Ouch, ouch

I had a great 5 mile run last Monday. Was looking for another great 5 mile run Thursday until that pesky left knee started giving me fits at about 2.5 miles. I always do a minimum of 3.1 miles, so that's what I did, since the pain was getting more intense. When I got home, I placed a bag of mixed vegetables on it to ease the pain for about 20 mins. The pain has dulled, but I can still feel it. Thought I would do the 5 mile Turkey Trot on Thursday, but am feeling unsure if my knee will hold up. I am staying off it & stretching. At least my right ITB issues are virtually over! :)

I missed last Saturday's run because I was taking the Praxis II. It went better than I expected, but I never studied or read anything about Confuscius, Erik Erickson, or Karl Marx which was what 3 of the questions were about (do elementary age students learn this stuff??). Also, they had some classroom management questions & I was never an education major or minor. Was thankful there were no essay questions & grammar. It was mostly reading comprehension (my strength) and mathematics.

Will was out of town on a youth camping trip, so Lena got to stay with my parents while I took the exam. I took it at MC & my folks don't live too far from there. She spends more time with Will's parents because we live less than a mile from each other. My dad wanted her to stay over night, but with the recent arrival of my nephew Nathan James, aka Peanut, there would be 2 babies in the house wanting a late night/early morning feeding. My dad has a fondness for babies; it's cute to watch him with Lena. He adores her.

Happy Thanksgiving & Happy Training Everyone! :)

Getting Back Into The Groove

For the first time in weeks, I managed to get 2 training runs in this week. Monday, I ran 5 miles & was pretty slow because it was rather warm & I wasn't properly hydrated. Thursday was better; I only did 3.1 miles, but I was faster. Will has something to do nearly every night each week, so yoga is going to be out until I can figure out evening childcare. *sigh*

Lena is growing like a weed. She's starting to get chubby. I'm sure she weighs 10 lbs now, if not she's pretty close to it. She wakes up about every 2.5 to 4 hours for a feeding & diaper change. It's not difficult getting her to go to sleep. What's difficult is getting her to burp. She hates taking a break from feeding to burp. But, once she does, she burps like a grown man. Once she burped so loud I wondered if she'd displaced her spleen. Even with her small size she manages to make me laugh. I taught her a little "peek a boo" game where we both pretend to go to sleep. She's pretty good at it and she smiles really big & coos when she manages to outsmart me. That's when I laugh. As you can tell from the picture, she's a daddy's girl. Will loves taking her just about every where he goes. And, she likes cuddling with him during nap time.

Hope to see y'all tomorrow at Fleet Feet. :)

Juggling Parenthood & Marathoning

How do y'all do it?? When Lena-boo wakes up at 2-3 am for a feeding, I am DRAINED! I haven't run in weeks. I thought I would try the half marathon this weekend, but I've been skipping meals (also not hydrating) because I've been so busy tending to her & I went back to work in the afternoons. So hard trying to establish a routine right now!

Maybe I'll see you all next weekend. Happy training everyone!

Meet Lena Claire

Well, here she is. All 7 lbs of her. She's in the arms of my mom, Grandma Clara, which is where part of her name comes from (the first part comes from her grand & great grandmothers). She's a very sweet, charming, attentive baby. She's got Dad wrapped around her little finger. And, Mom calls everyday (when she's not over here) to see what she's up to. I've already started telling her about the finer points of running; about stretching, hydration, etc. Of course, she's not quite getting it all; but she did look very attentive for a 2 week old. :) I know that having a baby changes everything; I had NO idea how much. Right now, our lives revolve around her. Soon, I'll have to head back to work & start training again. Already, I'm hating the thought of leaving her. Our moms & my sister have graciously offered their sitting services. I'm thinking about dropping to part time or working from home so I won't be away from her so much since she's so young. Looks like teaching may have to be on the backburner for a bit since my current job may offer a little more flexibility. But, we'll see.

I checked some of y'all's progress on the site. It was a scorcher, but, it wasn't as hot as it gets here. I was shocked & saddened to learn a runner from Midland, MI died because of the heat. Guess we should never, ever underestimate the heat. I hope you all made it OK. Maybe I'll be at yoga on Wednesday. :)

A Change in Plans

Some time ago, Matt had blogged about having a game plan for life (or something to that effect). Some of us reminded that it's OK to plan, but sometimes, God has other plans and HE is in control.

As it turns out, I will not be going to Chicago. Instead, I will be caring for our infant daughter! :) It's so amazing that she's coming into our lives, only days away from the Chicago Marathon. We are so very happy to be given the opportunity to become parents. We've prayed for years and it's FINALLY coming to pass! Still, a part of me is sad that I'm not going to be with you guys.

I've been nesting like crazy; Will has been laughing at me. This is our last night as a family of two! Thanks so much for your prayers and well wishes. It means a lot to us. :)

Delinquent Blogger

Been a little busy lately. Still trying to get ready for Chicago. Will's been looking at the marathon website and picking restaurants & using Mapquest. We are driving to Chicago & then after the marathon, we're headed to Michigan to visit family. So, I'll be gone a little over a week. I've been trying to get things together at work so the continuity of workflow will continue in my absence--keep the calls to a minimum.

When I first decided to do MM, I was a little hesitant because Will & I have been next up on an adoption waiting list for a while. I jokingly told him we'll probably be taking a kid along with us to Chicago. It turns out our SW called us and wants us to come into the office. My mother in law graciously offered to care for our child while we're away, but I want our child to come with us. However, this is jumping the gun a little. She just wants to see us; she didn't mention bringing the carseat. Still, I can dream, can't I?? :) Speaking of babies, my brother will be bringing the family down 2 weeks after the marathon; so I will finally get to meet Alexa J. And, my sister is waddling. She's due in late November and looks bigger than she did when she was pregnant with my first nephew.

I've been pretty healthy as of late. Nothing hurts, no headaches. Today's run was pretty good except I didn't stretch as well as I should have and the ITB started a mini rebellion at about 7.5 miles. When will I ever learn???

Our next run is in Chicago!!!!! :) See you then!!

Dude, I Ran 21 Miles!

It was darn close to 6 hours, but I did it!!!!! Now, I can actually see doing 26.2 miles! I decided not to use the interval training setting on the Garmin this time and I jogged at a slower pace. Perhaps a little too slow?? Too late to start speed training now!

Some of us were standing around having a post race meal of Endurox (Thanks Kim, STR), cinnamon bread (Thanks Great Harvest) & rice crispies treats (Thanks Paige) and pointed out how this run was SO much better than the 18 miler we did weeks earlier. This cooler weather made a HUGE difference!

Personally, I was well hydrated and I had 2 packs of Sport Beans which I gobbled like no tomorrow. Looks like 3 packs of Sport Beans should hold me for Chicago. My right IT band was still a little tight, but thanks to the prescribed stretches & yoga I could push through with relative ease. My knees didn't bother me as much, either. :)

Next time, I'm going to pick up the pace a little & see what happens. Y'all, WE ARE MARATHONERS!!! \o/

34340 of ???

Got my confirmation ticket in the mail Tuesday! Wow, I'm going to run/walk/jog (possibly crawl??) in a marathon! I confirmed my hotel reservation & they still have us down for a room. All we have to do is get there. Y'all, we're so close! :)

See ya tomorrow at Lakeshore!

Hey, I've Got Some New Shoes On. . .

The weather was just gorgeous yesterday; perfect for breaking in my new shoes. However, I had little motivation to run. Monday night, Will decided to do a little mechanical work on the Chevy truck--as if he needed another work project (he's currently working on our roof). A little background: my husband & my father in law are both do it yourselfers & perfectionists to a fault. They work sllllooowwwlly & methodically. They will not be rushed. I spent Monday evening running to Auto Zone, Lowe's & Home Depot for various items. It was late when he decided to knock off. If I don't get a decent 8 hours of sleep I'm a bear to deal with as many of my family members can attest. So, Tuesday evening, I was tired & not wanting to run. But, I got out there (thanks Heather) and I wasn't very fast, but was glad I did and my shoes feel great! And my knees didn't bother me. :)

Thanks everyone for your encouraging comments. Happy Training Everyone!

Nagging Doubts

Properly hydrated?? Check

Stretched?? Check

Carb Load the Night Before?? Check (if 9:30 late meal of French toast counts)

Have a Good Breakfast?? Check

Disposed of Now 4 Week Old Tuna?? Heck yeah.

So, I was all set for Saturday. The night before, both Will & I were craving French toast or oatmeal. I opted for French toast; I made a huge amount of it and we ate like pigs. I didn't sleep very well, probably because I had indigestion. I took it easy on Labor Day, ran 5 miles on Tuesday. The IT band in my right leg acted up a little, but the knees started hurting worse. I iced them & rested Thursday. Looks like it paid off because I had a great run today.

However, doubts are starting to creep in. Feeling the aches & pains is scary. All I can think about is breaking down in Chicago & being unable to continue. I did it at 20 miles & was unable to complete the whole distance. I'm feeling like I just HAVE to complete this up coming run, otherwise why bother trying to do 26.2?? Ok, I am a marathoner, I am a marathoner. . .

It Was The Best of Runs; It Was The Worst Of Runs

I did everything right this time; at least I can't think of anything I did wrong. I stretched, I was hydrated, I had a good breakfast. Oh, but there was the sandwich I ate the night before made with 3 week old tuna. . .

Earlier in the week I had been having some pain in my left knee behind the knee cap & some pain on the back of my right knee. Usually it passes. I have no explanation as to why both of these pains decided to rear their ugly heads at about 5:10 am. Nancy was walking with me & when it came time to run, I just couldn't seem to pick my feet up off the pavement. I told her to go on because I wasn't going to be very fast today. As badly as it hurt, I couldn't quit. I wanted to see just for far I could go; to see what I was made of. I walked much of the time & even felt well enough to do a slow jog at times. As I was walking away from the Craft Center, I had terrible stomach cramps--that cursed tuna!!! I want to say a big "THANK YOU" to the Dept of Wildlife, Fisheries & Parks for maintaining the bathrooms at the Craft Center. I cannot IMAGINE having to go out into the woods to deal with that!

So, I continued on & managed to complete the 10 miles just short of 3 hours. I was glad I did it because yes, I know I can persevere through pain. Lesson learned: Don't eat 3 week old tuna before a long training run. :)

Happy Labor Day Everyone!

Ilio What???

Iliotibial Band Syndrome--sounds kind of nasty doesn't it?? Basically, the connective tissue that runs from my hip to my knee is a little tight. Monday, I went to see Wayne for the official diagnosis. I brought my shoes along because I wanted him to evaluate my gait. I thought I was a supinator; i.e. run more on the outsides of feet. Turns out I'm closer to normal.

Heather even had us doing extra stretches for the ITB during Wednesday night yoga class, which was most helpful. :)

I ran 5 miles comfortably Tuesday & on Thursday. It feels nice to have a couple of good runs after Saturday's break down. Seems 20 miles on Saturday got the best of some of us. It's definitely taught me to be better prepared & to not take ANYTHING for granted!

Thanks everyone for your words of encouragement! See ya Saturday at Fleet Feet . :)

I Knew I Was In Trouble When . . .

I fought the urge to lie down on the grass. That was the first time that's ever happened. Now, I usually do have some pain/discomfort when I run; it either passes or I can push through it. As someone so accurately put it, it felt like someone was stabbing me in the right knee, thigh & hip with an ice pick. I kept thinking, "Run like Pre, run like Pre. . ." (he advocated running through pain) but that wasn't helping. I stopped periodically to stretch the offending part, that didn't work either. Some of you asked me if I was OK, I lied & said I was fine. I just didn't want to quit. :( Quitting would mean I was a failure. Finally, when Scotty, Anna & Matt happened by I could swallow my pride. I didn't want to keep going & cause serious injury & not go to Chicago at all. :(

What went wrong?? I didn't stretch before I took off. Plus, I hadn't done any training runs this week. I didn't properly pace myself--have to start slowly to have enough energy for a good finish. Running like Pre isn't always a good thing. But, there were some things I did right--I was better hydrated for this run; I carb-loaded the day before; & I had a good breakfast. I had extra water with me & had Clif Blocks.

I am going to be ready for 22 miles. I am not going to make the same mistakes. WE ARE MARATHONERS!!!!!!\o/

You Mean That's A Muscle???

My body has changed since January. My thighs & calves are trimmer & more muscular, understandably so; but my arms are too! The gut still needs work--that requires more "pushaways" from the dinner table. Oddly enough, I have an extra "love handle" just above my butt. Yesterday, in our 4:00 yoga class, Heather had us doing a stretch she said builds the muscle that would make our butts look like "goldfish bowls". Turns out I wasn't the only one with a "butt love handle." And what a relief when she told us it's a muscle!

To those of you who aren't at all interested in taking yoga: Y'all really need to come to these classes. It's not all about burning incense & deep breathing. Yoga is generally known as being beneficial for improving flexibility, but many of these poses provide good strengthening. Some of the poses brought tears to my eyes and my legs felt like jello afterwards, but that means I'm getting stronger. I want to be strong. :)

Happy Training Everyone!

One Bourbon, One Scotch, One Beer

I don't drink as much as I used to but with days like this. . .

I had to run some errands from work, one of which was renewing a bulk mail permit. I went to the local office, JUST AS THE LETTER SPECIFIED. I know the counter workers there; one in particular can be a little whiney when she doesn't want to do something outside her perceived scope of her job. So, it was NO surprise when she acted true to form. I reminded her of the address at the bottom of the letter & she said that didn't matter; the downtown office handles that. Not wanting to argue anymore, I left & went downtown. Long story short, the downtown office told me I needed to head back to the local office, which I did and after MUCH whining SHE ACTUALLY DID IT!!! Wonder of wonders!!!!!!

One of my duties includes paying the bills for the organization. Vendor checks are always due on Fridays, but I'm SO good I have them ready on Thursdays. Once checks leave my office, it's "out of sight, out of mind." So, I was clueless when people began calling looking for their checks. I call around, trying to track them down & NO ONE seems to know where they are! Now I'm wondering if I mailed them by accident which means going BACK to the post office--one of the LAST places I'd rather be. "Z" sent me an email saying Bev had picked them up earlier that day. I emailed her back & said good because I was wondering if I was losing what little mind I had left. She thought that was funny. At least I made someone happy. :D

The clock strikes 5 and I'm out the door. I live 10 mins away so there are no traffic jams to deal with & a very short commute. When I park the truck, I noticed a massive tree limb had fallen on our carport, twisting the metal like an aluminum can, which was lying on a truck which thankfully doesn't run, but Will's motorcycle was lying on its side. The tree belonged to the house next door to us. When Will contacted the owner, his attitude was basically "Sucks to be you." He told us OUR insurance coverage should take care of it. What th'???????

Really looking forward to tomorrow's run. I know many of you don't like running in Clinton, but I like it because it's sort of home for me. :) I've been too busy to hydrate today, so I'm gonna drink up (water only).

PEACE OUT!!!!!!

Let Them Eat Cake. . .

I like cake! Lots & lots of cake! I even like fruitcake. I have been craving cake for a while, so, yesterday I baked a white cake with cream cheese frosting. It's sitting in the fridge, only 2 slices consumed. Unfortunately, I'm going to be the only one eating it because Will doesn't share my fondness for cake.

It's just too durn out out therrre! I haven't been running since temps hit triple digits. Thought about getting up at 5 am to run on the "Y"'s treadmills; somehow I can't seem to get myself up on weekdays *yawn*.

Oh, thanks to all who prayed for my sister. She is home with my folks :) . I know my nephew is very glad to have his mom with him, too. My folks will celebrate 40 yrs of marriage this Thursday & my mom also turns 60 the same day. Haven't quite figured what to do for them, yet.

I'll be at "extreme Yoga" tomorrow. Stay hydrated & Happy Training! :)

Killer Yoga, Hydrating Belts, Aches & Pains

I went to the Wednesday night yoga class. Now, it wasn't my first yoga class, I was a regular at the "Y" classes for a while. But, this one's definitely more intense! For the life of me, I could NOT pull myself up on the palms of my hands and arch my butt in the air to save my life (the elevated push-up)! Can you say zip, zilch, nada upper body strength??? I never leaned THAT pose at the "Y". Must have started after I stopped going to class. . . now my abs & shoulders are sore! At least I'm standing taller. :)

Last night, I went on the hunt for a hydrating belt; unfortunately, Fleet Feet was already closed. I couldn't find one at Academy, so I headed to Sports & Co and found one in pink & gray. Yeah, that's gonna go nicely with our orange shirts we're wearing in Chi-town; but it does kind of match my shoes. I put a packet ofClif Blocks in the zipper pocket & I half-filled the H2O bottle & put it in the freezer. I am ready for Saturday!

Apparently, I had a blister on the ball of my left foot; the skin is starting to peel away and my right Achilles tendon is starting to ache again. I have abrasions on my torso from the heart monitor (forgot to use Bodyglide) & one on my left shoulder from my sports bra. I was thinking back to the "bloody nipples" talk--hope NEVER to experience that!

Hydrate or Die. . .They Weren't Kidding!

I managed to do the 18 miles very close to 5 hours. I was OK until about 10 miles. My knees seemed to "lock up" and every step was painful & I was starting to feel lightheaded.

When I got home, I did my usual routine: housework, bath, breakfast & nap. But, I didn't sleep well and my legs were stiff, plus I was starting to feel sick. However, we attended the "Butt Judging", which was a lot of fun (& GREAT food!). Thanks, Cathy & Charlie for hosting! :)

I didn't even feel well enough on Sunday to go to yoga; thankfully, today, I'm all better & even did a short run! Here's what I learned (even though Mark mentioned this already):

1. You tend to get hungry on longer runs. I was thinking of pancakes, hamburgers, looking at an empty Twinkie wrapper on the side of the road, hoping I'd find one (& I don't even like Twinkies). So, I'm going to have to carry gels, sport beans or some type of energy bar with me. The yogurt & wheat germ with a handful of blueberries I had for breakfast (no matter HOW super these foods are) wasn't enough.

2. Hydrate during the week. Unfortunately, Friday was a chaotic workday & I barely got a chance to eat lunch. I didn't drink any extra water that day at all. Won't do that again.

3. I made the mistake of drinking a small amount of White Zinfindel & thought I was going to pass out! Perhaps, I should not have mentioned this at all, but it was a sure sign that something was wrong. The Sprite went down much easier.

I will get one of those nifty hydrating belts. Happy Training Everyone! :)

Aint She Sweet????

This is Alexa J at about 2 months. She's looking more like her mother now. She definitely has my brother's hair & huge legs.

I went running yesterday & is it just me or has the humidity been a "butt kicker"??? Sheesh! I wound up walking the last mile & a half of my usual 5 mile run.

Today, I thought maybe I'd do a short 1 mile run & some XT, but I'm still sore from Sunday's XT & my Achilles tendon is starting to bother me again. I've been drinking 40 oz of water each day, along with my usual beverages (usually fruit juice & milk).

Just talked to Mom and my sister is at my folks house. Apparently, the apartment is being fumigated. I'm praying that she makes the decision to return home.

Tomorrow is another 5 mile run. Hopefully, it won't be too hot tomorrow. It'll be 28 miles I will have run this week if all goes according to plan.

Happy Training Everyone! :)

A Good Run

Yesterday's 8 miles was just what I needed. I hadn't felt that good in a while! So, training through the week does make the "long runs" easier. I also find that if I don't train, I tend to be more negative. You can read through my blogs & tell. So if they take on a negative/depressing tone, just ask me how the training is going & tell me to get back on track. Chances are, I'm being slack.

My sister turned 30 yesterday. If you saw her, you would swear she was all of 16 years old, being 4'9" and 95 lbs--perhaps more because she's 6 mos along now with my second nephew. We saw "Hairspray" and went to Sal & Mookie's for pizza. We had a good time, but I'm very concerned about her. Months ago, she moved out of our folks' house and moved in with a friend of hers. They live in a very tiny one bedroom apartment. I don't trust this friend. She didn't give my sister a key to the apartment & she uses my sister's car--she has a key, obviously. I asked her had she considered adoption. It seems to be the logical way out of her situation, IMO. My parents are already raising her first son. She has no job, the dad is no where on the scene, and she's being used by her roommate. Of course, my mom is losing sleep over this.

Her (my sister's) response to me (in regard to adoption) was, "No, why, you want it??" As much as I would love to raise my nephew, it wouldn't be the right thing to do. I asked her what if she had an objection to my parenting skills, could she hold her tongue?? She said she wouldn't because it wouldn't be her place, but of course she would say something because I would in that situation. Plus, he (the baby) would always wonder when he gets older why she kept his brother, but gave him up. I don't want him to experience that pain. :(

I advised her to move back home. She said she's thinking about it. She usually takes my advice.

October 7th Isn't So Far Away

I looked at the calendar & realized we've got less than 2 months left to go UNTIL. So, I need to get it in gear. Went to the "Y" and did 5 miles. Could have done it in less than an hour, but, I decided to take it easy since it'd been a while since I ran. No more slacking!

Mentally, I've already resigned from my job. Don't think my feet have touched the ground since Wednesday. Someone told me I could teach this fall if I wanted. YIKES! Not quite ready to be thrown to the middle school aged wolves, yet. I'm planning on being a teaching assistant so I can complete the needed coursework and take the Praxis II. I'm actually excited about this!

Taking a day of rest today & it's back on the track tomorrow! Happy Training Everyone!

Good News, Bad News

I took the Praxis I Wednesday and got a 183 on the reading part and a 181 on the math part. I'm still awaiting my essay score. But, it looks like I can teach! :) Bad news is I left the testing center with an awful headache. I took some naproxen, but it still evolved into a migraine. I missed work both Thursday & Friday. I didn't start feeling better until late Friday night, but because I slept much of the day, I overslept this morning. It's nice to be able to be up & around again.

I hope the 16 miles went well. Wished I could have been out there! Happy Training Everyone!

I've Been BAD!!!!!

It's been kind of hard training after work; it's always raining. I read somewhere that it takes 4 weeks of inactivity to undo training, so, I'm still OK. But, I could tell during today's run that I'm not as well conditioned as I should be. So, even if it rains, I need to hit the treadmill (boo, hiss!). Plus my feet are starting to hurt, perhaps I need new shoes??? (Wayne question) My right knee felt a little funny during the last mile. I had to stop & walk for a bit.

I took a sample Praxis exam & did OK. It's been years since I've dealt with proper grammar, algebraic equations, & geometry. Will was looking over my shoulder on the math part (he scored perfectly, btw). Reading comprehension is one of my strengths. It looks like the ACT/PSAT all over again!

My tomato plants are starting to produce! They need weeding badly. When the monsoon passes, that will be an XT activity. :) Not to mention mowing the yard.

Happy Training Everyone!!! :)

Raindrops Keep Fallin' On My Head. . .

Today is the second time this week I got rained on. The first happened on the 4th when a group of us cousins decided to do a little trail walk through the woods at my folks' house. Running in the rain wasn't so bad, except when the raindrops started coming down harder and were starting to sting. Also, I didn't like the "squish, squish" of water in my shoes. Can't believe that I actually got up at 4:30 am to go running 15 miles and that I ran in the rain.

Have no clue as to how fast I did the 15 because the Forerunner 305 went haywire by the halfway point. Rats! It was then that I remembered they don't do well in water. The interval training feature isn't working so well right now, but at least the lap timer still does. I managed to catch up with Hugh, Joyce, & Carol (?) and ran with them, which was nice. It's always nice getting to know people. :)

I need to start XT again--gotten kind of slack. Perhaps I'll go to the "Y" after church tomorrow. Happy Training, fellow MMers! :)

Ch-Ch-Ch-Changes. . .

My boss called me into her office last week. She wanted to know what was up with me because I've been looking so unhappy lately. Figuring I had nothing to lose, I told her I hated my job. No, she didn't fire me, in fact, she was relieved because she thought I hated her, LOL. She also said she's been where I am where everyday was just total drudgery. Mind you, my performance really hasn't suffered; the job is so rote that I can almost do it in my sleep. So what if the checks are are done, 941s complete, payroll is done??? What have I accomplished?? Whose life have I changed for the better??? Anyhoo, she's given me her blessing to find my life's work and I had been praying, praying, praying as to when I could finally leave and I GOT THE ANSWER!!!!!!!

I take the Praxis I in two weeks. :)

Good Spread, Beautiful People

Y'all really clean up well! Hardly recognized some of you looking cute and smelling good. Me & DH showed up looking all scruffy in comparison.

The food was SO good! Who knew we had so many good cooks in MM?? Will (DH) joked maybe that's why we're not losing the weight. BTW, Clark, he was most impressed with your "butt".

Another work week begins *sigh*. Thanks so much for your encouragement and "Happy Training Everyone!" :)

Not Meaning to Brag, But. . .

I haven't had any muscle soreness in weeks! Wondering if I should train a little harder?? Fear of injury is what keeps me from doing it. How do you know WHEN it's ok ??

Today was AWESOME! Although I'm a little bummed I didn't make it below 3 hours. I ran much of the last mile, but I poured it on too late. *sigh*

I need to finish the quesadillas for tonight's festivities. Happy Training Everyone! :)

59 minutes, 48 seconds

That is my fastest 5 mile completion time! WOO HOO!!!! I wanted so much to complete 5 miles in under an hour & I DID IT!!!!!!!!! Now we do the dance of joy....

Don't Like Running in the Rain

I was going to run Monday, until it rained. It wasn't raining hard enough to blow off running, but I did it anyway, mainly because my husband blocked my vehicle in the driveway with the church van (I don't have they key). I thought two minutes about runnin' 'round "da hood", but I didn't want that much adventure. So, I watched some TV, played online, and turned in early. So, today, I HAVE to run.

Another weird thing I've noticed is I'm not sore anymore. Even after the 12 mile run, my feet & legs were tired, but not sore. Maybe it's time to move to 4:1 intervals??

I asked a few of the teachers in our church about their teaching careers and to pray for me as I make a final decision. Thus far, I've gotten more encouraging comments. :)

Happy Training Everyone!:)

A Case of "The Runs", Maybe??

I actually didn't really want to quit after running today! What is going on??? I feel like I can do another 6! But, it seems doing the laundry will have to suffice. Maybe the lawn needs mowing or I should install another flower bed--somebody slap me. . .

However, thoughts of "Krispy Kreme" did come to mind as I drove home. Nice, hot glazed melt in your mouth goodness, m-m-m-m. But I was good. I didn't get my dozen like I would have before. :p

The weight is finally starting to come off. I realized that it didn't come on overnight & it's not going to come off overnight. I am a participant in the Jackson Heart Study & I have a follow up exam next Friday. I hate being poked & prodded. Since heart disease one of the things that affects both sides of my family (besides diabetes & strokes), we're doing this for future generations. I got a clean bill of health from my last exam, despite being 20 lbs overweight. I weigh less now, but still have a few more lbs to lose.

Happy Training Everyone! :)

Ok, This is the Last One

Well, you have to see her Mom, too :) This is my sister in law Jovi with AJ. My mom is with them in NYC as I type this. Gotta go. Happy Training Everyone :)

This Is Getting Harder

I woke up when the alarm went off at 5:00 am. Got myself dressed & had a bowl of rice crispies. That's the only thing I can manage to eat in the mornings. I didn't hydrate properly this week. As some of you may know, Jackson is having issues with its water. The color & smell of the water doesn't offend me, but, the stomach upset does. Anyone else in Jackson notice this??

When I walked out to the truck to head to Lakeshore, the humidity hit me. It was only 5:30 am! I knew that 12 miles was going to be a struggle. And, was it ever! By about the last 3 miles, I was so tempted to hitch a ride back to the park and managed to walk the rest of the way, ignoring the interval beeps of the Forerunner. My hands & fingers were so swollen--that's a first. But, I didn't get my usual Achilles tendon soreness, so that was good.

I had 3 small buttermilk pancakes for breakfast and a slice of bacon and a tall glass of milk when I got home. I took a warm bath (not the usual cold since I wasn't too sore) and took a nap. I guess next week (or is it week after next??) we'll be half-marathoners!!!

Happy Training Everyone!

OK, I couldn't resist. . .

Here's another pic of my adorable niece with her proud Dad :) Don't know if she's yawning, singing or voicing her displeasure at constantly having her picture taken. Anyhoo, it's an adorable shot.

I'm going running this afternoon. It seems like ages since I have. Some months ago, I volunteered (like a dummy) to edit/revise our church's constitution & bylaws. Two committees had done the hardest part, but they disbanded. I did some tweaking & editing on what was already done. It's finally finished & submitted to the elders who are going to submit it to our church body tonight--while I'm out running (yeah, convenient).

Also, I am praying about a career change. I would like to teach K-2nd grade aged children, but I can qualify to teach middle school without having to get another degree. Also, I wouldn't mind teaching remedial courses, either. There are all kinds of obstacles I can think of: money to return to school, starting ANOTHER career so "late" in life, what if I do what it takes, become a teacher & decide I HATE it. I'd like the work I do to be meaningful. I used to do some tutoring and it was wonderful seeing a student have "Aha!" moments. But, is it a PASSION??? Aye, that's the rub. . . .

No more musings--back to work. Happy Training Everyone (Wow, can you believe 12 miles on Saturday???)!!

The Delinquent Marathoner

Missed my second LSD run due to migraines. In fact, I was in bed pretty much the whole weekend. I am at work & my head is pain free right now. :)

It turns out the problem with the Forerunner was, in fact, low battery charge. Thanks to all who convinced me not to fling the thing in the garbage, but to put it on its charger instead. Even the folks with the Garmin help desk suggested it. Boy, do I feel stupid.

I read in Sunday's USA Today that Jo Dee Messina is in training for a marathon in Chicago in the fall. I wonder how many other celebs are going to be out there???

Well, better get some work done. Thank you, thank you all for your kind words of encouragement! :)

WAAAAAHHHHH!!!!!!

I went running yesterday. My Forerunner 305 quit working :( I haven't even owned it a full 90 days yet! Undaunted, I used the "stopwatch" feature on my phone & timed myself. I am SO bummed! :(

Then, I found out I'm going to be an aunt "again"!!!!! My younger sister is pregnant with her second child. She's kind of aimless; she wants to be married and have the happy family life, but she doesn't make wise choices. I'm pretty disappointed because I thought she had learned her lesson the first time around; her pregnancy was pretty risky and my nephew was born prematurely, but thankfully they both made it through. And, yeah, I'll say it: I'm jealous. It just doesn't seem fair. While I don't have my life together 100%, I know can be a better mother than she is. But, for whatever reason, she's going to bring another life into the world & it seems I'm never going to get the chance. In the meantime, I'm a very cool aunt. My nephew & I adore each other.

Enough of the pity party. I'm going to make jambalaya.

Alexa Jovanna is here!

Here she is, all 6 lbs and 9 oz of her! My first niece :) She looks just like my brother Craig. Jovi (my sister in law) is doing great! Craig says all she (AJ) does is sleep & she's so mellow & laid back & not too loud, either. Wonder how long that's going to last?? Hopefully, they'll be home tomorrow. Between telling me about his precious new daughter's entry into this world, my bro just had to give me more marathoning tips. Like the wearing the right shoes, starting off slowly & not worrying about speed. . .

I missed running yesterday & just relaxed & enjoyed the holiday. Might hit the pavement today, though. Happy training everyone! :)

Pain, Pain Go Away. . .

It was HOT yesterday! Did 5 miles in about 1 hr 7 mins. The tendonitis in my left leg is acting up again. It comes & goes. Does anyone ever have those aches that pop up & go away as you keep running?? With me, it's the pain behind my left knee, calf & Achilles; then it's the right ankle. They always show up the 1st 10 mins of the run, go away, then come again, then go away.

The dreaded "toe cramps" got me yesterday. They cramped even worse when I got into the tub of c-c-cold water. Ugh. Will gave me a nice foot massage after I was done. :)

There would be days like this, Mama said. . .

After church I head to the "Y" to do XT. I'm driving along, in a mellow mood, when suddenly, a small beige colored Toyota Carolla is stopped in front of me. The driver (a little old lady about 80, dressed in a cute red suit) proceeds to get out of her car & is coming at me, swearing like I had just called her an ugly name. All this in happening in the middle of Capitol Street! I didn't know what the heck was going on; I asked her if she needed help & she kept cursing me out! Between curse words, I figured she thought I was tailgating her, but only when she slowed to 20 mph. I assumed she was slowing because she had engine trouble. Now, had I been the hellion I used to be, I might have switched the truck into four-wheel drive & rolled over her little car & kept going about my business as if nothing was wrong. I simply shrugged, got back in my truck and went on to the "Y". Eventually, she drove off, too.

I get to work Monday and my boss sent me an email from an agency that gave us $170K--back in 2004 with a little comment of "Kim, handle this." So, I pull the general ledger and it took me a little while but I managed to complete the report. Was feeling pretty good until the NEXT day when she sends me an email saying she needs RECEIPTS! What th'????? On top of that, I had an auditor to deal with. Was so glad for Monday's run. Did my usual 5 miles in 1 hr 5 mins.

Anybody want to hire a disgruntled, uncertified accountant??

Lovin' This Weather!

I shaved 4 minutes (yes, 4 minutes, ladies & germs) off my 9 mile time from last week. It was so nice running along the Rez--very scenic!!!! I'm feeling invincible right now, which is a dangerous thing. Must stick to the schedule, though. But, c'mon, a little speed training can't hurt??? Ok, forget I said that.

It's audit season at work *sigh*. I have one last auditor coming Monday & hopefully, she'll be done by the afternoon. Our big annual audit is still in process, but the auditors are done with the field work and the previous audit (worker's comp) did not go so well at all. I won't get on my soapbox about how insurance companies are bloodsucking leeches (oops, did I say that?? Apologies to anyone in the insurance industry).

After church, I'm going to the gym for the first time in weeks! Enjoy the rest of your weekend, fellow MMers! :)

Run, Baby, Run

I finished running 5 miles in 1 hr & 3 mins, which is 2 minutes faster than my previous fastest time. Go me! :) What made the difference?? Hydration! I drank a liter & a half of water a few hours before, when I normally drink just a liter. On the other hand, the biggest difference was yesterday's cooler temps. It was quite simply a perfect evening to run!

Hopefully these temps will last until Saturday! See y'all then. :)

Mama's Girl

Tried 3:1 intervals yesterday. Felt like I had lead in my shoes. Was it the humidity??? My fastest pace was 7:53, but I finished 5 miles about 1hr, 6 mins, which is a minute slower than my fastest 5 mile time. Also, my right calf muscle was "tight" & cramped a little. I did stretch before I ran.

We went to visit my family for Mother's Day. Even though I'm nearly 40 years old, she still fusses over me as if I'm a baby. They're having an addition put on to their house and she showed me the guest room under construction and told me that Will & I just HAVE to come there & spend a weekend (after the room is complete). Now, if we lived an hour away from them, sure, I wouldn't mind. But only 20 minutes!?!

If it doesn't rain, I'll be planting tomatoes for XT. One of these days, I hope to get to they gym again. Happy Training Everyone! :)

Missed that Left Turn at "Albuquerque"

Anybody remember "Bugs Bunny" saying that?? I kept missing the first hydrating station! So I had to make up the distance. It wasn't too bad. I finished in just over 2 hours. My legs feel OK. Still have some minor Achilles tendon & calf issues--nothing stretching and a cold bath can't fix. I bought some more socks from Fleet Feet & a beaded necklance for my sister and went to Everyday Gourmet to do some more Mother's Day shopping. Saw Suzanne (?) there buying wedding gifts. Please forgive me if I got your name wrong!

Think I'm ready to move up to 3:1 intervals now. Have a good week everyone!

Rambling on, maybe a little too much. . .

I ran 5 miles Monday & Wednesday. Including Saturday's run, it'll be 19 miles! Getting closer to 26.2! The aches are still at bay. Guess my body is finally getting adjusted to the extra distance. The speed training looks intriguing. I would like to complete Chicago in 4 hours. At the rate I'm going, it's going to be closer to 6 hours. I'm just so afraid if I do any extra running outside of the 3 days, I'll get hurt.

How many 10K'ers were there total?? The number I had said "86" (the year I graduated high school, which is how I remember it)? Not bad for my first 10K! \o/

Changing paragraphs a bit, I've been considering a career change. Reading Matt's blog kind of prompted me. I'm nearly 40 and my life plan hasn't come together as well as I wanted, but in some ways, better than I expected. Not being able to have children has been a challenge to me. Often I cry out to God, just asking Him , "Why??" Especially after I hear about children being abused, abandoned, & neglected. Ok, back to the career change: I had considered being a writer or an elementary school teacher. When I was a little girl, I wanted to be a nurse, but couldn't stand the sight of blood & guts, then I decided I wanted to be a teacher, but later decided I wanted to make more money. So, it was the business field for me, namely accounting. It's useful work and I've always been gainfuly employed, but, it's unfulfilling. Do you ever get the feeling you were destined to do something great, but have no clue as to what it is??? That's how I've felt, much of my life. Hopefully, I'll have more clarity this year. :)

Ok, enough of that. See you all tomorrow bright and EARLY at Fleet Feet! :)

Baby, We Were Born to Run

Counting Saturday (which was only because I was with you guys & other encouraging non MMers) and yesterday, I had 2 good runs! I'm not in pain anymore--it DOES get better, YAY! Maybe next week I can up my intervals to 3:1. Today will be a yardwork day. Our lawn looks frightful--may need a machete to chop through the backyard. And, I still have yet to ready my tomato bed. I really like homegrown tomatoes!

Haters???

It never ceases to amaze me that people would want to rain on someone's parade. I was floored after reading Mark's post about the "runner snob" (who's also created in the image of God) and hearing Shelley's comments confirm that. What a sad existence she must lead! I would have looked on this boisterous, exuberant, determined group with awe because that they're undertaking something many of them have NEVER done before! Too bad she didn't get it.

A friend of ours asked to use my marathon training as an illustration in his sermon about encouragement/paracleits (apologies--my Greek is bad). The point he made was that we need to be encouraging to each other because sometimes, life gets hard--just like marathon training can be difficult sometimes. So, he made the parallel with MM & the church. It was a good sermon.

That's the most important thing I've learned from MM--to be more of an encourager. It's not easy when you're so used to insults & judgmental thinking. As the youth say (I feel so OLD when I talk like that) "Don't hate, congratulate!"

It's SUPPOSED to Hurt

Well maybe not, but long ago, when I was doing only about 3 miles & calling myself a runner I didn't get the kind of aches & pains I'm getting now. The only training I got this week was a little over 5 miles on Monday. Then, along came illness. If I hadn't preregistered for the 10K Cannonball Run and remembered that "I AM A MARATHONER" I would have stayed in bed. Almost overslept, though.

It was nice running with Christa, Kayra, Kelvin, & Shelly (hey y'all!) The Raymond countryside was just gorgeous! I grew up near this area so it brought back many wonderful childhood memories. Seeing the Confederate & Union "reenactment guys" in their period uniforms and campsites added a nice historical touch.

I think I have tendonitis in my left leg which is why it's been giving me such fits. It wasn't too bad today--guess this week's inactivity helped. But, I don't want to miss any more training days so I can get stronger & faster!

My spirit is willing, why won't my flesh cooperate??

The good news--I did 7 miles!! The not so good news: I did it in 1 hr 31 mins; my average pace was 12:58 & my fastest was 9:00! This is one of my worst runs. My right ankle & Achilles tendon again *sigh*. But today, my left knee & calf started bothering me the last 2 miles. I want so much to increase intervals from 2:1 to 3:1, but I have to get adjusted to the extra mileage before I do. So, I soaked in cold water for about 15-20 mins. I was feeling pretty confident about this whole MM thing until we got to 5 miles. My body is giving me fits--from this continuous cough I can't shake to the aches & pains of my legs & feet. This is going to get better, right????

Sports Injury Hypochondriac

Firstly, I did not do any yardwork because it rained--forgot that was supposed to happen. I didn't go to the "Y" to XT, either. My left shin was bothering me as was my left foot in the arch area. Immediately, I'm thinking, "Shin splints, tendonitis & plantar fasciitis--I'm not going to be able to do 26.2 miles." Got a bag of frozen peas to put on my shin for about 15 mins & it felt better. I need to quit reading anything about sports injuries because each time I do, I swear I start feeling the pain.

Also, I'm considering changing my training schedule to this:

Sunday: XT
Monday: long run
Tuesday: XT
Wednesday: long run
Thursday: XT
Friday: Rest
Saturday: longer run

Yeah, I cut out the Tuesday short run. I'll try it next week and see how that works. Hoping a day or two of rest between long runs might help. Happy Training Everyone! :)

New Pains

Well, I didn't quite make it to 5 miles yesterday (4.97, though--I'm calling that good enough) thanks to a most annoying cramp in the muscle in my shin (didn't feel like shin splints). more of a jabbing pain. Another new pain was my left hamstring--I just had to brag about never having any hamstring problems during training :( And, my face was covered in salt!

Learned some new stuff & not so new stuff:

1. Wash your face immediately after training. I wondered why I felt like a teenager again with acne flare-ups.

2. Change out of the clothes you ran in IMMEDIATELY!! Ladies, you may feel me on this. I won't go into detail (TMI). It's common sense, but I forgot!

3. Cold baths really do help with aches & pain. Just have to get past the initial shock.

4. If you get a side stitch, lean into the aching side as you're walking/running and take deep breaths. It DOES go away faster!

Think I'm going to do yard & house work for today's XT. I have 6 buds on one of the gardenias and both could use fertilizing/weeding, need to prepare to plant tomatoes, prune the azalea bush and move the tulip & daffodil bulbs elsewhere & make a raised bed for them. I've neglected the yard long enough.

Took it slow

I made sure I was well hydrated before I attempted my 3 mile goal yesterday. I stretched for a longer period of time & it seems that did the trick. It felt great, although my right ankle & Achilles tendon ached initially, but as time went on, it was OK. I took a cold bath immediately afterwards & feel pretty good today. Today, I will attempt 5 miles and Thursday 6 miles. Then I should be ready for Saturday's 7 miles. That's the plan.

Forced Rest Day :(

I HATE that I had to miss today! My legs are still sore from Thursday's run & I didn't want to risk further injury. Maybe Monday, I can try for 6 miles. *sigh*

The Agony of "De Feet"

Saturday's 5 mile run at the "Y" was great! I did it in about 1 hr & 5 mins. Monday's 5 mile run also felt great. Did that one in 1 hr 6 mins exactly. Did I mention BOTH of those runs felt great???

Logically, I was looking forward to another great run. I stretched as usual, then set "The Toy" for 2:1 run/rest intervals and took off. Felt like I was going in slo-mo--I couldn't pick up my feet for anything and it seemed the 1 min rest intervals were only 30 seconds in length! After 2 miles, I wanted to quit. Then I realized "I am a marathoner" & kept going to just over 5 miles & did it in 1 hr 8 mins. My calves, ankles & achilles tendons were sore!

I took a cold bath for only a few minutes because the shivering & clattering of my teeth pulled rank over my poor feet & calves need for relief. But the hot water felt heavenly (ahhh). TGIF (yay, rest day!) and we're doing (*gulp*) 6 miles Saturday! Happy Day of Rest! :)

Distractions. . .

My husband is allergic to just about anything with fur. So, we have 2 betta fish named KR & Carotene (Caro for short). Anyway, Caro's been sick for a few days so I called PetSmart to see if they had any kind of medicine for bettas. The lady who answered said I was the first person to ever call for that (she probably laughed after she put me on hold). But, they did have a variety of remedies! After work, I picked up some medicine, treated the fish and went to do a 5 mile run. I finished in just over an hour, but in the dark--don't like running in the dark.

Yesterday, I planned on doing 5K. Unfortunately, I had an auditor at work who didn't seem to realize that when the clock says "5:00" it's time to shut down. Plus, he didn't seem to believe me when I told him I couldn't run the report he needed & so I was at work an unproductive hour after closing. Finally, I got home & got dressed to run. The phone rang. My husband helped a damsel in distress with her vehicle and left a 15 passenger van in Madison somewhere which he needed me to help him retrieve. So, no workout yesterday :( Not happy about that. But at least Caro is doing much better. :)

My Brother, The Marathoner

My baby bro Craig (he's 2 years younger) lives in NYC & has been running in marathons for years. He was surprised to find out I planned on doing Chicago and asked why & I explained. So, he was eager to give Big Sis some tips. His first one? Run your OWN race. (Now, where have I heard that before??) His next response was "Yeah, another marathoner in the family!"

Craig & I got along pretty well as siblings for the most part. Honestly, I kind of envied him because things seemed to happen so easy for him with his tall, athletic good looks, while I was the geeky big sister who wore braces & (thick) glasses & was socially inept. We used to watch Ironman competitions together & wonder if we could even possibly dare to dream. Years later, he tells me he's going to run the NYC marathon. I had my doubts because he didn't leave himself much time to train (about 4 mos), but he did it in about 4 hours & 23 mins. Not bad for a first effort. :) A little part of me was jealous that he ran a marathon before me, but, I was still proud that he did it. And now, it's nice that we have something else in common that we can talk about.

He & his wife Jovi (of Panamanian heritage--shout out to Kayra) are expecting their first child in May, a little girl to be named Alexa. My first niece! :) BTW, we do have a younger sister named Kendra who had a brief stint as a hurdler in middle school and she has a son named Nicolas who's full of energy and thinks he's fully grown at the ripe old age of 6.

Happy Training Everyone. :)

Five Miler, Woo Hoo!!!!

Made it out to the Rez. Darned if it didn't start thundering & lightning the second I stepped out of the mini monster truck. So, after milling around for a minute or so, I headed back home. :(

Then, once I got onto 220, the sun came out. Thinking it makes no sense wasting good sunshine, I headed to the "Y"! Is it just me or is this getting easier by the week?? \o/

Have fun all you "Run from the Sun-ners!" (and don't hurt yourselves.)

Friday the 13th--Muahahahaha!!!!

It's a slooooow day at the office. *sigh* I did weight machines yesterday and my quads were still sore from Wednesday's run (yes, I changed the schedule). Gonna take it easy today.

I got on the scale at the "Y". It said 160 lbs!!!!!! AUGHHHHHHHH!!!!!! Ok, I was 154 when we started and now I'm UP 6 lbs????? What's happenin' here???? I'm not even eating as much!

Looking forward to running in the rain tomorrow. Happy Day of Rest!!!!

OUCH!!!!

Yesterday, I ran 2 :1 intervals on the levee (thanks Mark for helping adjust The Toy) for about 3.5 miles. When I was done & began stretching, my quads just CRAMPED something fierce! I could barely walk! I took deep breaths and walked around as much as I could thinking it was lactic acid build up (??). Then, I had to climb into the "mini monster truck" & head home. This am, it feels like nothing even happened, thankfully.

I opted not to do "Run From the Sun" for fear of injuring myself. Usually, I don't get hurt from running (step aerobics is another story--always twisting my ankles!) & would like to keep it that way.

I am a lazy bum

Saturday was good! It was fun getting to know Nancy (HEY!!) and run with her. We did the "run 2 minutes, 1 walk minute" intervals. :) Just hope I can remember we're running on the rez next weekend.

And, that was the only training I've done thus far :( with the Easter holidays and whatever this cold/flu/allergies thing I have that seems to come & go. Then, the migraines struck. Ugh!

Hoping tomorrow I can feel better & do some training!

Slowly, but surely. . .

I did 2 miles today, ran one of them. Felt pretty good after being under the weather for a few days. Thought it would be a good idea to start slow. Tomorrow I'll try for 3 miles. It was nice running on the levee. I'm so thankful for the rain! :)

Oh well, back to the taxes *sigh*. Happy training everyone! :)

I can do this, I can do this

That's what I took away from this Saturday's meeting. It was nice hearing from the veteran marathoners. Christy, if I had told my mom & husband we were running a marathon, they probably would have hurt me. Ok, that may a bit of an exaggeration, but I would have gotten MUCH resistance. Even though Chris shared how he had the flu & still completed the marathon (many props to you, dude) I couldn't do the 4 miles today on the levee because I did not have the energy. :( I feel better than I did yesterday, but I'm still not 100%. I'll do the 4 miles Monday. :)

So, tonight I'm doing our taxes. I think if I read one more "if line ___ is less than line___, then skip line___ and go to line___" I'll SCREAM! My eyes are beginning to cross; goodnight all.

More Flat Tires *sigh*

Will this crud ever go away??? Sheesh! Now my ears hurt & I'm coughing & sneezing. I still managed to make it to work. It did cross my mind to call in, though.

I'm installing the software that came with my toy. It's taking its own sweet time, thankfully I can run other applications while it's installing.

It's nice looking at the picture directory and matching the blog names with the faces. I'm so terrible with remembering names!

Hope I can make it Saturday! Happy Day of Rest :)

Running on Empty

I had 3 character building runs, Saturday included. My Achilles tendons & ankles hurt whenever I run. Monday, Will went with me when I ran at the "Y". He found a nice little spot on the levee to camp out on while I was running and caught up on his phone calls. I overheard him tell someone he was there for "moral support." What a guy!

Tuesday, I did 5K. Lori sent out an email to the runners in our church to participate in the "Run From the Sun" 5K & fun run which happens a few Saturdays from now at 5:30 pm. Now, is it even possible for me to do the morning training runs AND do a 5K that evening???? Thinking it over. . .

I woke up this am with a horrible sore throat! It hurts to swallow and to talk and my appetite is pretty shot right now. So, I skipped today's weight training. I hope I feel up to running tomorrow.

Happy Training Everyone! :)

It's Been A While

Since I last blogged, that is. I normally do my blogging at work when I have downtime, but my computer hasn't been working for the past 4 days, but thankfully, it was something technical :) Also, I managed (yes, me the technologically challenged) to get our new computer at home on line & running, so here I am, playing hooky from training. I ran 3 miles yesterday and walked one. As usual, the weather was just gorgeous! The allergies are really kicking me this year! Will gave me one of his generic Claritin tablets, which worked OK, but, I was a little wired & had problems staying asleep. To add insult to injury, our workplace is being painted and the paint crew has been using paint remover & the atmosphere is simply toxic.

I went to Fleet Feet and got my new shoes--they feel just great! Asics are my all time favorite running shoes. So lightweight and comfortable! I also got 2 bras & 2 pairs of socks. Isn't amazing how the right gear makes such a difference in performance??

Tomorrow's an XT day--weights, yay, I love weights (sarcasm)! Happy training everyone!

Aaachoo! Yucky Ol' Pollen

It's everywhere! My eyes are itching and I feel congested. Everyone, do a rain dance!

Did nearly 4 miles yesterday in a little over an hour on the levee and the "Y" track combined. Walked most of it because I may be getting those evil shin splints. It's time to buy new shoes!

According to the"toy", I burned 371 calories and my max heart rate was 175. According to the American Heart Assoc, the target heart rate of 100% for a 40 year old is 180. Ok, so I operated at about 97% --not bad!

Have a question for you health-care practitioners out there--how come the scale that's traditionally in a Dr.'s office has you weighing heavier than your bathroom scale??

Guess I'll be on the levee after work. Happy Training Everyone!

Time Change

Is anyone else thrown off by the new Daylight Savings Time?? I feel as if I've missed an hour of sleep. However, it's going to be great to be running later in the day with more daylight.

Still trying to figure out my new toy. I road tested it yesterday w/o the heart monitor. It gave me the pace, distance, calories burned, and time. It'll even set intervals and map out my course--do just about everything but run the course for me. However, it hadn't adjusted itself for Daylight Savings as of yesterday.

The scale has started creeping up again and this time, there are NO cinnamon rolls to blame. Guess I won't worry about it as long as my clothes still fit.

Good Loot

My parents got me a Garman Forerunner 305 for my birthday! It even has a heart monitor and I can track my progress on the computer! I am a technological ignoramus and I'm staring at this thing in awe!! And, Will surprised me with a new computer! Dude, I got a Dell! :)

Will & I spent much of the day traveling to H'burg to deliver luggage for the Mexico trip. That took about 6 hours. We ate lunch at Penn's. Yep, and it was good n' greasy :p. We also had dinner that night with my folks at the Golden Corral. I had a salad, the salmon, vegetables & one roll with honey butter. Needless to say, today's workout was a wash. But, my left Achilles tendon & ankle felt a little tender, so I could use the rest.

Totally amazed at the amount of support from my family I'm getting from MM! See y'all Saturday! :)

The Eve of the 39th

I did some running on the levee yesterday and I felt like I had lead in my running shoes. The day before I did a mile in 11:07:81. Yesterday it was 12:13:87.

Doing better diet-wise. We had clam chowder & PBH sandwiches & fruit for lunch. Will (my husband) is getting used to the natural peanut butter. He is also looking to get more ground flaxseed. :)

Tomorrow, we have to haul luggage to Hattiesburg for the annual youth mission trip. I suggested we do it tomorrow because the original suggested date was Saturday 2 am--don't want to miss anything on Saturdays if I can help it. But, anyway, our church's youth group is headed to Mexico for a week of volunteer work. They're supposed to be working in an orphanage--making repairs, playing with children, etc. They've worked SO hard orchestrating the fundraising drive themselves, which is a first.

It's a XT day. I'm going to run a mile again & do weight machines. Happy Training! :)

It keeps you runnin'

Enjoyed Saturday's run/walk, especially since I ran into Lori and her Corgi-mix Mercedes on the levee. In one of my older posts I referred to a friend who saw me on TV at the first MM meeting--that was her. Both she and her husband Jon are training for a marathon, but not sure which one yet. He's already up to 18 miles. She's concerned about getting enough mileage & is not quite up to Jon's speed so, we may start running together. Although I'm quite sure I'm not up to her speed.

The scale is FINALLY starting to go the other way! Whew! My appetite is starting to taper off, too. I ran 1 mile on the "Y" track Sunday & did it in 11:15:03. Getting faster! :) And, I did the weight machines; my legs really didn't want to cooperate on the glute and thigh machines. I did more upper body training, which is my weakest area. I can't do 20 push ups to save my life!

Another body change I've noticed is that I *ahem* eliminate food more frequently now. Guess that's part of my metabolism speeding up.

Happy training everyone!

Starting to Dislike the Treadmill

I went to the "Y" this am and got on the treadmill. Felt like a hamster on a wheel--going no where--FAST. They didn't have the a/c on (guess it was too early in the am) and soon I was soaked with perspiration--ick! It felt so nice outside, but ever since I saw that naked guy on the track years ago, I don't feel safe running out there, alone in the dark. Maybe I should get "Mr. You Need to Run an Eight Minute Mile" up to join me on those mornings. He ate some of the Kashi. Much like Mikey, he likes it.

Glad tomorrow's Friday! Happy Training Everyone!

I Just Kept Run-ning. . .

Did 3 miles yesterday, ran 2 of them!!!!!! Today is a XT day, so I'll just walk a mile today and do the Tony Little Total Body Workout.

I am up to 158 lbs! Could it be the cinnamon rolls with cream cheese frosting?? Ha, no way! Yes, it's muscle, I'm gaining muscle, that's it!

Totally lovin' this weather. And, it's lighter outside when I finish work!

Happy Training!

Cream Cheese Frosting

I can't believe I actually ran most of the 2 miles Saturday! I did walk about .15. It felt pretty good. The cinnamon swirl bread was soooo good! A little too good. I was inspired to make cinnamon rolls topped with, you guessed it, cream cheese frosting. Not very health conscious, but yummy all the same.

My arm hurts from holding a very heavy toddler in the church nursery. When her parents came to get her, she literally jumped out of my arms and walked to them! Whenever I would put her down to walk, she'd wail. So the next time, that kid's gonna walk.

I tried a mile after church, but, I was still feeling a little sore from Saturday. So, I walked instead. It was SUCH a beautiful day! :)

Stuff?? What Stuff?? I don't have no stuff!

When Mark mentioned "stuff" last Saturday, I must admit I was rather perplexed. I felt undefeatable--I am GOING to do this! Felt great, full of energy--nothing's gonna stop me. Nope,
doesn't apply to me.

Then, the migraines hit. :( Doubts have started creeping in. I missed 3 days of training. I want so very much to do this! Why is this happening??

My husband & I had been trying 4 years to start a family only to find out we have a 3% chance of ever having a child of our own. We've sought treatment from specialists who've offered expensive alternatives, but weren't very confident they would work for us. We're currently on a waiting list to adopt. The dream of parenthood seems so far away.

Also, I don't like my job. Haven't liked it for years. You know how when you ask little kids what they want to be when they grow up and they say, "A basketball player!" or " A doctor!" with such excitement?? I've never had a passion for anything. Getting a degree & taking
a boring job to support myself should be enough, right??

That's it! I'm going for a long walk after work.

Ugh, Migraines

I was doing so well with training, then a "flat tire" happened. I get migraines from time to time and it's been a while since I've had one (I credit the training for that). So, I missed yesterday and I'll miss today's training too :( Wish there was some way I could never, ever have another one. Hopefully Thursday, I'll be back on track.

Happy training everyone--see ya Saturday! :)

PEACE
Kim

Just Another Manic Monday. . .

Actually, it's pretty calm around here. Saturday was just awesome! The "Y" at Fortification is where I train, so I felt right at home running on the levee. There's a 1 mile track below the levee, which I like to use.

The nutrition lecture wasn't as bad as I thought it would be. Felt SO much better when Robin said, "Moderation is the key." Many of the foods she brought I already have. As a child, my mom usually fed us hot cereals, sometimes with wheat germ, and encouraged us to eat fresh fruit and to drink lots of water. I was introduced to ground flaxseed by an active older couple in our church; it tastes a little like wheat germ and I sprinkle a little on my yogurt now & then.

After the meeting, I went grocery shopping and got some Kashi cereal--the oat bran stuff. It tastes like heartier Cheerios and I got natural peanut butter (the crunchy kind). My dear husband prefers crunchy peanut butter, he saw the natural pb & balked a little. After some coaxing (actually nagging), he's willing to try it. Also at "Wallyworld" that day, they offered free blood pressure & cholesterol checks. I'm happy to report my BP was 115/70 and my cholesterol was 142.

Tonight is Rex's step class. Happy training everyone!

PEACE
Kim

Sometimes, I don't like my husband

Can ANYONE explain to me how a man who hasn't run in years can out run his wife who runs fairly consistently???? Is it because he's 6'2" and I'm 5'4"??

We decided to do only a mile yesterday because we had dinner guests coming in an hour. So, I set my mobile phone (which has a stopwatch feature) and we're off. By about the .5o mile marker, he PASSES me! And, stays consistently ahead of me until about the.10 marker when I pulled ahead (which he probably let me do) and finished in 10:44 (his time was 10:55). He was right, it shaved nearly a minute off my time. He was VERY winded. I was OK.

Dinner was nice, I prepared taco salad and my dear mom in law made brownies, which we had with ice cream and chocolate sauce. I made the chili with ground turkey, black beans, kidney beans & corn , so see that was healthy! :)

I hope it's warm tomorrow! See ya all Saturday!:)

Stuff I Should Have Known. . .

OK, I ran in the c-c-cold outdoors after work yesterday. I ran a mile; did it in 11:42:23 *sigh*. Here's what I learned:

1. Your nose may run continually.

2. Wear a cap on head next time (if there IS a next time--kiddin').

3. Wear gloves--your hands WILL get cold.

4. Your ears may ache--another reason to wear a cap or headband.

5. It's good to warm up prior to--I didn't have that annoying hip cramp that I had when we ran in Belhaven--which I've NEVER had before even when I was a regular runner.

Perhaps I'm overdoing it a wee bit, but I like to run a mile in addition to cross training, just to improve my time. Now, it's time to make a trip to Fleet Feet (don't yell at me). I have 2 pairs of running shoes I alternate and it's time to retire one pair. The other ones still have a little life in 'em and I don't have shin splints--yet. Plus, I'm going to need warmer clothes to run in.

My husband always asks me about my time when I run and he's telling me I need to do an 8 minute mile. So now, he's offered to run alongside me to help improve my time. This guy hasn't run in YEARS! When we used to run together, he could outrun me. So, now I have a coach.

zzzzzz

Overslept this am. I took it easy Monday and only walked a mile. Yesterday, I did 2 miles on the treadmill (fast walking on an incline) because it was SOOOO C-C-COLD and windy. Mark, PLEASE, tell me if it's like this on Saturdays we can use treadmills indoors (pretty please)????

I feel leaner and but I'm still eating like Seabiscuit. And, I weighed myself yesterday: 157 lbs! AAAUGHHH! Three lbs HEAVIER than I when I started MM, RATS! My dear sweet husband assures me the extra weight is muscle and not fat. We're supposed to talk about nutrition this Saturday and I am dreading it. Don't get me wrong, I eat lots of fruits and vegetables, and drink plenty of h2o, but if I have to give up bread, potatoes, butter, whole milk, sour cream, cheese and sugar, someone's in for an uphill battle! BTW, my blood pressure, cholesterol, & triglycerides are all normal.

Today's an XT day (Yay!). I hope to walk a mile and do Tony Little's Abdominal Workout. It's not as tough as his Total Body Workout. Happy Valentine's Day everyone!

PEACE
Kim :)

Feeling Blah

The Saturday meeting was fun! I was surprised to learn the youngest MM participant is 17 and our oldest is 70! Too cool! The lining up by age & birthday was fun, too. I found a birthday buddy (we were both born 3/8/1968), but I forgot her name :( I am TERRIBLE with names. Maybe the blogging will help with that. I completed the 1.5 miles in a little over 21 minutes. Don't know why I can't seem to consistently run/jog in colder temps. Perhaps I should be more intentional in getting acclimated to that, since after all, we'll running in the Windy City.

As for the title to today's post, some of you ladies might relate. I had wondered how this training would affect my cycles. I still feel blah & achey, so that hasn't changed (boo-hiss). But, the aches aren't bad enough for me to take Tylenol yet. Wonder if I should skip today's workout (Rex's step class at the "Y") & stay home & rest? Nah, think I might just tough it out. Sunday, I ran a mile in about 11:30--not my best time--walked another mile, & did the Tony Little workout when I got home.

Forgot to mention I had a "Girl's Night Out" with my cousins/friends Saturday night in celebration of my dear friend/cousin Monica who's 39 (we're about 4 weeks apart in age--she'd KILL me for publishing her age like that). We went to dinner at Las Margarita's and had chimichangas. Guess who cleaned her plate???

Pancakes for dinner, a hamburger for breakfast

Am I the only one whose appetite has picked up?? Yesterday, my husband said that I'm eating like a lumberjack (haha). We usually have lunch almost everyday at my in laws; my mom in law is pretty good at preparing meals where all the food groups are represented. Yeah, I'm supposed to be eating 6 small meals a day, but I'm so used to eating 3 medium/large ones and I'm usually done eating by 7 pm each night. And, I'm drinking more H2O.

I ran a mile (woo-hoo!) and walked a mile yesterday (yay 2 miles). When I got home, I dusted off the Tony Little Workout VHS tape I got like 10 Christmases ago from my brother. I had to laugh at the dated workout outfits (& big hair!) TL & crew had, but the workout was a good one! So, I'll be doing that one on Sundays from here on out.

Haven't lost any real weight, but my clothes are starting to fit differently. Here's hoping I can stay on schedule. I am really beginning to enjoy the workouts! However, I am glad tomorrow is Friday. \o/

Tuesday Afternoon

Actually, it's in the am, but, I like the song :). Last night, I took a step class with my favorite instructor, Rex, at the "Y". His routines are full of squats and lunges. Then, he has this killer ab routine towards the end. Today, my thighs feel like they're encased in concrete. Before, my shins were killin' me, but now they feel much, better.

I've scanned all the blogs and feel so inspired by what I've seen. And thanks, thanks to you who've commented on my blogs--really appreciate it. :) It's nice to know that people are cheering each other on and giving encouragement. This is a MAJOR undertaking. And last I heard we were 190+ strong?? WOW!!!!

I don't use an Ipod or anything like that when I run/jog/walk. Usually, I think about the day's events, plan ahead, pray, or even play little games like coming up with songs with running themes and humming them. "It Keeps You Runnin'" by the Doobie Bros, "Running on Empty" Jackson Browne, "Runnin' with the Devil" Van Halen--not exactly very inspiring, but you get the point.

Lately, it's been lighter outside at 5pm. Might try running outdoors today.

PEACE,
Kim :)

After the 1st Training Meeting. . .

Boy, did I get schooled!!! The hilly streets of the Belhaven Heights area nearly did me in! I mean, I run a mile like every other day, doggone it!!! But, in the comfort of a nice, warm gym & on a treadmill. I had a pain in my hip while trying to jog on those hills--never have I felt THAT kind of pain before!

So, I'll stick to walking for the time being. :( I didn't get to crosstrain yesterday, but I walked 2 miles outdoors instead. Tomorrow, I'm taking the step class at the "Y", so that should make up for it.

Day 4. . .

The reactions I've gotten have been quite encouraging. When I told my husband I wanted to run a marathon, he was very supportive. Not enough to want to join me, though. He said he's prefectly willing to ride along side of me on his motorcycle when I train. What a guy! He's really looking forward cheering me on at the Chicago marathon, too.

And, when I was in church Sunday, a friend wanted to know if I was in training because his wife (also a friend) saw me on TV. They already do marathons and they're excited. He's even talked me & another church member into running a 5K in April!

By the way, I can run. But, I can only manage about a mile and a half. Years ago, I used to run 3 miles about 3x weekly. Then, I got married, got busy, stopped going to the gym, gained weight, etc.

I am not a morning person, but this Thursday I will attempt to get up at 5:00 am and go to the gym to get my "wogging" in. Hope I can do it!

Ok, well here goes. . .

When I was 29, I had decided to give my life to Christ. As the new year approached & I was about to turn 30, I realized my life wasn't all that spectular. So, I made a long list of things I wanted to accompish before I turned 40, but then changed it to "before I die." One of those things was to complete a marathon. So, now, I've signed up for the "Marathon Makeover" and it's Day 2 of my training.