I. Hate. Being. Sick.
I have been sick with something I have lovingly called "The Plague" for foreeeeeeeeeevver (at least that's how long it feels). Real time, I've been sick for about 3 weeks. It started off as a simple enough cold.
Ha.
It then turned into Bronchitis...which grandly was accompanied by insane amounts of fatigue. Even now, 3 weeks in, I have good moments, and I have some really bad moments. For someone that is as active as I normally am, having the energy to do no more than lay on the couch has been slightly frustrating. And by slightly...I really mean EXTREMELY.
Not only have I not had any energy, my brain function has decreased...so I end up not being able to spit out words that any normal day I would have nary a problem with. And I also end up asking stupid questions that I should be able to answer myself.
I did go to the Dr...and she put me on antibiotics. And side note here. I am a completely new experience for this Dr. First...this is a Dr. in an Allergy and Asthma clinic...so one would think they would be used to people with "sensitivities." I can't have lactose. Which drug manufacturers just happen to put in some medicines. For no good reason...other than it makes the pills all shiny and pretty. Really...I'd rather have medicine that isn't going to eff up my digestive system, than one that *shines*. So needless to say...finding medicine that I could take was quite an ordeal. She literally had to look each one up, and read every single ingredient. But we finally worked out a plan. And it worked...for the most part. The congestion cleared up. But the fatigue is still around.
Some moments are ok. Some...not so good. I was actually thinking today would be absolutely horrible. Not only do I have this wonderful bug that causes me to be extremely tired all the time...I also have bouts of insomnia. Yeah...it happens. So I woke up before 2am this morning and absolutely couldn't get back to sleep. I thought I would be horribly tired all day, and not worth anything. But fortunately that hasn't been the case.
I think one factor in this is that a very rare thing is happening here in DC. We are fully in the midst of our second blizzard of the season. DC...which hadn't had this much snow at one time in 32 years...is now gearing up to have the second dumping in less than 2 months. Weird winter, indeed.
But what this really means for me is that I got out of work early today. At 1pm in fact. So this morning everyone tried to get as much work done as possible...and we got everything needed done...and then we got to come home early. I did lay on the couch for a couple of hours...and watched a couple of episodes of House....but then I decided to spin.
To premise this...since my marathon 4 weeks ago...I have ran 6 miles (total) swam 3 times, and went spinning 3 times. And that's it. I hate it. And even the work outs that I have been doing have just felt horrible. I've been sluggish, and damn near drowned in the pool the other night. But tonight...I decided to just get on my bike...and try to last a half an hour...which is what I did the 2 previous times I went spinning. About 20 minutes in...something weird happened. I started smiling. It felt so amazingly good...I nearly started crying tears of joy.
I know that I'm not completely recovered...and I will probably sleep very well tonight. But hopefully I am on the road to recovery. As well I should be. Typical bronchitis recovery takes 2-3 weeks...and since I'm not typical...and I have asthma...I'm sure it will take me longer. But I know I will enjoy every work out I'm able to do...and am looking forward to getting back to a normal schedule.
Friday, February 5, 2010
Tuesday, January 12, 2010
The Disney Experience: 5:26:41
It is now 2 days post-marathon...and I'm trying to get everything straight in my head. It has been such a crazy few days...few months really that I'm trying to piece everything together. I have had a couple of people tell me that I should remember everything about it, from before, during and after...and that's what I'm trying to do.
The insanity that has been the past few months started in September when I made the decision to run the Disney marathon, instead of running a couple of months later with the team. I had a couple of reasons for doing this...one being to give me more time to accomplish my other race goals for the year...which will need me to focus much more on cycling. And two...my roommate was also running the Disney marathon this year...plus...I knew running at Disney would be an added bonus for my parents (especially my mom) to come to the race.
After the Army Ten Miler at the beginning of October, I had taken a small break, and really hadn't been doing many long runs...I think my longest *might* have been 6 miles...maybe. The break was nice...but come November...I knew that I needed to kick it into gear. I got my training schedule from Ed...and cringed at all of the long runs that were ahead of me. There was a big part of me that didn't think I was ever going to be able to do this...but the other part knew that as long as I put my mind to it...I would be fine. After all...look at how far I had already come in 2009...when in January...I couldn't run for more than a minute without feeling like I was going to die...and I had already ran a half marathon...and survived that...
Looking back on some of my long training runs...and then remembering them during the race...was very sentimental. I remember my first 14 mile run...and at the end of the run I hurt so badly...my ankle, my hip flexors, everything. Then the next weekend I had a 16 mile training run...and the same feeling afterward.
The question of "why am I doing this again?" was definitely creeping into my head...but for as long as I had been running...running a marathon had been one of my goals.
Of all of my long training runs...I have to say that the 18 miler definitely went the best. I had just come off recovery week...and everything just went right. I was sore afterward...but of course that's to be expected. However...the next week...my 20 miler (which was also my longest scheduled run) did not go so well. I hadn't slept well the night before, the motivation to finish the run wasn't there...and I ended up walking...a lot. But the most important thing was that I finished it. And it was over with.
Taper was...weird. After having so many weeks of losing so much time to training and recovery...it was nice to have a small portion of my life back. The longest run I had during taper was 16 miles...scheduled for the day after Christmas. Since I was at home in Middle America...I had my parents get everything that I needed...and I brought all of my cold weather gear. But I was totally not prepared for the difference in the cold between DC and Southern IL...especially with the wind. I got 2 miles into the run and I was in tears the wind was blowing so much. So I ran home...and just stopped. The next Monday my mom and I went to a local gym and I ran a couple of hours on the treadmill. For someone who hates treadmills...it was definitely a much more pleasant experience than I had had trying to run outside.
So...woohoo! Last long run is out of the way.
This is also the point in which pre-race nerves start to set in. I have always gotten pre-race jitters...and ALWAYS feel as though I'm never going to be able to finish the race. It seemed especially bad this time...probably because this was far and above the longest race I'd ever attempted. Ok...so basically any race to date was the longest one attempted...but this was really a big deal...
So...it was finally race week...and I would be flying down to Orlando on Thursday after work...which meant I would have to pack Wednesday night. On my way home Wednesday evening...I found myself completely unwilling and unable to pack anything. When I finally forced myself to do it...I did a sloppy job (which is completely unlike me) and really...I'm surprised I made it to Florida with everything that I needed. Thursday evening, we arrive in Orlando without incident (except for the guy that sat between Bri and I who refused to turn off his cell phone). My parents meet me at the airport...and we finally get to their house...and I get to sleep somewhere around midnight.
The next morning...in a completely unrelated race anecdote...I get up and walk to the kitchen...and realize that my parents have a real coffee maker at this house. I use a french press...and have for a long time. Long enough, in fact, that in my half asleep, coffee deprived state of mind...I was very unsure if I remembered how to use such a thing. But I survived...and decent coffee was brewed...and the earth continued to spin...
On Saturday...we headed to Orlando...and checked into our hotel. Seriously...the pictures do not even do justice to how hideous and gaudy the hotel is. Our building is bright orange and yellow...and is decorated...well...in a bad version from the 60's and 70's. I'm terrified. But this gaudy monstrosity is also close to everything...so we board the shuttle to the expo and packet pick up. I know everything I need to do...but this is the first experience for my parents to witness such a thing...and the reality of what I'm about to do hits my mother. She ends up being ok...which is good. We peruse the expo for a while...which is oddly selling more cold weather gear than anyone would have ever imagined. Who knew that a balaclava would come in handy for a marathon in Florida?!?
After the expo, we went back to the hotel, finished unloading the car, and hung out for a while...I got a good chance to relax...and calm down just a bit. Some other family just happened to be in Orlando for the weekend, so they dropped by the hotel, and then we ate a quick dinner...and then it was bedtime...at 7:45pm.
I typically don't sleep all that well the night before a race...probably due to the aforementioned race jitters. I woke up a couple of times...and even though the alarm was set for 2:30, I was awake around 1:30...and was up for the day. When I finally rolled out of bed...my parents were very kind to me, and got me a coffee...and I got into my race gear. And I ended up with all of the truly essential things...but I forgot my camera to carry with me during the race :( At 3:30 I met my roommate and her parents...we snapped a couple of quick pre-race photos...and then boarded the shuttle to take us to the start.
We arrived a little before 4am...and it was a whopping 30 degrees outside. I was bundled up but it really wasn't enough to properly keep me warm. And even though I had hand warmers, it was so cold, they wouldn't get warm. We all stood around for about 45 minutes...and then we realized that we should probably use the facilities...so we got in line with the rest of the mass of humanity...and had a lovely 45 minute wait. After that...it was time for Bri and I to head to the start line, and the parents went off to find the cheer section. I had to strip off all of the extra layers...but had fortunately found a garbage bag (unused) that I had snagged and used that as an extra layer. Really...you would be surprised at how much insulation it could give you...
On the walk over to the start...it was even more cold...and I couldn't feel my toes. Or my ankles. I made the comment to my roommate that between the Biofreeze and the weather, I couldn't feel my ankle...which was probably a good thing. This is kind of a recurring theme throughout the day...
Once I finally found my corral...it was only a few minutes to wait before the start. I talked to a few other racers...and tried to calm my nerves. I will tell you...completely up until this time my stomach had been in knots...and I seriously had the feeling that I wouldn't be able to finish. I hadn't trained enough. I was going to be in pain. And I just wouldn't be able to do it.
I was very fortunate that I was in the first wave of the start...meaning I got to start running right away (not the 40 minutes additional waiting time that some people had...) I crossed the start line at exactly 5:45am. And I was running...and it felt really good. I'm actually not quite sure than running had ever felt so good before. I tried really hard to take it slow because I knew how long of a day was ahead of me.
Around mile 2, we entered Epcot...and it was so wonderful because there was a huge crowd cheering us on outside the park, and throughout the park (all of the parks actually) all of the workers were standing along the route cheering for us. I chatted up a woman from British Columbia who hadn't brought her cold weather gear along with her...but had purchased stuff here. But she ended up taking a walk break...and I kept running. Once out of Epcot, we had our first water stop...and this was a good example at what all of them would look like for the rest of the day. It was extremely well stocked...but it was so cold that the Powerade and Water were freezing, so everything was slush...and where people had discarded liquids (which ends up being everywhere) the ground was a complete sheet of ice. I literally walked through every water stop so I wouldn't chance falling. Perhaps I know myself...and my klutzy ways...
So...continuing on...at mile 4 you loop around to the start of the race...and pass by the crowd of spectators again. I knew my parents were supposed to be along the route somewhere...so I was kind of on the lookout for them...but my mother...I tell you...for a small woman...she can make a lot of noise. I heard her well before I could see her. She was cheering her heart out...and it was definitely awesome to see.
It was shortly after this that I really took my first self-evaluation on how I was feeling. My answer was that I was feeling really good. Like...excessively really good. Wait...this is weird. I then forced myself...to ask myself...am I really feeling good...or can I just not feel anything? The answer either way was that I felt good enough to keep running...so I did.
Another note of interest...is that this is seriously the most organized race I've ever been in. The water stops are completely fully stocked. And even better...they actually are where they say they are going to be. And the med tents were great as well. Vaseline, Tylenol, and Biofreeze available. Since I tend to have a slight tendinitis problem in my right ankle...having biofreeze readily available is a very good thing. The only thing I will tell you...is that if you have gloves on...avoid getting Biofreeze on the gloves...especially if it's the one you blow your nose in.
The next park to run through was the Magic Kingdom...and by far my favorite to run through. I'm not exactly sure if I can say why...I just got a warm, fuzzy feeling as I was running through there. Oh...and I TOTALLY wanted to stop and take a ride on the teacups. It also was a lot of fun that they had pirates (complete with ship) as we left the park. But then I had "yo ho yo ho a pirates life for me..." stuck in my head for a while. At least it wasn't Jingle Bells...
The next stretch...although there were good parts...were probably the most difficult for me. Between the Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom...you are literally in no man's land. There are still characters and entertainment...but not much else to see. There were times where I wanted to walk...and I would ask myself if I really needed to walk or if I was just being lazy. On almost every occasion the answer was that I felt fine enough to be running...so that's what I did.
At mile 14...I snarfed a banana...and it set better than I was expecting...especially because it, too, was nearly frozen. I also passed the young cadet that was running the marathon in BDU's, complete with combat boots and a 30 pound pack. This kind was amazing. I don't run that fast...but even miles later...he wasn't that far behind me.
At mile 15, I got fairly emotional. I knew, at that point, that I would finish. Even better? I was going to finish under my goal time of 5 and a half hours. At that point I was on pace to finish in just over 5 hours. Woohoo!!!
Once in the Animal Kingdom...it once again felt good to be back in civilization. And there were spectators there...which also was a good thing. Between there and mile 22, I really felt good. I was also thrilled to be able to count down how many miles I had left and was thrilled that I was finally in single digits!!!
By mile 22, we were getting in, and through Hollywood Studios...and although I knew I was going to finish...and it was getting soooooooooooo close...the feeling good started to slip. Mainly from my feet. My tendinitis ridden ankle was fine...but my toes were really starting to feel it. In fact...at one point they even asked while I was still running. My running started to turn into more of a shuffle...and I ended up walking more of the last 4 miles than I ever imagined. But I always continued to move forward. In fact...I walked most of the last mile. Until I got to the last corner before the finish. I heard other people talking about the finish...and knew it was close...so I started jogging again. And then I turned the corner, and could see it...and I could see the massive amount of people that were there...and I couldn't feel my toes bothering me...and I sped up. And definitely had tears in my eyes as I crossed the line.
I moved on, and got my foil blanket wrapped around me. And then next I got my medal. As the guy was hanging it around my next, he asked how I was feeling...and the only thing I could think to say was "unbelievable." I also made a quick stop at the med tent and got an ice pack wrapped around my ankle (more as preventative because it still wasn't hurting that bad...yet. It was definitely the right thing to do).
I eventually wandered around, and found my parents. Somehow, my dad ended up being right in front of me as I walked out of the tent to the family reunion area. Which was a good thing. I handed off my water to him (which he had to open for me...because I still couldn't feel my fingers). And then we found my mom...who gave me a huge hug...and was crying because she said she looked so hard for me at the finish...but just couldn't see me. They snapped a couple of quick pictures...then we headed off to the shuttle bus that would take us back to the hotel.
The hardest part of the day (and I'm really not kidding here) was coming down the steps off the bus. 2 hotel employees were standing at the bottom...and they practically had to lift me down because I was feeling so sore. Fortunately...we had gotten a late check out time, and I was able to take a quick shower before we went back to my parents house.
Once we got back to the house...we relaxed for a couple of hours. My parents knew where I wanted to go for dinner...but I had also told them this: "I won't be able to eat much for a while after the race...but once I can...look out." So we went to an all you can eat buffet for dinner (seriously...they had to have lost money on that deal...) and then I went home and polished off a pint of chocolate ice cream :)
Since the end of the race, I have tried to wrap my head around everything. I wanted to remember every second of the race...and it unfortunately has turned into a blur for the most part. But I still feel amazing. And I'm incredibly thankful to everyone that was so supportive over the past few months. I know that I haven't seen many people because of training, and other insanity getting in the way...and maybe life will go back to normal...if there is such a thing. But I did it...I have joined the <1% that has completed a marathon. *I*...Johanna Lynn Hooks...who one year ago was just starting to run...who had never been athletic for a day in my life before that...finished a marathon.
The insanity that has been the past few months started in September when I made the decision to run the Disney marathon, instead of running a couple of months later with the team. I had a couple of reasons for doing this...one being to give me more time to accomplish my other race goals for the year...which will need me to focus much more on cycling. And two...my roommate was also running the Disney marathon this year...plus...I knew running at Disney would be an added bonus for my parents (especially my mom) to come to the race.
After the Army Ten Miler at the beginning of October, I had taken a small break, and really hadn't been doing many long runs...I think my longest *might* have been 6 miles...maybe. The break was nice...but come November...I knew that I needed to kick it into gear. I got my training schedule from Ed...and cringed at all of the long runs that were ahead of me. There was a big part of me that didn't think I was ever going to be able to do this...but the other part knew that as long as I put my mind to it...I would be fine. After all...look at how far I had already come in 2009...when in January...I couldn't run for more than a minute without feeling like I was going to die...and I had already ran a half marathon...and survived that...
Looking back on some of my long training runs...and then remembering them during the race...was very sentimental. I remember my first 14 mile run...and at the end of the run I hurt so badly...my ankle, my hip flexors, everything. Then the next weekend I had a 16 mile training run...and the same feeling afterward.
The question of "why am I doing this again?" was definitely creeping into my head...but for as long as I had been running...running a marathon had been one of my goals.
Of all of my long training runs...I have to say that the 18 miler definitely went the best. I had just come off recovery week...and everything just went right. I was sore afterward...but of course that's to be expected. However...the next week...my 20 miler (which was also my longest scheduled run) did not go so well. I hadn't slept well the night before, the motivation to finish the run wasn't there...and I ended up walking...a lot. But the most important thing was that I finished it. And it was over with.
Taper was...weird. After having so many weeks of losing so much time to training and recovery...it was nice to have a small portion of my life back. The longest run I had during taper was 16 miles...scheduled for the day after Christmas. Since I was at home in Middle America...I had my parents get everything that I needed...and I brought all of my cold weather gear. But I was totally not prepared for the difference in the cold between DC and Southern IL...especially with the wind. I got 2 miles into the run and I was in tears the wind was blowing so much. So I ran home...and just stopped. The next Monday my mom and I went to a local gym and I ran a couple of hours on the treadmill. For someone who hates treadmills...it was definitely a much more pleasant experience than I had had trying to run outside.
So...woohoo! Last long run is out of the way.
This is also the point in which pre-race nerves start to set in. I have always gotten pre-race jitters...and ALWAYS feel as though I'm never going to be able to finish the race. It seemed especially bad this time...probably because this was far and above the longest race I'd ever attempted. Ok...so basically any race to date was the longest one attempted...but this was really a big deal...
So...it was finally race week...and I would be flying down to Orlando on Thursday after work...which meant I would have to pack Wednesday night. On my way home Wednesday evening...I found myself completely unwilling and unable to pack anything. When I finally forced myself to do it...I did a sloppy job (which is completely unlike me) and really...I'm surprised I made it to Florida with everything that I needed. Thursday evening, we arrive in Orlando without incident (except for the guy that sat between Bri and I who refused to turn off his cell phone). My parents meet me at the airport...and we finally get to their house...and I get to sleep somewhere around midnight.
The next morning...in a completely unrelated race anecdote...I get up and walk to the kitchen...and realize that my parents have a real coffee maker at this house. I use a french press...and have for a long time. Long enough, in fact, that in my half asleep, coffee deprived state of mind...I was very unsure if I remembered how to use such a thing. But I survived...and decent coffee was brewed...and the earth continued to spin...
On Saturday...we headed to Orlando...and checked into our hotel. Seriously...the pictures do not even do justice to how hideous and gaudy the hotel is. Our building is bright orange and yellow...and is decorated...well...in a bad version from the 60's and 70's. I'm terrified. But this gaudy monstrosity is also close to everything...so we board the shuttle to the expo and packet pick up. I know everything I need to do...but this is the first experience for my parents to witness such a thing...and the reality of what I'm about to do hits my mother. She ends up being ok...which is good. We peruse the expo for a while...which is oddly selling more cold weather gear than anyone would have ever imagined. Who knew that a balaclava would come in handy for a marathon in Florida?!?
After the expo, we went back to the hotel, finished unloading the car, and hung out for a while...I got a good chance to relax...and calm down just a bit. Some other family just happened to be in Orlando for the weekend, so they dropped by the hotel, and then we ate a quick dinner...and then it was bedtime...at 7:45pm.
I typically don't sleep all that well the night before a race...probably due to the aforementioned race jitters. I woke up a couple of times...and even though the alarm was set for 2:30, I was awake around 1:30...and was up for the day. When I finally rolled out of bed...my parents were very kind to me, and got me a coffee...and I got into my race gear. And I ended up with all of the truly essential things...but I forgot my camera to carry with me during the race :( At 3:30 I met my roommate and her parents...we snapped a couple of quick pre-race photos...and then boarded the shuttle to take us to the start.
We arrived a little before 4am...and it was a whopping 30 degrees outside. I was bundled up but it really wasn't enough to properly keep me warm. And even though I had hand warmers, it was so cold, they wouldn't get warm. We all stood around for about 45 minutes...and then we realized that we should probably use the facilities...so we got in line with the rest of the mass of humanity...and had a lovely 45 minute wait. After that...it was time for Bri and I to head to the start line, and the parents went off to find the cheer section. I had to strip off all of the extra layers...but had fortunately found a garbage bag (unused) that I had snagged and used that as an extra layer. Really...you would be surprised at how much insulation it could give you...
On the walk over to the start...it was even more cold...and I couldn't feel my toes. Or my ankles. I made the comment to my roommate that between the Biofreeze and the weather, I couldn't feel my ankle...which was probably a good thing. This is kind of a recurring theme throughout the day...
Once I finally found my corral...it was only a few minutes to wait before the start. I talked to a few other racers...and tried to calm my nerves. I will tell you...completely up until this time my stomach had been in knots...and I seriously had the feeling that I wouldn't be able to finish. I hadn't trained enough. I was going to be in pain. And I just wouldn't be able to do it.
I was very fortunate that I was in the first wave of the start...meaning I got to start running right away (not the 40 minutes additional waiting time that some people had...) I crossed the start line at exactly 5:45am. And I was running...and it felt really good. I'm actually not quite sure than running had ever felt so good before. I tried really hard to take it slow because I knew how long of a day was ahead of me.
Around mile 2, we entered Epcot...and it was so wonderful because there was a huge crowd cheering us on outside the park, and throughout the park (all of the parks actually) all of the workers were standing along the route cheering for us. I chatted up a woman from British Columbia who hadn't brought her cold weather gear along with her...but had purchased stuff here. But she ended up taking a walk break...and I kept running. Once out of Epcot, we had our first water stop...and this was a good example at what all of them would look like for the rest of the day. It was extremely well stocked...but it was so cold that the Powerade and Water were freezing, so everything was slush...and where people had discarded liquids (which ends up being everywhere) the ground was a complete sheet of ice. I literally walked through every water stop so I wouldn't chance falling. Perhaps I know myself...and my klutzy ways...
So...continuing on...at mile 4 you loop around to the start of the race...and pass by the crowd of spectators again. I knew my parents were supposed to be along the route somewhere...so I was kind of on the lookout for them...but my mother...I tell you...for a small woman...she can make a lot of noise. I heard her well before I could see her. She was cheering her heart out...and it was definitely awesome to see.
It was shortly after this that I really took my first self-evaluation on how I was feeling. My answer was that I was feeling really good. Like...excessively really good. Wait...this is weird. I then forced myself...to ask myself...am I really feeling good...or can I just not feel anything? The answer either way was that I felt good enough to keep running...so I did.
Another note of interest...is that this is seriously the most organized race I've ever been in. The water stops are completely fully stocked. And even better...they actually are where they say they are going to be. And the med tents were great as well. Vaseline, Tylenol, and Biofreeze available. Since I tend to have a slight tendinitis problem in my right ankle...having biofreeze readily available is a very good thing. The only thing I will tell you...is that if you have gloves on...avoid getting Biofreeze on the gloves...especially if it's the one you blow your nose in.
The next park to run through was the Magic Kingdom...and by far my favorite to run through. I'm not exactly sure if I can say why...I just got a warm, fuzzy feeling as I was running through there. Oh...and I TOTALLY wanted to stop and take a ride on the teacups. It also was a lot of fun that they had pirates (complete with ship) as we left the park. But then I had "yo ho yo ho a pirates life for me..." stuck in my head for a while. At least it wasn't Jingle Bells...
The next stretch...although there were good parts...were probably the most difficult for me. Between the Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom...you are literally in no man's land. There are still characters and entertainment...but not much else to see. There were times where I wanted to walk...and I would ask myself if I really needed to walk or if I was just being lazy. On almost every occasion the answer was that I felt fine enough to be running...so that's what I did.
At mile 14...I snarfed a banana...and it set better than I was expecting...especially because it, too, was nearly frozen. I also passed the young cadet that was running the marathon in BDU's, complete with combat boots and a 30 pound pack. This kind was amazing. I don't run that fast...but even miles later...he wasn't that far behind me.
At mile 15, I got fairly emotional. I knew, at that point, that I would finish. Even better? I was going to finish under my goal time of 5 and a half hours. At that point I was on pace to finish in just over 5 hours. Woohoo!!!
Once in the Animal Kingdom...it once again felt good to be back in civilization. And there were spectators there...which also was a good thing. Between there and mile 22, I really felt good. I was also thrilled to be able to count down how many miles I had left and was thrilled that I was finally in single digits!!!
By mile 22, we were getting in, and through Hollywood Studios...and although I knew I was going to finish...and it was getting soooooooooooo close...the feeling good started to slip. Mainly from my feet. My tendinitis ridden ankle was fine...but my toes were really starting to feel it. In fact...at one point they even asked while I was still running. My running started to turn into more of a shuffle...and I ended up walking more of the last 4 miles than I ever imagined. But I always continued to move forward. In fact...I walked most of the last mile. Until I got to the last corner before the finish. I heard other people talking about the finish...and knew it was close...so I started jogging again. And then I turned the corner, and could see it...and I could see the massive amount of people that were there...and I couldn't feel my toes bothering me...and I sped up. And definitely had tears in my eyes as I crossed the line.
I moved on, and got my foil blanket wrapped around me. And then next I got my medal. As the guy was hanging it around my next, he asked how I was feeling...and the only thing I could think to say was "unbelievable." I also made a quick stop at the med tent and got an ice pack wrapped around my ankle (more as preventative because it still wasn't hurting that bad...yet. It was definitely the right thing to do).
I eventually wandered around, and found my parents. Somehow, my dad ended up being right in front of me as I walked out of the tent to the family reunion area. Which was a good thing. I handed off my water to him (which he had to open for me...because I still couldn't feel my fingers). And then we found my mom...who gave me a huge hug...and was crying because she said she looked so hard for me at the finish...but just couldn't see me. They snapped a couple of quick pictures...then we headed off to the shuttle bus that would take us back to the hotel.
The hardest part of the day (and I'm really not kidding here) was coming down the steps off the bus. 2 hotel employees were standing at the bottom...and they practically had to lift me down because I was feeling so sore. Fortunately...we had gotten a late check out time, and I was able to take a quick shower before we went back to my parents house.
Once we got back to the house...we relaxed for a couple of hours. My parents knew where I wanted to go for dinner...but I had also told them this: "I won't be able to eat much for a while after the race...but once I can...look out." So we went to an all you can eat buffet for dinner (seriously...they had to have lost money on that deal...) and then I went home and polished off a pint of chocolate ice cream :)
Since the end of the race, I have tried to wrap my head around everything. I wanted to remember every second of the race...and it unfortunately has turned into a blur for the most part. But I still feel amazing. And I'm incredibly thankful to everyone that was so supportive over the past few months. I know that I haven't seen many people because of training, and other insanity getting in the way...and maybe life will go back to normal...if there is such a thing. But I did it...I have joined the <1% that has completed a marathon. *I*...Johanna Lynn Hooks...who one year ago was just starting to run...who had never been athletic for a day in my life before that...finished a marathon.
Friday, November 20, 2009
Thanksgiving Memories...
Thanksgiving has typically been one of my favorite holiday's over the years. There have been some really fun ones, and some that I can fortunately look back on and laugh. But it's typically a great evening to sit around with family...and just...relax and have fun. Oddly enough, this has been the one major holiday that I haven't made a big deal about not spending with my parents. But yet, it still seems like a holiday that one should spend with their family.
This year, I made the decision to spend Thanksgiving in DC. It just wasn't feasible to fly home for Thanksgiving, and then turn around a month later and go home for Christmas. At the time I made the decision, my roommate was also planning to stay in DC...but now...because of some family stuff, she's now planning to go home. It's totally the right thing to do for her. Just hard...because it now leaves me to, most likely, spend the day alone. I'll be ok. I know I will...but it won't be easy either.
The first Thanksgiving that I didn't spend with my parents was my senior year in college. My senior thesis class had the option to go to England, and I, of course, had to go. It was a great, tiring trip. The day before Thanksgiving, we went to Oxford, where we visited the college where they film the Harry Potter movies. Then we ate lunch at this Americanized pub. And all 4 of us promptly got food poisoning. So on Thanksgiving morning, me and another girl slept while the other 2 went sightseeing. Then we had tea at the Savoy with Margaret Drabble...which was cool. And then, when we got back to Victoria Station...we ate Thanksgiving dinner at Burger King. Fan. Tas. Tic. This goes down in history as the worst Thanksgiving ever. But I still can laugh about it. Now.
Last Thanksgiving was also a very good time. I spent the weekend with my brother and sister-in-law in NYC. I spent entirely too long staring out the front window laughing at the people rushing to the liquor store across the street. But it was very nice...we watched the parade...on tv...we cooked...we shopped for wine...we ate a ton of really good food...and my brother got a little drunk...which was also really funny. But it was a good weekend...although the meal that I really take away from that trip was the burgers we had the night I got into town. After the most awful bus ride ever, they took me directly to get dinner and drink beer. It was...amazing. And then we got sorbet. Pear sorbet. Mmm....my mouth waters at the mere idea :) Also funny story...is right after I got off the bus, we were headed down to the subway and of the 3 of us...some guy stops ME for directions. I was so out of it because I had just gotten off a bus after 9 hours...I couldn't even speak. My brother promptly grabbed my arm and drug me down the steps and my sister in law stopped to give him directions. I do remember the guy saying that he didn't mean to scare me. And I heard her explain to him that I wasn't from there...and that I wasn't feeling well. Awesome.
Ah...memories.
Over the years...there have been a lot of great memories...more than just those that I've mentioned. But it's nice to look back at all of the holiday's and have those good memories.
This year, I made the decision to spend Thanksgiving in DC. It just wasn't feasible to fly home for Thanksgiving, and then turn around a month later and go home for Christmas. At the time I made the decision, my roommate was also planning to stay in DC...but now...because of some family stuff, she's now planning to go home. It's totally the right thing to do for her. Just hard...because it now leaves me to, most likely, spend the day alone. I'll be ok. I know I will...but it won't be easy either.
The first Thanksgiving that I didn't spend with my parents was my senior year in college. My senior thesis class had the option to go to England, and I, of course, had to go. It was a great, tiring trip. The day before Thanksgiving, we went to Oxford, where we visited the college where they film the Harry Potter movies. Then we ate lunch at this Americanized pub. And all 4 of us promptly got food poisoning. So on Thanksgiving morning, me and another girl slept while the other 2 went sightseeing. Then we had tea at the Savoy with Margaret Drabble...which was cool. And then, when we got back to Victoria Station...we ate Thanksgiving dinner at Burger King. Fan. Tas. Tic. This goes down in history as the worst Thanksgiving ever. But I still can laugh about it. Now.
Last Thanksgiving was also a very good time. I spent the weekend with my brother and sister-in-law in NYC. I spent entirely too long staring out the front window laughing at the people rushing to the liquor store across the street. But it was very nice...we watched the parade...on tv...we cooked...we shopped for wine...we ate a ton of really good food...and my brother got a little drunk...which was also really funny. But it was a good weekend...although the meal that I really take away from that trip was the burgers we had the night I got into town. After the most awful bus ride ever, they took me directly to get dinner and drink beer. It was...amazing. And then we got sorbet. Pear sorbet. Mmm....my mouth waters at the mere idea :) Also funny story...is right after I got off the bus, we were headed down to the subway and of the 3 of us...some guy stops ME for directions. I was so out of it because I had just gotten off a bus after 9 hours...I couldn't even speak. My brother promptly grabbed my arm and drug me down the steps and my sister in law stopped to give him directions. I do remember the guy saying that he didn't mean to scare me. And I heard her explain to him that I wasn't from there...and that I wasn't feeling well. Awesome.
Ah...memories.
Over the years...there have been a lot of great memories...more than just those that I've mentioned. But it's nice to look back at all of the holiday's and have those good memories.
Tuesday, September 22, 2009
Savageman: A weekend to remember
Initially after the race on Sunday...I basically wanted to curl up (and possibly die) and forget that the race ever happened. At that point, I felt that nothing had really went right for my race. Now, a couple of days later...I'm starting to see a lot more good things about the weekend than I initially had.
My first thanks for the day has to be everyone that was helping prep breakfast at the tent. As soon as I walked up...the first pot of coffee was finished brewing...you really can't ask for more perfect timing than that :)
After hanging around to watch everyone dance into their wetsuits...I wished Katy (my swimmer) good luck, told Ginny I would see her on the bike...and I headed out to Toothpick lane where I was volunteering to point everyone left. I thought I was going to be the only one there, but was pleased to see Erin standing there as well. I really enjoyed getting to cheer for everyone as they flew past on their bikes. Seeing everyone's faces as they grimaced looking at the hill to come was priceless.
After my volunteer shift was over...I headed back to the Z tent to chill out before I needed to run. I have to say that I absolutely love relaying...and I especially love doing the run portion...but the wait is a killer. But I was calm...which is a completely new thing for me. Normally I'm a nervous mess...but you know...never having ran a half marathon before...not to mention the course...what did I have to be nervous about?
It was great getting to hang out with all of the other runners in transition...especially hedging bets with Chris on when I would pass him. I was a little jealous of seeing everyone else off as their bikers came in...Ginny had told me she needed 5 hours on the bike...and when she passed me that morning at 9:20, I knew we were exactly on schedule. But to be honest, Ginny was the only one that ever said she needed 5 hours...everyone else knew she'd be in before that. And true to that...she was in at 4:30. Awesome job on the bike Ginny.
And finally...I was running...which felt awesome. I had seen a large portion of the run course...and knew that it was challenging, but not...horrible. The first loop really wasn't bad. The only time I had to walk was half-way up the Tower Climb. And it also helped that by the time I was running my first loop, I was getting passed by a ton of people on their second loop. One guy even gave me kudos for wearing my running skirt...and appreciated that I was "bringing it back". By the time I got to the park to start my second loop...my legs were starting to feel it...but at the time...I didn't think it was anything I couldn't overcome. I slowed down. I tried to keep myself as hydrated as possible without giving myself a stomach ache. But I could not have been more wrong about being able to overcome my legs. I had also checked my time, and knew that I was perfectly on schedule to come in on my goal time of 2:30. Rock on.
I passed Holly...looking like a rock star...early on the second loop. I must say it was awesome racing with you Holly!
My first challenge was that my plan to eat a banana the first time I passed the aid station at the entrance to the campground was foiled by the fact that they no longer had any bananas.
Dang.
I'll just have to wait 4 miles until the next aid station.
I also got a chance to see Chris...and he made fun of me for not passing him in the campground, and we again hedged bets on when I would overtake him. He was banking on me passing him by the Tower Climb. I wasn't so sure...but was willing to try.
But then...my calves...and oddly my ankle...started cramping. I slowed down even more...and walked up a few big hills. Which really sucked...because I actually LIKE running up hills...but my legs just wouldn't let me. By mile 9.5...I was done. I just wanted to be across the finish line and sitting down...with my legs soaking in ice. But for some reason, this pesky course thought that it needed to go on for a few more miles. WTF is up with that?!?
I'm not going to lie...the next few miles were awful. There were times I was in tears my legs hurt so badly...and if it weren't for the occasional cheer from either fellow Z'ers or the occasional spectator...I probably wouldn't have made it. When I once again passed Chris after he had made it down the Tower Climb...I knew I wasn't going to catch him. I knew my legs wouldn't be able to get me there. But he still told me that I would. Chris...that seriously meant a lot. This is the second race that we've been in there at the end together...and it's been fantastic!...well...mostly :)
Then on to the next aid station. Guess what. No bananas.
#$?%(!@
Oh yeah...and did I mention that half way through the second loop, I look down and realized that I no longer was wearing my race belt? Fan. Tas. Tic. When I wasn't feeling like I was going to die...I was casually looking at the ground to see if I had dropped it in a ditch somewhere.
But then I get to the top of the Tower Climb, and to the aid station there. And guess what? THEY HAVE BANANAS! At this point...I basically realize that it's going to have absolutely no benefit other than a placebo...but I thought that might be enough to get me across the finish line. As I rounded the cone at the top...another volunteer stopped and said "222...I have your number...I've been waiting for you!"
Phew...no penalty for that...hopefully :)
I hook it back to my waist...and take off down the hill. By this time...my legs are hurting enough that I can't even really run downhill either. Lovely.
Over the last couple of miles...I honestly don't remember a lot. There were a few Z'ers that passed me...and tried to get me to run to the end with them...and I just couldn't keep up. I appreciate the support because I definitely needed it!
By the time I got back to the park...I knew I was close...and couldn't wait to finish. I ended up walking a huge portion of it. And at approximately mile 12.75, my race belt fell off again. ARGH!?! When I leaned down to pick it up...remember that weird ankle cramp. Yeah...it just got a million times worse. At that point...I knew I'd have to walk the rest of the way. I kept trudging along...and finally made it to the curve before the finish line. There was absolutely no way I was going to let anyone see me walk across the finish line...so I started jogging...and crying at the same time. I remember seeing Ginny and Chris there...and Jeff doing his usual of asking me what took so long. I don't remember much about crossing the finish line other than sobbing against Jeff and attempting to ask to sit down somewhere. Jeff and Ginny got me to a bench...and then got me to calm down a little bit and tell them what hurt...which was basically everything.
Shoe removal. Foot up. Ice pack. Drinking half of Ed's beer. I'm feeling slightly better...but the embarrassment of crying across the finish line is starting to set in...
Up to this point...I was feeling awful about how the race went. I hadn't made my goal time...even though I was fairly certain I was in under my "even if I eff up" time. At that point I was sure the slim chance my relay team had of getting on the podium for all female relays was gone. And I was just looking forward to coming back next year and crushing the race.
Since then...my perspective has changed a little.
I checked the times yesterday...and found out the EngergiZer BunnieZ placed second (2 podium placements in 2 weekends...I could totally get used to that...) and my legs aren't hurting nearly as bad...and I've realized that a lot of really good things came out of this race.
First off...huge kudos to some people...
Chris...you were totally a rock star out there and you and Ginny were a fantastic to support all weekend.
Fabrice...major kudos on actually giving Chris that 1 loop lead he needed to stay ahead of me (I wasn't actually serious when I told you to do that!?!)
Holly...for sticking in there looking like a rock star while doing it...and making sure that the trees knew you were ok after you fell :)
Nicholas...for actually starting to run when I made fun of you on the Tower Climb
Katy and Ginny...for being an awesome relay team! I had such a good time...and you both did amazing...and I'm glad we were able to beat out 2 (not just 1) other relay team!!!
Every single Z member that encouraged me on the run...you are all amazing and I literally could not have done it without your support.
There was another racer who had finished and was cheering on the last leg of the run...who had told me good job...to whom I responded "You lie...but thank you anyway."
Lessons learned...
CARRY YOUR OWN NUTRITION. Yeah...no more dumbass moments for me there.
Don't wait until you can actually tell that you need new running shoes before buying them.
Aquaphor in a small tube is a great thing to bring on the run.
Buy a race belt that is actually going to stay on.
When camping the night before a race and the weather prediction is for the 40's, bring fleece.
I'm feeling better about life now...and about my prospects for next year. My goal is to do the entire Half next year...and this has just given me even more motivation to work my ass off to do it. It's a great race, a great course...and with the support of all of you...it's totally possible :)
Best. Team. Ever.
:)
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
I need a vacation from my vacation...
Last fall when I moved half-way across the country, I accepted the fact that some of my vacation time would need to be spent visiting home. It's just something that you have to do. Your friends miss you. Your family misses you. But what these visits create is a very stressful few days that are packed with trying to see everyone. Don't get me wrong...I love seeing everyone...but I occasionally need a break to recover from those visits.
This trip had been planned for a long time. The actual, official reason for the trip was my 10 year High School reunion. Don't get me started on how old that makes me feel...but anyway that was what the excuse was for going home. But really...the only thing that got me there was knowing that I would get to see my best friend, and my college roommate...and her son. Oh yeah...an my family...it's always nice to see them.
Well the weekend started easily enough. I flew home Thursday evening, and thankfully didn't have any problems on the way. I got to talk to Jeff while I was in the airport...which helped me waste some time...and then had quite an uneventful flight home. My parents picked me up at the airport...and we headed home. I actually felt like such a kid several times on this trip...the first incident of this was on the way home. I ended up curling up in the back seat and falling asleep on the drive home...which I don't think I've done since I was a child. But I couldn't help it...I was tired.
Then Friday morning I wake up, make coffee and read for a bit. And as usual, my dad asks me what I want for breakfast...and I finally decide on pancakes. Dad makes really gooooood pancakes. The first pancake that he made me...yeah...it was definitely in the shape of Mickey Mouse. But I guess I shouldn't feel too bad...he made one for my mom as well. So I hang out with the parental units for a little while...then I head to town to have lunch at the Dairy Bar with Gretchen, Derek, Chris and Sarah. There is one reason we eat at the Dairy Bar. They have the best freaking cole slaw ever! Even though we're having them cater the reunion, we're still making a special trip there for lunch. So we get there, order, and wait for our food. After quite a wait...they come out and tell us that they're out of cole slaw...but we could have potato salad with our meal. How can they be out of COLE SLAW?!? That's ridiculous! But anyway...we eat...and sit around talking for a bit...then all of a sudden...I look over at Gretchen...and tell her that I really want to go down the big curly slide. Did I mention that the Dairy Bar is in the local park? So we all go outside...and have our 15 minutes of acting like a kid...good times.
Because my time was so short...I told my mom to invite all of the family that could make it to the house on Friday evening so I could see as many of them as possible. So it was nice to see my Aunt and Uncle and my Grandma. My Uncle hadn't actually seen me lately...and he didn't even recognize me. Tally number 1 for that count.
The next morning was the Schutzenfest 5K. We had a ridiculously hard time finding info about this race...but finally...thanks to my Grandma...I had a start time and location. So I get there...and laugh at the small town Middle America race. 9 people had pre-registered...but fortunately a few other people showed up. I ended up having a good race...and finished in 26:32...which was good enough for second in my age group, and second overall female. I was definitely happy...especially since this is probably going to be the only time I ever podium in a race...ever.
So I go home...get ready...and head to reunion part the first. It's a family picnic...I must say that it was nice to see most everyone. I got to talk to basically everyone...talk to them for a few minutes...but as reunions tend to go...I ended up hanging out with the people that I hung out with in High School. Believe me...I'm not complaining...because I love my bff. Oh yeah...and I ate fried chicken. Let's not talk about how gross I felt after that. I must say that it felt quite nice because most everyone that hadn't seen me in the past 5-10 years told me that they almost, or didn't recognize me. Granted...many of them told me it was because my hair is so different...which I find funny that they completely glossed over the fact that I've lost a ton of weight...but oh well. Mission accomplished :)
So we leave there around 2ish...and go to the lake house...and again relive our past. Uncle Jack takes us out of the boat...which was awesome. Then we go to the Ranch for dinner. I eat way too many chips and salsa...but I just can't help it...they're sooooooo goooooooooood. During dinner...my contact started bugging me really badly...so I ended up going home to take them out. It was bad enough that I couldn't really see...so I ended up not making it to reunion part the second. I'm not really sure I'm upset about that.
Sunday was a very nice day. I went to church with my parents...and got to see all of their friends. Then I went to Christina (my college roommate)'s house. More importantly I got to spend the afternoon with her adorable son. We read stories...and played...and he crawled all over the house. Then while he was napping Christina and I got to talk. We met the girls for dinner...and had a really nice them.
I got home late on Sunday...then woke up Monday...did some laundry...packed...and headed back to the airport...which I'm not refering to as my second home. But hopefully this will be my last flight for a while. Hopefully.
Then...I'm not quite sure what got into me last night. I got home from the airport at 7...and started unpacking. Not that this isn't needed. Because it totally is. I still have a lot of stuff to unpack and get situated. It was just weird. But I'm not really complaining.
So all in all...a good trip...I'm just tired still...and need another break. Oh well...I'll get one...eventually...
This trip had been planned for a long time. The actual, official reason for the trip was my 10 year High School reunion. Don't get me started on how old that makes me feel...but anyway that was what the excuse was for going home. But really...the only thing that got me there was knowing that I would get to see my best friend, and my college roommate...and her son. Oh yeah...an my family...it's always nice to see them.
Well the weekend started easily enough. I flew home Thursday evening, and thankfully didn't have any problems on the way. I got to talk to Jeff while I was in the airport...which helped me waste some time...and then had quite an uneventful flight home. My parents picked me up at the airport...and we headed home. I actually felt like such a kid several times on this trip...the first incident of this was on the way home. I ended up curling up in the back seat and falling asleep on the drive home...which I don't think I've done since I was a child. But I couldn't help it...I was tired.
Then Friday morning I wake up, make coffee and read for a bit. And as usual, my dad asks me what I want for breakfast...and I finally decide on pancakes. Dad makes really gooooood pancakes. The first pancake that he made me...yeah...it was definitely in the shape of Mickey Mouse. But I guess I shouldn't feel too bad...he made one for my mom as well. So I hang out with the parental units for a little while...then I head to town to have lunch at the Dairy Bar with Gretchen, Derek, Chris and Sarah. There is one reason we eat at the Dairy Bar. They have the best freaking cole slaw ever! Even though we're having them cater the reunion, we're still making a special trip there for lunch. So we get there, order, and wait for our food. After quite a wait...they come out and tell us that they're out of cole slaw...but we could have potato salad with our meal. How can they be out of COLE SLAW?!? That's ridiculous! But anyway...we eat...and sit around talking for a bit...then all of a sudden...I look over at Gretchen...and tell her that I really want to go down the big curly slide. Did I mention that the Dairy Bar is in the local park? So we all go outside...and have our 15 minutes of acting like a kid...good times.
Because my time was so short...I told my mom to invite all of the family that could make it to the house on Friday evening so I could see as many of them as possible. So it was nice to see my Aunt and Uncle and my Grandma. My Uncle hadn't actually seen me lately...and he didn't even recognize me. Tally number 1 for that count.
The next morning was the Schutzenfest 5K. We had a ridiculously hard time finding info about this race...but finally...thanks to my Grandma...I had a start time and location. So I get there...and laugh at the small town Middle America race. 9 people had pre-registered...but fortunately a few other people showed up. I ended up having a good race...and finished in 26:32...which was good enough for second in my age group, and second overall female. I was definitely happy...especially since this is probably going to be the only time I ever podium in a race...ever.
So I go home...get ready...and head to reunion part the first. It's a family picnic...I must say that it was nice to see most everyone. I got to talk to basically everyone...talk to them for a few minutes...but as reunions tend to go...I ended up hanging out with the people that I hung out with in High School. Believe me...I'm not complaining...because I love my bff. Oh yeah...and I ate fried chicken. Let's not talk about how gross I felt after that. I must say that it felt quite nice because most everyone that hadn't seen me in the past 5-10 years told me that they almost, or didn't recognize me. Granted...many of them told me it was because my hair is so different...which I find funny that they completely glossed over the fact that I've lost a ton of weight...but oh well. Mission accomplished :)
So we leave there around 2ish...and go to the lake house...and again relive our past. Uncle Jack takes us out of the boat...which was awesome. Then we go to the Ranch for dinner. I eat way too many chips and salsa...but I just can't help it...they're sooooooo goooooooooood. During dinner...my contact started bugging me really badly...so I ended up going home to take them out. It was bad enough that I couldn't really see...so I ended up not making it to reunion part the second. I'm not really sure I'm upset about that.
Sunday was a very nice day. I went to church with my parents...and got to see all of their friends. Then I went to Christina (my college roommate)'s house. More importantly I got to spend the afternoon with her adorable son. We read stories...and played...and he crawled all over the house. Then while he was napping Christina and I got to talk. We met the girls for dinner...and had a really nice them.
I got home late on Sunday...then woke up Monday...did some laundry...packed...and headed back to the airport...which I'm not refering to as my second home. But hopefully this will be my last flight for a while. Hopefully.
Then...I'm not quite sure what got into me last night. I got home from the airport at 7...and started unpacking. Not that this isn't needed. Because it totally is. I still have a lot of stuff to unpack and get situated. It was just weird. But I'm not really complaining.
So all in all...a good trip...I'm just tired still...and need another break. Oh well...I'll get one...eventually...
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
One month until my Birthday!
As the title suggests, my birthday is in exactly one month. Normally, every year about this time, I realize that my birthday is only a month away. And as I get a little older, I tend to get a little nostalgic, and like to look back at the past year. In most years past, I haven't been to happy with what I've had to look back on. I tend to feel that I've let the past year slide, and not accomplished anything.
This year...that isn't the case. I have had a very successful year. On October 1, 2008, I moved to DC. It was something that I had been planning for a couple of months...and I'm not afraid to admit that I was terrified. I was leaving everything that I had ever known, and moving half way across the country. I did have friends that I knew there...but I had no job...and a lot of uncertainty.
I must say that the couple of months that I had off work was nice. I tried to enjoy it. I went for long walks...and I started getting acquainted with my new city. I did search for a job, and by the time I actually got a job, I was more than happy to have one. I was starting to get bored, and antsy...and a little poor. And when I first started working at TSI, I thought that it was just a temp job...a paycheck until I found something else. But I knew that it was a great company, and they did really good things. Providing early childhood curriculum materials is something that people can respect. So the longer that I have worked there...the more I have come to appreciate and enjoy my job. It's somewhere where I don't mind going to work every day. There are crazy days, and there are days that make me want to pull my hair out. But really...I actually like my job. I think this is the first time that I can say that. I have had more opportunities come my way than I ever imagined to be possible. Even still, when a new opportunity is available to me, I'm shocked that it's happened so quickly. And it keeps happening...and that's a good thing :)
Other than this fabulous job that I have...something else has happened. I started running...and then added swimming and biking on top of it. I never in my wildest imagination thought that I would be able to accomplish some of the physical feats that I have in the past few months. But I wouldn't change them for anything.
I'm not going to say that everything has been fantastic this year. I've had a couple of relationships fall of their face. But I've learned something from them, and for that...I can't say that it's all bad. I try to never regret anything...and I really don't. As I said...I've learned something from them...so at least they weren't worthless.
So all in all...27 has been a very good age for me. I never enjoy getting a year older, and my actual birthday can never pass without some difficulty. My grandmother died on my 20th birthday, so there is always some sadness that accompanies my birthday...but this year...I am proud to look back at everything that I have accomplished...and I can pat myself on the back...and feel good about the person that I am. I can only hope that 28 will be just as good. Oh yeah...and I'm not going to feel bad about eating that piece of Lemon Cake either. Because it's just that damn good...
This year...that isn't the case. I have had a very successful year. On October 1, 2008, I moved to DC. It was something that I had been planning for a couple of months...and I'm not afraid to admit that I was terrified. I was leaving everything that I had ever known, and moving half way across the country. I did have friends that I knew there...but I had no job...and a lot of uncertainty.
I must say that the couple of months that I had off work was nice. I tried to enjoy it. I went for long walks...and I started getting acquainted with my new city. I did search for a job, and by the time I actually got a job, I was more than happy to have one. I was starting to get bored, and antsy...and a little poor. And when I first started working at TSI, I thought that it was just a temp job...a paycheck until I found something else. But I knew that it was a great company, and they did really good things. Providing early childhood curriculum materials is something that people can respect. So the longer that I have worked there...the more I have come to appreciate and enjoy my job. It's somewhere where I don't mind going to work every day. There are crazy days, and there are days that make me want to pull my hair out. But really...I actually like my job. I think this is the first time that I can say that. I have had more opportunities come my way than I ever imagined to be possible. Even still, when a new opportunity is available to me, I'm shocked that it's happened so quickly. And it keeps happening...and that's a good thing :)
Other than this fabulous job that I have...something else has happened. I started running...and then added swimming and biking on top of it. I never in my wildest imagination thought that I would be able to accomplish some of the physical feats that I have in the past few months. But I wouldn't change them for anything.
I'm not going to say that everything has been fantastic this year. I've had a couple of relationships fall of their face. But I've learned something from them, and for that...I can't say that it's all bad. I try to never regret anything...and I really don't. As I said...I've learned something from them...so at least they weren't worthless.
So all in all...27 has been a very good age for me. I never enjoy getting a year older, and my actual birthday can never pass without some difficulty. My grandmother died on my 20th birthday, so there is always some sadness that accompanies my birthday...but this year...I am proud to look back at everything that I have accomplished...and I can pat myself on the back...and feel good about the person that I am. I can only hope that 28 will be just as good. Oh yeah...and I'm not going to feel bad about eating that piece of Lemon Cake either. Because it's just that damn good...
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