Due to unfortunate circumstances I haven't done an "organized" workout in about 4 months, yet I weigh less than I have since I was 21. Anyone suspect serious muscle loss? Ding ding ding! Yet I seem to never lose my shapely triceps.
At approximately 5'6" and barely north of 110 pounds, I'm a bit thin.
Anyway, I've been biking a lot lately and it is seriously pathetic. We're talking non-deserved heart-pounding, mouth gaping open exhaustion under the most minor hilly circumstances. Who would ever believe I used to swim 4-7 miles a day, could outrun most males my age and bench press more than my physical weight?!
This gumby-girl is determined to make more of an iron-woman out of herself in the next several months.
Knowing myself all to well, the progress will be slow, but I'll take slow over nothing any day.
Showing posts with label me. Show all posts
Showing posts with label me. Show all posts
Monday, March 26, 2012
Monday, October 24, 2011
Predictions of an unstable future...
I have recently spent more hours than I would ever care to dedicate to anything to the effort of locating a medication that I have been dependent on for more than 10 years. Apparently the manufacturer of said medication has either decided to abandon all of the millions of people prescribed this medication, or they are following through with an elaborate plan to continue making money off of brand name drugs that have no generic - both scenarios are evil and they suck for people like me - the patient.
I'm currently at the end of a month-long battle to procure my meds. I've spoken to countless pharmacists (who unfortunately and dispassionately laugh at me when I ask about said meds) and now my doctor's office is ignoring me. REALLY?!
I'm supposed to take 2 pills a day of the aforementioned medication. I've been rationing my limited stash to 1/4 of a pill a day. This will come to stalking - I promise you. Updates to come.
I'm currently at the end of a month-long battle to procure my meds. I've spoken to countless pharmacists (who unfortunately and dispassionately laugh at me when I ask about said meds) and now my doctor's office is ignoring me. REALLY?!
I'm supposed to take 2 pills a day of the aforementioned medication. I've been rationing my limited stash to 1/4 of a pill a day. This will come to stalking - I promise you. Updates to come.
Monday, July 4, 2011
Summer storms
As I've mentioned before, I grew up swimming year-round. Summer meets were held outside and the weather always played a part in whether or not races went as scheduled.
To my parents' chagrin, I wasn't a happy swimmer beyond the age of about 14, but that didn't stop them from keeping me in the competitive swimming world. I prayed for thunderstorms ALWAYS - to keep me from having to practice, to keep me from having to swim another race, etc.
I particularly remember a meet in Raleigh, where I was scheduled to swim the 400 IM in the evening finals (something I severely dreaded), and the father of one of my friends was standing nearby. There was a storm approaching, so of course I was praying for it to arrive in time to prevent my race. Said father leaned over and told me, "I'm an avid golfer. I can tell when thunderstorms will hit. You will not have to swim that 400 IM tonight."
He was right and I was elated!
I'm sure it's sad to some that I have such a fond memory of that night, but in saying so I hope my parents would realize how unhappy I was in spending so much of my childhood in a swimming pool.
Don't get me wrong, my parents are amazing, wonderful people. They've given me my life, my education and happiness. However, even in my adulthood, I don't agree with their forcing me to swim when I felt I was done with the sport. Perhaps they thought I would agree with them by now. I don't.
To my parents' chagrin, I wasn't a happy swimmer beyond the age of about 14, but that didn't stop them from keeping me in the competitive swimming world. I prayed for thunderstorms ALWAYS - to keep me from having to practice, to keep me from having to swim another race, etc.
I particularly remember a meet in Raleigh, where I was scheduled to swim the 400 IM in the evening finals (something I severely dreaded), and the father of one of my friends was standing nearby. There was a storm approaching, so of course I was praying for it to arrive in time to prevent my race. Said father leaned over and told me, "I'm an avid golfer. I can tell when thunderstorms will hit. You will not have to swim that 400 IM tonight."
He was right and I was elated!
I'm sure it's sad to some that I have such a fond memory of that night, but in saying so I hope my parents would realize how unhappy I was in spending so much of my childhood in a swimming pool.
Don't get me wrong, my parents are amazing, wonderful people. They've given me my life, my education and happiness. However, even in my adulthood, I don't agree with their forcing me to swim when I felt I was done with the sport. Perhaps they thought I would agree with them by now. I don't.
Monday, June 27, 2011
The younger years
On a very late walk with Rusty last night I honed in on the sounds of the crickets, the creatures, the nightlife around us and was transported back to when I was 9-years-old.
I was lucky enough to grow up in a tight-knit neighborhood where there were kids my age, but more importantly, there were kids close to my age that accepted the older and younger into their group.
At that time I thought I lived in the coolest neighborhood ever. During the summers several of us would get together for games of an awesome version of hide and seek - a game that when I've described it to people they always say, "that does sound awesome!"
Always played after dark, we had kids from around age 7 to 16. The person who was "it" counted to whatever designated number and then went searching for those hiding. BUT, we created a "safe" place, a place that was the goal of each player. The "it" person went in search of the hiding, and could chase anyone they found. If the chasee made it back to "base" in time then they were safe. Of course anyone hiding could "steal a base" per se and make their way safe to home without ever having been found. I'm horrible at explaining things so that probably makes no sense but trust me - awesome fun.
Pre-xbox, nintendo, Wii, etc., my childhood summers were filled with bike-riding, roller skates and days at the pool.
I'm sure my 9-year-old self would've loved the technology, but I don't think I'd trade my low-tech younger years for anything.
I was lucky enough to grow up in a tight-knit neighborhood where there were kids my age, but more importantly, there were kids close to my age that accepted the older and younger into their group.
At that time I thought I lived in the coolest neighborhood ever. During the summers several of us would get together for games of an awesome version of hide and seek - a game that when I've described it to people they always say, "that does sound awesome!"
Always played after dark, we had kids from around age 7 to 16. The person who was "it" counted to whatever designated number and then went searching for those hiding. BUT, we created a "safe" place, a place that was the goal of each player. The "it" person went in search of the hiding, and could chase anyone they found. If the chasee made it back to "base" in time then they were safe. Of course anyone hiding could "steal a base" per se and make their way safe to home without ever having been found. I'm horrible at explaining things so that probably makes no sense but trust me - awesome fun.
Pre-xbox, nintendo, Wii, etc., my childhood summers were filled with bike-riding, roller skates and days at the pool.
I'm sure my 9-year-old self would've loved the technology, but I don't think I'd trade my low-tech younger years for anything.
Saturday, April 16, 2011
Antique hand me down
The first two pictures are of me wearing an ABC dress that I'm pretty sure someone made for me when I was a baby. My mom says I am a little over 2-years-old in these pics. That's my cute brother in the second pic with me.
I gave the dress to my goddaughter, but she had apparently outgrown it before Kerry could get her into it, so I passed it on to another of my oldest friends and her daughter, Ansley. Here she is showing it off. So retro and very cute!
I gave the dress to my goddaughter, but she had apparently outgrown it before Kerry could get her into it, so I passed it on to another of my oldest friends and her daughter, Ansley. Here she is showing it off. So retro and very cute!
Saturday, February 19, 2011
Keep life delicious
Lean Cuisine began a promotion on January 1, 2011 which offered dedicated customers the ability to earn a "red carpet" lunch bag. I eat one of those lean cuisines almost every day so I knew I could earn one quickly and I did. I ordered my chosen bag, pictured below, on January 28th and was pleasantly surprised to receive it in the mail on February 19th.
I've continued to enter codes on their web site because they promise to launch a new "loyalty program" after the end of the lunch bag promo. If you're a Lean Cuisiner, start collecting those codes!
I've continued to enter codes on their web site because they promise to launch a new "loyalty program" after the end of the lunch bag promo. If you're a Lean Cuisiner, start collecting those codes!
Saturday, January 22, 2011
THIN
I just recently became completely obsessed with the A&E channel - particularly their documentary series Intervention. Every episode revolves around someone's addiction, and while most of them involve addictions to elicit drugs, the episodes regarding eating disorders are most intriguing because I struggled with my own eating disorder for the better part of 8 years of my life.I was lead to HBO's Thin by way of the Intervention episodes I viewed, and that was a doozy. I felt like I was watching a "Girl, Interrupted" documentary. I wanted to grab those girls, shake them, and tell them that life is better than being a size 0, or even a 2 or 4.
I spent many months in therapy working through my issues, so I understand the struggles women have with food and their weight. I won't pretend that I have a completely healthy view of a balanced diet, but I have maintained a weight of 115-122 pounds for the last 10 years. I am 5'6" tall.
When I recognize the signs in others who are struggling with an eating disorder it breaks my heart. I see it more often than I would like. In most instances I don't feel it is my place to make accusations, but at the same time I truly wish someone would've done the same for me so many years ago.
Having been in recovery for 10+ years, I am comfortable watching others struggle with what I also struggled with. I don't mean to imply that I am okay with others' suffering - what I mean is that I no longer watch the stories of others and look for tips to starve myself at the same time. I don't get angry with these people because I understand their pain. I sympathize with them, but also hope with all my heart that they find the path to recovery as I did.
Recommended reading for anyone suffering from or living with a loved one with an eating disorder: Wasted Marya Hornbacher
Friday, January 14, 2011
Disgusting fun fact
I suffer from allergies year-round, but have never been tested to know what exactly is the cause. I'm fairy certain that pets are part of the problem, but pets are never NOT going to be a part of my life.
Based on statistics, I believe I am likely quite allergic to dust and all the counterparts: dust mites and their waste, etc.
Quoted from Glamour's February 2011 issue, "After two years, your pillow is basically 80% dust mite poop." YUCK.
So, does everyone out there regularly wash their pillows (in HOT water)? Do you regularly replace your pillows? If so, do you buy the expensive ones or do you instead buy expensive allergen covers or both?
I'm sure my pillows are no where near as harmful as other dust-ridden things in my house, but if I can do anything to relieve my ridiculously runny eyes and nose I will - other than forgo pets.
Based on statistics, I believe I am likely quite allergic to dust and all the counterparts: dust mites and their waste, etc.
Quoted from Glamour's February 2011 issue, "After two years, your pillow is basically 80% dust mite poop." YUCK.
So, does everyone out there regularly wash their pillows (in HOT water)? Do you regularly replace your pillows? If so, do you buy the expensive ones or do you instead buy expensive allergen covers or both?
I'm sure my pillows are no where near as harmful as other dust-ridden things in my house, but if I can do anything to relieve my ridiculously runny eyes and nose I will - other than forgo pets.
Sunday, June 20, 2010
Bailey remembered
My parents and my brother's family came to town to have dinner with me Saturday night. I was supposed to go to them, but I've been quite a mess lately, so it made more sense for them to come here.
Abby brought me the drawing below. It is another of many drawings she's given me of Bailey and/or Zoe and I love all of them. In this one, I particularly admire how observant she is. She has me in a Life is Good t-shirt after all!
This is Bailey and I at the beach.
Of course her drawings don't usually make me cry, but this one did. I love it just as much - if not more - than all the others that have come before this one. Thank you Abby!
Abby brought me the drawing below. It is another of many drawings she's given me of Bailey and/or Zoe and I love all of them. In this one, I particularly admire how observant she is. She has me in a Life is Good t-shirt after all!
This is Bailey and I at the beach.
Of course her drawings don't usually make me cry, but this one did. I love it just as much - if not more - than all the others that have come before this one. Thank you Abby!
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
When hair removal goes wrong
I used to have a widow's peak. About a year ago I shaved it off and continued to pluck the new growth with tweezers. Then one night after perhaps a glass too much of wine, I took the clippers a bit too far into the hairline. Now I have bangs - the only option to cover up my shaving mishap.I haven't had bangs since high school. I don't like them, but I've received a decent reception to the new style.
My favorite compliment is, "It makes you look younger."
I'd do just about anything to look younger, so for now I'll keep the bangs. I have to until the "tuft" underneath grows out anyway.
The morals of the story are:
1. Think long and hard before making cosmetic changes to your genetically determined appearance
2. After thinking long and hard about the aforementioned changes, make certain that you are sober when/if you decide to carry out said changes.
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Self-proclaimed squirrel
I found out yesterday that our annual company "mystery trip" requires a passport. While I was certain that mine expires next April, I dug it out of my fire-proof box just to check. What I found made me laugh my ass off.
Behold the old-school over-21 North Carolina driver's license. Pardon my ignorance if it is/was common practice across states, but the red background indicates a 21-year-old and over adolescent.
Why I still have this license - in a fire-proof box no less - is beyond me. It honestly looks like something any kid could create in his/her basement with a low-scale laminating machine. Perhaps that is why the NC license changed so drastically soon after.
Behold the old-school over-21 North Carolina driver's license. Pardon my ignorance if it is/was common practice across states, but the red background indicates a 21-year-old and over adolescent.
Why I still have this license - in a fire-proof box no less - is beyond me. It honestly looks like something any kid could create in his/her basement with a low-scale laminating machine. Perhaps that is why the NC license changed so drastically soon after.
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
So you think you want naturally curly hair
I inherited naturally curly hair from my father. Now, when I say naturally curly, I should clarify that when left to its own devices my hair is larger than Buckwheat. Evidence can be seen at this post. I do in fact have a photo of the most embarrassing example of said afro somewhere but I can't find it just now. It was posted on my office door - in full color - for over two years before we moved to different digs.
My mother's hair is slightly wavy but of course my brother got all of mom's genes, and he practically shaves his head. So unfair.
Throughout my entire life I've listened to people telling me, "you should wear your hair curly! You're so lucky!" Ummmm. NO. I'd like to remind those people who don't live in Arizona or some other desert climate that having naturally curly hair SUCKS.
For instance, one night last summer I was completely jealous of my niece, who has beautiful light brown STRAIGHT hair. We were at an outdoor restaurant at Holden Beach, where I had to wear a hat to tame my unruly locks. She was 7. She would've looked much more adorable in my hat at her age, but I'm the one with hair that tends toward dreadlocks.
Actually, I spent my entire spring break at the age of 22 with a hat on my head in Jamaica for the same reason. My fashion statement likely did NOT catch on: cocktail dress with baseball cap and ponytail bun.
People always want what they don't have, but I'd seriously be willing to bet a year's salary that anyone with my hair would strongly wish they didn't have it.
I remember one ridiculous instance in particular (as no one believes the extreme curliness of my hair). When I went to Iceland in 2004 I was too cheap to purchase a power converter, so I was unable to completely straighten my hair (I have since been quite successful with only a hair dryer and a round brush, but at the time my hair was MUCH longer).
So when I arrived at dinner on our first night, several of my colleagues asked me if I'd gotten a perm. The smart-ass in me couldn't resist the following response, "Yes, I touched down here in Reykjavik a few hours ago and getting a perm was my first order of business."
Those with straight hair should cherish it - at least you CAN perm it. Getting kinky hair chemically straightened is far more difficult - yes, I've tried and failed. What I wouldn't give for a wash-n-go frizz-free do!
My mother's hair is slightly wavy but of course my brother got all of mom's genes, and he practically shaves his head. So unfair.
Throughout my entire life I've listened to people telling me, "you should wear your hair curly! You're so lucky!" Ummmm. NO. I'd like to remind those people who don't live in Arizona or some other desert climate that having naturally curly hair SUCKS.
For instance, one night last summer I was completely jealous of my niece, who has beautiful light brown STRAIGHT hair. We were at an outdoor restaurant at Holden Beach, where I had to wear a hat to tame my unruly locks. She was 7. She would've looked much more adorable in my hat at her age, but I'm the one with hair that tends toward dreadlocks.
Actually, I spent my entire spring break at the age of 22 with a hat on my head in Jamaica for the same reason. My fashion statement likely did NOT catch on: cocktail dress with baseball cap and ponytail bun.
People always want what they don't have, but I'd seriously be willing to bet a year's salary that anyone with my hair would strongly wish they didn't have it.
I remember one ridiculous instance in particular (as no one believes the extreme curliness of my hair). When I went to Iceland in 2004 I was too cheap to purchase a power converter, so I was unable to completely straighten my hair (I have since been quite successful with only a hair dryer and a round brush, but at the time my hair was MUCH longer).
So when I arrived at dinner on our first night, several of my colleagues asked me if I'd gotten a perm. The smart-ass in me couldn't resist the following response, "Yes, I touched down here in Reykjavik a few hours ago and getting a perm was my first order of business."
Those with straight hair should cherish it - at least you CAN perm it. Getting kinky hair chemically straightened is far more difficult - yes, I've tried and failed. What I wouldn't give for a wash-n-go frizz-free do!
Thursday, March 4, 2010
A note on telecommuting
On days that I telecommute (work from home), I am most definitely working. In fact, I always get more work done at home than I do in the office. Nevertheless, it is apparent that some view these days as less than working days.
Case in point, I arrived at work Wednesday morning to the following e-mail,
"This morning the fire alarm system triggered the fire suppression system in the data center, causing an immediate power shut down.
At this time, we are working with all of the emergency responders and the fire department to restore power to the data center.
We will provide an update when we have more information."
One of my supervisors advised me to go home, as I would be able to connect to the internet and my e-mail from there. I then advised my assistant to do the same.
But as I was leaving and saying my goodbyes, more than one person said, "See ya! Have a nice..."
I can only assume the words on their lips were "day off."
Such assumptions are incorrect and extremely infuriating. I can only describe those who believe that "working" has everything to do with location (sitting at a desk in a cubicle in a suite in a building) as ignorant and behind the times.
Seriously, I might get to wear my pajamas, work from my bed or with a dog under my feet, but that doesn't mean I'm not working!!! Not to mention that I'm doing my part to reduce my carbon footprint by driving less.
Maybe it would help if I started using my supervisor's terminology: teleWORKING.
Case in point, I arrived at work Wednesday morning to the following e-mail,
"This morning the fire alarm system triggered the fire suppression system in the data center, causing an immediate power shut down.
At this time, we are working with all of the emergency responders and the fire department to restore power to the data center.
We will provide an update when we have more information."
One of my supervisors advised me to go home, as I would be able to connect to the internet and my e-mail from there. I then advised my assistant to do the same.
But as I was leaving and saying my goodbyes, more than one person said, "See ya! Have a nice..."
I can only assume the words on their lips were "day off."
Such assumptions are incorrect and extremely infuriating. I can only describe those who believe that "working" has everything to do with location (sitting at a desk in a cubicle in a suite in a building) as ignorant and behind the times.
Seriously, I might get to wear my pajamas, work from my bed or with a dog under my feet, but that doesn't mean I'm not working!!! Not to mention that I'm doing my part to reduce my carbon footprint by driving less.
Maybe it would help if I started using my supervisor's terminology: teleWORKING.
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Pirate Bunny
I lovingly named the bunny pictured left "my ECU bunny." I didn't really grasp the school color affiliation until the little chica was completed, at which time it hit me like a ton of bricks.Although I never attended East Carolina University, I spent a fair amount of time visiting the campus during my first semester of college.
No ill will by any means, but I'd have to say I think I'd have been better off staying away from the Pirates.
Who knew a tiny bunny ornament could bring back so many undesired memories! Purple. Yellow. Black. Not fond.
I say "not fond," but then I think that some of those mistakes taught me a great deal and allowed me to become the person I am and I like her.
Perhaps I should keep my little ECU bunny as a reminder of the person I left behind and also the person I am happy to be now!
Final note: Guess I should put more thought into my bunny/bear color combinations before the project is underway...
Friday, December 4, 2009
Awesome Friends
I am so lucky that I share my proximal world with two of my very best friends. Caroline, Kerry and I have been celebrating birthdays together since my return to NC in 2003. (We've known each other since approximately 1984). Last night was for me and it was perfect!
We ate at Bocci Trattoria and enjoyed great service - our gracious server took the photo below.
Thanks girls! Love you TONS!
We ate at Bocci Trattoria and enjoyed great service - our gracious server took the photo below.
Thanks girls! Love you TONS!
Monday, November 30, 2009
T-Day/B-Day Weekend
My parents were in town for the Carolina Designer Craftsmen show over the weekend - per usual - so birthday celebrations were thrown into the mix as well.
I stayed home Saturday to watch the Heels play NC State, to whom we unfortunately lost. Grrrrr. After the show we had dinner at Mez - a favorite eatery of mine. I've never had a bad meal there. Best guacamole ever.
Sunday I headed to Raleigh in the late afternoon to check out the tail end of the show. Mom did pretty well, but I didn't walk around much because I, on the other hand, have no money to spend! Stuck around to help take down the booth - not my favorite way to spend my birthday - but it was worth it to have dinner with mom and dad again.
At Weaver Street my mom came up behind me and just said, "I'm sad." When I asked her why she said that when she stopped for gas she must've lost her phone holder that I made for her years ago. It made me sad, too! Replacement is already in the works.
For the b-day I got a great Vera Bradley purse and wallet from Maria, Todd & Abby; an adorable pottery piece (pictured below) from mom & dad and a fabulous painting of Zoe, Bailey and me on canvas from Abby (also pictured below). She's such a tiny Picasso!
On top of the gifts I got countless birthday greetings from friends - I was a bit overwhelmed! Thanks to all!
I stayed home Saturday to watch the Heels play NC State, to whom we unfortunately lost. Grrrrr. After the show we had dinner at Mez - a favorite eatery of mine. I've never had a bad meal there. Best guacamole ever.
Sunday I headed to Raleigh in the late afternoon to check out the tail end of the show. Mom did pretty well, but I didn't walk around much because I, on the other hand, have no money to spend! Stuck around to help take down the booth - not my favorite way to spend my birthday - but it was worth it to have dinner with mom and dad again.
At Weaver Street my mom came up behind me and just said, "I'm sad." When I asked her why she said that when she stopped for gas she must've lost her phone holder that I made for her years ago. It made me sad, too! Replacement is already in the works.
For the b-day I got a great Vera Bradley purse and wallet from Maria, Todd & Abby; an adorable pottery piece (pictured below) from mom & dad and a fabulous painting of Zoe, Bailey and me on canvas from Abby (also pictured below). She's such a tiny Picasso!
On top of the gifts I got countless birthday greetings from friends - I was a bit overwhelmed! Thanks to all!
Thursday, October 22, 2009
All I really need to know I learned through swimming
...or by the obligation of going to practice.
Six days a week. 20+ hours a week back and forth in a pool. At least there was underwater music at UNC-Chapel Hill, but that perk didn't come until college.
I don't miss the misery of 6 am practices in an ice cold pool, 5:15 am practices in the weight room or endless weekends spent in the middle of nowhere at random meets in an effort to make qualifying times.
What I remember the most are my friends I made along the way - my closest friends to this day - friends I made before I was 10-years-old. Oddly enough (and of course not inclusive) these are largely my only friends with families intact (no divorce, etc). I have no ideas on any connection there - I've just always found that interesting - faithful friends, faithful parents. Who knows.
Anyway, I learned a great deal from practice, from Robbie (my coach), my parents, my friends and my teammates. No matter how much I may have cursed practice or any individual forcing such practice on me, I know I am a better person for having endured, participated, committed and dedicated myself to my sport.
1. Be prompt: Even if you're the last person to dive in the pool the coach will remember you were there on time.
2. Don't hit (or grab) people: If you find yourself behind someone slower than you, find a way to politely make your way in front of them. Groping their heels is really just not polite.
3. Support your friends: When you're at a big meet, encourage them and do your part to cheer them on.
4. Don't take things that aren't yours: PSYCH! If you are the underdog and you beat the top dog, Good on ya! Keep going even harder. But I must interject here that a girl from a rival high school stole my swim team jacket, tried to pick my embroidered name out of it and pass it off as hers. I still recall the whole situation as one of the most ridiculously pointless and vindictive dealings ever forced on me. Her parents made her call me to apologize, but I could hear her metaphorically spitting on me through the phone. I admit I wanted her to be caught, but I didn't want the jacket back. To want it would've given her the satisfaction of hurting me.
5. It's always nice to share: Goggles, caps, towels, back rubs, "strap massages." Share and share alike. I always admired the kids sitting back in the following heat who would offer up their goggles or what have you to the SOL swimmer racing before them. It happened more than you'd think.
6. Take a nap: Had I ever actually had time to do that during my swimming career I would've. It would've been glorious.
7. Shoot for the stars and believe in yourself: As my closest friends can quote me, When I was 12, I miraculously made my dreams come true. Against the odds and without my own coach's belief in me, I propelled myself in the ranks and achieved my goal to make the All-Star NC team. I placed in the top 4 in 6 races despite being seated no higher than 12th in any given race. I still remember my "goal meeting" with my age-group coach so clearly, weeks before the Junior Olympics, the way she looked at me like my dreams were completely unreachable. And I remember even more clearly the ecstatic cheering, jumping and wild victory-fist pumping of Robbie when I crushed my personal best times in each and every event. I truly wish I could've bottled that feeling. It was amazing.
8. Live a balanced life: Do the time, do the sets, finish practice. When you leave the pool, leave the pool. You might still smell like chlorine, but it's healthy to remove yourself from your sport on a regular basis.
9. Play fair: Don't pull on the lane ropes during backstroke sets or take a dive mid-lap and double-back unless you want to hurt yourself. Cutting a lap = cutting your training = cutting your ability.
10. There is no "I" in team: While swimming is a highly individualized sport, there are also relays, and more importantly the necessity of a support system. If you think about all of the athletes most likely to crack under pressure (ice skaters, gymnasts for example) this idea should be quite clear. Individualized focus is fine, but keeping things in perspective is even more important. I don't think I could've gotten through a single swim meet completely on my own. I know for certain I never could've gotten through a Robbie swim practice without my teammates - my friends.
So thanks Robbie, Robin, Dad and Mom; and of course Kerry, Mark, Susan, Anna, Amy, Elaine, Suzanne, Alex, Scottie and many, many more Wahoos. I admit that I was often a bitter teenager loathing my plight, but I know that I wouldn't be the same Tracey had I not been "Tracey the swimmer." I know I'm a better person for it.
Six days a week. 20+ hours a week back and forth in a pool. At least there was underwater music at UNC-Chapel Hill, but that perk didn't come until college.
I don't miss the misery of 6 am practices in an ice cold pool, 5:15 am practices in the weight room or endless weekends spent in the middle of nowhere at random meets in an effort to make qualifying times.
What I remember the most are my friends I made along the way - my closest friends to this day - friends I made before I was 10-years-old. Oddly enough (and of course not inclusive) these are largely my only friends with families intact (no divorce, etc). I have no ideas on any connection there - I've just always found that interesting - faithful friends, faithful parents. Who knows.
Anyway, I learned a great deal from practice, from Robbie (my coach), my parents, my friends and my teammates. No matter how much I may have cursed practice or any individual forcing such practice on me, I know I am a better person for having endured, participated, committed and dedicated myself to my sport.
1. Be prompt: Even if you're the last person to dive in the pool the coach will remember you were there on time.
2. Don't hit (or grab) people: If you find yourself behind someone slower than you, find a way to politely make your way in front of them. Groping their heels is really just not polite.
3. Support your friends: When you're at a big meet, encourage them and do your part to cheer them on.
4. Don't take things that aren't yours: PSYCH! If you are the underdog and you beat the top dog, Good on ya! Keep going even harder. But I must interject here that a girl from a rival high school stole my swim team jacket, tried to pick my embroidered name out of it and pass it off as hers. I still recall the whole situation as one of the most ridiculously pointless and vindictive dealings ever forced on me. Her parents made her call me to apologize, but I could hear her metaphorically spitting on me through the phone. I admit I wanted her to be caught, but I didn't want the jacket back. To want it would've given her the satisfaction of hurting me.
5. It's always nice to share: Goggles, caps, towels, back rubs, "strap massages." Share and share alike. I always admired the kids sitting back in the following heat who would offer up their goggles or what have you to the SOL swimmer racing before them. It happened more than you'd think.
6. Take a nap: Had I ever actually had time to do that during my swimming career I would've. It would've been glorious.
7. Shoot for the stars and believe in yourself: As my closest friends can quote me, When I was 12, I miraculously made my dreams come true. Against the odds and without my own coach's belief in me, I propelled myself in the ranks and achieved my goal to make the All-Star NC team. I placed in the top 4 in 6 races despite being seated no higher than 12th in any given race. I still remember my "goal meeting" with my age-group coach so clearly, weeks before the Junior Olympics, the way she looked at me like my dreams were completely unreachable. And I remember even more clearly the ecstatic cheering, jumping and wild victory-fist pumping of Robbie when I crushed my personal best times in each and every event. I truly wish I could've bottled that feeling. It was amazing.
8. Live a balanced life: Do the time, do the sets, finish practice. When you leave the pool, leave the pool. You might still smell like chlorine, but it's healthy to remove yourself from your sport on a regular basis.
9. Play fair: Don't pull on the lane ropes during backstroke sets or take a dive mid-lap and double-back unless you want to hurt yourself. Cutting a lap = cutting your training = cutting your ability.
10. There is no "I" in team: While swimming is a highly individualized sport, there are also relays, and more importantly the necessity of a support system. If you think about all of the athletes most likely to crack under pressure (ice skaters, gymnasts for example) this idea should be quite clear. Individualized focus is fine, but keeping things in perspective is even more important. I don't think I could've gotten through a single swim meet completely on my own. I know for certain I never could've gotten through a Robbie swim practice without my teammates - my friends.
So thanks Robbie, Robin, Dad and Mom; and of course Kerry, Mark, Susan, Anna, Amy, Elaine, Suzanne, Alex, Scottie and many, many more Wahoos. I admit that I was often a bitter teenager loathing my plight, but I know that I wouldn't be the same Tracey had I not been "Tracey the swimmer." I know I'm a better person for it.
Wednesday, September 23, 2009
Reborn chair
The chair pictured right is the chair I listed in my September 9th post, but looking much better now. I painted the frame to match my dresser - an antique that my parents bought when they were in their 20s. I inherited the dresser and two matching bedside tables when I moved back to North Carolina from Michigan in 2003. I stripped the furniture, painted it and replaced the outdated pulls with cool modern silver knobs.
The paint from 2003 was completely solidified, but I was pleased to find that Lowe's still had paint chips for the same colors. I used spray paint primer (Kilz odorless interior oil-base) and Olympic Premium Interior/Exterior High Gloss Latex paint.
I also wanted to soften up the seat just a touch, so I stretched some natural cotton batting (1/8" thickness) over the foam from the original chair before adding the fabric.
My mom found the most perfect fabric. I'd sent her paint chips of the colors of my bedroom walls and furniture and she hit the jackpot. All of the colors in the chair cushion fabric are either on my walls, my furniture or my duvet cover. I am quite pleased with my results!
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Eight legged freaks
I’m not a particularly squeamish girl. Unless creepy-crawlies launch themselves at me within completely unforeseen circumstances, I can handle critters. Beetles, spiders, snakes, mice – vermin in general don’t freak me out. What I do NOT like is discovering what I can only describe as an out and out spider invasion of my house.
A few months ago I suffered from a near death experience that could only be described (by the ER paperwork) as “Bite of unknown origin suspected, bright red welt on lower abdomen noted. Anaphylactic shock, administration of epinephrine and fluids. Medical history did not reveal any known allergies to insects.” (I really hope my dad doesn’t read this).
Amongst the following days I plucked two – albeit small – spiders from my person. I probably should’ve had the Orkin man on speed dial, but no, I took no drastic measures.
Rocketing back to this past week: I found two horrifically large spiders - each living in his own impressive tapestry - attached to the outer perimeter of my house. The first one scared the bejeezus out of me, only because I discovered it in the evening while pruning the vine-like plant that covers most of my front porch railing. By the time I saw Spidey, my hand was practically on top of him and his 3-inch legs.
After deftly avoiding a full-on panic attack, I sprinted inside to retrieve my Raid Ant Killer - the only bug killer I had on hand. At first my panic began to return and heighten because let me tell you, that spider was FAST. At first spray he was climbing at warp speed for shelter, but I refused to embrace defeat. I showered that creature in a sea of Raid and hoped for the best. Of course the next day I could find no evidence of a spider corpse, so for all I know he marched away - or right into my house.
Last night while watering plants I spotted an enormous spiral orb web - only because my eye first registered the hand-sized spider within said web - and almost swallowed my tongue. I'd just purchased a 1.33 gallon size container of Ortho Home Defense MAX so I made a beeline for my car and after engaging the dispenser I sprayed bug poison with no mercy. It took a LOT of spray, but I'm pretty sure I witnessed the death of Mr. Oversized Arachnid.
Now I'm on a mission. If diligent perimeter monitoring and bombing doesn't do the trick, I guess my cheap ass will just have to call the Orkin man after all.
A few months ago I suffered from a near death experience that could only be described (by the ER paperwork) as “Bite of unknown origin suspected, bright red welt on lower abdomen noted. Anaphylactic shock, administration of epinephrine and fluids. Medical history did not reveal any known allergies to insects.” (I really hope my dad doesn’t read this).
Amongst the following days I plucked two – albeit small – spiders from my person. I probably should’ve had the Orkin man on speed dial, but no, I took no drastic measures.
Rocketing back to this past week: I found two horrifically large spiders - each living in his own impressive tapestry - attached to the outer perimeter of my house. The first one scared the bejeezus out of me, only because I discovered it in the evening while pruning the vine-like plant that covers most of my front porch railing. By the time I saw Spidey, my hand was practically on top of him and his 3-inch legs.
After deftly avoiding a full-on panic attack, I sprinted inside to retrieve my Raid Ant Killer - the only bug killer I had on hand. At first my panic began to return and heighten because let me tell you, that spider was FAST. At first spray he was climbing at warp speed for shelter, but I refused to embrace defeat. I showered that creature in a sea of Raid and hoped for the best. Of course the next day I could find no evidence of a spider corpse, so for all I know he marched away - or right into my house.
Last night while watering plants I spotted an enormous spiral orb web - only because my eye first registered the hand-sized spider within said web - and almost swallowed my tongue. I'd just purchased a 1.33 gallon size container of Ortho Home Defense MAX so I made a beeline for my car and after engaging the dispenser I sprayed bug poison with no mercy. It took a LOT of spray, but I'm pretty sure I witnessed the death of Mr. Oversized Arachnid.
Now I'm on a mission. If diligent perimeter monitoring and bombing doesn't do the trick, I guess my cheap ass will just have to call the Orkin man after all.
Thursday, August 27, 2009
What would the neighbor do?
I am far more of a night owl than your average late-night neighbor, therefore I wonder about those who might be out and about between, say, 1:00 a.m. and 2:30 a.m. on a weekday night.
I was walking the doggies before bed on Tuesday night when a car came to an abrupt halt at a stoplight at a major intersection by my house. The emergency flashers were engaged and I could see that children were in the car.
The driver got out of the car, opened and closed the rear left door and then proceeded to rummage around in the trunk for a solid 3+ minutes, all the while occupying both the straight-forward and right-turn lanes of a busy road.
After allowing Zoe to finish her business, I gathered her up and started across the street – hands waving hello while repeating, "Are you okay?" the entire time.
Although I could clearly see a child in the front seat waving at me, the driver instantly sped away – emergency lights flashing until the vehicle was completely out of sight.
I’m 5’6” and I weigh about 125 pounds fully clothed (I mean with a heavy coat and shoes included). I hate to think I spooked the driver with 7-pound Zoe in tow. I also hope all who personally know me can laugh at that visual.
Perhaps Zoe and I could go by "Z beast and the Glavinator." (or Glavenora, depending on the security guard on duty).
I was walking the doggies before bed on Tuesday night when a car came to an abrupt halt at a stoplight at a major intersection by my house. The emergency flashers were engaged and I could see that children were in the car.
The driver got out of the car, opened and closed the rear left door and then proceeded to rummage around in the trunk for a solid 3+ minutes, all the while occupying both the straight-forward and right-turn lanes of a busy road.
After allowing Zoe to finish her business, I gathered her up and started across the street – hands waving hello while repeating, "Are you okay?" the entire time.
Although I could clearly see a child in the front seat waving at me, the driver instantly sped away – emergency lights flashing until the vehicle was completely out of sight.
I’m 5’6” and I weigh about 125 pounds fully clothed (I mean with a heavy coat and shoes included). I hate to think I spooked the driver with 7-pound Zoe in tow. I also hope all who personally know me can laugh at that visual.
Perhaps Zoe and I could go by "Z beast and the Glavinator." (or Glavenora, depending on the security guard on duty).
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