Not Your Average Gal

Copywriter. Content Creator. Constant Sassypants.

Running

Just Picked up my Inhaler

By

ramona

Yup. I went to the doctor and all I got was this lousy inhaler.

I explained that my cough and snot rockets weren’t really improving much over the last few weeks and that normally, I’d give it more time and let this viral whatever take its course. But I had a half-marathon that I was training for and it’s made it difficult to breathe after 3 miles. So I was concerned.

The conversation basically went like this.

Doc: Well it could be that running outside in the cold is irritating your lungs.
Caroline: It’s only been 60 degrees for 2 days.
Doc: Yes, well running and the sudden temperature change can all contribute.
Caroline: I’m originally from Michigan.
Doc: Okay, so running in general.

All my vitals came back great. My blood pressure is pretty stellar, I call that a win for being a copywriter. Plus, more importantly, my lungs sounded very good and clear, basically negating any chest x-ray. She said that what’s been going around is pretty nasty and I’m doing pretty well with letting it work its way out.

If I could take time off from running, do it or walk instead of run. She told me to use this inhaler prior to my runs and see if that helps open the airways more. If not, I just need to let nature take its course with this one and continue to be that girl hacking up her left lung.

coughing

I looked at my RunKeeper app last night to compare times from early December to this month. I have slowed down a bit, but not as much as I had thought and surely not enough that I should be too hard on myself about. That’s the thing about not breathing as well as your normally do during a run—you think you’re doing worse than you actually are.

I haven’t used the inhaler yet because I took tonight off from my conditioning run. I’ll be sure to be totally obnoxious when I do use it though.

inhaler

The hubster says that it’s unfair I get an inhaler because it’s a performance enhancing drug. I said I’d take a hit of it and see him at the finish line.

Half Marathon Training Update

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Warning: Pity Party ahead.

I scheduled an appointment with my doctor again for this upcoming week so I could get a chest x-ray and examine what the frick is going on. I’ve basically been at a stand-still on improving with this viral sickness. I’m a bit concerned the improvement has stalled.

Warning: Grossness ahead.

I’m tired of coughing and then gagging because I can’t get the mucus out and then I think about it and it’s totally gross so I gag more.

I’m tired of blowing so much snot out of my nose that I need to grab two tissues in case I fill one.

I’m tired of coughing during my conditioning runs and then spitting it out and mistiming it so it lands on my shirt or my pants or…my face.

I’m tired of waking myself up because I’m wheezing/coughing/snoring from the build up in my chest and nose.

I’m tired.

I’m really tired.

I feel like I’ve given this a pretty good run with my attitude about it, but now I want results. I’m a gal that’s driven for results. What the heck can I do to get this healing to move quicker?

What’s the rush? Oh. That minor half-marathon I’ve been training for since this fall that I feel like, at this point, is a total waste because I can’t run past 3 miles without my chest hurting. I was on such a roll with busting through my long-run times, breaking my stride, enjoying 8.5 miles…that it makes me feel a bit crushed inside.

I’m not sure how I’ll complete the half-marathon on February 15th. My goal, at this point, is to complete 7 miles and if I need to, walk the rest. You have no idea how disappointing that is for me. My sister-in-law is flying down to Ft. Lauderdale to do the A1A Half-Marathon as well, but she recently injured her foot and is worried about running too. We’re just one beat-up group.

I mentioned I’d like to run 2 half-marathons in 2015, so all is not lost.

At this moment, I’m really frustrated. I know, physically, I’m doing all I can. I’m interested in hearing what my doctor has to say. If he tells me to stop running until the half-marathon, I’ll be crushed. If he tells me to suck it up, I’ll do just that. I’m good at sucking. Wait…that didn’t come out right.

Truth be told, last year I irritated my IT band a month before the half-marathon and really had to scale back training, but I still completed it. So, here’s to another year of worrying prior to the race. Ha!

We just got back from a 4 mile run and around 1.5 miles I started coughing, then I basically started getting frustrated with everything: I didn’t go grocery shopping today, great now I have to fight the Monday night crowds. When will the hubster fix the toilet? How is the Miss Universe pageant even a thing? Man, I need a pedicure.

Pity party for one, right here, folks.

Post run pity party
Post run pity party

Do what you can, Caroline.

By

I ran 4.5 miles this past weekend.

Real talk: I walked about the last 1.5 of it.

And I was pissed.

I’ve honestly been battling a nasty respiratory virus for the last 3 weeks. Including an infected tonsil. (Did I mention I had my tonsils taken out as a kid? Don’t ask…) The week before that, I had a nice stomach bug. So, basically, I’ve been sick for a solid month.

Urgent Care Selfie! (Infected tonsil not shown.)
Urgent Care Selfie! (Infected tonsil not shown.)

 

After 2 doctor visits – I’m on the mend. I only want to hack up my left lung for the first 5 minutes of the day as opposed to every hour. But, I started coughing a lot during mile 3 and knew I needed to pull back and give myself a break.

Side note: Why don’t I have rock hard abs after weeks of coughing? It’s a cruel, cruel world.

My half-marathon training has taken a real hit with this plague I’ve been blessed with. And I’m scared shitless. In reality, I’ve still run more than I did this time last year during training. And with my 9.5 mile run this upcoming Saturday, I’m actually right on target for the long run trainings from last year, when I completed my first half, but was technically behind on my training.

So, what am I bummed about?

I wanted to do better. I wanted more long-runs logged prior to my half-marathon this year. I wanted to feel confident going into the race when my head was full of doubts last year. I wanted this year to be different.

Reality: it probably won’t. I have 1 month left until the half-marathon.

<sigh>

But, you know what I told myself on mile 3 when I started coughing and wheezing and wanting to punch the next person I saw gliding by on their morning run?

“Do what you can, Caroline. Do what you can.”

I could only walk. But that’s what I did. I did what I could. (Plus, I had to get back home somehow. Minor detail.)

So often we look at something as we’re either all in and succeed or it’s a total failure.

NOT TRUE.

That’s how most diets work in the New Year too, right? You’re either 100% perfect and the first time you take a nibble of that ooey-gooey brownie? “Well, I’ve done it. I’ve totally messed up and ruined it. Now pass me those fries!”

After a long Friday night (don’t ask…) I decided to sleep in Saturday and get up early Sunday morning instead to run. But when I looked at the forecast on Saturday, it was solid rain all day on Sunday. So I laced up my shoes, put on my bullet-proof vest of a sports bra and walked out the door for my long run at 10 a.m.

It was only 72 degrees, which I’ll take any day of the week. But being sick, taking a week off from running, usually running earlier in the day when it’s less sunny, not being prepared mentally to run and hitting a wall only at mile 1.5, I knew I had to make a decision. With sweat dripping down my blotchy red face and doubt creeping into my head, I had to decide to turn back now or keep going.

So I sucked it up, blasted some Lady Gaga (don’t judge) and ran as far as I could until I knew I’d be doing more harm than good.

But, you know what, I did it. I completed it. Not in a great time. Not feeling that runners high that I’ve been missing for so long. I did it. I have to remind myself of that.

There’s a great health movement by one of my favorite bloggers, Roni’s Weigh:

#wycwyc

What you can. When you can.

Just simmer on that puppy for bit. No, really. Let it roll off your tongue with clarity and inspiration. What if you treated all obstacles in your life like that? You do what you can, when you can.

“Well I don’t have time for a full half hour of cardio, so I’ll skip it today.”

No way, turd.

Do what you can. If that’s 10 minutes of walking around your office, do it. Ate too many left over holiday cookies yesterday? Cool. Join the club. Have a healthy breakfast and lunch today.

The key is to move on. Keep doing what you can, when you can.

No pressure for perfection. Do you know how liberating that is?

As I looked at my Garmin and hit mile 3, I knew I wouldn’t be breaking any personal records. I was really starting to get pissed when I reminded myself of #wycwyc. And believe it or not, I calmed the eff down, backed away from the cliff, turned up my tunes and actually enjoyed a nice 1.5 mile walk. It was a gorgeous day and I can’t remember the last time I just…walked.

I wouldn’t have had that mindset even a year ago.

“Do what you can, Caroline. Do what you can.”

My lungs thanked me later.

Now get out there. Forgive yourself for not being perfect. And do what you can, when you can. 

Running towards sanity

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This post may seem a bit disjointed, but bear with me. I promise there’s a point.

I had some nasty stomach bug last week that left me in the fetal position for most of Tuesday and Wednesday. By Thursday, I just wanted to go run.

My grandpa passed away this weekend. When Sunday came, I was really happy I had a long run scheduled in my training.

Running has always been intertwined in my life somehow basically since college. It’s my go-to workout, but has turned into so much more than just exercise.

Running is my sanity check.

Over the last two years, I’ve certainly picked up my mileage by training for half-marathons and I’ve noticed that on some runs I couldn’t tell you what songs were on my playlist. I was too lost in thought. Don’t get me wrong, there still are runs when I’m hitting NEXT trying to find the right song to get me motivated.

Turn Down For What works every time.

turndown

While I was bowing down to the porcelain god last week, my writing took a backseat. So when the hubster asked “Are you sure you’re okay to run” by Thursday, I was itching. I needed to get out!

When I got the news about my grandpa, I digested it as much as you can in situations when it’s not totally unexpected. After our long run the next day, while cooling down, I started crying. I had opened up to the hubster while we were walking about how I was feeling about things and the tears just came, not uncontrollably, not in a rush down my face. They just brimmed to the top, watering my eyes as if to say, “Thank GOD you went for that run so we could get out.”

(We also clocked our best mile-pace to date.)

I hate the bad runs, I often question why I’m even running during those times.

I exude confidence during the good runs and find myself asking when the next one is so I can kill it again.

Regardless of the type of run, my mind seems to require the solitude and solace that running gives me. I’m very thankful I have it.

IMG_7010

Sports Bra Review for Big Boobs

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You know those skimpy camisoles with built-in bras?

Ha!

How about strapless bras?

Ha!

Going bra-less?

Ha! Better not be next to me if I turn around too quickly, you could be knocked out.

Over the years, I guess I’ve learned to love my big boobs and the hassle that comes with them. They were one giant embarrassment (well, two…) in middle school and high school. I swear, I just woke up one morning and immediately hopped from a training bra to a wired C-cup. In middle school! And they just kept growing. But whatever, I’m rocking them now. I mean, half my schtick is about big boobs, so the world would be a totally less fun place without them.

The path to a perfect sports bra:

The one area that I did struggle with was in the sports bra department. I look back at some of the flimsy, cotton sports bras I wore and cringe for my poor boobies and the beating they took. I totally understand why some ladies wear TWO sports bras, nothing just seemed supportive enough.

I once competed in a triathlon and noticed some girls just ran and biked in their swim suit from the swimming portion. Ha! Hahaha. I remember explaining to the associate at Macy’s that I needed a sports bra that I could wear under my wet suit, that would still function for the biking and running portion of the triathlon.

Poor thing had no idea what to do with my triathlon titties.

About 7 years ago, I discovered the Enell Sports Bra. I don’t know if it was because my big breasted sister, Oprah, endorsed it or what, but once I wore an Enell, I never went back. And no, I’m not being paid to endorse Enell. I just want to share the love because I understand the big-boobed struggle.

enell sports bra

Wearing it at first was weird because it was so supportive. I wasn’t used to it. Your breasts are literally propped up to a position they probably haven’t seen since your teenage years. Not only are they held up, they are now in a boob compartment that is flexible enough to let you breathe, but firm enough to make sure those puppies don’t move.

Best part? No uni-boob!

enell3

It’s not exceptionally pretty. But honestly, I’m not the gal who prances into a gym with just my sports bra on, so I really don’t care. The seam that goes across the front can often be seen if you’re only wearing a thin tank top, but again, I really don’t care and if it’s supporting my girls, I’m cool with it. I lovingly joke that it’s my bullet proof vest because you put it on like a vest and then hook it together on the front. Once “hooked in” your lady twins are standing up so tall that you’re basically a bonafide Fembot.

fem

I love it!

I also have the new Enell Lite that I wear around the house or during yoga. It’s supportive enough for lighter exercise.

They have a different sizing system, that you can explore more on their site. Basically, be honest with your measurements and you’ll fall into a size 00-8. I wear a size 3 with Enell. To give you an idea, depending on the brand, I can vary between a 34 or 36 FF or G cup. When I complain about the hard time I have finding a regular bra because of my cup size, the hubster reminds me that FF and G stands for Freakin’ Fantastic and Gorgeous. He’s pretty swell.

For years, I could only order Enell through their website, but now you can find them pretty much anywhere. Woohoo! I even saw them at my local running store this past weekend when I went to get new running shoes for my half-marathon coming up.

Sure, they are probably more expensive than the flimsy sports bras. But guess what? So are breast lifts! You don’t want to need that surgery because you saved a few bucks on a cheaper sports bra. It’s an exaggeration, sure, but you get my point. I own 4 and it’s well worth the investment.

I honestly can’t imagine running now without it on. Truth be told, it has made a world of difference in any athletic activity I participate in and looking back, that’s a lot. From triathlons, to 5Ks to 10Ks to half-marthons, gym sessions and soccer games thrown in between. My boobs are happy to have an Enell Sports Bra.

Half Marathon photo bombing husband
Half Marathon photo bombing husband

Go make your boobs happy and get one. Then tell me how much you love me for telling you about it.

You’re welcome, big-boobed gals. You’re welcome.

 

Lay Off Me I’m Starving

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In training for my upcoming half marathon, I’ve increased my running a lot over the course of this past month. Even brought in my fastest pace for the 4-6 mile range.

Don’t worry, kids. It’s still moderately slow. I’m not breaking any land-speed records here. I’m usually just a bit faster than my elderly neighbors who use walkers. Usually.

But guess what, I still freakin’ running! I’m not too concerned with opinions about my slow speeds.

All that said, with the increased mileage and pace, my appetite is ravenous.

layoffme

I want to eat allllllllllllthefoods.

burrito

When coworkers ask me how training is going, I think they’re surprised I have an 8 mile run next weekend. Why? Because I usually can’t even answer since I’m too busy stuffing my face.

mrbean

This happened last year when I was training, so it’s really no surprise. But it’s sort of counterproductive to weight loss after a 6.5 mile run to be shoveling Halloween candy in my mouth like I have an army of children to protect from their teeth rotting, so I take one for the team and eat some Reese’s peanut butter cups for the kids and maybe some Nerds for the kids and maybe some Hershey kisses…for the kids. You know, for the kids.

nocake

I digress…

I really need your help here.

What type of foods would you suggest for this increase in appetite? I’m looking for quick, filling snacks!

I know proteins over carbs, but let’s be honest you guys, carbs aren’t da debil and some of you go overboard with PROTEIN IN ALLLLLLL THE THINGS ALLLLL THE TIME.

arnold

I also will not be doing any chemical-filled bullshit. You hear me?  The only protein powder shake/drink I use is a plant based protein and I lover it.

IMG_6732
Vega One 4 Eva

Yes, lover it.

So help a sista’ out. What type of foods would you suggest? Maybe I haven’t thought of some options that you guys would have great suggest…OMG IS THAT HUMMUS?!

starving