Tony Is A Runner!

Normal Eater?

2010-02-04T21:16:00.003-06:00

I think I've become a "normal eater" - if there is such a thing. I have noticed that my portions have dropped drastically over the past year. Sure, there are those things I have to force myself to stop eating (pizza!); but, it's not too often.

When I do "over eat", I've noticed that it's still less than what USED TO BE my normal portions.

What does this mean for me?!?! It means, that I can eat normally, still fuel my runs/exercise, and not be on the verge of starving all day. Oh, I get hungry ... a LOT ... but, it's much more controllable these days.

This is a good thing :)

2010-01-26T20:50:00.001-06:00

I'm still around. I'm keeping track of running in too many places. Lol. I'll get back over here soon.

Perception is Everything

2010-01-17T09:15:00.002-06:00

Whether you are optimistic or pessimistic. Whether you see the glass as half full or half empty. It's all perception that shapes how you are seeing your world.

My view of the world is quite different than most people's. What changes our views? Having a heart attack will certainly change your world. If you don't believe me, travel over to Heartsick and Headstrong and you will see what I mean by that. Have some procedure because of the heart attack, and the view changes once again. Go through CPR and defibrillator procedures, and it changes yet again. Go through all three, and welcome to my world.

What do I notice as different these days? Too many things to list here - but, certainly, I find that I'm much better now at seeing another's point of view. I'm also much more aware if another's point of view is open/closed/somewhere in between.

The recent catastrophe in Haiti has brought this to light for me, as well. Pat Robertson with his "pact with the devil" statement, and Rush Limbaugh with his lambasting of our President sending aid to the victims in Haiti have displayed an extremely closed mindset. They can both be stupid all they want; but, their points of view have impacts beyond their simple minds.

There are people in this world who believe that people such as Mr. Robertson and Mr. Limbaugh are just short of having the ability to walk on water. What isn't expressed often is the opposing points of view - this is due to the lambasting that those of us with differing points of view take from the likes of these two.

Now, to be fair, there are people like this from other walks of life - and, opposite points of view - that make the problem widespread. Nancy Pelosi with her vitriol and hatred toward conservatives (you know, because we're stupid) is an extreme example of these views.

All of the above just to ask ... "Is the glass half empty? Or, half full?" ... Your perceptions will determine how you answer the question. And, the way I see it, there are three possible answers

Answer #1

The glass is half empty. This is the "I need more" philosophy of life. This is not necessarily "all about me", but it is certainly a point of view that displays, to me, a mind which is not viewing the world and surrounding holistically.

Answer #2

The glass if half full. This, in my opinion, is the "I have some stuff, but I'm not happy with what I have" philosophy of life. Those people that I know that have this point of view do care about more than themselves, but from what I've seen, their points of view rarely would have a positive effect on those outside their immediate circles.

Answer #3

The glass is twice as big as it needs to be. This answer follows Occam's Razor when it comes to solving problems. In simplest terms - the simplest of more than one solution to any problem should be the solution that is employed. This view is a lot more holistic, and it's reach is one in which people are challenged to find the simplest solution to effect the most.

And - once again :) - all of the above to say:

Since my heart attack, since having to require CPR and fibrillation, since being "there and back", I'm quite aware of where people would fall in the above three scenarios. And, I get INCREDIBLY annoyed by the pessimists in my world. I want to help others. I want all of "this" to be about impacting the world. And, I want people to be the same way. And, that's the annoying part ... LOL

Marathon Training - 1/16/2010

2010-01-16T20:11:00.007-06:00

Apparently completely unaware of my aversion to mornings, the marathon training group met at 5:30AM this morning for a 7 mile run. Now, it's not that I don't wake up that early, it's that I don't LIKE waking up that early.

Alarm goes off at 4AM - snooze button! Alarm goes off at 4:09AM - SNOOZE DANG IT! Alarm goes off again at 4:18AM - okay, okay ... I'll get up.

And, up I got :) ... put on my shorts, short sleeve shirt, long sleeve shirt, socks, shoes, Garmin, and hat. I grabbed my keys and wallet, and headed out the door to Valero to get a coffee - no way am I up this early without coffee! It's a bit mind boggling when you walk into a convenience store at 4:45AM on a Saturday and aren't the only one there. No, there were five other saps who got roped into something this early on a Saturday. Got my coffee and headed off to the running store to meet the group I'm with.

At roughly 5:15AM, the store opens to allow us in - thank heavens, because it was a tad cold. And, once inside, we get to know which group we're part of, who the coach is, and they try handing us paperwork. Seriously? First off, I'm going to be sweating here shortly, so the paper will not be legible. And, secondly, I'm not about to carry cargo while I'm running.

And, at around 6:15AM, we get to finally start running!

Now, my group is supposed to run 12:00/mile. Okay, I'm trying it - it's a tad slower than I like, but I'm not the professional coach.

Splits:

Mile 1 - 11:43 pace ... a tad faster than we should be going, but it's cool, and we're fresh.

Mile 2 - 12:06 pace ... much better - though kind of easy

Mile 3 - 12:00 pace ... I'm more impressed that we were able to hit it!

Mile 4 - 11:54 pace ... hey, not bad ... this "pacing" thing

Mile 5 - 11:46 pace ... we started heading downhill a little

Mile 6 - 11:42 pace ... still headed downhill

Mile 7 - 11:37 pace ... we just wanted to be done.

Total: 7 miles @ 11:50 pace

Hmph, I can live with that!

The group itself:

Coach: Jerry ... quiet guy, but funny. I had fun running a little with him in the fall.

Runners: Me :)

S - swears she has done a marathon before, but you can't really tell. Her form sucks.

M - great pacer. She's done a half a few times, and will be doing a marathon "at some point"

Small group, and S complains about hills and humidity - so, I'll be ignoring her quite a bit, I'm sure. M barely makes a sound unless you're talking to her. Me? I talk my butt off the whole freakin' way. Otherwise, I'll get bored. Why run with somebody if you don't get to know each other beyond your first impressions?

Food, started out decent (Breakfast Jack & Coffee), and went downhill from there :( ... I have to get a handle on this part ... LOL

Tomorrow - if the temp is not approaching 40F and it's not raining - will be a bike ride I lead from the running store.

Marathon Training 1/14/2010

2010-01-14T22:09:00.002-06:00

Whew ... finally, I get a rest day tomorrow.

I went out and ran an even slower 4.11 miles this evening. Nice and slow, and a route I haven't ran in forever. Nice. What I didn't take into consideration was the uphill 75% of the way. Bleh. That's okay, hills are good for you :)

Did very well on food today: Egg McMuffin (~300 calories, decent fat count, and great protein count), lunch = Turkey/Ham Samich from Subway, and dinner = Shredded Wheat ...

No running tomorrow - but group long run on Saturday morning (7 miles, I believe - no biggie yet).

Oh, and keep my new "friend" Gillian in your thoughts. She was in CardioRehab and got booted out and is now in the hospital for tests - OH MY!

Marathon Training - 1/13/2010

2010-01-13T22:08:00.002-06:00

This evening: 4.75 miles

I was only supposed to run 4 (with 5 on "Friday" - which would have been tomorrow due to me running in the evening). The way I figure, it's more important to get the weekly mileage in than the non-long run daily mileage. Tomorrow, I get to run 4.25 to ensure my weekly mileage is correct :)

I went a little "easy" - 11:40-ish per mile. It felt good! The running - the pace was a tad slow.

Oh! And, I got to wear SHORTS today to run in! YES! I really really really like the tights - but, SHORTS!!!!

I ate fairly well today, as well. I did eat an Egg McMuffin and coffee for breakfast --- I need SOME protein! --- and a turky/ham sandwich for lunch, and a bowl of oatmeal w/ raisins for dinner. Plus, two snacks - 1 banana and 1 apple.

Nice day all around.

For Fun ... My Apparel

2010-01-12T21:19:00.010-06:00

Just to be fair and show you how ridiculous I looked this evening on my run, I present to you - my wardrobe piece by piece.

Let's start at the top:

Very sexy headlamp

My beanie

Shirt similar to the one I was wearing

Arm sleeves to keep a little warm :) --- and, looking corny with the shirt!

My BAD A** GLOVES!

Tights - though, not necessarily these particular tights --- mine are different brand.

AND THE PIMPIN' WHITE NEWTONS!

And, my wife wonders why women want me endlessly ...

Marathon Training - 1/12/2010 - Part B

2010-01-12T19:45:00.002-06:00

Sorry for two posts, but sitting here waiting, so why not discuss my run this evening.

Here's the Reader's Digest Version:

It was exactly the same as yesterday - only a tad warmer.

Then End :)

I'm going to end up running 4 days in a row (if I run the whole program) due to the inability to run on Fridays. You see, I run in the evenings --- the marathon training group runs on Saturday mornings. Once the mileage picks up, I won't be able to run on Friday night and then again on Saturday morning (especially once that Saturday mileage reaches greater than 12 miles).

Marathon Training - 1/12/2010

2010-01-12T07:56:00.002-06:00

Yes! I finally got to run and it wasn't a billion degrees below zero!

Last night, I ticked off 4 miles (as per the training plan) in ~45 minutes. Mile 2 was up tempo-ish (about 30 seconds faster pace than what mile 1 was). It felt good to get out. I realize that rest days are a necessity, but I hate just "sitting there" - not running. But, Sunday is a rest day, so I only did my cross training.

Tonight, which is normally a "cross training" day, I'll be off and running another 4 miles. This one is labeled as "easy" (whatever that means, lol). So, I figure I'll take it slow, and it'll take what seems like forever.

I can't wait for spring to come back around. This running in the dark thing gets kind of old. The only good thing I can say about it is that you don't really know it's a hill you're running up until after you're tired - all-of-a-sudden.

Marathon Training - 1/10/2010

2010-01-10T09:15:00.002-06:00

Yesterday's run wasn't bad. From my magic mile, my pace "should have been" 12:30/mile. I tried. I really did. Off I go, and Mile 1 clicked off at 12:15. Two things - first, it's REALLY slow and second, it's REALLY hard to time breathing at that pace.

So, I sped up a tad and did the rest of the run at 12:00/mile.

Total Distance: 6.22 miles @ 12:00/mile

I at least got to breathe.

Marathon Training - 1/8/2010

2010-01-08T13:31:00.003-06:00

Bleh ... I totally slacked yesterday - or, chickened out, depending on your point of view I guess.

I was suppose to run 5 miles, "relaxed and easy" ... it was -1B degrees, plus windchill ... no way. Of course, I could have gone to the gym, but I'm lazy once the regime is screwed up. No problem, though, as I will be running 6 miles tomorrow morning with the group. It'll be like 12 degrees. But, I did find a neck gaiter!!! ROCK ON!

So, let's see how that goes tomorrow :)

Marathon Training - 1/6/2010

2010-01-06T19:30:00.003-06:00

So, I ran 4 miles on Monday and 4 miles on Tuesday. I still have to run 5 miles before Saturday. If I were smart, I'd run this evening, but I don't like running three days in a row. Of course, tomorrow is going to be in the 20F range - colder when I can actually get on the street. The low tomorrow night is going to be in the teens. Yuck - Like I had said, if I were smart.

And, then on Saturday morning (when it's around 15 degrees), I have to get out and run another 6 miles - but, at least that one is with a group.

Sent messages back and forth with my favorite little running coach about some trail running. She's all over trail running, so she'll know of places. And, to top it off, we BOTH want to run an ultra-marathon this fall. So, after OKC, we'll be starting some ultra-marathon training :)

Marathon Training - 1/4/2010

2010-01-03T12:40:00.002-06:00

Yesterday morning, I drug myself out of bed to hit the track with the marathon training group. We did our "Magic Mile". What that is is a mile - timed - which you then use to determine your proper training pace for a marathon.

Previous to this run, I'd never done a Magic Mile. No, I just ran at a pace which was comfortable. For a Half Marathon, this works well (at least for me); however, for a distance of 26 miles 385 yards (a marathon), or greater, it won't work as well.

The first problem with the way I trained for the Half Marathon is that for running longer, I'll start tapering off each of the additional 13.1 miles. And, end up finishing WAY slower than I started. The idea is to run the same times mile-after-mile.

The second problem with the old training method is that it's boring. I go out and run mile-after-mile all by myself (most cases). Sometimes, I'd join up with a group. I notice that when I run with a group, I perform MUCH better at the longer distances.

So, with that said - I joined the marathon group at CK Sports (the running store I shamelessly promote). And, with that group comes the Magic Mile.

Prior to running this Magic Mile, my swiftest mile time was right around 10 minutes. For a mile. Most likely, a mile very early in a run on a cool day with no sun.

This mile was different ... I ran a mile to warm up the legs (hey, I'm 43 years old - it takes more than a step out of the bathroom to get things moving). Then, we lined up and off we went. Four laps around the track. One mile. A "comfortably swift pace" which turned out to be 9 minutes and 3 seconds. Where'd THAT come from?

And, it told me what I already knew --- I should train at 11:30/mile to 12:00/mile on my long runs every week. But, at least now, it's official.

Marathon Training - 12/28/2009

2009-12-28T23:21:00.002-06:00

Goal Marathon: Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon

Date: April 25, 2010

Started making my diet adjustments today. Not a lot of fat, lots of veggies and fruits, and increasing my water intake.

Did an 8 mile run this afternoon - sloooowwww. The slow was on purpose as I wanted to "ease" back into the running - but, the 8 miles took the "ease" out of it. So, I compromised.

Felt fairly good afterward - knee was a little tight from the colder weather, but it didn't hurt.

Excited about the marathon - not looking forward to the training ... :)

Marathon Training Begins

2009-12-28T09:39:00.003-06:00

Goal Marathon: Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon

Date: April 25, 2010

Step 1 - Get diet in order

I view food as fuel. It fuels my body to make it through the runs, and through the days in general. Once I started doing this, I was MUCH more picky when it came to selecting what went into my body. I did notice that it made a difference throughout the day as I ate in relation to my activity plans.

For instance, if I'm running this evening, I'm eating larger amounts of carbs during the day.

If I'm not running, I eat a lot more protein.

Protein is used as a recovery food - it helps the muscles rebuild themselves after the exertion.

Step 2 - Decide on cross-training exercise

I must work on my core more. If I don't work on my core, I won't be able to ENJOY the 26.2 miles of the marathon. And, I want so much to enjoy it.

Step 3 - Get training plan in order

To run the mileage, you have to run the mileage :)

Running Goals Checklist

2009-12-20T09:25:00.002-06:00

Okay. So, a few months ago, I came up with some "running goals" I want to meet. The list has only changed once (I added an item) - and there are some things which were moved to the "accomplished" list.

1) Run a Triathlon --- Of course, it can't interfere with my training for #1

2) Run a "Race" w/ Somebody Related To Me --- if she commits to it, I'll run whatever with her (she knows who she is) :)

3) Run a Marathon in 2010 --- I'M LOOKING INTO OKLAHOMA CITY ON APRIL 25TH

4) NEW - Run an Ultra-Marathon in 2010 --- at least I have a resource who will know the "right one"

GOALS ALREADY ACCOMPLISHED

A) Run a 5K Race --- CHECK ... twice :)

B) Run a "Longer" Race --- in this case, "Too Hot To Handle 15K" ... CHECK!

C) Make It A Habit That Must Be Met --- CHECK ... I can't STAND not running

D) White Rock Half Marathon --- Official Time: 2:22:01

Not too shabby, huh?

I added #4 and moved #D. Next on my schedule is to begin training for the marathon. I'll most likely be running in the Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon on April 25th. It all depends on my training. I actually look forward to going away for one. Yes, many people want marathons like NYC or Chicago. I'll take one a bit more low key :)

Final Running Goal of 2009 - CHECK

2009-12-14T08:49:00.003-06:00

I completed the White Rock Half Marathon.

13.1 Miles

2 hours, 22 minutes, and 1 second (official time)

My goal was 2 hours and 45 minutes. Yes, I started out too fast, and then just stayed that fast.

It was a WHOLE LOT OF FUN!

Me and 20,000 runners pounding the pavement in downtown Dallas, Texas ...

8,500 runners doing the half marathon ... I came in at around person 5,000 to cross the finish line. I'm very happy with that!

Alas, I Haven't Forgotten This Place

2009-12-09T19:01:00.002-06:00

I just don't post here much :)

A) I'm already keeping my running stats in two places ... a third seems re-redundant (word? - is now)

B) So, here's an update:

+ White Rock Half Marathon is THIS Sunday --- YIPPEE!! Yes, I'm ready. I've been ready for a month or more.

+ 1/2/10 - DRC Frigid 10K ... for the record, that's 6.2 miles

+ 1/7/10 - Begin marathon training

+ 4/24/10 ---- Quite possibly, this is when I'll run a marathon --- Oklahoma City Memorial Marathon ... 26.2 miles of extreme fun and enjoyment ...

In April, I'll run "Run for Cover" again - this was my first 5K. Other than that, I MAY run other races, but only if they don't screw with the training.

The marathon may change to one that is two weeks earlier - but, I'd LOVE to "travel to the race" ... it'd be fun!

My Running As Of Late

2009-10-04T20:55:00.004-05:00

Once again, yes - I have been running ... a lot.

Once a week, 3 out of every 4 weeks, I do a "long run". To help define "long run" in this conversation, you must know my routine.

Sunday: ~20 mile bike ride. I lead the novice bike ride from CK Sports every Sunday morning.

Monday: 4-6 Miles at an "easy pace". "Easy" in this sense is ~12:00 per mile for the distance.

Tuesday: Softball --- and, if it's a 6:30PM game, I do a short 4 mile run afterwards at a "relatively easy pace" ... ~11:45 per mile for the distance.

Wednesday: 5-8 Miles at "race pace". It's more a tempo run, but we'll call it race pace. ... ~11:00/mile for the distance

Thursday: if I run, it's short and slow to recover.

Friday: off --- no fitness activity.

Saturday: Long Run. The distance varies from 8 miles to greater than 13 miles. I normally just "show up and run" with the marathon training group at CK Sports.

And, Saturday makes the Sunday bike ride burn :) ... in a good way.

The past two Saturdays, I ran ~14 miles on each run. The bad = it starts at 5:30AM ... how do people run that stinkin' early?!?! The good = I run with a group which runs a tad faster than I normally would (thus, making me faster). More good = I run with a group which is very friendly (makes me forget I'm running!). More good = The run does not seem NEAR as long as it would if I ran alone. When you go out and run for two and a half hours, it can get tedious.

So yes, I have been running.

More good from the runs lately = I have no doubt about the half marathon in December. I just ran 14 miles up hill in/around Allen and Plano. The half-marathon course is in Dallas ... and flat as a sheet of glass. Running on Saturdays with the group, it's uphill and faster than I would have attempted on my own.

Estimated finish time as of right now for the 12/13/09 White Rock Half Marathon is less than 2 hours and 45 minutes (roughly, and 11:00 per mile pace).

I really can't wait, because THIS RACE WAS MY GOAL FOR THE YEAR FOR RUNNING. And, baring a devastating injury, I'll meet this goal with energy left.

2009-09-06T11:29:00.001-05:00

So, the running store I go to (CK Sports - http://www.cksports.com) has these weekend bike rides that take place. The problem I was having is that all the groups AVERAGE 20mph. I can't average that fast, so I asked about a novice bike ride. "We can certainly start one!" Today was the first day of that novice ride.

What I didn't know is that "we" was "Tony". I drew the short straw in leading the group. Well, when I say novice, I mean "slow". However, we did end up with at least one "novice" rider. She's never ridden for fitness, and never ridden a group (obviously). And, apparently, never thought about having a flat while on an 18.5 mile bike ride with 10 other people. No biggie, we took care of her - and, luckily, her husband was with us - so, when she had a flat at mile 11, I pumped up her tire (HA! I was prepared!), and she and her husband rode back to the store to get their truck.

That left the group at 10 people who have least ridden for fitness at some level (though, only a few of us who've ridden in a group).

All that to say, I thoroughly enjoyed riding with this group. We averaged ~13MPH --- which is a nice pace since most of us riding this wanted to do this more for the recovery from running aspect of it all.

I'm totally looking forward to next week.

Another Day of Stats :)

2009-09-05T10:13:00.001-05:00

One day, I'll remember to post this - until then, you get only yesterday's stats :)

Split	Time	Distance	Calories
1	0:11:52	1	163
2	0:11:53	1	164
3	0:11:12	1	173
4	0:11:42	1	164
5	0:12:05	1	161
6	0:11:38	0.94	141
Summary	1:10:25	5.94	966

Stupid Stress Test

2009-08-20T17:10:00.002-05:00

Went for a Nuclear Stress Test this morning. All was going well enough. They put the IV jack into my arm, gave me the first injection, and took the pictures of my heart. Then, it was off to the treadmill. It starts of painfully slow. Something around 2.5 MPH at 0% incline. It gets worse.

Thirteen minutes into this, I'm still on the treadmill. This time, however, at an 18% incline and 5 MPH ... jogging, uphill. There is no down hill ... LOL

My heart rate never got above 141. Hot cardiologist said it had to get to 151. It didn't. We all stood around staring at the 141. Not good enough. Then, they said they'd inject me with something-or-the-other to artificially raise my heart rate. Ummm ... no, thanks anyway. I don't even over-drink caffeine due to the effects on my heart rate. I don't do the "artificially elevated" heart rate thing.

So, they want me to come back and redo the test. I set the appointment, but don't know if I want to go through it again. First, I feel like crap now - and, I don't know if it's coincidental, or if it's the stuff they injected me with to start with. But, I don't know if I want to feel like this again.

Of course, it's also a good thing they couldn't get my heart rate up :)

Honest! I'm Running!

2009-08-13T21:03:00.002-05:00

Seriously. I am running. Every single day. I've ran the last 6 days - it's just been on the treadmill because it's hot, and I'm getting tired of running in the heat and/or the middle of the night. Yes, I COULD wake up early and go - but, why? LOL. It's EARLY.

Over the past week:

Run: ~30 miles
Calories Burned: 4,330

So, yes. I have been running :). And, getting rid of weight!

Overall Stats:

Weight Begin: ~260
Weight Today: 205

Waist Begin: 46
Waist Today: 36

So, yes. I have been running.

How's That Running Going?

2009-08-10T09:17:00.003-05:00

Glad you asked - not bad.

I know I've been slacking in posting the stuff here, but I swear I've been running. Last week, I accumulated 5 days of running!

Saturday, I did 4 miles in 45 minutes on the treadmill at the gym. I hate treadmill running - it's so freakin' boring. Then, on Sunday, I ran the 7 miles in the previous post. Not bad - and, it was SUPPOSED to be that slow.

On tap for this evening - 3 miles ... that's 1 mile warm up, 1 mile intervals, and 1 mile cool down. I doubt I'll go further, but I'm leaving that open just in case.

I'm down to 205, which I'm quite pleased with - but, blew it this weekend on the diet. I did not eat all that well (which is fine, because it was a baseball game and you HAVE to eat, right? Right?!?!)

So, this week has started. I intend to do better. I WILL get to 200 pounds at some point soon, then readjust that goal. I'm almost CERTAIN I can get to 190 - but, 200 is the original goal.

That's all I got for now! Happy trails!

2009-08-09T10:18:00.000-05:00

Split	Time	Distance	Calories
1	0:12:39	1	144
2	0:12:47	1	148
3	0:13:20	1	134
4	0:13:40	1	136
5	0:14:22	1	121
6	0:14:11	1	124
7	0:10:00	0.69	85
Summary	1:31:01	6.69	892

Skipped A Post - So, I'm Adding This One Late

2009-07-31T13:19:00.001-05:00

Yesterday felt goooood to get out and run! Not too warm, sunny, a slight breeze ... PERFECT!

Stats:

Split	Time	Distance
1	0:12:27	1
2	0:12:41	1
3	0:13:05	1
4	0:12:16	1
5	0:12:16	1
6	0:11:15	0.91
Summary	1:14:02	5.91

Let's Get Back Into It

2009-07-27T19:25:00.002-05:00

It's been a week since my last post here. I did do a few days worth of running last week, but nothing earth shattering - just trying to recover from the 15K.

So, first this past Sunday's Run:

Stats:

Split	Time	Distance
1	0:11:55	1
2	0:12:14	1
3	0:11:51	1
4	0:12:52	1
5	0:13:18	1
6	0:01:37	0.13
Summary	1:03:49	5.13

Not bad. Ran with Amanda and her beginner's class. It was a bit slow - even for me. The course was rather flat, so it should have been a tad faster.

Monday's Stats:

Split	Time	Distance
1	0:11:06	1
2	0:10:22	1
3	0:10:31	1
4	0:11:23	0.98
Summary	0:43:23	3.98

MUCH better. That's around a 10:53/mile pace - a tad faster than I wanted to go. I'll live with it, though. It was raining, but it felt great to get out.

Too Hot To Handle 15K

2009-07-18T11:40:00.002-05:00

Ran my first 15K race this morning. LOVE IT! WAAAAY better than the 5K races I've been running.

My goal was to break 2 hours. I did that. I ran the 15K in 01:57:35 ...

Stats:

Split	Time	Distance
1	0:12:11	1
2	0:12:36	1
3	0:12:29	1
4	0:12:08	1
5	0:12:33	1
6	0:12:08	1
7	0:12:42	1
8	0:12:58	1
9	0:13:01	1
10	0:04:45	0.39
Summary	1:57:34	9.39

LOVED IT!

Forgot to Post It!!!

2009-07-16T09:19:00.003-05:00

Hard to remember to post my runs when I don't use my Garmin :)

It was hot when I wanted to run last night ... okay, it was HOT when I wanted to run last night, so I went to the gym and hit the treadmill.

Stats:

3 Miles @ 00:38:21.0

Slow, but steady. The treadmill counts things I don't normally count in mileage (i.e., the two minutes of cool down time at 2 MPH). Ran the 3rd mile @ a pace of around 11 minutes (~5.4 MPH). Going to be using the treadmill more after my race this Saturday for some speed work. The treadmill doesn't know when I'm tired, so it holds my pace steady. I'm thinking that this may be decent training for holding pace over time.

Monday Night's Run!

2009-07-14T10:21:00.004-05:00

Finally! I finally got to run again after getting rid of whatever that was I had. Still wasn't 100%, but was definitely better (around 90%), and REALLY feeling like running.

Without further ado - the Stats:

Split	Time	Distance
1	0:11:11	1
2	0:11:59	1
3	0:13:16	1
4	0:14:39	1
5	0:05:42	0.43
Summary	0:56:49	4.43

Yes, miles 3 and 4 were slow - maybe you missed the part about being sick for the four previous days :) ... or, maybe I didn't say it was 4 days :) ...

Felt good to get out, and the 00:11:11 time was definitely too fast for the first mile.

Softball tonight, so no running - at least not this week, the game is too late (9:30pm).

Waiting for Wednesday's 5 miles!

Arghhh

2009-07-13T08:39:00.001-05:00

I haven't been able to run for a few days. I've had, shall we say, "stomach issues" which came to a horrible end on Saturday night :) ... I feel TONS better now - and, will be running some this evening. I have to get back into it so Saturday morning doesn't kill me.

Look for my stats tonight! (Or, in the morning, depending on what time I run :) ). On tap - 3 miles.

15K Race Next Weekend

2009-07-10T23:30:00.002-05:00

So, The Plan for this week is simple ... go slow, go short, and don't get injured.

I'll run Saturday night, Sunday night, maybe Monday, definitely Tuesday night and Wednesday night. I'll not be running on Thursday OR Friday due to resting the legs and letting the body recover prior to the 15K at White Rock Lake.

The name of the race is Too Hot To Handle 15K ... it'll be the middle of July (hence, the name). For those who didn't pay attention in math class, 15K is equal to 9.3 miles. The course is around White Rock Lake, Dallas, Texas. Map of Course.

Should be fun and challenging. It'll definitely be the largest I've ran.

Oh, and for training this week, nothing greater than 4 miles.

2009-07-10T00:29:00.001-05:00

It felt good to get out and RUN!

I utilized a "run 5 minutes - walk 1 minute" routine. Two fold purpose: 1) it's freakin' HOT, and 2) running a race day strategy. I have my 15K coming up in a week, and I wanted to see what the 5/1 did to my time. I was actually FASTER than the last time I ran this 7 miles ... by 5 minutes!

Split	Time	Distance
1	0:13:06	1
2	0:12:41	1
3	0:12:31	1
4	0:12:21	1
5	0:12:57	1
6	0:12:58	1
7	0:14:29	1
8	0:02:45	0.17
Summary	1:33:51	7.17

2009-07-07T23:31:00.001-05:00

Whew! Played softball this evening - got home - and ran 5 miles ... it's fairly warm, though not too bad - and fairly humid, though, once again, not too bad.

Stats!

Split	Time	Distance
1	0:13:01	1
2	0:13:43	1
3	0:13:59	1
4	0:13:49	1
5	0:14:04	1
6	0:04:48	0.32
Summary	1:13:26	5.32

No more (maybe) until Thursday!

Maniac Monday Run

2009-07-06T18:55:00.002-05:00

Nice day for a run!

85 Degrees = 48% Humidity .. nice, if not a tad warm.

Split	Time	Distance
1	0:11:51	1
2	0:11:47	1
3	0:12:51	1
4	0:13:17	1
5	0:14:05	1
6	0:01:38	0.17
Summary	1:05:30	5.17

A tad slower than I wanted to go, but those first two miles were a tad faster than I wanted to go.

The Sunday Run

2009-07-05T21:56:00.002-05:00

w00t! It was less than 80 degrees ... humid as heck, but cooler.

77 degrees and 93% humidity ... yick. No wonder the air was thick to breathe!

Stats:

Split	Time	Distance
1	0:11:36	1
2	0:12:12	1
3	0:11:54	1
4	0:00:24	0.02
Summary	0:36:07	3.02

Decided to run 3 miles due to nice temperature. And, and I ran ...

2009-07-05T17:17:00.002-05:00

I know, I know - I haven't updated in a week. Yes, I have ran. However, I got lazy :)

I can't even come close to remember my eating - but, the stats are easy :)

June 29th (Mile # - Time - Distance in Miles):

1	0:11:43	1
2	0:12:39	1
3	0:13:16	1
4	0:13:17	1
5	0:04:44	0.36

July 2nd:

Split	Time	Distance
1	0:13:13	1
2	0:12:21	1
3	0:13:10	1
4	0:13:56	1
5	0:14:48	1
6	0:04:39	0.34
Summary	1:12:10	5.34

July 3rd (Long Run Day!):

Split	Time	Distance
1	0:12:34	1
2	0:12:29	1
3	0:13:14	1
4	0:13:28	1
5	0:13:50	1
6	0:13:52	1
7	0:14:47	1
8	0:03:29	0.18
9	0:00:28	0.01
Summary	1:38:15	7.18

Sorry about the goofy #8 and #9 up there ... But, the Garmin was acting goofy because I kept tapping the wrong thing ... :)

2009-06-29T09:00:00.003-05:00

Stats from my new Garmin 405 ...

Split	Time	Max HR	Calories
1	0:12:21	136	153
2	0:12:43	142	147
3	0:13:03	144	146

Total Time MaxHR Calories

Summary

0:38:08

144

446

Love the Garmin!

Ate - a bunch of crap all weekend :)

Went to Waco, TX, with the family. Had fun. Did get to run both days, though. 5.81 miles on Saturday, and the above last night.

It was/is freakin' HOT.

Wonderful Wednesday!

2009-06-24T22:53:00.002-05:00

Forgot about Tuesday - but, that was Softball night :)

Wednesday - now, that was running

Breakfast:

Egg McMuffin
Coffee

Snack:

Raisins
Water

Lunch:

Grilled Chicken Sandwich
A couple of french fries
Diet Coke

Snack:

Water

Dinner:

Lean Pork Roast
Mashed Potatoes
Spinach
Water

Workout:

6 mile run
10:40 min/mile - works :)

Freakin' HOT today. "Felt Like" 98 degrees. And, I ran 6 miles. Not high on the "Hey! Tony's a smart one!" list

Ran the Bluebonnet Trail - Chisolm Trail.

Again, probably could have gone further, but didn't want to push it before Saturday morning's run!

Maniac Mondays ... Whew

2009-06-22T13:18:00.005-05:00

Got up earlier than normal for no apparent reason - but, at least I wasn't late for work ... for once :)

Breakfast (Post-Run):

Egg McMuffin
Coffee

Snack:

Raisens
Water

Lunch:

Chicken Stir Fry
Diet Coke

Snack:

Water

Dinner:

Some Chicken/Whole Grain Pasta stuff
Water

Snack:

Banana
Water

Workout:

3 mile run
9:40 min/mile - really quick for me

Felt good - not too hot

Ran the Bluebonnet Trail - the the Jack Carter Maintenance Shed and back.

Again, probably could have gone further, but didn't want to push the foot.

Super Saturdays!

2009-06-20T20:25:00.003-05:00

Got up a little earlier than normal for a Saturday to get my run in.

Breakfast (Post-Run):

2 Sausage Kolaches
2 Glazed donuts (forgot!)
Orange Juice
Coffee

Snack:

Banana
Water

Lunch:

Chips ... bad boy, I know
Diet Coke

Snack:

Grapes
Water

Dinner:

Buffalo Wings (super-bad ... I know)
Fries (a few)
Diet Coke

Snack:

Banana
Wendys Frosty :)

Workout:

4 mile run
10:49 min/mile

Felt good - not too hot (wasn't really warm at all, but it works)

Ran the Bluebonnet Trail - the the Jack Carter Maintenance Shed and back.

Again, probably could have gone further, but didn't want to push the foot.

As well, played softball for 2 hours in the middle of the day.

Throw Back Thursdays!

2009-06-19T10:23:00.004-05:00

On the road again!!!!

It's been a week and a half since the last time I ran - thanks to that damn duck.

Breakfast:

Whole Grain Bagle w/ Margerine
Orange Juice

Snack:

Raisins
Water

Lunch:

Stir Fry Chicken and Rice
Diet Coke --- mmmm, soda ... sort of

Snack:

Grapes
Water

Dinner:

Turkey Hot Dog w/ Turkey Chili
Beans
Water

Snack:

Plum
Banana
Water

Workout:

2 mile run
10:41 min/mile

Wow, it felt great to get out on the road and run again! Nothing against the bicycle, but I like the running!

Just ran around the neighborhood. I have a one mile loop that starts and ends at the house. The purpose was in case my foot started to hurt, I could stop.

I probably could have gone further, but I just want to run - and, test the foot.

Stupid duck.

Wonderful Wednesdays

2009-06-10T17:17:00.002-05:00

I hurt (see below).

I'm bruised.

I'm scraped up.

I want to run, but can't. I can't even walk ... LOL

Bicycling wrecks while on blood thinners suuuuuucccckkkkkk.

Breakfast: Egg McMuffin (1 protein)

Lunch: Samwich - Turkey (1 protein)
Banana - (1 fruit)

Dinner: Salmon (1 protein)
Baked Potatoe (we'll count it as a veggie, but it's a sucky one)

Hoping to be able to run again in about 10 days ... we'll see ... Left foot hurts, ribcage hurts.

x-Training Tuesdays

2009-06-09T20:52:00.002-05:00

Well, started out to do some cross-training on my bicycle this evening. All started out well ... and then ...

Breakfast: 2 slices of whole wheat toast [1 whole grain]
Banana [1 fruit]
OJ [1 fruit]

Snack: Raisins [1 fruit]

Lunch: Turkey Sandwich loaded with veggies [1 protein, 2 veggies]
Bag of Baked Lays [can i count as 1 veggie? LOL]

Snack: Apple [1 fruit]

Dinner: Ham Sandwich [1 whole grain, 1 protein]

Still crappy eating ...

Back to the ride -

Off I go, buzzing along the bike trail. Make my first turn around at mile 3 and start heading back. That's when disaster strikes!

We have underpasses for the trail to pass under the very busy streets in this town. You gain great speed going down one side, and you can make it up the other without struggling. The trail runs alongside a creek :) At this point, there's a guardrail between you and the creek ...

The guardrail does NOTHING to keep the ducks from running up on the trail ...

And, I hit the little bastard.

Thrown into the guardrail at around 17 MPH ... skid along the sidewalk after hitting the ground.

Bruises, a little blood ... and a bent back wheel and pedals ...

Damn duck ... ruined my workout.

Maniac Mondays ... Whew

2009-06-08T22:41:00.004-05:00

Okay, here's the first post in the new use of the blog :)

Let's start off by reminding that I began this entire journey on 9/15/08 - the night of my heart attack. My first Cardio Rehab was on Oct 1, 2008. It consisted of 3 minutes on the bike, 2 minutes on a treadmill, and 2 minutes on some arm thingy.

Last Saturday, I made 9 miles ... 9 ... runnning ... and loving it. Then, Sunday, I did a bike ride of 15 miles.

I started this journey on 9/15/08 at ~260 pounds. Today, I float between 207 and 214 (depends on what I've eaten, and how much water I've had). I'd like to be around 195-ish ... but, I'm okay with losing size around the midsection :)

Sleep - got about 7 hours, though it didn't seem like it - I woke up tired, and stayed that way most of the day.

Breakfast - you'll love this ... ate a whole wheat bagel that I had on my desk since last Friday (when I didn't eat it). Toasted with "Promise" margarine ... A banana (also on my desk since last Friday) ... and, a bottle of OJ. At least I got some fruit to go with it! [2 fruits, 1 whole grain]

Snack: Box of raisins. [1 fruit]

Lunch: Chicken Fried Rice. Actually, about a 1/4 of what they serve. Why do they give you so much? [Protein!]

Snack: Kudos bar [1 whatever that is!]

Dinner: Oatmeal, 3 slices of whole wheat toast w/ "Promise", banana, grapes [2.5 whole grains, 2 fruits]

Obviously, I didn't eat near correct enough. Not enough of just about everything.
5 fruits, 3.5 whole grains, 1 protein, and 1 whateverthatis.

I've GOT to start eating better.

The Run:
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Set out the door to run 6 miles. In 95 degree heat. Smart, huh? After 1/4 mile mark, my body told me "nope" - so, game plan adjustment! Ended up running 4 miles - at a quicker than I'd like to run pace (especially in this heat!). Good workout, all around.

This Blog Is A'Changin ...

2009-06-07T23:35:00.003-05:00

To keep up with how my running is going, it is becoming apparent that I need a place to list out stuff that I have no other place to list them out :)

For Example:
1) What Did I Eat Today?
2) How Did I REALLY Feel Today?
3) What Was The Temperature and Weather Like Today?

and, etc.

I have a place to log my runs, but I will be posting distance and times as well so that EVERYBODY knows how slow I am :)

No Longer "Obese"?!?!

2009-04-30T05:16:00.002-05:00

Using the BMI scale (which is incredibly useless for most people), I have officially moved from "Obese" to "Overweight" ... a HUGE step for me.

29.7 ... I'm happy ... ecstatic! ... elated!

Whoop! Now, I'm just "that fat guy over there" ... not the "Man, did they pour him into that chair" guy.

7 Months, 11 Days

2009-04-25T19:52:00.003-05:00

That's how long it's been since my heart attack. I'm, obviously, way beyond "normal". Normal used to be having the ability to sit around and watch TV and eat ...

New normal = (Running > 5 miles)/day

I'm loving the whole running thing. I get it. I now understand "their" obsession. All I WANT to do is run. However, that's not healthy. So, I take it the smart way.

After running my 6 miles today, I was totally feeling like I could keep going. But, that's for tomorrow.

In the meantime, I'm in training for a Half-Marathon. That's 13.1 miles of fun and enjoyment. The date I have selected is 12/13/09 - White Rock Half Marathon (Dallas, TX) - if I can get registered prior to them selling out :)

It Was ALL Uphill!

2009-04-18T12:42:00.000-05:00

I swear, it was like running up a corkscrew! The timer in the back was set for the 10K racers, who left about 5 minutes before the 5K racers ... so, subtract ~5 minutes.

39:58 for my first race :)

Ready, Set, GO!

2009-04-18T12:40:00.000-05:00

Me in my PIMPIN' YELLOW NEWTONS!

Like I Said, I'm a Runner!

2009-04-18T12:37:00.000-05:00

RACE DAY!!!!
My very first 5K ... and, first race

Tony's Gonna Race!

2009-04-06T23:26:00.000-05:00

I've gone and done it. I've registered for a 5K race on April the 18th. (That's 3.1 miles, for those not good at Canadian ... LOL).

I figured why not? Why wait? I can regularly jog greater than 4 miles, so 3.1 shouldn't give me too much trouble ... unless, there are hills ... :|

On my way to the half-marathon I want to run (that's 13.1 miles).

On The Prowl

2009-03-28T21:30:00.000-05:00

Big Cat

Running's Going Well

2009-03-22T21:37:00.002-05:00

It's been a few weeks with this whole running thing. Not that it's easy, but I think I'm finding it "easier" due to the treadmill and bike work in the gym.

I can consistently run 3 to 4 miles without stopping.

Granted, yesterday I would have paid some home owner to turn on their lawn sprinklers. I greatly underestimated my hydration. And, the lengths of the uphills. I was stupid ... that won't happen again.

So, today, I took Carol and the kids along for the ride. We went over to the park for me to do some running. The PLAN was for her and the kids to go to the right, and I'll jog off to the left. Since my route is a loop, it was perfect. I would meet them at about the 2 mile mark, and Carol would hand me a bottle of water. It was the PERFECT plan.

Then, Carol decided to improvise.

It was the perfect plan ... in principle.

I come around to the pre-destined meet up spot, thirsty, wanting some water ... no, NEEDING some water. No family to be seen. They must have turned back and heading back toward the area we started in. No sweat. I can catch them. So, I speed up.

I make it all the way back to the start point, and STILL don't see the family. So, I grab my cell phone, and make the call. After learning that they decided to go to the play ground (which is off to the LEFT ... you remember, the direction I headed out), I go after my bottle of water.

Well, somebody just failed the interview to be on my support team when I begin to run some races in the next month or two ... LOL!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

I'm A Runner!

2009-03-15T09:32:00.003-05:00

At the first of the year, I thought it'd be decent exercise to do some jogging on the treadmill. Then, about 5 weeks ago, I thought that I might be able to do some jogging on the road.

Yesterday, I decided to jog until I couldn't go any longer.

4.3 miles later, I stopped. Except that my legs were shot, I could have kept going. I was breathing well ... En Fuego (on fire).

Not bad for somebody who was, for all intents and purposes, dead 6 months ago.

Hey, I'm a runner!!!

Annoying "Friends"

2009-03-01T09:57:00.002-06:00

For lack of a better word, I have this "friend" who is INCREDIBLY annoying.

Let's start off with "he's from Canada" - and, wants to continually talk about how much better Canada is than the U.S. And, I continually ask him - "If it's so much better, why are you living down here? Just to complain about us? You CAN go back."

Next, Americans are apparently stupid. According to this idiot, the U.S. Military was up in Canada on "manuevers" and lost a howitzer. Now, having had to replace a lost wrench, I'm fairly sure a lost howitzer would raise some eyebrows. And, to top that off, the U.S. Military couldn't find it, not matter how long they looked. Lucky for them, so his story goes, a troop of Canadian Boy Scouts came across the lost howitzer, and drug it back to the U.S. for us.

And, no matter what you are doing, have done, or will do, he "knows this guy".

How on earth do you make somebody like that go away?

The Soccer All-Star

2009-02-24T23:33:00.000-06:00

Madison loves her some soccer

Of Course She Is!!!!!!!!

2009-02-21T09:38:00.001-06:00

We are sitting here watching The Food Network ... a commercial for "Ask Aida" comes on, and I think Carol is jealous by the way Aida is looking at me ...

Shhhhh ... don't tell her.

When Stimulus Isn't ...

2009-02-17T10:56:00.003-06:00

What is the Whitehouse thinking? A few mistakes, imho, were made with this stimulus:

1) Instead of a tax credit to stimulate the economy in a year or two, how about you give me money upfront if I buy a car? That would stimulate TODAY

2) Instead of a tax credit to stimulate the economy in a year or two, how about you give me money upfront if I buy a house? That would stimulate TODAY

3) Don't downplay the stimulus. Perception is EVERYTHING - especially in economics. The more you downplay, the less confident the people are ... the less confident the people are, the less they'll spend now ... the less they spend now, the worse it gets ... it's a nasty cycle.

There's a ton more, but I'm working ... for that extra $13 a week.

Better yet, how about no stimulus (which would be better than "no stimulus in the disguise of stimulus").

Another Week - Another Dollar ...

2009-02-06T23:38:00.003-06:00

This week was an interesting one at work. I believe I may have ticked off one of the Sr. Directors, but that's no big deal, she's not in my chain.

My boss and I are actually getting along ... that scares me ... LOL

I did my employees' 2008 Year End Reviews today. They went well. I had one who didn't have a single negative comment. "V" is an awesome employee, who just quietly goes about doing what she's expected to do. And, she does it very, very well.

"J" is the best employee I've ever seen. Her review went well as well, but she didn't get the promotion she deserves. I fought for it, but didn't win against the VP and the economy. I just hope she stays for the year to fight again next year.

"M" seems to lose her motivation at points, but she's a great employee also. Or, at least it SEEMS like she loses it. I think it's just because she doesn't show emotion, and people misinterpret that as losing motivation.

All in all, a great team. I'm glad to have them.

It Can Melt Now ... Please?

2009-01-28T09:00:00.002-06:00

We got covered in ice last night. Now, I'm sitting here at home "working". I'll be trying to get into the office in a couple of hours.

Of course, that'll end up being stupid because it's going to get below freezing again this evening ... which will mean I get to drive home in new ice.

An Early "BRRRRR"

2009-01-26T16:31:00.001-06:00

Great.

It's suppose to bring an ice storm to us. That's what we need.

Not looking forward to the drive tomorrow morning ... tomorrow in general.

My Heart Check Up This Morning

2009-01-22T12:47:00.000-06:00

I went to my doctor today to have my heart check up. I have LESS THAN 1% scar tissue on my heart (VERY GOOD NEWS), and my weight loss has made her very happy. I've been given instructions to remain as boring for her as I have been.

She has also said that I'm above 99% healed, which is the best it will ever be.

There are NO blockages.

I have graduated to a visit every 6 months :)

Just wanted to share my good news!!!!

A Different View and Perception

2009-01-15T15:20:00.002-06:00

Since September 15, 2008, I have a different view of the world than most people ... now, getting them to understand that is a different story altogether (which I won't go into).

I've quit some things, I've started other things, I'm eating right ... blah, blah, blah.

I'm also down 38 pounds ... and feel GREAT!

I've also noticed that I'm a WHOLE lot more patient / tolerant.

Bad Business Decisions

2009-01-13T19:13:00.002-06:00

The place I work had a few policy changes for this year.

First, though, you need to know that 2008 was the best year in company history. Like, ever.

Change 1 - nobody is getting raises other than cost of living

Change 2 - we can no longer roll-over untaken vacation days

Curious. However, since we get 120 hours of vacation a year, that's just more people taking more time off. Before, people would only roll-over MAYBE 30 hours.

"Hey! Thanks for working so hard over the past year! Your reward is ... well, nothing. As a matter of fact, you owe us."

Wait. What?

Once Again - BCS Is Garbage

2009-01-05T14:57:00.002-06:00

Why can't college football have a playoff system? It works for highschool and small colleges.

Exhibit A:

Utah is now 13-0 after manhandling the Alabama Crimson Tide this past weekend. Yet, they are ranked 6 in the final BCS Rankings. Now, they get to take their PERFECT RECORD AGAINST FOUR TOP 25 TEAMS and sit at home and watch two one-loss teams play for the championship ...

Sounds like they deserve to at least play the game.

I Finished Something!

2008-12-29T10:10:00.002-06:00

I have completed Cardiopulmonary Rehabilitation this morning :)

Yea, Me!!!!!!!!!!

Ever Notice?

2008-12-19T09:21:00.000-06:00

Have we all noticed how quiet those "oil producing" nations are with the price of oil dropping through the floor?

:)

From The Inbox - Why I Fired My Secretary

2008-12-16T16:58:00.003-06:00

Last week was my birthday and I didn’t feel very well waking up on that morning. I went downstairs for breakfast hoping my wife would be pleasant and say, “Happy Birthday!”, and possibly have a small present for me. As it turned out, she barely said good morning, let alone “Happy Birthday.”

I thought… Well, that’s marriage for you, but the kids…. They will remember.My kids came bounding down stairs to breakfast and didn’t say a word, so when I left for the office, I felt pretty low and somewhat despondent.

I walked into my office, my secretary Jane said, “Good Morning Boss, and by the way Happy Birthday!” It felt a little better that at least someone had remembered.

I worked until one o’clock, when Jane knocked on my door and said, “You know, It’s such a beautiful day outside, and it is your Birthday, what do you say we go out to lunch, just you and me.” I said, “Thanks, Jane, that’s the greatest thing I’ve heard all day. Let’s go!” We went to lunch. But we didn’t go where we normally would go. She chose instead a quiet bistro with a private table. We had two martinis each and I enjoyed the meal tremendously. On the way back to the office, Jane said, “You know, It’s such a beautiful day… We don’t need to go straight back to the office, Do We ?”

I responded, “I guess not. What do you have in mind?” She said, “Let’s drop by my apartment, it’s just around the corner.”

After arriving at her apartment, Jane turned to me and said, “Boss, if you don’t mind, I’m going to step into the bedroom for just a moment. I’ll be right back.”

“Ok,” I nervously replied.

She went into the bedroom and, after a couple of minutes, she came out carrying a huge birthday cake. Followed by my wife, my kids, and dozens of my friends and co-workers, all singing “Happy Birthday!”

And I just sat there…

On the couch…

Naked.

Brrrr ... It's Cold

2008-12-15T10:28:00.000-06:00

Currently in Plano, TX (75025)
Cloudy
27°F Feels Like 15°F

Glasses? Really?

2008-12-10T13:15:00.002-06:00

Well, Madi is getting glasses.

She has been complaining a lot lately about headaches, so Carol took her to the eye doctor. Sure enough, she has problems focusing while reading and such.

She has picked some out, and will get to pick them up next week!

An Official ...

2008-12-10T08:58:00.001-06:00

Down 30 pounds as of today. I weighed in two days in a row at the 30 pound mark.

Yea!!!

Contentious Garbage

2008-12-06T11:08:00.001-06:00

There are several very conservative groups who are challenging quite a few things on a national election level.

I don't know their purposes, but I do know that if they get their way, it will get quite ugly in this nation.

I find it very sad that there are those few who will "on purpose, or not" destroy a nation to push their political agendas.

Not That I'm A UTexas Fan, But ...

2008-12-03T18:42:00.002-06:00

They got screwed.

High school football plays 16 games. Professional football plays 19 games. Why on earth can't college play 16 games to include a playoff? Why???

Before and Current

2008-12-01T11:06:00.004-06:00

Before ... Current ...

Lost almost 30 pounds so far (though, not this past week :) )

Happy Thanksgiving

2008-11-26T08:59:00.001-06:00

Go have fun with your special someones!

Devious ... With a Bow

2008-11-15T22:54:00.000-06:00

The Mad "Cat"-ter

Ain't She Pretty?

2008-11-15T22:51:00.001-06:00

Look! It's Madi!!!
At the Dallas Aquarium

Off We Go, Into The Wild Blue Yonder ...

2008-11-15T22:45:00.001-06:00

C-141B Starlifter ... I can build one of these in my sleep, I think.

Bailouts ...

2008-11-12T22:41:00.002-06:00

Funny. I find it odd that I do not support one of the bailouts, but I do support the other.

A) I do not support the "bank bailouts". You know, the $700 Billion blank check. Conspiracy Probability - AMEX is now a bank that can tap into that money ... hmmmm ...

B) I do support bailing out the auto industry. First off, if GM, Ford, and Chrysler fail, the unemployment would be ridiculously astronomical. I don't know the answer here, but something must be done. We could literally be talking a million or more jobs. That's a LOT. But, I am more apt to support this one.

I'm Sure I'll Get Used To It

2008-11-09T11:19:00.003-06:00

So, I take medication twice a day - once the morning when I wake up, and once in the evening around dinner time. About an hour after taking said medication, I feel fantastic. It's the hour or two prior ... grrrrrrrrr!

As an example, yesterday. Man, I was aggravated, depressed, stressed, and irked for about 3 hours yesterday evening. It's a good thing that I am home alone for the moment ... grrrrrr! Then, I took my medication. About an hour later, I was relaxed and at ease. Very nice.

Now, we aren't talking stupid relaxed - but, more a "man, I'm in a great mood" relaxed. I just have to figure out how to deal with the couple of hours prior to that.

Because Aunt Chris Deserves Only The Best

2008-11-07T05:56:00.002-06:00

I'm down 26 pounds as of this morning.

Beginning Weight: 256
This Morning: 230

I am officially in the "I Need A New Belt". This week, I began using the last hole in my current belts.

Prayer Request

2008-11-06T09:42:00.002-06:00

Please pray for Carol and her dad.

Carol's dad was admitted to the hospital a couple of days ago. She is on her way to see him now (he's 1,000 miles away).

Her uncle found him in a not so great state.

Dropping the LBs!!!

2008-10-31T09:25:00.004-05:00

Down 24 pounds :)

Starting weight (pre-heart attack): 256
This Morning (46 days out): 232

Yeah!

UPDATE:

Just thought of this ... but, I've "lost" a one-year-old.

I'm Tired Of Hearing About ...

2008-10-27T13:27:00.001-05:00

1) The Election: Man, this can't get over soon enough.

2) Tony Romo's Pinkie: Poor baby got a booboo and can't through the ball.

3) My Boss Thinking She's Important: She has no idea what's coming sooner or later.

Yo' Momma

2008-10-24T12:57:00.001-05:00

Thought it was funny ...

Yo' momma so fat, she's on both sides of the family.

LOL!!!!!!!

How Not To Wait At The Dr's Office

2008-10-23T10:12:00.001-05:00

A small list of ideas from CNN.

My advice ... complain of chest pains - you get right in.

Upgraded FiOS

2008-10-23T10:05:00.003-05:00

The other night, we were sitting at home wondering why we couldn't get some of the new HD channels that FiOS rolled out - so, I called them.

The guy that answered was super nice in explaining "you have FiOS Premiere. To get the new HD channels, and all the new ones rolling out soon, you need to upgrade." Excuse me? Ooorrrrr, I can go back to cable and get them with my package.

At this point, he placed me politely on hold and went checking on packages and came back with a winner.

Since you have Internet and TV, we can bundle them together for $79 a month. "Great," I say, "what do I get with that?"

All the HD channels - and Internet 20MB down, 5MB up.

Wait ... you mean to tell me that I can get all the HD channels and the Internet, at speeds 4x what I get now with FiOS, for $40 less a month?

Why on earth wouldn't they just automatically switch me over? Sheesh

OPEC Can't Be Happy

2008-10-16T10:54:00.003-05:00

Oil is continuing it's downward spiral - OPEC can't be happy about that.

After a year of HUGE profits for OPEC, they are rescheduling the OPEC meeting.

Follow Up Doctor Visit

2008-10-14T12:49:00.001-05:00

I had my one month follow up visit with the cardiologist this morning.

All is well. She is increasing the blood pressure medicine, though my blood pressure was not high (it's not as low as she wants it).

I am to go back in three months for another re-evaluation of medication, then again in six months for "the" stress test.

[UPDATE]

The increase in the dosage has sapped my energy. They say it takes about two weeks to get used to the new dosage. Man, it's going to be a long two weeks.

Tony, How's Rehab Going?

2008-10-13T09:09:00.001-05:00

I'm glad you asked!

I am now up to my full 40 minutes. They don't allow you to do more cardio than that.

They've increased my speeds and levels - up to level 3!!!!

My resting heart rate is 54 (runner's heart rate!) and my active heart rate is around 105 (rock on!). To put this in perspective, prior to my heart attack, my resting heart rate was mid-70's. Blood flow is a good thing!

Things are going amazingly.

Just To Annoy Aunt Chris

2008-10-09T20:22:00.002-05:00

I'm down 20 pounds as of today.

I was asked today how I'm doing it. My reply: "A heart attack, eat right, and exercise. Though, I'm sure you can do it without the heart attack part, but it's a great motivator."

I'm averaging about a pound every 3 to 4 days right now. Obviously, I had the shock start, which helped get it started.

I'm eating right, eating well, and drinking rivers of water.

Recipe: Salmon Sorrento

2008-10-07T09:59:00.002-05:00

For the record, the Salmon Sorrento recipe found here rocks.

Salmon Sorrento

Serves 4; 3 ounces fish per serving

With its thick, colorful sauce, this dish provides a way to dress up salmon without covering up its natural flavor.

Ingredients
1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
5 medium Italian plum tomatoes, diced
6 medium black olives, coarsely chopped
6 medium green olives, coarsely chopped
3 tablespoons lemon juice
2 tablespoons coarsely or finely chopped fresh parsley (Italian, or flat-leaf, preferred)
1 tablespoon capers, rinsed and drained
1 1/2 teaspoons bottled minced garlic or 3 medium cloves garlic, thinly sliced
Pepper to taste
1-pound salmon fillet

Cooking Instructions
Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add oil and swirl to coat bottom of skillet. Add tomatoes, black and green olives, lemon juice, parsley, capers, garlic, and pepper; stir to mix. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, 2 to 3 minutes. Reduce heat to medium and cook until mixture is reduced by about one third, about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Meanwhile, rinse salmon and pat dry with paper towels.

Using a spoon, push reduced sauce to one side and place salmon in skillet. Spoon sauce over salmon. Cook, covered, over medium heat for 15 to 17 minutes, or until salmon flakes easily when tested with a fork.

Nutrition Analysis (per serving)
200Calories
9.0 g Total Fat
1.0 g Saturated Fat
0.0 g Trans Fat
2.5 g Polyunsaturated Fat
4.5 g Monounsaturated Fat
59 mg Cholestrol
308 mg Sodium
5 g Carbohydrates
1 g Fiber
2 g Sugar
24 g Protein

Hi Ho Hi Ho

2008-10-06T10:55:00.001-05:00

I'm back to work today! YIPEE!

On a side note, the Senior VP told me to check myself out every 30 minutes to see if I need to go home. If I get to a point where I don't think I can stay, and I don't think I can drive, he'll get me home. He is an awesome guy.

My boss hasn't said a word to me ... not that I care - she'll not be my boss forever (this I know for sure).

Everybody else is happy to see me. I love the people I work with (for the most part).

New Ways Of Eating

2008-10-04T12:49:00.002-05:00

Wow. The diet change has been drastic, and quite easy - to be honest. Below are some examples of the new diet.

Breakfast:
3/4 cup of Egg Beaters made into an omelette w/ mushrooms, green onions, low fat cheese
A piece of fruit (usually a banana)
2 pieces of toast
1 Glass of OJ (or, Chocolate Soy Milk)

Snack:
1 piece of fruit (sometimes, two)

Lunch:
Turkey Sandwich w/ fat-free or light mayonaise
Piece of fruit (banana, apple, plum)

Snack:
1 piece of fruit
serving of "soy crackers" (we found some that are incredibly delicious)

Dinner (example):
3 ounces post weight Salmon
2 veggies
some fruit (canteloupe, watermelon, peaches, or other)

Evening Snack:
Most whatever I want (within reason, of course)

And, drink PLENTY of water.

So far, I've lost 17 pounds - and, hope for AT LEAST another 20, but would be ecstatic with another 30, or more.

Put that diet with my medications, I haven't felt this good in forever. Man, do I feel great.

My only "left-over" side-effect of my heart attack is getting to sleep at night. I don't really expect any of you to understand, but you can most likely figure it out --- I'm afraid of not waking up in the morning. I bought a journal in my attempt to overcome this. I think this will help me immensely.

I Get To Go Back To Work!!!!

2008-10-02T21:52:00.002-05:00

The doctor's office told me that the doctor will allow me to return to work this coming Monday! YIPEE!

My mind feels like it's melting sitting here at home. I'm going nuts.

Rockin' With The Old Dudes

2008-10-02T08:28:00.003-05:00

If by "Rockin'" you mean yawning, and by "Old Dudes" you mean King Tut.

Started my Cardio-Rehab yesterday. Not bad. Unless you consider exercising to Big Band Music bad ...

Rode a bike, did some arm thingy, and walked on a treadmill. I told them several times throughout it that it was too easy. By the end, they believed me.

My resting heart rate is 64. During the exercising, my heart rate shot up to 70. So, you can see it was difficult. They are reworking my workout now to make it more difficult and get my heart rate closer to 80 during the workout.

On a side note, I haven't napped during the day in about a week - so, I know my stamina is picking up. Yea! Nothing wrong with napping, but your day gets destroyed.

Update on Me

2008-09-30T10:56:00.002-05:00

I'm doing very well, thank you for wondering.

I start cardio-rehab tomorrow afternoon. I'm kind of looking forward to it, and kind of dreading it. But, it's the best thing for me, so off I'll go to it.

All-in-all, I'm feeling great. My nose is stuffy, but it's not making feel bad. According to the doctor, I can't really take anything for it right now ("avoid antihistamines"). Great.

I still get tired relatively easy, but not near as easy as last week. I can go all day without napping (greatly dependent on exertion level that day).

I Like Westerns!

2008-09-27T08:50:00.001-05:00

I'm so wanting to see Appaloosa, with Ed Harris and Viggio Mortenson.

It looks like a REAL western!!!!!!!!!!!

Amazon Order

2008-09-26T10:07:00.001-05:00

We should be receiving this today or tomorrow.

It's "Meals in Minutes" from the American Heart Association. We've tried a recipe or two, and have been pleased.

#1 was definitely the Salmon Sorrentine. Mmmmm... Tasty.