Decade Resolutions...

In honor of the new year, a friend of mine was asked to write an article for a Rhode Island paper about the last 10 years. She decided to do something about creating decade resolutions rather than new year resolutions. I love this idea.

Think about the last ten years of your life. The things you've achieved over a decade are probably much more grandiose than what you have done over the last year. So it makes sense to give yourself 10 years to change your life, rather than only one year. Most common resolution: lose weight. Much more manageable if you give yourself ten years to do it, ya?

What have you done in the last 10 years?

Sometimes I feel like haven't done anything. But, purely for my own indulgence--to make me feel better about me--I am going to recount some of the things I've accomplished over the last decade. You should do the same...a little pat on your own back.

Ten years ago I was 18. Since then I have...

~moved over 500 miles away from my hometown to San Diego
~earned a Bachelor's Degree, a teaching credential and a Master's Degree
~become a teacher. with seniority.
~bought my own car
~driven the equivalent of the circumference of the earth, twice over, to visit family. (That's over 48,000 miles.)
~been married for a third of the decade
~ran 1 marathon and over 10 half marathons
~lost 10 pounds
~learned how to buy appropriately fitted clothing
~accepted my hairy arms and size 11 feet
~stopped biting my nails...when I choose
~developed friendships that will easily last another decade
~(my favorite one) become an aunt...though I had very little to do with that one.

Not too shabby, if I do say so myself.

I've heard a lot of people say recently, "I'm not a resolution maker" or "I try to improve myself constantly, not just because it's a new year." Well la-te-da to you all. I think New Year's Resolutions are fantastic because it means you are reflecting upon the last year of your life. It means taking a look at your successes and failures and then assessing the ways in which you can improve yourself and your life. It may not seem that way when you write "go skydiving," or "lose 20 pounds," or "walk along the Seine," on your list, but it's the meaning behind those things. They represent something bigger than what they actually are.

For Christmas, a coworker gave me the refrigerator magnet pictured above. It reads, "She was suddenly struck with an overwhelming metaphor for her entire existence." Kind of a depressing magnet, really, but true of me nonetheless. I do tend to focus on the more negative aspects of this world and life--something I would like to change in the next decade--and I am addicted to life metaphors. I won't do that here (your welcome) but it is symbolic of how life requires dwelling upon, reflecting upon, and improving upon as we grow up and grow old.

At the end of the next decade, I'll be 38. My resolutions, based on reflections of the last decade, are:

~Be closer to family (in the literal or metaphorical sense. So I metaphorized a little bit. So what.)
~Love my job (whatever that may turn out to be!)
~Be more positive and/or optimistic (blegh)
~See Europe (any part of it)
~Pick a doctoral program (notice I didn't say, "earn a Ph.D?" Baby steps...)
~Get paid to write stuff
~Learn to accept my thighs and addiction to soft cheeses.
~Meet Tina Fey. Earn her respect and friendship and......

That'll do. I'm getting a bit too detailed. Generality, I think, will be my friend here in long run. Ah! Long run. Perhaps the metaphor I've been looking for. It's kind of perfect if you think about it. Sorry. I lied about getting metaphorical on you....

In the long run, there will be pain, there will be indescribable joy and empowerment; if you run long enough you will cry and whimper, you will hurt and feel sick. You will want to quit. You will want to go the extra...you know. But, over the course of the long run, you'll get stronger, you'll get better, and you'll have done something good for yourself that will inadvertently do something good for those around you. That is, of course, if you're running a good race.

That's all.

Happy New Decade!

Go do good.

What did runners do before butt-pocket spandex?

Ran today along the boardwalk and into La Jolla Cove. When I left the house, I had no idea how long it would take me to get there...but I've always wanted to do it, so I did. Beautiful morning! The sun was out, but the air was cold and the waves were HUGE in La Jolla. Beautiful morning. Oh I said that. But it was.

I didn't take water because I knew of two drinking fountains along the way; however I did take my debit card with me just in case I had to make a pit stop. I'm grateful for two things: 1.) spandex running pants with the little zip pocket just above the ass and 2.) that my debit card, cell phone and Gu can all fit in said pocket. The reason I'm grateful is because around mile 8 I realized I'd gone without fluid for over 4 miles and was beginning to get thirsty. Seeing as how I had no idea if the next drinking fountain was one more mile or 10 more miles, I ran into a 7/11 and got a $1 water. It turned out to be only two miles more, but it was still nice to have the water.

I haven't given any advice in a while, it's been all about me me me and my training. But, ideally the point of this blog is to give helpful tips for beginning runners...not that I'm an expert by any stretch of the imagination...but through my struggles and successes I'd like to give some helpful information for new runners. So, some things I've learned recently...

*Give yourself time to get the lead out.
I ran with a friend yesterday who said I helped her in this area. When we run together I have to start really, really slow or my ankles give out (mostly just on cold days). So after a couple runs together, in which I held her back at the beginning, she realized that it helped her as far as finishing strong and feeling good later in the run. Sometimes it takes me two or three miles before I feel settled into a run and can start speeding up to a fast trot. The biggest discourager, I think, for new runners is the first mile. What many people don't realize is that when you take those first steps, your heart rate spikes which instantly make you breathe harder. If you start out too quick, you'll feel more tired and out of breath in the first mile than if you start extra slow and allow your heart rate to adjust. None of this is scientifically proven, but it's what I've learned (from a magazine, probably) and experienced along the way.

*When running for longer than an hour, take money with you.
If you're running really long distances for the first time, you may not know how your body is going to respond. So often on a long run I'll crave something that I know will make me feel better, if only I had it. Once I craved a Sprite--so I stopped in at a Jack in the Box, then continued my run. Another time I craved salty potato chips, but I didn't have money. I spent some time in the bathroom after that run.... Who knows, if I had eaten a little salt along the way, I probably wouldn't have become so nauseous at the end. Listen to the cravings and carry some money so that you can follow your nose...or whims. Note: this isn't the best training method because during a race you will not be able to run into McDonalds and grab a hamburger; however, if you're out for a long run just to enjoy the long run...be open to pit stops. It makes the whole thing less pressured and more enjoyable. Sometimes I even go on runs to places where I know I can stop and enjoy a frozen lemonade (Seaport Village) or huge iced tea (San Diego zoo) or, like today, a scrambled egg breakfast with girlfriends.

* Do it right.
If you're going to become a "runner," do it the right way, by slowly adding miles. You'll burn out or get injured if you make it too hard on yourself while you're trying to develop a routine. Last week I used every excuse in the book to not run, this week, I seem to be using every excuse to run. Neither is ideal.... I need to stick to my new mantra, "Do it right."

That's not crazy good advice, but it's something. What're you doing?

The Route:
From Belmont Park in Mission Beach continue north on the boardwalk. It will take you through Pacific Beach and then into La Jolla. When the sidewalk ends, veer left onto the road and continue up the slight hill to Mission Blvd. Take a left on Mission Blvd for 1 block and then cross the street and veer left again to head north on La Jolla Pkwy. Follow this for another 3 miles. Continue onto Prospect Street and take a left after a few more blocks into the Cove. Water and restrooms available at Belmont Park in Mission Beach and in the Cove (about a 6 mile span between each).

9 1/2 Weeks

What's today? Friday? Yes. I'm in a groggy brain fog of candy treats and buttery sweets. And in two days Napa will be one week closer than it was one week ago. (duh.) I'm starting to freak out a little bit because I haven't done a truly long distance yet. I did a 15 miler two weeks ago and 14 last weekend, but I will not be comfortable with this, and my ability to succeed on race day, until more than 18 miles has been completed. But, it's more than just completing 18 miles. It's about feeling good (or least able to function for the rest of the day) after the completion of those miles. I'm tempted to just do the 18er on Sunday and see what happens. But no. I have to hold myself back and wait 3 more weeks. New mantra: "Do it right, do it right." I know this. But I'm so curious...maybe I'll do it in 2 weeks....

I especially need to wait since this week was a complete bust. I started out strong by running 3 miles a day to maintain fitness and counteract the assault of sugar and butter I knew I would (and did) consume; however, I ran two 3ers and one 4er and then zip. I now have 4 days in a row of nothing-- which, actually, now that I really say it like that, isn't as bad as it sounded in my head. Granted, I'll have a grand total of, maybe, 18 miles for this whole week IF I run on Sunday (I know I won't be able to run Saturday). And that seems like nothing when you're used to 35-45 mile weeks.

So I will be resuming my regular schedule after tomorrow a few pounds heavier and a tad less fit than I was a week or two ago; however, it's a very minor setback and every extra pound is worth pounding the pavement for the time I've been able to spend with family. I'm so grateful for them and their generosity--and I'm not referring to gifts when I say that. The gift of time is better than anything that can be put under a tree.

It's now time for me to look ahead at the next few weeks: 1. Put in the necessary hours and miles on the road 2. Rehab this sugar addiction of mine.

9 1/2 weeks. I'm out of breath just thinking about it.

Feelin' It

Oh maan. Just finished a 14 miler. I feel good, but I can tell I've been eating crap food all week. And the really tempting week of food hasn't even begun yet. My mom makes the best cookies and pastries--I'm a goner. I try to follow the advice in Runner's World or Women's Health about how to not deprive myself of treats during the holidays, but also how to eat them in moderation... never works. Ever. With only 10 weeks left until the marathon, every long run counts now. Because of the fudge and gingerbread men, the school potluck and gift bags of cookies, the run today was not so easy.

I ran (jogged) slooooow. But, that's partially due to going up Hill Street at the beginning-- to make sure I'm training for the hills at the start in Napa-- plus it was hot today. I don't do well running in the heat. I do great in the rain and fog, which is why last weekend's 15er went so well: 8 in the rain and 7 in the freezing wind felt good.

I've been getting in our pool after my long runs, because it's as cold as an ice bath. Today my feet became so numb I almost couldn't get up the steps and out of the pool. Painful. A neighbor who was walking by with a burrito from across the street (smelled so good!) paused when he saw me slowly, awkwardly pulling myself out of the pool. I think he was debating about whether or not I needed help or if he should call the looney bin--because only someone clinically insane would put themselves in our pool in the winter time.... Anyway, I eventually made it out, he walked off with his 2 pound burrito, and my legs are feeling good.

This week is going to be tough sticking to a real training schedule, so I'm going to make it easy on myself. I have to maintain my current fitness so that after this week I can smoothly get back on schedule.
My goal is to run 3 miles a day--more when possible. We'll see in a week how that works itself out.

Happy Holidays!

Blog #2 in Voice of San Diego

Whoo hoo! My grumblings about teaching are slowly finding their way into the world...or at least to the small percentage of San Diegans who read online newspapers. Last article was directed at The Man, this one is directed at the parents of high school teenagers.

I Long for the Days of Note Passing

Enjoy!
(But if you don't enjoy--don't tell me)

The Gorges...

Today was just about the perfect day. First, it's Friday. And Fridays are test days for my students. This means I can get caught up on grading and writing more "To Do Lists" which always makes me happy. It also makes me happy to watch my students work quietly with looks of concern on their pinched little faces. I feel a little sorry for them when I really sit and watch them work, and it makes me forgive them for all the ways they wronged me throughout the week and it sort of makes me like them again. Also today, the weather got progressively worse as the hours ticked by--which in my world means it got better. To top it off, I met up with my new running buddy for a 5 miler through the Gorge, AKA: Mission Trails. As a result, another new running site is checked off my list!

It was cloudy and rainyish and cold but not windy (pretty much the opposite of the pictures seen here). We ran muddy trails beside recently refilled creeks, and under hundred year old trees with red and gold leaves (rare for SD), and had the misty Father Junipero Serra Trail all to ourselves. I don't often run trails because it can be scary running them alone (remember my Lake Poway experience). So I'm excited to have a new friend who will run them with me. I don't know many girls (I guess it's just the one, actually) who would run through the cold, rain, and slippery mud, after a long week at work, and find it as fun and refreshing as I do.

The Gorge is much larger than I expected. We ran the Oak Grove Loop, Visitors Center Loop and the Serra Trail, but that barely scratched the surface of what's available. I spied Mt. Fortuna--it's on my run list. Yikes! It is going to be paaainful when that run comes.


If you noticed that I titled this "The Gorges..." then you might be wondering what the other "gorge" is. The other gorge I experienced today, took place after I stopped at Trader Joe's on my way home from The Gorge. (How many times can I write gorge in one paragraph? Let's count!) I found delicious looking chewy ginger cookies and mochi ice cream balls. Since returning home, I've eaten over half the package of ginger cookies (SO GOOD) and half the mochi balls. I feel a little sick. And in case you're confused: that's the gorge I'm referring to... my own personal one.

I'm waiting for better picture-taking weather, then I'll post some good images of Florida Canyon and Mission Trails. (Better than these I found online.) Tomorrow's my longest long run yet...14 miles. I need to go bed. Immediately.

Keep on truckin' my peeps.

Eggnog Pancakes (by the hubs)

This morning I woke up and found this note in the kitchen:

"Hey Baby Girl, I made enchiladas and tried to make eggnog pancakes but the pancakes kept burning. I saved a couple that look bad but taste okay. I love you! Have a great day!!"

Mind you, I went to bed at 11:00 PM last night...mmm hm. (My husband has trouble sleeping sometimes.) I was really happy to wake up to a pre-made breakfast I could pop in the toaster oven, and a lunch I could put in some tuperware and heat up at work later! Great way to start the day. Now I'll be honest, the pancakes were definitely burned; however, despite their charred appearance, they did taste really good.

Tonight, after we got a Target Christmas Tree,* I decided to mess with his recipe. I think I found the correct proportions so the eggnog won't burn before the pancakes are cooked. They're just as tasty and look good too. (Please note: Do not make if you don't like eggnog. DUH.)

The Hub's Eggnog Pancakes

2 C Trader Joe's Multigrain Baking & Pancake Mix
2 eggs
1/2 C nonfat milk
3/4 C low fat eggnog
1/4 t nutmeg

Be sure to cook on Medium-Low heat... patience is key.


*This is how I know my husband and I were meant for each other: we are both okay with walking into the garden section of Target, deciding how much we are willing to spend on a tree, and then deciding that every tree--no matter how misshapen--needs and deserves a home. Thus, there is nothing wrong with buying a tree before unbinding it. (I'm a big fan of underdogs.)

I have to say... this year's tree might have been a reject if we had looked at it before buying. However, I'm glad we didn't look because we are giving this (rather "holey") tree a good home. It will even be the center of attention at our Second Annual German Pickle Holiday Party. 'Tis the season to love the fuglies** too. Am I right?

** f'ing uglies

Florida Canyon

I met up with my new running buddies at Balboa Park tonight and we ran through Florida Canyon. I was excited to check this new running site off my list (see "run reviews"). One fact I did not consider when picking this site is that it's a canyon which means running up and down are the only two options. The creek at the bottom of the canyon was a fun pickle as we tried not to get our shoes wet. During regular San Diego weather a wet shoe is no big deal; however, it's been cold for the 619. I planned on camping in Mount Laguna this weekend, but decided to stay here because it was ideal long run weather. I did 9 miles yesterday and today. Feeling good, but am so excited about my rest day tomorrow. Yesterday I ran the Waterfront in frigid (...forsandiego) conditions. It even rained on me little, which made me feel tough; however, the wind coming from the North Pole is the reason I wussed out after only 9. (I was supposed to run 13.) If the air weren't so moist here, I would have had a chapped, crackling face. I'm serious. And I say this because I know all you NorCalers and Pacific Northwesterners are thinking, "Oh palease!" But, I just ran in Sacramento and Redding over the Thanksgiving Break in 40 degree weather--and I was MORE cold on my run here in San Diego than I was up there. It's the wet cold that (I think) is so much colder than the dry cold up there. My body just wouldn't warm up. Anyway...back on track here.... Then, today I ran 3 miles through Florida Canyon and 6 miles along the Waterfront to home, thus meeting my 18 mile weekend goal.

Even though this wasn't the ideal way to run my 18, I'm happy I did something instead of nothing...this is my new mantra. "Do something. It's better than nothing." My other mantra-of-the-moment for long runs is, "Just keep swimming." It's from Finding Nemo, but I can't take credit for it as my own idea. I read about ultra-marathoner Lori Wetzel in this month's Runner's World. She uses it. I have to say, it helped me get home when I was freezing my ass off at mile 4 and not even halfway through my run yet. Sidebar: Other mantras I've used include, "I'm still moving," "I feel stronger," and "Pain is good, numb is better." I don't recommend the last one... I've since stopped using it.

Review of the Canyon (pics to come when the weather clears!): Florida Canyon has many small trails that zigzag up and down the brushy hillsides. If you choose to run the canyon I recommend parking at Balboa Park's Reuben H. Fleet Science Museum and jogging across the footbridge to access one of the trailheads. This particular trailhead begins amid a native plant garden consisting of gnarled, scary cacti...no wonder they brought in palm trees all those years ago...cactus is mean. The trail splits quite often, but signs are provided that state the length of each trail loop. It's not a large canyon, so you don't have to worry about getting lost. We did about a 3 mile loop; I imagine it would be hard to find a loop much longer than the one we ran. Water fountains are available at Balboa Park and at the Velodrome on the east side of the canyon. Bathrooms at Balboa Park only (the ones in the Science Museum are nice and free for the public to use).

Keep on truckin' my friends.

P.S. I went to pick a wedgie today and realized it was more difficult than usual...Weird, thought I. Then I realized it was because I was flexing. I'm getting my marathon ass again!

I have a master's degree, and yet...

EVERY DAY I...

1. Pee in a bathroom that looks like a temporary, make-shift commode for a construction site. (Complete with a huge black widow and at least 2 daddy long legs. Incalculable number of ants.)

2. Collect and handle papers that are often mysteriously stuck together with unidentifiable grayish substances (I refuse to admit to myself that they are really boogers or other body fluids. GAG).

3. Find myself often saying, "Get that out of your mouth," and "Don't touch each other."

Just three things I realized today.
As far as training goes, it's a rest day, but I gotta go run.

The Goodbye Social-Life Phase

So I've said in a previous post that it's important to shape a training schedule to your needs, rather than give up your life to run. For some running is their life, but they also make crap loads of money doing it. I spend crap loads of money to do it, so I don't want to give up my social life as well. However, there comes a point in training when sacrifices must be made.

Take today for example. My friend "O" (whom I haven't seen in over two months) called today at work to see if I could hang out after school (she is also a teacher...so we bond over venting about it). Unfortunately, I had to decline because of a scheduled 7 mile run (with hills). I could have skipped the run altogether, but I honestly don't know where I could fit the run in during the rest of this week...I have a sewing class and a birthday party and a camping trip...very important things going on here.

The problem is, I schedule my runs around my scheduled social events. So, spontaneous hangings out are sometimes impossible. Unless they happen after dark. This doesn't happen very often because I'm friends with a lot of other teachers--and we're go-to-bed-early people. If I were OK with running at night, this would all be much more simple. However, in the words of Gwen, "I'm just a girl," and I'm afraid of being stolen during a night run. So I run before the sun goes down. Period. The end.

I guess the point of this post is to revise my previous statement about conforming the schedule to you and not the other way around, because there will come a point in your training when you will have to sacrifice social events to get the run in and meet those mileage goals for the week. Half marathon training is far more flexible, and I'm beginning to wonder why I decided to torture myself with another 26.2er.... especially after watching the marathon on "The Biggest Loser" the other night...sheesh. Then I think of Napa Valley and the rolling grapevined hills and all the wine wine wine and the bed and breakfasts and friends and family who will be there and I think, "Oooh yeah...so worth the effort."

Another example: The 13 miler I have planned is hanging over my head and cramping my camping plans for this weekend. I'll let you know how I work that shit out.

In the mean time, keep on truckin'.

Remembered at Sunset

I found out a few days before Thanksgiving Break that a family friend passed away--very unexpectedly. He was 27 years old and in great physical condition. He is originally from my hometown, but lived in San Diego and ran many of the same half marathons as I. On Nov. 20th he had an asthma attack and died.

It's hard to wrap my mind around it and I can't stop myself from thinking about him while I'm running. I pay more attention to my lungs expanding and sucking air. I imagine the panic and pain of lungs that refuse to do this. In San Diego tonight, on my first run here since I found out about his death, I wondered if he ran the same roads. I thought about the La Jolla Half Marathon he ran a few years ago and how after he completed it (in a time I could never even hope to achieve) his lungs were so restricted it was equal to breathing through a straw. I tried to imagine what that would feel like, and nearly slowed to a walk just thinking about it. I thought about his funeral and the many friends who mentioned his appreciation for sunsets. When I saw the sun setting in Ocean Beach tonight, my eyes stung with tears.

The bio on his myspace page talks about doing as much as you can while you can. I want to have this priority in common with him as well. He traveled the world, he made friends everywhere he went, and he knew how to have a good time. I want more of these things in my life.

Thanks, Shane for a new perspective. I'm sorry you had to leave.

The 9er

I have nine glorious days away from teaching. In my giddiness over this fact, I decided to do something nice for my students...this is rare. I wrote a handwritten letter to my failing and near-failing students that told them of my concern for their success and how they need to make the decision over the break to return with a renewed desire to try. I also gave them each examples of what "trying" looks like, because I'm pretty sure they don't know how that works. I found myself repeatedly writing lists that included the following: 1. Come to class 2. Do the work in class 3. Turn in the homework 4. Do the essays 5. Stay awake in class and 6. Bring paper and pencil to school every day.

All of this could have been summed up by saying, "Do your job as a student," but I don't think they would have understood that. Writing these letters about their need to set some goals and try harder, made me want to do the same for myself. If I'm going to run this marathon in Napa (and I've already registered...so I kinda have to...) I need to do a bit better sticking to my weekly mileage goals. It's difficult finding the time during the middle of the week to run 8 miles, but I have to figure it out or I won't be successful come March. So I'm going to use this break to continue my training with renewed vigor and some new goals. Here's what I came up with...

1. Wake up at 5:00 A.M. twice this next week and run at 7:00 A.M. to practice race-day time.
2. Run my 10 miler on Saturday as called for in the schedule.
3. When I return from break, run one day a week BEFORE school to help keep my mileage up (AH!).
4. When I return from break, I will run one new site a week--starting with Florida Canyon or Cowles Mtn.
5. Order new running shoes and injinji toe socks.

So we'll see how that goes. Like I've said before, I love making To Do Lists. It's doing the to-do's that is sometimes the prob.
Have a great Thanksgiving.
I probably won't be posting for a 9er or so.

The Waterfront

I don't run with people.

I haven't discussed this with you yet, but I it's time I did. First let me tell you why I dislike running with people (let me be perfectly clear: it's me, not them). I breathe loud. I spit a lot. I'm slow. My nose runs. I make hacking sounds to cough up phlegm. (This makes me sound like an 80 year old smoker.) It's not pleasant. Years ago, I occasionally ran with a friend, but she moved away, so for the last few years I've been content to run alone. It makes me feel independent and stoic...I suppose. But then last night at a friend's wedding reception, I "ran" into a new running buddy.

By some crazy coincidence, my husband and I were placed at a table with a friend of ours who, come to find out, has recently decided to train for the Napa Valley Marathon. (P.S. I'm training for the same marathon.) So, we talk mileage, training plans, routes around San Diego, blah blah blah-- he wants to do some long runs together. Despite my reservations about myself and my grossness, I say yes. Coincidence #2: We were both scheduled to run about 10 miles the next day along the same San Diego waterfront. (We live in the same neighborhood, so I guess it's not that much of a coincidence.)

Today I was reminded of the benefits of having a running buddy: accountability, pacing and distraction.

Accountability: If I wake up in the morning knowing that someone is counting on me to be there for a run, I will do it. Sometimes the excuses to not go on that long run first thing in the morning are too many and too easy to use. However, if I know someone is waiting for me, I'll be there (I'm extremely punctual and reliable and not afraid to brag about it--thanks Mom and Dad!).

Pacing: Sometimes when running alone, it's easy to zone out and realize too late that you've been running at a 14:00 minute pace for the last two miles. A running partner can push you when you're feeling ready to slack and you can push them when they're feeling ready to slack. But, be sure you communicate about how the pace feels, or you'll end like me and my running partner today who thought we were pacing off the other person and ran the last 2 miles at an 8:30 pace (don't laugh, that's fast to both of us!) I had to take a two hour nap to recover from just those last couple miles.

Distraction: Long runs can get soooo booooring. A running partner can keep you distracted from the miles you're slowing racking up over the course of two, three or four hours. Also, talking is a helpful running tool on long runs that can help the both of you gauge an appropriate and safe pace. If you can't talk, you're running too fast (of course this rule doesn't apply if you're trying to be the next Paula Radcliff or Ryan Hall). And since I don't run with headphones, the conversation definitely helped pass the time today, and for my friend who is trying to wean himself off the headphones, it was a step in the right direction. (The Napa Valley Marathon has a very strict policy about not wearing headphones--this can be scary for some people to consider running without the mental help of music.)

Running alone has its benefits, and it is necessary especially for runs during the week. If you always run with someone, you may not be prepared for that point in the race when it's just you and miles of road ahead. Running alone builds mental strength. (Side note: come up with your own personal mantra to keep your feet moving. Mine is,"I'm still moving" and sometimes, "I feel good." Pick a simple phrase that you can repeat to the beat of your pace.) But, I was reminded today about how having a running buddy for (some, not all of) your long runs is a great training strategy. If you don't have a friend who is willing to run 15 plus miles with you twice a month...join a running club like San Diego's Running Club or San Diego Track Club.

Another strategy I tried today, because of my running buddy, was The Galloway Method. I'm a big fan. I kind of always felt that running this way would be considered cheating...but I gotta say, "The Penguin" has something here. His plan is slightly different than what we chose to do (which was run 8 minutes, walk 1 minute) but this goes with what I said in a post from the other day: Alter the training schedule to fit you. This method kept my muscles loose and able to recover, and overall my average pace was not much slower than if I had run the whole ten miles. I still have a hard time saying, "I ran 10 miles today" since I walked some of it...but that's a pride thing, maybe? Perhaps I should say, "I Gallowayed 10 miles today."

The Course: The San Diego Bay Shore (AKA The Waterfront)
You can jump in at any point along this run. For a 12 mile round trip, start in Shelter Island (shown in both images). There is a lot of free parking all along Shelter Island Drive. (If you're closer to downtown, you can do this route starting at the turn around point by parking where Broadway meets Pacific Highway or in Seaport Village. You'll have to pay for parking down there.) Run along the bay's sidewalk on Shelter Island Drive. (Water and restroom is available near the pier.) At the southernmost tip of the island, listen for the seals barking in the early morning hours. When you're ready to leave Shelter Island, head east past some fantastic eateries like The Brigantine and The Point Break Cafe. Hang a right on Scott Street, you'll pass Point Loma Seafood on your right (also so good!). Stay to the right and you'll join up with North Harbor Drive. After you go over the Harbor Drive bridge, there is a running path to your right that runs feet from the water. There are two restrooms and water fountains available along this path. (You can run along Harbor Dr. on the road with the cars, but the park is much more peaceful.)

When you get to the San Diego Airport at the corner of Harbor and Harbor Island Drive, you can do a 3 mile side route that takes you around the two "legs" of the artificial peninsula. Tom Ham's Lighthouse (I hear it has a great champagne brunch) is on the south leg of the trip.

After Harbor Island Dr. continue east on the bike/run path. Coast Guard facilities will cut off your view of the bay; however, not for long. Immediately after these buildings, you'll emerge and have an amazing view across the harbor to downtown. On a clear day, you'll be able to see the Star of India (a maritime museum: an old ship that looks like something from Pirates of the Caribbean) and even as far down as the cruise ship terminals and The Midway (aircraft carrier). Another restroom and water is available before you hit the Embarcadero where there is more good food available (Ruth's Chris and Anthony's Fish Grotto...do you see what marathon training has done to my writing? All I can think about is food!). The turn around point is at Broadway. (If you continue less than a 1/4 mile past Broadway, check out the aircraft carrier. It's crazy big!)

For more mileage: you can continue past Broadway and into the Seaport Village area--a super cute Spanish style village on the edge of the harbor. It is host to the perfect view of the Coronado bridge and Coronado itself. (Don't even get me started on all the good food available down there!)

A fun option available at the Embarcadero:
Carry $7 (it used to only be $4! Sad.) on your run and purchase a round trip ferry ticket to Coronado. The ferry leaves every hour on the hour. From the ferry landing run south on Orange Ave until you get to the Hotel Del Coronado. The beach at this hotel is usually on the Top 10 Best Beaches according to "Dr. Beach" because of it's size, crystal sands, and kid-friendliness. Kick off your shoes and enjoy running the mile long length of this beach (if you want to be sore the next day...).

I guess that's it.
Keep on truckin'.

What they said, what I said, and what I wish I'd said (Second Edition)

Tuesday morning I opened my email at 7:30 AM and this was the first message I read.

(Please note: All names, phone numbers and email addresses have been changed to protect the identity of the sender. All spelling and grammar issues have been transcribed as they appeared in the email.)

>>> "Ignorant Parent" 11/10/09 7:25 AM >>>

-Hi, i have a few concerns that i need to seak to you about. Like why [my kid] is getting dention for something he did weeks ago and for sayins dang it which other studnets in the class heard him say. So if you could please contact me that would be great.

Ignorant Parent
555-5555
__________________________________________________________
After a few deep breaths, I very patiently (though with shaking hands) responded with this.......

Hello Ms. Parent,
I was just about to email you, thank you for contacting me. [Your kid] is getting a detention because yesterday he said, "Damn it" to me when I took the posted grades down. He ran across the room to try and see the grades before I could take them down--which endangered himself and others. He nearly ran into me when he said, "Damn it." I heard him very clearly without question; later he backtracked trying to say he said, "Dang it."

On Friday (not weeks ago) he came into the classroom and scribbled all over the front board while I was standing right outside the classroom door watching students as they entered the room. I had a picture (that took me quite a while to do) drawn on the board to demonstrate a scene from "The Pearl" and he ruined it with his scribblings. I told him he would receive a detention for it on Friday. So...instead of writing him TWO detentions, I just combined the two offenses yesterday. I hope that clears the situation up for you. If you have any more questions feel free to call or email me.

Me
888-8888
_________________________________________________________

And now, what I wish I could have said...

Dear Ignorant Parent,

Are you freaking kidding me? You really think that I'm so stupid as to write a detention yesterday for "something" that happened "weeks ago?" Really? Really?! And do you really think I would write a detention for a kid saying "dang it?" Really?! Come on. We both know your kid is a spaz who can't control his mouth or his body. Didn't you tell me about a month ago when I called you about his obnoxious, inappropriate, completely frustrating classroom behavior that you had an appointment with his doctor to get his ADHD meds adjusted? Whatever happened with that? I've seen no change, and frankly it's a miracle I haven't written your kid three referrals and had his ass kicked out by now for all the time he's sucked away in that class. So you better back up off my shiz before I tell you how I really feel about it.

Me.
P.S. Proofread your emails for crying out loud!

_________________________________________________

Ahhh... that is the best form of therapy.
The 6 miler today helped a bit too!

I Run for French Toast

(Oh my gosh!! Christmas commercials have already started! sigh...)


On Saturday, according to my marathon training plan, I was supposed to run 9 miles. However, Saturday was a bad day and plans changed, as they sometimes do, so I decided to move the long run to Sunday. I originally planned a run from Point Loma to La Jolla Cove via The Boardwalk and through various and sundry side roads; however, those plans changed once I realized it would be about a 14 mile run. So, I drove to and parked at the cove (parking is free and not limited to 3 hours on weekends) then ran to Mount Soledad. I was pretty excited because I've never been to the top of this controversial site. (The controversy revolves around the gianormous* cross at the summit. Pictured above.)


This is a view from the top:








I figured I would run the 6 mile out-and-back trip from the cove to Mount Soledad, and then finish the 9 miler with an easy 3 around some La Jolla neighborhoods. HA! What really happened: I nearly had a heart attack running straight up for 3 miles. Well, let's be honest, I did not run the whole time. But I would love to shake the hand of the person who can run from the cove all the way to the Mount Soledad cross without walking.

So by the time I got back to the cove at mile 5.34, I had been on my "run" for an hour and a half. My body said, "Enough you psycho. Stop this." So, I cooled down for another half mile and called it good. I then (and this is why I love running so much) sat down (without thinking about the calories & carbs) to the best french toast breakfast on the planet at Cody's. After I got home a few hours later, I did another three miles around Point Loma, just so I could say I met my mileage goal.

Whether you're training for your first 5K or your third marathon, I think the lesson here is: listen to your body! I was done after those six miles up and back from Mount Soledad, and if I had pushed myself to do three more miles right then, I might have injured myself or tossed my cookies (something that's not exactly kosher in a place like La Jolla). Any seasoned runner will tell you that the key to staying healthy during training is to keep checking in with your body and be willing to adjust to it. It's sort of the like the Vera Wang mentality from "Bride Wars." (Yes I'm quoting this movie...I'm as shocked at myself as you might be with me.) In the movie Kate Hudson says, "You don't alter Vera! You alter yourself to fit Vera." It is the opposite when it comes to race training...

Don't alter yourself to fit the schedule! Alter the schedule to fit you.

For those daring enough to run up hill for 3 miles (don't think I'll be doing it again any time soon) this is the route I followed thanks to Schad's book Trail Runner's Guide: San Diego. I parked down at the cove and ran up Prospect Street to Torrey Pines Road. (Parking is always free and the 3 hour rule doesn't apply on the weekends.) From Prospect, hang a right on Torrey Pines. One block down take a left onto Exchange Place (the uphill begins). Exchange Place turns into Soledad Ave (so stay left) and then turn right on Al Bahr Dr. You'll keep truckin' it up hill, go around a super cute curved, arched bridge and take a right on Crespo Street. Keep going up..and then when you get to a slight downhill respite look for Castenalana on your right. You'll continue downhill for a little bit, but get ready because the uphill is only just beginning after you go under another super cute bridge and hit Hillside Dr. Turn right and follow this steep winding path until you get to an old, dirt path (a continuation of Hillside) that runs up the north slope of Mt Soledad. After a mile of trekking pretty much straight up, you'll hit the main road and entrance to Mount Soledad. Run along the road, stick to the left, and then you're at the cross. Toilets and a drinking fountain can be found at the base of the cross.

*gianormous= giant + enormous

I didn't get a jersey...it's confirmed

they hate me. During homecoming week it's tradition for varsity football players to ask their favorite teacher to wear their "away" jersey on the Friday of the Big Game. Last year I was asked to wear one, but not this year. It could be that my odds were significantly lower this year because I only have three football players between two classes of seniors. Last year I had about 8 meat-heads per class, and I had three senior classes. So my chances of getting a jersey this year were slim; even so, it still stings a little. And of course all my students ask, "Are you bummed you didn't get a jersey?" To which I love responding (in monotone of course), "Yes. I'm destroyed. I don't know how I'll ever carry on."

Then I got to thinking, am I meaner than last year? It's a tough call because I really, really disliked last year's kids. They were...pretty much evil, but they were smart. They knew how to use their brains (even if it was only to manipulate and berate) and could at least do their work without expecting me to think for them. I can deal with smart and evil. I can NOT deal with apathetic and dumb. I think I kind of scare this year's seniors because I make them think and they know I get frustrated (and sometimes snippy) if they ask me a dumb question. Don't you dare say, "But there is no such thing as a dumb question" to me. That is the stupidest statement/poster ever invented. OF COURSE there are stupid questions. Let me give you a few:

1. We've been reading silently for 5 minutes and someone blurts out, "Are we doing something right now?" (no joke)
2. I'm giving directions or delivering a lecture and someone blurts out, "Can I go to the bathroom?"
3. The agenda is written on the board and someone asks, "What are we doing today?" or "Do we have homework?"
4. We're reading a novel and we're discussing themes or elements of literature when someone asks out of no where, "Can we watch the movie?"
5. I hand out homework or an in-class assignment and someone asks, "Can this be extra credit?"

See? It's possible. I've never had a class that asks so many of these questions as often as my current seniors do. I roll my eyes so much that at this rate they're going to roll out of my head before Winter Break. This alone is probably why they don't like me...no one likes to find out they're stupid.

It's actually quite disconcerting how hard they work to not use their brains. I despair for our future every time I hand out an assignment and a student asks, "Do I need to keep this?"

This is why I run.

My Blog in Voice of San Diego

The following appeared in San Diego's online newspaper, Voice of San Diego (voiceofsandiego.org) today. I hope it gets some people interested in finding out where our school district chooses to spend its money.

A Day in the Life of School Budget Cuts

`

Thank You Mr. Lowe for the Tuck & Roll

First of all, congrats to Meb Keflezighi, winner of the New York City Marathon. So jealous.

Second of all, Mr. Lowe was my high school volleyball coach for three years. Thank goodness we practiced dives and rolls, otherwise the fall I took today on my "easy 3 miler" could have been tragic. While in the shower when I got home, it came to me why I've been such a klutz today. It's homecoming week at school, and today's dress up day was "Geeked-Up." I thought about being a Twilight geek, but that would have involved spending money on a "Team Edward" T-shirt or some other such nonsense...something with which I have moral and visceral issues. (Meaning: I can't stand Stephanie Meyers' writing ability and I loathe the Kristen/Rob drama, so the thought of supporting any of them in any way makes me feel sick to my stomach.) Then, I couldn't find a Harry Potter wand or Griffindor scarf left over from the Halloween costumes at Target, so I went "Classic Geek." I wore an argyle sweater and socks, and put white-out on the bridge of my glasses (to look like tape). But, I'm pretty sure dressing up in all my glorious geekness jinxed the rest of my day. I'll explain...

I found a great little dirt path that runs along the outer edge of Liberty Station (in Point Loma) on a leg of the harbor...not really sure what that would be called...it's not a river, but it's not the harbor. I think it's just tide overflow or something. Anyway, it was really pretty. However, I should have spent less time looking at the scenery and more time looking at the trail, because I hit a rock and then dropped like one. I have NEVER taken a fall on a run. Ever. So, I guess it was just a matter of time. Thankfully, no one was around. I dropped hard and fast, but recovered just as quickly because of my good ol' volleyball training. I tucked, rolled sideways across my back and was on my feet checking for wounds without losing a beat. I had some scrapes on my left palm, and will probably have a bruise on my left hip and parts of my spine, but other than that, I was still lookin' good. I was reminded of what my dad used to say to me after I made a silly mistake on the volleyball or basketball court, "Ehhh...who cares? At least you looked good doing it." So, I guess the lesson here is twofold: 1. When running a new trail or road, no matter how great the scenery may be, watch where you're going (especially if you were dressed like a geek all day) and 2. If you're going down...do it with style!

Oh, and...the other klutzy thing I did today? Sliced open my index finger whilst trying to trim flower stems with a knife. I did NOT look good doing that.

Away From HO-lloween

I went to San Francisco this weekend for a bachelorette party. I know you might be confused by the title, "Away From HO-lloween," because wouldn't the crazy peps of SF be more scandalous than those in SD? Nope. The Halloween party peeps of San Francisco actually dress in a COSTUME for Halloween! They do not take professions like Nursing or Firefighting and turn them into a "Slutty Nurse," or "Slutty Firefighter" costume. They dress up in the traditional sense--and to top it off--they're SMART costumes that make one think. Like the guy who carried around a bag of pennies to give out for those who write a "thought" on this paper shirt. He was the, "Penny for Your Thoughts Guy." Creative. And then there was the girl who hand sewed dozens of plastic balls to a leotard, wore a white wig, and was Lady Gaga. I felt lucky to be hundreds of miles away from the high school campus where I would have spent the entire day trying to avert my eyes to avoid seeing cleavage, cracks, and bulges... high schoolers are just too much gross at Halloween. (Mothers: Please check your daughter's backpack before she goes to school on Halloween!)

But, the reason for this post is to officially announce that I am in marathon training. San Francisco got me fired up again (I ran a half marathon there this summer). I'm a little jealous of my friend who is training in SF, because the hills are so fantastic in the city. If I could train in San Francisco, I could run any race in any place. The hills in SD are too easy to avoid. Don't get me wrong, San Diego is a beautiful place to train, and it's convenient because morning, noon and night the weather is never so terrible as to impede upon a long run schedule. That is one thing SF doesn't have going for it, but it probably breeds stronger runners. (See the "I Found Solitude" post for the type of runner I happen to be...)

I think the race I'll be training for is the Napa Valley Marathon. I like the race philosophy about running without headphones. In case you aren't aware, there is growing hostility between those who run with headphones and those who consider themselves "purists" and run sans headphones. I happen to be a "purist." But, that's partly because I decided to let my ipod go for a swim in the washing machine....

I'll be using a mix between Hal Higdon's training plan and Bart Yasso's (which I clipped out of a Runner's World Issue). I like these plans because they require only 3-4 days of running a week. I fudge a bit on the "Cross Training" days and usually just go for a short walk or maybe a bike ride. I also do my long runs on Saturdays instead of Sundays. I'll keep a running tally in the sidebar on the right to track my weekly mileage and goals. Tomorrow's goal: 3 miles easy. OH, I forgot. The saddest part about marathon training: saying goodbye to wine. Sigh.

(Picture at top was taken at Dolores Park near Noe Valley, San Francisco.)

Thanks Erin for This Link: The Human Body Is Built For Distance, NY Times

And I was just talking to a friend about the theory of barefoot running...how weird. (That I was thinking it, not that people do it...although I guess some people would consider running long distances with your feet in the nuddypants weird. I find it admirable.)

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/10/27/health/27well.html?emc=eta1

I Found Solitude! (But wish I had my pepper spray)

I finally ran at Lake Poway today. Which means, last week's goal was accomplished this week! Booyah. My students exhausted me today with questions about things I spent incredible amounts of energy trying to explain in an entertaining, accessible way. I felt like a tap dancer at the front of the room trying to keep their eyes from glazing over. And still the same questions were asked over and over and over...not because the concepts were too difficult, but because my little cherubs were simply not listening to directions. It ended with me holding up a worksheet and saying (loudly), "Read this! Do it! And don't look at me." For these reasons, I was grateful the trail at Poway was only 2.5 miles.

The book I've been using to give me new running site ideas (called Trail Runner's Guide San Diego) described and even mapped Lake Poway as a loop. However, things have changed since publication. I ran the mile and a half along the lake's edge, through scratchy brush and overgrown trees that slapped my face, only to reach the dam and find, "No Public Access," "Do Not Cross," and "Trespassers Will Be Prosecuted" signs posted everywhere. If they hadn't been spray painted on the dam itself, I may have risked "trespassing" to get back to my car (which I could see on the other side of the dam)--that is how desperate I was to NOT go back the way I'd come.

How can I describe this to you so that I don't sound like a total wuss.... There is no way. I'm a wuss. So here it is.

Lake Poway is much more secluded than I expected and the trail is a real trail with rocks and stumps and tree roots. I love dirt trails, so I was pretty excited about this unexpected bonus. But, I did not expect the complete lack of people. There were no park rangers around, very few cars were in the parking lot, and I saw no one on the trail. I saw the remnants of people who had been on the trail, but their shoe prints made me feel even more alone...like they knew when to get the hell out and I didn't.

I fully admit: my imagination got the best of me. I had that someone-I-can't-see-is-watching-me feeling. Which meant a mountain lion was stalking me on every hillside. A pack of "Wild Things" was behind every shrub. The weeds scratching my ankles were the claws of tiny creatures trying to slice my achilles tendon then drag me into their underground lairs for dinner. And that was just the imaginary wildlife... the real wild life scared the crap out of me too. Bullfrogs leaping off the bank with a screech (bullfrogs screech and sort of scream or squeal...it's freaky-deeky), ducks scuttling away from the shoreline, and squirrels yelling at me from their tunnels all made me jump sideways. You think I'm exaggerating, but I'm not...I probably looked like someone whose running was getting in the way of break-dance practice.

I actually whistled for most of the run at every exhale in the hope that if a mountain lion were just around the corner, my whistle would scare it off. My one comfort was my cell phone (not because it had reception...it didn't) because I held it like a knife--ready to gouge eyes. A friend told me once that she carries a ballpoint pen while running in the woods because she heard about a woman who fought a cougar off of her husband using a pen! Crazy I know! But let me tell you, I would have done just about anything for a ballpoint pen today.

I know what you're thinking...you live in Southern California. The wildlife there is "citified" so it doesn't count. So what am I so worried about? Oh my friends, let me tell you. People have been attacked here by coyotes, and raccoons (and possums!) and mountain lions are not uncommon to secluded, rural areas like Poway or Ramona. PLUS, there are wacked people in this world! Headlines such as, "City girl out for a country jog ends up in pieces around Lake Poway," or "Girl is attacked and eaten whole by a raging, wild stallion," were running through my head.

Anyway. Obviously I made it back. In fact, about a 1/4 of a mile away from the trail head, I saw a group of Poway High School track kids running near the parking lot...I have never been so happy to see teenagers in my life. And, I did notice that they did not go down "my" trail. Why is that I wonder?

I learned a valuable lesson that I think all runners/hikers/walkers can benefit from: on cloudy, somewhat misty, eerie, windy days, don't run on secluded trails with which you're unfamiliar.

Lake Poway on a sunny day, and perhaps on a weekend and with a friend, would be a perfect place to hike. There are multiple trails, (some more for horses than for joggers...but you can still use them if you're into running straight up hill for miles and miles) and it was (would have been) a very relaxing, peaceful place to just BE. I have been searching San Diego high and low for a truly quiet place. No cars, no ambulance sirens, no helicopters, and no people noise. I finally found it. And even though it freaked my shit out, I'm grateful that I know about the magical quiet of Lake Poway.

Some logistics: There is a $4 entrance fee for parking on weekends. From the parking lot head north to get to the trailhead. You will want to get on the "skinny" trail that is closest to the water. If you find yourself on a wide, flat trail overlooking the lake...be prepared to run (walk) up and up and up the mountainside for a long, long time. Oh, and the dam is not for pedestrians.

I will post pics of the lake on Monday. HOLD ME TO IT please.

So...here are the pics I promised. I'll walk you through them.
In case you doubted whether cougars are real in this area, this statue is at the trailhead near the docks.

Why would there be a tribute to cougars if they weren't really there? (Rhetorical question.)


The beginning of the trail is open and airy. A park with benches is on the right, the lake is to the left.
Pleasant. Good.





From there the view (across the lake) of Mile 1 is appealing, enticing and serene.









But then, the hillsides descend, brush blocks the sun, and creatures wait for you in dark places. There was an animal moving in this bush directly below. I couldn't see it...but I know it was seeing me.


Perhaps next time I won't let my imagination get the best of me...or maybe I'll just have a posse with me.

The Cabrillo Incident

Did a 9 miler today with big ol' hills. Sometimes after a long run like this I get sick, but not today! I did everything right. Hydrated (but not too much) and refueled halfway through with apple-flavored Gu (my fav). I am definitely tired. But, I'm not sick. This success is causing me to consider starting an official marathon training plan. I could technically be ready by January, which would be perfect for the Carlsbad Marathon set for mid-January...hmmm...to do the half or the full? That is the question. (I have the biggest crush on Hamlet...sorry for using such a cliche quote.)

Anyway, this 9-miler was up to Cabrillo National Monument (pictured here).

The next few paragraphs will basically be information about the route and monument for those who are interested in running it. If you don't care about this info, skip down to the last paragraph to read about "the incident."

I recommend starting the run to Cabrillo at the corner of Lomaland Dr. and Catalina Boulevard. There is neighborhood parking available around Point Loma Nazarene University or on the frontage road that runs parallel to Catalina (also called Catalina). It is on this frontage road that you will begin the trek up to the monument. On the 3.5 mile jog to the top, be sure to enjoy views of the wide open Pacific Ocean to your right, and the San Diego Harbor to your left, as well as, the Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery on both sides.


Water is available at the entrance of the monument, as well as at the monument itself. The entrance fee is $3 per person (there is a walk-up window), or you can purchase a year-round pass for $15. If you want to extend the run by a couple miles, there is a path that winds around the point. It offers spectacular views of the San Diego Harbor, the Coronado Military Base, and on a clear day, Mexico.

Not interested in extending the run? Don't. Just enjoy the views and super cold drinking fountain at the monument, or walk up to the old lighthouse before heading back down the hill. (The lighthouse is currently being renovated. Visit the Cabrillo website to find out when it will be finished and ready for walk-throughs again.)



I say "down," because overall there is a loss of elevation on the 3.5 mile trek back to start; however, the hills are more difficult on the way back. In a way, the run up doesn't feel so "up" because the hills are gradual, and there are short downhill portions. Those "short downhill portions" turn into what-the-heck-is-this-big-ol'-hill-doing-here on the way back. There are three to be exact, so be prepared to work for it. (Could I "use" any more "quotes" in this "paragraph?")

As on any semi-secluded, windy road, runners should stay on the side of the road that goes against traffic. The bike lane is not huge, so keep a close eye on oncoming cars. If the driver seems to be distracted by the views or a cell phone (so common despite the illegality!), be prepared to jump up on an ice-plant-covered hillside. I've never had to do so, but I'm always ready for it.

What I wasn't ready for today, was the call to 911 I had to make. Yeah. Point Loma got a little "hood" on me when I ran past a house with a man in the front yard yelling expletives at someone (or something) on the ground while kicking it with all his drunken strength. I did a little side-stepping as I reached for my cell phone and ran up a side street to make the call (praying it wasn't a kid or a dog being abused). A fence was partially obscuring my view, so I didn't find out until a later "run-by" that what the man had been kicking was another (rather obese and drunken) man in a stained, white t-shirt and sweat-stained trucker hat. Keepin' it real in the PL.

(In case you're wondering what ended up happening, I don't know. But, I did run past four cop cars headed toward said house within two blocks of resuming my run. Go SDPD! Thanks for being on top it...but should I be worried so many cops happened to be patrolling in my neighborhood?)

Tri-Athlete Chocolate Chunk Cookies (for everyone- even if you're not an athlete)

I got this recipe from a couple on the east coast who own a bakery/bike shop...I know! What a great combo, huh?! I made a few changes to their recipe to make them just a bit more healthy. This way, you don't have to feel guilty for eating them if you aren't into running 9 miles or biking 20...you get the idea.

TRI-ATHLETE CHOCOLATE CHUNK COOKIES (for everyone)

2 sticks unsalted butter
1/2 C honey + 1/4 C 100% maple syrup + 5 Tbs table sugar
1/4 C + 2 Tbs brown sugar
2 eggs
1/3 C unsulphured molasses
2 tsp almond or vanilla extract

Mix the above ingredients together--but don't cream too much.

In a separate bowl mix:
4 1/4 C flour (I use 2 C Trader Joe's Multi-Grain Baking and Pancake Mix + 2 1/2 regular flour)
1 tsp salt
1 tsp baking soda
1C dark chocolate chunks (buy 1 bar of good dark chocolate and cut it into pieces)
1/2 C of your favorite nuts (walnuts, pecans, sliced almonds)
1/2 C of your favorite dried fruit (cherries, blueberries, cranberries, etc.)
(Optional: add a dash of your favorite spice like Cinnamon or Allspice to give them a more holidayish flavor.)

Add the dry ingredients to the wet. Mix slowly.

Now...what makes these cookies so fantastic is their size! Each ball of dough you place on the cookie sheet should be about the size of your fist...yes...I'm talkin' big!

Bake in a 350 degree oven for 15-20 minutes. The are done when the bottom of the cookie is a dark, golden brown (check by lifting up an edge with a spatula).

This is the kind of treat you dream about when you're craving a cookie! A glass with an extra wide rim will be needed if you plan on dunking! Enjoy.


GUILT-FREE CHOCOLATE CHIP OATMEAL COOKIES

3/4 C rolled oats
1 C whole wheat flour
1/2 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 C soft unsalted butter
1/4 C canola oil
1/3 C sugar (or honey or agave nectar)
1/3 C brown sugar
1 large egg
1 tsp vanilla
1 C dark chocolate chips or dried cranberries

Combine dry ingredients. In a separate bowl combine the wet ingredients (remember sugar is considered a wet ingredient). Then, add the the dry ingredients to the wet. Bake at 375 for 10-12 minutes.


PUMPKIN COOKIES WITH MAPLE FROSTING (Sooooo good!)

1 C Crisco shortening
1 C sugar
1 egg
1 C pumpkin (one small can is 1 cup)
1 tsp vanilla
2 C flour
1 tsp baking soda
1 tsp baking powder
1/2 tsp salt
1 tsp pumpkin spice (or cinnamon or all spice)

Combine all ingredients in a large bowl. Bake at 350 degrees for 10-12 minutes.

Maple Frosting:

In a saucepan combine:
1/2 C brown sugar
3 tsp butter
3 tsp milk

Bring it to a boil for 2 minutes, then turn off heat and add:
1 tsp maple (or vanilla) extract
1 C sifted powdered sugar

Drizzle over cool cookies.

Every day you make me stupider

(Warning: This post was written over the course of 3 days. It begins negative, because the beginning of my week was so; however, stick with it to the end if you can. My week turned itself around and so did the post.)

I have lost my former self. I used to be so much better than this. "This" being me. Who I am. How I am. It all started when I convinced me to become a teacher. It's a smart, honorable, somewhat poetic thing to do with your life. Wrong. So wrong.

Upon this realization, I decided to do a countdown a la Letterman (pre-Pervyman) style to see the exact ways teaching high school has made parts of my soul rot. But, because my husband is constantly telling me I'm too negative (due largely to the fact that I teach high school in the public school system!) I have decided to balance the losses with a "Gains" countdown as well. We'll see how that pans out. I'm feeling a little uncomfortable with it.

Top Ten Things I Have Lost Since Becoming a High School Teacher

10. Confidence and certainty in my spelling abilities: Sometimes I wonder if "does" really is spelled "dose" or if "with" actually ends with an "e."
9. The love for my own cell phone. And my husband's. And his ipod.
8. My 20/20 vision. The doctor said I can blame it on how many illegible essays I have to read; so I do.
7. Patience for anyone who asks, "But, why?"
6. Patience in general.
5. My love for the movie Anchorman because of that one d-bag-bully of a student who quoted Ron Burgundy every day! (May be the saddest loss of my career.)
4. The ability to go shopping without thinking, "Hmmm...how can I make this low-cut, sheer, silk blouse appropriate for the classroom?"
3. The ability to wear anything outside school, that I happened to wear inside the school, without feeling like a teacher.
2. Pleasant memories of myself as a high schooler. Turns out I was just. like. them.
1. The belief that teaching is a respected and noble career. Trust that administrators and board members have education as their top priority. And, faith that parents will behave like parents.

Sigh.
Please excuse me while I take a butter knife to my throat....(shout out to Kal, Kor and Er!) Eh, let's try the "Gains Countdown" on for size.


Top Ten Things I Have Gained Since Becoming a High School Teacher

10. Five pounds.
9. A Y-shaped crease between my eyebrows from the "You better check yourself," glare I give five days a week.
8. A proclivity for cheap white wine.
7. Love for the smell of freshly duplicated and still warm grammar worksheets.
6. The ability to calculate the exact number of weeks, days and hours before the next holiday at the drop of a hat.
5. Fear of the red blinking light on my classroom telephone.
4. The need to keep pepper spray in my desk drawer and my scissors well hidden from any teenage-eyes.
3. Many, many button-up, collared shirts and cardigans from Target.
2. A passion for and reliance on running.
1. Utter compassion and love and deep, deep sadness for the student who comes to school with a hard "fuck you" attitude because they were born with and live with so little hope.

Annnnnnd, my husband is correct. I seem to have a mental block when it comes to true positivity. I'll be in the kitchen polishing butter knives if you need me....

(One Day Later)
I went for a run today and realized this...

Top Ten Ways San Diego Saves Me:

10. While getting ready for work, I can hear the cruise ship horns as they glide into the harbor.
9. I can run to said cruise ship from my house.
8. It can be blazing hot or freezing cold at work in East County, but when I get back to the coast, it's a perfect 72 degrees (MOST of the time--which inspired me to run seven miles today and therefore met my long run goal for the week)!
7. The seagull cries are a constant reminder that open, unpopulated-for-as-far-as-the-eyes-can-see space is not far away.
6. The grocer at the market across the street always has a new joke to tell. Plus, he knows me by name and never asks to see my I.D.
5. Today, when I needed to find a "prize" (candy from Vons) for two of my students before work, I was able to get a Starbucks coffee at the same time.
4. The planes that wake me up in the morning remind me how close my family can be sometimes.
3. People here move fast, but no one's in a hurry.
2. If I run west or east for one mile, I am running beside large bodies of water whose reflection helps give me a year-round tan.
1. Within a one block radius of my house I can get a hair cut, mani-pedi, facial or massage, get groceries, have Afternoon High Tea with a friend or ex-professor, get an amazingly decadent square cupcake, buy a pumpkin from the mini-pumpkin patch, eat the best bean, cheese, and guac burrito this side of the border, browse vintage jewlery and wing-backed chairs, pet a calico cat, eat seriously amazing Italian food on a quaint covered patio, talk to someone from another country at the hostel, sit at a bar with a cheap beer/burger combo while watching the game on a big screen, do some killer hill repeats behind the donut shop, check out an audio-book from the library, and get a great cup of coffee for only a dollar.

Since I had such a fantastic long run today (See #8 above), I feel like making my Tri-Athlete Cookies. But since this particular post has droned on quite long enough, I will make it a post all it's own called, "My Tri-Athlete Cookies for Everyone, Even if You're Not a Tri-Athlete."

Keep on Truckin' my peps.

Round One of "What They Said, What I Said, and What I Wish I'd Said.

I've had this idea in the back of my mind to write a parenting book from a teacher's perspective. I feel like I'd be a really good parent because of what I have seen in the high school classroom. Unfortunately, what I have seen in the high school classroom is the exact reason I don't want to have kids. Ever.

In this book full of wonderful, life transforming, too legit-to-quit advice, I would devote an entire chapter to teaching parents how to translate emails from their child's teacher. More often than not, a parent who is contacting a teacher via email is complaining about something they feel you have "done to" their child, or they are making ridiculous requests on behalf of their child. In the long run, this stunts the overall growth of the child's ability to fend for his/herself and inhibits them from learning how to communicate with authority. This is why, today, college professors are starting to get more emails than ever from parents speaking for their children who never learned how to communicate with teachers.

(Note: in order to ensure the protection of the parents who sent these emails, as well as to ensure the protection of their child(ren)*, I have changed all names and removed any identifying remarks that could, in any way, be traced back to the sender.)

*I know... but child(s) can't be right either...can it?
__________________________________________
Parent Email #1 sent today:

Ms. Asha

I am sorry to hear that Sammy is failing your class. Sammy currently is doing everything except turning in homework. He is failing more then your class by doing this.

I follow his daily planner but all he has to say is that's turned it in. I have no proof then what is posted on the teachers websites.

I suggest three things.

1. If you could initial his planner when he does turn in the required homework.
or
2. Email me when he does not turn in required homework.
Or
3. Anything you suggest.

I have taken away his Video Games, computer (has a computer that can only do Word), and his stereo (still has I pod). He can still watch TV, and ride his bike.

Thanks for you time.
Mr. Williams
_________________

My actual response:

Hello Mr. Williams,

Sammy says that he leaves a lot of work at home. So, my suggestion is that each night (or every other night) ask him if he has his bag packed with all the work he will need at school. The other suggestion I can make is, instead of me emailing you every time he doesn't turn something in (because I'll never remember to do that), email me once or twice a week as a reminder to see if there is anything he's missing.
He's a good kid, he just needs to get his head in the game and out of the fantasy books (at least while he's at school-- I'm all for reading independently of course!)

Thank you,
Ms. Asha

________________

What I wish I could have said...

Mr Smith,

First of all, TMI
And, second of all, if Sammy were less concerned about coming into my classroom early and talking to me about the "fantasy novel" he is writing, and spent less time telling me repeatedly that he is reading at a 12.9 grade level and finishes at least three books a week, and if he spent less time sneaking his dragon/wizard/warcraft books out to read while we're analyzing classroom texts, he might actually use his class time wisely and do the work that he is "leaving at home."

Sammy is very sweet and friendly and I do feel badly for him because he will probably have a very awkward and possibly lonely life. But, gosh I hope I'm wrong.
P.S. Please tell him to stop loitering awkwardly around my podium because I'm running out of fake smiles and friendly ways to tell him to sit down and do his work.


____________________________________________________
Parent Email #2 sent today: (This isn't a joke...this is a REAL email I got today!)

please let me know if my son is on task this year !! and inform me if he has been late, or skipped any classes, or has been running his mouth & being a pain in the ass. and since VP scott is now gone I will deal directly with VP schrute. please feel free to email me any time or call me

_________________________
What I said:

Mr. Smith-

John is a great kid and student who is a very respectful and hard worker. You should be proud of how he has moved from a remedial level English class to college prep-- and he's passing!

Ms. Asha
English Teacher
_________________________
What I wish I'd said:

Mr Smith-

I no longer wonder why the short stories your sons writes and begs me to read during my prep period revolve around "blood and guts," or why he talks incessantly about going into the military immediately after graduation...if I had a father like you, I'd want to commit suicide too.
_________________________________________________________

Hope that was informative and maybe slightly entertaining.

7 am

This is early for me to run. It's not my usual "thing" to run early in the morning, but I woke up at 5 am, couldn't go back to sleep, and I figured why not? I read articles all the time about elite runners and their running schedules. They always suggest running early in the morning because,

1. It simulates race time. Races start early. Waking the body up at the same time as a race day gets it used to processing your pre-race foods of choice and gets the body accustomed to working hard at this (godawful) hour. (Yes, I consider 7 am to be too early on a Saturday- even when I'm in training and doing long runs. This reason is largely why I haven't signed up for a marathon since 2006. And, yes I know how I spelled godawful).

2. Instead of becoming tired after an early run, as some might suppose, working out early in the morning actually provides the body with more energy throughout the day and has shown to improve memory and brain activity. Workout for your brain...not just your bod.

3. Running at sunrise, while sometimes a bit eerie in the stillness, is quite beautiful and somewhat spiritual. As Elle says in Legally Blonde, "Exercise gives you endorphins. Endorphins make you happy. Happy people don't commit murder." An important lesson. Especially if your day, like mine, consists of dealing with people who think they're God's-gift-to-you but in reality are NOT.

So. Even though it's not a race day, and under normal circumstances I have no real reason for being up this early on a Saturday, I will use this run as an experiment to see if I can start my day "happy." My husband should appreciate this.

POST-RUN EVALUATION (40 minutes later)

Back from my run-- a little 3 miler with lots of hills--and I do feel great. I'm relieved the run is out of the way for the day and that it won't be hanging over my head as something I need to do "later." Plus, I'm feeling clear-headed and inspired after seeing the world in its pre-awakened state of utter fogginess. Which brings me to the two items this morning's jog brought to my attention. The first is Weather. The second is Goal Setting. Let's start with Weather.

I broke Rule Number One every person (runner or non-runner) respects before leaving the house. Check the weather and dress accordingly. It doesn't have to be an indepth analysis of the weather involving barometer or astrological readings. A peek out the nearest window will provide the necessary information needed for choosing proper workout attire. I remembered this rule too late as it occured to me only after I stepped off the curb. I became soaking wet within half a mile because I wore cotton from head-to-foot. Any seasoned runner will advise you against wearing cotton no matter what the weather outside may be. (I just happen to have six loads of laundry to do; therefore, I turned to one of my many cheesy, 100% cotton, race t-shirts from the days before races started giving out the technical-t's.)

The following fog-running advice really only applies to coastal dwellers and Pacific Northwesters who experience this weather at extreme frequency year round and who probably know already how to deal with exercising in thick, sticky fog. But, for those of you who don't, or who haven't realized yet that there are ways to make your run more enjoyable (or less uncomfortable depending how you look at it), this is for you.

Fog will cling to you the same way sweat does, so avoid cotton. Instead, wear a fabric that wicks moisture away from your skin. I prefer the brand CoolMax for running shirts, spandex and even socks. And, if you get easily annoyed (as I do) by wet hair slapping you in the face, neck or back, bobby pins and headbands are your BFFs. Regardless of the fog density, sunblock should always be worn; however, I break this rule because I regard fog running as a time to "be free." Glare from the sun isn't a problem so... no hat, no sunglasses and no more sunblock than what is in my daily moisturizer. A minor way to feel free, but a freedom all the same.

The most important thing to remember when running in the fog is keeping an eye out for cars. Drivers have a hard enough time watching out for runners on a sunny day. A foggy day is even worse. I advise treating a Fog Run as if it's a Night Run. Defensive running is key. Bypass the ipod in order to prevent yourself from being distracted or unable to hear oncoming cars or bikes. Places to use extra caution include: crossing unprotected streets, passing by allies and driveways with tall hedges or fences that make it hard for drivers to see you coming. I've seen people who attach a blinking light to their upper arm. This may be a little extreme for a Fog Run, but a must if you decide to run at night. Also, I heard on the news recently that the Prius Hybrid is being called the SBD (Silent But Deadly...I know haha...but it's really not funny) because it makes no sound whatsoever at low speeds. If you live in an area, like I do, where people park their hybrid cars in the driveway (and keep the Hummer stowed safely in the garage), be especially vigilant. You will not be able to hear a Prius backing out of a driveway.

Now for Goal Setting. To Do Lists make me happy. At least while I'm making them I am. They give me a purpose for the day or week and get me thinking about the future (no matter how immediate that future may be). So my goals for this week include:

1. Add links to my blog that provide information about running in extreme weather conditions (hot/cold/foggy/rainy etc.) Also upload pics of Lake Murray...do some good for the greater running community.

2. Add "Canterbury Tales Classroom Pilgrimage Simulation" Lesson Plan to Teacher Exchange, then link it here as well...do some good for the greater teaching community.

3. Run two new sites this week and assess their "runability." And, complete one long run of seven miles or more.

4. Add links that provide basic running info about: the long run, tempo, pace, fartleks, strides, rest, cross-training and Gu/energy supply.

5. Do something nice for the husband.

There we go. You'll know if I've accomplished Goals 1-4 this week, and I'll keep you updated on #5...if you even care. Overall, I'm very happy with the after-effects of this morning's run.

To my fellow runners and teachers: Keep on truckin'. To everyone else: Do something for your mind or body today too, even if it's not exercise. Eat some omega 3-fatty acids or do a crossword puzzle

Up early and want a delicious fall/winter breakfast with "good carbs" for that morning run? These pancakes are a simple, delicious way to do so (Do I sound like Rachel Ray yet?). I make a whole batch then freeze 'em. In the morning I pop two in the toaster oven and they're perfection.


2 cups Trader Joe's Multigrain Baking and Pancake Mix
1 cup milk
2 eggs
1/2 cup canned pumpkin
2 tbs pumpkin spice (or cinnamon)


For added nutrients and digestive health, add 1-2 tbs of flax seeds. (I grind them in my coffee grinder so I don't end up with big black seeds in my teeth, and the body can absorb them better.)