Last week Ryan said that this was Rock 'n Roll week, which I thought was going to be more late 1950's artists: Buddy Holly, Elvis, Little Richard, etc. But tonight he called it "Rock Week" which to me is way too broad a category. I think it should be split up in the future, that's all I'm sayin'.
I'm home alone watching AI tonight, after work and softball practice, before volleyball.
Adam: Whole Lotta Love: Led Zeppelin
This was amazing! The end was awesome, the band sounded great, Kara called him a "Rock God" and I completely agree. With this style of music, he doesn't seem too dramatic, unlike last week's performance.
Allison: Cry Baby: Janis Joplin
I like her new hair extensions! I agree with the judges when they say she doesn't sound original. I mean, I think she's trying to sound too much like the original which makes me think of Jenna on 30 Rock who is obsessed with playing Janis Joplin but the studio can't get the rights to use her name, so she goes by Jeana Jimplin instead. I didn't think Allison's voice sounded all that great, either. I think she's in trouble.
Danny & Kris: Renegade: by Styx
What's this? A duet? I really liked the sweet harmonies in the beginning, but it got all weird when it was time for the solo parts of the song. Their voices are quite different sounding, and I bet they had a hard time picking out a song. I also bet they didn't rehearse nearly as much as the did on their individual songs. And it showed.
Kris: Come Together: The Beatles
I remember Carly Smithson singing this last year, and even though Kris changed it up and brought out his guitar skills, I liked her version better. I feel like he was trying really hard to be hard rock, and it's just not for him. His voice sounded forced.
Danny: Dream On: Aerosmith
This was just awful for me all the way through. In the beginning I felt his lower register was really pitchy, and at the end the screaming was just painful. It seemed like he was trying to out sing Adam, which just won't ever happen. Sorry dude.
Adam & Allison: Slow Ride: Foghat
YES!!!! This I loved. What a sweet sing-off! This duet blew away the other one. I guess it's not totally fair, though. Who cares? I was highly entertained. And I don't even like that song! And I was only slightly distracted by Adam's package busting out of his pants.
I get a text message from Cameron: "I hated the duet. Allison, bye-bye."
My picks are, from the top:
ADAM
Kris
Danny
Allison
I changed the order of the last 3 about 5 times before I realized that is just doesn't matter and I want to go to bed.
Tuesday, May 5, 2009
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
AI: 4/28/09 Top 5
So this week we've got standards from the Rat Pack era, mentoring by Jamie Foxx. I will apologize ahead of time for the quick summary, but it's late and I'm tired, and I just wasn't getting into the Idol tonight. I did see a preview for So You Think You Can Dance, which perked me up a bit.
Kris: The Way You Look Tonight
This is a lovely song, and Kris is cute with his shadow mustache. I thought he did a great job, although I wasn't blown away. Maybe it's because he performed first, which I think is always a disadvantage.
Allison: Someone To Watch Over Me
Now, I totally disagreed with the judges on this one. I thought the song was wayyy too slow, and quite predictable in the way she sang it. And I really hate how they cut the song up. It just didn't flow for me, dawg. As the judges were raving about Allison, I was trying to think of a better song choice for her. Maybe Fever? I think she's in trouble.
Cameron comes over and we eat some of his home-made eclairs. Mmmm!!!
Matt: My Funny Valentine
I think Matt is really good tonight, and this style suits him. He reminds me of a combo of Justin Timberlake and Michale Bublé. Cameron is surprised by Simon's positive comments almost as much as by Matt's enormous gums. "Why didn't I notice those gums before?"
Danny: Come Rain Or Come Shine
At first all I can think of is the movie The Other Sister, when a mentally retarded Carla (played by Juliette Lewis) sings this song to her mentally retarded boyfriend Daniel (played by Giovanni Ribisi). But I digress. Danny mentioned something about not changing up the song, but he totally did! I really enjoyed his performance, and I am back on the Danny Goeke train. Cameron finally notices Paula's dress, "Oh, that looks terrible!"
Adam: Feeling Good
Ugh, I really don't like this song, and I kind of didn't really like Adam this week. I thought he was uber-dramatic (even for him) and just a little... much. I don't know. His voice is still amazing. Cameron didn't like his crazy facial expressions or how he worked the microphone.
Top to Bottom (Hold on to your hats!):
Kris
Danny
Matt
Adam
Allison
On a side note, here's wishing my Nana a very happy 93rd birthday today!
Kris: The Way You Look Tonight
This is a lovely song, and Kris is cute with his shadow mustache. I thought he did a great job, although I wasn't blown away. Maybe it's because he performed first, which I think is always a disadvantage.
Allison: Someone To Watch Over Me
Now, I totally disagreed with the judges on this one. I thought the song was wayyy too slow, and quite predictable in the way she sang it. And I really hate how they cut the song up. It just didn't flow for me, dawg. As the judges were raving about Allison, I was trying to think of a better song choice for her. Maybe Fever? I think she's in trouble.
Cameron comes over and we eat some of his home-made eclairs. Mmmm!!!
Matt: My Funny Valentine
I think Matt is really good tonight, and this style suits him. He reminds me of a combo of Justin Timberlake and Michale Bublé. Cameron is surprised by Simon's positive comments almost as much as by Matt's enormous gums. "Why didn't I notice those gums before?"
Danny: Come Rain Or Come Shine
At first all I can think of is the movie The Other Sister, when a mentally retarded Carla (played by Juliette Lewis) sings this song to her mentally retarded boyfriend Daniel (played by Giovanni Ribisi). But I digress. Danny mentioned something about not changing up the song, but he totally did! I really enjoyed his performance, and I am back on the Danny Goeke train. Cameron finally notices Paula's dress, "Oh, that looks terrible!"
Adam: Feeling Good
Ugh, I really don't like this song, and I kind of didn't really like Adam this week. I thought he was uber-dramatic (even for him) and just a little... much. I don't know. His voice is still amazing. Cameron didn't like his crazy facial expressions or how he worked the microphone.
Top to Bottom (Hold on to your hats!):
Kris
Danny
Matt
Adam
Allison
On a side note, here's wishing my Nana a very happy 93rd birthday today!
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
American Idol: Top 7. Again.
It's disco week, and I'm at the Gronau (that's Gronau with an uno) house. Present are: Joel, Lu, Ed, my dad, me. I get a few pre-show comments:
Lu: I like the girl with the red hair.
Ed: The blue hair!!!
Joel: This... is American cheese. Lucy! You didn't say it!
The show starts rather suddenly with...
Lil-- I'm Every Woman-- Chaka Khan
Lil, here's the problem. You are every woman, but you aren't your OWN woman. I feel like you try to sing like whomever sang the original version. Adding a run or two doesn't really change it up enough for me. And when it came to the modulation, you let your back-up singers do it while you waited and then added a "yeahhhhhh." (This is very hard for me to describe. Sorry.) I feel like you need to take control of your songs, not let them control you. And stop talking back to the judges.
Joel: She's a little off. She's just gotta leave.
Ray: This is the best outfit she's worn. Great body shape.
Lucy: I thought she didn't behave for that one. She didn't hit the rock.
Ed: She's beautiful.
Kris-- She Works Hard For The Money-- Donna Summer
I am REALLY starting to like this guy. I'm not sure why it's taken so long for me to warm up to him, but I have. He's just so cute. And he sounds good too!
Ray: I liked it.
Joel: I think that's his style.
Lu: He didn't hit the rock to me. I don't like the boys.
Ed: Do it again, Grandpa! (Ed is swinging on Grandpa Ray's legs.)
Danny-- September-- Earth, Wind and Fire
The first line is "Do you remember the 21st night of September?" to which Joel yells out, "That's my birthday!" He's correct. I really love Danny's voice, but I feel his overall performance is a bit lacking.
Ray: He's alright. He's like a Tony Bennett and he's already said he can't dance.
Lucy: You WILL remember, Jeannie, because you're writing it down! It's not really fine.
Allison-- Hot Stuff-- Donna Summer
Her voice is excellent, but I'm worried she is forgettable tonight. It helps that the only other girl is a disaster.
Joel: She's wearing leather leggings! I thought the arrangement was a little goofy.
Ray: Dumb song. I think she did a great job. I like the outfit.
Lu: I think she is hitting the rock. I love her. I love her hair. I love her voice. I love everything about her.
Ed: (No comment. He is taking pictures with a princess camera.)
Adam-- If I Can't Have You-- Bee Gees
Dude, I totally got chills! Is Paula shaking? This guy is a-maz-ing!!!
Joel: It's his back pocket token.
Ray: He is completely different. His voice is unbelievable!
Lu: (When asked if she liked him:) Yeah. I have to go brush my teeth.
Ed: I don't like 'Merican Idol.
Ryan Secrest: A pool of Abdul!!!
Matt-- Stayin' Alive-- Bee Gees
I feel like he's having more fun tonight, but his vocals weren't great, and it's really not fair for anyone to go after Adam.
Joel: Definitely better than Lil.
Lu: He was a little spicy to me. A little spicy.
Anoop-- Dim All The Lights-- Donna Summer
I think he is super pitchy this week. And I think he knows it.
Joel: Why do they kid themselves? I didn't like it. Boring.
Lu: Is his name really Anoop? I like that.
Top to Bottom:
Adam
Kris
Allison
Danny
Matt
Anoop
Lil
Lu: I like the girl with the red hair.
Ed: The blue hair!!!
Joel: This... is American cheese. Lucy! You didn't say it!
The show starts rather suddenly with...
Lil-- I'm Every Woman-- Chaka Khan
Lil, here's the problem. You are every woman, but you aren't your OWN woman. I feel like you try to sing like whomever sang the original version. Adding a run or two doesn't really change it up enough for me. And when it came to the modulation, you let your back-up singers do it while you waited and then added a "yeahhhhhh." (This is very hard for me to describe. Sorry.) I feel like you need to take control of your songs, not let them control you. And stop talking back to the judges.
Joel: She's a little off. She's just gotta leave.
Ray: This is the best outfit she's worn. Great body shape.
Lucy: I thought she didn't behave for that one. She didn't hit the rock.
Ed: She's beautiful.
Kris-- She Works Hard For The Money-- Donna Summer
I am REALLY starting to like this guy. I'm not sure why it's taken so long for me to warm up to him, but I have. He's just so cute. And he sounds good too!
Ray: I liked it.
Joel: I think that's his style.
Lu: He didn't hit the rock to me. I don't like the boys.
Ed: Do it again, Grandpa! (Ed is swinging on Grandpa Ray's legs.)
Danny-- September-- Earth, Wind and Fire
The first line is "Do you remember the 21st night of September?" to which Joel yells out, "That's my birthday!" He's correct. I really love Danny's voice, but I feel his overall performance is a bit lacking.
Ray: He's alright. He's like a Tony Bennett and he's already said he can't dance.
Lucy: You WILL remember, Jeannie, because you're writing it down! It's not really fine.
Allison-- Hot Stuff-- Donna Summer
Her voice is excellent, but I'm worried she is forgettable tonight. It helps that the only other girl is a disaster.
Joel: She's wearing leather leggings! I thought the arrangement was a little goofy.
Ray: Dumb song. I think she did a great job. I like the outfit.
Lu: I think she is hitting the rock. I love her. I love her hair. I love her voice. I love everything about her.
Ed: (No comment. He is taking pictures with a princess camera.)
Adam-- If I Can't Have You-- Bee Gees
Dude, I totally got chills! Is Paula shaking? This guy is a-maz-ing!!!
Joel: It's his back pocket token.
Ray: He is completely different. His voice is unbelievable!
Lu: (When asked if she liked him:) Yeah. I have to go brush my teeth.
Ed: I don't like 'Merican Idol.
Ryan Secrest: A pool of Abdul!!!
Matt-- Stayin' Alive-- Bee Gees
I feel like he's having more fun tonight, but his vocals weren't great, and it's really not fair for anyone to go after Adam.
Joel: Definitely better than Lil.
Lu: He was a little spicy to me. A little spicy.
Anoop-- Dim All The Lights-- Donna Summer
I think he is super pitchy this week. And I think he knows it.
Joel: Why do they kid themselves? I didn't like it. Boring.
Lu: Is his name really Anoop? I like that.
Top to Bottom:
Adam
Kris
Allison
Danny
Matt
Anoop
Lil
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
American Idol: Top 7
I went over to Cameron's place last night to watch a little AI. We went to this Mexican restaurant 2 blocks away for dinner first. We've eaten there before, but the experience was not good this time. The meat was bland, unseasoned. My margarita tasted like water. They forgot to bring out one of my tacos. My beans tasted funny. I just wanted to get out of there! We zoomed back to watch the show, my tummy feeling very icky.
So tonight we've got: Songs for the Silver Screen. Top 7.
Allison: "I don't want to miss a thing"
Well I missed a thing: THIS SONG. Because I was trying to get Jesus to bring me la quenta. I'm guessing she sounded great, looked the same.
Anoop: "Everything I do, I do it for you"
I tried Rhi's suggestion of watching him with my eyes closed. It actually helped! But at some point I peeked and caught a glimpse of his sport coat/jacket/vest. What is that? I think his voice sounded pretty good this week. Cameron: "I was hoping he would sing about his prerogative again."
Adam: "Born to be wild"
Oh man, he is SO GOOD! Those notes! My God! Cameron: "I'm trying to think of what music he would sing on his own?"
Matt: "Tell me have you ever really, really really ever loved a woman? (Is this really really really the title?)
I think he was really pitchy/off key. But I love a guy at a piano. Cameron: Thumbs down, "phtt".
Danny: "Endless love"
No glasses tonight, huh? I don't like how he says "Jour every breath that I take. Jour every step I make." I was bored. Cam: "It was good."
Kris: "Falling Slowly" !!!!!
I gasp in delight when I hear he's going to sing this. But WHY NO GUITAR??? Is he INSANE? Bad choice. And his voice just doesn't have the grit and emotion I want out of it. Cameron is unable to comment here as I gush about the movie ONCE until it's time for...
Lil: "The Rose"
...and my gushing turns into a long groan. Seriously? The Rose? She is way off key, and it stinks. Oh wait, that could be Cam's dog Pepper, who just tooted on me. Everything stinks!! Cameron: "All that's going through my head is Napoleon Dynamite."
Cameron's bottom 2: Matt, Lil
Jean's from top down:
ADAM!!
Anoop
Danny
Allison (I'm guessing here)
Kris
Matt
Lil
So tonight we've got: Songs for the Silver Screen. Top 7.
Allison: "I don't want to miss a thing"
Well I missed a thing: THIS SONG. Because I was trying to get Jesus to bring me la quenta. I'm guessing she sounded great, looked the same.
Anoop: "Everything I do, I do it for you"
I tried Rhi's suggestion of watching him with my eyes closed. It actually helped! But at some point I peeked and caught a glimpse of his sport coat/jacket/vest. What is that? I think his voice sounded pretty good this week. Cameron: "I was hoping he would sing about his prerogative again."
Adam: "Born to be wild"
Oh man, he is SO GOOD! Those notes! My God! Cameron: "I'm trying to think of what music he would sing on his own?"
Matt: "Tell me have you ever really, really really ever loved a woman? (Is this really really really the title?)
I think he was really pitchy/off key. But I love a guy at a piano. Cameron: Thumbs down, "phtt".
Danny: "Endless love"
No glasses tonight, huh? I don't like how he says "Jour every breath that I take. Jour every step I make." I was bored. Cam: "It was good."
Kris: "Falling Slowly" !!!!!
I gasp in delight when I hear he's going to sing this. But WHY NO GUITAR??? Is he INSANE? Bad choice. And his voice just doesn't have the grit and emotion I want out of it. Cameron is unable to comment here as I gush about the movie ONCE until it's time for...
Lil: "The Rose"
...and my gushing turns into a long groan. Seriously? The Rose? She is way off key, and it stinks. Oh wait, that could be Cam's dog Pepper, who just tooted on me. Everything stinks!! Cameron: "All that's going through my head is Napoleon Dynamite."
Cameron's bottom 2: Matt, Lil
Jean's from top down:
ADAM!!
Anoop
Danny
Allison (I'm guessing here)
Kris
Matt
Lil
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
Point!
I drive to the gym this morning and bike 15 miles. The biking has become less painful since I have gotten over my spandex anxiety. (Wearing regular gym/running shorts has been giving me major chafing problems, and even though I HATE wearing spandex in public, it seems to be for the best.) I eat ants-on-a-log for lunch, then as I get ready for work, work calls ME and asks if I want to be on-call. Perfect! So I shift gears and change into my softball coaching costume. Our first game is this afternoon vs Mahtomedi. The Zephers are always a nice team to play, and it's sunny and 50 degrees. We lose 2-3 in 9 innings (we usually only play 7). I'm impressed with our defense, but our girls are slooooowww. Not sure I can fix that in 6 weeks. We'll work on hitting it farther instead.
Since I don't get called in to work, I can actually watch American Idol! So here's my review of Season 8: The Final 8: Songs from the year contestants were born. Immediately I realize we'll be hearing mostly 80's songs. *sigh* But here we go...
Danny - 1980: Stand By Me
I don't like this song, although I think I like this new arrangement more than the original. The judges don't agree with me. Danny sings it well, I'm sure he's safe.
Did anyone else see the promo for the new show Glee? It looks awesome!!!
Kris - 1985: All She Wants To Do Is Dance
This song is retarded. And Kris, if you're going to have a guitar, I want to hear you play it. The band took over. All I want to do is turn off the trumpets.
Lil - 1984: What's Love Got To Do With It?
Paula leads off with "First of all, you look hot." This is never a good sign. Lil, you do not have Tina's legs so please stop trying to walk like her. (Simon mentioned this as well.) I think you were pitchy and boring tonight. And it seems like you get short of breath during your songs. Aren't there exercises you can do to keep this from happening?
Anoop - 1986: True Colors
Your ugly green striped sweater is ugly. I had trouble hearing the words, and don't really understand all the praise from the judges. I wish Megan was back singing this song instead.
Scott - 1985: The Search Is Over
Standing alone on the stage with your guitar made me a little nervous. But you are quite talented, and I thought your voice was better than usual tonight. Sorry the judges ripped you a new one.
Allison - 1992: I Can't Make You Love Me
Finally a song from the 90s! But what are you wearing? Did a buffalo die on your lap? Allison, you have a fantastic voice, but why does America not like you? Please try to stay out of the bottom three so we can get rid of some dead weight.
Matt - 1985: Part Time Lover
This is the Matt that I know and love. Good vocals, good performance.
Adam - 1982: Mad World
Very smart of Fox to have you perform last. You are well worth the wait. This song is super creepy, but you are sooooo good. And it looked like you were sitting on the sun.
In order of importance:
Adam
Allison
Danny
Matt
Kris
Scott
Lil
Anoop
Since I don't get called in to work, I can actually watch American Idol! So here's my review of Season 8: The Final 8: Songs from the year contestants were born. Immediately I realize we'll be hearing mostly 80's songs. *sigh* But here we go...
Danny - 1980: Stand By Me
I don't like this song, although I think I like this new arrangement more than the original. The judges don't agree with me. Danny sings it well, I'm sure he's safe.
Did anyone else see the promo for the new show Glee? It looks awesome!!!
Kris - 1985: All She Wants To Do Is Dance
This song is retarded. And Kris, if you're going to have a guitar, I want to hear you play it. The band took over. All I want to do is turn off the trumpets.
Lil - 1984: What's Love Got To Do With It?
Paula leads off with "First of all, you look hot." This is never a good sign. Lil, you do not have Tina's legs so please stop trying to walk like her. (Simon mentioned this as well.) I think you were pitchy and boring tonight. And it seems like you get short of breath during your songs. Aren't there exercises you can do to keep this from happening?
Anoop - 1986: True Colors
Your ugly green striped sweater is ugly. I had trouble hearing the words, and don't really understand all the praise from the judges. I wish Megan was back singing this song instead.
Scott - 1985: The Search Is Over
Standing alone on the stage with your guitar made me a little nervous. But you are quite talented, and I thought your voice was better than usual tonight. Sorry the judges ripped you a new one.
Allison - 1992: I Can't Make You Love Me
Finally a song from the 90s! But what are you wearing? Did a buffalo die on your lap? Allison, you have a fantastic voice, but why does America not like you? Please try to stay out of the bottom three so we can get rid of some dead weight.
Matt - 1985: Part Time Lover
This is the Matt that I know and love. Good vocals, good performance.
Adam - 1982: Mad World
Very smart of Fox to have you perform last. You are well worth the wait. This song is super creepy, but you are sooooo good. And it looked like you were sitting on the sun.
In order of importance:
Adam
Allison
Danny
Matt
Kris
Scott
Lil
Anoop
Monday, March 16, 2009
I Been Got!
Spring is in full swing! Ok, officially not until Friday, but it sure felt like it today. I think it hit 60!
We're into the second week of softball season and, well, it's not looking good. Tryouts (or auditions, as I like to call them) are mercifully coming to a close. Today we took the outfielders outside in the parking lot to work on some pop-ups. It was a disaster! A girl would run in and the ball would fly over her head. The throws were all over the place. We lost a couple of balls in a snow bank, at least 1 went down a drain, and another hit a Student Driver car. Whoops!
Cameron and I have been on complete opposite schedules lately. He having school during the day and then working 3pm-10pm, me working mostly 7am-3pm with softball practice in the evenings. We did get to go out to dinner yesterday- juicy burgers at The 5-8 Club. So good! We saw the space shuttle Discovery launch between bites.
Cam told me not to forget to write that we also spent about 15 minutes picking up the poop in his yard. It was a 2-person job (well, it was a 2-dog job that required a 2-person pick-up). He sliced his tall man finger at work on Friday and needed a few stitches. The bleeding is controlled, but it's still pretty numb. Poor guy.
Work has been pretty hilarious lately. Over the weekend, a chubby 20-something black kid came in to be seen. Let's call him Joshua. I asked my usual, "So, what brings you here?"
Joshua: I been got!
Me: You've been shot?
Joshua: No, I been GOT!
Me: Ummm.. Whaaa???
Joshua: I. Been. Got!!! (pointing at his man-junk)
Me: You have an STD?
Joshua: I think so. My doctor called and told me to come here.
Me, searching through his electronic chart: Oh, you have Chlamydia.
Joshua: That's it! Whazzthat?
Me: It's an STD.
Joshua: You mean I'm burnt?!?
Me: What?
Joshua: I'm burnt! Is that contagious?
Me: Yeeaaahhh.
The conversation goes on, but by this point, I have uncontrollable giggles. He is laughing too. I continue to giggle through the next 3 people I triage, apologizing the entire time.
I have more to write, but I'm tired and want to go to bed. Happy St. Patty's day tomorrow!!!
We're into the second week of softball season and, well, it's not looking good. Tryouts (or auditions, as I like to call them) are mercifully coming to a close. Today we took the outfielders outside in the parking lot to work on some pop-ups. It was a disaster! A girl would run in and the ball would fly over her head. The throws were all over the place. We lost a couple of balls in a snow bank, at least 1 went down a drain, and another hit a Student Driver car. Whoops!
Cameron and I have been on complete opposite schedules lately. He having school during the day and then working 3pm-10pm, me working mostly 7am-3pm with softball practice in the evenings. We did get to go out to dinner yesterday- juicy burgers at The 5-8 Club. So good! We saw the space shuttle Discovery launch between bites.
Cam told me not to forget to write that we also spent about 15 minutes picking up the poop in his yard. It was a 2-person job (well, it was a 2-dog job that required a 2-person pick-up). He sliced his tall man finger at work on Friday and needed a few stitches. The bleeding is controlled, but it's still pretty numb. Poor guy.
Work has been pretty hilarious lately. Over the weekend, a chubby 20-something black kid came in to be seen. Let's call him Joshua. I asked my usual, "So, what brings you here?"
Joshua: I been got!
Me: You've been shot?
Joshua: No, I been GOT!
Me: Ummm.. Whaaa???
Joshua: I. Been. Got!!! (pointing at his man-junk)
Me: You have an STD?
Joshua: I think so. My doctor called and told me to come here.
Me, searching through his electronic chart: Oh, you have Chlamydia.
Joshua: That's it! Whazzthat?
Me: It's an STD.
Joshua: You mean I'm burnt?!?
Me: What?
Joshua: I'm burnt! Is that contagious?
Me: Yeeaaahhh.
The conversation goes on, but by this point, I have uncontrollable giggles. He is laughing too. I continue to giggle through the next 3 people I triage, apologizing the entire time.
I have more to write, but I'm tired and want to go to bed. Happy St. Patty's day tomorrow!!!
Saturday, February 21, 2009
Dog Days of Winter?
On the news tonight people were jumping into a lake for a good cause. I don't really understand this.
I am really looking forward to the Oscars tomorrow even though I haven't seen most of the movies.
I have been pain-free with my workouts and that makes me happy.
Cameron got a new job at a restaurant called the Porter House. He's still part-time at Stella's Fish Cafe. Steak and fish are all well and good, but I'm waiting for him to get a job at IHOC (International House of Cereal).
I don't mind a day of snow as long as a sunny day follows it up. As in today.
The high school softball season starts 2 weeks from Monday. I sense my schedule rapidly filling with practices and games...
Playing the piano alone in my empty condo makes me think of my Aunt Jan. I tend to melt into a puddle of tears before too long. Sometimes I think it's good to cry it out.
I am really looking forward to the Oscars tomorrow even though I haven't seen most of the movies.
I have been pain-free with my workouts and that makes me happy.
Cameron got a new job at a restaurant called the Porter House. He's still part-time at Stella's Fish Cafe. Steak and fish are all well and good, but I'm waiting for him to get a job at IHOC (International House of Cereal).
I don't mind a day of snow as long as a sunny day follows it up. As in today.
The high school softball season starts 2 weeks from Monday. I sense my schedule rapidly filling with practices and games...
Playing the piano alone in my empty condo makes me think of my Aunt Jan. I tend to melt into a puddle of tears before too long. Sometimes I think it's good to cry it out.
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
I forgot garbage day again!!! :(
I've had a busy last few days... I worked Thursday through Sunday. Thursday night I had some volleyball games. Friday night was the ER holiday party. (See the picture below- I look like a dweeb, but you can see my black hair.) Saturday night was a birthday celebration for my friend Chelsie. Sunday I had a bunch of people over to watch the Superbowl: we ate chili and make-your-own sundaes, with pistachio salad and guacamole and taco dip. Mmm.
Tonight I went to a play at the Guthrie called "A Delicate Balance". I had never been to a play before, and now I know why. No singing, no humor, no tragedy, no dancing, no audience participation. I was bored. I found myself counting the seconds between the loud rumbles in the stomach of the large man sitting next to me.
I've had the Jason Mraz song "I'm Yours" in my head the past few weeks, so much so that I'm trying to learn it on the guitar. It's not going well.
I am looking forward to my weekend off with no plans! Yahoo!
Tonight I went to a play at the Guthrie called "A Delicate Balance". I had never been to a play before, and now I know why. No singing, no humor, no tragedy, no dancing, no audience participation. I was bored. I found myself counting the seconds between the loud rumbles in the stomach of the large man sitting next to me.
I've had the Jason Mraz song "I'm Yours" in my head the past few weeks, so much so that I'm trying to learn it on the guitar. It's not going well.
I am looking forward to my weekend off with no plans! Yahoo!
Tuesday, January 27, 2009
Personal Trainer... or the devil?
So with a Lifetime membership you get a free assessment with a trainer, so I did this last night after work. And it was awful. My trainer Justin was a kid in his early 20's with large muscles and even bigger attitude. He was quite condescending, and pretty much made me feel awful about myself: I don't eat right and should be taking vitamins ("And, oh! We sell some right here!"), I don't do enough strength training ("You'll lose muscle mass as you head into your 40's."), I need to stretch more, monitor my heart rate ("I recommend this $150 GPS watch."), and my training regimen is lame ("You should get a personal trainer for only $99 a session!")
And then he would ask me questions to see if I was paying attention. I wanted to smack him. Instead, I just smiled and nodded and will go on with my life- sans personal trainer. So there.
Today I swam 20 laps in the pool with frequent breaks. I was told by an unreliable source that 34 laps is a mile, and I'm pretty sure my arms will fall off before I ever get there.
I work 3-11:30pm tonight, and plan to take a nap sometime before that. Or make banana bread. Or both.
And then he would ask me questions to see if I was paying attention. I wanted to smack him. Instead, I just smiled and nodded and will go on with my life- sans personal trainer. So there.
Today I swam 20 laps in the pool with frequent breaks. I was told by an unreliable source that 34 laps is a mile, and I'm pretty sure my arms will fall off before I ever get there.
I work 3-11:30pm tonight, and plan to take a nap sometime before that. Or make banana bread. Or both.
Saturday, January 24, 2009
Facebook vs Blogger
As obsessed I've been with Facebook lately, I'm finding that I want to say more that just "Jean is...". So here is a bit of an update on me:
I haven't run in almost 2 months because of the pain I've been having in my right hip/butt. I saw an opthopedic MD, and am now going to physical therapy once a week. PT is very helpful because, in addition to giving me exercises to strengthen my butt, they are helping improve my running form. I joined Lifetime Fitness in December, and it's been the BEST. I've been ellipticalling, rowing, biking, swimming, racquetballing, etc. Part of my therapy is to walk for 4 minutes, run for 1 minute. It's such a tease, but I'll take whatever running I can get at this point. So far, no pain!!
I recently registered to do a mini-triathlon in July. It's in and around Lake Nokomis in Minneapolis. Ellen kind of got me all excited about triathlons, but I'm terribly nervous. The swim is .4 miles, with a 15-mile bike and 3-mile run.
A week after the triathlon, I'm climbing Mt. Whitney in California with a high school friend, Jen Lowney Welter. It was her idea, and she has done all of the leg-work for the trip so far. I'm hoping to be more helpful in the near future. We will camp a couple of days before the hike for acclimatization. We will go with a guide, and it will take us 3 days, 2 nights. Apparently, the route can be done all in 1 day, but we figured since we're going all the way out there, we should take our time! It's located in Sequoia National Park, 14,505 feet above sea level.
The Emergency Room has been a place of much hilarity and learning for me. I'm now getting trained into triage, which is quite terrifying. I've come to learn that many people are mean and self-righteous, and I'm going to have to find a way to deal with them.
I am pretty sick of this cold weather. Right now the wind chill is -11 degrees. Just nasty. One good thing about the cold is that I've been watching a ton of movies. I highly recommend "Run, Fatboy, Run!" and "Burn After Reading". I still want to see "Slumdog Millionaire", "Mama Mia", and a slew of others.
I'm still dating Cameron, a guy I met at the hospital in 2007. We've been going out since June, and so far so good! He's in culinary school and also working at Stella's Fish Cafe a few nights a week. And yes, I'm reaping all the benefits.
I dyed my hair black last week, and it's been hard to get used to. My Facebook "friends" on are insisting on a picture, so I will try to post one when I get a chance.
That's all I have for now. I hope to update this blog with some regularity
I haven't run in almost 2 months because of the pain I've been having in my right hip/butt. I saw an opthopedic MD, and am now going to physical therapy once a week. PT is very helpful because, in addition to giving me exercises to strengthen my butt, they are helping improve my running form. I joined Lifetime Fitness in December, and it's been the BEST. I've been ellipticalling, rowing, biking, swimming, racquetballing, etc. Part of my therapy is to walk for 4 minutes, run for 1 minute. It's such a tease, but I'll take whatever running I can get at this point. So far, no pain!!
I recently registered to do a mini-triathlon in July. It's in and around Lake Nokomis in Minneapolis. Ellen kind of got me all excited about triathlons, but I'm terribly nervous. The swim is .4 miles, with a 15-mile bike and 3-mile run.
A week after the triathlon, I'm climbing Mt. Whitney in California with a high school friend, Jen Lowney Welter. It was her idea, and she has done all of the leg-work for the trip so far. I'm hoping to be more helpful in the near future. We will camp a couple of days before the hike for acclimatization. We will go with a guide, and it will take us 3 days, 2 nights. Apparently, the route can be done all in 1 day, but we figured since we're going all the way out there, we should take our time! It's located in Sequoia National Park, 14,505 feet above sea level.
The Emergency Room has been a place of much hilarity and learning for me. I'm now getting trained into triage, which is quite terrifying. I've come to learn that many people are mean and self-righteous, and I'm going to have to find a way to deal with them.
I am pretty sick of this cold weather. Right now the wind chill is -11 degrees. Just nasty. One good thing about the cold is that I've been watching a ton of movies. I highly recommend "Run, Fatboy, Run!" and "Burn After Reading". I still want to see "Slumdog Millionaire", "Mama Mia", and a slew of others.
I'm still dating Cameron, a guy I met at the hospital in 2007. We've been going out since June, and so far so good! He's in culinary school and also working at Stella's Fish Cafe a few nights a week. And yes, I'm reaping all the benefits.
I dyed my hair black last week, and it's been hard to get used to. My Facebook "friends" on are insisting on a picture, so I will try to post one when I get a chance.
That's all I have for now. I hope to update this blog with some regularity
Thursday, July 3, 2008
Broken Promises
I ran this morning. I didn't mean to, I didn't plan to, it just happened! I woke up at 6am and the sun was shining. I didn't have to work until 9am, but I couldn't fall back asleep. So I strapped on my running shoes and jogged a quick 3 miles. Let me tell you, after running 26.2, 3 miles was like a walk in the park!
It was a great day at work today. I worked with some awesome people, which makes all the difference. Most of my patients were looney-tooney, but nothing terrible.
Speaking of nothing terrible, I ate sushi or the first time tonight! Honestly, it wasn't bad. I would never intentionally go to a sushi restaurant or order it again, but I didn't vomit, either.
I can hear some fireworks going off now. I hope everyone has a happy 4th of July!
It was a great day at work today. I worked with some awesome people, which makes all the difference. Most of my patients were looney-tooney, but nothing terrible.
Speaking of nothing terrible, I ate sushi or the first time tonight! Honestly, it wasn't bad. I would never intentionally go to a sushi restaurant or order it again, but I didn't vomit, either.
I can hear some fireworks going off now. I hope everyone has a happy 4th of July!
Tuesday, July 1, 2008
Harriet Truman and her Troubadours
Meg drove me to the airport early Friday morning and I got the very last seat on American's flight 545 to Chicago. Mom and Dad were waiting for me at the Kiss-N-Fly at the other end. I feel like it had been a long time since I was home. Is it weird that I still call Rolling Meadows home?
Mom made French Toast for lunch, we scored big at a sweet estate sale (Post-its for everyone!!), then I hopped on the Metra to see Ellen and Eric and their new apartment in Wicker Park. It's set up a lot like her old apartment, but there is a fantastic winding staircase in the living room leading up to the upstairs. They already have lots of decorations up and the walls and windows are adorned with stained glass treasures made by Ellen. Anyway, I thought the apartment was adorable, as are E & E.
Saturday morning Mom and I went to the high school and played a little tennis. It was so great to hit the ball around for awhile. I miss doing that!
Mom, Dad and I drove into Chicago for the wedding of my cousin Tom and (his now wife) Julie. The weather was perfect: sunny and mid-70s. The ceremony was lovely (even though the priest was a White Sox fan), and although I am not usually emotional at these kind of events, the a cappella Ave Maria and the bag pipers escorting the couple down the aisle got me a little choked up.
The reception was typical Ryan insanity and lots of fun. Here is a picture with some of my cousins that I had to steal from Bridget's Blog because my camera was collecting dust back in St. Paul.
Sunday morning I tried to visit my Grandma Evans, but she had gone on an excursion to Mundelein with some of the other residents. Ellen came out to the 'burbs and we all played Canasta and ate salmon. I flew back to the cities late Sunday night and got in around 1am.
I went canoeing down the St. Croix on Monday afternoon, went to the Ft. Snelling beach with Meg and the kids Tuesday morning, and didn't have to work until Tuesday afternoon! What a long, lovely weekend! I wish I could have 4-day weekends all the time. They make me so happy!
ps: For those wondering, I have so far been able to keep the promise to my legs: I have not run since the marathon. However, I have a feeling I will be breaking that promise soon. The weather is just too beautiful and the doughnuts are just too tasty.
Mom made French Toast for lunch, we scored big at a sweet estate sale (Post-its for everyone!!), then I hopped on the Metra to see Ellen and Eric and their new apartment in Wicker Park. It's set up a lot like her old apartment, but there is a fantastic winding staircase in the living room leading up to the upstairs. They already have lots of decorations up and the walls and windows are adorned with stained glass treasures made by Ellen. Anyway, I thought the apartment was adorable, as are E & E.
Saturday morning Mom and I went to the high school and played a little tennis. It was so great to hit the ball around for awhile. I miss doing that!
Mom, Dad and I drove into Chicago for the wedding of my cousin Tom and (his now wife) Julie. The weather was perfect: sunny and mid-70s. The ceremony was lovely (even though the priest was a White Sox fan), and although I am not usually emotional at these kind of events, the a cappella Ave Maria and the bag pipers escorting the couple down the aisle got me a little choked up.
The reception was typical Ryan insanity and lots of fun. Here is a picture with some of my cousins that I had to steal from Bridget's Blog because my camera was collecting dust back in St. Paul.
Sunday morning I tried to visit my Grandma Evans, but she had gone on an excursion to Mundelein with some of the other residents. Ellen came out to the 'burbs and we all played Canasta and ate salmon. I flew back to the cities late Sunday night and got in around 1am.
I went canoeing down the St. Croix on Monday afternoon, went to the Ft. Snelling beach with Meg and the kids Tuesday morning, and didn't have to work until Tuesday afternoon! What a long, lovely weekend! I wish I could have 4-day weekends all the time. They make me so happy!
ps: For those wondering, I have so far been able to keep the promise to my legs: I have not run since the marathon. However, I have a feeling I will be breaking that promise soon. The weather is just too beautiful and the doughnuts are just too tasty.
Monday, June 23, 2008
26.2 - Grandma Style!
Well, I've done it again. My second marathon has come and gone, and I am left (proverbially) licking my (literal) wounds. And here's how it went down:
Meg, mom and I packed up the car Friday afternoon and drove north to Duluth. We heard that a lane was closed on the interstate entering the city, so we took the Skyline Parkway to avoid some of the congestion. It was a beautiful detour, even with the occasional downpour. I picked up my race packet at the DECC, then we checked into the hotel. (Donna was able to use her connections to get us a room at the Sheraton with a lovely view of Lake Superior!) We walked back to Canal Park, ate a spaghetti dinner, then back to the hotel and waited for Dad, Joel, Lucy and Eddie. The 4 of them spent the night in the UMD dorms (so as not to disturb my pre-marathon slumber).
I was able to get a few decent hours of sleep, but I woke up around 3am wide awake and waiting for my alarms to go off. I think 5 were set this year - just in case! I showered, got dressed, and ate a bowl of cereal. Mom and Meg walked the 2 blocks with me to Fitgers where I hopped on a school bus headed for the start of the marathon in Two Harbors, MN.
The bus ride up there seemed to take FOREVER, and the only thing I could think of was that I had to run all the way back. They dumped us off in a huge area with thousands of port-a-potties and even more runners wandering about. It was as close to feeling like being in a concentration camp as I ever want to be: thousands of skinny people wondering what horrible fate lies ahead. There was a moment of silence for last year's winner, Wesly Ngetich, who was killed while on a peace-keeping mission in Kenya early this year. There was a fly-by by two fighter planes, the National Anthem was sung, and we were off!
I got to the starting line about 7 minutes after the gun (pretty standard). I'm not sure of the starting temperature, but I know I was quite comfortable. The first 3 miles were a breeze. Around mile 4, two runners had moved off to the side up ahead of me. It looked like the guy knelt down to tie his shoe, but then he proposed to the girl he had been running with! It was so adorable, and hundreds of runners passing by (including me) were cheering and clapping for them. At mile 9, Al Franken (Stuart Smalley) was standing on the side and he gave me a high-five. As I ran towards mile 13, I could see large gold pom-pons flying around, and then I saw them! Meg and my mom were cheering and jumping and screaming! I totally needed to see them. It was like a beacon of light! If I had been any less dehydrated, I would have cried. I had been feeling pretty good up to that point, running just under 10-minute miles, and I could tell they were a bit surprised to see me so soon.
I kept on running, drinking at every water station available. In addition to water, they had lemonade-flavored Ultima for us, so I would usually grab a cup of each. Sometimes the volunteers would sneak an ice cube into the cups which was an extra treat! They also had large, wet, cold sponges which I doused myself with mostly in the later miles. Mom and Meg were on bikes, so I would see them periodically throughout the run: always cheering, holding signs, high-kicking. Awesome.
I made it up the dreaded Lemon Drop Hill at mile 22, but that's where the fun stopped. From that point on would be the longest 4.2 miles of my life. Nothing hurt, but I was completely drained. Mom and Meg met up with Dad, Joel, Lu & Ed at mile 24, and I don't really remember seeing them.
With less than 1 mile left to go, I realized that I could potentially beat my time from last fall, so I started bargaining with my legs... "If you can just keep going for, like, 10 more minutes, I won't... run for a month! Or a year! Or ever again!!"
With 1/2 mile to go, a slightly overweight middle-aged lady with cute chin-length brown hair shouted out, "Jean, you can do this!!" (My name was written down my arm.) I think I mumbled, "Ok, fine! Geez!" and I plugged through to the finish line.
And then it was over: 4 hours, 49 minutes, and 26 seconds after the starting gun went off. My chip time (time from actually crossing the starting line to crossing the finish line) was 4:41:57. I was about 6-7 minutes faster than last time!
So that's my story and I'm stickin' to it. Thanks to everyone for the support and good wishes! I'm hoping to post some pictures soon. Here's a preview! :)
Thursday, June 19, 2008
Last Run
I finished my last run before the marathon! I ran two little miles around the streets of West St Paul on this lovely Thursday morning.
I just talked to my parents who are driving up to the cities as we speak. They should be around Madison by now. We plan on leaving for Duluth (along with Meg, Joel, and the kids) sometime tomorrow. I'm hoping for nice weather, and I'm pretty sure I'm going to get it.
I made my "must remember to pack" list this morning, and I think I'm set. I just really want this thing to be over with! AAAUGHH!! I'm terribly nervous.
I just talked to my parents who are driving up to the cities as we speak. They should be around Madison by now. We plan on leaving for Duluth (along with Meg, Joel, and the kids) sometime tomorrow. I'm hoping for nice weather, and I'm pretty sure I'm going to get it.
I made my "must remember to pack" list this morning, and I think I'm set. I just really want this thing to be over with! AAAUGHH!! I'm terribly nervous.
Sunday, June 15, 2008
Bamos the Bear!
If ever there was a perfect day, this one comes close. Nothing earth-shattering happened, but who needs earth-shattering? I was able to:
1)Make a phone call to my fabulous father to wish him a very happy Father's Day.
2)Go for a lovely 4.5 mile run in the morning.
3)Complete a successful shopping trip for a running tank, socks, and shot blocks.
4)Watch the Twins game on TV (flipping occasionally to see Tiger Woods).
5)Play in two softball games in Hastings.
6)Watch the Tony awards.
7)Do a round of dishes and laundry.
AND, it was sunny, mid-70's, with a gentle breeze. Ridiculous.
It is now under a week until Grandma's Marathon, and I think I have moved on from my "absolutely terrified" phase. I seem to be in some kind of "whatever happens, happens" phase. I've done what I can. I rest Monday, run 3 miles on Tuesday, 4 on Wednesday, 2 on Thursday. I drive to Duluth on Friday and run this bad boy on Saturday.
1)Make a phone call to my fabulous father to wish him a very happy Father's Day.
2)Go for a lovely 4.5 mile run in the morning.
3)Complete a successful shopping trip for a running tank, socks, and shot blocks.
4)Watch the Twins game on TV (flipping occasionally to see Tiger Woods).
5)Play in two softball games in Hastings.
6)Watch the Tony awards.
7)Do a round of dishes and laundry.
AND, it was sunny, mid-70's, with a gentle breeze. Ridiculous.
It is now under a week until Grandma's Marathon, and I think I have moved on from my "absolutely terrified" phase. I seem to be in some kind of "whatever happens, happens" phase. I've done what I can. I rest Monday, run 3 miles on Tuesday, 4 on Wednesday, 2 on Thursday. I drive to Duluth on Friday and run this bad boy on Saturday.
Tuesday, June 3, 2008
Rollerbladers and Bikers and Runners... Oh My!!!
Last Friday was my 20-mile run. Mom and dad drove up the night before to help assist (this is becoming a tradition). Friday morning dad watched the kids while Meg, mom and I headed out. Meg was on rollerblades, mom on my bike, me on my feet. It was cloudy and cool- perfect conditions! Mom and Meg gabbed while I ran 4 miles to the top of Lake Phalen, 12 miles along the Gateway Trail, and another 4 back home. It was a tough run for me only because I was exhausted! It took me almost 20 minutes longer than my 20-miler last fall. I definitely walked more than I wanted to, but I did finish with very little pain, which is nice. Mom and Meg switched wheels around the 16-mile mark, and mom only fell twice on the rollerblades (that I could see). After the second fall I insisted she blade in back of me because she was making me so nervous. Both falls were mostly in the grass, and she rolled very well.
I played in a softball tournament Saturday and Sunday in Shakopee. We played 2 games Sat, 5 games Sun. I pitched all 7 and was only hit once. Unfortunately it was a line drive that hit the inside part of my right foot- the same spot that had been bothering me that last couple of months from running. What are the chances? Initially it was super-painful, but now, 2 days later, there isn't even a bruise. We took second place in the tourney, losing in the championship game. The weather was gorgeous, and I think it's my favorite thing to be playing softball all weekend.
I ran about 4.5 miles Monday, and I felt like I had elephant legs. Today, however, I ran 6.5 miles and felt just great. I can't figure myself out. Also, I am finding multiple blisters on my toes, and I have lost one toenail. Although it's not painful, it's also not aesthetically pleasing to the eye.
I think I have some funny work stories, but I'm tired and want to go to sleep now.
I played in a softball tournament Saturday and Sunday in Shakopee. We played 2 games Sat, 5 games Sun. I pitched all 7 and was only hit once. Unfortunately it was a line drive that hit the inside part of my right foot- the same spot that had been bothering me that last couple of months from running. What are the chances? Initially it was super-painful, but now, 2 days later, there isn't even a bruise. We took second place in the tourney, losing in the championship game. The weather was gorgeous, and I think it's my favorite thing to be playing softball all weekend.
I ran about 4.5 miles Monday, and I felt like I had elephant legs. Today, however, I ran 6.5 miles and felt just great. I can't figure myself out. Also, I am finding multiple blisters on my toes, and I have lost one toenail. Although it's not painful, it's also not aesthetically pleasing to the eye.
I think I have some funny work stories, but I'm tired and want to go to sleep now.
Gotta Love 'Em!
Ok, let's work backwards here.
Last night: Went to the Twins game with Meg and Deena and Donna. Donna got the tickets from a coworker and not only were they FREE, they were fantastic seats! Row 11 (there were only actually 6 rows in front of us) between home plate and the start of the Twins dugout. SO CLOSE. The Yankees were in town, and I had never seen them play in person.
Yankees: Tight pants, broken bats, bulging muscles and arm veins. Hideki Matsui for SURE not wearing a cup.
Boyfriend-on-boyfriend action: Michael Cuddyer throws out Derek Jeter trying to stretch a single into a double. Next inning, Yankees can't throw out Cuddyer who stretches a single into a double. Derek and Cuddles discuss the 2 plays at second base. *Swoon*
Great finish: Mauer hits a solo home run to tie the game at 5 apiece in the 7th. In the 8th, Little Nicky Punto moves Cuddles to 3rd (following his spectacular double), Delmon Young lines a double to right to score Cuddles, Joe Nathan shuts down the Yankees in the 9th.
I totally have to go to work now, but more on the weekend to follow, including a 20-mile run and a weekend full of softball.
Last night: Went to the Twins game with Meg and Deena and Donna. Donna got the tickets from a coworker and not only were they FREE, they were fantastic seats! Row 11 (there were only actually 6 rows in front of us) between home plate and the start of the Twins dugout. SO CLOSE. The Yankees were in town, and I had never seen them play in person.
Yankees: Tight pants, broken bats, bulging muscles and arm veins. Hideki Matsui for SURE not wearing a cup.
Boyfriend-on-boyfriend action: Michael Cuddyer throws out Derek Jeter trying to stretch a single into a double. Next inning, Yankees can't throw out Cuddyer who stretches a single into a double. Derek and Cuddles discuss the 2 plays at second base. *Swoon*
Great finish: Mauer hits a solo home run to tie the game at 5 apiece in the 7th. In the 8th, Little Nicky Punto moves Cuddles to 3rd (following his spectacular double), Delmon Young lines a double to right to score Cuddles, Joe Nathan shuts down the Yankees in the 9th.
I totally have to go to work now, but more on the weekend to follow, including a 20-mile run and a weekend full of softball.
Sunday, May 18, 2008
A day without softball is like a day without sunshine.
But that day was not today. Or yesterday! I coached our B-Squad tournament yesterday in South St. Paul. We lost. It was ugly. We only had 9 girls for the last 2 games because a few of them had to go get their hair done for Prom. Seriously. They are sophomores! Anyway, it is a huge relief to have that season over with.
I then played in my own tournament in Roseville with the O&S girls. I missed the first 3 games on Saturday because of coaching, but I played in the 4th game which we won. This morning we played at 10am and we lost, knocking us out. Bummer! It was a perfect day for playing.
Instead, I ran 18 miles. Meg biked next to me, and it was a very difficult run. The weather was great- 60s (I think?), sunny, not too breezy. I didn't hurt anywhere (except for a little chafing under my left arm- ow!), there weren't too many hills, I was just really tired. I walked a bit, more towards the end. Meg was helpful, telling me I looked good and salty.
I showered this evening and opened up a new shave gel. It's called Alluring Avocado and it felt like I was spreading guacamole into my armpits. Gross.
I then played in my own tournament in Roseville with the O&S girls. I missed the first 3 games on Saturday because of coaching, but I played in the 4th game which we won. This morning we played at 10am and we lost, knocking us out. Bummer! It was a perfect day for playing.
Instead, I ran 18 miles. Meg biked next to me, and it was a very difficult run. The weather was great- 60s (I think?), sunny, not too breezy. I didn't hurt anywhere (except for a little chafing under my left arm- ow!), there weren't too many hills, I was just really tired. I walked a bit, more towards the end. Meg was helpful, telling me I looked good and salty.
I showered this evening and opened up a new shave gel. It's called Alluring Avocado and it felt like I was spreading guacamole into my armpits. Gross.
Monday, May 12, 2008
Happy Belated Mother's Day!
Every year I have a Survivor practice with the girls. I split them into 2 tribes, give them buffs, and have them complete in a series of challenges. Here are pictures of the 2 teams this year:
The girls were really good sports, and the weather was perfect. We play 3 games this week, another 3 in our tournament on Saturday, then we're done!
Friday night I went to the Twins game with some friends. We were playing the Red Sox, a team I have never seen play live. It was a thrilling game, and the Twins ended up winning, down 5-6 with 2 outs in the bottom of the 9th. Mike Lamb hit a single to left that scored 2 runs for the win. And the crowd went wild! Here's us earlier in the game...
Meg rollerbladed the first 45 minutes of my 12-miler this morning. It took me 2 hours and 5 minutes to finish, and I felt just fine the whole way. We went along Shepard/Warner Road and it was a beautiful morning. We probably could have done without the breezes at the end, but it wasn't all that terrible. I've been cheating a bit on my shorter week-day runs because I've been so busy, but I think as long as I still do one long run a week I should be ok. I'll definitely have more time after this week.
At work on Saturday, a guy came in with left ear pain and trouble hearing. I took a look and he had a ton of wax in there. So, I got a syringe and a warm water/hydrogen peroxide mix and I irrigated his ear out. A bunch of nasty wax and what-not came pouring out, and after the third irrigation, he was in no pain and he could hear! I sent him home feeling like a successful ER nurse.
On Sunday an ambulance brought in a guy having an acute MI (heart attack). At the time he arrived, we had no other patients in back, so each nurse took a task (IV starter, drug giver, recorder/charted, protocol enterer, putting the patient into a gown and hooking him up to the monitors, and so forth.) In 16 minutes all the big drugs had been started (Integrelin, Heparin, etc.) and he was on his way up the the Cath Lab. In 52 minutes, the vessel was opened up and he was doing great! Goal time is apparently 30 minutes from door to Cath Lab and 90 minutes from door to completion of catheterization. We were all high-fiving each other afterwards. It was pretty cool.
The girls were really good sports, and the weather was perfect. We play 3 games this week, another 3 in our tournament on Saturday, then we're done!
Friday night I went to the Twins game with some friends. We were playing the Red Sox, a team I have never seen play live. It was a thrilling game, and the Twins ended up winning, down 5-6 with 2 outs in the bottom of the 9th. Mike Lamb hit a single to left that scored 2 runs for the win. And the crowd went wild! Here's us earlier in the game...
Meg rollerbladed the first 45 minutes of my 12-miler this morning. It took me 2 hours and 5 minutes to finish, and I felt just fine the whole way. We went along Shepard/Warner Road and it was a beautiful morning. We probably could have done without the breezes at the end, but it wasn't all that terrible. I've been cheating a bit on my shorter week-day runs because I've been so busy, but I think as long as I still do one long run a week I should be ok. I'll definitely have more time after this week.
At work on Saturday, a guy came in with left ear pain and trouble hearing. I took a look and he had a ton of wax in there. So, I got a syringe and a warm water/hydrogen peroxide mix and I irrigated his ear out. A bunch of nasty wax and what-not came pouring out, and after the third irrigation, he was in no pain and he could hear! I sent him home feeling like a successful ER nurse.
On Sunday an ambulance brought in a guy having an acute MI (heart attack). At the time he arrived, we had no other patients in back, so each nurse took a task (IV starter, drug giver, recorder/charted, protocol enterer, putting the patient into a gown and hooking him up to the monitors, and so forth.) In 16 minutes all the big drugs had been started (Integrelin, Heparin, etc.) and he was on his way up the the Cath Lab. In 52 minutes, the vessel was opened up and he was doing great! Goal time is apparently 30 minutes from door to Cath Lab and 90 minutes from door to completion of catheterization. We were all high-fiving each other afterwards. It was pretty cool.
Sunday, May 4, 2008
Conditions are perfect!
It's Sunday, and my 5 days of not working at the hospital is coming to an end.I actually thought about picking up a shift but my fingers couldn't quite dial the numbers.
My B-Squadders scrimmaged the 9th grade team on Thursday, which was not particularly helpful to my girls. It amazes me how much players change (usually for the better) between 9th and 10th grades, and then also from 10th grade to 11th and 12th. Anyway, I cancelled Friday's practice because it poured all day and the thought of another indoor practice made me a little queasy.
Meg and I ran on Saturday almost 4.5 miles. We had an interesting experience... some guy was running with his teen-aged son, and as we approached them the dad held up his hand (as if to say hello). He raised it a little earlier than to be expected which probably no one would have deemed unusual except for Meg and myself, both thinking that we maybe knew the guy. We didn't. Halfway through our run we turned around to head back to our car. Apparently the guy and his son were doing the same thing at the other end, because we were about to cross paths with them again. As we did, the guy yelled out, "Hey! Are you two twins?" We both laughed out a "No", to which he replied, "Well, it looks like it!" or something like that. I think I yelled a thank you, but then they were gone. So weird. I felt like we were a spectacle! A sight to behold! Like afterwards he was telling his son, "Remember this day as the day you almost saw TWINS!!"
Later that evening I went to see Hill Murray High School's production of Footloose with Meg and Lucy. It was a decent production, and Lucy was just a little antsy throughout. The best part by far was Lu's 20-minute interpretive dance during intermission.
Today I needed to do a long run (more than 10 miles, less than 20). Meg was going to bike with me, but I couldn't figure out how to put air into the tires on my bike. I felt a little ridiculous, but I had 2 pumps and neither were making my tires more inflated. So Meg strapped up the rollerblades (much to her dismay) and we were off. We went up to Phalen and the Gateway, then back to their house. It was a little over 11 miles, but it felt like 20 to me. Ugh!
I really liked this story I read this morning:
http://msn.foxsports.com/olympics/story/8091708?MSNHPHCP>1=39002
My B-Squadders scrimmaged the 9th grade team on Thursday, which was not particularly helpful to my girls. It amazes me how much players change (usually for the better) between 9th and 10th grades, and then also from 10th grade to 11th and 12th. Anyway, I cancelled Friday's practice because it poured all day and the thought of another indoor practice made me a little queasy.
Meg and I ran on Saturday almost 4.5 miles. We had an interesting experience... some guy was running with his teen-aged son, and as we approached them the dad held up his hand (as if to say hello). He raised it a little earlier than to be expected which probably no one would have deemed unusual except for Meg and myself, both thinking that we maybe knew the guy. We didn't. Halfway through our run we turned around to head back to our car. Apparently the guy and his son were doing the same thing at the other end, because we were about to cross paths with them again. As we did, the guy yelled out, "Hey! Are you two twins?" We both laughed out a "No", to which he replied, "Well, it looks like it!" or something like that. I think I yelled a thank you, but then they were gone. So weird. I felt like we were a spectacle! A sight to behold! Like afterwards he was telling his son, "Remember this day as the day you almost saw TWINS!!"
Later that evening I went to see Hill Murray High School's production of Footloose with Meg and Lucy. It was a decent production, and Lucy was just a little antsy throughout. The best part by far was Lu's 20-minute interpretive dance during intermission.
Today I needed to do a long run (more than 10 miles, less than 20). Meg was going to bike with me, but I couldn't figure out how to put air into the tires on my bike. I felt a little ridiculous, but I had 2 pumps and neither were making my tires more inflated. So Meg strapped up the rollerblades (much to her dismay) and we were off. We went up to Phalen and the Gateway, then back to their house. It was a little over 11 miles, but it felt like 20 to me. Ugh!
I really liked this story I read this morning:
http://msn.foxsports.com/olympics/story/8091708?MSNHPHCP>1=39002
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