Oh boy...

Ups and Downs.

2012-01-21T14:03:00.003-06:00

Well, here we are folks in the year 2012. I'm officially 118 days away from the IMTX. (Scared...straight...) Time to kick it up a notch.

Since I had off today, I decided to do my bike workout outside, instead of inside. 50% chance of rain, but last week when I intended on going outside the chances were 70%. Did it rain? Not even close. So, I took my end of the 50% today and went for a ride.

For those of you who aren't aware, I have new bike. I sold my old roadster to my sole-sista-soon-to-be-road-sista, Alice'. I bought a new Quintana Roo Seduza (I like to call it the sedoozy.) I thought "GREAT! A tri bike! After all these years, I'm finally legit!"

And then it went downhill from there.

When I got my first road bike, it was really scary riding it. It was soooo much lighter than the regular ol' mountain bike I was used to. The riding position was slightly different. I thought at any moment I could crash because it was so light. Any move you made on it seemed very exaggerated and gave me a heart attack.

I got used to it and that bike got me through tons of HUGE races. We'd been though a lot together, but I knew it was time to move on. I bought the tri bike. Full carbon, time trial frame, it's a beautiful bike. However, I felt like I was literally learning how to ride a bike all over again.

First of all, you see all these people (some are questionable might I add) riding around in aero position. Can't be that hard, right? WRONG. Oh my gosh, I think I'm just a big chicken because it took me forever to finally get comfortable getting down on the bars. All I could think of was "How am I ever going to ride 112 miles on this thing?"

On a tri bike, all of your weight is on a very unstable front wheel, instead of on a regular road bike, where you're sitting up and your weight is on the non-shifting rear wheel. The seat is typically higher than the handlebars, so you're leaning down farther. The brakes and gear shifters aren't in the same place. You have to react very fast to sit up and brake because they aren't on the aero bars. It's just a big hot mess.

The guy at the bike shop refused to adjust my aero bars to a wider position, because (and he was right for the record) he felt that I didn't need them there. I simply had to get on the bike more. Kind of like when you get the clip in pedals and you're scared you'll forget to clip out when you stop? (Which you will...) My roomie, Jennifer, was a good friend and went with me to Pelican Park so I could RIDE MY BICYCLE IN THE GRASS. Yes, I may as well have had training wheels put on.

I got comfortable with it and finally took it out on the road. It was hard to adjust at first, so scared I was going to crash, and it seemed like I felt EVERY bump in the road that day, but now I love my bike! (with the exception of the seat. I need to get a new one because it's hurts my danger zone.)

I feel so fast! (Even though I'm not, but I feel like I am and the positive feeling that gives me makes it all good.)

Each day I go through an up and down about this race. "I'm not going to finish." to "You can do this, you're getting better." More of the "I should not have signed up for this" moments than the "this is going to epic." thoughts. It's lonely training for an Ironman. Obviously since it's an individual race. You can't depend on anyone but yourself to get you through it.

Who is going to wake up and run with you? People think 10 miles is long ride, why would anyone want to do 50 or more? And when you finish your workouts and come back, the only person who knows your effort and is satisfied is you. I want to share this with somebody, because if someone does it with you, then they know what it took to get there. It's like your accountability. Someone to say, "Oh you had a bad day? Don't worry about it, I had those, but it's just one day. You're not getting worse! You can do it!"

This whole thing is so mental. May needs to hurry up and get here!

Crimmus!

2011-12-22T08:21:00.002-06:00

SEASON'S GREETINGS!!!!

Work is crazy.

and busy.

Mostly crazy.

I'm ready for next week. I have THREE DAYS OFF IN A ROW! I'm bringing my bike home and going for long bike rides! (Weather permitting.) Speaking of weather, is it summer yet?! I am NOT a cold weather girl. I'll take tank tops and flip flops any day. I joined Masters swimming at the globo gym. The pool is outside (but heated) and the cold weather makes it REALLY hard to get out of bed in the mornings. I should invest in a rooster. The only time I can go is at 6am, soooooo yeah.

There is an Ice Man dip and dash on New Years Day I want to do. I don't know what my work hours are for that day, but I hope I get to race it. You run two miles to the river, swim 100 yd in the river and run back to the gym! Sounds like fun right?! No, but it's on my bucket list.

Not much to report in these parts, so until next time!

Race Tunes

2011-10-28T22:32:00.004-05:00

I'm running in a 5k tomorrow (my first one in a LOOOOOOOOOOONG time) and I'm updating race jam playlist. For those of you who need a little extra umph during your race or workout, here are some jams that really get me fired up and sometimes even give me a second wind. (And if you don't like them, that's fine.)

Impossible -- by Anberlin

Elastic Love (ft. M.I.A.) --- Christina Aguilera

Hearing Damage --- Thom Yorke

Get Me Bodied --- Beyonce (there are some cool dance moves that go with this one.)

Carby (ft. Ezra Koenig) --- Discovery

Austere (The Naked and Famous Remix) ---- the Joy Formidable

Block After Block --- Matt & Kim

Your Body is a Machine --- The Good Natured

My Body --- Young the Giant

And for the cool down (emphasis on cool, because you've just finished a rockin' workout and feel like a superstar)

19-2000 --- Gorillaz

Do Work!!!

Getting better.

2011-10-27T21:39:00.002-05:00

UPDATE.

Not too much of an update, but for those of you who care, here is what is going on in my life (in bullet point form)

--Well I cut all my hair. Yup. Pixie cut for me. I'm not sure if my mom was too thrilled about it, but I think it's growing on her. For my lifestyle, it's super easy and I save a lot on shampoo and condish. Plus I wanted to do something crazy.

--Ironman training is going well. I signed up for swimming lessons (because I'm four years old) In the end I think it will pay off as I am NOT a good swimmer.

--My roommate Jen is the Nutcracker in her former dance teacher's Nutcracker ballet. I love that I room with a local celebrity.

--I'm going to a Halloween party on Saturday. I don't know where it is, or anyone who will be there except my coworker and my hairdresser. I'm going as the Spartan queen, so I'll be prepared to kick butt on anyone who gets fresh.

that is all!

76 Trombones.

2011-09-27T22:11:00.008-05:00

Life has been pretty laid back. Here's an outline of what's been going on

1: I attended Kristin's bachelorette party (for some reason google chrome is telling me I spelled that wrong. oh well) this past weekend. Not too much happened, which I guess is what you want for those kinds of deals.

2: I FINALLY went to a Saints game. SO MUCH FUN. I sat with my crazy coworker Roxanne, and we tried desperately to get on the dance cam. FAIL. It's okay. the game went by fast, but I did see my 7th grade home economics teacher in the section next to me. (omg-i-hope-she-didn't-see-me)

3: My workouts lately have been pretty intense. All that to say, my legs look great. (I feel everyone is allowed to be vain every so often.)

4: My workouts lately have been pretty intense. All that to say, I can't stuff food in my mouth fast enough. (porker)

5: I recently started watching the Bold and the Beautiful. I would say this cast is not as beautiful as the cast of Young and the Restless, but there is lots of drama nonetheless, and I looooooooooove daytime drama.

6: I never dress up for Halloween, but every year I do pick out a costume as if I were going to dress up and have all these social events to attend. Last year, I wanted to be Mr. Peanut (from the Planters cans). This year, if I were dressing up I'd definitely be a drum majorette. Here are some examples of costumes I like.

I think the last girl is twirling machetes!!!

Aren't awesome though?! Sometimes I think I was born in the wrong decade. Okay, one more just for kicks.

Look at her lean!

Back to Earth

2011-09-14T21:18:00.003-05:00

Okay, I'm not completely off the face of the planet, but I'm close.

Let's see if I can recap what's been up.

1) I was supposed to go to a Saints game with my coworkers, but after sitting in traffic just outside of the Superdome for 2 hours, boss decided we'd go eat instead. I need to find my "game that never was" ticket to put on the fridge. It's almost like honorable mention. I didn't quiiiiite get in. OH and on a side note, while I was getting ready for the game, I decided to re-pierce my ears for the third time in my life. Didn't hurt, but wearing earrings is a weird feeling after not wearing them for 8 years.

2) Jennifer and I went hiking in Tunica Hills last Friday. We woke up early, drove 2 hours away from Mandeville (of course stopping at the sonic for a Breakfast toaster and Croissonic sandwich)

and finally arrived in Pond, MS.
The picture above is our attempt to find the primitive trail. We had already done the regular trail and thought we might try to find the other waterfalls in the area located on the primitive trail. Basically, you had follow white markings on trees, but ten minutes and only two tree markings later, we decided to call it day and not risk making Fox news for the night.

3) I started a class online! Yup, back to school (ish) It's only one class and it's about vascular pathologies (aneurysms, aneuryms oh and more life threatening arterial diseases) The book reads like a med school class, but thank goodness for Online Webster.

4) Wellll, I signed up for an Ironman. That's pretty much all I'm going to say about that.

I feel like I've been busy, but I haven't. Or maybe I have. Who knows. I FORGOT, we have a wii in our condo now, so when I don't feel like doing my workouts for training, I simply put on Just Dance and workout that way. It's as hard as an other workout, but it gives me a chance to tap into my suppressed dancing needs.

If I think of anything else, I promise to better about updating (not that anyone really reads this, but just for my memory.)

Is it just me?

2011-06-16T22:13:00.002-05:00

Or is Anberlin's "Impossible" a great song? It's my pump up work jam on the causeway every morning since I bought it. (My spin class instructors plays it. It doubles as an exercise jam)

I'm off Saturday. Jen and I got the keys to our new place. Time to paint the new room! I'm thinking Hydrangea Floret or Vines in the Mist...either way, it's a step up from the polka dots that are on the wall now!

I have a bunch of funny stories, but they shall wait, because I'm tired and have work in the morning!

(dance) REVOLUTION!!!

2011-06-03T22:18:00.002-05:00

ha HA!

Yes, it is the season of dance. My extra curriculars are taking over! On whatever day I don't have to real life work, you can bet I'm doin' werk.

Mondays : Tango

Step Aerobics

Tuesdays: Zumbaaaaa!

Wednesday: Step Aerobics

Thursdays: MORE ZUMBA

SO YOU THINK YOU CAN DANCE (fox network for those interested.)

Fridays: Private dance party celebrating that it's Friday.

AND also, not dance related directly, but I'm starting piano lessons again.
My friend's wife teaches them and she's giving me the hook up, so I can't complain.

All this while continuing my swim/bike/run regimen. Jennifer is with her youth kiddos in NYC on choir tour. I've been stuffing my face with oreos.

The end.

Savvy?

2011-05-20T22:19:00.003-05:00

Pictures of recent happenings....

Matt Smith and Joe.

Pirates of the Caribbean MIDNIGHT PREMIER!!! (in 3D)

Jennifer and Morgan at the Manuel's house
Old Beau. Sweet Dog.
After a local high school talent show. We were trying to figure out why TCBY cleared out so fast...turns out a kid barfed in the corner and the staff didn't have a mop....
CHECK OUT MY DAD'S SWEET NEW RIDE!!!!!

The Cheese Stands Alone

2011-05-19T21:33:00.002-05:00

My dating hiatus is starting to aggravate me.

In a time when it's supposed to be "so awesome" to be single, I think I'm a little over it.

In other news, midnight showing of Pirates of the Caribbean? I think so. Arrrr! I hope I don't fall asleep! My first race of the season is the Sunday in New Orleans. A short tri, that I'm slightly nervous about, but I know it will be over soon.

PROOF

2011-05-08T22:13:00.002-05:00

White boys CAN dance!!! A youtube channel of white boys who have "Dance Move Fridays" and show you all the coolest dances that are out!!! I'M OBSESSED.

Haircut!

2011-05-02T08:47:00.002-05:00

Second Row Stepper.

2011-04-27T20:46:00.002-05:00

As said in prior post, I visited Franco's gym today. If anyone has ever seen Dodgeball, it's comparable to Globo Gym. It has everything one would need to survive and look awesome.

Jennifer and I decided to try out the step aerobics class tonight. It was so much fun. When I was in high school, over Christmas break, I paid for a month's worth of jazzercise classes at my dance studio. There I was, 17 years old. Youngest by 20 years at least. I woke up every Saturday morning at 6am and would go jazzercise. Dance aerobics is probably what I would want to do in my career as a fitness guru.

Anyway, I always wanted to do step classes when I worked out at LAC. Unfortunately they only held them at 9am and I was at work during that time, so I always stuck to spinning with my sole sista (shout out.)

Tonight, my step dreams came true. Some of the moves were a little hard to pick up, but the instructor came and helped me out. She knew me and Jen by name towards the end of the class. The usual steppers had some more advanced variations that we want to learn so bad!

The picture above is an accurate picture of what our class was like (including the older man on the front row!) The old man in our class was REALLY good. He had definitely had some rhythm. In fact, I watched him more than the instructor!

Jennifer and I didn't think we did all that great until everyone came up to us after class and asked us if we had done it before! It was so funny! "I can't believe you picked it up so fast, it took us a month to get the moves down!"

We were so pumped. It confirmed that step class was meant to be. I plan on going back for more and eventually moving up to the front row. It sounds silly, but I don't have confidence in a lot of things I do. Step class isn't super important, but I felt good doing it. Especially since I had a less than stellar bike ride today.

AND on a side note, Jennifer and I were doing some extra workouts in a private studio, when we met a man in a windsuit and ballroom dancing shoes. TURNS OUT, he goes to a local wine bar every Monday and there is a ballroom instructor who teaches the Argentine Tango Jennifer and I already picked our Monday to go. I'm so excited!!!

Fuhgeddaboutit.

2011-04-25T23:53:00.002-05:00

Last Thursday, I went with some friends to one of the local gyms here called the Pelican Athletic Club(Or P.A.C.)

This Wednesday is my trial at Franco's gym. Franco's is super elite and Bourgie (short for Bourgeoisie). Part of me has to wonder, if it's so high class, why choose a name like Franco's?
This is what I think of when Franco comes to mind.

I really hope Richard Simmons is there.

Spelling test.

2011-04-22T08:46:00.002-05:00

I went to eat at a delicious sandwich place called The Usual Suspects. It just opened and while the menu is small, the food is dy-no-miiiiiite. Anyway, we couldn't figure out if they haven't noticed the error, or if they really think it's spelled that way.

Summratimez

2011-04-12T15:33:00.002-05:00

I have enjoyed my day off today! I dusted off the ol' bike-a-roo and took her for a spin on the trace. I had to air up the tires before I left (you should always do that, especially with road bike tires as less air you have, the more likely you are to pop your tube and get a flat.)

Unfortunately for me, the tires take in 115 pounds of pressure. I only weigh 90. (Yeah, yeah, I hear all of you "poor me.") At the risk of looking like an absolute IDIOT, I filled the tires by the apartment instead of when I got to the trailhead. I only got in 100 pounds, but that's good enough.

So off I went! SPF 70 on the face, tires aired up. Five miles into the ride, I came upon a runner. Using proper bike etiquette, I yelled, "On your left!" and looked behind me, but I couldn't go around because two other riders were speeding up. (Of course.) Before I knew it, there was a crash, bang and loud "F***, DUDE!"

For some reason, rider #1 started braking as he was passing, and rider #2 clipped his back tire and crashed on the pavement stopping in the middle of the trail. My spider senses were on vacation, because I BARELY slowed down in time stopping right in front of rider #2 and almost didn't clip my shoes out in time, which would have resulted in me falling on top of him and adding insult to injury.

There was rider #2, a portly fellow, with a new bike dinged up and road rash from his shoulder to his ankle. I think the runner disappeared into the swamp because I didn't see him again and he didn't stop to make sure the cyclist was okay! Did I mention he was running in board shorts?? WHO DOES THAT?!

#2 had some bleeding and skin missing, but he could move his shoulder and elbow decently and walk around without difficulty. The two guys actually continued on with their ride!

I finished my ride and did a little run afterwards, passing a very nice looking young man in spandex. (The fabric of our lives, right?)

Anyhoo, tonight is DFO at Mama K's (Dinner for Orphans = me, Jennifer and Joe) followed by the Dancing With The Stars results show! Tomorrow will hold another (hopefully less exciting) brick workout and MAYBE a trip to the pool for some relaxation and sun. Unless of course our crazy, sexually confused neighbor and her demon children are there.

I can cook?

2011-04-05T19:16:00.008-05:00

I made pizza!

Cut up some bell peppers...

I don't like cutting onions, so I bought them frozen.

I love canadian bacon!

Mozzarella...

Pepperoni

The chef

Pre-oven goodness

Post-oven tastiness

I think she likes it!

It's perfect for the Dancing with the Stars result show!

Rock and Roll.

2011-03-28T22:13:00.003-05:00

So I ran the Rock n' Roll Dalls half marathon this weekend. The trip was fun and so was the race, but I didn't get the time I wanted. Oh well. I still had a good time with my family!

It's short, but I'm kind of pooped to write a long post. I'll leave you with a crazy moment at work today.

Kiana: Ali, I made yacky meat, you want some?

Me: (pause) Wait...what?

I'll explain this mystery dinner later.

Weekday Update

2011-03-15T14:02:00.002-05:00

Since I work weekends, and have weekdays off, this will be my weekday update.

1)Went to eat at Heavenly Hams with Jennifer, Joe, Chad, Pastor (???) I can't remember his name, Andy and his behbeh gurl , Hope who is very good at high fives.

2) Got the Rogue washed. He needed a cleaning after this pollen frenzy we've been having. Having a shiny car makes me feel AT LEAST 10 times more cool when I drive around. I'll probably make a habit of getting it washed.

3) Turned in my application at the St. Tammany Humane Society. If I can't have a dog, I can at least help out the ones who need a home. PUPPY LOVE!!!! I understand it will be a dirty job, but I've had to deal with human poo and vomit many times before, so I think I can deal with doggy business #1 and #2. I miss my dog, Missy, and I think this will kind of help out with that little piece of my heart that's gone now.

4) Went for a run on the trace Sunday and today. Sundays are packed with families on their bicycles. There is an underpass near the Mandeville trailhead where I leave from so you can hear all the little kids screaming with glee as they ride down under the bridge, and then when they reach the top again you hear "I'm tired! Can we stop?" Kids...

That is all! What's' new with you?

2011-03-10T09:12:00.003-06:00

Making a quick blog post before work. I have to leave early today to get gas, which nowadays is something to look forward to...right? right?

So anyways, Jen and I are living the free life here. Work all day. In bed by 10. The usual.

Mardi Gras has recently passed and I'm really glad. I think it got good reviews from all the visitors who came, but every time I got off work, I had to take major detours to get home because of parades. I work a little later into the evening so when go time comes, I'm ready to go! Not wait! Haha!

Kristin asked me to be a bridesmaid in her and Robert's wedding and Jennifer will be reading. We're pretty excited, because now we don't have to try to crash the rehearsal dinner. We'll just straight up be there.

I'll update more later.

Nomad.

2011-02-21T09:08:00.003-06:00

Much has happened mi amigos.

1) I got a new car! AAAAAAH! I know, I know, the exploder is now in the hands of C.D. Lionberger. I will miss being so unrestricted with it, but I will not miss not having a radio. To replace the exploder, I now have a 2011 Nissan Rogue. People keep asking what I have named it. Some have even said all objects are feminine and to give it a girl's name, but I've been feeling the pressure, and also a male spirit in the Rogue, so I have named it Jonas after the Jonas Brothers. Did I mention I have XM radio for three months? RADIO DISNEY!!!!

2) After Jonas arrived, I took him on his maiden voyage to New Orleans to watch my friends Robert and David run the New Orleans Rock and Roll Marathon. Finish time was 4:06....did I mention it was their first marathon? Those boys are cuh-razy. I stayed with my friend Jennifer Radecker in her store http://www.louisianarunning.com/LouisianaRunningCompany/LRC_Home.html

If you are ever in New Orleans and need new running shoes, she carries the not so common brands, but they are so neat and have their own cool technology so check out her store on Canal Street. I bought some K-Swiss running shoes and they have proven to be magical.

I didn't want to bother with parking around the race, because it was going to be a pain to get in and out. I was trying to figure out what the heck I was going to do, when Jennifer suggested I take the street car and walk to the course. BRILLIANT! So I loaded myself up on the Canal Streetcar, walked two miles to the start and just jumped around the course looking for the boys. Warning. DO NOT wear converse sneakers to a marathon. I have blisters on my heels and my calves were killing me the next day. On the plus side, I looked cool, and that's all that matters.

3) On Valentine's day, I drove back home from the race, and not even two hours of being home, I received a call from a place I had interviewed in New Orleans (Metarie, for the natives) saying "Hey you got the job, can you start Wednesday?" I said yes. Packed up ONE bag, and drove to Mandeville to move in with one of my best friends, Jennifer Fontenot. And that is where I have been since.

4) Two days ago, Jennifer and I trekked over to Baton Rouge to be apart of Robert and Kristin's proposal party! Haha, that's right, Robert proposed to Kristin and we had a big bash to celebrate! It was very sweet and Jen & I were nervous for him. Happy times, indeed!

5) My friend Alice' ran her first half marathon on Saturday in Austin. This girl has guts, because Austin is nothing but hills and I am big weenie when it comes to hills and she pulled an awesome first time of 2:31. Shout out to her momz, Bethany and Amanda. I love having runner friends that are girls and also that aren't real snobby about it. They keeps it realz. Now if I can convince her to run the Rock and Roll Vegas with me in December....AH!!! Kathy Wimberly is my inspiration/pump up to run this race.

6) Next month, I will be running the Dallas Rock & Roll Half marathon. Hopefully I can pull a good time. We'll see. Always tryin' to PR....

Until more goofy stuff happens, I'm signing off. Life has certainly taken off with a running start now...it didn't even give me time to pack towels or my makeup bag...

Exhbit A

2011-02-03T23:07:00.002-06:00

For those of you who don't know, I used to row.

Can you figure out why???

purrrrr...

Quotables

2011-01-19T22:46:00.003-06:00

Mom: "Ali. I'm not trying to hurt your feelings, but you smell like grass."

Bennett (to the asian doctor lady): "I need a sugar mama...like you. You working all day.... Me and little JP doing tae kwan do in the living room when you come home..."

Charlene: "Oh gurl. I am so wack today. It's this morning sickness."

Me: "Morning sickness. You're pregnant?!"

Charlene: "Wit my first, gurl! I am THIRTY-SIX YEARS OLD. My huuuzzband says this a whoopsies."

EDIT

new one from today.

me: Can you tell me where Dr. Babin's office is?

pink lady at Cabrini staring at me for a second and then grabbing her ear: "What? Honey, my hearing aid just died."

Last Day of School!

2011-01-09T18:03:00.003-06:00

Okay, not really. But that's what Friday felt like for me. The job was a good intermission job for me, but now that it's over it's kind of like a breath of fresh air. I'm relieved to know someone was finally willing to hire me as a bonafied tech. I was working as a receptionist and Friday was my last day since I begin my new job TOMORROW. (yes that's correct, TO-MOR-ROW)

Anyways, NEW OBSESSION. www.rentherunway.com. I can't believe I didn't know about this site when all my friends were getting married! Now I have absolutely no excuse to rent a designer dress. Now that everyone is married, people will have babies and there is no reason to rent a perfectly good Herve Leger for a baby shower. UGH. These girls better have black tie baby showers.

In other news, I'm running the Dallas Rock N' Roll Half Marathon.

I also do not have tuberculosis.

Interesting story. I was in Longview, TX for New Years and had to use the bathroom. I walk in to see a pint sized little chica, with her infant sister on her hip. Assuming she was waiting on her mother to get out, I stepped in front her and checked all the stalls. Full.

Well dang.

So she WAS waiting to use the bathroom. I sigh and get in line behind her. Out of the next available stall comes a girl who I know for sure is NOT older than I am and if I were to put money on it, I'm sure she wasn't over 20 with a lovely brown button down shirt, TIED around her boob area, a nice beer gut with a long stringy belly button ring in it (yes, her midriff was showing) and a frilly white mini skirt that could be purchased at your local Limited Too. (Now called Justice) Baby in tote wearing only a t-shirt and diaper. Little Chica runs for the stall.

I'm trying so hard not to stare at belly button ring girl, but I honestly thought you were not allowed to show midriff in public. I thought that counted at indecent exposure. WRONG.

In walks in another girl who has shaved her eyebrows off and replaced them with a light tan pencil brow.

girl: "Aaaaw sh*t there's a line?!"

me: "I'm going to the other bathroom."

and beelined for the bathroom in the back only to find one lady whispering in a stall

"They said we owed them 576 dollars...no...no, she's out there right now..."

Whatever, I just used it and left.

Peace out folks, hopefully I'll have something more interesting to say next time!

Victory in Jesus

2010-12-23T14:32:00.000-06:00

I was offered a job as an x-ray tech.

An odd post.

2010-11-19T21:15:00.002-06:00

An update that will be full of non-detailed things.

1) I visited Jen Fontenot recently. The next day I went to a bachelorette party for a bachelorette I didn't really know. So I guess that makes me the pre-wedding crasher? That's another blog for later.

2) I bought new running tights from runningfunky.com

Me: (bursting into the living room with excitement, and my tights on) I was scared they wouldn't arrive in time for the race!

Dad: (with a confused look on his face) Aaaaare you wearing those for the turkey trot?

3) Since I have yet to snag a job in the radiology department of the healthcare industry, I like to day dream about all the things I could do instead.

a. Spin class instructor.

b. Jazzercise instructor.

c. Zumba instructor.

Noticing a pattern?

4) I'm also changing my game plan towards young girls who seek older people for advice. (since I'm considered one of those now according to Ashlynn, a seven year old who frequents our office) My advice to girls in this tough economic time? Forget school. Gets you nowhere. Just marry rich.

5) In regards to number 4, I'm only kidding.

6) I've started a new anti-aging system to help keep my youthful look. It's called Banana Boat SPF 70. I'm going to be smokin hot in ten years.

7) I'm on weight watchers. Not to lose weight, but instead utilize the point system to keep myself from replacing actual meals with sweets (something I've been doing a lot lately.) I have a serious addiction to sweets. Not joking, it' s a true addiction. I wouldn't crave real food, I'd want a brownie or ice cream for dinner or breakfast. So, I've been at it for three weeks now and I have more energy than ever since I've replaced sweets with fruits. Don't judge me!

That's all I have for now. Pictures later. Half marathon this weekend. I need some tune-age.

The Missing Link??

2010-09-16T22:45:00.000-05:00

Fall is upon us.

2010-09-05T15:07:00.006-05:00

I'm ready for the pumpkins to go on sale. I love carving a pumpkin. I've carved one for the past two years. It's really a lot of fun sitting outside on the back porch on a cool night, getting pumpkin goop all over you and saying "Does this look right?" every two seconds. It's an interesting challenge when you want to carve something that doesn't come from a carving kit book.

Side note: I really want to go as Mr. Peanut for halloween.

Currently listening to: "The Dress Looks Nice on You" by Sufjan Stevens. Sweet song.

EDIT: "Strawberry Swing" by Coldplay is soooooooooooooooooo goooooooooooooooooood.

Some kind of wonderful.

2010-09-04T13:10:00.003-05:00

Wonderful things in the world of ali (as of 1:11pm today)

1) a great morning run.

2) a great post-run muffin.

3) a great post-muffin swim.

4) a great post-swim cupcake.

The only thing that could top this is a giant pizza showing up on my doorstep.

Got hit on by a 12 grader in the swim lane next to me. He thought I was in 10th in grade. ::sigh:: It's a blessing and a curse, I tell ya.

currently napping to: "Over the Pond" by the Album Leaf

Oh baby you got me goin'....

2010-09-03T17:38:00.002-05:00

"so insane and I just don't know
what's goin down."

Currently on repeat: "It's Gonna Be A Long Walk" by Apparat

#1 Dad!

2010-08-28T23:11:00.002-05:00

CONGRATULATIONS TO MY DAD, Chuck Lionberger, FOR FINISHING THE HOTTER N' HELL 100!!!!!

I'm very very proud of him and can't believe he was nervous about. I think he earned the title of ride historian with as many text/emails he sent and pictures he took.

GREAT JOB! I'll post of a picture of him when he gets back.

(I also forgot to mention the HNH100 is a 100 mile bike ride in the blazing heat of north Texas. So yeah, he's cooler than you.)

License to Kill...chops only.

2010-08-27T17:49:00.002-05:00

Excuse my goldeneye reference there (xbox goldeneye, not the pooey pearce brosnan movie)

I am now licensed in not one, but TWOOOOO states to take x-rays. So why won't either of them hire me?

Oh, if only I was stickin' it to the man instead of the man stickin' it to me.

Captain's Blog

2010-08-23T18:09:00.002-05:00

Stardate: 08232010
Morale: High

I gotta job, job jobby job job! One catch though. It's not an x-ray job. (sad face) BUT, it IS working for a dentist so yeah! I will take x-rays, but it will just be of the teeth and mandible. S'kay. I came to the realization that an x-ray job just ain't gonna happen. Not now anyway. My mom has been pushing me to further my education (bluuuugh) but it seems that's all I can do at the moment. I'm going to save my money for a little bit, take a class or two teaching me all about Computed Tomography (cat scans for those of you who don't know) and take ANOTHER registry so I can have those sweet, sweet letters behind my name (CT) and a nice little increase in my yearly salary. Plus, being cross trained makes me more marketable (that's what they say anyway.)

Plus side of today:
1) I have a small income again!
2) I don't have to pay for CPR/AED re-certification!
3) I get my gym membership back! More stealth training!
4) I had a celebratory cupcake!

In addition to learning about CT, I've also made it my mid-year resolution to become more handy with the metric system.

Party in the U.S.A.!

Rookie Mistake

2010-08-19T15:48:00.003-05:00

I stopped paying attention when my instructor, Ginger, said "You will probably never have to take a panorex film in your life, but here's how you take one."

Now I could potentially be shooting panorex films.

Happy note: Romeo and Juliet was on FMC last night (the Leo version) I forgot how good a movie it was. I also forgot that Paul Rudd was in it. Who knew?

My urban dictionary contribution.

2010-08-16T21:56:00.002-05:00

"Pedametrician" (noun)

"I am here for my apperntment. My bay-bay need to see the pedametrician."

True story.

You're destiny lies with meeeee, skywalker!

2010-08-14T19:37:00.001-05:00

So much on tv.

Star Wars trilogy (jam)
Gymanstics (jam)
Ocean's Eleven (jam)

Ooooo, who is a nerd?

Scratch that, who needs a cupcake?!

Party in the U.S.A.

2010-08-06T10:56:00.005-05:00

Off to Mandeville tonight to celebrate my friend Jennifer's 24th birthday. I forget that I have a picture from last weekend at the tri.

It was toooo hot that day! So glad I didn't race, though David (the half naked guy in the picture) is trying to convince me to run the NOLA Jazz half marathon in October. It has potential, but it's a short time away to get my miles up since I want to PR. I figure if I decide to do it, I can run it as best as I can and then really go for gold in December at the Baton Rouge Beach half marathon.

I hear the Young and the Restless theme song downstairs. It's calling me.

Regrets

2010-08-04T21:45:00.002-05:00

I know what you're going to say, "You should never have regrets!" Well I do. During my time at home today and after watching too many episodes of Teen Mom on MTV, I do kinda feel like I want to get them off my chest.

1) I regret that I didn't major in Kinesiology. I LOVE x-ray and I'm happy I am an x-ray technologist. But, you know I have a love for health and well being. I think a degree in kinesiology could have been my step into a career as a fitness guru (secret dream of mine). This is only a minor regret since I think my career in healthcare will be equally as satisfying and ten times more un-boring.

2) When I was 18, Loye Ayres came over to our house and stayed until 2 am while we watched cartoon network. He had a 2 door tahoe that looked exactly like this picture:

And he was a Cutie McHottie (he may or may not be in the present day. I have no idea as I have not seen him since. Probably for the reason I am about to give) Anyway, Tamara (who is talking to her boyfriend Mark) is in the front room calls me in and says "Who is the hot guy you brought home?! ::into the phone:: Mark, Ali just brought a hot guy home."

Like I couldn't! Geez! (kidding) Anyway, we sat on the couch and cuddled. Then when it was time for him to go, I walked with him to his monster truck, and he pulled me in for a hug and gave me the look. What did I do?

Turned my head away and smiled, "Drive Safely."

STUPID! STUPID! STUPID! He clearly was lookin' for the kiss and what did I do? I did not capitalize on the situation! UUUUUUUUUUUUUUGH! Where is the Delorean when I need it?!?!?!

3) I regret not taking my dad's advice in high school when he said, "Ali, I think you should get into running. Your body type is made for it. You'd be a good endurance athlete." (exact words) What did I do instead? That's another post I will title "Vicki's Dance Studio Caribbean Cruise of Doom."

That's it. Only three. Which is good I think. And they aren't bad regrets, just missed opportunities. I'm not suffering though!

She's a brick....workout.

2010-07-24T09:48:00.002-05:00

I had a brick workout this morning. I haven't done one of those in about two years (thank you school). Anyhoo, since my sister is a big believer in rewards, I'm going to go ahead and say I rewarded myself with a cupcake that was given to me post-ride. It was from Little Cakes (with Big Attitudes) in Alexandria and at first sight it looked...questionable.

It had a piece of bacon on top! It was called a french toast cupcake. Now, if I were to close my eyes I would say if it smells like french toast and tastes like french toast, then it must be! BUT IT'S NOT! It's a cupcake!

Manna from from heaven.

I haven't had macaroni and cheese in a while. Mmmmm, the blue box. The Lionboogers will be attending a wedding later today, next week is the River Cities triathlon (I will be cheerleader and not racer, which I'm actually very excited about.) and I have a job interview on Tuesday. So, if (and I mean really IF, please please please keep your fingers crossed.) I get it then I will have two things marked off my list! Mom bought me a new pair of running shoes and they are wonderful. Then all that is left will be a date. No cage fighters allowed.

Yes I supposed I could make this a long post and talk about what's up.

I went on an interview with a particular hospital and wasn't picked for the job. They called me to tell me and I appreciate that. However, as if verbal rejection wasn't enough...juuuuuust in case I forgot they didn't want to hire me, they sent me an email as well reminding me, "Hey, we picked someone else." I thought it was really funny! (seriously!)

Next, I went to schlotzsky's with my friend, Alice', and saw a childhood friend(ish) working the cash register and to make a long story short, he talked on and on about himself and his cage fighting (first thought I had was Kip from Napoleon Dynamite) and then somehow wrangled my phone number out of me (I think I blacked out for a few minutes, I'm positive I didn't know what I was doing) Then he calls me a few days in a row, but I think he got the hint.

Well I say that, but who knows...

So I supposed that is all in the life of moi. Hopefully I'll have more interesting news to report some other time.

Home Again.

2010-06-28T21:19:00.002-05:00

Well folks, I'm back in Alexandria. Woo.

I like living with Mom and Dad because they're always making me laugh. Alexandria, though, lacks a little bit of excitement. I'm on the job hunt(eternally). Something to get me away from 'Say Yes to the Dress.' I just watch that show over and over and over. Also, Toddlers and Tiaras. That one is the kicker I'm sure. It's definitely a guilty pleasure, but anything to replace my Jerry Springer kick I was on in Baton Rouge.

I don't feel like typing a bunch of junk so to sum it up, here is my list of wants:

1) A job

2) A date

3) A new pair of running shoes

Now, all of those have specifics that go with them, but I'm feeling lazy, sooooo. That's all you get.

postage

2010-05-11T13:03:00.002-05:00

Everyone is posting again, so I suppose I will too.

1) My last final exam of my LIFE is on wednesday. I never thought I would reach this point. YIPPY SKIPPY!!

2) I bought a curling iron so I can fix my hair for graduation. Last night was the first time in my life I have ever used one. No burnt hair, one burnt ear. Practice makes perfect I suppose!

3) I have been purchasing in threes the snap pea stir fry mix from walmart. It's soooo good and I go through it so fast. A little EVOO and some Tony's. yum!

4) Alice', I have both "Keep a Quiet Heart" and "Quest for Love" waiting for you. I'll be sure to deliver ASAP.

5) I should be taking my registry soon, which means people can actually hire me, which means I may move far far away. There will be a temporary move to A-town though, so be on the look out because I'll have a bunch of free time on my hands...

6) Speaking of moving, I am in the process of cleaning out my apartment. So far so good, but I'm considering selling my couch just so I don't have to move it all the way back home. It's quite large, but very comfy. I'm not entirely attached to it, which is why I'm willing to sell it. Plus it would be some extra cash-ola. More thoughts on that later.

That is all for now, whoever reads this. lol. I'm not sure if anyone does!

Deal or No deal

2010-03-23T14:00:00.002-05:00

I know I know, I post a lot of youtube videos, but they make me laugh and I just want to share the laughter!

Crabs.

2010-03-17T21:01:00.001-05:00

This never fails to make me laugh.

mayer-dom

2010-03-11T21:40:00.002-06:00

I am in a state of Mayer-dom.

As you can guess, he was awesome last night. Many thanks to Alice' for inviting me to enjoy good music and laughs. I have a feeling the flip camera will be reenacting various crowd responses to being caught on the big screen at the concert. It's a whole roy g. biv of emotion.

I went running at Highland Road Park today. It's a cross country course and I had forgotten it had rained pretty hard until my shoe almost sunk/disappeared into what seemed like a shallow patch of grass.

WRONG.

The lady who sat next to me last night, her B.O. smelled like marijuana. It was almost unbearable. Then, she popped winterfresh in her mouth. Yeah yeah yeah, "how do I know what weed smells like?" Well folks, if you saw the Ying Yang twins at Groovin on the Grounds in 2005, you would know what weed smells like too. ooookaaaaaaaaaaay?

I saw a Snooki in the bathroom at the concert. She had a poof, a tan and was adjusting her boobs for about five minutes. I didn't realize she was a Snooki until just now.

My only thumbs down about the concert is that he didn't play Edge of Desire.

The most non-sketch gas station in a three mile radius.

2010-03-08T19:39:00.002-06:00

I needed gas in the worst way, but didn't want to go to any gas stations super near to my apartment because I live midcity. Since I work at the midcity hospital, I knew that I didn't want to stop at the gas station across the street. So I went to a gas station down the street lol.

It's near a YMCA, so I knew it was safe.

As I'm pumping my gas I hear this conversation (more or less like this, and I'm putting a censor on.)

woman: Don't you be putting that shnoz up in my car!
man: What the french toast?! (from the orbit commercial)
woman: I TOLD you.
(more yelling, but I couldn't make out what they were yelling about because they were yelling at the same time and my brain can't distinguish the words that well.)
Man: Maaaaaaaaaayyyne, you as ghetto as ghetto mothertruckers come.
Woman: (yells back some shrieky big mama words)
Man: You are SO GHETTO.
Woman: (still yelling, but unclearly)
Man: Oh my GAWD, If i wasn't on parole......

That is real life. I'M GOING TO SEE JOHN MAYER ON WEDNESDAY. "tsk" if you want, but I still like him.

Olympic Ice Dancing

2010-02-19T21:59:00.000-06:00

This is hot stuff.

More details on happenings later.

New Video

2010-02-16T21:25:00.001-06:00

It's no Oscar winner, but it's mine.

OLYMPICS!

2010-02-14T21:03:00.003-06:00

YAY!

If I went to the Winter Olympics, I'd want to be....

A biathlete! Hard. Core.

OR

A long track skater! (I know you may not think it's as exciting as short track, but let's face it folks, I'm not built to be a sprinter. I'm made for endurance!)

Anyway, I'm eating up the olympics. Go USA!

I went to my first Mardi Gras in NOLA. Some friends and I ventured down for the Endymion parade which was AWESOME. However, four hours had passed and we were only on float number 12! I think there were over 30. We didn't stick around for the whole thing, but I got the general idea of true Mardi Gras awesomeness. Good ol' fun. I saw no boobs. I did get pegged in the face once or twice with some beads, but I think that's just a risk of parade attendance.

The day before, I was standing in line at Wal-mart talking with an elderly gentlemen. The convo went something like this:

Man: You celebratin' Mardi Gras?
Me: Yes sir, I'll probably be heading down to New Orleans.
Man: OOOOOOOOOH, Guh, you just need to stay away from dat. It's just TOO crowded down dere.
Me: Well, I've never been. I figured I could get my one time out of the way early on in life.
Man: The last time I went to New Orleans for Mardi Gras was Februarrrrrrry....Nineteen seventy FOUR!
Me: Really?!
Man: I'll never go back.
Me: What? Why?
Man: Guh, a man like me can't breathe down dere! Just too many people! Dontchoo know they gon' be celebrating Mardi Gras for like a month now that the Saints won?! No ma'am. Not me.
Me: It can't be that bad?
Man: Hmph.

After that he complained about the other guy in front of us, who clearly does not need the automatic wheelchair buggy, but got one anyway.

Man: Now you know, I'm a lot older than him and I'm getting around just fine. He don't need dat. Look at him, he gotta stand up to swipe the credit card, why he can't just walk around?
Me: ::nodding::
Man: I don't even have a handicap license!
Me: ::nodding::

EISLEY IS COMING!

2010-02-04T09:28:00.004-06:00

One of my ABSOLUTELY FAVORITE bands is finally coming to Baton Rouge to the Spanish Moon. Now, for those of you who graduated from LSU, I know the Spanish Moon is very hippie/boho, but they have an excellent Halloween Costume contest as well as 80s night, now known as Velcro.

I love this band! They're happy. They're clean. They put me in a great mood.

All that to say, I'M GOING! haha, Eisley has never come to Louisiana and tickets are only $15 dollars. I can't pass it up! They aren't even on tour, they're coming only to Baton Rouge because they've never have before due to hurricanes and european tours.

They're originally from Tyler, TX and they've done back ups for David Crowder, New Found Glory AND were on tour with two of my other favorite bands, MuteMath and Vedera. (They also went on tour with COLDPLAY.

success!

2010-02-02T17:35:00.004-06:00

Sort of? Haha.

I was able to do 15 minutes today on the elliptical (sp?) today with no ZERO knee pain. YAY! haha, now if I could just run 15 minutes on the road then I will give three cheers. I also swam today and met a nice girl named Ivy. We shared a lane and got to talking about triathlons. She's training for her first one and is very nervous about it. I tried to give her as much encouragement as possible. I think she will do fine. She's in my yoga classes and always kicks butt in those. She's really cool.

I swam a little bit in the water walkers lane. To describe this, it's a very narrow lane with no stripe at the bottom. If you're swimming laps, you want the stripe, but since all the other lanes were taken, I took that one. It's actually kind of fun to swim in. I kept crashing into the swim ropes and probably gave a few people a laugh, but it helped with learning to swim straight without the stripe. A highly enjoyable swim.

I ALSO managed to hold the crow's pose three consecutive times! I'm so zen. Ha! No, I'm not, but it's taken me FOREVER to be able to do it. The real question is, can I do it again???? Oooooooo. Or more like, Ooooooohhhhhmmmmm.

HOKAY. That's all the news I have for now.

new stuff

2010-01-28T10:44:00.002-06:00

I've fallen off the wagon with blogging. I guess I'll jump back on.

I ran the marathon. It was long, painful and I'm glad it's over with. Not to discourage people from ever wanting to attempt to run a marathon, but if you know you don't handle mental/physical pain very well, then this distance is not for you.

Will I ever do another one? I'll have to think about it for a while.

My knee is still bothering me. It's only been 11 days since the marathon and people keep telling me I have to rest. By rest, they mean do absolutely nothing. That's too hard! I feel so lazy not doing some form of exercise, but I can't even run a mile right now. It's frustrating because I know what my body has the potential to do, but as of what it can do presently, well...it's not much.

Or so I thought.

Now I can do things I've always wanted to try and not feel guilty! I don't have to train for anything anymore. I'm loving it.

Hatha Yoga: This was my first yoga class. I felt somewhat prepared for it, but I have been doing the P90X yoga and this was much more low key. It was very peaceful and stretchy.

Power Yoga: This yoga class was a little bit more intense. The poses were more strength building poses as opposed to the Hatha yoga, where you focus more on breathing and awareness movements. I was very sore after this class.

Zumba: Quite possibly my most favorite class. This is a latin dance aerobics class. I'm just going to say right now, skinny people do NOT look cool doing the movements in this class. It's a very bootylicious class and I'm more of the booty-wishes type. Curvy girls have the advantage here. STILL, I have so much fun and will definitely be going back for more zumba.

Today, I don't have work, so I will be attending Tai Chi. I will report on this later. I'm growing to love the calm/relaxing classes such as yoga and potentially Tai Chi. It is a positive environment and does not lack difficulty for any skill level. The themes are basically the same. Focus on the now. Clear your mind of the past and the future. Be thankful for your body and for being allowed to practice good health techniques.

"Googlegangers"

2010-01-11T23:01:00.002-06:00

So, I read a blog about googlegangers. It's the google version of a doppleganger. Someone who has your name and is all over the internet. Have you ever googled yourself?

Due my unique (somewhat) name spelling, most of the results were really me. Not too many ladies spell Alison with one 'L'....OR have the last name Lionberger.

So, I learned that I:

Have completed a bunch of races.

Five years after I graduated from Roanoke College (Go Maroons!), I married my husband, Greg , in 98 and we attend the Holy Trinity Episcopal Church.

What have you done?

Running. Returning.

2010-01-07T12:00:00.002-06:00

The marathon is a little over a week away.

yay: I laced my shoes differently to relieve pressure on a section of my foot (I suspect a deep tissue bruise) and now it doesn't hurt when I run! It didn't automatically fix it, I've actually had to rest it for a while.
boo: I will be a running popsicle on race day. BRRRR!

More later. Off to eat!

Puzzle me this...

2009-12-19T22:30:00.002-06:00

Robert bought me a puzzle for christmas. It has Tigger on it, 1000 pieces and has also successfully given me a headache tonight. I won't let the puzzle conquer me. I'm actually glad I have the puzzle, since everyone has gone home for the holidays, I have something to keep me busy and not bored. (I still have to work...poooo.)

I lit all the candles I received and did NOT set off the fire alarm. I guess they will have to replace the heater. I turned the heater on for the first time. It set off the fire alarm and stunk up my bedroom. I'm too scared to try it again.

Tomorrow night, I will try to watch Casablanca. I haven't seen it and now I own it thanks to Travis. Now, I must decide what I will eat while watching it. Varr importante'.

I must have been more tired than I thought last night because I fell asleep on the couch at 7:15 and didn't wake up until 6 am this morning. Such a good sleep and I know it helped because I had a powerful 8 mile run with run group this morning. I'm not sure how I ran so well since I slept through supper and breakfast. Life's mysteries. Hm.

I did a group dance/lip sync Christmas routine at the school Christmas party on Friday. I earned 10 PTO hours for two things I really like to do! All while wearing a tacky christmas sweater. Fortunately, I flip video'd it so there will be posting soon-ish. My classmate, Ryan, who dresses up for anything he can (he's in a cover band.) dressed up as Cousin Eddie from Christmas Vacation.

My hair does this every year...

2009-12-10T16:21:00.002-06:00

http://orders.racephotonetwork.com/QPPlus/PreviewImage.aspx?O=26424693&R=00012&F=0026&pcx=0&pcy=0&pcw=1&pch=1

I CAN'T WAIT FOR CHRISTMAS! I'm ready for my friends to open their presents. I doubt I can wait. I may make them open them up tonight.

No. I'm not.
Wait.
Yeaaaaah.
DAAAAAAAAGH. Hurry up Christmas!!!!

Baton Rouge Beach Half Marathon

2009-12-06T10:20:00.001-06:00

Race Results for Running Events Active.com: "DistanceHALF MAR

Clock Time 1:52:49
Chip Time 1:52:49
Overall Place 178 / 663
Gender Place 42 / 327
Division Place 7 / 44
Finish Rank 178
Finish Time 1:52:49

To quote Long Duck Dong from Sixteen Candles, "I've nevah been so hoppy in my whole life." I finally broke 2 hours.

Snow Miser! Dagh!

2009-12-01T22:28:00.003-06:00

I know it's not snowing, but geezer, could it be cold enough? And to top it all off, RAIN! BAH HUMBUG!

On a better note, I'm enjoying the christmas movies on ABC family. I think my favorite so far has been "Holidays in Handcuffs" with...you guessed it! Mario Lopez and Melissa Joan Hart!

The junior students are hweird (pronounce the H).

A junior student, who has a rep for being a thief, was caught taking an entire tray of red beans and corn bread from Family Medicine. It's the big pans that drug reps bring for the WHOLE office and she took it upon herself to take it. Another junior student clogged up the toilet at Dijon, didn't tell anyone and peaced out for the day. There's only two bathrooms in the whole place!

I met a dog who drinks from a gerbil feeder.
I am tres tired.
One final thought, my Just Dance deodorant is almost out. By out, I mean literally almost falling out of the plastic holder. Unfortunately, I was so focused on buying tweezers today I neglected the fact I need more.
Now I stink.
Not really.
I think good breath makes up for stinky pits.

Heeyah!

2009-11-24T21:58:00.002-06:00

I was introduced to these a few years back. This year, I will attempt to make them for the Christmas cookoff.

I give you....Ninja-bread men! Remember, one ninja makes a majority.

I was browsing through a book at Borders entitled "The Ninja Handbook" and learned that there are levels to becoming a ninja.
1) Nonja
2) Ninja-ish
3) Ninja-like
4) Whooooooooo
5) I.T.A.N. (Is That A Ninja?)

This book is incredibly clever. If you're in need of a good laugh, I highly recommend it.

Oh my Lady GaGa

2009-11-23T20:55:00.007-06:00

I purchased these as a Christmas present. Now, the real question is, which one of you thinks you're the lucky person on the receiving end of these? Aaaaaaayyy?

Happy Thanksgiving?

2009-11-22T20:21:00.002-06:00

Christmas is taking over!

Ineed a haircut and would like to chop it all off, but I've grown attached to it. Is it weird that Zac Efron has the hairstyle I want? (Okay, not entirely, but he does have nice bangs.)

Time Change Rebellion

2009-11-15T08:25:00.002-06:00

My body will NOT adjust to the time change. I'm in bed at 9:30 most nights! AGH!

Marathon update.

2009-11-03T11:16:00.003-06:00

I'm in the market for some running tights for the marathon. Since I won't be qualifying for the Olympics or Boston, I want to make it fun. Let me know which tights are the best.

http://www.runningfunky.com/

like whoa.

2009-11-02T18:02:00.003-06:00

I am happy to report there is no paranormal activity in Apt. 502.

Ironman Florida (or Flo Rida as I like to call it) is this weekend. Woo!
Am I the only one who finds it funny my hotel's name is Chateau Motel?

Quote of the day:
"Smriti! Where are your underpants?!"
"I didn't feel like putting them on today."

Hey there, Delilah.

2009-10-29T00:38:00.005-05:00

Two posts in one night?! what?!

Well, before I go to bed I always listen to either NPR or Delilah. NPR has been a little 'meh' these past few nights so I put on Delilah tonight. There was 30 minutes left in the show and she says, "Our phone lines are still open, call (whatever number she listed)"

So.

After listening to all the gooshiness of the night, I began to think about the past few months and I won't go into it, but love, if I can even say that, has been kind of sticky situation for me. Between old loves and new ones and not knowing how to make any sort of sense of it, I did what anyone would do at 11:45 pm. I called Delilah! AND I GOT THROUGH!

I spoke with "Mama Delilah" as the call screener named her. She said I was very cute. She was very nice and let me talk through my "Delilah Dilemma" as she called it and said those magic words, "Let me find a song for you."

She didn't give me any advice, she really just let me vent about boys which prompted a "How old are you?" (I guess I can't escape that question, even on the phone.) which I guess all I really needed was to talk to a stranger. I didn't even get to hear it lol, because I had my radio turned off, but if judging from the song feed on the website it was "Unchained Melody."

You can call me crazy. I suppose I am.

iBack.

2009-10-28T22:29:00.002-05:00

Sorry for the caveman/Apple blog title. Not much has happened in the past month that was blog worthy.

It's finals week for me. Am I studying? Yes. Reluctantly? Yes. You may call me Reluctant, the 8th dwarf. My 5k training group is ending with the Jack-O-Lantern Jog this saturday. Michelle told me to get there early so I can "get them to rally" end quote. Somehow I want to incorporate this into my pre-race speech. (these are all first time 5k-ers)

I went to a Continuing education meeting today at the hospital. Shanna and I were the only two senior students who went. WHY the others didn't go, I have no idea. One hour added to our PTO time AND free lunch. All I had to do was sit through "Mythbusters: Radiation Therapy edition." (actual title.)

Shanna: Ali. The lettuce is for decoration.
Me: If it was for decoration, I couldn't do this. (sticks lettuce leaf in my mouth.) It's edible and belongs on my sandwich.
Shanna: I need mayonaise. (pronounced meh-nez)

I had a "You've got Mail" moment there.

I will be volunteering at the Ironman Florida next weekend. I'm the finish line tape girl from 6-9 pm. I'm the photobomber of everyone's finish line pictures. Before that I will be a cheerleader to my friend Robert. I will be riding out on the run course sidewalk chalking our usual encouraging messages (these float around the group often) such as:
"Be Perfect."
"Players make plays."

and the usual hopscotch course, though I'm sure no one will use it.

yawn.
sleepy.

300 inspiration.

2009-09-15T21:19:00.003-05:00

Now matter how many times I watch the movie 300, I'm always inspired to attain a Spartan physique.

I'm on the 300 workout plan. Basically, by Oct. 31st I will look like the picture above. I've been lifting weights and practicing my spear lunging. My cardio workout has stayed the same because of the marathon. I'll be ready for battle in no time.

In other news, my time in the ER is nearing an end. I have been there for a month and I will miss it. I have made a list of things I won't miss.

1) Swine Flu.
2) Stinky patients with rotting toe nails.
3) Bed 27, a curtained room which about 4 ft wide and 7 ft. long. with uneven ground. It's almost impossible to do a portable x-ray or to remove a stretcher safely from that little bitty room.
4) People calling me nurse and asking for a bedpan/urinal.
4a) The waiting room. That place is out of control. It's comparable to the DMV, the courthouse or Ronald McDonald's playland.
5) Patients who won't stay in one place! If you go to the ER, stay in your room! That's an order!

One final note. Lady GaGa and her wardrobe. What?

Post-age.

2009-09-10T18:19:00.002-05:00

Word on the street (and cellular) is that my sister is coming to Baton Rouge this weekend! Yaaaaay!

Not too much is happening. I'm on ER days now at the hospital, and next rotation, I'll be in Surgery. I'm not too thrilled about that because the depending on which surgeon you get stuck with determines whether you will have a LONG day or not.

My chillish rock playlist is chillishly rocking me into this lovely fall season.

When something exciting happens, you all will be the first to know.

Fall is coming.

2009-09-07T22:32:00.002-05:00

Weeeeeelll, LSU football kicked off with a bang. As usual, the Tigers disappointingly pull through for the win. It seems like after every game someone always says, "Oh we played so bad. We shouldn't have won that game." In the end, a win is better than a loss I say.

Headed to the Middleton Li-berry to get some studying done. We're learning facial bones which is HARD. The skull is a tricky portion of the body.

Alice' was in town today with her friend, Shannon. Unfortunately, my visit with her was interrupted with a sighting of a friend from high school who I had not seen in quite literally a year! There are so many people I have to catch up with, I never know what to do.

I'm going to bed. I'm soooooooooooooo tired.

Woop.

2009-09-02T23:04:00.004-05:00

ER Evenings and NOLA

2009-08-30T09:37:00.002-05:00

This week in the ER has proven to be one of the best. I can't really talk about some of the patients because they haven't said anything really, but it's their actions that I would have to do for you. If you know who Bernie is from Weekend at Bernies, you know what I'm talking about. One patient, I swear, was possessed. I was waiting for this to happen.

I went to New Orleans yesterday with Robert. Neither of us had any homework or prior activities planned. I don't give that city enough credit. When it's not Mardi Gras season or some other crazy whatnot, it's a cool place to be. I have a feeling I wouldn't like it as much if I went during a busy season. We walked around the Garden district looking at all the cool houses, and then headed downtown and parked. Lunch was at a place called Lucy's. We walked towards the quarter and went to admire the Mississippi, even though I practically live on it in BR. We ate some Beignets at Cafe Du Monde while a violinist and guitar player did a very relaxing rendition of Beat It. (I know what you're thinking, but they did a really good job!) We walked towards Jackson Square and the Cathedral only to come upon a wedding party who had a jazz band playing!

The entire wedding party had umbrellas decked with Fleur de Lis and beads around their necks. Finally the Bride and Groom came out (Robert and I cheered along with everyone else) and the maid of honor handed the bride and umbrella and they took off walking, parading through the quarter with the band! Kind of like a jazz funeral but for a wedding! Curious as to where they would choose to stop, Robert and I started walking with them! We looked pretty out of place in jeans/tank top/polo, but I think we may have managed to make it into the wedding photo album.

We ended up breaking loose from the festivities to go join OTHER festivities on Bourbon street. Plus, all the tarot readers were bugging me trying to get me to be read. I was ready to leave them behind. Robert bought us Hand Grenades so we could take a picture with the giant hand grenade standing outside of the shop. No cars are allowed on Bourbon at night, and we wondered what the rules were exactly to allow so much alcohol on the street. Not that we cared, buuuut, it was a thought. We walked up and down, stopped in a little pizza parlor to have a slice and watched the Terminator while our feet rested and then headed back to the river to watch people load onto the steamboat.

The crescent city breeze was a-blowin' that night and made it quite enjoyable. It was much easier leaving NOLA, than it was to get into NOLA, mostly because we knew wehre we were going by that time. We're planning a trip back for either a Saints game or a Hornets game as well as a tour through the Aquarium.

Laissez Les Bontemps Roulez!

Running with Seth & Eric

2009-08-24T12:31:00.003-05:00

I ran 6.4 miles with Seth and Eric this morning. It was fun, but by the end of it, Eric and I needed a bathroom. I have evening clinicals tonight. Woo.

I need a planner.

Currently listening to: "After and Afternoon" by Jason Mraz. So sweet.

Pictures

2009-08-16T21:52:00.009-05:00

It's taken awhile, but I finally have pictures from the Von Bieberstein/Neale wedding.

Two good lookin gals pre-ceremony.

Bay-est frands.

Driving shot. The sun was piercing.

Wait for it...

There we go! What a handsome group.

Every Sears photographer's worst nightmare.

Kyle (Nathan's brother) and his lovely lady, Hillary

Two strapping young lads. David and Nick.

This is a pretty accurate depiction.

Alicia and Nick! She's probably the nicest girl you'll ever meet.

The fun table.

Kyle and Mr. Ron (Nathan and Kyle's dad. He won the dance contest that night. His first date with his wife was a 24 hour dance marathon at A&M!! He also works for bluebell. So American.)

Jen and Jan. Can you tell he's an Aggie?

I love this picture!

Courtney, the Best Man's girlfriend and myself. My hair didn't survive the dance floor.

David, my future husband, and me. (Not really, I just tell Robert I'm going to marry him to get on his nerves.)

Tharr you go.

ER Night Life

2009-08-16T13:55:00.003-05:00

My weekend.

Friday:
I started off the morning doing P90x with Jennifer Radecker (friend and coworker). It's quite an interesting workout video. I learned how to do four different pull ups, pushups and also learned I can't do half of the ab workout. (It's titled "Ab Ripper X") Wait. My bad, I'm not supposed to say ''can't''. The correct phrase is "I persistently struggle with Ab Ripper X. Normally, I'm 'pretty good with a core workout, but this must have made up these exercises in his dreams because Jen and I spent most of the time watching the guy so these ridiculous stunts. New words for my workout vocab: "Ballistic" and "Huggers."

I went over to J. Rad's apartment for a girl's night. She's having some boyfrand problems so we watched "He's Just Not That Into You." I had never seen it and it proved to be a cute movie. Robert was supposed to be hanging out with some MBA people (aka MB-Lamers.) at Pluckers, but showed up knocking on Jen's door much to our surprise. AAAAAAAnd he wouldn't shut up through the rest of the movie.

Saturday:
I worked from 10-4 @ Fleet Feet with Jennifer. Robert came by to kill some time after his mountain biking excursion with a friend. We played football/soccer/hot potato with the boob balls. In case you're wondering what a boob ball is, they are medicine balls of various weight which simulate the different weights of a breast. The B-cup served as our game ball. I didn't want to go all the way home, only to have to leave again, so I napped at Robert's house until 5:30 before I left for my weekend rotation at the Bluebonnet hospital. 6pm-12am.

I arrived to see my classmate Chelsea lounging in a rolling chair. The techs on the weekend work 8 hours on Friday night and 16's on Saturday and Sunday. I say, "No Way." We didn't have many patient to x-ray that night, but the ones we did have were severe traumas. One man went in for surgery on his spine and came out having a stroke. So we had to sit up there and watch the nurses put tubes down each nostril and one down his throat. Not really sure what was up, but this guy was in bad shape.

Then there was a bad car accident. The lady came in weighing 357 and the bed barely holds 400 pounds. She had an completely smashed ankle and fibula and chunks of skin were missing from her arm, plus a huge gash on her head. In her defense, her manicure still looked great. Her friend was with her in the car and didn't have hardly a scratch on her, but she was in pain and bruised up. Not as much damage, but had a matching manicure. She only complained that the sliding board was cold to which Chelsea so cleverly replied, "We'll just let Alison poot on it and warm it up for you."

She thought it was funny, so I supposed I'll take one for the team.

I left at midnight, came home, locked the door, fell on the bed and didn't wake up until 9am.

New Workout Plan

2009-08-11T08:02:00.002-05:00

Marathon training this past week has been poop. To be honest, I'm not a very motivated person. Yeah, I'm motivated to finish school, but not without complaint. I'm not motivated to do laundry or clean my toilet, but I DO (mom, don't worry.) The only thing I can say I'm consistent with is exercise and working out.

I have to do it alone.

I don't mind showing people how to do things or giving them advice (though I'm no expert.) But if they ask to work out with me, I politely decline. I work harder when I'm alone. So, lately, I've been running with Travis and Robert. It's been fun, but I'm never happy with my run. I just have a terrible workout. I've been incredibly unsatisfied with my runs lately and I think it's because I've been running with them. I hate having to try and keep pace with people, and talking. OOOOOH I hate talking during a run. Wastes so much energy! I just shut down when I'm around people. Don't try to encourage me, don't try to change the pace or the course, just leave me ALONE. We'll meet up at the end and talk all about it, but until then, please go away. lol. I work harder when I'm alone, than with others.

Yesterday, we were going to meet at the LSU rec to run the lakes @ 6:30. I got there earlier than I planned and didn't feel like waiting so I sent Travis a text saying I would start and just to catch up (because I knew they would.) I go around the entire lake and not once saw them until the last 100 yards when Travis came up behind me and called to me.

Apparently, they didn't start too far behind me, but never saw me ahead of them. He told me I over estimated them. I think I under estimated myself. I felt great, I kept a good pace, it wasn't any pace those boys hadn't run before, but when I run it with them, I can't do it for some reason.

I've come to the conclusion that we can run together but separately. I start off. Knowing that I have a chase group motivates me to run faster and I don't have to worry about keeping time or talking to a person beside me. Then, the other person gets a good sprint in, trying to catch me and then slow down for the remainder of the run. Everyone wins! I tried it again this morning and it worked pretty well.

A game of cat and mouse is the solution.

Weddings.

2009-08-02T22:15:00.005-05:00

As many know, I enjoy a good wedding. If there is cake, dancing and disobedient flower girl, there is fun to be had. Unfortunately, participating and viewing are two different experiences. I was in a wedding last weekend, and while it WAS beautiful (what wedding isn't the most beautiful wedding you've ever been to?) being a bridesmaid is hard work! AND I DIDN'T EVEN DO THAT MUCH! I can't imagine having my own wedding. Attention to detail is NOT my gift.

Also, there is that awkward feeling of "what am I supposed to do?" when the bride has her meltdown thirty minutes before the wedding and something(s) has gone "not as planned." And then you have what I like to call ORFM syndrome. (Over Reacting Family Member) Typical symptoms include: Bossy attitude, little patience, a corsage (and in some cases boutonniere) and a muscle spasm in their jaw that gives a 'tsk' noise. The best way to avoid these people is to hide in the bathroom.

All of that to say, I don't want to be in anymore weddings.

On a happier note, TAMARA CAME TO VISIT! It's her birthday today so everyone go to her blog and wish her a happy birthday. We had a fun swim at Mark's house and a nice chat about So You Think You Can Dance. Church this morning was equally as fun. I had two visitors with me (Robert and Travis, but you probably could have guessed that.) from the Chapel on Campus. Today was a single 10 am service with a hymn sing! You submitted your requests (mine was not chosen. boo.) and at the end we did a medley of hymns. We sang a bunch of what Rob and Travis like to call "Throwback Hymns." Which aren't really thowback, but when you're used to a contemporary service, it seems like hymns are old news. I myself attend a traditional service, so I was still in the know.

Marathon training continues tomorrow. Five miles. Tamara mentioned that I speak of these miles as if they are nothing to accomplish. In the grand scheme of the training plan, five miles is very short. lol. Most of the time it's simply a run. Sometimes though, five miles can seem like a loooooong way. Especially when you do it every day. Your run is dictated by your attitude. In my defense, whether the sun is up or not, it's still hot outside!

Always a fun weekend.

Currently chilling to: "Strawberry Swing" by Coldplay

Watermelon Monday

2009-07-27T21:38:00.003-05:00

The usual happening of Watermelon Tuesday has put it's thang down, flipped it and reversed it to Watermelon Monday now. I work from 4-8 on Tuesdays, Robert and Travis have decided to start running the Happy's 5k run which starts at 6:15 every week and Stephen and Courtney have TNT. SOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO, we had a very successful Watermelon Monday even though the weather wasn't all that great today.

It's finals week and I'm already begging for Friday. LOL. Marathon training has begun! I woke up @ 7am today for a nicely paced run with Travis in very agreeable temperatures. Work is going well. Sometimes I feel like I'm in this alternate universe that sells enchilada plates, Easy 5 tickets, and organic cigarettes by the dozen. Spanishtown is an easily misunderstood neighborhood, but it brings humor into my life and that's all I could ask for. I look forward to work.

The church service this sunday looks especially fun. It's a combined service at 10am, a hymn sing. You call out your favorite and everyone sings!!!

Well I'm off to bed. Run in the marnin'.

I-10 adventurosity.

2009-07-20T10:16:00.002-05:00

Thursday and Friday I attended a radiology convention in Lafayette at the Hilton Hotel. I consider myself pretty low maintenance when it comes to living arrangements, but I must admit I expected a little more from the Hilton of all places. But that's a story for another day.

Ryan Beadle and I left school at 9:30 to get a lecture in before a full day of quiz bowl. Ryan is negative in his PTO hours and I need a few more continuing education credits. (After you reach 24 credits any more you receive count as Personal Time Off hours for school) He followed me in his Xterra. We passed a Tacoma pulling a Jimmy and an Impala with a full bed of junk. The tacoma looked like it was about to rip in half because it was pulilng so much weight.

The lecture started as we were arriving, so all we could do it bum around for three hours until quiz bowl started. We weren't allowed to go in after the doors were shut. Ah well, we tried.

The quiz bowl competition starts. Magically, we won the first round. I know it sounds like our school had little faith in our team, but we were basically the T-birds and Pink ladies of the convention, so we weren't expecting to do that well after watching some of the other rounds. I was able to play the last round and just to spite the team that was much better than us, we made a point to buzz in first, take as much time to answer the wrong answer. Most of it was darkroom questions that we had no idea about. Granted, there was one that we pulled out of the hat.

Mediator: "Name the hormone in the human body--"
(BUUUUUZZZZZ)
Mediator: "Baton Rouge General..."
(Me and Ryan looking at Brad thinking, "What the heck did you do that for?!?!")
Brad: "My finger slipped.....Testosterone?"
Ryan: ::shrugs:: "Why not?"
Me: "Testosterone."
Mediator: "Correct."
(crowd cheers in amazement)
Mediator: "That's the only hormone men seem to know about."

After double elimination, we avoided being placed in the loser's bracket which would have meant for an even longer day, and we were allowed to go eat. We went out that night downtown and I gave a stirring performance of Thriller. One of the best things about being the designated driver is all the nice cars I get to drive. So for one night, I was the driver of a brand new Saturn Outlook. It was nice, but a little too luxurious for me. I would recommend it for an older couple. It is large enough to travel in, but small enough to go smoothly through a parking garage. Also there are presets for mirrors and seats and steering wheels.

The next morning I woke up early to catch the good lectures. I decided to sit through a domestic violence lecture. It basically told us how to read the signs of abuse in an x-ray because a lot of times it gets over looked. It was the most uncomfortable lecture I've ever had to sit through. Especially having to look at the x-rays she showed us. Blagh. I took a personality test and learned I have a phlegmatic personality and was compared to Charlie Brown. Ha. I also learned how BAD cat scans are for you. You'd be surprised how much radiation you get. It makes me not want to have one. It produces a great pictures but geezer...

After sitting through a few more lectures, I packed my bags and headed to Jennings for Lacey's Bachelorette Party. She was having it at her grandparent's camp quite literally in the middle of nowhere. It was fun though. We mostly hung out in the pool. While the doberman and the lab ran around the swamp. Her grandfather who introduced himself as "Grumpy" came back the next morning and cooked us bratwurst, steaks and potatos. I got a little sun in and a good sleep. Mrs. Kathy and Mr. Dale also came to visit and take care of some wedding details (Flowers and programs) and listening only further solidified my decision to have a destination wedding or even better JUST ELOPE!

Sunday, Robert and I drove to Watson to visit Travis's church and to get a tour of Watson. Travis's preferred girl (they aren't dating, but they are exlcusive-ish) gave us a tour of her family's grocery store. I got to go in all the freezers and see the giant generators that keep the store running. Then, we went and ate lunch at his grandmother's house. Afterwards, we took the golf cart around their property which borders the Amite river, honking the bicycle horn at whatever animals we passed. We saw all the tiki tubers and both boys wished they had their paintball guns. (so mean) Running through the middle of their property is a 1/2 mile grass landing strip. One of their neighbors used to own a plane and said they could hunt on his property is they let him use the landing strip. After a little tour, we stopped to hit a round of golf balls (Happy Gilmore style) and then drove around to pick them up. The day was concluded with a very exciting stage of the tour de france, grilled chicken and light reading. I'm currently reading King Solomon's Mines.

Good times.

Run, run, run as fast as you can...

2009-07-14T18:31:00.004-05:00

My mother will not like this story, but in my defense, it was a surprise attack by mother nature.

I'm leaving the hospital today and Robert calls wanting to run. Our usual place is the lakes or Highland road park, but today he wanted to run the levy. "Okay." ,I say. I hurry home, change and meet him at the Veterinary School. Something told me NOT to bring my iPod today.

"How far downtown do you want to run?", I ask.
"Oh we're not going towards town, we're going the other way."
"What? It's not paved."
"So?"
"Ooooookay."

So we climb to the top of the levy and begin running AWAY from town. Everything was normal, a brisk pace, me sweating about 8 buckets in the first five minutes. It's gravel on the path at the top of the levy and the grass has hidden holes. It's not really what I'm used to and only affirms the fact I have weak ankles. About 18 minutes into the run and two miles away, the dark forces began to work and the clouds came in. A drip. A drop. A little heavier...oooookay it's raining now. At first, it felt great.

Then we turned around. HEADWIND. The rain was like bullets into my eyeballs. And theeeeennn, the lightning and thunder started.

Robert: "We should probably get off of the levy."

BUT WHERE TO GO?!?!? INTO THE RIVER!?!?!? Or freaky busy River Road?!!?!? We run down towards the river and ran through the knee high grass and mud. My shoes must have weighed twenty pounds as I was sinking with every step. It was taking much longer to get back and my run became more like a pitiful skip to my lou. If I didn't keep high knees, the grass just pulled on me. Robert turned around to check on me and his eyes got really big.

Robert: "Ummm..."
Me: "Lightning just struck behind me didn't it?"
Robert: "We should hurry..."

This was the longest two miles I've ever run. We reach a point where we can't run on the lower ground, so we take it back up top. I could see the vet school and magically, the clouds rolled away! But then the sun came out, and the world became the most miserable sauna I've ever been in.

I wish I had a camera for a post run pic. Mud. Leaves. Wet clothes. My hair in every direction. Not to mention my mascara isn't waterproof. This event takes second place to the time Daddy and I rode to Natchitoches and back. About ten minutes out of Natchitoches on the way back, it was teh same conditions ALL THE WAY BACK to Alexandria.

Making memories...

Feed the Warrior!

2009-07-12T17:13:00.001-05:00

A little Marathon inspiration.

Riding with Chuck Armstrong.

2009-07-10T12:58:00.003-05:00

In the spirit of the Tour de France, I brought my bike home with me to Alexandria. Dad promised an 'easy' ride. (Mmmhm.)

I've always known my Dad can be the life of the party, but I never knew he was the Prom King of the Kistachie Bike Club. I'd fumble around to get something out of the truck and when I turned around he's on the other side of the parking lot giving his hellos. Most of the people I knew from racing and riding when I lived in A-town, but he introduced me to those I didn't know. As Drew Barrymore said on the Ellen show the other day, "I think he's found his tribe."

It took a while for the gang to get going, and it was HOT. (100 degrees) We took a great deal of time preparing gatorade bottles for the heat and we left them sitting in the fridge! All we had was water, which is temporary relief. Water goes down cool, but provides zero nourishment and just builds up in your stomach so by the end of the ride you have a puppy belly.

The group split for a bit, but the wind and heat (mostly heat) proved to be too much for the everyone and eventually if we weren't together we were very close. 30 miles isn't too long of a ride, but it sure did wear me out.

Travis and I have decided to commit to running the Houston Marathon. All those wishing to join, registration is July 17th. What are we thinking?!

As mentioned in a previous post, The Halloween Girls opened for Coldplay. After some research, I discovered they are indeed named 'The Howling Bells." Oops.

"Nightingale" by the howling bells

Rizzo and Pepe

2009-07-07T10:42:00.001-05:00

http://it.truveo.com/PogoStickaPalooza/id/2667534567

I love the muppets!!!!!

2009-07-02T09:31:00.006-05:00

"You don't have to watch Dynasty, to have an attitude." ----- Prince

I almost pulled an Aunt Glenda the other day. I was flipping through the channels and landed on QVC. There was Tony Horton, creator of P90X, selling what else? P90X!!!! For those of you who don't know, this is DVD set promises a most bodacious bod in a matter of 90 days. It is a literally a different workout every day for 90 days. From what I hear, it's really challenging and I have yet to hear anyone make it through the entire 90 days.

He had some folks who had used it demonstrating, and let me tell you, they looked fabulous.
They were doing some of the exercises from the video. I started working out with them. It was hard! It felt great! I was being convinced! I really could have a beach body!

You all know how cheap I am. In my head, $124.00 dollars for 90 days made zero sense, when I could pay the same for a year membership at the gym! Besides, I'm friends with Robert Marler. I could do the p90Rob and have the same results.

I decided to turn off QVC before I made a mistake. I started playing Prince on iTunes and began my ab/handstand practice workout. The beach body will have to come another way.

2009-06-25T23:05:00.004-05:00

I'm tired.

Currently playing: "the nicest thing" by kate nash

handstands.

2009-06-19T21:52:00.003-05:00

I'm practicing my handstand skills. Right now, they are zero. I'm not sure what made me want to try to do one, but I'm a girl on a mission now. I would also like to be able to to the splits. Basically, I'm trying to be recruited for LSU gymnastics. Hopefully, I can channel my inner April Burkholder.

In other news, it's hot outside. As soon as I arrive home from the hospital or the from work, I put on my swim suit and head to the pool. It's varr, varr nice. Every Tuesday, Robert, Travis, Stephen, Courtney and myself have what we call "Watermelon Tuesday." Someone buys a watermelon and we all hang out by Travis and Stephen's pool. Did I mention I'm also going to be an LSU cheerleader? Robert and I are practically on the team with our moves. Between our cheer moves and Dirty Dancing lifts, we're a force. I think the more summer progesses, we'll eventually have an audience.

Robert, Travis and I have also started 'freestyling' our runs. Basically we pick a place and just run around for a certain amount of time. Lately we've been running around campus. Yesterday, we ran to the river from the Rec and back. The other day we ran around the stadium and went to visit Mike the tiger. Mike looked like he had way too much fun at Bogie's the night before because he was PASSED OUT.

Anyhoo, that's all the news in BR. School is awesome, but I'm still ready to be done.

Viva la Vida!

2009-06-10T08:09:00.006-05:00

That's right. I went to the Coldplay concert last night in NOLA. My campus minister, Chad, had a ticket someone backed out of and he was gracious enough to let me go at no price...well, I did pay for parking, but a small price to pay to for SUCH AN AMAZING SHOW!!!! I was very lucky to be there.

The concert started with a group we THINK was called the "Halloween Girls",but I get the feeling that's not their name. Either way, they were different. Good. Verrrrrry different. They were like the Coldplay version of the Yeah Yeah Yeahs.

Then, Snow Patrol came out and performed. SO GOOD. I am a personal fan of Snow Patrol, but Chad was a little in the dark about them. The intoxicated people next to us REALLY liked them. In fact, I would go so far to say that they went to a Snow Patrol concert opened by the Halloween Girls and closed by Coldplay. When Coldplay finally came out, the drunk girl was like, "I want to see Apple!" (the lead's daughter.) They performed all the favorites and all spectators were happy.

You could measure who was the most important band there by the screens. The first band didn't get any use of the projector screens. Snow Patrol got their name projected on the screens and then Coldplay had a live feed on the screens. Chad suspects they were going green and saving electricity. The crowd at the Coldplay concert was one like I had never imagined. Chad put it like this: It's almost as if half the group thought there was supposed to be a Jimmy Buffet concert and the other half a Justin Timberlake concert. They showed up and it's Coldplay and now they're all confused. The theory was tested and proven on pretty much everyone who walked by us.

Afet Snow Patrol finished, they raised the lights and began to set up for the main event. They began playing M83 (One of my new favorites) in the background, followed by Jay-Z. A crew member came out on stage and started break dancing. Then, a waltzy orchestra tune led into a black stadium, and then FINALLY COLDPLAY CAME OUT, playing Live in Technicolor.

Highlights of the Concerts:

1. Third song out was Clocks along with an amazing laser and light show. It was so hard to concentrate on the band because the special effects were so cool.

2. There was a giant screen behind the stage that projected giant french revolutionary pictures during some of the songs. There was also a bunch of globes made out of screen material and the pictures and live feeds were showing on them too.

3. I didn't know this, but the whole band sings.

4. You never knew where they would end up when the lights went out. Because,when the lights came back on, there was a stage all of a sudden set up in the middle of the audience and there was the band ready to play. At one point, there was a stage set up with electronic drums, guitars and a piano and they just started doing random techno mixes of their songs.

5. THE BAND CAME ALL THE WAY TO BACK AND STOOD RIGHT BY US! They sang a little tune they made up about New Orleans and then sang I'm A Believer by the monkees. Amazing.

6. Chris Martin, the lead, must have had about six red bulls before he started the show. He was all over the place.

7. They sang new stuff and a lot of old stuff. They had so much music jam packed in that show by the time the encore came, we were wondering what they would play because they covered EVERYTHING.

8. There was a dad and two kids in front of us. The dad had a serious crush on Coldplay. I'm pretty sure he told his wife "the kids want to see Coldplay" so he'd have an excuse to go. Whenever Coldplay came near us, he left his kids to go run closer and the kids were like, "I guess we better go get Dad..."

9. At one point, Chris Martin had the lights go out and everyone pull out their cellphones and light them up and we all did the "Mexican Cell phone Wave."

10. We got a free cd at the end of it! Nine songs from another live concert from this tour. COOL.

It's probably one of the best shows I've ever seen. As much as I love them, they will never top front row seats at *NSYNC. Say what you will, but you weren't there and I know you're not on their concert DVD. (My claim to fame.)

"Life in Technicolor" by Coldplay

Fold me up, take me out, I'm portable.

2009-06-04T22:55:00.003-05:00

It's a bittersweet moment saying goodbye to my portable rotation at the mid-city hospital. I head to Bluebonnet next week where it's way more laid back and the patients aren't as...unique. I headed into the cafeteria this morning to get some HUGE pancakes they make, but the price wasn't listed.

Me: Excuse me, how much are the pancakes?
Shanelle:(the breakfast line worker): It ain't up there? ::walks over to menu prices and realizes it's not up there:: Ay! Bernice! How much a pancake?

I wanted to say, "Well, I want more than one." I refrained.

I'm heading to Mandeville/Slidell for a wedding this weekend. The wedding is in Slidell, but the reception is in Mandeville. Whatever. All I know is, I'm wearing a purple dress and my dancing shoes. My guess is they start the party with the Cupid Shuffle. Either way, I'm battling Nathan Davis for MVP dancer of the night. There will be sweat and possibly blood on the dance floor.

Should I curl my hairs? (Big Fat Greek Wedding reference.)

get me outta here!

2009-05-26T17:49:00.003-05:00

As much as I love Rad Tech school, I'M READY FOR IT TO BE OVER! I guess watching the senior students graduate and having to deal with part-time yogurt work is getting to me. I'm ready for the day I make more than minimum wage and when I go home I have ZERO tests to worry about, no projects, no homework. It's SO CLOSE. DAGH!

I'm on a portable rotation for the next two weeks. This means I get to shove one of these around the hospital.
Look out, because as a short person, I can't see around this thing. I ran into a biohazard waste bin and created a ruckus in the ICU. Self propelling + terrible turning radius = disaster. This portable machine also gives me acces to the psych ward. It's an interesting place. To get in, you have to buzz to get in the first door, then a nurse has to come unlock the second door with her key. The walls are pink and the patient usually thinks you're the devil OR they try to take your name badge, clorox wipes, pager, lead aprons, etc.

Off to run.

Update.

2009-05-20T12:13:00.003-05:00

1. I turned 23 on the 13th. No real significance, but it happened.

2. To celebrate, I ate the Mellow (my favorite) and later played putt-putt with some frands. I didn't win, but I did manage to lob my ball into the mouthwash colored water. Don't tell me to grip it and rip it if you don't mean it.

3. I went to the beach, ate at a restaurant called "The Blue Dharma" and also found myself in the middle of a FLEET of stingrays in the ocean. I was so excited and so scared at the same time. BAH!

4. Star Trek anyone?! CHAAA! Spock has this nerdy, bi-species hotness to him. Kirk is just...sigh.

5. There is a new baby in the family. I haven't met him, but I hear he's super cute.

I'm having a Singing Christmas Tree flashback. The sanctuary doors bursting forth and the senior high choir swaying down the aisles singing this song.

Glory to God in the highest by the brooklyn tabernacle choir

David Blaine Parody

2009-05-06T10:56:00.002-05:00

There are a few bad words, but it is pretty funny. Did you ever consider how easy it would be for a magician to harrass someone???

Hidden Paradise

2009-05-04T08:04:00.004-05:00

Robert, Jennifer and I traversed to Ruston, Louisiana on Saturday to celebrate Robert and David's birthday and also to compete in a relay for the Hidden Paradise triathlon. I certainly didn't want to do the whole thing, Jennifer can only do the run so we recruited Robert to swim for us even though he has swam twice since this race last year.

"It's probably two times too many..." --- Direct quote from the man himself.

David and a few of our other friends would be competeing as individuals and relays. It looked to be promising and tons of fun.

We arrived in Ruston and dropped our things off at Kyle Davis's campus apartment and headed to the Kessler's for a wedding shower. The only thing exciting that happened was the Alligator head Stven (yes that's how you spell his name) bought at the Flying J and filled it with Jolly Ranchers, Airheads, bubblegum and condoms. We headed to Lincoln Parish Park for a little looksy at the race course for Jen and caught our friend Alicia preparing for the 2 mile fun run. I met a professional triathlete who has been a 3 time XTERRA world Champion (I think that's right.) named Karen Robertson while waiting in line for the bathroom. She's been doing tris for 20 years.

Afterwards, we left for the Hall family's usual pre-race carbo load of spaghetti and brownies. THIS year, there was a serious badminton game.

Team awesome: Me, Chico, and Anna Hall
Team pffft: Nathan, David and Jennifer

My team could have won solely because Chico wore khakis and button up shirt. Just sayin'. Then, we headed to Chili's (because the Dawg House was closed) for a little birthday celebration. It took a while, but eventually we made it back to Kyle's apartment for some much needed rest.

Woke up at 4 am to TERRIBLE thunder and lightning. Needless to say, the race was cancelled. It went from a duathlon, to a splash n' dash to a 5k run. Fortunately we didn't pre-register so we lost no money. Other however had paid for a 62 dollar 5k run. Instead, we moved our race group to Wafflehouse. We ate and chatted and then rode out the rest of the storm at Kyle's watching a movies and being all around goofy.

A fun weekend. Too bad there was no race, but hanging with friends is always a nice alternative.

I now leave you with the COOLEST video ever. It was recorded and filmed at the same time IN ONE TAKE.

Nyle "Let The Beat Build" from Nyle on Vimeo.

BE JEALOUS. ALL OF YOU.

2009-04-30T17:02:00.004-05:00

So, I'm driving down Highland, taking care of business when I spotted THE WEINERMOBILE. Why on earth could would anyone pass up an opportunity like this?! Yeah, I don't know either! I rode two wheels into the parking lot and jumped out to go see what was up. There is was the weinie mobile in all it's glory.

The Weinermobile captains, travelling across the country to spread weinie happiness. (She said that, I didn't make that up. I'm not nearly as clever as the weinie mistress.)

Girl: "Would you like to take a picture with the weinermobile?"
Me: "Yes!"
Girl: "You wanna be a cardboard hotdog?"
Me: "YES!!!!"

I've never been so excited, I pretty much called everyone I knew after I left. Today was a great day.

It's so hot outside. Milk was a bad choice.

2009-04-24T15:33:00.004-05:00

It was an interesting day at the clinic today. Many interesting patients, but none were as interesting as Dolores, a tech. Some of the ladies that work in x-ray are taking a cruise, and Dolores shared with us the story of her winning a dance contest on a mexican cruise because she did a little pole dancing at the end of her two minutes to dance.

The story was followed by a demonstration.

On a happier note, there was banana cake in the break room. Also, I was thinking about the old Chuck Norris facts. Few people knew there were also facts about Vin Diesel and Mr. T which I found to be funnier than Chuck Norris at times. I would like a to share a few:

"There is intelligent life in the universe, but they have not contacted Earth because they are avoiding Vin Diesel...They owe him five bucks."

"Mr. T does not pay taxes. He is recognized as a non-profit organization by the government because he pities so many fools."

"Mr. T does not recognize the periodic table of elements because the only element he recognizes is the element of surprise."

"Vin Diesel created the entire color spectrum. Except for pink. Tom Cruise created pink."

"Mr. T's mohawk was used as a buzzsaw in woodshop class."

Smash Crash and Zoom Zoomy.

2009-04-22T22:36:00.004-05:00

BATON ROUGE HAS A ROLLER DERBY TEAM?!!?!?!? Where have I been?!!?!? There is a match this Saturday against the Auburn Roller Derby.

For a good laugh go to this website and read about the team. I'd be scared!
http://www.redstickrollerderby.com/team.php
Anita Stiffy's number is XOXO. Maybe it's Roman numbers...

For those of you who don't know, Tamara and I once wanted to be wrestlers and I THINK we used our wrestling names for our roller derby video. I think it was roller derby. I just remember wearing spandex (per the usual) and skating around Aunt Glenda's living room, while Tamara wore funny glasses and held a stuffed cat.

Andrew W.K. has the perfect roller derby arena jam.

Now it's time to party
and we'll party hard.

I see London, I see France...

2009-04-17T23:42:00.003-05:00

Okay, so I didn't see any underpants today, but I did see a lot of naked people. It happens, but today was an odd day. People just couldn't keep their gowns on. This wouldn't be so bad if maybe it were Dr. 90210's office, but it's a hospital that's mid-city. My x-ray room ran out sheets because I gave them all to patients who needed the extra covering!!! I can understand though. When you're sick and you don't really know what's wrong and you're not getting better any time soon, whether or not your buttocks is covered is the least of your worries.

I'm not making fun. I'm just observing and reporting.

I'm reminded of Luscious Jackson.

Frohe Ostern

2009-04-12T09:38:00.004-05:00

Happy Easter in german. It's one of the few phrases I actually remember from school lol.

Anyhew, Dad and I have been riding all weekend. I went to Alice's house yesterday for a BBQ and Wii, but we ended up watching Marley & Me which was pretty good!

More updates later. Off to finish watching Little Miss Sunshine/getting ready for church. Good luck with your easter egg hunts!

Lonestar Race Report.

2009-04-06T17:10:00.019-05:00

Let's travel back in time to March 30, 2008. I've just finished my first half ironman and I'm pleased and feel great. "Yes! I will do this again next year!"

This year. Hnnnngh.

Now, I went into this race, thinking I might be able to knock some time off my swim and run. My bike was going to suffer, since moving to Baton Rouge has put a damper on my frequency of riding. School took a toll on my training this year, I'm not gonna lie, but I've been running a lot and swimming so my goal was to keep my bike time around the same and make up for it in other parts of the race.

Friday and Saturday were a blast. I had a lot of fun with the family and almost forgot the reason I was there. My friend Sarah Harris was competing in the half this year with me and we were in the same wave so it was cool to have someone to hang out with. Sunday arrived. My date with destiny had come, and if I may say this, destiny took me out to dinner and never called me back.

For starters, the temperature was warmer in the morning than last year. Not a problem. A little breezy, but nothing to worry about. I set up my transition, chat it up with some other ladies and wriggle myself into my wetsuit, which has apparently shrunk since last March.

7:45 am: Transition closes, Sarah and I head to the beach where the swim start is. I find Daddy and we all wait for the professional triathletes to take off. My swim wave was supposed to start at 8:39 am. The race director decided to let the Quarter iron participants go first this year, instead of the half participants, which turned out to be a BAD idea as you'll read later. The quarter race started at 7:00 am.

ONE HOUR LATER....

The pros STILL haven't started. Apparently, a Quarter distance swimmer was still on the course and had not passed the buoy needed for the Half distance race. Finally the race started at NINE O'CLOCK. Very late for those of you who aren't frequenters of triathlons. So my wave takes off at about 9:30 am.

9:30 am: Ali's various thoughts during the swim.

"I have to go to the bathroom."

"Oooooh, the buoy is in THAT direction..."
"I love salt water up my nose."

"Just keep swimmiiiing, just keep swimmiiiing..."

swim time: 1 hour 2 minutes. Slower than last year, due to some misdirection, but I'll take it. Next came the wetsuit strippers.

After my wetsuit reluctantly came off, I headed into transition to get ready for the bike portion. Aunt Glenda and Mom are cheering me on and taking pictures the whole time. I take a CARB-boom gel (it's effect is exactly like it's name), clip into my bike pedals (without falling over) and head off for my glory day in the hot sun.

The first five miles of the bike were pleasant and motivating. The last 51 were...well, I would have rather been thrown against a brick wall. However, back at transition, Uncle Dave and Dad seemed to have things under control...

The wind picked up at mile 6 going from a 'slight breeze' to 20mph gale force winds. (Okay, technically NOT gale force, since gale force is 34-552 mph) I fought the best I could through and was anxiously awaiting the amazing tailwind I would have after the turnaround. Unfortunately, before I hit the turnaround, the wind changed direction and became a 30 mph crosswind. No relief the entire ride. It was so bad, the MAVIC racing vehicles headed out on the course to trade in disc wheels from amateurs because it was too dangerous to ride with them at that point. There was nothing in Galveston to block the wind because of Hurricane Ike. So, I held onto my handlebars for dear life and prepared myself to not make the cutoff time due to heavy winds. When, I turned back onto the road taking me back to transition, the crosswind became a headwind and I dropped to 7 mph. The lady monitering the speed bumps on the road didn't even bother to warn me about them because I was going so slow. She just kind of rang her cowbell in my face as I passed her.

The fam was waiting for me. They told me they were shouting my name and the traffic directors were too, but all I couldn't hear because of the wind, but I saw the giant orange things waving and family taking pictures. Here is a perfect picture of defeat.

I unclip from my pedals, head into transition and take a seat on my towel. I had reached a crucial point in the race. I was so worn out. Do I turn in my chip? Did I even make it in time for the cut off? At that point, my hopes of beating last year's time were flushed down the pooper. Should I just nip in the bud and keep going? I took a swig of aqua and a Team in Training lady goes shuffling by me. I watched her cross through the transition gates and take off on the run course. I HAD made it in time. SUCCESS! I pulled myself together, put on my hulk-a-mania headband and decided I was going to finish this cursed race.

Okay, so this is a picture of my run, but more importantly, note the palm tree behind me. YEAH. Try putting up with that ALL DAY LONG.

So, at this point, I'm in a world of hurt. I'm hungry. I'm thirsty. I'm taking arms full of oranges, energy bars, defizzed cola, gatorade and water at every aid station and scarfing it down. It helped and I was able to walk/run to the finish. When I reached the VERY LAST MILE of the race, I'm coming up on the side of a parking garage that was blocked for the race. A police officer is removing a baracade, when all of a sudden he drops it, jumps in his car and speeds ahead of me. I thought, "Maybe there was a car theft in the parking lot..."

WRONG.

I turned the corner to see a guy (not a racer, and to add to it, he had zero identification on him) sprawled out on the ground with no heartbeat, no breathing and a racer has stopped to start CPR on him. A lady is on the phone with 911 and teh aid station workers have these looks on their faces like "WTF." As I passed, I asked if they needed any help and they said no, I could just keep going. The victim didn't look like he was going to be okay, but I hope they were able to get him back. As I left the area, a fire truck pulled up. So, I carried on and found myself sprinting as fast as I could (which wasn't very fast, but it felt like it to me) to the finish line. I crossed the line, grabbed a cold,wet towel and met up with the fam.

I finished in 8 hours 11 minutes. A whole hour later than my time last year. It's disappointing if you look at only the times, but if you were there and knew what was going on, it makes more sense. Every triathlete has had their "bad race." This was mine. While I felt like I had gone to hell and back, I sure did look like I had with the sunburn I received. My lips are cracked and chapped from the wind and I have an awesomely bad sunglasses tan.

I was happy to head home and the icing on the cake was when Homeland Security stopped Aunt Glenda and Uncle Dave for a random check before heading onto the ferry.

Race Week and Peru

2009-03-31T22:25:00.005-05:00

It is race week for me. The Lone Star half ironman is Sunday and should prove to be interesting. In an effort to provide constant motivation, I've decided that instead of starting my timer from zero, I will plug in last year's time and count down. If I don't make it, poo on me.

My finish line picture should look something like this.

Robert and David are travelling to Peru for spring break.

Tina, the alpaca

In the incredible off chance of an unfortunate Alpaca incident (see above picture) I've offered to care for his tahoe, flat screen and surround system. Instead, I've been told the only thing I'm getting is Robert's Road ID and Cleveland Flowering Pear Tree that ONE, you can't even eat the pears off of and TWO isn't flowering yet, so I'm not able to even admire the fruit I can't eat.

Kidding. I want both of them back safely.

Hodee doe. Time for the quote of the day.

When asked if she's wearing a bra she will have to remove for her chest x-ray, a disgruntled 92 year old woman responded at the top of her lungs:

"I'M NINETY TWO, WHAT DO I NEED TO WEAR A BRA FOR?!"

Pensacola

2009-03-22T21:21:00.010-05:00

A loooovely weekend in FL. The beach was nice, a little breezy, but it didn't dampen our spirits. If you can't see the pictures well, click on them to make them bigger. There isn't a zoom function on disposable cameras lol.

Me, dancing to radio disney, before my glory day in the hot sun.

Laying flat was not comfortable, so we dug holes in the sand and made sand recliners.

Jen & Brooke in their sand recliners.

We buried Seth so deep, we could walk across him. Jen & Ross pose next to him.

Jen and Seth went in the water with a yellow flag (though you CAN still swim with a yellow flag) They were destroyed.

Frisbee MVP (that would be me.)

Seth and Ross's magical frisbee trick.

We were waiting for the sunset and I still have a few pics left on the disposable.

Jen and Brooke enjoying the sunset.

Me and Jen as the sun went down. Sure we look like lesbians, but I don't care.

Sun. Sand. Surf.

2009-03-19T15:44:00.004-05:00

Heading to Pensacola this weekend with Ross, Seth, Brooke and Jennifer. Seth's family has a condo there and they're desperate for people to use it. I'm happy to oblige. A little spontaneity never hurt anyone. I'm off to buy a disposable camera. It's kind of funny how the selling point for those these days is "You never know how you'll picture will turn out!" I like a fun surprise anyway and a good laugh from just about everyone who owns a digital camera.

This is our decision, to live fast and die young.
we've got the vision, now let's have some fun
yeah it's overwhelming, but what else can we do?
get jobs in offices and wake up for the morning commute?

Quality Assurance.

2009-03-12T16:21:00.003-05:00

Above is the name of my rotation for clinicals. It requires to me to sit in a waiting room all day and write down when patients arrive, are called for their x-ray and also the tech who called them. Most have complained it's boring, but I for one had a decent time today.

1) I watch the CBS early show and learned about allergies, Columbian drug submarines and also the NCAA tournament.

2) Then, I watched Trivial Pursuit and answered almost every question right. (The Jessi Spanos WILL happen one day, Tam.)

3) Then I watched the Price is Right, followed by Martha Stewart where I learned how to make a Banana Cream Pie.

Unfortunately, the Young and the Restless come on the afternoons in Baton Rouge, so I didn't get to catch up on Genoa City. However, I did walk away with some interesting quotes.

"Young Lady, did you know I can control your mind?" --- A male patient to me, when I'm clearing trying to tell the Price is Right player that Hot Pockets and Apple Juice are not the same price.

"Jimmy Carter destroyed my country." --- The Iranian Nuclear Med Tech to the crazy guy mentioned above.

"Yew drunk callin me late last night, leavin' me voicemails. Yew knew I went to bay-ed right after supper and yew're all 'Yew must be seeing someone.' Yew B****. Yew know I woke up in turrs (tears) when I hurrd that last night." --- country come to town...

"You need to cut yo hair you ol' leggo head."

I'm currently obsessed with any modern band that models themselves after the 80s.

"Skin of the Night" by M83