Waivering

I took most of August and ALL of September off from most physical activity. I have my health issues back under control and need to get back to it! I was able to be a last minute sub for the M2M Relay. It was a fun, tough day! Reminded me of my first Half Marathon when I wasn't as prepared as I should've been. It was one of those things where I knew I COULD do it even though I SHOULDN'T do it. I had a really awesome team and I was glad for the experience. Next year, I hopefully won't be a last minute sub but can be on a team the whole time and have ample training time!
Right now I'm just looking forward to enjoying gym time again and getting back to feeling "normal". I think I may be finally able to have a somewhat consistent schedule. I really want to spend time running again. It's finally Fall with the wonderfully cool weather! I am looking forward to beginning the marathon training class in Jan and getting ready for my 2nd Full Marathon! I have to remember it's one day at a time and I need to make the most of each day. Starting Monday....lol!

Runner's World?

I've been taking a slight hiatis from my running. Since the Marathon I've run occasionally but now I have my gym buddy back! We've been going to spinning, power pump, pilates, and kickboxing! I have to say I like being well rounded once again! I do want to make a day or tow a week for some light running. This heat just makes it impossible to think about and the treadmill is never overly desirable :( Dilemma, dilemma, dilemma!

Maybe I'll squeeze a run or two in next week :)

Update!!!

It is the day after the Lincoln Marathon and I can still feel it! What an amazing day! (Although this wasn't the feeling I had for the entire 26.2 miles lol!) There was even a point when I stopped believing the finish would be worth it, but it of course was worth every step!!! It was truly an awesome day for running and the spirit that feels the streets of Lincoln is indescribable!!! I love how I recognize so many runners and bystanders this year. I really felt I belonged! Even the random strangers who didn't know me from Adam but cheered for "618" anyway really helped lift me along the route. Thanks to my personal cheering section at the finish! What a great feeling and really add to the runner high! I completed my first full marathon in 4 hrs 1 min, which leaves some room for improvement next year ;
I am thankful for the guidance of Ann and the support of the YMCA Marathon class. What a great group of runners! I wouldn't not having gotten through this without the last 4 months of group runs, informational speakers, and great advice along the way! Also the great support of my stand in sitters to tote Elijah to and fro so I could go to "class".
I'm not ready to go out and run today, but I am already looking forward to the next event! This was a great experience and I've learned from it. I hope to have as great of time in the future and then some (taking some knowledge with me from this time).

Yet Another Race!

I recently read a "classmate's" blog about the upcoming Marathon/Half Marathon. Just last week or so I was asking another friend if she had blogged lately. (The answer was no.) This has lead me back to the blogosphere :)
This weekend is the Lincoln National Guard Marathon/Half Marathon. After running the Lincoln Half twice and the Omaha Half this past September, I decided it was time to take the next step. (Well, maybe not RIGHT after the Omaha Half, I definitely needed some recovery time!)Although each time I completed a half, I'd think to myself how the full marathoners were just plain crazy, I decided to sign up for 2010! The YMCA class with Ann has been AWESOME!!! It's been a long (sometimes hard) four months. It's amazing what one can learn about oneself through this process. I have become a stronger and more knowledgeable runner that's for sure! I've met some great people and have had a great time. It's amazing to think that four months of hard work is all coming to a head this Sunday! I've such great support along the way and I just want everyone to know how much I appreciate them. My sisters were great helpers with Elijah during my weeknight runs. Marcus, my truly wonderful and understanding boyfriend, really came through when my Saturday morning runs awaited me. I know through much of this I've been a bit of a pain and occassionally self absorbed. I promise to be a better person in a couple of days. My glory is shared with all of you! The encouraging words have meant the world to me! I just want everyone to know how much you mean to me. I may be putting in the 26.2 miles on Sunday, but I couldn't have gotten there on my own!
I look forward to future blogs as I get back into the swing of things. I am looking forward to a great year of continued running and future adventures!

Committed!

So this high I was on after the Lincoln Half? Well...now it's got me committed to the Omaha Half! I mentioned making a weekend of it with my folks and son since my parents haven't made it to any of my runs since I started "racing" last year! So my mom booked a hotel in Council Bluffs for that weekend. We're gonna have our own little "Stay-cation" in Omaha! WOW!!! Next week I'll officially register for the race and order a couple extra plates at the Pasta-Thon. Anyone else feel like "road tripping" in Sept? Now that my son has running shoes (from Payless, no worries), I need to treat myself to a pair. Next month I'm heading to the Lincoln Running Co and getting some expert advice! I think taking that step may actually help make me an official runner! I think I'm ready to take that step! I look at it as an investment in my "hobby" and health. If I'm gonna be 29 for the next 10 years, I'm gonna have to put some work into it!
I admit I took almost a week off after the half. I've only run 3 times since then. But I think after this morning's run I'm back on track. I have runs planned for Sat (on my own) and Sunday with Karrie...yeah!!! Since I'll miss Goodyear next Wednesday for church, I'll probably run in the morning to make up for it. Sorry girls, you'll have to kick extra hard for me! Depending on when I have to head for Hastings NEXT Sat, I may try to take Anne's Body Power class to make up for it. Somewhere amidst all the crazy workouts I put myself through, I need to take a leisurely walk with my son and just take in some nature and relaxation. And that means NOT going to the gym that day...doctor's orders!!

Running High!!

Well, I successfully completed the Half Marathon this past Sunday and am proud to say I came in under my goal time!! I was seriously flying high the rest of the day! The last stretch seems to be the toughest, but luckily that's where all my "fans" were waiting. There's not better motivation! Thank you to everyone who may not be a runner, but can at least be a runner supporter! We need you!!! I'm so motivated that I am considering the Omaha Half in September! (Or maybe I'm just that crazy...the running bug has hit!) Plus if I have another goal waiting for me down the road, it's motivate me to stay "in training". Right now I need to focus on the Havelock 10k before I get too ahead of myself. I will be throwing in more interval training these next few weeks. I've also told myself once I complete the Havelock Run I will invest in some actual running shoes. (No more lectures from my brother about improper shoes!)
I also plan on attending the Y in the next few weeks and getting E signed up for swim lessons. Plus we will be working on bike riding lessons. I have us signed up for the annual Trail Trek at the end of June so we need to get busy!
My big plans for July is the Cornhusker State Games Triathlon with my sis and Wes. Nessa will take on the swimming portion, as I have not conditioned for that at all. Wes will take on the 12 mile bike ride, and I'll run the 5k portion. If I have something to "train" for each month, I'll get some good use of out my shoes and gym membership(s)...hee hee!
Here's to Spring and the quickly approaching Summer days!!

What a weekend!

I did not make it to the gym or the running group on Sat morning. I went with my mom and E to clean the church at 7am instead. Then I had MAJOR running around to do to get ready for the big birthday bash! Despite the weather, all the kids had a great time. Elijah kept thanking me for the wonderful surprise (bounce house)! He had so much fun! I didn't even mind (too much) paying the fee for bringing it back wet! It was VERY worth it!!! After all the kids left, Elijah and I went crazy in the bounce for another hour or so before we had to take it down. What a blast!!! I consider that better than any workout I could've gotten at the gym or otherwise!

I really want to get one last long run in either today or tomorrow. Then, as Karrie pointed out, I will be tapering off this week in prep for the half next Sun. Just one week away!!!....AHHHH!!! I know I am more prepared for it this year than last, but I'm still a little freaked out! It will be great though and I'm glad to be doing it again. (Ask me how I feel about mile 7 or so!) At least I have motivation to stay in training afterwards as I am planning on joining Karrie's team for the Havelock 10k in June. Then after that, I can slow down a bit....but not too much. I'll try to stay consistent...

Now I have a late afternoon at work and won't be done till after 7pm. Not sure I'll be up for a run when I'm done. Guess it'll wait till tomorrow morning.

Distance blogger...I mean runner...

Ok...so maybe I'm both. I've got the distant blogger part down, still working on becoming a distance runner!

I am proud of my races so far this year and have been sticking with my training for the Half this time around. As opposed to last year when I stopped running regularly after the State Farm run! This year I did the State Farm 10mile with a 9min average. I shaved off 6 1/2 mins from last year's Novartis 10k with an 8 1/2 min average. This makes me both excited and nervous for the Half next Sunday! I ran last year in 2:23 and am confident I can beat that, I'm just wondering what is an acceptable goal to set for myself....

Been sticking with the classes at Goodyear also. Mary's Tues morning Body Power is going to end next week as we don't have enough participants to keep it going. Think I'll email Goodyear and advocate for that Sat morning class they've mentioned. Tried Intensity Step followed by Butts & Guts last night. (Followed by a 5.5 mile run at 5am this morning!) I don't think I'll be able to move tomorrow. I won't have much chose though, because Elijah and I are registered for the Extra Mile Walk to support/raise funds for the Backpack program for LPS. After that E's off to spend time with Grandma as I get his "surprise" bday party ready. I have a feeling that may be a workout in itself!! Which means I can grant myself a small piece of the awesome cake I ordered!

Tomorrow I am going to break out of my comfort zone and join a group run. The Northeast Y has a group that gets together Mon-Sat at 5:35am for a group run. I love being out and about at that time doing my workout, but don't feel safe running alone outside. Here's my chance! Wonder how long they run for? I'd like to get in 7 or 9miles in prep for the half. Guess we'll see...

I feel good!!! nah nuh nah nuh nah nuh!!!

It's been awesome getting back on the workout track! We had a few days of GREAT weather to add to my motivation! Also I've been eating much better and I feel good. I don't feel the urge to continue bad habits that may be dangerous. I allow myself the occassional treat and don't beat myself up over it, and I'm able to do it in moderation. I even threw away my weight loss supplements the other day tha I had at home. (Huge step for me!!) I still have a different type hiding out in my desk drawer at work, which I haven't even opened. Someday I'll bring myself to toss those as well.
I have signed up for the YMCA. I just need to schedule an orientation at each, so I'll feel comfortable with everything. I still need to take the plunge and give Gold's the official boot! Once I get in the groove of the Y, I don't think I'll feel so scared to let go of Golds. Making it to Goodyear the last two Wednesdays in a row has been great! I am looking forward to the Saturday morning class that Karrie advocated for...thanks K! I'll definitely keep with the punch card system with Goodyear-it's nice to be back in the class scene.
Otherwise things continue to be hectic, but in good ways. I am looking at closing on my first house next Friday and can hardly wait! It'll be so great to have our own space again!! Most of my life, I mean stuff, is in boxes now. Just a few more things to pack and I'll be set! Anyone up for a moving party? (hee hee!!) It'll make for a great workout.......

Well Deserved!

I took a day off from working out yesterday. At first I had planned to go over lunch and had all my gear with me. But then I figured I've been doing really well the past week, and had some different activity over the weekend, that I had earned a day off. I quickly got over my guilt! I evn had a healthy dinner of leftover "turkey tacos" with fresh fruit. I really need to be drinking more milk at meal time if I can. I usually have yogurt at lunch time, but I want to work on having more dairy daily.
Today I got back on it and was able to do another 4 miles straight. I allowed myself a little more time this round and completed it in 40 minutes. Who am I trying to impress anyway? Tomorrow night will be class time at Goodyear, which means a break from running. I am going to try and make it 4.5 miles on Thursday. Slowly building up those long runs to see what I am truly capable of. It seems we forget to give ourselves enough credit sometimes. I feel really good today and I'm okay with that! I sit up a little straighter and find myself smiling for no other reason than that it feels good! Anyone else need this kind of pick-me-up, let me know and I'll be there for you!

What a weekend!!!

Talk about a crazy busy weekend! But amazingly enough, I feel pretty great! Friday was my day off and I was going to get SOOOO much accomplished. Then it turned out to be a snow day and I had my best buddy, Elijah, with me all day. I have to admit he was a trooper. We got to the grocery store by 8:30 and were done within the hour. Then it was off to the gym to meet Karrie for a good workout. It was a tough 3 miles, followed by some weight work. (I can't wait to get to Goodyear this week to have some true weight training again!) After that, we went home and Elijah played very nicely while I packed up his room. Slowly getting ready for our big move! When my brother got home I went out and helped shovel. For dinner I made soft tacos (with turkey meat) for the "family" as we watched our shows. (Psych and Monk.)
Saturday my brother Daniel came to town, so Elijah and I took him sledding for a couple of hours. Talk about a workout!! I made it to the gym that afternoon for another 3 mile run and 20minutes on the bikes. I knew I'd be going out with the girls that night and it ended up included quesidillas and margaritas. Yikes! There went THAT run!
Sunday I was able to run 4 miles straight in 38 minutes. My goal was 3.5 miles in 40 minutes, but I just kept going and made good time! If I can get a couple of 5 mile runs in and maybe one a little over 6 miles, I may just do the State Farm 10 mile after all! More to come on that goal ;-)

Where my people at???

Why everybody gotta ditch me? Karrie's lucky she called to say she got my message after she was already IN the gym. But I want everyone to know I showed up and was ready to go at Goodyear...just not ready to walk in by myself. I know I'm a geek, but I'm ok with that. But I AM proud of myself because instead of going to Brewsky's last I did last week when everyone was sick, I went to my OTHER gym and did some cardio. Karrie and I are now on the same page for NEXT week and she will wait to walk in with me :-)
Also on Tuesday I did go for another great walk with my co-worker. It was nice to take advantage of such great weather!! I have tomorrow off, so after I get E to school, I am heading straight to the gym! Then I am going to start packing, which should also help burn some calories and get my heart pumping!! The big move day can't get here soon enough!!!

Two Week Vacation....

Ok so not really, but I did unfortunately take two weeks off from the gym. I could go on and on with excuses, but that's all they are; lame excuses. The important thing I made it back to the gym yesterday over my lunch hour. I will also be there tonight and tomorrow. Finally going to make it to Goodyear with the girls! (They were sick last week and I've only been there once, so therefore not ready to go on my own.) Also on a positive note, with the great weather last week and this past weekend I took advantage of it! I went for a great 2 mile walk with a co-worker on Friday and played outside with my son all day Saturday. He and I even got plenty of walking in working on our Safari! So I guess I wasn't a TOTAL slacker after all. Plus I've been tracking my activity levels for N-Lighten Nebraska and I want to see those go up! Nothing but motivation on my side now!!!

Injury

So I had silly, but painful, mishap between my knee and the bathroom stall door yesterday at work. Don't ask, I will just have to reveal what an extraordinary klutz I am! All that is important here is that I wasn't able to go to the gym yesterday. BUMMER!!! Luckily I am walking much better today and will still head to Goodyear tonight. I am looking forward to taking group classes that I haven't been able to take at Golds since they cancelled them. This weekend I will also be making my membership at the YMCA official and will consider taking group classes there. I need something to push me in the weight training dept once agian. I am not getting the same results by doing the weights in the tiny women's weight room on my own at Golds. Bring on the squats and lunges!! I want gorgeous legs by spring time!

Rest Day

So my training schedule only really allows me one rest day from the gym. But I don't always think that's enough, so I gave myself an additional rest day yesterday. My day off is set for Friday at this time, but I really like working out on Friday, so I am changing to Monday. I may just end up with the one rest day this week after all.I will do my 3miles of cross training over lunch today. And that will keep me on track! Plus I am thinking about making the committment soon and signing up for the State Farm Run (1o mile this year, as opposed to the 5k last year).
Also I am getting together a team for N-Lighten Nebraska. I thought about doing it last year, but it put it off for too long. So far I think I have a couple of takers to join my team. (Two co-workers at this time.) If anyone else would like to join let me know. I would even venture to be the team captain. Sooo any of you out there (Karrie, Jen, Jennifer....anyone!?) Let me know and I'll get us registered soon! I am also going to see about getting a team together from Elijah's cub scout den. Trying to stay motivated in 2009! I will be signing up at the YMCA for Elijah and myself. Gotta say goodbye to Gold's once again. But Goodyear, on Wednesday nights, here I come!!!

2009 is here and so am I!!

It's 2009 now and I need to get back into this full swing! I am once again training for the half marathon and am actually sticking to a training schedule. Last year I really did myself a disservice by not taking my training more seriously. I want to feel a truer sense of accomplishment this year. I want to set healthy goals for myself!

I have to admit in the latter part of 2008 and the start of 2009, my goals were a little jaded. I was focused too much on food, calorie intake, workout overload, and feeling guilty no matter what. I developed a very destructive relationship with food. I've never really struggled with my weight, so most people might be shocked with the way I beat myself up over my food choices. My relationship with food and self image has been a 10 year struggle! Maybe someday I'll get help...ha!
This year my goal is to focus on healthy food options and not so much on calorie intake. So far I've been eating more fresh produce and actually eating. I am still struggling with limiting my calorie intake far below where it should be. I don't beat myself up quite as much when I take an off day from the gym though. I am taking baby steps and celebrate the small accomplishments. But every time I feel I have this thing beat is usually when I slip again.
I am breaking up my goals in small increments. Right now I am working out regularly with my training schedule and making that commitment to myself. I am also making sure I eat something for breakfast, lunch, 1-2 small snacks, and a healthy well rounded dinner. My biggest struggle will be over coming my calorie intake. I stupidly have the mindset of keeping myself under 900 calories and am a little obsessed with it. My other goal will be not to feel guilty if I go over or if I choose to indulge in something decadent and "evil". When I indulge, I need to chalk it up as it not being the end of the world rather than "punishing" myself and getting rid of the indulgence in an unhealthy fashion. (I won't go into the details.)
In the summer of 2007 I kept my weight between110-113 lbs. Deep down I still want to be there again. There's no reason for it and it's probably not a healthy choice. I need to tell myself how that is a stupid, unhealthy, and dangerous expectation! My focus needs to be on having energy, being a little more toned, and healthy. I need to not make it be about the weight, but about feeling good about myself. So in 2009 I am going to be selfish and put myself first a little more. I get distracted by the stresses of work and parenting and all of that. But I have to keep telling myself if I dont' feel good about myself and don't make good choices, I won't be able to do anything esle effectively.
Here's to a great, healthy 2009! I can't believe I've shared as much as I have here, but I am on the road to recovery. The more I can admit out loud, the more I'll have to address my problems. I am on the road to healing! I want my choices to help me live a long, happy, healthy life. I am not one to ask for help, but I also know I won't be able to do this all on my own. So if you know me, don't be afraid to help me even if I dont' verbalize the request. Ineed a boost sometimes too and I'll be there to do the same for you!

Spring Storms

So I had the best of intentions to go to the gym Wed night after the zoo, but then the weather decided to change all that. We had to leave the zoo early and we just made it home before the storm hit. I don't think it would've done me any good to show up to the gym during a Tornado Warning, so there went my best laid plans. Thurs night, Elijah and I had our first appt with Heather and that went really well. It lasted till almost 7pm and was way across the south side of town, so no real time or motivation for the gym after that. Elijah and Wes think they want to go to Mahoney State Park tomorrow to swim and partake in other activities (paddle boating maybe), so now I feel the pressure to be bikini ready...aaahhh!!! At least I made to the gym tonight to tan, hit the weights, and ran for 22 mins straight! (Yeah!!! I was able to run 2.3 mi in that time...I am slowly training for whatever race is next.) Tomorrow I will get up early to jump rope and do some other exercises at home. Then its off to the zoo at 9am, followed by some gym time before it's swim time. One more tanning session wouldn't hurt either :) Both boys love me the way I am , soon I will too!

Another visit after a brief "vacation"

Ok, so I've taken a slight break from blogging and from any kind of exercise. Don't ask me what that heck was going on because I can't even begin to say. Well, maybe I can at least begin to say why. Work has been kicking my butt and keeping my stress level high. (You'd think that'd be motivation enough to get my butt in gear, but sadly, no.) Then of course E has been having some difficulty adjusting to his summer schedule at daycare and it is a little bit of a struggle. Also he was having t ball practice twice a week and games weekly. They have cut down to one practice a week now, so that means I can get back to Thurs Body Pump if I don't have any dinner dates at work.
Also my BF has been trying his best to be a good guy and he does a good job, I just wish he'd do a great job. We're working on that, although he didn't come through this past Saturday for the Havelock Run and I had to skip it! But I have moved on from that...mostly. ;)
I did manage an hour of gym time Friday, a 45 min bike ride Sat, Body Combat Mon, and an hour gym time last night. Tonight I have plans to take E and my recent high school graduate sis to the zoo. They will supply dinner and a behind the scenes tour! I am hoping my sister will agree to hang out with Elijah after that so I can go to the gym.
My current motivators right now are my Nashville trip with Wes over the 4th and then the big 10yr HS reunion in Aug. So everyday I remind myself of my goals everytime I eat and every time I get myself to the gym.
This week I won't be able to make it to Body Pump because I have commitments the rest of the week. But I will still fit in my gym time and will hit BP next week!
I'll keep you p0sted!

Where to Begin?

I don't everyone to think I've been slacking on doing anything active. We've a had a busy week and I am doing my best to fit in true workouts. I know it only benefits me overall. I wish life didn't get in the way of everything. Time to get some priorities straight I guess. But here's where my times been going lately.
Thursday of last week I made it skating with E and Wes. Although E still has a LONG way to go, I could tell he was having fun just being there with his friends. It was a lot of fun being brought back to that old school kind of fun again. I only fell once after Elijah pulled me down from behind. I am proud to say that I avoided landing on him, although causing more pain to myself. Ahh, the mother's way of living.
After soccer practice Friday we went to church for game night. Elijah had a blast! I think he played maybe 2 games total, before all the kids were involved in a game of tag. It wore him out, so I'll go with it!
Saturday morning Elijah and I ran his first mile together. We participated for the 2nd year in a row at the Zoo's Fun Run/Walk. Last year we walked it, much to Elijah's dismay who did not want to be there at all. This year he wanted to be the fastest! That did not happen, but he did run the whole time with much coaxing from his mama. Then after that brief but good run, I was up for more punishment and went to the gym for another 3 mile run. My goal is to steadily run 5miles with an occasional 7mile run thrown in there. My brother claims he would like a running partner, so we may have to work something out. I am not sure how that will work, because half the time he is my sitter so I can run. Hmmmm?....
Then Sunday I probably had the best Mother's Day I've had in a long time. Jake went to church with the family early so we could head out for breakfast. (Where I ate too much and entirely bad for me.) But it was my day, so who cares right? Then Elijah took my mom to the zoo, while Wes took me to Husker baseball where I even got a bit of sun. Then we picked up E and went to Pioneers Park. We played baseball and soccer before heading over to the playground. Then we went for a nice walk and did the whole "family" thing. Then after playing hard we went to Applebee's where I was able to make good food chocies. Although I did wash my good food choice down with a Sangria. (Again, a much deserved Sangria!)
Monday I had every intention of going to Body Combat, but Elijah's soccer practice had been rescheduled to that night and tonight I have a meeting at church. (I hope to hit the gym for some cardio after that. I am hoping Jake will stick around long enough for that.) I guess that leaves Wednesday morning Body Pump on my calendar. YIKES!!! I know I can do it, I know I can do it!
So I know I took a break after the half marathon, but I am back. It's just a little slower going than I originally planned. Plus work has really been draining any extra energy out of me. Being outdoors Sunday felt so good! I can't wait for more days like that!!!!

Good Intentions

I had every good intention geared towards goping to BP tonight. I arranged for my bro to watch E so I could go in peace. Plus my son is grounded from the TV and won't be watching it the gym either! Well, my brosef sttod me up for dinner with some girl. I haven't met her yet, but he talks an awful lot about her. I guess I'll let it slide. That just means he owes me tomorrow! Hopefully soon E will earn back his TV priveledges and then I can drag him along to the gym with me. If it isn't down pouring tomorrow, I'll go for a walk over my lunch break. I always find that refreshing and rejuvenating. Spring is here and I need to kick it in gear! Thursday night E's school is having a skate party and that's how I plan to get my work out done! (Now as long as I don't break my butt doing it, we're all good!)