Happy Pi Day!

Good morning!  

We are in the final weeks of our time here in Michigan and it is going to fly by, it is already Thursday?!  I had to recheck my calendar twice today to confirm this news.  Plus it isn't just a regular Thursday, oh no, today is Pi day, 3.14!  The only reason I know this is because I married Jess and he is all things nerd.  

Case Closed


A friend posted this on FB, couldn't resist! 


My runs lately have been pretty basic, I ran 6 miles Tuesday night and 6.5 last night.  I haven't done any speed work this week because I am trying to just feel better all around.

I thought it would be cool to run 3 different time yesterday!  Kidding, my iPod was being really weird and kept stopping my run.  As you can see I had to restart it 3 times...I love my iPod but it needs to cooperate with me better if it wants to stick around.  

It has been over a week since I got that nasty virus and it just seems to be hanging around.  My stomach is still really sensitive and never really settles down.  I was thinking before I got sick that I might have an allergy to dairy and I am starting to see a correlation.  So starting today I am going to be cutting back on my dairy, luckily I switched to So Delicious Coconut Milk Creamer a while ago.

Old pic, not actually home, I miss you home!

I can't have my coffee without cream, it just isn't right.  I usually drink my coffee before I eat anything and lately that has been really upsetting too, so now I'll try eating BEFORE my beloved coffee.  I don't like change especially when it relates to my food, hopefully we'll all make it through this challenging time.

I am prepping myself to run 13 miles on the treadmill tonight.  It'll be another milestone on the treadmill for me and I am excited to conquer it.  I am suppose to run it Friday or Saturday but with my race on Sunday I want to give my legs a couple days to rest up.  I missed my long run last week and I don't feel comfortable totally skipping another one.  I need to make sure I start up with my cross training again next week, no excuses!  I know for certain that doing those exercises 3-4 times a week will keep me from injury and only improve my running, why wouldn't I do it?!  Looking forward to taking Barre or TRX again!  Now I am rambling, but one more thing before I go!

Remember when I use to talk about Project Life and getting caught up and blah blah blah.  I haven't done anything but open up the picture folder on my computer, get overwhelmed and walk away.  Becky Higgins' advice is that you should just start at the present and when you have a free minute work on the stuff you have missed.  So that is what I am going to do, I am going to start with March 2013 and I'll work back whenever I have a little time.  My albums mean a lot to me and I get a lot of joy out of working in them and staying caught up.  I love having these memories to look back on of our day to day life and I don't want to much of it to get away from me.  My goal is to start in the present with my Project Life album and share it with you once a month.  Accountability is key to everything in my life.

Do you do any journaling or scrapbooking?

Any fellow peeps with food allergies out there?!  

Are you racing this weekend?  

Friday vs. Saturday Long Runs

Happy Saturday!  

I love Saturdays, Saturdays and Thursdays are my favorite days of the week.  I had every intention of getting up Friday morning and getting in my 12 miles before we headed to the Children's Museum but life happened.  I  ended up heading to the gym around 6:00 and had an awesome run.  Just another perk to treadmill running, I can run any time of the day, childcare willing.  I did 12 miles and I actually had negative splits from miles 7-12.  My plan called for 12 miles with 4 at my race pace but at the end of those 4 miles I only had 2 more to go so I figured I would push it all the way to the finish.  I ran my final mile at a 9:10 and it felt amazing to push myself pass previous limits.  

Afterwards I came home, showered and immediately put on my PRO Compression knee highs, that is how I like to spend a Friday night!  I am throwing around the idea of doing most of my long runs on Fridays instead of Saturdays.  The Hungry Runner Girl has been doing a lot of her long runs on Fridays and since I think she has really great ideas I am following that for a while.  All you mom's out there can probably relate to the craziness our weekends can be so having the long training run completed on Friday is just a jump start.  One of my biggest hurdles with training for the Portland Marathon last year was the trouble with being gone most of the day on Saturdays.  It was important that I was in bed early on Friday and come Saturday night after an 18-20 miler I was bushed.  After reading Janae's idea it was like a light bulb!  While I won't toss Saturday runs totally out the window I will be doing the majority of them on Fridays going forward.  

This morning I ran an easy and slow 2 miles just to work out my legs and did a little strength training and foam rolling.  I am definitely finding my running mojo again and getting excited to put in some hard work.  Last year I focused mainly on just getting through each run but this year I am kicking it up a notch.  I am ready to improve on my previous race times and really see how far I can push myself in my upcoming races.  It is important to me to come back from snowy Michigan and treadmill running stronger than when I left and I am on target to hit that goal.  I told myself no excuses in 2013 and I meant it.  If I let myself back track and lose all of my running fitness I would be so disappointed in myself and my choices.  I actually love the treadmill and look forward to my runs on it now, something I never would have said 3 months ago!  

What is your favorite day of the week?  Why do you love that day?  

- I love Thursdays because its like Friday Eve and we only have more day, anticipation is everything!  Saturdays are awesome because Jess is home and its family day for us <3      

What was your best run/long run/training run this week?      

You Really Can Run On A Treadmill

Good morning!  

This morning I did 3 miles of hill repeats on the treadmill and pushed it to 10% incline for my final minute.  That made for a long minute!  Last night I went to the gym and I did a tempo run and was finally able to push my pace below the 10 min mark.  Finally seeing a 9 in front of my pace was so gratifying, I am so ready to push myself harder.  

I can count on one hand how many times I've been able to run outside in 2013, so the treadmill has become a good friend of mine this winter.  When I first started out with the treadmill I could barely push through 2 miles and now I've done 10, just like when I started running it takes time to build up.  Tomorrow I am scheduled to run 12 miles so I am already on the lookout for a good documentary to pass the time.  When I did my tempo run last night I listened to music for the first time in forever and it really pumped me up.  I usually save my music for a race, but yesterday I needed some Bruno Mars in my life.  I thought I would share some of my tips I've learned to pass the time on the treadmill.  

My Top 5 Treadmill Tips 

1. Grab the treadmill at the gym that is facing a window, it is nice to watch what is happening outside      

2. Mix it up, every minute increase your pace and hold it for a minute then slow down for a minute.  It will build your stamina and surprisingly make the time go faster

3. Some people can read on the treadmill but I can't so I've downloaded a few audio books and I love being able to catch up on a book while I am running 

4. Podcasts are awesome to listen to while you are running and can really pass the time.  My favorite podcasts are Runner Academy and Marathon Training Academy.  

5.  If you have a phone, laptop or tablet with the ability to watch TV or movies you can catch up on some of your favorite shows or movies 

My TM in Montana, this sucker would shock me every time I went to change my pace

When I first started to do my runs on the treadmill I really thought my training and mileage was going to suffer.  I honestly did not think I was going to be able to get to a place where I could actually increase my pace and get enough miles to be prepared for the Rock and Roll Half in Portland.  It was my 2nd week in Michigan when I realized that I had 2 choices a) Be miserable and not push myself, make a bunch of excuses b) Give it my all and really conquer my treadmill phobias.  I went with option B and haven't looked back, I can actually say I enjoy running a treadmill now.  There are a lot of benefits to running a treadmill that I never noticed before.  

Top 5 Benefits to Running On a Treadmill 

1. There is always a bathroom for an unexpected potty break

2. I don't have to wear my water and nutrition for my long runs

3. Even in the dead of winter I can wear my cute summer running outfits 

4. Safety, I love knowing I can run at anytime and not worry about a car not seeing me or worse 

5. I can watch my chick flicks and food documentaries without moans and groans from Jess 

We'll be back in Oregon sometime in April and I'll be back to doing the majority of my runs outside.  Of course I can't wait to get back to my running group and of course my BRFF (Best Running Friend Forever).  I'll keep using my treadmill for my speed-work because I know I've been able to push it because of the treadmill holding my pace.  I've been able to learn what a 10 minute pace feels like and have realized that yes I can hold that for a extended period of time.  I no longer fear the treadmill but embrace her as an integral part of my running.  If you are weary of running on a treadmill or feel like there is no way you could much on a treadmill I suggest letting go of your preconceived notions and give it a shot!  That is what I had to do and I am really glad I had the chance to learn to love the treadmill.  

If you are here visiting from SkinnyRunner I am so glad you took the time to check out my baby blog!  You can follow me all sorts of ways!  

Instagram - rundaniellarun 

Pinterest - Dani Sticka/Run Daniella Run 

Twitter - Run Daniella Run 

Facebook - Run Daniella Run 

{are you sensing a theme?!}

Seriously, thank you, having you here is wonderful!  

Do you run on a treadmill regularly?    

Would you rather not run at all then have to do it on a treadmill?

What is your favorite thing about running?

- I love the feeling of pushing my body passed its comfort zone and knowing I am increasing my stamina with each run.  Plus I love the feeling of a great run, I do not know many things that match that feeling.   

Importance of Cross Training

Good morning!  

It has been cross training city around here this week!  Jess has a lot going on with work this week and since we are in Michigan solo I don't have the opportunity to get out for a run.  I cannot express enough how grateful I am for my treadmill at home.  It might be on the sadder side of the treadmill scale but it gets the job done!  I won't be able to run again until Friday but I am totally OK with that because I am using the time to catch up with my good friend Chalene.  

When I first started running I never saw the need for lifting weights or doing anything extra.  I just wanted to go out there and run come home and be done.  While running did help me lose those the last few pounds, it was my strength training that actually changed my body.  A friend of Katie's had just completed 60 days of Chalean and her transformation was just amazing.  I wanted to see results like that and so I took the plunge and ordered the program.  I've talked about my results here and I have recently restarted another 90 days.  I want to see more changes and with spring and summer right around the corner and I want to be ready.  

Strength training is vital to becoming a stronger and healthier runner.  Building core muscles and strengthening your legs and back are going to help you avoid an injury.  I cross train at least 3 times a week and an ideal week will include 4 cross training sessions of some sort.  My newest obsession are Barre workouts, that class works muscles I never even knew I had!  I love to be sore after a great strength training session, I know I am super weird.  I can feel the difference in my stamina when I run as I get stronger and I feel like I can hold myself up better with the longer mileage.  Another reason cross training has become more and more of something I enjoy is because I can do it anywhere.  Sometimes I can't always get out for a run because I honestly just don't have any way to do it.  My husband has a demanding job, he has to travel quite a bit and I am the main care taker of our kids.  With that comes some finagling in my organization.  While nothing can ever replace the feeling I get from running I am glad I can at least do something when I am home bound with the girls.  Plus as the girls get older they have actually started to do the videos with me and get a kick out of all of the funny moves.  

I have been saying it since the beginning of the year, but honestly I just don't want to hear excuses.  I especially don't want to hear them from myself.  Don't make up a bunch of excuses as to why you can't strength train or don't have time or whatever.  Make time, if you want something bad enough and you are done with the current state of your body then do something about it.  Nobody but you can make the changes and you have to start somewhere.  Muscle is going to change the way you look and I don't know anybody who doesn't look good with some muscle on their body.  With that being said its time for me to do my Burn 2 before we head to Jungle Java!  Sounds like an interesting place...I hope the java is good!          

What is your favorite way to strength train?  

How many times a week do you schedule your strength training? 

A Bunch Of Excuses

Hi, Happy Weekend!  

I went to bed last night with every intention of waking up at 7 and hitting the pavement at 8 with a simple and easy 8 miles to conquer.  I laid out the route last night on Map My Run and made sure my wool socks were clean.  My alarm went off this morning, check, go to turn it off and I can already tell we have a problem.  My neck is stiff, like I slept weird and now I can't move my head, awesome.  OK so I lay there try to get comfortable and slowly get my head to be able to move a bit, check.  It is already almost 8 at this point so my run will be later than planned, no big deal.  I wrestle with all of the necessary gear needed for a 20 degree run and feel like I have already put in a sweat session.  At this point it is after 10 but I am making this run happen, hugs kisses and out the door I go.  

Taken right before I headed out for my run

It is snowing and it is cold but I can tell my body will warm up and I will be just fine through this run, BAM!  Half a mile into it I fall so hard on my butt people are actually pulling over to the side of the road to help me.  Not awkward or embarrassing AT ALL.  Luckily the only thing injured is my pride, I thank everyone, turn around and head home.  I can take a hint from the universe, go home and quit trying to run outside in Michigan in February it is NOT going to happen.  I walk back in the door and try to figure out how I am going to make this run happen.  I am thinking to myself  can I run 8 miles on the treadmill, well of course I can but do I want to?  It came down to either you do the run or you bag it and I wasn't going to bag it.  

I changed into much cooler clothes, headed to the gym and busted out my 8 miles while watching One For The Money.  This is a good look right?  Probably didn't need my compression sleeves but just kept them on from my previous running outfit.  I am so glad that I sucked it up and got it done, while it wasn't what I had envisioned for my 8 miles today it was a strong 8 miles and I am so happy I got it done.  

I had planned on doing my Barre class tomorrow morning but we are heading to the Ford Museum in Dearborn.  Plus my hamstrings are insanely tight and I am going to give them a rest.  Sarah and I must have worked pretty hard yesterday doing CLX Intervals together yesterday.  

She did almost the entire video with me yesterday (45 minutes) and kept asking me, is this how you do it Mama?  Those little weights are 1 pound each and perfect for her little arms.  I try to do most of cross training and runs in the morning before the girls are up but sometimes we have a little group session.  Chalean is always talking about setting the example for your family and friends and I enjoy having my little workout buddies from time to time.  Usually its just Lucy sleeping under the table and snoring while I do my cross training.  I hope your long run went much better than mine started out, remember no excuses!  

What is/was your workout this weekend?

Do you have a lot of snow where you live?  What do you do during the winter months?  

    

      

Running Watches

Hi!

I went to Wednesday night with everything laid out for my morning run...and I guess never set my alarm, fail!  So my Valentines gift to myself was a run rest day which will just had me in better shape for today's early wake up call.  I was at the gym by 5:45 , no excuses right?!  It needed to get done to stay on track for my training and also my sanity.  I was a little apprehensive that I wouldn't be able to commit and wouldn't get the 5 miles that was required but I did it!  It was the furthest I've ran on a treadmill and I really enjoyed the ladder speed work.  I ran out of time to get my cross training done so I am going to do CLX Intervals after the girls have breakfast.  I spared you a face shot, not much sleep add in bad lighting and sweaty red face, I mean really, who needs to see that?

We had lunch with Daddy yesterday and we both have decided to stick with places we know.  We aren't picky but if we are going to spend money to eat out we want it to be good, simple.  Can you tell by the look on their faces how much they love the food?  

Probably stick with ice cream, you really can't go wrong!

Actually that is a lie...Sonic has awful ice cream.  Sorry Sonic lovers, their other food is good!

I really tried to think of something delicious and special for dinner last night but after circling the store 3 times all I could come up with was dessert.  Chocolate fondue sounded amazing and thanks to the modern age I was able to look up an easy recipe and be on our way.  

{Instagram RunDaniellaRun} 

So I feel sort of like a tool and not a very useful tool.  Jess is so sweet and bought me the Garmin 610 from Costco for Valentines Day, I know right?!  I returned it before lunch yesterday morning, boo.  I was so excited when I opened it yesterday morning, he knows I have been thinking about watches and saw the 610 at Costco.  Honestly it is just way to much watch for this 11 min average girl right now.  Unless the watch can chisel my abs while I sleep I can't justify the $400 price tag, ouch!  But now it has me thinking about watches again and what I want/need in a watch and what am I willing to spend.  If you are looking into running/biking/swimming gear of any sort I highly recommend this guy's blog, he has SO MUCH information.  It helped me come to the conclusion that I don't need the 610 and also that I may be ready to upgrade from the Nike+ app. I love the Nike+ app and the website where I can keep track of my runs and see where I am at in relation to my friends.  I know that Nike has some watches they've come out with recently that I am going to research along with the Garmin Forerunner 10.  

Some of the features I would like in a watch if I do decide to buy one are: 

- Ability to be used indoors and outdoors.  I like to do my speed work on the treadmill since I am still learning how to keep a steady pace.  I know some of the Garmin's are solely GPS and won't work inside on a treadmill.

- It shouldn't matter but I want it to be cute.  If I am going to spend money on something I want to LOVE it and in order for me to love it I want it to be a color that I love.  Yes sometimes I buy shoes based on their color, probably why I love Mizuno.  

- I need it to help keep me on pace during a race.  This is the problem I run into with my Nike+ app on my iPod, I will check my pace during a run and its rarely accurate.  This didn't bother me when I first started running because I used it mainly to track my mileage.  Now that I am moving into a new stage of running my pacing is becoming important to me.     

Luckily these are all first world problems :)  I will share any information I find on the different options out there.  For now my iPod will work just fine and I'll just keep re-calibrating the darn thing every other run.  

What do you use to keep track of your runs?

Do you have a long run planned for this weekend? 

- I don't have a very long run but I am working on mapping out my 8 miles for tomorrow morning.  I don't want to do it on the treadmill so I am going to bundle up and just head out when the sun comes up. 

If you have any opinions you want to share on running watches don't be shy!  

  

     

Personal Pep Talk

Good morning! 

Finished my 3 miles and CLX Burn 1 this morning.  While I was on the treadmill I heard that the Pope is going to resign at the end of the month, crazy!  I should know this, but has a Pope ever resigned before, just seems odd to me I guess.  Anyway back to what you came here for, running!  I couldn't fall asleep for anything last night, I know I was up till 11:30 since that was the last time I looked at the time.  I kept telling my brain that you can keep going all you want but when my alarm goes off in the morning I am getting up and getting it done.  I was not going to bail the first day in because I was self sabotaging, so it'll be a lot of coffee this morning.  

Do you ever syke (sp?) yourself out when you are starting a new challenge or goal?  I do all the time, I have this negative voice in my head telling me why bother, its not a big deal.  But it is a big deal to me and I am learning to ignore that voice and its becoming quieter and quieter.  I do it with food too I will completely throw away a hard workout for a bowl of ice cream.  Life is all about the choices we make and I am working on choosing to put myself as a priority.  I can get where I want to be in my running as long as I put in the work, I don't want to sit on the sidelines anymore and just wish I was faster and stronger.  If you want something you have to go for it and when things get in your way you knock them over.  We all deserve to go after what we want and right now I want to become a better runner.  A better runner doesn't mean a fast runner, but a runner who commits to the work needed to improve and doesn't make excuses.  

I think I am so sick of excuses right now because I have been making them for so long.  I sit back and watch other people work towards their goals and achieve some great things and I make excuses as to why that isn't me. It isn't me because I am not putting the work into it to make it happen for me that is why!  I am the only one in my way and it is time I move over so I can start getting where I want to be both as a runner and also as a writer.  The moment I realized it was MY fault I wasn't where I wanted to be it was like I had all the power back.  So today I am working towards no more excuses and my first step was pulling myself out of bed this morning to get to the gym before 6.  I saw yesterday that MsFitRunner had run her 17 mile long run in her living room on the treadmill while her kids were running around.  That showed me something and made me ask myself why I make so many excuses?  So thank you MsFitRunner, you lit a fire under me and I am done making those lame excuses.  You really should check out MsFitRunner's Blog, this girl has the drive!   

You want it?  Go get it!