Isms

No more secrets - I'm pregnant!!!

2009-02-20T08:13:00.000-08:00

The word is finally out (thank goodness because it was hard to hide much longer) I'm pregnant! 4-months along with twin boys. I'm sure they'll provide plenty of isms for the blog world.

You can check out my new blog at:
http://mommiesontherun.blogspot.com/

Running in circles

2009-02-17T20:20:00.000-08:00

Because I didn't get off work until it was dark out today, and I don't want to forge a new path in the dark and rain, I went to the gym for a treadmill run instead. Consensus? I don't love the treadmill. The pounding on a semi-solid surface didn't help my ongoing knee problems. Also, the indoor running in circles made me realize even more why I like to run - I like to be outside where I can get fresh air, where I have to think about my world (not that of the gym or what's on TV), and where there's dirt and branches to duck.

Treadmills aside, I do like the elliptical every now and then - it's a nice way to turn body and mind off and just gooooooooooo.

I fall to pieces

2009-02-17T20:06:00.000-08:00

This morning walking to work I dodged rain and roof water slides as I wove through Broadway's remnants from the weekend. Rounding a tight corner (and just missing a man walking out of a cheap hotel) I came to a grate where I ATE IT so hard. Ouch!!! Another man was walking by and he turned - in what I thought was a random act of kindness - to blow smoke in my face and then keep on walking. Nice.

Side-note: "I fall to pieces" is from an old country song. My mom's cousin once told us a story of when he was dancing with the Austin ballet and did a performance on a unicycle to this song. When cheered on for an encore, instead of wheeling perfection, he spun around and promptly fell into the orchestra pit.

The physics of running

2009-02-16T21:05:00.001-08:00

Yesterday during our Sunday run we started talking about form - there are many pointers for runners:

Knees up
Chi run
Move arms like you're beating a drum
Breath like your tummy is a balloon
A million more

Running Times has a good run-down (heh) on what you're body should be doing:

Running through the rain

2009-02-16T20:59:00.000-08:00

I love the rain - I love listening to it as it beats on the windows and being curled up with a good book. I also love running in the rain and this weekend was perfect for that! Saturday I met up with the GGRC'ers for a good muddy hilly run - the best kind.

The route:

Started at the Warming Hut
Up to the bridge
Along the water
Across the planks and into the park
Up along side the golf course
Down through Presidio
Back to the Warming Hut along the water

Tonight we met up for the Lulu run and the rain stopped just long enough to give us a clear skied run - we must have good running karma because we haven't been rained on once since we started the group.

Skunked

2009-02-13T06:47:00.000-08:00

Running to Queen - great
Getting on the road early enough to have the whole thing for myself - rad
Tiny raindrops falling just as I was getting too hot - awesome
A skunk running in front of me as I crest the Ft. Mason hill - not cool

I've got a lot of work to do

2009-02-12T20:40:00.000-08:00

7x7 Magazine recently published "The Big Eat SF: 100 Things to Try Before you Die."

I've had the highlighted - still have a looooooong way to go.

Photo by Stefanie Michejda, Joe Budd, Sandra Silbereisen, courtesy of Piperade, Ed Anderson, Aubrie Pick

1. Roast chicken and bread salad at Zuni

2. Coffee-rubbed pork shoulder at Range

3. Carnitas taco at La Taqueria

4. Spicy crab and grits at the Front Porch

5. Chasu ramen at Katana-Ya

6. Burger with fries at Slow Club

7. Shaking beef at the Slanted Door

8. Morning bun at Tartine Bakery

9. Tofu soup with kimchi at My Tofu House

10. Baja-style fish tacos at Nick’s Crispy Tacos

11. Pork sugo with pappardelle at Delfina

12. Salt-and-pepper squid at Yuet Lee

13. Soup dumplings at Shanghai House

14. Beef brisket at Memphis Minnie’s

15. Oysters on the half shell at Swan Oyster Depot

16. Katsu curry from Muracci’s Japanese Curry & Grill

17. Tea-leaf salad at Burma Superstar

18. Salumi misti plate at Perbacco

19. Tuna tartare at Michael Mina

20. Chicken pot pie at Liberty Café

21. Pizza margherita at Pizzeria Delfina

22. Vietnamese roasted pork sandwich at Saigon Sandwich

23. Beer sausage with sauerkraut and grilled onions at Rosamunde Sausage Grill

24. Blue Bell Bitter from the cask at Magnolia Pub

25. Loaf of bread straight out of the oven at Tartine (bonus: sliced while still warm and slathered with Brillat- Savarin cheese from Bi-Rite, down the block)

26. A classic gin martini at Bourbon & Branch

27. Papaya salad with salty crab at Sai Jai Thai

28. A Gibraltar at Blue Bottle Café

29. Spaetzle at Suppenküche

30. Laughing Buddha cocktail at Cantina

31. Pan con chocolate with sea salt and olive oil at Laïola

32. Pupusas at Balompie Café #3

33. Prime rib at House of Prime Rib

34. Yellowtail collar at Oyaji

35. Salted-caramel ice cream at Bi-Rite Creamery

36. Dry-fried chicken wings at San Tung

37. Rotisserie chicken at Limón Rotisserie

38. French fries at Hayes Street Grill

39. Pierna Enchilada torta at La Torta Gorda

40. Cheeseburger at Taylor’s Automatic Refresher

41. Pho ga at Turtle Tower

42. Fried-shrimp po’boy at Brenda’s French Soul Food

43. Mint julep at Alembic

44. Cannelé at Boulangerie Bay Bread

45. Galapagos cocktail at Absinthe

46. Chips and salsa at Papalote

47. Ceviche at La Mar Cebichería Peruana

48. Angels on horseback at Anchor & Hope

49. Ginger snaps at Miette

50. Giant pretzel with mustard at The Monk’s Kettle

51. Maccaronara with ricotta salata at A16

52. Fried brussels sprouts at SPQR

53. Garlic soup at Piperade

54. Spiced-chocolate doughnut at Dynamo Donut with a Four Barrel coffee

55. Milk-roasted pork at L’Osteria del Forno

56. Caponatina with burrata at Beretta

57. Goat stew at Kokkari Estiatorio

58. Absinthe daiquiri at Jardinière

59. Huarache with cactus salad at El Huarache Loco

60. The Brass Monkey at Little Star Pizza

61. Crab soufflé at Café Jacqueline

62. Shrimp-and-chive dumplings at Ton Kiang

63. Meatballs with grapes at Aziza

64. Paper masala dosa at Dosa

65. Crispy eggplant at Jai Yun

66. Pig parts at Incanto

67. Sand dabs at Tadich Grill

68. Irish coffee at the Buena Vista Cafe

69. Licorice parfait at South

70. Omakase menu at Sebo

71. A Fernet at R Bar

72. Arancini at Ducca

73. Popovers with strawberry butterat the Rotunda

74. Corned-beef sandwich with Gruyère at the Sentinel

75. Fried green beans at Coco500

76. Chicken hash at Ella’s

77. Eggs benedict on the back patio at Zazie

78. Chilaquiles with a fried egg at Pastores

79. Onion strings at Alfred’s Steakhouse

80. Apple fritter at Bob’s Donuts

81. Chicken curry at Punjab Kabab House

82. Fried chickpeas at Piqueo’s

83. Sweet-potato fries with banana catsup at Poleng Lounge

84. A margarita at Tommy’s Mexican Restaurant

85. Pulled-pork sandwich at Roadside BBQ

86. A cheese slice at Arinell Pizza

87. Fresh spring rolls at Out the Door

88. Buckwheat crepe and a French cider at Ti Couz

89. Lamb schawerma at Truly Mediterranean

90. Slow-cooked egg at Coi

91. Albondigas soup at Mijita

92. Bacon-wrapped hot dog from a cart in the Mission (preferably when you’re drunk)

93. Seven courses of beef at Pagolac

94. Mango with chile, lemon and salt at Doña Tere’s cart

95. 3 a.m. bowl of caldo verde soup at Grubstake

96. Baby-coconut ice cream from Mitchell’s

97. Sesame balls at Yank Sing

98. Basil gimlet at Rye

99. Clam chowder at Hog Island Oyster Co.

100. Cheese course at Gary Danko

Packing pains

2009-02-11T21:20:00.001-08:00

We're getting ready for our move on Friday (we're moving into a 2-bedroom just over the hill in North Beach) and the packing brigade is well under way. In fact, Saturday we managed to make a sizable dent and have most of our clothes/dishes/etc. in boxes. So much stuff is packed, in fact, that I can't show pictures of the box chaos - so, instead, you get pictures of our new apartment...

The front of the building:

The kitchen:

Either our room or the living room:

Views!

To tell or not to tell?...

2009-02-10T19:59:00.000-08:00

We've all had those instances where we're with someone who has a giant something in their teeth. So here's the age old question - do you tell them, or wait for them to look in the mirror to figure it out themselves? I think the hope with doing the latter is that it'll be less embarrassing for the food-endowed-tooth person. No way! How would you like to walk around with food in your mug all day knowing people have been staring and not saying anything?

Take it to the next level - the stranger. Do you tell or not? Here are some circumstances to think on:

Price-tag lady - yesterday I saw a label clad woman walking down the street with dressed up men on either side (co-workers?) talking about the "posh life." As she walked, the red Lohman's clearance sticker kept flashing before my eyes - from the bottom of her shoe. Posh life my right foot. To tell? Or not to tell?
Lettuce teeth server - I frequent a place called "Mixt Greens" for an over-priced salad lunch too often. One day, a server had some mixed greens in their teeth (oddly enough, the green matched that of my spinach salad). To tell? Or not to tell?
Booger boss - let me preface this with my boss is perfect in every way (and reads this blog from time to time) but what would you do if your boss had a giant boogy? Take it to the next level - what if they had a biggun and were going into a Board Meeting just after talking to you about a project that would require all weekend long work? To tell? Or not to tell?

Share the road! Bikes and cars can be nice in SF ... or can they?

2009-02-09T17:54:00.000-08:00

Today riding home from work I got into an ... altercation. I was on a "share the road" street when a car started honking at me. When I stopped at a light I looked left and a guy in a HUGE silver truck with his wife and kid in the passenger seat rolled down the window and yelled:

Guy: "You're not allowed to be on the road! Bikes can't be on the road."

'Um' ... I thought, just over the weekend the front of the newspaper proclaimed California a biking state and the streets all over the city have bike lanes and share the road signs.

Me: "You should read the CA driver's laws again - bikes can be on the road."

Light turned green and we both went off. Next light, I pulled up and stopped and asked the guy to roll his window down.

Me: "Sir, can I get your plate number? Seems you forgot to put it on your car."

A long pause.

Guy: "This is a new car."

Me: "Oh, OK. Still mad about bikes on the road?"

Guy: "I just couldn't get around you" (I had been weaving around the trolly coming into my lane.)

Me: "Oh, where should I have ridden?"

Guy: Silent ... light turned green and guy drove off.

Two things - first, don't ever yell at someone in front of your child. Ever. Second, if you're going to yell or start an on-the-road battle, know the laws!

On the road again

2009-02-08T19:49:00.000-08:00

I wasn't able to run all week because I could barely feel my feet let alone stand on them. Those orthodics really did me in. Today, though, I woke, looked at all the empty boxes around our house waiting to be filled, and wanted to procrastinate. How's that for motivation to get running again?! I only made it for a 3-miler, but it felt great. A bit eerie, though - the city was dead quiet this morning (I was running at 8am).

Tips to get going again:

Think of something you need to do, and procrastinate doing it by running
Get your running clothes on - it's tough to go back to bed in spandex and running shoes
Scan Runner's World and Women's Health and Fitness magazines
Think of the great brunch you'll make post run
GO!

After a marathon

2009-02-08T19:48:00.000-08:00

This is hands down the funniest video I've seen in a while ... and so true! I've seen it posted in a few places and couldn't help but post here.

Who designed that??

2009-02-04T20:10:00.000-08:00

Riding home from work today I was "Sunday biking" - in other words, I was going at a glacial pace taking in the sites - namely, the tourists and San Franciscans. A few years back San Francisco got voted worst dressed city - I love this city, but I'm afraid I have to agree.

Here are a few of the culprits:

The off-the-shoulder sweater: if clothes were designed for function and style, was this was designed for big-headed women?
The shoulder pads: I swear, I saw some and I really hope they don't make a come-back. I remember the old blond joke "Why did the blond wear shoulder pads?" The answer? Nodding head side to side with ears hitting shoulders "I don't know."
The boyfriend jeans: Matt made the best comment on these last night, "So, are those for girls with no boyfriend to wear and pretend they have a boyfriend? Weird."
The gladiator sandals: I know people love these but I don't get them. The tan they render is awful, the comfort factor minimal, and the style points negligible - they look like nice shoes a dog got ahold of and tore up.

Gosh, 83 plastic surgery visits and I could be a Rivers!

What I learned in grad school, I could have learned in the Kaiser half

2009-02-01T11:09:00.000-08:00

Running always gives time for thinking. This weeks half marathon gave me lots of time for thinking (1:39 to be precise) and again my mind turned to work. I find it ironic how many ties running has to the workplace. Why the irony? I run to turn "off" of work - to give my brain a break.

Winding through the streets of the Golden Gate park and around the Ocean, my mind wandered to workplace politics and I found some interesting ties with races.

Those who start further up, have a better chance of finishing first

I started the race with Linz and Brett - we started at the 8-min per mile mark because we weren't planning on sprinting out in the beginning and we knew we waned uneven splits (slower in the start, faster in the end). After the gun went off, it took a good 2-minutes to even cross the starting line - because we started in the middle of the pack, it was a slow start and seemed to slow down all the way to the starting line - then the crowd picked up. Apparently people don't think the "race" starts until you cross the starting line. Because of this slow start we had to weave around groups of runners and walkers who clearly did not plan to run 8-minute miles thus stalling our races even more.

(Side note, even though I started with the 8-min group, I ran 7-7:30s. Not too shabby.)

In the workplace, if you're lucky/smart/good enough to negotiate a good job and salary right out of school, it's easier to "move to the front of the pack" in the work place. You can negotiate better "jumps" when you switch jobs in both title and salary. You're automatically looked upon as a "higher up" which gives many advantages including having an easier time running meetings and managing up, down, and side to side.

Backup plans can hold you back - running with money in your shoe hurts!

Not wanting to deal with a 50-minute bus ride to the start of the race, we taxi'd over to the start line. Having no pockets and no-where else to put my cash, I stashed it in my shoe. Matt was going to pick us up (he did) but I wanted extra money in case he forgot or didn't make it. Hence, the backup plan in my shoe. BIG mistake! 3-miles into the run the cash wad was rubbing the skin off my foot. 6-miles into the race my foot was a bloody mess. I wonder if they'll still accept the cash when I go to purchase shoes?

In the workplace, if you're always thinking of an "out" or a backup strategy, you're likely not going to execute on the job at hand as well. There are many examples of this but let's take the careers in general example - if you're always looking for another job for a "backup" you're likely not focused on the job in front of you. Even if you are focused, you're either a scared nilly and not performing to par because you're second guessing, or you just don't care as much as you should. Work doesn't have to be the passion in life, but it should be something you enjoy and aren't always second guessing.

Don't run someone else's race - it slows you down

The last 4-miles of the race were painful - after emerging from the park's shade and beauty, we ran along the ocean. Two miles up the ocean towards the zoo, then 2-miles back. The back leg was the WORST. I kept looking at the oncoming runners wondering where my friends were, how the other runners felt, what our times were, how people trained - you get the picture. Then I saw a man collapse coming in the oncoming runner traffic and I nearly stopped in my footsteps. He had a crowd around him and an ambulance came in minutes, but I started feeling so much for him that I forgot my race.

(Side-note - I think helping people is more important than winning. But when the ambulance is there, there's not much else you can do).

In the workplace, if you're constantly helping others complete their job because they can't or they have some reason that you need to help, you're "running their race." On the same point, if you're always looking at someone else's job and thinking "I want to do that" you're both a) not doing your job as well as you could, and b) not going to "do that" because you're not proving you can do what was already tasked for you. Believe me, I've seen it happen.

If you think you can go faster or do better, go faster and do better

In running we all try to pace ourselves or hit certain mile or race marks. I was shooting for a 1:37, which I unfortunately didn't get, but I was shooting for this because I've hit it before. The first time I ran a half marathon I was going for a 2:00 - about 4-miles in I thought I could go faster, so I did. Low and behold, I nailed a 1:37. The point is, don't slow down or stick to a slower pace because you think that's what you're supposed to do.

In the workplace the same rule applies - namely, if you're trucking along just getting "good enough" done because that's what's expected, but you know you can do "better than great" - then do it! Don't hold yourself back because other peoples' expectation is that you can't do better - prove them wrong.

If you're a walker, don't get in the runners lane - same thing goes for the other way around

The one thing that always kills me in races is walkers in the runner's lanes. I know, this sounds like it's going against the point above but it's different - often people "walk" races - just to walk them, not for time. These are the "walkers" who are supposed to be on the right side of the race lane and they're not thinking of going faster, trying to go faster, or wanting to go faster. They're walkers. As such, they should stay to the left - otherwise, they're putting the races of all those around them in peril just because.

In the workplace, there are people who think "good enough" is OK and who just want to slide by on this logic. That's fine! It's not for me, but it's fine. That said, if "good enough" is OK, don't push it on co-workers. Don't try to hold them down to "good enough." This staying pattern doesn't excel companies, doesn't excel individuals, and certainly won't get you to an IPO or bought (not that I'm wishing or anything).

Curious how I learned all this in 1:39 during Kaiser? I started with the wrong group and got held back from the get go. I ran with a backup plan and got a bloody painful foot because of it. I dodged walkers nearly ripping my groin (again!). All in all, though, I had a good time.

Netiquette: Say in email as you would say unto others

2009-01-30T16:50:00.000-08:00

I typically don't write about work here, but this was too good to pass up. Today, a conference coordinator forwarded me an email and included another person from the same conference staff. I scrolled down through the email and saw another "Amber" from the same conference staff that I'm sure was the intended recipient. OOPS!

The email was making fun of a presenter (an exec from a huge software company who shall remain nameless) for asking for an extension. The cc'd party, replied continuing the poking fun. I felt like I was eves-dropping, but the reality is they brought me into this one so I replied all noting that I thought the exchange was funny but I was sure they meant to include another Amber.

The moral? Don't make fun of people in email. If you're going to, make sure you're sending the email to the right people - auto-fill can kill you sometimes.

TIART: Why Don't They Get It? The Marathon Explained.

2009-01-29T21:53:00.001-08:00

What is it that attracts us to the marathon? What is so special that we give us so much and run for so long just for the pleasure of yet running more on the big day Why do we do it over and over? How do you explain the mysterious pull of the marathon? Why do you run marathons?

The very first man to run a "marathon" died at the end. 26.2 miles was a true test of strength. Then again, he was naked, shoeless, and didn't have water stops, GU, and live music every few miles.

I was first "attracted" to marathons in college when my roommate and I made life-long goal lists. We set a goal to run a marathon before we graduated and ran the Bend Oregon marathon in 5:45 (pretty slow considering it was all down hill). We wanted to do it just because a marathon seemed so foreign and outrageous.

Last year I decided to run another marathon - this time it was to see if I could. I started running again as a New Year's resolution and the resolution stuck - I was addicted. So I wanted to see what my mind could do. I remember a phrase from a long time ago - "the mind tires before the body" - marathons are the true test of this notion. 13miles? Fine - difficult, but do-able. 20miles? Hard, you start wondering why. 26miles? A true test. 26.2? Why in the world did they add the .2 - why couldn't Marathon be closer to Athens? The finish line? Total accomplishment.

People are ridiculous

2009-01-27T16:20:00.000-08:00

I think that people can be a little nutty for free stuff sometimes. Last week, because of a lawsuit against the big makeup companies, Macy's Nordstrom's, Saks, Neiman's, and more had to give free full size products including Chanel, Vera Wang, etc. to anyone who came to the counter and asked. This caused mayhem in San Francisco - Union Square was packed with people waiting fore free stuff. I heard one woman in line note that she didn't even know what she was in line for! I guess some people see a line and think it must be good.

I am surrounded by amazing people

2009-01-26T13:08:00.000-08:00

Today is a big day - it's my mom's "big" birthday, and Matt's final test day for his architecture license. They amaze me.

My mom has accomplished so much (and will accomplish much more) up to this "big" day:

She was one of George Lucas's first employees and has had many jobs over the years within Lucasfilm, including about 10 years running the Lucasfilm Publishing Department
She now runs JAK Films Book Publishing Department where she has edited and had published 2 great books to date
She's an accomplished artist as shown by a great turnout at her art show Saturday
She has traveled the globe and maintained friends around the world
She inspires me every day through good thought and action

Matt is in the home-stretch - knock on wood he passes:

He has passed every architecture test to date
Once, while at DSA, another architecture firm tried to recruit him because he was that good
He has designed beautiful schools around the South Bay

Oh where oh where has my Garmin signal gone?...

2009-01-25T11:55:00.001-08:00

Yesterday it took every bit of motivation to get me laced up and out the door but finally after flipping through Runner's World and Triathlon magazines, I did it. Stepping out I turned my Garmin on ready to wait the precursory 1min warm up ... 2min passed, 3, 4 - finally it was 8minutes before my Garmin found a signal and was ready to go. Eesh! Talk about a motivation kill. Impatience aside, I wound up making it for a nice 5.5mile run up and down the hills of Pac Heights - I think it was the frustration that pushed me along.

Never too old to try something new...

2009-01-20T14:45:00.000-08:00

When walking to lunch today (to buy the most expensive sandwich I've ever eater - goodness I'm a sucker for a chicken, bacon, turkey melt) I came across two isms - one good, one gross:

Girl on bike: On Chestnut I saw a group of spandex clad guys all cheering and rooting someone on. At first I thought it was another biker-car altercation with a crowd, but no, it was much nicer - one of the bikers was teaching a 30-something woman how to ride. You could tell it was her first attempt by the shaky way she stood on the bike and reluctance to pick up her feet. Good luck stranger trying to ride a bike!
The "poison" apple: Still smiling from the bike scene, I came across ism #2 - a Christmas wreath (people are still putting their crap on the corners) decorated with fruit and flowers. Upon closer inspection I saw one of the apples on the wreath had a huge bite taken out of it - a real bite, not a faux bite. The worst part? I couldn't tell if the apple was fake or real.

These street isms (more the first than the second) have inspired me - maybe I should try something new today ...

I feel hope

2009-01-20T09:07:00.001-08:00

Change? Bring it on!

It's pretty amazing watching the inauguration. The crowds incite feelings of hope for me more than anything. I think Obama and his family are amazing - strong, happy, and powerful - and the reaction of people around them is even more amazing. That's what gives me hope.

Another Monday, another Lululemon run

2009-01-19T12:49:00.001-08:00

If you're like me, you took full advantage of the beautiful weekend we just had to laze around (well, scratch that, I did do a race on Saturday but then Sunday was full of lazing) so what a better way to kick off the week than a Monday fun run at Lululemon?!

Come join myself (now officially dubbed "Captain Amber" with PacWest - I dig it, I want a name badge) and friends from the area for a 2 mile run, 4 mile run, or 5 mile run (further if you're feeling motivated to fare the dark). Here are the courses I'm thinking:
2-3 miles:4-miles:

5-miles:

Race day! PCTR Pacifica 21k

2009-01-17T18:38:00.000-08:00

It was a PERFECT Bay Area day for a race. This morning I rose early (too early for a Saturday if you ask me, but you gotta do what you gotta do) and met up with a group of GGRCers to head out to Pacifica.

Side note, Pacifica is actually a cute little town. No downtown really (except for the strip mall with Safeway and Denny's) but great views.

After parking we found we had less than 5min til race time so we ran to the ladies (again, you gotta do what you gotta do), got our numbers, and dashed to the starting line. After instructions were given (orange ribbons, left at orange stripes, to pink ribbons, etc.) we took off. The first 3 miles of the race were a ridiculous climb - 3 miles up and then more miles of switch backs. After that a quick turn point at the very top and then rambling down the rocky steep slope. The downhills are definitely my boogy man/scary part. I took it a bit slow on the downs but thanks to the San Francisco hills the ups felt great.

I wound up coming in 33rd overall and 1st in my age group - woot! A perfect way to start trail race season.

After the race 13 of us GGRCers made our way to Denny's for a deliciously greasy breakfast and good gossip.

Running with baggage

2009-01-15T07:30:00.000-08:00

This morning I woke at 5:45 to meet Linzy and Brett for another early morning run and found an SMS on my phone saying they were canceling (text sent at 11:30pm - way past bedtime). Bummer. I was up so I decided to run anyhow. I loaded up with pepper spray, my light, iPod, and keys - seriously, I was running with quite a load. I'm glad I had the light - San Francisco is dark in the morning!

After lacing up and making it a block down I started getting the heebies with all the movement on the sidewalk (bodies shifting in their sleep). I made it to the water and then rounded Ft. Mason - cresting the hill I smelled a familiar stink ... SKUNK!!! Oy. Thankfully the wafting smell missed me and I ran on and finally made it back home before the sun even approached the horizon.

Bus Tales - oooeeeooo!

2009-01-12T11:32:00.000-08:00

No, not as rad as Duck Tales, but close. Last night Linz, Matt and I made our way to the Castro for dinner at Zach's (Linzy's and my old roommate). We walked / bussed / and metro'd to get to the Castro - a true adventure for me (and honestly, I would've rather walked the whole way).

On the bus ride back we enjoyed a real ... treat. We were on one of the long San Francisco buses - you know, the one with the elbow in it? With no seats and limited standing room we got stuck in the elbow. One stop after we boarded a walking bar got on - I mean really, this guy wreaked of shots / beers / you name it. He too made his way to the elbow where he perched against the hard pole on the side (you'll know what I mean next time you take an elbow bus). Standing there, the bar man started to wiggle his bum a little - odd - then, at every turn he'd shout "weeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee!!!" Apparently bar bum man liked the elbow.

I must admit, trying to balance as far away from bar bum wee man was quite a workout - I wound up contorting myself into a figure 8 and leaning way off to the side. A nice stretch, actually.

Lululemon / PacWest Fun Run Day!

2009-01-12T08:15:00.000-08:00

Another Monday, another run day. As if working off the frolics (yes, I said frolic) of the weekend weren't reason enough to run, the Lululemon/PacWest fun runs are now going weekly and are a great chance to meet new people and, more importantly, hang out with yours truly. If you're in the city tonight would love to see you at Lulu for the weekly Fun Run.

Details:

Where: Lululemon on Union St.

When: 6:30pm

How far: How far do you want to go?

Why: Do you really need a reason to run?

Hope to see you there!

Saddle Run

2009-01-11T12:48:00.001-08:00

A perfect day in the city for a perfect run! Today I enjoyed the "Saddle Run" - here's the course:

Start at the Warming Hut at Chrissy Field
Up to the Golden Gate bridge and over
Up into the Marin Headlands to the Saddle
Back down

The bridge was crowded with tourists, but not too terrible. All in all, gorgeous run!

Early morning running in San Francisco

2009-01-08T18:37:00.000-08:00

Today Linzy, Brett, and I made it out for a brisk (and I mean brisk in the OMG friggin cold way) run at 6am. When my alarm first went off at 5:45 I thought I was dreaming - that is until Matt nudged me practically pushing me out of bed to turn off the cricket sounds (yes, I wake up to cricket sounds).

We met in front of Aquatic park and set out from there. It's amazing - San Francisco is like a different city in the morning. In the Bay were two bobbing blue lights - turns out it was two people swimming laps. Nuts. As we made our way up to Ft. Mason we saw a hoard of red flashing lights flashing towards us - some training group with 30+ people were running by and each runner had a light strapped to their chest (the reindeer of runners). Weaving down to Marina Green we came across more groups doing lunges, squats, running sprints, and more. Mind you, it was pitch black still so I'm thinking these were fitness freaks/runners - they may indeed have been homeless trying to get warm, but let's stick with the runner concept.

"Normal" San Francisco presented itself at 8am when I was walking to work - buses were packed, people in suits were speed walking fervently trying to finish a cig, shoe shiners were selling shinings, and the bike crew were filling every coffee shop. Walking home from work yet another city emerged - this one presented packed bars (it is Thursday after all), the same suits puffing new cigs, and a new crew of worker outers.

Breaking in my UA Running Shoes

2009-01-07T20:31:00.001-08:00

I am loving my new Under Armour running shoes. I wore them to walk to and from work today (opted out on the run and did Bar Method instead - I swear my butt is an inch higher) and they're so comfortable! Typically when I walk my feet point out like a duck - not cool - but the support in the UA running shoes really helps.

On the UA note, I'm so excited because as a Captain for PacWest, I get to be an Under Armour "Ambassador" - this means I get to test the clothes on runs (oh happy day), and provide feedback. In fact, the entire PacWest Captain and Coach team are Ambassadors - rad!

PacWest just kicked off 2009 with a great lineup so the timing on the UA shoes and gear couldn't be better. Now, on top of the running, biking, tri, and BootCamp training programs, PacWest is offering an Elite Triathalon Team (I hope to qualify someday), yoga for runners (I'm telling you, yoga and running go hand in hand), and training programs around a ton of cool races. If you've been waiting for the New Year to get in gear, PacWest is offering a ton of easy (well, easy to show up, tough but rewarding to sweat through) ways.

I'll tell ya, the more I run, the happier I am. The more I run the more I get into the running community in San Francisco which I must admit is my favorite "community" around.

Running support - nope, not a bra

2009-01-06T21:59:00.000-08:00

Lately I've been trying to improve my time - end goal, Boston (although I do have some time here). The funny thing is I've been doing this by lowering miles and upping cross training including biking and yoga; both, I have found, help tremendously but are incredibly hard! My favorite yoga for now is Hatha - moving yoga - I'm loving the Rodney Yee DVD series. I'm also a big fan of the "Hot Yoga" at Crunch - it's not as hot as Bikram, but the increased heat does make me a bit more flexible.

Yoga Journal published a good article on the benefits of yoga for runners:

Although yoga and running lie on opposite ends of the exercise spectrum, the two need not be mutually exclusive.

By Baron Baptiste and Kathleen Finn Mendola

During the course of an average mile run, your foot will strike the ground 1,000 times. The force of impact on each foot is about three to four times your weight. It's not surprising, then, to hear runners complain of bad backs and knees, tight hamstrings, and sore feet.

The pain most runners feel is not from the running in and of itself, but from imbalances that running causes and exacerbates. If you bring your body into balance through the practice of yoga, you can run long and hard for years to come. Although yoga and running lie on opposite ends of the exercise spectrum, the two need not be mutually exclusive. In fact, running and yoga make a good marriage of strength and flexibility.

Read full article ...

Runner's World offers up a few good pre-run yoga stretches and an easy to follow video.

THE POSE: PIGEON (I love love love this pose)

TARGETS: Lubes leg and hip joints while softening surrounding muscles

THE POSE: FAN WITH BONUS SHOULDER STRETCH

TARGETS: Unties legs and shoulder tension while building core and back strength

THE POSE: LOW LUNGE VARIATION

TARGETS: Lengthens calves and hamstring, stabilizes knees

Read full article and watch video ...

Under Armour Running Gear: the new "it" for training

2009-01-06T20:49:00.000-08:00

I just got my first pair of Under Armour running shoes (don't get too excited to shop - they don't really come out until January 31st, 2009) and I'm already hooked.

You probably know of Under Armour as "that company that sells tight clothes." I was already a huge fan of the running tanks because they breath ... OK, they look pretty hot when running, too. This is the first time Under Armour branched into running shoes - UA, welcome!

When I first tried the shoes on I have to admit, I was a bit thrown - I typically hate shoes with the built in sock or sleeve but somehow UA did it right. Actually, I know how - the way the laces are made you can tighten or expand the toe (I have wide feet so I "let it all out.")

Welcome Under Armour to my Boston Marathon training wardrobe - glad to have you on board!

Customized Nike Running Shoes - Perfect for Boston Marathon

2009-01-05T21:27:00.001-08:00

I am digging the Nike customizable shoes!

These are in our wedding colors (although the colors looked much less 80s throw up with the flowers and candles).

I want I need I have to have!!! Wait ... that doesn't match my New Year's resolution "be financially fit." Ah to dream...

Best post-run snack

2009-01-05T21:00:00.000-08:00

Another Monday, another Lululemon fun run. Tonight's was a great run up to the Presidio and then down along the water - my running buddy and I talked dreams, goals, and where we want to be in 5-10 years. He promised me in 5 years he'd be rich and famous - I said I wanted to pre-order 5 stocks gratis.

Back home after the run I was greeted by an awesome dinner from chef-hub-es-Matt - chicken, salad, and sweet potato - yum! But after dinner came my real favorite post-run treat - gummy bears and pretzels - delicious! Seriously, I think you can't make a better snack than that combo ... unless maybe you dipped the pretzels and gummies in chocolate?...

The nerve of that perve!

2009-01-03T18:16:00.001-08:00

My IT band is hurting again so I opted for the gym today instead of a run. Tom Petty blasting through my iPod, trash magazine in hand, I was perfectly oblivious walking down the street (the music and mag didn't make this walk any different - normally when I'm walking around on my own I'm not paying much attention to the passers by). Out of the corner of my eye I saw a man stop, look, then smile. Having just blown someone off yesterday (I was on a run and some guy stopped smiled and waved - after I kept running 10-steps past I heard "Amber Taylor! Amber Taylor!" Turns out he was one of the usuals from the Lululemon run group) and not wanting to be rude again, I stopped, turned, and smiled. What I saw made me want to puke. The guy looked me up and down like a lamb chop, then stared right at my no-no-zone smiling a huge dirty grin.

WTH!

Pervy pants pervy pants keep your eyes to yourself!

Needless to say, I shook my head, turned, and walked on - quicker this time than before.

Trying to motivate: Top reasons to run

2009-01-02T16:03:00.000-08:00

I worked from home today which means it's 4pm and I'm on the couch still in my PJs (but I have been very productive - think new SEO strategy, customer reference program referrals, touchpoint analysis ... you get the idea). Since I've gotten into and stayed in cozy mode, rallying for a run is extremely difficult.

My first rally attempt? Runner's World "101 Kicks in the Butt."

Top three "kicks"?
1. CREATE A BLOG where you post your daily mileage, then give out the Web address to your friends and family.

Hah! Done.

2. MAMA, GET A NEW PAIR OF SHOES. Two-time Olympian Shayne Culpepper puts new gear she receives as an elite athlete to good use. "It's fun to break in a new pair of shoes," she says. "Sometimes that's enough to get me excited."
Do Jimmy Choos count? I think Matt would say "no."

3. RUNNING COMMENTARY "Running is a big question mark that's there each and every day. It asks you, 'Are you going to be a wimp, or are you going to be strong today?'" --Peter Maher, two-time Olympic marathoner from Canada

I'm working hard on this one.

OK, off I go!

Running article: "Running on the Shoulders of Giants"

2009-01-01T19:19:00.000-08:00

(image from RunningTimes.com)

Sometimes when I'm trying to motivate for a run I browse running magazines - online pubs are great because while I subscribe to Runner's World, I can't afford to subscribe to all the mags I love.

Today on RunningTimes.com "Running on the Shoulders of Giants" is headlining chronicling one runner's ongoing proximity to and inspiration from "the great" distance runners of our time.

Reading the magazine I thought to my groups - GGRC, PacWest, and the Lululemon running group - there are a smattering of "new" runners, some incredible distance runners (some I think are nuts for the distances they trek), and all incredible runners. I think I get to run with the great runners of time, too. They may not grace the covers of magazines or be showcased in posters (actually, the head of PacWest is postered all over San Francisco (well deserved) but you get my drift), but they are the greats who lace up and head out to run.

The article goes on to suggest some recovery and training tips which are always useful - sometimes you know how to recover or train but you need to actually be reminded of how to do it.

Love at first click - Tretorn

2009-01-01T10:50:00.000-08:00

As a marketer I'm always looking at "cool" websites and branding techniques. Today when I was site surfing ... OK, I admit, online shopping, I dove a little deeper into the Tretorn site and love it! I guess it helps that I love the goods, too.

Check it out: http://www.tretorn.com/

I'm impressed that they were able to work the almost fully flash based site work in Firefox as well as IE - kudos Tretorn. There are a few floopy design things (like dropdown overlay problems) and the online store not really aligning with the online flash site (no women's clothes on the flash site), but hey, no-one is perfect.

Goods I'm loving today? The Svea Patent W - perfect for post-run comfort - and the Mane sunglasses - hands down, best shades for the city - they're stylish but not duchey.

Race lineup

2009-01-01T09:53:00.000-08:00

There are so many great races coming up this year - I can't wait! Here's a list of some local fun goodies (you can find more on runnersworld.com, active.com, the PCTR website, or the Envirosports website):

1/4/09 Lake Merced 4.5 M
1/11/09 PCTR Angel Island Trail Run (I heard that all the trails are finally re-opened - yay! I'm planning on doing this one for my first trail race of '09)
1/17/09 PCTR Pacifica 9K, 21K, 30K, 50K
1/18/09 Waterfront 10M
2/1/09 Kaiser half marathon (I'm planning on doing this with Linz and Brett)
1/25/09 Windmill 10K
2/7/09 PCTR Woodside 10K, 17K, 35K, 50K (another breathtaking view)
2/22/09 Embarcadero 10K
3/7/09 Envirosports Marin Trails 10K, 20K
3/17/09 Envirosports Romancing the Island 12k, 25K
3/21/09 Pirates Cove 8K, 20K, 30K, 50K
3/22/09 Fort Point 12K
4/5/09 Golden Gate Park 10k
4/11/09 Muir Woods 25K (this is a gorgeous race!)
4/19/09 Marin County Marathon and half (GOTR and Marathon Matt teamed up to do a training program for this one which is excellent)
4/20/09 Boston Marathon (I'm signed up and CAN'T WAIT!!!)
5/17/09 ING Bay to Breakers 12K (I'm already working on my costume)
7/19/09 Napa to Sonoma Half Marathon (Linz and I did this in it's inagural year and have been running almost ever race since)

Goodbye 2008 Hello 2009! Resolutions ...

2008-12-31T13:48:00.000-08:00

It's been a busy year, a great year, and a year of change.

In 2008 my resolutions were:

Try new things - I got into running, did trail races almost monthly (and qualified in most of them), ran the San Diego marathon (and qualified for Boston Marathon), traveled to FL (exotic), and more ... new things? Yup, check!
Help and follow passions - started leading Lululemon fun runs on Mondays, started volunteering for Girls on the Run (best group ever!), become volunteer "Captain" for PacWest (technically that kicks off January 5th)

My resolutions for 2009 are:

Continue to try new things - camp (I hate camping but I'll learn to love it)
Stay financially fit - cash is king!
Balance - work/life (not on a beam)

To the great old song noting "old acquaintances" I'm thrilled to be closing 2008 having reconnected with tons of old friends that I knew ages 3 on up!

A Happy New Year to all!

How I got my grove back - uploading a run from Garmin 305 to Google Earth

2008-12-28T12:57:00.000-08:00

I haven't been running in quite a while - I blame laziness and being sick - but today I finally made it back out with GGRC for a "short run" - short to them is the perfect distance to me, 7.07mi. I'm thrilled I got back out on the trails, but even more thrilled with my new-found gadget love - the Garmin 305 is a great way to track runs and map them.

Here's my run from today (planks run):

And here it is in Google Earth:

It took me a while to figure out how to do this, but now that I know the steps it's "easy peasy."

Buy a Garmin 305 (really they are the coolest)
Download the Unit Software
Download the USB Installer
Download the Training Center (this gets you to the first screenshot)
Download Google Earth
Export the workout you want to map from the Training Center to a .tcx file
Use the O-Files site to convert the .tcx to an XSLT file
Open Google Earth
Go to File > Open > and select your XSLT file (the exported run you want)
Oo and ah at how cool it is to see your runs

Home gym

2008-12-27T13:29:00.001-08:00

The weather outside is frightful (a little ditty to keep the Xmas cheer going), and the gym is so far away, so I've been making full use of my "home gym."

Intro - the home gym.

We live in a 1-bedroom in San Francisco so a "real" home gym is unthinkable. I've made due with a corner full of equipment and I'm quite proud of my home gym - what's more, I know it works.

Here are the basics:

Bosu Balance Trainer Home Version - that half ball thing on the bottom works miracles! I use my Bosu to stand on and lift weights (working posture + muscle), do pushups on, and occasionally do situps on.
Resistance Band - the red cords are magic workers for the thighs. I won my resistance band in a pushup contest with my running club - these are great for doing side-steps with or using for the biceps and doing curls.
Body Ball (55 cm)- the perfect pushup helper/enhancer. My body ball acts as a pushup enhancer and doubles as a chair when we have company. Many people use the ball for posture (they'll use this at work instead of a chair) but I would fidget too much so I leave it in the "gym."
15 lb weights- my ideal weight for curls, pulls, pushes, and more. I've been doing the same arm workout for about 7-years (yep, it's time for a change) but it really works! I'll do 3 sets of 15 curls, then 3 sets of 15 pulls (where you have one knee up on a bench and are leaned over in a table top position), and 3 sets of pushes (same setup as the pulls but instead of pulling the arm from hip to waist you're extending the arm straight behind you).
Yoga Kit - I call it my kit but it's really a hodge podge of yoga gear I've accumulated over the years (they sell the goods in kits though). The essentials for yoga are: the mat, the block (I can barely touch my knees let alone toes so this helps in stretching), and the strap (awesome for a post run stretch).
Foam Roller- I have the small one for rolling out my IT band - it hurts like heck but works.
The stick - the newest edition to my gym (thanks Santa!) and I LOVE it!!! The stick is great for rolling out sore muscles and the IT band.

On the wish list?

Valeo MB8 8 lb. Medicine Ball- a ball that you hold for side twists which works the obliques to make an awesome beach bod.
Foam roller- I have the small one, now I want the long size. The small one is good for working out sore muscles, the long one is good for making muscles sore - I use it at the "real gym" to lay on and try to balance while lifting one leg then the other.

Good eats

2008-12-26T12:14:00.000-08:00

My cold finally lifted so I made my way to the gym this morning. By 8:30 the skies in SF were crystal clear but deceivingly so - it's freezing! Noshing a Luna bar (Chai is my fav) I ambled over to Crunch to enjoy Forrest Gump) they play movies and get some cardio in.

When I was in highschool I was a lot craftier than I am now - I even made my own power bars. I might resurrect that - don't get me wrong, I love Luna bars, but it's fun to create (and consume :) ).

Now I'm off to Chez Mama to continue to food fest (aka holiday spirit).

Merry Merry Christmas!

2008-12-25T09:06:00.000-08:00

It's a bright shiny Christmas morning (in between downpours of rain - my fav) and what a great day it is! We woke and found that Santa left CamelBak water bottles and rock climbing gear in stockings under the tree (no fireplace) which are a perfect tea-up for a 2009 of outdoor adventures.

My parents are headed in soon and we're going to enjoy Christmas brunch with gifts. Here's the brunch:

Egg frittata with ham, cheese, and mushrooms
Papaya, pear, and pomegranate salad
Greens
Toast and jam
(Most importantly) Blue Bottle coffee

Yum! I think after all these food fests I'll be looking a bit Santa-esque.

Tight quarters

2008-12-24T10:40:00.001-08:00

Oh - and to the guy sitting at the table next to me... I do not need your junk in my face everytime you need to walk by. There's a ton of room in front of and behind me. No show please.

Merry Christmas.

Give me your weary, cranky, and just downright b-chy

2008-12-24T10:29:00.001-08:00

Still sitting in the coffee shop trying to get some work done. I've made myself as small as possible in a corner with my computer bag under the table but I still seem to be in everyone's way. Everyone seems to be in everyone's way. A few minutes ago an older woman in mis-matched Christmas sweater attire (I'm not being mean, just honest) charged over and fell right on top of me. She made a huge deal of using both hands to hoist herself up over my head and moving my body to accommodate her rise. I asked "are you OK?" (in other words, what can I do to get you off of me quickly). No reply - she just gave me a nasty look, fixed her Christmas sweater vest that had come undone atop the Christmas reindeer sweater draped over the Santa thermals, and walked on.

Coal!

Now please don't get me wrong - I love people of all ages. Over the past few years I've worked in a retirement home, a daycare, and now in open source (listen, open source draws one heck of a crowd). It's not an age thing - it's a "yep, we're all cold, tired, and scared of the economy. So time to buck up and be nice" thing.

Dark Christmas

2008-12-24T10:01:00.000-08:00

Feeling the holiday spirit my work let us work from home today. Two hours into a presentation, the power went out and with the power outage, the heat went off. Peaking out the window I realized the power was out all over Russian Hill - ee! So off I ambled to Union Street to mooch wireless - the funny thing is the only place I can get on the WiFi is Bus Stop bar. Ridiculous. To top the darkness, cold, and poor working conditions off, I'm sick as a dog and my mom says she won't come for Christmas if I remain sick.

On the bright side, it's Christmas and there are some killer sales!

The drunk who stole Christmas

2008-12-23T19:38:00.000-08:00

I left work a bit early today to do some last minute Christmas shopping in Union Square. Escaping the crowds I ambled into Lohmans (where I found a $30 DVF dress thank you very much) and encountered the biggest Scrooge ever.

I got stuck in line behind someone who clearly had enjoyed a loooooong and very early happy hour (it was only 3pm) and Ms. Boozy kept talking on her cell phone. At one point the phone rang, she was silent, and then screeched: "you ruined Christmas for everyone! You don't deserve Christmas." At which point she went silent again and then stared at her phone - I'm guessing the recipient hung up.

Ick.

In my book Christmas is a time to spend with friends and family and a time to let pants out just a little bit.

The great smoke-out

2008-12-22T20:52:00.001-08:00

I've smelled a noticeable rise in smoking in the city in the past few weeks - I blame icky weather and declining economy. It starts in my building - every morning my neighbors apartment smells like a teen-age boys car - stale cigarettes and bad pot. Walking to work I'm constantly getting the smoke machine treatment only not from a machine, from the puffers on the streets. The odd (sad) thing is the majority of these puffers are centered around banks and financial institutes.

All I want for Christmas is some clean city air - I'll take the sewer smell over ciggies any day. Cigars? That's another story.

To do: Running in the Rain

2008-12-21T16:27:00.000-08:00

I love running in the rain. Love it! Not just because I get the Singing in the Rain soundtrack stuck in my head (although that's a nice one because it helps me go a bit further) but because I like to get dirty. I think that explains the passion for trail races. Running in the rain makes me feel like a kid who gets to puddle stomp for the first time.

Three things I love (and need) when running in the rain:

A good waterproof brightly colored jacket (I love this one by North Face - disclaimer, I don't own it - I'm saving up for it, though)
A good pair of running gloves (I'm digging this pair by Nike)
A good snack for post run - I recommend something good for the body (GU Energy makes an excellent sports drink that beats out any electrolyte replacement (try TangoMango))

Matty, read closely, these would make great under-tree surprises! :)

Cool Running

2008-12-18T20:13:00.000-08:00

It's cold in the city. Yes, I realize, it's not Boston cold but it is chilly. The chill makes running especially difficult. I step outside bundled up in running tights, wool socks, long sleeve shirt, sweatshirt, and hat. All this and still cold! Then, a mile in, my defrost kicks in and the layers are too much so I'm left feeling like the little brother from the Christmas Story. Oofa!

I am that dork

2008-12-16T17:44:00.000-08:00

Last weekend I got to go to the Lucasfilm holiday party with my mom (boy can they throw a party!) The theme was carnival and over the course of the night I won two stuffed animals and a plastic light saber. I decided to give the light saber to my old boss (in exchange for a new cell phone - not a bad trade if you ask me). This gift exchange resulted in me being that ism on the way to work this morning.

Picture this:
I was walking carrying the light saber under my umbrella. The outfit? Rain boots, slacks/t, black ear muffs (picture the Princess). The worst part is I kept hitting myself in the head with the plastic weapon. Never again.

Snow in San Francisco?!

2008-12-15T08:52:00.001-08:00

Running roundup

2008-12-14T20:03:00.000-08:00

This was definitely a weekend of running. The weekend was off to a "running" (heh) start with the Muir Beach 17k on Saturday. My goodness what a brutal trail! The course boasted a 2k+ elevation gain with 3 brutal hills (funny note - the elevation map looks a bit like the stock market over the past 2-months ... OK, not funny) scattered over the 10 miles. Eesh! At the start of the race the temperature was hovering just around 40 - I am not used to that and my first few breaths felt like I had swallowed an ice cap and couldn't thaw. I finally could feel my throat (and limbs) again at mile 6.

Post race I enjoyed my mom's books signing (she kicked A!) and then went home to nap.

After a quick nap it was on to an awesome Lucas party (they really brought it home this year with the carnival theme).

Today brought another race - the Christmas Relay which I ran with GGRC. It was such a good runner turnout with the studs from PacWest (hands down, best training group) rocking the course (accompanied by Lululemon (hands down, most inspiring company) runners), and runners from almost every other running club and/or team in the city. I took the first leg and ran a terrible split - my first mile was 6:24, then I went on to a 6:40, and brought it home with a 7:30 and 7:00 respectively - ick. After my leg it poured rain through legs 2 and 3. Thoroughly soaked and frozen, I watched the beginning of leg 4 before darting into my car to blast the heat and peal off wet clothes.

Post race it was off to Meredith's for a FANTASTIC brunch. I'm still full from the frittatas (yes, plural - I'll be honest), scone, salad, fruit, chocolates, pork, cheese, oh, and pie! (Uh, writing that is a little embarrassing now that I re-read)but it was SO good!

It's beginning to feel a lot like Christmas!

2008-12-12T19:46:00.001-08:00

It is that time of year again - the busiest, most frantic, spendiest. Here's the weekend lineup: race > mom's book signing > Lucas holiday party > Steve and Brett's party > Sleep. >> Race > GGRC party > Courtney's party > Sleep. Eeee! Blue Bottle will be seeing a lot of me these next few days. Speaking of mom's book signing - I have to say that's what I'm looking forward to most. I am related to fame - this past week my mom was written up in the Chronicle - finally the press is recognizing her brilliance. What's more, tomorrow my mom is doing a book signing at Book Passage in Marin - if you're around, come on by!

WHERE: Book Passage, Corte Madera

http://www.bookpassage.com/calendarview_cm_thismonth.php?monthno=12&year=2008&submit=Go

WHEN: Saturday 12/13/08 1:00PM

I see pregnant people ...

2008-12-10T22:12:00.000-08:00

(Insert creepy music here)

For some reason I've been seeing bellies lately. No, Molly, this is not some big announcement entry. Something about the cold and holidays is bringing out the rounds.

Yesterday I was walking home and saw a big red belly coming around the corner. I thought it was a woman dressed in a festive red coat. Then I saw the orange-tan and stick on beard - Santa! No really, it was Santa, he was coming off a job at Union Square.

Today Nicole and I enjoyed a bootcamp in front of the buiding (can you think of a better location?!) Awesome workout - I can still feel the burn(ing).

When we were lining up for the curl, lat, lunge trio, I looked back to check out the other bootcampers. Over my left shoulder my eyes grazed a round belly - cute! I was just about to say "I think it's amazing you have worked out through your pregnancy - good for you!" when I decided to make eye contact to pass on this compliment. Thank goodness I did that - turns out round belly was a dude! Eeee! I am so glad I didn't say anything.

I think this is a sign that I need to drop my powder sugar cookies and start doing more planks.

A walk (home) in December

2008-12-10T22:07:00.000-08:00

Insert Mandy Moore music here. No, not the (cool) Entourage cameos. The waxing poetic movie stuff.

I’ve said it a million times before and I’ll say it again – I love San Francisco! Especially the chilly times when lights go up, parties proceed, and eggnog is abundant (I admit, I actually really dislike eggnog but I couldn’t think of a third thing).

I’ve been trying to get some hills into my walking mix - I need to slow down on running for a few days, my knees/hips/ankles decided to go all wonky and I’m not pleased. I’m especially enjoying the walking knowing a) I don’t have to get stuck in the road-rage mess caused by the spiraling economy and frantic shoppers, and b) I get to see more of the city.

Here are my fav pics from the walk home.

p.s. Sorry Rye and Matt, no isms were seen. No cross dressed Santa and Mrs. Clause (what’s her first name anyhow? Glenda?). No hoola dancing, harp playing, poetry reading Karoak wannabes in front of Vessuvios. No, our little city has quited down – for a bit anyhow. If the temperature rises another 3 degrees, then we’re in business – ism business.

Top of Nob Hill

Grace Cathedral

House on Nob Hill

It's a Small Sports World

2008-12-08T19:04:00.000-08:00

Over the past few months I’ve been getting more involved in the running world in San Francisco – I guess you could say it’s a NY08 resolution that stuck! I will now be partnering with PacWest to lead the Lululemon fun runs which we’ll continue on Monday evenings at 6:30 in front of Lululemon on Union St. On a personal level I’m psyched to be getting more involved in the running world – it’s a cool (or should I say “hot bod”) world to know.

On the fitness note, I think there are three types of sportys:

The novice – folks who want to get fit but don’t necessarily want to compete

The fitness freaks (and I mean freak in the nicest way possible) – when abs and arms are the best accessories and 200 pushups and sit-ups just aren’t enough

The competitors – the loons (myself included) who like getting up at 7am to run up the side of mountains just to see if they can do it and beat last month’s trail race time

I’d like to think I started at #1 and progressed through to #3 as the year went by (flew by). Now to fine tune the competitor in me and start beating last year’s times!

Richard, the owner and founder of PacWest, breaks athletes into much clearer buckets (without the childish names I attach) that help for training purposes and when people show up to PacWest workouts (bootcamps, runs, rides, etc.) they can expect to find the right group to fit their type.
I’ll be at a handful of the upcoming PacWest events to get myself in the “know” – I encourage you to come, too!

2009 Kick-off & Info Meeting
Tuesday night, December 16th – 7:00 to 9:00pm
Pete’s Tavern (across from AT&T Park) (

www.petestavernsf.com)
Come learn about PacWest’s training programs (i.e., BootCamp, Running, Triathlon, Cycling and hear about our NEW "Yoga for Runners" 8-wk program and PacWest's Elite Triathlon men’s and women’s team.

PacWest Holiday Party
Saturday night, December 20th – 8:00 to 10:00pm (private party)
Roe Restaurant & Club (www.roerestaurant.com)
What’s a workout or race without rad people and a cool bar to share best practices and stories at if you’re not already overloaded with holiday party madness, check out the PacWest site for details around their holiday party and come enjoy good company, great stories, and more. Raffle prizes and awards will be presented. I can’t make any promises but I highly doubt the party halls will be decked with sales pitches.

Girls on the Run - Lollipop Run 2008

2008-12-07T19:57:00.000-08:00

The Lollipop Run oh the Lollipop Run

The funnest of races I ever have run

In the sun shiny morning we went to the park

The runners were stretching, arms stretched in an arc

280 girls and boys gathered

For the 1m and 5k

Their coaches and run buddies cheered them on

Hip hip hop hurray!

We gathered at the line

For "ready set go"

I led the 5k pack

Wee runners in tow

Out of the park center

Around the small lake

One big loop parkside

No time for a break

The finish line held

High fives and crowd cheers

The little boys and girls crossed

All runners were winners - all heights and all years

Inspired - Dean Karnazes

2008-12-03T20:56:00.000-08:00

I just finished Ultramarathon Man and am truly inspired. I'm signing up for my first 33k (sure, I've run a few marathons, but there's something about trails and the #33 that has me scared ... excited ... scared).

Side-note, I think it's funny that "ultramarathon" isn't considered a real word. Maybe they're (they being the races) not mainstream enough yet.

Yoga for runners

2008-12-03T20:23:00.001-08:00

Quite a few gyms and trainers are starting to advertise yoga for runners. At first, I have to admit, I played the pessimistic role and thought people were starting to capitalize on two popular workout/de-stressing means (sort of like a blog-wiki-mashup but a fitness mashup or hybrid). I tried one class at Lululemon a few weeks ago and LOVED it.

Tonight I tried a class at Crunch that was hot yoga. It wasn't advertised as "for runners" but this class felt like it was made for me. The entire class was one flowing movement in the heat which both made me more flexible and didn't let me get bored stretching.

Yoga for runners? I'm totally bought in.

Running with pepper spray

2008-12-03T09:17:00.000-08:00

The alarm went off at 6:03am as always. I snoozed for 5min and then sleep walked to the bathroom to splash water on my face. I did not want to be up – I wanted to be in my REM sleep dreaming of Ireland (I have no idea why I was dreaming of being there BTW) warmed by down covers and luxurious multi-hundred threadcount sheets. But no, gotta run. If I’m going to do a 33k next week, I gotta run.

I laced up and looked out the window – the entire city was cloaked in fog (it’s own down cover?) and darkness. To battle the darkness, or really the jerks that come out in the dark and scare runners (there have been a few recently) I grabbed my new pepper spray – a first, I don’t know where the paranoia is coming from. I walked out the front door – eyes still only half opened – and started ambling down the 4 flights of stairs to exit the building. “You go girl! I’m so proud of you!” I heard from behind. Some neighbor I’ve never met was trailing behind me, maybe she thought I was someone else, or maybe she’s one of those cheer leaders we all love – either way, it helped crack my eyes a bit more.

Out the door – I made it. The hardest part of starting a morning run is getting out the front door. Cool air and fog spit (you know what I mean if you live in the city) smacked me in the face and my eyes were open. Opening my eyes was like pulling the string on a toy doll – the full vision got my feet going and I was off. Down to the water (still pitch black) and around the museum. There were lights by the water – lots of flashlights – weird. I kept going and saw it was a group of police. Pepper spray held tight I kept going. They were circling a homeless man saying something and he kept rocking on the wet pavement not wanting to listen to them. I turned up my Erland (new iTunes mix I downloaded) and blasted by. Pepper spray still in hand I made it up to Ft. Mason. By this point my face was covered in mist but I was too scared to wipe it off – I’ve never used the spray before and I didn’t want to accidentally shoot myself in the eyes. Instead of using my hand like a normal person, I used my shoulder in an awkward yogi-wannabe move.

Done with the run and drenched. I made it – first run with the pepper spray.

I’m sure you were waiting for the hilarious similes or jokes spinning off the spray. I haven’t finished my coffee yet, so I’m not feeling that funny and can’t do better than tie my run to an Annette Bening movie. Later.

Economics of saving

2008-12-01T22:10:00.000-08:00

Saving money is tough but is proving to be an interesting challenge. The past 3-weeks I've brown bagged it everyday bringing microwave meals, leftovers, build-a-salads to work. I've also avoided all window shopping let alone shopping - believe me, that is a toughy! Running has proved helpful in that I can get past the stores faster. Biking is even better as I barely have time to turn my head let alone look.

I have learned to harness the power of imagination to wish instead of spend.

If I were a rich girl (la-da-di-da - you get the drill), I would buy:

A 2-bedroom in Cole Valley
A dinner at Pesce
Manolos for the holiday party
A facial
Roundtrip tickets to the Philippines

Back to my jigsaw.

Pause - a post of brilliance is before you

2008-11-29T12:21:00.001-08:00

I always seem to get my best ideas while running ... or shopping ... or running to shop. Today Matt and I went to Borders to stock up on books. When we got home I did a quick Amazon search and found all of the books, including shipping, for less than 1/3 the price. We went to return the books and I embarrassidly told the guy at the counter that I had succumb to online shopping for deals instead of in-store. At first I felt bad - recession aside, online business continues to push every mom 'n pop and now big box store out of business. Then I remembered when Borders first hit the scene - I don't remember them helping the mom 'n pops much ... OK, maybe I'm buying into the message from "You've Got Mail" here but I don't see big stores helping the little ones much.

When I went out for a quick run (quick because the heat in SD is a shock to the system and my feet now have blisters from toe to heal) my mind wandered to shopping. First I thought about the Amazon business model - very smart. Then I thought of Netflix who seem to be pushing all the video stores out with their video rental memberships. Of course my mind moved to fashion - Beg Borrow or Steal, an online designer purse membership store.

Then my mind jumped (as it often does on runs) to all the events I have for the season - the ballet, Black and White ball, parties, NYE festivities, etc. When thinking of events I thought of what to wear - I'd like Gucci with Jimmy but I don't think that's in the cards this year. Can't afford those goods new and don't want to pay retail or used and then have to go through the burden of reselling.

In a flash (a painful one - the blister popped) it came to me - "My Best Friends Closet" - a store where people can get "memberships" to borrow designer clothes.

Do you think this would work?

An online eStore - let's call it FaaS (Fashion as a Service for all those techies out this with a yearning for style like myself) - where people could get memberships for $30-75/month. The membership would cover rental of up to 2 items of clothes (or shoes) at a time - similar to Netflix. When you return the goods, you can rent more.

Eventually if the eStore took off, there could be "Closet" presences in big cities like San Francisco (where I happen to live), Vail (where Lisa happens to live), etc. People could go to the "Closet" to check out clothes OR browse online and goods they like from other "Closets" could be shipped to their local one.

How would this work? Well of course in this downturn stores like Saks, Niemens, Barney's, etc. are looking for new sales venues - they may just want to put their overstock goods in the virtual community for checking out. And of course Amazon would want a piece as they're always innovating - they could manage the shipping logistics and insurance. Oh, and don't forget all the small boutiques - something doesn't sell, no worries! Rent it.

Now, I'm throwing this idea to the world but I am indeed thinking of pursuing it. One of my thousand thoughts. If someone does rip off the idea and run, well then I'll be the first member. For free of course ;o)

Pain in the ... foot

2008-11-28T17:29:00.000-08:00

We're down in San Diego for the weekend enjoying the warm November weather and celebrating Matt's grandparent's 65th wedding anniversary (!!) After a giant Mexican lunch (as if last night wasn't enough) we made it home and I decided to set off on a short run.

Donning my Nike 1/2 Marathon T (by the way, nicest race shirt EVER) and Lulu sweats (I forgot shorts - always something) I made it out the door. This was my first run with orthodics and the first few steps felt like I was walking on clouds. A mile into the run was another story, though Cresting the top of a hill (really a speed bump by SF standards) my feet starting feeling tingly. Another half mile and my feet were warming up. Another half and I was holding in tears and yells of pain - oh my goodness my feet were on fire! Apparently I hadn't broken the orthodics in enough and I was paying the consequences -still am. 2+miles should not render this much pain - this was worse than 15 miles up a 3,000 foot climb. I tried slowing to a walk and the burn only got fiercer. Finally I made it home limping in pain and only clocked 2.55 miles.
Oofa.

Oh Turkey Day Oh Turkey Day

2008-11-27T23:17:00.000-08:00

My tummy grew more because of yooooooooooouuuu!

What a great Thanksgiving. This morning Matt and I got up, cleaned the house, and then made our way to Grassroots Shelters. I dropped the ball bringing the gift boxes we made at LAC to the church last week, so I found this shelter and it was a perfect fit. The purpose of the shelter is to keep low income mothers and their children off the street. When I walked in, everyone was very friendly and so grateful for the gifts. I have to admit, this is one of those selfish times when it feels so good to help out - I'm glad our art project brought these kids gifts and hope they can be safe in homes of their own soon.

After the gift drop, I went to the gym for a good long workout (I got hooked on the movie playing) and then it was cooking time.

Again, Matt and I made brussel sprouts with bacon and again we took BART to Walnut Creek. Boarding BART it smelled like urine everywhere - it was disgusting. Then I looked down and noticed the smell was following me. The sprouts. Nasty. So I was the one who stunk up BART (with cooking) and I'm the one always complaining - what an hypocratism.

Now to sleep so we can rise for an early flight to SD.

Shakey face

2008-11-22T13:24:00.000-08:00

Taking the bus is always an event for me - it seems I have a tendency to board the smelly, packed, loony buses. Friday was no different - after an appointment, I jumped on the 1 to get from California and Mason to work. Nast. When I got on a smell of dirty hair and bad breath overwhelmed me. Smells aside, the characters on the bus were ... something else. Trying to nudge my way into a standing spot, I looked down and my heart nearly stopped - I thought two passengers had passed away. The woman sat with her head bobbing over her chest. She had taken her teeth out - maybe to be more comfortable on the ride? Her companion, an older man, sat with his head teetered on the side of his shoulder, eyes closed, mouth open (I wish he'd have closed that too ...) All of a sudden the woman start saying something and immediately the old man started howling and cackling. Weird and kind of creepy really.

Ah the bus - good motivation to walk more.

A season to give

2008-11-20T20:52:00.000-08:00

The 80 degree heat has finally turned to cool reminding us city dwellers Winter is almost upon us. And, as we all know, Winter is equivalent to fat men in red suits, over spending on gifts for others and ourselves, and, of course thinking of others.

Last night Emily and I hosted an LAC (ladies activity club - a rotating gatheringEmily thought of years ago) party to build gift boxes for low income children. We filled boxes with toothpaste, stickers, Pez, and more. We also packed each box with personal notes ("I realize I don't know you, but I'm confident you can do everything you want to do. You just need to put your mind to it, put your heart into it, and try ... blah blah blah").

I miss doing stuff like this. I don't think I've truly given back in years. I mean, I've given to the economy, but that was to put shoes on my feet. I'm glad there's a season to remind us to give/help/share/teach. I'm going to make an effort to remind myself to do this more often.

Thanks Em for the LAC party idea.

Lollupop Run!

2008-11-18T17:12:00.000-08:00

It's my favorite time of year - the weather is cooling so Burberry scarfs (the kind from eBay) can come out, turkeys are being bought for Thanksgiving, trees are already going up for Christmas, and the Lollipop run is nearing!

I'm thrilled to be volunteering with Girls on the Run Bay Area this year because it means I get to volunteer and get involved in the Lollipop Run.

The Lollipop run is a 1 mile and 5k run in Golden Gate Park, put on by Girls on the Run of the Bay Area. Children, adults, and strollers (with the adults) come from all over the Bay Area to make their way around Golden Gate Park. I have to say, I haven't done the Lollipop run before, but I have seen children finish their first race and it truly makes the heart smile - there is always such a look of happiness and success (and exhaustion) on the race finisher's face.

The event is on December 6 and it will be Girls on the Run Bay Area's 10th semi-annual season-ending celebration. The event has established itself as a morning of fun that gets the whole family excited about fitness and healthy living.

Find out more, donate, or apply to volunteer online!

I forgot my pants when I went to work today!

2008-11-17T19:48:00.000-08:00

No - I'm not going to write about Sponge Bob No Pants - the (half) costumed man who ran Bay to Breakers next to Linz and I last year...

Lately I've been riding my bike to work. It's great! I get there in 10-15-minutes (whereas walking takes 45-minutes), I'm learning a new culture (aka, bike culture), and I get to give my knees a break. The downside is I can't ride in my work clothes dress or skirt + heels + bike doesn't work.

Today I left the house in bike pants and my sweatshirt with my dress neatly packed away ... as soon as I was within a block from work, though, I realized I forgot my tights/ 3/4 spandex to wear under the dress (way too short for the dress alone). Ugh.

Although it's a joy to ride to work, riding to work, then home, then work again is just not fun. So I went off on an adventure trying to find tights at 8am - sadly, most everything was closed. I went to every gym in the area, and finally made it to Walgreens - my morning savior. At Walgreens the only tights I could get were size L - oofa. I bought the tights and made my way to work to change, then, endured a day of way-too-low-in-the-in-between-the-leg-zone tights that kept getting stuck on my chair (I'm not kidding, the L made these things hang way too low).

Tonight I'm packing my clothes before I leave for work.

Stinson Beach 20k: 80 degrees, hurdles, a quick fall, and so much fun!

2008-11-17T17:15:00.001-08:00

This weekend I got back into the trail racing circuit with the Stinson Beach PCTR 20k. The race was awesome! There was a great turnout from GGRC including our very pregnant president (and I have to say, she’s the cutest pregnant woman ever). We started down by the beach and ran up (up up up up) many sets of stairs and even a ladder and then down into Muir Woods.

On the trail I:

Saw a HUGE snake – I’ve never jumped so high
Fell, but thankfully stayed on the mountain
Got lost – but it was a pretty detour

I wound up getting 2nd in my age group and 4th woman overall. And now, I have the trail race bug again …

Sunsets and beaches, skies with no ending, bright shiney faces with unemployment pending

2008-11-14T20:41:00.000-08:00

(read the title to the tune of "My Favorite Things" from Sound of Mucis).

I love my bike ride home.

There’s more glass on the ground and a full moon over the bridge

2008-11-13T08:20:00.000-08:00

There’s something weird going on – the weather in San Francisco continues to sporadically toggle between rain and 80 degree Summer heat (somewhat similar to the Fed’s bail out plan(s)). People seem to be angrier and more insecure than ever (likely because of the economy gloom looming). Riding my bike to work this morning I noticed more glass on the road than ever before. There’s usually the loan broken into car but today there was a series of 10 broken glass windows on the street. I think as people freak out more about the economy, jobs, being able to pay the rent, etc. they justify anger, hate, and frantic behavior (i.e. stealing).

Despite all the gloom, I was shocked this morning at how beautiful the city was. I woke early and went for a 6am run. I was the only one on the street at the time and ran down to the water around Aquatic Park and out towards Chrissy Field. At the Park, I had to stop, though – not from exhaustion but from the view in front of me. The full moon sat perched just over the bridge, a freight boat was coasting under the bridge, birds were settling onto the cement railing to take in the view, and the water rippled reflecting everything. Funny that in a time of such economy chaos we can be confronted with the most amazing bits of nature. Yet another reason to keep looking up I guess!

Ridin' in the Rain! Just Ridin' in the Rain

2008-11-08T16:38:00.000-08:00

This morning we made our way out into the gloom of SF to enjoy a rainy ride to Marin. We rode from Lombard to the Presidio where we met up with Rob, Emily, and some of their co-workers and then took off. The ride was great! My knee has been hurting from running so coasting on a bike was a great break. Also, I love riding in the rain.

The total ride was roughly 20+/- and was fantastic. Can't wait until it starts raining again to take off on another Bay Area adventure.

Are you the running teacher?

2008-11-08T11:20:00.000-08:00

Today I went to Lululemon to pick up my new pants (the Groove reverse - I LOVE them) and at the register I received the biggest compliment ever:
"Are you Amber? Are you the running teacher?"
Me: "Yes, I'm Amber - I facilitate the running program"
"That is so cool - I really really want to go but I'm scared."
Me: "You'll be great! There are lots of new runners."

Then I fumbled trying to find my license to pick up the pants and another person walked up:
"Don't worry Amber Taylor, we know who you are."

Happy happy happy!

Teacher + running = smiles.

Flash walking

2008-11-06T08:56:00.000-08:00

This morning walking to work I was juggling Peet’s with my iPod and Blackberry. Through the hum of “The Be Good Tanyas” (not so much a hum as rad singing) I thought I heard:

“Nice boob”

Odd. Then I heard a muffled:

“Get fresh”

Geez! I thought – what’s going on with the city today.

I looked up and saw a guy handing out samples of Dentyne Ice telling people to start their day off fresh. I looked down and saw the top 3 buttons of my shirt were open. Great.

It's Voting Day!

2008-11-04T11:44:00.000-08:00

This morning I made it to the polls early(ish - around 7:30am) and was faced with a 45-minute line. It was freezing, but fun - everyone in line was so happy to be voting (I think we were all a bit happy to have an end to the ceaseless calls, emails, and snail mails around the election, too).

I must say, I had the best view while waiting to vote. Can't wait to see the results!

I heart the rain!

2008-11-03T20:47:00.000-08:00

It's finally raining in the city and we needed it. I love the rain - I love running in the rain, riding in the rain, vegging in the rain - not so much singing in the rain (my voice is awful).

San Francisco is a funny city when it rains - no one seems to know what to do which is tough because everyone in SF is always right. The roads jam up with people honking and shaking fists and the overhangs under shops are always filled with SFites who forgot umbrellas.

Despite the rain, this was an event packed weekend.

Saturday we enjoyed Tracy and Alex's wedding. They got married at The City Club which was a beautiful venue adorned with Diego Rivera art and phenomenal city views.

The crowd was a great mix of Australian's, Chinese American's, and muts (I put myself in that category). One of my favorite moments was seeing Alex's aunt get down to "So I come from a land down under" - as she shook and turned, her perm shook and turned a second or so after her.

After the wedding we all went to the Cigar Bar for Cuban music and, you guessed it, cigars.

Sunday my mom and I drove up to Calestoga to get spa'd. The spa was OK, but the drive, lunch, and views were my favorite.

Yet another handful of reasons why I love this city - when it rains, I get the streets to myself. We get to enjoy events in art adorned historic buildings. The wine country is an easy escape from the rain. The list could go on and on ...

Beat over the head with politics

2008-10-29T20:06:00.000-07:00

Today I rode my bike to and from work (can't walk right now because somehow I messed up my ankle (somehow being a gorgeous pair of 4" heels)). Riding home I almost got taken out by a prop 8 sign!

I was riding along the Embarcadero paying more attention to the cars on my left than the sites on my right although occasionally my eyes did veer to the bridges and water. It's a good thing I took in the sites - when I glanced to the Ferry Building, I saw a sign coming at my head - an avid political activist was thrusting his sign at traffic but didn't notice me (I hope he didn't notice anyhow).

With all these propositions and media recommendations for how to vote, it's tough not to lose one's head!

OK, gotta get back to studying the CA ballot.

Inspired

2008-10-29T10:27:00.000-07:00

I normally hate forwards, but when cheese-it sent me one today (good friend Lisa - I don't have delicious cheesey snacks sending me things ... but yum would that be nice) I had to read/watch.

Here's the story of Team Hoyt:
True Story ...
เรื่องจริง ...

A son says to his father: 'Dad, would you be willing to run a marathon with me?'
วันนึงลูกชายได้พูดกับพ่

อของเขาว่า 'พ่อครับ พ่อจะไปวิ่งมาราธอนกับผมได้ไหม'

The father, despite his age and a heart disease, says 'YES'.
ถึงแม้ว่าตัวคุณพ่อเองจะอายุมากแล้ว แถมยังเป็นโรคหัวใจ เขาเลือกที่จะตอบลูกของเขากลับไปว่า 'ได้ซิลูก'

And they run that marathon, together.
หลังจากนั้นทั้งสองก็วิ่งมาราธอนด้วยกัน

The son asks: 'Dad, can you run another marathon with me?' Again father says 'YES'.
อีกวันนึง ลูกชายได้ถามพ่อของเขาอีกครั้งว่า 'พ่อครับ พ่อจะวิ่งมาราธอนกับผมอีกครั้งได้ไหม' แน่นอนว่า พ่อตอบกลับไปว่า 'ได้ซิลูก'

They run another marathon, together.
เขาทั้งสองก็ได้วิ่งมาราธอนรายการอื่นอีกครั้งด้วยกัน

One day the son asks his father: 'Dad, would please do the Iron Man with me?'
และอีกวันนึง ลูกชายก็ถามพ่อของเขาอีกครั้งว่า 'พ่อครับพ่อจะลงแข่ง Iron Man กับผมได้ไหม'

Now just in case you wouldn't know, 'The Iron Man' is the toughest triathlon in existence; 4km swimming, then 180 km by bike, and finally another 42 km running, in one stroke.
(สำหรับคนที่ไม่รู้ว่า Iron Man คืออะไร มันก็คือไตรกีฬานั่นเองในภาษาไทย รายการนี้จะรวมมนุษย์เหล็กจากทั่วโลกมาแข่งขันกันโดยแบ่งออกเป็น ว่ายน้ำ 4 กิโล ปั่นจักรยาน 180 กิโล และ วิ่ง 42 กิโล โดยไม่มีการหยุดพัก ใครเข้าเส้นชัยก่อนเป็นผู้ชนะ)

Again father says 'YES'
และก็อีกครั้งหนึ่งที่ผู้เป็นพ่อไม่ได้ตอบปฏิเสธ 'ได้ซิลูก'

Maybe this doesn't 'touch' you yet by heart ... until you see this movie:
บางทีบทสนทนานี้คุณอาจจะยังไม่เข้าใจ และยังไม่เกิดความประทับใจกับมัน...จนกระทั่งคุณได้ดูคลิปต่อไปนี้

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VJMbk9dtpdY

Run, reuse, recycle, reward?

2008-10-28T22:09:00.000-07:00

Starting the running group, and volunteering for the running group for kids here in the city, I started noodling on how the economy is going to effect the holidays AND how the two could maybe help each other ...

The idea:

Run, Reuse, Recycle, Reward

A store could sponsor a clothes drive where people could donate old clothes (from that store) that would go to low income children in and around the Bay Area. Each item of clothing could get 1 “Kharma buck” which =s $1 off a purchase at that store (or something). The “Kharma bucks” themselves could actually be tree seeds (Matt and I gave these for our wedding (insert "awww") that people could keep and plant, or give back to the store for their $1 off and the store would plant (maybe even with kids in the community) – full circle helping.

My thinking here is that the government is pushing money back into the economy (which can be good) but a lot of the spending is going to spas and bonuses. If people help people and spending begets reward, maybe people will be more encouraged to help? And get rewarded? And reward (because rewarding drives more business through the rewards that are rewarding others). I'll stop rambling.

Random ideas - I'm full of 'em! (both randomness and ideas :) )

How's that for a footprint?!

Pumpkin time!

2008-10-28T21:08:00.000-07:00

This morning I thought I saw a man in costume on my way to work. Nope, he was just wearing a cape ... odd ... maybe he was off to some ritual (work?) or maybe he was just early for Halloween.

To get ready for Halloween, this weekend Ryan, Linzy, and I resurrected our own Halloween rituals (no capes involved). Pumpkin carving!

At first I tried to set up with just place mats and a plastic bag - Linz and Matt quickly corrected that.

Then we got down to work - a salami and cheese plate, SATC on the DVD player, and gossip galore, we were ready to carve:

Here's the thing, though - Linz is the artistic one, Ryan is the realistic one, and I'm ... um, the knee jerk one?

We couldn't decide what to carve, so I did the first thing I saw - a candle (we have a TON in the living room). Linz was a bit smarter and stuck with Halloween fashion:

Maybe next year will bring more creativity ... and an SATC movie part 2.

Lululemon fun run

2008-10-27T17:56:00.000-07:00

Today was definitely a Monday - I woke up, walked to Pete's and got coffee, got to work and spilled the entire thing in my lap while on the phone with our CTO, and the day progressed from there. Luckily, though, it's another Lululemon Fun Run day.

All SFites are welcome to meet up at Lululemon on Union St. at 6:30 (30 short minutes away) to hit the streets of the Marina, meet new people, and take in the views on 3, 5, 6, or 8 mile runs. I've mapped out a few runs and will provide directions for more. I need the motivation right now because if I didn't have the fun run I'd be on the couch eating cheese plate and watching TV :).

After this run, Girls on the Run will be partnering with Marathon Matt for a half marathon training starting in February. Our first race will be with the Santa Cruz half marathon and potentially the Marin Half.

All participants will get the same Girls on the Run of the Bay Area Team Tiara benefits (only those we have arranged not national) as well as the following:

· A comprehensive training schedule

· 2-3 Professionally coached run workouts/week (USATF/RRCA certified coaches)

· A $25 Fleet Feet gift certificate

· A technical training shirt

· 100+ fun teammates to train with

· A fundraising strategy workbook

· A personal fundraising webpage

· A Weekly email newsletter supporting training/fundraising

· Ongoing training/fundraising support

· Program management (marketing, advertising, recruiting, etc.)

· Much more!

More to come on this - watch this space!

Birthday weekend

2008-10-26T14:55:00.000-07:00

I had one of the best birthday's ever this weekend - and that's saying a lot. Friday afternoon Matt and I left work early and drove up to Healdsburg. The drive was brutal through Marin with traffic galore, but worth it in the end. We went to the Healsburg half expo to pick up my # (I ran the half on Saturday) and then checked in to one of the nicest B&Bs - the Old Crocker Inn. Then we made it out to dinner at a pizza place (wine country style) downtown and off to sleep early.

Up by 5:30 we drove to Clos du Bois for the race. Matt dropped me off and made his way to nap by the Sonoma lake.

The start was a mess - the race coordinators forgot the #s and timing chips at the finish line so nearly 1,000 people were waiting in line to get their number. The start line was so narrow it was an opsticle course to get across the first time block. But the views and sunrise were well worth the chaos.

I ran the EXACT same time as the Nike Half Marathon coming in at 1:37. I placed 2nd in my age group (woot!) and even won a bottle of wine - very nice. Now I'm paying for the pace, though - somehow in mile 1 I pulled a muscle and am now hobbling around.

After the race we hung out with GGRCers for a bit enjoying the free post race tasting, and then went off to explore the wine country.

Another great night at the B&B and back to the city to recover. Crossing the bridge we were welcomed with the familiar fog of San Francisco - it's hot in Healdsburg and the fog was an inviting embrace coming home.

This is not a beauty show!

2008-10-23T21:06:00.000-07:00

I don't know a single person that enjoys going to the DMV. And I can't imagine I'd much like working at the DMV - you get irate, confused, or grumpy-from-being-in-line-too-long-all-day people constantly.

Today I went to get a new license - I'm turning 29 (gasp) on Saturday which means my latest license is expiring. When I arrived at the DMV I found that a) I forgot my Citibank ATM card at home, b) I forgot my checkbook at home, and c) I didn't know the pin to my new ING card. Great. Thinking they might take credit cards now, I waiting through the line and got to the window. Nope. So off I drove to Citibank to pull cash and then drive back to the DMV.

Finally, back to the DMV, paid for my new license, and then slammed with the big one - "you need a new license photo." Eesh! I worked from home! Which means PJs, no makeup, and glasses - the backup pair. Made it through the picture and finally got back to my car - when I looked in the rearview I found a) my poneytail was on the side of my head ala 1988, b) I had coffee beans in between every tooth, c) managed to somehow put lipstick on part of my lips (top) but not all (dorky). I went back into the office to ask for a retake and it went something like this:
"Hi sir, sorry, but I realized I had coffee in all my teeth - may I retake my photo?"
"No."
"Why?"
"What, do you think I'm supposed to check out everyone's teeth?"
"No - not at all, it was my fault. May I retake?"
"No."
"Why?"
"Do I really look like I have time for this?"
I looked behind me and saw no-one in the photo line (despite the lines of people ready to complain about expired plates, etc.).
"No sir, I'm sure you're busy - I can smile fast ... I cleaned my teeth, I'll be quick!"
"What DOES THIS REALLY LOOK LIKE A BEAUTY SHOW?!!!"
He picked up and started ranting on how my hair and gloss looked bad but it wasn't his place to give everyone help with looks for the photo. Oofa. So of course I left on a passive aggressive note:
"Sir, I'm sure you're having a bad day. I'm sorry for that. I'll leave - I'm OK with my coffee teeth photo. I hope you feel better."

And in 3-weeks time, I'll be celebrating my coffee-teethed-fuzzy-haired-jammer-clad-license photo.

Mind Games

2008-10-21T21:38:00.001-07:00

Does running help your brain work better? Can it help with comprehension and reading? Can it make one smarter by stimulating different parts of the brain?

I don't have answers, but I do have opinions ...

Before I worked in tech I taught at Lindamood-Bell (LBLP), a learning processes company that works 1:1 with children and adults with learning differences - logical move, right? The job was amazing and I think the research LBLP, as well as other learning organizations such as Scwab, did and does is phenomenal.

Based on my recent activities/learnings I wonder ... Does running help the brain?

At LBLP we helped people learn techniques for reading and comprehension. On the reading side, a lot of it was through activating the frontal and parietal lobes by picturing letters and creating sounds (phonemes). We'd move to putting words together with more techniques (i.e. "Super E makes a vowel say its name") thus activating the occipital lobe. On the comprehension note, we'd help create images. Have you ever noticed when you read you can kind of picture the happenings like a movie? Some people can't so they need help becoming their own "director" of literature and creating imagery.

Most of our students were children but there were a few adult learners in there. I think children were the easier ones to get in the door (they could skip the step of "admitting there was a problem or difficulty" and go straight to that dreaded moment of learning). Adults often were tougher - it's embarrassing admitting you can't do something.

We had one man (Mr. G) come to us who had been working on a factory site. He'd been there for over 20-years and always did a great job. The site manager left and when a new manager came on board he wanted everyone to read and execute. Mr. G couldn't read and execute so he was fired. We had another student (one of my favorites) who came to us in her 60s. She was retired, a grandmother, and a hapily married woman. But she was at a reading and comprehension level of a 2nd grader. We worked on visualizing letters and putting together words. We created pictures with paragraphs and stories. When she left she was reading and comprehending at a highschool level and I gave her a "Shopaholic" book as well as some Mark Twain.

Per Neuroscience For Kids here's how the brain works:

Frontal Lobe:

Concerned with reasoning, planning, parts of speech and movement (motor cortex), emotions, and problem-solving.
LBLP days suggested this is the first "touch" in learning - often activated by looking up. This is why (I think) teachers often look at students' eyes when trying to catch a bluff - looking up is trying to activate a memory. Looking down is trying to come up with one (right and left offer different activation points but I don't know what they are).

Parietal Lobe:

Concerned with perception of stimuli related to touch, pressure, temperature and pain.
LBLP days taught me this was the phoneme part of the day (i.e. /A/ says "ah" or "ae" and sometimes "uh").

Temporal Lobe:

Concerned with perception and recognition of auditory stimuli (hearing) and memory (hippocampus).
In my LBLP days I learned that the Termporal Lobe managed putting together phonemes to make small words and conjunct sounds (like pst).

Occipital Lobe:

Concerned with many aspects of vision.
In my LBLP days I also read studies that the Occipital Lobe managed comprehension (that movie part of the brain) and putting together full words and sentences.

So the running connection - do you think people activate all parts of their brain when running?

Frontal Lobe: looking to the heavens - "why did I sign up for this?!"
Perietal Lobe: recognizing activity through sound "ow ow ow"
Termperal Lobe: putting it together - w-a-t-e-r
Occipital Lobe: the whole story "I see skies of grey ... and I think to myself, what a wonderful run ..."

Jokes aside, I think any kind of activity helps the brain. I'm sad that PE and the arts (another great stimulous) are being slowly taken out of schools.

The economics of running

2008-10-21T21:33:00.000-07:00

Watching the stock market teeter totter brings me to thinking about the economics of running. Sure, at first one might think it's an inexpensive sport - you just throw on shoes and go, right? Alas, no - on top of the physical gains and costs (on the upside: euphoria, runner's high; on the downside: occasional clicky knees, cramped arches, and so on) there's a handful of wallet denting needs.

The attire:

Tops:
I'm prone to 3/4 running tights and tanks. On the tank note, I go for whatever is clean. I like the Lululemon running tanks ($40+), Nike tanks ($30+), and the $5 bin tanks from Sports Basement. I'm also a big fan of wearing race shirts - I mean heck, I paid $30-80 for them! Also, I love seeing other runner's in the same race ts - there's always the unspoken "yep, I faced that hill, too."

Bottoms:
I've never been a fan of the short shorts for running and somehow I just can't get into the running skirts. I don't play tennis, I don't cheer, I run. Lately I've been loving the CW-X tights but they come with a hefty pricetag ($80+). The CW-Xs support the IT band which is a nice coo. They're not super cute, but they get the job done.

Shoes:
I love shoes. Manolo's, Jimmy's, Donald's, and Tod's... my boss thinks I have a penchant for "trannie" shoes. Heck, if that's the case, they have good taste!

Running shoes come with a pricetag close to styley shoes. I've tried a handful and have made the mistake of buying sale running shoes that were the wrong size or wrong fit to save a few - big mistake. I'm still running in Asics 1120s and am a fan - the pricetag definitely helps rack up frequent flier points, though. Not to mention the running socks - there are dry-wick socks, ankle for long runs, wool for cold runs, blister free (yeah, right), support socks, and more - all coming in between $5 and $20 a pair. I'm liking the Puma socks right now, but whenever I go to do laundry I end up losing a few, so lately my socks have been a Puma Adidas combo. I may be a label lover, but I'm not that loyal.

The rest:
On top of apparel there are the big expenses of running. Races can run $30 for a nice trail race to $110+ for a marathon. This doesn't include the travel - I've dropped $300+ on hotels and travel this year alone! When Boston comes along this number will soar.

Finally, there are the "non-standard" costs of running. The cost of maintenance. As with owning a car, the body takes tuning and fixing. This includes chiropractors ($20 co-pay), acupuncturists (another $20), podiatrists ($20 co-pay + $350 orthodics), and physical therapy ($20 co-pay). Eesh!
Grand total (drum roll ...):
$40 (shirt) + $80 (pants) + $10 (socks) + $60 (chiro, acupuncture, physical therapy) + $350 (orthodics) + $90 (half marathon) = $630 !!!

Sticker shock aside, just think - runner's high, a brain break, time alone, fitness, meeting new people, seeing gorgeous sites, etc. =
300 cups of coffee; 3 nights at a nice(ish) hotel; one pair of Manolo's; car insurance for a quarter; new tires; or ~ 7 months at the gym. Not to mention, stress overload, high cholesterol, new wardrobe (in either size direction), a drug habit (to replace the runner's high), or other sports cost more. I vote for running.

Well, at least runner's are helping support the economy.

Rules of Engagement

2008-10-21T15:16:00.000-07:00

When runners start competing for more than just the precursory t-shirt at the end of the run or against others (I still am just running to beat my last time ... and to get the shirt, I admit) the rules of a race can be hugely important. I first realized this when running an Envirosports race at Angel Island. I had signed up for the 25k and on race day dropped to the shorter distance. When I finished it turned out my time was the best (woot woot!) but, unfortunately, because I had changed that day the coordinators had to add 12-hours to my time (blech). I found a mention of this after much distraught finally on their site hidden in an About page in tiny print. Shame on me, though, for changing course.

Here's a worse one, though: "At Women's Marathon, Fastest Time Didn't Win."
At the Nike Marathon this weekend, a 24-year old woman (Arien O'Connell) ran the fastest time of her life (congrats) and the fastest time in the race (amazing!) But ... because she didn't start with the "Elite" runners, she couldn't claim first. Rules are rules.

I took a look at the USA Track and Field competition/rule book online (it covers longer races, too) and was amazed to find 341 rules spanning 213 pages. Yikes!

I think I'll stick with running to beat myself and get a cool shirt - not too concerned with the rules (except stay on trail, don't get in the way, no iPods (when that's a rule), have fun).

Nike Women's Half

2008-10-20T08:43:00.001-07:00

Let's skip to the finish - the results - for the Nike half marathon I ran 1:37:27 (with my first few miles at 6:30) and placed:
14th in my age group - out of 1840
33 female overall - out of 10939
54 overall - out of 11533

Happy happy morning! The Nike Women's Half (and full) was yesterday and it was an incredible race. (Yes, this is the same puffy pink sweatshirt race crew I ranted about months ago - I'm proud to admit I can change my opinion). My friend Jamie wasn't feeling ready to run so she gave me her bib (which was INCREDIBLY nice considering how many people try to get in and can't). Saturday we made our way to the expo and battled the crowds of women getting mani pedis to get the number. The expo itself was a pretty cool event (and I still think it was Oprah worthy) - there were Jamba Juice stands giving free smoothies, manicure stations, makeup giveaways, fitness evaluations, and more. All this contributed to the overflow Union Square faces on weekends but since I was partaking it was pretty fun.

Saturday night we went with Matt's family and friends to North Beach for a carbo load Italian dinner - the place was packed with other runners talking about how to overcome the "wall" and mindgames one can face while running. After dinner I was off to bed early to be sure I wouldn't miss the 5:30am alarm.

When my alarm rang I wasn't sure I wanted to do the race anymore - bed was so comfortable. But I got up and did the runner morning ritual - shave, brush, clothes, power bar, coffee, nerves, and Matt drove me over to Union Square. It was an incredible site with over 20,000 runners lining up. I made it up fo the 6:30-8:59 group and started stretching and getting more nervous. Before the race there were a few speakers - a SF politician, an amputee (who was amazing - she just did the Kona Iron Man), and a Leukemia survivor. The seas of purple around me cheered for all the speakers but the loudest roar was for the survivor - many of the purple clad were running for family or friends and it was truly heartwarming.

The course was amazing - down to Fisherman's Warf, over to Chriss Field, up to Presidio and around, down to the park, end at the breakers in front of Beach Challet. At the finish line firefighters in tux's handed out Tiffany's necklaces and there was more schwag to be had.

All in all, an awesome race! I hope to get in again next year.

Potty mouth

2008-10-15T21:38:00.000-07:00

I love blogging - sometimes it motivates me to try new things for the mere reason of writing (weird, I know), others it's a forum to vent and/or celebrate.

Recently I've been hooked on checking the stats to see what is pointing to my blog and what terms people are searching on to get here.

The top two?

"Crazy dumper" which apparently points to an entry about SF's beautiful, and dirty, streets.
"Peanuts make you fart" which refers to an entry about my flight home from Orlando (a search testament around the campaigns and upcoming election? Ala, I'm getting sick of the hot air flying everywhere, can't wait to vote, hope my side wins, but all this politics stinks?)

Fun Run #1

2008-10-15T10:18:00.000-07:00

Monday was our first "Fun run" with Lululemon and it was SO fun. I showed up at 6:15 and the rest of the runners showed around 6:30. Most of them were co-workers and friends I recruited (thanks Rye, Vanessa, Veronica, Natalie) but there were a few locals who showed up to run with the group. We wound up doing a few shorter courses because there were quite a few new runners - the courses were:

From Lululemon to mid-Chrissy Field (~3miles)
From Lululemon to the Sports Basement and back (~3.5miles)
From Lululemon to climbing gym (~4.5miles)

We want to do longer runs next time - the darkness may effect this, though.

If you're reading - you should come on the 27th!
http://www.lululemon.com/sanfrancisco/cowhollow/events/8655

Come run with me!

2008-10-10T16:16:00.000-07:00

Monday I'm leading my first "Fun Run" with Lululemon on Union Street. We're starting the run at 6:30pm in front of the store. When everyone meets up, I'm going to ask people to decide how far/fast they want to go - then we'll break off in groups. I've made a few maps for folks to use (and more are on their way).

A little plug for the store that inspired me to start this:
Breathe. Laugh. Stretch. Run.
Why run with the group on Mondays?

Meet new people
Get motivated to go that extra mile
Run with volunteers from Girls on the Run (myself included!)

And a plug for the cause that keeps me motivated:
Girls on the Run provides after school running programs for girls aged 8-13, and teaches them core life skills and values such as teamwork and fitness. At the end of the program, the girls complete either a 1M or 5K race.

You can learn more online: www.gotrbayarea.org. OR, come run Monday and I'll tell you more.

Have I convinced you to run yet?

3+miles:
Up to Broadway > up a BIG hill and into the Presidio > down to Palace of Fine Arts > back up to Union

6+ miles:
Start at Union > down to Marina Green > along Chrissy Field and the water > turn at warming hut > back up along the water > up to Palace of Fine Arts > up to Broadway > over to Fillmore > down to Union (pretty flat)

The great orchestrator

2008-10-07T21:32:00.000-07:00

A symphony has a conductor (so does a train ... so does a semiconductor - well, kinda - it has the conductor plus an insulator. Semantics). A play, a director. A country a President (no comment), a company, a CEO (no comment again ... well, in light of our state today ... spa or massage anyone?).

What I'm getting at is any organization has a leader, either outright or not. Races have leaders - coordinators/organizers/directors/champions who blaze great trails for us to run and enjoy and provide water and snacks along the way. In the Bay Area there are countless races and almost as many ways to find them. When I first started getting back into running I remember going store to store trying to find postcards and ads for races. Then I went to Google. Then word of mouth.

Here are some of my favorite places to find races as well as a few famous races thrown in:

Active.com: great online website for finding all kinds of events

Dolphin South End Running Group: also a running group as you can guess from the name. Coordinate races nearly every week often as fundraisers. I'm always in awe when I see these runners around the city and the hills of Marin - a handful are in their 80s and would leave me at the starting line in most races.

Envirosports: awesome trail races around the year. The races are rather informal and the prize is a rubber chicken. At the start of each race the director gathers all runners to sing America the Beautiful. Prices vary but come in around $30 - less if you don't get a shirt.

PCTR: some of my favorite trail races. Courses are typically well marked, well stocked with water, and well cheered. The coordinators are ultra-marathon runners so, needless to say, the crowd that shows up are on the intense side.

The Schedule: similar to Active.com but a little easier to navigate.

Races of note:

Bay to Breakers: I realize this isn't a race organization, but this is an event to look forward to year after year. It's a 12k through the city - some people run it, some drink it, some wear costumes, some wear ... none, everyone has fun.

Dipsea: hands down one of my favorite races in the Bay Area. Also one of the harder ones to get in to. You need to apply the day this race opens and practically drive the application and check to the house of the race organizer - first come, first serve. Then, a lotto to get in.

Healdsburg Half: this is the first year of the race (and it's on my birthday), so I can't give a race update or overview. Should be a gorgeous run - how can it not with the setting?

Napa to Sonoma Half: a great mid-summer race that occurs in July. Also, a great excuse to wine taste after running. Beautiful race through vineyards, a great (huge) metal at the finish, and typically good weather.

Turkey Trot: similar to Bay to Breakers - aka, not an organization, but a race. A great fun race. A short race (only 5k). This was the run that inspired me to start running again.

The great debate

2008-10-07T18:42:00.000-07:00

So I hate to turn this blog post into a twitter-esque rant, and I'll try to refrain myself ... watching the debate I'm torn - watch, or run? I have to be honest, it's frustrating hearing some of the arguments - some just don't make sense. Some are pure politics. Frankly, I want to hear the truth and the forward thinking plans. Not the he said she said. Politics is my football - I get so worked up I stand up, sit down, talk to the TV, and hope for the best.

I'm getting so worked up watching I need to run. (Don't worry, I'm taping this, too). Off I go to think on medicare, nuclear power, the economy, health care, education, and politics.

p.s. recommended listening from my mom: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LkMS3Oz1xkc

Running its course

2008-10-06T20:31:00.001-07:00

With the stock market crashing and my brain constantly wandering to my diminishing retirement fund, I'm forcing my feet to wander more to the street (heh) - mostly a push to keep myself from calling Fidelity and selling all my stocks.

The good news is San Francisco offers a handful of great running groups to help keep motivation up.

Dolphin South End Runners - the oldest running club in the citySaturdays at 8:15am at Kennedy Dr. in Golden Gate parkWednesdays at 7:15pm in WoodsideRaces nearly every weekend (including the famed Double Dipsea)

Excelsior Run Club (New Balance) - offers training and race infoTuesdays at 6pm at KezarSaturdays and Sundays long runs in various locations

Fleet Feet Sports - offers training programs and fun runsTuesdays at 6pm at the store on Chestnut

Golden Gate Running Club (GGRC) - the group I run with and adore
Sundays at the warming hut at Chriss Field at 10am for long runs
Wednesdays at Kezar Stadium at 7pm for track workouts

K-Stars - from what I hear, a more intense group - great runners
Saturdays at 9am in Golden Gate Park
Thursdays at 6:30pm at Kezar Stadium

Marathon Matt - a genius in marketing himself, offers training programsCurrently doing training programs for YMCA's Run for Kids - soon to come, Girls on the Run!

Nike Running club - great running club when it's NOT Nike Marathon training (the marathon training is too overwhelming the first few weeks)Saturdays at 8am at Little Marina GreenWednesdays at 6:30pm at Niketown

Pac West - offers great training programs and bootcamps

Pamakid Runners - a spinoff of Dolphon Running Club. I'll be honest on this one, I found them on Google (never heard of them).GREAT running tools available on their siteThursdays at 6:30pm at Kezar Stadium

Presidio RX - a casual run club
Mondays at 6:30pm at the Palace of Fine Arts (always a 5mile loop)
Wednesdays at 6:30pm at Presidio Gate (4-6miles)

San Francisco Road Runner's Club - great for training for specific races
Training is broken down by race runners are targeting

See Jane Run - training programs for running and tris
Next training program for running starts in February 2009

Soon to come (drumroll please ...) Lululemon Monday night running group!

I'm sure there are many more out there and many more to come. It's one running city - yet another reason to love the good old SF of BA.

The comeback

2008-09-28T11:41:00.001-07:00

Yesterday I completed my first tri. It was a sprint so I don't know if it counts as a "real tri" but nonetheless, it was exhausting, anxiety ridden, hard, and so much fun! The See Jane Tri is a 400 yard swim, 11 mile bike, and 3 mile run. I finished at 1:06:37.

We rose at the obscene time of 5am and got ready in a flurry. Then Matt drove to Pleasanton while I freaked out in the passenger seat. The entire ride Matt made me verbally practice my transition and I found myself chanting "out of the water, quick dry, pants over suit, tank, socks, shoes, helmet, go!"

Upon arriving at the park I was blown away at how many women were there. I've gotten used to trail races where there are a couple hundred people maybe. There were nearly 1,000 women setting up bikes, painting numbers on, stretching, and meeting with their training groups.

About an hour later and more anxiety, we made our way to the start line - the waters edge. I didn't have a wetsuit and wasn't quite sure what to expect in the lake so I was prepared for a shocking chill. To the contrary - walking in the water felt pretty warm. It was nasty swampy, but warm. The countdown, and the start ...

The swim: I haven't practiced swimming much. I've never been a swimmer in fact and, to be honest, am a bit scared of murky waters. I started out near the front of the pack doing the freestyle - after a minute or so I was feeling pretty battered getting kicked left and right and I was nervous to kick anyone so I switched to breaststroke. I finished the swim almost last - 111 our of 135. The funny thing is I wasn't tired, I just didn't (still don't) know how to go any faster.

The bike: After a smooth transition (thanks Matt for making me practice) I hopped on my bike and made it to the road. The bike leg was beautiful - through vineyards and around the lake. I made up a lot of time on the bike.

The run: By far the leg I was most looking forward to. Getting back into the transition area I dropped my bike and started running - it's a weird feeling running after biking - a bit like moving through jello. The run was only 3 miles and there were hardly any hills so I felt like the run portion finished just as I was warming up.

I wound up coming in 21 (out of 135 (only 134 finished)) and 61 overall (out of roughly 800). I guess what they say about the tortoise is true - steady work will get you through.

Now I'm hooked and looking for my next tri ...

'Tis the season to...

2008-09-26T20:57:00.000-07:00

'Tis the season for races and weddings. Last weekend I ran my first relay race with GGRC in Marin. We met up at Stinson Beach and I ran the first leg - it was a brutal 4 miles (short!) up a 2,000 foot climb (painful). There were 4 sets of stairs that I counted, a ladder, and countless hills to scale.

After the race Matt and I prettied up and raced (two in one day) to Sausalito where we enjoyed another fantastic wedding - Rob and Emily got married at the Women's Club and it was beautiful. Rob teared up and Emily, being the good bride, was prepared with a handkerchief. Beautiful.

Now I'm prepping and freaking out for tomorrow's tri ... here's hoping I make it to the finish.

Oh Boston

2008-09-19T08:45:00.000-07:00

It's been a busy week and I loved every minute of it! Last week Matt and I flew to Boston for Lily and Greg's wedding (which, by the way, was my 2nd favorite wedding ever (second to mine :) ).

The week went something like this:

Thursday - Bart (yes Bart!) to Oakland to fly to Boston > change in Boston airport > train (yes train!) to downtown to Lily's bachelorette at Cuchi Cuchi (fun place, funny name); Matt met up with Scott and the boys for the bachelor party and stayed at a hotel
Friday - mani/pedi with the ladies > walk around Boston > rehearsal dinner > whiskey bar
Saturday - walk the Freedom Trai l > fall even harder in love with Boston > visit the cemetary at Copp's Hill > lunch at Feneuil Hall > wedding!
Sunday - meet Emily and Roy for brunch > lost in the rain > get ripped off renting a car > drive to Cape Cod > B&B luxury
Monday - drive to P-Town (Cape Cod is actually quite huge and it was a long and beautiful drive) > decide it's high time I get rich and famous so I can buy a beach home there
Tuesday - drive to Boston and fly home

I need a vacation.

Tonight is Rob and Emily's rehearsal dinner which we're thrilled about and tomorrow we're off to their wedding (after I get in a morning race, of course).

What a week, a wonderful week.

My slanted haircut, horn rimmed weekend

2008-08-31T16:22:00.000-07:00

Last night, after a busy day of kayaking and exploring Potrero Hill with Rob and Emily, we made our way to Scissors for Lefty at the Rickshaw. The band, all in pencil boy pants with tight shirts and spikey hair, was awesome and the audience left me feeling quite old - this time old but thankfully so.

The audience was made up of sets of characters:

The E kids - two (if not more) kids were very obviously enjoying an adventure in E land. The girl had a huge fro, zebra pants, and a pink t-shirt. The boy a mousy face, lopsided haircut, green t, and pencil jeans. Throughout the night they flailed and shook and when the base and light show sped up I thought they just might spin out - instead, the boy wound up finding a mousy girl who looked as if she weren't quite sure of herself or her surroundings and sucking face. Literally, sucking - I don't think any kissing was involved - it was like watching a child with his first gobstopper.
The "Xs" - everyone over 18 but under 21 who were bopping about in love with the boyband (made of men) on stage. The group of Xs had a handful of boys and girls with terrible posture (a mixture of low self esteem and cockiness - funny spectrum, I know), arm distance dancing (must've learned this at school dances), and then the grinders - the boys who kept walking up to girls, thrusting their hips, and then waiting for a reaction. The grinders were my favorite because it was like watching animal channel with kids instead of animals doing their primal dances.
The PL (pursed lips) - I'm not sure how she did it, but this woman (a 30+ year old in an 18-year old's uniform) spent the entire concert on her phone texting with pursed lips. It looked a bit painful, actually - I think only fish should hold that face for extended periods of time.
Rainbow Bright - towards the end of the show another 30+ year old woman with her bald boyfriend made their way towards the stage. The woman was dressed, no joke, like Rainbow Bright with bows in her hair and rainbow socks and arm bands. I couldn't figure out the story with this odd couple, and I'm not sure I want to know.

I'm glad I'm not a teen or early 20 something anymore. I don't want to deal with trying to hold a funny fish face or trying to read the weird dance moves of "the wild."

Now I'm off to dawn my black pencil jeans, tank, and red sneeks to go bop to Beck.

Hidden trails

2008-08-31T16:15:00.000-07:00

Today was a perfect running day in San Francisco. At 10am it was just about 70 degrees with not a cloud in the sky. I met up with GGRC at the usual spot (Warming Hut at Crissy Field) and there was a surprisingly big group today (surprisingly because of the 3-day weekend). We broke off and I wound up again with the "speed boys" (my unspoken name for them anyhow) with a planned 9mi run. We wound up doing 10.4 but it was beautiful and worth every step. Here's the course:
From the Warming Hut to the bridge
Under and around the bridge over to the path over Baker Beach
Down the stairs to the beach and up the other side
Up to Legion of Honor
Over on the Sutro(sp?) bath trail to Lion's Gate (BEAUTIFUL!!!)
Back through the park to the planks
Around the old hospital over the planks and up through the campground
Through the graveyard to Sports Basement
Along the water to the Warming Hut

If I were ever asked to lead that run again I'd get miserably lost. It's amazing how many hidden and unknown trails there are in the city.

Trails aside, throughout the run we all kept noting our surprise and awe at this great city - where else can you run along the beach, up flights of stairs, through trees with no buildings in site, through richie rich houses, and down through city streets.

Now, ice on my knee and hip propped I'm paying for the run ... paying for it and looking forward to the next.

Walk this way!

2008-08-20T20:41:00.001-07:00

In San Francisco (every city, I'm sure, really) there are certain walks. These walks express mood, person, and situation (obvious descriptors, I know). I'm not talking about walking with a limp or hunch back. Nor am I talking about walking in stilettos (I love stilettos) or Crocs. I'm talking about type of walk - there are a handful I love:

The bus walk/run (a term coined by Matt - credit where credit is due): the walk/run people do when a bus is coming or just about to leave and they haven't made it to the telling white rectangle. They speed up a little, then swing their arms really fast to elude to running for the bus but really just expelling more energy than needed while making everyone on the bus wait.
The oblivious (often confused with rude): the walk people do when they forget there are other people in San Francisco. This is the type that walks 4-in-a-row on the Golden Gate Bridge (grrr) or walks, then stops really fast right in front of you.
The tourist: this is not so much a walk as a stance. The tourist follows the oblivious path, but then stops, strikes a tripod pose, and takes a picture (often an awful one) of some building or some other tourist making a goofy pose. I've done this one on trips before, I admit.
The agro: the walk (that carries into the car) people do when they think the world is against them and they deserve to get in your way. Quite annoying, but whatever - glad I don't feel that way.

There are hundreds more (it's like a list of Thailand's smile) - many are similar but mean very different things.