Hungry Runner Girl put this survey on her blog over the weekend, and I thought it would be fun to answer the questions. So here goes:
1. Would you rather run along a beach path or on a mountain trail?
This one is actually really hard. I don't live near the mountains or the beach - even though I am in the Land of 10000 Lakes. I wouldn't want to be on the sand. But the paths and hiking trails with lakeside views are my favorite when I am out and about near them. At home my best option is the paved bike trails!
2. If you could choose the flavor of gatorade at your next race’s aid stations, what would it be?
Red! I always wonder why the races only ever have blue (ice mountain, maybe?). They should switch it up or offer more than one choice.
3. If I gave you a $100 gift card to a running store, what would be the first thing that you would purchase with it?
Assuming my shoes were in good condition, some name brand running clothes! Mine are mostly from Old Navy, Shopko, and Target. While they get the job done, some name brand stuff would probably be nice!
4. Do you prefer to follow a training plan or wake up and decide then how far and how fast you want to run?
Training plan. It helps keep me on track.
5. Would you rather start your run with the uphill and end on the downhill or start your run with the downhill and end with the uphill?
Start on the uphill and end on the downhill! Doing the uphill on tired legs would have a negative impact on my mental game!
6. When you can’t run, what type of cross-training do you choose to do?
Almost all of my cross-training is done at the YMCA doing group fitness classes. My favorite is kettle bell interval conditioning. I also like cycling, kickboxing, and cycle box. I will do boot camp, but I usually try to avoid it! I also have done the TRX classes!
7. What is your preference—> Out and back, point to point or loop runs?
My preference is loop runs - starting and ending at home, so I don't have to run the same road/path all the time and for the convenience factor.
8. If you could recommend ANY running related item to a new runner, it would be a—>
good pair of shoes!
9. Do you ever see any wild animals while out on your runs?
Deer and geese, but that is about it!
10. Ever gotten lost while out on a run?
Thankfully, no!
11. If you could have one meal waiting and ready for you each time you got home from a run for the next 30 days… what would that meal be?
I don't know about a meal, but I crave Pepsi after a long run! Or any run ... I will put a Pepsi in the fridge before a workout for motivation to get my but out the door!
12. Capris or shorts… what do you run in most often?
Capris - I don't know if I just have big thighs or if I buy the wrong shorts - but I hate how shorts ride up when I am running.
13. At what mile (or how many minutes) into your run does your body start to feel like it is warming up and ready to go?
Lately it has been about the 2 mile mark.
14. What do you do with your key when you run?
I don't always carry a key when I run, but if I have to, I will put take the single key off my key chain and put in in the pocket of my Nathan water bottle.
15. If you could relive any race that you have done in the past, which one what it be?
I guess I would pick the Mankato half-marathon from last October. It was a strong run for me. I felt great and truly enjoyed it to the end!
16. What type of run is your least favorite type of run?
Hills?
17. What has been your biggest motivation lately to get out the door to get your run on?
Losing the weight I put on doing the trials of the last six months, and wanting to get back to the fitness level I was at last fall.
18. When you go for a run, do you leave right from your front door or do you drive somewhere to start?
Usually right from my front door. If I am really sick of the paths and routes around my house, and don't have a long run planned, I will drive the paths on the outskirt of town.
19. When running in daylight—> are sunglasses a must or an annoyance?
A must. Squinting gives me a headache.
20. When you get tired, what keeps you from quitting?
Not being home yet? :) Honestly, my mental game when I get tired is probably the weakest part of my taking this sport head on. The ends of those tough runs can be torture, but somehow I just keep going. I know I have to. I try to prove myself wrong, even if my self-talk is not always positive in those moments. When I get done, I know what I did was better than no run at all.
Tuesday, June 30, 2015
Monday, June 29, 2015
Motivational Monday: 6.29.15
Something I was reminded of running in my husband's hometown on Saturday. It was hot. I hadn't eaten breakfast. I soon realized I wasn't in the shape I was in a year or two ago - and I had forgotten how hilly the country roads are. Still I pushed through.
I am not realistically expecting to PR this fall in my races; but I do hope to improve between now and then. The summer sweat now should be well worth it then!
Friday, June 26, 2015
Up to bat ...
Last week, Ava had her first ever at bat at T-ball. We clearly have some work to do, but if she ever makes it onto a gold medal winning softball team, we can look back to see how far she's come! She's had two more nights of practice since then, and has gotten better each time!
So fun to watch her try new things and discover what she likes to do. I am not one to wish time away, but I look forward to seeing what her hobbies, passions, and joys are going to be in the future.
I know it is not the best quality. It wasn't until her second time up I thought to get up closer to the fence and zoom in ... rookie mom moment? :)
*****
What was the first sport you got your kids into? If they are older, what do they play now? Or if not sports, what interests and activities do they enjoy?
We first tried toddler gymnastics classes and parent-child swim class. Then we registered for dance, and I personally think she does really good at that! We continue to do swim lessons, and I might enroll her in a session of gymnastics because I wouldn't let her do jazz class on top of her core kick class this coming year. Two dance classes all year long would be too much at her age!
Thursday, June 25, 2015
Training Plan - Phase 1
I am working on a 21 week training plan! I decided to share it in phases, because I am struggling to plan what life will be like when I go back to work at summer's end!
Ultimately, I decided against any summer races. I am trying to convince Chad of a weekend up in the Twin Cities at the end of August, so that I can kick off a fall racing season with the Women's Rock 10k.
The full 21 week plan ends with a potential marathon; however, I am not fully committed yet. I am going to see how getting back in shape goes and how my knee holds up. It has been feeling okay this week, with just a few noticeable twinges here and there.
Phase 1, as I am calling it, started last week and ends with the last week of my summer school session. Keep in mind this is how I planned last week - not how it ended. I got close though!
Ultimately, I decided against any summer races. I am trying to convince Chad of a weekend up in the Twin Cities at the end of August, so that I can kick off a fall racing season with the Women's Rock 10k.
The full 21 week plan ends with a potential marathon; however, I am not fully committed yet. I am going to see how getting back in shape goes and how my knee holds up. It has been feeling okay this week, with just a few noticeable twinges here and there.
Phase 1, as I am calling it, started last week and ends with the last week of my summer school session. Keep in mind this is how I planned last week - not how it ended. I got close though!
Week Mon Tues Wed Thurs Fri Sat Sun
6/15 4mi 3mi XT XT AR 3mi AR
6/22 5mi XT 4mi XT AR 6mi AR
6/30 6mi XT 4mi XT AR 7mi AR
7/6 6mi XT 4mi XT 4mi 6mi AR
7/13 5mi XT 4mi XT XT 6mi AR
XT - cross train: will be mostly cycling and kettle bells through these weeks because that is works with my work schedule and Ava's t-ball.
AR - active recovery: walking the dog, stretching or yoga. I also know some of them will be rest days due to lots of summer travel plans.
So far, so good. Hoping my body quickly remembers that we've done this before and the results are noticeable!
What are you currently work towards? Any specific goals?
Wednesday, June 24, 2015
Wordless Wednesday: Open Track Meet
Okay - just a few words. Each summer the Kiwanis Club puts on a free open track meet for kids, ages 3 and up. Actually, they do two a year. This was the first time we took Ava - mainly because T-ball was cancelled for it, so why not? There are two field events - the standing long jump and the softball throw. And then 50m, 100m, 200m, and 400m dashes. It was a little bit chaotic in the sense that this year it is not at the track due to construction, but overall a well-done event. My only other gripe was that the same girl got the 1st place ribbon for the 5-6 year olds for every race. I don't believe that kids need ribbon and trophies for everything, but I also don't like to see bragging or kids feeling down about themselves. I don't think there is anything they need to fix in this regard - it was just an observation from the night. Plus someone that has done it previous years said in the past they split them up into heats so more kids did get ribbons if they won their heat. Not sure if the set up made it different or if they are just looking to cut some costs. No matter what - we had a fun night!
Tuesday, June 23, 2015
Weekly Wrap-Up: 6.15.15-6.21.15 (edited)
Monday: ran 4.74 miles in 1:05:10 - sticking with a run/walk method for now trying to rebuild some endurance. Also, still struggling with some knee pain in my left leg and some ankle/shin pain in my right leg (but only until I find my rhythm). Overall, not a bad run.
Tuesday: ran 3.09 miles in 40:37. I have been trying not to run two days in a row just to ease back into it, but I didn't have much for choices today. I knew an evening cross training session was out. I decided to squeeze in a quick run before I had to pick up Ava. It felt surprisingly good.
Wednesday: I was going to do a Cycle Box class, but one lame excuse was when I needed to leave for class it was a torrential downpour. I just didn't feel like dealing with it! Instead, I stayed home and started packing for our weekend away. Better choice? I don't know, but at least it wasn't time wasted.
Thursday: Kettle Bell Interval Conditioning class - 40 minutes. The regular instructor was gone, and I could have used her intensity. Still - it was a decent workout.
Friday: After driving 5+ hours and setting up our camp site, I went on a hike with my sister, her husband, and our kiddos. I used my Garmin just to track distance - 3.66 miles. Our time wasn't good! But we had five kids with us and stopped for many photo opportunities! Hey - something is better than nothing!
|
Split
|
Time
|
Distance
|
Avg Pace
|
|---|---|---|---|
Summary |
1:05:10.3 |
4.74 |
13:45 |
| 1 | 14:05.1 | 1.00 | 14:05 |
| 2 | 13:44.5 | 1.00 | 13:45 |
| 3 | 13:49.1 | 1.00 | 13:49 |
| 4 | 13:32.9 | 1.00 | 13:33 |
| 5 | 9:58.6 | 0.74 | 13:29 |
Tuesday: ran 3.09 miles in 40:37. I have been trying not to run two days in a row just to ease back into it, but I didn't have much for choices today. I knew an evening cross training session was out. I decided to squeeze in a quick run before I had to pick up Ava. It felt surprisingly good.
|
Split
|
Time
|
Distance
|
Avg Pace
|
|---|---|---|---|
Summary |
40:37.5 | 3.09 | 13:09 |
| 1 | 13:24.3 | 1.00 | 13:25 |
| 2 | 13:05.2 | 1.00 | 13:05 |
| 3 | 13:11.2 | 1.00 | 13:11 |
| 4 | :56.8 | 0.09 | 10:44 |
Wednesday: I was going to do a Cycle Box class, but one lame excuse was when I needed to leave for class it was a torrential downpour. I just didn't feel like dealing with it! Instead, I stayed home and started packing for our weekend away. Better choice? I don't know, but at least it wasn't time wasted.
Thursday: Kettle Bell Interval Conditioning class - 40 minutes. The regular instructor was gone, and I could have used her intensity. Still - it was a decent workout.
Friday: After driving 5+ hours and setting up our camp site, I went on a hike with my sister, her husband, and our kiddos. I used my Garmin just to track distance - 3.66 miles. Our time wasn't good! But we had five kids with us and stopped for many photo opportunities! Hey - something is better than nothing!
More pictures from the weekend soon.
Saturday: I wanted to get in a run, but when it was after 6 when I pulled myself out of bed (after not a very good night's sleep), I opted instead to hike down to the start of my sister's race. My brother-in-law and I were able to find her before she got in the water, then hung out until we saw her transition out on her bike. We then hiked back. After making a breakfast and cleaning up the kids, we then walked to a spot on the run she would pass two times, before walking down to the finish to see her come in!. Then we walked back to the campsite. So, while there was no official workout - if I had to guess I'd say I got in 4 or more miles of hiking and walking. Not bad considering the circumstances. I was so glad I could see my sister participate in her half-ironman and Toughman Wisconsin.
Sunday: was just a rest and recoup day after we got back into town and unpacked.
****
Weekly Totals:
7.83 miles ran - 1:45:47
1 cross-training class - 40 minutes
Total Time Training: 2:25:47; plus about 7 miles of walking and hiking over the weekend.
Not the greatest week, but I can't say it was terrible either.
Monday, June 22, 2015
Motivatonal Monday: 6.22.15
Keep going.
A fitting mantra right now.
Here's to a great week.
(I may have used this photo before; it just seemed fitting to use again! Found on Pinterest.)
Friday, June 19, 2015
Currently: 6.19.15
.heading out on our first camping trip of the year! driving a long way for this one, but watching my sister complete a half-ironman will be worth it. Camping and family - does it get any better?
.loving the sun-kissed brown color my shoulders are becoming; but need to remember to wear sunscreen!
.wondering how we are half way through June already? I feel like school just got out!
.planning out a training plan that would get me through some fall races! However, still unsure how hard to push while coming back and hoping I am not being overly ambitious? No better way to find out than try and be okay with pulling back if I need to (easier said that done, I know).
.feeling anxious about a lingering pain in my knee. I wrote about this last summer already. It would come and go, but was completely gone when I ran my half in October. It was hard to tell if it was there this winter since I was working out so inconsistently, but it is there now for sure. Some days are worse than others, and it is more uncomfortable than painful. I've read some information online - the definition of runners knee versus patellar tendonitis makes me think it might be the latter, as the pain is typically in my lower knee. Thinking I should get it checked to rule out anything serious - just now sure who to seek out?
.looking forward to diving into some books on my kindle this weekend while driving and sitting outside! Summer is the time I actually find time to read!
.optimistic about being one step away from submitting my application to finish my Master's degree!
.staying up way too late lately.
.counting down the days left of summer school, even though it is a pretty easy gig for the extra money. Plus I think I already mentioned the money is going towards a family vacation next year! Can't wait!
.proud of the fact that I have stayed away from the chips and dip all week! That snack is one of my weaknesses, and, even though it wasn't on the grocery list last week, Chad got some. Even though I don't feel like I overeat or make totally poor decisions, I am trying to cut back and make better choices. I really thought it would be possible to lose two pounds a week this summer, but that is just not happening yet. Even though I am starting to feel better, I want to see the results too!
.watching a lot of HGTV since all the shows I was watching are done until fall! HGTV puts my house to shame, but it is so fun and inspiring to watch. :)
.loving the sun-kissed brown color my shoulders are becoming; but need to remember to wear sunscreen!
.wondering how we are half way through June already? I feel like school just got out!
.planning out a training plan that would get me through some fall races! However, still unsure how hard to push while coming back and hoping I am not being overly ambitious? No better way to find out than try and be okay with pulling back if I need to (easier said that done, I know).
.feeling anxious about a lingering pain in my knee. I wrote about this last summer already. It would come and go, but was completely gone when I ran my half in October. It was hard to tell if it was there this winter since I was working out so inconsistently, but it is there now for sure. Some days are worse than others, and it is more uncomfortable than painful. I've read some information online - the definition of runners knee versus patellar tendonitis makes me think it might be the latter, as the pain is typically in my lower knee. Thinking I should get it checked to rule out anything serious - just now sure who to seek out?
.looking forward to diving into some books on my kindle this weekend while driving and sitting outside! Summer is the time I actually find time to read!
.optimistic about being one step away from submitting my application to finish my Master's degree!
.staying up way too late lately.
.counting down the days left of summer school, even though it is a pretty easy gig for the extra money. Plus I think I already mentioned the money is going towards a family vacation next year! Can't wait!
.proud of the fact that I have stayed away from the chips and dip all week! That snack is one of my weaknesses, and, even though it wasn't on the grocery list last week, Chad got some. Even though I don't feel like I overeat or make totally poor decisions, I am trying to cut back and make better choices. I really thought it would be possible to lose two pounds a week this summer, but that is just not happening yet. Even though I am starting to feel better, I want to see the results too!
.watching a lot of HGTV since all the shows I was watching are done until fall! HGTV puts my house to shame, but it is so fun and inspiring to watch. :)
Thursday, June 18, 2015
Throwback Thursday - Because its been a year
This weekend is my marathon-iversary. So what better time to relive some highlights.
Wednesday, June 17, 2015
Weekly Wrap-Up: 6.8.15-6.14.15
The end of Operation Summer 2015, Week 3.
The weight loss has not been as quick as I was hoping, but I am sticking with getting back on track and finding some consistency. Yeah for that.
Monday 6/8: I did a 30 min TRX class. Later in the evening I headed out with Max for a quick walk. I would have gone further, but it was hot! He was panting pretty hard and slowing down earlier than usual, so I called it quits. We ended around 1.7 miles in just under 30 minutes. My Nike app actually never loaded the walk, but I did glance at it towards the end.
Tuesday 6/9: Planned a run, but with the heat and Ava starting t-ball, I just ran out of time. It was too hot before t-ball, but it was 8:00 before we got home. Got her ready for bed and called it a night.
Wednesday 6/10: Planned another TRX, but after not getting out Tuesday I ended up going for a run. I went for 3.66 miles in 52:03. Trying to focus on where I am, not where I was or want to be.
Thursday 6/11: I went to a 4:30 cycling class. It is a nice short class - just 30 minutes. Makes it perfect for these busy summer evenings. When t-ball got cancelled due to rain, I also did my 40 minute kettle bell interval conditioning class. A double workout day felt great. I haven't had many of them since last summer!
Friday 6/12: Planned an active recovery day. I ended up cleaning my house and waiting for my friend Heidi to arrive. We did take a leisurely walk to the park, but balanced that out with popsicles! :)
Saturday 6/13: Planned and actual was a run. I was hoping for a little longer, but I waited to late to head out and needed to be home to leave for Rochester. I literally got home about 11:50 and we needed to leave by 12:30! I went 4.21 miles in 57:03. It is still slow, but I changed up what I was doing to 1 min walk/1 min run. I saw a nice increase in my pace compared to other recent workouts using that method.
Sunday 6/14: another lighter day was planned, but I ended up just enjoying visiting and hanging out in the sun! Worth it!
****
Weekly totals:
1 walk - 30 minutes (1.7mi)
2 runs - 1:49:06 (7.87 mi)
3 cross-training classes - 1:40
Total Time Training: 3:59:06
****
My main goals right now continue to be regaining my health and fitness. I want to increase my speed/endurance on runs, rebuild strength, and of course lose the gained weight.
What are your current goals?
The weight loss has not been as quick as I was hoping, but I am sticking with getting back on track and finding some consistency. Yeah for that.
Monday 6/8: I did a 30 min TRX class. Later in the evening I headed out with Max for a quick walk. I would have gone further, but it was hot! He was panting pretty hard and slowing down earlier than usual, so I called it quits. We ended around 1.7 miles in just under 30 minutes. My Nike app actually never loaded the walk, but I did glance at it towards the end.
Tuesday 6/9: Planned a run, but with the heat and Ava starting t-ball, I just ran out of time. It was too hot before t-ball, but it was 8:00 before we got home. Got her ready for bed and called it a night.
Wednesday 6/10: Planned another TRX, but after not getting out Tuesday I ended up going for a run. I went for 3.66 miles in 52:03. Trying to focus on where I am, not where I was or want to be.
Thursday 6/11: I went to a 4:30 cycling class. It is a nice short class - just 30 minutes. Makes it perfect for these busy summer evenings. When t-ball got cancelled due to rain, I also did my 40 minute kettle bell interval conditioning class. A double workout day felt great. I haven't had many of them since last summer!
Friday 6/12: Planned an active recovery day. I ended up cleaning my house and waiting for my friend Heidi to arrive. We did take a leisurely walk to the park, but balanced that out with popsicles! :)
Saturday 6/13: Planned and actual was a run. I was hoping for a little longer, but I waited to late to head out and needed to be home to leave for Rochester. I literally got home about 11:50 and we needed to leave by 12:30! I went 4.21 miles in 57:03. It is still slow, but I changed up what I was doing to 1 min walk/1 min run. I saw a nice increase in my pace compared to other recent workouts using that method.
Sunday 6/14: another lighter day was planned, but I ended up just enjoying visiting and hanging out in the sun! Worth it!
****
Weekly totals:
1 walk - 30 minutes (1.7mi)
2 runs - 1:49:06 (7.87 mi)
3 cross-training classes - 1:40
Total Time Training: 3:59:06
****
My main goals right now continue to be regaining my health and fitness. I want to increase my speed/endurance on runs, rebuild strength, and of course lose the gained weight.
What are your current goals?
Tuesday, June 16, 2015
Weekend Highlights: 6.13.15
I love weekends in general, but I really love summer weekends. Summer is the time of year I am okay with constant business and traveling. Plans that get us together with friends and family, far and near. Plans that get us out and about, especially outside.
After one weekend of recovering from the school year, working to catch up on household chores, and getting ready to jump into our summer schedule, we had our first weekend with summer plans. You may remember from last summer me talking about a visit with my dear friend Heidi and how we ran the Color Run.
Heidi and I met in the dorms Fall Semester 1999. After college, Heidi started teaching in Singapore! And she has been there ever since. I cherish our summer visits. When I am lucky, we make it work to get together over Christmas if she is home, too.
This past weekend, Heidi came for a visit. Friday afternoon/night, we just hung around home and took Ava to the park. Saturday, we went to Canvas and Chardonnay. I have been longing to do a painting like this for some time now. Are these instructed painting sessions popular everywhere right now? I hope to do more! We then went out to eat at Olive Garden. It was a great afternoon/evening with a great friend. On Sunday, we ended up taking Ava to a local, small state park to play in the sand, swim and bask in the sun. Okay, the ending was more for me than Ava! I had heard of the park before, but hadn't been there. It was small, like I expected, but served it's purpose.
All in all, it was an enjoyable weekend! I am so grateful I am going to get to see Heidi twice this summer. In just a few short weeks, Ava and I are heading to her parents for more fun.
In the meantime, some picture fun from our weekend.
After one weekend of recovering from the school year, working to catch up on household chores, and getting ready to jump into our summer schedule, we had our first weekend with summer plans. You may remember from last summer me talking about a visit with my dear friend Heidi and how we ran the Color Run.
Heidi and I met in the dorms Fall Semester 1999. After college, Heidi started teaching in Singapore! And she has been there ever since. I cherish our summer visits. When I am lucky, we make it work to get together over Christmas if she is home, too.
This past weekend, Heidi came for a visit. Friday afternoon/night, we just hung around home and took Ava to the park. Saturday, we went to Canvas and Chardonnay. I have been longing to do a painting like this for some time now. Are these instructed painting sessions popular everywhere right now? I hope to do more! We then went out to eat at Olive Garden. It was a great afternoon/evening with a great friend. On Sunday, we ended up taking Ava to a local, small state park to play in the sand, swim and bask in the sun. Okay, the ending was more for me than Ava! I had heard of the park before, but hadn't been there. It was small, like I expected, but served it's purpose.
All in all, it was an enjoyable weekend! I am so grateful I am going to get to see Heidi twice this summer. In just a few short weeks, Ava and I are heading to her parents for more fun.
In the meantime, some picture fun from our weekend.
 | ||||||||
I can't say that I am impressed with my tree paining abilities. But it was still fun!
 
And what Ava and Daddy did while Heidi and I had girl time:
****
What was the highlight of your weekend? Or what are you most looking forward to this summer?
I am looking forward to many more busy summer weekends!
|
Monday, June 15, 2015
Motivational Monday: 6.15.15
I haven't felt like I've persevered through much lately, but I am getting back on track. I am working to accept the bad with the good. I am working to change my mind set and believe that everything does happen for a reason. I am trying to trust that in due time I will understand the reason for the path that has been set out for us.
After a refreshing weekend, I am ready to take on a new week.
Friday, June 12, 2015
2015 Races
I can't believe it is June, and I have yet to run a race this year. Since seriously taking up running in 2009, when I ran my first 5k, the latest I have ran a race is April. Typically, the Earth Day races in St. Cloud are my first run of the year. With everything else going on this year, I bailed on running it this year.
Though not feeling like I am getting back in shape as quickly as I'd like, I need to keep going. I've been browsing website and race calendars trying to get a mostly fall race schedule put together.
I was aiming for a start up race around July 4. The Austin Hog Jog is held in combination with Freedom Fest, and since I like to stay home the 4th, that was my initial plan. Then my friend, Heidi, who lives in Singapore and comes home every summer, invited me to her parents over the 4th. I couldn't say no. I did find a 5k up that way, but haven't decided yet if I am going to run it or not. Since I'll have Ava with me there are just extra logistics involved. Plus that whole feeling of not being in race shape. I need to decide soon.
Other races I'm contemplating include:
August 29: Women Rock 10k (I ran their half in both 2012 and 2013 - my first two half marathons. I would only plan the 10k as a training run for a fall half)
September 12: Graniteman 10k or half
September 20: Med City fall half this is not an accurate line - I just saw advertised on Facebook tonight that they are having a fall half. This will be their inaugural fall event.
October 18: Mankato Marathon (half) I rocked this half last year, and would love to return. I also plan to run the full some time - but maybe not this year.
November 1: Rails to Trails Marathon (found randomly by looking for races as late into the season as I could find, though I'm seriously doubting my ability to run a full this year). There is a half option, and this race occurs in early November.
November 8: Madison Marathon is another November race, with both a half and full option. I would not try to do both November races.
I am not sure if I should be planning on that many races - might be an overkill given I'm just getting back into it, but I also have the urge to make up for lost time and lost opportunities. I'd likely need to choose between the two September races (unless I do one shorter distance and one longer) and one November race - putting me at four or five races. Plus maybe one summer 5k. Doable - just gutsy after my recent hiatus?
Decisions, decisions. Hoping to have a final line up soon, so I can work on putting together some sort of official training plan.
Though not feeling like I am getting back in shape as quickly as I'd like, I need to keep going. I've been browsing website and race calendars trying to get a mostly fall race schedule put together.
I was aiming for a start up race around July 4. The Austin Hog Jog is held in combination with Freedom Fest, and since I like to stay home the 4th, that was my initial plan. Then my friend, Heidi, who lives in Singapore and comes home every summer, invited me to her parents over the 4th. I couldn't say no. I did find a 5k up that way, but haven't decided yet if I am going to run it or not. Since I'll have Ava with me there are just extra logistics involved. Plus that whole feeling of not being in race shape. I need to decide soon.
Other races I'm contemplating include:
August 29: Women Rock 10k (I ran their half in both 2012 and 2013 - my first two half marathons. I would only plan the 10k as a training run for a fall half)
September 12: Graniteman 10k or half
September 20: Med City fall half this is not an accurate line - I just saw advertised on Facebook tonight that they are having a fall half. This will be their inaugural fall event.
October 18: Mankato Marathon (half) I rocked this half last year, and would love to return. I also plan to run the full some time - but maybe not this year.
November 1: Rails to Trails Marathon (found randomly by looking for races as late into the season as I could find, though I'm seriously doubting my ability to run a full this year). There is a half option, and this race occurs in early November.
November 8: Madison Marathon is another November race, with both a half and full option. I would not try to do both November races.
I am not sure if I should be planning on that many races - might be an overkill given I'm just getting back into it, but I also have the urge to make up for lost time and lost opportunities. I'd likely need to choose between the two September races (unless I do one shorter distance and one longer) and one November race - putting me at four or five races. Plus maybe one summer 5k. Doable - just gutsy after my recent hiatus?
Decisions, decisions. Hoping to have a final line up soon, so I can work on putting together some sort of official training plan.
Thursday, June 11, 2015
Throwback Thursday
It is actually not that far back - this video is from just after Christmas. One of my favorites!
I had so many pictures and videos on my phone, my memory was nearly full. Finally took the time to clear them off. There are many more I could share!
Wednesday, June 10, 2015
T-Ball 2015
Since the plan is to do dance again next school year, there is not a lot of time for other activities. Not at her age, anyway. So, during the summer I try to sign her up for other things. Last year was gymnastics and swimming lessons. This summer, we opted to try T-Ball, another round of swimming lessons, and I might still sign her up for a session of gymnastics, too.
Her first night of T-Ball was tonight. It was just a clinic night - they went over skills at four different stations. "Games" - and I use that word loosely because this is Minor League T-Ball, so 4 & 5 years old that have not completed Kindergarten - start Thursday!
Here's some picture fun.
Looking forward to the rest of the "season"!
Her first night of T-Ball was tonight. It was just a clinic night - they went over skills at four different stations. "Games" - and I use that word loosely because this is Minor League T-Ball, so 4 & 5 years old that have not completed Kindergarten - start Thursday!
Here's some picture fun.
Looking forward to the rest of the "season"!
Tuesday, June 9, 2015
Weekly Wrap-up: 6/1/15 - 6/7/15
Also known as Operations Summer 2015 - Week 2:
Monday, 6/1: planned run - actual nothing. With just three days of school left, I needed to hunker down at work and finish progress reports.
Tuesday, 6/2: Kettle Bell Interval Conditioning class @ YMCA.
Wednesday, 6/3: planned walk and ab work. Instead, I stayed at work until 9:00 to get all my files in order and ready to file into student CUM files.
Thursday, 6/4: Kettle Bell class.
Friday, 6/5: Hello, Summer! Went to a lunch hour Cycle Box class.
Saturday, 6/6: Ran 5.43 miles in a slow 1:17:53
Sunday, 6/7: planned an active recovery day of a walk and some core work. Between church, the weather, and chores, I just didn't get to it.
Totals:
1 run/walk for 5.43 miles (1:17:53)
2 Kettle Bell Interval Conditioning classes (80 minutes)
1 cardio cross training class (50 minutes)
Total time: 3:27:53
Not quite as good as last week, but still a good week for getting back into it.
Monday, 6/1: planned run - actual nothing. With just three days of school left, I needed to hunker down at work and finish progress reports.
Tuesday, 6/2: Kettle Bell Interval Conditioning class @ YMCA.
Wednesday, 6/3: planned walk and ab work. Instead, I stayed at work until 9:00 to get all my files in order and ready to file into student CUM files.
Thursday, 6/4: Kettle Bell class.
Friday, 6/5: Hello, Summer! Went to a lunch hour Cycle Box class.
Saturday, 6/6: Ran 5.43 miles in a slow 1:17:53
Sunday, 6/7: planned an active recovery day of a walk and some core work. Between church, the weather, and chores, I just didn't get to it.
Totals:
1 run/walk for 5.43 miles (1:17:53)
2 Kettle Bell Interval Conditioning classes (80 minutes)
1 cardio cross training class (50 minutes)
Total time: 3:27:53
Not quite as good as last week, but still a good week for getting back into it.
Monday, June 8, 2015
Motivational Moday: 6.8.15
Headed into week three of Operation Summer 2015.
Need to lose the extra pounds. Need to get back on track.
It's up to me.
Saturday, June 6, 2015
Crying on the Run
I've been getting so emotional on my runs lately. I hate that I am so far from where I was a year ago - or even two years ago. Really, I am at the lowest point I've been since 2012, when I re-started my weight loss journey at 193 pounds.
And the reasons why I've gotten to this point just flood back when I am trying to push through workouts. Mostly on my runs though.
Today, I literally cried as I ran. Therapeutic, I suppose. Still - made something that is already difficult that much more difficult.
Some thoughts that went through my head as I ran today:
I believe I will get through this phase. I am just not sure what it is finally going to take. I do feel better than I did a couple of weeks ago; but then I will have a day that I just feel sad again. That I can't be okay with not having another baby. That I feel guilty for the way I look and feel right now.
I know I am putting a lot out there. I also know I just need to focus on the positives - that I am going to get back to where I was and not let myself stay where I am. That I am blessed beyond measure. - I know all this. I just need to get through this.
Have you ever been in such a rut? What have you done to pull through? Is it better to let the emotions run their course, or is there something specific you've tried or done?
And the reasons why I've gotten to this point just flood back when I am trying to push through workouts. Mostly on my runs though.
Today, I literally cried as I ran. Therapeutic, I suppose. Still - made something that is already difficult that much more difficult.
Some thoughts that went through my head as I ran today:
- I wish Mom had never been hospitalized.
- I also thought about how her strength in recovery is quite admirable compared to the strength I feel right now.
- I wish I never would have doubted or changed my mind about more fertility treatments. A year ago, I thought I was okay with being done and having just one. If I had been able to stay in that place, I would have saved myself from a lot of pain and heart ache.
- I wish I was better at balancing life; that even when things got hectic I could find balance in my activities.
- I wish I could let go of this sadness that has seemed to take over.
- I wish I didn't feel so broken and incomplete.
I believe I will get through this phase. I am just not sure what it is finally going to take. I do feel better than I did a couple of weeks ago; but then I will have a day that I just feel sad again. That I can't be okay with not having another baby. That I feel guilty for the way I look and feel right now.
I know I am putting a lot out there. I also know I just need to focus on the positives - that I am going to get back to where I was and not let myself stay where I am. That I am blessed beyond measure. - I know all this. I just need to get through this.
Have you ever been in such a rut? What have you done to pull through? Is it better to let the emotions run their course, or is there something specific you've tried or done?
Tuesday, June 2, 2015
Weekly Wrap-up : May 25 - May 31 (Operation Summer 15 - Week 1)
You may remember from yesterday's post that I am starting Operation Summer 2015 - losing the 20+ pounds I've put on since November and getting back on track. My goal starting out was to work out every day, with some days being active recovery days. Here's how the week played out:
Monday - I set out on a run (let's be honest, I am not in prime running shape and I am doing a run/walk routine to get back into it). I started slow - but when I hit a section of trail I knew well, made myself run the whole thing. It ended up being about 1/2 mile long. I know it doesn't sound like much. However - I am not in the shape I was a year ago and I was satisfied with that. It was not as easy the second time through that section, but I did it again. I just kept telling myself, "hospitals, paper work, and fertility treatments can get me down, but not keep me down." It worked. I finished 5.54 miles in 1:16:26. I was a little bummed when I hit 5 miles in the time I was running 6 last summer, but I have to work on getting down on myself.
Tuesday - 40 minute Kettle Bell Interval Conditioning class. I've been attending this class for over three years now, though it has evolved from Pilates Mix to Interval Conditioning, and finally focused on KB. I've missed the consistency of this class the last six months and am glad to be going back.
Wednesday - In wanting to not rush into running too much too soon, I kept tonight a walking night. Over the last month, I have been walking on a semi-regular basis. So, I leashed up the dog, got Ava on her bike, and headed out. It wasn't our fastest walk. Ava wanted to go home half way through and I had a hard time keeping my pace swift the second half by myself. Walked 2.87 miles in 45:20. I ended the night with the 10 minute Ab video from Beachbody's 21 day fix.
Thursday - back to Kettle Bells for 40 minutes.
Friday - active recovery day with 21 day fix's yoga. It's a 30 minute video. I hadn't done this one before - I felt it was more stretching and less yoga - but it was a good active recovery.
Saturday - After a lazy morning and drearier weather than was predicted, I almost didn't go out. But - I didn't want to regret not going. Once I got moving the wind didn't feel so cool. However, I had a hard time getting my right shin/ankle to loosen up. It was past uncomfortable - it hurt. So I hit a turning point, and turned right instead of left. It cut a mile or slightly more from my route, but I didn't want to limp all the way home. It finally did loosen up - but not until I was within a mile of home. By then my left knee was bugging me. I don't know if I shifted my gait to get off the right foot quicker? This is the knee that has actually been bugging me on and off since last August. I never had it looked at because I was able to run a half in October with no pain - but it sneaks up after workouts. I don't know if it just "runner's knee" and I need to do some strength work, or if I need to go in and get it looked at. Regardless, I walked/ran (probably more walk than run) 3.67 miles in 54:15.
Sunday - I planned to do a 21 day fix cardio/strength video. But with the end of the school year upon us, a messy house, and a sore knee - I took the day off.
I can't complain about the week. It was a good way to get back into it, and I just have to believe I will get back to where I was before I know it.
****
Totals:
6 workouts made up of:
3 walks/runs for 12.08 miles (2:56:01)
2 kettle bell classes (80 minutes total)
1 yoga session (30 minutes)
10 minutes of ab work
4:56:01 - not bad for my first week back at it.
Monday - I set out on a run (let's be honest, I am not in prime running shape and I am doing a run/walk routine to get back into it). I started slow - but when I hit a section of trail I knew well, made myself run the whole thing. It ended up being about 1/2 mile long. I know it doesn't sound like much. However - I am not in the shape I was a year ago and I was satisfied with that. It was not as easy the second time through that section, but I did it again. I just kept telling myself, "hospitals, paper work, and fertility treatments can get me down, but not keep me down." It worked. I finished 5.54 miles in 1:16:26. I was a little bummed when I hit 5 miles in the time I was running 6 last summer, but I have to work on getting down on myself.
Tuesday - 40 minute Kettle Bell Interval Conditioning class. I've been attending this class for over three years now, though it has evolved from Pilates Mix to Interval Conditioning, and finally focused on KB. I've missed the consistency of this class the last six months and am glad to be going back.
Wednesday - In wanting to not rush into running too much too soon, I kept tonight a walking night. Over the last month, I have been walking on a semi-regular basis. So, I leashed up the dog, got Ava on her bike, and headed out. It wasn't our fastest walk. Ava wanted to go home half way through and I had a hard time keeping my pace swift the second half by myself. Walked 2.87 miles in 45:20. I ended the night with the 10 minute Ab video from Beachbody's 21 day fix.
Thursday - back to Kettle Bells for 40 minutes.
Friday - active recovery day with 21 day fix's yoga. It's a 30 minute video. I hadn't done this one before - I felt it was more stretching and less yoga - but it was a good active recovery.
Saturday - After a lazy morning and drearier weather than was predicted, I almost didn't go out. But - I didn't want to regret not going. Once I got moving the wind didn't feel so cool. However, I had a hard time getting my right shin/ankle to loosen up. It was past uncomfortable - it hurt. So I hit a turning point, and turned right instead of left. It cut a mile or slightly more from my route, but I didn't want to limp all the way home. It finally did loosen up - but not until I was within a mile of home. By then my left knee was bugging me. I don't know if I shifted my gait to get off the right foot quicker? This is the knee that has actually been bugging me on and off since last August. I never had it looked at because I was able to run a half in October with no pain - but it sneaks up after workouts. I don't know if it just "runner's knee" and I need to do some strength work, or if I need to go in and get it looked at. Regardless, I walked/ran (probably more walk than run) 3.67 miles in 54:15.
Sunday - I planned to do a 21 day fix cardio/strength video. But with the end of the school year upon us, a messy house, and a sore knee - I took the day off.
I can't complain about the week. It was a good way to get back into it, and I just have to believe I will get back to where I was before I know it.
****
Totals:
6 workouts made up of:
3 walks/runs for 12.08 miles (2:56:01)
2 kettle bell classes (80 minutes total)
1 yoga session (30 minutes)
10 minutes of ab work
4:56:01 - not bad for my first week back at it.
Monday, June 1, 2015
Motivational Monday: 6.1.15
I don't even know if anyone still reads this anymore! But I am in the process of getting back into it, and want to start blogging again. It has been an extremely difficult six months. This saying applies to my life more than to running these days. It has been an emotional process to just accept this phase as the current mile. Not my final destination.
Here's the run down.
You likely remember my scarce posts from November and December. As a special education teacher, it was a busy time for me. I had seven meetings in six weeks. And all the paperwork to go with it. I wanted to do my job well (this is my second year at my current school, and my first year in this particular assignment - I wanted to prove the choice had been a good one). So, I put in late nights and still took work home with me. My workout numbers became less and less.
The holidays came and went. I noticed a few pounds coming on, but I thought things were going to slow down in January. If I could just get through the hustle and bustle, I said to myself.
The beginning of January wasn't bad. Even though we had already started the process of making doctor appointments to go through a round of fertility treatments, I went and got new running shoes. I was going to start training for two spring races, and if I ended up pregnant I'd be able to keep running even if not doing the races. If I didn't end up pregnant, I'd be able to continue with my training.
All those plans went out the window on January 24. It was a Saturday morning. At 7:50am, my dad called to tell me he was in the ER with my mom and she was being airlifted to Milwaukee due to a bleed on her brain - they assumed it was caused by an aneurysm. We know how blessed we are to have her here with us still. She has finished her scheduled out-patient therapy appointments, but continues to be out of work. She does not have the strength to go back at this point. Some of her motor skills seem to have been impacted, as she can appear rigid in her movements at times. Her memory was also affected, but she is thriving given the alternatives of where she could be. Back to going in order, she was hospitalized for six weeks. I rushed home that Saturday not knowing what the severity of the situation was. I couldn't just sit at home from six hours away not knowing. I went home a total of 5 times in 7 weeks. I wouldn't have been anywhere else, but it was exhausting.
As far as the fertility treatments go, we just moved everything back - but moved forward. Sadly, neither worked. I slowly and inconsistently integrated workouts back into my routine after the six weeks Mom was in the hospital. Doing them in the middle of my treatments wasn't easy either. I have irrational fears when I am doing fertility treatments that something I do can make it not work. Not to mention the meds left me feeling bloated and uncomfortable. These unsuccessful attempts left me feeling much more devastated and depressed than I knew was possible. I am just now - three weeks later - starting to feel like I can move forward. Still with mixed emotions. I want few things more than to keep trying until it works, but also knowing financially and emotionally I don't know that we can.
Through all that, I struggled to stay on top of work. I am on the last stretch with the end of the school year upon us. Our last day with students is Wednesday. It is a school year I am glad to put behind me. However, even as I say that, I have to admit I had a great group of students on my case load this year. But the rest of my world this year, made it one of the most trying.
I could have used the summer off to rejuvenate, but am going to spend the first five weeks working. The extra money will either go to medical bills or be put away for a family vacation we plan to take next March.
Still, I need to acknowledge that in six short months, I have gained nearly 25 pounds. It took me three years to lose and maintain that, and in six months of life (what else does one call it?), I gained it all back. So on top of already raw emotions, I have felt absolutely terrible about myself.
The last two weeks though, while still a work in progress, I have decided I can't stay down. I need to let the emotions be real, but I can't stay in that spot. I have been exhausted and unfocused for too long. And have come to the realization that through the things that brought me down, the thing I let go (exercise) is probably the thing I needed the most. I just couldn't do it. It's been a challenge to say the least.
So, last weekend I realized Memorial Day to Labor Day is 15 weeks. I set a goal to try and lose a minimum of two pounds each of those weeks. I don't know if I can realistically lose 30 pounds this summer, but I am giving it my best effort. If I can at least lose the weight I put on, I will consider it a success.
I'll share what my first week of "Operation Summer 15" looked like soon. Just needed to get this part of my journey out there, and hopefully behind me.
What mile in life are you currently facing?
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