A Great Weekend and Half Marathon

Since my buddy Saba blogged about it, I thought I would give another running perspective from my Silicon Valley Half Marathon experience. High school buddy, Alison, flew in from Iowa to join in the experience. I was super glad to have two of my best girlfriends (and one of their fantastic hubbies) there on an excellent day. YAY! As the two of you who read my blog know, this was my second 13.1 mile race. The first I ran in Iowa with Alison in June.

It was very interesting starting out in the dark at 7:00 am. Unfortunately they didn't find someone to sing the national anthem and blared the over-played Whitney Houston one from the loud speaker. I even know the race organizer, but didn't think that they wouldn't find a suitable high school student, otherwise, I would have offered my services or the services of another find Silicon Valley musician or musicians. (He's getting an email from me.)

I was amazed that I wasn't having my usual ankle/shin-splint trouble during the first 4 miles, like I usually do. When I got to Willow Glen without pain, I got pretty excited that maybe those "sportlegs" pills I took did the trick. It could have also been the stretching, but I'm not sure.

Like Saba, I was thrilled to run on the Los Gatos Creek Trail (WORD to the LGCT!) because it's also my usual training grounds. It was fantastic to know exactly how many miles I had until such-n-such a landmark. I try to people watch when running because it makes the time go faster. There was a girl dressed up like a banana, and another with her butt completely hanging out of her spandex running shorts. I decided I felt pretty good, so I passed banana girl and butt crack girl. (If someone's butt crack isn't enough to make you want to speed up or slow down, I don't know what is.)

I saw SaBa's hubby and the CoDo at Campbell Park. I was very excited to see them!

I was already aware of the first, short, but very steep hill on the trail. As we got to the hill I clapped my hands and shouted, "Yes! I love this hill." I looked behind me briefly to see that others had a look of pain (or perhaps disgust) at this comment, and I felt a little silly about it, but I trudged on. It's not the hills I mind so much as finishing the hill. There is that slowing down period after the hill where you are catching your breath that is really uncomfortable.

At Los Gatos Creek Park I noticed a couple of people using the port-o-potties and I was really glad that I didn't need to use them too. Onward! At mile 6 I felt like a champion and I thought to myself "I could keep up this pace for the next hour, no problem..."

I think mile 8, 9 and 10 were difficult for me because I pushed through 6 and 7, but now I wasn't feeling too hot. I honestly don't remember much from the Vasona dam until the end of the park except thinking that Christmas lights in green grass still looks really strange to me.

There was a really cute guy in blue shorts who I kept passing, then being passed by. It was a fun game, but he really started to take off after mile 10, and I thought, "Oh well, he's probably married," as he went by for the last time. I had a little day dream about us finishing together and it showing up in our finish line picture, but I didn't want to kill myself. He probably would have just been pissed if he was beat by a girl. I just let him win. (Ha ha ha I slay me.)

The bridge over 17 to Los Gatos High School almost ruined my knees. That was the worst surface of the entire race.

I enjoyed that they made you circle the track before heading to the finish line. Not only is the track a boingy, fantastic running surface, it also makes you kind of feel like a champion. This is also the place where the full marathon runners turn around, and I remembered thinking how glad I was that I didn't have to turn around and go back.

I would also like to compliment the announcer who said almost everyone's name at the finish line. That was special.

After the race I got to eat eggs benedict with two of my best girlfriends, and best girfriend hubby, and it was awesome. Here's to our next race, ladies!

Ho-Hum from an entertainment perspective

I have lots of things going on, but none really great from an entertainment perspective, hence the month-long silence:

Work is in full swing, as is school and rehearsal. I decided to take a law class "just for fun" because I don't need it to graduate. I like it a ton. It's fun to use words like "precedent" and "tort" and learn about the "State Action Doctrine" and "Lemon Test." Maybe I should revisit the idea of a law profession, which is what I intended to do when moving back to California 5 years ago. The only thing that's really holding me back is money. . . anyone have $100,000 lying around. . . anyone . . . anyone?

This summer, I also thought about the idea of moving to Texas (Dallas) for a dual MA Arts Administration / MBA program. Then I received the brochure in the mail with a bunch of white people on the cover and decided it might be too much of a culture shock to move back to the middle states. Except Chicago. LOVE Chicago. The idea of working at a university in Chicago makes me overly giddy. To answer your question about weather: YES! Even in the snow and wind.

I'm not dating anyone, and I'm totally cool with that. Yeah, I look around, but no one really stands out except the standard "fall backs" like that guy who works across campus, the guy I dated 4 years ago, or the eliptical exerciser at my gym. Nothing to be taken seriously. Why create an in-flux relationship right now? That's just mean and just puts me on the same level as those guys who can 't decide what they want either. So, until my soul mate bangs into my cart at the grocery store . . . I'm staying clear of relationship land.

The importance of an athletic supporter

Before you do Zumba, men-folk, please watch this video:

I'm a fan of men who will try dance moves. Just be careful to "pack it" before attempting this exercise.

Thank you.

An organic experience

Although I'm not eating 100% organic anymore, but I have learned that organic options ROCK when available. Here are some of my favorites!

Veggies like bell peppers from the farmers market - They are organic and grown locally. Who cares if they are mis-shapen. The farmer's market is also a good excuse to get up on Sunday before 1:00.

Fruits like nectarines and blackberries from the farmer's market are also dee-lish!

Dairy products: Ok, Fage Greek yoghurt is NOT organic, but it is super tasty. I had a hard time finding an organic yoghurt that is tasty AND filling. I even tried organic soy yoghurt and all I have to say is.... yuck. I'm so glad I'm not lactose intolerant! Also, yummy organic string cheese is fantastic!

Frozen food: There IS organic frozen food, which is simple to make (this rice takes 3 minutes in the micro) and there's a lot of it out there, folks. Another favorite is Whole Foods' frozen organic ravioli!

If the shoe fits . . .

. . . buy another pair.

Don't buy another brand. Stick with the ones that fit. Here's to another 300 miles!

Things I like, Things I find odd (Olympics Edition)

(Because I'm due for a post.)

My favorite Olympic sport is track and field. I especially love the 200 meter dash, because so much can happen around the curve. It's awesome!

Speaking of the Olympics . . . I wonder why India doesn't have more athletes. With over a billion people, I thought there would be more than 57! As my Indian compadre said, "We are more brains than brawn." I guess so. No knocking a society that takes pride in intelligence.

I LOVE that McDonalds and Michelob are official sponsors of the Olympics!

While running today, I realized why I'm not crazy about small children. They make me nervous because they lack sense of direction. I should count the times in a week when I almost run into one somewhere: walking through my complex, at the grocery store, on the trail. I'm telling you, that could be an Olympic sport!

Has anyone noticed that the 30-40 year old women's age group at any race is the group to beat? Those women are crazy-tough. Perhaps after having children, your endurance goes through the roof! Maybe I'll change my mind and have a couple. Ok ... maybe not.

Does the Olympics increase an individuals motivation to exercise? I'm telling you. So far, it's working for me.

I like Asics 2130s. I recently bought a pair of Nike, thinking I would try something different, and it didn't work out for me. I got a shin splint in one leg, and horrible cramping on the left side of my left foot. Fortunately, I shop at a running specialty store, and they let me return the Nike's and go back to my old standards. Lesson learned: Stick with what you know. If it works, no need to change.

I like sports that adhere to internal human instincts i.e. running, boxing, climbing, weights. Participating in these sports could help you in the real world i.e. getting away from the bad guys, defending yourself, getting over a wall, lifting a heavy box . . . What does the elliptical train you for? Riding the world's smallest unicycle? Don't even get me started on synchronized diving.

Will people let Michael Phelps go home and rest, already!

Last year I posted a blog about goals for my 29th year on this planet.

1.) Finish Grad School!

2.) Maintain 127 pounds and learn to swim.

3.) See Ravi Shankar in concert.

4.) Join the 21st century by purchasing a digital camera and an iPod.

And here's the follow-through:

I didn't graduate from Grad School, but I did start my thesis and plan to be completely finished by June 2009.

I've actually gained about 5 pounds due to an increase in weight lifting. I started lifting more after meeting with a trainer in January, and have worked weights into my routine. Everything seems pretty solid, so I'm not worried about the extra pounds. Besides, one should always take HEALTH into consideration NOT WEIGHT. Weight is a measurement of nothing. And, as we have seen, the B.M.I. measurement is a load of crap. Don't buy into it!

Unfortunately, I did not learn how to swim this year. Instead, I bought a bike. I say that equals everything out.

I saw Ravi and Anoushka in November. I'd love to see them again soon!

Because I intended to write this post, I finally figured out how to charge the digital camera my parents bought me for Christmas . . . this morning. See how writing can also be motivational? *ha*

I still have not purchased said iPod, because I'm not sure if I need one or not. Most people say they "can't go to the gym without it." But, I can motivate without it, so do it need it? It would be nice to be able to play better music around the house, though. But then you have to buy one of those iPod docks, and I just don't know if I have the motivation to buy another item that won't fit into my apartment. Maybe my parents will buy me a dock for Christmas, and I'll learn how to use it in July 2010. *HA*

Suziemusi's 29th Birthday

I didn't have a huge Dora the Explorer cake or a jump house for my birthday. And good thing too... I wouldn't have remembered.
I got an ice cream cone with a candle in it, and that was good enough for me.

I love socializing, but I really don't like throwing parties. I actually put together a baby shower for a co-worker a couple of months ago, and was shocked by myself. So, maybe it would work for my own birthday - no, not decorating with duckies or buying gifts at Baby's R Us - I mean planning a 29th birthday for myself. Silly.

One problem is the activity. I have a pretty diverse group of friends, and sometimes a theme isn't as appealing to some as it is to others. Also finances is important. Some friends can afford a nice meal, and some can't. Then there is the whole thing where everyone feels like they have to pay for you, but YOU picked the restaurant and drank 2 bottles of wine. That's not really fair.

Then there is the issue of how to get a number of people to be at one place at one time. A restaurant would be a nice place for up to 10 people, but above that it becomes a zoo. A park would be nice, because there is lots of room, but August is HOT, people!

Part of me just wants to hide away on my birthday like I did last year. I went to a coastal resort and spent two days in nature - by myself. I went hiking and running, read a book, got a massage, ate nice meals. It made me feel like very Euro-independent, but it was admittedly pretty boring after the first day. Camping with a few friends could be fun. Alas, no camping equipment. *argh*

So, what to do:

#1. Dinner at Menara Moroccan Restaurant in San Jose. I just love sitting on the floor and eating with my hands! Entertainment is belly dancing! It's about 25 bucks a person, which includes a number of courses, and drinks would be extra. A few friends may opt out. I will pay something up front so I don't get my meal for free, because I don't think that's fair.

#2. Taking the weekend off to go camping somewhere. I would need to find friends with equipment.

#3. Go to a spa. This would be an activity for girlfriends, as I am not aware of any of my guy friends who like pedicures. Although, I think everyone needs a nice nail cleaning and foot rub every now and again... I'm not going to push it.

#4. Dinner at the new Hooters in Campbell. This could be hilarious as it is typically a place where men would celebrate their birthdays. Very non-traditional.

#5. Bowling, Bocce or Mini Golf. I would tend to put them in the following order 1-Bocce, 2-Bowling, 3-Mini Golf, only to avoid a large number of children. No, not that my friends are children! Again. Silly.

Anyone have a better idea?

I bought a bike

About a year ago, I started thinking about triathlons. Alas, there were two problems that would prevent me from training for this triathlon.

#1 I have no bike. #2 I've never swum further than the length of a pool...

Hmmm, major problems, especially since the whole meaning of "tri" is three athletic events in one and I can only do 1/3 of the events.

"But, biking is so expensive," I complained. So, I decided to try and find some swim lessons, but unfortunately summer was over before I completed, actually even started, my underwater mission. Isn't that just the way it goes? Procrastination at it's finest.

While in Iowa, I visited my friend, Alison, who is quite the cyclist, and asked her opinion about what kind of bike I should buy. First of all, it would be a fantastic option to be able to bike to work. 10 miles to work and back would be stellar exercise for one day and I would be saving the environment and my pocketbook. It would also be fun to bike the Los Gatos Creek Trail since it's very close to my house. Ride to Los Gatos, have lunch or a snack, and ride home... that's rad! So, I was thinking road bike.

Then I thought it would be fun to take the bike to Santa Cruz and ride along the beach trails, or eventually be able to take a climb up a rocky hill. Well, one needs a different type of bike for that - DAMN.

So, I decided if my first and second priorities would be road bike appropriate, I should definitely go for the sleeker, lighter variety. On Saturday, after 3 HOURS in the bike store, I bought this beauty...

I took it out on Sunday for the first time and am still getting used to gears, etc. But, it should be a good alternative to running as long as my butt can handle it. When, I say "butt" I mean just that... those small road bike seats are not particularly booty friendly. Yes, I bought a pair of padded shorts.

Biking is a step in the right direction. Maybe I'll eventually learn how to swim...

Fabulous Friday: Funnies

Thanks to someecards.com

Marathon to Marathon

A few months ago, my friend, Alison, told me she was interested in running a marathon. She has made reference to a few things she wants to "check off the list" before 30. I told her I really wasn't interested in training for a full marathon, but I would do a half. So, we conjured up a plan for me to come out to Iowa for a race, and she to return the visit and run a half here in California. Any excuse for a visit will do! Alison's best friend from college also signed up for the Marathon to Marathon and we've been periodically checking each other's progress, etc.



The big day was great! The morning temperature was about 56 degrees in Storm Lake, IA. At 6:00 am, we watched the start of the full marathon race in Storm Lake, then loaded on the bus to be dropped off (literally) on a country road in front of a farm house between Storm Lake and Marathon. At 7:00 am we were off! I decided to take my time for the first 6 miles - no need to try and "race" since I've only run 12 miles one other time. I was feeling mighty good after mile 6, so I got into a faster groove. Only after being gone for 9 years, could I finally appreciate the beautiful Iowa scenery:

If you don't like, um, "country smells," one might have not enjoyed it. But, I'm hard core. No poo smells or roadkill (which I saw at mile 9) would deter me from getting to the finish line!


We all got to the finish line before the first marathoner, which means WE DIDN'T GET LAPPED! YAY! We all finished around the 2 hour mark and were proud of our accomplishment. I want Helga to know that I really was the "fastest girl in San Jose" for this race. ;)

24 226 Suziemusi 28 Campbell, CA 1:56:50.02 (Ok, Campbell...)

I would like to thank our photographers, Bart and Munter, (Hubbies of fellow racers) for getting up with us at 4 am. (That's 2 am California time...) Here's to the Silicon Valley half marathon in October!

The state of Iowa

My flight came over the western part of Iowa, the driest part of the state, into Des Moines. I could see displaced water from lakes and streams but, believe me, the whole state is not under water. Cedar Rapids and places along the Mississippi are total disaster areas. My grandmother lives in the old Burlington Hotel and she was evacuated on Sunday. Luckily they live on the 8th floor, so just as soon as they get the electricity and water running again, she'll be back home.

Initially they reported that the Mississippi River levels would not reach those of the flood of 1993, but they went even higher.

My friend Alison said she and her husband spent part of last Tuesday night in their basement the night that tornadoes came through western Iowa. I drove up Highway 71 from Carroll to Spencer, and shuttered when I passed the Little Sioux River, knowing that 4 Boy Scouts had died when a tornado ripped through their campsite. This happened about 30 miles down the Little Sioux River bed, closer to the border of Nebraska. But one could see the effects of a tornado just 2 miles south of Spencer, where another tornado plowed down a large structure (a shed, thank God, not a house) and once shady trees were reduced to stumps with a few jagged branches.

Have I ever been in a tornado? No. I've only seen them forming in the sky. If they were ever a threat, I was usually down in a basement. (I'm asked that all the time.)

Just wanted to give a report.

Fabulous Friday: Random Fabulousness

Oh you thought I was finished being fabulous on Fridays... well, I'm not. So there. :)

I ran 12 miles for the first time on Memorial Day. I thought it was more like 9, but lo and behold, the map told me differently. I guess I was running for about 2 hours, so that would make sense. Every time I push it a little, my right ankle starts causing some shin splits, so I have to take it easier than I'd like for a couple of days afterwards. At least I know I'll finish a half marathon in 2 weeks! Woo!

Organic eating is still fun. I even tried to make my own pasta sauce tonight. It wasn't great, but it was an attempt at cooking, which is a huge feat for me.

A work fundraiser proved to be a good time, and I feel inspired to keep schmoozing for a living. I like people. People like me.

The next two weeks will be filled with thesis writing. I'm having some problems putting all of the information together. (Problem, I hear, most people have when going through this process.) After that - summer is here! I'm trying to convince a girlfriend that we need to go to Mexico in August. I need a vaca.

:)

Maybe men ARE more selective...

Thank you to the San Jose Mercury News, and their annual "Best of Silicon Valley" reviews for providing a list of SV favorite restaurants, bars, and other hang outs.

Their survey included the "Best Place to Meet Men" and "Best Place to Meet Women" categories. Apparently the best place to meet men is Santana Row. Well, yes, there are a lot of men to meet there. Quality men? Hmmmm, not sure. Stripe shirts - definintely, but quality...An evening at SR definitely reflects the gender demographics of San Jose singles pretty well - 70% men. Unfortunately, Frys Electronics did not win, debunking some theories that say perhaps women want smart/geeky men. Apparently not so much. Supposedly we like the striped shirt. I'm going to nominate Frys next year, just for fun.

Who was the big winner for "Best Place to Meet Women." Get this!

Apparently it has gone out of business! "Winner has since closed; no clear runner-up" says the Merc.

Where is this mysterious place? AND, really? No close second? Perhaps it means men really DO have personalities and want to meet a variety of female-types. Perhaps they want to meet women at really unpopular establishments? But, do women really want to meet men at Santana Row? If you are a good-quality man, you'd better get there, because that's where women want to meet you! HURRY! Run. Don't walk. Don't not pass Go. Do not collect $200 dollars... although it might be useful if you're going to Santana Row.

Place to meet men

Readers' choice

Santana Row

400 S. Winchester Blvd., San Jose

http://www.santanarow.com/

Place to meet women

Readers' choice

Winner has since closed; no clear runner-up

May (in pictures)

I ran Pat's Run again this year, albeit not as quickly as last year. My mojo is lacking right now, and I can't quite figure out why. My mileage is good, but I'm having issues with speed. (I can just hear Maverick right now "I feel the need, the need for speed." )Anyway, it was a lovely morning, and a very well-organized event. They found a high school anthem singer who actually sang in tune instead of hiring some "American Idol" wannabe. Very nice. It was a good day to wake up at 6:00 and exercise with friends, followed by the eating of a massively caloric breakfast. :)









I also ran the 15th Annual Human Race of Silicon Valley to raise $$ for Choral Project. Also, time was a little slower than last year, but I can't let that get me down. I somehow raised more money this year than last year, probably by guilt-tripping my friends into saving arts organizations. What can I say? They need saving!









Finally, I went to a 10 year college reunion, but it wasn't mine. I'm still proud to have gone to a state school for my undergrad. Although I don't think my university would have the cash for such an event, at least not with an open bar. Dang, I must have graduated with 10,000 other people! Anyway, I DID give to my department this year and attended their annual alumni and friends event where I was the youngest person there by at LEAST 30 years. Next year, I'm guilt-tripping my artist friends into going. :)

Don't be a (organic) hater!

I know I've been a hater in the past. I've said thing like "A green pepper is a green pepper whether you buy it at Whole Foods or Smart and Final." I grew up in the Midwest where apples are the size of ping pong balls, there is only one kind of lettuce at the grocery store. Not a lot of produce going on there, except, of course, for corn, often sold out of a truck on the side of the road for $2 a dozen. (It might be more since the rise of corn-related-product use... i.e. corn syrup, ethanol.)

Anyhoo, after three weeks of eating (mostly) organic, I've realized that I am doing something good for myself. A few myths about organic eating have been busted since I decided to try it on for size. It might fit. Partially. Read on.

Preconceived notion #1: Organic eating is expensive.
Organic GROCERY SHOPPING is expensive. My grocery bills have grown substantially from about $40 a week to perhaps $80. Today a gallon of organic milk was $5.99, and two chicken breasts over $10. I'm buying a lot more fresh produce now, which means extra trips to the grocery store. Because I'm paying more, I'm wasting less - I'm eating dinner at home and taking leftovers to work for lunch. Eating out has decreased SUBSTANTIALLY. No more $4.99 Togos sandwiches or munching on mozzarella sticks at the pub.

Preconceived notion #2: Organic food rots faster.
Well, yes. Organic produce takes longer to get to the grocery store so it can be rather, um, ripe, when it gets there. But, there is a fun and fabulous way around this. FARMERS MARKET. A fresh head of lettuce picked on Sunday morning will last through Thursday. Woo! AND it's cheaper at the Farmer's Market. Woo Woo!

Preconceived notion #3: There is no organic frozen or boxed foods.
Lo and behold, I can still buy frozen peas, dried pasta, and canned sauces. This makes the busy lady very happy because there is STILL no way I'm going to find the time to let a homemade pasta sauce saute for five hours on the stove. I'm still buying that - premade.

Preconceived notion #4: It all tastes the same.
I still tend to think that organic food tastes the same as non-organic. You could fool me in a blind taste test. Perhaps it's acquired? Dunno.

Preconceived notion #5: I'm going to starve to death.
My life is still in tact, as I'm sure you've guessed. I've definitely been eating less because I think I spend so much time preparing what I'm going to eat, and only buy exactly what I need. I'm not buying snack foods. Organic snack food still kind of freaks me out. Maybe I'll give it a whirl at some point.

Preconceived notion #6: Eating organic is ALL THE TIME.
This is so false, at least for me. I have to go out to eat without being picky, or people would stop hanging out with me. Can you imagine asking the bartender for "Organic Martini, straight up with two organic olives." I think he would die laughing. I'm not going to give up social occassions, like a BBQs, and I'm going to eat hotdogs at a ballgame. I like my friends. I'd like to keep them around. I'd also like to keep my local taqueria and Papa Johns in business, because I like them too. My manfriend likes to cook, and he should be able to cook what he wants. So, when he invites me over, it's on non-organic terms. :)

So, my opinions of organic eating have changed somewhat. Deep down I realize that putting chemicals in the soil is not a good idea, and that pumping animals full of steroids is eventually going to come back to haunt us. I don't support that animals are equal to human beings. (I'm definitely not interested in being a vegetarian.) But, I do believe that, when we treat our food well, we are also treating ourselves well in the long run. Good karma feels pretty good.

Fabulous Friday: Food, Fat and Fast

A note about food.

The organic diet is going pretty well so far. I can not decipher a difference in taste between food grown with pesticides and food that is organically grown. (With the exception to the organic beef I bought, which was a LOT less fatty than usual.) The only thing I notice is that the organic stuff rots faster (er, I'm sorry) is fresher, and it really limits what one is able to buy at the grocery store. Tummy is getting smaller, but I'm attributing this to eating out less, and to actually having to THINK about what I'm putting in my mouth. Of course, I can't eat organic all the time. Towards the end of the week, I end up going to out lunch with colleagues or don't have time to make lunch for the next day, so I find something healthy, but non-organic to eat.

Today, the restaurant at work is hosting a TGIF appetizer reception, and I'm going to eat some fried stuff. So THERE!

A note about fat.

So, why is tummy feeling more solid lately? Well, it could be eating, but it could be running. I do realize, however, that tummy will never look the same as it did when I was 22, no matter how many new core exercises I do or how many miles I run. Tummy is gearing up to be 30... I'll have to live with it. Has anyone else noticed that they are producing extra skin? What's up with that? I'm starting to feel like Rubber Woman.

A note about fast.

Running 4 miles is not a problem, and I can actually start working on some speed again. Just in time, too. Next weekend is Pat's Run (4.2 miles). So, I will spend next week working up to 6 miles, which will be just in time for the Human Race 10K.

My printer

At work today, my printer kept eating 11''x 17'' recycled white paper.

I yelled, "LOOK! My PRINTER is HUNGRY TOO!"

...And it's only been four days of organic eating...

Fabulous Friday (On Monday)

I'm late. Halt die Klappe! (German, for "Shut your Yapper!");)

Seems things are getting back on "trek." I did my first 5 mile run in months last week. Woo hoo! I'm up to about 16 miles in a week... so, now I only have to work up to 13 miles in a few hours.. um, in June. Ok, I have a lot to do. The June half-marathon will be a "trial" run at best, and will hopefully motivate me to keep training for the Silicon Valley half next October. That's the plan, at least.

With all of my new exercise, including my new core and free-weight workouts, you'd think my belly would be looking good. Well, it's not. I've decided my body has finally hit the age at which it is impossible to bounce back. I spent almost a year of my life in a "drinking relationship" and it's done some damage. It's not just exercise anymore, I actually have to watch what I eat. *argh*

I never thought this day would come. *sniffle*

So, get this. I'm trying organic eating. Yes, the girl from the midwest is doing something very non-midwestern... but she's doing it for completely selfish reasons.

I will admit it. I'm only trying the organic thing for my own health, and not because of environmental, animal, economical, or local benefits. Totally selfish... I just want to look better and feel better. Sorry. In fact, eating organic is going to be extremely annoying, and I'm not guaranteeing that it will last.

Why I will lose tummy while eating organically:

1.) I will be running a lot more than usual in May and June and will have probably lost tummy fat anyway.

2.) Why is the food so small? Green pepper is so tiny, me hardly know it there...

3.) More organic food means less eating out, and less food options in general.

4.) Organic rots faster, so I will be hauling my ass to the grocery store at LEAST twice a week, thus burning more calories.

5.) Eating organically is expensive, and I will have no more money to do anything but utilize my gym membership.

6.) The things that people say about the benefits of organic food are true, and I prove myself wrong. (I hope it's this one...)



Foods/drinks I will continue to consume although they are NOT organic:

1.) Nice dinners or lunches out with friends or co-workers

2.) Coffee

3.) Vitamin Water (AKA Crack Water)

4.) Alcoholic beverages

5.) Foods when no organic option is available (When traveling to Iowa)

Hooters in Campbell!

It's on it's way to Campbell, California! Woo hoo! Time for wings and those girls with the skin-colored tights. YAY! It's douchebag HEAVEN.

After living in Las Vegas, where girls applied at Hooters only if no where else in Sin City would take them, and where Buffalo Wild Wings are superior, the idea of a Hooters just seems classless. Honestly, it isn't the sexual innuendo that bothers me. I think it's the idea of another chain restaurant in Campbell - and a bad one, at that. I've decided that a Red Lobster or an Olive Garden in Campbell would be equally as heartbreaking.

Worst-case scenario:

Men flock to Hooters to check out the waitresses, eat wings, and drink beer. Men of Campbell become greasy and fat, thus lessening the number of quality single men who used to frequent other establishments in the downtown area. Campbell men are not the only one's intrigued - Hooter's also attracts douchbags from all over the South Bay, and beyond. Then these D.B.s make their way to lovely downtown Campbell or Los Gatos to infiltrate the normal citizens who just want to have a D.B. free evening of pub fun.

Best-case scenario:

D.B.s from all over the South Bay frequent Hooters, and do not venture downtown, thus weeding out the D.B.s from the nice, sensible fellows who are acceptable to date.

Probable scenario:

Men, D.B. or not, will flock to Hooters, but the novelty will eventually wear off. At least it's not in the downtown area.

Smut T.V.

I've never been much of a T.V. fan. Oh sure, as a kid I used to watch family and teenage sitcoms over and over again (ahem, Saved by the Bell), but I've been out of the T.V. scene since beginning college. I didn't have cable in my first apartment, and found out that Lady Diana died about 2 weeks after it happened. (Shamefu.)Late into college, I decided that reading the newspaper was pretty important to stay in touch with the world, but I never resorted to reading about Hollywood magazines. I will still pick up a People or fashion magazine when I'm at a doctor's office or at the salon. I'm the girl who realizes that Hollywood peeps were married by the time they are getting a divorce.

When reality T.V. first came on the scene, I was highly unimpressed. It's fake. I can tell. I tried watching The Real World, and it didn't do much for me. Sure, if you lock a bunch of people who are totally different in an apartment and put cameras on them, duh, of course they are going to act like morons. Also, Survivor never did it for me either. Unfortunately it's my mom's favorite show, so she has to give me the low-down when I'm on the phone with her. I try to move her on to another topic, but the woman just won't stop. I love her.

Roommate has brought cable access back into my life, and I'll admit, I've been watching some smut T.V. But, there is a platform of reality T.V. that I enjoy, and others I won't touch.

Project Runway and Top Chef put the best of the best up against each other to take the top prize. Come on! It's cool. Going to New York Fashion Week or having a show on the Food Network are pretty cool prizes.

What's not cool are the shows that take amatures, teach them a few marketable skills and lead people to believe that they have talent. There is a huge big difference between people who are artists, who have practiced, studied a craft, and people who can fake their way through it. American Idol - not a fan. Dancing with the Stars - not a fan. Coaching people to sing a couple of songs well, or to learn a couple of dance moves doesn't make someone an artist. I'm not impressed.

*NEWS FLASH* Letting America decide is NOT a good idea. Most Americans don't know what's good anyway.

*NEWS FLASH* Kelly Clarkson sings flat. If you can't tell - please stop texting in your American Idol vote.

Thank you for listening. :)

Fabulous Friday - (Half) Marathon Madness

I took two weeks off to write papers and be stressed out, but I'm back running again. This week so far = about 14 miles since Sunday. Not bad. I'm loving "spring forward!" Tuesday I went to my local track and ran after work, and yesterday I did a 5-miler out on the trail again. I love the sunshine after 6:30 pm, even when partly cloudy and a chance of rain. Freakin' rules. Cutting winter hours short (oh, and my tax refund!) was the best thing Mr. President has done for me. Thank you, George!

Not only have I decided to travel to the homeland (Iowa) for the Marathon to Marathon - my Iowa buddy, Alison, is going to travel out here for the Silicon Valley Marathon in October! Woot! Now I'm training for TWO halfers. Alison and I haven't run together since high school, so it will be very interesting to see, now that we are nearing 30, who's in better shape. HA! (We were always a little competitive.)

Sorry so short. I'm a busy lady.

Why didn't I think of that?

Las Vegas has become smarter (yet, somehow dumber) over the last 10 years.

It wasn't too long ago, they started marketing Vegas as "family friendly," attempting to lure a younger crowd by offering theme parks, roller coaster rides and more child friendly hotels. I think parents were smart enough to realize that Vegas is not family friendly, roller coasters shouldn't cost $16, furthermore why would they want to take their children to Vegas and ruin their Disneyland-for-adults-fantasy-land. Theme parks did not do so well. It was still chalk full of drunken "adults."

So, they started the "What happens in Vegas stays in Vegas campaign" which has done quite well... It just proved the fact that Vegas is a fantasy world, allowing people to do what they would not do in their normal lives. I mean...let's not beat around the bush. Everyone who does not want to get laid, drink to death, or do drugs must really enjoy being around a plethora of people who are there for that exact purpose.

I know what you're thinking, "I don't want to do those things! I'm going to go to the shows, and go shopping, and hang out by the pool..." YOU may want to partake of those activities, but there are a LARGE portion of people who go to Las Vegas every year who just aspire, almost completely, to go somewhere were they can act like...

A DOUCHE BAG.

I hate to burst your bubble. They are in Vegas, and they are like finely-dressed cockroaches.

Fellow SJSU'er, Mike Oz, who writes for the Fresno Bee, alerted me to Las Vegas' newest ad campaign.. proving that the city would not exist without douche bags. Check out this link at Vegas.com.

Two of my "favorite" things have come together at last. I'm so tired of people telling me how they LOVE Las Vegas, how it's so much FUN, etc. F@#$ing give me a break. I don't know how you could enjoy hanging out with so many douche bags. At least Vegas is ready to step up and tell it like it is. I only wish I would have spoken out sooner, and perhaps I could have helped put this marketing ad together. If we're going to tell it how it is, perhaps we should start marketing to drug dealers or wife beaters as well. God knows there are plenty of those in Vegas too.

Distaste for Victoria's Secret

I recently bought $100 worth of cotton undies from VS and went through a terrific time of getting through the line and dealing with teenagers buying scandalous lingerie. Horrifying!

This morning, I was very disturbed to realize that my new VS Cotton bikinis have "butt words" on them. You know what I'm talking about - "Butt words" as made famous by Bebe and Juicy Couture. I didn't think to look on the back of them. Now my butt has the words "Wish you Were Here" written on it. It's just wrong on so many levels.



I'm a fan of Pink Floyd and all, but this is ridiculous.

I wish VS would get rid of their PINK line. It disturbs me greatly. First of all, WHY THE DOGS? I like animals, but I don't want them on my undies. Also.. what's up with the random numbers? What is 86? I'm telling you, the girls I saw shopping in that section were born at LEAST 4-5 years AFTER 1986. I think, in order to wear something that says 86, the company should tell you why that number is there, furthermore if it is a year, you should be able to remember the year 1986.

Secondly, if they are going to keep the PINK line, I think they need to keep it separated in another area of the store, and not let it creep into the good ole' VS Cotton line where all of my panties come from. Let's keep "butt words" all in one area, shall we, and keep them away from unsuspecting consumers who just want some plain cotton bikinis.

Fabulous Fried(day) II: Readying for Races

AAAHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!

It's been one of those weeks. I had to leave work in the middle of the afternoon yesterday in order to keep my cool... so it was decided that a run was in order. I couldn't believe how wonderful it felt to be out in the sunshine in a t-shirt. YAY SUN! I went back to work, and it was still a disaster, but I would have freaked out on somebody had I not left for an hour.

So, I've been thinking about which races to run this year, once my ass gets into shape. A friend from Iowa picked a half marathon we could both do in June, and promised to come out to Cali to participate in a half sometime later this fall. Need to find a good one. I'm thinking maybe Napa...

Here are my current races for the year (more added soon):
Pat's Run San Jose, May 3
Human Race, Silicon Valley, May 10
Marathon to Marathon, Storm Lake (IA), June 14

Also, in honor of cousin Mike, I'm participating in the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation's Great Strides Walk. This time, I'm going to Tulsa to walk with my family.

Civic Duty

I participated in the democratic process on my way into work, and have been giddy all day. I'm not one to start political debates online, so I won't tell you my choice for the Democratic... or Republican.... Presidential nomination. He he he

Today I was assisted by a nice, older church-going man who acted as if slipping my ballot into the ballot box was a magic trick. Made my day. I don't know if I want to vote my mail because volunteers at the polling stations are so freakin' cute.

The only not-good part of the voting process was deciding what to do about the Indian Gaming Propositions. I've been torn. I really don't want to vote for either. I don't feel comfortable making decisions about horrible gambling, or about indigenous people who were practically (What am I saying? Practically? Almost completely!)wiped out by settlers. During the Super Bowl there were commercials both for, and against, these gaming props. HELLO!!!!! Aren't they fighting over where the money should go? Schools? Indians? California?.... Why are they spending money on bazillion dollar Super Bowl airtime!? WHY!?

Fabulous Fried(day)

I'm pooped. So, I give you, a picture of a sleepy monkey.

Fabulous (Wet) Friday

I'm sorry that I have not posted a picture of my belly. Truth be told - I haven't bought a charger for the new digital camera. My belly was looking pretty flat last week, but this week has made is quite challenging to get to the gym. So, technically, you didn't miss anything. :)

Yours truly is a full-time student this quarter. Yes. She is insane. Because of a rainstorm 3 weeks ago, a 6-hour day of class was cancelled and rescheduled. This weekend I have class on both Saturday AND Sunday to make up for it. Unfortunately the weather isn't looking too great now either.... I don't care how bad California drivers are! Everyone had better get their asses to class so we can get this over with!

Current Fabulousness
1.) 2 new fabulous pairs of shoes (flats!)from Bluefly.com... new favorite shopping website.
2.) 1 fabulous trainer who has taught me a million new things to do at the gym so I don't get bored.
3.) 1 fabulous male with which I have been having a great time with over the past couple of weeks.
4.) 2 more fabulous months until I get a break, then start writing my Master's thesis.

Fabulous Friday: Date-O-Rama

This, being the busiest week of the new quarter with work and class, I also put in the time to meet some new people. I will have had 5, yes FIVE, dates this week with 5, yes FIVE different people. I know, insanity. I figured, "Why the hell not?"

Tuesday morning, I woke up worried that the perpetual dating was ruining my karma, especially since the guy typically pays for the date. So, I offered to pay for a few things, just so the Indian God's aren't too mad at me and think I'm getting a free meal. Not what I'm going for. There is only one person I'm interested in seeing again. Someone asked me recently if I was picky. Well, yes. I guess I am. I'm also friends with a lot of men, so it takes more for me to get really excited about dating because I have so many good men in my life.

The eating and wine drinking this week is honestly killing me. I've decided serial dating is bad for my health and will stop very soon.

On top of eating and drinking, I'm still upset and perplexed by the measurement of my B.M.I. which I'm sure we are all tired of hearing about. I'm meeting with a trainer tonight, and I'm going to let her kick my ass..."Oh yeah? Can an unfit person do THIS? Can an overweight person DO THAT?" I feel like I have something to prove - probably a positive.

Coming soon!! I picture of my belly! That's right. I'm going to do before and afters! It's crunch time!

Follow up to fatness

Helga asks: "How on EARTH did the goon at 24 Hour Fitness determine that you were overweight? If you are overweight, then surely I am morbidly obese."

1.) Helga is tall and slender, and runs 10 miles a day. She is not morbidly obese. That's just ridiculous.

2.) My B.M.I. was calculated according to:

a.) My self-reported height of 5'4''
b.) My weight of 132 pounds (with clothes) taken at the gym
c.) A "fat pincher" measuring sample in tricep area.
d.) An additional pincher sample by left shoulder blade.
f.) Final pincher sample on side just above hip bone.

= 25% body fat

Apparently, I'm a fatty

Or, maybe not so apparent. I don't see the problem. I work out 3-5 days a week and can pump out a 10K pretty easily. I've gained about 5 pounds over the holidays... me and everyone else I can think of.

You can understand my astonishment when my body fat was calculated at 25% - "overweight" according to 24 Hour Fitness Body Mass Index standards. The trainer taking my measurements said I have an athletic build, putting me up a notch, possibly into the "fit" category. (Does this category exist, or does she know that I know that the assessment of my B.M.I. was B.S.) I went online today to confirm results. Somehow, the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute calculates that I am "normal."

Who shall I believe? A corporate gym who obviously wants my money, but saw me in person, or a national health organization and their quick online version?

The B.M.I. standards really irritate me. I don't think anyone knows what a body SHOULD look like or how much fat is acceptable. Somehow our society makes normal people feel overweight, but they tell overweight people that big is beautiful, etc. So, what ARE they trying to say?

I believe it should be about health. The B.M.I. assessment doesn't ask about daily habits, exercise, or health... it just tells you how "fat" you are. Have you seen a football linebacker? Those guys are huge, and I really don't think they should be considered "overweight" or "unfit."

So, if the 28 year old, 5' 4'' curvy woman who runs a 7:30 mile and works out 3-5 days a week was told she is on the verge of being "overweight" I would suggest you ignore that B.M.I. crap from the corporate gym, any US department of health, and especially those people on TV and live a healthy life according to what you want and you need.

Fabulous Friday Continues 2008

Even a crappy Friday can be a fabulous one:

+ I'm back at work and classes start again next week. Me likes the busy times.

+ I've been working out a lot over the break, which is amazing dedication in my humble opinion.

+ I made an appointment with a trainer, who I hope will show me how to use the "man weights" so I can hang with the big boys. I'd also like some tummy exercises so I don't end up LOOKING like my father as well as ACTING just like him.

+ Obama won the Iowa Caucus. I know that doesn't mean he'll win a nomination (a la Howard Dean) but it makes me happy that Iowa isn't as conservative as I thought.

- Huckabee won the Iowa Caucus, proving that Iowans are as conservative as I thought.

- I hate the dating process. So much a process of elimination and confused people.

See, only two negatives! Life is fabulous.

Caucus, baby!

Community: A Tale of 4 Friends

I felt the need to add onto, or perhaps give a different perspective to Saba's latest post re: the desire for a community. I just had dinner with NoBo, one of my best girlfriends last night. Besides heartburn from Chinese food, we also had a heartfelt discussion about the past and anticipation for the future.

NoBo and my relationship is the product of college, when there used to be 4 girls who were very good friends. One by one each girl seemed to check off the boxes (sometimes a bit out of order), but we endured most things together: crushes, boyfriends, husbands... but suddenly babies came along and everything changed.

Long story short - Misunderstandings and rumors led to bad events, thus a couple of the girls began plucking friends off the vine as they saw fit. NoBo and I were both plucked. Neither of us have really understood why, but I figure it comes from the need for communal change. These "pluckers" have found a community with family and children, and apparently didn't feel that we fit their community criteria.

Unfortunately these events have greatly diminished MY sense of community. I've moved a lot, but I didn't realize that a community could leave YOU. I can't say there has been a crush or boyfriend in my life who has devastated me as much as these two girlfriends.

My community has greatly changed in two years. I currently tend to think of my community as all of my friends, acquaintances, and networking connections. As people become busy checking off all of life's boxes, we begin to see each other less and less. Each relationship is different than the other, and each fulfills a need that each person has. Although NoBo and I have checked off different boxes, we still make time to go out to dinner, have coffee, shop, or go to a concert together. We still fulfill a need that the other has.

This is true with all relationships. I think we tend to make time for those we need, and those who fulfill us and bless us in different ways.

I am also always in search for community involvement, but find that I often stretch myself thin in order to fulfill myself in a variety of ways. A personality profile says that I tend to hang on too long to relationships that I know should end. (This profile was in the context of romantic relationships, but it may be true for others.)

Maybe this means that my ex-girlfriends knew something that I didn't... Maybe in order to build a strong community, you need to get rid of those who don't match the criteria. I can't help but find that incredibly sad.