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
Friday, October 30, 2009
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
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.
Sunday, October 25, 2009
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?)
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?)
Saturday, October 24, 2009
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.
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.
Tuesday, October 20, 2009
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.
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.
Monday, October 19, 2009
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.
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.
Saturday, October 17, 2009
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.)
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.)
Thursday, October 15, 2009
I Might Be Crazy
Today I signed up to take a group of high school seniors to London for seven days after graduation. WHAT is wrong with me? Is it my desperation to travel Europe that drove me to it? Yes. Is it masochism (as a friend so recently described my life choices) that drove me to willingly put myself in charge of hormonally-insane newly-turned 18 year-olds in a foreign country where they will be of legal drinking age?! Maybe. Perhaps Kallie (the aformentioned friend) understands my psyche better than I do. And, believe me Kal, your post spoke to me. Not only did you "nail" me (in the non-adultery type way) but I, too, laugh out loud when I hear the saying, "Daddy drinks because you cry."
But, my friend Kallie brings up an excellent point about me. Her post forced me to reflect upon the seemingly crazy things I do for which I have very little explanation...with the exception of that dirty word I taught her in 11th grade. It served a very good purpose, and I hope it has served you well Kal!
So do I run because I teach, or do I teach because I run? Now I know the latter might not make much sense...I mean it'd be like asking what comes first, the baby or the embryo...duh. No one gets into teaching high school because they're a runner. What I mean is...it's all the same. Like how in "The Time Traveler's Wife" time is all the same. Everything has already happened and there is no changing it. Teaching and running are the same forms of torture for me. Both are things I don't really want to do, but I do them anyway because I know they are good for me. Even when they hurt me. I'm blowing my mind right now. And, just in case my desire for self-torture needed any sort of confirmation, let's recap the decision I made today.
I will be chaperone.
To 18-year-olds.
In Europe.
For 7 days.
This tempts me to write FML*, but I've done this to myself. All of it. The running, the teaching, the chaperoning. So maybe I have to come up with a new version of FML that suits my life choices. Like IFML**.
Sigh.
For more clarity on my chosen forms of self-torture, see Kallie's post about it at http://joshandkallie2.blogspot.com Titled: "only suitable for adults." It's hilarious--and I'm not just saying that because it's about me. If you don't laugh out loud at some point I'll..... to be honest, I'll do nothing.
*fuck my life.
**i fucked my life.
Kallie, do you think that word requires the "Only Suitable for Adults" warning? I should probably leave it then, huh.
But, my friend Kallie brings up an excellent point about me. Her post forced me to reflect upon the seemingly crazy things I do for which I have very little explanation...with the exception of that dirty word I taught her in 11th grade. It served a very good purpose, and I hope it has served you well Kal!
So do I run because I teach, or do I teach because I run? Now I know the latter might not make much sense...I mean it'd be like asking what comes first, the baby or the embryo...duh. No one gets into teaching high school because they're a runner. What I mean is...it's all the same. Like how in "The Time Traveler's Wife" time is all the same. Everything has already happened and there is no changing it. Teaching and running are the same forms of torture for me. Both are things I don't really want to do, but I do them anyway because I know they are good for me. Even when they hurt me. I'm blowing my mind right now. And, just in case my desire for self-torture needed any sort of confirmation, let's recap the decision I made today.
I will be chaperone.
To 18-year-olds.
In Europe.
For 7 days.
This tempts me to write FML*, but I've done this to myself. All of it. The running, the teaching, the chaperoning. So maybe I have to come up with a new version of FML that suits my life choices. Like IFML**.
Sigh.
For more clarity on my chosen forms of self-torture, see Kallie's post about it at http://joshandkallie2.blogspot.com Titled: "only suitable for adults." It's hilarious--and I'm not just saying that because it's about me. If you don't laugh out loud at some point I'll..... to be honest, I'll do nothing.
*fuck my life.
**i fucked my life.
Kallie, do you think that word requires the "Only Suitable for Adults" warning? I should probably leave it then, huh.
Wednesday, October 14, 2009
True Health Starts With...
Sunblock. I contemplated this fact during the extra mile I accidentally ran today at Lake Murray (pictured here). But I'll get to that in a minute.
I am so sore! Sore sore sore. That's what I get for waiting three months since my last plyometrics workout and then jumping in with an hour long session last night. I read about running. A lot. I know better than to do these things... but the thing with the kid with the stuff yesterday really threw me off. Don't believe what all the health magazines tell you about preventing soreness. I've read that drinking coffee will help prevent it or a light workout the day after the hard one will prevent it. Lies. All lies. There is nothing that can actually prevent soreness if you workout hard enough. Just have to push through it. But on to my sunblock contemplation.
Let's call her LeatherBlader. (The non-space is intentional...as an English teacher I always 1. Feel the need to explain my odd, but intential misspellings and 2. Also, as an English teacher, it's my perogative to make up words. So there St. Martin's Handbook- you can suck it.) The reason I "accidentally" ran an extra mile today. I couldn't stop thinking about her and lost track of my mileage. She is a blur of bleach blonde, spandexy, brown-skinned, cougarness on wheels. She is a walking, no rolling, contradiction of health and decay. On the one hand, she is the ideal model for safety while rollerblading. Helmet? Check. Wrist Guards? Check. Knee pads and neon colors? Check. However, while she does a very thorough job protecting her skin from cuts, bruises and road rash, she does not address the most important aspect of skin protection: sunblockage*. She looks like a super skinny leather suitcase...the kind with wheels...and I feel badly for her. She may never get hurt rollerblading at Lake Murray**, but she will get hurt by melanoma; it's only a matter of time.
Despite the obstacles-- soreness, sun damage and exhaustion from an honest day's work... gotta keep on truckin'.
*Sunblock is running gear item number one for a runner. My favorite brand is California Baby Sunblock Stick for my face. It's made for babies, but it's the only brand that adequately fights off the dark spots I get on my face from the sun.
**Lake Murray is in La Mesa. (East County San Diego) It is a 6 mile out-and-back, relatively flat, paved path that winds around the perimeter of the lake. It used to be a loop, back in the day, but the dam was blocked off (probably due to fear of terrorist attack...sillys) and is no longer accessible to the walkers, joggers and bikers that frequent the path. Watch out for rattlesnakes! Especially in the spring and summer. Parking is free, but all cars must be out of the parking lot by 6pm. For directions go to: http://www.mtrp.org/lake_murray.asp
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
So Typical
Ever had an unexpected moment of understanding? I mean, it literally never crossed your mind that you weren't understanding a situation until suddenly you do understand it?
Today. Seventh Period. English. My little freshmen and I are reading "The Scarlet Ibis" together and I, every once in a while, hear a boy near me sporadically grunting. It sounds as if he is trying to quietly read out loud to himself along with the CD recording. He appeared to be concentrating so hard on the text that I (for once in my life thank God!) didn't tell him to keep his grunting down. I mean hey, if it helps his reading comprehension to say some of the words to himself, and he's not disrupting anyone, then I'm all all for it.
But as the story continues, I notice that he's also twitching, awkwardly drumming his knuckles on the desk, and squeezing his eyes closed as if they hurt him. This forces me to go into my "I-wish-I'd-followed-my-dream-to-become-a-private-detective" mode and survey the situation a little more closely. Something is up with this kid and the other kids seem to be in on it.
This boy, we'll call him Twitchy, is a very soft spoken student. He does his work adequately and is never a behavior problem; however, I'm beginning to realize that I have heard these groans, these grunts, these grunty-groany-twitchings, coming from this kid before; except, I always figured it was the culmination of various teenage noises from around the room. In case you don't know this about freshmen: they're 13-14 years old, can't sit still to save their life and have even less success keeping their mouths closed for more than 20 seconds. (No joke, I've timed them.)
So as I am conducting my covert surveillance of Twitchy, I simultaneously stop the CD to discuss a point of symbolism in the story. While I ask questions and the students share answers, I see Twitchy's eyes roll sideways and his tongue move in and out of his mouth at near supersonic speed. I realize, Holy Shit This Kid's Got Tourette's Syndrome.
My brain froze. Somewhere out in the classroom a student answered my question and all were waiting for my response, but my sudden understanding has rendered me utterly brain-dead-speechless. In my mind I'm flashing through all the times I've given instructions to the class and without realizing who was making the noise said, "Ok, whoever is mumbling and grunting while I'm giving instructions needs to shut it and listen to my instructions," or the time I said, "Hey guys, hi. I'm your teacher...remember me? You need to stop all your fidgeting and focus on what I'm saying because I say important things up here sometimes." And I'm sure I've made more comments that in some indirect way were directed directly at him!
I am instantly humiliated, humbled and saddened by this realization. An by the realization that the kids immediately surrounding him know of his condition. I can see on their little faces that they are concentrating really hard in order to avoid looking at him. So, in the midst of this mind-blowing realization, I think I said something like, "Uh...good answer. Ok. Ummmm. Let's hit the play button again...."
My thoughts a few hours later are only this: Why has NO ONE, no counselor, no advocate, no parent, no noone, told me about Twitchy's tourette's? And don't ask me if I think he was faking. I know bullshit better than a shit farmer...I teach high school (and I was raised on a cattle ranch...loads of shit). Plus, in case you missed it, I want to be a Private Investigator: It's in my nature to assume everyone is a liar.
But I don't have the answer to that aforementioned question so...
I guess for now I'll just hit the play button on my Plyometrics Workout Video* and work on my fast twitch muscles...just like my new favorite student, Twitchy.
*For more info about Plyometrics and why I do them, go here: "Plyometrics." Warning: Do not do plyometrics everyday. Once a week at most.
Today. Seventh Period. English. My little freshmen and I are reading "The Scarlet Ibis" together and I, every once in a while, hear a boy near me sporadically grunting. It sounds as if he is trying to quietly read out loud to himself along with the CD recording. He appeared to be concentrating so hard on the text that I (for once in my life thank God!) didn't tell him to keep his grunting down. I mean hey, if it helps his reading comprehension to say some of the words to himself, and he's not disrupting anyone, then I'm all all for it.
But as the story continues, I notice that he's also twitching, awkwardly drumming his knuckles on the desk, and squeezing his eyes closed as if they hurt him. This forces me to go into my "I-wish-I'd-followed-my-dream-to-become-a-private-detective" mode and survey the situation a little more closely. Something is up with this kid and the other kids seem to be in on it.
This boy, we'll call him Twitchy, is a very soft spoken student. He does his work adequately and is never a behavior problem; however, I'm beginning to realize that I have heard these groans, these grunts, these grunty-groany-twitchings, coming from this kid before; except, I always figured it was the culmination of various teenage noises from around the room. In case you don't know this about freshmen: they're 13-14 years old, can't sit still to save their life and have even less success keeping their mouths closed for more than 20 seconds. (No joke, I've timed them.)
So as I am conducting my covert surveillance of Twitchy, I simultaneously stop the CD to discuss a point of symbolism in the story. While I ask questions and the students share answers, I see Twitchy's eyes roll sideways and his tongue move in and out of his mouth at near supersonic speed. I realize, Holy Shit This Kid's Got Tourette's Syndrome.
My brain froze. Somewhere out in the classroom a student answered my question and all were waiting for my response, but my sudden understanding has rendered me utterly brain-dead-speechless. In my mind I'm flashing through all the times I've given instructions to the class and without realizing who was making the noise said, "Ok, whoever is mumbling and grunting while I'm giving instructions needs to shut it and listen to my instructions," or the time I said, "Hey guys, hi. I'm your teacher...remember me? You need to stop all your fidgeting and focus on what I'm saying because I say important things up here sometimes." And I'm sure I've made more comments that in some indirect way were directed directly at him!
I am instantly humiliated, humbled and saddened by this realization. An by the realization that the kids immediately surrounding him know of his condition. I can see on their little faces that they are concentrating really hard in order to avoid looking at him. So, in the midst of this mind-blowing realization, I think I said something like, "Uh...good answer. Ok. Ummmm. Let's hit the play button again...."
My thoughts a few hours later are only this: Why has NO ONE, no counselor, no advocate, no parent, no noone, told me about Twitchy's tourette's? And don't ask me if I think he was faking. I know bullshit better than a shit farmer...I teach high school (and I was raised on a cattle ranch...loads of shit). Plus, in case you missed it, I want to be a Private Investigator: It's in my nature to assume everyone is a liar.
But I don't have the answer to that aforementioned question so...
I guess for now I'll just hit the play button on my Plyometrics Workout Video* and work on my fast twitch muscles...just like my new favorite student, Twitchy.
*For more info about Plyometrics and why I do them, go here: "Plyometrics." Warning: Do not do plyometrics everyday. Once a week at most.
Monday, October 12, 2009
Today's Reason
When I woke up this morning and stuffed my running gear into a Target bag, I had every intention of running at my favorite lake in East County after school. But I didn't do it. Instead, I am here, sitting on my couch with said bag next to me on the floor staring me down. No really- it is. It's not that my day was especially exhausting, and it's not that the weather isn't perfect (because it is), and it's not even that my students pissed me off today (even though a few did when they asked if I had their essays for them. No I do not have your essay graded for you because you turned it in Friday...the same day 80 of your classmates also turned in their papers. Do you honestly think you are so important that I will spend the whole of my weekend wading through 80 essays about "The Most Memorable Event" in your ridiculously teenaged life? )...So no, it was for no other reason than: I just didn't feel like changing into my running clothes. It can be that simple sometimes.
This is the first part of the battle when it comes to running- at least for me. If I can get the clothes on, I can get my run on. That's why instead of telling you about how glorious and serene the lake was today, I'll probably do my usual three-mile loop around the neighborhood (which is the one map I won't be sharing with the world-wide web for self-preservational reasonings).
At some point I'll be adding links that give maps/driving directions to the lakes and trails I "test run." But today is a local day.
This is the first part of the battle when it comes to running- at least for me. If I can get the clothes on, I can get my run on. That's why instead of telling you about how glorious and serene the lake was today, I'll probably do my usual three-mile loop around the neighborhood (which is the one map I won't be sharing with the world-wide web for self-preservational reasonings).
At some point I'll be adding links that give maps/driving directions to the lakes and trails I "test run." But today is a local day.
Sunday, October 11, 2009
Let's Get One Thing Straight...
Yes, it says "I Run..." as the title of this blog...but that might be a lie. What I do would probably be laughed at by most "runners." An elite runner would say, "You're a jogger." But the term "jogger" is so 80's. Therefore, I will call myself a runner in the hopes that this will be the year that I finally become one. I've been "running" for about six years now (well...I do other stuff too. Like bake good food, play shuffle board, teach English--I'll get to that one in a minute). I do about four half-marathons a year.
The four major San Diego races include: The Silver Strand (in November), The Carlsbad Marathon and Half Marathon (in January), The La Jolla Half (in April), and America's Finest City Half Marathon (in August). Of course, there is the Rock 'n Roll Marathon in June --that's the big one almost everybody knows about. I did it two years ago. Was NOT pretty. Let's just say...I feel really bad for whoever had to empty the trashcans at the finish line...and for anyone who walked within a three-foot radius of said trashcans. I probably won't be doing a full marathon this year, but I'm not going to rule it out either.
So the purpose of this blog is to take you through some of San Diego's best (and maybe worst) places to run in San Diego. For the last five years, I've pretty much stuck to my neighborhood in Point Loma/OB for my runs. But, I'm hoping to expand my terrain this year...and hopefully it will inspire you to break from your regular running loops as well.
Aside from whether or not I can be called a "runner," let's get one more thing straight: the second half of the blog title, "...Because I Teach" is not a lie. I am a high school English teacher. I realized during my first year of teaching that if I didn't find a way to release the anger stored up throughout the day, then the people I love the most in my life (namely, my husband) are the first to suffer my wrath. When I cussed out my husband for not taking out the trash one afternoon, both he and I knew something had to change: either I find a different job, or find a way to let the day go.
Thus, I discovered running (ok...jogging...) and in the words of Robert Frost, "it has made all the difference."
The four major San Diego races include: The Silver Strand (in November), The Carlsbad Marathon and Half Marathon (in January), The La Jolla Half (in April), and America's Finest City Half Marathon (in August). Of course, there is the Rock 'n Roll Marathon in June --that's the big one almost everybody knows about. I did it two years ago. Was NOT pretty. Let's just say...I feel really bad for whoever had to empty the trashcans at the finish line...and for anyone who walked within a three-foot radius of said trashcans. I probably won't be doing a full marathon this year, but I'm not going to rule it out either.
So the purpose of this blog is to take you through some of San Diego's best (and maybe worst) places to run in San Diego. For the last five years, I've pretty much stuck to my neighborhood in Point Loma/OB for my runs. But, I'm hoping to expand my terrain this year...and hopefully it will inspire you to break from your regular running loops as well.
Aside from whether or not I can be called a "runner," let's get one more thing straight: the second half of the blog title, "...Because I Teach" is not a lie. I am a high school English teacher. I realized during my first year of teaching that if I didn't find a way to release the anger stored up throughout the day, then the people I love the most in my life (namely, my husband) are the first to suffer my wrath. When I cussed out my husband for not taking out the trash one afternoon, both he and I knew something had to change: either I find a different job, or find a way to let the day go.
Thus, I discovered running (ok...jogging...) and in the words of Robert Frost, "it has made all the difference."
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