I have still been fighting this nasty cough, stomach bug all week. Today is the first day (knock on wood) that I haven't felt bad. I am not someone who is normally sick so after a week and a half i am DONE with that bug. On a good note though my appetite still has not came back so i was able to avoid gaining any weight over the holiday.
Jeremy and I were originally planning on going to Tennessee today to my brother and sister inlaws house. They live an hour from Alabama where there was a 5k that starts at 11:50pm. The plan was to "run in the new year". Unfortunately, and quite horribly and unexpectedly, my sister in laws mother had complications from a surgery and is not expected to make it. :( Prayers for Trisha (my sis in law) and her family are greatly needed right now. So there will be no "running in the new year" but I do hope to make it out for a run tomorrow. It will be my first in 2 weeks bc of the stomach bug.
For someone who at the start of 2010 did not run and did not like to run I think i have come pretty far this year. I have run 12 races, including my first half marathon, and completed a sprint triathlon. I posted last week my race plans for next year, you can check them out here. Since I have something planned every month I plan on doing the Run for the Bling of It challenge.
Following BookWorm Runs post, this year has had several ups and downs for me.
Ups
*found not 1, but 2 jobs in my field that I love after 2 years of unemployment!
*made some awesome friends through blogging/running/biking/swimming
*been able to go on vacation and spend time with my hubby
*ran a half marathon, something I NEVER thought I would do
Downs
*weight gain
*losing some friends do to poor choices on their part
*not being able to start a family
I do have several goals for next year, which I'll post tomorrow along with the recap of my long awaited run.
Friday, December 31, 2010
Tuesday, December 28, 2010
sick as a dog
since coming home i have been sick. i had one good day the day after we got back and then it hit. sore throat tuesday, fever wednesday, congestion thurs/fri, throwing up on christmas :(, upset stomach sunday. yesterday i started feeling better, but woke up this morning with a not very happy stomach again. hoping it will decide to disappear for good today and not come back. thus no exercise at all has happened! unless you count getting an ab workout in while hovering the toilet. but i'm going to guess that doesnt count in the Holiday Booty Buster Challenge....
hoping to get back to doing something tomorrow. we'll see how it goes though.
hoping to get back to doing something tomorrow. we'll see how it goes though.
Thursday, December 23, 2010
Welcome home!
Last week, my hubby and I went on a Caribbean Cruise. We stopped at St. Maarten, St. Thomas, and Grand Turk. It was fabulous! I highly recommend cruising if you have never done one.
The ship did have a fitness center and I'm happy to report that Jeremy and I did go to it the three days we were at sea only and work out. He ran 4 miles each time and I either biked or biked and ran. I ended up biking a total of 22 miles and running 3.
It's hard to see, but this is a view between the bike I was on and the treadmill J was on.
We also took a bike and snorkel excursion on Grand Turk. Grand Turk is 7 miles long and 1.5 miles wide so we were able to bike and see most of the island before going snorkeling. Here's a pic from the excursion.
On St. Maarten we took a bus tour and beach excursion and on St. Thomas we went out on a catamaran and snorkeled. I love snorkeling and we were able to see 2 sea turtles.
The food was wonderful. There was so much to eat and it was available all the time, which was not a good thing for me or my hubby. But, I did come home and was only up my usual 4-5 pounds after vacation weight. Hopefully it will come off pretty quickly. I'm sure it would have been worse had we not gone and worked out a few times on the trip.
Of course being the week of Christmas isn't going to make it easy. We had 2 christmas's yesterday, one at my parents house and one at jeremy's parents. I did do good though and only ate one 'meal' between the two. I snacked a little at his parents house but didnt have a second full meal. We have both decided after new years we are going to start watching what we eat better. It's just very hard with our schedules to not eat out as often as we do. Working second shift with an hour to make and eat dinner is not the easiest thing in the world. Plus with my part time job i work in the late mornings right before lunch time, so most days J has to make lunch or we end up eating out. I need to make more use of my crockpot so that we can have something homemade and good for us at night rather than a frozen meal/pizza.
The ship did have a fitness center and I'm happy to report that Jeremy and I did go to it the three days we were at sea only and work out. He ran 4 miles each time and I either biked or biked and ran. I ended up biking a total of 22 miles and running 3.
It's hard to see, but this is a view between the bike I was on and the treadmill J was on.
We also took a bike and snorkel excursion on Grand Turk. Grand Turk is 7 miles long and 1.5 miles wide so we were able to bike and see most of the island before going snorkeling. Here's a pic from the excursion.
On St. Maarten we took a bus tour and beach excursion and on St. Thomas we went out on a catamaran and snorkeled. I love snorkeling and we were able to see 2 sea turtles.
The food was wonderful. There was so much to eat and it was available all the time, which was not a good thing for me or my hubby. But, I did come home and was only up my usual 4-5 pounds after vacation weight. Hopefully it will come off pretty quickly. I'm sure it would have been worse had we not gone and worked out a few times on the trip.
Of course being the week of Christmas isn't going to make it easy. We had 2 christmas's yesterday, one at my parents house and one at jeremy's parents. I did do good though and only ate one 'meal' between the two. I snacked a little at his parents house but didnt have a second full meal. We have both decided after new years we are going to start watching what we eat better. It's just very hard with our schedules to not eat out as often as we do. Working second shift with an hour to make and eat dinner is not the easiest thing in the world. Plus with my part time job i work in the late mornings right before lunch time, so most days J has to make lunch or we end up eating out. I need to make more use of my crockpot so that we can have something homemade and good for us at night rather than a frozen meal/pizza.
Tuesday, December 21, 2010
2011 Race Plans
Here is what is on the calendar so far for 2011. Of course all this is subject to change depending on well...life! :)
January - New Years 5k, shelbyville sprint tri #1
February - shelbyville sprint tri #2
March - Shamrock Shuffle 3k, shelbyville sprint tri #3
April - Derby Half or Lexington Heart of the Bluegrass Half, shelbyvill sprint tri #4
May - Shakertown 5k, McDowell 10K
June - Twinkie Run 10k,
July - Bluegrass 10,000
August - Railroad Days 5k
September - mcdowell sprint triathlon
October - Black Cat 5K, Bourbon Chase 200 mile relay, fox and hound 4k,
November - Southern Lights 5k
December - Jingle Bell Jog 5K
January - New Years 5k, shelbyville sprint tri #1
February - shelbyville sprint tri #2
March - Shamrock Shuffle 3k, shelbyville sprint tri #3
April - Derby Half or Lexington Heart of the Bluegrass Half, shelbyvill sprint tri #4
May - Shakertown 5k, McDowell 10K
June - Twinkie Run 10k,
July - Bluegrass 10,000
August - Railroad Days 5k
September - mcdowell sprint triathlon
October - Black Cat 5K, Bourbon Chase 200 mile relay, fox and hound 4k,
November - Southern Lights 5k
December - Jingle Bell Jog 5K
Running Tag
Jennifer at One Step at a Time tagged me on her blog and they were such awesome questions I couldnt help but repost and tag a few others! :)
1. What are you most fond of accomplishing in 2010?
I would have to say my half marathon. I started out 2010 hating running. I had tried in 2009 to run and failed miserably. I did my first race in March 2010 and decided I would try to become a runner one more time. Started couch to 5k and that was all it took. My husband thought i was crazy when i told him in may/june that i wanted to do a half marathon. he said "maybe you should focus on finishing and running a 5k first before you do a half", but that just fueled the fire so in july i set out to do a half marathon and did so on my 31st birthday!
2. What was your favorite race in 2010?
Now that's a hard one. I guess my favorite race would have to be either the twinkie run that i did as a team with jeremy or the stanford race this summer when i broke 40 minutes for the first time.
3. What are your running goals in 2011?
In 2011, my goal is to get my 5k time down to under 30 minutes. I also want to compete in some more triathlons. I also hope to run another half marathon or two.
4. What is your favorite holiday guilty pleasure?
Definitely desserts. No question about it I have a weakness for sweets.
5. What is your most embarrassing running moment?
most embarrassing moment would be in may at the mothers day 5k i did with jeremy. it is a race dedicated to a mother and former teacher that died unexpectedly by choking. everyone comes out for this race, especially teachers. so a bunch of teachers that i have worked with in the past were there walking to support the cause. i was in week 4 of couch to 5k and was doing pretty well til my stomach issues hit. luckily we were right around the corner from a speedway. so i went and used the bathroom for a few minutes. i didnt quit but i was behind the teachers that were walking. they knew had been in front of them so it was very embarrassing to tell them that i had to make a pitstop in speedway to use the restroom.
Tagging a few others:
Sarah at The Progress Post
Twila at 2010 miles in 2010
Mindy at Mindy's Marathon
1. What are you most fond of accomplishing in 2010?
I would have to say my half marathon. I started out 2010 hating running. I had tried in 2009 to run and failed miserably. I did my first race in March 2010 and decided I would try to become a runner one more time. Started couch to 5k and that was all it took. My husband thought i was crazy when i told him in may/june that i wanted to do a half marathon. he said "maybe you should focus on finishing and running a 5k first before you do a half", but that just fueled the fire so in july i set out to do a half marathon and did so on my 31st birthday!
2. What was your favorite race in 2010?
Now that's a hard one. I guess my favorite race would have to be either the twinkie run that i did as a team with jeremy or the stanford race this summer when i broke 40 minutes for the first time.
3. What are your running goals in 2011?
In 2011, my goal is to get my 5k time down to under 30 minutes. I also want to compete in some more triathlons. I also hope to run another half marathon or two.
4. What is your favorite holiday guilty pleasure?
Definitely desserts. No question about it I have a weakness for sweets.
5. What is your most embarrassing running moment?
most embarrassing moment would be in may at the mothers day 5k i did with jeremy. it is a race dedicated to a mother and former teacher that died unexpectedly by choking. everyone comes out for this race, especially teachers. so a bunch of teachers that i have worked with in the past were there walking to support the cause. i was in week 4 of couch to 5k and was doing pretty well til my stomach issues hit. luckily we were right around the corner from a speedway. so i went and used the bathroom for a few minutes. i didnt quit but i was behind the teachers that were walking. they knew had been in front of them so it was very embarrassing to tell them that i had to make a pitstop in speedway to use the restroom.
Tagging a few others:
Sarah at The Progress Post
Twila at 2010 miles in 2010
Mindy at Mindy's Marathon
Sunday, December 5, 2010
Jingle Bell Jog - Slush Style
Today I ran in a local Jingle Bell Jog 5k. All the money raised goes to support Alzheimer's, which is near and dear to my heart with both of my grandmother's having been diagnosed with the disease.
The forecast called for snow and by midnight it was coming down. My running buddy who was driving from an hour away decided not to come down. Good thing since there were several wrecks this morning on the roads. It snowed for the race last year and I chickened out and just waited around for Jeremy to run it. Not this year though, I was going to stick it out and run too.
I got dressed in all my new "cold" weather gear that I had ordered. Only to find out the night before that my new tights were actually for keeping me cool not warm! :( But they were still the only long pants i had to run in besides my husbands track pants. They weren't the best for keeping me warm before the race but did do the trick when running and were fast drying afterwards. Unfortunately for Jeremy, his tights aren't going to be here for a couple more weeks. :(
My outfit (tights, base layer shirt, running skirt)
Missing from picture (another dryfit shirt, vest, headband and gloves)
This course is the most hated course in the surrounding area, 2 of the 3 miles are uphill :( No one likes this course! But I put on my jingle bells and went for my first run in the snow, ice, rain, mixture of all three. I was really surprised by how loud they were. I could hear them over my music, which was also pretty loud til J asked me to turn it down bc I kept asking him to repeat himself.....
My feet were wet before we even started from the rain/snow/ice mixture that was coming down while standing in line to get our packets. My feet and legs were cold but J assured me they would warm up once we got started. Which as always he was right and they did. My arms were cold the entire run, but my hands stayed nice and toasty in my gloves. A little too toasty actually, i had to take them off at about mile 1.5.
My time was not good. I added several minutes from when I ran the same course this summer, but I blame part of it on the weather, it really was hard running in slush - i kept slipping, and part of it on me being out of shape. J really brought it home for me when he asked "would you expect one of your swimmers to get better if they only came to one practice a week?" of course the answer is "no". I wouldn't expect that of my kids, so why would i expect that of myself? I shouldn't of course. So I am going to get back on the training program this week! I really want that sub30 min 5k time!
I did have a pain FREE run though. Those evil shin splints were gone and I haven't had any hip pain in a while! woo hoo!!! And the best part about this race, other than supporting Alzheimer's, is that you get presents!! I mean, who doesn't like presents?! They had 3 tents sent up with wrapped gifts. You take one, carry it through the finish line, and then it's yours to keep. Last year J got a Vera Bradley wallet, which I got of course. This year he picked a box that contained 2 flashlights and batteries, while I got a Longaberger cd holder and a potpourri holder.
With our presents after the race before opening them.
Have a happy, snowy night!
The forecast called for snow and by midnight it was coming down. My running buddy who was driving from an hour away decided not to come down. Good thing since there were several wrecks this morning on the roads. It snowed for the race last year and I chickened out and just waited around for Jeremy to run it. Not this year though, I was going to stick it out and run too.
I got dressed in all my new "cold" weather gear that I had ordered. Only to find out the night before that my new tights were actually for keeping me cool not warm! :( But they were still the only long pants i had to run in besides my husbands track pants. They weren't the best for keeping me warm before the race but did do the trick when running and were fast drying afterwards. Unfortunately for Jeremy, his tights aren't going to be here for a couple more weeks. :(
My outfit (tights, base layer shirt, running skirt)
Missing from picture (another dryfit shirt, vest, headband and gloves)
This course is the most hated course in the surrounding area, 2 of the 3 miles are uphill :( No one likes this course! But I put on my jingle bells and went for my first run in the snow, ice, rain, mixture of all three. I was really surprised by how loud they were. I could hear them over my music, which was also pretty loud til J asked me to turn it down bc I kept asking him to repeat himself.....
My feet were wet before we even started from the rain/snow/ice mixture that was coming down while standing in line to get our packets. My feet and legs were cold but J assured me they would warm up once we got started. Which as always he was right and they did. My arms were cold the entire run, but my hands stayed nice and toasty in my gloves. A little too toasty actually, i had to take them off at about mile 1.5.
My time was not good. I added several minutes from when I ran the same course this summer, but I blame part of it on the weather, it really was hard running in slush - i kept slipping, and part of it on me being out of shape. J really brought it home for me when he asked "would you expect one of your swimmers to get better if they only came to one practice a week?" of course the answer is "no". I wouldn't expect that of my kids, so why would i expect that of myself? I shouldn't of course. So I am going to get back on the training program this week! I really want that sub30 min 5k time!
I did have a pain FREE run though. Those evil shin splints were gone and I haven't had any hip pain in a while! woo hoo!!! And the best part about this race, other than supporting Alzheimer's, is that you get presents!! I mean, who doesn't like presents?! They had 3 tents sent up with wrapped gifts. You take one, carry it through the finish line, and then it's yours to keep. Last year J got a Vera Bradley wallet, which I got of course. This year he picked a box that contained 2 flashlights and batteries, while I got a Longaberger cd holder and a potpourri holder.
Have a happy, snowy night!
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
November Review
November was a very "off" month to say the least. Not being able to run, told I needed to rest, really made me lazy! :(
I originally had a goal of 75 miles for November, but quickly saw that was not going to happen. I adjusted it to 40 which i thought was more doable. I got really close and ended up with 36.82 miles. Good thing i have that exercise bike now! If i'd known i was that close i would have done another 3.18 on the bike today.
My goal for december is 40 miles again. Since we are going on vacation and with the holidays I dont want to set it TOO high. Just high enough that it is obtainable.
Twila told me about a great deal on Nike.com over the weekend. I bought a base layer shirt, tights, gloves and a headband!!! So excited to finally have cold running gear! Then on Sarah's blog I read about a cyber monday sale on runningskirts.com. so I also ordered me a running skirt!
Can't wait for them to come in and try out my new duds!
I originally had a goal of 75 miles for November, but quickly saw that was not going to happen. I adjusted it to 40 which i thought was more doable. I got really close and ended up with 36.82 miles. Good thing i have that exercise bike now! If i'd known i was that close i would have done another 3.18 on the bike today.
My goal for december is 40 miles again. Since we are going on vacation and with the holidays I dont want to set it TOO high. Just high enough that it is obtainable.
Twila told me about a great deal on Nike.com over the weekend. I bought a base layer shirt, tights, gloves and a headband!!! So excited to finally have cold running gear! Then on Sarah's blog I read about a cyber monday sale on runningskirts.com. so I also ordered me a running skirt!
Can't wait for them to come in and try out my new duds!
Thursday, November 25, 2010
The good, the bad, and the pretty
Last night, Jeremy and I did the Southern Lights Stroll 5K. Here is the low down on the race.
The Good:
*Although it rained the entire way up to the race, it stopped and didn't rain for the majority of it.
*I found something that worked with my short hair - 2 samuri ponytails and a sweaty band.
*Eating at Outback after the race with the Andersons and Sudds.
*Going to the Horsepark for the first time ever.
*Going to Southern Lights for the first time ever.
*Realizing I need to start running more to get back in the shape i was again.
*using my new camera that i got for christmas (early)
The Bad :(
*It was cold (40 degrees), windy, and wet from raining beforehand.
*Started raining at the end of the race (my first time running in rain)
*My time (although what do i expect when i stop and take pictures -see The pretty)
*Wearing glasses when it's cold and blowing out warm air that fogs them up making it hard to see.
*Running in the dark so you can't see your Garmin.
*Running in capris (bc you dont have tights or long running pants) when it's wet and having your shoes throw up water on your calves.
*Hills
*Realizing just how much endurance and speed i have lost since the half due to my injury
*Realizing just how much gaining weight effects you when running.
*trying to take pictures of lights in the dark with a new camera
and The Pretty:
snow flake
peter pan, the croc, and captain hook
butterflys
cowboys
race horse
babe the blue ox
me and the nutcracker
inside the gift shop at the hp
santa was giving out awards
The Good:
*Although it rained the entire way up to the race, it stopped and didn't rain for the majority of it.
*I found something that worked with my short hair - 2 samuri ponytails and a sweaty band.
*Eating at Outback after the race with the Andersons and Sudds.
*Going to the Horsepark for the first time ever.
*Going to Southern Lights for the first time ever.
*Realizing I need to start running more to get back in the shape i was again.
*using my new camera that i got for christmas (early)
The Bad :(
*It was cold (40 degrees), windy, and wet from raining beforehand.
*Started raining at the end of the race (my first time running in rain)
*My time (although what do i expect when i stop and take pictures -see The pretty)
*Wearing glasses when it's cold and blowing out warm air that fogs them up making it hard to see.
*Running in the dark so you can't see your Garmin.
*Running in capris (bc you dont have tights or long running pants) when it's wet and having your shoes throw up water on your calves.
*Hills
*Realizing just how much endurance and speed i have lost since the half due to my injury
*Realizing just how much gaining weight effects you when running.
*trying to take pictures of lights in the dark with a new camera
and The Pretty:
snow flake
peter pan, the croc, and captain hook
butterflys
cowboys
race horse
babe the blue ox
me and the nutcracker 
inside the gift shop at the hp
santa was giving out awardsMonday, November 22, 2010
running in the wind....blows
running into the wind = bad.
running with the wind to your back making hair fly into your mouth = worse
i used a sweaty band today with my new short hair. it didnt work so well. granted i didnt have the sides pulled back at all and it was windier than a tornado out. i ran into the wind, which is hard, the hair stayed out of my face, but caused the wind to whistle into my yurbuds so loud i could barely hear the music. i ran with the wind to my back and got nothing but mouthfuls of hair. i just couldnt win today. i think i'll try pulling the sides up next time and possibly trying the bondi band. i think since it is so much wider it might be better at this point.
the actual "run" itself was ok. i did my run 2, walk 1 cycle hoping that would help my shin splints. it did for a bit, but they did rear their ugly head about halfway in. although not as bad as the previous outside runs but still enough to be annoying. i was able to push through 2.5 miles.
i have a race wednesday night. i'm not sure how i'm going to do. i obviously would like a PR! i mean who wouldnt??? but i'm not sure that that will be possible where i have had to cut down my training so much the past month. the black cat chase at the end of oct. gave me a false hope that i hadn't lost that much endurance, but my running the past 3 weeks since then hasn't been the best either.
i am looking forward to the race in general though. it is at the kentucky horse park called the Southern Lights Stroll, which is decorated for christmas. they have lights everywhere and normally you pay by the carload to drive around and look at the lights, but the race is going to have us running through the lights. i plan on taking lots of pictures! :) i have never been to the horse park for the lights and am excited to finally see them! plus after the race, a bunch of us that are running in the Bourbon Chase next October (200 mile relay run) are going to eat after. what fun! :)
running with the wind to your back making hair fly into your mouth = worse
i used a sweaty band today with my new short hair. it didnt work so well. granted i didnt have the sides pulled back at all and it was windier than a tornado out. i ran into the wind, which is hard, the hair stayed out of my face, but caused the wind to whistle into my yurbuds so loud i could barely hear the music. i ran with the wind to my back and got nothing but mouthfuls of hair. i just couldnt win today. i think i'll try pulling the sides up next time and possibly trying the bondi band. i think since it is so much wider it might be better at this point.
the actual "run" itself was ok. i did my run 2, walk 1 cycle hoping that would help my shin splints. it did for a bit, but they did rear their ugly head about halfway in. although not as bad as the previous outside runs but still enough to be annoying. i was able to push through 2.5 miles.
i have a race wednesday night. i'm not sure how i'm going to do. i obviously would like a PR! i mean who wouldnt??? but i'm not sure that that will be possible where i have had to cut down my training so much the past month. the black cat chase at the end of oct. gave me a false hope that i hadn't lost that much endurance, but my running the past 3 weeks since then hasn't been the best either.
i am looking forward to the race in general though. it is at the kentucky horse park called the Southern Lights Stroll, which is decorated for christmas. they have lights everywhere and normally you pay by the carload to drive around and look at the lights, but the race is going to have us running through the lights. i plan on taking lots of pictures! :) i have never been to the horse park for the lights and am excited to finally see them! plus after the race, a bunch of us that are running in the Bourbon Chase next October (200 mile relay run) are going to eat after. what fun! :)
Sunday, November 21, 2010
All gone
Friday I walked in to the hair salon ready but a little nervous to cut my hair 8 inches, which took a long time to grow, I might add.
As I was waiting John my stylist came over checkjng out his client before me. I told him I wanted to donate today. The lady who had just been with him asked me " are you donating for cancer?" I answered yes and she said "thank you!! I never wore one but a lot of people do!" that really touched me how thankful she was.
My hair before
John put my hair in three ponytails and started cutting. The stylist next to him realized what we were doing and as the first ponytail went she let out a loud "go crystal!!". Word spread quickly throughout the crowded salon that I was donating my hair.
The largest ponytail
All three ponytails together
Pretty soon it was all cut off and I was left with a lot less hair.
Right after I got it cut and styled
That night i went to the movies with a couple friends. Midway through the movie i went to pull my hair back in a ponytail to realize and accidently say loudly " i diot have any hair!"
Yesterday my swimmers had a meet, only about 4-5 people noticed that i had gotten it cut. Of course jeremy just had to throw in there maybe they noticed they just didnt like it. Thanks for that babe-NOT what I wanted to hear. Although I did get a "hey there" from a guy hanging out the window of a car when I was walking down the road. So maybe it isn't so bad!
I am still not used to it after two days. It's so short, I can feel my neck! Random I know.
Here's my question to others that have short hair - how do you run with it? Will the sweatybands stay in?
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
As I was waiting John my stylist came over checkjng out his client before me. I told him I wanted to donate today. The lady who had just been with him asked me " are you donating for cancer?" I answered yes and she said "thank you!! I never wore one but a lot of people do!" that really touched me how thankful she was.
My hair before
John put my hair in three ponytails and started cutting. The stylist next to him realized what we were doing and as the first ponytail went she let out a loud "go crystal!!". Word spread quickly throughout the crowded salon that I was donating my hair.
The largest ponytail
All three ponytails together
Pretty soon it was all cut off and I was left with a lot less hair.
Right after I got it cut and styled
That night i went to the movies with a couple friends. Midway through the movie i went to pull my hair back in a ponytail to realize and accidently say loudly " i diot have any hair!"
Yesterday my swimmers had a meet, only about 4-5 people noticed that i had gotten it cut. Of course jeremy just had to throw in there maybe they noticed they just didnt like it. Thanks for that babe-NOT what I wanted to hear. Although I did get a "hey there" from a guy hanging out the window of a car when I was walking down the road. So maybe it isn't so bad!
I am still not used to it after two days. It's so short, I can feel my neck! Random I know.
Here's my question to others that have short hair - how do you run with it? Will the sweatybands stay in?
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Hair Today, Gone Tomorrow
Tomorrow, I am donating my hair to Pantene Beautiful Lengths. 8 inches will be given to Pantene and used to make wigs for cancer patients.
I had thought about and come very close to donating back in September. But at that timeif i had cut it, it would not have been long enough for me to put it in a ponytail. And there was NO way I was going to run a half marathon and NOT be able to put my hair up in a ponytail.
Now that I'm not training for anything "big" I think I will be able to handle not being able to put my hair up. Although it will be a hard habit to break as my hair is usually up 80% of the day it seems like.
I will post pictures tomorrow of the before and after!
PS - my no soft drinks is going ok..... i haven't had any but have been craving them. it's not the caffeine i have the need for but the carbonation, the little bubbles bursting on my tongue. but i know i just need to stay strong and it will pass, eventually.
I had thought about and come very close to donating back in September. But at that timeif i had cut it, it would not have been long enough for me to put it in a ponytail. And there was NO way I was going to run a half marathon and NOT be able to put my hair up in a ponytail.
Now that I'm not training for anything "big" I think I will be able to handle not being able to put my hair up. Although it will be a hard habit to break as my hair is usually up 80% of the day it seems like.
I will post pictures tomorrow of the before and after!
PS - my no soft drinks is going ok..... i haven't had any but have been craving them. it's not the caffeine i have the need for but the carbonation, the little bubbles bursting on my tongue. but i know i just need to stay strong and it will pass, eventually.
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
my name is crystal and i like my treadmill
Since the weather has finally turned colder many fellow bloggers have been writing about how much they hate, dislike, and avoid the "dreadmill". well, i for one LOVE my treadmill. there are no frills on it at all! the speed isn't accurate and neither is the distance. for that matter the belt is starting to come apart. today we tried to duct tape it back down but had no success. the duct tape wouldnt stick on it. :( so much for generic being just as good as the original.
but i think that's why i like it - i dont worry about my time or my distance, i just run. today, it was raining and very windy outside. and while i had the opportunity to go the park and run in the rain with my hubby and bro-in-law, i opted for the warmth and dryness of the extra bedroom. i popped in a disc of Friends season 2 (i started at the beginning and am going through them epidsode by episode to see if there are any that i've missed), cranked up the volume, turned on the closed captioning, and started running.
i was 6 min in and it felt like no time at all had gone by. historically the first 10-15 min or more of my runs are the hardest (longest) so i was pretty pumped to realize it didn't feel like any time at all had gone by. i did have to stop a couple times and run to the bathroom :( me and fazolis the night before do not make for good running partners. but i hopped back on and ran for 25 min with no walking. as the 25 minutes went by i gradually increased the speed. it was the best run i have had since the half. i'm relieved to have had a good run FINALLY! i think the next couple runs i do are going to be on the treadmill.
since the distance and speed dont work on the treadmill i am looking at getting a garmin footpod. does anyone have one? do you like it? do you think this will disenchant me from my treadmill since i'll know my actual speed and distance? i thougth it would be a good buy for the upcoming winter months but part of me thinks if i know those things, i will join my fellow bloggers in their dread for the 'mill.
but i think that's why i like it - i dont worry about my time or my distance, i just run. today, it was raining and very windy outside. and while i had the opportunity to go the park and run in the rain with my hubby and bro-in-law, i opted for the warmth and dryness of the extra bedroom. i popped in a disc of Friends season 2 (i started at the beginning and am going through them epidsode by episode to see if there are any that i've missed), cranked up the volume, turned on the closed captioning, and started running.
i was 6 min in and it felt like no time at all had gone by. historically the first 10-15 min or more of my runs are the hardest (longest) so i was pretty pumped to realize it didn't feel like any time at all had gone by. i did have to stop a couple times and run to the bathroom :( me and fazolis the night before do not make for good running partners. but i hopped back on and ran for 25 min with no walking. as the 25 minutes went by i gradually increased the speed. it was the best run i have had since the half. i'm relieved to have had a good run FINALLY! i think the next couple runs i do are going to be on the treadmill.
since the distance and speed dont work on the treadmill i am looking at getting a garmin footpod. does anyone have one? do you like it? do you think this will disenchant me from my treadmill since i'll know my actual speed and distance? i thougth it would be a good buy for the upcoming winter months but part of me thinks if i know those things, i will join my fellow bloggers in their dread for the 'mill.
Monday, November 15, 2010
Here it is!!
After a month I finally got Jeremy to put my 13.1 sticker on my car! It's so pretty, don't you agree?
Also, I am borrowing my parents exercise bike which we went and picked up today. My plan is to use this on days when I can't bike outside this winter and/or when I am watching biggest loser or something on tv.
I have been thinking about buying a bike trainer. But i have decided for now that I will use the exercise bike to see if 1)I like biking inside before 2)I spend the money on a trainer.
Does anyone have a trainer if so what kind? And do u like it better than an exercise bike?
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Also, I am borrowing my parents exercise bike which we went and picked up today. My plan is to use this on days when I can't bike outside this winter and/or when I am watching biggest loser or something on tv.
I have been thinking about buying a bike trainer. But i have decided for now that I will use the exercise bike to see if 1)I like biking inside before 2)I spend the money on a trainer.
Does anyone have a trainer if so what kind? And do u like it better than an exercise bike?
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
Sunday, November 14, 2010
Giving it up
On my quest to start eating better I decided about a month before the half, to give up cupcakes. last week, i gave up mcdonald's chocolate chip cookies.
today is my last day to drink soft drinks....at least for a month, hopefully longer but that's my first goal is to get through one month. this is going to be a hard one for me. i know i can do it bc i have done it before. 4 years prior to my wedding i was soft drink free. then on a trip to mexico for the honeymoon, where coke was cheaper than water, i started drinking them again. and it has just gone down hill from there. i do drink mainly diet drinks, but the occasional regular coke will slip in at a ball game or some place where diet mt. dew is not available.
so tomorrow starts a new day, a new me, that's soft drink free!!
today is my last day to drink soft drinks....at least for a month, hopefully longer but that's my first goal is to get through one month. this is going to be a hard one for me. i know i can do it bc i have done it before. 4 years prior to my wedding i was soft drink free. then on a trip to mexico for the honeymoon, where coke was cheaper than water, i started drinking them again. and it has just gone down hill from there. i do drink mainly diet drinks, but the occasional regular coke will slip in at a ball game or some place where diet mt. dew is not available.
so tomorrow starts a new day, a new me, that's soft drink free!!
Monday, November 8, 2010
Monday ramblings
Today I ran. well, i ran and walked for 2 miles. the plan was originally to run/walk the first mile then run all the second mile. that didnt happen. but i haven't really "ran" since the half, so i really can't complain. I got to 1.8 miles and decided that I would run fast the last .2! i stayed under a 10min/mile pace for those .2 miles. woo hoo!
I tried a bondi band again today and I just dont think i'm a fan of it. I had it down farther on my head this time so it didnt slip off. however, bc i had to have it so far down on my forehead i got hot! :( i like that the air can hit my forehead with the sweaty bands and cool me off some! j suggested they be part of my cold weather gear.
starting today i am going to start getting in more miles through running and/or biking and start eating better. i love biking but it has slipped to the wayside here lately. i also need to pick back up my swimming which also has fallen to the wayside since the tri. i coach my former hs team and one of my swimmers had the genius idea that we should have an "alumni" meet and let us old fogeys swim against each other! It is scheduled for Dec. 11th!! so i need to get in semi shape so i dont embarrass myself in front of my current swimmers! also, another reason to really hit it hard this month is that in December my husband and i are going on a cruise to the caribbean! i'd love to lose weight this month and tone up some more before then! one of the excursions we have planned is a bike tour of Grand Turk! i can't wait!
j and i are thinking about going down to see his brother and sister in law for new years in tennessee. we found a 5k race an hour from where they live that is in alabama (j has ran a race in alabama already, i have not). the race is on new years eve and starts at 11:45pm. you "run" in the new year! i think it would be really neat to do this one together with jeremy since running has sort of taken over our free time this past year.
well, that's about all i've got for now... have a great Monday everyone!
I tried a bondi band again today and I just dont think i'm a fan of it. I had it down farther on my head this time so it didnt slip off. however, bc i had to have it so far down on my forehead i got hot! :( i like that the air can hit my forehead with the sweaty bands and cool me off some! j suggested they be part of my cold weather gear.
starting today i am going to start getting in more miles through running and/or biking and start eating better. i love biking but it has slipped to the wayside here lately. i also need to pick back up my swimming which also has fallen to the wayside since the tri. i coach my former hs team and one of my swimmers had the genius idea that we should have an "alumni" meet and let us old fogeys swim against each other! It is scheduled for Dec. 11th!! so i need to get in semi shape so i dont embarrass myself in front of my current swimmers! also, another reason to really hit it hard this month is that in December my husband and i are going on a cruise to the caribbean! i'd love to lose weight this month and tone up some more before then! one of the excursions we have planned is a bike tour of Grand Turk! i can't wait!
j and i are thinking about going down to see his brother and sister in law for new years in tennessee. we found a 5k race an hour from where they live that is in alabama (j has ran a race in alabama already, i have not). the race is on new years eve and starts at 11:45pm. you "run" in the new year! i think it would be really neat to do this one together with jeremy since running has sort of taken over our free time this past year.
well, that's about all i've got for now... have a great Monday everyone!
Sunday, November 7, 2010
Monday, November 1, 2010
Food Tag
If you could eat anything without any health repercussions or guilt, what would your meal be?
Oh gosh that's a hard one. currently i would have to say warm gooey brownies, coconut chicken (from chinese buffet) and/or fajita quesadillas (mexican) are definitely at the TOP of my list!
When i was little my favorite meal was homemade fried chicken, mac and cheese, creamed corn, and mashed potatoes. The last three veggies had to be all swirled together! :) YUMMMM!
If you could meet anyone living or dead who would it be and why?
I guess I would like to meet my mom's dad. He was the only grandparent I didnt know bc he died before I was born. I would also like to meet John Travolta, Jennifer Aniston, and Courtney Cox.
Why did you start blogging and what did you expect when you started?
I started blogging in June. I had been following Twila's baby and running blog for awhile and liked reading about her accomplishments. I thought it would be a great way to share my transformation into a runner with people who were/are like me and used to HATE running.
What is the one book you could read over and over again?
I really dont like to read books more than once. Although I'm not sure I've ever tried to read one over now that I say that. I do love to read though! my favorite authors are James Patterson and Karen Kingsbury. I also like Harry Potter, Twilight, True Blood, and The Hunger Games series.
If you could travel anywhere, where would it be?
Australia!!! Australia!! Australia! I have wanted to go there since i was a teenager!
If you could have a TV show on the Food Network, what would it be?
"ow to not burn spaghetti!" i dont know what it is but i have ruined spaghetti at least the last 5 times i have made it! it's most people's staple go to food. but somehow i manage to mess it up!
What was the best meal you ever had?
It would have to be either the fried chicken meal mentioned in question #1 or the first time Jeremy and I went to the Melting Pot! Chocolate and peanut butter....what could be better?
Who has been the greatest influence on your love for food and learning to cook?
My grandmother (my dad's mom) was a great cook. She was the one that made the homemade fried chicken dinner! Everything she made was SO tasty and fattening!
I am going to tag the following people:
Mindy at Mindy's Marathon
Meredith at Run is the New Walk
Jennifer at One Step at a Time
Sarah at The Progress Post
Oh gosh that's a hard one. currently i would have to say warm gooey brownies, coconut chicken (from chinese buffet) and/or fajita quesadillas (mexican) are definitely at the TOP of my list!
When i was little my favorite meal was homemade fried chicken, mac and cheese, creamed corn, and mashed potatoes. The last three veggies had to be all swirled together! :) YUMMMM!
If you could meet anyone living or dead who would it be and why?
I guess I would like to meet my mom's dad. He was the only grandparent I didnt know bc he died before I was born. I would also like to meet John Travolta, Jennifer Aniston, and Courtney Cox.
Why did you start blogging and what did you expect when you started?
I started blogging in June. I had been following Twila's baby and running blog for awhile and liked reading about her accomplishments. I thought it would be a great way to share my transformation into a runner with people who were/are like me and used to HATE running.
What is the one book you could read over and over again?
I really dont like to read books more than once. Although I'm not sure I've ever tried to read one over now that I say that. I do love to read though! my favorite authors are James Patterson and Karen Kingsbury. I also like Harry Potter, Twilight, True Blood, and The Hunger Games series.
If you could travel anywhere, where would it be?
Australia!!! Australia!! Australia! I have wanted to go there since i was a teenager!
If you could have a TV show on the Food Network, what would it be?
"ow to not burn spaghetti!" i dont know what it is but i have ruined spaghetti at least the last 5 times i have made it! it's most people's staple go to food. but somehow i manage to mess it up!
What was the best meal you ever had?
It would have to be either the fried chicken meal mentioned in question #1 or the first time Jeremy and I went to the Melting Pot! Chocolate and peanut butter....what could be better?
Who has been the greatest influence on your love for food and learning to cook?
My grandmother (my dad's mom) was a great cook. She was the one that made the homemade fried chicken dinner! Everything she made was SO tasty and fattening!
I am going to tag the following people:
Mindy at Mindy's Marathon
Meredith at Run is the New Walk
Jennifer at One Step at a Time
Sarah at The Progress Post
Friday, October 29, 2010
Psst... Can you keep a secret?
I ran tonight...against doctors orders. Shhh..dont tell him!
When he told me Wednesday I could walk the race I was really happy with that. But over the past couple days I had been getting that running itch. You know the one! I tried to find a walking buddy but had no luck. So what's a girl to do? Run of course!
I rode to the race with my brother in law and niece. There were over 1400 preregistered so it was a big one! It was in Frankfort ky, the state Capitol. It actually started at the old capital and went to the new one circled it and then back to the old one.
Here's a pic I stopped to take.
I started off walking. It took a couple minutes to get to the start pad. We had gone to the back since he had a stroller ad I wa going to walk. After passing te start mat it took 4 minutes of walking before Jordan had any space to start running. Weaving in and out with a stroller is not an easy task. I continued to walk for a bit more til I had a good opening then jogged til I caught up to the next clump and walked. I continued doing this for all of mile 1.
Mile 2 was up hill around the capital then back downhill. I walked the uphill and then ran the downhill.
Mile 3 I ran the whole thing minus about 10 yards of walking.
My hip didn't hurt at all! I would have walked more if it had. It really felt good to get out and run tonight!! The weather was nice and brisk and it just felt GOOD!!
My time was 3 minutes off my best. I am really happy about that considering how much I did walk and that for my best time I didn't walk any!! That made my day!! I am really looking forward to being officially released to run and working on my 5k speed!
Here's something I noticed tonight though it took a bit to get warmed up. By mile 2 I was feeling in the groove. At the half marathon I felt in the groove after mile 3. I see runners running before the race.
Do I need to do that so I get in the groove quicker. When the race is only three miles I can't wait til mile 2 to be feeling it. But I dont want to get tired and die out at the end of a race if I do run beforehand. So what do you do to get "ready"??
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When he told me Wednesday I could walk the race I was really happy with that. But over the past couple days I had been getting that running itch. You know the one! I tried to find a walking buddy but had no luck. So what's a girl to do? Run of course!
I rode to the race with my brother in law and niece. There were over 1400 preregistered so it was a big one! It was in Frankfort ky, the state Capitol. It actually started at the old capital and went to the new one circled it and then back to the old one.
Here's a pic I stopped to take.
I started off walking. It took a couple minutes to get to the start pad. We had gone to the back since he had a stroller ad I wa going to walk. After passing te start mat it took 4 minutes of walking before Jordan had any space to start running. Weaving in and out with a stroller is not an easy task. I continued to walk for a bit more til I had a good opening then jogged til I caught up to the next clump and walked. I continued doing this for all of mile 1.
Mile 2 was up hill around the capital then back downhill. I walked the uphill and then ran the downhill.
Mile 3 I ran the whole thing minus about 10 yards of walking.
My hip didn't hurt at all! I would have walked more if it had. It really felt good to get out and run tonight!! The weather was nice and brisk and it just felt GOOD!!
My time was 3 minutes off my best. I am really happy about that considering how much I did walk and that for my best time I didn't walk any!! That made my day!! I am really looking forward to being officially released to run and working on my 5k speed!
Here's something I noticed tonight though it took a bit to get warmed up. By mile 2 I was feeling in the groove. At the half marathon I felt in the groove after mile 3. I see runners running before the race.
Do I need to do that so I get in the groove quicker. When the race is only three miles I can't wait til mile 2 to be feeling it. But I dont want to get tired and die out at the end of a race if I do run beforehand. So what do you do to get "ready"??
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Good news!
The chiropractor said I can walk the 5k on Friday! Woohoo!!
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
Monday, October 25, 2010
no running for me - dr's orders
I went back to the chiropractor today. He said no running for me til at least next week. Which means no black cat chase 5k on friday! :( i'm pretty bummed about this. i was looking forward to this race, all my friends are doing it! plus, i have already registered and paid for a tech shirt. however, i was starting to get worried about it since i have only run once since the half (and that was my 2 miles of pain), so i guess this is a good thing????
he also said no biking either til wed or thurs. I told him i did on saturday bc i didnt know i wasn't supposed to.....WHOOPS!! he did say i could swim just no kick sets. so i guess i'll be in the pool this week!
he also said no biking either til wed or thurs. I told him i did on saturday bc i didnt know i wasn't supposed to.....WHOOPS!! he did say i could swim just no kick sets. so i guess i'll be in the pool this week!
Saturday, October 23, 2010
Chiro update / biking
I went to the chiropractor on Friday and he is fabulous!! I was nervous bc I had never been to one before but he put me at ease within the first couple minutes. He is a runner himself as well as his wife, so that made me feel confident that he would be understanding and aware of running injuries.
He explained what he does and how chiro helps people. Then he took a couple x rays. There was not a fracture which was a good thing!!
He said 4 of my 7 neck bones were out of place so he put them back. He also said all my ribs popped and asked if I had been doing a lot of twisting. Which I had been twisting a lot while shelving journals over the summer and last week at the library.
After he looked at the x rays he said that I was out of line. My right side has higher than my left was putting extra stress on my left hip which is most likely the cause of my problem.
He popped and pushed and got me put back together. I have another appt on Monday to get adjusted and make sure I stay that way.
He didn't say anything about not running so I had all intentions of running today. However, one of my former swimmers called and wanted to ride bikes. It was so pretty out I couldn't say no. Plus I thought it would be a good idea to ride rather than run today so I could rest my hip a little bit longer.
After 7 miles I stopped to get water, and I couldn't get started again. I felt sick, like I was going to throw up. I couldn't move. I was hot and took off my helmet to cool off! I have never felt that way before during a workout. The only time I remember feeling that way when I took surf lessons and swimming back to shore did me in. After about 10 minutes it passed and we rode the 4 miles back to the car at an easy pace.
I had eaten lunch an hour before we rode... I am guessing my sugar bottomed out but don't really know for sure. Hope it doesn't happen again though!!
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He explained what he does and how chiro helps people. Then he took a couple x rays. There was not a fracture which was a good thing!!
He said 4 of my 7 neck bones were out of place so he put them back. He also said all my ribs popped and asked if I had been doing a lot of twisting. Which I had been twisting a lot while shelving journals over the summer and last week at the library.
After he looked at the x rays he said that I was out of line. My right side has higher than my left was putting extra stress on my left hip which is most likely the cause of my problem.
He popped and pushed and got me put back together. I have another appt on Monday to get adjusted and make sure I stay that way.
He didn't say anything about not running so I had all intentions of running today. However, one of my former swimmers called and wanted to ride bikes. It was so pretty out I couldn't say no. Plus I thought it would be a good idea to ride rather than run today so I could rest my hip a little bit longer.
After 7 miles I stopped to get water, and I couldn't get started again. I felt sick, like I was going to throw up. I couldn't move. I was hot and took off my helmet to cool off! I have never felt that way before during a workout. The only time I remember feeling that way when I took surf lessons and swimming back to shore did me in. After about 10 minutes it passed and we rode the 4 miles back to the car at an easy pace.
I had eaten lunch an hour before we rode... I am guessing my sugar bottomed out but don't really know for sure. Hope it doesn't happen again though!!
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Thursday, October 21, 2010
The terrible, horrible, no good, very bad run!
The night after the half and the day after both my hips were hurting. Monday they were better, not great, but better. By tuesday I was finally pain free so I thought running wednesday would be ok.
First run, or attempt at a run, after the half was supposed to be yesterday but due to working til midight the night before, coaching 6AM swim practice, job #1 at 10am, and job #2 at 4, it didn't happen.
So today ended up being the day!! I was looking forward to running again. I have in my head if I can for 13 miles, then I should definitely be able to run 3 miles faster than i have before. It started off with wanting to be an easy run, just 2 miles. I had hoped for a good run but that quickly went out the window.
The first couple tenths I could hardly catch my breathe. I had to stop to walk which normally isn't a big deal but I have a 5k next week and really would like to get a pr. So I was not happy when i had to walk to catch my breathe only a couple minutes in. I can run/walk for 3 hours but not just run/run for 20 min?
I decided to try out one of the bondibands that I bought this past weekend. It would NOT stay on my head. granted it was very windy out so dont know if that was the issue or bc i wasn't wearing it on my head correctly. i'll try it again before i give up on them...
After half a mile, my shins started burning. Then my left hip also started throbbing! I ended up having to walk the last mile and a quarter bc it hurt too much to run. My hip was pretty unbearable. I finally hobbled back to the car. :( Jeremy suggested i take off a little bit longer. I reminded him i have a 5k next friday that has already been paid for. So he suggested a chiropractor which is what i had already been thinking about on my way to the car.
I made my appointment for tomorrow. I'll update after I go and see what he says. I am hoping that will help. I really don't want to have to back out of the 5k next week but I know I can't run it if I have pain like I did today!
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First run, or attempt at a run, after the half was supposed to be yesterday but due to working til midight the night before, coaching 6AM swim practice, job #1 at 10am, and job #2 at 4, it didn't happen.
So today ended up being the day!! I was looking forward to running again. I have in my head if I can for 13 miles, then I should definitely be able to run 3 miles faster than i have before. It started off with wanting to be an easy run, just 2 miles. I had hoped for a good run but that quickly went out the window.
The first couple tenths I could hardly catch my breathe. I had to stop to walk which normally isn't a big deal but I have a 5k next week and really would like to get a pr. So I was not happy when i had to walk to catch my breathe only a couple minutes in. I can run/walk for 3 hours but not just run/run for 20 min?
I decided to try out one of the bondibands that I bought this past weekend. It would NOT stay on my head. granted it was very windy out so dont know if that was the issue or bc i wasn't wearing it on my head correctly. i'll try it again before i give up on them...
After half a mile, my shins started burning. Then my left hip also started throbbing! I ended up having to walk the last mile and a quarter bc it hurt too much to run. My hip was pretty unbearable. I finally hobbled back to the car. :( Jeremy suggested i take off a little bit longer. I reminded him i have a 5k next friday that has already been paid for. So he suggested a chiropractor which is what i had already been thinking about on my way to the car.
I made my appointment for tomorrow. I'll update after I go and see what he says. I am hoping that will help. I really don't want to have to back out of the 5k next week but I know I can't run it if I have pain like I did today!
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Sunday, October 17, 2010
13.1 = 31. Indianapolis Half Marathon
Before I get to the race recap I have to start with my weird love of numbers. I am one of those people who constantly look at their odometer to see if there is a pattern to the numbers and to see when a new thousand rolls over. Cool thing #1 - On the way home my car hit 90,000 miles. Cool thing #2 - 13.1 on my 31st is 13131!
That being said let me get started on recapping mine and jeremys first half marathon.
Day before:
I picked up my mint chocolate chip birthday cake and Twila after work and went back to my house to get Jeremy. We stopped at subway on the way out of town. The drive up was pretty uneventful. We found the hotel with ease, checked in, then left to go to the expo.
I was really excited about the expo but once we got there was pretty dissappointed. There was only a couple vendors set up to sell running stuff. They didn't even have 13.1 stickers or magnets - the one thing I definitely wanted to buy. I did buy a couple bondibands though. (I had to buy something!)
After we left the expo we decided we would try to drive the course. Not exactly a disaster but Jeremy and I don't do well when we don't know exactly where we are going. It's really the only time we argue. Good thing Twila was with us bc we were both on our best behavior (sort of). We were able to drive part of it, then went to look for the spot where twilas family was going to watch her at mile 17 and 21.
After that we headed to ocharleys for dinner where Jeremy could get pasta and Twila and I could get chicken. Then it was back to the room to get everything ready for the next day and relax as much as possible.
I was a little overwhelmed trying to get everything ready. I was terrified I was going to forget something important. But it all got packed and I was as ready as I was going to be.
I slept a well as could be expected. I think all three of us were awake on and off throughout the entire night.
Race day:
Jeremy woke me up at 6am. We all started getting our race gear on. We were our of the hotel by 6:45. We drove to the host hospital and took a shuttle to the race. Good thing we had driven around the night before bc the shuttle driver didn't know where she was going. The directions she was given were not clear. I had to tell her to go down to the next road from where we were to turn.
We got dropped off and went straight for the portapotties. Then headed to gear check to drop off our bag, to the post race cook out tent to stay warm for a few minutes (38 degrees at start time) then back to the portapotties one last time.
Then we broke apart and went to our seperate corrals. Jery was in E, Twila was in G, and I was in H. It was a little lonely in the corral. Everyone was with a friend it seemed like. I had gotten used to doing my long runs with someone so I was sad I had no one to run with this time.
The national anthem was sung and then the race was on!! It was very congested. There were a lot of walkers in my corral so it took over a mile to break free and not have to be weaving in and out of people. During that first mile I ditched my ky sweatshirt I had worn to stay warm.
Miles 1-3 felt ok. I did my run 2 minutes, walk 1 minute interval. I had debated on a higher one but decided not to change anything and go with what I had done before. I also had my iPod and yurbuds in and jammed to some nickelback and prince for most of the race. I finished the race listening to the chili peppers.
The course was beautiful. It went through a state park. The leaves were changing and it was gorgeous!
I took a caffeine GU at mile 3 and really felt a difference after that. Miles 4-6 felt great!! I caught up with Sarah and Ashley who were from Danville and also whose birthday it was. It was good to see someone on the course I knew!
I was holding a faster pace than all my previous long runs and knew if kept it up I would be able to get my A goal of being under 3 hours.
Miles 6-9 went by fast I was still holding my A pace but had to go to the bathroom. I passed some portapotties but decided to push through.
At mile 10 I couldn't wait any longer due to a monthly visitor. I hurried as quickly as I could but that mile time was well over my average pace. Unfortnately that bathroom break cost me an official under 3 time.
Right after I got out though I saw Twila running. She was going strong with her pace group! It was great to see her. I had hoped to Jeremy on the course but never did.
The last 3 miles were rough. I had heard that when you sit down (like to go to the bathroom) it shifts something in your body and makes it more difficult to run again. That was definitely the case with me. I really struggled after the bathroom break.
My garmin was reading faster than the mile signs on the course. According to my watch I was at 2:59.51 at 13.1. But still had about another tenth or so left on the course. The finish was great. People were lined up on the street and since the bibs had our names on them, they were cheering for me using my name. I saw Jeremy at the finish and crossed the official finish line at 3:00.42. If only I hadn't gone to the bathroom!! But I know that I really did do it in under 3 (just not officially!)
My average pace for the whole half was a full minute faster than my previous long run averages. 13:44. My ten mile time was 10 minutes faster than my previous three training 10 mile times!!
Post race:After the finish line I got my medal and a water and went to walk around with Jeremy. My legs were very stiff and I had some pain below my knee. I went to one of the therapy tents and had it looked at. He said it was my it band but it wasn't too bad. He gave me a stretch to do and said that should keep it from getting worse.
While I was there we saw Twila cross the finish. She was stoked bc she had gone under her A time.
Jeremy has happy with his time and also disappointed bc he went 2:02.46. His A goal was to be under 2. He was so close!!
We went back to the hotel where I dug in to my birthday cake, then took a long nap. We got up, showered, ate at outback, then came back to the room to watch the end of the uk/sc game. UK ended up winning and the fans rushed the field. I have always wanted to rush the field!! That would have topped off the perfect birthday. Guess I can't have my cake and eat it too so to speak. There is always next year and beating Florida!
Pics will be up soon. Check out Twila and Sarah's blogs as well as Sheri and Bobbie's. (they had a half today in Louisville to celebrate Sheri's birthday)
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
That being said let me get started on recapping mine and jeremys first half marathon.
Day before:
I picked up my mint chocolate chip birthday cake and Twila after work and went back to my house to get Jeremy. We stopped at subway on the way out of town. The drive up was pretty uneventful. We found the hotel with ease, checked in, then left to go to the expo.
I was really excited about the expo but once we got there was pretty dissappointed. There was only a couple vendors set up to sell running stuff. They didn't even have 13.1 stickers or magnets - the one thing I definitely wanted to buy. I did buy a couple bondibands though. (I had to buy something!)
At the expo! J and I were 533 and 534.
After we left the expo we decided we would try to drive the course. Not exactly a disaster but Jeremy and I don't do well when we don't know exactly where we are going. It's really the only time we argue. Good thing Twila was with us bc we were both on our best behavior (sort of). We were able to drive part of it, then went to look for the spot where twilas family was going to watch her at mile 17 and 21.
After that we headed to ocharleys for dinner where Jeremy could get pasta and Twila and I could get chicken. Then it was back to the room to get everything ready for the next day and relax as much as possible.
My shirt, shuttlle ticket, bib, and timer chip
I was a little overwhelmed trying to get everything ready. I was terrified I was going to forget something important. But it all got packed and I was as ready as I was going to be.
I slept a well as could be expected. I think all three of us were awake on and off throughout the entire night.
Race day:
Jeremy woke me up at 6am. We all started getting our race gear on. We were our of the hotel by 6:45. We drove to the host hospital and took a shuttle to the race. Good thing we had driven around the night before bc the shuttle driver didn't know where she was going. The directions she was given were not clear. I had to tell her to go down to the next road from where we were to turn.
Pre-Race - Getting ready to leave the hotel
We got dropped off and went straight for the portapotties. Then headed to gear check to drop off our bag, to the post race cook out tent to stay warm for a few minutes (38 degrees at start time) then back to the portapotties one last time.
Then we broke apart and went to our seperate corrals. Jery was in E, Twila was in G, and I was in H. It was a little lonely in the corral. Everyone was with a friend it seemed like. I had gotten used to doing my long runs with someone so I was sad I had no one to run with this time.
We ran under the flag at the start.
The national anthem was sung and then the race was on!! It was very congested. There were a lot of walkers in my corral so it took over a mile to break free and not have to be weaving in and out of people. During that first mile I ditched my ky sweatshirt I had worn to stay warm.
Miles 1-3 felt ok. I did my run 2 minutes, walk 1 minute interval. I had debated on a higher one but decided not to change anything and go with what I had done before. I also had my iPod and yurbuds in and jammed to some nickelback and prince for most of the race. I finished the race listening to the chili peppers.
The course was beautiful. It went through a state park. The leaves were changing and it was gorgeous!
This was on one of the bike paths we ran on
I took a caffeine GU at mile 3 and really felt a difference after that. Miles 4-6 felt great!! I caught up with Sarah and Ashley who were from Danville and also whose birthday it was. It was good to see someone on the course I knew!
I was holding a faster pace than all my previous long runs and knew if kept it up I would be able to get my A goal of being under 3 hours.
Miles 6-9 went by fast I was still holding my A pace but had to go to the bathroom. I passed some portapotties but decided to push through.
At mile 10 I couldn't wait any longer due to a monthly visitor. I hurried as quickly as I could but that mile time was well over my average pace. Unfortnately that bathroom break cost me an official under 3 time.
Right after I got out though I saw Twila running. She was going strong with her pace group! It was great to see her. I had hoped to Jeremy on the course but never did.
The last 3 miles were rough. I had heard that when you sit down (like to go to the bathroom) it shifts something in your body and makes it more difficult to run again. That was definitely the case with me. I really struggled after the bathroom break.
My garmin was reading faster than the mile signs on the course. According to my watch I was at 2:59.51 at 13.1. But still had about another tenth or so left on the course. The finish was great. People were lined up on the street and since the bibs had our names on them, they were cheering for me using my name. I saw Jeremy at the finish and crossed the official finish line at 3:00.42. If only I hadn't gone to the bathroom!! But I know that I really did do it in under 3 (just not officially!)
My average pace for the whole half was a full minute faster than my previous long run averages. 13:44. My ten mile time was 10 minutes faster than my previous three training 10 mile times!!
Post race:After the finish line I got my medal and a water and went to walk around with Jeremy. My legs were very stiff and I had some pain below my knee. I went to one of the therapy tents and had it looked at. He said it was my it band but it wasn't too bad. He gave me a stretch to do and said that should keep it from getting worse.
While I was there we saw Twila cross the finish. She was stoked bc she had gone under her A time.
Jeremy has happy with his time and also disappointed bc he went 2:02.46. His A goal was to be under 2. He was so close!!
Post race pics of us and our medals!
We went back to the hotel where I dug in to my birthday cake, then took a long nap. We got up, showered, ate at outback, then came back to the room to watch the end of the uk/sc game. UK ended up winning and the fans rushed the field. I have always wanted to rush the field!! That would have topped off the perfect birthday. Guess I can't have my cake and eat it too so to speak. There is always next year and beating Florida!
Pics will be up soon. Check out Twila and Sarah's blogs as well as Sheri and Bobbie's. (they had a half today in Louisville to celebrate Sheri's birthday)
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
Monday, October 11, 2010
Prerace purchases
Last week Jeremy and I went to lexington to a localy owned run/walk store to stock up on items before the half. I wanted some more GU and either a pair of shorts with a pocket or a spibelt.
They had my favorite GU flavors mint chocolate and chocolate outrage! I also grabbed a couple other flavors that I liked: strawberry banana and tri-berry. :)
Unfortunately, there wasn't many summer running clothes left so no shorts! However they did have spibelts so I got one. I can put three-four gus in the pocket. I figure I can use it with all my shorts that don't have pockets so it will be more cost efficient.
A friend asked me to pick up some colorful striped socks for her while we there. She told me they had some with polka dots so of course being the person that i am, who loves polka dots, i had to buy them!! Aren't they adorable?!
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
They had my favorite GU flavors mint chocolate and chocolate outrage! I also grabbed a couple other flavors that I liked: strawberry banana and tri-berry. :)
Unfortunately, there wasn't many summer running clothes left so no shorts! However they did have spibelts so I got one. I can put three-four gus in the pocket. I figure I can use it with all my shorts that don't have pockets so it will be more cost efficient.
A friend asked me to pick up some colorful striped socks for her while we there. She told me they had some with polka dots so of course being the person that i am, who loves polka dots, i had to buy them!! Aren't they adorable?!
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
Thursday, October 7, 2010
the Sugoi shirt winner is........
True Random Number Generator
Min: 1
Max: 23
Result:
16
bobbie said...
I like my sugoi visor but would love to try out some other products
it's your lucky day bc you get to have a sugoi shirt!!
Min: 1
Max: 23
Result:
16
bobbie said...
I like my sugoi visor but would love to try out some other products
it's your lucky day bc you get to have a sugoi shirt!!
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Happy 6 month anniversary to me and running
Today is my 6 month anniversary of running. 6 months ago today I started the couch to 5k (c25k) plan. if anyone reading this has tried running but just can't "get in to it" or hasn't had success doing it their own way, please try couch to 5k! you wont regret it! i am so glad that i found this program and didn't quit running after last summers mishaps.
before i had even finished the c25k program this summer i had my eyes on another goal - a half marathon. my hubby, however, trying to be realistic thought i needed to be able to complete a 5k first before i set my sights on something that big. well, that just made me more determined!!! so i found a half i wanted to do and started working towards that. i picked the indianapolis half marathon which is ON my birthday. how awesome is that?!
i finished the c25k program in a little longer than the 9 weeks it is supposed to take bc there were some weeks i just couldn't get in 3 runs. then i started on jeff galloway's half marathon program. another awesome program to use after you finish c25k if you want to do some longer distances and/or if you want to aim for a time goal in a particular race.
running wise in the past 6 months i have completed several 5k's successfully (aka: i finished and didnt quit midrace) unfortunately i can't say that about last years season...., i completed one sprint triathlon, and in just 10 DAYS will be competing in my first half mary!!
other than running there have been a lot of changes in the last six months: i started a new full time job at centre college's library and started a new part time job on top of that at bate middle school's library (both of which i love!) high school swimming has started back up this week. i'm still the head coach, but bc of my work schedule will only be there part time. after 9 years, this will be my last year coaching. :( i'm going to miss it but the work schedule just makes it too hard to continue. i have found an assistant though that will take over as head coach next year.
needless to say i am busy, busy, busy!!! trying to get my workouts in is proving very difficult but once i get my schedule more regulated (i'm working around 2 schools fall breaks that dont fall the same week) i'm sure it will be easier.
for the next 6 months, after the half is over, i want to return my focus to 5k's and work on my speed. i have already signed up for one 5k at the end of the month and know of one in both november and december that i want to do. i also have a couple "big" races that i want to do either next year or the year after. check them out in the left side bar under 'race wish list'
dont forget to register for the sugoi shirt giveaway that will end tomorrow!
happy anniversary!
before i had even finished the c25k program this summer i had my eyes on another goal - a half marathon. my hubby, however, trying to be realistic thought i needed to be able to complete a 5k first before i set my sights on something that big. well, that just made me more determined!!! so i found a half i wanted to do and started working towards that. i picked the indianapolis half marathon which is ON my birthday. how awesome is that?!
i finished the c25k program in a little longer than the 9 weeks it is supposed to take bc there were some weeks i just couldn't get in 3 runs. then i started on jeff galloway's half marathon program. another awesome program to use after you finish c25k if you want to do some longer distances and/or if you want to aim for a time goal in a particular race.
running wise in the past 6 months i have completed several 5k's successfully (aka: i finished and didnt quit midrace) unfortunately i can't say that about last years season...., i completed one sprint triathlon, and in just 10 DAYS will be competing in my first half mary!!
other than running there have been a lot of changes in the last six months: i started a new full time job at centre college's library and started a new part time job on top of that at bate middle school's library (both of which i love!) high school swimming has started back up this week. i'm still the head coach, but bc of my work schedule will only be there part time. after 9 years, this will be my last year coaching. :( i'm going to miss it but the work schedule just makes it too hard to continue. i have found an assistant though that will take over as head coach next year.
needless to say i am busy, busy, busy!!! trying to get my workouts in is proving very difficult but once i get my schedule more regulated (i'm working around 2 schools fall breaks that dont fall the same week) i'm sure it will be easier.
for the next 6 months, after the half is over, i want to return my focus to 5k's and work on my speed. i have already signed up for one 5k at the end of the month and know of one in both november and december that i want to do. i also have a couple "big" races that i want to do either next year or the year after. check them out in the left side bar under 'race wish list'
dont forget to register for the sugoi shirt giveaway that will end tomorrow!
happy anniversary!
Friday, October 1, 2010
Sugoi shirt giveaway
Another great giveway - a green sugoi running shirt (large)
This shirt has side vent panels and a zipper pocket to put your food products in!! (can you tell I really love things that have pockets and zippers so I can put my food in?)
Ways to enter:
1) be a follower or tell me you are already (leave a comment)
2) like sugoi on fb (leave a comment)
3) go to sugoi's website and tell me what item you like best (leave a comment)
4) post to your blog, fb page or tweet it (leave a comment for each)
5) tell me what color your running clothes are or what your favorite color to run in is (leave a comment)
Giveaway ends Thursday october 7th at 11:00 pm!
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
This shirt has side vent panels and a zipper pocket to put your food products in!! (can you tell I really love things that have pockets and zippers so I can put my food in?)
Ways to enter:
1) be a follower or tell me you are already (leave a comment)
2) like sugoi on fb (leave a comment)
3) go to sugoi's website and tell me what item you like best (leave a comment)
4) post to your blog, fb page or tweet it (leave a comment for each)
5) tell me what color your running clothes are or what your favorite color to run in is (leave a comment)
Giveaway ends Thursday october 7th at 11:00 pm!
- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone
GU winner
True Random Number Generator
Min:
Max:
Result:
11
Mindy from Mindy's Marathon!!!! Congrats!! send me your mailing address to my email (estes45@yahoo.com)
Min:
Max:
Result:
11
Mindy from Mindy's Marathon!!!! Congrats!! send me your mailing address to my email (estes45@yahoo.com)
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
blog award(s)
awhile back Meredith gave me a blog award for being a versatile blogger and I unfortunately didn't pass it along (sorry Mer). my mom always says "better late than never" so here it is.... my award goes to Twila at 2010 miles in 2010. Twila actually has 2 blogs, one about her exercising and one about her 2 year old son. Now that's versatile!
also, Mindy from Mindy's Marathon gave me a blog award yesterday for "substance"! i would like to pass this award to Sarah at The Progress Post. Sarah always has posts that either are running or weight loss related. She is very supportive to others and as an added bonus she has the same birthday as me AND is running the same half marathon! :)
Great job girls!!!
also, Mindy from Mindy's Marathon gave me a blog award yesterday for "substance"! i would like to pass this award to Sarah at The Progress Post. Sarah always has posts that either are running or weight loss related. She is very supportive to others and as an added bonus she has the same birthday as me AND is running the same half marathon! :)
Great job girls!!!
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
GoLite water bottle review
Scott from Outside PR sent me a GoLite water bottle to try out and review.
I was in need of something that I could carry with me on my long runs so i could have my GU's and water with me and not have to worry about backtracking to where ever my vehicle was parked. (someone didnt buy shorts with pockets in them.... silly me!!!!)
When i received the water bottle in the mail, i was pleasantly surprised to find out that there was a zipper pocket on the container and i was able to fit in 2 GU's in the pocket. So water and food during my long run were taken care of! yay!!
however, i was hesitant to try it out. how would it feel running with that big of a water bottle for 12 miles?! would it weigh me down, would my hand cramp? all these were questions going through my mind when i headed out on my run a couple weeks ago. but i filled it up with some GU brew and headed out anyway.
it was great! i never once thought about how heavy the bottle was nor did i feel it sloshing around in the bottle. my hand got a little hot when carrying it, thus some sweat ran down my fingers, but not once did my hand or fingers cramp up. i was able to GU and drink water when i needed it and because of that had a very successful run. in case you were wondering i determine success by the fact that i was able to function after it! :-)
i used the bottle again this past saturday during the running portion of the triathlon. once again it worked like a charm. i was able to refuel after the bike during my run by eating the GU's in the pocket and drinking my GU brew in the bottle. check out the picture of me running with my awesome GoLite bottle.
I was in need of something that I could carry with me on my long runs so i could have my GU's and water with me and not have to worry about backtracking to where ever my vehicle was parked. (someone didnt buy shorts with pockets in them.... silly me!!!!)
When i received the water bottle in the mail, i was pleasantly surprised to find out that there was a zipper pocket on the container and i was able to fit in 2 GU's in the pocket. So water and food during my long run were taken care of! yay!!
however, i was hesitant to try it out. how would it feel running with that big of a water bottle for 12 miles?! would it weigh me down, would my hand cramp? all these were questions going through my mind when i headed out on my run a couple weeks ago. but i filled it up with some GU brew and headed out anyway.
it was great! i never once thought about how heavy the bottle was nor did i feel it sloshing around in the bottle. my hand got a little hot when carrying it, thus some sweat ran down my fingers, but not once did my hand or fingers cramp up. i was able to GU and drink water when i needed it and because of that had a very successful run. in case you were wondering i determine success by the fact that i was able to function after it! :-)
i used the bottle again this past saturday during the running portion of the triathlon. once again it worked like a charm. i was able to refuel after the bike during my run by eating the GU's in the pocket and drinking my GU brew in the bottle. check out the picture of me running with my awesome GoLite bottle.
Saturday, September 25, 2010
I "TRI"ed
let me start off with saying that "I DID IT!" it wasn't looking so good the day after my bike wreck. I had a bruise on my ankle and my left hamstring hurt when i moved. i was afraid jeremy was going to have do the run for me. but by friday night it was feeling better, so i decided to go for it!
got to the race early to set up the bike at the bike station and register. at registration they gave us a goody bag which included a tech shirt (best shirt ever bc its in my favorite color.)
we also had to get our numbers written on us, like what you see in ironmans and stuff. pretty cool i thought! found out our numbers were how we would enter the pool to swim. i was the 7th person to get in the pool!
there was a 20 second stagger start between each swimmer. we did a 50 in each lane, all the way across the pool to equal a 300. my swim was ok, one of the faster times, but about 20 seconds slower than my 2 earlier swims that week.
after the swim, i ran out and went to the bike transition area. threw on my running clothes, helmet, ate some strawberry banana GU (another great flavor) and was off. the bike was pretty hilly. Twila and i have biked the course a couple times this summer so I knew to expect that going out was easier (more downhills) than coming back (more uphills). several bikers passed me on the bike. but that was ok, i still was able to maintain and go faster than my usual speed on the bike.
The bike transition area was full. Jeremy took this during the race.
i also knew that once we started running, everyone else would pass me. and of course that is exactly what happened. my fastest run on a good day, not having biked 15 miles beforehand is 10-15 minutes slower than the other triathletes running times, so i knew going in that 1) i would not be able to go a "fast" 5k time after biking and 2) i was going to finish last. but i was ok with that. i had been worrying about it all week, but finally came to the realization that "hey i'm doing this and that's the only thing that matters" not that i come in last or first, but that i did it! the 3.1 mile run was more of a walk/run. i ate another GU. this time TRI berry was the flavor - which i thought was very fitting and once again very good. used my GoLite water bottle during the run which contained.... you guessed it GU brew -Raspberry flavor. jeremy being the awesome husband that he is, ran the 5k with me. he was due for a long run today but because of a back issue wasn't able to, so he ran with me to keep my company. my run(walk) was 10 min. slower than my best time. and i came in dead last. :(
however, i did WIN my age group! ha! the other girl in my age group was the first woman overall, so she didnt count in the age group awards! go me!! i got a bag and a pair of running socks as my prize.
twila did great also! she got third in her age group and had a great tri as well. check out her blog. it's located on the right sidebar 2010 miles in 2010.
i am happy i did it, disappointed in coming in last, undecided on if and when i'll do another one. if i do, i definitely want to get my running time down before i "tri" another one!
now on to finish preparing for the half! it's only 3 weeks away!!
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