"You never bend you never break, you seem to know just what it takes; You're a fighter!" Stan Bush -The Touch-
Time: 24 minutes
Distance: 1.7 miles
Cals: 270
I've been pretty busy this week, and yet I find things easier to handle when I have no time. My stress isn't even as high it seems. I haven't even eaten half of what I usually do!
So I went for a run today, despite the pain in the arch of my right foot I actually managed to run a mile straight, without feeling too winded or anything! Furthermore I did it in 14, that's right, FOURTEEN minutes! So that technically means I could run the 10 mile race in two and a half hours at this point. I just have to work up to running ten miles. Hopefully by July I will be able to do more than that at a better time. But lets not get ahead of ourselves. Today lets celebrate, because we should all celebrate the small things.
My running shoes I think made this possible. I have the new Nike Lunar Glide shoes. They're like running on clouds. I don't even think about my feet or my knees anymore, except for today. That's only because I'm breaking in a pair of regular sneakers and it's proving to be a bit tough.
I also found out that the part of the Black Belt Physical test in my school is to run 2.5km in...I think 15 minutes. That's only a mile and a half!
Now, to just get a workout schedule figured out. I feel like I could run five days a week, but I know I definitely shouldn't. At least not at first. I have ot get some Strength training in there, and some more focused training like endurance and definitely core training! So maybe run just three times a week....hmmm...we'll see. I must read up on how to safely increase your mileage.
Can't wait to share this with people,
A.J. Ryan
Friday, September 11, 2009
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Friday, September 4, 2009
The milk is empty....
"You still are blind, if you see a winding road, 'cause there's always a straight way to the point you see." Akeboshi -Wind-
It's Friday, and the milk is empty. The webradio refuses to work, on the interesting channel at least, and I'm staring into a month that only seems to be building more stress and more mess.
This week has felt disastrous. However, I would like to think that it just seemed that way due to an extra emotional state thanks to the time of the month. Which hasn't been so bad as of yet. I'm normally the most unbearable person to be around, even for myself. So I'd like to think I'm doing pretty good this month.
I would also like to give the thanks to the morning exercise I've done the past two days. I only wish that I could do it more often, like twice a day. The good feelings generally wear off by the afternoon. Sometimes, especially when staring down this great monster of jumbled tasks and errands I must do, I wish I could just leave it all behind and just keep walking on. On and on, until my mind is actually clear, not murky. If I knew how, I'd let it all go, but in reality that would be the end. When I let go, I forget, and then it effects other people, and hurts more in the end. I think what I like about running and walking is that I can forget for a while, I can feel nothing if I want to, and I can fully dream and create in my mind what the future could be like, unaffected by the past, or by the present obstacles. Like my quote says, if you can see it, it's possible to get there, and there's really no need for struggle.
So, I conclude to leave the milk for my mother's tea tomorrow morning and eat some yogurt instead. I switch to the jazz channel on the web radio, and try my best to relax. Things will work out over time, and I only have to deal with them when they meet me face to face. Tomorrow I will do the groceries for another week, and make a day for myself, finally visit the running store, spend as long as I like in the book store, maybe even eat out at a cafe or something. I can grumble about my long hours of work when I'm there, on Monday, standing around, watching the clock.
Hoping to be able to fit in some run/walks this weekend,
A.J. Ryan
It's Friday, and the milk is empty. The webradio refuses to work, on the interesting channel at least, and I'm staring into a month that only seems to be building more stress and more mess.
This week has felt disastrous. However, I would like to think that it just seemed that way due to an extra emotional state thanks to the time of the month. Which hasn't been so bad as of yet. I'm normally the most unbearable person to be around, even for myself. So I'd like to think I'm doing pretty good this month.
I would also like to give the thanks to the morning exercise I've done the past two days. I only wish that I could do it more often, like twice a day. The good feelings generally wear off by the afternoon. Sometimes, especially when staring down this great monster of jumbled tasks and errands I must do, I wish I could just leave it all behind and just keep walking on. On and on, until my mind is actually clear, not murky. If I knew how, I'd let it all go, but in reality that would be the end. When I let go, I forget, and then it effects other people, and hurts more in the end. I think what I like about running and walking is that I can forget for a while, I can feel nothing if I want to, and I can fully dream and create in my mind what the future could be like, unaffected by the past, or by the present obstacles. Like my quote says, if you can see it, it's possible to get there, and there's really no need for struggle.
So, I conclude to leave the milk for my mother's tea tomorrow morning and eat some yogurt instead. I switch to the jazz channel on the web radio, and try my best to relax. Things will work out over time, and I only have to deal with them when they meet me face to face. Tomorrow I will do the groceries for another week, and make a day for myself, finally visit the running store, spend as long as I like in the book store, maybe even eat out at a cafe or something. I can grumble about my long hours of work when I'm there, on Monday, standing around, watching the clock.
Hoping to be able to fit in some run/walks this weekend,
A.J. Ryan
Thursday, September 3, 2009
Random
"Everybody feels the same" - Utada Hikaru- Nijiiro basu(The rainbow bus)
Change is scary. It can be downright terrifying. Even if you do want it. It doesn't just happen either. It's hard, and it's scary to fight for that sometimes, just like it can be scary to fight for what you want. You're taking a chance, risking things, walking a fine line. If you sway too far over, you could give the wrong impression, come off too bold. If you play it too safe, you won't get results. However, we have to act now. Going too far is probably better that not moving at all. No, it is better. Far better.
I went for a walk today. 4km I think. It was nice enough. I just went at whatever pace I felt like. I didn't watch the time as obsessively as I tend to and just walked. It was nice for once.
Trying not to wish away my time too much. Got a good weekend planned I think. Going to look at some running shoes I hope. Donno if I'll get any though. Depends on how expensive they turn out to be. I have to buy regular sneakers as well. Mine are five years old and most likely the reason my knees hurt so much.
...I still really want chocolate and junk food. I hope that passes. I always feel much worse once I've eaten it. Makes it very difficult to choose anything worth eating as well. School usually fixes that as well. I'm too stingy to break down and buy something since I bring all my lunch and snacks with me.
Has nothing more to say,
A.J. Ryan
Change is scary. It can be downright terrifying. Even if you do want it. It doesn't just happen either. It's hard, and it's scary to fight for that sometimes, just like it can be scary to fight for what you want. You're taking a chance, risking things, walking a fine line. If you sway too far over, you could give the wrong impression, come off too bold. If you play it too safe, you won't get results. However, we have to act now. Going too far is probably better that not moving at all. No, it is better. Far better.
I went for a walk today. 4km I think. It was nice enough. I just went at whatever pace I felt like. I didn't watch the time as obsessively as I tend to and just walked. It was nice for once.
Trying not to wish away my time too much. Got a good weekend planned I think. Going to look at some running shoes I hope. Donno if I'll get any though. Depends on how expensive they turn out to be. I have to buy regular sneakers as well. Mine are five years old and most likely the reason my knees hurt so much.
...I still really want chocolate and junk food. I hope that passes. I always feel much worse once I've eaten it. Makes it very difficult to choose anything worth eating as well. School usually fixes that as well. I'm too stingy to break down and buy something since I bring all my lunch and snacks with me.
Has nothing more to say,
A.J. Ryan
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
The Fallen; Running to catch that wagon again...
"Out of the darkness you stumble into the light; fighting for the things you know are right." Stan Bush -Dare-
I hate being told I'm not strong enough. My bike is broken. I don't have the right tools to fix it. How can I be expected to be able to fix it properly? My luck it's permanently fucked up. Besides, I can do a lot of things people can barely fathom. I can practically kick a six foot man square in the face without even jumping. But no one really knows that beyond my new friends.
So today I took the skateboard for a ride. It takes some getting used to but it's nice. Hard work too, and now I just did a 500cal session on the DDR.
As for my title, I haven't run in a long time now. I fell off the bandwagon. Beyond Taekwon-do I haven't been overly active. I've been very bad with my eating too. Anyway, starting on the 9th all that is going to change. I'll officially be allowed to use the University gym, pool, courts, and SCC(Strength and Conditioning Center) again. I know it's silly to wait, I just like running there more than in my own neighborhood. Well, it's never JUST running there either. I row, and strength train, and practice some of my Taekwon-do things. For the Black belt test there's three components. Physical, Written, and Theory. The physical test is crazy fro what I've hear. You have to have good endurance, and speed, as well as strength in order to get through it.
Anyway, my first day of school is also a Taekwon-do night, which should be interesting, but I should be able to do it, because I doubt I'll get much exercise on the weekends with work and all. Maybe I'll even get some games in on the courts this semester, or even some laps in the pool! I'm very excited to improve and finally get serious about my Tele-10 training as well. I want to try and run the entire thing without stopping.
Hoping things will all fall into place for this new month of a new year,
A.J. Ryan
I hate being told I'm not strong enough. My bike is broken. I don't have the right tools to fix it. How can I be expected to be able to fix it properly? My luck it's permanently fucked up. Besides, I can do a lot of things people can barely fathom. I can practically kick a six foot man square in the face without even jumping. But no one really knows that beyond my new friends.
So today I took the skateboard for a ride. It takes some getting used to but it's nice. Hard work too, and now I just did a 500cal session on the DDR.
As for my title, I haven't run in a long time now. I fell off the bandwagon. Beyond Taekwon-do I haven't been overly active. I've been very bad with my eating too. Anyway, starting on the 9th all that is going to change. I'll officially be allowed to use the University gym, pool, courts, and SCC(Strength and Conditioning Center) again. I know it's silly to wait, I just like running there more than in my own neighborhood. Well, it's never JUST running there either. I row, and strength train, and practice some of my Taekwon-do things. For the Black belt test there's three components. Physical, Written, and Theory. The physical test is crazy fro what I've hear. You have to have good endurance, and speed, as well as strength in order to get through it.
Anyway, my first day of school is also a Taekwon-do night, which should be interesting, but I should be able to do it, because I doubt I'll get much exercise on the weekends with work and all. Maybe I'll even get some games in on the courts this semester, or even some laps in the pool! I'm very excited to improve and finally get serious about my Tele-10 training as well. I want to try and run the entire thing without stopping.
Hoping things will all fall into place for this new month of a new year,
A.J. Ryan
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
"By means of the small things, I lost the important things." Utada Hikaru - Dareka no Negai ga Kanau koro (When someone's wish comes true)
I am really struggling with running. I just don't want to be at it these days. I ran on Monday, but since then I feel like total crap. The way I usually am when I get the flu. I seem to only get full body pain. Then yesterday I was so worried about getting enough fruits and vegetables I really didn't eat many carbs. I felt so sluggish and gross. Not good. Never again.
Today I'm going straight from my work meeting to around the bay. Chances are I won't get any exercise there either, let alone eat very well. Though I plan to be more conscious. I ate cookies like crazy last year, mind you they were home made. But I'm just accounting for the annual toutans we always have.
I can't wait to get back to school with the gyms open to me. Then I'll really start my training. Gotta be able to run ten miles before next July!
Even though I seriously question it often, I will keep plugging away in hopes that I'll catch the bug without hurting my body too much. I really need new sneakers, cheaper than new knees.
Will work on calming her nerves,
A.J. Ryan
I am really struggling with running. I just don't want to be at it these days. I ran on Monday, but since then I feel like total crap. The way I usually am when I get the flu. I seem to only get full body pain. Then yesterday I was so worried about getting enough fruits and vegetables I really didn't eat many carbs. I felt so sluggish and gross. Not good. Never again.
Today I'm going straight from my work meeting to around the bay. Chances are I won't get any exercise there either, let alone eat very well. Though I plan to be more conscious. I ate cookies like crazy last year, mind you they were home made. But I'm just accounting for the annual toutans we always have.
I can't wait to get back to school with the gyms open to me. Then I'll really start my training. Gotta be able to run ten miles before next July!
Even though I seriously question it often, I will keep plugging away in hopes that I'll catch the bug without hurting my body too much. I really need new sneakers, cheaper than new knees.
Will work on calming her nerves,
A.J. Ryan
Tuesday, August 4, 2009
"The canvas is all yours." Utada Hikaru -Colors-
Distance: approx. 12.5-16 km (Stupid google maps)
Time: around an hour
I went cycling today, and it was nice. The little town I went to made me think of where I like to go in the summer. I'm really going to miss that this year, but at least I have this spot to visit.
I tried Oatmeal today for the first time ever. It wasn't so bad either. I'm really into cooking and baking lately. I made muffins today too.
Here's my Oatmeal recipe:
1 part (1/3 cup) rolled oats (Quick)
2 parts (2/3 cup) unsweetened apple juice
put on medium heat for about five minutes.
Add ground flax seed 1/2 tsp
and 1/4 tsp of cinnamon
stir in and eat.
Very tasty, and credit goes to the Oprah site. Some chef had it on her show the other day.
Anyway, other than that I don't really know what to say.
Hoping to not be too achy tomorrow,
A.J. Ryan
Distance: approx. 12.5-16 km (Stupid google maps)
Time: around an hour
I went cycling today, and it was nice. The little town I went to made me think of where I like to go in the summer. I'm really going to miss that this year, but at least I have this spot to visit.
I tried Oatmeal today for the first time ever. It wasn't so bad either. I'm really into cooking and baking lately. I made muffins today too.
Here's my Oatmeal recipe:
1 part (1/3 cup) rolled oats (Quick)
2 parts (2/3 cup) unsweetened apple juice
put on medium heat for about five minutes.
Add ground flax seed 1/2 tsp
and 1/4 tsp of cinnamon
stir in and eat.
Very tasty, and credit goes to the Oprah site. Some chef had it on her show the other day.
Anyway, other than that I don't really know what to say.
Hoping to not be too achy tomorrow,
A.J. Ryan
Saturday, August 1, 2009
Everyday Simplicity
"Don’t read deeply into things, just enjoy the art of life" -Utada Hikaru- Celebrate-
Distance: 1.16m
time: 25 min
To start:
This is the best thing I've read in a while and it completely sums up the Kanji learning problem. It's from www.kanjisite.com
"Aargh! Panic! *slap!* Calm down. It's not that hard. Just breathe deeply and you'll be fine. Follow me..."
So today I jumped on the treadmill despite the sticky nasty humid air we have. Watched transformers again. I can seriously say that my favorite part is when they transform Autobot city when the Decepticons invade. The complete harmony of the animation/motion, the music and the action just moves me to the core. Such genius for a movie, truly before its time.
I'm giving Lycoris Radiata a rest for a bit and I've picked up Impulse again. I'm working out the details of Chapter three of my third draft. I'm trying to make the plot driven by actions rather than invisible will. The first draft was just getting down on paper all the things that were sitting in my head for over six years. Now I have to make it good and plausible.
I can't wait to get back to school. It helps me schedule my life so much. I'll also have the gym at my disposal. At that time I hope to really start training for the Tele-10
Wondering if a speedometer on the bicycle would be a good investment,
A.J. Ryan
Distance: 1.16m
time: 25 min
To start:
This is the best thing I've read in a while and it completely sums up the Kanji learning problem. It's from www.kanjisite.com
"Aargh! Panic! *slap!* Calm down. It's not that hard. Just breathe deeply and you'll be fine. Follow me..."
So today I jumped on the treadmill despite the sticky nasty humid air we have. Watched transformers again. I can seriously say that my favorite part is when they transform Autobot city when the Decepticons invade. The complete harmony of the animation/motion, the music and the action just moves me to the core. Such genius for a movie, truly before its time.
I'm giving Lycoris Radiata a rest for a bit and I've picked up Impulse again. I'm working out the details of Chapter three of my third draft. I'm trying to make the plot driven by actions rather than invisible will. The first draft was just getting down on paper all the things that were sitting in my head for over six years. Now I have to make it good and plausible.
I can't wait to get back to school. It helps me schedule my life so much. I'll also have the gym at my disposal. At that time I hope to really start training for the Tele-10
Wondering if a speedometer on the bicycle would be a good investment,
A.J. Ryan
Monday, July 27, 2009
Tourblesome....
"What am I leaving when I'm done here?" Linkin Park -Leave out all the rest-
My. Feet. Hurt. Actually, from the knees down hurts. I got carried away in TKD and took a nice chunk of skin off my foot. Sorry for the detail, but this is the way it is in all its disgusting glory.
I had a pretty good weekend. TKD party on Saturday, which led to a contract signing. Haha, donno who will actually keep to it, but I definitely will. It gives me a reason to run the Tele-10 next year. I want to anyway, but now I've said and written that I would. I signed that. Now I have to live up to it. It's hopefully another step to bringing me closer to what I want.
Sunday was great too! I got to spend some time with my brother, which doesn't happen often enough.
Oh, did I mention being late for everything.
What hurts lately, to be a bit more honest and deep than this short info. post, is how out of balance my life has become. It is sad and frustrating and practically consuming.
Sigh. I had a bit of a nightmare last night too. Again. That's two in the last week. I wonder if this is due to the unbalance? I hope nothing as bad as what I've been dreaming happens. I don't know if I can take it right now....
I have a feeling this is all just about being stuck in a transition phase. They're never very pleasant, and can seem quite endless. However, like I have written, in Lycoris Radiata, "When you come out on the other side, it's in the face of something much better. A brighter world with unfathomable beauty and a happiness that could seemingly go on forever."
Here's hoping,
A.J. Ryan
P.S. I found this pleasing/amusing little article earlier, thought it would be fun to share.
http://search.japantimes.co.jp/cgi-bin/nn20090725f1.html
My. Feet. Hurt. Actually, from the knees down hurts. I got carried away in TKD and took a nice chunk of skin off my foot. Sorry for the detail, but this is the way it is in all its disgusting glory.
I had a pretty good weekend. TKD party on Saturday, which led to a contract signing. Haha, donno who will actually keep to it, but I definitely will. It gives me a reason to run the Tele-10 next year. I want to anyway, but now I've said and written that I would. I signed that. Now I have to live up to it. It's hopefully another step to bringing me closer to what I want.
Sunday was great too! I got to spend some time with my brother, which doesn't happen often enough.
Oh, did I mention being late for everything.
What hurts lately, to be a bit more honest and deep than this short info. post, is how out of balance my life has become. It is sad and frustrating and practically consuming.
Sigh. I had a bit of a nightmare last night too. Again. That's two in the last week. I wonder if this is due to the unbalance? I hope nothing as bad as what I've been dreaming happens. I don't know if I can take it right now....
I have a feeling this is all just about being stuck in a transition phase. They're never very pleasant, and can seem quite endless. However, like I have written, in Lycoris Radiata, "When you come out on the other side, it's in the face of something much better. A brighter world with unfathomable beauty and a happiness that could seemingly go on forever."
Here's hoping,
A.J. Ryan
P.S. I found this pleasing/amusing little article earlier, thought it would be fun to share.
http://search.japantimes.co.jp/cgi-bin/nn20090725f1.html
Friday, July 24, 2009
Scrabbled
"Baby take it easy one me!" Utada Hikaru- Come Back to Me-
This rut is just getting bigger. I'm not feeling so down. In fact I'm feeling a bit more free. I'm changing jobs, which is always a bit hard, but I truly believe that it's for the better. I also registered for all my courses and got them. I had a feeling I would for once.
As for the rut. Well! I haven't run since last Thursday or Friday when I hurt my knees, which are still stiff and my neck. I say I hurt my neck in Taekwon-do from running into the man we've nicknamed "The Wall" because he's unmovable. I run into him every night in seems, though it's usually just me beating up my toes.
Lycoris Radiata refuses to come out on paper. It's all in my head, but it just won't show itself to the physical world. I got a total kick to the confidence last week when I gave out a sample verse to a couple of friends who in turn did not understand it at all. I don't know if it was because of context or that it's just too...deep? I began to question its purpose again. I'm not giving up, but I do find it hard to pick up on the inspiration to write like crazy again. What I need is to literally have no time again. When I'm in school, I want to do all kinds of things besides studying. I write tons, I like to play games, and read, and all that stuff. However, now that I have all the time in the world to do it, I don't have an urge to.
Normally, I have a list of things I want to accomplish over the summer, but this year I didn't do that. I want to be more spontaneous (haha, me?) and just do what I want.
Anyway, I hope I can jump back on the band wagon soon. I got my free training log from RunnersWorld the other day. I intend to use it too! I foresee that this will be easier when I'm back in school and have the gym at my disposal.
Oh! I know I'm jumping topics a lot, but I haven;t posted in a while and a lot of things can happen in just a day. I've got about four more years on my school, and I've deduced that if I save ten dollars a week I should have enough money to at least get me started in Japan. Whether it's for a trip or for work I don't know yet. Most of the details are foggy right now, since a lot can change in four years. I still plan on going to Sendai, which I know will require a plan to Tokyo, and a train ride up the island. Haha, I enjoy passing my time dreaming of the future too much.
I'll end this here before it gets any more confusing. I have to run and get ready for my four hour shift now. Might have a clearer message after I get some exercise in today.
Busy day tomorrow, Taekwon-do testing (going to watch my dear friends), then work, then Taekwon-do party. Fun fun.
Looking forward to the weekend with friends AND family,
A.J. Ryan
This rut is just getting bigger. I'm not feeling so down. In fact I'm feeling a bit more free. I'm changing jobs, which is always a bit hard, but I truly believe that it's for the better. I also registered for all my courses and got them. I had a feeling I would for once.
As for the rut. Well! I haven't run since last Thursday or Friday when I hurt my knees, which are still stiff and my neck. I say I hurt my neck in Taekwon-do from running into the man we've nicknamed "The Wall" because he's unmovable. I run into him every night in seems, though it's usually just me beating up my toes.
Lycoris Radiata refuses to come out on paper. It's all in my head, but it just won't show itself to the physical world. I got a total kick to the confidence last week when I gave out a sample verse to a couple of friends who in turn did not understand it at all. I don't know if it was because of context or that it's just too...deep? I began to question its purpose again. I'm not giving up, but I do find it hard to pick up on the inspiration to write like crazy again. What I need is to literally have no time again. When I'm in school, I want to do all kinds of things besides studying. I write tons, I like to play games, and read, and all that stuff. However, now that I have all the time in the world to do it, I don't have an urge to.
Normally, I have a list of things I want to accomplish over the summer, but this year I didn't do that. I want to be more spontaneous (haha, me?) and just do what I want.
Anyway, I hope I can jump back on the band wagon soon. I got my free training log from RunnersWorld the other day. I intend to use it too! I foresee that this will be easier when I'm back in school and have the gym at my disposal.
Oh! I know I'm jumping topics a lot, but I haven;t posted in a while and a lot of things can happen in just a day. I've got about four more years on my school, and I've deduced that if I save ten dollars a week I should have enough money to at least get me started in Japan. Whether it's for a trip or for work I don't know yet. Most of the details are foggy right now, since a lot can change in four years. I still plan on going to Sendai, which I know will require a plan to Tokyo, and a train ride up the island. Haha, I enjoy passing my time dreaming of the future too much.
I'll end this here before it gets any more confusing. I have to run and get ready for my four hour shift now. Might have a clearer message after I get some exercise in today.
Busy day tomorrow, Taekwon-do testing (going to watch my dear friends), then work, then Taekwon-do party. Fun fun.
Looking forward to the weekend with friends AND family,
A.J. Ryan
Tuesday, July 14, 2009
Up and Down
"The fire in your heart is growing
You can fly, if you try leaving the past behind
Heaven only knows what you might find" Stan Bush - Dare-
I went on the bike today. I'm very tired, and starving. It's kind of irritating. Either way I went down into the next town which I think is something of an accomplishment. Big hills, but I never got off my bike once.
I got my sparring gear today which was awesome, though the shoes are too big. I think I might exchange them tomorrow. My Running magazine isn't in yet though :(
I don't know what it is, but I lack motivation today. I'm down. I have all these things around me, and yet nothing really helps. I don't feel what other people say they do. Am I not pushing enough? Not going long or far enough? I find it hard to be clear headed when I'm out there working out. I'm always thinking about what I'll do next, or if I'll go harder, or how much longer I'll push it, or debating with myself if I should pull my gears down a bit. If I'm running, I watch the time, and push and pull and just...sigh. Maybe it would be different if I could just...go. Wouldn't that be great? Like when you were a kid and had nothing else to worry about except for getting home for supper. Time was no object. The only thing you were racing against was your friends for the finish line, or home base. Gosh, the nostalgia is thick!
I think I need transition. The only problem with that lovely part of life is that it cannot be forced.
This is just a regular down in the usual tide of life. It's always up and down, so it can't be helped, but I'll try and do better, try to be better.
Going to keep writing this new part of Lycoris Radiata and maybe eat something else,
A.J. Ryan
P.S. I chose the quote this morning. I started on a much higher note.
You can fly, if you try leaving the past behind
Heaven only knows what you might find" Stan Bush - Dare-
I went on the bike today. I'm very tired, and starving. It's kind of irritating. Either way I went down into the next town which I think is something of an accomplishment. Big hills, but I never got off my bike once.
I got my sparring gear today which was awesome, though the shoes are too big. I think I might exchange them tomorrow. My Running magazine isn't in yet though :(
I don't know what it is, but I lack motivation today. I'm down. I have all these things around me, and yet nothing really helps. I don't feel what other people say they do. Am I not pushing enough? Not going long or far enough? I find it hard to be clear headed when I'm out there working out. I'm always thinking about what I'll do next, or if I'll go harder, or how much longer I'll push it, or debating with myself if I should pull my gears down a bit. If I'm running, I watch the time, and push and pull and just...sigh. Maybe it would be different if I could just...go. Wouldn't that be great? Like when you were a kid and had nothing else to worry about except for getting home for supper. Time was no object. The only thing you were racing against was your friends for the finish line, or home base. Gosh, the nostalgia is thick!
I think I need transition. The only problem with that lovely part of life is that it cannot be forced.
This is just a regular down in the usual tide of life. It's always up and down, so it can't be helped, but I'll try and do better, try to be better.
Going to keep writing this new part of Lycoris Radiata and maybe eat something else,
A.J. Ryan
P.S. I chose the quote this morning. I started on a much higher note.
Sunday, July 12, 2009
"Hunger...I want it so bad I can taste it. It drives me mad to see it wasted" Spectre General-Hunger-
time: 20 minutes
distance: 0.95 miles
Today was a pretty damn good day.
Got up at 8 feeling fresh and excited for the day ahead. Had my breakfast of All Bran flakes, drove mom to work then went next door for my run on the TM (treadmill). Today I popped in the Transformers movie, since my new MP3 player does seem to want to finish its charge anytime soon. I'm patient, but it's almost been a day now, come on! Still, the tunes were well enough especially with the movie to watch. I just do some hard walking since I had a full day ahead of me. Still, every bit counts.
Then I washed up and went to brunch with the gang. That was a fun time, but what was even better was when we went to the park! Who know a buck thirteen of bubbles and some good friends could be so much fun? I hope we do it again soon.
Then came Taekwon-do! Small class tonight, which was a blast. lots of running in our hardcore handball game, and then a real treat! Learning ahead of rank. It made me feel re-motivated and re-energized.
Looking forward to a day with my mother tomorrow, and then work.
Hoping her MP3 player works out,
A.J. Ryan
P.S. she should get some writing in while this mood/time break lasts.
time: 20 minutes
distance: 0.95 miles
Today was a pretty damn good day.
Got up at 8 feeling fresh and excited for the day ahead. Had my breakfast of All Bran flakes, drove mom to work then went next door for my run on the TM (treadmill). Today I popped in the Transformers movie, since my new MP3 player does seem to want to finish its charge anytime soon. I'm patient, but it's almost been a day now, come on! Still, the tunes were well enough especially with the movie to watch. I just do some hard walking since I had a full day ahead of me. Still, every bit counts.
Then I washed up and went to brunch with the gang. That was a fun time, but what was even better was when we went to the park! Who know a buck thirteen of bubbles and some good friends could be so much fun? I hope we do it again soon.
Then came Taekwon-do! Small class tonight, which was a blast. lots of running in our hardcore handball game, and then a real treat! Learning ahead of rank. It made me feel re-motivated and re-energized.
Looking forward to a day with my mother tomorrow, and then work.
Hoping her MP3 player works out,
A.J. Ryan
P.S. she should get some writing in while this mood/time break lasts.
Friday, July 10, 2009
Phase one, CHECK
"Both children and adults like seeing themselves in the mirror, entranced by one's own reflection. If you forget that it's a mirror the silent space will overwhelm you and you'll remember the emptiness." Utada Hikaru- Deep River Poem-
Time: 33 minutes
Distance: 1.45 miles
Phase one officially complete.
I did the walk 4 minute run 2 minute thing and it was a breeze. So now it's time to step up to the next phase. Perhaps it's a bit overdue, but that's life. I also hate to really have to struggle at something. I'd rather wait until it's easy before moving on.
It would have been great except my head is pounding even more that it was all day, and I couldn't hear my movie. I popped in "Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon" this time. The fight scenes are fun when they land on my run times.
I need to watch my eating a bit more. Back to the point where most everything I eat doesn't sit well with my stomach. I believe this is because there was zero fruit to eat in the house for a week and junk instead. Now that we have fruit again I'm sure it'll fix itself.
Time to shower,
Wondering if she should buy and MP3 player for her runs,
A.J. Ryan
Time: 33 minutes
Distance: 1.45 miles
Phase one officially complete.
I did the walk 4 minute run 2 minute thing and it was a breeze. So now it's time to step up to the next phase. Perhaps it's a bit overdue, but that's life. I also hate to really have to struggle at something. I'd rather wait until it's easy before moving on.
It would have been great except my head is pounding even more that it was all day, and I couldn't hear my movie. I popped in "Crouching Tiger Hidden Dragon" this time. The fight scenes are fun when they land on my run times.
I need to watch my eating a bit more. Back to the point where most everything I eat doesn't sit well with my stomach. I believe this is because there was zero fruit to eat in the house for a week and junk instead. Now that we have fruit again I'm sure it'll fix itself.
Time to shower,
Wondering if she should buy and MP3 player for her runs,
A.J. Ryan
Thursday, July 9, 2009
Novel
When I start making a song, for one second I see an amazing view—and in that instant, it cracks and falls to pieces. Then the rest of the process is trying to put the pieces back together. So when it feels familiar, when I see what I saw in that moment the song was conceived, then I know it’s done.—Utada Hikaru
Today's blog entry is going to be about my novel. I didn't work out this morning. I had to get to my second job, and now get ready for my main one. I was stressed, but my mood has changed again. It doesn't seem so daunting once you work on things instead of continuing to worry about them.
I had some trouble getting time to write/inspiration lately. I know now it was partly due to the fact that I was trying to force myself to go a way in which I did not wish to go. Writing, I know, is a gift. Especially this novel. The story was so powerful that it demanded to be written. I write it in different pieces. I know the order, but write only what I want. That way the verses have a better chance of staying perfect as when they first come to mind.
I know that can be a hard concept to follow, but I found a saying from Utada Hikaru that summed it up best. It's my quote for today. It's obvious that she is my absolute favorite artist. The way she writes and sings speaks to my heart, and many of her lyrics inspire my novel.
I don't know if I should say too much, but I'll at least say this. The novel I'm currently working on is called "Lycoris Radiata". It's written in the style of a memoir about a fictional character in a fictional time in this world. It revolves around some themes such as the conflict between the traditions of old and the innovations of the future and the nature of happiness.
This is a Japanese influenced novel in many ways, and one of it's main pieces is that it uses the Hanakotoba, or the Japanese Language of Flowers. The chapter titles are all after types of flower and in return, mean something else. There is garden and flower symbolism/imagery throughout as well as blatant use of flowers by certain characters in order to explain themselves.
Wow, I think I've said too much. I'll just leave off with the prologue.
There is a legend that goes with the Red Spider Lily, or as it is scientifically known, the Lycoris Radiata. It is said that they grow in hell. Yet they guide the dead to the next reincarnation. The most famous legend is of two spirits: Manju and Saka. Manju’s job was to guard the flower while Saka’s was to guard the leaves. They were forbidden to ever guard the flower together and were never to meet each other. However, they defied their fate and met each other. They fell in love at first sight. God became angry with them for their rebelliousness and separated them with a curse to forever punish the couple. From then on the flowers of Manju would never meet the leaves of Saka. And so, when the flower blooms, the leaves fall and when the leaves grow the flower wilts. I associate best with this flower. This is my story.
Today's blog entry is going to be about my novel. I didn't work out this morning. I had to get to my second job, and now get ready for my main one. I was stressed, but my mood has changed again. It doesn't seem so daunting once you work on things instead of continuing to worry about them.
I had some trouble getting time to write/inspiration lately. I know now it was partly due to the fact that I was trying to force myself to go a way in which I did not wish to go. Writing, I know, is a gift. Especially this novel. The story was so powerful that it demanded to be written. I write it in different pieces. I know the order, but write only what I want. That way the verses have a better chance of staying perfect as when they first come to mind.
I know that can be a hard concept to follow, but I found a saying from Utada Hikaru that summed it up best. It's my quote for today. It's obvious that she is my absolute favorite artist. The way she writes and sings speaks to my heart, and many of her lyrics inspire my novel.
I don't know if I should say too much, but I'll at least say this. The novel I'm currently working on is called "Lycoris Radiata". It's written in the style of a memoir about a fictional character in a fictional time in this world. It revolves around some themes such as the conflict between the traditions of old and the innovations of the future and the nature of happiness.
This is a Japanese influenced novel in many ways, and one of it's main pieces is that it uses the Hanakotoba, or the Japanese Language of Flowers. The chapter titles are all after types of flower and in return, mean something else. There is garden and flower symbolism/imagery throughout as well as blatant use of flowers by certain characters in order to explain themselves.
Wow, I think I've said too much. I'll just leave off with the prologue.
There is a legend that goes with the Red Spider Lily, or as it is scientifically known, the Lycoris Radiata. It is said that they grow in hell. Yet they guide the dead to the next reincarnation. The most famous legend is of two spirits: Manju and Saka. Manju’s job was to guard the flower while Saka’s was to guard the leaves. They were forbidden to ever guard the flower together and were never to meet each other. However, they defied their fate and met each other. They fell in love at first sight. God became angry with them for their rebelliousness and separated them with a curse to forever punish the couple. From then on the flowers of Manju would never meet the leaves of Saka. And so, when the flower blooms, the leaves fall and when the leaves grow the flower wilts. I associate best with this flower. This is my story.
Wednesday, July 8, 2009
"Riding on the wind, climbing to the moon. My seat is the one next to yours. Suddenly I return to my senses like a dream on a Spring night." Utada Hikaru-Traveling-
Distance: 2.59km or 1.61miles
time:approx. 30-35 minutes
steps:5400
cals:151.58
So my run turned into a walk today. I wasn't so into it to begin with but when the pain in my calves came back with a vengeance I knew I should take it easy rather than risk injury.
Met a hot guy running with his dog on the way home, which was encouraging :P
I don't know if I'll do anything else today, Taekwon-do class tonight.
Wishing she could push the limits more without consequence,
A.J. Ryan
Distance: 2.59km or 1.61miles
time:approx. 30-35 minutes
steps:5400
cals:151.58
So my run turned into a walk today. I wasn't so into it to begin with but when the pain in my calves came back with a vengeance I knew I should take it easy rather than risk injury.
Met a hot guy running with his dog on the way home, which was encouraging :P
I don't know if I'll do anything else today, Taekwon-do class tonight.
Wishing she could push the limits more without consequence,
A.J. Ryan
Monday, July 6, 2009
Cramping
"And I won't give a damn, if only I knew how...." Utada Hikaru - This one-
"This one. This is the one."
I had some nasty charley horse cramps in my left leg last night. It was intense and is still sore today. I imagine it's because we didn't stretch last night in Taekwon-do. We did do some things like vertical kicks over a partner's arm, then stand ups, yes, STAND UPS, and then low fives from a push up position. I was pretty pleased with myself. Oh! Then we went and did a drill where we punched each other in the stomach to harden up the muscles. It wasn't so bad, except when you sometimes got hit too high.
So anyway, this morning I did 45 minutes on the bike or so, which was nice. Picked up a sports drink in hopes that it will help with the cramp, which is very sore today. Gotta try and eat a banana too, apparently potassium helps too. Whoops! Knew I should not have skipped that the past few days.
It's also the day to chop off my hair! I can't wait to get it out of the way. Hopefully it will look good too.
Lots of house work to get to, baking too.
Needs real running sneaks,
A.J. Ryan
"This one. This is the one."
I had some nasty charley horse cramps in my left leg last night. It was intense and is still sore today. I imagine it's because we didn't stretch last night in Taekwon-do. We did do some things like vertical kicks over a partner's arm, then stand ups, yes, STAND UPS, and then low fives from a push up position. I was pretty pleased with myself. Oh! Then we went and did a drill where we punched each other in the stomach to harden up the muscles. It wasn't so bad, except when you sometimes got hit too high.
So anyway, this morning I did 45 minutes on the bike or so, which was nice. Picked up a sports drink in hopes that it will help with the cramp, which is very sore today. Gotta try and eat a banana too, apparently potassium helps too. Whoops! Knew I should not have skipped that the past few days.
It's also the day to chop off my hair! I can't wait to get it out of the way. Hopefully it will look good too.
Lots of house work to get to, baking too.
Needs real running sneaks,
A.J. Ryan
Friday, July 3, 2009
Ahsoka Tano: [having just been sentenced to death by Jabba] Does this always happen to you?
Anakin Skywalker: Everywhere I go.
distance: 1.2 miles
time: 25 minutes
This morning I went on the treadmill again. Popped in Star Wars the Clone wars and went away. It seemed so easy, I felt like I could just go on for an hour. But time was tight today. So I cut it short and took it relatively easy. Hopefully tomorrow morning will be good.
Now that I'm back from work I'm staring down a plate of salad wondering if I'll chance it. There's that and a sink full of dishes. Haha. Maybe just a little bit of salad. It normally makes me sick, but I've noticed that ALL the runners are salad heads. It's like, all they eat. So, I thought I should try again.
Wishing back the good times, wondering how to get the same feelings again,
A.J. Ryan
Anakin Skywalker: Everywhere I go.
distance: 1.2 miles
time: 25 minutes
This morning I went on the treadmill again. Popped in Star Wars the Clone wars and went away. It seemed so easy, I felt like I could just go on for an hour. But time was tight today. So I cut it short and took it relatively easy. Hopefully tomorrow morning will be good.
Now that I'm back from work I'm staring down a plate of salad wondering if I'll chance it. There's that and a sink full of dishes. Haha. Maybe just a little bit of salad. It normally makes me sick, but I've noticed that ALL the runners are salad heads. It's like, all they eat. So, I thought I should try again.
Wishing back the good times, wondering how to get the same feelings again,
A.J. Ryan
Thursday, July 2, 2009
Pain
"We didn’t care ‘cause we loved it there, it was all so simple then" -1989- Lisa Gillam-
Distance: 1.35 miles
time: 30 minutes
Treadmill is awesome! I flipped on the tv with star wars and just went for it. Running hurt a lot though. My hamstrings, my shins, MY KNEES!!! Man! BUT, I got these awesome running socks that wick. They're like heaven on earth. Running on clouds. It makes me excited to get some running sneaks.
I'm also excited to get out and run on the treadmill tomorrow morning.
Has to do her "core exercises",
A.J. Ryan
Distance: 1.35 miles
time: 30 minutes
Treadmill is awesome! I flipped on the tv with star wars and just went for it. Running hurt a lot though. My hamstrings, my shins, MY KNEES!!! Man! BUT, I got these awesome running socks that wick. They're like heaven on earth. Running on clouds. It makes me excited to get some running sneaks.
I'm also excited to get out and run on the treadmill tomorrow morning.
Has to do her "core exercises",
A.J. Ryan
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
"You've been put to the test, but it's never enough" -Stan Bush-The Touch-
Time: approx. 30-35 minutes
distance: 2.41 km or 1.5 miles
steps: 5029
cals: 141.2
Today's run I tried to relax a bit more and go where I like. It was nice and cold too. I was motivated when I drove to my brother's this morning and saw all the people out running.
My left hamstring was SO tight after though, it was hard to stretch. I'll have to stretch it again later today when I do my core exercises. But first I must get ready for a Canada day party!
Feeling more confident about this running stuff,
A.J. Ryan
Time: approx. 30-35 minutes
distance: 2.41 km or 1.5 miles
steps: 5029
cals: 141.2
Today's run I tried to relax a bit more and go where I like. It was nice and cold too. I was motivated when I drove to my brother's this morning and saw all the people out running.
My left hamstring was SO tight after though, it was hard to stretch. I'll have to stretch it again later today when I do my core exercises. But first I must get ready for a Canada day party!
Feeling more confident about this running stuff,
A.J. Ryan
Monday, June 29, 2009
"In this tiny palm of mine such a dream, and ambition so big" - BeforeU - Red Rocket Rising-
Time: approximately 35 minutes
Distance: 2.25km or 1.4 miles.
these two just for fun:
calories: 131.9
steps: 4699
I think I have a mental block. I think I over-pysch myself for runs. I get really tense and I BREATH like I'm tense, far more than I have to. Which results in stitching. I know I can do better, because I do in Taekwon-do. It's just easier I suppose when you've got competition and games to win and such. Or you're trying to get out of having to do extra push ups. But when it's just me and my extremely deep mind, I get myself in too deep.
Then again, I'll hardly ever be or do good enough for myself. I push too hard and always expect too much. Which isn't necessarily bad, but it can cause me to never give myself a break. This is why I need a running buddy or something like that. Someone who can have an outside perspective and tell me when it's time to give it a break, when my pace is too fast, or just tell me to freaking relax!
Anyway, I know I have a good ways to go before I can get to where I once was. Besides, I used to run around all day everyday. I haven't done that in a while, haha. And we wonder why we all get so unhealthy with age? We forget to slow down our busy lives and take time to just enjoy a game, like soccer, or ride around the neighborhood. We're seriously never too old for it.
I think I'll cycle a bit later, or maybe play some Dance dance revolution to make up for my mostly walking run. Well and for fun :)
Hoping she can stick to this and not overdo it,
A.J. Ryan
Time: approximately 35 minutes
Distance: 2.25km or 1.4 miles.
these two just for fun:
calories: 131.9
steps: 4699
I think I have a mental block. I think I over-pysch myself for runs. I get really tense and I BREATH like I'm tense, far more than I have to. Which results in stitching. I know I can do better, because I do in Taekwon-do. It's just easier I suppose when you've got competition and games to win and such. Or you're trying to get out of having to do extra push ups. But when it's just me and my extremely deep mind, I get myself in too deep.
Then again, I'll hardly ever be or do good enough for myself. I push too hard and always expect too much. Which isn't necessarily bad, but it can cause me to never give myself a break. This is why I need a running buddy or something like that. Someone who can have an outside perspective and tell me when it's time to give it a break, when my pace is too fast, or just tell me to freaking relax!
Anyway, I know I have a good ways to go before I can get to where I once was. Besides, I used to run around all day everyday. I haven't done that in a while, haha. And we wonder why we all get so unhealthy with age? We forget to slow down our busy lives and take time to just enjoy a game, like soccer, or ride around the neighborhood. We're seriously never too old for it.
I think I'll cycle a bit later, or maybe play some Dance dance revolution to make up for my mostly walking run. Well and for fun :)
Hoping she can stick to this and not overdo it,
A.J. Ryan
Sunday, June 28, 2009
We tremble and spin, look beyond where hearts can see. Dream in peace, trust the belief. - The Dream Within - Lara Fabian
Time: 30 minutes
distance: ?
I went cycling this morning. It's kind of sad how I enjoy that WAY more than running. I honestly think I might be a treadmill type. I get super tense when I run outside. I'm going to try it again tomorrow morning though.
Had a good birthday, I got to do what I wanted and hang with who I wanted. I also got to hang out with a friend today. I missed people. Haha, which sounds lame, but I know everyone understands how much life can get in the way and how sometimes you just forget to breath things in with people.
I shared the whole idea/concept of my novel with a friend today. I think it went well. I didn't dwell on it for too long.
Anyway, I don't really have anything important to say.
Wishing she could run on the treadmill but can't go to the gym until september.
Also wishing she had a buddy for running,
A.J. Ryan
Time: 30 minutes
distance: ?
I went cycling this morning. It's kind of sad how I enjoy that WAY more than running. I honestly think I might be a treadmill type. I get super tense when I run outside. I'm going to try it again tomorrow morning though.
Had a good birthday, I got to do what I wanted and hang with who I wanted. I also got to hang out with a friend today. I missed people. Haha, which sounds lame, but I know everyone understands how much life can get in the way and how sometimes you just forget to breath things in with people.
I shared the whole idea/concept of my novel with a friend today. I think it went well. I didn't dwell on it for too long.
Anyway, I don't really have anything important to say.
Wishing she could run on the treadmill but can't go to the gym until september.
Also wishing she had a buddy for running,
A.J. Ryan
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Day three, the second beginning....
"I believe I am on the right path. So anything I cast aside or abandoned on the way, I don't think of as sacrifices" - Utada Hikaru - Deep River -
Time: 31 minutes
distance: approximately 1 mile
Well, I kept off the heavy training for the last week because of my final exam which was really three exams spanned over a little over a week. One would hope it worked out despite the usual end of term position in which I cease to care anymore.
Today I really did not want to go out. It's still hot and humid out from yesterday's onslaught of rain and 98% humidity. You could barely breath! It's not so bad today. However,there was no UV rating because of the blanket of fog that's covering the city and imprisoning us in this suffocating springlike weather. Yes, I know it's technically summer, but it's more like spring here. Anyway, along with a little push from my dear friend, I got up to go. It wasn't very impressive, and I regret not wearing shorts, but it's still something to log. Might I add that the humidity is still hovering around 88-92%. Even the wind was think and sticky!
I find myself liking cross training more though. I assume that is just simply because I'm not a very good runner yet. I cannot wait to be able to get to the point where I can run a mile without walking. Alas, patience is the key and consistency.
I'm thinking of trying lane swimming again too. Though I'm admittedly not a water person. My favorite is cycling. I think the speed is what I like so much. I could go for a day on my bike, if I let go of my schedules and plans.
Here's hoping tomorrow will go well, and tonight's Taekwon-do class as well.
Wishing her list of things to buy was shrinking,
A.J. Ryan
Time: 31 minutes
distance: approximately 1 mile
Well, I kept off the heavy training for the last week because of my final exam which was really three exams spanned over a little over a week. One would hope it worked out despite the usual end of term position in which I cease to care anymore.
Today I really did not want to go out. It's still hot and humid out from yesterday's onslaught of rain and 98% humidity. You could barely breath! It's not so bad today. However,there was no UV rating because of the blanket of fog that's covering the city and imprisoning us in this suffocating springlike weather. Yes, I know it's technically summer, but it's more like spring here. Anyway, along with a little push from my dear friend, I got up to go. It wasn't very impressive, and I regret not wearing shorts, but it's still something to log. Might I add that the humidity is still hovering around 88-92%. Even the wind was think and sticky!
I find myself liking cross training more though. I assume that is just simply because I'm not a very good runner yet. I cannot wait to be able to get to the point where I can run a mile without walking. Alas, patience is the key and consistency.
I'm thinking of trying lane swimming again too. Though I'm admittedly not a water person. My favorite is cycling. I think the speed is what I like so much. I could go for a day on my bike, if I let go of my schedules and plans.
Here's hoping tomorrow will go well, and tonight's Taekwon-do class as well.
Wishing her list of things to buy was shrinking,
A.J. Ryan
Saturday, June 13, 2009
Time: 26 minutes
Distance: 1.3 miles or 2.09 km
One of my friends who I confided in first about my running idea (after my mother) sent me this today:
http://www.explosm.net/comics/1682/
I thought it was cute. This friend has the most confidence in me and I really appreciate and thank him for it. It's people like him who are a real motivation, because you just don't want to let them down.
So, Today was my second run. It was on a treadmill because the weather was iffy. I was not keen on running in the rain.
It was good and odd at the same time. I've run on treadmills before, at the university gym, but I never really did it seriously. I never had a plan before, I always pretty much did my workout by ear. Today was different. I tried to walk 4, run 2 rule. Then the clip fell out (stopping the treadmill), so then I ran 3, walked 4 and ended a little early because I took so long to get ready and I'm on a bit of a schedule today. It's doubtful that I'll even find time to write a part of my novel today. It's funny how when I was just a couple of years younger the weekends were where I found time to relax and just be. Now I find myself with absolutely no time on the weekends. Perhaps I'm too tense? I don't know, but I still cant decide if I like being glad to see a weekend over and look forward to Mondays as opposed to the usual norm. of dreading the weekdays like everyone else.
Wow, excuses, excuses. Well, I'll do better next time, which will be Monday. Tomorrow is supposed to be my rest day, but I have Taekwon-do class.
Wishing she could find a stretch for her calves that actually works,
A.J. Ryan
Distance: 1.3 miles or 2.09 km
One of my friends who I confided in first about my running idea (after my mother) sent me this today:
http://www.explosm.net/comics/1682/
I thought it was cute. This friend has the most confidence in me and I really appreciate and thank him for it. It's people like him who are a real motivation, because you just don't want to let them down.
So, Today was my second run. It was on a treadmill because the weather was iffy. I was not keen on running in the rain.
It was good and odd at the same time. I've run on treadmills before, at the university gym, but I never really did it seriously. I never had a plan before, I always pretty much did my workout by ear. Today was different. I tried to walk 4, run 2 rule. Then the clip fell out (stopping the treadmill), so then I ran 3, walked 4 and ended a little early because I took so long to get ready and I'm on a bit of a schedule today. It's doubtful that I'll even find time to write a part of my novel today. It's funny how when I was just a couple of years younger the weekends were where I found time to relax and just be. Now I find myself with absolutely no time on the weekends. Perhaps I'm too tense? I don't know, but I still cant decide if I like being glad to see a weekend over and look forward to Mondays as opposed to the usual norm. of dreading the weekdays like everyone else.
Wow, excuses, excuses. Well, I'll do better next time, which will be Monday. Tomorrow is supposed to be my rest day, but I have Taekwon-do class.
Wishing she could find a stretch for her calves that actually works,
A.J. Ryan
Friday, June 12, 2009
first run
Well, after a very restless night of sleep the day began. It was unlike my usual days in which I groan and drag myself out of bed to my bowl of All Bran at eight o'clock in the morning. No, this day started with more "enthusiasm". I leaped out of my bed and somehow simultaneously wrapped the blanket around myself AND found those pesky slippers which I swear walk around all night on their own because they're never where I leave them the night before (I don't have any pets either). It was like a fright but with wider motion and a longer impulse than usual. Then again, perhaps this is just how one's memory sees it. Everything is always more extravagant in your mind's eye.
Not only did I jump up out of bed, but I did so an hour earlier than usual. This was due to some excited phone calls with the news of a new addition to the extended family.
Anyway, so I had a long breakfast and a good chat with my mom. I enjoy having such time with her.
Now, onto the point.
I've decided to train for a marathon next year. Ive been reading up on running for the past few months. Who would have thought that a hair appointment could inspire you to finally get out there and run again? I think the last straw was a combination of my growing frustration with my lack of exercise schedule, no one to play sports with, and my huge competitive nature that has been unfed for some time. I love all kinds of sports, but I've been away for so long that I don't know of anyone who would take me on.I had a badminton match with a friend last month and I felt pretty lame on the court. Now, I do take Taekwon-do classes but I don't feel like it's enough.
However, though I also contribute my motivation to Taekwon-do I can also thank it for bringing me to the one who inspires me. There are many great people there, but this woman is outstanding. I really look up to her. She is a working mom who does everything possible for her kids like supervising on their sports teams or traveling all over the world for their competitions, and even joining in. All of this, and yet she's also a runner.Well, I don't think anyone's "first run" is ever as spectacular as they first thought is to be. Still the main idea is that you got up and did it. Even after all day on my feet I ran home, got some water in me and suited up. In this cold Maritime weather in which it's still likely to snow I pulled out my tuque, kept on my signature 'hobo' gloves, laced up my old sneakers, with a sweater I used to wear in junoir high and my windbreaker and set off with the keys in one pocket and a pedometer in the other. I did it in spurts. I would say as I looked ahead, "start at that driveway, and once I was a while along I would say, you can make it to that car, or that light poll. I think I did at least 7 spurts of this with tense walking in between.
I think I did't warm up enough, but I jsut wanted to get it done this time. I got a stitch early in my right side but I kept on it. It's funny though. By the end of it, even though my calves are shot, I felt like I could just keep running. There's something about those two streets before my apartment. I wuld like to think that I grasped at that point in which you get the high and you could just go on forever.
A.J. Ryan
Not only did I jump up out of bed, but I did so an hour earlier than usual. This was due to some excited phone calls with the news of a new addition to the extended family.
Anyway, so I had a long breakfast and a good chat with my mom. I enjoy having such time with her.
Now, onto the point.
I've decided to train for a marathon next year. Ive been reading up on running for the past few months. Who would have thought that a hair appointment could inspire you to finally get out there and run again? I think the last straw was a combination of my growing frustration with my lack of exercise schedule, no one to play sports with, and my huge competitive nature that has been unfed for some time. I love all kinds of sports, but I've been away for so long that I don't know of anyone who would take me on.I had a badminton match with a friend last month and I felt pretty lame on the court. Now, I do take Taekwon-do classes but I don't feel like it's enough.
However, though I also contribute my motivation to Taekwon-do I can also thank it for bringing me to the one who inspires me. There are many great people there, but this woman is outstanding. I really look up to her. She is a working mom who does everything possible for her kids like supervising on their sports teams or traveling all over the world for their competitions, and even joining in. All of this, and yet she's also a runner.Well, I don't think anyone's "first run" is ever as spectacular as they first thought is to be. Still the main idea is that you got up and did it. Even after all day on my feet I ran home, got some water in me and suited up. In this cold Maritime weather in which it's still likely to snow I pulled out my tuque, kept on my signature 'hobo' gloves, laced up my old sneakers, with a sweater I used to wear in junoir high and my windbreaker and set off with the keys in one pocket and a pedometer in the other. I did it in spurts. I would say as I looked ahead, "start at that driveway, and once I was a while along I would say, you can make it to that car, or that light poll. I think I did at least 7 spurts of this with tense walking in between.
I think I did't warm up enough, but I jsut wanted to get it done this time. I got a stitch early in my right side but I kept on it. It's funny though. By the end of it, even though my calves are shot, I felt like I could just keep running. There's something about those two streets before my apartment. I wuld like to think that I grasped at that point in which you get the high and you could just go on forever.
A.J. Ryan
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