Stats: ING Miami 2008

Number of people who signed up for a 17-week training program to complete a Half Marathon: 35
Number of runners who made it to the Starting Line: 30
Number of training program "drop-outs" whose injuries were not running related: 4
Number of runners who completed the Half Marathon they spent 17 weeks training for: 30
Number of runners who either met or beat their "goal time": 27
Number of runners who were more than 10 minutes slower than goal time: 0
Number of First Time Half Marathon finishers: 25
Number of runners who are meeting me next Saturday to prepare for the next race: 23


******Oops...should have stated that this post is a follow-up to this post*****

Get me out the door

I'm so glad January is almost gone. I just cannot get out the door. I'm cold. I'm tired, I'm busy, waa waa waa. Gosh, I cannot stand myself. I need some warmth.

Our Little World got me thinking....

and EAGER to hear how you guys stay motivated.

this quote?

-------
here I am, back home, full of horrible non-energizing food and totally derailed from all things training and healthy
-------
well, I havent had a vacation in AGES but still manage to resemble that about once a week.

For me the motivation ISNT a skinny celeb(utante) it's a photo of myself in a better place (and Im not talking St Barts).

I slap that sucker up on the fridge and even those Ore Ida 99 cent microwave fries seem to call me a LITTLE less loudly.

Redux

Okay, I don't know why the information is not appearing, so I'll try it again. I couldn't find a link, so here goes, verbatim:
Physically active people have cells that look younger on a molecular level than those of couch potatoes, according to new research.
A study of British twins found that exercise appears to slow the shriveling of the protective tips on bundles of genes inside cells, perhaps keeping frailty at bay.
"These data suggest that the act of exercising may actually protect the body against the aging process," said Tim Spector, a professor of genetic epidemiology at King's College in London who led the study, published Monday in the Archives of Internal Medicine.
Previous research has shown that being physically active reduces the risk of heart disease, cancer and other diseases, potentially extending longevity. In the hopes of helping explain how, Dr. Spector and his colleagues examined structures known as telomeres.
Every time a cell divides, telomeres get shorter. Scientists believe that aging occurs as cells reach the end of their telomeres and die--muscles weaken, skin wrinkles and thinking clouds.
Dr. Spector and his colleagues analyzed telomeres collected from 2,401 twins participating in a long-term health study. The length of the twins' telomeres was directly related the their activity levels, the researchers found.
People who did a moderate amount of exercise--about 100 minutes a week--had telomeres that on average looked like those of someone about five or six years younger than those who did the least--about 16 minutes a week. Those who did the most--about 3 hours a week--had telomeres that appeared to be about nine years younger than those who did the least.
Other researchers said the findings are intriguing.
"It's another jigsaw piece in trying to understand why exercise is important in longevity," said Stephen Coles, who studies aging at UCLA.

Original source: The Washington Post

Vacations Mess With Your Mojo

I just got back from spending 4 relaxing days in Florida. You would think that after all the complaining I do about running in the cold weather, I would jump at the opportunity to run while down south. Yeah. You would think. So what did I do? Well, the gym had a fancy-pants treadmill with a T.V. attached so I just had to give it a go. I got on it and watched T.V. for an hour, churning out 6.5 miles then went back to my room, showered then met my husband at the bar where I proceeded to enjoy some beers and anything with melted cheese on top. And so went the next 3 days. Sigh. And now here I am, back home, full of horrible non-energizing food and totally derailed from all things training and healthy! Yikes! The second I drop my 4-year-old off at preschool tomorrow, I'm hitting the gym. With any luck, I'll be able to run for 3 miles on the treadmill without passing out. Better eat salad and fish for dinner.
How do you guys stay motivated while on vacation? And more importantly for me right now, how do you get back into it once you get home if you fell off the training wagon while away?

This just in...

Hello fellow Fountain of Youth Discoverers! Came across an article in today's paper. It seems that exercise may be protecting your body from the aging process! Yes, you heard me right, exercise may be protecting your body from the aging process. To quote my source (The Dallas Morning News) "A study of British twins found that exercise appears to slow the shriveling of the protective tips on bundles of genes inside cells, perhaps keeping frailty at bay...People who did a moderate amount of exercise--about 100 minutes a week (this is where you marathoners snicker) had telomeres that on average looked like those of someone five or six years younger than those who did the least--about 16 minutes a week. Those who did the most--about three hours a week--had telomeres that appeared to be about nine years younger than those who did the least."

I don't know about you, but when I see unfit, indulgent, undisciplined people, I hurt for them. Exercise is difficult to cultivate into one's lifestyle--I will not try to deny it, but the payoff...whoa, Nelly!

I don't exercise because I want to be hot (okay, it would be really nice to be hot), I exercise because I want to enjoy old age. I want to crawl on the floor with my son. I want to climb trees with my daughter. I want to...never mind, that's private.

I thought you would find this information interesting. If you care to follow up, Stephen Coles, who studies aging at UCLA, was quoted in the article. I'm sure a quick Google would bring up a wealth of information.

And Congratulations on your good health!

Stroller Activities

Some of our favorite things to do in the stroller while enclosed inside the windshield , in order of increasing desperation:

• Draw or color. I LOVE Crayola Color Wonder markers. They don’t get ink all over their hands, faces, and clothes, and the markers don’t get peeled and broken into pieces like crayons. (Do avoid the Color Wonder finger paints, however. Obviously not good for the stroller, but even at home they are very oily and will stain your expensive windbreaker.)
• Read books. Younger kids just look at the pictures, but when you are not running near traffic, you can actually read the pages to them – especially books that you’ve already memorized.
• Look for animals. When you see geese, HONK! When you see dogs, BARK! When you see birds, CHIRP! My kids do a mean seagull! Very convincing ;)
• Eat. Quickly, some good stroller snacks are a dry bagel, peeled and cored apple, string cheese or snack mix with things like Cheerios, raisins and pretzels. Bad stroller snacks are things like dry instant oatmeal, American cheese slices, anything with cream cheese, or chewy granola bars which crumble apart and are STILL sticky.
• Music. We’ve always sung as we ran along, but this winter, we’ve sunk to a new low: kid headphones. We’ve commandeered my husband’s iPod shuffle, loaded it with kid songs, and bought a splitter and two pairs of headphones designed for use by children. I am very careful to keep the volume low to protect their young ears. Plus they keep the kids’ ears warm.

The novelty of the headphones seems to have negated the undesirable weather for my little passengers. In the spring, I’ll share our version of “Stroller Bingo”.

• What is the best or worst stroller snack you've tried?
  

Win a pair of FREE Polliwalks at Classy Mommy

Hi Ladies - We're giving away a pair of these cute Polliwalks Clogs at Classy Mommy. We reviewed them and my active 2 year old loves them!!!! The sole of the shoe leaves a footprint in sand, mud, or dirt and they are shaped in the style of adorable animals.

Click here to find out how to enter! Visit Classy Mommy to read the full review too!

Marathon Mantra

I, and my beloved TeamFootworks, will be participating in the ING Miami Marathon tonight (well, technically, it's tomorrow, but we'll be getting up SO early that I think you can call it Saturday night still). I am doing the Half, while many of my friends will be going for the Full Monty.

I live pretty close to the end of the course (actually, watching the medley of people go by a few years back got me into running, but that's another tale) so I plan on getting back home in time to help them not bonk at "the wall." In doing so, I scoured the internet for some "inspirational" words for posters/signs. Since I my eyes began to water (then again, Publix commercials make me weep), I thought I'd share ones I enjoyed.

• Pain is just weakness leaving your body (silly, but I pondered that one for TEN miles at last years marathon and it got me through).
• You made it to the START, you will make it to the FINISH
• This mile marker is farther than most will ever reach.
• Cold Beer & Hot Showers, Cold Beer & Hot Showers, Cold Beer & Hot Showers
• Pain is temporary, Pride is forever
  
• Relax, Power, Glide
• 1, 3, 5, 2, 4 (I found counting out of order over and over again made me concentrate hard on the numbers not the shin splints)
  

I'd like to hear your running mantras or inspirational running quotes.

Set the Animals Free - It Will Improve My Time

My crew (4 out of the 5 of us) are running in the Zoo Run Run today. Thankfully, it won't be as cold as it was yesterday (in the 20's - AUGH). They are calling for 50 degree weather, which suits me just fine.

Now - if they will just release a few of the more carnivorous animals then I might be able to beat my best time. Nothing like a cheetah and a tiger chasing you down to make you hustle!

25th High School Reunion

Hi Mommies,

I tried to add a picture from my 25th High School Reunion. Yes, that would be 1982. I would have had big hair in 1982 if I could have made my flat hair get higher. The gal on the left has been my best friend since we were 4 years old(yoga queen). I'm happily in red. I think the pic is showing in my profile and not here. I'm technically challenged.
Trice

Flashback

I was running errands today when "We are an American Band" came on the radio.....I was instantly teleported back to High School; no longer driving a minivan with carseats.......but instead I had painted on jeans, big 80s hair, drinking a beer and driving around with all my other "cool friends" in a gas hog complete with big dice on the mirror...............I wonder when I am 60 if I will flashback to this time period with minivan and carseats when I hear a Nickelback song on the radio?

It's all in the arms

Hello Running Mommies,

Forgive the absence. I went to Boston to pick up my 85 year old Grammy and get her out of the snow for a few months. While I was there I met with my friends I've known since the 6th grade. They were all asking about running. I'm the only one who runs. Two are big into yoga, one goes to the gym for various things and the other is just a natural beauty who does not seem to need much. It reminded me of last years's trip to NY to see some friends who are also my age. It was May and several had sleeveless tops. It was at that time that I thought Mommy arms need working out. It is a total age give away if your arms (triceps)are flabby. Two of the friends are really thin/in-shape, but had flabby arms. I remember thinking how do I ever say it?? Do I ever say it? Would I want someone to say it to me since I know my abs could use a ton of work? Do we tell other Mommies? Are we quiet? I think I'm going to say it as a revelation group moment that I've realized arms count as you age. Running Mommies already have great legs.

My Grammy by the way has always worked out. She's younger than my 65 year old Mommy. She's an inspiration. It is awesome to be around her and soak up the knowledge. She's wise, funny, and joyful. I want to be just like her.

If I go it will be trouble. If I stay it will be double.

Cold weather – Part 2

(Thanks to The Clash for so accurately describing my dilemma!)

This struggle is the same whether you are heading out on a 10 mile run or just going for a walk around the block. Similar prep for a bike trailer too, so hopefully in this series, there is something for everyone.

So, once you’re going- how to prep the kids? Make it exciting and inevitable. Exciting: “Hey kids! Let’s go see if the lake is frozen yet!” Inevitable: the kids will tell if you are dreading it and they will find a way to weasel out of it if they sense any weakness. If you’re looking for an out, they are going to find one for you. You now how it can take weeks to finally get to the post office, but doing (fill in the blank) never seems to be a problem. Same idea.

Make sure that the kids are dressed well for the weather conditions. They will be happier if they are comfortable and you’ll get fewer dirty looks from other runners and walkers for taking your babies out in the cold. My general rule of thumb is to dress them in what I am wearing PLUS one complete extra layer. Don’t forget their little toesies. Below about 40 my daughter complains her feet are too cold in regular shoes so she’ll wear boots. And blankets. This is a great use for all those fleece baby blankets. My kids just throw their mittens out of the stroller anyway so tucking their hands inside the blanket works best for us. I recommend ONE PER CHILD. Sharing one is unlikely to work.

Finally, don’t forget yourself! Key item for running in cold with stroller: MITTENS. You can’t tuck your hands inside your sleeves anymore! Plus the standard advice: a moisture-wicking inside layer, a wind-blocking outer layer if it is particularly windy or cold and to cover the extremities (hat, gloves, etc.). My friend runs with socks on her hands rather than fancy gloves. Then when you blow your nose on your “mittens” – you know you do it too - you can just throw them in the wash and wear a different pair next time.

nothing new in cold rainy texas but

an addiction to THIS:




and THIS:



the first is a FANTIZTASTIC high protein cereal Ive found.
I love that it's sold in individual packages as I hath no selfcontrol and it was embarrassing to have an entire box in my diaper bag.


the second? Wilton's Giant Cupcake Pan. Love. If I could (alltogethernow) Id marry that sucker.

it's THAT great.

(and, alas, Im not making any money off these endorsements so you KNOW Im being honest.)

Corazonas and...candles??

I was SO excited to receive a package full of Corazonas chips (thank you, Andrea and Corazonas!), and quickly realized that my family could never eat them all even though they are SO yummy. So I took them to a friend's candle party and everyone was totally getting into "taste testing" them and commenting on each flavor. They were more popular than the candles!! The candle representative even offered to trade candles with me for my bag of Baja Bean Dip (of course I told her no - it's my favorite too)!! Here's the email I got the next morning from her:

"I immediately had to Google the chips to find out where I could get them. feel free to pass the info along to the ladies at the party............If you need to find me I will be at Safeway first thing tomorrow buying 10 bags of the Baja Bean Dip. =)

http://www.corazonas.com/locate.php "

Shelly

Wardrobe? Check!

Since I can't run, or even touch my toes (34 weeks pregnant as of today), the most I can do is plan my next race...which I hope will be this year's marine corps marathon. By the time my doctor okays me to run (post C-section) I will have just over 6 months to train. I've already started planning my wardrobe:

Psych T-shirt. I've decided to wear it for the following reasons:

1. It's light weight.
2. It has cap sleeves that shouldn't cause chafing while running.
3. The back of it says "I sense you're following me." If you've ever run a marathon, you know how wonderful this is!

Bunny Funny

And now: our daily funny.

Tapering

A little over a year ago, I bought a Polar Running Computer, or, as my husband calls it: "a watch that can't tell time". I picked it out, paid for it out of his account and told him to wish me a Happy Birthday. He wasn't convinced it was a good idea. Not just because my normally frugal tastes suddenly discovered opulence, but perhaps he was thinking of how my interest always tapers a few months after declaring "my new passion."

Me: But it can tell me how fast I'm running, how far I've gone, how much time I have left for my intervals, what my heart rate is and how many calories I burned. My god, I just burned 34 calories having this conversation!

Him: Hmmph.

But something amazing happened: I kept using it. Soon, I switched from 2:1's to 3:1's. Then I had to add 4:1's and 5:1's. I used it on Saturday morning long runs. I used it on a couple weekday runs. I started taking it into the pool, and measuring how long it took me to bike to the gym or to my son's school. And now the "Batteries are Low" symbol just came on. It's supposed to last 2 years with "average usage." Instead of being annoyed that it hasn't lasted that long, I'm proud I've worn it down quicker.

I'm 10 days out from the ING Miami Half Marathon, so I'm forced to thin out my workout schedule. Funny how the one "craze" I can devote myself to incorporates tapering.

HELP!!

I need advice. My son was born by C-section--he was a 9 lb 12 oz breech baby--and the doctor stitched me a little...tight. I've been working hard to lose my belly but while the rest of me is fitter than a fiddle, I just can't seem to lose this blob. Advice needed! Should I confront the doctor about the mis-stitch? Should I just live with it?

I smite thee Billy Blanks!

I had a bit of a rough night - one of my twin critters decided our room was the party room at 2am this morning and ended up in our bed - lovely. She is not the most pleasant person to sleep with and - for a 5 year old - she can take up the same amount of space in our bed as a large Great Dane. Ahhhh....so comfortable.

What does this have to do with the price of Juicy Fruit at the Piggly Wiggly (remember, I'm from the South y'all)?

Well, the alarm went off this morning and I just couldn't drag my butt out of bed early enough to make it to the gym. I did eventually get up, but knew I couldn't make it to the gym and back before my hubby had to head to work. Dang it! So I decided to dust off one of my old workout DVD's - specifically a Tae Bo DVD. Billy Blanks at his best.

I popped the DVD in the DVD player and that's when it happened. To put it bluntly - Billy kicked my ass! I haven't done that DVD in months, but have been working out regularly at a rather high intensity level for quite some time now. I thought I would - for sure - be able to handle his workout without any problems. I made it through, but I am already sore through my shoulders and butt.

Hmmmm...I may have to reconsider my workout routine and start including Billy and his evil roundhouse kicks into my weekly schedule. Maybe if I just pretend I am kicking Billy in the face....that would probably make me feel better.

Training Log

I've been an active member of SMR for nearly three years now and JUST discovered the personal training log on the site. I started using it this year and found it quite motivating. I'm not sure if I would have even bothered if I hadn't read a blog on the Manassas VA SMR team site......you see, I looked because I figured that I'd know a couple of gals on the team. I read one of their blogs that described how one of them has set her New Year's goal for 1000 mile ran in 2008 (Katy). I thought....CRAZY!!!! Then I felt completely incompetent to be on one of these teams. Then I started calculating in my head......I run more than I think I do. (Perhaps a little ADHD??!!) Granted, I am no where close to 1K, but 500 would seem like a reasonable goal for me. That would be only averaging 1 and a third miles a day for the year. Put that way it seems easy (hahaha!!) I even log "non running" training just to keep track. Anyways, if you haven't checked it out, give it a try or maybe even set your goal for 1001 miles (Just to motivate Katy!!).

oh the irony...

that it's cold here for here so no running hath occurred and Im now working.

on a column.

all about music as motivation.

and actually, not shockingly, now am motivated to RUN.

and have to work.

ASTAVITA take two

Oh, and the texture of my skin has improved, too. I forgot to say that earlier. It's kind of hard to stick with a train of thought when there's a 10 month frolicking amongst the computer's cables after successfully redistributing the contents a crate stuffed with papers that his parents should have put out of his reach a long time ago-- like when he first became mobile--and maybe that's just what they'll do tonight. Tonight, Honey. I promise.

Of course, my son's version of the event is: "It's kind of hard to frolic amongst the computer's cables and redistribute papers when my mom's watching me."

Believe who you want to, either way my skin texture has improved since I started taking the supplement.

ASTAVITA!!

I am so pleased that Astavita has agreed to sponsor seeMOMMYrun! I know it's only been a week since I started taking the antioxidant and that the results I am seeing are not typical, at least they're not according to the literature I have so far seen, but I have to tell you...WOW!
The first of the promised effects is my vision. As a writer, I spend quite a bit of time staring at this screen, which is really funny considering that I have problems focusing. Reading for information has historically been a real problem for me, the muscles of my eyes just don't want to do it. Since taking the Astavita supplement, however, I have definitely noticed an improvement in my vision.
Second, endurance. I have definitely felt the sensation of having the wind at my back. I just go. It's fantastic.
Thirdly, I am just more AWARE, less emotional. I am able to assess situations around me in a more rational, less reactive way.

I am sharing my supply of supplements with my husband, who has joint issues. I'll be interested to see how that turns out.

Thanks Astavita and thanks seeMOMMYrun for making such a positive impact on the quality of my life!

Treadmill Reviews Needed!

My husband and I are thinking about making the big fat investment into a treadmill. Oh. My. Gosh. Do you have any idea just how many treadmills are out there!? And the price ranges! I'm completely confused and desperate for some help. Anyone have a treadmill they just love? Or hate even? Costco has two right now, the Ironman Envision for $999 and the Smooth Fitness 7.1 for $1,499. $1499?? Is this supposed to be a bargain? Help! Please! (Sorry! I'll! Stop! Yelling! Now!)

Corazonas Rock!!!

I know you have heard from a couple of us about the Corazonas chips but I just had to throw my opinion out there too!
I am in love. In love, in love, in love. So much so that today, as soon as I dropped my son off at preschool, I went on a road trip in search of the one Safeway in Reston, VA that, according to Corazonas website, sells these little pieces of heaven. I finally found it, after hitting multiple strip malls (yes, I should have done the map quest thing but I haven't been thinking clearly since I ran out of Baja Bean Dip chips!!!) and nearly lay down in the chip isle crying when I found that they didn't have that flavor! I did pick up multiple (I refuse to admit how many) bags of the Picante Salsa flavor though! They sell them on Amazon so as soon as I see the Baja Bean Dip there, I will personally purchase them all so don't even get in my way! Wow. I need to settle down.
Anyhow, today I was on Washington Running Report checking out the race calendar and saw this super nice shout out to SeeMommyRun and the incredible Andrea Vincent!!! How cool is that!? I got all warm and fuzzy knowing that I play a tiny little part in such an incredible organization - way to go Andrea!

I've got a little light...

And I'm going to let it shine! I love my son's age. It's that magical time when he starts bouncing to music, clapping and cheering because the mood has suddenly overtaken him, when he smiles so wide that Joy can be seen coming out of his eyes...it's my favorite time. We listen to XM Kids during the day and I don't know who loves the songs more, him or me. But I've got a little light, and I'm going to let it shine. I have a new favorite recording artist, too: Bari Koral Family Rock Band!


Talk about some music for the iPod!

info@chipperjerky.com

OOPS.

got more than a few personal emails congratulating me on my FINALLY getting the CHIPPER to sponsor me (I eat 3 or 4 cannisters a day. it is a FANTASTIC SOURCE OF PORTABLE PROTEIN!!)

alas


no


please feel free to join in my email writing campaign (*wink*).


I figure I get that company *so* much (referral) business they should at least sell me my addiction WHOLESALE, right?


Please to note, CHIPPER PEOPLE as I know youre out there somewhere, that the attached bicep would be so much plumper if you'd allow me to consume without regards to (obsessing about)price!


Love,

Carla

See Mommy Think and Run

Wow- blessings of 50-60 degree weather mean running outside. This week I ran at lunch with one child at gymnastics being cared for by Dad, one child finishing up homeschooling, one sweet baby napping, and one in school. I ran for all I was worth. My stride felt great, the air great, no heavy winter wear. I ran by the Warrior Transition building. It changed me. This is where the wounded from Iraq and Afghanistan come to be made whole again before transitioning to the civlian world or to stay in the Army. They walk by me all the time. I see them coming and going and this day it hit me that I'm blessed my husband is not deployed and we are both physically well. I just want to Praise God for the ability to know this today.

things I wonder:

How channelmarker's birthday was and what her moniker means.

if Ill have enough cake at my toddlers birthday party on saturday and whether I shall regret that cupcake-cake decision as you can cut sheet cake pieces tiny if need be.

if Ill ever succeed in convincing the folks at CHIPPER JERKY to sponsor me when, in answer to their query, Im pressed to admit that I dont really "do" anything requiring sponsorship except my LIFE.


How Crumbs is such a FUNNY writer and if she's equally hilarious in person.

what else is on steph's wish list.

if I can "catch" S. Kimzey Daniels' positive attitude.


if shelley has gotten back her ME TIME yet.


how on earth andrea does it all?!


why clothes makers think if I need petite inseams on my pants I must ALSO long for pleats in front.


what's for dinner.

A New Kind of Burn

In my effort to get in more cross training, I headed to the gym today, my off-running day, for the cardio machines. I have an elliptical at my house and did that on Tuesday but wanted to try something new. First, I worked the rowing machine for 25 minutes. I really like to row. It's totally different, uses a ton of upper body strength and you can really feel it in your abs as well. After that, I jumped onto the stationary bike. I've always avoided the bike because (a) it looks so boring and, (b) the majority of times that I have seen anyone on the bike, they are leisurely reading a magazine or book while slowly working the peddles and I've always thought "that is so NOT a workout!" I was totally unprepared for what I felt when I went for my first spin today. I'm up to 11 miles in my running and although I'm making an effort to get my cross training in to gain more leg strength, I didn't think I would feel like a weakling on a bike! After 2 minutes, I wanted off. Off now! I was feeling muscles in my legs I didn't even know I had! What in the world is going on here?! How is it that I have never once tried a bike?? So tell me, does biking really use totally different muscles than running or was I doing it wrong? I'd like to assume I wasn't doing it wrong because I didn't fall off, but then, that's probably not the right indicator!

EDITED to add: I hope I didn't offend anyone with my stationary bike talk...I didn't mean it like it's not a super intense workout, just the opposite - I am currently limping around my house!! I'm not worthy!!! I'm not worthy!!

Freebie Alert! Get your Copy of the "What to Expect Guide to a Healthy Home"

Wow this is Freebie Alert I had to share with everyone!

Get your Copy of the "What to Expect Guide to a Healthy Home" written by Heidi Murkoff, the author of the "What to Expect" book just about every pregnant mom in the US has referenced a zillion times in their pregnancies! Heidi donated her time to create this fabulous guide to a healthy home as part of a partnership with the Clorox Company. Clorox donated $1 Million to the What to Expect Foundation to support the Baby Basics Program wich helps families in need expect healthier pregnancies, safer deliveries, and happier babies.

You can download the book and/or order your FREE copy here! This website also has tons of useful tips and seems to be a super resource. Classy Mommy was able to review a copy of this guide and I found it very useful as a reference guide for things I need to frequently remind myself - ie how can we keep foods safe, where are we most likely to pick up germs, what are some good flu fighting tips, and now that I have a newborn baby again - what are the rules on freezing, defrosting, and storing breastmilk!

BIrthday reflection

I am sitting here in relative quiet, which is rare in my household, thinking about how this is the last day of being ?? years old. Tomorrow is my birthday, and although I won't be hitting the next decade, it is now so close that I can feel it's breath on the back of my neck. Twenty, ten or even 5 years ago I would not have pictured my life the way it truly turned out. That's not a bad thing and actually it is better than I could have imagined.
In my teens I just wanted to be in my 20s, in my early 30s I felt like I was in my 20s and now, I just feel pretty content. I always had looked forward to 40s. I had my first two boys when I was too young, but that also meant they'd be grown or close to it when I was 40. I used to be a career ladder climber, knowing I would oh so be the big kahoona by 40. Top of my game, money, time.........but as chance had it, I met the love of my life and re-thought and re-planned. Trust me, I don't take to change all so well and didn't transistion so well in the beginning. Now, here I am; career on hold, stay-at-home mom with two more boys who I have had to unique opportunity to learn from all my previous parenting mistakes in addition to staying at home with them. When I was the "career gal" and my first two were babies, I really thought stay-at-home moms didn't have a real life.....had it soooo easy. Boy, have I learned my lesson by walking (even running now) in those shoes.
What is that old saying? Life is what happens when you are busy planning it. No, I am certainly not where I thought I'd be but, boy have I been pleased with how it all turned out anyways. I am looking forward to all the suprises life throws at me during my last year of this decade. I've even registered for a 1/2 marathon this year when the farthest I've ever run is 7 miles....wish me luck (they do let you walk some don't they?? ;) ).

On the Run

Long Distance Running isn't for everyone.

Your doctor won't tell you, but some people should not run for more than an hour: the guilty (the truly guilty). Or the ashamed. Or the secretive. For there is a seldom discussed aspect of Long Distance Running you should be aware of before venturing out with a group of others; a phenomenon that occurs approximately 1 1/2 hours into a run (although it has been known to occur as soon as 1 hour): your body releases Truth Serum.

It is subtle at first. You'll begin with a story about how you told your children that all of the Snicker's bars in their Halloween stash were tainted & unsafe so that you could eat them all, but then you'll find deeper secrets bubbling to the surface. You'll then tell your running partners how you once stood buck naked outside your crappy college house with another female roommate to see if any of the cars driving by would notice - and how they didn't. Then you'll get mushier...or darker...or weepier...or more conceited. No one reacts the same to the endorphins, but EVERYONE opens up. So if you've got a deep, dark secret (like how you're running from the law), I'd stick to 10K's if I were you.

Unless you need to take a load off your shoulders.

ABC, easy as 123......

While running today, I got alot of looks and giggles.......................
For Christmas Santa brought me a "stroll a tune" from www.joggermom.com, conveniently located on www.seemommyrun.com!! If you aren't aware, it is a small speaker system that connects to your IPOD and onto the handlebar of the stroller. The first time I used it was listening to my music which was pretty nice. Today, I took out my double, with my double trouble two boys (18 & 36 months), who usually love to fight the entire time. Instead of "my" music, I down-loaded a "babies run" play list from educational toddler songs, oh yeah, and a little classic Michael Jackson ( they really like his music??). Anyways, it made the run so much more fun for them and so much more enjoyable for me since they behaved the whole time. The B-I-N-G-O and A-B-Cs, didn't do much for motivating me (Except when Michael sang ABC....Easy as 123....) but I didn't have fighting boys encouraging me to head home either. The people I passed along the way got a good snicker out of hearing us jam to those tunes too!!

Im in love.

I oft tell my husband that, if I could, Id marry various items in my life.

For example I purchased a fan for the room where I do the stationary bike and it FREAKIN CHANGED MY LIFE. Ceiling fan? WHATEVER. FanRightUpCloseToMySweatyBod? Adore.

I informed my hubby that if I could Id marry it. He could still be hubby number one (my ARCHOS 404 is husband number two. GOOGLE IT. It's amazatastic. number 3? a secret (*wink*))

Husband number four? These things:




Blahblahblah heart-healthy, yes.

But they are TASTY as well and Im not normally a chip fan (Im sugar. Lots of sugar).

Check out the flavors here: http://www.corazonas.com/products/mmm-mmm_chips.html

my personal favorite? margarita lime.

my toddler's? baja bean dip (weird. I know.)

my husband was just OVER THE MOON that free chips appeared on our doorstep.

THANKS ANDREA & CORAZONAS!

disclaimer: Im blogging about stuff other than runningexercising...

but Im still doing it.

really.

I just know you MIGHT not wanna hear all about how warm it is here in Austin TX and how fantastic it is to don SHORTS in January.

(see? I told you...although as I type that I do ponder the notion that not everyone loves the heat as I.)

so I give you a site which is new but makes me LAUGH:

http://www.stuperb.com/


read.

laugh.

submit.

:)

R.S.V.P.

Shelley gave me a great idea about how to amend my Wish List. You see, in addition to the beautiful home on 10+ acres in the countryside, I now wish to add that the house should be equipped with a gourmet kitchen and spacious living area so that when you all come over for dinner or the weekend (because you'll want to ride the horses, of course, and your husbands will want to play golf on my husband's private course), we will all be comfortable and able to enjoy ourselves.
So, this is my R.S.V.P. to my own invitation to the life I have been working so hard to live.

(Naturally, I also plan to provide all of the children with activities, as well.)

See you then!
Steph

Should I Stay Or Should I Go Now?

Cold Weather – Part 1

It is cold out, but is it TOO cold out? It is personal decision with lots of conflicting opinions out there but here are the factors I consider:

How to decide what is too cold:

1. What is the temperature outside? I use 30-32° F as an approximate minimum temperature for jogging with the kids in the stroller. Older kids can handle colder temperatures and will be able to verbalize that they are too cold if that becomes a problem. When my son, a November baby, was a newborn, my minimum temperature was closer to 40° F.
2. Is it windy? In winter sailing (aka frostbiting), there is an unofficial guideline called the “20-20 rule”. If it is colder than 20° F and windier than 20 knots, they cancel. Some wind is inevitable, but you may want to find a more sheltered route. For example, try a route through a neighborhood or among lots of trees rather than a path along a river or over bridges. You probably want a headwind first to get it done while you still have more energy.
3. Is there precipitation or an imminent threat of precipitation? Snow is actually very fun to run in. (Sing “Jingle Bells,” “Let It Snow,” and “Winter Wonderland” as you run.) Sleet or excessively slippery conditions should be avoided. Strollers come with a runaway strap: USE IT!
4. Do you have weather-appropriate equipment? A rain shield is invaluable! There is one to fit nearly every model of jogger at www.joggingstrollers.com and surely elsewhere. It is a great windshield and keeps the temperature inside the stroller very pleasant – we’re talking greenhouse here.
5. How badly do you need to get out? That “cabin fever” will keep everyone a little warmer.
6. Keep a log. Record what the weather conditions are each time you go out and how comfortable everyone was so that you can check back later to determine your own guidelines. A good one on-line is at http://athleticlog.org/.

Up next: How to prep the kids.

Because nothing says IT'S GONNA BE A GREAT WEEK

like an awkward self-portrait in running shorts.

(2 things. 1. it's entirely hidden when aforementioned shorts arent hiked up. just fyi :) and B. yes there is meaning behind it I didnt just leap on the Day of the Dead popularity train)






anyone else wanna share?

Finally some yummy healthy tortilla chips!

I also received the yummy Tortilla chips. I cannot tell you how long I've waited for something this good as an alterative to the saturated/trans fat crowd of snacks. My famiiy also loved them and I do not have a favorite, but am absolutely going to buy these.

My husband was there when they arrived and after all the Christmas packages (I hate to shop and do a lot online)- he was thrilled to partake and gave them high reviews. My kids will eat anything in a zip lock bag :)

Thanks so much.

No Doubt

Fifteen weeks ago, I held up my hand in a meeting hall filled with hundreds of people as Coach called out "Where's the 11:30 pace group?" Around 25 people made their way towards me and my partner while the rest filtered towards faster or slower pace groups. On that first morning of Half Marathon Training, I stood before a throng of strangers who all had hopes of completing 13.1 miles a few months down the line. To some in the running world, completing a Half Marathon doesn't seem so extraordinary. But there are some of us who remember a sleepless night before our first FIVE mile run. This was going to be a first for the majority of this new group, but all were optimistic (even if they looked nervous). Among our new pack, there were mothers of all ages and sizes, some college guys, a few fathers, folks decked out in the latest gear and others in cotton Ts. I could sense them looking at each other, wondering if this was a good decision or not....and I feared they might be disappointed to realize I've only been running for a few years.

Some shifted to other pace groups early on, some others vanished from the program completely, and one runner was injured skiing, but each Saturday, as our miles have slowly increased, our core group has come together as a team. Not only have we exchanged running advice, we've learned hysterical things about each other's kids; we've confessed our fears to each other; we've admitted to embarrassing events. I think I've even made a few lifelong friends.

Yesterday morning, in weather 30 degrees colder than usual, I stood before nearly every member of our group. Three weeks before our Race Day, we headed out into the dark and cold rain (impressive for a group accustomed to running only in 85 degree weather). A couple hours later, our team finished our longest scheduled run: 14 miles. It was a moment that will make the cut when my life (edited for time) flashes before my eyes. Soaking wet hugs, cheers stoked by a 2nd wind, and so much pride in the air, you could smell it (or was that sweat?). There was no crowd, no band, no table of bagels & bananas, no medals. It was just a group of friends inspiring each other to go farther than they had before. There was no doubt that they had made the right decision to join. No doubt they can complete the 13.1 miles on Race Day. And I think they'll have even less doubts about other things in their lives, too.

CHIPS, CHIPS and More CHIPS

THANK YOU ANDREA!!!
I love the chips that were sent to us.....my favorite are the Black Bean. My huband likes the margaritta lime.
I was pleasantly surprised on Wednesday morning when there was a knock at more door and FEDEX had dropped off a big box...inside were the CORAZONA'S Heart Healthy tortilla chips....several bags and a lovely display basket!
My family has enjoyed eating them, and My four year old daughter LOVES them too. Like I mentioned above my favorite are the Black Bean.

I work in the wellness field and we spend alot of time talking with our patients about the importance of FIBER and their understanding of the INGREDIENTS and NUTRITIONAL VALUE of food items. I think that Ramona Cappello and her Corazona's chips have helped to bridge a gap between the consumer and healthy choices. What other chip has this much FIBER, and as we know......we all NEED more fiber in our daily nutrition.

KUDOS to Andrea for making this connection.


Thansk so much!

Hi. My name is Shelley and I'm a Slacker

I can't believe I haven't posted for so long. I should be ashamed of myself, but the holidays have taken their toll on me. So there. No more excuses. Suck it up Shelley!

I can tell you that I thank God (literally) for my (almost) daily workouts during the holiday break for my girls' preschool. I have needed that "me" time more than ever over the last few weeks. The girls and I are just plain sick of each other. You know it is bad when one of your daughters says...

"Mommy, I'm tired of you."

Thanks honey. Now go to your room while mommy looks for the Excedrin.

Run-Burrr-Run-Burr-Run-Burr

At what point do you decide it's too cold to run outside? I know I harp about this all the time but this is my first winter with my new running hobby/training routine and I'm having a heck of a time with the weather. I can do cold (well, pretty cold) and I can handle rain but I can't handle wind. No thank you. Can't deal with running into the wind.

Today was pretty cold at bus stop time so I resigned myself to the fact that I was going to have to do my weekly long run on the treadmill...insert major groan and "Idontwanna!" whine here. On my way to the gym, I realized it wasn't as windy as it's been and that maybe I should make a go of it. I did and boy am I glad. Was it cold? Yes, it was. But I ran a heck of a lot further than I would have if I had been indoors. I got my longest run in yet - 11 miles! At this point, I'm thinking that as long as there is no snow and the wind is minor to non-existent, I can handle the winter. Maybe I'm being a bit to bold seeing as it's only January 4th, but we'll see.

On that note, I'm interested in hearing what kind of cross training you all do. Is there something that you love to do on those non-running days or just to dang cold to run outside days that you feel makes you stronger? I've got to get some leg strength because it is one of the major things that is holding me back a bit.
Happy Friday everyone!!

Edgewise, As in Word in

I wake up in the morning and the first question I ask myself is if I'm happy. I look around and then I smile. Because yes, yes I am. Subtract the last three years from the rest of my life and you can get a pretty fair idea of how miserable I've been.
But, Andrea, this will be a rockin year. And, Trice, that puppy will be the greatest trainer you've ever had. My dog gets an amazing pace from me, though she tuckers out at the end and I end up teasing her for it. She just kind of grins at me and keeps truckin' right along. I'm totally with...oh, it's been over a minute and my memory is thin...Crumbs (?) about the baby jogger, just check those tires! I don't know how many runs have been ruined by low pressure. I am happy to report that my husband so enjoys having a buff wife that working out is totally not an issue and I am so, so, so blessed for that. And eating? As long as I cooked it, I'm all over it. Ain't no one in this world can cook like I do. No one.

I love you, Ladies! Happy New Year!

How do you tie YOUR shoes?

I've started looking at shoe laces and giggling ever so slightly, for my laces are nearly always knotted on the inside of my shoe. Guess it's time to fit in some flexibility training.

Zooma Race-- Annapolis

I have been meaning to post this F-O-R-E-V-E-R!!! My husband and I had THE most fabulous weekend right after Thanksgiving in Annapolis to celebrate our anniversary. Why do I share this? Because that is the exact location of the Zooma Race kick off in June. First off, our plan was to take the haunted pub crawl through the historic district. We made hotel reservations, had the in-laws come into town to watch the rugrats, hopped in the car and headed out for our destination. Unfortunately, I didn't bother to check the schedule for the haunted pub crawl and well, it was cancelled for the Turkey day weekend. Not being quitters, hubby and I headed out on our own pub crawl. But, let me digress......we checked into the Westin which I believe is the hotel being used for the Zooma Race and it is FABULOUS!! I don't say that lightly. When we first arrived I thought they might be a bit arrogant about their "beds", there were pamplets and advertisements on how you could own your own Westin bed and/ or linens. "Really", I thought, how great could a hotel bed be? We got to our room to find it was beautiful; the decor, the lighting and Yes, the bed was inviting with the pristine white linen, down comforter, fluffy pillows to include neck pillows, but still, how great could it really be?? I didn't give it a try yet. We settled our stuff and noticed the coffee maker in the room, which in my experience with other rooms is less than desirable, it actually had Starbucks coffee and Tazo tea. Hmmmmm, we did bring our own supply of mini bottles to include baileys and Starbucks liquor, so why not give the room coffe a try. Certainly the alcohol could make most coffee exceptable. Well, let me tell you, it was AWESOME!! So, with a drink (or two) under our belts we set out on foot to explore historic Annapolis. We found great little boutiques, fun little pubs, friendly people but very few ghost stories. A previous visit a few years ago, took us to other establishments with more sppoky tales though!!
Summary of some of the places we visited:
**Our favorite pub/ restaurant by far was Stan & Joes. It had more seating, great staff, fun patrons and great food/drinks.
*Our least favorite was Fox Lair. It was small, and well, rather snooty.
*Everyone recommends Pussser's for seafood and we did end up there at the end of the night but was too tired/ full to eat anymore so just shared an appetizer.
*Another great place to visit is the Naval academy. Being Navy, I love this place. It is right on the water, has a visitor's center complete with movie; a beautiful chapel, an interesting cemetary.....I could go on....
*If you like breakfast, try Chick and Ruth's, this is a little nook that is full of personality. It is a second generation family owned establishment that is very patriotic. They even do the pledge every morning. They have a website to view also.

*Our last visit we sent on a 2 hour sailing trip which was alot of fun too and family friendly.

Many of the establishments have been there since George Washington and the other founding father's frequented them. It is a great place for family and /or adult fun. Basically what I am saying that besides running the Zooma, this could be a great weekend get- a-way for the family or just the girls or anything in between!! Lastly, in closing, the beds at the Westin are every bit they were cracked up to be. I couldn't believe it!! I didn't want to get up. I didn't bother to look at how much it would cost to have "my own", because I am sure they weren't cheap!!!

Sorry this blog is so disjointed! It took me three days. With four boys, it seems that lately I can't get 5 minutes to myself without one of them"needing" me!!
Happy New Year gals!

waiting. waiting.

Alas, my plan had been to wait until I had something really GREAT to post here (not sure what that would look like---but I was waiting none the less :)).

And I waited.


and waited.


And just now realized that this is pretty much it. Im a faithful reader and return here daily to snatch up some motivation and encouragement from my fellow bloggers so Ill toss at you what I have & return to WRITE when I have more.

we moved over Christmas (Im never NOT thankful to be Jewish but I was EXTRA thankful that we had the days off/no at-the-house festivities for which to prepare. it made for a FAST MOVE) and I guess my small victory was that I keep up with my workouts even given the craziness of life.

I know it is TRITE but it's also so true that we women tend to GIVEGIVE and neglect ourselves.

I always fret about my husband and try to sneak him as much sans-toddler time as I can so he can relax.

all that to say I gave myself the gift of SELFISHNESS this holiday season.

instead of saying "is it ok if I work out for 30 min?" I asked "I wanna work out for 30 minutes---YOU pick the best time!"

and it was amazing.

and energizing.


and stress reducing.


(oh, and I also gave myself the gift of an AWESOME new tattoo (2 years in the planning) which I may or may not share with ya'll later :))

hope your holiday was as relaxing and here's to a FANTASTIC 2008.

It's begining to look like 2008 is here

Greetings from the first snowfall in Kentucky! I am glad to stay all is well here and writing today will get me to the gym and on the treadmill. I've only had a few sporadic runs the past few weeks. I did however get for Christmas a new running partner. No, I've not turned the husband in, but we adopted "Chrissy" the Christmas puppy. She's a German Shepard and quite the busy one. I am out of my mind since my little one has only been sleeping through the night for a month. Now I'm outside pottying the dog every two hours. This is nuts. I think my kids need a dog, but I'm getting ready to move to DC next summer and already have my hands full. I did have a thought today that helps. Wear out the kids and wear out the puppy goes hand in hand with running. I make it a point to get us all out every day and just move. Now we all get to take turns walking her. Happy New Year.

Faster, Mommy! Faster!

Paula Radcliffe’s success at the NYC Marathon this past November, has brought a lot of attention to something that I have known for a while: kids can make you faster! It is not automatic, but having children and training with them has made me faster, stronger and more resilient. This can apply to anyone. I’m no Paula Radcliffe, but the great thing about running is that you are generally competing against yourself anyway. On most runs, you are probably either trying to beat your own time or beat that internal clock of your child(ren) that EXPLODES after 44 ½ minutes in the jogging stroller.

I have several hypotheses as to why there is so much anecdotal evidence for women getting faster after having children. In no particular order,

1. There is a physiological explanation such as the increased blood volume or lung capacity of pregnancy has some lasting effect.

2. There is a mental explanation. You are just so glad to “have your body back,” as they say, after your forced hiatus, that you expend a greater effort and therefore, see greater results. Such is the example of an injured athlete coming back stronger after an injury.

3. It is a matter of maturity as a runner and you would have gotten faster as you logged more miles and experience with or without the kids.

4. A little something called RESISTANCE TRAINING in the form of 70 pounds of children in a 30 pound jogging stroller.

I am certain that I improved my running at a much faster rate by training with my kids in the jogging stroller than I would have on my own. You get more anaerobic strength training going uphill, faster turnover going downhill, and you can bring all the water you want along with you. The hardest part for many people is how to get your kids to cooperate with these jaunts. That is what this blog is going to be about. My PR stroller run is 21 miles and my daughter still hops right into the stroller today, so I hope to share some tips and stories to help you get out the door WITH your kids in 2008. Happy New Year!