and away I go!

Been gone...I'm baaaaack

2006-10-21T21:56:00.000-06:00

It's been over a month since my last post. Fall has come and gone and winter is just around the corner here in Saskatchewan.

I've been running every second day for 30-60 minutes. I finally got my heart rate monitor back from Nike. I'm in a slump with my running. I think I need something to train for... The trails here are lovely, but my runs have been kind of uninteresting. Is it time to train for a half or a 10k?

We are leaving Canada on October 29th. We are heading to Taiwan to see if we can get jobs teaching English and have a new adventure. Once I get organized in Taiwan I'll think more about a running goal.

Now to check up on all the blogs I've missed!!
Happy running.

Dazza on the Trail

2006-10-21T21:49:00.000-06:00

R0012889, originally uploaded by runningfish.

The Lake in October

2006-10-21T21:48:00.000-06:00

The Lake in October, originally uploaded by runningfish.

Cool Weather

2006-10-21T21:46:00.000-06:00

Cool Weather, originally uploaded by runningfish.

Back in 3 Weeks

2006-09-10T20:59:00.000-06:00

I'm heading east tomorrow. First stop Winnipeg to visit my step dad, then on to Toronto to visit my sister's family.
I doubt I'll post til I return.

Weight 152.3
9/10 25 minute slow run. I felt a bit out of sorts, but my back is almost normal today.

Ouch

2006-09-09T22:40:00.000-06:00

I'm embarrassed to admit to this, but here it is.

I bent over this morning to throw something in the garbage and my upper back went 'creak'! Seriously I'm like a hundred years old. I was paralysed with pain on my right side.

Got to the chiropractor, bless him for working Saturdays! I was really embarrassed to admit how I hurt myself (saying I did it kickboxing crossed my mind for half a second), but I guess it's a fairly common injury, which helped my pride somewhat...

Anyway I didn't run this morning for obvious reasons, but tomorrow should be fine. He said as long as there is no pain when I run to go for it.

Potato chips are NOT a vegetable!

2006-09-08T12:10:00.000-06:00

9/7 We had a terrific 58 minute run this morning. It was a cool 10C(that's 50F), perfect for a long run.
My running is going really well, but honestly I feel really hungry!! It could be I'm eating to much processed snack food, that always ups my appetite. Or could it be all the exercise??

9/6 a 25 minute speedy run.

I am going to visit my sister's family on Monday. I can't wait!

Me at the lake

2006-09-08T12:04:00.002-06:00

Me at the lake, originally uploaded by runningfish.

Windsurfers

2006-09-08T12:04:00.001-06:00

Windsurfers, originally uploaded by runningfish.

Where the heck is that anyway?

2006-09-08T12:04:00.000-06:00

Where the heck is that anyway?, originally uploaded by runningfish.

How Much Do You Weigh?

2006-09-06T21:41:00.000-06:00

Check out this interesting quiz! I took it and I should weigh 145. I'm really 150, maybe I'll lose 5 soon!

HowMuchDoYouWeigh?

Hypochondriac - Who Me?

2006-09-06T21:21:00.000-06:00

9/6 I had a nice slow run today of about 40 minutes. No watch or heart rate monitor. It felt weird. The nice thing about a slow run is you can get a good chat going. Dazza and I had a long talk about going to Taiwan VS staying in Canada. We decided on Taiwan for a year.

9/5 a lazy-assed 15 minute jog. But I did do strength training for my legs

I had an eye appointment today. I have something wierd going on in my left eye, a floater and blurry vision. Everything looks good according to the optometrist, but he scheduled me for a field vision test in a month. I feel worried. I'm the world's worst hypochondriac. Seriously. In the past month I've had lupus, and a brain tumour, all self diagnosed ofcourse. Ok no worrying, positive vibes only.

We were set to book our tix to Taiwan today..... now I'm hesitant as I don't know if I'll need further testing or nothing. Maybe this is a sign to stay?

Around the lake on my bike

2006-09-05T03:59:00.000-06:00

Around the lake on my bike, originally uploaded by runningfish.

Ya Gotta Have Fun Everyday

2006-09-05T03:55:00.000-06:00

Ya Gotta Have Fun Everyday, originally uploaded by runningfish.

I see this bench everyday when I go running. It looks out over the lake.
I think it's a good motto for life.

Dehydration and the Blues

2006-09-04T20:33:00.000-06:00

Yesterday was a rest day, so this morning I was glad to be getting back out there.

I felt horrible, right from the start. I managed 35 minutes at a super slow pace. I think I was dehydrated as I drank only about 4 glasses of water yesterday and about 3 coffees. Today I've been trying to take in a lot of liquids. I'm　taking in a beer at the moment... but I did drink a lot of water today. I felt so awful that I think I've learned my lesson. Dehydration= lead feet.

I'm organinzing my stuff in the in-laws basement. My life is in boxes. I found these candles my mom gave me on one of the last visits we had together before she died. I burst into tears. I thought I had cried out all my sadness after all this time (almost 2 years since she passed away), but apparently not. There's so much I would like to tell her. Oh poop. Here I go again.

Oh and here's a thought about weight maintenance. I weigh 150 pounds. I think I'd like to weigh between 140 - 145, but I can maintain 150 pretty easily. I've still got a big gut and a ghetto booty, but maybe it's ok. Maybe I get to be ok at 150. I've never allowed myself to feel satisfied with my weight, unless I was starving myself and thin and that only ever lasted for a few weeks at a time. I couldn't maintain that. Just sayin' ... maybe it's time, I'd like to be happy with my weight.

Family Dinner...

2006-09-03T21:35:00.000-06:00

Invited to sister in law's to welcome the newest member of the family. (I'm a great aunt!! - how freakin' old do I feel?) He was a sweetheart, 3 months and so alert!

Good food, but lots of potential downfalls for me, namely potatoes, rice, tortillas, and cake....carrot or Oreo..... I made good choices and enjoyed my food. Whew it's tough trying to maintain a weightloss (and lose another 5lbs) and eat out. Yay me.

Family Dinner

2006-09-03T21:27:00.000-06:00

Complete leg rest day today.
Well I did go for a spin on my bike, but no running.

Fall is in the Air

2006-09-02T11:03:00.000-06:00

9/1 25 minute speedy run - speedy HA! But I think I actually looked like I was running! Cool!

9/2 55 minute slow jog - I felt really energetic this morning and I felt better AFTER the run than before!! That's because I kept my heart rate low and didn't push it at all.

A carpet of leaves on the path today, feels very fall-like. Pelicans are starting to gather on the lake to feed before they head south. I have seen so many animals here - red fox (twice!!) I felt he had a message for me. I'm a big believer in signs. Also saw porcupines, prairie dogs, deer, several species of birds I can't identify, and a skunk.

I think most Canadians joke that Saskatchewan is the armpit of Canada. Maybe so, I don't know, but I'm loving being back in Canada, I REALLY REALLY don't want to go to Taiwan. I'm trying to figure out what I could do here. Just thinking...
Technically fall doesn't arrive for 3 weeks, but I think it's coming early here.

Solo Run

2006-08-31T18:47:00.000-06:00

I went out for an hour long very slow jog at about noon today. Dazza didn't feel like running, but I thought a nice slow jog would make my legs feel better after yesterday's vigorous run.

I took my iShuffle and rocked out (if you can call my pace rocking.....) to Outcast, Red Hot Chilipeppers(lovin' Stadium Arcadium, and my absolute new favourite Buck65) He rocks! A Canadian rapper and his sound is new and really interesting.

This afternoon Dazz and I went for an hour long bike ride and then had fish and chips at the local shop.

I found this cool website for runners.
McMillan Running

It gives info on calories and weightloss. I phoned the local YMCA and for 30 bucks I can get a fitness test and the dreaded fat calipers. I'd really like to know my percent bodyfat. I want to lose weight(5 pounds), but I want it to be fat.

My Heart Rate Monitor is Toast

2006-08-31T10:33:00.000-06:00

I'm sending it off to Nike for a repair/or replacement. I had a problem with it in Japan and they just gave me a new one.

Note to self: When buying equipment of any sort stick with tried and true instead of cute!! I was really happy with Polar brand, my next HR monitor will likely be Polar....unless I splash out for a Garmin!

The Breezer

2006-08-30T14:17:00.000-06:00

The Breezer, originally uploaded by runningfish.

Joe Breeze

2006-08-30T11:31:00.000-06:00

8/28 36 minute jog in my lowest heart rate zone. I also did abs/upper body. I have spagetti arms. I'd like to get me some big guns!
I went for a swim in the lake, but swallowed what felt like half the lake. Swimming is major cardio! I

8/29 36 minute run in my middle zone. My heart rate monitor isn't working. I'm sending it to Nike for repairs, but I think it's a bad model, it's already been replaced once.
I did lunges and lower body stuff plus abs. AND Dazza put our bikes together. So we went for a spin, lots of hills in this town!

8/30 47 minute run in my mid to high zone. I'm pretty tired now. I'm going to try google earth to see how far I'm actually running. I'd guess between 5-6km. (I'm slow)

8 years ago, shortly before we left for Japan I bought a commuter type bike. It's been in a box in the in-laws basement since we left. My Breezer!!

My Breezer was not an expensive bike, but it's cool! Very barebones, but super fun to ride. Joe Breeze was one of the first guys to make mountain bikes along with guys like Gary Fischer, plus he has a very excellent last name. Check out the website. JOE BREEZE

My Current Greens

2006-08-26T16:42:00.000-06:00

My Current Greens, originally uploaded by runningfish.

Gary Null's Green Stuff

2006-08-26T16:41:00.000-06:00

Gary Null's Green Stuff, originally uploaded by runningfish.

Runs Fuelled by Grass

2006-08-26T16:36:00.000-06:00

Barley Grass that is!

I'm a morning runner and I just can't stomach food before a run. I always drink some green drink before I go and when I get back. I got this from Stu Mittleman's book called Slow Burn.

In Japan barley grass powder was cheap and available everywhere, so that's what I took. It tasted a bit chalky, but not horrible. They call it 'ao jiru' or green soup. Lots of people take it as a health tonic.

The best tasting stuff I've ever had is (see teeny tiny photo) Gary Null's Green Stuff. It was super easy to get down.

Now I'm doing a double whammy. I bought Chlorphyll and take one tablespoon mixed with 3 teaspoons of the greens pictured on the right. I bought the powdered greens at GNC(General Nutrition Center) and they are good quality, but REALLY bitter. That shop seems to have good products, but I couldn't even browse, the store clerk was all over me. (Maybe I look like a typical shoplifter?) And they wanted me to buy a discount card to get a deal. Sorry, but no thanks. So I'll be looking for greens elsewhere next time.

I honestly can't say for sure if they help me in any way, but I do feel virtuous!

I had a great run this morning. 50 minutes and I managed to stay in my lowest heart rate zone.

Barley Green Powder

2006-08-26T16:30:00.000-06:00

Barley Green Powder, originally uploaded by runningfish.

Fishflies

2006-08-25T21:15:00.000-06:00

It rained last night, so the air was fresh this morning....and full of fishflies. EW!

The plan was to do a 30 minute slow jog, but I never planned for the fishflies. A fishfly (see photo) is just a little bigger than a mosquito, but they don't bite, which is good. There were millions of them this morning on the running path. I was flailing my arms and trying to breathe through my nose, so as not to accidentally swallow any. EW!

I'll admit it's pretty stupid to try to outrun an insect, but the brain cells weren't firing at that time of the morning. I did have a very energetic 20 minute run, so it wasn't all bad.

Tonight Dazza and I walked to the store to get a bar of chocolate (Cadbury Thins - only 100 calories!! Very sweet though) and we could hear this low level buzzing/humming noise. It was fishflies swarming the street lights somewhere in town. It was surreal.

Fishfly

2006-08-25T21:09:00.000-06:00

Fishfly, originally uploaded by runningfish.

My Mug

2006-08-24T09:03:00.000-06:00

Here is me. I'm pretty paranoid about internet security and have never posted my mug on my blog. This is as close as I'll get. The weather here has been hot and sunny and fabulous!

8/22 long walk/rest day for my legs
8/23 30 minute jog in the am. It's the perfect time to run here before it gets too hot. I felt tired and crappy and it wasn't much fun.
Later in the afternoon I went for a swim with my little niece. FUN! I haven't played like that for ages.
Long walk in the evening with Dazz. We are both really REALLY loving being back in Canada and are trying to figure out what we'd do here if we stayed (instead of going to Taiwan in October).

8/24 30 minute sunrise jog. It felt effortless. Go figure? Off to the big city today. Dazz has his driver's test, while I (queen of good luck) managed to escape having to take one because I found my old license! Yay me! Good luck Dazz!

Me

2006-08-24T08:57:00.000-06:00

Me, originally uploaded by runningfish.

What's Up With the Heart Rate?

2006-08-19T12:32:00.000-06:00

Today's run was weird to say the least.

For the first 15 minutes my heart rate was between 80-102 bpm! At my usual slow pace it's been around 150ish. Hmmmm. I have 2 theories.
1. My batteries need to be changed (though they were replaced less than 6 months ago)
2. Yesterday's high calorie day gave me lots of energy to run
A third possibility is I'm having an infarction!

I felt strong and good for the whole run and added 10 minutes at a slightly faster pace to the end of my run.
With a cool down walk the total time was an hour with about 600 calories burned. I feel virtuous!

Strength training: I did
1. walking lunges
2. squats
3. one legged squats (super hard!! only did 5 on each leg)
4. abs
5. triceps

I'm staying with my in laws at the moment and have no access to any kind of gym equipment. There are lots of things to do to improve strength without any stuff at all! I spent an hour at Chapters reading a Navy Seal training book and got some good ideas. If anyone is actually reading my blog and has any favourite exercises that need no special equipment - please share!

Lengthening My Runs

2006-08-18T21:37:00.000-06:00

8/17 I did a 20 minute run at my usual slow pace then after a little stretch did 15 minutes at a slightly faster pace.

8/18 Same plan, but I felt a bit tired today.

I need to be consistent with my strength training! Starting.....tomorrow.
I was REALLY hungry today and pretty much mowed down anything edible that crossed my path.

I am so loving being out at the lake! I don't do much of anything, but I have full loving days!
The highlight of my day today was going for a chocolate milk at the local cafe. Woohoo! Can you beat that for excitement? Oh and the really weird thing is I loathe milk, I haven't drunk a glass in 20 years at least. Gross, gross, gross! I am not a baby cow! Yuck! Yet I really craved a glass today. How weird is that? Too much running has addled my brain?

On a different note I've been taking melatonin for about a week and am having the best sleeps!! Maybe it's the running?

Saskatchewan Running

2006-08-18T21:31:00.000-06:00

Saskatchewan Running, originally uploaded by runningfish.

The Speed of a Lame Snail

2006-08-15T11:40:00.000-06:00

Yesterday I went for a 20 minute run at my slower than slow pace. My heart rate was in my highest zone.

Today I did another 20 minutes at the same pace and my heart rate was in my mid range. Woohoo!!

I think I'm only going a mile or so.

Can't Sleep

2006-08-13T04:12:00.000-06:00

Darn jet lag!

Yesterday morning Dazza and I did another 20 minute run. My heart rate told me to go at my snail's pace, but I think Daz found it a bit toooooo slow. Nevermind....I am what I am.

I have no access to weights here (staying with the in-laws), but I have access to a lake and the great outdoors, so I'm adding in abs, lunges, push ups(I can't even do 1 proper one yet!!) and any other exercises I can think of to maintain or improve my strength.

The 13th is the last night of the Persseid (I may have spelled that wrong) Meteor Showers. Ok I don't actually know what they are called, but they are supposed to be visible. I've looked for some shooting star type activity for the past 2 nights, but nada. One more try tonight.

Today I want to take some pics and update my profile.
I love love love being on holiday!

Jet Lag

2006-08-12T03:21:00.000-06:00

I hope my jet lag goes away soon.

Yesterday Dazza and I ran together. A very slow pace, but continuous for 20 minutes. I felt a lot stronger, but my heart rate tells another story. The path is an old railway line with the tracks removed, so it's flat, straight and heavenly! The air is so fresh here after Tokyo and Bankok.

Monday is my 38th birthday. All I can say is holy crap where did the last 20 years go? Seriously I feel 25 - 28 tops! How will I be spending my day? I will be writing the test to get my learner's permit for driving. I've had my driver's license for 22 years, but since we've been away from Canada for 8 years they are making us retake the written and driving test. Stoooopid! But it's either do it or be stranded. I seriously have to practice parallel parking.

Back in Canada....for now....

2006-08-11T05:24:00.000-06:00

Leaving Japan was hectic, but it all went smoothly. I guess I'll need to change my profile!

I headed to Thailand for a couple of weeks to relax and to fast. I read about this place on Ko Pha Ngan called the The Sanctuary and I decided to use a mini fast (only 3 and a half days) as a way to rejuvenate and symbolically to let go of Japan. (I've tried posting a link here, let's hope it works if not here's the address) thesanctuarythailand.com

I am now back in Canada and relaxing. I started running yesterday, but I'm weak!! It took about a week to wind down the fast and that finished about a week ago, but I don't have a lot of stamina yet. My heart rate went wild and I ended up walking most of the way. Still it felt good to be out there!

Now I'm going to catch up on all my favourite blogs!

10 days...

2006-07-16T04:59:00.000-06:00

I spent the day at the beach eating thai food and drinking beer. Not cool....I'm lobster red and feel like I've run a marathon.......but I know that's the beer talking.

Leaving Japan in 10 days.

Hope I can run on the beach in Thailand, but not sure what it will be like.

getting back into it

2006-07-07T21:57:00.000-06:00

20 minute run on the beach this morning about 7am. A little too late though with the heat and humidity here.

I misplaced the band for my heart rate monitor....my apartment is fairly chaotic what with getting rid of everything. I'm sure it'll turn up eventually. I just ran at a slow and comfortable pace, but still my face was glowing red by the end of the run.

10 Weeks And So Much Has Changed...

2006-07-06T15:08:00.000-06:00

Has it really been 10 weeks since my last run?

It's exam week at school so I got off at 2:00 yesterday. I went for a 20 minute jog on the beach. I consider myself a runner, but one 20 minute jog every 2.5 months does not make one a runner....

Big changes

I'm leaving Japan in 19 days.
I'm going to Thailand for a holiday.
I'm not sure what I'm going to do after that... I have a one way ticket to Thailand, so all options are open.

I'm re-reading Ultra Marathon Man by Dean Karnazes. I love this book. So far it's my favourite book about running. A good read for anyone (like me) who considers themself a runner in their secret heart.

1 Hour at Sunset

2006-04-29T15:29:00.000-06:00

It's been months since I have run longer than 30 minutes. Months...
Yesterday I did an hour average heart rate(162). It felt great! I'm feeling great! I met Dazz at the gym and did light legs.

I checked the g map website and it was 3.35 miles. I'm not exactly breaking the speed of sound, but I did enjoy myself.

Konishiki

2006-04-27T15:05:00.000-06:00

Konishiki is a sumo wrestler from Hawaii. He retired the year I arrived here(1998). He was a fantastic wrestler and the first non-Japanese wrestler that ever moved up the ranks of sumo. He was denied the rank of Grand Champion on the grounds he lacked the 'dignity' to become one. Some people say he was denied by a racist organization.

Whatever the reason, the fact remains he changed things big time. He is still really popular over here. He released a couple of Hawaiin music CDs and he's on TV all the time doing different things.

I bought an interesting post-card and stuck it on my lesson plan notebook. One of the other teachers and I got talking about Konishiki and he gave me Konishiki's autograph. Cool!!

If there are by chance any lovers of sumo out there.... my guy is Ama! He has spirit, love that kid!

Karaoke Solos and Other Things That Frighten Me

2006-04-27T14:50:00.001-06:00

Wednesday night was the annual Welcome Party at school. Since I'm newish (6 months) I was told I would be performing with the other newbies at the party.
CRAP! I am a ham in the classroom, but on a stage? I seriously considered calling in sick that day! My part of the performance was (fortunately) contained to acting angry and telling everyone off in Japanese. Ofcourse it got some laughs as they crack up pretty much anytime I butcher their beautiful language. I really didn't want to do it. I was really scared to do it, but I did it anyway. And it was ok.

Bolstered by this new confidence I went to the karaoke party after and yes I did my very first solo. I like karaoke (sort of) as long as I can sing in a group. I can't sing well, though I do like to sing, I cringe when I hear my own flat voice. I was really nervous, but I still did it. Otherside by the Red Hot Chili Peppers. I sucked, but not nearly as bad as I thought I would, so YIPPEE!

So I got to thinking maybe it's empowering to do things we fear? I, personally, have a looooong list!

I had a lovely evening run down by the beach on Thursday. The sidewalk that runs parallel to the road is pretty nice. It's wide, flat, fairly well lit. I passed several other souls out for their runs too. 35 minutes average heart rate 149, so nice and easy.

I found some surprises Dazza left on my iShuffle while I was running. Hot Stuff by Donna Summer, some old Salt'n Peppa tunes and some remixed Boney M(Rasputin). It was a blast from the past and excellent for running.

Last night I went to the gym and did my weight routine for back and chest, light biceps and triceps.

Konishiki...

2006-04-27T14:50:00.000-06:00

Konishiki..., originally uploaded by runningfish.

Rain Rain Go Away

2006-04-23T14:34:00.000-06:00

I opted for a run while Dazza went to the gym.
30 minutes average HR 152
It was gray and drizzly, but the upside was the beach was nearly deserted. It's gray yet again this morning. It's kind of getting me down.

After my run I waited at the gym for Daz to finish and took about a million pictures out of sheer boredom. The only one that sort of turned out was the self-portrait one.

Rachel(see Links: Miss Rachel) asked me- if being blonde, do I stand out in Japan? The answer is yes. I'm mostly ok with people staring. Kids will be kids and that doesn't bother me at all. There are times though....early morning, after a particularly long day, on a crowded train, that I'll notice someone giving me the stare down and it drives me nuts! The last time I visited Canada it was so liberating to be able to get lost in a crowd!

Self-Portrait in the Gym Window

2006-04-23T04:41:00.000-06:00

Self-Portrait in the Gym Window, originally uploaded by runningfish.

Rainy Day on the Beach

2006-04-23T04:40:00.000-06:00

Rainy Day on the Beach, originally uploaded by runningfish.

Winds of Change

2006-04-22T03:07:00.000-06:00

20 minute refreshing jog on the beach (average HR 139).
It's windy and gray today. Change is in the air.

We are leaving Japan within a hundred days.

I took these photos during and after my run tonight.

Gasoline (that's about 4 bucks US a gallon)

2006-04-22T03:06:00.002-06:00

Gasoline, originally uploaded by runningfish.

Windsurfer

2006-04-22T03:06:00.001-06:00

Windsurfer, originally uploaded by runningfish.

Around the Corner

2006-04-22T03:06:00.000-06:00

Around the Corner, originally uploaded by runningfish.

Across the Street

2006-04-22T03:05:00.000-06:00

Across the Street, originally uploaded by runningfish.

On the Beach

2006-04-16T04:16:00.000-06:00

I went down to the beach about 5:30pm. Can I just say it was GROSS! See that photo of the garbage and seaweed? The whole of the shore was like that tonight and the tide was in so I ended up running on the sidewalk after fighting my way through it for the first 15 minutes. I took my camera, it was a blast!

I ran for 30 minutes avg HR 155 and I am feeling fine!

I bought an excellent pair of training pants today.....hmmmm aren't training pants what kids wear? What I mean is workout pants! They were $29USD marked down from $78!! AND they fit! Yippee! Not a small thing when you live in the land of teeny weeny ladies.

I found a new formula for determining heart rates, not sure what the advantage is just yet. Will post a link to the info next time.

Rules of the Beach

2006-04-16T04:14:00.000-06:00

Rules of the Beach, originally uploaded by runningfish.

Don't Attack Jet Skiers With Wrenches?

2006-04-16T04:12:00.003-06:00

Don't Attack Jet Skiers With Wrenches?, originally uploaded by runningfish.

No Frothy Cold Ones on Your Motorbike

2006-04-16T04:12:00.002-06:00

No Frothy Cold Ones on Your Motorbike, originally uploaded by runningfish.

Me

2006-04-16T04:12:00.001-06:00

Me, originally uploaded by runningfish.

Beach Dog

2006-04-16T04:12:00.000-06:00

Beach Dog, originally uploaded by runningfish.

The Dirty Beach

2006-04-16T04:11:00.000-06:00

The Dirty Beach, originally uploaded by runningfish.

A Nice Little Running Path

2006-04-12T03:54:00.000-06:00

The cherry blossoms are almost finished for the season, but the little path I like to run on still has a wonderful atmosphere.

The path is about 500m one way, so it's good for shortish distances.

End of the Cherry Blossoms on the Running Path

2006-04-12T03:52:00.000-06:00

End of the Cherry Blossoms on the Running Path, originally uploaded by runningfish.

Running Path

2006-04-12T03:51:00.000-06:00

Running Path, originally uploaded by runningfish.

Evening Jog

2006-04-10T14:53:00.000-06:00

After work I rode my bike to the little path I like to use. I did only 2km(16 minutes even). It was drizzling slightly, but the path is lined with cherry trees which are in bloom, so it had atmosphere.

I'll try a longer run this week-end, I don't want to do too much too fast after taking a long break.

At Long Last....A Run!

2006-04-09T05:15:00.001-06:00

I went down to the beach last night and did just a 20 minute jog on the beach. What a rush! 5 minutes into it I got that wonderful sense of well-being and that all is right with the world. I don't think that can be the endorphin rush I've heard about though, I thought you have to run for ages to feel it. I think I just felt happy to be out there again.
Average HR 174

At Long Last....A Run!

2006-04-09T05:15:00.000-06:00

April Goals

2006-04-01T23:26:00.000-06:00

Pretty simple really
1. run!
2. do it 3x a week
3. don't kill myself since it's been a loooooong time since my last run

Spring Fever!

2006-03-26T17:17:00.000-06:00

I haven't run for so long.....
That's why I haven't blogged. What's a running blog without running!?!
I've been back at the gym and getting back into strength training since my gym re-opened in March. I've been upping my time on the stair climber and I've been hiking. (The photos below are from a hike Dazza and I did in Kamakura, a town about an hour outside of Tokyo.)

Ten'in Hiking Course

2006-03-26T17:16:00.000-06:00

Ten'in Hiking Course, originally uploaded by runningfish.

Kamakura: as seen from the hills around the town

2006-03-26T17:15:00.001-06:00

Kamakura: as seen from the hills around the town, originally uploaded by runningfish.

People write their wishes on these

2006-03-26T17:15:00.000-06:00

People write their wishes on these, originally uploaded by runningfish.

good lord!

2006-02-08T07:57:00.000-06:00

It's been 3 weeks since I've gone for a run!

I just finished reading Dean Karnazes book 'Ultra Marathon Man-Confessions of an All-Night Runner"
WOW that guy is crazy, but what a great read. It is definitely the best book I've read about running so far! I read it in a day, couldn't put it down.

cardio

2006-01-14T04:06:00.000-06:00

It's been pouring here all day, so instead of running outdoors I went to the gym.

Stairclimber 45 mins MAP zone (the lowest) 133 average HR
No weights this week so far!

macadamia nuts

2006-01-12T15:49:00.000-06:00

I had one private student last night at 8, so after dinner Daz and I went for a long walk (50 minute MAP zone average HR 124) to buy some macadamia nuts in the shell.

Neither of us had ever seen them in the shell, so it's kind of a novelty. The shell is seriously hard though! We used a wooded mallet to smash them, and I really had to put some weight behind it.

Tonight the gym. More cardio and some weights.

Early Morning Jog

2006-01-10T15:05:00.000-06:00

I set the alarm for 4:30. I got up, dressed, and hit the streets before I had too much time to talk myself out of it.

I walked for 10 minutes gradually raising my HR.
20 minute MAP average HR 132
8 minute cool down walk at the end

I felt pretty virtuous getting up and out there before work. I checked myself out in some windows as I passed and I look like I'm walking or joke jogging. sigh... I will not be discouraged.. I will NOT... I will work on improving my fitness even if it means I look like a joke.

I'm really puffy today, my eyes especially. I ate nabe for dinner last night (it's a hot pot, veggie and meat soup) and I bought the soup in a package. Maybe loaded with salt and MSG? I wonder if MSG makes a person puffy?

So that's one run for the week so far, 2 more to go.

Sunny Sunday

2006-01-08T01:13:00.000-06:00

I just got back from the gym.
25 minutes stairclimber MAP average HR 123

Weights: legs

It was really crowded at the gym, as it always is on Sundays. I have a huge appetite today. And when I say huge, I mean it! It started yesterday and seems to be continuing. I was wondering if eating a lot makes you hungrier the next day? It's like I stimulated my appetite yesterday and now it won't stop.

5km Time/Heart Rate Test

2006-01-07T01:53:00.000-06:00

15 minute warm-up
5km 46:56 average HR 147
15 minute cool-down

I walked to the path that I like to run on, but it was so cold (3C or 37F) that I just didn't feel warm. I had to walk several times during the first 2km when my HR went over 149.

Asbestos Removal

2006-01-06T02:04:00.000-06:00

There's a sign at my gym, that if I read it correctly, says they are going start removing asbestos on Feb 6th for a month, and to leave the windows open!!! WHAT! This will be my last month there. Looking for a new gym...

This morning I went to do my 5km MEP run/test, but when I arrived there was a sea of blue school uniforms. Local junior/senior highschoolers walk the path on their way to school. So I scrapped that and just enjoyed a nice walk. Tomorrow I'll get up earlier to beat the kids.

At the gym tonight I did 25 minutes on the stairclimber in my MAP or lowest HR zone. Plus weights for my back, chest and shoulders.

First Run of the Year!

2006-01-05T04:12:00.000-06:00

It's been awhile since my last run. Today I did an easy warm-up followed by a 20 minute run/walk in my lowest HR zone.
My HR was going crazy. It would be 66 bpm for ages then shoot up to 155. I walked whenever it went over 149.

I had the chest strap on upside down, could that be why it was all wacky?

Just got back from the gym. I did a 10 minute warm-up and some light weights since It's been a whole week since I've lifted anything more than the remote.

My weight is 68kg today, so to reach my first goal of 65kg by February 14th I only have 3kg or about 7lbs to go.

It felt great to be out there, tomorrow I'm going to do a 5km run in my mid zone (139-149bpm) and time it. I will do the same run once a month for the next 12 months to see if I'm speeding up in that heart rate zone or not.

2006!

2006-01-03T21:57:00.000-06:00

I've spent a long time reflecting on my goals for the upcoming year. I have quite a few, but since this is a running blog (yes, it's true!) I will post only those related to running.

My goals for the new year:

1. run 3x week [2x regular, 1x long run]
2. do a monthly HR progress check - am I improving, maintaining, getting worse?? (I'll post more details on this after I actually do my first one)
3. strength training 3x week
4. Daikon Marathon March 5, 2006 -10km
5. 65kg(143lbs) by February 14th (about 2-3kg to go!)
6. ultimate weight loss goal: somewhere between 60-63kg(132-139)

Running Blog?

2005-12-29T02:26:00.000-06:00

For a blog about running, there's not a whole lot of running being logged around here!! I need a goal.
Getting my goals for the new year organinzed. I don't want to commit to anything I can't achieve, so I'm pondering carefully.

Temple of the Golden Pavilion

2005-12-27T01:40:00.000-06:00

Temple of the Golden Pavilion, originally uploaded by runningfish.

Back From Kyoto

2005-12-27T01:39:00.001-06:00

It was lovely. I even got lucky and saw a Maiko (a trainee geisha)!

I indulged in 2 half pints of Kilkenny beer at Tadg's Irish pub in Gion. What a treat, but I got instant bloat. Would that be a sign I don't process carbs well??

It was great, loved everything (except the crowds), but it was nice to sleep in my own bed last night. Off to the gym now.
I'll be contemplating my goals for the new year over the next coupld of days, so I'll post those when I'm done.

Happy New Year!
God speed you on your journey and if you're staying home
God speed you on your journey through life!

Torture Machine

2005-12-27T01:39:00.000-06:00

Torture Machine, originally uploaded by runningfish.

Cafe Sign (excuse me, is that a bum on its head?)

2005-12-27T01:38:00.002-06:00

Cafe Sign, originally uploaded by runningfish.

A Wee Nap on the Way to Kyoto

2005-12-27T01:38:00.001-06:00

A Wee Nap, originally uploaded by runningfish.

Ginkakuji

2005-12-27T01:38:00.000-06:00

, originally uploaded by runningfish.

The Bullet Train Pulling In

2005-12-27T01:36:00.000-06:00

The Bullet Train Pulling In, originally uploaded by runningfish.

Kyoto for Christmas!

2005-12-24T02:32:00.000-06:00

I went to the gym yesterday and did 60 minutes on the stair climber in my lowest HR zone. Then shoulders, chest, back.
Today my triceps are pretty sore.

Tomorrow Dazza and I are going to Kyoto by bullet train. It's my first time and I'm super excited. I'll post some pics when I get back.

Merry Christmas!

Yakitori

2005-12-22T00:38:00.000-06:00

Yakitori (grilled chicken) is a wonderful food for dieters!! Dazz and I went to a place in town last week and it was great! They had raw horse on the menu ewwww!

I went to the gym yesterday afternoon. Chest, shoulders, back.....check. There was only one other guy there!! I love being on holidays! I took a 45 minute walk with Dazz after.

This morning I went for a nice early morning walk and am planning on a 30 minute session on the water rower tonight.

raw horse anyone?

2005-12-22T00:37:00.000-06:00

raw horse anyone?, originally uploaded by runningfish.

Winter Holidays!!

2005-12-20T18:58:00.000-06:00

Today is my very first day of my winter holidays! I have 20 days off and I intend to lose some poundage! I recently gained a bit back, but nothing serious, just a few over indulgences and a bit too much booze. You see the pizza guy? Well that pizza was a tasty indulgence! But I am ready to get back on track.

My plans for the break are as follows:

1. 2 cardio sessions per day in my lowest HR zone. I'm thinking a lot of walking, some running, the water rower, and hopefully some hiking. Included here will be proper warming up/cooling down, I've been lax in this area.

2. No booze. boohoo. The one exception here will be New Year's Eve. I usually visit several temples after dark and it's frigid, they serve warm sake at several of the temples and I will be drinking then.

3. I'm giving away all the clothes that are too big for me now.

4. I have some kind of wheat problem...it may be sugar or something else entirely... but no processed carbs of any variety shall pass my lips, they make me feel crappy and do a number on my belly. Plus whenever I don't eat them I lose weight effortlessly.

5. Continue my weight training 3x per week. I'm really enjoying this workout. I'm now in Stage 3 of the book I'm using, so there is more opportunity to try new exercises and also I'm getting biceps!(yippee!)

This morning I woke up late and headed out for my morning run. In my re-reading of Maffetone's book I realize how I often skip warming up. I'm too impatient, hate to add 15 minutes to my run. I'm going to be diligent with warming up/cooling down during my break, see if I notice anything.

I walked for 12 minutes slowly raising my HR from 87 to 135 beats per minute, at that point I started jogging until my HR got to 144-145 and jogged at this rate for 2km and did a slow walk home to lower my HR to about 110-115.

Pizza La Delivery Boy

2005-12-20T18:57:00.000-06:00

Pizza La Delivery Boy, originally uploaded by runningfish.

He was kind enough to let me take a photo of the cool suit!

Tokyo Tower

2005-12-19T06:16:00.000-06:00

I went to the dentist this morning and his office is right across the street from Tokyo Tower!
It's a mini version of the Eiffel Tower, built in 1959.

Tomorrow is my last day of work for 3 whole weeks. I'm looking forward to getting into a running/workout routine again.

I'm re-reading Dr. Phil Maffetone's book called The Maffetone Method.
He's the guy that trained Mittleman and several other major athletes, the only one I can think of just now is Mark Allen the Ironman guy.

I have no illusions about my status as an athlete, those all died with my half-marathon plans....but I want be healthier and I want to be fitter.

Tokyo Tower

2005-12-19T06:15:00.001-06:00

Tokyo Tower, originally uploaded by runningfish.

Looking Down From Tokyo Tower

2005-12-19T06:15:00.000-06:00

Looking Down From Tokyo Tower, originally uploaded by runningfish.

View from 150 metres

2005-12-19T06:14:00.000-06:00

View from 150 metres, originally uploaded by runningfish.

I've Been Tagged!

2005-12-18T00:08:00.000-06:00

Thanks Plods!

5 Random facts about me:
1) I really want to be good at drawing, so I've taken the "Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain" 5 day intensive course twice, and the color course once. I did it in Japan. Here's the link for Japan and the one for the US too.
Japan

Center for Creative Arts

USA

Drawing on the Right Side of the Brain

2) My favourite book of all time is 'The Education of Little Tree' by Forrest Carter. Still makes me cry.
3) Given the opportunity I would move to Italy in a heartbeat.
4) I love working on meaningless (to everyone but me) art projects. My current one is making a photo booklet of all snacks put on my desk at work and the calorie content of the goodies. My last was a book of haiku.
5) I secretly love the stinky fermented soybeans (natto) that most non Japanese despise.

Now who to tag...
I've tagged Miss Rachel(she in my links)
4 more to go...

my new favourite food

2005-12-12T05:49:00.000-06:00

my new favourite food, originally uploaded by runningfish.

I love, love, love these flax meal pancakes!! No wheat in any form seems to be working for me, all intenstinal distress has disappeared. Sorry too much information.
1/2cup flax meal
2 eggs
1/4cup cream
3 T cream cheese
2T oil
1/4tsp baking powder
mix everything together and cook like regular pancakes.

ginko tree across the street

2005-12-12T05:44:00.000-06:00

ginko tree across the street, originally uploaded by runningfish.

This temple is just across the street from my apartment. The power lines are rather unfortunate, don't know how to use photoshop very well.

A Friday morning at McDonalds

2005-12-12T05:42:00.000-06:00

A Friday morning at McDonalds, originally uploaded by runningfish.

This is a very common sight for me at coffee shops in Japan. I think people are sleep deprived in a big way over here.