So I almost completely ended up taking the month of July off :( NO BUENO! Between traveling over 3,000 miles (no excuse for not running), temps being triple digits the entire month (a moderate excuse since the lows were in the 90s that entire time) and being just plain lazy- I had a horrible time being motivated and didnt do a thing! Theres my honesty report.
BUT I decided to get back at it with August. The hardest thing for myself and others when you fail is to start again, for no other reason that you are ashamed to admit you quit, failed or were just to lazy to continue- I did all three to some extent but I am NOT going to let it keep me from starting back.
Tonight I ran for the THIRD day in a row after this month hiatus- and it feels good to feel the sweat again BUT I am VERY slow! And that stinks b/c I wasnt very fast back when I was running consistently.
On a funny note- this town has got a CAT problem! Most runners probably never even notice 1 cat along a run b/c they are so insignificant. Well tonight I kept count b/c there were sooooo many! On one 3.5 mile run, if I count the cat that was on our the hood of our car when I left, I saw FIVE FLIPPN' CATS!!! Seriously!?!?!!??
Not sure how many of you are out there. Encouraged. Care. Or whatever. But maybe I am writing this for my own good to be honest with myself. If you are there will you let me know by leaving a comment for me?
Sunday, August 7, 2011
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
White Shoes, yellow socks and changed goals
Tonight I FINALLY got myself out for a run! After scorching heat in the AM and PM; we finally got a break in the weather and it was a nice cool evening for a run. I laced up my SOLAR WHITES, with my Yellow socks underneath and took off.Ive found in my new surroundings its hard to get a good distance run in. Now I know a mile is a mile no matter where you run but a mile on a dirt road that is a mile from the previous road is easier to run than a mile that has 13 blocks in between it makes it harder to go any further. Before I could run 4-7 miles no problem -because they were spaced out miles. HERE 2.5 miles seems rough!
THAT is one of the many reasons I have decided, for now, the half marathon training is off my plate. I need to readjust to my new running surroundings and recalculate what I can do and how I can best do it.
IF there is anyone out there reading this, I hope I havent let you down. I do want to keep running for running sake but I have no end goal in my at present.
My stats for today: I have been running for 68 days. In that amount of time I have logged 117.3 miles in 21 hours 31 mins and 16 secs over the course of 31 runs.
Thursday, July 7, 2011
Firecrackers, new shoes and old friends
Well, I am almost ashamed to admit this but it took me quite a while to realize that a 4 mile race is LONGER than a 5k. You would think that running for 18 years that I would know the difference between 1k and 1 mile.....but on a run just before my Firecracker 4 mile I was thinking about it and realized...duh a 5k is 3.1 miles and a I was entered to run a 4 mile race...Geesh!
I am proud to report that my search has ended! I bought a new pai
r of running shoes! They are what I like to call SOLAR WHITE! They are whiter than white but buying anything else would have cost me at least $40 more. I am more cheap than I am vain about color. And because they are white and unpopular they were VERY on sale! I was able to get top of the line Asics that normally retail for $140 for $60 because they are last years model in an unpopular color! And because I saved so much money on my shoes I got a bottle of spray protector and new running shorts ($35 originally on sale for $17!)
Finally, I did run a 4 mile race on the 4th of July. I didnt do that great but I was at almost 3000 feet highe
r altitude than where I normally live and run (or at least that is my excuse for my performance). I did however, have a great time reconnecting with my long distance running partner (who is about 10 mins faster than I am!).
Todays Stats: I have been running for 63 days. I have run 112.2 miles over 29 runs in 20 hours 32 mins and 49 seconds. I have kaboshed the half marathon for now.
I am proud to report that my search has ended! I bought a new pai
r of running shoes! They are what I like to call SOLAR WHITE! They are whiter than white but buying anything else would have cost me at least $40 more. I am more cheap than I am vain about color. And because they are white and unpopular they were VERY on sale! I was able to get top of the line Asics that normally retail for $140 for $60 because they are last years model in an unpopular color! And because I saved so much money on my shoes I got a bottle of spray protector and new running shorts ($35 originally on sale for $17!)Finally, I did run a 4 mile race on the 4th of July. I didnt do that great but I was at almost 3000 feet highe
r altitude than where I normally live and run (or at least that is my excuse for my performance). I did however, have a great time reconnecting with my long distance running partner (who is about 10 mins faster than I am!).Todays Stats: I have been running for 63 days. I have run 112.2 miles over 29 runs in 20 hours 32 mins and 49 seconds. I have kaboshed the half marathon for now.
Thursday, June 30, 2011
White socks, the smell of laundry and a bat
Tonight....I had to wear my old white socks....mostly because all of my fun colored ones are PACKED ready to go on an adventure to WYOMING!!! This upcoming Monday the 4th of July I will be running in a Road Race that I have run MANY times....about 15 years ago!!!! I have no plans of winning or even doing that well BUT I will have fun with an ol' pal of mine that we have been running together with each other via our Nike+ apps for almost 2 months now!!! It will be fun to get some pavement time together!!! Cheer me on!
During my runs I often smell a plethora of things, mostly myself ;) Often the smells are not that pleasant but tonight! Alas, TONIGHT....I smelled the wonderful smell of laundry, clean laundry for the longest part of my run and it was NICE!
Finally, I am pretty sure a bat flew over me tonight. If any of you know my feelings on bats (ie mice with wings) you will know why this is of significance and why I am choosing to say no more!
Todays stats: I have been running for 56 days. I have put in 105.5 miles over the course of 27 runs in 19 hours 23 mins and 21 secs.
PS- still no new shoes but I am hoping to go shoe shopping in the HUGE metropolis of Casper, WY! Wish me luck
During my runs I often smell a plethora of things, mostly myself ;) Often the smells are not that pleasant but tonight! Alas, TONIGHT....I smelled the wonderful smell of laundry, clean laundry for the longest part of my run and it was NICE!
Finally, I am pretty sure a bat flew over me tonight. If any of you know my feelings on bats (ie mice with wings) you will know why this is of significance and why I am choosing to say no more!
Todays stats: I have been running for 56 days. I have put in 105.5 miles over the course of 27 runs in 19 hours 23 mins and 21 secs.
PS- still no new shoes but I am hoping to go shoe shopping in the HUGE metropolis of Casper, WY! Wish me luck
Monday, June 27, 2011
Blue socks and a looooong road back
So I thought that taking a week off was going to be hard on me. Well, I found out that getting back at it is even harder. I had to work at telling myself that I was okay and there was nothing I could do about running the week Jeremy was gone at camp. But as soon as Jeremy came back and I could start running again, it was another mind game! I waited THREE days to run! I made every excuse I could. Until Sunday night when I knew I just needed to get back at it! So I went for a 2 mile run trying to beat my best mile pace (but remember in the beginning my calibration for my miles was off so as far as my Nike app is concerned my best is something I never really ran). Also, it was like running in a dryer! The heat at 10 pm was like that at 2 in the afternoon! UGH!
This past weekend I did MORE shoe shopping. I went to Dick's Sporting Goods and had an AWFUL experience! A guy came to help me, we talked about my needs and some options. He got me set up with one pair of shoes that were already out and went into the back to get the others. AND HE NEVER CAME BACK! Oh I saw him out on the floor but he NEVER came back to me! Whaaaaaat?!?!?!!?!? I did find a pair of Nike Live Strong shoes that I liked well enough but the thought of buying them from THIS store, I had to walk out. I did come back later and talked to another sales person (the guy was still working and I could tell avoiding me). The new person was VERY helpful but I just couldn't decide! Because I am buying them for more than how cute they look and am willing to spend a significant amount of money; I am wanting to make sure I get the RIGHT shoes. And therefore CANT commit for so
me reason. Jeremy thinks I am absurd but I need them to be the right shoe.
On a lighter note; I wore my blue socks- which make me happy. And I am thinking about getting a new pair of running shorts. All is not lost if I can have REAL running clothes, right?
Also, I am starting to waver on my half training. Knowing that I took last week off and I am struggling to get back at it. And knowing that Caleb and I are traveling/vacationing next week and wont get the same runs in. I am having a hard time being able to commit my time, money and efforts to the race in Sept. I am still trying to follow the training schedule but just not sure when my half will be. Ugh....
Todays Stats: 53 days running. 100.1 miles over 25 runs in 18 hours 20 minutes and 02 secs.
This past weekend I did MORE shoe shopping. I went to Dick's Sporting Goods and had an AWFUL experience! A guy came to help me, we talked about my needs and some options. He got me set up with one pair of shoes that were already out and went into the back to get the others. AND HE NEVER CAME BACK! Oh I saw him out on the floor but he NEVER came back to me! Whaaaaaat?!?!?!!?!? I did find a pair of Nike Live Strong shoes that I liked well enough but the thought of buying them from THIS store, I had to walk out. I did come back later and talked to another sales person (the guy was still working and I could tell avoiding me). The new person was VERY helpful but I just couldn't decide! Because I am buying them for more than how cute they look and am willing to spend a significant amount of money; I am wanting to make sure I get the RIGHT shoes. And therefore CANT commit for so
me reason. Jeremy thinks I am absurd but I need them to be the right shoe.On a lighter note; I wore my blue socks- which make me happy. And I am thinking about getting a new pair of running shorts. All is not lost if I can have REAL running clothes, right?
Also, I am starting to waver on my half training. Knowing that I took last week off and I am struggling to get back at it. And knowing that Caleb and I are traveling/vacationing next week and wont get the same runs in. I am having a hard time being able to commit my time, money and efforts to the race in Sept. I am still trying to follow the training schedule but just not sure when my half will be. Ugh....
Todays Stats: 53 days running. 100.1 miles over 25 runs in 18 hours 20 minutes and 02 secs.
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Pink Socks and a satisfied heart
Sooooooo with Jeremy gone for the week I thought I was going to have to go an ENTIRE week with out running :( But thanks to a visit from Caleb's Nana for a tball game I got to go running last night! It wasnt as bad as I thought it would be for not having run 5 days. I set out to run 4 miles but as I am still learning my way around our new town and I ended up running almost 5 miles. tired and sweaty I returned home a happy runner! Now if I can just make it to Friday when Jeremy returns home so I can get back into my routine (sans the YMCA)!
I busted out my hot pin
k socks for this run. And I put on my real running shorts! I still havent bought new running shoes which is becoming more and more of a problem as I can feel my current ones "running" out of life. Now living in a town with little shopping options I am going to have to make a point of getting my new shoes the next time we go to the "city"
Today's Stats: I've been running for 48 days. Training for 5 weeks (minus this week b/c I'm not really). I've run 98.09 miles over the course of 24 runs in 17 hours 56 mins and 31 secs.
I busted out my hot pin
k socks for this run. And I put on my real running shorts! I still havent bought new running shoes which is becoming more and more of a problem as I can feel my current ones "running" out of life. Now living in a town with little shopping options I am going to have to make a point of getting my new shoes the next time we go to the "city"Today's Stats: I've been running for 48 days. Training for 5 weeks (minus this week b/c I'm not really). I've run 98.09 miles over the course of 24 runs in 17 hours 56 mins and 31 secs.
Monday, June 20, 2011
Saaaaaad
Well we finally made the transition to OK this weekend! It feels good to have my family back together, boxes unpacked and starting our new life!
On the downside, Jeremy is off to a spur of the moment trip to District Youth Camp leaving me at home alone with Caleb in a town where I dont know anyone well enough to have them watch Caleb while I run :(
Soooooo...Im off of running and training for the week....We will see how it goes and how crappy it is at the end of the week when he returns and I try to jump back in.
Until then.....
On the downside, Jeremy is off to a spur of the moment trip to District Youth Camp leaving me at home alone with Caleb in a town where I dont know anyone well enough to have them watch Caleb while I run :(
Soooooo...Im off of running and training for the week....We will see how it goes and how crappy it is at the end of the week when he returns and I try to jump back in.
Until then.....
Thursday, June 16, 2011
Yellow Socks & a Bit of Advice
Today I am wearing my new yellow socks for my run! I have decided fun running clothes are what is keeping me motivated so I am going to indulge that for my health's sake! Last week I decided to I needed some new
socks so instead of buying boring white socks I got a fun pack of bright colors. Today, I chose the yellow ones! Bright and Happy Feet! Still no new shoes yet :(
Also, an old man inspired me to what might be my greatest bit of advice EVER! While on the last part of my run a man slowed his car down and said "Hey there little lady; do you see what's behind you?" I turned around and looked and replied "Uh yeah dark clouds?" And he shrugged his shoulders and drove on. What I wanted to add was- do you see what's in front of me? BLUE SKIES!!!! And as I finished my run I decided that HAS to be something to live by- Don't look at the dark gray skies behind you but focus on the bright blue skies in front of you!! Now I realized he didnt know if I was running away from my home or if I was close to home and he wanted to warn me of the brewing storm heading my way but I chose to take the warning as a teachable moment to garner my focus on my future and not to worry or fret on my past!
Today's stats: 42 days running. 4weeks training for a half marathon. 93.18 miles run in 17 hours 2 mins 05 secs over the course of 23 runs.
socks so instead of buying boring white socks I got a fun pack of bright colors. Today, I chose the yellow ones! Bright and Happy Feet! Still no new shoes yet :(Also, an old man inspired me to what might be my greatest bit of advice EVER! While on the last part of my run a man slowed his car down and said "Hey there little lady; do you see what's behind you?" I turned around and looked and replied "Uh yeah dark clouds?" And he shrugged his shoulders and drove on. What I wanted to add was- do you see what's in front of me? BLUE SKIES!!!! And as I finished my run I decided that HAS to be something to live by- Don't look at the dark gray skies behind you but focus on the bright blue skies in front of you!! Now I realized he didnt know if I was running away from my home or if I was close to home and he wanted to warn me of the brewing storm heading my way but I chose to take the warning as a teachable moment to garner my focus on my future and not to worry or fret on my past!
Today's stats: 42 days running. 4weeks training for a half marathon. 93.18 miles run in 17 hours 2 mins 05 secs over the course of 23 runs.
Saturday, June 11, 2011
Long mileage day
Fridays or Saturdays are my long run days....today was a 7 miler...I actually ran from my house just south of Maple to 21st and back....seems like a lot further in my mind that what it is for mileage. Oddly enough my second half was faster and stronger than my first. And I think the intervals helped this week as I felt more confident in running faster.
I went shoe shopping again...only to find out that my cheap budget is not going to fly with my needs for QUALITY shoes. I am just going to have to suck it up and pay $130+ for a good pair of shoes...but I will only wear them to run...I dont want one extra step to be taken in them as I have been told you should only put 300-400 miles on a pair of shoes. At that rate, with running and daily wear I would have to buy new shoes far too often! The other thing I discovered is that I am going to have to go with comfort and support over color choice....normally I buy a pair of shoes for the color and look rather than comfort and function. Not the case with these shoes...they all seem to be coming in blue and gray or white color schemes which is NOT my preference.
Today I shopped at New Balance in New Market Sq. The salesman was EXCEPTIONAL!!! He measured my feet. Put the little booties on my feet; tying them in back so they wouldn't slip off. Putting each pair on my foot AND laced them up! I am not sure what more this man could have done to earn my dollar? I did walk out empty handed but I am impressed.
Today's stats: 37 days running. 3 weeks training. 20 runs. 81.10 miles in 14 hours 50 mins and 46 secs.
I went shoe shopping again...only to find out that my cheap budget is not going to fly with my needs for QUALITY shoes. I am just going to have to suck it up and pay $130+ for a good pair of shoes...but I will only wear them to run...I dont want one extra step to be taken in them as I have been told you should only put 300-400 miles on a pair of shoes. At that rate, with running and daily wear I would have to buy new shoes far too often! The other thing I discovered is that I am going to have to go with comfort and support over color choice....normally I buy a pair of shoes for the color and look rather than comfort and function. Not the case with these shoes...they all seem to be coming in blue and gray or white color schemes which is NOT my preference.
Today I shopped at New Balance in New Market Sq. The salesman was EXCEPTIONAL!!! He measured my feet. Put the little booties on my feet; tying them in back so they wouldn't slip off. Putting each pair on my foot AND laced them up! I am not sure what more this man could have done to earn my dollar? I did walk out empty handed but I am impressed.
Today's stats: 37 days running. 3 weeks training. 20 runs. 81.10 miles in 14 hours 50 mins and 46 secs.
Thursday, June 9, 2011
Interval Training
Today I started a new phase of my running....interval training. I am guessing its to make me have the ability to run faster? I am pretty proud of my day.
I was slated to run 5 miles; 2 mile warm up, 1-2 mins at tempo and then 2-3 mins recovery. I decided to run the two miles on the indoor track -NINE laps = 1 mile :( And whats even worse is that my Nike+ app didnt start until several laps into my run. After I completed my 2 miles I jumped on a treadmill and ran 3 mins at 4.5ish and then ramped it up to 7.0 for 2 mins then back down back and forth for about 30 or so mins. At one point I got up to 7.2 for my high speed. After 4-5 sets of intervals I ran out the rest of my mileage at 5.5 or so.
I was a hot mess after that....I could barely stand myself I was so incredibly sweaty but I felt GOOD!
THEN I decided to go shoe shopping because if I am going to continue much longer I need to take care of the tired dogs that carry me around! I visited the GoRun store in New Market Sq and tried on a few shoes...of course the ones I fell in love with and felt great support and comfort were $140!!! Ouch! But if I am going to try to run 13.1 miles continuously I am going to need $200 worth of support! The salesman was very helpful, answered all my questions and even put up with a very curious 4 yr old non shopper!
I then went to Sports Authority and looked at FAR cheaper shoes. Several of them seemed to offer decent support, they offered a GREAT selection of brands and colors HOWEVER I was in there for over 30 mins and NOT ONE person greeted me or asked to help. I even saw one employee standing staring at nothing lost in thought? Or avoiding work IDK. But I decided to leave w/o making a purchase.
So still no shoes for me. But I keep plugging on anyway!
Today's stats: 34 days running. 3 Weeks of training. 19 runs. 73.91 miles in 13 hours 32 mins and 32 secs
I was slated to run 5 miles; 2 mile warm up, 1-2 mins at tempo and then 2-3 mins recovery. I decided to run the two miles on the indoor track -NINE laps = 1 mile :( And whats even worse is that my Nike+ app didnt start until several laps into my run. After I completed my 2 miles I jumped on a treadmill and ran 3 mins at 4.5ish and then ramped it up to 7.0 for 2 mins then back down back and forth for about 30 or so mins. At one point I got up to 7.2 for my high speed. After 4-5 sets of intervals I ran out the rest of my mileage at 5.5 or so.
I was a hot mess after that....I could barely stand myself I was so incredibly sweaty but I felt GOOD!
THEN I decided to go shoe shopping because if I am going to continue much longer I need to take care of the tired dogs that carry me around! I visited the GoRun store in New Market Sq and tried on a few shoes...of course the ones I fell in love with and felt great support and comfort were $140!!! Ouch! But if I am going to try to run 13.1 miles continuously I am going to need $200 worth of support! The salesman was very helpful, answered all my questions and even put up with a very curious 4 yr old non shopper!
I then went to Sports Authority and looked at FAR cheaper shoes. Several of them seemed to offer decent support, they offered a GREAT selection of brands and colors HOWEVER I was in there for over 30 mins and NOT ONE person greeted me or asked to help. I even saw one employee standing staring at nothing lost in thought? Or avoiding work IDK. But I decided to leave w/o making a purchase.
So still no shoes for me. But I keep plugging on anyway!
Today's stats: 34 days running. 3 Weeks of training. 19 runs. 73.91 miles in 13 hours 32 mins and 32 secs
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
BUSY BUSY BUSY
I dont want you all to think I didnt complete my 10k last Saturday but I have been "running" ever since! Taking Caleb to t-ball practice and a game. Driving to OK and then back to KS etc....etc...etc...I cant accurately give you my results :( As I didnt know that my Nike app had been paused right after I had started it. I noticed it right before the two mile mark....so it only registered me running 4 miles and my pace was off b/c I didnt start it at a mile marker. I did feel like I kept an equal pace and I NEVER walked. Those are my basic two goals and I met them! I also had a strong finish and was able to run with some strategy to move myself up in standings (not that that matters when you are as far back as I was ;) But it always feels good to pass others on purpose! I felt pretty good the whole way and was VERY sweaty at the end. The only downfall was the rub burn I got under my arm from my iPod armband. (there arent any pics of me running DURING the race b/c Jeremy didnt make it in time- go ahead and give him a hard time! ;)
My knees are still giving me troubles. Mostly when I bend down, step down hard and get stiff when I sit still for too long. They dont hurt when I run. But I plan to find an orthopedic dr when I get settled in OK to make sure I am not damaging my knees beyond repair.
I am having a hard time keeping up with my training schedule as I dont always have someone to keep Caleb when I want to run (early am while he is sleeping or evening). And I like taking some aerobic classes at the Y and I cant do it all in one day. So I am usually running about a day off of schedule but I am trying my best to keep on top and not go too many days without...even if I just get two miles in- better than no miles, right?
The other exciting thing that happened after my 10k was Caleb's VERY FIRST RACE!!! He "ran" about 40 yds (with me pulling him along
most of the way) from start to finish! Trying to get him excited about any sport and I thought b/c I have ran two races and he has come to cheer me on he may want to be a runner like mom? We will see. Soccer and t-ball have also been on the list.Here are some pics from Sat.
Todays stats: Been running for 5 weeks. Training for 3 weeks. Ran 68.85 -ish miles. Over the course of 18 runs. Ran for 12 hours, 36 mins and 12 seconds.
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
Happy National Running Day
Today is National Running Day...so I celebrated by Running!
I ran out of time to get an outside run in today so I had to put my miles in on a treadmill. I was supposed to run 4 today but I opted to only run 2 since I was taking a Zumba class before and feel like I can mix up my regimen to keep it fresh and to keep me motivated.
I only ran 2 miles put I kept a pretty fast pace and was DRIPPING sweat by the end. I'll just swap out my runs and run todays run tomorrow. I am having to keep myself flexible considering my new part time single parenting circumstances; I can't always get a pavement run in whenever I want to. I have to find people to help me or go to the gym. Its an interesting dynamic but worth the challenge.
Today's stats:
Today is day 9 of training...74 day left...115 days til the Bear Chase Trail AND I've logged 51.84 miles over the course of 13 runs (I've run for 9 HOURS and 22 minutes!)
I ran out of time to get an outside run in today so I had to put my miles in on a treadmill. I was supposed to run 4 today but I opted to only run 2 since I was taking a Zumba class before and feel like I can mix up my regimen to keep it fresh and to keep me motivated.
I only ran 2 miles put I kept a pretty fast pace and was DRIPPING sweat by the end. I'll just swap out my runs and run todays run tomorrow. I am having to keep myself flexible considering my new part time single parenting circumstances; I can't always get a pavement run in whenever I want to. I have to find people to help me or go to the gym. Its an interesting dynamic but worth the challenge.
Today's stats:
Today is day 9 of training...74 day left...115 days til the Bear Chase Trail AND I've logged 51.84 miles over the course of 13 runs (I've run for 9 HOURS and 22 minutes!)
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Never Never do THAT again!
Ugh.....Today I finally got my 4 miles (4.66 to be exact) in that I missed out on yesterday due to the wind. Well my last run was Friday...so I didn't run Saturday, Sunday OR Monday.....which equals...toooooooo many days off! 4 miles is not something have haven't done many times over the last few weeks but this morning it was like starting OVER.... I ran a square mile (1 mile out, 1 mile up, 1 mile over and 1 mile back) and it wasn't until I was past the 3rd mile that I even began feeling good.
So as my life gets crazy in transition over the next three weeks; I really need to bear down to my commitment and do what needs to be done to get my runs in for the half marathon.
Speaking of which, I think my long distance running partner, Amber and I have have found our half marathon to commit it (60 bucks of commitment!) The Bear Chase Trail! http://www.bearchaserace.com/
Here's today's stats:
Today is day 8 of training, 75 days left of half marathon training and 116 days til The Bear Chase Trail
So as my life gets crazy in transition over the next three weeks; I really need to bear down to my commitment and do what needs to be done to get my runs in for the half marathon.
Speaking of which, I think my long distance running partner, Amber and I have have found our half marathon to commit it (60 bucks of commitment!) The Bear Chase Trail! http://www.bearchaserace.com/
Here's today's stats:
Today is day 8 of training, 75 days left of half marathon training and 116 days til The Bear Chase Trail
Saturday, May 28, 2011
Old Photos
As I am packing up for a new journey in life I came across an old photo that I want to share...I intend to do a Before and After shot as I still have the sweatshirt in my possession after all these years.
But for those of you who know what I look like now I think you will be amazed at how I looked at 18, an avid runner, trained by one of the best HS coaches in the country at the time, lifted weights 3x a week, ran 3 miles every morning and at least 3 miles or conditioning work outs every evening.
Despite all of that...I weigh less now than I did then and I think I look better (weight wise....youth wise well......)
You be the judge....
But for those of you who know what I look like now I think you will be amazed at how I looked at 18, an avid runner, trained by one of the best HS coaches in the country at the time, lifted weights 3x a week, ran 3 miles every morning and at least 3 miles or conditioning work outs every evening.
Despite all of that...I weigh less now than I did then and I think I look better (weight wise....youth wise well......)
You be the judge....
Friday, May 27, 2011
Fear and Running
It was a little harder to get out of bed this morning knowing today was my long run day for my half marathon training schedule. But I did it anyway. The other issue I had holding me back was the knowledge that I had finally calibrated my iPod after my last run- only to find out that my miles were off and therefore my pace was off to. The Nike+ app was calculating my miles short of real miles therefor making my mile times MUCH faster than reality.
So getting out for my run this morning I knew I would be out there longer than ever and that my times would reflect a slower pace. But while out on my run my thought process brought me through the fear of reality that maybe I am not as fast as I thought I was (running a 9 min mile when I actaully run a 12 min mile- hard confession) but to be encouraged that I AM OUT THERE running at least 3x a week now AND that I can keep the same pace the entire run. No walking and I stay on pace virtually the entire run (minus head wind and hills).
Today however I was excited that I kept my long run day pace faster over all than I have been running! I averaged 11:50 a mile (which equaled an 8:50 mile from my messed up pace) and thats faster than my averages have EVER been. And I am happy that I can keep a pace! Now to work on getting that pace faster is my goal over the next few weeks and months!
Also, I have been thinking about my tip for the day and it is: Go treat yourself to come cute new workout clothes! I have been finding myself more and more addicted to buying actual running clothes and not just regular gym shorts and a tshirt. Coming from a CHEAPSKATE this is something that is worth splurging on I PROMISE!
Day 5 of training....79 days left!!!
So getting out for my run this morning I knew I would be out there longer than ever and that my times would reflect a slower pace. But while out on my run my thought process brought me through the fear of reality that maybe I am not as fast as I thought I was (running a 9 min mile when I actaully run a 12 min mile- hard confession) but to be encouraged that I AM OUT THERE running at least 3x a week now AND that I can keep the same pace the entire run. No walking and I stay on pace virtually the entire run (minus head wind and hills).
Today however I was excited that I kept my long run day pace faster over all than I have been running! I averaged 11:50 a mile (which equaled an 8:50 mile from my messed up pace) and thats faster than my averages have EVER been. And I am happy that I can keep a pace! Now to work on getting that pace faster is my goal over the next few weeks and months!
Also, I have been thinking about my tip for the day and it is: Go treat yourself to come cute new workout clothes! I have been finding myself more and more addicted to buying actual running clothes and not just regular gym shorts and a tshirt. Coming from a CHEAPSKATE this is something that is worth splurging on I PROMISE!
Day 5 of training....79 days left!!!
Wednesday, May 25, 2011
8 am Traffic, Head wind and my head
The first two were working against me this morning. Luckily the last was on my side, for today anyway.
First 8 am traffic while on a run can reek havoc on a runner. Having to run on an already TINY shoulder but to add in more than normal traffic on a small 2 lane road is simply no fun when your life is in the balance. I am certainly glad I didn't come across any habitual hit and run offenders or anyone that wanted my iPod bad enough because one a number of occasions I could have reached out and touched a number of cars. I hate the lack of sidewalks or even decent shoulders near my house. If I wanted to run a million laps in my neighborhood I would be ok but to leave my neighborhood its a dirt road (and after last nights rain I opted out of that today) or a teeny tiny "shoulder" Today I went with the shoulder.
Second, today I picked a pretty flat route easy out and easy back.....except for the wind from the west that was a drag to head into on my way home. I tried as hard as I could to dig down and get through it.
Finally, my head. This was the only thing today NOT against me! After I decided to get out of bed (the hardest tasks most days since I LOVE MY BED!!!) Got dressed and headed out. I felt good. I wanted to try to work on my mile pace time. Lengthen my stride. Relax my arms. Enjoy the nice cool morning (these will be fewer and fewer as summer is approaching).
There is nothing better than reaching my house, stopping to stretch on my front steps and going into my house with sweat pouring down my forehead. That's an accomplished morning!
Day 3 of Half Marathon Training...81 to go.....
First 8 am traffic while on a run can reek havoc on a runner. Having to run on an already TINY shoulder but to add in more than normal traffic on a small 2 lane road is simply no fun when your life is in the balance. I am certainly glad I didn't come across any habitual hit and run offenders or anyone that wanted my iPod bad enough because one a number of occasions I could have reached out and touched a number of cars. I hate the lack of sidewalks or even decent shoulders near my house. If I wanted to run a million laps in my neighborhood I would be ok but to leave my neighborhood its a dirt road (and after last nights rain I opted out of that today) or a teeny tiny "shoulder" Today I went with the shoulder.
Second, today I picked a pretty flat route easy out and easy back.....except for the wind from the west that was a drag to head into on my way home. I tried as hard as I could to dig down and get through it.
Finally, my head. This was the only thing today NOT against me! After I decided to get out of bed (the hardest tasks most days since I LOVE MY BED!!!) Got dressed and headed out. I felt good. I wanted to try to work on my mile pace time. Lengthen my stride. Relax my arms. Enjoy the nice cool morning (these will be fewer and fewer as summer is approaching).
There is nothing better than reaching my house, stopping to stretch on my front steps and going into my house with sweat pouring down my forehead. That's an accomplished morning!
Day 3 of Half Marathon Training...81 to go.....
Tuesday, May 24, 2011
Day 2 Half Marathon Training
Since I have decided to be focused on a training schedule and not just running to run; wearing out my tired knees- I got to take today off of running per my Nike+ training schedule!
I decided to take the day to do strength and core conditioning and when to the gym to lift weights, use some weight machines and do resistance exercises my trainer gave me. It felt like I didn't do much to sweat but I did get some burning in with the weights.
Another thing I am attempting in addition to my half marathon training is taming my eating habits. I have decided to start with one day a week and build from there to eat healthy for an ENTIRE DAY. Drinking enough water, loading up of fruits and watching portions. I plan to pick one day a week to do this for several weeks then I will add in another day and so on. I love food and I LOVE junk food- so this is the real challenge for me. Working out has never been the problem- food has always been the problem. I dont an entire pizza in one sitting or 5 hamburgers but I do love to eat A HAMBURGER, drink 44 oz of Dr. Pepper and have a brownie or 2. I am to tame that and eat more wisely. Today I started that journey.
As I write this I have downed one bottle of water and starting my next one. Had a correct portion of Special K cereal and 1% milk. I will have a protein bar for lunch mixed with some fruit for snacks and try to have a sensible dinner!
TIP: Incorporate other activities in your training. I am loving Zumba right now
Only 82 days left!!!
I decided to take the day to do strength and core conditioning and when to the gym to lift weights, use some weight machines and do resistance exercises my trainer gave me. It felt like I didn't do much to sweat but I did get some burning in with the weights.
Another thing I am attempting in addition to my half marathon training is taming my eating habits. I have decided to start with one day a week and build from there to eat healthy for an ENTIRE DAY. Drinking enough water, loading up of fruits and watching portions. I plan to pick one day a week to do this for several weeks then I will add in another day and so on. I love food and I LOVE junk food- so this is the real challenge for me. Working out has never been the problem- food has always been the problem. I dont an entire pizza in one sitting or 5 hamburgers but I do love to eat A HAMBURGER, drink 44 oz of Dr. Pepper and have a brownie or 2. I am to tame that and eat more wisely. Today I started that journey.
As I write this I have downed one bottle of water and starting my next one. Had a correct portion of Special K cereal and 1% milk. I will have a protein bar for lunch mixed with some fruit for snacks and try to have a sensible dinner!
TIP: Incorporate other activities in your training. I am loving Zumba right now
Only 82 days left!!!
Monday, May 23, 2011
In the begining
This beginning post is the background to why I want to do this blog. As I come and go on here I will probably remember more why of my journey and make edits to my story.
But here is where it begins.......
In the fall of 1992 I was a chubby buck tooth 7th grader who in PE class ran the mile time trial in probably close to 16-18 mins (I can't remember for sure as that is several years ago ;) Some how that spring I decided to try my hand at Track. I ran sprints, at which I was NO good at but the conditioning I got helped me to recieve the "Most Improved Mile" Award at the end of the year for dropping 8:55 off of my mile time....still putting me at an 8-9 min mile. But I was proud of my accomplishment all the same. The next spring I decided slow and steady would be my pace with the long distance runners. And that it where I stayed put. I ran long distance all through out my Jr. High experience, added some extra curricular AAU summer running in the summer between 8th and 9th grade and then added Cross Country to my regimen in High School.
Now as I look back on my athletic career I always say that I ran b/c its the only sport you didnt have to try out for. But as I talk to many adult friends now, they say that they just cant run. So it makes me think that although I was not even close to being "fast" for my nationally ranked Campbell County High School Cross Country team; I do have the ability to pick up running whenever I want to with little problem. I can remember going for a run with a friend when I was in 10th grade. We chose 4.5 mile loop and at the end of the loop we decided; "what the heck, lets run it again" and we were off to total 9 miles for the day for no reason at all.
After graduating from High School I went off to college and lived the life of a non-athlete. Gained a ton of weight, got lazy and had a ton of fun! After college, a wedding a couple of moves around the country I got encouraged by a few runners again and randomly would run. I would even throw a random 5k in there for thrills.
Which brings me to my present; I have been wanting to be "in shape" enough to run an annual 10k every year for the last few years. Since I have been working out pretty consistently at the gym since early February by Mother's Day I thought "What the heck" I''ll throw a 5k in the mix. Boy was I wrong to think I was in "running" shape. I had been running on a treadmill for several months but had only pounded pavement once before running the 5k. I honestly did better than I thought I would but still felt like I had room for improvement- who doesnt right? So I started running daily and with the encouragement of and old XC teammate I began playing tag with her via Nike+ app on our iPods. We were competitive with each other back then and we found ourselves egging each other on once again. She kept running more miles than me, so I ramped it up and ran 6 miles one day on a whim. WHOA! 6 miles? Thats .2 off of a 10k and I kept a pretty decent consistent pace the entire time. Each run I ran I felt stronger and faster. She of course ran 7 miles the next day to stick it to me! But I thought if I could run 6 miles with a consistent pace maybe just maybe I am ready for the 10k I have been dreaming about after all.
So after almost a 13 year break, I am bringing myself back into the world of running. In that time I gotten a college degree, gotten married, moved 5 times, been pregnant 3 times, delivered 2 babies, had countless jobs, made a zillion friends and had many hobbies. But now I want to see what I can do with what I've always known I can do. I have never been "the fastest" but I still remember training I received and apparently my body is somewhat made for this.
I entitled this blog Head, Feet, Legs because it still takes a battle in my head every morning to get my bed loving butt outta bed and dressed. It takes my feet the ability to carry myself down the road and back home every time. And my legs connect the two to complete this journey.
What I intend to do with this blog is to keep a journal (of which I have never been very good at) each time I run. I have several friends who I have run with in the past, who have never run before but are starting now or who want to run but feel like they can't and I thought I could share my journey publicly to help and encourage us all. I want to share my mileage, my run thoughts, what it took to get me going and maybe some of the songs I ran to. As an encouragement to you and me, I also will do daily research on tips to help me/us on this journey.
Let me know what you think!
But here is where it begins.......
In the fall of 1992 I was a chubby buck tooth 7th grader who in PE class ran the mile time trial in probably close to 16-18 mins (I can't remember for sure as that is several years ago ;) Some how that spring I decided to try my hand at Track. I ran sprints, at which I was NO good at but the conditioning I got helped me to recieve the "Most Improved Mile" Award at the end of the year for dropping 8:55 off of my mile time....still putting me at an 8-9 min mile. But I was proud of my accomplishment all the same. The next spring I decided slow and steady would be my pace with the long distance runners. And that it where I stayed put. I ran long distance all through out my Jr. High experience, added some extra curricular AAU summer running in the summer between 8th and 9th grade and then added Cross Country to my regimen in High School.
Now as I look back on my athletic career I always say that I ran b/c its the only sport you didnt have to try out for. But as I talk to many adult friends now, they say that they just cant run. So it makes me think that although I was not even close to being "fast" for my nationally ranked Campbell County High School Cross Country team; I do have the ability to pick up running whenever I want to with little problem. I can remember going for a run with a friend when I was in 10th grade. We chose 4.5 mile loop and at the end of the loop we decided; "what the heck, lets run it again" and we were off to total 9 miles for the day for no reason at all.
After graduating from High School I went off to college and lived the life of a non-athlete. Gained a ton of weight, got lazy and had a ton of fun! After college, a wedding a couple of moves around the country I got encouraged by a few runners again and randomly would run. I would even throw a random 5k in there for thrills.
Which brings me to my present; I have been wanting to be "in shape" enough to run an annual 10k every year for the last few years. Since I have been working out pretty consistently at the gym since early February by Mother's Day I thought "What the heck" I''ll throw a 5k in the mix. Boy was I wrong to think I was in "running" shape. I had been running on a treadmill for several months but had only pounded pavement once before running the 5k. I honestly did better than I thought I would but still felt like I had room for improvement- who doesnt right? So I started running daily and with the encouragement of and old XC teammate I began playing tag with her via Nike+ app on our iPods. We were competitive with each other back then and we found ourselves egging each other on once again. She kept running more miles than me, so I ramped it up and ran 6 miles one day on a whim. WHOA! 6 miles? Thats .2 off of a 10k and I kept a pretty decent consistent pace the entire time. Each run I ran I felt stronger and faster. She of course ran 7 miles the next day to stick it to me! But I thought if I could run 6 miles with a consistent pace maybe just maybe I am ready for the 10k I have been dreaming about after all.
So after almost a 13 year break, I am bringing myself back into the world of running. In that time I gotten a college degree, gotten married, moved 5 times, been pregnant 3 times, delivered 2 babies, had countless jobs, made a zillion friends and had many hobbies. But now I want to see what I can do with what I've always known I can do. I have never been "the fastest" but I still remember training I received and apparently my body is somewhat made for this.
I entitled this blog Head, Feet, Legs because it still takes a battle in my head every morning to get my bed loving butt outta bed and dressed. It takes my feet the ability to carry myself down the road and back home every time. And my legs connect the two to complete this journey.
What I intend to do with this blog is to keep a journal (of which I have never been very good at) each time I run. I have several friends who I have run with in the past, who have never run before but are starting now or who want to run but feel like they can't and I thought I could share my journey publicly to help and encourage us all. I want to share my mileage, my run thoughts, what it took to get me going and maybe some of the songs I ran to. As an encouragement to you and me, I also will do daily research on tips to help me/us on this journey.
Let me know what you think!
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