Good Morning

The new sensor seemed to work fine this morning. I did a short 2 mile run so I could calibrate it because I know exactly where the 1 mile mark is on the route. So I did that. The default calibration said I ran 2.3 miles so it's way off from my pace. Have it calibrated correctly now so we'll see over the next few days how it goes. But my right leg really bothered me this morning. Grrrr.... I also did my push ups and sit ups when I got home.

I am so frustrated by the unreliability of the nike+ and their website and even on the iPod. What's on my iPod is not the same as on the website and you would think those two would coordinate and be the same. But they're not. So I just rely on my own little Excel spreadsheet to know where I'm at and what I've done. I am reliable!

Sleep

Apparently I need some! Because I totally overslept today. By an entire hour! I didn't wake up until 6 am! I guess I need to turn my alarm clock up. Or sleep more.........

I decided to do a quick run this am - 3 miles. I wasn't going to do anything but I realized I really did have time to do something.

It is so funny that you mentioned the 180 bpm to me because Angie also mentioned that (via her PT) and I just read about it in Runners World. Wait. Did you mention that to me? I'm having brain problems. I thought you did but now I question. Anyway, I downloaded some music that is 180 and ran to that and I THINK it had a big impact on my pace. I don't know for sure, but it seemed like it.

Then I did pushpus and abs. And I ran hills at lunch.

And I had a GIANT bowl of ramen for dinner. We had dinner with Julie and Morgan, so that was fun. A new experience for them!

Dead Sensor

Yes, you read that right. It wouldn't activate this morning at all. This is still the old sensor which I put back in the other day and it's been working fine. So maybe it really is dead now. I will put the new one in tonight and try to link it. So tomorrow's run will only be 2 miles because I know exactly where the mile marker is and I'll have to calibrate the news sensor.

I did run 3 miles this morning and just kept track of it on my own spreadsheet like I always do. Another gorgeous morning here. Just perfect weather we've been having the last few days. Big thunder and lightning storm last night about 9 pm. 7/10's inch of rain only but it really dropped the humidity so this morning is wonderful. I wish it could be like this all the time. Oh wait, then I'd be living in San Diego!

Back at it!

Thank goodness Ang sent me a text at 4:56 am (my time) cause I sure didn't hear my alarm going off! But I did hear my Wonder Twin being happy I'm home! Much better way to wake up than an alarm.

As you know, I didn't sleep well last night. But, naturally, I was crazy deep sleeping when 5 am rolled around! That's just the way it goes! I sure am feeling it tonight, though. I'm really tired and plan on hitting the sack in the very near future.

Just like I had a hard time waking up, I had a hard time with pilates today! Shauna told me that she had something planned that would allow us to tone it down to more "intermediate" levels, if needed. Thus confirming my belief that she is pushing me to the next level.

We had fun today but, wow, was it challenging. Even after just a week I could really tell a difference. And, funny, tonight I really feel it in my ankles! We work on strengthening them but that's a very new thing for me. So it makes sense, I guess, that the muscles might not be as strong and lose what they have gained more rapidly.

And I did run to and from today, although it was hard to talk myself into doing it. I did hills at lunch, too. Mostly to get out of the office. I'm committed to taking lunch.

Now, let me tell you something nuts. Today? My Nike+ died!! I can't believe it! But Bart gave that to me 2 Christmases ago, so I guess it is gonna happen. I have another pod or bud around here that I will try, but I am pretty sure I saw something that said it couldn't connect to the receiver. Which makes it seem like the part that connects to the iPod is what died.

Now on to the miracle. It seems like I only gained about 3.5 pounds on this trip. How that is possible, given what I ate (and how much!), I cannot even comprehend. I'm befuddled.

Good Morning

What a perfect, gorgeous morning we have here. I ran the Fitnatics 5K. On the wrong side of the road! Felt weird kind of. Don't think it made any difference on the first day and didn't expect it to. I have this pulled muscle in my right groin area and can't seem to get over it. Hate to go to the Doc just for that but I think some PT would be good for it and don't think I can just go to PT. Might call today and find out. I want to work on my speed some but just can't do it until I get this muscle back in shape.

Day Off

Total day off - I went to bed and realized I didn't tell you about my day! Well, my day was weird, odd, and lazy!

As you know, I slept for about 12 hours on Sunday night. And it was a hard sleep with no waking up. I intended to go for a run yesterday and I even suited up and went outside. But I ran about 10 steps and just said to myself, "I'm NOT doing this." And I didn't!

I felt so weird all day - like I was still moving! It wasn't until the afternoon that the rolling stopped. I didn't feel sick, just like I was still on the boat, I guess. And I was very, very tired. I didn't sleep well at all on the cruise, to be honest. So I think that had a big wearing down impact on me.

And then I had such a hard time getting to sleep last night! And I was tired all day, so I was very surprised. I went to bed at 8 and read and then put the lights out around 9. But I bet it was 11:30 before I fell asleep. So I'm tired again this morning! But I suppose 12 hours of sleep messed me up!

Well, back at it today, anyway. Pilates this morning and I will make sure to run hills this afternoon.

I had a healthy day of eating all day yesterday. Probably too much, but still good for me stuff. So that's good!

I'll report back on my am!

Other Things

I'm going to try and respond here to all the responses you made last night! You didn't have to respond to everything!

My Doc wants to be checking my cholesterol, blood sugar, PSA, etc. twice a year now. They have all been excellent the last few times but he just thinks we should look at them twice a year instead of once a year. Actually, he just wants to drum up business and this is the way they do it. I haven't gotten a report yet but suppose I will get a letter in the mail one day this week.

Well, that hill you run up at work there is quite a hill and I think I would walk back down it, too.

Ever heard of Chi Running? Gary's PT guy is telling him that's what he needs to do if he wants to run again. Google it. I did and have watched some videos on utube about it. Seems to me like it's mostly being aware of your posture more than anything. I guess I don't really understand it yet though.

The iPod and nike+ sensor worked fine Saturday morning and this morning. However, this morning iTunes "couldn't connect to nike+ server" to send the workout so I had to send it manually. Have no clue what that's about. So, it goes on.

I have been having a little problem in my right leg for a while. Feel like there is a pulled muscle in there above the knee. This morning Angie suggested that maybe it's from always running against the traffic. Said her PT lady advised her to run with the traffic half way so that the right leg isn't always on the "high" side. You know, roads are built to slope from the center to the side so rain will run off. Not much but just enough. And if you're always running the same way (either with or against traffic) one leg or the other is always on the high side of the slope. Makes some sense to me so tomorrow I run with traffic! Not much traffic out here but I'm going to try it and see.

I think that's all. At least it's all I can remember!

Good Morning

What a gorgeous morning we have here. Sunny, light breeze, 72 when I left the house. I ran around the 4 mile block this morning. No dogs again. Wonder if they've gotten rid of them? I carried my horn but didn't have to use it. Shucks. I wanted to blast them! Anyway, the run went fine and I ran the whole way without walking a step. Even up the hills. Then I did my routine of push ups and sit ups. I was good and sweaty when I was done and Mom wouldn't give me a hug! Imagine that!

I have worked up a training plan now for the Ashland half Angie and I are going to run on October 15th so I'm starting that plan today. Nothing too serious but it helps me keep on track and remember that there is a goal.

I'm Back!

Boy did I miss you! I will tell you, I had NO partners in exercise crime on this trip! Oh well!

So, where to start? Not on the scale! I'm giving myself a week off. I ate dessert every night. It was a delicious, delicious vacation. My favorite was the chocolate melting cake. It was cooked just enough to form a crust and the inside was molten chocolate. Served with vanilla ice cream. AMAZING.

But I did manage to run! And I was pretty proud of myself, truth be told. Because it would have been very easy to blow it off.

The first day I ran on the outside track, and that was really fun. Bart said it was 'another notch in my running belt' to run outside in the middle of the ocean. Yep! I only did the track that one day because the distance was a tenth of a mile so I had to go around a million times to get anywhere!

The gym was very nice, with treadmills facing windows so I could see outside. And it had a lot of different cardio equipment and many weight lifting machines as well as free weights. It was always pretty busy when I went in. That was good to see!

I ran all but two days and I just did 3 miles each day. Oh, not true! One day I did 2 because the pitch of the ship made me run uphill! I figured 2 was enough! And then one day I ran just shy of 4.

I also lifted weights - just arms.

They didn't have pilates, as it turned out. We asked and they said they canceled them. But they did have other classes (I didn't take them). They had yoga and spinning and boot camp. Three people signed up for the boot camp classes but all crossed their names off. I can only imagine it was the 8 am start time!!

I'll have a San Diego based report for you tomorrow, I promise!

Good Morning

I'm back at it this morning and all seemed to work just fine with the iPod and nike+ and all. I ran a 4 miler this morning and ran the whole thing without stopping, pausing, or walking. I've gotten into the habit of walking a little at the half way points but am trying to break it at least on these shorter runs of 4 miles and under. Nice morning for a run. 62, cloudy, and a little breeze. Perfect.

I miss you!

Day Off

I just turned the alarm off this morning and slept another hour! Very tired. So...nothing to report.

It worked today

So I don't know what to think. iPod and nike+ both worked fine this morning. I haven't tried to send the run to the website yet so we'll have to see about that. Just a very short 2 miles this morning because I have to get to the Clinic and give blood for lab work. And I'm thirsty and hungry!

This is so frustrating!

The new nike+ sensor arrived yesterday so I put it in the shoe and it took forever to link up. It finally did and it tested out fine. So, I thought I would give the old one another try and, sure enough, that one linked up, too, and seemed to work fine. So I left the old one in the shoe and ran with it this morning. It all worked just fine and recorded the run, etc. But, when I plugged the iPod into the computer, it didn't send the workout to the website. It said that it did but it didn't. So, I don't think the problem is with the sensor. I think the problem is with the last update to the iPod that Apple so graciously provided me. I now have several workouts on the iPod but not on the website and no way to get them there because the iPod says they have already been sent. I'm glad I keep my own little spreadsheet!!

Did the Fitnatics 5K run again today. Cool morning here. 52 when I left the house and much of the route still in the shade so I was glad to get out into some sun when I did. Gorgeous morning though.

Technology!!!

Can't live with it. Can't live without it. This morning my iPod was totally dead! The battery icon came on with a thin red line on the extreme left side of it. No juice. It's charging now and I'm wondering if I forgot to turn off the music yesterday morning. Could be. We'll see tonight when I get home if it works or not.

So, that frustrated me this morning and I only had time to run 2 miles but I did that. Plus the exercises.

Hope you're having fun and I know that you are!

Holding Down the Fort

I'll do my best to hold down the fort while you're gone. (Wonder where that expression came from?) Anyway, I'm running the Fitnatics 5K route these days just to keep it simple. Pretty soon I'll have to up the mileage again to get ready for the Half in Ashland but, for now, short and simple is my goal. Christ Schmidt lapped me this morning! That show off!

And I'm off!

Well, this is it! My final post - maybe. If I can post on the ship, I will. I am not bringing my computer though. Only my iPad. Know what that means? NO WORK!!! My out of office notification says, "I'm probably on a three deck water slide in the middle of the ocean. I won't be getting back to you." HA!

I got up so early this morning - and that's after going to bed so late. But I ran three miles. I was going to take today off, but I'm making up for Friday.

Bart's here! Love you!

Too Hard!

Well, I totally didn't have fun at pilates today! It was too hard! I've got it figured out. She's moving me to another level. Well, that's what I think anyway. But it is not fun when I'm not doing things right!

I ran there and back and I was sure worn out from that.

That's it! Time for the cruise!

Love you and I'll miss you!

Story for you!

Morning! I was in bed last night when I remembered, "Oh! I meant to tell him that!"

I have a dress that I ordered quite some time ago from an online store. Here is a pic:

It was actually sold out and I was just waiting waiting waiting and hoping it would come back into stock (a return) and, magically, it did. I got the restock email and, believe you me, I pounced! POUNCED!

But my adored dress that was rejected by someone else did not come in perfect condition. There was an issue with the zipper. Basically it didn't want to make the zipping transition from the skirt to the bodice (it's an invisible zipper, on the inside of the dress, not the outside). If it was off, I could force it. But on? No way. And I've even brought that thing to work and made other people try to zip it while it was on! Yeah, I know. No shame. Anyway! I took it to a dry cleaner Wednesday to have the zipper replaced. The helper made me try it on. I had to firmly tell her that, NO, it was NOT too small. It was fitted! Total difference!

Thursday rolls around and some guy with a heavy accent calls to tell me to come pick up the dress. He's decided he is not doing the work! "If I fix zipper, it work 2 times. Then break again. Dress does not fit, that why it won't zip." So I, very irritated, told him I'd come get it and have someone else replace the zipper!

Side note: When I told Bart the zipper fixer told me I was clearly too fat for the dress he said, "That's not what he told you. He just said the dress was too small for you." Which made me laugh!

When they were fixing the zipper I was to pick the dress up Friday after 5 pm. So I went over around 3:30 and, for heaven sake, they could not find the damn thing anywhere. Let me tell you, panic ensued in the back. Finally the "this dress is too small for you!" culprit came in and looks at me like I'm a dolt and says (with a shrug), "I decide to replace zipper."

#$&!*#@

I left a giant crisis at work (shocker!) to do this and ended up having to go back. Now, when I was there to find the dress MIA the searcher and the shrugger both reminded me that this would NOT work and I was going to be sad.

Well, guess what? Totally works. It WAS the zipper. I can zip it by myself, easy as pie, no help required.

HA!

Total Laze!

I got up at 5 this am, got suited up and outside. And said to myself, "No. Not today." And I didn't!

I had a big plan that I would go to work early and leave early. But only the first half of that happened. Oh well!

Tomorrow is my last day here! We leave Sunday am - we are going to Alpine to pick up a carload and then we'll head up to Long Beach around 9:30 am.

I don't think I'll have connectivity on the ship, but you never know! If I do, you know I'll check in!

Dead Sensor

You heard that right. It wouldn't activate this morning at all. Tried several times including complete shut off and restart. Also tried to re-link and it said that it did that but it still wouldn't activate. So.....I spent 15 minutes fiddling around with that and only had time for a 2 miler then. And I didn't have my watch of course so I don't know my time. Think it was my usual though. Push ups and sit ups went better this morning. Not sure if it's because I did a shorter run today or I'm getting my form back. Hope it's the latter. Guess I'll order a new sensor. Hope you have a good day.

Hard Stuff!

I had such a good morning and then went to work and got totally crabby! We finally have AC there but people still had doors and windows open and it will break the units. So if the AC is on, they have to be closed. Plain and simple. And our landlord hates us so I think he would be thrilled to say, "No more AC for you! You knew the rules. You defied the rules. You broke the AC." But I've done my duty and now I give up.

But! I had such a great time at pilates this morning. It was SO hard. She made me do things that were really, really challenging. They were arm exercises and I really could not do them...well, I won't say not well. But just not with a lot of movement. I had to do tiny moves so I could do them right. But the really neat thing will be to do them again in a couple of weeks and see how much I've improved.

Which happened with an exercise today, actually. Two, I should say. She had me do one that we did last week and I really struggled with. And today I did so much better! And another that we did very early on and was very challenging. And, same thing. I could tell an amazing improvement. Really neat!

My ship has pilates at the gym, so I plan on checking that out!

I ran to and from my appointment. So about 3 miles. And then I did hills at lunch. Today I even ran down. Usually I just walk. It was hot out, but not too bad.

Good Morning

Another perfect morning here. 62 when I left the house and low humidity. If every day was like this....I'd be in SD! I ran the 3 mile route again today and the my exercises. I really didn't feel like doing any of it today (like you yesterday) but I just slogged through it and got it done. Listened to Ronda Vincent and I haven't taken her with me all summer so that was good.

Just Running

I had another late night last night! Not late working, but late going to bed. So, naturally, I was tired this morning. But I got up even before my alarm went off because I had to pee sooooo much!

I ran this am and it was just OK. I just felt slow and sluggish. My time was not great, but not terrible. And, frankly, I only ran because I made myself. Just one of those days. It happens!

Sounds like somebody needs an awesome vacation! That would be ME!

On the Road Again

I got back to it this morning by running the Fitantics 5K and I ran the whole 3 miles without pausing or stopping which is going to be my goal for the rest of this week. Then I did the push ups and sit ups for the first time in more than a week and....wow....you would think I had never done them before! Hard work! So I'm getting back into my normal routine. Vacations are great but it's also nice to get back to normal.

It was a gorgeous morning out there today. About 60 when I left the house and humidity is way down from where it's been lately so just beautiful. And no rain this morning!

Little Things

I did a bunch of little things today. I had pilates, which was great! But I didn't run over. I just didn't have it in me. So I drove. Then I ran hills at lunch. It's been a while and I could sure tell! And then I finished my day by running 1.5 miles at the gym. It was just too hot to do it outside and I was too uninterested in running any further!

During my last pilates session, Allison was my teacher. And Shauna told me this morning that Allison made a note on this really hard thing she made me do. "Nailed it!" So cool!

Gym

Boy, I didn't want to get up today. I could have slept in, that's for sure! But get up I did....although it was a bit later than usual. Around 5:20. But I was still out of the house on time and was able to go to the gym this am.

I did 40 minutes on The Stairway to Hell again. And then weightlifting things again. Same stuff I did last week. But I like going. I feel like it is branching me out!

My eating was not as great today. I've not been eating veggies yesterday and today. I don't know why. Well, tonight I just plain didn't feel like cooking. And I was not prepared for the week because I had to slack about yesterday! Geese!

I ran myself sick!

Yep, I did. All my fault. I absolutely should know better. SIGH! I went to Miramar today and did ten miles. The first round was fine. Great, actually! And then I started getting hot. And dehydrated.

And dehydration is actually why I don't feel good, I'm positive of it. I've had plenty of water and food since I've been back, but I just need a good night sleep to shake this headache and get back to "normal". Whatever that is for me!

I did it!

Yes, I did! I ran the River City Ramble Half Marathon in Red Wing, MN today. It was very hot and humid and I walked as much as I ran in the last 3 miles but I got it done. 2.37.31 so my time was slower than Grandma's Half in June but that is due entirely to the weather today. It was fun! Now tonight I am so tired I can hardly believe it. I will sleep like a rock tonight. And I will take a few days off from running to recover.

Good Luck!!!

Quick Update

It is late and I just got home and I'm going to eat, go to bed, and go back to work at 7 am! OY! Well, this is what I signed up for, no question.

But I had an amazing day today. First, I did go to the gym this morning! It worked great! I left home at 6:30 and was there by 6:42. It was totally empty. At first I was worried it was closed! I did 40 minutes on The Stairway to Hell and then I did weights. And I could get on everything I wanted right away and even did some new things that I usually don't bother trying to do because the area is so busy. So that was very cool.

Then I was under 130 today! 129.6. You know how weight goes. I'll be over 130 tomorrow. But it was nice to see it on the scale, if only for a day!

A banana saved me from crazy snacking tonight. I had to stop at Vons after work and was sooo hungry. But if I start eating crackers in my car, I'll just eat them all. So I got a banana and ate it and it worked! I'm going to eat - for real - now. And, yes, my for real dinner consists of crackers. Hey, they're whole wheat!

6r

Whew! Long day! Not so much in hours. But just one of those days I thought would NEVER end. Ever. But it did! Now I'm home and cooking chicken, peppers, potatoes, and tomatoes. All on my little Forman grill. And my potatoes are purple all the way through!

I had a really good run today. 6.4 something miles, so says my trusty tool. And my pace was 10.01. Geesh! Over ten by that much!

I'm thinking I might try going to the gym in the AM tomorrow. Not sure that will happen. Just a thought!

Good Morning

Very, very humid here and getting hot but I did a 3 mile run outside. Didn't leave the motel until 8:30. Mass of sweat when I came back. It had been raining during the night and again this morning so lots of humidity out there. Good run though.

Pilates on no sleep

Yep, today was another pilates day. It went well, but I was not sure because I did not sleep at all! It wasn't even the kind of night where I know I did sleep, but I just feel like I didn't. If that makes any sense at all.

Anyway, I imagine I'll sleep well tonight. Not much else to say here. Work was so odd because our internet was down and we all worked the first half of the day at home!

Running

I had the best run I've hand in some time this morning. And I didn't even want to do it! I really had to force myself off the couch. Beautiful day and absolutely no reason not do do it. I just wasn't so interested! Sure am glad I did go though.

Good weather, if I was searching for something to complain about I'd say it was just a tiny bit humid. But I'm not. So I won't. Only one other runner out there. But lots of walkers. And, of course, lots of dogs!

I did 6.5ish miles today and I was under ten minutes per mile! Well....so says my imperfect tracking device! But today I'll take it!

Good Morning

I slept until 7:00 but did get out for a 4 miler this morning. Beautiful morning here. I'm going to take it easy now the rest of the week. Will do a short run Wednesday morning in Mt. Vernon but that will be it until Saturday.

Nice Day

It's actually pretty warmish out today. Great day for Comic Con!! We're going to park at Bart's work and walk over to the convention center, so that's maybe a mile each way.

I ran over to my pilates appointment today. So about a 3 mile run, round trip. Actually a little shorter than that I think. And another really good session with Shauna today. Again very challenging and I was a sweaty mess when were were done! It was cool because I was doing something today and she said, "I wish I could take a picture of you right now because that is sooo perfect and I would use it in a brochure!"

My weight was really down today. Just about 1.5 pounds over my original goal of 130. I had dreams of getting to 125 for the cruise, but I'm not going to torture myself to get there. It is just a personal thing anyway - I'm the only one who cares!

We'll have a million awesome pictures for you to see from the show! Hope you have a great one and stay dry!

Lazy Day

Well, I did not weigh 5 pounds more this morning! Glad I got that figured out! But I did have a short, lazy run this morning. In fact, I didn't even want to do it. Seems a pretty typical statement from me on Fridays. But, you know, I got up at 5. OK....slept in till 5:18. But, still. I'm not going to waste that. My giving up of sleep must be respected!

So I ran 3 miles. And I ran them slow. But I did it. And I was glad I did. I did the pilates 10 minute ab video when I got back.

And that's it!

Good Morning

Well....I did run to the church but not sure if "run" is the right word. Very slow time because I walked more than I've ever walked during a run before. Ate my breakfast too close to leaving the house. Big mistake. Should have eaten at least an hour before or just not eaten at all. Then my feet felt so hot by the last couple of miles I almost stopped to take my socks off! Never had that happen before. I wore those dark blue socks I bought out there at RRS so will go back to those white cotton ones you gave me for Christmas a couple years ago. And I didn't do a full 10 miles because I just didn't add the loop through the Dresser Industrial Park that makes it 10. I just couldn't do it. 8.7 miles. Pace was 11.10. Worse than the 1/2 marathon pace. And when I got home and got on the scale I weighed exactly what I weighed on Saturday morning!!! How can that be? So, not a very satisfying run at all.

Hope you're having a better day.

Weird Day

I've had such a weird day. I got home late last night (yeah, again! July is almost over!!) so I went to bed late. And it is hard to wake up! This schedule is wearing on me.

But I did wake up. Had pilates this am. I did run over there although I seriously considered driving. I had to run FAST because I was short on time! And I passed this hard bodied woman who was running in underwear! Then I had my session and ran home.

And at lunch I did some hills. Cause I'm CRAZY for em! It's true. I am. I hate riding my bike up them, though. Go figure!

But my day started weird because I got on the scale and I weighed 5 pounds more than yesterday. 5 ENTIRE POUNDS. Thankfully I figured out that my scale was set 5 pounds high somehow! So I had to pull the battery out to reset it.

Then, tonight, I wanted to make a blueberry vinaigrette for my salad. Forgot the blueberries at work. OK, I thought, I'll just do a plain vinaigrette. The salad I just got was full of rust. GRRRR. Then I recalled the salad in my fridge! Oh....so sad. So slimy. So now I'm going to eat the exact same thing I've had for every dinner and two lunches all week. And, let me tell you, I'M OVER IT.

Pilates - not as bad as it sounds!

Really! I mean it! Well, mostly.....it's hard! No joke. I really feel like my body is changing though. And my weight is finally going down. Part of that is simply due to the fact that I'm doing something different. I think that makes a big difference. And not just the pilates. I've been doing some different things when I go to the gym, as you know. So I'm helping myself. And, honestly, I'm eating better. The good news is that I'm feeling better - which seems to happen when I'm eating more fruits and veggies and fewer cupcakes. Go figure!

I had a really good run today! How far? Who the heck knows! But it was over 6 miles and I felt really fast and strong. Didn't see too many of my friends, though. That's odd since it was so nice out this am. Anyway, it was a good run. It might have been under ten minutes per mile. But, who knows!

I a combo of pushups, situps (crunches, actually), and the plank when I got home. 3 sets. Almost stopped at 2, but I did my planned 3.

We've been having a lot of lunches brought in this month because work is so busy. And I've done well at eating the healthy stuff and eating an appropriate quantity. Both are difficult for me! Anyway, I knew we would be having some chicken, bread sticks, and pizza so I brought my own veggies and whole grains mix and just added chicken. Once I start on bread sticks - it's over!!

Good Morning

Wow! And another scorcher coming today. Going to hit 100 and then break tonight and only be 87 tomorrow. Something to look forward to! So I ran on the TM again today. Did 4 miles this morning plus my exercises. I'm planning and hoping to be outside tomorrow but we'll have to see.

I'm going to Duluth today to have lunch with Grandma. Taking Poppa with me and he's already upstairs waiting for me even though I've told him several times we're not leaving until 9:30! What a guy.

Raw Meat!

That's what my muscles felt like! Now that I've typed that header, I don't understand it! But people say that - I felt like raw meat. Don't they? I think they do......maybe they don't!

At one point this morning Shauna was chuckling about my trembling muscle (look at that poor thing!) and I said, "It looks like it is twitching after I've been electrocuted!" And she agreed so much she is going to borrow that description. I live on through pilates!

But, dang, was today a hard day. For real. Right from the beginning we did this thing that was so difficult and it just continued on from there. Whew. I was sore and worn out all day.

I did run there and back, so I got in a 3 mile run. I'm meeting the other instructor on Thursday. Shauna has to be somewhere at 7:30 so she asked if I wanted to come early. No thanks! 6:30 is early enough!

I'm interested to see how sore I am tomorrow. So is Shauna. She asked me to report back.

Good Morning

Another scorcher here today so today I ran on the TM. Did a whole 5 miles and felt good about it. Then did the push ups and sit ups. I was one mass of sweat when done even in the air conditioned basement. It was 85 and dew point of 78 when I was ready to go so thought it best to stay inside.

Not 115!

Move to San Diego! It was 80 at 1 pm today. Nice day - sun felt delicious. Know what else felt delicious? My bed! I've been so worn out and I totally didn't want to get up today. And I did get a good night of sleep.

It was actually a tiny bit cool when I left this am. I did 6(ish!) miles and it was a good run. About mile 4 or 4.5 I really wanted to just go home (see - tired!) but I did my final loop.

And I actually ran hills today! It has been so long since that has happened. I didn't take a long lunch. Just enough to do those 5 hills. But it was good to get out. Like I said, the weather was nice!

Good Morning

Sauna City. That's our new name here. Unreal. I did run 2 miles outside this morning in the soup and it was unbelievable. 82 when I left the house and dew point in the mid 70's. Just like running in a sauna. I just wanted to see what I could do and I did 2 miles but it had to be worth 4 on a normal day! Think I will be confined to the TM the rest of the week. So, I won't be doing a 10 miler this week I'm sure. Mother Nature just hasn't cooperated with me at all this whole spring and summer.

Mucho Updates

Hi! I've been doing stuff, but I have not updated! So one update on my weekend is what will happen, I guess. I didn't get home till about 9:30 on Friday and, frankly, I'm just feeling a little down or bummed. I blame work. I just don't like it there. But I've been thinking of school things and it is interesting what you said a couple of days ago that maybe I'd become a pilates instructor. Because Angie said to me a couple of months ago, "You should be a physical therapist." And I have been thinking....yeah! I should! But it is scary because, no matter what education I seek, I'm going to have to quit my job. And how do you do that when you're an adult!?! Fear is holding me back and I think it's why I've been feeling so low this weekend.

Enough of that!

By the time Friday rolled around, I was tired! But I still got up at 5 so I still made myself run. It was short and slow. I only did 3 miles. But that's OK. I got out in the great wide world.

Then I had pilates on Saturday. I love it so much and it was sooooo hard. She really challenges me. And when I don't do things perfectly (because they are difficult beyond my ability) she says, "The next time we do this you will remember today and you will really know how far you've come!" But she also tells me when I'm doing super great or doing things exactly right.

And I really do think my foot is better. And she told me that she gets really rapid/positive feedback from her clients with plantar fasciitis.

Now today I did The Stairway to Hell again. 40 minutes on interval. And it was hard. I had it set too high at first and when the fast time came I was running. I turned that WAAAAAY down! But I was dripping sweat when I was done. Totally good workout. And I finally found it online. This is what I'm talking about:

http://www.amazon.com/StairMaster-SM00140-001-SM916-StepMill/dp/B001AS4YVC

Good Morning

Late this morning getting on here because of the Wannigan Days 5K. It went well! About a hundred people. First one so they were a little disorganized. And their route included a long, long downhill into Interstate Park and then a fairly long uphill out of the Park along highway 8. That uphill nearly killed us all! But I made it. My nike+ says my time was 30.05 so I was happy with that. Not sure what the "official" time will be. Not chip timed. There was a thing on the bottom of your bib number that a person pulled off of you when you crossed the finish line. It had a bar code on it so I suppose they scanned that to get your time. Never seen such a system before so don't know how it works. And they announced that they will email official times to us on Monday. It was fun though. Angie came to cheer me on and take some pics so that was great. Also quite a few people I know from the church and community were there so that was nice, too.

Now a day off tomorrow and then I'll attempt a long run (10 miles) on Monday. But it's going to be hot, hot, hot so I don't know that I can do it. Guess I will have to take my phone so I can call for pickup if I need it.

I did it!

I ran to pilates this morning! That was my plan/dream and why I wanted a place so close to home. But work has been getting in the way. Today I was just a tiny bit late leaving and I thought maybe I should drive. But I decided instead to run faster! And I did! My run there was under 10 minute miles. It was fun and a challenge.

And I had another great session. We did a lot of balance work today. And a lot of hip/glutes work. Interesting thing is that my foot has been bothering me a lot less. Now, that could partially be because I am running less due to the fact that I'm not in training. But I like to think it is pilates!

I do feel like I am finally getting more muscle-y! Boy, I'm so glad I gave them another chance!

I meant to tell you that I got takeout last night from Tao. I usually don't get takeout but I was just too over it to contemplate cooking and their food is healthy. The have meat but he makes his own tofu. So I got tofu with veggies in black bean sauce and brown rice. It was good!

Running!

Hello! I'm home at a more reasonable time! Another very busy day, though.

OK, I weighed myself today. I guess I just couldn't help myself. But I started thinking - how sad will I be if I don't weigh myself all week and then I do and I end up weighing what I did last time? That's equally depressing! So I did it. I'm just sad that I gave in to the urge!

I had a really good run this morning! How far? Who the heck knows! Over 6 miles though. It is a really cool week here, so it was perfect running weather this am. Clouds and everything. But it was a good run and I felt really strong. One of my best in a long time - you know, actually fun. Not my best time ever, but good!

Then I did the abs video (10 minutes) with that one really irritating teacher.

And that's it! Good day. Pilates tomorrow.

Good Morning

What a gorgeous morning here in DePere! Party cloudy and temp about 60 when I ran. I went down to the river (1/2 mile from their house) and then ran 1.5 miles up the river trail. Just a beautiful paved trail right along the river. Gorgeous! So I did 4 miles this morning and had a pace under 10! 9.58. I was surprised especially because I forgot to take my water bottle! So no hydration along the way but it wasn't that hot so it was fine. I was going to take tomorrow off but now I want to run the river trail in the other direction. Can't understand why I've never run that before here. Always walked and ran just around the neighborhood. Now they're moving! Sure enjoyed it today though. I've run that every day if I lived here.

Quick one!

I'm still at work and thought I would do my update from here! Yep, it's late. Oh well!

I had another pilates session today and I just really like it. I like my lady a lot. She is very determined to get me even, strengthen me up equally on each side, and resolve the pain in my right foot.

It was really challenging again. I was hot and sweaty! I didn't run there today because I was already working before I went and just ran out of time!

Good Morning

I did a short 3 mile run this morning. Much cooler than yesterday but I'm getting ready to head for DePere the big birthday party tomorrow afternoon. I should have done the 3 yesterday and the 6 today but who knew the weather would be better today? I sure didn't and I listen to the weather forecast every night! I'm taking my gear to DePere with me but not sure I'll run over there. Feel like I need a day's rest. Wannigan Days 5K is on Saturday and I want to be rested up for that. Might run tomorrow and then take Thursday and Friday off. I'll let you know! Have a good day.

And....ouch!

Yep, I am sure feeling that pilates session today. It just seems soooo easy when I see other people do it, but it is really hard. I can feel it mainly in my back muscles and my inner thighs. But I can actually feel it everywhere to some extent. It did something!

I did go for a 6 mile run today. How far exactly? Unknown. I'm sooo frustrated by technology! The other day it was 6.32. Today 6.1. Exact same route. So I've got no idea what my pace was.

Although it did feel good. Way better then my Nike+ claims. And it was a beautiful morning. And so many more runners! The afternoon heat must be driving the late day runners to the am.

We are going to have a cool week, though. Which makes total sense because we have visitors from DC. Course it isn't burning hot!

I've decided to start weighing myself once a week. This every day stuff is just causing me way too much angst.

Good Morning

Silly me. I slept in until 7:30 and waited for the sun to be high in the sky before heading out for a 6 mile run around the block almost entirely in full sun! It was hot, hot, hot. But I kept chugging along. Walked what I though was quite a lot in the last 2 miles but still got it done in 1.5.33. I was surprised and thought for sure it would have been more time than that. But I can't do that any more. I'm not good in the heat. So if I want to do anything over 3-4 miles I have to get up earlier to beat the heat. Anyway, I did it. Then I did the push ups and sit ups in my cool basement.

Weekend Wrap-up

Well, you've already got my pilates news. I'll email you a link to that Netflix video I've been using. I've only done the hips/thighs and the ab sessions. I'm getting better at them!

I'm really really glad I kept my pilates appointment. In theory, my next appointment is on Tuesday. We'll see!

Saturday I ran 3 miles. To my session and back. It's just over in Kensington, which is part of the reason I really want this to work out! I'd love to run over and run home. Seems like a good morning of exercise to me!

After my session fell apart on Saturday, Bart and I went to the gym! Good news! The have The Stairway to Hell now! So exciting. Great Wall marathon, here I come! I did that for about 30 minutes and then I lifted weights. Man, I hope I can firm up before The Cruise.

Then I weighed myself and I weighed approximately 1 million pounds. I'm utterly befuddled by this turn of events and did NOT weigh myself today!

Good Morning

I really didn't want to do it this morning. Slept until 7:00 and it's 71 and very muggy out there. But I went. Left the house at 8:10. Did the 4 miles around the block. No dogs again today. But lots of humidity! Pace wasn't so great at 10.32 or something like that but I got it done.

Confirming

Yep, I did nothing today! Well, exercise related! Slept in. Worked. Had a dinner date with Jessica and baby (and her mom and sister).

Back at it tomorrow!

Good Morning

I wanted to sleep in this morning and really did not feel like going out there....but I did. I only did 3 miles this morning though because it was so warm running in the sun. Where the road is shaded, it's great. But then you run out of trees and that sun hits you and it just saps my energy. But I did 3 miles with a pace of 10.03 so that's good enough for today. Going to be hot and steamy now starting today and all weekend so we'll see how I do tomorrow and Monday. I'm running that Wannigan Days 5K a week from tomorrow and am still thinking about that half in Red Wing on 7/30. I don't like to run in the heat and humidity though so I don't know.

Have a good day!

Mix: Hard Work and Slack!

I overslept today! I really didn't sleep well last night. I went to bed late and then tossed and turned. Naturally, I was in a deep coma when the alarm went off! I finally rolled out of bed at 5:40 and I was luck I did that because, apparently, I turned off my alarm.

I ran 6 miles this am. Started out great but I was SO hot by the end. My pace was around 10:30. I think I forgot to tell you that a yorkie tried to attack me the other day. I had my pepper spray out today and I made darn sure the owner saw it in my hand. Guess who's getting an air horn??? Yep! I can't wait. You are my inspiration! I wish we could record this!

Then I went to work and worked like CRAZY. I did a really good job of keeping it healthy again. I'm doing well with that! I wish that food wasn't the real culprit with weight, but there you have it. Oh, I also have not had any pop this week! I got some iced green tea instead. Also, we ordered iced tea for the office. We have so much pop around and, as it turns out, a lot of people are interested in an alternative.

Then I went to the gym. And I did TWO exercises. And then I left. True story.

Good Morning

I was short on time this morning as you know so I ran a mile north and back as fast as I could. Did the 2 miles in 19.14 so nike+ says I did the first mile in 9.32 (uphill for 4/10's) and the second mile in 8.55 (downhill for the same 4/10's). Very good!! For me anyway. So I guess I will do this once in a while. Sure got my heart pumping!

Heat Wave!

WhoooooBoy! It's hot! And we do not have any temp control in our office, so it is extra super hot. EXTRA SUPER! So, basically, I didn't do hills today. Nor did I go to the gym. I was honestly just so over it that I came home. And it was hot here, too......

The good news is that it is helping me eat healthfully. It is inspiring me to keep my food light and cold. In fact, I'm chilling my dinner right now. Shrimp and greens.

So, pilates! Today was the day! I was going to run over and then I thought, "Girl, you should probably know exactly where you are going before you take away your ability to make quick direction/location adjustments." And I'm glad I did because I did have a bit of confusion.

How was it? Well, it is kind of hard to say. I think it was awesome, but I don't know! Because I can still walk and function. And I'm kind of mentally trained to think that if it doesn't hurt, it didn't work! That said, I really do think it was good. I have three sessions to try out. My next one is Saturday.

We did a full body session for one hour. Started with a warm up and then did abs, legs, arms/back. It is interesting because I really have to be mindful of the way I'm holding my body. And I really can feel a difference when she helped me make a correction so I was doing it "right". PS, right means harder!

So it is hard to know from the introductory session, but I'll keep it up because I think it will really help me get where I want to be!

XO!

To add: I had napa cabbage with my shrimp tonight and that is yet another low calorie veggie, I found when I just looked it up now! 13 calories per cup. Nuts! This is what Nutrition Data says about it:

The good: This food is very low in Cholesterol. It is also a good source of Niacin, Calcium and Potassium, and a very good source of Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Folate, Iron, Copper and Manganese.

Read More http://nutritiondata.self.com/facts/vegetables-and-vegetable-products/3035/2#ixzz1ROCCbzow

Good Morning

A perfect, gorgeous morning here today. Just beautiful. I ran 2 miles north and back and had a pretty fair pace. Think tomorrow I will do a 2 mile speed run. Run as fast as I can for 2 miles or until I collapse and see how it goes. They recommend doing that once in a while and I've never done it. I need to be out of here early tomorrow so seems like a good time to try it. Won't have time for a longer run. Taking Car 54 to a body shop for some minor work on the interior.

Rainbow!

Yes, we saw a rainbow tonight! I could not believe it! Pretty rare out here - especially when it isn't raining! We did not search for the pot of gold, and I hope you can forgive me for that. Heck, I hope I can forgive myself!

I had a pretty good run this morning. 6 miles. And then I did one of the 10 minute ab videos. I'm getting good at it! I mean, it still feels like work. But I thing my form is better.

Good eating all day today. Will it show up on the scale tomorrow? Cross your fingers...

And toes!

I hope you had a great day off! Tomorrow is my pilates session, so I'll report back!

Good Morning

I changed it up this morning and went for a 7 mile bike ride instead of running. Just felt like doing something different and it always amazes me that that's work, too! But some different leg and thigh muscles get used which is good and the whole point of cross training they say. So it was good. Then I did the push ups and sit ups when I got home. And then I got on the scale! Big mistake there. I did not make healthy food choices all weekend like you did! Now I'll pay for it.

I'm off today for my 4th since the holiday was on a Monday. Not much on my schedule though but will have to find something to do so I don't sit around and eat.

Gym

Speaking of running smart, I ran at the gym today! It was just too hot to run outside (and in the sun) when we got home. And I wanted to lift weights, anyway, because July is an insane work month and I want to get there when I can. So I ran 1.25 miles (at 6/hour and 6.5/hour) as a warmup and then I did weight lifting. And I didn't do any abs when I got home because it was soooo dang hot! But I did something, and that's what counts.

I brought my running gear to Borrego, but it was just too hot. I didn't even contemplate it once I was there and in the heat. It would have been foolish and I might be running obsessed but I'm not THAT running obsessed!

My pilates session got moved to Wednesday at 6:30 am, so breath if your were holding your breath waiting for my report! Wednesday night it will be. Sounds like a very small studio. And they were really trying to get me in ASAP (I bet they have a lot of people who change their minds when they have to wait). In fact, when she called to change she offered today again. But I knew from an earlier conversation that she had plans. And I appreciate the effort they are putting in.

We did mainly healthy eating on this trip. We brought breakfast and lunch makings and then had dinner out. That really helped me feel good. We pretty consistently eat out on trips and I pretty consistently make unhealthy choices. I just really want to do a better job. So I'm glad we did that.

Busy week at work so I went grocery shopping today and picked up healthy food options. Healthy and easy. And good. Things that will have me thinking, "Well, yes, I could go get slices....but I could also have some shrimp!"

Dad, I'm going to look into trademarking Fitnatics again. I'll keep you up to date!

Good Morning

And happy 4th of July! Two years ago today we ran our first Fitnatics 5K. What fun that was! So I'm wearing that t shirt today in honor of the occasion.

It was 70 when I left the house this morning but seemed warmer than that. I did the 6 mile around the block route today and that's the longest I've run since Grandma's. I did have to walk some near the end because I was really heating up. And major disappointment! No dogs today and I was ready with my little horn! Oh, well, another day.

Good Morning

And what a good morning it is, too! Temps and humidity are both way down from yesterday although it was still 77 when I left the house to run at 8:00. Slept in a little today! Did the 4 mile around the block route and THE AIR HORN WORKED!! Those 2 dogs came down their driveway at 90 per barking and yapping and showing their big teeth. I let them get to about 15 feet from me and gave them a blast...and they immediately shut up, turned around and went back up their driveway looking back a me the whole way. I was thrilled! We'll see if they get use to it over time but I hope not because the next step will be pepper spray and they won't like that at all. So I did the 4 miles in some heat and had a pace of 10.29 which is ok considering the heat and the time it took to horn the dogs. Also did the exercises when I got home. Really worked up a sweat today. Nobody wanted a hug!

Gym

I did have a somewhat slack day today, but I did go to the gym tonight. I planned on doing a better job of sleeping in, but that didn't quite pan out! Oh well. Tomorrow!

Anyway, I just did a quick 5 minute warmup at the gym and then lifted some weights. Nothing too crazy! But I'm glad I did it.

Good luck with the weather and the dogs!

Good Morning

Wow! It's tropical out there today. About as far away from that morning along Lake Superior waiting for the half to start as you can get. It was 77 when I left the house and the dewpoint was 71!!! Unreal. So I only did 3 miles and walked about a quarter mile of that near the end. Just too hot and icky to go any farther today. I've been doing 4 miles every morning but not today. Big storms coming through later today and that's supposed to cool us off some. I'm planning to do 4 miles around the block (and the dogs) tomorrow morning.

Long(est) Run(since Grandma's)

I did a 6 mile run today! Why? Just felt like it! And it was really fun. Maybe it makes a difference that I did it because I wanted to verses doing it because I HAVE to.

My pace was a little over 10 minutes miles, but that's OK.

I had to work super late tonight, so I am going to take tomorrow off.

Thanks again for telling me about your t-shirt experience! I'm so excited about that!

Netflix!

Today was a Netflix day! I did the one full video. It is an ab based video but it is cardio and floor work. About 40 minutes. And then I did the 10 minute pilate video I've been doing. And I was so tired I didn't even do the last exercise! It was hard!

I did hills at lunch today too.

I'm so frustrated with my weight. Especially with this cruise coming up.

XO

Boo work!

Yes, I did have another irritating incident today. This time an employee pitched an absolute amazing tantrum. Here is the thing - I do like this guy. So I'm mainly concerned about him and his stress level. That said, everything I can do to reduce his stress will have an edge of punitiveness to it. Oh well!

I did a 3 mile run this am. Foot felt (mostly) fine. I was very slow today and I just really wasn't interested in running, truthfully. But I always figure, "I'm up. Might as well do it!" So I did. No abs today - I needed a break!

I ran hills at lunch - and I really needed to get out of the office today, let me tell you!

And then we went to the gym tonight. I just did 5 minutes of cardio as a warm-up and then I lifted weights. The weird thing is that my foot felt find all day until I did a hip abductor exercise. This one:

http://www.fitlink.com/exercise?type=machine&exercise=hip+abduction

So I really think this problem is related to my right hamstring and how tight it is. I've been stretching it, but maybe need to do more.

Weird eating day today! Lots of snacks but no formal meals. On the plus side, they were all healthy snacks. Like a handful of nuts. And a lot of fruit. Tonight my dinner will be:

Asparagus (currently eating)
Cereal and yogurt (homemade!)
Figs (I cannot even believe I found those at this time of year!)
Grapes or cherries

Today I had the most amazing stone fruit. It was a kind of pluot (apricot/plum mix). It actually tasted like a sweet tart!

Have a great night!

Good Morning

Another gorgeous morning here and not nearly so humid as yesterday. Temporary reprieve they are saying. Heat and humidity coming in tomorrow and into the 90's by the weekend.

I ran 2 miles north again and back. Time was good and pace was 10.16 so I was happy with that. Also did my sit ups and push ups. Took Abba with me today. Forgot to say I took Barry with me yesterday.

I registered for that Wannigan Days 5K in SCF on the 16th. Did I tell you that already? Anyway, I did. So, that will be my next event. Then I am thinking about a half marathon in Red Wing on July 30th. Could be very warm and if it's hot and humid I probably wouldn't do it even if I was registered. Thinking about it though.

Running!

I had a really good run today. I'm working on my pace, too. And it is getting better. Well, if I'm going as far as I think I am!! Also, I went 3.08 miles Saturday and 3.01 today. Exact same route, of course!

No dogs for me today, but it sure was humid here, too! Now, nothing in comparison to yours. And I know that for a fact. But we're weaker people out here so we have to complain about something like our little bit of humidity!

Today I did a new to me ab video. New one but the kind that is cut into 10 minute segments. So I did the abs and the exercises were fine but, I tell you, the host lady is sooo irritating. I don't know if I'll do it again! Just unnatural and I felt like I was in kindergarten. "Oh, you're doing sooo great running with those rounded scissors!" And it was very practiced - sounded like a very memorized script. So I don't think I'll do that again (well, maybe!) because I have others I really like.

Good Morning

Well, I almost didn't do it this morning. My right leg kind of bothered me all day yesterday. I'm sure when I turned to confront those dogs on Saturday I pulled something down there. But this morning it felt fine so I decided I would give it a try and see how it was. And it was great! Didn't bother me at all. I went 2 miles north on 180th and back and had my best pace in weeks...10.18! I was very pleased and surprised! I think that will be my route this week and I'm going to see if I can get down to 10.0 per mile. Very glad I went. Then I did my sit ups and push ups when I got home. Gorgeous morning here but a little on the humid side. I was happy to turn south and into the wind this morning!

Ouch say the abs!

Woooo boy are my abs smarting tonight! It wasn't too bad this morning, but I did that entire video today (not just the floor part). And the first part isn't so much "just cardio" like I thought. It is cardio, but ab focused cardio. Anyway, it actually was fun. And it must work since my abs are letting me know they are irritated with me!

I also ran today, for better or worse. I did 3 miles - the Kensington route. It was hot! And lots of traffic. My problem tonight is that my foot hurts. Did they take an MRI of your foot? I think I'll ask for an xray and MRI (if that's what you had).

Enjoy your day off!

Love you!

Good Morning

I stayed in bed until 7:15 this morning even though I first woke up at 5:30 and just dozed off and on after that. I laid there thinking about last Saturday morning! Glad I was in bed this week.

But I did get up and run the 4 mile route around the block. First real run since the race and it was fine. Wanted to work on my pace and did. 10.26 per mile. But those damn dogs came out at me again today so I might have to just be satisfied going north and south on 180th Street. Too bad because I like saying that "I ran around the block." Then I started doing the 60 sit ups and 60 push ups again, too. That was work after about 10 days off! So I hope I am back on track. I took the cast of Glee with me this morning and thank you again for that!

I don't think I'll register for that half in Minneapolis on the 4th. They are predicting temps in the high 80's and low 90's by the end of this week and over the holiday weekend. I can't run in that weather even though it starts at 6:30 am. I am going to run the Wannigan Days 5K in SCF on July 16th though.

Have a good day!

Stuff and Things

I did a bunch of stuff and things today! And I had a healthy food day again. So, two days in a row. That is good.

Today I found a new workout video. It is 45-ish minutes long, and I only did the ab part at the end, maybe 10 or 15 minutes. It was HARD! But my abs don't feel super sore tonight, which is odd.

I did run hills at lunch. I had a super stressful day today and needed to get the heck out of the office. I'll email you separately on that topic.

And I did the gym tonight, even though I didn't want to go. I really wanted to go home but I figured I should work out my angst. And muscles don't build themselves!

Like I said, a healthy food day. I ate a lot of fruit and veggies.

We are still having serious June Gloom here! I'm ready for some sun!

Extreme Icing!

I really did serious icing today and....I hate it! Brrrrr! But I'll do what I need to do. I feel like I should hold off running till things seem "normal".

As I typed that I realized, duh!, that I'm going to be reporting that I ran hills at lunch! I did 5 and it was so much fun to be out there and do them. I missed it!

I did that ab video this am, again. Geesh, it is hard! It is cut into 10 minutes segments so it was just 10 minutes of abs. Totally doable.

And then I did the elliptical at the gym for 20 minutes.

Home and had a healthy dinner. Just tallied up my calories and I ended up the day at 1370. Pretty good - maybe I can have a snack!

Dang, it is hard how those calories add up!

Did you know that an entire cup of asparagus only has 27 calories??? Yay asparagus I love you!

Day off and gym and....cruise!

So, it hit me today. I have a cruise coming up in a few SHORT weeks. I have some serious work to do. Yep, time to pull out the food journal and food scales!

I did go to the gym today. I did the elliptical for 20 minutes - running style. And then I did some serious weight lifting.

I made a grocery store trip and have a house full of healthy food. I really need to buckle down.

Tonight my right ankle is really sore and the bottom of that foot hurts. That is the one that looked bruised post run. I am going to engage in some serious icing. If this persists beyond this weekend, I'm going straight to the doctor. I don't want to mess around with this.

I'll do something tomorrow! Wish I was doing something with YOU!

Good RAINY Morning

Yes, more rain, thunder and lightning here this morning. Rained off and on all day yesterday and will do so again today they say.

So I did 2 miles on the TM this morning just to see how it would go. It went fine but I could sure feel it in the backs of my legs. Knees were fine so no problem there and those muscles back there are just sore I'm sure. So, back at it!

I still have the 2 lbs I put on last week though in all my nervous eating before the big run. I'm going to lose it though. Oh, yes, I am!

Feeling Good

No run this morning but just reporting that I feel pretty good. Knees and legs seem fine. I'm kind of surprised actually. I expected more pain! Maybe I'll have to do this again!

The only bad news is that in spite of the run on Saturday I gained 2 lbs over the weekend!! How did that happen? Must have been those biscuits and gravy for breakfast yesterday morning!

Yes We Did!

We did it!!

Yes we did! Congratulations to all 3 of us!! What an exhilarating experience to actually do this! Thanks for the motivation and encouragement!

Just for the record my time for the half was 2 hours, 23 minutes, 55 seconds.

Good Luck!!!

Today is the day - no matter what our ticker says!!

An old coworker of mine is a runner and she used to work at RRS. And she said she doesn't know of any family that runs together like we do. She knows of families with one runner and the family supports that runner, but not with so many members being involved with the running aspect. Pretty cool!

Good luck, my Fitnatic BFF! I love you!

Great Run!

It was a great day for the 3rd annual Fitnatics 5K! And we did it!! Yes, we did! Everybody ran and had a great, great time. Good warm up for the marathon weekend which is now just one day away!

Short Run

As in a mile! Yep, short. I just wasn't so into this am, which I'm OK with. It was a really fast outdoor run though, for all it was tiny short!

Pretty excited. And nervous. I wonder how it will all turn out and how my pace will be. We'll know soon enough!

See you tomorrow!

My Last Training Run

It's a gorgeous morning here and I ran 6.2 miles outside. I have to admit that my knees were starting to bother me by the time I was done though so I don't know how it will go on Saturday but I'll just do the best I can do. I plan to take Aleve before leaving the hotel which I didn't do this morning. I also didn't eat anything and didn't have any Stingers or anything to take and that might have given me a boost. The new shirt was great though!

And, except for the Fitnatics 5K, I am just going to rest now.

Only 5 days!

Quick Update

I had another really good run at the gym today. No matter what my nike + uploaded, I did 6 miles in about 54 minutes! This makes me feel pretty good about my potential marathon pace. Obviously I can't maintain today's pace for 26 miles, but I can do better than I was thinking I could do!

I did some abs stuff when I got home.

I tested out my new shorts today. I don't want to do anything new the day of the race, that's for sure! So I will bring pants and shorts and just see what I need the day of.

See you SOON!

Great run!

Geesh, how long has it been since I have said that? I feel like it has been a looong time. But I really did have a great run today and it has made me think of how I'll train for my next marathon.

I was considering going on a longish run today - like 15 miles. But my concern is not at all about my ability to do the distance. It is about my pace. So I decided to sacrifice distance and work on speed. And I've tried that a couple of times recently, with disheartening results. I think I'm going fast, but it isn't really.

So today I went to the gym and ran on the treadmill. Enforced pace! No guess work. And I ran over six miles in under an hour. My average pace was 9:22 (if I remember correctly). And it was great because it was really hard but I kept it up over 6 miles. And that is way faster than I want to run on Saturday. But I'm going to do it again tomorrow. Try to get used to going a little faster.

It was great, mentally, too. It was hard but it made me feel excited again. I guess I've been kind of down on my running because of my pace.

I'm going to incorporate treadmill running into my training from now on. When I was running so fast a few months ago, I was running at the gym maybe once a week. And I think that really helped me have a fast pace outside.

Boy, we are sooo close! Can't wait!

Much Better!

Not my pace, but my emotional state! I've been soooo soooo crabby. So crabby. Like punch, scratch (eyes), pull hair crabby. And tonight I went to the farmer's market in North Park and it was just like my world got shoved back into alignment. Bonus: smiling accordion guy was the entertainment there tonight! I love him but I've only seen him at the Saturday market!

Today I waaay slept in. Till like 5:18. Just totally ignored my alarm clock. And then running time rolled around and I really wished I had stayed in bed. So I decided to do a short run. I did 3 miles as fast as I could. Which may have been -10 minutes per mile, or may have been 20 minutes per mile. Who knows!

Then I did the legs and abs pilates video. Man, that is so hard. I'll feel it tomorrow!

I can't even believe it is almost time.

See you Tuesday!!!

Oh, Angie says the shirts are AWESOME!!

Emotional Status: Grrrr!

Pace: UNKNOWN
Distance: UNKNOWN

Man, I'm just about to give up on all tracking. I don't know how far I'm going. I don't know my pace. So frustrating.

I recalibrated at the lake yesterday, but I have zero idea if that's accurate. I just find it so hard to believe that I'm going as slow as my Nike+ is telling me. But maybe I am. Who knows. I don't! I'm just at a point where I don't trust any of it. I have no idea if I'm accurate now.

But I did have a good run. I THINK it was about 6 miles. But what do I know!!

Ouch!

My calves hurt! It is kind of nuts. This has never happened to me before. But they are just really sore and it started after my run yesterday and continues today. And they didn't hurt during my run. Just after. So odd!

I took today semi-off. I ended up going in for a couple of hours. But I did go up to Miramar and I ran 10. I was going to do more, but I waited too late in the day and it was too hot. But not 100 degrees hot! Dang, you're sweltering there!

Hope you're doing ok!

Aching!

I'm having a day of aching! First, my weekend was an absolute bust when it came to running. I ended up working all day on Saturday. And I mean 7:30 to 5 all day. So no running. And then I just was so....exhausted on Sunday. No idea why. And I worked a little bit Sunday, too.

Today I had to force myself out of bed! Nuts! But I did and I made myself run, too. I did 10 miles today. Really really nice day. Perfect, actually.

And that's it! Worked trough lunch - boo me! But I will tell you that I am taking tomorrow off and part of Wednesday! So I'll do a good run tomorrow. Probably up at the lake.

I'm sure glad your knees are hanging in there! I'd like to do that run you did today with you someday. I bet it was beautiful!

Good Morning

Hot and humid here today but I did something I never do on Mondays. I set my alarm for 6 am so I could run before it got too hot. However, it still got too hot! I went up to Centuria and ran on the Gandy Dancer Trail. Very nice. Level. Mostly in the shade going north from Centuria. So I went 3 miles north and then back to the car for a 2nd water bottle. Then 1 mile north again and back. Did 8 miles. Wanted to do 10 but it was just too hot and humid. Was afraid I would have a heat stroke. So that's my last long run before the race. I don't know. I had to walk some of the last 2 miles but that was due to heat. My knees were pretty much ok - an occasional pain but nothing to stop me. However, I was feeling some stress in my plantar fascia in that right foot today! Where did that come from? It's been fine for a year! So I'm going to wear that sock tonight I think. It seems fine now so I don't know. I'm still really wondering if I can actually do 13 miles. My pace was terrible today, too, because of the walking. So we'll soon find out.

Good GORGEOUS Morning!

Oh, what a perfect, beautiful, gorgeous morning here! 68, sunny, just enough breeze. Heaven must be like this! Lay Sunday at PLC today so I am off and playing hokey from church! Shhh....

So, I went for a 4 mile run around the block. No dogs this morning so it was perfect! Left knee started to bother at 3 miles but I kept going. Planning a 10 miler tomorrow for my last big run so we'll see. Sure hope I can do it. If not, I will be in the cheering section I'm afraid. But I'm not giving it up yet. Knee feels fine now so no after effects apparently. Have outside work to do today so will see what the day brings.

Have a good one!

Not 100%.........

.....but 100% better! If that makes any sense. I really do feel like a new person. But a new sick person.

I did an 8 mile run this morning. I wanted to do 10, but I just didn't have it in me. It took me a long time to fall asleep last night, so that might be why I didn't have enough oomph. Oh, yeah, plus I'm sick.

I did pushups and abs when I got back.

Have not been to the gym all week and I sure feel bad about that. Sunday I'll go!

I need to get another long run in, too. I'm planning 15 for Saturday. Gotta do it. I feel like my training is behind, although it is really not. Just performance anxiety, I guess!

Not Such A Good Morning

It was +49 when I was ready to go but, again, very windy and it felt cold out there. I decided I just didn't want to fight it. So, I went down to the TM. And it's a good thing because I quit at 2 miles!

We went to the Osceola Braves games last night to hear Megan sing the National Anthem. She was excellent, of course, but when we left after the first inning I fell in the bleachers and must have pulled a muscle in my left groin area because it was really hurting while running this morning. I finally just quit at 2 miles! I'm sure it's nothing serious or permanent and just needs rest which it will get because I won't run now until Saturday morning in Eau Claire. Last night when I fell I thought the only thing I hurt was my pride. Guess not.

I really, really need a 10 mile run on Monday for my confidence to return. It's been a bad 2 weeks here in the running department.

Another day....

Not much to report today. I got up and felt a lot better this am, so I did a 6 mile run. And I did abs when I got home.

And then I steadily felt worse all day long! This is very sad. Today it is mostly my ears that are aching. I suppose there is just a lot of pressure in there.

Hopefully I'll be better tomorrow.

And I do feel...well, not better today. But different than yesterday. So that's something!

Good Morning

I ran 4 miles out there this morning. 2 miles north and then back. Had a big scare with dogs yesterday going around the block so just avoided them today. Cool and very windy so it was a challenge today, too, but very different from yesterday in the humidity. Went well today in spite of the wind.

I really need to do 6 miles tomorrow so will maybe see those dogs again. Hope not. Yesterday was the first time they've come out on the road and nipped and barked at me. Then taking Friday off to drive to Eau Claire by 9 am for our Synod Assembly. On Saturday in Eau Claire there is a little 5K being run as part of the Assembly to raise money for malaria nets and I think I'll do that. Very informal run. No timing, no registration, no t shirts! Maybe no runners! I'll let you know.