size. The lady promised to have a long sleeve hoodie for me at the Route 66 expo.

After that I met HMF and a couple of other running buddies at Olive Garden for carbs. Yeah it was just a 15K but I will take any excuse to eat pasta. Service was unbelievably slow and they got most all our order wrong but I think the kitchen was jacked up. We all got the buy one now get one to take home special. That is like dinner for a week for me!!  We still had fun and the waitress was so happy we didn't jump all over her for the kitchen and bar screw ups. 

I was really worried about how cold it was going to be. I sat out a bunch of clothes and even went to Wal-Mart the night before and bought a robe to snuggling up in while I was standing around. As it turns out that really wasn’t an issue. I couldn’t find my Garmin charger anywhere and I only had 41% battery. I tore the house apart Friday night looking for it to no avail. I thought I could just use my cell phone, but when I got up Saturday morning it hadn’t connected with the charger well and didn’t charge overnight, it too only had 40% charge!! I kind of went into panic mode. I got the phone put on the computer and went outside to check the weather. I went with a medium weight under armour base layer, a t-shirt and a long sleeve under armour pull over, I wore merino wool base layer pants and a regular pair of running pants (the base layer was a small and the pants and x-small so it looked really strange. I also realized I had no pockets, so I put one of the running skirts my friend made for me over the pants. Well somehow while I was tearing my house apart looking for my charger I lost my sports bra I couldn’t find it anywhere. I finally just wore a dirty one. After all that I didn’t get out the door until 8:30; race started at 9. I was a little nervous. I go to get on the highway and the on-ramp to get on I-244 was closed. That is when full blown panic started to set in. I drove a mile and that on-ramp was closed too. I had to go about 4 miles to find an open on-ramp. I was pretty sure parking would be a nightmare but I found a lot close to the finish line (3 blocks from the starting line) that was charging $5 and just parked there. Probably would have been a waste of time to find a free our curb parking anyway even if I had left an hour earlier. I got there and didn’t even have time to get cold when they started the 10 second countdown to the start.

I ordered a new charger for the Garmin, it should be here today.  Still can't figure out what I did with the running bra???


I was actually doing well, a little over 12 minute miles until the half-way point. Because of my lapband I try to take a Gu about every 2.5 to 3 miles. That usually works out well because that is about how far apart the water stops are. But, being the slow person I am, the water stop at the half-way point was OUT OF WATER. I thought about taking my water bottle the day before and didn’t even think about it that morning in my rush. I think that is when the adrenaline from the panic of the morning started to wane and the headache started to really set in. I did take a Gu without water, which is not a good idea but not much I could do about it. About 8.5K in I rolled my ankle on a rock the size of a smart car. My ankle was/is fine but it pulled my hip. Not long after that, a lady that is in my old running group that has always been slower than me passed me like it was nothing. I was pissed. I shouldn’t have been, but I was.  Kind of gave up from that point on. 

But, first or last, you cross the same finish line and get the same medal.

I figured my finish time would be a little over 2 hours but it was more like 2:15. Not pleased but I didn’t skip it. And I am already thinking about who I am going to get to do Little Rock, OKC, and Joplin with me. I swore I wouldn’t do OKC again because I am just kind of over it after 5 years, but if I don’t train for OKC I will feel lost. I am signed up for Austin in April, but it is a 10 miler and just not the same.

Now that the run is over, I am looking forward to the cold weather! I really need to get some sweaters and long sleeve shirts. Most of the ones in my closet are Large. I have a few small but not many. My shopping hiatus is only supposed to last until my birthday in a few weeks, but with a $3,000 dental bill coming up it will have to be extended. I will have to hit up some consignment stores.
Hope everyone has a great week.

return from the dark side

I took off work Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday.  It did wonders for my attitude, thank goodness because I am not sure it could have gotten any worse. 

Monday I had my first colonoscopy ten years earlier than is normally recommended because of my family history.  Of course my mom is going through chemo now for colon cancer but is expected to make a full recovery.  My dad had to have a portion of his colon removed several years ago because of a reoccurring precancerous polyp and 2 of my aunts and my dad's side has had colon cancer.  So basically it is pretty much a guarantee that either me or one of my two sisters will end up with it.  I got a clean bill of health, except that I am showing signs of diverticulitis.  I had to google it to see what it was.  I kind of wonder if the lap band surgery didn't have something to do with that since I am eating lots more protein and not nearly as much fiber?

Tuesday I took off for the heck of it.  I did get Hunter to the vet for his monthly arthritis shot and to have a spot on his tail looked at.  Turns out the spot is probably just an infection and we got some medication to help it heal up.  He loved going places with me, my little sidekick, so it wasn't much of a chore.  Plus I just love his vet.  She is one of the special ones who really truly connect with the animals she cares for.

Wednesday I took half a day for the heck of it and had lunch with my sister.  I walked around the mall for a little bit AND DIDN'T BUY ANYTHING!!  Although JC Penny has some new sweatshirts with thumb holes I am probably going to have to get in every color after payday.  Then I went to Ulta and blew $50.  Man it is so hard for me at that store.  I am such a make-up whore.

I got to visit the oral surgeon that afternoon about replacing the now missing baby tooth.  I know I want an implant and not a bridge because of the location of the tooth and the long term benefits but had no idea how much those bad boys cost.  $2300 for one tooth!!!  And that doesn't include the crown that my regular dentist has to put on.  And I am lucky that I don't have to have my sinus cavity lifted or a bone graft.  It sounds a little expensive but I am not sure dental surgery is something you want to bargain shop for.

My weight is holding steady at 112.2.  Tulsa Run is tomorrow and I am so tempted to skip it.  It is going to be so cold!!  There is a 40 degree difference in the temperatures from the same time yesterday and yesterday wasn't warm.  At least it is close to Halloween so I can get a bathrobe and wear it over my running clothes and say it is a costume.  Or I can put on my old clothes that are too big over my running clothes and start off "fluffy" and shed the old stuff as I go along.  The throw away clothes go to homeless so it would be for a good cause.  I really want to skip it but I can't let that be an option.  I just keep telling myself it is only a 15K, 9 miles, not even double digits!!

OK, got to run an errand for work.  Hope everyone has a great weekend.

not sure I have 10 things

1.  I worked up the courage to weigh.  111.4

2.  Monday I go in for my first ever colonoscopy, thanks Mom and Dad for giving me that gene.

3.  Wednesday I go to the oral surgeon to see about having my honey boo boo gap tooth fixed.  After almost 40 years my last baby tooth came out.  There is no tooth to replace it so I have a huge gap that I just can't seem to stop messing with.

4.  I decided what the hell, why waste a Tuesday...I am taking off all three days.  Lord I need it.

5.  Massage 9am Saturday!!

6.  Work sucks so bad I can't even begin to explain it.  Since this is a public blog and I have more than a 5th graders understanding of security I will not go into it in detail.  Just know that I have hired an attorney.

7.  My little man Sidney went all night without coughing last night!!  Maybe the kennel cough/allergy/whatever it was is gone.  I know he had to be miserable.

8.  That's all folks.

Monday hum drums

My weekend was pretty good.  I meet HMF for lunch on Saturday and gave her her gift.  She seemed to like it.  I hope so because I got that puppy on clearance and there is no taking it back, lol.  It isn't everyday you find a denim Coach swing bag for $50!!

After lunch I did a little shopping and challenged myself not to spend over $10 on any one item, mostly just to keep my mind of off work and how much I hate it right now.  I literally cried all the way home on Friday and didn't think I was going to make it away from my desk before I broke down.  I think all the stress of having a chauvinistic bully of a boss, way more work than time, and the drama over the fight; which I will have to go to court for has finally taken its toll.  Add to that my Mom's cancer and I think I am standing right on the edge. 

The funny/sad thing is, while I was on my way home Friday I was thinking about what I have at home that I could binge on.  Then I remembered I can't binge anymore without throwing up and risk damage to my band.  That was the final straw that put me in that "ugly" cry.  Sad thing is, I still feel fat.  I can't seem to work up the courage to weigh.  I am wearing a new pair of jeggings today that are a zero from AE so I know it is my irrational brain beating me up.  I am a like a People magazine subscription y'all, I have several issues.

I called my doctor this morning and asked her if she could prescribe me something for stress until at least my mom is through with treatment.  I haven't heard back from her yet.

Sunday we went to see Argo.  Great movie.  I will read the book or get it on audiobook to listen to on one of my trips.  After the movie we went and got the two old guys and took them to the park.  Pretty sure it wore them out.  At 12 and 13 we don't get them out as much as we used to.  We stopped and got them an ice cream cone to share on the way back home.  They are such good 'brothers'.  

In the middle of the night last night little Sid started to cough so hard he was gagging himself.  He did that all night long.  I told Dennis that I was going to take the little guy to the vet before I went to work.  I taped him on my iPhone because I figured that as soon as I got him in the vet's office he would stop coughing and they would think I was crazy.  He did cough but before we went to the room.  Dr. Reed said she heard it loud and clear.  It is either kennel cough or really bad allergies.  We will only be able to tell if one of the other dogs gets sick.  So frustrating.  He did get some medication for his cough though.  Maybe we will all sleep better tonight. 

Of course I got a text message while I was at the vet saying that I needed to be in a 9:30 meeting.  I sent a message back and said that was not going to happen unless they wanted me to come in wearing a juicy sweatsuit and carrying a sick dog.  I really don't think they would do that if it was someone with a kid. 

I did decide to just get new running shoes over the weekend.  The store I had been going to doesn't carry Izumi so I just went went to a different store and got a pair.  I hate to spend another $100 on shoes but if I am going to log any miles it is worth it.

OK I will stop whining now...

I prefer to call it friday-eve ten things today.

1.  I took off work yesterday and sat with my mom in Chemo.  It is both depressing and uplifting at the same time.  Hard to explain.  She is doing well though.

2.  As is normally the case after spending the day with my mother, I feel fat.  She doesn't have to say anything, it is just those old feelings from growing up being told I will always be the fat sister.

3.  I was almost certain the outfit I sat out to wear to work was going to be too small when I put it on this morning.  Of course it wasn't.  I am wearing the first button down shirt that I can remember putting on in years.  I still feel a little gappy and stiff but I think it is more because I am not used to this kind of shirt. 

4.  Running is still kind of blah.  I am getting blisters again and it is really pissing me off.  I have Spenco 2nd skin blister stuff on my feet now.  I ran 2 miles on Tuesday and the blisters were really bad by the time I was finished.  I am supposed to run tonight but my work running friend cancelled on me.  I may wait until Friday, give the feet some more time to get better and do hill sprints on Friday.  My long run is 'only' 6 miles this week, I will do that on Sunday.

5.  I have several people here at work that are being unrealistic with work deadlines that they sat on for god knows how long and are now sending me emails like every 30 minutes asking for updates.  I get off work at 4:30.  Even though I have the response drafted I think they will get it at 4:29.  Asshats.

6.  I have my first colonoscopy scheduled for October 22.  I also have a 12 mile run scheduled for the day before.  Dennis told me not to worry about it, I will get at least that many miles in going back and forth to the bathroom.  Because of the band I have to do my prep stuff a little differently, starting Saturday.  I hope I can get the run in on Saturday, if not I will have to blow off a long run.

7.  October 24th I have an appointment with the oral surgeon to see about getting my baby tooth replaced with an implant.  That sucker is loose.  I have a little bit of OCD when it comes to certain things.  Yesterday I was fixated on that tooth and I wanted it out of my mouth immediately.  I asked Dennis to help me just yank it out but he said he would never do anything like that again after the blood spurting from my ear and the horrible terrible ear infection.  The tooth is still there, still bothering the eff out of me.

8.  October 27 is the Tulsa Run, the oldest and biggest run in Tulsa.  I have done the 5K but I have never done the 15K.  I think I am prepared since I did a little over 10 miles over the weekend, even if it was mostly flat.  Even more reason to do the hill sprints.

9.  I think I am going to try out a new food truck for lunch, it is my new obsession.

10.  The bat shit crazy lady is in a vacant office talking to a union rep about something that happened while I was off yesterday.  I have been walking by and listening in as much as possible.  Yes I should be ashamed.  I already got the notice that I will be called in to testify.  I wish they would fire her already.  I was forced to talk to her last week and I gave her short yes/no answers as much as I could.  She makes me sick.