Good Choices and Bad Choices

Hi! 

I would call my run today more of a slogging, I just couldn't really get moving.  I ended up doing my cross training this morning before my run and my legs felt like they were filled with lead afterwards.  I normally love that feeling after cross training but not right before I want to head out for 7 miles.  Not every run will be great but getting out there always feels great.  Is it starting to get warmer when you are at?  It really warmed up this morning and was almost 60 when I hit the pavement I was so grateful to find a water fountain during my 4th mile.  I get so thirsty when I am out running if I am doing anything over 5 miles I need to start remembering to bring my water belt.  

The other day I bought a couple of the Starbucks Iced Coffees because they were 2 for $3.00 and I figured it was worth a try.  My opinion that I am sure you really value is to skip them.  

They didn't have an unsweetened option and I had hoped it wouldn't be that sweet.  The 21 grams of sugar should have been my first clue that yes they would be sweet.  I like my coffee to be the color of milk so I added more of my own creamer but it still was a no go.  I ended up pouring it down the sink, I won't waste calories on something that doesn't even taste good.  Save your money and just buy a real iced coffee of if you are talented enough make your own at home.  Then again you shouldn't really take my advice on anything because I go to the store and do things like this... 

{Instagram Pic}

So do what you want, I make awesomely bad choices!

Do you find that you are really affected by your previous days food choices when you head out for a run?  I know that certain things will affect a run the following day.  For example I normally do not drink any alcohol during the week because I know it is going to weigh me down in a major way.  I especially stay away from it the day and night before a long run because it dehydrates me.  Wine is totally off limits during the week and before any long run or race, that stuff hits me like a brick.  Wine not only dehydrates me but just 1 glass will make getting up with my 5:30 alarm clock nearly impossible.  Luckily I've never been a huge drinker so it wasn't much of a reach to now only have a drink once a week.  

Do you have a food or drink you have to stay away from because they'll affect your runs?  

Favorite flavor of ice cream?  

- I have so many!  If I had absolutely had to choose then it would be Baskin Robbin's Mint Chocolate Chip 

Are you a coffee drinker?  

Wear Sunscreen

Good morning!  

My run this morning was so good, not because it was fast or long but because I just let myself enjoy it.  I headed out at 6:00 and did an easy 5 miles.  Everyone I passed this morning had a smile on their face and it put me in such a good mood.  

Yesterday was a run rest day but I got back together with Chalean and I could tell she missed me.  I actually sat down on Sunday and mapped out my workouts and runs this week so I feel so much organized in that area.  I know I am always harping on this but get up in the morning to get your workout in, you'll never regret it.  Now that the girls are in preschool I thought I would wait and do my runs during that time but I switched it up this morning and I am so glad that I did.  Now I have a free moment to hang out with you guys!  

We had the most beautiful weather yesterday and I had to share the view from our neighborhood of Mt. Hood on a clear day.  We were only away from home for 3 months but coming back in the heart of Oregon spring time is happiness overload.  

{Instagram Pic}

    

I broke a sweat putting our backyard back together after putting everything away for the winter.  Why do bags of sand have to weigh so much?!  Thank goodness for my trustee wheelbarrow.  

The girls helped me bring out all of the cushions for our patio furniture, they were so excited to be helping me!  Lets hope that lasts for say...another 13 years?  I am doing something different this year for flowers and bought some wildflower mix to plant, it says it will attract humming birds and butterflies, wonder if they can do anything about rainbows. 

Okay I am going to say it just one more time, I am so happy to be HOME!  I am a homebody, I really enjoy my little cottage.  Being a SAHM is such a blessing and I am so grateful to be back home where me and the girls can really make the most of it.  Go out there today and do something that makes you happy too, even if it is just a little cup with a green straw.  :)  

Are you a homebody like me? 

Do you have a favorite season?  

What is your favorite form of strength training? 

- At home I love Chalean if I am going to a gym or studio I love Barre classes  

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?  

    

      

Endorphins Make You Happy

Hi! 

I am in the 2nd week of my 2nd time around of Chalean and today I did Burn 2 and Ab Burner for good measure.  I didn't make it the gym this morning, felt like a total fail but I wasn't going to bail on the workout.  Today was a run rest day so I let myself sleep pass 6 which  meant my workout didn't help till this afternoon.  I figured why bother changing out of this beauty, just add my trusty Uggs and call it a day. 

Yes Lucy finds her way into every self portrait and yes that mirror needs a serious date with some windex.  

I always wake up in a bum mood when I don't wake up to run but doing my Chalean this afternoon helped perk me up!  This didn't hurt either, it has almonds so it is healthy.  That wasn't a question but a statement.  

These also were delivered today 

How sweet are those roses?!  They were delivered today in a box, I've never gotten flowers in a box before!     The girls were so excited and I am getting a good upper body workout since they want to smell them every time they walk by.  Valentines has become pretty special to Jess and I since it was the day we got the keys to our house 7 years ago and he proposed a year later.  I love my flowers and they are pink which is my favorite color ever. ever ever.  

This post took me all day to write and it is already bedtime for me, goodnight!

Do you celebrate Valentine's Day?  

-I love it, any day where I can express how much I love my husband, my kids and my friends is a good day

How many days a week you normally run?

Does getting your workout down in the morning put you in a better mood for the rest of the day?

-100% yes for me 

Tall Drink of Water

Happy Sunday to you!  

I hope you all are enjoying your weekend, we got dumped on with snow Friday morning and have stayed cleared through the weekend.  Looks like most of the East Coast caught the storm, I was even able to run outside yesterday!  It felt so good to get out in the fresh air, I didn't worry about pace and just ran what felt comfortable.  This morning I went to Barre Boot Camp, which by the way all feel like boot camp to me...is there really a difference?  Is there an "easier" class I keep missing because that sucker is no joke.      

Yesterday was also the Virtual Run for Sherry and I thought about her most of my run.  It is so important in your life to be grateful because the more blessings you count the harder it is to give much attention to negativity.  I ran by myself but I felt connected to the community of runners out there all supporting Sherry.  It will stay in my memory as a favorite run for sure!

After my run and the marathon of getting 3 women ready to go out in the world I was ready for a drink!

Of water.  We went to the Box Bar in Old Town Plymouth and they brought everyone's drinks out in these pitchers.  At first when I sat down I thought the lady in the booth next to our was just really thirsty and a regular...nope.  Although I am not complaining because its nice to not have to have your water cup refilled 4 times, saves everyone a little embarrassment.  What?  I get thirsty.  Speaking of being thirsty, tomorrow I start "officially" training for a PR in the RnR Half.  That transition was suppose to be funny, like I am so thirsty to PR!  OK I'll drop it.  

This Week's Set Up 

Monday - Run easy 3, CLX Burn 1 

Tuesday - Tempo Run 

Wednesday - Burn 2 

Thursday - 5 mile Ladder Run (sounds scary!)

Friday - Run 3, Burn 3 

Saturday - Long Run

Sunday - Barre Bootcamp  

This first week isn't so bad, actually I don't think any of it will be terrible.  I am looking forward to having an actual plan with my running.  I am usually much more of a free spirit but that won't get me to a PR and I would be so happy with a PR at this half.  

I should probably do Jess a favor and get out of my workout clothes from this morning, but before I bid you farewell one more thing!  Tonight was our Sunday family movie night so I have to leave you with a dose of cuteness.  

Sleeping kids are so sweet.  Even though this short little 20 minute nap during the movie is going to keep her up till 10 I am sure of it :) 

Do you have any races on the calendar?  Race season is gearing up!  

Do you set up a workout schedule for the upcoming week?

Do you order soda when you go to a restaurant?  

Sometimes I'll get a diet, but paying almost $3 for a fountain drink is tough to swallow! 

Change Is A Good Thing

Good morning!  

Yesterday was a run day and I know at some point I should making my runs more specific.  You know easy run, speed work, etc, but I just like to run.  While I was at the gym yesterday morning I knew I was going to shoot for a 10 in front of my pace, even if it was 10:59 average pace.  It took a lot of restraint to keep from jumping up and down when I looked at my stats and saw this: 

Happy Dance!  That is a good pace for me and I was really excited to see I could average a number like that.  It was the boost I needed to show me that speed work WILL get me where I want to be.  

After I got home it was time to get ready for our day ahead, we had story time at the library, lunch with Daddy and some errands to run.  If we are going to get dressed and be out we might as well make the most of it!  Since we don't have an entertainment system in our rental the girls have been falling asleep while we are out and about.  So I do what any normal mother would do and get myself an iced coffee, hang out on Pinterest and take pictures.  

Yesterday was a good day for a few reasons, but FINALLY finding the only Starbucks drive-thru in Michigan was the biggest highlight.  They have Starbucks here, don't get me wrong, but this girl needs the drive thru if she is going to get one.  I can't justify unbuckling both girls, tromping through the cold and then having to re-buckle both girls for a coffee.  Iced Coffee no sweetener light cream made for a happy girl yesterday, that and the napping cuties behind me.  Sarah can breath I promise!       

Sunday was our Sesame Street Live day and the girls had so much fun!  The Grouch is Jesse's favorite charactor, Sarah seemed pretty excited to see him too.  As you can see all Katherine wanted to do was push that glowing button, don't worry she got her chance.  

This morning I decided to take a run rest day and will do my CLX Abs instead of my Burn 3.  I also wasn't able to go to the Barre class because they totally changed up their schedule on me, so I'll go this weekend.  See, write everything in pencil because it will change, it is the only thing certain.  

Also this Saturday February 9th is the 2nd Annual Virtual Run for Sherry.  This race is put on by her cousin and fellow blogger at Shut Up + Run.  I wish I had some pals to run it with but I'll be doing it on the treadmill Saturday morning, but I am grateful I can do that.  My Father in law and both of my Brother in laws work in Sidney MT and Williston ND.  I remember when Sherry first went missing and my heart sank, along with every other runner out there I am sure.  I know how tight those small communities are and what an impact her death had on their lives.  I'll run Saturday in memory of Sherry and hope our nation can get a grip on the senseless acts of violence seen everyday on our women and children.  

Let me know if you plan on running in the virtual run for Sherry!       

Anyone else find they have to change up their workout/running schedule during the week?

Do you have a lot of drive thru coffee places where you live? 

- Oregon is coffee headquarters, I didn't realize how spoiled I was! 

Weekly Set Up

Good morning!  

It was an early one for me I was up by 5 and in the gym by 5:30, I never thought those word would come out of my mouth.  I always figured 5:30 would be the earliest I could ever get up.  I did 3 miles and Burn 2 and I can really tell how much I need my strength training.  I like to think to myself I don't need it and I can just run and be fine, but logically I know how important it really is.  Now if I can just get mind around the fact I need to foam roll.  

Saturday I went into the gym to get in some miles and do my Chalean.  It was really cold in there and I thought about just wearing my Uggs to work out. 

I decided to go with my Mizunos instead, better foot support.  

Helloooo Thighs! 

I finally got a chance to sit and read through my Runners World magazine and was so excited to find this little piece of information.  

I have always wondered how Miles Per Hour and Miles Per Minute calculated on the treadmill.  I have been running 5.0-5.5 most mornings so that explains my continual ride in 12 minute pace land.  I am ready to work into the 6.0 territory, we'll see if I can get there or not.  I've been doing my last half mile or so at a 6.0 so that is a start.  I had originally thought I would work towards getting fast in 2013 but life happened so while I still want to work on my pacing I am focusing mainly on maintaining a good level of overall fitness.

    

That is where my personal trainer Chalean comes into play!  I felt I had some of my best runs and was in my best physical shape while I was doing Chalean.  For me it was a good investment because I know I will continue to come back to it for my base strength training for a long time.  At home I have a set of weights that work great and I am grateful I can bring my laptop to the gym here and use their weights.  I would recommend to any fellow travelers to bring a set (or even just 1) of resistance bands.  Those bands create a lot of resistance and you can get a great workout with those suckers.  There are a lot of excuses for why you can't workout and get healthy, but its up to you to rise above them and work towards your goals.  

Remember 23 years ago when I would share my weekly set up with all of you?  I decided it was time to get back to that because having a schedule for anything in life is key to creating success.  I am all about getting the most out of my days and I always jot down my week either Sunday night or Monday morning.  For me personally it is a great way to keep your life organized and make long term goals attainable.

This Week's Set Up 

Monday - Run 3 Miles, CLX Burn 2 - DONE 

Tuesday - Run, Goal is working up to 5 mi on the mill' *Barre* 

Wednesday - Run, Burn 3   

Thursday - Run, CLX Abs *Barre*

Friday - Run, Burn 1 (Week 2) 

Saturday/Sunday right now are up in the air.  With Jesse's current job situation I have to be flexible because he is my only childcare.  If I don't get into the gym it'll be CLX Burn it Off and/or Recharge.  The same goes with when I can get to my Barre class, my plan is do Barre at least once a week but it will depend on Jesse's situation at work that decides which night I go.  Be flexible, seriously, being flexible is key to keeping sane.  For myself with small children and a husband whose job is very important to him and our livelihood I try to be as flexible as I can be.  I didn't always use to be this way, I can tell you it didn't make me a very happy person.  I always write everything in my planner in pencil because I know how easily life changes and I need to be able to erase and readjust for our current situation   

I hope you all have a really great week, it is up to you how much or how you little you do this week.   How do you want to feel come Friday?

- Do you keep an old school pen and paper planner like me or are you much more tech savvy?

- What is your goal this week?  

Mine is getting to 5 miles on the treadmill 

- Do you consider yourself flexible?  

I am constantly working on it, its not fun for me to be a control freak   

What's Trending, Blue Carpet

Hi! 

This morning I finally found my way into the gym and ran about 3 miles.  I have to say I am pretty impressed with the gym at Jesse's office, its really clean and has a lot of equipment.  

It only takes about 5 minutes to get to his office which is a huge change from his usual 45-60 minute commute back in Oregon.  There was one other person using a stationary bike and I had my pick of treadmills.  I tried two different mills' because one was closer to the TV and I thought I would be able to see it better.  I decided that just wasn't working out because it wasn't close enough to the fan and I was dying from heat.  I ended up closer to the fan and just used Netflix on my phone which passed the time a lot easier than craning my neck to watch the TV.  Seriously my problems...1st world much?!

  They have a full weight rack and some private rooms where I can do my Chalean which is exciting!  A friend of mine suggested I just bring my laptop with me to do Chalean, which was genius.  Luckily there is a private space to do it otherwise I might not be to keen on the idea.  I did my workout yesterday morning in the living room and it worked just fine, plenty of room.  I only have a set of 5 lb weights here which will be fine for the days where I just didn't make it to the gym.  

Can you spot the pug?  Or are you just in to much awe over the blue carpet?  

  So I have found my motivation to get back to my running and cross training...now if I can find my motivation to cut the sugar.  Perhaps the newly found adult acne can push me in the right direction!  I kid you not I have a new zit on almost a daily basis, just as one clears up another pops up somewhere else.  I know its because of my poor food choices of late so I just need to cut back on all of the treats.  I've been giving myself a lot of wiggle room lately because of the relocation and the holidays, but seriously enough is enough!  

Do you notice your hair and skin are affected by what you are eating?  

-Since I cut out sugar most of last year and recently started to introduce it again it hasn't been pretty.  Literally, adult acne is not pretty. 

Are you embarrassed to do strength work in front of people? 

Anyone else craving some sun this winter?!  I would love a getaway to somewhere sunny right about now! 

Time to Start Training Again!

Hi! 

Its time to start getting back into training mode which is exciting and nerve racking.  I bought Train Like A  Mother and I am following their Marathon: Finish It plan.  I am doing most of the training this time solo with the exception of a few longer runs with Katie.  She has a new schedule and now has to work on our regular group run day.  Since I live a good 30-40 minutes from the group runs I'll probably do most of it on my own.    I am making a few adjustments to the plan but I am going to plan on 4 days of running along with 3-4 days of cross training.  Its a 20 week plan so that'll put me on target for spring marathon season, woop!  

I am excited to collect more of these pictures in 2013!

This morning I started another 90 days of Chalean which wasn't as easy as I thought it would be.  I guess taking time off isn't always the best idea!  I was all wobbly and couldn't lift very heavy but I am glad to be back in my routine again.  I didn't want to wait till after Christmas because I know that longer you stay off your routine it only gets harder to start up again.  I am glad I took the break though because now I feel motivated and refreshed instead of burnt out.

  

Hello ladies, I am back! 

If your from the Portland area you should try and come to Sherwood's 1st Friday Holiday Run this Friday the 7th at 5:00 pm.  We are meeting in Old Town at Symposium to do an easy 3-5 mile run and then afterwards enjoying all that 1st Friday has to offer.  I hope to see you there! 

Do you ever take breaks from your regular workout routines?  

Do you have a training plan for your upcoming races or just wing it?

90 Day Chalean Results

Good Morning! 

I wasn't able to do the 10 miles I was hoping for yesterday while the girls were at preschool and at first I was really annoyed.  Sarah's teacher had a really bad fever and there was no way she could come in and teach so they had to cancel Sarah's class.  These things happen and I totally understood but this girl was really looking forward to a long run.  Instead I got a couple hours with my favorite red head and we had such a great time.  

We went to the mall to run an errand and then back to Sherwood for lunch at Fat Milo's.  If you live in Sherwood and have never been to Fat Milo's I would definitely check it out, really good local food.  Sarah had pancakes for lunch and I was shocked she ate almost the entire thing.

I had a spinach salad with walnuts and blue cheese, really good!  Don't you love my crappy cell phone pics? It was this or whited out to much flash pictures.  

I didn't get to run much this week for a variety of reasons but mostly because I didn't make it a priority in the morning which is always mistake #1.  Yesterday I did get to spend an awesome afternoon with Sarah and while at the time it wasn't what was planned it turned out to be so great.  I have a bunch of stuff I need to get started on this morning before we leave for the girls tumbling but I wanted to share with you a couple before and after pictures.  I am finished with the initial 90 days of Chalean and I loved it!  I did see results and will continue with the program again, I think I am going to start with the Burn Phase again and just work my way through another 90 days.  I'll start another 90 days the first week of December, until then I am just going to let myself enjoy running.  Running is what I really love and I don't see it as a have to do or exercise, for me it is just something I get to do and I love it.  

So as promised and a bit delayed I am going to share with you all my 90 Day results! 

These are the Chalean results, Top left and working down is the start, 30 days, 60 days and the large pic is my final 90 day.  I look so gross in this pic, you should considered yourself loved.  

I took the left picture last October when Katie had ran her first 10K.  I was just done with myself and done with feeling unhealthy and not getting anywhere with just diet alone.  Same bra, same pants, etc.  While I am no beachbody or supermodel I feel so much better about myself.  I know I am healthier both physically and mentally and that is the biggest gain for me.  I just wanted to show you that it takes time, it took a little over a year to get to where I am at and it wasn't easy.  You have to remember that has much as you value your families health, you need to also value your own health.  

OK I have to get going now!  So much on the list and time is running out!  Have a great Friday everyone! 

Do you take any progress pictures?  

-I would highly recommend doing it, it can seem weird but you honestly can't always see the results with a blind eye.  It is a major boost to look at pictures compared to where you are now.  It helps to keep you on track and if you are working hard you know you will see progress.

Anyone have a run or race planned for this weekend?  

What is your favorite form of exercise?  

Running, Walking, Crossfit, Swimming, etc? 

    

Week Set Up

Good morning!  

Last week seemed busy, I don't know but the week flew by and I felt like there was a lot going on.  This week will probably be the same way.  I am bummed that last week wasn't a better running week for me nothing seemed to worked in my favor.  That is okay though because I get a chance to do better this week!  I wonder how many times I said week in the last paragraph?  6.

So its time for a change.  I've been doing Chalean since July and I still really love the whole program but it is time for me to change it up a little bit.  If I start getting bored with my cross training then I won't do it and last week wasn't a great cross training week.  So I am going to put Chalean away till December and for the next month use my 30 Day Shred and 6 Week Six Pack with Jillian Michaels.  

I'll post my 90 day results some time this week.  I am not expecting anything that great honestly, between tapering and then recovering from the marathon I feel like I've lost some progress.  Its been hard to get back into it and my eating...oh man.  It would be so much easier if I had self control or just didn't have it in the house but that isn't fair to Jess.  So I am going to change up my routine and hopefully get over my burn out.  I'll miss you Chalean!  But its only good-bye for a short time! 

I need some rain gear besides my Portland Running Company Hat.  Seriously in need of something to keep me dry, we have had so much rain already this fall.  The biggest thing is just a water-proof running jacket.  PRC had the new Brooks Women's Nightlife jacket that has lots of reflective strips and built in lights.  The drawback is that it costs $85, ouch.  

I also need some light so I can see, it is pretty dark out there at 5:30 so I need headlamp or something to help light my way. 

I just ordered one that looks like this so we'll see how it works when it arrives!  

At the run last Thursday they had some reflective lights for everyone to borrow and Katie tried this reflective vest that I thought would be a great piece to have.  

So besides a new pair of shoes that I am due for those are my 3 must haves for my running in the rain and cold this fall and winter.  My headlamp is on its way and I am on the hunt for a jacket that will keep my dry and out of the soup kitchen.  

Do you have any must-have gear for your runs?  

Anyone else out there use a headlamp of some sort when running in the dark? 

What did you do this weekend?!  

Did you run any Halloween races?!

Coconut Milk Versus Daily Milk

Hello!  

(This originally said good morning...annnd that has been my day)

Yesterday I had a split run, 3 miles outside 2 miles on my treadmill.  I left a little late for my run and don't like to be out pass a certain time so I headed home before my 5 miles.  Luckily I had my treadmill to make up for those 2 miles because I really wanted to hit 5 yesterday.  Since my run was broken up I didn't have time for Lean 1, the day just got away from me so its on the books for this morning before preschool.  Which means my tempo run might be pushed out too, but we'll see!  I don't have a run planned for Friday so I could easily move it there or tomorrow.  If you can't tell I write everything in my planner in pencil...my whole life plan is written in jello.  

I am getting pretty sick of my bad eating lately, its been like post marathon binge eating.  It hasn't been pretty and now its starting to not look very pretty either!  I don't do diets because I can't stick with them I try to make little changes that'll make a difference.  I've tried all the diets...All. Of. Them.  Plus I am not interested in a bunch of pounds lost, I am 5'5" and weigh 134 most of the time, its not like I have 30 lbs to lose.  Could I lose 30 and weigh 114 lbs, ya sure, I would look scary and Jess might leave me when I go all Walking Dead on him so I'll skip that!  One little change I am adding to my diet is coconut milk and coconut creamer for my coffee.  I stopped adding sugar to my coffee almost a year ago and I don't miss it at all.  I've tried almond milk but I just don't like it, it doesn't taste right to me.  I do like coconut milk and I buy the unsweetened unflavored just regular coconut milk.

Here is a breakdown between regular Dairy 2% vs. Coconut Milk
Serving Size 1 Cup
2% vs. Coconut Milk
Calories      130 vs. 80
Fat             5g vs. 5g
Carbs         13g vs. 7g
Sugars        12g vs. 6g
Protein     8g vs. 1g

Honestly it is all personal preference.  I don't mind dairy milk, but it does make me feel really full and bloated.  I had a protein smoothie with coconut milk after my Lean 1 today and I didn't have the lethargic bloated feeling afterwards.  Also I didn't notice a difference in my coffee with the coconut creamer, score!  Another thing I am going to add to my routine is having green tea after meals, I like green tea so it should be a good addition.  I've heard it helps with digestion and can curb over eating or for me curb the instant hunt for sugar I usually want after I eat.  Basically I feel like I work out a lot between running 4-5 days a week and my cross-training 3-4 times a week and I have stopped seeing any results.  That can be really frustrating so I was eating crap food as way to say "screw you" to myself LOL, good plan right?  Well enough of that!  Chalean always says in her video that 1. We cannot starve ourselves strong and lean, we have to eat  2. It has to be lean, healthy foods.  The eating was never a problem I am not one to starve myself (bahahaha) but the food I was choosing while most of the time were great, it was those cheats that were catching up with me.  Time to reign it back a little and get to where I should be, no sense in putting in all this work if I am just going to throw it down the drain at meal time.      

Do you drink alternative milk?  

What kind do you like?  
-My friend really like almond milk

Do you plan your runs and workouts?  
- I write mine in my planner on Sunday night and schedule them mostly for the morning

Running in the Dark

Good morning!  Just finished CLX Extreme Abs while waiting for the sun to come up!  Its now to late to head out for a run so I'll be busting out a few miles on my treadmill later today.  Lately I've had some anxiety about running in the dark, so has Jess.  So I thought I would wait till close to sunrise annnnnd then 7 AM rolled around so I nixed my outdoor running plan and put on my AB workout.  Luckily I have my treadmill and can get in a few miles later today.  I can kill two birds with one stone and watch some of The Spirit of the Marathon on Netflix.  I watched it many months ago but I want to watch it again since the marathon is less than 2 weeks away, its like runner's Rocky.  If you haven't seen it I really recommend watching it even if you aren't doing a marathon its so inspirational and moving plus its free on Netflix Instant, score!  

I was able to have my favorite breakfast this morning and I made myself a sad version of a pumpkin spice latte, not the same but also not 5$ so I think I still win in the end. 

I really should look into food photography, I think I have a gift, no?  

Since I wasn't able to do my outside run this morning because of my own fear of the dark it really got me thinking about other runners out there.  Fall is here and winter is never far behind especially in the Northwest and that means dark mornings, do they bother you at all?  I ran Monday in the dark and I was more nervous about tripping over something I couldn't see more so than being attacked.  Maybe because of where I live I have a false sense of security or maybe it was because I passed so many other runners but I never got scared.  I also run with pepper spray, am lit up like a Christmas Tree and always have my cell phone, not like any of those things would thwart a would be attacker honestly.  I have thought about a headlamp because I must add to my cool factor for the purpose of being able to see whats ahead and on the ground, but I wonder if that would do anything to fend off someone trying to hurt me?  I hate the idea of living my life in fear but I also have 2 little girls to think about and anything that happens to me will affect them.  Its not just me out there in the dark running I have a family at home I need to think about.  It seems like a personal preference but it got me thinking and my instincts this morning told me to stay home so I listened.  

I would really love some other opinions on this, what do you feel about running in the dark hours?  

Do you carry pepper spray or any other type of personal protection?  

Headlamps?  

- I can hear Katie cackling at me right now...

Running Goals

Good morning!  This morning I did Lean 3 and can officially wrap the first week of the Lean Phase in a nice little bow. I am really sore this time around which I didn't expect but I am glad because it means its really doing something!  Anyone out there looking for a great challenge workout you can do at home?  I seriously recommend Chalean, I was able to find time to do it with my peak of marathon training and 2 kids.  If you want to do it you can find time to do it and you won't regret it.  I am really excited to see my 90 day results and be able to say I completed a challenge, for once!  

In non-over the top excitement for Chalean news, the girls and I made a produce trip to our favorite farm yesterday.  

I was pretty excited to see that Honeycrisp apples are making their way back into my life. 

Plus this sight just made me all warm and fuzzy inside, PUMPKINS!  I mean seriously, who doesn't LOVE Fall, c'mon it is the best season.  Hands. Down.  

So since its taper time and I have to trust in it and the science behind it I am not running today which is so strange.  I never thought I would build a love for running, never ever.  I had all of the old excuses you hear and even some off the wall ones but I stuck with it and now I am running a marathon in a couple weeks.  I already have my eye on some half marathons, I would like to run 2 before the years end and I would like to PR in one of them.  I think always having a goal to work towards keeps you at your running or really anything you are doing in life.  You need to have goals, no matter how small or minor you think they are, you know they are important. 

What are some goals in your running?  

Goals in other areas of your life? 

- I am working on getting myself out there and getting a freelance writing opportunity, we'll see!  

What is your favorite season?!  

Taper Time

Good morning!  I ran an easy 3.5 miles this morning and did the Chalean Extreme Abs which is crazy hard.

It has been a little while since I had a chance to sit down and blog, sorry about that!  Last week was crazy town and I was lucky if I had a minute to get a run in let alone sit and talk about it.  But this weekend and week are off to a great start and my marathon is in 2 weeks!  I was also able to finally start the final phase of Chalean, the Lean Phase.  I have to say that I am pretty sore from the last 2 workouts and they are really challenging this time around.  Everything about me is different when I am in my routine of working out in the morning, it is like the rest of the day just falls into place.  The mornings I sleep in and put it off and then it doesn't happen are the worse.  I think something I am going to change about my weekly set-ups are the scheduled rest days.  I am not going to schedule rest days anymore the plan will be set up for some form of exercise everyday and I know that there will be a day that ends up being a rest day, but it just won't be scheduled.  How is that for a nice long run on sentence?!  Life happens and kids are up all night sick and that'll eventually turn into your rest day so I don't need to schedule them.  I am going to give this a shot and see how it works out.  

OK on to marathon training!  I still cannot believe that it is in 2 weeks, I am pretty excited about it.  I had a dream a few nights ago that I was at the start line and then blacked out and was at the finish line and it took me over 8 hours!  I couldn't remember anything about the race and I was so mad about that!  It was the weirdest dream ever, hopefully it doesn't take my 8 hours to finish.  Saturday was my final long training run, Katie and I with our running group ran 15 miles and they were probably the best 15 I've ever run.  I stayed with the pack and when we were done I didn't feel like death, thank you training!  I came home and celebrated with a mimosa!  

Now we are in taper territory and since you are suppose to lower your mileage it'll give me more time to get my cross training done.  Plus all sorts of other things that get neglected when you are out running 15+ plus miles every Saturday morning.  Not doing a really long run every Saturday morning will be strange but I would like to keep Saturday as my long run day.  Ideally at least 10 miles either with a group or just myself around Sherwood.  The training was a lot of work and a lot of dedication but I feel like it was and will be all worth it on race day.  It feels really good to be so close!  

Have you ever ran a marathon? 

Do you have any suggestions for a first time marathon girl?