I decided to do back to back RPMs today as today was a non 'work' day. Arguably that's the upside of contracting. I couldn't work because I'm dependent on recieveing some information from an external source.
First session was with AK - who like the Tuesday instructor is a LM PT. He's the guy who is bit "mean" - not nasty mean - just mean in a PT way that you expected to train hard or go home kind of way. Fair enough too. He played "Why", and "Delerium" for the "old" people in the room - which I guess is me, actually! - well compared to the 20 and 30 somethings!. I like those tracks - being top of the favourites list really. He has a lot of emphasis on riding to the rythm of the music. I like the way he does that re listening to the beat. It does make for a better ride. He's mean - but not really and I respect him for being a good instructor. His track no 7 was Night train. That's probably my favourite track 7. It's quite a hard ride though.
Second session was with the Hutt girl - and her tracks were pretty much what I started RPM riding to. and then she puts in Night Train as track 7. Oh no........I like it but riding twice to it is quite hard.
Anyway, good double ride today. The goal is to go to RPM again tomorrow. Last time I did a double ride, I used it as a bit of an excuse to have too many rest days afterwards which of course defeats the purpose of double riding.
I will be class tomorrow - if it kills me - it wont of course. And even if I am physically tired, the mental adrenalin will kick in.
I will be class tomorrow, because today's RPM was RPM 99 :-) Yes, that's right. Tomorrow will be 100 RPM day. I'll be riding it with the Young American who I've only ever riden once with before. In some ways that will be good for reasons I'll post about tomorrow!
Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Perspective
Here's one of my wedding photos:
Yes, the perspective is not right - although it is centred.
More photos to come - now that I know how. Probably though not of the wedding.
Take back the city
Good workout today. Today being Tuesday, so 12.30 with the PT @ RPM while the Tuesday instructor for the 11.30 is away. Started well with the PT playing Heather Small's "what have you done to make yourself feel proud". I love his selection in music. Somtimes he surprises me when he plays stuff like that, because I would have thought it wasn't cool for him - but that's it. he knows how to work the room. Its a different work the room from the Hutt girl. That's why its good to experience different instructor styles. Then he played a few old tracks including Take Back the City and Night Train.
I was still physically a little bit agnst from the stuff at the weekend, so a good physical workout was needed. Seated next door to my old new friend - the Body Balance Lady - and with the PT at the front of the room, good music, it was another good workout.
My legs can still feel the burn as I write this.
Closing in the 100 rpm. I know I'm posting that regualarly - but i am. I'm almost there! Almost! Just need to "go all the way" this week, and then there will the 100rpm post. Sweet!
I was still physically a little bit agnst from the stuff at the weekend, so a good physical workout was needed. Seated next door to my old new friend - the Body Balance Lady - and with the PT at the front of the room, good music, it was another good workout.
My legs can still feel the burn as I write this.
Closing in the 100 rpm. I know I'm posting that regualarly - but i am. I'm almost there! Almost! Just need to "go all the way" this week, and then there will the 100rpm post. Sweet!
Monday, August 29, 2011
Lady Gaga
Quick thought for the day: I have a long way to go to look like Lady Gaga.
Do I want to look like Lady Gaga? Yes. No. Maybe.
Born this way is on the new RPM release. Its going to burn the new release. Reverts to some good solid dance/trance tracks. That's what I like most at RPM. Another good track being Disarm Yourself - sort of like Tiesto's "in the dark".
Didn't get to to the gym today. My short term contract will soon be over. Eeek. Eeek. That's a double eek! Oh well, I can get back to double rpm sessions - if I really want to look like Lady Gaga.
Yes. No. Maybe! No buts!
Do I want to look like Lady Gaga? Yes. No. Maybe.
Born this way is on the new RPM release. Its going to burn the new release. Reverts to some good solid dance/trance tracks. That's what I like most at RPM. Another good track being Disarm Yourself - sort of like Tiesto's "in the dark".
Didn't get to to the gym today. My short term contract will soon be over. Eeek. Eeek. That's a double eek! Oh well, I can get back to double rpm sessions - if I really want to look like Lady Gaga.
Yes. No. Maybe! No buts!
Sunday, August 28, 2011
Tracks
Re the weekend that has just been: "some things are better left unsaid"....other than merely to note I'm not happy, not happy at all about some things that occured, and as a result think I may have disconnected myself from my neice - which I find incredibly, sad, actually. Or, she may have disconnected herself from me (and other members of her family). Heck, as a result, I think there is something in the world the ex brother in law and I would totally agree on here in terms of a certain "accpetability factor' re appropriate behaviour. Not an ideal conclusion to the weekend.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F9BFMqt76ak
Still, there comes a time when you have to make choices, even when they are the wrong ones. Hopefully, one day she will see that there are also consequences to the choices, both in the little and big choices.
There are some nice cycle tracks around Havelock North area. I keep looking at the landscape and think that would make a good bike ride.
I should close in on the 100RPM goal this week. That's my focus for the week.
A few hours later:....a phone call may have gone some way to triggering the forgiveness thing. somtimes its hard being the 'bigger person' eh - and I'm not just talking in the physical sense: although that too can be true.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F9BFMqt76ak
Still, there comes a time when you have to make choices, even when they are the wrong ones. Hopefully, one day she will see that there are also consequences to the choices, both in the little and big choices.
There are some nice cycle tracks around Havelock North area. I keep looking at the landscape and think that would make a good bike ride.
I should close in on the 100RPM goal this week. That's my focus for the week.
A few hours later:....a phone call may have gone some way to triggering the forgiveness thing. somtimes its hard being the 'bigger person' eh - and I'm not just talking in the physical sense: although that too can be true.
Friday, August 26, 2011
Daffidol day
Today is daffidol day. Every day is daffidol day in my heart. Actually, I do love spring. Mainly becasue as a season it has often represented some of my best times and experinces - especially Fruhling in Prien/Germany. I guess Spring for me represents that whole thing there is actually hope and as a gardener it is one of the most exciting times of the gardening year - as things burst into life again.
One of my readers once asked me why I support Lance Armstrong. Firstly, the main reason actually is becasue he has used his recognition factor to get off his arse and do awesome work through his Foundation for people with cancer. That is my number one reason given all my family seem to die of cancer. He makes a difference in a meaningful way. Secondly, it's summed up this quote:
"This is my body and I can do whatever I want to it. I can push it. Study it. Tweak it. Listen to it. Everybody wants to know what I'm on. What am I on? I'm on my bike busting my ass 6 hrs a day. What are you on?" ~ Lance Armstrong"
My exercise today is rushing round the house tidying and cleaning, in an anticipation of the Hawkes Bay pick up later this afternoon. The housefrau stuff is not quite the chore it was now that I've had a solid staycation. So, if I go "harder and faster" in the next hour or so, I should still have time for a one hour bike ride.
This weekend is the big wedding. Should at least be "interesting" for a number of reasons. I'll probably give myself a leave of absence on the abstince thing. The wine, food and coffee are gauranteed to be good given the "bride and groom" are in the "hospo" game - the groom being a Mojo franchise man. Although I suspect they would think the term hospo to be low brow!
I'll try and get some walking in around the local (Hawkes Bay local) vineyards. Timing this weekend will probably mean I miss both the Sunday ride and opportunity to go to RPM. Which is a shame because it looks like weather is turning back into Spring weather - crisp and fine. No need to light the fire and risk burning the house down!
Will miss Saturday's posting because I'll be eating and drinking (unfortunately, I don't think there will be dancing - I actually like dancing - same reasons as RPM I guess - becasue you allow your body to connect to the music) but be back on Sunday night...
13 weeks to go!
One of my readers once asked me why I support Lance Armstrong. Firstly, the main reason actually is becasue he has used his recognition factor to get off his arse and do awesome work through his Foundation for people with cancer. That is my number one reason given all my family seem to die of cancer. He makes a difference in a meaningful way. Secondly, it's summed up this quote:
"This is my body and I can do whatever I want to it. I can push it. Study it. Tweak it. Listen to it. Everybody wants to know what I'm on. What am I on? I'm on my bike busting my ass 6 hrs a day. What are you on?" ~ Lance Armstrong"
My exercise today is rushing round the house tidying and cleaning, in an anticipation of the Hawkes Bay pick up later this afternoon. The housefrau stuff is not quite the chore it was now that I've had a solid staycation. So, if I go "harder and faster" in the next hour or so, I should still have time for a one hour bike ride.
This weekend is the big wedding. Should at least be "interesting" for a number of reasons. I'll probably give myself a leave of absence on the abstince thing. The wine, food and coffee are gauranteed to be good given the "bride and groom" are in the "hospo" game - the groom being a Mojo franchise man. Although I suspect they would think the term hospo to be low brow!
I'll try and get some walking in around the local (Hawkes Bay local) vineyards. Timing this weekend will probably mean I miss both the Sunday ride and opportunity to go to RPM. Which is a shame because it looks like weather is turning back into Spring weather - crisp and fine. No need to light the fire and risk burning the house down!
Will miss Saturday's posting because I'll be eating and drinking (unfortunately, I don't think there will be dancing - I actually like dancing - same reasons as RPM I guess - becasue you allow your body to connect to the music) but be back on Sunday night...
13 weeks to go!
Thursday, August 25, 2011
Rivers and lakes
No workout today. Technically a "rest day". This allows me to talk about the rivers on my legs. I know, that's quite personal. But I have fricken river arteries (literally) on my legs. In particular on my left leg. They are not really varicose veins. I asked my GP about it and while she doesn't really know, she reckons eventually they will go down. I conclude my legs are confused. They know they are being worked harder than normal, they know they are changing. Its almost like the veins come up and question whether I'm serious about this thing that's happening to them. Yeah, I am. So they better get used to it. And settle down.
Wednesday, August 24, 2011
Seat 20, Lawyers and Body Balance
Before the class commenced today there were a few newbies by the number board. The Bodybalance lady was explaining how you assign yourself a number, but your RPM coupon on the bulldog clip. and then find the corresponding seat. I don't really get this ritual part of RPM. But it is part of the RPM experience.
So, I was watching the Bodybalance lady explain the ritual and then I heard her say "Oh, you can't sit in number 20 because that seat is taken. It's a regular's seat". I then realised she was talking about me!
The next minute the Bodaybalance lady was walking over to me. Eek I thought. Last time I had a conversation with the Bodybalance lady I was in a very awkward position and feeling very awakward.
Bodybalance is hard - when you are overweight and not that flexible!
Our conversation went something like this:
BBL:Just to let you know there's a group of Keningston Swan people in the room as part of the team training they have been doing - and they are going to have their photos taken, so you may get in the photos.
HQ:Oh, so I'm surrounded by lawyers (it was meant to be a joke...some of my best friends (and readers are lawyers - or at least legally qualified ;-))
BBL: Well, some of them are *startled look* at me
HQ:So, would you like me to move?
BBL: NO (very firmly!) DONT move. That's your seat - just like that seat there is my seat. (she nodded to the seat next to me that she sits on in the Tuesday sessions)
While I've started to sit in seat 20 on a regular basis, for me it's a bit like train seats. I don't consider it is mine. Good if I get it, but no worries if I don't.
I actually quite like the BBL - I've got this feeling we may have grown up together in Wainui - I maybe wrong. She's a very good Bodybalance instructor, and I would actually attend her classes if they didn't clash with RPM - which unfortunately they do.
Random factoid: Sometimes after a really good Friday RPM workout, I have this irrational though cross my mind that I'd like to "roar like a lion" while everyone is doing their yoga poses. I know, that's crazy. I guess though you come out pumped from RPM and when you have to pass this class of people attempting to be serene and at peace with the world and whales - it seems kind of a fun prospect to have the ability to upset the equilibrium.
The BBL is a bit like the PT guy I referred to yesterday. She's part of the gym. And it seems like she's always been there. So, she too has seen me come and go, and go up and down in weight. We never speak, but just know each other - much the same as you see regulars on the trian.
Anyway, I kind of like the fact that she identified me as part of the LM whanau and a regular. It was nice in its own way.
It was a good class - maybe a 9/10 compared to a 10/10 yesterday. some of the music I didn't really like. I don't think I can ever fault the PT guy's music. Even though its not all to my own taste.
On a seperate matter, I finished the day buying clothes. I couldn't decide what to wear to my neices wedding, and then I decided to buy clothes for the job I haven't yet secured. This could mean I am the best dressed unemployed person with the most debt at the Hutt Work and Income in a few weeks time. Although that's deficit thinking: I like to think that these clothes represent my new wardrobe for my next job - whereever it may be.
The clothes fit easier. There is still a long way to go to buy clothes off the rack at say Country Road etc. Although motivation is currently high.
So, I was watching the Bodybalance lady explain the ritual and then I heard her say "Oh, you can't sit in number 20 because that seat is taken. It's a regular's seat". I then realised she was talking about me!
The next minute the Bodaybalance lady was walking over to me. Eek I thought. Last time I had a conversation with the Bodybalance lady I was in a very awkward position and feeling very awakward.
Bodybalance is hard - when you are overweight and not that flexible!
Our conversation went something like this:
BBL:Just to let you know there's a group of Keningston Swan people in the room as part of the team training they have been doing - and they are going to have their photos taken, so you may get in the photos.
HQ:Oh, so I'm surrounded by lawyers (it was meant to be a joke...some of my best friends (and readers are lawyers - or at least legally qualified ;-))
BBL: Well, some of them are *startled look* at me
HQ:So, would you like me to move?
BBL: NO (very firmly!) DONT move. That's your seat - just like that seat there is my seat. (she nodded to the seat next to me that she sits on in the Tuesday sessions)
While I've started to sit in seat 20 on a regular basis, for me it's a bit like train seats. I don't consider it is mine. Good if I get it, but no worries if I don't.
I actually quite like the BBL - I've got this feeling we may have grown up together in Wainui - I maybe wrong. She's a very good Bodybalance instructor, and I would actually attend her classes if they didn't clash with RPM - which unfortunately they do.
Random factoid: Sometimes after a really good Friday RPM workout, I have this irrational though cross my mind that I'd like to "roar like a lion" while everyone is doing their yoga poses. I know, that's crazy. I guess though you come out pumped from RPM and when you have to pass this class of people attempting to be serene and at peace with the world and whales - it seems kind of a fun prospect to have the ability to upset the equilibrium.
The BBL is a bit like the PT guy I referred to yesterday. She's part of the gym. And it seems like she's always been there. So, she too has seen me come and go, and go up and down in weight. We never speak, but just know each other - much the same as you see regulars on the trian.
Anyway, I kind of like the fact that she identified me as part of the LM whanau and a regular. It was nice in its own way.
It was a good class - maybe a 9/10 compared to a 10/10 yesterday. some of the music I didn't really like. I don't think I can ever fault the PT guy's music. Even though its not all to my own taste.
On a seperate matter, I finished the day buying clothes. I couldn't decide what to wear to my neices wedding, and then I decided to buy clothes for the job I haven't yet secured. This could mean I am the best dressed unemployed person with the most debt at the Hutt Work and Income in a few weeks time. Although that's deficit thinking: I like to think that these clothes represent my new wardrobe for my next job - whereever it may be.
The clothes fit easier. There is still a long way to go to buy clothes off the rack at say Country Road etc. Although motivation is currently high.
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
Tuesday
Good workout today with the PT guy. I haven't been to his class for quite a few weeks. Just because of the need to prioritise day trips to Wellington. Today was good though. Totally "smashed it"and it felt good for doing so. Combination of "old" tracks I like, bit of Seal etc, plus some of his "boys music". I find his timing good in terms of pacing yourself. I'm not sure why it feels different from the T lady or the Hutt girl, because they do the same thing, but it's different.
Anyway, the PT guy is quite friendly to me now when I'm at the gym. When I say friendly, I mean he makes an effort to say hello. That's all. Just hi or hello. I know that doesn't sound much, but both for the PT guy (and me) that's quite significant progress in our communication. At first I thought he was scoping me as a potential client - which a) is not a possibility at present with my irregular income b) I don't need the motivation of a PT because Taupo is pressing on in c) I consider all RPM instructors my PT in their own way, although some are more favoured than others :-)
I've concluded now though its sort of the PT's way of recognising I'm making progress in the journey. All be it slow progress. That actually feels quite good in its own way, because as I have posted previously he's one of the gym guys who has been around at the Terrace since I've been going - so probably when he was a newbie. So, he's seen me come and go, go up and down in weight.
Now he's seeing me "smash it" (in my own way) in his RPM class. Wait for the next 3 months man. This is when its going to get good!!
Anyway, the PT guy is quite friendly to me now when I'm at the gym. When I say friendly, I mean he makes an effort to say hello. That's all. Just hi or hello. I know that doesn't sound much, but both for the PT guy (and me) that's quite significant progress in our communication. At first I thought he was scoping me as a potential client - which a) is not a possibility at present with my irregular income b) I don't need the motivation of a PT because Taupo is pressing on in c) I consider all RPM instructors my PT in their own way, although some are more favoured than others :-)
I've concluded now though its sort of the PT's way of recognising I'm making progress in the journey. All be it slow progress. That actually feels quite good in its own way, because as I have posted previously he's one of the gym guys who has been around at the Terrace since I've been going - so probably when he was a newbie. So, he's seen me come and go, go up and down in weight.
Now he's seeing me "smash it" (in my own way) in his RPM class. Wait for the next 3 months man. This is when its going to get good!!
Monday, August 22, 2011
Monday Monday
Worked out with the MSD man today. It was quite frankly disappointing. He was running late, and then couldn't get the sounds to work, so decided to drop track 6. So, by doing that it seriously lost the whole rhythm of the whole workout. At a couple of stages it was hard to hear the music. He was very apologetic and has such a nice smile, that it's hard to be hard on the guy. Nevertheless it was disappointing.
I think his head was elsewhere, other than in the room instructing. RPM instructors are human and so therefore instruct some sessions better than others. The energy wasn't really coming from the instructor or the room, and even though RPM is an individual thing in terms of what you put in and what you get out, today's session was a reminder that RPM works best when the three things come together: the energy of the instructor, the energy of the room, and your own commitment to the workout.
I think his head was elsewhere, other than in the room instructing. RPM instructors are human and so therefore instruct some sessions better than others. The energy wasn't really coming from the instructor or the room, and even though RPM is an individual thing in terms of what you put in and what you get out, today's session was a reminder that RPM works best when the three things come together: the energy of the instructor, the energy of the room, and your own commitment to the workout.
Sunday, August 21, 2011
Sunday stuff
Today would have been a brillant day for a "Sunday ride" as the hot air balloon went up early this morning for the first time in ages.
I had a birthday afternoon tea in Pukerua Bay to attend to so fitted in a swim at Huia (2 hours) and then a one and a half hour session at LM in the Hutt before the train home. Unfortunately, I didn't get back to the Hutt in time for the 430 one hour RPM. Although I did do a good hour on the bike in the cardio room followed by about half an hour or so on the speedball/bags. I had taken my boxing wraps and gloves, so it was a good session on the bags.
I had a birthday afternoon tea in Pukerua Bay to attend to so fitted in a swim at Huia (2 hours) and then a one and a half hour session at LM in the Hutt before the train home. Unfortunately, I didn't get back to the Hutt in time for the 430 one hour RPM. Although I did do a good hour on the bike in the cardio room followed by about half an hour or so on the speedball/bags. I had taken my boxing wraps and gloves, so it was a good session on the bags.
Saturday, August 20, 2011
Pedestrian
Today's workout was rather pedestrian. Pedestrian as in a 2 hour walk.
The owners of the strawhouse have other commitments this weekend, so there was no incentive to ride to Martinborough.
It's still extremely cold with a lot of snow remaining on the surrounding hills and Tararuas. The thought of lycra and cold today didn't mix.
I have to go to the Hutt tomorrow, so should fit in a decent swim/acqua jog and hopefully I'll get to the Sunday RPM session at LM. If not, I'll do some cardio, weights and boxing bag work.
The owners of the strawhouse have other commitments this weekend, so there was no incentive to ride to Martinborough.
It's still extremely cold with a lot of snow remaining on the surrounding hills and Tararuas. The thought of lycra and cold today didn't mix.
I have to go to the Hutt tomorrow, so should fit in a decent swim/acqua jog and hopefully I'll get to the Sunday RPM session at LM. If not, I'll do some cardio, weights and boxing bag work.
Friday, August 19, 2011
14 weeks to go
The Hutt girl today talked in tracks 4 and 6 about visualising when you come out of the "pack" - so you don't get caught up in riding with a crowd.
That's fine if you are in the 4 hour category and have that possibility to contemplate.
My major concern is that there will be other people on the road at relevant times - its not that I'm not used to riding alone. I can do that. It's just I know other people on the road will help with keeping a momentum and pace. So I need to strive for not the last of last of the pack ride, but at least a last bunch.
It's good though that she throws that stuff in though, as it makes me think about actually what time will I aim for. It needs to be 7 hours max.
That's going to be a stretch.
I think the only way I can go faster is to train harder and loose some weight. I can't afford any slippage from here on in.
Thursday, August 18, 2011
Quick post
Quick post to reflect a quick session today. I managed to get to LM at lunchtime. Did 20k on one of the stationery bikes. It took me about 35 minutes. Not really long enough to go hard core. At least I got to the gym. Sat next to a guy I sometimes see in RPM. That at least made me go as fast as I could for the 35 minutes,
Feeling the need for a long ride. Hopefully the weather will be decent enough on Saturday to get to Martinborough and return.
Feeling the need for a long ride. Hopefully the weather will be decent enough on Saturday to get to Martinborough and return.
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
Yoot Yoot - Yoots
There is a RPM instructor who has on his track list what is perhaps my favourite of all favourite RPM tracks. I've discovered it's a Yoots song. It starts off real slowly, then has this "ska" section, followed by a sort of celtic section. It's clever and has good rhythm. It's not technically on the RPM LM playlist, although that doesn't deter the instructor. I don't get to his classes very often, but he is a good instructor (a little mean though! - although that's why he is a good instructor!)
Unfortunately, I can't locate it on You Tube. Instead there is this tune which I guess like most people my age reminds me of singing it at primary school.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aG5nx4M3Ztw
I start my work gig tomorrow - makes it sound exciting to frame it like that eh? (it is exciting when you have been on a staycation in Carterton!). This is going to mess with plans to enrol at Work and Income as it will stuff up my eligibility. However, it will get me back on the Terrace.
Yay for whanau ora, and a job that will return me to a workplace I know quite well, but will have changed, like I guess I like to think I have since I was there last. Yay for a gig that is close to my LM home on the Terrace.
Praise and thanks to God for meeting my need. I don't completely understand God's timing and project planning but I'm trying.
This All Black version is quite good too - and it's good to be reminded of the translation:
http://folksong.org.nz/tutira_mai_nga_iwi/index.html
Breaking news of the day is I found my "original" birth certificate in a quite random place. I'll now be putting in a safe place in anticipation of getting a renewed passport - soon-ish. I like to think that its a sign that now that I've found it, I wont need it - not at least in terms of Work and Income purposes.
Didn't exercise today - other than a brisk walk to the hairdressers with all the ladies over 70 today getting their weekly "set" done!
It would have been quite cool to cycle the Gladstone route because the snow was so low on the hills there. Although I didn't want to freeze today and I can't afford to catch a cold when I need to be well for work.
Will make sure I get into LM on the Terrace tomorrow. Maybe not for a RPM session but a gym session.
RPM is currently 92/100. Slowly closing in on the target!
98 days until Taupo - eek - it's approaching FAST
Unfortunately, I can't locate it on You Tube. Instead there is this tune which I guess like most people my age reminds me of singing it at primary school.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aG5nx4M3Ztw
I start my work gig tomorrow - makes it sound exciting to frame it like that eh? (it is exciting when you have been on a staycation in Carterton!). This is going to mess with plans to enrol at Work and Income as it will stuff up my eligibility. However, it will get me back on the Terrace.
Yay for whanau ora, and a job that will return me to a workplace I know quite well, but will have changed, like I guess I like to think I have since I was there last. Yay for a gig that is close to my LM home on the Terrace.
Praise and thanks to God for meeting my need. I don't completely understand God's timing and project planning but I'm trying.
This All Black version is quite good too - and it's good to be reminded of the translation:
http://folksong.org.nz/tutira_mai_nga_iwi/index.html
Breaking news of the day is I found my "original" birth certificate in a quite random place. I'll now be putting in a safe place in anticipation of getting a renewed passport - soon-ish. I like to think that its a sign that now that I've found it, I wont need it - not at least in terms of Work and Income purposes.
Didn't exercise today - other than a brisk walk to the hairdressers with all the ladies over 70 today getting their weekly "set" done!
It would have been quite cool to cycle the Gladstone route because the snow was so low on the hills there. Although I didn't want to freeze today and I can't afford to catch a cold when I need to be well for work.
Will make sure I get into LM on the Terrace tomorrow. Maybe not for a RPM session but a gym session.
RPM is currently 92/100. Slowly closing in on the target!
98 days until Taupo - eek - it's approaching FAST
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
One eye on the winter....
Did I conjure up that cold?..
Another one of my favourites from the 80s...and an appropriately winter song. Definitely one of my favourite winter songs if not my all time favourite winter song, even though of course its about Soviet politics. I really like the third verse which I've copied below in ice blue!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kfdUiqGHbY0&feature=related
We need something to keep the chill
From freezing our own free will
We’re teasing at war like children
Love is the one solution
Seeing ourselves inside
Our enemies’ need for shelter
Same winter wind that’s blowing
Deep down inside we know
Oh my goodness, I nearly set my house alight today. In fact I did set my house alight. I love fire. Home fires, creating huge bon fires on grass and in empty paddocks. However, I do not like seeing my house alight. It is very scary. Fortuantely I was able to put out the FIRE flames with SNOW. I'd emptied the ashes from the fireplace into a recylable bag and dumped it right outside of my back door. The flaw was a) the recyclable bag b) the ashes wernn't completly cold even though they had been sitting for 24 hours or more - reflecting a raging fire all weekend.
The good thing about this is it has definitely made me more fire safety concious or anxious. Possibly both. So, I am now reluctant to stoke up the fire and leave the house as I have done several times. Better to be cold and have a house than to see it burnt down.
So, today I have done some ''core" work only indoors pretending I am at CX 30!
Tomorrow, I'll go for a walk in the morning as I need to stay in the 'rapa to get my hair done - about half the price of Wellington!
The road is way to icy to ride.
Thursday I will be back on the Terrace with my 'work assignment'. Not as close as to the gym as when I worked for Labour and Corrections, but closer than Education. So, only a five minute walk. Ha! I could even resurrect for a few weeks one of many "Healthy New Zealanders" t shirts I have. But I wont ;-)
This is pretty "cool" too:
http://vimeo.com/27709878
Another one of my favourites from the 80s...and an appropriately winter song. Definitely one of my favourite winter songs if not my all time favourite winter song, even though of course its about Soviet politics. I really like the third verse which I've copied below in ice blue!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kfdUiqGHbY0&feature=related
We need something to keep the chill
From freezing our own free will
We’re teasing at war like children
Love is the one solution
Seeing ourselves inside
Our enemies’ need for shelter
Same winter wind that’s blowing
Deep down inside we know
Oh my goodness, I nearly set my house alight today. In fact I did set my house alight. I love fire. Home fires, creating huge bon fires on grass and in empty paddocks. However, I do not like seeing my house alight. It is very scary. Fortuantely I was able to put out the FIRE flames with SNOW. I'd emptied the ashes from the fireplace into a recylable bag and dumped it right outside of my back door. The flaw was a) the recyclable bag b) the ashes wernn't completly cold even though they had been sitting for 24 hours or more - reflecting a raging fire all weekend.
The good thing about this is it has definitely made me more fire safety concious or anxious. Possibly both. So, I am now reluctant to stoke up the fire and leave the house as I have done several times. Better to be cold and have a house than to see it burnt down.
So, today I have done some ''core" work only indoors pretending I am at CX 30!
Tomorrow, I'll go for a walk in the morning as I need to stay in the 'rapa to get my hair done - about half the price of Wellington!
The road is way to icy to ride.
Thursday I will be back on the Terrace with my 'work assignment'. Not as close as to the gym as when I worked for Labour and Corrections, but closer than Education. So, only a five minute walk. Ha! I could even resurrect for a few weeks one of many "Healthy New Zealanders" t shirts I have. But I wont ;-)
This is pretty "cool" too:
http://vimeo.com/27709878
Monday, August 15, 2011
Hutt at 9.30
Today I went to RPM at the Hutt LM at 9.30. I was surprised that it was quite a full class. About 20 people or so.
The instructor played "old school" tracks, so none of the dance/trance stuff which I do like. Still, it made a change.
Like the Terrace Hutt girl she talked, and talked and talked. Man, she was instructing RPM followed by Core, followed by pump and a run ?? That's hard core. But what I liked most was when she did that Hutt girl thing of asking a rhetorical question with a bit of a black humour. She had been explaining her netball games and how they were likely to be in the final next week. Then she explained she had an opponent who had been giving her some stick. So she says "like is it really wrong to go up to her and tell her I'll bodyslam her if she does it again?" I loved that because that bodyslam line used to be one of my lines. I'd almost forgotten it! even though in "real life" I'd never actually do it.
Spent half an hour or so on the speedball. I love the speedball. Its like a trance thing for me. I'm not as good as I once with because its a practice thing, but if I did half an hour a day I would be.
I tried following the speedball with some skipping. That was less successful, and something I always struggle with, because you can't hide your weight in skipping like you can swimming or when the bike takes your weight. Its a good measurement of where my fitness is at though to pick up the skipping rope - lots of room for improvement.
I went for a swim at Huia - and then I froze for 45 minutes while the train was delayed and late, and froze standing on the train to Featherston. Grrrrrrrrr, it is freezing - and I don't feel the cold. Icebreaker clothing helps, but it is still freezing. The snow though has been a.m.a.z.i.n.g
I soooooooooooooo picked the wrong week to hibernate - when I had the sleeping week a few weeks ago. I should have picked this week.
The bad news of the day is my day cycles will be limited for the next few weeks. The good news of the day is I'll be working at No 1 The Terrace for a few weeks, so that will get me into town and close to the gym - and I can work on being Game Fit.
It's a very short term work gig - but like riding its about taking the opportunities when they come.
The instructor played "old school" tracks, so none of the dance/trance stuff which I do like. Still, it made a change.
Like the Terrace Hutt girl she talked, and talked and talked. Man, she was instructing RPM followed by Core, followed by pump and a run ?? That's hard core. But what I liked most was when she did that Hutt girl thing of asking a rhetorical question with a bit of a black humour. She had been explaining her netball games and how they were likely to be in the final next week. Then she explained she had an opponent who had been giving her some stick. So she says "like is it really wrong to go up to her and tell her I'll bodyslam her if she does it again?" I loved that because that bodyslam line used to be one of my lines. I'd almost forgotten it! even though in "real life" I'd never actually do it.
Spent half an hour or so on the speedball. I love the speedball. Its like a trance thing for me. I'm not as good as I once with because its a practice thing, but if I did half an hour a day I would be.
I tried following the speedball with some skipping. That was less successful, and something I always struggle with, because you can't hide your weight in skipping like you can swimming or when the bike takes your weight. Its a good measurement of where my fitness is at though to pick up the skipping rope - lots of room for improvement.
I went for a swim at Huia - and then I froze for 45 minutes while the train was delayed and late, and froze standing on the train to Featherston. Grrrrrrrrr, it is freezing - and I don't feel the cold. Icebreaker clothing helps, but it is still freezing. The snow though has been a.m.a.z.i.n.g
I soooooooooooooo picked the wrong week to hibernate - when I had the sleeping week a few weeks ago. I should have picked this week.
The bad news of the day is my day cycles will be limited for the next few weeks. The good news of the day is I'll be working at No 1 The Terrace for a few weeks, so that will get me into town and close to the gym - and I can work on being Game Fit.
It's a very short term work gig - but like riding its about taking the opportunities when they come.
Sunday, August 14, 2011
Sunday random
I have eclectic music tastes. Although if its not rhythm based, a lot of the stuff I like is lyric/story telling type stuff I guess. It makes for an odd assortment when I ride with my Nanopad on shuffle.
It means I can be listening to this one track:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FR89N-Xl3kk
by the way, Brooke Fraser is of course a Hutt girl, although not the RPM Hutt girl.
or I could be listening to this:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FLFes4lKA0Q
(this is a track the PT guy plays although I'm not sure its an official RPM track)
and that's pretty much how it goes - random.
Another rest day exercise wise, but I am going to go hard Mon-Friday.
I'm panicking a little bit. It's two weeks to my nieces wedding. I have a very good tailored black skirt, hardly worn because I haven't been able to fit it for years. It's a little tight to feel comfortable. However, I don't want to buy new clothes. Will need to work on stomach exercises, core work and thigh work to make the skirt wearable. So, that's the next 2 week challenge. Good to have an incentive for the goal. Although I do have another black skirt I actually fit right here right now. But no, I need to fit the other skirt :-)
I'll also have steal some $ from the reserve "music fund" for a decent hair cut (of course its not stealing when its your own $ for readers that work in the Justice sector! - its only stealing because its my reserve fund). Although someone once advised me often the difference between getting a job and not getting a job at an interview is a good haircut. Apparently. A good haircut always helps feel good though. I've been putting it off until I get an interview. Hopefully the timing of the wedding will coincide. Hopefully :-)
It means I can be listening to this one track:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FR89N-Xl3kk
by the way, Brooke Fraser is of course a Hutt girl, although not the RPM Hutt girl.
or I could be listening to this:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FLFes4lKA0Q
(this is a track the PT guy plays although I'm not sure its an official RPM track)
and that's pretty much how it goes - random.
Another rest day exercise wise, but I am going to go hard Mon-Friday.
I'm panicking a little bit. It's two weeks to my nieces wedding. I have a very good tailored black skirt, hardly worn because I haven't been able to fit it for years. It's a little tight to feel comfortable. However, I don't want to buy new clothes. Will need to work on stomach exercises, core work and thigh work to make the skirt wearable. So, that's the next 2 week challenge. Good to have an incentive for the goal. Although I do have another black skirt I actually fit right here right now. But no, I need to fit the other skirt :-)
I'll also have steal some $ from the reserve "music fund" for a decent hair cut (of course its not stealing when its your own $ for readers that work in the Justice sector! - its only stealing because its my reserve fund). Although someone once advised me often the difference between getting a job and not getting a job at an interview is a good haircut. Apparently. A good haircut always helps feel good though. I've been putting it off until I get an interview. Hopefully the timing of the wedding will coincide. Hopefully :-)
Saturday, August 13, 2011
Statistic Update
15 weeks to go until the race.
Time is racing by.
Not much to comment on today. Having a "rest day" exercise wise, as don't want to "upset" my knee or arm.
Have a big training week planned for next week - possibly a lot of gym work given the weather forecast.
Time is racing by.
Not much to comment on today. Having a "rest day" exercise wise, as don't want to "upset" my knee or arm.
Have a big training week planned for next week - possibly a lot of gym work given the weather forecast.
Friday, August 12, 2011
Blam blam blam
I liked this song in 1981 - although I never really understood it
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hGiQPVlu4l8
I like it now - now I understand it - and woop woop it has two of my favourite things in it - road bikes and sheep!
I'm posting it because I had this conversation with the Frau Doktor today (although actually I think I will call her the GP as I really reserve the Frau Doktor title for a former colleague I worked with). Anyway the GP and I concluded I wasn't depressed, not that I thought I was :-) Although I have been stressed. Yep, that's a factoid. I'm human.
And for those watching that programme on Wednesdays, this song here, well this song was the first song I played on my flash new stereo - the first significant thing I ever bought. Now its an aged stereo but I've still got the turntable.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fE82oke8BWM
I dedicate "For Today" to Dr N.S. Also, KM as in that NZ way of seven degrees of separation she flatted with the NWDT boys. KM will be at the finish line at Taupo.
It's kind of interesting to listen (at least I think so) to Fat Freddys Drop and The Yoots - music I like a lot - and the similarity is the brass/jazz groove.
l always liked Don Maclashan, Netherworld Dancing Toys and Annie Crummer. They are my best memories of the 80s.
Oh yeah, checked in with the Hutt girl at RPM today. It was good in a Hutt girl way, and also because it tests the road work I've been doing. The Hutt girl is not tht T lady - TJ, but in the absence of TJ is a good RPM instructor. I did 20km on the bike before the RPM session. Although the only that disturbed me about the Hutt girl today was when she made some reference to doing 160 RPM. I'm currently doing between 100 - 120RPM when I measure it on the bike. Oh well, that's what I need to aim for Taupo: 160 RPM?
Also went for a swim and sauna at Freyberg. Woops. apparently the sauna is an extra $4.60. But not today it wasn't!! It felt good to have a decent sweat in the sauna. No wonder you don't see "poor people" at the pool. It is actually quite expensive when you are on a budget.
Oh, and I may have got a bit aggro in the "international"aqua jogging lane. But seriously, this international woman was going the wrong way, so I stared her out and stood my aqua jogging ground! Also the same with these two social aqua joggers that were taking the lanes talking talking - that's what coffee is for ladies. Seriously, there is protocol aqua jogging ladies, and it should be followed. Oh, yeah, as much I hate to admit it, I like rules!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hGiQPVlu4l8
I like it now - now I understand it - and woop woop it has two of my favourite things in it - road bikes and sheep!
I'm posting it because I had this conversation with the Frau Doktor today (although actually I think I will call her the GP as I really reserve the Frau Doktor title for a former colleague I worked with). Anyway the GP and I concluded I wasn't depressed, not that I thought I was :-) Although I have been stressed. Yep, that's a factoid. I'm human.
And for those watching that programme on Wednesdays, this song here, well this song was the first song I played on my flash new stereo - the first significant thing I ever bought. Now its an aged stereo but I've still got the turntable.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fE82oke8BWM
I dedicate "For Today" to Dr N.S. Also, KM as in that NZ way of seven degrees of separation she flatted with the NWDT boys. KM will be at the finish line at Taupo.
It's kind of interesting to listen (at least I think so) to Fat Freddys Drop and The Yoots - music I like a lot - and the similarity is the brass/jazz groove.
l always liked Don Maclashan, Netherworld Dancing Toys and Annie Crummer. They are my best memories of the 80s.
Oh yeah, checked in with the Hutt girl at RPM today. It was good in a Hutt girl way, and also because it tests the road work I've been doing. The Hutt girl is not tht T lady - TJ, but in the absence of TJ is a good RPM instructor. I did 20km on the bike before the RPM session. Although the only that disturbed me about the Hutt girl today was when she made some reference to doing 160 RPM. I'm currently doing between 100 - 120RPM when I measure it on the bike. Oh well, that's what I need to aim for Taupo: 160 RPM?
Also went for a swim and sauna at Freyberg. Woops. apparently the sauna is an extra $4.60. But not today it wasn't!! It felt good to have a decent sweat in the sauna. No wonder you don't see "poor people" at the pool. It is actually quite expensive when you are on a budget.
Oh, and I may have got a bit aggro in the "international"aqua jogging lane. But seriously, this international woman was going the wrong way, so I stared her out and stood my aqua jogging ground! Also the same with these two social aqua joggers that were taking the lanes talking talking - that's what coffee is for ladies. Seriously, there is protocol aqua jogging ladies, and it should be followed. Oh, yeah, as much I hate to admit it, I like rules!
Thursday, August 11, 2011
Westside x Gladstone (a)
Today I merged the Westside route with part of the Gladstone route. The intention is do a total merge eventually. However, today I was a bit wary of doing any "hill climbs" on my bike due to my injury as referred to in two posts away. It's not really an injury, but there is now a fairly solid bruise a couple of inches (I'm old school hence the reference to inches) wide and quite black and purple on the left side of my right knee. Also, I think I've slightly sprained my right elbow from landing on it. It's fine when I am a stationery machine (at the gym), but on the road bike it just places extra pressure, that I know would not be a good idea until the sprains have healed.
The route took me hour and a half today. Just near Matarawa railway station when I was returning home I passed a "mature"couple that were out cycling. It provided good motivation because it made me increase my speed as I didn't want them to pass me.
I'll get to the gym tomorrow and do a RPM session with the Hutt girl. That will make for a good training week. So, feel like I've got a training rhythm back, which was important as last week it was under threat - that's the good thing about bigger goals such as Taupo. They serve as a reminder that you have to keep going until you are there.
I've still got 9 RPM sessions to go until I reach the 100RPM goal. Progress on that front has slowed down simply due to not getting in Wellington or the Hutt on a regular basis. It will be good if I can nail that goal by the end of the month.
The route took me hour and a half today. Just near Matarawa railway station when I was returning home I passed a "mature"couple that were out cycling. It provided good motivation because it made me increase my speed as I didn't want them to pass me.
I'll get to the gym tomorrow and do a RPM session with the Hutt girl. That will make for a good training week. So, feel like I've got a training rhythm back, which was important as last week it was under threat - that's the good thing about bigger goals such as Taupo. They serve as a reminder that you have to keep going until you are there.
I've still got 9 RPM sessions to go until I reach the 100RPM goal. Progress on that front has slowed down simply due to not getting in Wellington or the Hutt on a regular basis. It will be good if I can nail that goal by the end of the month.
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
Elevation
Check this out - it is the elevation of the Taupo ride:
It says one thing: training on flat roads is not going to be enough.
Good reminder.
As an alternative to watching crap tv, I can currently spend a lot of time on You Tube.
I'm also spending a lot of time looking for my birth certificate - with the intention I'm going to need it to get a new passport as well as maybe Work and Income purposes. I still haven't found it, although I have found 3 pairs of boxing wraps and a range of other assorted random "stuff".
Today I sucked it up and went to Work and Income in the Hutt. It turns out you can't go in the office and talk to people, because the first step is you need to ring a 0800 number. The 0800 number starts off with voice recognition sequences before you get the real person. I now have a booking for next Monday to attend the screening seminar to check my eligibility, whether I really want to work, and whether I have an updated CV - I have to take my CV with me....oh well....
Today I received 2 rejection emails - that's how you get advised. I'm actually really surprised about one of the positions as it was a total match fit with my background. Apart from that its an approached necessity financially (as the need to consult the bank will be), I've decided going through the Work and Income process acts as some reverse psychology and griss to the mill. As it happens I was on the dole in 1994 for a few short months so I am already in the system. It is though weird being at the different operational end of things.
The other motivating factor (personal reasons aside) was I woke up to the fact that if I don't register
it doesn't provide a true reflection of the national numbers of people who are not working or unemployed.
Had a good work out in the Hutt today - 2 and a half hours at LM. I did an hour on the bike. Its actually quite helpful to do that now and again as it provides a way to measure the heart rate and actual RPM. Did and hour on the cross trainer and then a few leg weights. Then I walked over to Huia, and did a couple of hours in the pool - mix of swimming and aqua jogging. Then I began to feel a little dizzy so hopped in the spa. Given I'm "injured" from yesterday, I think that was a good effort all up. So over 4 hours today.
I saw a young looking fit woman have to leave the Hutt LM today in an ambulance. I think she had a really bad asthma attack or something like that. That was a first. Seeing someone leave the gym in an ambulance.
This is currently one of my favourite tunes: (think globally, act locally, stay out of bed: something like that!):
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JUVqUz8m2PQ&feature=related
It says one thing: training on flat roads is not going to be enough.
Good reminder.
As an alternative to watching crap tv, I can currently spend a lot of time on You Tube.
I'm also spending a lot of time looking for my birth certificate - with the intention I'm going to need it to get a new passport as well as maybe Work and Income purposes. I still haven't found it, although I have found 3 pairs of boxing wraps and a range of other assorted random "stuff".
Today I sucked it up and went to Work and Income in the Hutt. It turns out you can't go in the office and talk to people, because the first step is you need to ring a 0800 number. The 0800 number starts off with voice recognition sequences before you get the real person. I now have a booking for next Monday to attend the screening seminar to check my eligibility, whether I really want to work, and whether I have an updated CV - I have to take my CV with me....oh well....
Today I received 2 rejection emails - that's how you get advised. I'm actually really surprised about one of the positions as it was a total match fit with my background. Apart from that its an approached necessity financially (as the need to consult the bank will be), I've decided going through the Work and Income process acts as some reverse psychology and griss to the mill. As it happens I was on the dole in 1994 for a few short months so I am already in the system. It is though weird being at the different operational end of things.
The other motivating factor (personal reasons aside) was I woke up to the fact that if I don't register
it doesn't provide a true reflection of the national numbers of people who are not working or unemployed.
Had a good work out in the Hutt today - 2 and a half hours at LM. I did an hour on the bike. Its actually quite helpful to do that now and again as it provides a way to measure the heart rate and actual RPM. Did and hour on the cross trainer and then a few leg weights. Then I walked over to Huia, and did a couple of hours in the pool - mix of swimming and aqua jogging. Then I began to feel a little dizzy so hopped in the spa. Given I'm "injured" from yesterday, I think that was a good effort all up. So over 4 hours today.
I saw a young looking fit woman have to leave the Hutt LM today in an ambulance. I think she had a really bad asthma attack or something like that. That was a first. Seeing someone leave the gym in an ambulance.
This is currently one of my favourite tunes: (think globally, act locally, stay out of bed: something like that!):
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JUVqUz8m2PQ&feature=related
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
Firsts
Today I achieved a number of firsts:
First, I created a new route - I'll call it the Taratahi route. Head north towards Masterton from where I live, east into Clareville and then up Chester Road and out at the Mill, pass the main road and then back via Gladstone. It took me 2 and half hours, so I doubled my time of yesterday. It's quite a nice route. Another flat route. It leads the road that leads to Mt Holdsworth, so there are number of farms that have fences built of stones, because that's how the landscape is.
Secondly, I was chased by a dog. It is definitely not nice to be chased by a dog. I was in fact quite scared. I have total sympathy for posties now. I remembered cycle "faster and harder" so I lost the dog, but for a few moments I was having thoughts of what it would be like to have dog bites on my lower leg, and be savaged by a farm mutt (I do actually like dogs, just not dogs that chase me with vicious intent) in the middle of nowhere.
Thirdly, I took what I thought was a side road to get me back into the Gladstone route. It took me to Taratahi Agriculture Campus - about a 5km dead end that I had to return from. In doing so I went down an unsealed road which I don't think my road bike liked much.
Fourthly, I had to pass some cows being moved, and woops I made them go the wrong way, which I suspect totally pissed the farmer off - understandably. I didn't mean to do it. After the dog thing I was still a bit scared, and moving livestock is not my thing.
Fifth, I saw a heap, as in about 50 baby calves (bobbys - is that what they are called?) at Taratahi campus and a few other baby calves scatter amongst the farms. I saw more baby calves than baby lambs.
Sixth, I fell off my bike when I was getting off it for a brief rest. I just lost my balance for some unexplainable reason. Ouch, it actually hurt - hurt a lot (I think I actually have a high pain thresehold but I almost cried :-( as I fell onto my knee and elbow. I can definitely feel my elbow as I write this. I have grazes on my knee and arm, and a solid bruise on my leg. This nice lady with a bike on the back of her car, stopped shortly after I was "recovering" and asked if I needed assistance. I said "cheerily" I was just adjusting my music, she smiled back and drove off - well I rode home a little slower. My ego was bruised more than my body. It's not a serious injury. Just a reminder that's what happens when the concentration wavers.
I was going to ride longer, but I thought after the "accident" I better come home, as my concentration didn't seem to be there and that would be a safer thing to do.
Not sure what I will do tomorrow. I'm thinking of going to the Zoo! - that has nothing to do with my fitness training, but will get me into town. Wednesdays are $5.00 cheap days apparently. I haven't been to the Wgtn Zoo for possibly 20 years. I don't really like Zoos - but I do like animals. I may find a Film Festival thing to go to. Actually, that's more my thing, sitting in the dark! Guess I just the need to get out over the other side of the hill. Also after my "accident" today, it feels like it would be safer to go to the gym and maybe a swim.
First, I created a new route - I'll call it the Taratahi route. Head north towards Masterton from where I live, east into Clareville and then up Chester Road and out at the Mill, pass the main road and then back via Gladstone. It took me 2 and half hours, so I doubled my time of yesterday. It's quite a nice route. Another flat route. It leads the road that leads to Mt Holdsworth, so there are number of farms that have fences built of stones, because that's how the landscape is.
Secondly, I was chased by a dog. It is definitely not nice to be chased by a dog. I was in fact quite scared. I have total sympathy for posties now. I remembered cycle "faster and harder" so I lost the dog, but for a few moments I was having thoughts of what it would be like to have dog bites on my lower leg, and be savaged by a farm mutt (I do actually like dogs, just not dogs that chase me with vicious intent) in the middle of nowhere.
Thirdly, I took what I thought was a side road to get me back into the Gladstone route. It took me to Taratahi Agriculture Campus - about a 5km dead end that I had to return from. In doing so I went down an unsealed road which I don't think my road bike liked much.
Fourthly, I had to pass some cows being moved, and woops I made them go the wrong way, which I suspect totally pissed the farmer off - understandably. I didn't mean to do it. After the dog thing I was still a bit scared, and moving livestock is not my thing.
Fifth, I saw a heap, as in about 50 baby calves (bobbys - is that what they are called?) at Taratahi campus and a few other baby calves scatter amongst the farms. I saw more baby calves than baby lambs.
Sixth, I fell off my bike when I was getting off it for a brief rest. I just lost my balance for some unexplainable reason. Ouch, it actually hurt - hurt a lot (I think I actually have a high pain thresehold but I almost cried :-( as I fell onto my knee and elbow. I can definitely feel my elbow as I write this. I have grazes on my knee and arm, and a solid bruise on my leg. This nice lady with a bike on the back of her car, stopped shortly after I was "recovering" and asked if I needed assistance. I said "cheerily" I was just adjusting my music, she smiled back and drove off - well I rode home a little slower. My ego was bruised more than my body. It's not a serious injury. Just a reminder that's what happens when the concentration wavers.
I was going to ride longer, but I thought after the "accident" I better come home, as my concentration didn't seem to be there and that would be a safer thing to do.
Not sure what I will do tomorrow. I'm thinking of going to the Zoo! - that has nothing to do with my fitness training, but will get me into town. Wednesdays are $5.00 cheap days apparently. I haven't been to the Wgtn Zoo for possibly 20 years. I don't really like Zoos - but I do like animals. I may find a Film Festival thing to go to. Actually, that's more my thing, sitting in the dark! Guess I just the need to get out over the other side of the hill. Also after my "accident" today, it feels like it would be safer to go to the gym and maybe a swim.
Monday, August 8, 2011
Back on the bike
Back on the bike today. It felt a bit stiff, and my back is a little sore from "grubbing" in the garden. I did the "West side" route. I tried to go faster than I normally do, although being my first ride back after a couple of weeks of not riding I'm not sure I went that fast. It's a flat route and took me about almost exactly an hour.
I think the "technical" training term for the West side route is an endurance ride. Tomorrow, I'll do a route that includes the Gladstone route (so double my time). That will be a "climbing repeat" ride - because it has some "hills", especially if I include Millars Road - which I will.
The weather conditions were good today. No frost to contend with, sunny and warm. It is actually moving into Spring and getting lighter at night.
I passed this old guy (like really old - as in 70s or so riding on an old bike and wearing an orange sort of roadworks jacket. He was out there riding and it sort of inspired me. I also passed a runner which is quite rare.
I missed the walk component but did do another 3-4 hours in the garden. Eventually I will run out of things to do in the garden and have to revert to house'work'. I'd rather be in the garden!
My neighbours returned today from their overseas holiday. I will have to discuss with them my "situation". I find this difficult, but it will be necessary. They are good neighbours, but a) I'm not actually that social as a neighbour and b) the longer I am in between jobs I do actually find it hard to talk about. At least it will serve as a strange incentive to keep active...as I wouldn't want my neighbour popping over in the middle of the day to find me asleep or watching crap tv.
I had a search for my birth certificate because well despite what I wrote yesterday, the reality is, that's the reality I have to face. There's a job as a case manager at the Masterton office. I'm going to apply for that. Although I'm probably not "tough" enough in terms of telling people they have to get off their arse....although if it pays my mortgage then I probably can find it within to toughen up. I think the overall client base at the Masterton office is probably pretty tough, but then of course I may find there are people "just like me"
Anyway, when I was looking for my birth certificate (which inadvertently made me rediscover a few pieces of my creative writing from years ago - it was strange seeing it again), I found this piece of greenstone that while my parents were alive was always on the mantelpiece at home. I don't think its particularly valuable, bit it held significance for them in terms of coming from the West Coast/South Island. I thought I had lost it. And occasionally it troubled me that I had. I haven't seen it since I moved from Wainuiomata. Now I've found it, and I've placed it on my mantelpiece. Like the greenstone my birth certificate will be somewhere. I'm not sure about the greenstone. I place value on "connections" and symbolic things like that sort of thing. Except I'm not sure what it symbolises - maybe just the importance of connecting with the past. Like the whakatauki that says something like you have to know and understand where you have come from in order to move forward. I always think I am confident in that stuff, but I guess there are certain "blindsides".
I received the 'official' letter, as a patient of the practice, advising me of my dentist's death. It made me sad as "the circumstances are personal and 'difficult to discuss at this time". That makes me so sad because it really is "tragic" when against all evidence to the contrary, something wasn't right and led to the death of someone who was just so talented, loved as a person, and respected professionally and had so many gifts. It does make me sad, but it also strengthens my resolve to "live well".
And in conclusion, on a completely different note, I've concluded, I'm getting too familiar with the National Programme on the radio in terms of oh it must be Monday if Sue Bradford and David Farrar are on the "panel" again and John Hawkesby selecting the wines for the food match with the recipe of the day.
I think the "technical" training term for the West side route is an endurance ride. Tomorrow, I'll do a route that includes the Gladstone route (so double my time). That will be a "climbing repeat" ride - because it has some "hills", especially if I include Millars Road - which I will.
The weather conditions were good today. No frost to contend with, sunny and warm. It is actually moving into Spring and getting lighter at night.
I passed this old guy (like really old - as in 70s or so riding on an old bike and wearing an orange sort of roadworks jacket. He was out there riding and it sort of inspired me. I also passed a runner which is quite rare.
I missed the walk component but did do another 3-4 hours in the garden. Eventually I will run out of things to do in the garden and have to revert to house'work'. I'd rather be in the garden!
My neighbours returned today from their overseas holiday. I will have to discuss with them my "situation". I find this difficult, but it will be necessary. They are good neighbours, but a) I'm not actually that social as a neighbour and b) the longer I am in between jobs I do actually find it hard to talk about. At least it will serve as a strange incentive to keep active...as I wouldn't want my neighbour popping over in the middle of the day to find me asleep or watching crap tv.
I had a search for my birth certificate because well despite what I wrote yesterday, the reality is, that's the reality I have to face. There's a job as a case manager at the Masterton office. I'm going to apply for that. Although I'm probably not "tough" enough in terms of telling people they have to get off their arse....although if it pays my mortgage then I probably can find it within to toughen up. I think the overall client base at the Masterton office is probably pretty tough, but then of course I may find there are people "just like me"
Anyway, when I was looking for my birth certificate (which inadvertently made me rediscover a few pieces of my creative writing from years ago - it was strange seeing it again), I found this piece of greenstone that while my parents were alive was always on the mantelpiece at home. I don't think its particularly valuable, bit it held significance for them in terms of coming from the West Coast/South Island. I thought I had lost it. And occasionally it troubled me that I had. I haven't seen it since I moved from Wainuiomata. Now I've found it, and I've placed it on my mantelpiece. Like the greenstone my birth certificate will be somewhere. I'm not sure about the greenstone. I place value on "connections" and symbolic things like that sort of thing. Except I'm not sure what it symbolises - maybe just the importance of connecting with the past. Like the whakatauki that says something like you have to know and understand where you have come from in order to move forward. I always think I am confident in that stuff, but I guess there are certain "blindsides".
I received the 'official' letter, as a patient of the practice, advising me of my dentist's death. It made me sad as "the circumstances are personal and 'difficult to discuss at this time". That makes me so sad because it really is "tragic" when against all evidence to the contrary, something wasn't right and led to the death of someone who was just so talented, loved as a person, and respected professionally and had so many gifts. It does make me sad, but it also strengthens my resolve to "live well".
And in conclusion, on a completely different note, I've concluded, I'm getting too familiar with the National Programme on the radio in terms of oh it must be Monday if Sue Bradford and David Farrar are on the "panel" again and John Hawkesby selecting the wines for the food match with the recipe of the day.
Sunday, August 7, 2011
The plot
I spent about 4-5 hours in the garden today - there is still a lot to do. It's at least motivating to see the progress I have made in terms of getting it back into shape. I've now planted some new veges, (well enough to feed more than a family of four), and it helps with having something to tend to and watch grow.
This is considerable progress on spending 4-5 hours in bed as I did last Thurs/Friday. I can sleep in the day, and then sleep again at night like I haven't slept in the day. But it's a different kind of sleep from that when I exercise and feel tired and sleep. That's a better sleep to aspire to.
I was going to go for a long walk at the end of the gardening, but it has/is raining solidly so I have retreated inside.
I'll stay in the 'rapa tomorrow. I will get to Wgtn a couple of times this week. Definitely on Friday and maybe Tues or Weds. I do have the train tickets, but I'm still rationing them I guess. The bigger thing is I need to demonstrate to myself that I have the willpower and motivation to exercise without having to catch a train. It's both a time and cost thing with the train. One could argue its better to spend 3 hours on a train (return) if the outcome is some decent exercise at the gym, if the opportunity cost is sleeping. That would be a valid argument.
As week 6 approaches I should be thinking about registering with Work and Income. However, I can't bring myself to do it. Apart from the fact that I don't have a valid passport and can't locate my birth certificate to complete the relevant paperwork required, I can't do it. Sure, its an back-up option, if nothing comes through in the next few weeks, but I can't do it. It's not the stigma. It's because it feels like it would seem like giving up hope in myself and ability to get work. So, if that's the case, then I am going to have to be a bit strategic this week, in widening the net and options. That's what I do, take it down to the wire, but as my entries reflect this does create a certain a level of stress. There are things I can't control, (eg when an agency has 100 applications and will take 4 weeks just to shortlist), and the other factor it is for me having the faith and trust in God. Although one could argue God created Work and Income should there be a need....
I also need to adopt the attitude (and that's where there has been slippage) that my current work is focused on improving my fitness and attending to house and garden improvements. So, I can so, oh yeah, I spent that time doing "xyz".
I'll go for an early morning walk tomorrow, and at least a one hour bike ride. Definitely need to familiarise myself with some solid cardio and my bike again. Anything else will be a bonus.
The focus for the coming week, is definitely on lifting my energy levels.
I will achieve this by:
I know I'm going a bit tangential in my entries, but in working though the non fitness stuff, and non active stuff, is, I think, related to having the perseverance/resilience to actually "push through". Once I get this stuff back on track then the training itself will be a breeze - well, not quite eh, but it will at least follow.
This is considerable progress on spending 4-5 hours in bed as I did last Thurs/Friday. I can sleep in the day, and then sleep again at night like I haven't slept in the day. But it's a different kind of sleep from that when I exercise and feel tired and sleep. That's a better sleep to aspire to.
I was going to go for a long walk at the end of the gardening, but it has/is raining solidly so I have retreated inside.
I'll stay in the 'rapa tomorrow. I will get to Wgtn a couple of times this week. Definitely on Friday and maybe Tues or Weds. I do have the train tickets, but I'm still rationing them I guess. The bigger thing is I need to demonstrate to myself that I have the willpower and motivation to exercise without having to catch a train. It's both a time and cost thing with the train. One could argue its better to spend 3 hours on a train (return) if the outcome is some decent exercise at the gym, if the opportunity cost is sleeping. That would be a valid argument.
As week 6 approaches I should be thinking about registering with Work and Income. However, I can't bring myself to do it. Apart from the fact that I don't have a valid passport and can't locate my birth certificate to complete the relevant paperwork required, I can't do it. Sure, its an back-up option, if nothing comes through in the next few weeks, but I can't do it. It's not the stigma. It's because it feels like it would seem like giving up hope in myself and ability to get work. So, if that's the case, then I am going to have to be a bit strategic this week, in widening the net and options. That's what I do, take it down to the wire, but as my entries reflect this does create a certain a level of stress. There are things I can't control, (eg when an agency has 100 applications and will take 4 weeks just to shortlist), and the other factor it is for me having the faith and trust in God. Although one could argue God created Work and Income should there be a need....
I also need to adopt the attitude (and that's where there has been slippage) that my current work is focused on improving my fitness and attending to house and garden improvements. So, I can so, oh yeah, I spent that time doing "xyz".
I'll go for an early morning walk tomorrow, and at least a one hour bike ride. Definitely need to familiarise myself with some solid cardio and my bike again. Anything else will be a bonus.
The focus for the coming week, is definitely on lifting my energy levels.
I will achieve this by:
- Get up and dressed at what would be my "usual" work time
- Not sleep during the day
- Complete at least 3 hours exercise per day.
I know I'm going a bit tangential in my entries, but in working though the non fitness stuff, and non active stuff, is, I think, related to having the perseverance/resilience to actually "push through". Once I get this stuff back on track then the training itself will be a breeze - well, not quite eh, but it will at least follow.
Saturday, August 6, 2011
1:1
I've had a bit of a 1:1 with myself. I still haven't written down all my personal goals - fitness and non fitness related. I'll aim to do that tomorrow. It's key to keeping the focus. I need to do the bigger goal thing and then take each day by each day in terms of what I can achieve fitness and non fitness wise.
I went for a swim today. It felt good.
I found this quote in one of the cycling magazines. I've borrowed it. I'm not living it yet, but I would like it to "ring true" soon, in terms of being a true statement of who I am in terms of the fitness and riding:
I'm a bit of a training nut. Love it. Love to do the big rides, cross training sessions in order to train the whole body and seriously get into it. I just love being tired from training, fit in general and healthy. It's such a nice feeling.
I went for a swim today. It felt good.
I found this quote in one of the cycling magazines. I've borrowed it. I'm not living it yet, but I would like it to "ring true" soon, in terms of being a true statement of who I am in terms of the fitness and riding:
I'm a bit of a training nut. Love it. Love to do the big rides, cross training sessions in order to train the whole body and seriously get into it. I just love being tired from training, fit in general and healthy. It's such a nice feeling.
Friday, August 5, 2011
Breathe
Still breathing: Song of the day is this:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QcW6u6IkEAE
Nothing like a bit of Greys Anatomy.
The last week hasn't been an optimal training week. I didn't get out today on the bike today. So the reconnect didn't recommence today.
The owners of the straw house have scheduled a swim tomorrow - so that at least will get me to the swimming pool.
I'm thinking the way to break the cycle of the last week maybe to use one of my train ten trips. I stocked up on tickets before I finished my last job - so have five ten trips. The plan for next week maybe just to force myself to go to the gym either in the Hutt or Wellington every day. Maybe. I may just need to do that.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QcW6u6IkEAE
Nothing like a bit of Greys Anatomy.
The last week hasn't been an optimal training week. I didn't get out today on the bike today. So the reconnect didn't recommence today.
The owners of the straw house have scheduled a swim tomorrow - so that at least will get me to the swimming pool.
I'm thinking the way to break the cycle of the last week maybe to use one of my train ten trips. I stocked up on tickets before I finished my last job - so have five ten trips. The plan for next week maybe just to force myself to go to the gym either in the Hutt or Wellington every day. Maybe. I may just need to do that.
Thursday, August 4, 2011
Connect
Today's word is "connect". I went to Wellington today on what was today the hospital train. That's the 10.40am train. Well, it was supposed to be the 10.40 train but it ended up being the 11.15 train due to what Tranzrail call "operational issues". So, time wise the opportunity cost time wise of saving on the reduced train fare didn't really maximise out. I call it the hospital train, because it seemed like every passenger on my carriage was discussing their imminent health appointment at Wellington hospital.
I had planned to fit in a couple of hours at Extreme LM but the delayed train messed with my timetable for the day. Instead I went to the Central library (note I prefer the library in the early morning as it is quieter rather than pm!) and then I went to an appointment with a recruitment agency that a lot of people have been saying I should connect with. In retrospect I should have gone there sooner, but maybe today was the right time to connect.
I liked the ladies I met at the recruitment agency. We talked for 2 hours about the journey - in a career sense! It was sort of like therapy! Not that I need therapy!! Anyway, I feel fairly positive that I reckon my values and the agency values align and so that augers well for us potentially working together.
I was talking about my desire to have continuity in work. The managing director said it's better to frame it in terms of staying connected with people and the workplace. I agree. And that's what I need to do with my bike -reconnect and connect.
I'll be connecting with my bike tomorrow, and posting a timetable for the week that will be goal for training. Back to the day by day approach to training, but seeing in the context of connecting week by week to the bigger goal of Taupo.
I had planned to fit in a couple of hours at Extreme LM but the delayed train messed with my timetable for the day. Instead I went to the Central library (note I prefer the library in the early morning as it is quieter rather than pm!) and then I went to an appointment with a recruitment agency that a lot of people have been saying I should connect with. In retrospect I should have gone there sooner, but maybe today was the right time to connect.
I liked the ladies I met at the recruitment agency. We talked for 2 hours about the journey - in a career sense! It was sort of like therapy! Not that I need therapy!! Anyway, I feel fairly positive that I reckon my values and the agency values align and so that augers well for us potentially working together.
I was talking about my desire to have continuity in work. The managing director said it's better to frame it in terms of staying connected with people and the workplace. I agree. And that's what I need to do with my bike -reconnect and connect.
I'll be connecting with my bike tomorrow, and posting a timetable for the week that will be goal for training. Back to the day by day approach to training, but seeing in the context of connecting week by week to the bigger goal of Taupo.
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
Shufflin shufflin
www.youtube.com
Buy now http://glnk.it/6t Music video by LMFAO performing Party Rock Anthem featuring Lauren Bennett and GoonRock. (c) 2011 Interscope
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
Diversions
The discerning reader will have observed that I haven't been recording my daily rides. That's because I parked up the bike in the "study" a week or so ago, and have had difficulty getting it out of there. Not because it is physically difficult to get it out.
I think about being on the road for 2 hours, it's either too early so too cold, too windy, too late in the day so there will be too much traffic. There are other things to do. It's easy to make excuses. So, go for half an hour then. Half an hour would be half an hour. But that hasn't worked either.
I'm almost "half way" in terms of the bigger goal - its usually this point I turn around in my head and sabotage my own progress. I can't explain that. I need to get over that, but there is the niggle and memory factor that sort of bubbles and provides the bigger challenge than the actual execution of the exercise factor. It's Ok, I am going to push through, I have "got this", but that's how the last few days have been.
Week 5 of the "in-between" jobs is not helping. Yet I know that there is a reason of I've got this time to reflect, and time to use. I don't exactly know what that reason is other than there must be a reason.
I did about 4-5 hours gardening today - another day and then I should have the back garden in order. I want to get the south side done before my neighbours get back from their holiday which is in a week or so.
I have as an aside created some awesome curves around the vegetable garden, and pruned the feijoa trees pretty finely. The curves were there already, but with everything overgrown they couldn't be seen. Now they make the garden look quite cool as intended. Now I just need to remember to do the same thing with my body!
I also slept in the middle of the day not that I needed the sleep as I'm not sleep deprived. I only got up because the Blood Service rang to see if I was giving blood this week. I am, and that will get me into Wellington for a day, but I'll have to time giving blood after I have been to the gym.
So, boot camp has had a bit of a diversion.
Normal service may resume tomorrow...because I know exercise wise the gains I can make now will not only make training easier, but Taupo easier.
I may have to resort to making lists for the next few days - as a means to getting more out of the days. I am so not a list person, but I think it will probably help.
I think about being on the road for 2 hours, it's either too early so too cold, too windy, too late in the day so there will be too much traffic. There are other things to do. It's easy to make excuses. So, go for half an hour then. Half an hour would be half an hour. But that hasn't worked either.
I'm almost "half way" in terms of the bigger goal - its usually this point I turn around in my head and sabotage my own progress. I can't explain that. I need to get over that, but there is the niggle and memory factor that sort of bubbles and provides the bigger challenge than the actual execution of the exercise factor. It's Ok, I am going to push through, I have "got this", but that's how the last few days have been.
Week 5 of the "in-between" jobs is not helping. Yet I know that there is a reason of I've got this time to reflect, and time to use. I don't exactly know what that reason is other than there must be a reason.
I did about 4-5 hours gardening today - another day and then I should have the back garden in order. I want to get the south side done before my neighbours get back from their holiday which is in a week or so.
I have as an aside created some awesome curves around the vegetable garden, and pruned the feijoa trees pretty finely. The curves were there already, but with everything overgrown they couldn't be seen. Now they make the garden look quite cool as intended. Now I just need to remember to do the same thing with my body!
I also slept in the middle of the day not that I needed the sleep as I'm not sleep deprived. I only got up because the Blood Service rang to see if I was giving blood this week. I am, and that will get me into Wellington for a day, but I'll have to time giving blood after I have been to the gym.
So, boot camp has had a bit of a diversion.
Normal service may resume tomorrow...because I know exercise wise the gains I can make now will not only make training easier, but Taupo easier.
I may have to resort to making lists for the next few days - as a means to getting more out of the days. I am so not a list person, but I think it will probably help.
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