Sunday, September 9, 2012

FWPs

For some reason when the power went off at 5:30 a.m. this morning, it startled me awake. I must be so used to the hum and drone of electricity moving through the house and into my veins that I freak out when it’s not there.

Or, maybe it was the paper boy who woke me up as he yelled (to no one in particular): “The f’ng electricity just went off of on the whole f’ng street!! I cannot f’ng believe it!” Well, dude, I can’t f’ng believe you have to use the “f” word this early on a Sunday morning. I guess there is a reason you are a paper boy at the age of 35.

Getting up and dressed in the dark was a feat, but I had a trail run to go on and I wasn’t going to miss it. I don’t mind not having power except for one reason. No coffee. I seriously about died. I always, and I mean always, have a cup of coffee before a run. Ken begrudgingly offered to stop at Starbucks, but I decided to be a big girl and suck it up. I realize this is a First World Problem (FWP), but it seemed critical at the time. I will say it was a poop-free run, so maybe I should take a hint.

Other FWPs that people face these days (I LOVE the Dominos one):

 

imageimage

 

image

For some reason, these actually make me laugh hard, too hard. I think it just speaks to how lazy and self indulgent we’ve all become – myself included. It’s so pathetic, it’s funny.

I backed off mileage this week to give my aching knee a rest. Today we just did 8 miles on the trails. It was 43 degrees (or 43 f’ng degrees if you are the paper boy), which was a bit nipply, yet refreshing. This trail at Heil Ranch is one of my favorites. It is a lollipop loop with a moderate climb (900 feet) over the first 3 miles. Nice views at the top- 

IMAG0402

IMAG0715

In other SUAR weekend news, have to admit I was kind of peeved when I read that Lance Armstrong can’t run the Chicago Marathon on October 7 with Livestrong. In fact, he’s banned from running all marathons under the USATF, which will include Boston, New York and many others. Next thing you know he’ll be banned from double dutch competitions.

Under the rules, if an athlete is banned from competition under the World Anti-Doping Agency Code, this includes any event or competition that is sanctioned by a sport governing body which is a signatory to the Code, irrespective of the athlete’s level or expected results,” said USADA spokesperson Erin Hannan.

Armstrong ran 2:45:43 in NYC (2007)

Guilty or not guilty of doping while cycling, I just don’t get why he can’t run recreationally as part of his Livestrong Foundation (which sponsors runners who have raised millions of dollars to fight cancer in races across the country). I understand rules are rules, but seems extreme to me, especially because this might hinder fundraising efforts.  Just my f’ing two cents.

What’s your FWP today? Aside from no coffee, the toilet paper is out in the downstairs' bathroom and I have to go all the way upstairs to get more. This forces me to use Kleenex because upstairs is way too far away.

Any thoughts on Armstrong being banned from the Chicago Marathon? Excessive or legit?

SUAR

PS: I love the post my friend Clair wrote today about what inspires us at mile 19 of a marathon. Check it out!

50 comments:

  1. IMHO....that is (f'ing) CRAP that Lance is banned from running Chicago, even as a recreational runner. Makes my blood boil!!

    ReplyDelete
  2. Cycling fan- it's crap, yeah. But in two years or so the USADA will realize that they really can't pin anything on him and he'll be able to do stuff again. He followed the same strategy that a current dutch team manager did and the team manager is back into the sport and able to perform. I'm not a Lance fan by any means, but his whole doping thing has been blown waaaaaaaaaaaaaay out of proportion by the american media.

    My FWP? I look like a schlub because I can't afford cool running gear like the rest of the people on my city's major trail.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hit up TJ Maxx, just got a running skirt and and top for $21!!

      Delete
  3. I have pretty mixed feelings about Lance and pretty strong feelings about doping. I don't really know what to think of the ban. I kind of wish all the Lance publicity would just go away. I'm over it all.

    My FWP is that I hired a nanny and now that means I have to clean my house because I can't afford the kind of nanny that does housekeeping too. Lame. Totally lame.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Related FWP - the nanny is coming today so I have to clean the house so she doesn't think I'm a slob!

      Delete
  4. My FWP problem of the day...I'm out of ink in my printer so I can't print something I need for a work project. Therefore, I have to endure opening the document I would like to print on my ipad and using that to work from to complete my project on my laptop. Sheesh.

    ReplyDelete
  5. FWP: The grocery store didn't have butter lettuce so I had to eat greenleaf.

    ReplyDelete
  6. I agree with Claire above about the Lance thing. Not huge Lance fan, although I have watched him perform in the past in the Tour. Considering how many other cycling pros are suspected of doping, I think it's a bit unfair they are centering him out so harshly. I don't condone doping, but what's good for the goose is also good for the gander, and they should be pinning everyone down suspected of doping if they are attacking even one person, no matter who he is.

    My FWP.... I'm almost embarrasses to admit it.... I did a workout this morning where I wasn't feeling well, so I barely sweated. I'm feeling lazy, so I'm contemplation waiting until tomorrow morning to shower cause I have to for work anyway. Getting in the shower today means washing my hair, and drying.... And straightening.... Like I said, too lazy today!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. The problem is- what's happening to Lance has already happened to a bunch of european pros. It just didn't get any coverage because noone in america cares.

      Delete
  7. My FWP today is trying to organize all my DVDs in alphabetical order! Then I want to put them all in a word document, but there are so many, I know it'll take at least an hour or two.

    ReplyDelete
  8. I actually agree with not letting him run it. It's a lesson in consequences and as a "role model" for youth it shows them doing something wrong doesn't just affect one thing, it has a domino effect.

    FWP. Too many to list. LOL

    ReplyDelete
  9. why does it anger you that he cant run the marathons!??? he's a cheat ad a liar!! He deserves the consequences that he gets. and truly what consequences is he really suffering? not running in marathons? he got away pretty easy in my opinion. he deserved worse than he got. great role model he is. teaching kids to go to any lengths to win. nice.

    ReplyDelete
  10. FWP...I really need to put on my compression socks, but they're all the way in the bedroom. I think I'll just eleavate my legs instead. :)

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I totally feel you there! I went to put on my compression socks and I couldn't get them on without rolling the new KT tape I had just put on my heel!!! I ended up just elevating and icing. It's a struggle to be a responsible runner.

      Delete
  11. I can see banning Lance from entering the race competitively, but I do not see why there cannot be a compromise where he can run the race with Livestrong and in the process receive an unofficial time that does not get put in the rankings with all the other age groupers.

    FWP? Hm, the main one I can see is that I have too many clean clothes that need to be put away.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Yes, I agree. I don't think he should be allowed to compete, win prize money or accept a winning title. But, I do think running recreationally should be okay, esp. to support Livestrong. I know many people take a hard line on this and say if he cheated he should be punished. Yes, and he is by having his titles stripped and never being able to cycle competively again. For me,that's enough. The consequences fit the crime.

      Delete
  12. FWP - I finished my glass of Sauvignon blanc, but the bottle is in the fridge and I'm in front of the tv. And my husband is out. Can't a girl get a break on a Sunday eve?

    ReplyDelete
  13. I've been told to avoid coffee before I run, for the same issue you have but....I need my caffeine!

    FWP today? Only one bottle of chardonnay for dinner tonight, and we are having my father in law for dinner. That means we have to share. Ugh.

    ReplyDelete
  14. I think it's absolute bullshit abd I'm infuriated in fact.

    ReplyDelete
  15. Is your paper boy f'ing single?? Hahaaha
    I wish they would just leave Lance Armstrong alone. It just irritates me completely. Doping or none, he still beat cancer, he is still a great athlete AND he is raising an insane amount of money for cancer. The petty witch hunt is f'ing stupid.

    I don't think I have a FWP today. Yesterday it was when I got lost and had to add another mile to my run because the stupid city didn't have a street sign at the light AND then the gas station (yes, they sold gas) didn't have an ICE MACHINE. How can I go on with those sorts of obstacles!!

    Your list KILLED me it was so funny!

    ReplyDelete
  16. I think it's just sad that Armstrong is banned for future events because of hearsay. If they caught him cheating or he had a positive urine, then fine - he's out. But to go by some guilty rider's word, then it just makes no sense. His organization has raised so much money and helped so many people live a longer, stronger life. At least he didn't lie about his marathon time :).

    Moving on...

    FWP: I had to park a half mile away for a half marathon race. What the fng hell!?!?

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Isn't there an "innocent until proven guilty" thing? Right? And I think that if they didn't catch him back then and he was using, well, so be it. The technology was what it was and now it is what it is. Frankly, I think he should even retain his titles unless there is concrete proof.

      Delete
  17. Today's FWP- I had to run on the treadmill b/c I *am* the babysitter and my sister doesn't have a jogging stroller.

    ReplyDelete
  18. As a cancer survivor for more than 15 years, I have immense admiration for all that Lance Armstrong has done with his foundation. Having said that, he is a drug cheat and a liar and deserves to be banned from competition.

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Yes, cycling competition or even running competition. He wouldn't be competing in Chicago.

      Delete
  19. My FWP: Our downstairs toilet is broken and I have to walk upstairs to pee. After running 19 this morning, I'm none too pleased. Lance ... I get it, the reasoning, but hats the BFD everyone is making.

    ReplyDelete
  20. Oh I TOTALLY have a FWP for today... in fact I was just telling my mother, "I know this is a ridiculous First World Problem, but is your Comcast being ditzy and weird? Because mine is and it's DRIVING ME F'ing CRAY CRAY." Swear. Said it. To my mother. ~chuckle~

    ReplyDelete
  21. I have no problem with Lance being banned from certain runs. No-one is saying he can't run to keep fit, but authorised events are out.

    As for Livestrong, I'm really curious about what it actually does. Some good questions have been raised: http://www.outsideonline.com/outdoor-adventure/athletes/lance-armstrong/Its-Not-About-the-Lab-Rats.html?page=all

    My FWP - I've run out of milk so I have to have toast for breakfast.

    ReplyDelete
  22. FWP After our hike this afternoon, hubby and I went to local brewery. I had hamburger and 2 beers. Now in food comma... Can hardly keep eyes pen to ready your blog on my iPhone...

    ReplyDelete
  23. FWP - I sent my husband to the store to buy tissues because I have a MAJOR cold. He didn't get the lotion kind. My nose is chapped.

    ReplyDelete
  24. Actually, from what I read the marathon has been full for quite a while and he wasn't actually trying to sign up - his PR company just put a press release out stating he wouldn't be able to run it. Kinda have to wonder they need to create drama...

    ReplyDelete
  25. Agree with you on the Lance Armstrong deal. Let him run recreationally.

    FWP: I can never decide "crushed" or "cubed" from my ice machine in the door of my fridge. Decisions, decisions... ;)

    ReplyDelete
  26. Ok, my FWP: trying to figure out where to stay on our vacay to St. Maarten this winter. Spoilt, fo' sho.

    ReplyDelete
  27. F'ing ridiculous on Lance being banned from the marathon(s). My FWP: having to find another shade of foundation because the brand I use has DISCONTINUED MY SHADE. O, the humanity.

    ReplyDelete
  28. Looks like a beautiful place to run. The Lance Armstrong thing is just infuriating. If he's not running competitively, in the sport to which he was "accused" especially, then he should be able to participate.

    ReplyDelete
  29. Wow! I woke up to 57*F today after a week still in the 90's here in Jersey and I though that made for a very chilly 5:30AM ride to the gym! I'm glad Lance finally came "clean". I actually have more respect for him now than in the past. I think he should be able to run in USTAF races!

    ReplyDelete
  30. I love the FWP list. I get so crabby when my internet doesn't work on my phone...major FWP.

    I'm with you finding it ridiculous that Lance Armstrong is banned from marathons, especially because he isn't competing for money or even top awards. I'm going to bet there are runners in races all over the country that either take recreational drugs or take steroids.

    ReplyDelete
  31. I think he should be able to run it. That's rediculous. Livestrong is a great organization.

    ReplyDelete
  32. FWP: We are moving in 10 days and have half of a Costco-sized bag of tortilla chips left - but just finished the jar of salsa. Buy more salsa even though we're trying to finish things, or eat the chips salsa-less...?

    ReplyDelete
  33. My FWP: I have to go to the store and buy milk again today, because we are out even though I bought some on Thursday. Oh, and I can't decide which store to buy my produce at, Costco, TJs or Sprouts.

    As for Lance, I think it is ridiculous. If Lance were trying to run marathons competitively, then I would be all over banning him. But he's not. He's trying to run for a charity he created to help cancer patients. He's in a unique position to have been through cancer himself and have the power to effect change for other cancer patients. Let him run!

    ReplyDelete
  34. My FWP: I have lousy cell phone coverage at work and we can't view Facebook on our computers, so I can't keep up with what's happening during the day. Poor me (NOT!).

    Regarding Lance, I think it's ridiculous to ban him from all USATF events. The issue was in cycling and they never officially proved anything, he just finally quit fighting the charges. Did he dope? No one knows for sure besides him.

    ReplyDelete
  35. I think Lance not being able to fun is f*ng bullshit (as the paperboy would say). Let the man run! He's raised a bazillion dollars for cancer research. Cut him some f*ing slack. I like writing f*ing by the way. Kind of fun.

    My first world problem of the day:

    I was craving a breakfast sandwich at 10:35 and the place across the street stops selling breakfast at 10:30. I had to eat oatmeal instead.

    Poor me.

    ReplyDelete
  36. Interesting - I hadn't heard about Lance Armstrong not being able to run! I kind of agree with you, I understand the banning of him from cycling, but think that he should have the freedom to participate (or even compete in, although I know that's not what we are talking about) in any other sport - to me it seems like presumed guilt that he will abuse drugs while running in a fundraiser. Which is ridiculous.

    ReplyDelete
  37. The FWP's just crack me up over and over again. My wife has banned me from saying "Pound, First World Problems" to her when she bitches about stuff. She apparently does not find it as amusing as me?

    Anyway, I took it in stride and now say, "Pound, White People Problems" - she has yet to but the kabbash on that one but I sense it coming.

    Sounds like quite the #FWP I am dealing with!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Hahaha! I love the "pound first world problems." Around here we say "hashtag, first world problems," but I like pound better. My FWP is I can't decide if I want to use pound or hashtag.

      Delete
  38. Holy Geez this post was such a good way to start the day. So damn funny.
    Armstrong ban = Excessive!
    Even if he did dope they need to lay off recreational stuff and remind themselve of what he has done for humanity through livestrong and his general charitable donating.
    FWP: They only have 37 kinds of cereal to chose from at my local grocery store. How can I function without more choices than that?!
    FWP: I wear a hoodie and shades to shop at Dollar General because I don't want people to think I need to save money when I just want to save money. (I have a friend who seriously does this.)

    ReplyDelete
  39. Yeah, why not let him run but just not be eligible for prizes/awards.

    Well, he can run smaller non-USATF events. They won't care. Though that would be kind of crazy to be at some small 200 person race with Lance Armstrong.

    ReplyDelete
  40. FWP: My "Flip to during commercials channel" is on commercial too. What have I done to deserve this?! #Ihatemylife

    ReplyDelete