Tri and Tri Again!

The intent was to share here how I competed in a recent Mini Triathlon. But you won’t be reading a recap as I decided the day prior to forego the event in lieu of keeping myself alive. Slightly dramatic but not by much. Originally when I considered it, the weather had been hovering around the 75° mark and it was raining near daily. Then, summer arrived. The projected high on the day of the Mini Tri was 99°. Despite it starting around 78-ish°, the humidity was rapidly increasing.

All this to say, maybe next time. It’s not worth chancing it. Nonetheless, I was out there doing director things and playing witness to the other able-bodied individuals with Triathlon goals. Base support was awesome, we recruited different groups of people to help facilitate the event as it spanned multiple smaller events and a large footprint. Personally, I love seeing our team get together and DO outside the office.

Team Fitness!

Also, I’m trying something new. I want to keep track of my weekly exercise activities and the addition of manuscript pages in an effort to see valued change 1 yr from now, when I project completing this doctoral journey. My plan is to add a screenshot of my weekly activities via the Garmin app with a numerical indicator of manuscript pages. (I don’t have an activity list for Wk 2 but I know I added 9 pgs.)

For example, the below was from Wk 3:

Additional pages: 18

Despite the fact these variables probably have zero correlation, it’s an interesting concept to me. I like lists and comparing things, although not typically numbers because I’m not number-y, I’m word-y. As it stands, I can’t imagine there will be anything to this beyond being able to look back at it, mainly because I don’t run/cycle/walk between 4-6am because that’s when I’m writing. Additionally, I don’t run/walk/cycle between 5-8pm because it’s either too hot, raining (as of late), or I’m working on my manuscript. Therefore, my work day is primarily when I engage in exercise so one rarely precludes me from doing the other, except on the weekends when I attempt to do both. Since I’m not tracking just the weekends, the data is mostly garbage stats. Thank you for listening while I worked all this out.

Nonetheless, it gives me something to look forward to so without further ado –

Week 4 Activity + Pages Report:

Additional pages: 11

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I ask you –

What teams are you a part of?

Any insight into my stats game?

Pros/cons of tracking activity stats!!

(The post Tri and Tri Again! first appeared here at Running on Fumes.)

Preposterous!

Somehow in my… shortsightedness, ignorance, lack of basic comprehension…I missed the fact I don’t turn in my manuscript for a whole 6 weeks. Essentially, in this 15 week course, I submit it at Wk 1, Wk 7, and Wk 14. Which is mostly insane because can you imagine not having any discipline for an assignment that you fudge the weekly “Have you made any progress?” question and tarry on (yes, tarry) for 6 weeks without doing anything? CAN YOU IMAGINE?!

Completely unfathomable. This is a doctoral degree! So basically I’m not worried even a little bit but if you’re someone who struggles with zero accountability, then you might have issues. Thank goodness for my “insane drive bordering on absolute nutcase” or however that paraphrase of an actual insult? compliment? went.

Another thing is the rabbit hole of variable research studies I’m suddenly stumbling upon. Somehow I can write 7 pages a day without realizing how much time I’ve spent perusing tons of material. Again, a foreign concept to most. One morning I spent 2.5 hrs writing and only added 2 pages. Balance, I guess.

Random funny –

Actual conversation at approximately 0600 on a Wednesday:

Me: *examining an empty milk jug with a missing lid* What goes on around here after hours?

Parts: Some real shady sh*t!

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I ask you –

Do you have any good examples of a compliment that functions as an insult? I’d like to include it in my repertoire.

Have you ever found a milk jug without a lid?

Tell me about something lately you would consider absolutely preposterous!

(The post Preposterous! first appeared here at Running on Fumes.)

Running + Cycling Stuff

I’ve been running. Yes, it hurts. I keep forgetting about that part, until I do it.

On the bright side, Garmin says I’m 40% acclimated to the heat, which I know is definitely not true. Probably more like 14%. Nonetheless, it’s rained so often in the past 2 months I haven’t been out in the heat thus far. Only recently have I attempted to navigate the daily rain showers to make a conscious effort to go outside.

Perhaps I’ve forgotten to mention I’ve been sort of training for a mini triathlon. The sort of part refers to a general, well complete, lack of swim training due to a complete lack of available swimming locations. Unless you count the consistent daily rainfall and the fact the installation pools have only (until last weekend) been open on the weekends. Nonetheless, I can swim, so 250-something meters shouldn’t be too hard, right? Meh.

Working back up to a 20 mile week!

I’m genuinely excited to participate as I’ve never done anything like this before. Typically, I’m a single-plane type of athlete, unless volleyball counts as dual-plane? Relatedly, fast four volleyball has begun and I intend to join this week. More to come.

P.S. Someone should remind me about this run next year: Freihofer’s Run for Women 5k. The check in gift is a box of cookies and a loaf of bread!

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I ask you –

How has your weather been?

Have you ever entered a triathlon? To be clear, this is a mini triathlon so definitely less intensive.

Tell me about a sport you’ve always wanted to attempt!

(The post Running + Cycling Stuff first appeared here at Running on Fumes.)

Updates!

I thought with the first iteration of manuscript feedback I would feel like a puppy with its head down and tail between its legs, sadly moping around after being chastised. Maybe I’m just immune now. Probably a good thing I don’t get my feelings hurt too often anymore because – what’s feelings? – after 2 years of writing for a page count, I no longer have to do that. I can just write for quality and content. What a concept! Anyway, there was a fair amount of red garnishing the margins of my submission but nothing unmanageable. I’ve only been writing my whole life so you’d think I would have it figured out by now.

On the subject of figuring it out – mini has completed her first few years of elementary school and will soon be headed to a more concise portion of the formidable elementary school system. Seems she and a few classmates are a bit nervous to leave behind the teachers they have essentially grown up around. My mama heart is simply amazed at the progress she has made, especially in terms of reading and math. Watching it finally “click” are moments I never want to let go of. From single sentence reading folders then to chapter books, her interests are slightly unpredictable but incredibly beautiful. As her brain fills with information, I want to capture these moments forever. She’s a caring, thoughtful, helpful friend; I see it in everything she does and how big her heart is when she’s around others. Elementary school may not be a traditional milestone to anyone else, yet, if one digs deep, the foundational stones are being laid before my eyes. And you can’t get these memories back.

Other notable memories and observations – if I don’t stop laughing at these meetings, I’m destined to get kicked out. Ah-ha! It’s like they make me incredibly giggly thinking about inappropriate things and once I start laughing, I’m done. No focus.

Included in the no focus section for this post – the photo below is me hiding under McK’s desk, lying in wait to scare her. Spoiler: it worked. She yelled and jumped. Payback for the time she scared me in my office. Work is fun!

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I ask you –

What’s the ideal color to write in the margins?

How often do you scare someone?

Define “figuring it out”.

(The post Updates! first appeared here at Running on Fumes.)

Pleading My Case

A letter to my chair –

Hello, good morning, and all the things,

This week has gotten the best of me and it was not my best. It appears I am suffering from a mostly localized case of writer’s block; however, since I’m a lowly doctoral candidate, it can primarily be described as a case of I’m really tired of this crappola. Interestingly, I have been able to read 2 books, one of which is a story about a woman suffering from true writer’s block and unable to write her 27th or 72nd book because she’s truly an accomplished writer and has written many manuscripts. Me? Well, I’m still on this one manuscript. Nonetheless, I have been able to read this week. Also, I was able to support many a force support activity including 2 lengthy volleyball games and a short stint as a fill-in server. Yes, I agree this doesn’t look or sound like any great reason to not have written much this week, but, in my defense, I have been struggling with priorities. Speaking of defense, I am clearly not ready, presumably because I can’t seem to finish the background section of my manuscript. On that note, why is it called a manuscript? I continue using the term paper but it probably doesn’t really convey the meaning of this “paper”.

I promise to make you proud although you’re undoubtedly questioning my abilities at this point. I’d like to reiterate that I am an accomplished writer, if this blog is any indication, and do take seriously the quality of words I write, errr…type. Granted, it doesn’t look like it right now. For weekly accomplishments, I’ve also managed to take a lengthy bike ride to determine my suitability for an upcoming 16ish mile ride through mountains and buffalo-roaming terrain. Clearly, I’m an athlete and must share my time between keyboard warrior and champion cyclist. As you can see, the current 12,000 word count of my aforementioned manuscript is just one measure of my shocking abilities to do things. I know you understand.

Indeed, as I write this letter excusing…explaining, rather…my lackadaisical approach to discipline, I have just returned from an adventure on foot to find my fleeting motivation along the winding neighborhood roads. This may seem like an easy feat; however, as my motivation tends to walk faster than I do, I am still unable to track it down. Nevertheless, I determined that if someone, anyone, would walk alongside me and write down my thoughts pertaining to this particular session on historical, social, and theoretical context, you may see the difference in the page count. Yes, I understand I have dictation software but could use an extra set of hands to type out my thoughts.

Finally, I appreciate your faithfulness and grace while I navigate this tough season of life known as the end of May. I do believe our bodies recall previous life seasons and, as I am a career college student, the school year typically ends in May which is why I have deflated like a balloon. My brain believes it is break time. Despite my best efforts to convince it otherwise, I have found everything to do except writing. Yes, even shopping, which I know you love to do, as well. See? We’re kindred spirits. Minus the fact your spirit is prefaced with the title Dr. Instead, mine is prefaced with the title IbetterstartwritingnowbecausethisworldwaitsonnooneandtimeisfleetingsogetittogetherKel.

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I ask you –

No questions. The jury rests.

(The post Pleading My Case first appeared here at Running on Fumes.)

Cinnamon Cyclist

I have never been more impressed with a keto recipe than this one for Cinnamon Rolls, courtesy of Keto4karbaholics.

Note: I did not add pecans or use the ChocZero syrup and I was still impressed with the texture, taste, and inability to eat just one.

I’m super. And I’m a runner. Does that make me a Super Runner? Technically, yes. But probably not in the same category as those people.

On the super subject, for Mother’s Day I received a cycling helmet and sunglasses so I guess it’s official – I’m a cyclist. Hahaha I’ve done maybe 3 rides and now I’m a cyclist. Looking and feeling the part is half the battle to conviction so I’m getting there! There’s an upcoming Mini Triathlon I’m considering participating in. While I know I can ride a the route and I can run a 5k, too, the swim isn’t so much my concern as the way the day will rapidly heat up. In discussing it with McK, the worst that can happen is I end up walking the 5k…or she picks me up and I ride back to the finish line. With no entry fee, there’s not much to lose!

I also found this event: Tour of the Wichitas. The route lengths vary from nearly 17 miles to over 50 miles and it literally takes you on a tour of Ft. Sill, LETRA, and the beautiful area near Mt. Scott. As it’s only about an hour drive from me, I was considering it but am unsure if I can commit 3 hours to a bike ride. Interestingly, why are cycling events so cheap?!?! $35 to enter?! The last time I entered a half marathon, it was at least double that. Granted, there is no price tag to the medical attention I have found myself needing, but still.

_____________________

I ask you –

Would you try keto cinnamon rolls?

Can anyone explain the cycling vs running price conflict?

For those who dabble in the cyclist world, share some cycling suggestions!

(The post Cinnamon Cyclist first appeared here at Running on Fumes.)

Here We Go Again!

The final look of relief when another course is completed. But, by the time you read this, I’ll have begun Dissertation I. The pre-dissertation course wasn’t difficult, per se; however, it was somewhat tedious. Communication with my chair has been one of the best experiences so I can see how that’s a make-it-or-break-it portion of others’ stories.

If you’re wondering what I’ll be doing this summer, well, there you have it. 15 weeks, then another 15 weeks, then a 3-4 week break, then 15 weeks, then…something. Defense, maybe? It’s a huge change from the traditional 8 week courses I’ve been doing for nearly 2 years. I need a plan!

Instead of making a plan, I forego any real responsibilities and eat ice cream. As Blue Bell is decidedly not keto, pick the battles well. Good thing this Snickerdoodle ice cream by Rebel was conveniently located in my freezer!

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I ask you –

What’s your go-to responsibility avoiding task?

How often do you indulge in sweet treats?

Tell me something great you have going on!

(The post Here We Go Again! first appeared here at Running on Fumes.)

Making Things

I made a pink lemonade creamsicle with Sugar free pink lemonade, Jordan’s Skinny Syrups coconut, heavy cream and ice. Amazing!

I like jelly beans. I don’t like Dunkin. Didn’t buy them but was considering it.

Still recovering from Air Show. My poor feet took a beating. Once the chronic pain returned, I could tell something wasn’t right. There’s extensive bruising under and around my pinkie toe, as well as a large swollen area under the toe, nearest the side of my foot. It’s non-weight bearing and, early on, was causing pain on the outside of my calf. What now? So, short of religious usage of ibuprofen and staying off it as much as possible because right I’m totally on top of that then here we are. Again.

Also trying red light therapy for mini’s skin issues, as well as testing its claims to be great for healing. We’ll see how it works out.

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I ask you –

Do you like creamsicles?

Have you ever tried red light therapy?

Tell me your favorite brand of jelly beans!

(The post Making Things first appeared here at Running on Fumes.)

A Party to Post About!

My favorite great aunt recently celebrated 97 years!

That’s my favorite cousin, James, named after my dad. His look has spanned many generations but one thing remains the same: he’s quite possibly the most brilliant person I know with a genuine laugh and an easy ability to talk about subjects that most people know nothing about.

As a young girl, I would sit in the same room with my older 2nd and 3rd cousins and aunts just to listen to “the adults talk”. They always engaged me with questions about what I thought of the subjects and encouraged me to speak my mind. These are some of the hardest working women I’ve ever met, from lifelong grade school and collegiate-level educators to a businesswoman with a strong penchant for coffee. They get me. This time there was discussion of the 2 traits that most Humphries women are handed a measure of – back pain, and longevity. Fortunately, it seems our family’s women live to their late 80s/90s. Conversely, back pain abounds, notably from carrying around our sparkling personality. My words, not theirs.

It was a short visit but exactly what was needed. Although Aunt Mary Catherine may not remember names as easily as before, her smile still lights up the room and her laugh is the same baritone that once commanded a room’s attention. Her heart is the most beautiful part of her. She has now outlived every family member in our shortened family tree. And her stubbornness? Well, let’s just say it runs in the family.

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I ask you –

Who is the oldest living person in your family?

Who’s birthday party did you last attend?

Surprise parties: yay or nay? Nay. Please don’t. I like knowing what to expect and a surprise party is not it.

(The post A Party to Post About! first appeared here at Running on Fumes.)

Who Signed Me Up?

Let me apologize first. It got…hectic for awhile. So if this post looks like a mini version of me wrote it, then…she didn’t. It was me. At this moment, I’m probably still running off of adrenaline, coffee, and a single hand’s worth of sleep. Two words: Air. Show. Help.

Dubbed the “Ice Queen” for the duration of the weekend, I found a home in my cozy club car, making a million trips to various food and beer tents providing much needed ice, soda, and chips, on occasion. They even gave me a walkie talkie, of which I was extra careful because I didn’t want to accept any fines for using my Sailor language. Disclaimer: I did say one bad word.

I’m laughing because it seems I took a lot of selfies yet I have no actual Air Show photos. In hindsight, I saw the Thunderbirds perform at least 3x and I saw demos and reenactments at least twice. It truly was an incredibly successful weekend. As I finish this post Monday morning before publishing, my feet ache but my heart is full. I met wonderful people, worked with the best of the best, and was privileged to support the public and the installation.

I love this stuff. But if we didn’t do it for another 7 yrs or so, that’s fine by me.

And on the subject of ice –

I found my summer activity: Curling! A whole club dedicated to learning and perfecting curling techniques! Looking for my winter gear right now. Also, I’m taking volunteers to be my partner. Must love laughing, and falling. Will train.

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I ask you –

Have you ever attended an Air Show?

Did you know there were curling clubs? Me neither!

Tell me your summer plans!

(The post Who Signed Me Up? first appeared here at Running on Fumes.)