FoHo...

So my blogging days are somewhat done but back by popular demand- quotes. Yes, one person equals a demand in my world.

I think this one is hysterical and I have no idea where I got it from...

"Whatever you give a woman, she's going to multiply.
If you give her sperm, she'll give you a baby.
If you give her a house, she'll give you a home.
If you give her groceries, she'll give you a meal.
If you give her a smile, she'll give you her heart.
She multiplies and enlarges what is given to her.
So - if you give her crap, you will receive more shit than any one human being can handle.
Love and appreciate all the women in your life."

Still Processing...

I'm still trying to wrap my head around my race this past weekend. It was good, bad & ugly.

The Good:
I finished in 3:45:30 which is a 4 minute PR as well as my Boston Qualifying time.
I ran the first 19 miles with my running peeps.
The 3:45 pacer coming up on me at mile 25ish and dragging my ass to the end.
I left nothing on the course.
Team Rogue on the sidelines at end screaming for me- trust me I heard you!
My coaches and friends on streets throughout the race screaming with encouragement.

The Bad:
I was cold.
I missed my goal of 3:39 for the second time.
Mile 18ish realizing it was NOT my day.

The Ugly:
Dehydration.
Blurry vision from mile 20 on.
I think I might have bonked. Still processing.
Absolutely no control over my legs in the final 10k. I've never been here before.
Frozen hands, i.e. dysfunctional.

So, the good out weighs the bad and I get to continue training with my peeps in the spring as we get ready to tackle Boston in April;-)

I Am A MORON!!!

It's quite possible I'm the last person to know this about myself but if I'm not let me tell you the 2 major idiotic things I managed to do in 1 day...

Thursday am I opted to forgo my work-out since I have been dealing with a minor cold and really can't risk it getting worse with my 'A' race around the corner. So I decided to 'sleep in.' For starters this is a bad move on my part. Tuesday/Thursday are school days for me so my day starts at 4:30am. It sounds crazy but I'm used to this routine and can follow it well. Today with the decision not to get up at 4:30am really jacks with my system...as I hit the snooze button so many times I'm at a loss for how long it takes me to get out of my house and to my 8am class on time. The beauty of being a student I don't have to bother with a shower or painting the face;-) Now I have to have enough time to make my coffee, pack half the house and get down to San Marcos.

So I start making my pot of coffee like normal, or so I think it's like normal. I know it takes a bit to brew but seriously what the heck is going on??? there's a smidgen of coffee in the pot but it's not looking to make anymore than the smidgen. Dear goodness coffee pot don't fail me now...if there's ever a day I need some serious caffeine help it's today. I go over to see what the problem is. I open the part that holds the ground coffee and notice it is not even wet from water passing through it. I'm perplexed on this one. After staring at the coffee pot for a good minute, I realize it is not going to tell me it's problem so I start trying to figure this thing out. Apparently, this thing needs water in order to make the coffee??? You heard it hear first one must add water to pot for it to brew FRESH coffee. Idiot moment take 1.

On for my next idiotic moment...this semester involves a 2-hour break after my first class. I've always used this break to go to the gym, lift weights and shower for my next class. Ok, so today was just skip shower but definitely get in the weights. Remember I didn't go to my morning work-out so my stink was at a low, or so I thought;-) When I said my morning routine was whacked I was not playing around. I have a system that my body can follow on automatic pilot...when pilot is lost other people suffer. I'm working on some leg lifts and I'm sitting there trying to remember if I put on deodorant. I kept reminding myself but the whole coffee debacle really threw me off...oh, no please tell me my automatic pilot did this for me...I'm totally sniffing to figure this out. Bad news... I grab my wallet, leave mid-work-out, leave stuff at gym and sprint to the student center. I already stink but at least I'm outdoors now. I go buy deodorant and immediately rush in the bathroom to cake this stuff on...my biggest fear BO...that stuff is awful. Idiot moment #2.

And this is how I ended my school week...

Jibberish

Yes, I know it's spelled gibberish but unfortunately, when I named this blog I didn't realize the spelling at the time was wrong. So I'm officially stuck with jibberish;-)

We're 2 1/2 weeks away from game day and I am so excited!!! The Lydiard training system my coach opted to use this season has been phenomenal. Granted during the summer months I did nothing more than bitch, moan and groan. Some of that was heat/humidity related but the majority of it was from a certain someone being out of shape. She shall remain anonymous;-) There was a point in the training I thought no way in Hell I can qualify for Boston with the piss poor performances I was having and the thoughts of death looking better and better after each practice. Trust me it wasn't pretty. My long runs sported quite a few walk breaks in them, something I've never had to do before. Really that one is a total confidence booster, ugh! However, my wise coach said to me "you're getting there just keep at it." As much as it kills me I must admit he was right (he always seems to be, maybe that's why I pay him) and I was wrong. In all honesty I'm glad to be wrong in this case.

This is the first marathon I've trained for where I'm not mentally burned out and chomping at the bit to get'er done and over with. I find this the worst way for me to enter a race because I have a very flippant attitude to race day once it arrives. Mainly because I'm over IT...I'm ready for my next adventure one that does NOT involve running. This training season is so different. I have rediscovered my love of running. Everyday I wake up excited for my runs. I think this training has finally broken through my mental barrier, which I've always said is my biggest down fall in this sport. If the San Antonio marathoners is any indication of what can happen I'm fired up to see some results!!! Woo!Hoo! Bring on CIM!!!

My Love of Quotes Continues...

“Twenty years from now you will be
more disappointed by the things
you didn't do than by the
ones you did do.
So throw off the bowlines.
Sail away from the safe harbor.
Catch the trade winds in your sails.
Explore. Dream. Discover.”
~Mark Twain

Flirting

You're expecting an exciting post based on the title...ha! unfortunately what is flirting with me needs to get lost;-)

Let's see training season has been great overall...I haven't had an injury since my doozy of an IT band back in '05. So, why the heck is plantar flirting with me now. See what I mean this flirt needs to get lost. I realize my right calf is uber tight and the good news about being a student again I rarely 'have' to wear high heels anymore. Ignore my blog photo. I'm rolling the heck out of my calf on a very tiny ball. This ball is just one size larger than a golf ball and just a tad softer. What I'm getting at is this ball makes me quiver it hurts so bad to roll on. Regardless I am rolling on this teany weany size of a ball almost non-stop...so why is my foot hurting more??? I've made the executive decision not to go to tomorrow morning's work-out and take Friday off as well. I'm hoping to get my calves massaged while I'm at it. Me not running 2 days in a row is not a pretty sight. You may want to steer clear, just sayin.'

And I thought flirting was supposed to be fun...

Processing

I seem to be in a processing mode this semester not too worry I only wish to discuss my process of running. I think I've finally made peace with my IBM 10K 'Race' this past weekend. I was frustrated on a lot of levels and am slowly celebrating the small successes that did come from this race. The week I'm having I have to acknowledge the small successes;-)

I haven't run a 10k since I don't know when. Let's just say before Sunday I did NOT have a 10k PR listed in my little running PR box. This leads me to believe it didn't exist;-)

Goal- 46:33 (7:32 pace)
Actual finish- 48:00 (flat, dead even, 7:44 pace)

Once I finished I was very disappointed with my time even though I knew I left nothing on the course I was unhappy with my results. My coach was quick to say find the successes in it, focus on it and let the disappointment go. Ok, I find that way easier said than done. Well, it's Wednesday and I can officially let it go. Remember I'm slow.

My first mistake at this race was to start in the middle. I spent the first mile dodging people in a very tight space. When I saw the first mile time I knew there was no way to hit my goal. I couldn't move any faster than I had just moved and the time sucked!!! With that said I now know to get behind 'the train' and start from there. I know those peeps start very close to the front. Sorry, the rest can pass me, I will be that asshole. My coach said I could, take it up with him.

1mi= 8:18 (WTH?)
2 mi= 7:33
3 mi= 7:28 (14:55 for miles 3 & 4)
4mi= 7:28
5 mi= 7:32
6 mi= 8:15 (wheels are coming off)
.2 mi= 1:27

Here's what I learned from this race. I am a much stronger runner than I was back in '06 both mentally and physically. I ran 10 miles on Saturday and more than likely ran those miles a little too fast. I worked the rest of the day at the store and drank no water. Ok, I don't recommend this as a good pre-race plan just what I had on schedule for the day minus the lack of water. In a way this so called pre-race plan showed me my progress with the ability to push past the dehydration cramps (this used to stop me dead in my tracks) and find a rhythm regardless of pace and get'er done.

So all in all I'm satisfied with this finish. I still have work to do but know my goal is within reach;-)

Pacing

Pacing is something I hear about non-stop in fact it's something I'm supposed to know how to do. Well, guess what, I can't pace for the life of me. Actually that last statement isn't completely true but it's not far from the truth, I promise. No, I don't want a garmin I don't like looking at a watch non-stop. I am however, bound and determined to figure out how to feel my pace. I have always been one of those get out there and run type gals. Basically, when doing speed work I run 'til it hurts and sometimes this carries over into my long runs as well. Never mind that I've been working with the same coach for the past 2 years and I'm just NOW starting to understand what the hell he's been talking about. Ok, so I'm a little slow on the uptake of some things and I'm glad to finally be getting this message.

Today was one of the hardest work-outs of my life, and I'm beyond ecstatic with the outcome. About a month ago I thought no way in HELL I will be able to pull off a 3:39 at CIM (California International Marathon in Sacramento). I couldn't find my running legs it was like they were on permanent vacation. However, something changed recently- maybe the attitude adjustment I had been struggling with or the sweet kind soul that sent me a kick in the ass e-mail (Jeff- I will be forever grateful).

Let me explain the soul buster work-out. Basically, it was a run from North Austin to the Austin High School track which is more or less in South Austin. We had to put in 18 miles before getting to the track and the route was far from kind. If you're familiar with Austin you know we have some unforgiving hills such as Red Bud Trail & Stratford and yes, we had to knock those out prior to getting to the track. So, not only am I working on the pacing thing I've been trying real hard on slowing down at the beginning of my runs. I tend to act like I'm a dog being let out of the gate. Start hauling ass the second feet hit the pavement and then mid-way lose all steam and crawl to the end. Not a good method of madness for a marathon.

Part 2 of this work-out was all mental. It consisted of 6 miles on the track...that's right 24 friggin' laps on the reddish brown oval in the daylight mind you. The first 2 miles were to be at marathon goal pace (MGP)- Brenda and I nailed this one. Both miles were the exact same. Holy smokes we're awesome, but you already knew that didn't you? The next 2 miles were half-marathon goal pace (HPMG) this is when the mental game really kicks into gear. Again mission accomplished. The final 2 miles (I thought suicide looked good right about now) were to be at your 10k pace. I will spare you the f-bombs I was dropping in my head. Thank goodness Sisson, my coach, was on the track asking how things were going. I knew going for 10k pace prolly wasn't in the stack of cards for me. I told him I'm slipping...his words dial down to MGP if you need to but get 'er done! I'd like to state for the record I may not have hit the 10k pace but I was faster than my HPMG with my form still in tact. It's the small things that make me wanna do the happy dance.

All I've got to say is that track section made me dig down deep to levels I never knew existed and quite frankly, without the sweet souls standing on the track passing out water (did I mention we couldn't stop between these 6 miles) and cheering I would have never found those levels.

My coach, the man of few compliments told me he was impressed with my running. So with a puffed up chest and my posse we hobbled the 3 miles left to the store and 27 miles later I couldn't be happier!!!

Another One

Another good quote for me...

"Every memorable act in the history of the world is a triumph of enthusiasm. Nothing great was ever achieved without it because it gives any challenge or any occupation, no matter how frightening or difficult, a new meaning. Without enthusiasm you are doomed to a life of mediocrity but with it you can accomplish miracles."

Og Mandino
1923-1996, Speaker and Author of The Greatest Salesman in the World

This one comes to me at the right time as I'm struggling with school this semester and don't have much enthusiasm towards it anymore. It's a ME problem I know I'm ready to be back in the real world. So, with this quote I'm adjusting my attitude and finding peace as I whip out my latest design. I'm way behind and need to work at lightening speed to get to where I need to be. Bring on the enthusiasm;-)

Interesting

More random things about me. I am a huge LOVER of quotes...the ones that are just shy of saying, "Dear Katie..." they literally have my name written all over it. I even keep a document on my computer of quotes I run across and know I will need to read again some other day. For example: a previous post.

I subscribe to quite a few blogs and a few of them are the sappy kind. Yes, I'm a total romantic at heart. So this gal wrote a post on relationships followed with a ton of quotes...oh, it made my heart go pitter patter. There's only one I will force the 3 of you to read.

“However good or bad you feel about your relationship, the person you are with at this moment is the "right" person, because he or she is the mirror of who you are inside.” - Deepak Chopra

Man, this one hit me square between the eyes. I like it. It makes me stop and rethink a few of my previous relationships and remind myself who I was during those times. I'm happy to say I'm not the same woman I was back then. I'll always be a work in progress but it's always good to have some checkpoints and see I'm moving in the right direction.

Rhythm

My training so far this season has been lacking rhythm. Having off runs is one thing, but several months of bad running is annoying. I guess all of these years I've been lucky. Granted my running/training has always been sporadic. I'm finding the older I get the less sporadic I should be. I'm much more sane with running than without it. Remember sanity is relative and I prolly wouldn't be the poster child for it...just statin' the facts people;-)

Back to the point of my post. Saturday, 'Stella, got her groove back.' Words can't explain Saturday's run. I've felt like a lost soul for awhile now, but Saturday, my soul was found, YEEHAW!!! BTW running is my religion. Seriously, much cooler temps, a sunrise, an all-out 3rd mile on the track, barton hills to climb at the end & great friends to run with what more can a gal ask for...21.7 miles, check!!!

Hmmm

Hmmm, not real sure what to say at the moment. There are so many things running through my mind all at once I don't even know where to begin. I feel like my emotions are on a roller coaster ride that I can't seem to get off of. I'm fighting the urge to pack a back pack and leave the country for a while. Ok, so that's a tad dramatic but it sure would be fun;-)

Let's see my running, the thing I've always considered my outlet for excess emotions has not been my friend. I started training about 2 months ago for my marathon in December and every run feels like the first one after a 6 month hiatus. I've been extremely frustrated to say the least. I know it takes time to get in the groove, but it's like my groove went on permanent vacation. I'm here to tell you if there were ever a time for running to be my friend it would be now. My hydration has been a constant problem. I take nuun, I drink tons of water but nothing ever seems to be enough. Every run has involved tummy stitches. I've even started carrying a water bottle. Ugh! I think there are a number of challenges that will totally pan out I just wish to whine for a moment.

After licking my wounds from my crappy am run I read an e-mail with a question 'what is this supposed to teach me?' It came at the right time, right when I'm ready to question everything and flip the boat for change it forces me to hold on and ride the wave just a little longer. Granted I forgot about the e-mail by this afternoon and clearly, someone is speaking to me...Julia, posted something else to speak to me 'Moral #1 Stick with whatever goal you have chosen for yourself. It will work out.' The e-mail and Julia are right. Ok, I'm done talking to myself;-)

My Tangible True Love

Ok, so we all know my original 'true love'. Well, I also have a tangible true love, it's high heel shoes. Now, I'd like to state for the record since going back to school I have been a very good girl with my shoe purchases or lack there of. I have managed to buy very few cute shoes, only the practical kind read boring type shoes. Excuse me while I pat myself on the back and wipe the tear from my eye. I'm officially sick of being practical, however, I've got another 15 months of the student thing. So needing a reason to buy cute high heel shoes has presented itself. I have a few weddings and events coming up and my generous Mother bought me a cute black dress for these events and for sure I 'need' some cute not so comfortable shoes to go with the dress.

Well, I found some by accident while shopping in Dallas a few weekends ago. I managed not to buy them. My Mom and Sis don't need to witness me spending money...they give me hell. Come on, don't they know every girl needs a little pick up and what better pick me up than some new cute high heel shoes. Ok, so I refrained from buying these oh, so cute shoes. I procrastinated until today and I have a wedding this weekend. I know patience little grasshopper.

Today when sprinting through Nordstrom to get to the Apple store for my appointment at the genius bar there they were. It was like time stopped, the heavens opened and the angels were singing 'Glory Hallelujah' while shining the light on what had to be the most perfect pair of high heel shoes I've seen. I came to a screeching halt. Could it be my dream come true? I turn these beautiful gems over to see the size of the shoes, forget price these babies have taken my breath away. Yes, size 6 on display, that's me. Try them on, perfect fit. A nice sales lady walks up and escorts me to the register. I think a total of 5 minutes went by between the time I saw them and the time they became mine. So, without further ado I introduce to you the perfect high heel shoe;-)

Planning

For the most part I'm quite the planner. I map anything and everything out including potential catastrophes. I am always ready for anything that may occur. However, this August I've clearly fallen apart. I start a new semester tomorrow. I have done nothing to prepare for it. In fact I'm willing to bet I don't even carry a notebook with me tomorrow. What has happened to me?

My goals before a semester are to be well rested, organized home and slightly bored with myself. This helps me want to start a new semester. None of this has happened this month. If anything I feel as exhausted as I feel at the end of a semester. Wish me luck!!!

I still need to sign up for an online course that I'm pretty sure started today. Clearly, I'm on top of things;-) Where are my classes tomorrow morning? I have no idea and more than likely will just figure it out tomorrow once I'm on campus. I will say the one thing I've managed to take care of is get the old parking sticker off of my car, which is like ripping your thumb off your hand it's so messy. The new sticker is ready to roll. At the moment I call this success. Seriously, 15 months to go!!!

The one thing I have planned is my entire labor day weekend which involves lots of beer, running and tons of fun...maybe I'm acting more like a freshman. Woo Hoo!

Exhausted...

Exhausted is not the way I wish to start my next semester, but it looks like that's what it's going to be. I realized today as I was talking to my mom a lot of my exhaustion stems from watching the Olympics until 11 or 12 o'clock at night. I'm usually sound asleep by 10 pm. So staying up late to get up at 4:30 am to run 12 or so miles then go stand on hard concrete floors for the rest of the day at work explains my exhaustion.

I must say I'm a tad frustrated at the moment with my training. I keep thinking this humidity thing won't bug me so bad but the truth is it's kickin' my ass!!! Today was no different. I feel like I'm slogging elephant legs through my 12ish mile runs. It seems like my pace is more of a shuffle than a run like a walker could pass me I'm moving that slow. You know what I'm talking about. You've seen it happen. The good news is I'm so pace challenged (I guess this is good for now) once I plug in the numbers I'm actually holding an 8:50 pace. Whew!!! I was getting concerned about my race goals but am settling back down again. All I know if it weren't for Julia this morning I would have stopped running and crawled back to Barton Springs.

12.5 miles (Ruth's definition of a 12 miles run) check!

Nap Time

Who new nap time would be so necessary in adulthood? As a child it was the most dreaded moment of any and every given day. What I wouldn't give to have mandatory nap time every day now. Now here's the sad news my nap occurred today at 830am. You read that right. Most people are headed to work at that time but not me. I had been up since 4:30am and slogged my way through 12 humid miles and was whacked. 2 hours later I was a new person. Ahhh...

I foresee a nap tomorrow as well. These Olympics are keeping me up way past my bedtime. 2 more weeks to enjoy these naps then it's back to school...

My True Love

I honestly had no idea what I was getting myself into back in 2000 when I pulled out a map of the US to figure out my next place of residency. There really is no method to my living madness other than I get bored and need a new adventure, which tends to involve me moving to another state. I figure why not, if I don't like it I can leave. It's safe to say I fell head over hills in love with San Francisco. I can't explain it but there's something about this city that makes me feel alive like no other place can or does. Don't get me wrong I like Austin just fine but my heart belongs to SF.

Seriously, words can't describe my love of it. I would walk my neighborhood almost every night out to the lion steps just to take in the fresh air and beauty of it all. Like some people hug trees (Kerry) I walk the hills to see the views of the water. I am well aware it costs a mini-fortune to live there and it's worth every pretty penny to do it at least once.

I guess I should come clean with the fact it was 75 degrees and sunny the entire time I was there earlier this month, and normally July is the coldest month out there, but whatever. I got a little trigger happy with the camera to take it all home with me.

3-Hours

and one sore ass later my latest UT Cycling study has begun. Honestly, my decision making abilities need to be revoked. I've said this before (in another post I can't recall) and I'll say it again. I may need someone else to tell me if I'm making the right decision or not. I say this in jest...

A few weeks ago i got an e-mail from Lynne over at UT wanting to know if I had time to do another cycling study. If so, was i still cycling. Well, if you count my ride at the Katy Flatlands last July as still riding then yes. Ok, so I didn't tell her that part. I vaguely payed attention to the length of the study and all it would require. As a student all I saw was the dollar amount and followed by a 'yes, I'd love to participate.'

So yesterday was the 'practice' ride. Seriously, why didn't I read that e-mail. I'm thinking no biggie I've fasted for these things before I've survived, how bad could it be. Way worse than my crazy head could imagine! After fasting for 12 hours and waking up hungry I had the privilege of riding a bike for 3 hours. Yeah, you read that right 3 hours on an empty stomach. Have I mentioned my bony butt...I think now is a good time to do just that. I have a very bony ass. When I drove from San Francisco to Austin every night I landed in a hotel I had to lay on my stomach and massage my ass back to life. In fact, I need to make a butt pumper. Something that can fluff a person's bony ass back to life.

Ok, for starters Lisa left my watch on...I love it when I sneak my gigantic watch by the timing Nazis. About 1.25 hours into my ride Lisa sees it and confiscates it...damn it!!! I really need to know how much longer I have on this bike. Now we'll get back to my bony ass. It's a total toss up in what's more miserable my growling stomach or my numb seat bones. I kid you not my butt was numb around the half-way point. The good news is you're able to stop and take a potty break. This proves to be a good thing. Gives me a chance to pump some life back into my bony ass. Again I need to make a butt pumper. I took 2 potty breaks. 1. because I actually needed to go and 2. because sitting on a bike for 3 straight hours is wrong!

By the end of the 3 hours my arms couldn't even hold the handle bars anymore I was so hungry. Normally I'm not one to want food directly after a hard work-out. Yesterday was different. The second I jumped off that bike I started slamming calorie drinks along with the biggest PB&J my eyes have ever seen. Lynne makes a wicked PB&J. By the time I finished stuffing my face I looked like a 6 month old pregnant lady in cycling shorts...not a good look for a single person;-)

The good news is I can bring my own bike seat with me next week. I think bike shorts and bike seats deserve their own post along with my bony ass;-)

Happy Birthday Cancers!!!

Good friends, great memories and a ton of wine;-)

So True

I saw this quote on a friend's facebook page and I couldn't agree more;-)

"I'm impatient, selfish, and a little insecure. I'm hard to handle and out of control sometimes. I may get down on myself and come to you for help a lot. But, if you can't handle me at my worst...then you sure as hell don't deserve me at my best."
-Marilyn Monroe

4th of July

My mom was truly worried about her daughter having the 4th of July as a birthday. I mean seriously, a child's b-day is all about cupcakes at school and everyone in your class giving you a birthday card or better yet an actual gift. Little did my mother know this would be the best day to have a birthday. I mean let's be real I NEVER work on this day not too mention my friends NEVER work on this day either...needless to say there is no excuse not to share a toast on this day...'my' day. I say this in jest but it truly is the best day to have a birthday.

My mother shared this concern with me several years ago and then said "you've always managed to make your birthday celebration last an entire week so I decided maybe it wasn't so bad after all." No Mom it's really not so bad after all;-)

This year was no different if not better than all my previous years and I'm grateful for it. I was not looking forward to the whopping 35th year of my life. I mean it's a rather large number (yes, I know some of you are older but this is about me) and closer to 40 than 34. I'm also in college surrounded by young 20-somethings. Granted you could not pay me to go back to my 20's but staying 30 wouldn't be so bad. However, with each passing year my life gets better and better so maybe the age thing ain't so bad.

Here's to being 35!

Breathe

There are days I honestly think my decision making skills should be revoked especially when it involves school. What was I thinking when I decided to take 2 computer courses in the month of June??? Oh, I know I thought 2 lab courses out of the way and so fast...no, it never dawned on me the workload would be insane. None of that ever crosses my mind. The only thing that does cross my mind is Fall '08 I'll be down to 9 class hours, YIPPEE!!! Now I will have to take a course online but that is minor...I'm totally stoked to be heading to the backside of this degree thing.

2 more weeks and part of my insanity will be over and off to vacation I go, HI-Ho!!!

Male Magnet

For sure that's me...let me explain. About 2 weeks ago I got in a car accident with an uninsured motorist. It happened at 6pm on a Friday, the Friday before school started...why the girl couldn't pull out in front of me in early May is beyond me, but whatever.

On Monday I got my rental car and I think it's safe to say my sex appeal has been elevated to a whole nother level;-) The pic says it all...



I know you want me to swing by your house and take you for a ride. Seriously, I have never been a ZZ Top fan except for the day some random dude behind me on the streets of San Francisco sang 'She's Got Legs' while walking behind me...that is the only time I've liked that band.

It is safe to say I have a new found love for my Jetta. This Cruiser or as my sister says, the PT Loser, has the handling skills of a tricycle. The first morning I had to drive the thing I hit every curb in my drive trying to get out of my house. Note to self there is absolutely no radius on this wheel axle. Bummer take one. Next in line is driving on I-35. I put the accelerator to the floor, nothing. I swear a good 30 seconds go by before the 'Loser' realized I meant move forward. Bummer #2. Nevermind speed, this thing has none. If you consider going over 70mph there is some serious lateral convulsing going on in this car. Bummer take 3. Last but not least there are hills on I-35 between Austin and San Marcos...I know I had never noticed before either, well, until the 'Loser'. This excuse of a vehicle drops to a snails pace if you ask it to drive up hill...mind you you've been speeding for awhile so it's not like you woke it up first thing in the morning and said 'please, could you drive 80mph up Mt. Bonell.' no, you've been going 70 mph for a while now but no, we must drop to 40mph. My dear sweet Jetta does none of this. I can't wait to have her back;-)

NYC Marathon

Holy Shit!!! This is the year I decided to toss my hat into the ring and start the rejection process for the NYC Marathon. I mean after 3 rejections you've got a guaranteed entry...Let's face it I'm not getting any younger so needed to start this process sooner rather than later. To tell ya the truth I completely forgot about this thing. When filling out the lottery info I had absolutely no expectations whatsoever, in fact I forgot when the drawing was to take place. You can imagine my surprise when I opened my e-mail this evening to find...

Dear Katie,

Congratulations! You have been accepted to the ING New York City Marathon 2008. This is the beginning of your journey toward the race of a lifetime on November 2, 2008.

We're thrilled to offer this opportunity to you—to run the greatest race in the world in this special year as we celebrate NYRR's 50th anniversary. To further enhance your experience, you can unite with one of our charity partners to support a worthy cause while you run.

There's also a lot at stake for our talented field of world-class runners, including the ING New York City Marathon crown and the second World Marathon Majors title. We'll see what happens on November 2.

We'll be in touch frequently between now and November. Await further e-mails as well as check our website for training opportunities, classes, and updates that will be posted in the upcoming months. Keep the following in mind as you begin this journey:

• Book your travel plans early through Anthony Travel , our official travel provider.
• Plan to attend the marathon expo Thursday, October 30-Saturday, November 1, at the Javits Center in Manhattan, so that you can pick up your race number and marathon gear.
• You can check your status and update your personal information by entering your username and password here or use the entrant database to check for your name or that of a friend.
• If you cancel your entry for the ING New York City Marathon 2008 according to the instructions, you’ll be eligible for guaranteed entry to the ING New York City Marathon 2009 on November 1. For details, visit our cancellation page.
• Watch for your Official Handbook in August for all you need to know about the marathon.

Enjoy your training. The path to marathon fitness includes the overall satisfaction you gain by training for the ING New York City Marathon. We look forward to seeing you shine in November.

Sincerely,

Mary Wittenberg

I'm a little bummed I won't be able to go this year (no worries, I'll defer to next year) since I'm now hell bent on Sacramento (an armpit of a destination if you ask me) but this kind of plays into my hand quite nicely...

Humidity

Who knew humidity could be my friend, definitely not me! There are times when a good humid day benefits my ego. An old friend of mine was in town for Memorial Weekend and whenever we see each other we always go for a run.

For some odd known reason whenever John and I run the competitive side of me shows up. Our runs are short in distance and the guy has been playing soccer since birth and is still playing…he’s older than me so you do the math. Shorter distances are his forte except for one small fact…he lives in Seattle. This is when humidity is on my side, who knew…

We were set to run Monday at 7am. I wanted to go earlier but John is a wuss. I was on the lake all of Sunday in the hot sun and of course hydrating myself with Tecate beer all day long and topped the night off with quesadillas and a Mexican martini, because this is the best way to prepare for a run in the Texas humidity.

I secretly hoped John would send a text wimping out. No such luck! 7am we’re off. I was a tad concerned we may see my Mexican martini from the night before…Actually when we took off there was a nice drizzle. The drizzle was short lived and followed by some serious soup like conditions for us to run in.

The first 2 miles of our run were pretty uneventful. The second 2 miles I really thought the quesadillas were on their way back to haunt me. I could tell my Seattle friend was suffering. We talked steadily in the first 2 miles. The second half of our run he kept asking me open ended questions, which I know was a trick to make me talk and run out of breath. No such luck Hot Shot! My goal is to torture you today! Honestly, when we passed the rowing club I wanted to crawl into a canoe and wait for my death. However, John was 2 steps behind me and I couldn’t give into my weakness so we kept plodding along back to the Rock.

He admitted later on at coffee that he was wiped out. His Mother confirmed he had been complaining since we got done running. Mission accomplished!!!

I think the torture good ‘ole Johnny experienced is payback for choosing to ski Tahoe instead of pacing me at the AT&T Marathon back in ’07. Just sayin.’

It's Time

Well, I am days away from starting my training for the California International Marathon in December. I haven't been very consistent with my running since my last marathon, which was February '07 (yeah, you read that right). I've never trained in the summer mainly because I despise the humidity. Yes, I'm aware I live in Texas but I usually get on my bike or do some wimpy runs at this time of year.

This years training season will be dedicated to my mental training, which has been my arch nemesis since I started racing way back when. I've never had an issue with my cardio fitness it has always been the voices in my head (yes, I am crazy, duh!). Today was one of those days where the voices were very loud.

I stepped outside this morning to meet Brenda and Jon for a 6 miler and I'll be damned if it wasn't thick as molasses outside at 5:45am. Geez, it's May people! We started running and I swear I needed a straw to extract some oxygen from the air. I felt like a 90 y/o woman with emphysema running without her oxygen tank. This was before we even hit mile 1...I thought to myself no way I can make 6 and immediately my confidence was flushed down the toilet. I started questioning my ability to train during these summer months.

Now, I'm in the process of reading a book called 'Running Within' which addresses the mental aspects of training. I worked on putting some of the ideas to test today and let's say I may need to read this book 2 to 3 more times for it to sink in. I start one of the reverse negative thinking ideas and it lasts about a milli-second before my body says, 'no way lady, you're not running in this humidity.' The good news is my training partners held me accountable today and I kept trudging along with them.

Here's to a new training season!!!

Reckless Kelly

'Nuff said...seriously! Alright, I'll explain. This started back in January towards the end of football season over at Cousin Lyle's house. Well, he's not my cousin but later you'll need to know he's Cousin Lyle (let's call him CL for short). I'm enjoying some wine and chili with CL, M & 510. Later on M looks at me and says Willy and posse are coming to CL's in a bit and she has the look of love in her eyes. Oh, Lord here we go with M and her bad boys. She has a thing for the wild ones. I in turn think nothing of this. Later on Willy and posse show up (aka- Reckless Kelly) since their Lyle's cousin it's normal for them all to hang out. I'm still unimpressed in Willi and posse. M is about to flip out of her chair and I'm more enthralled with my glass of wine.

Fast forward to SXSW in March at the Dirty Dog. I am introduced to my first Reckless Kelly performance. Now, mind you these SXSW shows are only 30 minutes long but I am hooked. All I know is I'm not a country music lover but Willy with his crooked grin have convinced me otherwise.

Nutty Brown Cafe this past Friday I go to my first full performance by Reckless Kelly and I *heart* Willy and his crooked grin. Do NOT think for 2 seconds that grin is meant for you. I am certain he sang to me all night Friday...I had stars in my eyes and will now and forever be a groupie of Reckless Kelly. Sorry, Thievery Corporation I really want to see you when you come to town BUT it's the same night as RK and I'm not the cheatin' kind;-)

No Words Can Explain It.

I consider going back to school one of the hardest decisions I've ever made. I will say I'm enjoying it even if it involves all nighters (remember these don't involve margaritas, a dance floor or my friends), little to no social life and NEVER seeing the male species...that's quite a bit of sacrifice if you ask me. However, there is a perk to this school thing and it comes twice a year. Oh, yeah, you guessed it semester break. A whopping 4 weeks mind you, no projects, no all nighters (the un-fun all nighters) and no commuting for an entire 4 weeks. It's so exciting words can't even describe it;-)

It's Official!!!

I passed Residential Studio...Yay, Me!!! Nothing like your fate being sealed in an envelope you had to self-address. Thank goodness I needed some good news. Whew!!!

Now I really need to study for my last final;-)

Here We Go...

Here we go...into some sleepless nights. I turn in my portfolio on Monday. This portfolio contains all of my projects from the current semester's studio. It's also a pass or fail. If you happen to stumble on this post feel free to send me some good luck karma, I'm going to need it.

I'm in process of completing my final project and have some final touches and boards to re-do from the previous 2 projects. Somehow all of this will be done before 10am on Monday. Oh, yeah I also work all day tomorrow. Fun times I swear!

I'm going to post the floorplan I've been working on all week. I don't think words can explain how excited I will be to do all floorplans by computer next semester. All of this drafting is too time consuming. Not to mention this final project has to be universal...wheelchair accessible, so there looks like lots of space but granny needs that 5' turn around for her u-turns;-)

Random Things About Me

1. I wanted to be a solid gold dancer when I grew up.
2. I still want to be a solid gold dancer.
3. I love 80s music.
4. I really don't like beer.
5. But I will drink it if I 'have' to.
6. I'm the queen procrastinator.
7. I'm supposed to be writing a term paper now;-)
8. I love to run.
9. I am a strong runner.
10. Maybe not the fastest.
11. I am always on time.
12. I'm scared to death of thunderstorms.
13. I would be a great private investigator.
14. I talk out loud TO movies. (as in 'He is not going to do that').
15. Maybe that's why my friends don't ask me to movies.
16. I can't sit still unless I'm really tired.
17. I hate to clean.
18. I love spring and fall.
19. I've lived in 6 cities and 4 states.
20. I'm commitment phobic.
21. I find it difficult to commit to things to far in advance.
22. I love to render.
23. I'm very observant.
24. I like numbers.
25. My alias is Bunny.
26. I plan to qualify for the Boston Marathon in December.
27. I love plain m&ms.
28. I love oreos & milk- they should be at the top of the food chain.
29. I don't like to drive.
30. Although if you're a slow driver I won't let you drive me.
31. I always drive over the speed limit.
32. I love to read.
33. I don't lose things.
34. It may take me a year to find it, it's still not lost.
35. I like small houses.
36. I love a good mexican martini.
37. I want to learn to speak Spanish fluently.
38. I want to live overseas, preferably Spain.
39. I love water (ocean, lakes & rivers).
40. I love dogs.
41. I can't decide how I want to remodel my bathroom.
42. I like hand written letters.
43. I can't seem to change my phone to 512.
44. I love to sleep.
45. I require sleep.
46. You will know if I haven't slept in a while;-)
47. I love a good story.
48. I like when my life creates a story, preferably a funny one.
49. I love friends who make me laugh.
50. I like to laugh so hard I cry or get the hiccups.
51. The Internet is my enemy.
52. I love Dr. McDreamy.
53. I found the writer's strike to be annoying.
54. Mint chocolate chip ice cream is my favorite.
55. Baskin Robbins please.
56. Sweet not salt.
57. Humidity doesn't agree with my hair.
58. I have super fine hair.
59. I think I'm 5'7".
60. I can't keep a calendar.
61. If I have to have a calendar I like the paper kind.
62. I wish I could sing.
63. My neighbors wish the same thing.
64. I am bossy.
65. I've had a python in my house, no it was not my pet.
66. I've almost stepped on a copperhead.
67. I've had a random snake wrap around my leg.
68. It was dark so I couldn't tell what kind.
69. I had my first car wreck at the age of 14.
70. Legal driving age was 15 in La.
71. I've rolled an explorer.
72. I've had to use doggy doors to get into houses.
73. None of these houses were mine.
74. No, I was not breaking and entering, all legit.
75. I'm great with directions, no GPS necessary.
76. I served on a triathlon board.
77. I've never done a triathlon.
78. I've made daiquiris with a food processor.
79. I couldn't find my parents blender.
80. Obviously, they were out of town and I was underage;-)
81. I was a Bearcat Belle.
82. I have good intuition.
83. I really need to write my term paper.
84. I'm excited to be pursuing something I love.
85. I am opinionated.
86. Sometimes I don't notice when I'm thinking out loud.
87. I have a love hate relationship with getting up early.
88. I drown my coffee in cream & sugar.
89. I don't like big meals.
90. I like a good glass of pinot noir.
91. My closet is extremely organized.
92. I've stayed up all night dancing and then went straight to the fish market.
93. It was fun.
94. I've stayed up all night for a school project.
95. Not so much fun.
96. I've always wanted curly hair of medium thickness.
97. I'm always reading 2-3 books at a time.
98. I'm at the half-way point with my Design degree.
99. I took piano lessons for 4 years.
100. I want to play the guitar.
101. I stayed in a relationship too long because HE could play a guitar;-)

Now, the procrastination must end, onto Modernism/Postmodernism!

Time

How did it happen? I swear ever since spring break came and went time has been on fast forward. Everytime I look up to breathe an entire week has gone by. I really can not make myself think beyond the day at hand it makes my heart rate sky rocket. The end of semester is approaching fast. It's scary and exciting all at once. This is a make or break semester. I'm in my first residential studio, which is secretly referred to as the 'weed-out class' meaning this is where they get rid of real crappy designers. To say I'm nervous is an understatement. I still need to make some changes to my original projects and complete the final one I'm currently working on...not sure how this is all going to pan out since I'm on the verge of a burn out at the same time;-) I will spare you of my meltdown from last week, emotions were on overdrive!

A few things I've learned about myself or have actually known for a long time and now need to face these facts. I am a very aggressive woman. What does this mean? Not much for the majority of you as long as you don't spend much time with me. I HAVE to find a way to run. It's no longer an option to skip, even if it's only for 20 minutes I have to run, period, end of story! When I don't let's just say it gets a tad ugly. I am a brutally honest woman so when I don't get rid of my energy it comes out in words so please be careful what you ask me, I will answer.

Last but not least I have decided to start training again. Ok, it doesn't officially begin until May 27th but I will be following through this time. I have some unfinished business with the marathon and plan to stake my claim in December!!!


Now to get through today, left, right, left;-)

The Perfect Sunday

The perfect Sunday involves a good run, great friends & champagne...does it get any better than this...I think not!!! It really is that simple. Today, this Sunday, it's perfect and now I'll finish this floorplan for school...I'm happy and complete, ok a little tipsy too, but that totally helps the school work.

This morning involved feeding a herd of dogs for friends out of town, a run in the rain with M, and brunch/mimosas with Jane...this is my idea of a perfect Sunday. I love it!!!

Jane- party shuffle playing 'Long Day,' MB20...oh, yeah!!! I love the poster...I think it needs to hang in my loft;-)

36 Hours

When I think of pulling an all nighter I think of a dance floor with good friends, margaritas and 80s music. Unfortunately, me being up for 36 straight hours didn't involve any of that. So sad that model building takes forever + a day.

Since going back to school my 8hour nights of sleep are something of the past. It's normal for me to go to bed around 2am (again no dance floor, margaritas or music) and sleep for 4-5 hours. I knew this field required insane hours but seriously. There are plenty of gals that always talk about 'I was up all night getting this done'...I just thought 'what a dumb ass, who wants to stay up all night for school?' Ok, as they say you will eat your words. I have officially done just that. When it came time for me to turn in my project I couldn't remember if I had brushed my teeth, showered or eaten I was so confused as to what day any of the aforementioned was done...I opted to shower and my brush my teeth again just to be safe;-)

Without further ado here is my final stuff. I forgot to take a pic of my rendering that accompanied the model. Remember I was no longer firing on all 4 cylinders.

Also, stuff in the house that would be built-in had to be done in 3-D (kitchen cabinets) things such as living room furniture could be done in 2-D. I swear this makes sense!

More Model Building

It's time to convert the 2-D model to a 3-D model. This part intimidates me, it's also the point at which I get to see my minuscule mistakes that yes, the professor will notice too.



If you're paying attention there is still an exterior wall missing;-) I haven't had the guts to conquer that wall yet. It has a fireplace that isn't your normal box on the exterior portion of the house it's got some funky zig-zag thingy and I am not ready to face this challenge. The interior portion has a few too many book shelves going as well, and my moments are numbered before I have to face this challenge.

I'm drinking an Enviga drink this should keep me charged for another 10 hours and hopefully I will be near completion.

Model Building

Model building is for the birds. I don't think words can convey my dislike of these things. I didn't like them this summer and I sure as heck don't like them now. I swear for every 1 step I take forward there are about 7 back...it makes no sense.

I have no idea what happens with foamcore between the time I measure it, draw a line and then take the knife to it...somewhere in those steps it shrinks??? Guess what if it's too short back to square 1 until it's right...trust me there are several wrongs before you make a right.

Anyhoo that's the boring stuff. I accomplished my goal of the day for my model...it's a small one but the first one to complete on the day I wanted it complete...yay! me!!!

Here's an idea of my private hell. All the pieces on the left are the rejects the tiny pile on the right are going to make the exterior of this house model.


Now for the complete dining room. It will look strange but in my teenie tiny world this is huge...I'm finally moving to the interior part of this model. Once complete this will be more clear, or that's the goal.



Tomorrow I'll work a little more then off to SXSW for the rest of the day/night...this is supposed to be my spring break. Break means build a model, draw/render a kitchen, write 2 papers and start preparing for a test the week after spring break;-)

LAZY

At what point do you say, get off your ass and go run??? Honestly, I've started a few runs a week, slow & ugly runs mind you. Cedar season was NOT kind to me and no I didn't venture outdoors for about 2 months. Now I'm finding it darn near impossible to get out the door for a run. I have gotten back in the weight room and am slowly starting to work on my core but SERIOUSLY, I have to find a way to make myself run. It's hard to qualify for Boston without ever running.

Today I just kept putting it off blaming all the tests I have next week (good 'ole mid-term week). I finally blew it off and did core work with the promise to get up early tomorrow and log some miles. I did get a TON of lighting done today;-)

Anyone interested in swimming at Stacy pool? Maybe I need a change of pace/cardio. I go through this after every marathon.

NYC Marathon

You have been entered into the lottery for the
2008 ING New York City Marathon!

Entry #218561
Please use this number for any correspondence relating to your marathon entry
Entry #218561
Katie Johnson

Processing Fee: $11.00
Total: $11.00
The following fees will be charged to your account ONLY if you are accepted into the race.
Entry Fee: $155.00
Total: $155.00

Well, I've entered the lottery for the NY Marathon. If my entry # is 218561 is that how many people have entered their name as well??? That's a ton of people. I wish I had been entering the lottery for the past 3 years...I think that's guaranteed entry or is it 4 years??? Oh, well I'm starting now;-)

All Done

Finally by 2am Wednesday night my project was complete. I worked 18 straight hours on it that day and let me tell you my back is still hurting from being slumped over my drafting table. I think this design thing is going to put me in the grave a tad sooner than I thought. I'm glad it's over and my meltdown on Tuesday as usual was not necessary. Tuesday was the first time I thought maybe I don't have what it takes to design. After yesterday's presentations I think I'm doing ok, not too mention I will improve as this semester progresses.

Slowly but surely...

I'm going to get to the end of this...it may be in the wee hours of the night BUT it's going to happen.

Another step done.

Another step complete...

Granted I have about 400 more steps to go to completion but another step done!!!

And the fun continues...

Well, I'd like to say my first studio project is going well but that would be a lie. I have no idea how everything will be done by tomorrow's presentation. Yes, blogging about it is a good use of my time...actually my back needs a break from being hunched over my drafting table. Also, I think I will take some advice from a friend's blog and run this afternoon. I think even 20 minutes will help keep my head clear and keep me from going insane.

So here are a few more drawings that I've completed...

Here we go...

And so it begins...my first studio project is due on Thursday and well, I have a long way to go before it's ready for presentation. I did finally finish the perspective part of the project and let's just hope this was the most time consuming part of it. It took 18 hours to draw...I now get to shrink it from 24"X36" to 8"X11".



I realize this is hard to see since it's a pencil drawing right now. This is the den of a house we are remodeling for our project. I've got quite a few sleepless nights ahead of me a test to study for and a paper to write...I heart school;-)

My Holiday

My X-mas holiday consisted of working for the catering company and dog sitting, 5 dogs. I won't bore you with the catering stuff as I don't have any stories from those gigs. What I will tell you about is my 1st night to feed the dogs.

These are 5 hungry dogs. I had already met them and gone through the feeding instructions with Ron. What I didn't do before the Perry's left town is check the key to make sure it worked. I have a long history of copied keys & front doors & nothing working, apparently, this information is buried somewhere in my subconscious...

Friday evening I was meeting a girlfriend of mine in town for the holiday. My plan was HH with Christine then swing by the doghouse on my way home. Everything was fine & dandy until Christine managed to spill my red wine on me. (Why does time stand still when red wine is in mid-air and taking direct aim at a white shirt?) Needless to say we were done catching up.

Now off to feed the herd of hungry dogs. Get to the house and it's pitch dark. Thanks Ron for NOT leaving the porch light on. Fumble for the key start feeling around for the doorknob. Turn key, nothing. Wiggle key, nothing. Curse key, nothing. Finally, some movement...oh, that's the direction to lock the door, not unlock. First F-bomb dropped while being serenaded by hungry dogs. Call Ron (I'm real grumpy at this point), did you check this key? He says, yeah, it should work, but if not walk to the side of the house and the gate door is held by a sandbag you should be able to move it if you push hard enough. Did I mention the outfit I was wearing? Well, my cute fitted jeans with snake skin heels. This is not an outfit meant for 'off-roading.' Just to give you a better picture.

I try to move sandbag...again, nothing. I look at the gate and think I can scale this thing. I climb it heels and all. Get to the top assess the situation and make sure the dogs aren't the protective kind. All's clear in the backyard...start to go down the other side. Wait there's a nail caught in the crotch of my jeans. Another F-bomb is dropped. Do a little maneuvering and jeans are cleared. Now I'm in the backyard. Let's just say they could stand to level the yard a little or post a sign saying- you may not want to wear your cute high heels in yard...just a thought.

Now I've made it to the back door. I opt to stick my hand through the doggie door to triple check these aren't protective dogs. Nothing. Alright, I'm now crawling through the doggie door (this ain't my first rodeo...I have crawled through a doggie door before). Whew! I'm finally in.

Now it's the sprint to feed 5 dogs, keep them separated and I don't know what else. I'm real sure it looked like a 3 ring circus going on. I'm starting to relax a bit and think yippee, Ron showed me how to use the tv...I can enjoy some cable. This I considered an evening of luxury. Right, minus the fact I can't get the tv on. More F-bombs are dropped. Now, I think I will just relax on the comfy looking couch.

Let me explain this comfy looking couch. It's L-shaped and wide with some strange looking plastic runner thing on it. I think this is some nifty thing to keep the dogs from getting on it. OH, and nifty that little plastic thing was. I decide to fall into the couch without moving nifty plastic thing because I'm that lazy. This proves to be a poor decision on my part. I take the Nestea plunge into the couch. Oh, sh$t, f***, damn. This nifty plastic thing is shocking the hell out of my backside. WTF??? I can't even begin to explain the curse words flying out of my mouth and the worst part is the way I fell into the couch did not make for an easy get-off the couch movement. Everywhere I touch to lift myself up gets shocked. OH, DEAR LORD...it was like a butt/pet taser thing. I literally was going into cardiac arrest trying to free myself of this nifty little plastic thing.

When I was finally standing again I announced to the dogs my day sucked!!!