I’m really struggling to find time to do anything with my new work schedule – that includes blogging, exercise and social activities. I’m not complaining though – I’m so much happier than I was at my last job. When you’re miserable for so long you forget what it feels like to NOT be miserable, and you think being miserable is just how it is.
So now that I’m finally not miserable, it’s really refreshing. 
But I am working 60 hours a week. I wake up at 5ish just to get to work at 7ish so that I could leave by 7ish and not have to stay later.  Also, I work on weekends. This leaves little time to work out before work — and then there’s the fact that I have never in my life had such a hard time getting out of bed in the morning, I’m so tired — and no time after work because I just want to go home and crash. This week I have  late weeknight events three nights, which is stressing me out majorly. Again, not complaining, just explaining it all.
I need to figure out a better balance because I have a marathon to start training for in May! And not just any marathon, but ideally my sub-4 marathon. Coach Abby says I NEED to get my leg strengthening exercises in three times a week, not to mention the actual running. As for my beloved Refine, right now I would only be able to go on weekends but I am not ready for that neck-wise. I want to have a few more pain-free runs completed before I feel ready to add in any other types of exercise. I feel a mix of upset (Refine is my happy place) and smart (listening to my PT when he told me to use running as a gauge for other workouts). And, I am LOVING running! Every run I do, I feel grateful and happy. I can’t wait to be running more miles and more often. And training for a marathon! I booked my flight to Seattle for Bellingham Bay Marathon! And I might have something else in the works that I’ll talk about soon that will motivate me even more to run and help me meet running people at my company. When my brain isn’t on work, these days it’s on running. Running FTW.
I do have to say, I am not used to feeling so soft and being so out of shape. I haven’t been this way since I started working out “for real” on January 2, 2010. I’m self conscious all the time and I miss the old me.
Does anyone seasoned in working long hours have tips?
(I should note – I already wake up at 5 just to get to work and I don’t have a lunch break and I am scared to run outside before 5am… so it gets a little trickier…)
Abrupt subject change: Yesterday I had an amazing day. I slept until 10am for the first time since COLLEGE. Even Larry didn’t cry to wake us up, he slept in, too! Â I guess this is what early mornings and long days of sitting for hours straight will do to you.
After breakfast at our favorite Jersey City spot Sam A.M., Andy and I spent some time at Project: Earth, a street fair in our neighborhood to benefit  local Earth Day initiatives. I got some really great stuff there and I’m excited about all of it, including vintage shoes and a vintage bag and some gifts for a certain baby with a very large bun.
Then we signed the lease on our new apartment, an amazing apartment that overlooks the dog park section of a really nice park. We don’t move until July 1 but we are obsessed with all things new apartment right now. We even bought this at Project: Earth, which happens to perfectly match our black, red and beige rug AND is the same exact pattern and colors as our shower curtain.
Does this thing have a name?
Then I had my first pain-free 5 mile run, my longest run since the Richmond Marathon and one of my few totally pain-free runs. Things are definitely looking up. And then we ate dinner at our favorite Jersey City dinner spot, Razza. One thing I love about living here (and there’s a lot) is that just by going to these two restaurants often, being passionate about them and engaging with them on social media, they know us now. And they talk to us, and that makes us feel special and want to go back even more and tell more people. And there’s just such a community feel here, it is so nice. A perfect day.
This morning I did another 5 miles and felt good, so I’m happy with my decision to run in the Newport 10,000 next weekend. It’s a 10K race I was too injured to run last year, but I’ve been really wanting to do it. Before my neck injury, this was going to be my PR attempt but I’m not ready for that. Instead, I will run at a leisurely pace, take in a new route and get cheered on by my boys as I run directly in front of my apartment building.
Once my running started going well I had the opportunity to finally try the  IRONMAN’s Women’s Convertible Versa Jacket. They sent me this jacket awhile ago to try out, review and giveaway. I chose the passion fruit color, which looks even better in person than in the photo. Made by Sugoi, this jacket is warm enough to wear all winter long for you cold weather running people (every year I try to become one of you, maybe next year I will be thanks to this jacket). I really liked it and although I don’t look forward to next winter’s cold weather, I am really glad to have this jacket and hope to use it often! 
It didn’t look too bulky, and the bottom of the arms and bottom of the jacket are adjustable so I was able to make it snug around my wrists and waist so no cold air could get in. It protected perfectly against the wind and the best part of the jacket — which I did not get to try yet — is that if you get too warm, it converts INTO A VEST with MAGNETIC SLEEVES.
Here are the official jacket deets:
Available in passion fruit or black, the IRONMAN Women’s Convertible Versa Jacket is 100% polyester argon fabric jacket and features a high air permeability rating and water resistance, both of which help to keep you warm and dry. With its easily removable/attachable magnet-attached sleeves and reflective visibility, this jacket can also be converted into a vest, making it perfect for any workout – indoors or out! Combining durability with function and style, this jacket is simply a training essential. (Feel free to see what I’m talking about in this video here or read more below.)
The IRONMAN Women’s Convertible Versa Jacket jacket retails at $135.95, so I’m really excited to give away such a functional, good-looking, all around awesome jacket!
GIVEAWAY INFO
You can get up to two entries to be in the running to win:
(1) Leave a comment below telling me what you look for in a running jacket OR if you have a favorite local food spot OR your advice for fitting in workouts with a very challenging work schedule (
2) Tweet about the giveaway, leave a comment here letting me know you did. Suggested tweet: I entered to win an @IronmanTri Women’s Convertible Versa Jacket from @thedorigray: http://dorishinyblog.com/2014/04/a-running-update-ironman-jacket-giveaway
Good luck!
Oh! Unrelated, I’m using Instagram more these days but can’t for the life of me figure out how to add the icon to the top of this blog. It’s not one of the options in my template. Anyway, you can follow me there.
All entries must be received by Sunday, May 4 at 12:00 am EDT. The odds of winning depend on the number of eligible entries received.
Nikki
April 27, 2014 at 8:57 pm (10 years ago)Get some rest okay? I look for a jacket I can sweat in that won’t stain-hope I win!
Emily
April 27, 2014 at 9:34 pm (10 years ago)I tweeted!
Emily
April 27, 2014 at 9:36 pm (10 years ago)ANDDD. I think my favorite local food spot is this place called Toko. it’s pretty amazing japanese food.
ANDDD. When I’m onsite I work like 15ish hour days. I try to fit it in when I can. if I’m exhausted, there’s no point of trying to exhaust myself more. Instead of run, I bike or go on the elliptical. I try to do some simple exercises on the floor before I go to bed (even if it’s only 5 minutes!) Planks are especially good for when I’m short on time.
Katie
April 27, 2014 at 10:15 pm (10 years ago)PassionFruit seems gorgeous! I look for a sleek design, while also having a convenient pocket for phone/mitten/hat as I tend to bring more than I actually need.
Katie
April 27, 2014 at 10:16 pm (10 years ago)Also, I tweeted!
Kaella
April 27, 2014 at 10:53 pm (10 years ago)Sometimes my job requires me to work long hours so I know how you feel! I always carry my running stuff with me and try and sneak in a run on a coffee or lunch break. I have days where I will get up early but it sounds like you already wake up early enough! Good luck!!!
Also, I tweeted!
Carla S
April 28, 2014 at 4:19 am (10 years ago)My advice for fitting in workouts in a hectic schedule is to join a 24 hour gym or do workout videos.Get up as early as it takes such as 3am if you have to.
Carla S
April 28, 2014 at 4:21 am (10 years ago)I tweeted https://twitter.com/shroomfrog/status/460695129389813760
Mary Winchester
April 28, 2014 at 6:39 am (10 years ago)I, too, have a very demanding job in medicine. I knew that if I was going To step up my game that I was going to have to commit to early morning. I could do it only with the help of two good running friends because I am definitely not a morning person! It was hard at first getting to bed early and waking up at 4:45. This however made all the difference in my training . Now I live getting my run done in the morning, this way it’s not lingering over my head the rest of the day and potentially not getting done. Good luck! The first step is commitment and you got that!
Mary
April 28, 2014 at 6:42 am (10 years ago)I tweeted about the giveaway !
GB
April 28, 2014 at 6:58 am (10 years ago)Try to get your workouts in before work. And reward yourself for doing so. Set goal rewards. At least during marathon training. Once done you can get back to your normal schedule. Laces crossed you get that sub 4!
Rebecca
April 28, 2014 at 8:18 am (10 years ago)i would try getting up just a little bit earlier to start, maybe 15 minutes…start by doing a quick circuit that gets your heart going, but also strengthens (think squats, pushups, planks, lunges, tricep dips…all things you can do in your living room)…the 15 min won’t feel like such a big difference, but eventually you can make it 20 or 30 🙂
Kim K.
April 28, 2014 at 9:28 am (10 years ago)oh great giveaway! i look for a good jacket for layering for these horrible boston winters!
Lindsay @ Lindsay Weighs In
April 28, 2014 at 11:00 am (10 years ago)WOW! What an amazing giveaway! I trained for my first half marathon this winter, and tried to run mostly outside so I was used to outdoor running for race time. I had a hard time figuring out what to wear this winter to keep warm, and think this jacket would be perfect!!
Beth M.
April 28, 2014 at 11:54 am (10 years ago)Funny you are giving away a jacket, because my husband has been riding me lately (in good nature, of course) for the amount of jackets I have gone through this past winter trying to find the perfect running jacket! I’m still looking, and the Versa looks like a contender. For winter running jackets, I am looking for: 1) something that is heavy/warm enough to be worn without a lot of under-layers, but not so heavy that you burn up once you get going, 2) something that is fitted but not too restrictive, 3) something that is not bulky, 4) something that is moisture-wicking, 5) something that is bright in color and/or contains reflective material so that you can be visible in the dark, 6) something that is comfy enough to also be worn to and from the gym.
Sharon
April 28, 2014 at 12:49 pm (10 years ago)Awesome giveaway! I look for if the jacket is breathable and light, windproof is a plus too!
Sharon
April 28, 2014 at 12:51 pm (10 years ago)I also tweeted. Thanks!!
Bonnie
April 28, 2014 at 1:06 pm (10 years ago)I like a jacket that doesn’t bunch up in weird places and has a safe spot to put my iPod and keys (but not credit card because running and shopping has never worked out well for me)
Jenn
April 28, 2014 at 1:11 pm (10 years ago)I’ve read your blog for a few months now (happened to stumble upon it one day instead of doing work). I also live in Jersey City and LOVE Razza. I don’t think they know me by name yet, but it’s my go-to spot whenever I have someone visiting or I’m just looking for a great meal. And I’m a huge fan of layers when it comes to winter running gear. I frequently brave the cold weather rather than get bored on a treadmill, so I’m always looking for something to protect me from the wind along the Hudson!
Lauren
April 28, 2014 at 2:47 pm (10 years ago)I like lightweight running jackets. Then I can layer underneath as needed.
Rori
April 28, 2014 at 9:40 pm (10 years ago)Lightweight, with plenty of small pockets. Material that moves well, and ventilation is also a nice addition so it can be worn in warmer weather without me over heating.
Elle
April 29, 2014 at 11:27 am (10 years ago)I look for a good running jacket to be versatile, comfortable, lightweight yet durable and something that will keep me warm and dry. Thanks for this giveaway.
Elle
April 29, 2014 at 11:29 am (10 years ago)I tweeted too.
Karen H
April 29, 2014 at 11:50 am (10 years ago)Running jackets are tough. I look for one that is water and wind resistant, but has some ventilation options like underarm zippers (or magnetic sleeves!).
Sandra
April 29, 2014 at 12:54 pm (10 years ago)I have trouble finding a good running jacket. I normally just layer tees on top of each other.
Get some rest.
Tahleen
April 29, 2014 at 3:18 pm (10 years ago)I’m glad you’re finally running pain-free! I hope to join you soon.
I look for wind- and water-resistance in a running jacket, and one in which I won’t overheat. I have one that I love by Brooks, but it isn’t a full zip, which would be much easier to take off while I’m all sweaty and gross.
Alicia
April 30, 2014 at 5:46 pm (10 years ago)I run on my lunch break. I know sometimes it can be hard to get away for lunch, but it is so worth it. Stepping away from your desk helps you come back with more focus, and the run gives me energy to get through the rest of the afternoon.
Heather Rennie
May 1, 2014 at 12:04 am (10 years ago)with all of the half marathons and marathons i’ve run, i’ve actually never bought a running jacket!! i have no idea why. i always make excuses for myself not to buy one but in reality i think it is aan essential 😉 this one looks great and i would especially like it for rainy days!
Heather
May 1, 2014 at 9:14 am (10 years ago)I like jackets that zip all the way down. Easy to vent and easy to take off during a run if needed. And I tweeted!
Joanna
May 1, 2014 at 1:36 pm (10 years ago)The passionfruit color is so pretty! There are two things I look for — windproof and breathability. I sweat a TON and I warm up quickly, so unless it is really cold or I know my jacket is breathable, I can’t wear a jacket while running because I get covered in sweat. I actually use my “running” jackets more for hiking!
Crimson
May 1, 2014 at 2:03 pm (10 years ago)I like the jacket to be comfortable and not be too bulky, I don’t want something that is going to weight me down and bother me when I am running.
Crimson
May 1, 2014 at 2:04 pm (10 years ago)I tweeted for another entry. Thanks.
Ben Milner
May 2, 2014 at 6:37 am (10 years ago)Hey! Is that a pillow chair I see up there? 😛 I like the idea of the jacket with the magnetic sleeves. I’ve had dogs attack me on a few of my runs, so if one bit me on the arm, I could throw off my sleeve and power on out of there whilst the dog is shaking my sleeve to death. Also, “throwing off one’s sleeves” could replace the addage of “rolling up one’s sleeves” one day.
PS: I didn’t realise Jesse Pinkman said “bitch” so much in Breaking Bad.
Linda
May 2, 2014 at 12:43 pm (10 years ago)I personally love exercising at night time so my advice would be to be open to getting in a run or whatever exercise you like in the evening after work or even later at night. I tend to have more energy as the day goes on so it works for me.
Linda
May 2, 2014 at 12:44 pm (10 years ago)I just tweeted!
Jill
May 2, 2014 at 4:59 pm (10 years ago)I like to have reflective details on my running jackets because I am usually out running before the sun comes up.
Laurel C
May 3, 2014 at 9:55 am (10 years ago)Usually a jacket has to fit right, be warm, and functional!
Laurel C
May 3, 2014 at 9:56 am (10 years ago)I tweeted!
https://twitter.com/laurel_runs/status/462591341013114880
Heather K
May 3, 2014 at 1:24 pm (10 years ago)I look for a jacket that has room for me to move a little-not too bulky. And the arms come down over my fingers to keep my hands warm.
Heather K
May 3, 2014 at 1:26 pm (10 years ago)I tweeted!
Claire
May 3, 2014 at 4:05 pm (10 years ago)i manage to workout 3-4x per week. im pretty tired a lot of times
Miranda
May 3, 2014 at 7:17 pm (10 years ago)What a daunting schedule :-/. Sometimes if I have a busy week, I try to walk more in the city by getting off at a different subway stop. Or try to fit in a 30 minute gym session or walk around the neighborhood during my lunch hour. Not the best workout, but I feel that something is better than nothing. Or I go to the gym right near my work so I can get in a workout before I can talk myself out of it. Is running after work to the subway an option, so you still have daylight and you save on some commute time?
And current;y, my favorite local restaurant is Orale!
Miranda
May 3, 2014 at 7:18 pm (10 years ago)I’m also tweeting! 🙂
Ellen
May 3, 2014 at 7:24 pm (10 years ago)I have no advice. I have been bad since I started my normal job.
I like pockets in a running jacket.
I love sweetgreen.
Christine
May 3, 2014 at 8:18 pm (10 years ago)(1) Things I look for in a running jacket: light, swishy (does that make sense?), finger holes i used to find these annoying, but actually they’re super clutch!), easy to roll up (and stays up whilest rolled up); bright-ish coloured so that im not all dull looking when i run! yes, i have yet to find that perfect running jacket. 🙁
Sarah L
May 7, 2014 at 8:11 am (10 years ago)When I’m looking to buy a running jacket I’m looking for something that is light and gives me room to move. Something that isn’t going to stick to my skin when I sweat. And something that is still stylish.