Double Digits training run

Workout:  10 mile run in 1:28:14 with Dad, SB, Rob and Anda

What a nice way to start off my morning, which lead to a beautifully nice and productive day.  Got to love what running can do to your outlook on the day.  I had a great 10 mile run to clear my head, chat to my family, enjoy the early morning sunrise and watch the city waking up. 

Yesterday I posed the question "To rest or not to rest the day before a long run". Thank you for leaving your comments. I like hearing what you ladies have to say. I typically take a rest day before a long run or race; however, this week it didn't happen and I wasn't sure how that would effect me. Today was my fourth consecutive day to run.  I usually don't run four days in a row so I was a little worried to how my legs would respond this morning.  I was afraid they would be dead and miserable.  I made sure to fuel properly yesterday, drink lots of fluids and get a good night's rest.  I think that helped out a lot.  My legs actually felt really good.  I didn't start to struggle until after mile 9 which for me makes sense since 9 miles is the most I've done since January.  I like building on one mile at a time to my long runs each week.  I feel like that is the best way for my legs. 

I did have some Power Bar Energy Gel Blast with caffeine today during the long run. Prior to this summer I didn't use any of those energy gels or gu's.   I figured I would give a few different kinds a try and see how they help.  I can definitely feel them working and enjoy the little burst of energy they give me.  I don't know how I ever trained and ran a full marathon without discovering and using those energy gels.  I don't feel that I NEED them during these long runs, but they do seem to help.

I kept pretty active the rest of the day working around the house with Cowboy.  That helped to keep my legs from cramping up.  I did notice that I was getting a headache shortly after the run so I downed some Gatorade and water.  This evening my groin area and hips were tight some I did some stretching to hopefully avoid major issues tomorrow or when I run again.  I am looking forward to my rest from running day, but know that I will be doing some hiking and working here around the house to keep me busy.

Overall I am very pleased with this week's training.  I had two long runs since I didn't do my long run last weekend but my legs didn't give out on me.  Tomorrow I will put together my week 7 training recap and take a look at week 8's plan.  I can't believe my first HM of the summer is just three weeks away.

QOTD:  Does your training plan build on one mile at a time to your long runs or does it jump up in increments?

To Rest or Not To Rest Before a Long Run??

Workout:  3.3 mile run in 31:04

Welcome to Fitness Friday!  To new readers, I hope you enjoy my blog.  I am looking forward to reading more of your blogs.

So the big question for me today is: "Is it better to rest or not to rest before a long run/race?"   I couldn't decided on the answer to that question today. So I thought I would put it out there for ya'lls thoughts and opinions.

I decided to go ahead and do an easy short 3 mile run today, even though I've run the previous two days (5 and 6 miles) and have a long run (10 miles) planned for tomorrow.  My thoughts were that the run today would help to get my legs loose and not so tight for the early start.  At the same time I don't want them to be "too" tired.  They feel good at the moment, but do need some stretching.  Sometimes I take a rest day before long runs and races, sometimes I don't.  I really don't know what is better for you.   What do you think works the best?

The biggest issue I've been having lately isn't my legs being tired, but the bottom of my feet and heels are sore.  I think it is all the barefootin' I do around here plus the not very supportive sandels and flipflops.  I have been thinking about putting some cushioning insoles in my sneakers but I don't want that to screw up how my shoes feel or how I run.  What I really probably need to do is wear sneakers or supportive shoes during the day but I HATE HOT FEET!!  I love to be barefoot or in sandels so that would be a struggle for me.

Another quick thing to  share.... I've recently gotten addicted to smoothies and green monsters.  However, I was tired of the mess and cleanup using my big ol blender.  This week I purchased my new after a run, buddy - the Oster My Blend!

So nice!!!  Quick, easy to use and when I'm done with my smoothie, I just wash it out and fill it up with water to help increase my water intake throughout the day. I loved it after the first try and went and got my sister one as a belated birthday gift.  She loves hers too. 

QOTD:  Do you rest or not rest the day before a long run/race?  What works best for you?

Quiet, Reflective Day

Workout: 6 mile run in 60 mins without Copper and the ipod

Today is just one of those quiet reflective days.  I feel like I have a little bit of a cold coming on, so I wasn't sure if I wanted to my run this morning but I convinced myself that I should.  Then when I got downstairs Copper and I got into a little "fight" which as silly as it is brought me to tears.  A sure sign that I am getting sick. Yes I know getting in a fight with a dog, how ridiculous.  But this dog has his nasty (I was abandon in the woods and had to survive on my own for two months before Cowboy took me in) moments and when I don't feel well my tolerance level gets shot.   I couldn't handle it, cried for 5 mins, curled up on the couch, and almost let the internal battle win again and not go for my run.  BUT I didn't.  I got up, left Copper at home - which left him crying...ha, there, we were even!  I didn't have my ipod since it is in my car which is at the shop again.  So left just me, my feet and the two bickering - should I- shouldn't I - angels on my shoulder. 

Those stupid angels bickered for at least the first two miles.  The Should I angel won and we kept on going on the planned 6 mile hilly loop.  Once I got to those hills and just focused on getting up them I was all better.  By mile 4 I was glad I was out there on the road pounding out the cold and frustrations with the steady sound of my sneakers slapping the pavement.

I don't know why this summer has been so tough with my motivation issues but I am glad I am digging in and finding the will somewhere.  When I got home I had the wonderful running energy surge so I dove right into the housework that was screaming at me. I turned on my uplifting music playlist up nice and loud and got busy.  Three loads of laundry, clean floors, and clean bathrooms later my energy surge is about dried up.  Now it is time to work on canning some pickles and making some delicious zucchini baked goods.

QOTD: Does anyone have any good zucchini recipes to share?

Running the Nerves Away

Workout:  4.8 mile run  in 43:14 with Dad

I really had trouble falling asleep last night.  I just couldn't get my little brain to shut down for the night.  I was tossing and turning worrying about my presentation today to fellow co-teachers.  I spent lots of time the last two weeks prepping, but was still nervous.  I've done a gazillion different training workshops with my old job and I've presented at other teacher related conferences but I was still worried about presenting in front of teachers I see every day.  I only had three hours to teach them about Prezi, VoiceThread, Wordle, Wallwisher, Voki and Polleverywhere.  Being the crazy schedule oriented person I had the training mapped out minute by minute.  Somehow I made it through.  My co-teachers were fantastic.  Picked up everything very quickly, asked great questions and really contributed to my training.  It was probably one of my best trainings.  And the plus to working so hard on this training is that I learned lots of somethings along the way.  It really helped me too by practice putting those tools together. 

Thank goodness I met up with my dad this morning for a run.  He helped me talk and run the nerves right out of me.  We just ran around in town and I was so thankful that I actually "liked" running today.  It all felt good again.  I didn't feel like I was dying.  Probably because my mind was distracted with internal conversations about my presentation that it didn't really notice all the running that was going on. 

So luckily my mind will be quite busy for the next week with more planning, crazy internal dialogue, ideas and figuring out my next three presentations.  Maybe running will be back to feeling fun and enjoyable since I'll be so distracted.   I will test that theory out as I finish up three more runs this week, starting with a six miler tomorrow.

 

HM Course Practice

Workout:  8.8 mile run in 1 hr 27 mins with SB

It was a tough one today.  I was quite the NegativeNancy when I started out on the run this morning with SB.  I felt like it was going to be a tough one the night before so I checked to see what SB was doing and our miles were similiar so I decided to join her.  I am glad I did, otherwise I would have ended it way before my 9 miles. 

I feel like I go through this slump at the beginning, middle, and end of my summer training.  This morning I was saying again, "This is my last half marathon - the training is so tough, I'm tired of it.."  I said that last year and I think the year before as well.  Yet here I am.   It is just a slump and I know I will come out of it, but sometimes I just wonder why I put my body through this each summer. 

I know, I know... it is for the challenge and that overwhelming sense of accomplishment when I am done - but that is so hard to remember and rationalize on days like today.  I think the heat has a lot to do with it, but it is still hard even when the temps do go down. 

Today we ran a part of the route that we will take when we run the half marathon in September.  That HM is going to be rough to say the least since a good chunk of it is all hills.  I am glad my first HM is all flat, that will be my confidence booster and hopefully goal setter.  The second one is going to be just for the experience.  I am not expecting anything great on that one.  Which is a good thing because based on today's run it is going to be back in the two hour range with all those hills.

Regardless todays run and all my runs are worth it.  It keeps me active, gets me outside and really does lighten my mood (eventually).  Here is a great quote that I always remember when I question why I do this,  from a long-time friend of mine:

"But why do I run? I ask myself this question often, especially on the longer runs where all you have is your mind. I'm not a particularly good runner; I'm certainly not built to run fast. I'm not really even built to run far. Yet I return to the sport - indeed to the experience - almost daily. And I participate in events with fervor. The reasons are not noble. I do not run to reach some nirvana, to lose weight or to face fear. Quite simply, I run because I can." ~Mark B.

Source

I think that sums it up perfectly for me.  But I still forget and grumble at myself occassional for putting myself through it again and again.  I know I'd miss it if I couldn't do it.  So a reminder to myself:  Treasure each and every run - in the sun, heat, snow, rain, sleet, and fog - the bad, the good, the ugly, the easy ones and the tough ones.  You Run Because You Can!

QOTD:  How are you doing with your runs?  Have you gotten into a slump lately? 

One Month Away

I've been a little MIA lately.  It always seems that towards the end of the month I slack off on my blog posting.  Things have been busy this weekend.  Friday was filled with an early morning run, working in the heat, cleaning the clubhouse and a family picnic in the park.  Saturday was my rest day from running which was good.  That left me plenty of time to hang out with my sisters and TinTin as we tried on bridesmaid dresses and planned Amanda's bridal shower.  After girl time the boss, aka. Cowboy, put me to work at home.  At 11 pm, when I am usually an hour into my dreamland we headed out with Charisma to get her started chasin racoon.  The big dogs went for a little chase then afterwards so this girl didn't get into bed until after 1 am. 

When I don't stick to my sleep routine my next day is all goofed up.  I was so exhausted this morning and had no energy to tackle my long run of the day.  It was still muggy, sticky hot and my legs/feet were just tuckered out.  So I postponed my long run to Monday once again.

My first half marathon of the summer is just one month away!!  I still got lots of work to do but am on the right track.  Here's a recap from this week:

I had a long run on Monday and nice 6 mile on Wednesday with Dad, SB, Rob and Ella.  On Thursday, I toughed out a run with Copper.  Friday was a quick 3 miler with Copper out here on the hills.  Today was supposed to be 9 but I just didn't get out there.  I really didn't think it would be a good one if I had managed to get out.  Between exhaustion, hunger and the heat it would have been rough.  So tomorrow when it is suppose to be a refreshing 65 degrees I am going to get in my 9 miles.  I think I might work on them in town where it is a little flater and more opportunities to stop and get a drink if needed.

I have a busy week with dr appts and my first professional development training for teachers at my school.  I am a little nervous, but I've been working on my presentation and all the resources for a week now.  I think it will go pretty good.  Once I get that training done on Wednesday, I will need to get busy on the remaining three trainings I have the first two weeks of August.  I got some work to do on prepping training for using Moodle and developing an online course for 4th graders. 

I suppose I need to get working on developing my own 8th grade online course too.  Lots to do and time is slipping away.  The new school year is going to be here before I know it.

QOTD:  Have any of you taken an online course?  What do you like or dislike about online courses?
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Run anyways

Workout:  5 mile run in 45:50

"That's what runners do; they run. If you're not feeling well, you run; if it's lousy weather, you run, and if you're under stress, you obviously go for a run. You run to clear your head. You run to ease the ache in your muscles, and you run just so you can breathe a little fresh air. No matter what else is going on, there's always time for a run. " ~Anonymous

I felt fine, the weather was lousy, I cleared my head, I eased the ache in my muscles, I didn't breathe any fresh air but I still went for a run.  Even though it was a glorious 72 degrees with oppressive humidity and crazy blanket of fog, I got up to run anyways. I will be running anyways again tomorrow even though the low is only going to be 76 degrees.  I need that run because...That's what runners do.  We are a crazy bunch but no matter what else there is always time for a run.

QOTD:  Did you brave the nation-wide heat to run today?  Why did you run anyways?

Fun in the Sun

Workout:  6 mile run in 56:37

Today I enjoyed some Fun in the Sun with my family.  I met up with Dad, SB, Robyn and little miss Ella Beans for a 7 am morning run.  We met and did the river walk loop since it would be nice and flat and easy to push Ella Beans along for the ride.  We kept a very comfortable easy pace for the first 5 miles and then SB and I kicked it into gear for the last mile. 

After we were a sweaty mess we headed back to Amanda's house to get showered cleaned up and enjoy Mr. Sticky sticky buns topped with peanut butter that my Daddy picked up for us.  Rob, Ella, SB and I all then got ourselves around and headed out to the local fair.  We were shootin to beat the crowds and get there before it got too stinky hot.  One of two ain't bad.  The fair was empty but it was already stinky hot by 10 am.  We were once again a sweaty mess but still enjoyed seeing all the Bahs, Nays, Oink-Oinks, Moos, Cockadoodle-doos, and Ella's favorites the bunnies.  We also got to ride the carousel and as soon as it stopped Ella was signing and screaming "more-more".  However after lunch that little cutie-pie could barely keep her eyes open.  She was falling asleep as we changed her diapers.  What a trooper!

Great day!  Looking forward to more family time on Friday and Saturday.  Until then, I am finding ways to keep cool and hope you are able to do the same.

Hot, Hot and Hot

Workout:  1.5 mile hike with the Beagles

I can't believe how hot and muggy it is outside.  It is gross!  And according to the wonderful weather guys it is just going to get worse especially on Thursday and Friday.  Ugh!  Just keeping my eye on Surday and Monday and hoping the low humidity and fresh feeling comes true.

This morning I got up early to take the beagles to the club to chase some rabbits around in the wet brush before it got too hot.  Thank goodness we got some good rain last night.  My garden really needed a nice drink of water.  Now maybe things will grow a little better.  I walked around with the rabbit chasers for two hours this morning and hopefully started to work the kinks out of my knee.

I don't know what happened yesterday after my run, but my knee was really sore last night.  I was having trouble putting weight on it so I iced it before I went to bed.  It is still tender today however I think the more I stretch it out the better it feels. I hope it doesn't give me issues tomorrow when I run.  I am trying my best to notfold and tuck it under when I am sitting here on the couch.  I don't think that helps the matter much. 

Now off to find some ways to stay cool and come up with ideas for dinner.  I hate eating hot meals when it is incredibly hot out.

QOTD:  What do you make for dinner when it is humid, sticky, gross and 95 degrees out?  How do you stay cool?  I end up not cooking and eating a lot of simple sandwiches. Last night was BLT sandwiches.  Not the most balanced and healthy meal.  At least I got two veggies in there.  I really need to find some good receipes.

HM Week 5 Recap

Workout:  8.9 mile run in 1 hr 15 min

Oh boy my training and my summer vacation is just zooming by.  Can't believe I've finished Week 5 of training.  Overall I am really happy with the way training is going.  I was a little concerned two weeks ago, but I think I got over the road bumps and am on track now.  Here's a look at planned and actual training for week 5:

I didn't get my long run last week in until Monday.  That long run I think was a turning point for me, because it made me realize that I could hold a good pace for a long distance if I wasn't faced with crazy hills.  I stuck to the plan for the rest of the week and had some good runs early in the morning.  On Saturday, I had one of best times in the past few years in a 5k race.  I did not get myself motivated to do my long run yesterday so I rested up and did my long run today.

I had Cowboy drop me off again on this way to work about 9 miles out.  It was the same route as last Monday which I like because it is mostly flat or downhill.  I didn't feel as good as I did last week, but it was still a good training run.  It helped me work on those mental issue that I struggle with when I am on a long run by myself.

So here's the plan for the rest of this week:

I might shuffle around tomorrow's run to Wednesday but everything else should be on target.  It will be nice to not have a race this weekend, so that I can just focus on doing my  long run.

K, enough about training and running for now.  Yesterday I had date night with my husband.  Date night doesn't happen very often in our house so when they do I really look forward to them.  This date night is a reoccuring annual date and one I look forward to.  We headed out to the Rodeo and Bull-a-Rama for fabulous corn-dogs on a stick and some bullride watching.  Cowboy rode bulls for 10 years but misses riding quite a bit during the summer time.  He did say last night that he isn't sure he wants to come next year because it depresses him.   I like watching the bullriding with him and having him explain things.  He only rode for the first two years we started dating.  I always enjoyed watching him ride.  I know he misses it but I am glad I don't have to worry about him getting injured on the back of those crazy animals.

Here's a few more pictures from last week that I never got off my cell phone to share:

This is my cutie-pa-tootie- niece tickling me from a distance.

Such a doll!  Glad I get to spend some time with her this week while she is at Gmom and GrandBob's house.

Someone has been having trouble getting out of bed lately.  I end up making the bed with her in it.

New hair-do all nice and straightened from the hairdresser.  Lately I've been too lazy to straighten it and end up with a crazy curl mess.  Plus it's so humid it was just end up all crazy anyhow.

And last but not least a little wildflower bouquet to brighten the day.

QOTD:  Did you do any training runs or races this weekend?  How are you dealing with your runs in this crazy summer hot weather?

Race in Rememberance 5K - Race Recap

Today we all met up for our last 5k race until August!  Today's race was the Race in Remembrance 5k.  This race helps to raise scholarship money for students in Remembrance of those students who lost their lives in Flight 800.  The race is only held once every 5 years.  My dad and I ran it back in 2006 and I remembered it to be a very nice race with a very good turnout and for a great cause.

SB met us there, she ran 10 miles from home to the race so that she could get in her 13 miles for the day.     Dad, Amanda, Adam, Robyn and Ella beans all came to run as well.  I decided last night that I was going to shoot to get out of the 23's for this 5k since I knew it was all flat and would be easy. I decided to aim for 22:30 and set my Garmin Training Assistant to help me along.  When I got to the race they had the times from 5 years ago and I saw that I finished 1st in my age group with a 22:35 so I was really set to beat that time.

There were quite a few runners and it started off on a little narrow section so it was a little busy in the beginning.  I met up with one of the ladies that I know always finishes ahead of me or right with me.  She was aiming to finish in the 21's so I knew I needed to keep her in my sights.  I kept my eye on my Garmin and was ahead of my pacing assistant in the beginning.  The first mile I probably took off a little fast with 6:45 min mile but felt ok.  The 2nd mile I slowed it down to 7:00 and could feel that I was pushing myself.  I was definitely out of my comfortable race zone.  I started to get pretty tired at 2 1/2 but pushed along still ahead of  my pace so I knew I could finish with my goal.  

It is hard to describe to a non-runner the "thrill" and feeling you get when you know you are pushing yourself.  You are leaving it all out there and not holding back, but yet it feels so good.  My legs were tired and my breathing was a little tough but I loved it.  I was pushing harder than usual and definitely didn't have the energy to kick it at the end.  It is a good thing no one tried to "race" me to the finish because I wouldn't have been able to get them.  I was excited when I could see the clock and it was still in the 21's but didn't make it to the finish line and cross the mats until 22:10!!!!  Crushed my goal!!!  One of the best time I've had in years.  I didn't know if I could do it, if I had the "speed" potential but now I know I do.  I just might have to set a new goal for the next 5k to see if I can get in the 21's. 

Robyn, Sarah and Amanda all swept their age group with 1st, 2nd and 3rd.  I got 3rd in my age group.  My little niece who is just 19 months RAN her first little race in the grass today and she won 3rd in her age group too!  She was too cute holding her mommy and Aunt Mandwe's hands bookin it down the path.  Again I forgot my camera to catch the cuteness to share.  I'm working on that.

I did get  my camera after we were all done to get a picture of me and my sisters sporting our ActiveBands!  If you haven't discovered the greatness of this ActiveBands you have to check them out!  Great product, stays in place and does its job the whole time.  It is great with my new short hairdo.  It keeps all my layers tucked back and away from my face when I run!  Love them!

Sarah, Amanda, Me and Robyn

QOTD:  How would you describe that feeling of pushing yourself to beat a goal and leaving it all out their on the course, to a non-runner?  For me it is just an overwhelming sense of accomplishment and pride knowing that I can achieve things when I put the time and effort into working for them.   Exhausting but so inner-rewarding.  Definitely the runner's high.

Running, Bowling and Random Facts About Me

 Workout:  7.4 mile run in 1 hr 7 mins with Dad

Today was an early morning and fun filled exhausting day.  I drug myself out of bed at 5:15 pulled on some running clothes, grabbed my bag and headed to town to meet up with my Daddy.  I had a 7 mile run on the training plan so Dad agreed to tough them out with me.  We did a big ol' loop through town, down to the river walk and back.  I felt good for the beginning of it, around mile 4.5 I started to feel a little tuckered out and by mile 6.5 my legs were toast.  They did get me back to our starting point luckily.  As soon as we got back I immediately did some stretching.  I do not stretch enough.  I love how I feel when I am done so WHY don't I do it all the time??  I can't figure it out.

The rest of my morning was spent hanging out with my good friend Amy and her two daughters.  We ran some errands, did a little shopping and went bowling.  Our local bowling alley offers free bowling for kids all summer long so the girls got a free game.  It is fun to play in a lane with bumpers in the gutter!!!  I had my best score ever! :)  Plus it is just adorable to see a 2 1/2 year old carry a bowling ball and then push it down the lane.    I stink at remembering my camera so that I could share the cuteness.

Now onto the random facts about me.  The fabulous Nikki at The Worth of My Soles picked me for another blogger award.  Check out Nikki's great blog.  She is funny, talented and a workout queen.

So here are seven random facts about me

I've donated my hair to Locks for Love twice - the second time was just yesterday when I got 10 inches chopped off.

I've had my motorcycle licence since 2006 and love to ride my Kawasaki Vulcan 500.

I worked in a horse barn for three years, taking care of the horses, learning how to train a filly and taking riding lessons.

I was a "band nerd" in high school as part of  the color guard, indoor guard and indoor percussion groups.

For my 30th birthday I took a 12 day cruise to Alaska with my grandfather, mom and dad.  We got a chance to take a helicopter ride and walk on top of Mendenhall Glacier

I swam with dolphins in the Bahamas.

It is harder than I thought to come up with seven random facts and find pictures to go along with them.  Thanks for the Blogger Award Nikki!

100th Post

Workout:  4 mile run in 34:36 with Copper

I can't believe I started this blogging journey in January and have made it to my 100th post already!! Thank you to all my followers.  You guys keep me accountable to not only training, but to write and encourage others on our various journies - whether it be running, working out, eating right, etc. I look forward to reading your blogs and reading your comments. I've really enjoyed blogging more than I thought I would.  It has helped me to release pent up thoughts, emotions and feelings that I know others are going through as well.  It is a great place to connect and realize I'm not alone.  So thank you.  Thank you for your support, encouragement, and for sharing part of your life story with me.

Today I got in a 4 mile run before it rained.  Felt pretty good other than the VERY VERY itch foot.  This bee sting is still sore but the worst of it is that it is just itchy.  Especially itchy once my feet started getting warm.  Now I have to get some stretching in before tomorrow's planned 7 milers and a summer fun- day with my goddaughter.

Yesterday morning I finally got some good pictures of the little girls who aren't so little anymore.

Charisma is a 7 month old leopard hound.

Macy is a 7 1/2 month old beagle.

They grow up so fast!   Hope you enjoy your day!  We are going out to enjoy the sunshine without the humidity!!

QOTD:  How long have you been blogging for?  I started blogging regularly back in January so seven months for me.

Garden is Growing

I love this time of year!!!  I get to sit back and watch my garden grow and begin eating the delicious goods it delivers!  Of course, it isn't just all sitting and watching...there is all the watering and weeding that go into it too but ooooh so worth it.

I love my blueberry bush!  It was here when we bought the house and already huge.  I planted some more this year but it will be a few years till they really produce monsters like this one.  Today I got to enjoy some of these:

in here

Yummy!  Soon I will get to enjoy some of these things too:

Cucumbers!

Cantalope or Melon - I'm not  sure which.

Tomatoes

Cabbage

Zucchini

Peppers

The corn, lettuce, beans, potatoes, onions, carrots, broccoli, and califlower are growing too just a ltitle slower than the rest.  Hoping we get some rain soon to give it all a little push.  I've also been enjoying my herbs.  The oregano and basil are delicious on pizza.  I used some of the sage and parsley when I cooked some chicken.  The dill will be put to use soon when I can some of those cucumbers as pickles.

I was a picture taking fool this morning since I didn't run.  Yesterday afternoon I got stung in the bottom of my foot, in my arch area - while wearing sandals.  It was swollen, sore and tight last night.  I took some Benadryl and it is much better today but still tender especially if I step on it wrong.  So I am going to push  my run back to tomorrow and get in some cross training today. 

More pictures tomorrow of my silly puppies.

QOTD:  What is your favorite homegrown produce fresh from the garden?  I love fresh onions, cucumbers and tomatoes from the garden.

Power of Positive Thinking

Workout:  8 mile run in 1:06:31

It amazes me (and it shouldn't by now) the effects of positive thinking.  Running is such a competitive sport for me and not necessarily competitive with other people but with myself.  I am constantly comparing myself to what I've done before.  Last year at the time I was averaging much faster paces than I am now.  So I've been beating myself up lately even though I know I shouldn't. 

Today I got out for my morning run as planned at 6:15.  I decided to try a Hammer Gel for today's run since I was up early and didn't have anything to eat.  I then hopped in the truck and had Cowboy dropped me off on his way to work.    As we were driving I was worried at first that it wasn't such a good plan.  What if my legs and feet were still going to bug me?  I  began to wish that I had just left from the house so that I could have turned around if things were giving me an issue.  However, once I got started I was glad I stuck with my plan - it forced me to stay focused since I had only one method to get me back. 

The nice thing about Cowboy dropping me off is that the first 6 miles were mostly flat or downhill.  I took off a little quicker than I usually do to try and hold that lower pace.  I felt pretty good and my feet and legs didn't give me much of an issue.  Overall for this run my pace was 8:19 min mile!  WOO-Hoo!  When you think positive thoughts and focus on what you want to do you can do it.

Jill at Life as I See It had a great quote yesterday, "Suprise yourself.  Push past your physical limits."  For me though lately I think I need to push past my mental limits.    So much of running is about getting your head in the game and doing just that - pushing yourself.  Push past what you think you can do, what your body thinks you can do.  You will indeed surprise yourself.  That is the lesson I relearned today and will probably relearn about a gazillion times. 

QOTD:  What's your favorite running or workout related quote? 



HM Week 4 Recacp

Workout:  NONE - failed at getting out for the long run

It was a really relaxing and quiet Sunday.  We got a lot done but not my long run.  I was out "hunting" with Cowboy and the coon dogs until 2:30 am.  It isn't hunting season but we still take the dogs out to train them and "practice" chasin' raccoons and treein' them of course..  It wasn't probably my best idea to go out tromping in the woods in heavy knee high swamp boots after running a trail run earlier in the day.  My feet and ankles were screaming at me:  "You stupid girl".  I had terrible restless legs last night and boy were they achey. 

I woke up this morning hoping to get in an 8 mile long run but as soon as I put my little feet on the floor I knew it would be a better idea to wait until tomorrow.  I wasn't in pain but I can tell that I used little muscles in my feet, ankles and calves that I don't usually use as much as I did yesterday. 

So I spent at least 40 mins today stretching out my legs.  I drew the alphabet in the air with both feet at least twice.  I am clearly right footed. :) My letters were much better with my right foot.  My letters with my left foot were tiny and it was tough to do all the letters.  Maybe that foot was tighter than the other foot. 

So although I was shooting to follow my training plan exactly for the first time, it didn't happen.  I was right on track until today but I figured it was just better to give my muscles that extra time.  Here's my recap for Week 4 of my Half Marathon training:

Here's the plan for week 5:

Tomorrow I will get in my 8 miles from today.  I will hitch a ride with Cowboy on his way into work and have him drop me off 8 miles from home.  This week will be a little heavy in miles but that will be good for me.  We have another race on Saturday which I am looking forward to since it will be on an all flat easy course. 

So far the half marathon training is going pretty well.  I am excited to continue to kick things into gear and work on picking up some speed.  I still want to shoot for my goal of finishing the first half marathon of the summer in under 1:45.  I think it might be iffy but I still got lots of time to work on it. I just need to take one day at a time.

QOTD:  How do you keep yourself encouraged to accomplish your goals when you see yourself struggling everyday? 



5 Miler Race Recap

Workout:  5.13 trail race in 45:40

This morning I met up with Anda, SIL - SB, and my dad for the 5 mile Wildlife for Everyone Race.  It is a five mile trail run in area game lands.  This was the first time we've run this race.  Usually on this weekend in July we travel to Utica, NY for the Boilermarker 15k, but decided not to travel this time. 

The race is tucked back in the gamelands and the course was marked very well.  Since it was a trail run we of course had various types of ground to cover....grass, rocks, mud, sticks, gravel, broken pavement.  The first mile and a half was pretty rough for me.  My legs felt like I had cinder blocks on them and I felt like I was shuffling my feet through the grass.  My calves, ankles and feet were really struggling.  I finally found a great song on my ipod and which helped me to relax and find my groove.  I was singing along though the song three times which got me to mile 4.  The last mile was through rough grass and at this point my feet were really starting to tingle and get tired.  The last half mile was up a good little hill which was really tough to push up.  I wanted to stop and walk but kept moving once I asked someone how close the finish was.  Right before the finish was a little flatter with more dirt so I was able to kick it in for the finish. 

SB was ahead of me a little ways.  She finished as the third girl just 20 seconds behind girl one and two.  I was about a minute and half behind SB and finished as fourth girl overall and second in my age group. I still definitely feel like I need to keep pushing myself and work on lowering my pace...but considering it was a trail run today and not the typical road race I am happy with my overall time and pace.  Dad finished behind me and was second in his age group and Manda was fourth in her age group.

This race had great door prizes and we all walked away with one.  My door prize was a mug and hat.  The awards were different too.  Instead of the typical medals or tropies they gave out Blankets, Coolers or a Pocket Knife.  You got your pick as you got called for your age group award.  SB and Dad got pocket knives and I went with the cooler.

My door prize and age group "medal".

Overall a good race.  I hope we can do it again next year so I can better my time.

QOTD:  Do you like and compete in any trail runs?  What's an interesting non typical "medal" that you've received?

Fitness Friday: Nutrition

One thing that I have picked up on quite a bit since I started running, training and reading all your blogs is how important and easy it can be to get good nutrition.  It is some imperative that we eat nutritious foods to fuel our bodies right for all the fitness fridays everydays.

This week I tried my first Green Monster smoothie and just love how nutritious it is.  I get tons of vitamins without having to take vitamins!!  So today for fitness friday I thought I would highlight the spinach, flaxseed and chia seeds that you find in Green Monster and share some of the benefits of those particular ingredients.

Spinach often scares away many people.  I'm not sure why...I don't recall ever having spinach growing up but I was always under the impression that it was YUCKY.  Now as a big girl, I realize that it really isn't that bad.  I've only prepared it a few ways - strawberry spinach salad, spinanch and articoke dip, and now Green Monsters.  But I am sure I've had it other ways and didn't realize it.  I was reading two of the recipes on the back of the spianch packaging that I want to try next. 

Here are some of the benefits of spinach: 

This leafy green is an excellent source of vitamin K, vitamin A, magnesium, folate, manganese, iron, calcium, vitamin C, vitamin B2, potassium, and vitamin B6. It’s a very good source of protein, phosphorus, vitamin E, zinc, dietary fiber, and copper. Plus, it’s a good source of selenium, niacin, and omega-3 fatty acids. (source)  

Spinach is a heart-healthy food and can help lower blood pressure.  Spinach can also help with arthritis, osteoporosis, migraines and asthma because of the anti-inflammatory properties of some of the nutrients.  And of course spinach is an excellent source of iron which helps with increasing your energy levels.  Many times when I am feeling really run down, exhausted and lacking energy it is because my iron levels are low.  Now I have a delicious Green Monster way to get some iron without taking those awful tasting pills.

Flaxseed is a new ingredient for me.  I hadn't heard of flaxseed until I started reading Clean Eating Chelsey's and Bess Be Fit's blog.  They include flaxseed in a lot of their recipes and meals. 

What if flaxseed?  Good question I had to look it up this week.  According to Wikipedia, "Flax is annual plant with slender stems. Flax is grown both for its seeds and for its fibers. Various parts of the plant have been used to make fabric, dye, paper, medicines, fishing nets, hair gels, and soap. Flax seeds come in two basic varieties: (1) brown; and (2) yellow or golden. Most types have similar nutritional characteristics and equal amounts of short-chain omega-3 fatty acids."

Although flaxseed contains all sorts of healthy components, it owes its healthy reputation primarily to three ingredients:  1) Omega-3 essential fatty acids, "good" fats that have been shown to have heart-healthy effects. Each tablespoon of ground flaxseed contains about 1.8 grams of plant omega-3s. 2)  Lignans, which have both plant estrogen and antioxidant qualities. Flaxseed contains 75- 800 times more lignans than other plant foods. 3) Fiber. Flaxseed contains both the soluble and insoluble types. (source: WebMD)

Flaxseed may have a protective effect against cancer, prevent hardening of the arteries, lower cholesterol levels, and improve blood sugar.  Check out this site here for tips on buying, using, and storing flaxseed.  I've learned a few things just now by reading that site.  For example, I better go buy a grinder since ground flaxseed is better used by your body. Whole flaxseed can pass through your body without getting those great nutrients.

You can find flax seed in your grocery store in the flour, spice aisle.  I found it back in the organic, all natural section of our store. 

Chia is the other new to me ingredient also included in Green Monsters.  Chia is an edible seed that comes from the desert plant Salvia hispanica a member of the mint family that grows abundantly in southern Mexico.  Here's what one website says about chia seeds:

Chia is very rich in omega-3 fatty acids, even more so than flax seeds. And it has another advantage over flax: chia is so rich in antioxidants that the seeds don't deteriorate and can be stored for long periods without becoming rancid. And, unlike flax, they do not have to be ground to make their nutrients available to the body. Chia seeds also provide fiber (25 grams give you 6.9 grams of fiber) as well as calcium, phosphorus, magnesium, manganese, copper, iron, molybdenum, niacin, and zinc. (Source:  Dr. Weil)

Chia seeds have a light nutty taste and are easy to add to recipes.  They are a complete protein and excellent source of calcium, magnesium, and iron.   You can sprinkle ground or whole chia seeds on cereal, in yogurt or salads, eat them as a snack, or grind them and mix them with flour when making muffins or other baked goods.

I hope you learned something new today.  I know I did.  Fitness isn't just about working out and getting exercise.  It goes hand in hand with nutrition and eating right to fuel yourself properly for whatever type of fitness you find yourself pursing. 

 

QOTD:  Have you heard of flaxseed or chia seeds before?  How do you use spinach, flaxseed or chia seeds?  I'm always looking for new recipes.

Trying new things

Workout:  5.23 miles in 49:48 with Dad, Anda and SB

This was the first day of my summer vacation that I was able to plan an early morning run in town with my Dad, Sis and SIL.  The last two summers I would meet my dad at least once a week to run in town but just haven't had a chance until today.

We met at 6:15 am after I made a quick stop at the grocery store to get the necessary supplies to create the much talked blogged about Green Monster smoothie.  We were shootin for 4 miles but ended up with a great 5.23 run through town, down River Walk and back up through town.  I skipped my stretching on Tuesday after my 6 miler and didn't get in any yoga on wednesday so I was a little tight to get started.  We kept it at a comfortable pace and took some quick breaks as we waited for traffic. 

When we got back to Manda's we had some delicious Dunkin Donut muffins while I whipped up the Green Monsters.  We got pictures but SB has them so I will take some tomorrow when I make up another batch to share with Cowboy.

Here's the recipe we used but you can google Green Monster smoothies and find tons of variations.  We made two separate batches and both were delicious.

Ingredients:

• 1 Tablespoon Flax Seed
• 2 Teaspoons of Chia Seeds
• 1/2 scoop Vanilla Protein Powder 
• 4 or 5 ice cubes
• Whole banana
• 1/2 cup blueberries
• 2-3 cups spinach (THE GREEN!!!)
• 1 1/4 cup vanilla almond milk 

Combine all the above ingredients in the blender and then blend and liquify.  Some recipes suggested freezing the banana and crushing the banana and ice first. I put my ingredients in the blender as listed above and it took a little bit but blended up nicely and then I set it to liquify for a few seconds.  Dad, Anda, SB and I all really enjoyed it.  It doesn't look the best at first and is a "lovely" green but it is quiet delicious.  The first batch I forgot the protein powder and then second batch I added frozen strawberries.  You really don't taste the spinach - the flavor of the blueberries and banana really come out. You don't need the flax seed and chia seeds but they are an excellent source of Omega-3 and make the smoothie even better for you.

If you haven't tried the famous Green Monster yet - you have to give it a try.  It is a lot better than it sounds and looks.

Getting to Know Me

It is my honor to accept a Blogger Award from the fabulous Kelsey at Go Girl.  She is a college student who is dedicated to making fitness her witness.  Go check out her blog!  Thanks Kelsey for adding me to your list.

Favorite Cartoon Character



Click here to getImages &
Marvin The Martian Pictures - Pictures


I don't know why, I just always like him.  I used to collect tons of Marvin the Martian stuff and in fact still have them in a box in my attic.

Favorite thing to photograph

I love taking pictures of my doggies and flowers and landscapes.

My favorite thing to cook



This is my newest favorite....I love making and eating this delicious dinner.

My favorite exercise

Running of Course!!!


Favorite movie

That is a hard one - but here are two favorites

Favorite article of clothing

I love my black Skirt Sports running skirt.  I wear it for almost every race.  It is so comfy, cool and perfect for running.

Favorite flower

I love roses.  I also love Ansel Adams photography.  I have several of his great prints framed and in my house.

Favorite breakfast

Soft boiled eggs on toast.

Favorite book I've read recently

  I haven't read a lot on non-school books lately.  This one I started a while back and really enjoyed it.

Favorite place to be

Wind River Ranch in Estes Park, Colorado - my heaven on earth.


Thanks again Kelsey for the opportunity to share a little about me through the Blogger Award.  Here's a few lucky receipients that I've selected for this very prestigious award:

Sarah at Running is a Life 

Lindsey at Yogi Bear

Maria at Aspahlt Tales

Be sure to stop by and check out their fabulous blogs!