ZuleAzul

Run & Brunch

2011-12-04T14:47:00.000+09:00

8 miles along the Han in the company of NPR’s “Wait, Wait Don’t Tell Me”, was exactly what I needed to shake off the past busy yet inexplicably cumbersome week. Of course the sightings along the river also work well to distract anyone with too much on their mind.

Weather was beautiful and perfect for running, although the shaded areas and the sporadic breeze rankled me a bit. As I crossed the Hangang Bridge, I came across a picturesque scene of my beautiful city… The taxi driver that just needed to relieve himself, yep… Just park and take a piss. Sorry no picture.

After the run, I had a lovely breakfast at Paris Croissant and I accidently stirred my cappuccino with a shoestring French fry *sigh*… Less than a month in the ROK.

Chuncheon Marathon - Strike 2

2011-11-20T20:47:00.002+09:00

Last year I wasn’t able to run Chuncheon Marathon due to an “issue” with my ankle. Notice that I do not call it injury but an "issue", because I cannot call it an injury as the doctor cannot tell me what is wrong with my ankle. Although he did gave me crutches and percocet for to deal with my "issue". I honestly believe is RA related, therefore all I can do is “deal with it”.

Courtesy of Ajumma's Journal

Any who… I began marathon training with my guys and it was going well. Of course it was going well, it was the first time that I was actually training for a race! :)

Unfortunately a job interview / opportunity came up and I had to travel to the States on the same day as the marathon. Fortunately, because it was a great opportunity… Unfortunately, because I really wanted to run with my guys, I was not able to run Chuncheon last year, and the interview did not go to well.

My guys, they rock!... :)

Bittersweet… Definitely! But I’m just happy that my guys did great on their first marathon :)

Back On The Road

2011-10-11T21:43:00.001+09:00

With Chuncheon Marathon around the corner and my new year’s resolution to train for races, today I ran my long run… And this is important, because of my resolution to adhere for the first time to a training schedule in order to avoid injuries and not feel like crap after the race.

Here’s the kicker, a couple of weeks ago I had surgery which put me out of commission for a moment. Prior to the surgery, I was not feeling up to much activity and afterwards the pain was “a bit much”. I learned today that as much as I love to run my old bones did not bounced back as I thought they would… At least I was not able to push as much as I wanted to.

Running is an intrinsic part of me and regardless of my training faux pas, I am happy to be back on the road. Let’s hope I can hang.

2011 Book List

2011-07-04T17:10:00.009+09:00

Lamb by Christopher Moore

Who Moved my Cheese? by Spencer Johnson

Sock Yarn, One Skein Wonders by Durant (publisher)

The 6th Target by James Patterson

The Good Soldiers by David Finkel

Stitch N Bitch The Handknitters Handbook by Debbie Stoller

The Book Seller of Kabul by Asne Seierstad

Donga Seoul International Marathon - 20 MAR 2011

2011-03-20T20:07:00.000+09:00

Seoul Flyers... Fighting!

Finally Donga Seoul International Marathon arrived to be received by a gloomy, rainy and cold Seoul. The heart of Seoul was crowded with runners wearing disposable raincoate and tons of energy to be left in the course. I arrived and was happy to see all the Seoul Flyers (or the majority of them) in one of the train exits avoiding the rain and cold. I also met with Bruce!!! I have not seen him since last year... yikes! He was as pleasant as always.

With friends

Pictures, pictures and more pictures then we headed to our respective corrals. I made sure to stay close to edge so I could wave hi to my Mom on the way out, it warmed my heart to see her standing under her umbrella waving back at me. I took it easy, but I wanted to take it REALLY easy so my intent was to listen to podcasts. As we took off, I was too excited to be running my first race of the year that I just decided to listen to music.

Killing time before the race

At mile 1, I felt a little twinge in my ankle... Nothing big and it went went away. I was feeling pretty good and was happy to be racing again. Love the energy of all the runners on the course. It was really nice to see Seoul Flyers along the course, I could not believe... It was very sweet of them.

With some of the Seoul Flyers!

Throughout the race I was feeling good, but at mile 18 my ankle began to bother me and after a couple a miles I knew I was going to be hurting big time.

When I grow up I want to be a Korean entertainer at marathons

Waiting for the race to begin

I cannot say that I hit a wall, because I wasn't tired or in physical pain (other than the ankle). But after mile 20 I slowed down considerably. In mile 24 I had to stop and stretch because my right quad was a bit tight. After that I was even slower.

Cute drummer girls in the back

More drummers... but these were more mature

I "ran" in and saw a couple of more Seoul Flyers and I tried to pick up the pace but I couldn't. Finished and was elated as always and as I changed in to warm and dry clothes, I remembered why I love running long distances... They are a journey of self reflection and a reminder of all that you can accomplish if you put your heart in to it.

Marathoner changing or lounging in the "recovery field"

After the race

Time: 4:24:32
Distance: 27.04 mi
Pace: 9:47/mi
BPM: 177/min

Longest Solo Miles

2011-01-16T21:56:00.000+09:00

I have run a myriad of distances from 1 mile, when I was breaking in my Vibram Five Fingers, to 50 milers, but I have never run more than 8 miles on MY OWN. So today I ran 12 sweet miles along the Han. I was ready to roll, I know this because as I waited for my Garmin to sync with the satellites the cold weather was not bothering me and the temperature was 10 degrees, “feels like -3”.

I headed off to the river and my left arch was killing me. I really think this only happens when I wear my Nimbus… I stopped twice and fidgeted with my shoe, this was a futile attempt as I knew it had nothing to do with adjusting the shoe. I guess I just did it to stop the pain for a little bit. I decided to keep on running as I have experienced this pain before. After 3 miles, the pain subsided.

I was long away from Banpo bridge but not far enough… I still had a “minute” to go. Weather was not too bad… or maybe it was the many layers and mask I was wearing. I decided to drink some water, since the night before had been a rough one. Sadly for me, the water in the hose of my Nathan hydration pack was frozen… The good part??? It was not completely frozen, so I was able to melt it enough to get a drink. I told myself that I was to drink water every 10 minutes in order to prevent it from freezing and I stuck the hose in my sweater to prevent it from freezing again.

As soon as my Garmin met the 6 mile mark, I turned it around. I quickly realized the reason why the weather was “not that bad” on the way out… Hmmm… Perhaps because the wind was on my back?... Bingo! I also realized that the water hose was completely frozen this time and I had to drink out straight from the bladder. Needless to mention that I only did it once since it was too cold to stop, remove my mask, mittens, the bladder from the backpack and then drink… Yea… I don’t think so. Therefore there was no more water for me on the way back home… 5 miles approximately.

The last 2 miles were just brutal. The wind was blowing hard and for a moment I thought my nose might fall off. I got home and never been happier to be there… But feeling accomplished for finishing the longest solo run I have done!

Short Run, Men and My Life…

2011-01-13T22:45:00.000+09:00

Today, I managed to sneak another run in the middle of my workday. It was short this time… Reeeal short. I don’t really like “short runs” because I’m not a fast runner. I can run forever, but don’t ask me about running fast. I don’t see the point of running fast… Not unless the devil is chasing me.

I digressed… I ran from Camp Coiner to Ichondong, the long way (I thought). But it was only 5 miles round trip, exactly what I needed (though). I put on my earphones and my Garmin (which is held together with 100mph tape). I was happy and giddy, skipping around the patches of snow and ice and thinking to myself I better watch out or I may slip and slide in to the street, get run over by a car, a bus and a moped and nobody will know what happened to me because I wasn’t wearing my RoadID.

I kept running… Stopping… running… Red man… Green man… Listening to NPR, A Prarie Home Companion to be exact. Then I my mind drifted to something I should have added to my “New Year’s Resolution List”: “No more worrying about relationships” or what Dane Cook lovingly calls “relationsh*ts"… *sigh* That man inspires me!

Honestly, I don’t care to be in a relationship, but many times it seems that if I was in one, many things would be easier. I know as soon as you finish reading what follows you will be quick to say “NAH, that doesn’t happen!” But anyways… I think if I had been in a relationship the gossip of me being with a million and one men could have been easily been avoided. Heck… I once was told “I thought you were one of those girls, because you work so hard and don’t have a boyfriend.”… giggle giggle.

Truth of the matter is, that I tried. I seriously tried looking around, meeting, befriending… yadayada. And truth of the matter is that I don’t care. I’ve dated younger, older, and same age. And if we talk about diversity… My menagerie kinda resembles a box of Crayola crayons. One thing they all have in common is their inability to “man up”. They just “up and leave”… Yep, all of them! Which is ok with me, since I don’t have to do the dirty work of telling them that “it’s just not working out.” But I would still like the courtesy of a “good bye and a why?” Oh well… It is what it is… C’est la vie… Asi es la vida.

So as I headed back to Coiner all I could say was… Forget about it. I am happy alone, if others are not happy with my status… Well, too bad… soooo sad. I am happy and that’s all that should matter… I looked at my Garmin and 5.11 miles were done… And it’s all that matter.

I was happy to have finished my short run… and made a mental note to have some music in addition to the podcasts, just in case my mind becomes too active and I need to shut it up :).

Embracing 2011

2011-01-11T22:35:00.000+09:00

So a new year peeks it’s head in my life and I am braving it and welcoming all it has to offer.

I have never, ever, ever, ever had new year’s resolutions but this year I made a short list and I know I will stick to it. Nothing crazy… Just enough to set me straight.

Here we go:

1-Get organized! I will use good ol’ fashioned “pen to paper” planner. I’m sorry, but I am too much of a dinosaur to be successful with the electronic crap. Plus writing allows it to “stick” to my brain!!!

2-Train for a marathon. I know, I know… I have run a million or so races from 5Ks to 50 milers and I never train. I don’t mean I don’t run… I mean I don’t put the necessary miles on my legs or strength train in order to prevent injuries and make the ride more pleasurable. So I can say that thus far is not too bad. I have been staying in the vicinity of the miles that I need to run per week and the days that I did not run it’s because my ankle has been cranky.

3-Race reportsssssss… This past year I did so many races in soooo many beautiful places in Korea, yet I did not share my adventures.

4-Sleep. Hopefully getting organized will allow me to sleep better at night.

5-Cut back on the sweet stuff and drink more water. Believe me it’s only cut back… Diabetes runs in my family and I eat candy the way I should be drinking water. I’m the equivalent of a chain smoker… when I eat candy.

Ok… this is just too easy. I’m pretty sure I will stick to it… Fingers crossed :)

Injury, Acupuncture and the Gym

2010-10-18T21:02:00.000+09:00

"Hi" Seoul Marathon (10 Oct 10) left me with nothing to smile and wave about… The day after the race my left ankle was less than cooperative with me and even crutches and Percocet became part of the equation when I couldn’t walk on it.

Pain became unbearable… which is rare since RA has taught me to live with pain and fatigue everyday.

Soon I found myself driving to the “acupuncture place” for my first session and I vowed that I would never return. That night I could finally rotate my foot… Session 2 of acupuncture was now a “maybe”… But I did not want to deal with the pricks… I went.

So, today after 7 Nutella gorging days and no activity I went to the gym. If I can’t run I guess I should “pump so iron”… Yes just shoot me… I will never say that again.

The gym is not my friend, but thank God for the aerobics room were I can hide with the weights and do my thing… Until the “über motivated guy” came into the room and started conducting his own aerobics class. *Seriously dude, shut up.* Why didn’t he stay in the weights room with all the other guys?

Ugh!... *sigh* I seriously dislike the gym… Maybe one day we will make peace but more important, hopefully I will never see “über motivated guy” again :)

Hi Seoul Marathon - 10 Oct 10

2010-10-16T18:15:00.004+09:00

So after 10+ races in ROK I have decided to finally start writing my reports. I may start by saying that races in Korea are super cheap, goody bags are awesome, and there is one almost every week!

I met with “Hardcore Johncour” at Gate 17 to take bus 502 to City Hall and met with the rest of the Seoul Flyers gang near exit 5 of City Hall Station. After baggage check, package exchange, and last minute potty breaks we headed to the start line… Well actually after I waited a minute or 2 for Sara after the gun went off I left… but Sara still finished an hour and some change before me!

The “Hi Seoul Marathon” started at 8 am in the heart of Seoul (City Hall). The day was clear and perfect at the start of the race but soon enough it got hot… By mile 6 I had already taken my top off attempting to look as hot as Sara, but really wanting just to cool off a little bit. It worked.

I stopped at a gas station to use their bathroom… to my delight it was “pop-a-squat” type of bathroom. Just what I needed, a workout on top of a workout.

After a couple of miles through the city, the race moved to the Han river and the majority of the race took place along the Han.

There were many water points… Something that “kinda” lacks in the races here and considering the heat factor I was more than grateful!

At around mile 8 I saw Nora (our 30-something minutes 10K chick) talking on the sideline with a race coordinator… She had missed the 10K turn mark.

Sooner rather than later, I was missing my turn too. At a fork I ask a volunteer which way and he pointed me towards the half marathon course. I reached the turn around point and realized that all the bibs were half marathon bibs and the occasional full marathon bib.

I thought to myself that I was on the right track and kept going… I passed the fork where I had seen the volunteer and kept running. I had decided that I was on the right course, but I wasn’t that convinced and decided to ask another volunteer. I was wrong and had to turn around and stay on the “right”.

I was a little upset about running a little extra, but that quickly went away when I thought about Shira’s 100K and Mark Jolins 308K. They both had to run “a little extra”… I had nothing to complain about, so I got back in stride and took it to Seoul Forest Park were the race finished.

4 hours 23 minutes later I took the train back home via Ttukseoum Station (line 2) feeling accomplished, as I felt pretty fresh after the run.

Overall the race was fun and organized with the exception of the poorly marked courses.

Do all things with love. ~Og Mandino

2010-09-14T20:13:00.000+09:00

Catharsis

2010-08-20T22:12:00.000+09:00

So… I have abandoned my “ink and paper” for a bit and I know that when that happens it’s because things are not “that under control” in my life.

I’ve been in Korea for over six months now and in this short time and it has been an emotional roller coaster. Issues… big issues… little issues… fat issues… skinny issues… bumpy issues… you name I had them. But you know what, they were all self-imposed issues.

I am a true believer that you are in control of your life, that if things go wrong… “yes it will suck”, but you know what?... It is up to you and only you to pick up the pieces, clean up the mess and move on.

My problem was that even though I would say I would turn a new leaf, that I would deal with things differently, I was not! I kept the same baggage around, people, issues, memories, etc.

The second week of August was cathartic for me and it all began on Tuesday, when my friend Shira told me to come to the track even though it was raining. I was ready to bail out on that run… but because my friend texted me I decided to go. I was not “feeling” the track workout but I pushed.

As the rain continue to fall and laps continued to be completed, I realized that I have been in a quasi-rut (although nobody really knew) because I allowed it to be that way. I had allowed myself to be used by people, I had allowed people to walk all over my heart and I was angry at losing people… Hell, I even had a friend “break up” with me… *sigh*…

But as I continued to run in the rain, I felt as I was running the negativity out of my body and the rain was completely washing it away. This was not the end, the following Thursday I joined the Seoul Flyers for the hill workout at Namsan Park. I did not want to run, because my friends are really good runners and I just like to run slow… not to mention hills are my biggest fear when it comes to running.

Running in Namsan Park was amazing. I had been there before yet, I felt stressed, out of breath and angry the first time I ran it. This time was amazing. It was raining lightly and I was running with Shira and Andy. It was really nice to run with them, since we talked about everything. The best part is that I was not feeling “spent”, I did not feel like I was abut to die, but I did feel like I was getting a workout.

During the run, I would zone in and out thinking this was the second day running that I had felt so good. Silly enough I was thinking how these two “difficult” runs in the rain were taking all the “bad” out of me. I also thought about the Saturday run and what a perfect way of ending this cathartic ritual.

Saturday came and I took it easy. Ran a 5k with the “Flyers”, followed by breakfast at Paris Croissant. It was the perfect way to end the week and start anew. Now my goal is to stay focus and take care of myself… We’

Farewell @ the Restaurant with the Green Sign

2010-04-29T22:00:00.005+09:00

Thursday night came and the crowd gathered to say farewell to a co-worker… “Little Sister”. We recruited the help of the professionals and some previous experience and decided to have dinner at a buffet restaurant… Yes the restaurant with the green sign.

The “restaurant with the green”… so called that way, not because no one in the crowd could identify it, but I truly believe the author is the only one that does not know the name :-s In Puerto Rico there is a saying “Siempre atrás, como las del perro…” Translation: “Always behind, just like the dog’s…” Yes, testes. I digressed… I meant that I am always behind and I am probably the only one in the group that did not know the name of the place.

So we sat at the tables and before I could even think about eating our “short tables” were covered by food or drinks.

We presented our “Little Sister” with a goodbye plaque, took pictures, exchanged “smart” anecdotes and enjoyed each others company.

I was happy to “re-unite” with my friend who has been busy in preparation of his new job… In all it was a good night… good food… good company.

2010-01-31T10:49:00.001+09:00

“Never allow someone to be your priority while allowing yourself to be their option”

Cannonball... Why not?

2010-01-24T23:54:00.002+09:00

So, I have this thing… Whenever I meet a person they have all my trust and I will think the world of them. I do this because every person should be allowed to start with a clean slate, regardless of what anyone says of him or her.

So, I have this friend… When I first met my friend, my friend and I where “in-sync”… I thought that my friend knew me, I thought I knew my friend. Honestly, we did not know each other. Soon I realized through my friend’s comments and actions towards me that I did not know this person and this person had NO CLUE who I was. BUT, our friendship developed and we became really close and before I knew it… it was over.

I must admit that it was over because of my mistake. Yes, I was going through some rough path, but that does not excuse me. So, I begged my friend to forgive me, yet I got the answer of “we can’t change the past… yadayada”. Jejeje… That’s my line… Karma can be a #itch. *pardon my French*

After regaining my composure and picking up the little pieces of dignity that were left on the floor, I realized something. It’s not my “so-called-friend’s” fault. It’s mine. I “cannon-balled into this cold water naked” and I obviously came out embarrassed, cold and soaking wet… jejeje… Yes, probably a little bruised too.

What can I say? Honestly… My advice is if you make a mistake apologize and “man up” to it. The person that really appreciates and values your worth will take the apology and perhaps give you a second chance. If they don’t want to give you a second chance, don’t beg… There’s nothing sexy about begging, plus if your friend is true they would not allow for you to do so.

Secondly, I have learned that I am the author of this book called “My Life” and whatever is recorded in it I am completely responsible for. Therefore I have to remember that , I will be angry, sad, and hurt, yet it is up to allow this to take over my life.

So… I will continue to give people the clean slate when I meet them, but I will make sure to test the waters and wear a bathing suit next time I decide to do a cannonball.

Billy Joel She's Always A Woman HD

2010-01-24T21:26:00.000+09:00

Love it... Maybe a little bit of me in it ;)

Billy Joel She's Always A Woman HD

Wasted Time

2010-01-21T21:10:00.001+09:00

What is the point of a relationship if you are going to be careful? If you are going to be watching every word that you say, what you do, how much time you spend with that person… because you don’t want to get hurt? Seriously, what is the point, if instead of enjoying everything that comes with it (relationship), you are withholding feelings just because you fear getting hurt? Seriously?

Why waste someone’s precious time if you are just keeping them on the backburner? Why waste your time? What is the point if you are not willing to forgive them if they make mistakes? What is the point if you do not trust them? Why would you want to be with someone if when they are hurting you only think about your pain?

Why do you want to be with someone that tries to reach out to you yet you shut her out?

Seriously… life is too short and only one.

What happened yesterday will only teach us not to do it tomorrow and we do not know what tomorrow holds for us. We only have today… Embrace it, because life is fragile and at any moment it can slip away.

Namdaemun Market

2010-01-19T18:13:00.003+09:00

In an effort to continue to know my new hometown and run some errands I headed to Namdaemun Market. A skip and a hop from my apartment… Through the metro that is.

As I walked up the stairs to the market I felt a little apprehension since I was not sure where to go, but it was “right there” as soon as I walked on the street. There were vendors, shops with trinkets and people everywhere.

I was a bit shopped out from yesterday so I put myself on a strict “time limit”.

As I walk I down through the pseudo-Louis Vuitton, Gucci and Channel I came across a Korean male offering me to try some food… He spoke to me in Spanish…. “¿Señorita, lo ha probado?” (Miss have you tried it?) I took my earphone off, as if the iPod was playing anyway. I had turned it off as soon as I got off the train. I look at the guy again and he repeats “¿Señorita, lo ha probado?” He also told me the price. I waited to try the “little things” they were giving away, but I was quickly turned off when I saw the “cook” feeding the two ladies that were waiting before me. Yes, feeding… Like taking the piece of food and putting it in their mouths. I told the gentleman “hasta luego” and went on my merry way.

Puppy clothes, more “LVs”, and dried food… I decide to finally buy and I acquired a knit hat, some chopsticks, and seaweed and with that I headed back home.

Shinsegae

2010-01-19T09:50:00.000+09:00

Martin Luther King’s in Seoul… I had to definitely do something and not spend my day moping sitting around in my apartment doing nothing, plus my belongings are yet to arrive and I don’t have *seriously cold weather clothes* with me.

Shinsegae, here I come! Super easy to get there “line 4 and get off the subway on Hoehyoen Station, follow exit 7 and you will se the entrance on your right.” Shinsegae is a massive department store, 14 stories in all… Nothing but designers sandwiched between the basement and floor eleven, these floors offered a wide selection of delicious food.

JAKE CHECKING OUT THE SQUID JERKY

MY BIG BAG O' KIMCHI

I grabbed a quick bite before starting my journey through the building, a roll and a sweet beverage with rice in it. My friend had some chicken.

DRIED SEAFOOD FROM THE MARKET

LANCE IN FRONT OF SHINSEGAE

After going up 4 stories, I began to worry because I could not find the Banana Republic store (love to shop there, since I don’t have to try on anything… and I know my size there). Cosmetics floor, golf floor, household goods and appliances, Armani, DVF, True Religion… etc… “Where is Banana Republic??? I am tired of shopping!” Yes, I had been in the place for over an hour and I do not like to shop.

BATH FIZZIES

AT THE "MARKET" DOWNSTAIRS

Banana Republic was found and mission was accomplished, now I have some nice warm shirts. Be advised that the prices are a *wee-bit* different. I realized *after the fact*, that you can pay 25-50% more than what you used to paying in Banana Republic in states. Oh well… Now I know :)

LUNCH

ROLL, RICE DRINK AND SOME CHICKEN

Overall, Shinsegae is one of those places that you need to see. But I don't recommend it for shopping unless you don't mind spending the equivalent of $350 on 4 shirts.

El Tri - Cuando tu no estás (Concierto Sinfonico 30 años)

2010-01-17T18:03:00.000+09:00

El Tri - Cuando tu no estás (Concierto Sinfonico 30 años)

Jimmy Cliff - I can see clearly now

2010-01-17T09:10:00.000+09:00

Jimmy Cliff - I can see clearly now

Seal - Love's Divine

2010-01-16T23:08:00.000+09:00

Seal - Love's Divine

Hypothetically

2010-01-16T22:33:00.000+09:00

Hypothetically~Lyfe Jennings

Beyoncé - I'd Rather Go Blind

2010-01-16T20:57:00.000+09:00

Beyoncé - I'd Rather Go Blind

Mary J Blige :I Found My Everything

2010-01-16T20:55:00.000+09:00

Mary J Blige :I Found My Everything

Ramyun???

2010-01-16T19:57:00.000+09:00

It is my first day in my apartment and with the excitement I *kinda* forgot that I needed plates, utensils, pots and pans. So I headed out to get some grub. I figured… “how hard can it be?” Well if you do what I did, not very.

I decided on this restaurant because, I was hungry and had already passed a million restaurants. As soon as I sat down I realized that I was not going to be given a menu since it was posted on the wall and to my demise there were no pictures on it, to which I could have pointed, smiled and nodded.

COPY OF THE MENU ON THE WALL

So I looked at the menu then at the waitress, then back at the menu. The lady (waitress) and I stared at each other, I shrugged my shoulders, sighed and looked at her as if I wanted to say “can I get a hint?” She quickly spitted out “Ramyun” and I said “YES!”

My ramyun or ramen was like a cross of good old .25 cent ramen and egg drop soup, with a side of kimchi and what I will call pickled radish…. I am yet to find out what it is, but I guess I can also call it delicious bright yellow half disks.

I HAD TO FIND THIS PIC ONLINE SINCE I DIDN'T TAKE A PICTURE OF THE "YELLOW HALF DISKS"

While I ate in the little shop of no more than four tables, I thought to myself… “I *shoulda* brought a book”… Since I was eating my soup and exchanging glances with the other lady there… jejeje, somewhat uncomfortable. Oh well, I guess I should never leave home without one!

When I went to pay, I understood 30 thousand Won, which I immediately panicked because I only had 20 thousand Won on me. But I also thought, “man, that is an expensive soup!” So, I pulled out my “wad” of money like a 3 year old and showed it to her. I felt so silly as she repeated 3 thousand Won… jajaja. I paid and took my silly self home, after trying to ask her how do you say rice… No luck.

2010-01-07T19:56:00.000+09:00

"You come to love not by finding the perfect person, but by seeing an imperfect person perfectly"

~Sam Keen

San Antonio Rock n' Roll Marathon 2009

2010-01-05T15:54:00.000+09:00

I ran the San Antonio Rock n’ Roll marathon on November 15, 2009 with Team in Training (TnT)– Central Texas chapter. I signed up with them almost immediately after I returned from Iraq and I was still living in Killeen, Texas.

AT THE EXPO

By the time the date of the race came around I had moved to Arizona… So obviously I had to fly, so I arrived into San Antonio a little after midnight and went straight to bed feeling as if I had already run a marathon. The team was going to have a pre-race run in the morning and I was definitely missing that one.

MARO & I, NEAR THE START LINE

I was pretty excited about this marathon and there were multiple reasons for it. I was running for a cause (which has become my new motivation since my last deployment), I was running with friends before my move to Korea and lastly I would meet new runners there.

Unfortunately we can plan ahead, but things don’t always go according to what was on schedule.The day prior to my arrival I found out that one of my friends was going to run with her brother and her dad was going to be there too. I thought it was awesome that she could have her dad to cheer them and run with her brother. I didn’t want to impose so I didn’t suggest any plans. That same day I also learned that my other friend was not going to make it to San Antonio until late evening on Saturday. Last but not least on Saturday morning I received a call from the third friend and her grandma was not doing well therefore she could not make it to San Antonio.

MARCE & I AT THE EXPO

After all that… I shrugged my shoulders and said to my self “oh well” and went to the expo. The expo (to me) was definitely an organized chaos, there was a process for everything from packet to t-shirt to goodie bag pick up, yet it all seem out of control and messy. Once I got to the area of the vendors everything was just business as usual. Tried new power bars, drinks, flip flops, etc…

I met @bemadthen and she gave me a heads up on PF Chang's giving away goodies. I also met @turtlescanrun. Awesome girls and great runners. I perused through the expo and eventually saw Marce and her family. It was really nice to see her, she’s like my little sister.

@BEMADTHEN, @TURTLESCANRUN AND I AT THE EXPO

In the evening I joined the TnT crew for the inspirational dinner. It was funny, it was motivational, it was serious, it was definitely life changing and assured me that I was participating in something bigger than myself.

TEAM IN TRAINING'S INSPIRATIONAL DINNER RECEIVING LINE

I went to sleep and my friend finally got to the hotel around 11pm. I was already in bed since I was supposed to meet with the team at 4am… Too early if you ask me. The thing is that even though I had set alarms and wake up calls I was too tired and did not hear them. For whatever reason I woke up to look at my cellphone and at that time a call was coming in from a TnT coordinator. I got ready in a jiffy and headed downstairs with my friend.

AT THE TEAM IN TRAINING INSPIRATIONAL DINNER

We waited almost 2 hours before the race, something I never do. I am usually “up” an hour prior to the race. The race started and I was full of energy, thinking that I would sub-4 easily since the conditions were better than those for Chicago. It was my second time running with music and it was good because it allowed me to run a 7:44 min/mile until mile 19^th. The drawback of running with music was that by mile 21 I was burned out and could barely go on.

The course was not impressive and to be honest at times it was just ugly, to include an area that was under construction. At some of the stations water was not available, which contributed to my demise. Some of the bands were not playing when I passed by them, which I did not understand why… Since that is one of the perks of the “Rock n’ Roll series”.

As I approached the finish line, one of the TnT coaches joined me on the run. It was less than a mile and I know she was pushing me to run an 8 min/mile, but I just could not run any faster I was spent. But she kept pushing me, little did she know that I did not care to go fast anymore, I just wanted to finish and if I “pushed” to go faster I was not going to make it.

Less than 400 meters from the finish line, my jog became a walk and a girl in a “livestrong” shirt grabbed my arm and told me “you better not quit”. I was embarrassed an disappointed at myself, but realized that my battle was less than 2 minutes long, whereas those battling with cancer is an ongoing, uncertain day to day struggle. I waved good-bye to the “pity-party” and finished the race with my new “livestrong” friend.

"LIVESTRONG" FRIEND AND I A COUPLE FEET AWAY FROM THE FINISH LINE

I finished the race and thanked a million times my new friend. I grabbed my medal, checked in with the TnT people and walked a mile to the hotel. I showered, drove to the airport and headed back to Arizona.

Quote

2009-12-14T15:52:00.000+09:00

“Let your heart feel for the afflictions and distress of everyone, and let your hand give in proportion to your purse.” ~George Washington

Quote

2009-11-04T09:56:00.000+09:00

One of our biggest mistakes is believing what people think about us and not believing what we know about us

~Mary J. Blige

My Friend

2009-10-27T11:50:00.000+09:00

I have a fairly new friend… I call this person a friend because even though we have only known each other for a short time, this person knows me as well as my “old friends”. Knows how I feel even before I say it and doesn’t judge me for being too “in your face”.

To know a person like this is amazing. They do not expect anything from me, not even to change my spicy attitude, this person is not demeaning and makes me laugh and laughs at my cheesiness… jejeje.

This is the type of person that you see and would never expect to be so sweet. My new friend is:

- Caring

- Has a profound love for family members

- Smart

- Hardworking

- Selfless

- Finds perfection in imperfections

- Makes you want to be better

- Challenges you

- Feisty

- Funny

- Not judgmental

I knot that there are many other qualities of this person that I am missing and I have yet to discover. The funny thing is that this person reminds me of myself (I only wish I had as many good qualities :))… I am lucky to have met such a good person. I only hope others are as blessed as I am and are able to see what I see.

Chicago Marathon 2009

2009-10-19T10:00:00.001+09:00

On October 11, 2009 I ran my first marathon… The Bank of America Chicago Marathon. What motivated me to run this event? Just the sheer fact that I have ran 5K, 10K, 30K, 10 milers, 13.1 miles, and even a 50 miler, but no 26.2 miles. Additionally, when I got back from my last deployment I wanted to start running for charity organizations and so it happened that Fred’s Team was participating in this marathon.

So finally the week prior to the marathon arrived and went by pretty quick! Friday I embarked on my little adventure. I flew from Tucson to Denver to Fayetteville to Chicago… Nothing like a “triathlon” to get you warmed up for your marathon. I arrived into Chicago and met with my friend who decided at the last minute to go to Chicago to support me (that was super nice of him).

We went to the Expo and after picking up my bib and swag bag, I looked for Fred’s Team to pick up my uniform. The girls from Fred’s Team were extremely nice and they gave me some information about the event and when/where to meet with the rest of the team. After that we headed to our hotel.

AT THE EXPO

Next day we went back to the Expo and to my surprise I did not go crazy spending money on all the goodies that they had. I do not like to shop or to be in extremely crowded places, therefore after a couple of hours at the Expo I was ready to call it quits and head back to my room. My friend and I saw a bit of the city and ate at Gino’s… delish!!!

I went to bed with a very full stomach and slept for a bit. I believe I was too excited for the event. I woke up at 5:00 am and met with the rest of Fred’s Team, we walked to Charity Village to our (Fred’s Team) tent and spent a couple of minutes there prior to the event. Thank God for the tent! It was freezing out there!!!! Low 30s… BRRRRR!!!!

It was announced that we had to begin to move towards the corrals… “Shoot! I need to use the port-a-potty” I thought. But I thought I was not going to have enough time to go potty and make it to the corral. Sooo… off to the corrals! I could not find the entrance to my corral, so I did what every other good marathoner was doing… Jumped the fence.

HEADED TO THE CORRAL

INSIDE THE VERY PACKED CORRAL

Ten minutes to start! Yay! Everyone began to strip and clothes were just flying everywhere… Slapping some on the face, jejeje. It took me almost 8 minutes to cross the start point and I had to go potty… Baaaad!!! On mile 12, I finally used the “john”. After that I still had to go again but that’s not that important J.

Throughout the entire race I was smiling. It was a good feeling to be in such a beautiful city, participating with thousands of runners who shared my passion. Some running for a charity, a PR, for a friend or family member… It was truly inspiring.

I love the support of the people of Chicago, especially the gay community and the Mexican community. Those areas were MORE packed and extremely lively, loud music and stages with cross-dressers it was a lot of fun!

At mile 16 my friend finally found me. It was funny, later he told me that according to his Garmin he had ran 10 miles and some change, looking for me. My mom’s friend, Lori, also came out to see me but the course was so crowded that we missed each other. Still it was a good feeling to know that somewhere out there, a person was cheering you on.

HEADING BACK TO MY HOTEL

On mile 24, I began to think of the reason why I was running this marathon, cancer survivors, cancer patients, friends and family that have passed away to cancer, my friends who donated to the charity and those who did not and got pretty emotional. I was about to finish something that just a couple of months ago seemed like a possibility. It was real now… and I was going to finish.

MY HOTEL IN THE BACKGROUND (CONGRESS HOTEL)

It wasn’t difficult, because I decided that I was going to take it easy since the longest run I did in preparation for this event was 12-13 miles. I finished in 4:02:21. I was lucky enough not to have any blisters or any injuries post-race.

After the getting my medal and free beer… I headed back to Charity Village and said goodbye to the kind people of Fred’s Team and returned to my hotel room since I had a plane to catch.

Overall my first marathon was amazing. I was running for a good cause and had a great time doing so. I was able to raise $1,500 for cancer research with the help of my friends and family. Like I tweeted the morning of the marathon “Today I run for the survivors, the fighters, and those who have passed away... Imagine a world without cancer!” If you are healthy don’t forget to help others, it’s a way of thanking the Big Guy for all he has given us.

"Love's Divine"-Seal

2009-10-05T12:01:00.000+09:00

I just heard this song... It made me want to stop being a cynic.

Then the rainstorm came, over me
And I felt my spirit break
I had lost all of my, belief you see
And realized my mistake
But time threw a prayer, to me
And all around me became still

I need love, love's divine
Please forgive me now I see that I've been blind
Give me love, love is what I need to help me know my name

Through the rainstorm came sanctuary
And I felt my spirit fly
I had found all of my reality
I realize what it takes

'Cause I need love, love's divine
Please forgive me now I see that I've been blind
Give me love, love is what I need to help me know my name

Oh I, don't bend (don't bend), don't break (don't break)
Show me how to live and promise me you won't forsake
'Cause love can help me know my name

Well I try to say there's nothing wrong
But inside I felt me lying all along
But the message here was plain to see
Believe me

'Cause I need love, love's divine
Please forgive me now I see that I've been blind
Give me love, love is what I need to help me know my name

Oh I, don't bend (don't bend), don't break (don't break)
Show me how to live and promise me you won't forsake
'Cause love can help me know my name

Love can help me know my name.

Quote

2009-09-21T15:32:00.000+09:00

The grand essentials of happiness are:

-something to do

-something to love

-something to hope for

~Allan K. Chalmers

Labor Day Run 2009

2009-09-19T14:22:00.000+09:00

The race has not even started and my face is shiny already! :-p

September 7^th was Saguaro National Park Labor Day Run 2009. Overall it was a nice race… the scenery was pretty, there were a lot of participants, and there seemed to be a good number of people supporting the event (i.e. aid stations). The Saguaro National Park can be reached by taking exit 275 off of I-10.

Packet pick up was at the The Running Shop (http://runningshopaz.com/) and registration included a cute tech shirt… Which I won’t be able to sport since the X-small can fit my brother who is 6’3”. I ran the race with a friend and it was her first race “ever”… She did great even though it was her first race and the fact that the course was a “toughy”.

Walking to the entrance of the park... Still a bit to go.

The race started at 6:30 a.m. and I arrived about 5:45 a.m. Thank God that I arrived early because there was no parking in the park and the road leading to the park was already packed with vehicles. I am pretty sure that the website did not mention that there would be no parking within the park grounds… Actually I believe they mentioned “bring money for the park pass.” *sigh* Oh well!... For being the 40^th year that the race takes place, it felt rather unorganized. It was after 6:00 a.m. and they were still setting up. Other than that… that is the end of my gripes and complaints.

Waiting for the race to begin

I look a bit chunky monkey here :)

There were 662 runners for the 8 miler and 145 for the 2 miler. I was able to finish the 8 miler in 1:10:34, early enough to avoid the hot temps. There was the usual courtesy massages and e-drinks… I couldn’t find the food… Maybe there was none :-s But I must admit I didn’t “really” look for it either. In general I had fun like I always do. My recommendation… if you find yourself in the Southern AZ area during Labor Day you should definitely give this race a try.

One Of Those Days...

2009-09-18T13:57:00.000+09:00

It was definitely one of those days… Last night right before going to bed, I received a rather unpleasant email. It made me sick to my stomach… and I ended up waking up at 3am. I took advantage of it and went for a run before PT. I thought it was going to be a good day. Running really early, seeing the sunrise and then a kick butt bike ride with my friend Clarisa. So far… so good.

But as the day went on, I continued to think about the email and I was just getting angrier by the minute. In addition to this, the class felt like déjà vu… It felt like being in Iraq all over again. I did not want to hear anything from anyone. Looking back it was very sad to feel like this.

I was able to talk to the person who sent me the email and the conversation was cordial… Yet, what I was about to hear was going to be the cherry on the sundae. Heck… I think I’ve cried today more than I did when I found out about some issues in my last relationship. Man! …And I’m still crying. I guess I have to understand that when people are hurting they will say whatever to who ever in order to make their pain go away. I don’t wish that person anything bad, but *sigh* it hurts. I feel like I was just punched in the stomach. Aaaaand NO... It wasn’t a romantic dispute.

I don’t want to do anything, yet I have so much to do… A discussion for tonight… and a paper for tomorrow. Awwww…. Perfect timing! :-s I’ll be ok… Like James chapter 1 says… it’s from the trials and tribulations that one becomes stronger.

Oh well! I will leave it here… I am crushed, tired, my eyes puffy… but at least I have a laundry list of friends that are sweet as sugar :-D and a family to die for! After all it is the sour times that make the sweet ones even sweeter.

1000m

2009-08-17T11:28:00.000+09:00

Yesterday when I met with my swim coach, she tells me to do 4 laps kicking with the board to warm up. Needless to say I was pretty smoked by the time I was done. Sad thing is... that only took about 2 or 3 minutes. There was still more on the menu. She gives me a 2 minute break and then tells me to do 4 laps with flip turns. Jaja, I thought "this woman is trying to kill me, I can only swim 25 meters at a time." I am paying for it and the only way to get better is by getting out of my comfort zone. So, I went ahead and did it (only one flip turn though :-s).

Coach tells me that by now I should know that she does everything in sets of 4. I was really concerned because we still had a "ways" until we were done and I did not think I could do any more "sets of 4." All I wanted to do was 25 meters and hug the wall. Nevertheless the whole swim session went on and I continued to do the "sets of 4" of whatever she instructed me to do.

Today I went to the pool, just to keep my swimming mojo in check. I decided that the only way to get better (or at least feel comfortable) was to push myself. So I got in the water and began to swim, I swam 1000 meters without stopping. I'm pretty stoked, I felt even better than when I did the triathlon. It's impressive what you are able to do once you decide to stop taking the easy way out and push yourself to new limits.

Smart Bacon

2009-08-17T09:51:00.000+09:00

This morning I had eggs, toast... and "Smart Bacon." Staying true to my newfound vegetarian roots and a lover of bacon and eggs I decided to try this out (like all foods anyway... :)). They seem to be pretty healthy, the nutrition facts are as follows:

Serving size 1 slice

Calories 20

Total fat 1g

Cholesterol 0g

Sodium 140mg

Potassium 40mg

Total Carbohydrate 0g

Protein 2g

The taste was far from it being "bacon", but it was not bad. When I cooked it, the slices fell apart with the exception of a couple that were just charred (but were still tasty... jaja). I must admit the packaging does not advertise that it will taste just like bacon or that the taste will blow your mind. Therefore I don't know why I had such high expectations. But if you are looking for a meat substitute without the bells and whistles, this may be it. Meanwhile I will continue to search for my bacon surrogate :)

23 Annual Tombstone's Vigilante's 10K

2009-08-10T04:32:00.000+09:00

Tombstone's City Park, where we picked up our packets

Got up at 4:00 a.m. to get ready for my race in Tombstone. I was pretty excited since it is such a historical place. Even though Google maps said the ride to Tombstone was an hour it only took us about 30 minutes. I went with my battle buddy 1SG Canady.

Just before the race

It was kinda chilly for my taste. You can tell you are in the desert since the mornings are coooool and the days are very warm... I can't say it's hot, because Georgia and Texas were reaaaally hot.

"Gunshot" man, not be confused with shotgun man

The formalities took place and the gunshot went off. My Garmin was acting up so I was not able to keep pace or know the distance. I tried to fixed it, while I saw the crowd dwindle away. When I finally saw the ladies with the strollers pass me by, I gave up on my efforts to fix the Garmin and started running. I caught up with my friend and complained for a bit and kept on going. The other issue that I had on this race were outfit issues. The shorts that I bought kept riding up. I must say I am very disappointed with Nike, these have to be the most uncomfortable shorts ever. But... it is not Nike's fault, it's all my fault because I should not be experimenting with new gear on race day :).

One of the hills, this one was a bit more forgiving

The website described the course as having ONE big hill. I started running and the hills would not stop... They need to describe this course as rolling hills... and steep hills galore. In all of the water stops they had "little drive-thru showers" to keep you cool. I finished the race somewhere between 50-51 minutes. There was water, frozen pops and beer at the end of the race... Funny, beer before 9:00 am.

My friend finishing up

I hope more people participate next year. Even though the race is set in a small town, the race is worthwhile (very challenging), the people are fun and it's a nice historic place to visit.

Waiting for the awards

A Bit Late

2009-08-09T09:21:00.000+09:00

Entrance to the "swimming school"...jaja

Second session with my swim coach and I thought I was going to miss it. Actually, I got there 20 minutes late. For some reason I thought that I could get to Westward Resort in an hour, little did I know. But Chris was nice enough to not cut the session short.

The pool were I train and it has to be the first pool that it's not freezing cold

Man... I was so tired. I'm going to have to include more swimming sessions during the week. Currently I have scheduled 3 sessions of swimming a week, but more often than not I end up swimming only once a week. This is the first time in 4 weeks of training that I have in fact swam 3 times in a week. To be honest, I have seen progress, yet I am not where I should be at after a month of training. This coming Monday the 2nd month of base training begins. Hopefully I will stick to my program more closely.

The view from the pool

Favorite Trail

2009-08-06T07:01:00.001+09:00

This morning was a cool one... Some may argue with me and say that it's just comfortable :) Anyway, I went for a short run, since yesterday I did speed work and my thighs are a bit sore. The trail was peaceful as always, 5 short miles and off to work. I know you are probably tired of seeing mountains and desolate land, but I love it. It never gets old.

The hills were unforgiving as always, but it still nice to start the day on this trail.

4th week (Base Training)

2009-08-04T03:35:00.000+09:00

It's my forth week yet if feels like I have been doing this "foreva"!

This is what's on the grill...

Monday - 60 min swim/75 min run

Tuesday - 30 min run (speedwork)

Wednesday - 60 min swim

Thursday - 75 min bike/30 min run

Friday - 60 min swim

Saturday - 3:30 bike/30 min run (brick)

Sunday - 45 min run

Yes... It looks like I am not resting but I have to schedule something for everyday, since the Army can always change your plans and I rather have it planned out than to have to figure it out later.

50 Miler Dream

2009-08-03T10:39:00.000+09:00

Sunrise at Sonoita and my 50 miler belt buckle... Woohoo!

So last night I had a weird dream. I was in Sonoita, AZ. This is the place where I ran a 50 miler before I deployed. I was there with some friends, I think my Dad and my two brothers (I definitely remember my two bros there). I was at the "wood house" picking up my packet, my brothers already had picked up their packets and were sporting their bibs. I took my bib out of the packet and pins went flying everywhere, not a good thing since it was dark. In addition to this I realized that my bib was four times the size of everyone else's bib. I was a bit bummed out because it was going to be annoying to run with it. I decided that I could fold the bib so only the numbers would show.

8 miles down...

I was so excited that I was going to run, since I have been wanting to run a 50 miler since I returned from Iraq. All of the sudden my bib disappears and I was not permitted to run without it... Mmmmm???? So, I did not run, but one of my brothers finished first... not bad! However, I do not know which one won. Then I woke up... Strange.

30 more to go

Almost but is not over yet

***The pics are from the Sonoita 50 miler... Not the dream ;-p This is the race that for some reason triggered the dream.

When I Think About the Lord

2009-08-03T09:04:00.000+09:00

When I Think About the Lord - http://www.youtube.com/wathc?v=THgccy_EyFY

The last Sunday I spent in Texas, I went to Destiny World Outreach (my church - http://www.destinywoc.com). Like always Pastor Marla led the worship service, God really uses her and the choir just like He uses Pastor Chad during the sermon. That Sunday I was very sad because I thought that I was not going to find a church in Arizona that would deliver the word of God like DWOC. The choir began singing the last song before the sermon and it was "When I Think About the Lord." I felt immense happiness, because I realized that God puts people in our lives so we can stay in the right path. Yet, it's all about Him, not about where you are at or who you are with. Also, Pastor Chad reminded the congregation about the church's podcasts :)

Pastor Marla & Pastor Chad

I tried to tell my brother about the song and he told me that it sounded like I was trying to sing a song from the Village People *jaja* Hopefully now he can get the good version and see why I was so elated after the church service :) I hope it inspires you at it inspired and continues to inspire me.

Back to the Pool?

2009-08-02T11:54:00.001+09:00

Today was my first swimming lesson with a swimming coach (not a tri coach). I made the decision to take "official" swimming lessons after the Danskin Triathlon... (by the way what are unofficial swimming lessons?). It was then when I realized that I am not the great swimmer that I thought I was. I started the swim leg with the freestyle, then I was skating, then doggy paddled, I floated, and backstroked... Actually I think for a second there it look like I was dancing Salsa in the water. I did finish the swim leg with relatively "no problems", but honestly... I do not want to go through that again.

Chris, my coach is pretty cool. She teaches at a resort, which made it even "cooler." The pool was outside and the day was beautiful. I am pretty stoked because I learned a couple of new things, I wasn't expecting to learn much on the first day. I thought it was going to be like my guitar lessons, what a rip off! As a matter of fact, I ended up learning more on my own. I digressed... So today I learned to stay a bit more streamlined, flip (I don't think that is the actual term), keep count of my strokes, and do the bilateral breathing more effectively.

Unfortunately I developed this "tickle" in my throat during the swim that lingers, I was coughing a bit while I was trying to swim. Oh well! Afterwards I went to Trader Joe's *yay!*, then headed home to put all my energy on school work.... boooo! :(

Nice Quote

2009-08-01T13:50:00.000+09:00

Nothing in all the world is more dangerous than sincere ignorance, conscientious stupidity.

~Martin Luther King, Jr.

11th Annual Run in the Park

2009-08-01T09:16:00.000+09:00

Zule and a group of soldiers

Last Saturday (July 25, 2009) I ran my first race in Sierra Vista, it was a 5K in Veteran's Memorial Park. The usual pre-run early birds were not there. 15 minutes prior to the race people started to arrive. There were a lot of runners from "Run with the Roosters", soldiers, and just neighbors of the city.

Waiting for the race to start

The race was on grass and asphalt. I run trails and road (never grass), so I soon realized that running on nice, cushiony, green grass can slow you down a bit. As I am trying to change gears, I could hear the soldiers singing their cadences. It was pretty cool, they ran in a formation and were really sounding off. Yes... I am a big cheese ball *sigh* I admit it, I do like to sound of soldiers calling cadence. It's so traditional and structured... I guess a psychologist would have a field day trying to analyze this statement!

2nd Place in my age group

I passed a couple of people and my biggest competition was a 60-something-year-old-man (yes I am not counting the girls that came in before me :)). He was nice, running with his little shorts and bare top, providing words of encouragement: "Good pace, keep it up."

Woohoo!

A mile to go and I started to feel light-headed, I think I am still getting used to the altitude, but I decided to push through. I finished the race in 22 minutes and some change and felt fresh and elated. Wish I could have shared this with more people, but this will do :)

TGIF!!!

2009-08-01T08:34:00.000+09:00

My Lord! It's only 4:34 p.m. and I feel like it's midnight! I am so happy they released us "early" today. Yesterday was... I mean the entire week was soooo long! Don't get me wrong... I understand this is better than being deployed, yet there are some things that "they" could do in this course that could significantly improve time management and their teaching techniques.

Before I start bashing on the course, I must talk about more desirable events this week. So, I was able to keep up with my Tri-training this week, with the exception of swimming. I missed two swimming sessions, for which reason I will have to swim tonight, tomorrow, and Sunday and that will put me back "in the game." Swimming is the only sport that I am dragging, I just don't seem to push myself the same way I do for running or cycling.

I did some speed work on Wednesday and like always it tears up my thighs :) I have been cycling with a buddy from the course and he's keeping honest :-s Yesterday I did a 9.24 mi hilly run on "Radar Hill." I did not drink much water before I ran, nor did I bring any gels with me. By the time I hit the 1:15, I was parched! Even so, the run felt great on my legs and it was very peaceful. I know it sounds cheesy and I keep on saying it, but the view here is amazing. I guess after running in Killeen and having nothing much to look at but run down pawnshops and liquor stores, I can't do anything else but to be amazed every time I see the beautiful blue sky and the mountains.

About the course I will say that it is like trying to drink out of a fire hose (this description was given by the course instructors, I could not have been able to come up with something so clever). The course is not difficult, but if you are on post from 5:00 a.m. until 5:00 p.m. everyday it leaves you very little time to accomplish the readings at night and finish the products that are due on the following day. How are they expecting people to learn? To be honest, I have just been "putting stuff together" to meet the requirements of completing my homework, but I am a bit lost. This weekend I am planning on catching up with the readings and see how everything sinks in my overloaded brain.

The master's is going great... no problems there. That is what happens when you provide a student all the necessary tools to succeed. Ok, enough of my complaining... Aside from being a bit tired I am so happy. I do not know why... but I am :)

Lessons Learned

2009-07-29T13:16:00.000+09:00

It’s good to wake up everyday at look at it as a clean slate. But there are two things that you want to avoid:

1) Forgetting about your mistakes or any learning experience

2) Delving in the past

If you forget your mistakes or any learning experience you are bound to make the same mistakes. If you delve in the past, you are bound to miss your present and your future. We all make mistakes, tons of them but it is up to us to learn and move on.

I have allowed myself to get a bit out of control… I am always doing a million and one things and I know that I need to have my home in immaculate order. Yet… I have been a bit unorganized because I have not been diligent at prioritizing my time. I have been waking up early to get everything in order, but after that I am just running around through the motions. I am not keeping my “To Do List”, not organizing my psychology work or my CCC work, and although to many my apartment is in great condition, I know it is not the way I like it to be. Even though I am aware of all these things, for the past week I have been doing as much (actually as little) as I can to not help myself.

Perhaps some people don’t learn from their mistakes, but there is always hope. Tonight, I am going to bed and I will start tomorrow with a clean slate… hopefully I am able to correct all the mistakes that are slowing me down.

Nice Quote

2009-07-28T21:07:00.000+09:00

There is nothing so fatiguing as the eternal hanging on of an uncompleted task." - William James

So Much To Say...

2009-07-27T12:42:00.000+09:00

There's so much going on, but I am trying a new thing... I am trying to make sure that I am in bed by 9pm. That way I am passed out by 9:30 or no later than 10pm. We'll see how that works.

"...Time is on my side... yes it is..."

Nice Quote

2009-07-25T10:20:00.001+09:00

A loving heart is the beginning of all knowledge.

-Thomas Carlyle

Memoirs of a "Triste" Shower

2009-07-25T10:04:00.000+09:00

No PT today since I have a short race tomorrow, yet I did not want to drive home to get ready for work. I decided to use the showers at the gym. Said hi to people, there was a girl (not even 21 years old and is behaving as if she was 90…). “Yeah whatever, let me know what is so good about this morning,” she replied to my morning greet, mind you this is here everyday demeanor. Poor thing I thought… Then she uttered “I hate PT, if I become the president of the United States that’s the first thing that I will change.” At this point I decided to block her, it’s not even 7 in the morning and I am in negativity overload.

I went ahead took a nice hot/scalding shower, it seems that every time someone flushes a toilet the water comes out “peel-your-skin-off” hot. Even so, I enjoyed my shower. Sadly the “showers” in the gym is actually a “shower room” with 6 showerheads separated from the rest of the locker room by a shower curtain. Here comes in a girl opens the curtain and leaves the curtain open, letting the freezing air draft in to the little shower room. Was she expecting for the shower curtain to close automatically behind her? I closed the curtain.

The “I-don’t-close-shower-curtain” girl starts taking a shower in the showerhead behind me. Either she was pretending to take a shower or she likes to stand beneath the water flow, because I was getting doused by the cold shower that she was taking. Oh well! I went on with my day… Just a regular old day.

Please don’t forget:

-Don’t be so negative so early in the morning… If you decide to do so, keep it to yourself. Don’t bring others down.

-If it was closed when you came in, close it behind you.

-Adjust the showerhead in public showers, after all it is YOUR shower time.

-Wear shower shoes, flip flops… whatever you want to call it, but don’t go walking around the locker room barefoot. It is unsanitary.

-Don’t lay your poof, washcloth, body sponge etc. on the floor of the shower, it is not a hygienic place. Have a little basket, hold it on your hand, something… Again… it is unsanitary.

Now to sleep… I have a little race tomorrow and a long bike ride. I mean… school work, then sleep.

7.88 Miles

2009-07-24T14:13:00.000+09:00

Run this morning was pretty nice, not too long, not too short… but all too hilly. It had all the elements to make it interesting, awesome view, bunnies, big crows, wild turkeys, and kamikaze bugs… Yes, fearless bugs that crashed in my right eye and mouth. I guess, that is pretty interesting or perhaps I am easily amused.

The rest of the day was uneventful, completed several “reply discussions” during lunch and my own discussion at dinner. At least I will get all the points for participation, since “Test and Measurements” is not a fun class. Maybe it is fun but I do not feel the love for it yet. Right now is as fun as “Statistics” or a root canal. Eight more weeks… maybe things we’ll change.

By the way, none of those pictures are the actual cute lil' things that I saw this morning. Especially the wild turkey ;).

Nice Quote

2009-07-23T14:30:00.001+09:00

Somewhere there is someone who dreams of your smile. - Unknown

Icebreaker

2009-07-22T12:38:00.000+09:00

We had our icebreaker today, the first official social activity for the class. It was not as bad as I thought it would be. At least it was not at the shanty club that we used to do all of our "Hail & Farewells" during OBC, but at the golf course.

The event was hosted by a senior class, they shared their experiences with us and it does not seem to be as bad as everyone says it will be. Hey, it could be worse... I could be in Iraq ;) After an hour of all the formalities, they announced that "that concludes all the formalities of the event and you are free to go." Of course I was in my truck by the time he said "you are free to go." Oh! I am such the social butterfly ;).

On a separate subject... My easy 30 minute spin this morning felt tough, there are some crazy hills at the base. Sometimes I was zooming at +26 mph and other times I was "zooming" at a mere 8 mph... Jaja... Yet I was able to complete a "speed workout" right after the bike ride with ease. I must admit my quads and hammies are super sore now :(.

Need to go now... I have a short paper to write.

Time to Make the Donuts!!!

2009-07-21T11:20:00.000+09:00

Almost 30 days without real work and now it's time to say goodbye to my comfy bed and anarchic schedule. To be honest, I have to thank God... a girl can sure use some "structure" in her life.

I went for a quick spin in the morning and was able to see the sunrise during the ride. Mental note: "bring a petzel for next ride." A miscalculation of my training cause me to take a quick shower and have no breakfast. My stomach was growling as if I had a monster in my stomach fighting to get out.

Quick lunch... Quick run... and now it's time to hit the books.

I will be better prepared for tomorrow. I don't think that this "thing" will be as bad as everyone says it is.

Back on the Trails

2009-07-19T13:51:00.000+09:00

Finally I was able to hit the trails since my return to Sierra Vista. The trails were just as rocky and steep as I remembered them. In addition to that and much to my dismay I realized that I am waaaay slower than I thought.

I spent an hour and 27 minutes and was only able to run 6.80 miles. Hopefully next time I will do better. Still… I thought I was doing so well on the road. Regardless of my disillusioned state, once I got to the turning point I realized why I love Sierra Vista’s trails and everything was peachy again.

Turn around point...Yay!

Hydration on the Run

2009-07-18T13:12:00.000+09:00

I was asked how do I stay hydrated when I run? Mmmm... There are a couple of things that I used to do:

1-Tell myself that I have to drink water

2-Think about drinking water

3-Wait to the last minute, drink a bit of water and then suck and tough it out during the run.

"Hand-Held"

Now I make sure to drink plenty of water... All the time and no, I do not like water. My daily intake is +64 oz. Before I go on a run (30min - 1 hour) I try to drink 8-16 oz. If I am running less than 45 minutes, I do not worry about taking any additional water with me. For runs over 45 minutes, I will either take my "hand-held" or my "pink camelbak."

"Pink Camelbak"

In addition to that, if I am doing an LSD (Long Slow Distance) run I make sure to take "chews" or "gels" to replenish electrolytes. I do not like to take Gatorade or Heed or any other "electrolyte drink" with me (I only take water in the hand-held or in the pink camelbak)... For some reason it gives me cottonmouth. But you should try and do whatever works for you.

"Honey Stinger Cherry Blossom Chews"... real tasty

"Luna Sports Moons - Energy Chews" in Blueberry flavor. Not bad, plus I got a whole bunch for free at the triathlon :)

"CytoMax Sustained Energy and Electrolytes". It is supposed to buffer acid, stabilize power output, reduce exertion, reduce oxygen consumption and increase recovery rate. I got it for free at my last race (Run with the Roosters) and have not tried it yet... It seems to be like a "Gatorade on steroids."

"Hammer Gel Rapid Energy Fuel" in Raspberry flavor. I also like Espresso flavor, plus the caffeine is a sure boost. There are not make gels that I like, but I tried Hammer Gel at my 50 miler and loved it.

"HEED - High Energy Electrolyte Drink", I believe it is another "Gatorade on steroids." I tried the melon flavor for a triathlon and did not love the taste (perhaps because it was warm). I tried some "lime" flavor at the Rogue Series trail run and it had a "vitamin aftertaste." I have yet to try this flavor... it was also free :)

My advice: if you stay hydrated during your daily activities you will not need to worry if you go on a short run. I am still learning and have yet to make a true comparison of products, which is what I am focusing on now. For the meantime run, be safe, and have fun!

Battle of the Garmins

2009-07-17T14:06:00.000+09:00

I woke up at 0430 to do my bike ride/run, I am about to step out of the apartment... When my Garmin's wristband snaps while I am securing it to my wrist. I have to admit I was a bit upset at the fact that:

1-It was a gift

2-I really like it

3-I needed to be out the door "ASAP" since it was going to be a long training.

No worries... Thank God to my OCD or my need to have everything in order and in it's place, I found and brought out of the bench my good ole' Garmin. Not as attractive as the new one, but it did the trick. Placed the Garmin on the charger for what seemed to be forever (10 mins.) and went about my training.

My legs are pretty sore from yesterday's "speed workout." Tomorrow will be an easy day swim and short run. BTW, not loving "Test and Measurements" class.

Ironman - Worth Sharing!

2009-07-17T03:19:00.000+09:00

So my brother sent me a video of a father and son team that have completed several marathons and an Ironman. It all started like this:

A son asked his father, “Dad will you take part in a marathon with me? The father who despite having a heart condition, says “yes.” They went on to complete the marathon together. Father and son went on to join other marathons, the father always saying “yes” to his son’s request of going through the race together. One day, the son asked his father, “Dad, let’s join the Ironman together.” To which, his father said “yes” too.

For those who don’t know, Ironman is the toughest triathlon ever. The race encompasses three endurance events of a 2.4 mile (3.86 km) ocean swim, followed by a 112 mile (180.2 km) bike ride, and ending with a 26.2 mile (42.195 km) marathon along the coast of the Big Island. Father and son went on to complete the race together. Now turn on your sound and watch this video:

http://www.godtube.com/view_video.php?viewkey=8cf08faca5dd9ea45513

Please watch it, it is inspiring and moving. Thank you Siulito:) Other than this yesterday was just a good ol' busy day!

Letting Go

2009-07-15T13:09:00.000+09:00

Pretty quiet day... I ransacked my closet and collected shoes and clothes to take to the Salvation Army. Before I left the apartment I decided that I was going to stop by the "Clothing Exchange" and see if I could get some money for it. The "Clothing Exchange" is a little store on Fry Boulevard in which you can "sell, buy, or trade" clothing.

I was pretty excited because I thought I would get something... at least $10 :)... After all I was giving away Ralph Lauren, Armani, Kenneth Cole, Banana Republic and Gap... jeje... Just throwing names ;) Well out of over 50 items they only took 2 Gap shirts, which I wasn't too fond of to begin with and offered me $3.50. I obviously took the offer and ran, but a bit disappointed since I was hoping they would be interested in EVERYTHING. Oh well! To the bat cave or as everyone calls it the Salvation Army.

I am actually amazed at the fact that I gave all that stuff away, I always found an excuse for not giving it away. "I will use it later," "I will need it later," but later never came and years went by and it just sat in the closet. But it was good and it felt good! Sometimes we hold on to material objects as if they are needed to survive and the result is that those objects end up owning you.

On other subjects, school is "in" and no training today, this morning I decided that I was going to run in the evening but the weather was not cooperating. Lightning, thundering, and some rain, and although my dad enjoys running in the rain I am not a fan of it. Surely tomorrow will be a better day and I can compensate for today. If I am not able to, I am not going to sweat it... It's supposed to be fun, not a burden.

"RUFF" Start

2009-07-14T10:46:00.000+09:00

Today I officially began training for IM 70.3. This morning I woke up bright and early (4:15 am), fumbled to get ready. Got on my bike and pedaled away... 20 minutes out I had a flat tire. I thought I had fixed the problem and did an "about face" towards home, but my tire was as flat as the soda that my brothers and I used to sneak in the kitchen and drink... That soda was for the "palitos" or adult beverages.

By this time I decided to start walking back home in my cycling shoes, thinking what else could go wrong. The "aerobars" on the bike were having issues, a flat, and a flat. And out of nowhere a good samaritan appears... actually she did a "U" turn on the highway. I was a bit apprehensive at first since I did not want to be on the side of a milk carton, but I was in dire need of help since my cycling partner was having issues of his own... He also had a flat tire (jaja) and had fallen twice off his bike (not so jaja).

The lady helped me get set up, while I was looking as if I should not be riding a bike. I kept making mistake after mistake, I must have looked like a video for cyclists "What Not To Do When Fixing a Flat." After comedy central was over, I waved the fellow triathlete (what are the odds???) good bye and made it home to finish my training, a short 20 min. run.

The rest of the day was uneventful, running errands and prepping for my class that starts today. Definitely an interesting day... Lesson learned: Just when you are about to give up hope, God lends you a hand.

1st Weekend in AZ (11-12JUL09)

2009-07-14T01:33:00.000+09:00

"Run with the Roosters" is my first race since I moved to AZ... Last Sunday. My friends and I drove to Tucson picked up our packets and had gelato at "Frost." Nice place... good gelato... or is it just that I love sweets and the weather was pretty toasty?

We went and saw the UFC fight, my second official fight. It was fun, I don't think it would have been something that I choose to do on my own, but I had a nice time. It is funny to watch men be so excited about other men. But like my friend Jason said: " well it's only because they are beating the hell out of each other." Interesting... the pain of others causes a euphoric reaction in spectators.

Drove to Gilbert Campground... no tent. Did I mention that by this time we have seen a coyote and a tarantula? Not that I am scared... just saying. Slept in the bed of the truck, it was very hot. I felt like a piece of bacon sizzling on an iron skillet. Around 2:00 am it was pretty chilly so I had to recruit the warmth of a blanket.

At 4:15 am we headed to the starting point, there were people already there. The race started at 05:15 am and it was nice. Rolling hills... plenty of them. After the race we headed back to Sierra Vista and I went to church. Service was good, but my new pastor is just as long winded as my old one. Nothing wrong with that, it's just funny they are both good and thorough.

Great first weekend... It's good to be back!

ZuleAzul

Run & Brunch

Chuncheon Marathon - Strike 2

Back On The Road

2011 Book List

Donga Seoul International Marathon - 20 MAR 2011

Longest Solo Miles

Short Run, Men and My Life…

Embracing 2011

Injury, Acupuncture and the Gym

Hi Seoul Marathon - 10 Oct 10

Do all things with love. ~Og Mandino

Catharsis

Farewell @ the Restaurant with the Green Sign

“Never allow someone to be your priority while allowing yourself to be their option”

Cannonball... Why not?

Billy Joel She's Always A Woman HD

Wasted Time

Namdaemun Market

Shinsegae

El Tri - Cuando tu no estás (Concierto Sinfonico 30 años)

Jimmy Cliff - I can see clearly now

Seal - Love's Divine

Hypothetically

Beyoncé - I'd Rather Go Blind

Mary J Blige :I Found My Everything

Ramyun???

San Antonio Rock n' Roll Marathon 2009

Quote

“Let your heart feel for the afflictions and distress of everyone, and let your hand give in proportion to your purse.”

Quote

My Friend

Chicago Marathon 2009

"Love's Divine"-Seal

Quote

Labor Day Run 2009

One Of Those Days...

1000m

Smart Bacon

23 Annual Tombstone's Vigilante's 10K

A Bit Late

Favorite Trail

4th week (Base Training)

50 Miler Dream

When I Think About the Lord

Back to the Pool?

Nice Quote

11th Annual Run in the Park

TGIF!!!

Lessons Learned

Nice Quote

So Much To Say...

Nice Quote

Memoirs of a "Triste" Shower

7.88 Miles

Nice Quote

Icebreaker

Time to Make the Donuts!!!

Back on the Trails

Hydration on the Run

Battle of the Garmins

Ironman - Worth Sharing!

Letting Go

"RUFF" Start

1st Weekend in AZ (11-12JUL09)