running, tears, realization and goals

I miss my blog.  I miss running.  I miss working out.  I miss training.  I miss my long runs on Saturday and I very much miss the pride and sense of accomplishment of logging these runs.  I miss it all, and I knew it missed it all but it became very clear to me when I started a run today...and was overcome with emotion.  Tears.  It's even hard to talk about it or just to even type it.  But I ask, "how does a person even begin to miss running?"  Let me explain.

About a week before my first half marathon, I was hired at a pharmaceutical corporation in Omaha.  I was high on life, I was in full training mode AND I finally found full time work.  I strongly felt that being somewhat 'fit' had helped my confidence level and helped me to find a decent job.  I then completed my first half on April 14, and started fresh and eager at my new job on April 30 at 8:00 am.  I even ran three miles that night.  I was determined to not be *that* person who said they couldn't work AND work out.

I ran again, two weeks later...three miles.  I really was becoming *that* person of excuses, reasons to not run, not put my health first, not put my love of running before my new-found love of working.  I ran again two weeks later.  My eating habits were also slipping, however, I always stayed 'on-track' with my food, especially during work hours.  I never went out to eat one time.  I guess I thought if I didn't eat out for lunch, that was a victory of some sorts.  I think I was trying to pat myself on the back, somewhere.

I also desperately needed new running shoes.  Yet, another excuse.

What was happening to me?

Yes, I've re-gained some weight.  Seven pounds.  <now entering.... accountability >

Twenty four hours in a day...and I couldn't spare 45-60 minutes for a run or work out?  It was time to set some goals (which I need), buckle up and get back on that horse.

I got new running shoes.

I saved my half-marathon running plan on my phone and desktop.

I went here get my butt in gear and stop being lame and full of excuses and utter laziness - found my half and will register this week.

I did a short run today to get a feel for my new Mizuno's ....I started running, then cried.  I think running missed me as much as I've missed running.  I kept running....however it was just short of two miles.  And hot.  So hot.

I realized that running is a part of me being me.  I love the structure of a training plan.  I need goals to keep me going and striving for more.  I love being proud of myself.  I love feeling great.  I love feeling fit.

I love to run.  I'm back and determined to be better than ever.

p.s.  I really love my job.  So far.

my first half marathon {race recap}

I figure it's time for a race recap, I've had a few days to digest the event, stare at my hard earned medal and recover.  I really don't know where to start...but here's my attempt.

It's finally race day, it's my first half marathon and my alarm goes off around 5:30 am.  I wasn't too happy with the wake up call seeing how I slept horribly the night before.  Somehow we had booked the loudest hotel in Kansas City and we had the loudest 'neighbors'.  I heard every conversation in the hall and every door slam shut all night long.  I managed to sleep inbetween the noise, so I had that going for me.  I had a banana, granola bar, some Starbucks and water.  I was SO ready to get out there and to get this done.  I know if I start the race, I will finish it.  Even if I have to crawl across that finish line, I'm going to finish this race.

The weather gods were good to us, storms were forecasted for most of the morning, and although it was humid, there was a cool breeze and overcast skies.  When I finally got to my 'corral', I knew a potty break would be nice, but there were FAR more people than porta-potty's, so I started my race without a pre-race pee.  Really NOT a big deal, but I had hoped to get that done.

Mile 4 and I see a line for the 'restrooms', and I decide to stop.  I waited in line and then I enter the dirty stall, close the door behind me and stumble.  I have my phone in one hand and I'm keeping that from a fall into the pit of waste, but as I regain my steadiness, I find that I caught my balance by sliding my hand into a wet urinal.  Wait, a wet urinal coated with fresh....vomit.  YAY.  So, I sanitized my hand, stepped outside, found a puddle, washed in puddle, went back into the porta-potty, santized my hand again, stepped back outside to the puddle, lather, rinse, repeat.  It was so gross but more than that...it was time consuming.  Very time consuming.  I'm trying to recall if I thought any of this was funny at the time, and I'm pretty sure I wasn't laughing.

Miles 5,6,7 were fine, nothing fast but still running.  Mile 8 I notice that my GPS is saying I'm longer into my run than I am.  Like....at least a mile longer.  So, in my mind, I've just tacked a mile onto an already long run, I know this isn't what actually happened but it really got into my head.  I still don't understand why this happened, but it affected me a lot.  Now I see a Garmin in my future.

I started to slow down.  I began walking through some water stops, and then the sun came out which is beautiful but hot and more humid.  I never stopped, but I did slow down.  I know I walked mile 9, picked it back up here and there and ran mile 12 to finish.  When I saw the finish line I wasn't all re-energized or excited...I was like "FINALLY".  I was spent.  Drained.  I don't think I could have gone any longer.  I was done and no matter what my official finishing time is (3:10:00) - I AM A HALF MARATHONER.  

I hope I don't sound like 'Debbie Downer'.  I loved this race, I loved the weekend, I love having this huge achievement under my belt.  I love knowing I have a 12 mile race in about 40 days.  I love LOVE all of my support from SO MANY PEOPLE that took time to send me messages and emails, tweets and facebook posts.  There were all beyond awesome and I truly wish I could thank you and tell you all personally what that meant to me.

My goal this race, my first half marathon, was to finish.  I finished, I learned and I will use what I've learned to teach me to be a better and stronger runner.   I know using what I've learned for my next race will be invaluable.  I won't become much faster in just a month, but I can get stronger.  I'll work more on my stride, my pacing, focus more on actually running than the music or podcast during my run.  I've realized that I need to 'get to know' my run, we need to meet, we need to know what to expect from each other....I've realized that I need to learn to respect my run.  I work too hard not to.

ready to 'rock' the Parkway

It's here.  Well, almost.  As I sit here sniffling and ignoring a tickle in my throat, I find my mind going to back to reminisce this first part of 2012.  How could four months fly by so fast?  How could this winter be so perfect (relatively non-existent) to support my first ever half marathon training?  How can I finally be *ready* to run 13.1 miles?

As I reflect on my previous months of training, it's only natural to look at numbers.  Roughly 240 miles ran so far in 2012.  I kind-of want to say "that's it?" but these miles are almost half of the total miles I ran in 2011, so I feel somewhat accomplished.  These miles were hard, with purpose and intent.  The competitive part of me would love to run 12 miles at least one more time, 'to really make sure I'm ready', but the sensible part of me says "You ARE ready."

My support has been more than amazing.  So many people on Facebook, Twitter and Dailymile have been SO supportive ...ALL THE TIME.  I know I wouldn't be where I am without them....the accountability is huge and their support is priceless.  But, this past week, I've been panicking and have turned to my sister, Amy.  She's listened (endured) my rants and worries all week, one day, I called her 4 or 5 times!  Amy is a former-runner-especial and I know to listen to her tips and advice, I also know one day we will run together again, and I can't wait.  Erin and Barb on Twitter have been beyond-words-amazing.  Again, two more people I'd love to have the pleasure to meet and run alongside (one day).   Logan, you better be reading this.  YOU were the first person to go 'all-in', when I proclaimed on Run Chat that I had decided to do my first half.  I believe you said "I'm going to follow you now, I love watching people tackle new goals" (or something kinda/sorta like that).  Then, there's my parents, my Mom always asking "are you still running" and my Dad reinforcing my running by telling me how great I look...that is so much more inspirational than you can imagine.  Now, I turn to Bob.  He's been my virtual running coach forever now.  (we actually attending the same HS and almost the same time!)  I really don't know if I would have done any of this without his guidance, his continual super-support and advice.  I'd love to run a mile at the speed he can run a mile...I laugh because we're both in Nebraska and I'm planning on running the Omaha Half Marathon and he is, too.  It's going to be hysterical because by the time I'm done, he will have showered and changed and grown a beard.   He's fast, I'm not, but as long as I have his 'support' I'm not worried about speed.  That's the best thing about running a new distance for the first time, a guaranteed PR :)

This sounds like I'm either going to die tomorrow or I'm going to win, I know both aren't going to happen but what I do know...is I'm running my first half marathon and I am ready.   I'm ready to Rock the Parkway in Kansas City!

running thoughts

 
It seems crazy to me that I haven't ran since Saturday.  I actually haven't done anything at all, that might be longest 'break' from running and working out I've had since being sick in July (except for traveling).  It seems even crazier to me that I'm running my first half marathon race in 9 days.  NINE.  I'm super excited for next weekend, all parts of it.  I even have a list!
1.  A medal
2.  A medal
3.  A medal (I reeeeally want a medal)
4.  Going to KC and seeing my brother and his wife (she's running with me!)
5.  Weekend away with hubby
6.  Drinking margaritas the size of my head after my race

Anyway, I don't feel that I'm off track or worried about my lack of running for the past 4 days.  I just....needed a break.  The timing, I don't understand.  My body just said 'stop', so...I did.  It was like I hit an 'off' button.  I don't even feel guilty.  I also realized my running shoes are WAY beyond their mileage.  You know how you drive on that worn tire for too long?  Those are my shoes.  I stepped on a rock and said 'ow'...I even have a cute hole in the top, which I thought was kinda cool until I stepped on that rock and had a closer look at my shoe.  I know it's too close to the race for new shoes and in all honesty, my shins aren't hurting and I'm not experiencing any real discomfort...unless of course I step on a rock.

So, I haven't ran or worked out, I need new shoes and I have my first half marathon next weekend.  I'm ambivalent about the end of my first half marathon training.  I feel accomplished and I love the structure, the schedule ...all of it.  Do I just continue my last weeks of training forever?  Will lack of this schedule derail me?  Will I ever run more than 13 miles?  Do I even want to ever run more than 13 miles?  How do I continue to challenge myself?

These are the questions/concerns rattling around in my head, but there is one thing constantly at the forefront, and that is finishing my first race and being damn proud of myself for doing just that.

Oh, and check out this sweet bling which will be mine next Saturday!

whose legs are these and "my sport, is your sport's punishment"

My legs want to run.  This is the strangest phenomenon to me.  MY legs are being quite bossy and telling me to do more than my wimpy mind tells me to do, this is good, right?  I'm sitting here right now and when I think of running, I feel a sort of energy run through my legs.  Whose legs are these and where did mine go?

I'm having all sorts of crazy things happen and additionally, some crazy thoughts, lately.  I'll share some, ok?

I'm thinking of running 13 miles on Saturday.  On those hills.  THOSE hills, you know which ones I'm talking about.  The thing is, my half training says to run eight, but I feel like I need to do another 12+ run before my half marathon.  This will give me more confidence and it can't hurt.   (I'm going to name this run "Hills to Lincoln")  bestnameever.

I ran 8 miles in the rain twice this week.  Legit rain.  You know the rain that has you running with a newspaper-over-your-hair as you run from your car to get inside?  THAT rain.  "Oh, hi, it's raining....I'm going for a run."  It was pretty awesome, I won't lie.  I also won't lie and say that I prefer a non-rain run.

I discovered a fantastic podcast...man, I love you Dailymile people.  Dailymile is like Facebook for runners/workout people...athletes?  I mean, they're athletes for sure.  The podcast is Phedippidations ...I'm telling you, I'm addicted.  (Thank you, Jan!!)  The guy makes me laugh and learn and forget that I'm running....kind of.  Thankfully, he has over 300 podcasts that I haven't heard, so I'm looking forward to hearing what he has and that also means, I have a lot of running in my future, and that's pretty cool.

I have to tell you what I heard on my run yesterday via this super cool podcast.  It blew my mind to pieces, made me smile and think...THIS IS SO TRUE.

"Running is not for everyone, but for you ballplayers of baskets, foot, bases and all, my sport, is your sport's punishment".   

Think about that.  Suicides for basketball?  I remember a nightmare drill we used to do in HS softball.  Starting at home, you run to first, then back to home, then over first to second, then back to home...you get the idea.  What is the name of that drill??  I'll take "softball drills from hell" for $200, Alex.

I have more crazy doings but those include eating beefaroni, cap'n crunch and a peanut butter cup all in one day.  I won't bore you with those little details.  Ooops, and wine, too.

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rambling, rain & running

It's Tuesday, well now Tuesday evening, but Tuesday through Saturday..I workout or run.  Last week, I've merged them into one workout.  Saturdays are typically my longest run of the week, so I rest up on Sunday and then usually Monday too since I only have a 3 mile run scheduled on that day.

The local gym is about 1.66 miles from my house.  Last week, I ran there, biked, ran home...except a lot of the running on my non-scheduled training day was walking due to HEAT.  Isn't that insane?   Complaining about heat mid-March.  Well, I never really complained, I just dealt with it, but it's no secret that me and 'heat' do not get along well, although last week I handled it fine.

WOW, WHAT IS THE POINT OF THIS POST???

Last week (I remember now) I almost doubled my calories burned than I did during prior weeks.  This is a fine line for me because I am training for my first half marathon, but I am on a weight loss journey as well.  My 'off' running days no longer say 'circuit' training, so I was really  only running/working out 3-4 times a week.  (but there was a 10 and 12 mile run in those weeks *cough*)   I need to continue to lose weight.  I need to lose more weight to run faster.  I need to run more to lose more weight.  Lather, rinse, repeat.  However, I will not NOT NOT risk injury to do this.  I won't run many more than my sheduled miles, I won't do any new fitness thing that my body isn't used to.  I knew biking was safe and holy-ball-of-sweatball madness, I sweat more on that bike than running OR elliptical.

THIS IS THE MOST RAMBLING POSTS OF ALL RAMBLING POSTS....

Today (back to the Tuesday reference in paragraph one), I ran IN THE RAIN.  Me.  I knew it was raining, geared up, and went out in it...on purpose.  It was awesome.  And not hot.

I got to the gym, took off my extra t-shirt, hopped on a stationary bike and did 16.4 miles in 60 minutes.  I love the intervals because they make me cry and you can't tell I'm crying because I'm sweating so much.  Then I got off the bike, wobbled around like a newborn foal, put on my wet t-shirt, walked out, and ran all the way home.  I'm amazed.  My quads were so fatigued when I hit the road again, but I pushed through it.  HOW DID THAT HAPPEN?  The foal found her legs and galloped home, in the rain....proudly.  (I won't mention the overpass she had to get over, ok, maybe I will).

Oh, and I did a brick.

Dam to Dam

Look out Des Moines, here I come. 

This time I'll be toting my running gear because I have registered for the Dam to Dam 20K! 

This will be my second race this year, my first one is IN 30 DAYS!  People, I'm going to have two race medals...pinch me!!  I'm hoping for two more medals this year.  I'm eyeballing the Omaha Half which is in October, and I need another one, something within 3 hours of Omaha is preferred, but Chicago is definitely an option because my family lives there.  I'd also consider Detroit if my niece and sister will run a 5K and there is a half option for me.  *hint hint*  

Here are some of the details on the race.

• 20 Kilometer start will be in the middle of Saylorville Dam and travel over the Center Street Bridge, an awe inspiring view of downtown Des Moines.
• Runner Technical shirts will be styled for each gender. Available in Passion Pink & Agave Blue for females and Navy & Gold for males. 
• Special drawstring backpack for all 20K & 5K runners in Pink, Royal, Blue and Black. A great bag for race day and all year long.
• Not to be forgotten 20K runners receive Nike socks, 20K finishers receive finisher medals, free poster for everyone and the award winning results booklet.

Just some of the swag this race is offering.  I'm hoping a few friends will do this race too, would love to do a meet-up or tweet-up later that night.  It's no secret that I can go from running shoes to heels in about 2.2 seconds!  

What and when is your next race?

12 miles of purpose

Here it is {already} week 9 of my half marathon training program and I am surprised, pleased, shocked and still loving the training.  I'm surprised because yesterday I ran 12 dang miles.  I'm pleased because I've stayed with the program.  I'm shocked because I've stayed with the program AND ran 12 miles yesterday.  I'm in love with this program because I'm feeling like a runner.

A year ago, I was well into my weight loss journey and as you can see, my March totals were pretty...sad.  Keep in mind, those 10 miles were probably over 5-10 runs, and when I say 'runs', I mean mostly walking and some running.

(and it's okay that I ran or walked last March, I'm just comparing my progress)

When March is over, I'll have at least 60 miles done.  Not just 60 miles, but 60 miles of purpose.  Every step meaning something.  Every hill tackled.  Every breath in 20-30 mph wind - with extreme effort.  Every run with focus and determination.  Every run is a run closer to running my very first Half Marathon.  

The day before my 12 mile run, I mapped it out with my car.  I was surprised but not really that my run would take me to Lincoln.  Last summer I remember joking around and saying "wouldn't it be cool if I ever ran out here?"  Guess what?  That's where I went.  It was a goal I never really took seriously, but I ran up and down all those hills for 6 miles.  Yes, hills.  In fact, going west on that country road is one long incline with a nice series of torture, I mean hills.  Now, add in the wind.  Straight in my face...for 6 miles.  I knew it would be hell and it was, but I also knew I'd be earning that downhill...and I did.  It was worth every step to be able to turn around and have that wind at my back.  I was still doing hills but overall, they were downhill.  There was even a gust of wind that caused me to trip up my step, but I was running the best part of the run....and I just kept going.  I loved it.

see this?  There's like 10 more of these little inclines

Week 9 of training was no joke.  There's no limping around 12 miles, you do it, or you don't.  You hydrate hard all week, you eat foods that fuel you, you don't drink alcohol, you sleep properly...all in the name of a good long run.  I loved waking up on Saturday at 7am just to go running. I keep asking myself 'who am I?' but I'm realizing I'm a runner, I'm really a runner. 

My next "I DID IT" picture will be with a sweet, hard earned medal.  I cannot wait!

Please welcome BJ as my very first guest blogger!  Also, be sure to check out his running blog and follow him on Twitter!

Maturing as a Runner

Story by BJ of the blog Running BJ.

I think every runner has a little crazy inside of them.

What else explains having a compulsion to spend hours at a time training for a marathon?  Or travelling on your feet for miles just to end up…where you started?  I think we can all agree that most runners have some issues.

I’m no exception.  I took up running a few years back as a stress reliever and never stopped.  I started with a treadmill run, built up to some longer distances, competed in a few races and then signed up for the holy grail of running: the marathon.

I set my eyes on completing the 2011 Baltimore Marathon and started training.  When it comes to things like this I tend to research it to death, develop a training plan, and then focus on completing the training to a T.  I ran every run on my training plan for several months, making sure that I hit exact mileages.  I ran if I hurt, or if I was tired, or if it was 100 degrees out.  My OCD would kick in on runs and I would have to touch mile markers on trails because I didn’t want to cheat myself.

This picture doesn’t do justice to how hot it was that day!

By the end of July I started having some life issues: transferring positions at work, spending more time with the kids, the usual grown-up stuff.  Well, long story short, I got kind of tired of killing myself personally, professionally, and physically.  Something had to give, and marathon training felt like more of a chore than a joy anymore.  My training became very sporadic.

Kids are really needy! But cute!

When October came around and it was time to run Baltimore I decided I was going to keep my promise to myself and run the marathon.  I toed the line and took off on the starter’s gun (I think it was the starter’s gun, but it was downtown Baltimore…), but after 16 miles my lack of proper training became evident.  I slowed, and slowed, and slowed.  Those last ten miles were horrible.  My only consolation was having the personal knowledge that I still pushed myself to finish the run, even though it hurt really bad.

I took a few months off after that experience.  I knew I loved running, but I needed a break to think about what had happened and to reassess where I was.  I needed to rediscover why I loved to run.

I finally came back to my sport in the beginning of this year, but I returned with a new attitude.  Instead of killing myself and pushing through pain and fatigue, I’m willing to admit that some runs are not, and should not, happen on certain days.  I’m listening to my body.  I’m enjoying my long runs and taking my time rather than trying to hit a certain pace.  I’m trying to let go of a little bit of my OCD.

In other words, I’m growing up.  There is no sense in killing myself to train for a race I will not win.  I’m learning to enjoy the journey rather than focusing only on the destination.  I’m still willing to push myself to improve and get stronger, but I have to remember to strike a balance between running and everything else in my life.  If I don’t, more experiences like the 2011 Baltimore Marathon are in my future.  I don’t want that.

So that’s my story.  My advice to any runner out there is this: If you’re not having fun, ask yourself why you’re doing it. 

Relax.  Have fun.  Let go.  In the immortal words of Ferris Bueller, “Life moves pretty fast. If you don't stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.”

Enjoy your training and have fun at your races.  I hope to see you out there, enjoying a run!

BJ is the author of Running BJ. He can be reached through his blog, or you can follow him on Twitter @running_bj.

training love

This thing called 'training'...I don't know what it is about it, but I love it.  LOVE IT.  I love being sore all the time and in new places.  I love kind of/not really looking at my body and seeing changes.  I love how this thing called 'training' is actually working.  

I've also added the 100 Push Up Challenge to my training.  I figured it was a safe thing to add to running, "safe" meaning no real risk of injury.  I have done this challenge before, but never done it with the 'guys' push ups.   The difference between the girl and guy push ups is staggering.  It's clearly much more difficult but even my abs are sore!  I've always been one to say that girls can do anything boys can do, probably even better if they really try, so I am determined to give this challenge all that I have.

As thrilling as push ups are....they are not the highlight of my week.  For that, I will mention my first ever...9 mile run.  Me.  ME.  I ran 9 miles.  I ran up and down hills, I ran over creeks and over dirt roads.  I ran in the wind because, IT'S ALWAYS WINDY, so I decided to just suck it up.  I did it.  I really ran 9 miles, I'm starting to think not only will I actually finish my first 13.1 mile run, my finishing time might not be as embarrassing as I once thought it may be.

Up next...10 miles.  I'm beginning to think if I can do this, what can I not do?

Pain & Gain

Week 6 of half marathon training is a wrap.  Thank God.  I mean, I loved it but I really love that it's over, this week whooped my booty.

Monday I ran on a treadmill looking for a great pace/time.  I ran SO HARD and only came up with shaving a minute off my 'fast-ish' pace.  Stupid treadmill.  I really feel like it's just so much more work on those things.  I'm breaking up with the treadmill unless we get 67 feet of snow. Oh, and I was sore after this run.

Wednesday was my four miler.  I laugh because in four miles I can pretty much cover all of my small town.  That's pretty funny until you have to run on a 4 lane highway and that's pretty intimidating to me, so I run fast(er) to leave that road to the huge, thundering trucks.  I don't think mace can keep a truck from running you over, speaking of which...I need to get mace. (still pretty sore here!)

It's Thursday now and my glute is borderline painful.  You know that 'good sore' you get and you feel all strong and happy because you know you had a really effective workout?  Well, it wasn't that.  I was hurting.

So, I 'rested' on Friday with a 2.5 mile recovery walk.  A very easy, easy walk followed by tons and tons of foam rolling.  Tons.

Friday night I went to a fundraiser and had 95 glasses of cabernet, ate red meat and stayed up late.  This is what every runner does prior to a long run, right?  (urgh.)

Saturday is here and I have 8 miles to churn out.  EIGHT MILES.  My headache reminds me of the cabernet I should not have had and I slowly roll out of bed, pop some ibuprofen and begin to hydrate.  A bit later I ate oatmeal and a banana, and then drank a Sugar Free Rockstar.

I geared up, fired up the tunes and headed out the door toting a half bottle of water.

• One mile down, I remember thinking, wow...that felt like forever.
• Two miles - I set the water bottle on a bridge, tired of carrying it.  Carrying it was pretty annoying actually.  This meant my only form of refueling would be at 6 miles.
• Mile three...I look ahead and hmmm, it's looking like this road is going uphill.  What.
• Mile four is over and I'm SPENT, but now I turn around and it's downhill and I'm halfway!  (I ran four miles out and had to go four miles back to get home)  Headwind.
• Mile five.  Totally ran out of gas, I needed and missed my GU energy!  this is also where I change my music to Eminem, this helped a lot.  Apparently, lots of f-bomb dropping keeps me running.  
• Six.  There's my water, while it's refreshing...it's not what my tummy liked.  I tread on and realize this is all in my own head now.  I think, time to go back to my basics...I change the music to military cadences and they carried me home.  I don't even remember mile seven.  I do remember that I hurt all over, ALL OVER.  

But guess what?  I ran 8 miles and can't wait to do it again this Saturday.  And?  I have already scheduled a running partner.  How do I feel today?  I feel amazing...not sore but accomplished and eager to keep going.  Ok, I'm a little sore.

Week 7?  Bring it on.  Definitely less wine, though.

(this image totally choked me up)

Halfway to Half Training

I'm about halfway through my half marathon training, so I figured it was time for a post.

It's really pretty amazing to me how LAST YEAR I had just begun my weight loss journey and  feeling pretty lucky to walk/run 1-2 miles.  Mostly walked.   I didn't realize I would actually run a 5K in July and wasn't really preparing for it at that time.  My mindset sometimes says, I think 'once an able runner, always an able runner', but when you take months or years off, there's no choice but to start over.  I was totally starting over, completely.

Why did I quit after my Couch to 5k in September 2010, I really don't know.

After my miserable 5K in July, I became really, really ill.   Because I was in bed (literally) for two weeks, I lost my stamina and energy but my desire to run was still alive...and I was starting over....again.  I still wanted needed to run, but I knew a new, more demanding goal would only get me to seriously run again.

10K.

Done.

In fact, I was running a 10K about once a week, our fall was delicious and I loved getting out there...then one day in November, something began to creep into my mind.  Half marathon?

Here I sit halfway into my first half marathon training.  I love it.  Don't get me wrong, it's tough, it pushes me...and I need that.  Long runs are on Saturday and now I run long runs when all the 'real runners' do theirs.  I'm a runner?  I'm a runner.  It's still difficult to call myself that.

This Saturday, I run 8 miles.  EIGHT MILES.  During this run, I know I'll be thinking "how in the hell am I ever going to run 13.1 miles?"

I don't know, but I do know that I will.

Easy and No-Fuss-Low-PointsPlus®-Taco-Salad

First off, I love all Mexican food...it makes me happy and I could eat it until the cows came home.  If Hubby asks me where I would like to go out to eat, 9 out of 10 times, I say "Mexican".  I blame my Dad.  No, he's not Mexican, but he likes Mexican food a lot, too.  He covers his food with hot sauce and he's happy.  Anyway, I wanted tacos the other night (homemade) but I didn't want to use the points for the hard shells or tortillas, so I whipped this up and I'm pretty addicted to it.  Can't lie.

Lori's Easy and No-Fuss-Low-PointsPlus®-Taco-Salad

You'll need:

4 ounces of lean ground turkey - 5 PointsPlus® 

1/2 cup of fat free refried beans - 2 PointsPlus® 

1 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil - 1 PointsPlus® 

2 teaspoons of a taco seasoning - 0 PointsPlus® 

1/2-3/4 cup of fat free salsa (mild, medium or hot if you're spicy) - 0 PointsPlus® 

1/4 cup of fat free sour cream (optional) - 1 PointsPlus® 

greens - I used a lot of spinach and lettuce - 0 PointsPlus® 

red onion (used as a garnish/topping, it's not necessary and use what you like) - 0 PointsPlus® 

matchstick carrots (as much as you would like to add) - 0 PointsPlus® 

First, you'll get out your ground turkey.  I slice and portion mine when it's mostly frozen for less mess and it's great to just 'grab and go'.  So, here I have my pre-measured 4 ounces of lean, ground turkey. 

 I toss that in a small skillet and dump my salsa on top of that and add my taco seasoning.  This is also where I add 1 teaspoon of extra virgin olive oil.

While that is browning (and it doesn't take too long!) this is when I chop up my greens.  I used lettuce and spinach. (some green onions would be nice in here, just thought of that!)

By the time you're done chopping and have added your matchstick carrots (best thing ever), your meat and salsa combo should be ready for the refried beans.  Keep stirring together until nice and heated through, then remove from heat.

Next you'll dump the cooked meat/salsa/refried bean combination onto your leafy, green salad.  Top with 1/4 cup of fat free sour cream, maybe a little salsa or zero point taco sauce and stir!  

Here are the Weight Watchers®  totals!  Remember the PointsPlus®  may change with any variations in this recipe!  Not only is this super filling, but you get to check off oils and fruits/vegetables on your Weight Watchers®  Healthy Checks!  Happy Eating!  but who's going to clean up the kitchen?

* apparently I call 'shredded carrots, matchsticks carrots....no idea why!  I swear it said matchsticks at the store! 

wərk it

Soooooo, about that "weigh-in" day.  I'd kind of like to just pretend it's not here, but it is here, and I did weigh-in.  *&^%$#@!

weight/wāt/

Noun:

A body's relative mass or the quantity of matter contained by it, giving rise to a downward force; the heaviness of a person or thing.

I'm not fretting too much about my weigh-in today.  My body is changing, I SEE it changing.  I'll sometimes often get stuck admiring myself in the bathroom mirror... some of my former blobs of fat are now thin(er) or gone.  (admiring is a very strong word!)  It's rewarding to see some results of all of my hard work, all of the miles that I have been running, all of the weights that I have tugged and pushed and pulled.  My shoulders are developing some nice definition, my thighs are (a teeny bit) more muscular...but I am thinking .... can I work harder? 

work/wərk/

Noun:

Activity involving mental or physical effort done in order to achieve a purpose or result.

Werk it!!  Of course I can work harder.  It hit me like a ton of donuts yesterday that I need to work harder on my three mile runs.  I really want to run a faster mile, but it's not going to be granted to me like a wish with pink fairy dust and a sparkly magic wand.  I have TO EARN THAT FASTER MILE.   So, yesterday, I ran fast.....er.  And this week, I'm going to work harder and next Wednesday, I'm going to hit the 50 pounds lost mark.  Because, more than I love a goal, I love crushing them.

Oh yeah, I was up 1.6 pounds this week.  *shakes fist at Super Bowl* 

Super Bowl food and David Beckham

I always look forward to the Super Bowl, I couldn't tell you who's playing or what they're doing but I love the hype and the food.  I love the food so much, I almost called it the Super Food the other day and I'm realizing that would be a totally appropriate name.

Or, the David Beckham Bowl.  Or, Super David Beckham.  Did you see that commercial????!!!!!?

Now, I'm all flustered because I'm now just going to recap that beautiful commercial, and it was the best commercial, too...however, I'm not sure what he was marketing.  Was it tattoos?  Or muscles?   Yes, he was marketing his tattooed muscles.  I'm so nice that I'm even going to share it with you, and I'll just have to watch it again for like the 25th time. 

I just can't take it.  Where was I?  Who am I?  OMG, EVEN THAT STILL SHOT OF HIM IS JUST SO UTTERLY DELICIOUS.

Dear Friends,

Yesterday was the Super Bowl and I made wings and potato skins and riblets and buffalo chicken dip and then I saw this commercial and died.

The End.

not every run is a good run

Not every run is a good run, but what makes any run good, is finishing.  This goes for any type of workout, really.  I believe that my bad running days make the good running days..SO GREAT.

I don't think many people run because they're 'bored'.  I think it's for a goal:  weight loss, better health, personal achievement...there's a reason why we workout.  In a perfect world, every workout would be packed with oodles of fat burning, cheeky smiles and little effort.  This is certainly not my world, especially today.

I ran 6 miles on Saturday, and although I've done this before, it's been a long time.  Wait, when I've done it before, there was plenty of walking on my run.  I'd get distracted:  walk.  I'd think my legs were tired:  walk.  See a butterfly:  walk.  Whatever reason, and they may have been super good reasons, my prior long runs have included some level of walking.  (and that IS okay).  But, I want to run now sans walking, and I did this on Saturday.  YAY.

I rested on Sunday.  NO workout activitiy whatsoever, mostly thank you to Mr. Back-Spasm-Painful-Idiot-Jerk.  But, I rested like my half marathon training schedule told me to do, and I knew I'd rock out an easy 3 or 4 miles today.

HA.  Today was so much more challenging than Saturday!  I typically give myself about 15 minutes to get into the groove, and my groove was no where to be found.

However, I kept going.  And going.  And going.

I even added an overpass to my route (I must be crazy) but really, I knew my run was going to happen no matter what OR how I felt and I figured I might as well 'DIG DEEP', even chanting my new favorite mantra "HARDWORK DEDICATION" (thank you Dolvett Quince, you sexy beast).

Now, it's done, and I'm damn glad I could feel good about this run...mostly, I'm damn glad it's over.

I just ran.  I ran to the other side of my small town, I ran across the tracks as fast as I could to avoid waiting for a train, I ran against a 30 mph headwind for at least half of my run.  I'm really happy I ran, I'm happy I pushed myself to pass the elderly couple using the entire sidewalk.  I'm happy that I didn't fall when I nearly tripped on an uneven sidewalk.  Point is, I 'worked' on my run.  I burned about 450 calories and I'm really happy about that.   I earned those burned calories, but I didn't earn them to eat them....right?

I thought I'd google some of my favorite foods to see how fast I could completely obliterate my run.

Cheeseburger, 1/4 lb meat (beef modified in fat content) on bun - 408 calories

Original Glazed 2 doughnuts - 400 calories

Small Banana Split Blizzard - 460 calories

Between 3 and 4 oz. of a margarita delivers between 150 and 300 calories, according to CalorieKing.com. Since a jumbo margarita provides a much larger portion, the calorie counts may increase to between 500 and 700 calories per drink.

this is not me...my eyes aren't blue.

In average pre-prepared french fries cooked in oil: 

578 calories in a large portion

458 calories in a medium portion

291 calories in a small portion

Nutty Bars Little Debbie

There are 310 calories in Nutty Bars

(evil, evil things)

Calories in Texas Toast Five Cheese Frozen Bread - 150  (and we never just have one)

I have such an evil habit of snacking at night, I can't NOT do it.  It's terrible.  If I have an adult beverage, forget it.  I'll have a full blown meal.  HOW BAD IS THAT?

I'm working way too hard to eat these empty calories, as delicious as they may be.  Just ask my thighs, they're tired and sore.  Now, if only my thighs would speak to my brain about eating crap, I will be nice and tiny in no time.

See also:  Skinny person running half marathon.

Sources:
http://www.livestrong.com/thedailyplate/nutrition-calories/food/
http://www.calorieking.com/

All in

Well, friends.  It's official.  It's scary.  It's EXCITING.

I am registered to run in my very first 

HALF MARATHON.

Even as I read what I just typed, it's almost hard to believe.  I never, ever dreamed that I would even want to run 13.1 miles, let alone do it.  The race is in Kansas City, Missouri, which I love because it's only 3 hours from where I live.  I also love that my sister-in-law is registered for the race, too.  This half marathon journey is is quite a feat for me, and I feel incredibly lucky that she is training for the 13.1 race, too.  Together we are officially 'training' for this run, we have entered week three of training and it's been so great.  

It's amazing what happens when you have a goal and a training schedule.  The accountability is huge, the training is...fun?  I love having a schedule of what to do and when to do it.  I feel my runs are more purposeful but less difficult, does that make sense?  I'm also doing circuit and strength training.  WHO AM I? 

I'm not sure who I am, but I like how I feel.  I love having such a huge goal.  I love looking forward to runs.  I'm obsessed with this website Rock the Parkway because I cannot wait for this race.  I'm feeling stronger and maybe even a little faster...and April 14th can't get here fast enough!  

Love it

Wow, I was going to start this post by saying last September, but it was in September (ish) of 2010 when my sister had one of those at home jewelry parties.  She sent me a catalog and because it was jewelry (duh), I really wanted to get one item to help her out with her party.  I needed to help HER.  Ok, that was my excuse.   At the time, she and I were learning to run with Couch to 5K.  It worked, we were happy with doing it and then I bought a necklace.

I loved choosing this necklace mostly because it was kind of, not really, like my name.  L-O for love and Lori, I've always wanted a necklace with my name, so this 'love' necklace seemed to be the perfect purchase.

Until it arrived.

It was too small.  "What?" you say?  Yes, it choked me.  I was sad, I wanted to wear it but it looked so stupid.  The word 'love' poked out of my neck like a plank on a ship.  It looked like I had a spatula coming out of my throat.  I wrestled with getting the thing off my neck, because....it was too tight.  


Sometime early 2011, I put the necklace back on and it was tolerable.  Then it became more and more comfortable.  I realized during a really intense run or workout, the necklace would slowly turn so that the 'love' would end up at the back of my neck.  I liked coming home and discovering 'love' was in the wrong place, but I always slipped it back to the front.

And now, I always wear my 'love' necklace.  It reminds me of my progress and cheers me on.  It tells me to never have a fat neck again, it signifies when I've had a workout and more than anything?  It fits.

1-11-11 to 1-11-12

One year ago yesterday I decided to begin a healthier lifestyle.  I ate better (mostly), drank less (I tried), upped my water intake and started some natural supplements (I'm old).  At the time, my hubby was on board with me, and we both lost about 20 pounds rather easily and felt really good about that.  Except...I was still way overweight.

When I moved to Nebraska in 2007, I weighed 63 pounds less than on 1-11-11.  SIXTY THREE.  As I type that, it's embarrassing and definitely something to be shameful about.  I remember our first summer here in the land of all things beef...and being excited about grilling steak and burgers and even wrapping most of the food in bacon.  I experimented quite a bit with food, and ate all of it...happily.  I recall saying in a joking manner "Nebraska is making me fat", and as I said that, and the more I said that...the more acceptable it became.  Then, I got fat, for real fat.

So, then I'm the fattest I've ever been and eating whatever I want, like that's really 'ok'.  Adults really CAN'T eat whatever they please.  Or shouldn't.  Or maybe I shouldn't or shouldn't have.  Then it happened, that 'moment of clarity' that hits you like a Mack truck.  I saw a recent picture of me with 57 chins and tiny eyes and my face looked squished with my features being swallowed by the fat.  Not to mention the fat on my...I'll stop there.  I chipped the dust off my scale and weighed in and I was totally surprised but not really.  The scale confirmed my nightmare.  Fat.

It was early in the new year and as much as I hate being on the new year resolution bandwagon, I knew it was time to change.  A special date was approaching (1-11-11 (and Grace, I love you) ) and it was time.

Fast forward to April, after I had pretty easily lost 20 pounds, the weather was getting better.  I had been running about 2 times a week, short miles, cold miles, but SOME cardio is better than none.  I kept running.  I'd gain a pound, then lose 2.  This was pretty much my story until July, I ran a local 5K and hated it, I felt slow and weak, but it was an accomplishment.  Then  I got so sick, I almost died.  Ok, not really DIED, but it was the sickest I think I have ever been.  I was literally in bed for three weeks.  Completely debilitated, totally out of commission.  Eventually, little by little, I regained strength, but I was sad that I knew I had lost my running stamina and the push up strength I had gained by doing the 100 push up challenge.  I had to get it back, all of it.

I started out with some dinky runs.  I quickly realized that I don't want to run 5K's...I want to run 10K's.  So began a new goal and new training and I loved it.  How could I ever run 6 miles?  But, I did.  Then 7 then 8 and then I started flirting with a new goal.  We flirted in my mind off and on in November.  Then the flirting got pretty serious in December, and by mid December...we took the flirting a step further and entered into a secret and exciting new affair.  We were into it.  I was head over heels in lust with this thought.  I was craving it.  Who knew I'd want to run 13.1 miles so badly.  A half marathon.  A mini.  WHAT.  Yes, I will be running at least one half marathon in 2012.  ME.  I will.

One year later and 45 pounds lighter....I'm officially 'training' for my first half marathon.  My support system is crazy insane.  I have met MANY incredibly supportive, helpful and awesome runners on Twitter.  I couldn't do what I do....without it.  But mostly, I credit a great friend, Bob Myer for EVERY BIT OF RUNNING ADVICE up to this point. He's been a huge source of support and such a positive influence.  We went to high school....different years but same school at the same time.  I'm older *cough*.   He even lives about an hour away from me, although I haven't seen him in years.  He's awesome and I'm pretty sure without him, running wouldn't be what it is to me now.  Many, many thanks, Bob.

And?  Erin.  My sister's friend, Erin.  We met via Twitter, and she's been a critical part of where I am now. She encourages me, pushes me, MOTIVATES me.  She is so motivating.  You are so awesome, Erin, I thank you from the bottom of my running shoes.  Thank you.

I hate long blog posts, and I apologize.  I will close by saying, I can't wait to see what 2012 is like and what my 2013 post will have to say!