Missing Genes

There are two, well, maybe three genes I didn't get at birth - the shopping gene, the craft gene and the shoe gene. I hate to shop, I don't want to or enjoy doing crafts or decorating or sewing, and I want comfortable shoes (and just for Wendy, I think my Keenes and Birkies are cute!) So what does that have to do with anything? Eric is gone on a 12 hour or 100K (whichever comes first) run today. Riley is off doing 4H things with his girlfriend. I have a free day. I forced myself to go shopping. I lasted about two hours - but! But, I was sort of successful. I bought some new capris for work (three pair), a skirt and two identical shirts - just different colors. I spent some time looking at shoes. I even drove to where there used to be a Birkenstock store, only to find them gone. I deserve a reward! Okay, okay... maybe the new clothes are the reward.

I was also looking for new running bras. I didn't get any - I was at a running outlet store and then one of the big sporting goods stores. I guess I'm going to have to go to one of the regular running stores. As far as I can tell, most of the jog bras out there are meant to be stylish, not practical. I was especially disappointed in the outlet - I've had good luck there before, buying a name brand, but this time they had flimsy straps, rough seams, seams where there shouldn't be seams and although some were moisture wicking, many weren't. I think that running gear companies should focus more on practicality and less on looks. Of course, my opinion is probably related to those missing genes above - we could probably add "missing the style gene" to the list.

I ran for five miles this morning. I planned ahead, got up early, took ibuprofen, put a warm compress on my leg and went for a two lap run around the neighborhood before I went to meet the others at the Y. It worked! I ran just fine and it barely hurts now. Last week at preschool I received a gift certificate to a local spa (it was teacher appreciation day). I went in yesterday for a deep tissue massage. I was bummed - I certainly got a nice massage, but not what I would consider deep tissue. I even told her she could press harder, but it didn't help much. I also asked her to focus on my calf, which she did not do. Turns out Jenny had the same girl last week with pretty much the same results. The good news is, some of our running friends have recommended another massage therapist, plus I liked the two massages I've had at the Y, so I've got a couple alternatives. I may try again next week so my calf is nice and loose for Coeur D'Alene.

This weekend is Party Central here in Puyallup. We had Amy's good-bye party last night, though she is not leaving for a couple weeks, and tonight is an annual party up at Barb's house, complete with dancing. Somehow, I suspect Eric won't be up for much dancing though...