Ryoko’s Second Quest: Building a Ranger, Volume I – Laying the Foundation

[Hiroro]

You're off to such a great start! Looks like you totally own in the planning/prepping department. 

 

And I know this is late but I love homemade almond milk in my coffee; adding a little vanilla, dried dates, and a touch of salt makes it yummy all by itself too.

[Balthazar]

the YAYOG workouts are pretty tough, I have all the DOMS today

 

All of them

 

there are none left for anybody else, I have them all

[jaex]

Man with all the exercising and good-eating you are doing, you are going to be in such good shape that all the krakens and Moby Dicks will be afraid to come near you!  

[Aces3000]

the YAYOG workouts are pretty tough, I have all the DOMS today

 

All of them

 

there are none left for anybody else, I have them all

This made me laugh out loud this morning. Thanks for that!

[Ryoko]

Fantastic update, as usual. You rocked day two! Thanks for including the recipe for the wraps, too. I need some more ideas for food to make. 

 

Thanks! I hope some of the food ideas work out for you.

 

Thanks for the photos of your veggie snacks, smoothie packets and lettuce wraps...I'm getting some ideas.

 

Sounds like you have found a great coach who fits your goals. For the others who were asking about swim coaches, there are many swim clubs for adults usually called "master's swimming" programs. These are especially common around colleges and universities, but you would find them other places too.

 

The US national site is www.usms.org, and it has links to help you find local chapters. This would be a way to get into a program doing swim training with other people. The club I was in (ages ago...no pool where I live now) had a great coach who would frequently videotape us. The clubs generally have people with a wide range of abilities.

 

This is great information, thanks Xena! I'm brand new to all of this, so your information is very helpful (to me and others).

 

I know everyone already said this, but your smoothie packs and prepackaged snackables look awesome! That's just a ridiculous level of organization right there. 

 

Thanks sterre!

[Ryoko]

You're off to such a great start! Looks like you totally own in the planning/prepping department. 

 

And I know this is late but I love homemade almond milk in my coffee; adding a little vanilla, dried dates, and a touch of salt makes it yummy all by itself too.

 

Thank you! I love the additional items you add to your almond milk - that sounds so yummy.

 

the YAYOG workouts are pretty tough, I have all the DOMS today

 

All of them

 

there are none left for anybody else, I have them all

 

Lol I think you must have dropped some, because I found them and picked them up, unbeknownst to me what they were at the time. ^.^

 

DOMS DOMS DOMS

 

Man with all the exercising and good-eating you are doing, you are going to be in such good shape that all the krakens and Moby Dicks will be afraid to come near you!  

 

Hahaha thanks jaex!

[Ryoko]

Yayyyyy I finally got up for my morning run!!! W00t!!!

 

The good news - it felt great to be out on the track early in the morning. The air was crisp and I had the place all to myself. I felt great.

 

The not so good news - it's the time of year when I need my second inhaler. I didn't have it on me so I had to cut my running session short. I still got a mile in, though it was almost 13 minutes. And I think I pulled something in my right shoulder doing LetMeUp's last night - it was killing me during the run (thank you, noodle arms). Aaaand I started cramping. ^.^

 

BUT I'm so glad I got out there! The next run will be better. And my day is still off to a great start. I'm having a declicious smoothie while checking in here, and will get ready in a bit for work. Today is going to be a great day! Hope yours is too!

 

[Aces3000]

Yayyyyy I finally got up for my morning run!!! W00t!!!

 

The good news - it felt great to be out on the track early in the morning. The air was crisp and I had the place all to myself. I felt great.

 

The not so good news - it's the time of year when I need my second inhaler. I didn't have it on me so I had to cut my running session short. I still got a mile in, though it was almost 13 minutes. And I think I pulled something in my right shoulder doing LetMeUp's last night - it was killing me during the run (thank you, noodle arms). Aaaand I started cramping. ^.^

 

BUT I'm so glad I got out there! The next run will be better. And my day is still off to a great start. I'm having a declicious smoothie while checking in here, and will get ready in a bit for work. Today is going to be a great day! Hope yours is too!

 

Thanks for the update. You got out there and that is fantastic! Those Let me ups make me crazy! I think the table that I'm using is too high. 

[Elisha]

*** Day 1 Results ***

 

 

Quest 1 - Improve My Training Schedule

 

 

I did however have my swim training analysis done today, yay! The coach was awesome - she videotaped me and gave me a lot of great feedback. The bad news - my breathing technique sucks and combined with my horrible swim stroke is creating a lot of drag. The good news - I rotate my hips well and have a solid, strong kick. After the taping, we spent an hour working together on drills. Within in the next few days, Coach will send me a detailed write up of the analysis, including drill instructions and the video with play by play commentary on my form. She recommended that I train swimming 4 days a week (as opposed to the 3 I had planned). So I'll be revamping my schedule a bit. Lots to do, and I'm very excited!

 

 

 

 

Smoothie bags to keep in the freezer:

(Bananas, strawberries, blackberries, blueberries)

 

 

 

 

 

Is there any way we could enter into a platonic domestic partnership? 

I think your swimming issues are good news. Just think! Your next swim is going to be so much easier than before when your coach helps you correct them. The ocean one will probably still seem like a bear, but it will still be easier than how you swim right now!  

 

*** Day 2 Results ***

 

 

Quest 1 - Improve My Training Schedule

I don't want to be unprepared when it's time to swim in the ocean (have I mentioned how *nervous* I am about that btw??)

 

I did the YAYOG program today. The upper body days are always very challenging for me, as I have pretty much the upper body strength of a wet noodle.

 

Lettuce Wrap Ingredients:

Cooked Red Lentils & Raw Walnuts (processed into a "meaty" filling

 

 

 

I am intrigued by your "meaty" filling. 

I totally get your wet noodle upper body. I think when I add a second strength day it will just be arms. 

Thanks for the photos of your veggie snacks, smoothie packets and lettuce wraps...I'm getting some ideas.

 

Sounds like you have found a great coach who fits your goals. For the others who were asking about swim coaches, there are many swim clubs for adults usually called "master's swimming" programs. These are especially common around colleges and universities, but you would find them other places too.

 

The US national site is www.usms.org, and it has links to help you find local chapters. This would be a way to get into a program doing swim training with other people. The club I was in (ages ago...no pool where I live now) had a great coach who would frequently videotape us. The clubs generally have people with a wide range of abilities.

That's amazing! All this stuff makes me want to settle down some place again so I can do cool things! 

[Edigo]

found you, subbed ! we share some goals

 

I am also an anime style, watching all kinds of stuff, with my boyfriend. Recently : Naruto, sword art online. And previously my favorites were Clannad, a bunch i can't remember the name, ghost in the shell

 

if the drawing is cute i get into it right the instant it starts lol

[ChristArtist]

I want in on that platonic domestic partnership!

[emoji474][emoji250][emoji468][emoji439][emoji192][emoji474][emoji7]

Sent from my SM-G900V using Tapatalk

[Ciara]

Ryoko you are doing fabulously. Way to kick it into high gear from the start! 

 

Yayyyyy I finally got up for my morning run!!! W00t!!!

 

The good news - it felt great to be out on the track early in the morning. The air was crisp and I had the place all to myself. I felt great.

 

The not so good news - it's the time of year when I need my second inhaler. I didn't have it on me so I had to cut my running session short. I still got a mile in, though it was almost 13 minutes. And I think I pulled something in my right shoulder doing LetMeUp's last night - it was killing me during the run (thank you, noodle arms). Aaaand I started cramping. ^.^

 

BUT I'm so glad I got out there! The next run will be better. And my day is still off to a great start. I'm having a declicious smoothie while checking in here, and will get ready in a bit for work. Today is going to be a great day! Hope yours is too!

Just reading this made me feel all cheerful. I'm proud of you for getting up finally! It's amazing what an early morning run can do for your spirits- maybe I should make that part of my challenge. I live at the base of a nice gentle hill...hmmm....

[blkhole24601]

Morning runs are my favorite thing! No one else is up or out and about, you feel really accomplished for the rest of the day, and somehow the morning air is just better. Really happy you made it out for one!!

[Shello]

the YAYOG workouts are pretty tough, I have all the DOMS today

 

All of them

 

there are none left for anybody else, I have them all

 

Well that explains why I didn't have as many this week as last...     You can have them.  All of them.

The good news is that the 2nd week is better than the first. 

[Shello]

Yayyyyy I finally got up for my morning run!!! W00t!!!

 

The good news - it felt great to be out on the track early in the morning. The air was crisp and I had the place all to myself. I felt great.

 

The not so good news - it's the time of year when I need my second inhaler. I didn't have it on me so I had to cut my running session short. I still got a mile in, though it was almost 13 minutes. And I think I pulled something in my right shoulder doing LetMeUp's last night - it was killing me during the run (thank you, noodle arms). Aaaand I started cramping. ^.^

 

BUT I'm so glad I got out there! The next run will be better. And my day is still off to a great start. I'm having a declicious smoothie while checking in here, and will get ready in a bit for work. Today is going to be a great day! Hope yours is too!

 

 

Awesome that you got out there, even if you had to cut it short.  Maybe it will be easier the next day since you got that first morning one out of the way. 

 

And I hear you on the LMups too.  Those are killers. 

[Katydid]

Morning runs are great!  I think the cooler air also helps with not feeling so exhausted because you don't get overheated.  Keep up the fantastic work!

[Ryoko]

Morning runs are great!  I think the cooler air also helps with not feeling so exhausted because you don't get overheated.  Keep up the fantastic work!

 

Thanks Katydid! ^.^

 

Thanks for the update. You got out there and that is fantastic! Those Let me ups make me crazy! I think the table that I'm using is too high. 

 

Thanks! Hahaha yeah the LMUs are so hard! ^.^

 

Is there any way we could enter into a platonic domestic partnership? 

I think your swimming issues are good news. Just think! Your next swim is going to be so much easier than before when your coach helps you correct them. The ocean one will probably still seem like a bear, but it will still be easier than how you swim right now!  

 

I am intrigued by your "meaty" filling. 

I totally get your wet noodle upper body. I think when I add a second strength day it will just be arms. 

 

Lol @ platonic domestic partnership! The more the merrier I say.

 

found you, subbed ! we share some goals

 

I am also an anime style, watching all kinds of stuff, with my boyfriend. Recently : Naruto, sword art online. And previously my favorites were Clannad, a bunch i can't remember the name, ghost in the shell

 

if the drawing is cute i get into it right the instant it starts lol

 

Hi!! ^.^

 

Naruto is great. I haven't seen Clannad yet - it's on my list. 

 

And I know what you mean about the drawings!

 

I want in on that platonic domestic partnership!

[emoji474][emoji250][emoji468][emoji439][emoji192][emoji474][emoji7]

 

 

Lol the more the merrier!

[Ryoko]

Ryoko you are doing fabulously. Way to kick it into high gear from the start! 

 

Just reading this made me feel all cheerful. I'm proud of you for getting up finally! It's amazing what an early morning run can do for your spirits- maybe I should make that part of my challenge. I live at the base of a nice gentle hill...hmmm....

 

Thanks so much! Encouragement like yours is what really keeps me going.

 

Morning runs are my favorite thing! No one else is up or out and about, you feel really accomplished for the rest of the day, and somehow the morning air is just better. Really happy you made it out for one!!

 

Yeah, for sure! Now to make it a habit. ^.^

 

Well that explains why I didn't have as many this week as last...     You can have them.  All of them.

The good news is that the 2nd week is better than the first. 

 

Give all the DOMS to Daniel?

 

Awesome that you got out there, even if you had to cut it short.  Maybe it will be easier the next day since you got that first morning one out of the way. 

 

And I hear you on the LMups too.  Those are killers. 

 

Thanks Shello! ^.^

[Ryoko]

*** Day 3 Results ***

 

 

Quest 1 - Improve My Training Schedule

As previously mentioned, I woke up early today and did my morning run! It was only a mile, but it felt great getting out and on the track.

 

I stopped by the triathlon store to see my Coach today and pick up a wetsuit rental - I have it for one week. I got a sleeveless one. It was my first time in a wetsuit, and I have to say...I felt like a sausage. o.O I imagine this is what a sausage would feel like, if it could. I hope to sign up for a open water swim trial run on Sunday, but that will be contingent on a phone call I need to make tomorrow.

 

I was planning to go swimming and biking this evening, but my plans changed when I got home. More on that below.

 

Quest 2 - Improve my Diet

Today's menu was as follows:

Breakfast: Smoothie

Lunch: Salad, Potato with veggies

Snack: Mixed Veggies, Hummus, Apple

Dinner: Homemade Pizza

 

Quest 3 - Improve My Sleep

This goal is currently suspended until further notice, as I will likely be up with my little guy quite a bit.

 

Life Quest - Create A Comprehensive Death Plan

I received a living will and healthcare power of attorney today, (thank you aeshnidae for your guidance!); I will print it and fill it out later this week. ^.^

 

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Misc

When I got home from work today, I took my dog out for a walk. He did his business and was fine, and when we came in, his back legs just...stopped working. He couldn't stand upright, couldn't support himself. I tried to give him some banana and he couldn't chew it (the first time this has ever happened). He's an older guy - he turned 16 last month - and has been going downhill these past few years (most especially this year). He has arthritis and is completely deaf. Often I need to carry him because he doesn't want to walk. He pretty much sleeps all day. The vet confirmed he has a brain tumor on our last visit in May. Although his appetite is fine and he still gets excited and runs around from time to time - so he's not all bad.  I got him when he was four weeks old - he has been with me for almost half of my life. He is my gem, my heart. And he is my priority right now, above anything else.

 

I have really been struggling with determining if/when to put him down. I certainly don't want to keep him around if he's in pain, or has no quality of life, but at the same time, I don't want to cut his time short if he still has energy left and is otherwise doing okay. But this afternoon, when I saw him in such bad shape, dragging his back legs around on the floor, not being able to eat, I knew in my heart it was time. I took him to the vet and got him some emergency medicine to last for the next three days. (My regular vet was gone for the night but will be in tomorrow). 

 

In my post from this morning, I said that I knew today was going to be a great day. I've known this time was coming for a while now in regards to my dog, and I suppose part of me was in denial. But not anymore. I didn't think little guy was going to make it home with me, it was awful - I was crying and scared. I will be making the toughest phone call of my life in the morning. But I have at least one more night to spend with him. And THAT is what makes this a truly great day indeed.   

[forkboy]

It is definitely one of the harder choices to make, but it seems like you have a great attitude and approach.  Enjoy your time!

[Ciara]

 

*** Day 3 Results ***

 

 

Quest 1 - Improve My Training Schedule

As previously mentioned, I woke up early today and did my morning run! It was only a mile, but it felt great getting out and on the track.

 

I stopped by the triathlon store to see my Coach today and pick up a wetsuit rental - I have it for one week. I got a sleeveless one. It was my first time in a wetsuit, and I have to say...I felt like a sausage. o.O I imagine this is what a sausage would feel like, if it could. I hope to sign up for a open water swim trial run on Sunday, but that will be contingent on a phone call I need to make tomorrow.

 

I was planning to go swimming and biking this evening, but my plans changed when I got home. More on that below.

 

Quest 2 - Improve my Diet

Today's menu was as follows:

Breakfast: Smoothie

Lunch: Salad, Potato with veggies

Snack: Mixed Veggies, Hummus, Apple

Dinner: Homemade Pizza

 

Quest 3 - Improve My Sleep

This goal is currently suspended until further notice, as I will likely be up with my little guy quite a bit.

 

Life Quest - Create A Comprehensive Death Plan

I received a living will and healthcare power of attorney today, (thank you aeshnidae for your guidance!); I will print it and fill it out later this week. ^.^

 

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Misc

When I got home from work today, I took my dog out for a walk. He did his business and was fine, and when we came in, his back legs just...stopped working. He couldn't stand upright, couldn't support himself. I tried to give him some banana and he couldn't chew it (the first time this has ever happened). He's an older guy - he turned 16 last month - and has been going downhill these past few years (most especially this year). He has arthritis and is completely deaf. Often I need to carry him because he doesn't want to walk. He pretty much sleeps all day. The vet confirmed he has a brain tumor on our last visit in May. Although his appetite is fine and he still gets excited and runs around from time to time - so he's not all bad.  I got him when he was four weeks old - he has been with me for almost half of my life. He is my gem, my heart. And he is my priority right now, above anything else.

 

I have really been struggling with determining if/when to put him down. I certainly don't want to keep him around if he's in pain, or has no quality of life, but at the same time, I don't want to cut his time short if he still has energy left and is otherwise doing okay. But this afternoon, when I saw him in such bad shape, dragging his back legs around on the floor, not being able to eat, I knew in my heart it was time. I took him to the vet and got him some emergency medicine to last for the next three days. (My regular vet was gone for the night but will be in tomorrow). 

 

In my post from this morning, I said that I knew today was going to be a great day. I've known this time was coming for a while now in regards to my dog, and I suppose part of me was in denial. But not anymore. I didn't think little guy was going to make it home with me, it was awful - I was crying and scared. I will be making the toughest phone call of my life in the morning. But I have at least one more night to spend with him. And THAT is what makes this a truly great day indeed.   

 

Oh.......-hugs tight-

 

I'm so sorry. Are you living alone? Do you have someone you can talk to and cry with? I'm really, truly sorry. You must be feeling all sorts of emotions right now. Helplessness, anger, sorrow, fear...just to name a few. Please PM me if you need me to do anything for you. You can call me if you need to, I'll give you my number. I lost my angel cat over the summer, I got him when I was 5 and he was just a few weeks old. I completely understand your position right now...it's so, so hard. But we can't keep them past their time, that's selfish and cruel. You gave him an amazing life and you are doing the kindest thing for him.

[Charlie_Quinn]

Ryoko, I'm so so sorry to hear about your dog. Losing a pet is heart wrenching, my thoughts are with you. I really hope you enjoy your last day with him. Give him all the hugs and treats you can and just know that you are doing the right thing for him.

 

Virtual hugs coming your way.  

[jaex]

I'm so sorry about your dog.  They are great friends and that makes it even more terrible that they don't live as long.  I wish you and your companion the best and hope whatever your decision that you two are happy till the end.  We'll be here for you if you need support.

[The Most Loathed]

My heart goes out to you and your dog. We worry about our old girl a lot lately so I've played this type of thing out in my mind more times than I care to admit to and it hurts each time.

[Fonzico]

Oh Ryoko, I am so sorry about your pup... That is incredibly hard, and I'm sending you all the virtual strength I can to get through this.

 

He had a great life and a wonderful companion, who did right by him through to the end. *hugs*