I don’t know how to start this entry. I’m feeling at a loss for words. So much in my head that I want to put on paper but no clue how to even get started. Have you guys been scared? Not scared like a rabid pit bull is chasing you but scared like I’m so excited but so scared at the same time. I liken it to being 14 years old and it is the summer before high school. You can’t wait to get there but you are dreading it at the same time. I clearly remember thinking what if I get lost in the halls? and what if some of the older girls make fun of me? and could I possibly even get beat up? I had nightmares of stupid old movies and books where the younger kids were forced into the water fountain and wondered how I could possibly walk the halls of the school looking as though I had wet my pants.
At the same time there was the excited anticipation of seeing my friends after a long summer and trying out for the cheerleading squad. For the first time, we could leave the campus for lunch and although gym class was still required, there was not a specific uniform that had to be worn, oh joy! On a little side note, wasn’t it always so disappointing when it was 87 degrees the first day of school but all of your new school clothes were much more appropriate for a 43 degree day? I think I may have worn a leather bomber jacket once on an 87 degree day just because I HAD to wear it. Back to the matter at hand, I was super excited to start high school but I was scared to death. Terrified really.
But this could even be worse. I might be more scared right now. Who am I to think that I can compete in a real triathlon? What if I get lost in the water? What if some of the more experienced athletes make fun of me? Could I possibly even get beat up? The nightmares are returning. I am seeing myself tumbling off my bike and curling up in a fetal position along the side of a country road as the guys on their fancy bikes whiz past and shake their heads in pity, if they even notice me. Could I be the very last person to cross the finish line? It’s almost as if I never got on a bike before, never laced up some running shoes, and never dangled my feet in the water.
Sure, I’m excited too. The truth is I’ve been training for this since January when I first got in the pool and swam only 400 yards, one lap at a time, breathing like an emphysema patient between each lap. The truth is I can run three miles even when I’m tired. And the real truth is that the only way I’ll be the last person to cross the finish is if I get badly injured. But still, the fear of this race is eating me alive, from the inside out.
I teach my patients to use the adrenaline from their anxiety to conquer their fears. So now it’s my turn. I’m hoping this adrenaline rush doesn’t make me run away and instead can fuel me to fight this course and do my best. My challenge to you this week is to face a fear. Take on something you are afraid of. Allow yourself to feel all the emotion and queasiness that accompanies the fear and then use that to take it on. Stop running away. And then let me know how you feel when you finally conquer the fear.
My guess is that none of us will get lost, none of us will be made fun of, and none of us will get beat up. In fact, we’ll probably all be more successful than our current level of fear wants us to believe. So come on, let’s get it over with. I’m facing my fear and I’m expecting you to woman up and face yours as well.
Warmly,
Brooke
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
Monday, July 4, 2011
Go The Extra Mile
Wow, summer is hard. It's harder than the holidays I think. There is so much to do with friends, family, and kids' sports. It's half over and I feel like it hasn't even started. Worse yet, the summer food disguises itself as healthy but sugar and fat seem to rear their ugly heads at every place we gather. Sure, I've tried to have a plan for handling summer food. But I didn't know there would be a really cool band playing on the way back to the hotel after Summerfest. Those 14 Coronas just slid down so easy after sweating in the sun all day. And the fresh picked strawberries? Those damn things. Sure, they are delicious on their own but they are a party for your tastebuds when they top some ice cream or a cake, or both I guess. But I wouldn't know.
Every weekend has a cook out. Every baseball diamond has a concession stand. Every grocery store has ice cream. What are we supposed to do? Just avoid this stuff all summer long? I'm having a really hard time with that. Please tell me you are too.
Guess what this means people? It's time to take things up a notch. I'm not joking and you shouldn't be either. Ladies who are planning to run the half marathon in September, it's time to get serious about your training program. 5K ladies, have you started moving your bodies? My crazy marathon gals, you are on your own. You don't need me!
My mission right now? The Ripon Medical Center Triathlon is in 26 days. I have to announce it so that I don't back out! I rode the bike course today for the first time and wanted to cry when I saw the hills. I'm scared to death of the swim after a pretty bad situation at my first triathlon in Winneconne. And when those things are done, there is still a 5K to think about. Maybe I should just forget it and eat another piece of shortcake.
No, no, no. We've all come to far. Go ahead and eat the shortcake but we're taking it up a notch, right? So, where can you sqeeze just one extra mile into your day? 15 minutes or less, where can you sqeeze it in? I'm dead serious. A quick walk or run early in the morning. Over your lunch break, stop sitting at the computer and get outside. Moms, get your kids in the stroller or make them ride their bikes. Remember, this is not your work out, it's just your extra. It won't hurt nearly as much as you think. In fact, I think you're gonna like it.
And now that we're taking things up a notch, it's also time for me to change the format of my blog a bit. I feel my writing has grown stale and I've run out of topics. For the next few weeks it will be a quick tip each week, something to get you moving and change things up a bit. A challenge if you will. This week's challenge is to get that extra mile four out of seven days. Four miles on top of your current program. Don't have a program yet? You better do four miles this week! Walk, run, bike, roller blade, crawl, I don't really care.
I did have another piece of cake by the way. But I'm leashing up the pug and getting my extra mile in right now. Get off your butt and get yours in too!
Every weekend has a cook out. Every baseball diamond has a concession stand. Every grocery store has ice cream. What are we supposed to do? Just avoid this stuff all summer long? I'm having a really hard time with that. Please tell me you are too.
Guess what this means people? It's time to take things up a notch. I'm not joking and you shouldn't be either. Ladies who are planning to run the half marathon in September, it's time to get serious about your training program. 5K ladies, have you started moving your bodies? My crazy marathon gals, you are on your own. You don't need me!
My mission right now? The Ripon Medical Center Triathlon is in 26 days. I have to announce it so that I don't back out! I rode the bike course today for the first time and wanted to cry when I saw the hills. I'm scared to death of the swim after a pretty bad situation at my first triathlon in Winneconne. And when those things are done, there is still a 5K to think about. Maybe I should just forget it and eat another piece of shortcake.
No, no, no. We've all come to far. Go ahead and eat the shortcake but we're taking it up a notch, right? So, where can you sqeeze just one extra mile into your day? 15 minutes or less, where can you sqeeze it in? I'm dead serious. A quick walk or run early in the morning. Over your lunch break, stop sitting at the computer and get outside. Moms, get your kids in the stroller or make them ride their bikes. Remember, this is not your work out, it's just your extra. It won't hurt nearly as much as you think. In fact, I think you're gonna like it.
And now that we're taking things up a notch, it's also time for me to change the format of my blog a bit. I feel my writing has grown stale and I've run out of topics. For the next few weeks it will be a quick tip each week, something to get you moving and change things up a bit. A challenge if you will. This week's challenge is to get that extra mile four out of seven days. Four miles on top of your current program. Don't have a program yet? You better do four miles this week! Walk, run, bike, roller blade, crawl, I don't really care.
I did have another piece of cake by the way. But I'm leashing up the pug and getting my extra mile in right now. Get off your butt and get yours in too!
Sunday, June 5, 2011
Fight for a Win
I learned a lot this weekend and I spent most of it on a baseball diamond.
But let me back up a second.
If you are married, you know how hard marraige can be. If you are divorced, you know all too well. If you've never been married, let that be caution to you! The point is that in marraiges there are days, sometimes even months, when you look at your spouse and wish you had never met him or her. And there are years when you realize just how good you've got it.
I'll be the first to admit my marriage has been through a rough spell. Without giving out the gory details, I will share that we've shouted threats of divorce to one another. We probably have had the same arguments as many of you, usually about money. Evil, relationship-ruining money. I can be controlling, bossy, and cold while my husband can be inattentive and impulsive. Which, by the way, just makes me more controlling and bossy. I'm always convinced that he doesn't understand how to be in a "relationship". I'm sure many of you other wives can relate.
So that brings me back to the baseball diamond. My husband has been busy all spring coaching our son's baseball team. I think he has a good balance of competitive spirit and understanding that 8 year olds are still learning the game. He devotes so much time to practicing and planning and working with the kids individually and as a team. He doesn't want to let anyone down, especially the kids. Bottom line, he works hard at this relationship with his team. And he expects them to work hard in return.
This weekend, our team was in their first tournament of the year. It was the first tournament ever for most of our inexperienced team. Unfortunately, it was not the first tournament for many of our experienced competitors. Toward the end of our last game, our kids were down by at least 15 runs and they were coming off the field for their next at bat. Their heads were hanging pretty low, it was really hot, and we had a few more innings to go. My husband gathered the kids up and told them that they could make mistakes but they could not give up, ever. He shouted to them, "men work hard and don't give up!" Don't tell him I told you but I think he even choked up a bit.
The kids didn't pull off the win, but they didn't give up either. They scored a few more runs and allowed a few less in the remaining innings of the game. It was heart breaking and heart warming at once. I didn't want to see those kids lose but I loved seeing how hard they tried to make the team and their families proud.
I started to think that the relationship between coach and team is kind of like a marraige. It can be so hard and feel so bad that you feel almost willing to walk away with your head hanging low. But if one of you walks away, you both lose. When you continue to work hard, together, every one around you can enjoy the win. Or at least appreciate the effort it took to try to get there.
When I saw my husband with his team this weekend, I appreciated him in a way I haven't for a long time. I saw that he can be very attentive and patient and that he does understand how relationships work. I realized that I need to let go of things a bit and be more laid back when I just want things to go my way. I realized that I'm not willing to give up, not even close.
Whether it's your kid's baseball team, your marraige, or some battle within yourself, it's important to keep fighting. Even though my husband told his team that men don't give up, it's important to know that women don't give up either. Keep fighting ladies!
But let me back up a second.
If you are married, you know how hard marraige can be. If you are divorced, you know all too well. If you've never been married, let that be caution to you! The point is that in marraiges there are days, sometimes even months, when you look at your spouse and wish you had never met him or her. And there are years when you realize just how good you've got it.
I'll be the first to admit my marriage has been through a rough spell. Without giving out the gory details, I will share that we've shouted threats of divorce to one another. We probably have had the same arguments as many of you, usually about money. Evil, relationship-ruining money. I can be controlling, bossy, and cold while my husband can be inattentive and impulsive. Which, by the way, just makes me more controlling and bossy. I'm always convinced that he doesn't understand how to be in a "relationship". I'm sure many of you other wives can relate.
So that brings me back to the baseball diamond. My husband has been busy all spring coaching our son's baseball team. I think he has a good balance of competitive spirit and understanding that 8 year olds are still learning the game. He devotes so much time to practicing and planning and working with the kids individually and as a team. He doesn't want to let anyone down, especially the kids. Bottom line, he works hard at this relationship with his team. And he expects them to work hard in return.
This weekend, our team was in their first tournament of the year. It was the first tournament ever for most of our inexperienced team. Unfortunately, it was not the first tournament for many of our experienced competitors. Toward the end of our last game, our kids were down by at least 15 runs and they were coming off the field for their next at bat. Their heads were hanging pretty low, it was really hot, and we had a few more innings to go. My husband gathered the kids up and told them that they could make mistakes but they could not give up, ever. He shouted to them, "men work hard and don't give up!" Don't tell him I told you but I think he even choked up a bit.
The kids didn't pull off the win, but they didn't give up either. They scored a few more runs and allowed a few less in the remaining innings of the game. It was heart breaking and heart warming at once. I didn't want to see those kids lose but I loved seeing how hard they tried to make the team and their families proud.
I started to think that the relationship between coach and team is kind of like a marraige. It can be so hard and feel so bad that you feel almost willing to walk away with your head hanging low. But if one of you walks away, you both lose. When you continue to work hard, together, every one around you can enjoy the win. Or at least appreciate the effort it took to try to get there.
When I saw my husband with his team this weekend, I appreciated him in a way I haven't for a long time. I saw that he can be very attentive and patient and that he does understand how relationships work. I realized that I need to let go of things a bit and be more laid back when I just want things to go my way. I realized that I'm not willing to give up, not even close.
Whether it's your kid's baseball team, your marraige, or some battle within yourself, it's important to keep fighting. Even though my husband told his team that men don't give up, it's important to know that women don't give up either. Keep fighting ladies!
Sunday, May 22, 2011
What are You Working On Now?
Ten years ago, if you would have told me that I would be really into fitness, I would have laughed my (much fatter) ass off. But now, I have almost come to accept it. I am into fitness. I spend my time running, biking, swimming, stretching and whatever else catches my attention. When I'm not doing those things, I'm reading about them, talking about them, and planning my time to be sure I can squeeze it all in. I used to wonder who I was becoming, but now I'm just really happy with who I am.
Every where I go people ask me, "What are you working on?" In the past it would have been school or work or the famous answer, "Not Much." But now when they ask me what I'm working on, it's usually a distance, a speed, or a new activity. I sometimes hesitate to reveal what it is I'm actually working on because I'm worried I might jinx myself. If I admit I am working toward something bigger, I might fail and then I'll have to admit that too!
So what am I working on right now? A lot of you already know that I'm planning to run the Fox Cities Half Marathon this fall. But I'm also planning to test the waters of the triathlon world this summer. The next inevitable question is "What does that entail?" Well, to start with, it entails a lot of really hard work. The distance I am aiming for includes a quarter mile swim, a 15 mile bike ride, and a 5k run. Individually, none of these seem too hard. But string them together and it becomes the biggest challenge I have yet to face.
Let's break this down. I've got to swim a quarter mile in the lake. At the rate the weather is progressing, I'll be lucky if the water is 70 degrees. Brrrrrr........ I am practicing at the Y and when the pool is less than 82 degrees, I contemplate leaving before my big toe even enters the water. When I get tired in the pool, I stop and grab the side and take a few deep breaths before continuing. I also panic if I have to share my lane. So now I am picturing entering the water in a massive crowd, choking on ice water, and having nothing to hold on to.
So let's say I survive the swim. The clock doesn't stop there. At that point, I will need to adjust my wardrobe and hop on my bike. Fifteen miles. No big deal. I sometimes ride 15 miles after work. Oh, but did I forget to mention that I have a network of flags between Ripon and Neenah that I monitor constantly? If the flags are moving at all, I start to worry. My rides are planned completely based on the wind speed and direction. More than 15 mph and my bike won't see the light of day. Other days, I brave it but always ride into the wind first so that it is at my back on the way home. Something tells me that besides not heating the water, the race director is not going to change the bike route the morning of the race just to accomodate my weather fears.
Ok fine. Let the wind gust at my face. See if I care. Because when I get off the bike, I'm going to change my shoes and proceed to run a 5k. Where I stand now, a three mile run is a pretty small work out. I save it for nights when I have to squeeze something in between baseball practice and spelling words. I'm getting cocky. I am working on running following a bike ride. Guess what? It's really hard. It's almost like you can't feel your legs. If you can, they aren't communicating with your brain. It's like a small pony, trying to walk for the first time. Oh, but that pony has to win a race. Or at least complete it.
So that's what I'm working on. It's so much more than swimming, biking, and running. It's survivial. It's facing the elements. It's proving to yourself that you are more than a one trick pony. Yes, the pony must do more than JUST learn to walk! It's wardrobe planning and management, nutrition and hydration, exerting and conserving energy at just the right moments, and even trying to have fun.
Wow, this is so intimidating. But I wouldn't change it for the world. I could never go back to having "nothing much" to do. I enjoy achieving my goals but I can't imagine ever being satisfied enough to retire my running shoes or my bike helmet. There is always another distance, another event, another speed, another challenge.
You shouldn't be satisfied either. I don't care if you aren't an athlete but you are something. I know a lot of you are working on a college degree. Many are parents or planning for another baby. You all have interests, talents, passions and hobbies. Have you taken that skill as far as you can? I would be willing to bet you haven't. My guess is that you can achieve more. Don't let the obstacles stand in your way. Don't be afraid of the cold and the wind. Keep putting one foot in front of the other even when your legs aren't communicating with your brain.
When you cross the finish line, enjoy it. Celebrate. Take some time off. But don't let yourself be done. When the excitement wears off and you start getting restless again, you are bound to ask yourself that question before anyone else does. What are you working on now?
I hope you have a good answer.
Every where I go people ask me, "What are you working on?" In the past it would have been school or work or the famous answer, "Not Much." But now when they ask me what I'm working on, it's usually a distance, a speed, or a new activity. I sometimes hesitate to reveal what it is I'm actually working on because I'm worried I might jinx myself. If I admit I am working toward something bigger, I might fail and then I'll have to admit that too!
So what am I working on right now? A lot of you already know that I'm planning to run the Fox Cities Half Marathon this fall. But I'm also planning to test the waters of the triathlon world this summer. The next inevitable question is "What does that entail?" Well, to start with, it entails a lot of really hard work. The distance I am aiming for includes a quarter mile swim, a 15 mile bike ride, and a 5k run. Individually, none of these seem too hard. But string them together and it becomes the biggest challenge I have yet to face.
Let's break this down. I've got to swim a quarter mile in the lake. At the rate the weather is progressing, I'll be lucky if the water is 70 degrees. Brrrrrr........ I am practicing at the Y and when the pool is less than 82 degrees, I contemplate leaving before my big toe even enters the water. When I get tired in the pool, I stop and grab the side and take a few deep breaths before continuing. I also panic if I have to share my lane. So now I am picturing entering the water in a massive crowd, choking on ice water, and having nothing to hold on to.
So let's say I survive the swim. The clock doesn't stop there. At that point, I will need to adjust my wardrobe and hop on my bike. Fifteen miles. No big deal. I sometimes ride 15 miles after work. Oh, but did I forget to mention that I have a network of flags between Ripon and Neenah that I monitor constantly? If the flags are moving at all, I start to worry. My rides are planned completely based on the wind speed and direction. More than 15 mph and my bike won't see the light of day. Other days, I brave it but always ride into the wind first so that it is at my back on the way home. Something tells me that besides not heating the water, the race director is not going to change the bike route the morning of the race just to accomodate my weather fears.
Ok fine. Let the wind gust at my face. See if I care. Because when I get off the bike, I'm going to change my shoes and proceed to run a 5k. Where I stand now, a three mile run is a pretty small work out. I save it for nights when I have to squeeze something in between baseball practice and spelling words. I'm getting cocky. I am working on running following a bike ride. Guess what? It's really hard. It's almost like you can't feel your legs. If you can, they aren't communicating with your brain. It's like a small pony, trying to walk for the first time. Oh, but that pony has to win a race. Or at least complete it.
So that's what I'm working on. It's so much more than swimming, biking, and running. It's survivial. It's facing the elements. It's proving to yourself that you are more than a one trick pony. Yes, the pony must do more than JUST learn to walk! It's wardrobe planning and management, nutrition and hydration, exerting and conserving energy at just the right moments, and even trying to have fun.
Wow, this is so intimidating. But I wouldn't change it for the world. I could never go back to having "nothing much" to do. I enjoy achieving my goals but I can't imagine ever being satisfied enough to retire my running shoes or my bike helmet. There is always another distance, another event, another speed, another challenge.
You shouldn't be satisfied either. I don't care if you aren't an athlete but you are something. I know a lot of you are working on a college degree. Many are parents or planning for another baby. You all have interests, talents, passions and hobbies. Have you taken that skill as far as you can? I would be willing to bet you haven't. My guess is that you can achieve more. Don't let the obstacles stand in your way. Don't be afraid of the cold and the wind. Keep putting one foot in front of the other even when your legs aren't communicating with your brain.
When you cross the finish line, enjoy it. Celebrate. Take some time off. But don't let yourself be done. When the excitement wears off and you start getting restless again, you are bound to ask yourself that question before anyone else does. What are you working on now?
I hope you have a good answer.
Sunday, May 15, 2011
I Know You Are Out There!!! (Psstt. . . It's not too late!)
It's May 15, 2011. A few months ago, I invited and challenged all of you to commit to running or walking in one of the Fox Cities Marathon events. Twenty four of you said "YES". Seventeen of you said "MAYBE." Well, where are you now? We have 125 days left to prepare!! Don't worry, it's still plenty of time. Yes, even if you haven't started yet.
Some of you have been working really hard. Many have already finished a 5K. Some of the veterans have new half marathons or even marathons under their belts. Erin Moldenhauer completed the Green Bay Marathon in less than four hours today, despite the gusting winds!! You've got your kids, parents, siblings, and in-laws out there hitting the pavement with you. We've got a few pregnancies with new babies soon joining us in jogging strollers. They are so lucky to have you as mothers who will set healthy examples for them from the minute they are born.
I'm sure it hasn't been easy so far. There are days where you feel like you've gone as far as you can go. What about when you've reached a milestone and a few days later you feel that you'll never reach it again? How many of you have given up only to get back out there? These are the days when you find out what you are really made of. If you can beat the mental game and the tough times, the good, fast days will mean that much more to you.
Do you know what I have loved the most so far? I've seen new connections made, new friendships through fitness. Others have reconnected and are relying on old solid friendships to help you get through the crazy schedules and tough workouts. Seeing you support one another has touched me in a way I never expected. And I love to see you trying things you never would have done before.
But what about the rest of you? Don't think I have forgotten about you. There are many who committed to this goal who have been quiet since the turn of the New Year. There have been some who came out of the gates running strong but who have let something get in their way. I am worried about you, sincerely. I worry that you think you have let me or the rest of the group down. But most of all, I am worried that you have let yourself down.
You are the people I wish I could see and talk to. What has gotten in the way, what has stopped you? Is it work, the kids, family demands? Have you lost your drive or have you just fallen off the wagon? Are you worried you aren't good enough or as strong as some of the other girls? Here's what I want you to think about right now. What was going on in your head when you agreed to run in September? How were you feeling when you made that commitment?
I'm guessing that you had some sense of hope or you would not have agreed to it. Maybe you thought it would give you the motivation to finally get moving. I'm here to tell you right now, if you have lost hope and motivation, it is not too late. If you are worried about how you will measure up to the other participants, it is time to let go. If you have let yourself and other people down by giving up on your goal, it doesn't have to be that way. You still have time to turn things around. Yes, YOU CAN DO THIS.
It's time to look at the goal you set on day 1. Is it still manageable? Did you agree to the half marathon but now feel like you are better suited to the 5K? Were you hoping to run your event but now realize you will likely have to walk some or all of it? There is nothing wrong with modifying your goal. It doesn't make you a failure. It makes you realistic and smart. Better to set an achievable goal and reach it than to set one you will never reach at all.
Now that the goal is clear in your mind again, make a plan. Start with a plan for this week and then one for the month. Again, be realistic. Put expectations on yourself that are challenging but not impossible. No more excuses. You can find time, you can reach these goals and you can change your life. It is not too late.
Maybe there are a few of you reading this who were too unsure to even say "MAYBE." Or, you flatly said "NO"! Are you ready now? It's not too late for you either. With four months to go, you have plenty of time to sign up for a couch to 5k program or form a group of friends that wants to get in shape and reach a goal together. But it's not going to happen if you keep sitting there doubting yourself. This is coming from a person who spent YEARS doubting herself. I'm serious.
Congrats to you 5k first timers. Thank You to the veterans who continue to inspire me. Best Wishes to the soon-to-be Moms. Keep relying on each other for support and keep letting us know what you have accomplished or when you are struggling. To the rest of you, it's time to get back on board. But don't do it because I'm asking you to. Do it because you can.
Crossing a finish line is one of the most rewarding and fulfilling experiences you can imagine. Don't deprive yourself of that accomplishment. Recommit yourself now and celebrate yourself later.
I can't wait to see you out there.
Love
Brooke
Some of you have been working really hard. Many have already finished a 5K. Some of the veterans have new half marathons or even marathons under their belts. Erin Moldenhauer completed the Green Bay Marathon in less than four hours today, despite the gusting winds!! You've got your kids, parents, siblings, and in-laws out there hitting the pavement with you. We've got a few pregnancies with new babies soon joining us in jogging strollers. They are so lucky to have you as mothers who will set healthy examples for them from the minute they are born.
I'm sure it hasn't been easy so far. There are days where you feel like you've gone as far as you can go. What about when you've reached a milestone and a few days later you feel that you'll never reach it again? How many of you have given up only to get back out there? These are the days when you find out what you are really made of. If you can beat the mental game and the tough times, the good, fast days will mean that much more to you.
Do you know what I have loved the most so far? I've seen new connections made, new friendships through fitness. Others have reconnected and are relying on old solid friendships to help you get through the crazy schedules and tough workouts. Seeing you support one another has touched me in a way I never expected. And I love to see you trying things you never would have done before.
But what about the rest of you? Don't think I have forgotten about you. There are many who committed to this goal who have been quiet since the turn of the New Year. There have been some who came out of the gates running strong but who have let something get in their way. I am worried about you, sincerely. I worry that you think you have let me or the rest of the group down. But most of all, I am worried that you have let yourself down.
You are the people I wish I could see and talk to. What has gotten in the way, what has stopped you? Is it work, the kids, family demands? Have you lost your drive or have you just fallen off the wagon? Are you worried you aren't good enough or as strong as some of the other girls? Here's what I want you to think about right now. What was going on in your head when you agreed to run in September? How were you feeling when you made that commitment?
I'm guessing that you had some sense of hope or you would not have agreed to it. Maybe you thought it would give you the motivation to finally get moving. I'm here to tell you right now, if you have lost hope and motivation, it is not too late. If you are worried about how you will measure up to the other participants, it is time to let go. If you have let yourself and other people down by giving up on your goal, it doesn't have to be that way. You still have time to turn things around. Yes, YOU CAN DO THIS.
It's time to look at the goal you set on day 1. Is it still manageable? Did you agree to the half marathon but now feel like you are better suited to the 5K? Were you hoping to run your event but now realize you will likely have to walk some or all of it? There is nothing wrong with modifying your goal. It doesn't make you a failure. It makes you realistic and smart. Better to set an achievable goal and reach it than to set one you will never reach at all.
Now that the goal is clear in your mind again, make a plan. Start with a plan for this week and then one for the month. Again, be realistic. Put expectations on yourself that are challenging but not impossible. No more excuses. You can find time, you can reach these goals and you can change your life. It is not too late.
Maybe there are a few of you reading this who were too unsure to even say "MAYBE." Or, you flatly said "NO"! Are you ready now? It's not too late for you either. With four months to go, you have plenty of time to sign up for a couch to 5k program or form a group of friends that wants to get in shape and reach a goal together. But it's not going to happen if you keep sitting there doubting yourself. This is coming from a person who spent YEARS doubting herself. I'm serious.
Congrats to you 5k first timers. Thank You to the veterans who continue to inspire me. Best Wishes to the soon-to-be Moms. Keep relying on each other for support and keep letting us know what you have accomplished or when you are struggling. To the rest of you, it's time to get back on board. But don't do it because I'm asking you to. Do it because you can.
Crossing a finish line is one of the most rewarding and fulfilling experiences you can imagine. Don't deprive yourself of that accomplishment. Recommit yourself now and celebrate yourself later.
I can't wait to see you out there.
Love
Brooke
Sunday, May 1, 2011
Ridin' Solo
Ahhh. . . .vacations. We live and work for them, dream and plan ahead for them, save and splurge for them. Then we get there and what happens? We usually have fun, of course. But there are also the whining children. Come on, you all have one in your family who has to puke just before you leave. There is the waiting around for the slow one, choosing restaurants for the picky one, and skipping indulgences for the frugal one. There are the petty husband and wife arguments that occur when you spend a whole week together without the pleasure of escape to the work day. And if you don't plan well, there is one bathroom for you all to share.
A dream come true, right? Uh-huh. I learned a valuable lesson a few years ago when I vacationed with my high school besties in Arizona where one of them got married. (Dare I mention that it rained the whole week. . . . .in the desert?) It was on that vacation when I learned how much fun it can be to travel with friends. There was no worry about bed times or potties or who needed sun screen. I suddenly remembered fondly a time when I only had to be responsible for myself. But we still had to share a bathroom. Since then I've had lots of good travel memories with friends in New York, Portland, and even the close-to-home getaways like Lake Geneva, the Dells, and Milwaukee. Who can forget the sister vacation to D.C.?
But I have discovered something new. Not necessarily better, but different in a very good way. The Solo Vacation. That's right, girls, vacationing by yourself. At first, it doesn't really sound fun, I know. Who will you chat endlessly with, share a bottle of wine with, and shop with? Those really are the cornerstones of the greatest girlfriend vacations. And the answer is simple. No one. And here is the best part. You will love it. You know why? BECAUSE YOU GET TO DO WHATEVER YOU WANT!!!!!
This week, I had the pleasure of traveling to Boston for a conference. (I am obligated here to thank my employer, Winnebago County, for this opportunity in very tough economical times. I promise I will pay you back tenfold with the vast knowledge I gained from very highly educated instructors this weekend.) When I made the arrangements, I decided to pick up the tab for two extra days and it has been worth every penny. I got here Thursday and am leaving tomorrow and I believe I've seen the entire city on foot. Just to scratch the surface, I have been to Harvard, Fenway, all of the Freedom Trail historical sites, up and down Newbury and Charles Streets a hundred times, Boston Common, the library, and the jogging path along the Charles River.
One thing to point out and I believe this deserves its own paragraph. I must begin with a disclaimer that I am totally devoted to my husband and family and the next few sentences in no way should lead you to doubt that. But as a woman who knows how women talk, I must make a comment about men in Boston. There seems to be two types. There are the stereotypical, stocky, perhaps chubby men with scruffy faces who love the Red Sox and say things like "Fah-get a-baht it." (Translation "forget about it".) Then, there are the really hot men. Really hot. And they all seem to be gay. Which makes me think that the gay men here are very fortunate because they seem to have a large pool from which to choose a potential partner.
Moving on. In order to embark on a solo vacation, here are some things that I recommend. Do some research. Buy a cheesy tourist book and map that will get you through your destination. I have found these books well worth the 15 bucks. You will get good tips for using public transportation, saving a few bucks, and avoiding bad restaurants or overrated attractions, allowing you to devote all your time to only the coolest things.
Recommendation number two. Do your best to appear like a local. Why? Because it's fun to pretend, that's why. Here's how you do it. Walk fast and look mostly annoyed, charging into traffic against the lights. I have gotten so good at this that tourists have stopped me on the street to ask for directions. Of course at the famous tour destinations, this act loses it's luster and you fit in with the rest of them, ooo-ing and ahhh-ing over the main attraction, and that's fun too.
Finally, and most importantly, you must let go of any and all anxiety you have about doing things alone. Trust me, no one in the restaurants thinks it's weird that you are sitting by yourself. This is how it all ties together, you see. I have written this blog for over a year, trying to express how being fit has changed my life and hoping that some of my experience can inspire you on a journey of your own. It's not just about the exercise or eating right or the joy of fitting into smaller clothes. It is about the confidence gained through doing all of those things. It is about the freedom of finally being so comfortable with yourself that you can sit in a major league baseball park all alone and not really care if anyone else thinks it's weird.
We spend so much time, especially those of us who live in small towns, worrying about fitting in and almost forcing ourselves to conform to unspoken rules in order to avoid looking like an outcast. I have learned that part of the joy of visiting a large city is the ability to experience individuality in a way we don't have access to at home. I would never have felt this kind of freedom without my solo vacation.
I know you may not have the money or the time. I realize that your work and your family need you. But I dare you to start thinking, planning, saving, whatever it takes. Where would you go? What do you want to see? What scares you the most about doing it alone? At some point, go for it.
Did I forget to mention the best part? You won't have to share a bathroom.
I'll see you when I get back to reality,
Brooke
A dream come true, right? Uh-huh. I learned a valuable lesson a few years ago when I vacationed with my high school besties in Arizona where one of them got married. (Dare I mention that it rained the whole week. . . . .in the desert?) It was on that vacation when I learned how much fun it can be to travel with friends. There was no worry about bed times or potties or who needed sun screen. I suddenly remembered fondly a time when I only had to be responsible for myself. But we still had to share a bathroom. Since then I've had lots of good travel memories with friends in New York, Portland, and even the close-to-home getaways like Lake Geneva, the Dells, and Milwaukee. Who can forget the sister vacation to D.C.?
But I have discovered something new. Not necessarily better, but different in a very good way. The Solo Vacation. That's right, girls, vacationing by yourself. At first, it doesn't really sound fun, I know. Who will you chat endlessly with, share a bottle of wine with, and shop with? Those really are the cornerstones of the greatest girlfriend vacations. And the answer is simple. No one. And here is the best part. You will love it. You know why? BECAUSE YOU GET TO DO WHATEVER YOU WANT!!!!!
This week, I had the pleasure of traveling to Boston for a conference. (I am obligated here to thank my employer, Winnebago County, for this opportunity in very tough economical times. I promise I will pay you back tenfold with the vast knowledge I gained from very highly educated instructors this weekend.) When I made the arrangements, I decided to pick up the tab for two extra days and it has been worth every penny. I got here Thursday and am leaving tomorrow and I believe I've seen the entire city on foot. Just to scratch the surface, I have been to Harvard, Fenway, all of the Freedom Trail historical sites, up and down Newbury and Charles Streets a hundred times, Boston Common, the library, and the jogging path along the Charles River.
One thing to point out and I believe this deserves its own paragraph. I must begin with a disclaimer that I am totally devoted to my husband and family and the next few sentences in no way should lead you to doubt that. But as a woman who knows how women talk, I must make a comment about men in Boston. There seems to be two types. There are the stereotypical, stocky, perhaps chubby men with scruffy faces who love the Red Sox and say things like "Fah-get a-baht it." (Translation "forget about it".) Then, there are the really hot men. Really hot. And they all seem to be gay. Which makes me think that the gay men here are very fortunate because they seem to have a large pool from which to choose a potential partner.
Moving on. In order to embark on a solo vacation, here are some things that I recommend. Do some research. Buy a cheesy tourist book and map that will get you through your destination. I have found these books well worth the 15 bucks. You will get good tips for using public transportation, saving a few bucks, and avoiding bad restaurants or overrated attractions, allowing you to devote all your time to only the coolest things.
Recommendation number two. Do your best to appear like a local. Why? Because it's fun to pretend, that's why. Here's how you do it. Walk fast and look mostly annoyed, charging into traffic against the lights. I have gotten so good at this that tourists have stopped me on the street to ask for directions. Of course at the famous tour destinations, this act loses it's luster and you fit in with the rest of them, ooo-ing and ahhh-ing over the main attraction, and that's fun too.
Finally, and most importantly, you must let go of any and all anxiety you have about doing things alone. Trust me, no one in the restaurants thinks it's weird that you are sitting by yourself. This is how it all ties together, you see. I have written this blog for over a year, trying to express how being fit has changed my life and hoping that some of my experience can inspire you on a journey of your own. It's not just about the exercise or eating right or the joy of fitting into smaller clothes. It is about the confidence gained through doing all of those things. It is about the freedom of finally being so comfortable with yourself that you can sit in a major league baseball park all alone and not really care if anyone else thinks it's weird.
We spend so much time, especially those of us who live in small towns, worrying about fitting in and almost forcing ourselves to conform to unspoken rules in order to avoid looking like an outcast. I have learned that part of the joy of visiting a large city is the ability to experience individuality in a way we don't have access to at home. I would never have felt this kind of freedom without my solo vacation.
I know you may not have the money or the time. I realize that your work and your family need you. But I dare you to start thinking, planning, saving, whatever it takes. Where would you go? What do you want to see? What scares you the most about doing it alone? At some point, go for it.
Did I forget to mention the best part? You won't have to share a bathroom.
I'll see you when I get back to reality,
Brooke
Sunday, April 24, 2011
A Good Kind of Crazy
Bored with your workouts lately? Need something to liven them up? I get that feeling often. We tend to get into pretty mundane routines, running the same routes at the same times, often crossing paths with the same people. It's even worse at the gym. On the treadmill or spin bike, we look at the same scenery for hours upon hours. Something's gotta give or we're going to throw in the towel.
My solution to this problem is to start getting a bit creative. Not just creative, but almost a little crazy. When it comes to working out, there are a couple types of crazy. I saw a woman on the elliptical yesterday whose panty lines clearly revealed that she was wearing thong underwear under her yoga pants. Ignorant Crazy. There is the girl who is clearly anorexic, works out for hours, and then sprays herself with bronzer in the locker room until it is foggy in there. Sad Crazy. What about the men who spend more time walking around and tightening their gloves than they do actually lifting weights? Crazy Dorks. In short, these guys can all be called "BAD CRAZY".
I'm talking about a different crazy, a good kind. There is a woman who swims at the 20th Avenue YMCA. She's not a small woman but she is a damn good swimmer. Her flip turns are acrobatic and she glides through the water without a ripple. We call her the "The Black Dart" referring the to color of her swimsuit and the precision of her stroke. The Black Dart is good crazy.
I like to say that I am FUN Crazy. Here's how I do it. I like to get my legs going as fast as I can sustain for about 20-30 minutes on the spin bike. Thanks to a really great spin teacher, I can go pretty fast. Once I'm in my rhythm, I start getting a crazy look in my eyes. At times, I'll plaster a smile on my face or shake my head as if I'm responding to something that no one else can hear. Other times, I'll put a really intense look on my face, like I am taking myself way too seriously. I notice that people look at me kind of strange and I like to think that they are admiring how fast I am going on the bike. Usually by this point, there is a good pool of sweat on the floor that has dripped off my chin.
Sound kind of crazy? Of course it does. The best part is that I literally enjoy every second of this foolish behavior, making a routine, boring workout way more fun! I actually usually get a better ride this way because I must really keep up the speed in order to pull the whole act off.
The other thing I love is to craft choreography routines to the songs I listen to the most. Think I look crazy on the spin bike? You should see me on the treadmill. I actually subdue it a bit at the Y but in my basement, it is a serious show. I know it's good when I am laughing out loud at myself.
The fact of the matter is that if you are going to commit yourself to fitness, it needs to be for life. Anything that you do for your whole life is bound to get boring now and then. It is up to you to find ways to keep yourself interested and liven things up a bit. Getting a little bit (good) crazy makes you feel confident and allows you to have fun.
So get a little crazy this week. Let me know how it goes. I'm always looking for ways to improve my act.
My solution to this problem is to start getting a bit creative. Not just creative, but almost a little crazy. When it comes to working out, there are a couple types of crazy. I saw a woman on the elliptical yesterday whose panty lines clearly revealed that she was wearing thong underwear under her yoga pants. Ignorant Crazy. There is the girl who is clearly anorexic, works out for hours, and then sprays herself with bronzer in the locker room until it is foggy in there. Sad Crazy. What about the men who spend more time walking around and tightening their gloves than they do actually lifting weights? Crazy Dorks. In short, these guys can all be called "BAD CRAZY".
I'm talking about a different crazy, a good kind. There is a woman who swims at the 20th Avenue YMCA. She's not a small woman but she is a damn good swimmer. Her flip turns are acrobatic and she glides through the water without a ripple. We call her the "The Black Dart" referring the to color of her swimsuit and the precision of her stroke. The Black Dart is good crazy.
I like to say that I am FUN Crazy. Here's how I do it. I like to get my legs going as fast as I can sustain for about 20-30 minutes on the spin bike. Thanks to a really great spin teacher, I can go pretty fast. Once I'm in my rhythm, I start getting a crazy look in my eyes. At times, I'll plaster a smile on my face or shake my head as if I'm responding to something that no one else can hear. Other times, I'll put a really intense look on my face, like I am taking myself way too seriously. I notice that people look at me kind of strange and I like to think that they are admiring how fast I am going on the bike. Usually by this point, there is a good pool of sweat on the floor that has dripped off my chin.
Sound kind of crazy? Of course it does. The best part is that I literally enjoy every second of this foolish behavior, making a routine, boring workout way more fun! I actually usually get a better ride this way because I must really keep up the speed in order to pull the whole act off.
The other thing I love is to craft choreography routines to the songs I listen to the most. Think I look crazy on the spin bike? You should see me on the treadmill. I actually subdue it a bit at the Y but in my basement, it is a serious show. I know it's good when I am laughing out loud at myself.
The fact of the matter is that if you are going to commit yourself to fitness, it needs to be for life. Anything that you do for your whole life is bound to get boring now and then. It is up to you to find ways to keep yourself interested and liven things up a bit. Getting a little bit (good) crazy makes you feel confident and allows you to have fun.
So get a little crazy this week. Let me know how it goes. I'm always looking for ways to improve my act.
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