seeMOMMYrun.com is a free service that help moms find other walking or running moms in their areas. The site helps the 'everyday athlete' in all of us stay motivated, set goals, and reach them.
Friday, May 20, 2011
Recycle Those Bras!
You know that drawer stuffed full of old bras that you just know you might need again someday? Time to purge! Bosom Buddy Recycling will take your old bras and give them to deserving women around the country including women’s shelters, transitional housing, and breast cancer-survivor support groups.
Monday, May 16, 2011
My Thighs Rub
I said it. They do.
After a weekend of totally overeating I needed to run this morning. When I say overeating I do not mean the run of the mill oh-I-let-loose and ate a little too much. I mean I ate a disgusting amount of food this weekend. Part of it was from being tired and wanting energy, some of it happened when I was feeling bored, a majority of it happened when I drank too many glasses of wine, and even more happened the next day when I was trying to make my stomach feel better.
As I got dressed this morning I searched for my capris. UGH - all of them are dirty? You have got to be kidding me? I grabbed a pair spandex shorts that I felt like I had no business wearing. I grabbed my bodyglide and stuffed it into my bag knowing there was no way I would make it through a run, in shorts, without my thunder thighs chaffing.
The run began like any other. The first mile felt painful. It made me doubt my abilities as a runner. Wine always seems to do that too me. Fun for the first glass or two and the devil the next couple of days. Yes, my body feels like crap the next day after drinking, but what feels the worst is my mind. My mind that mostly is my friend, that helps push me, suddenly works against me. It tells me I am overweight, it tells me I am not pretty, it tells me I am a horrible friend, it tells me I was in shape but no longer am, it tells me that I have no business calling myself a runner.....it makes me miserable.
Surprisingly the first mile was a sub 9 - 8:55. Dorothy you are okay - it was one night of drinking too much, one weekend of overeating, get back on the bandwagon - it is okay.
Mile 2 was even faster at a 8:44 pace.....my mind was going crazy. Literally anything that has been bothering me even slightly came rushing to the forefront of my thoughts. I tried to focus on my breathing but the only thing my mind would focus on, other than the negative thoughts, was my thighs rubbing.
I wanted to hate them. I started to think about all the things about my body I dislike. The melasma all over my face. The keratosis that covers my arms and now has begun to cover my legs. Both have worsened from pregnancy. I felt mad thinking about the dermatologist telling me that she could try and help both of those issues but that it would have to wait till after I was done nursing.
Mile 3: 8:24
As I made the turn around something happened. I decided to take back my mind. I decided to forgive myself for overeating and 'over' drinking. I switched my thinking.
I have flaws. I have insecurities.
I do not like talking about them.
I push them to the back of my mind and only write about the good things. I try not to blog on days I am down - choosing to attempt to erase those days from my memory.
As I pushed both of my boys in the stroller I thought about the things about my body I do not like, my perceived flaws.
Here is one of them:
I have cellulite on the back of my legs. There I said it. If you run behind me and I am wearing shorts, you are going to see it. You know what though? I no longer care. I am not perfect, emotionally and physically.
This body with all its flaws, moves faster than I ever dreamed possible. These hips have given me three beautiful children.
These legs get me to the finish lines of marathons and also help me play a mean game of Tag-Your-It. I love them - cellulite and all. I love them even though they rub.
I choose from this day forward to stop hating my body for anything I do not like. I choose to love it for what it is and what it has given me.
Mile 4: 7:57
Mile 5: 7:35
Mile 6: 7:33
I am a work in progress - emotionally, spiritually, mentally, and physically.
Until next time..... http://www.mile-posts.com/
After a weekend of totally overeating I needed to run this morning. When I say overeating I do not mean the run of the mill oh-I-let-loose and ate a little too much. I mean I ate a disgusting amount of food this weekend. Part of it was from being tired and wanting energy, some of it happened when I was feeling bored, a majority of it happened when I drank too many glasses of wine, and even more happened the next day when I was trying to make my stomach feel better.
As I got dressed this morning I searched for my capris. UGH - all of them are dirty? You have got to be kidding me? I grabbed a pair spandex shorts that I felt like I had no business wearing. I grabbed my bodyglide and stuffed it into my bag knowing there was no way I would make it through a run, in shorts, without my thunder thighs chaffing.
The run began like any other. The first mile felt painful. It made me doubt my abilities as a runner. Wine always seems to do that too me. Fun for the first glass or two and the devil the next couple of days. Yes, my body feels like crap the next day after drinking, but what feels the worst is my mind. My mind that mostly is my friend, that helps push me, suddenly works against me. It tells me I am overweight, it tells me I am not pretty, it tells me I am a horrible friend, it tells me I was in shape but no longer am, it tells me that I have no business calling myself a runner.....it makes me miserable.
Surprisingly the first mile was a sub 9 - 8:55. Dorothy you are okay - it was one night of drinking too much, one weekend of overeating, get back on the bandwagon - it is okay.
Mile 2 was even faster at a 8:44 pace.....my mind was going crazy. Literally anything that has been bothering me even slightly came rushing to the forefront of my thoughts. I tried to focus on my breathing but the only thing my mind would focus on, other than the negative thoughts, was my thighs rubbing.
I wanted to hate them. I started to think about all the things about my body I dislike. The melasma all over my face. The keratosis that covers my arms and now has begun to cover my legs. Both have worsened from pregnancy. I felt mad thinking about the dermatologist telling me that she could try and help both of those issues but that it would have to wait till after I was done nursing.
Mile 3: 8:24
As I made the turn around something happened. I decided to take back my mind. I decided to forgive myself for overeating and 'over' drinking. I switched my thinking.
I have flaws. I have insecurities.
I do not like talking about them.
I push them to the back of my mind and only write about the good things. I try not to blog on days I am down - choosing to attempt to erase those days from my memory.
As I pushed both of my boys in the stroller I thought about the things about my body I do not like, my perceived flaws.
Here is one of them:
I have cellulite on the back of my legs. There I said it. If you run behind me and I am wearing shorts, you are going to see it. You know what though? I no longer care. I am not perfect, emotionally and physically.
This body with all its flaws, moves faster than I ever dreamed possible. These hips have given me three beautiful children.
These legs get me to the finish lines of marathons and also help me play a mean game of Tag-Your-It. I love them - cellulite and all. I love them even though they rub.
I choose from this day forward to stop hating my body for anything I do not like. I choose to love it for what it is and what it has given me.
Mile 4: 7:57
Mile 5: 7:35
Mile 6: 7:33
I am a work in progress - emotionally, spiritually, mentally, and physically.
Until next time..... http://www.mile-posts.com/
Saturday, May 14, 2011
Razzy Roo No Slip Headband Giveaway
Head over to Mile Posts to enter to win one of two FREE Razzy Roo Headbands!
Hope all of you who raced today had a blast!! Good luck to all the mommies racing tomorrow!!
Hope all of you who raced today had a blast!! Good luck to all the mommies racing tomorrow!!
Friday, May 13, 2011
Should You Incline The Treadmill?
I often hear people say they incline their treadmill at least 1% if not more when running indoors. Does this sound like you? They quote that the reason they do this is because if the treadmill is not inclined then it is not like running outside. In my opinion this is one of those 'running myths' that continues to get perpetuated for no good reason.
Running on a treadmill is NOT like running outside in any way shape or form, so it is my firm belief that in order to avoid injuries you should not treat it as thus or try to make it like running outside. This is why you will see me distinguish between tempo runs outside and treadmill tempos, a timed mile on a track and a treadmill mile, and so on and so forth.
I don't hate on the treadmill. Why? Because with out my treadmill this mom of three would have never have been able to train for and run numerous races, including marathons. My treadmill, though not as fun as running outside, is one of the most important tools in my training routine. On most days it is either the treadmill or no run at all. This makes it very important for me to make sure I avoid any injuries typically associated with treadmill overuse.
In my opinion you should not incline the treadmill and keep it at a level zero percent grade. If you want to make the workout harder then I would attempt a faster pace than you typically run outside. Running with your treadmill on an incline, even a small one, is associated with overuse injuries. Typically I hear people complain about pain in their Achilles, this is from overstretching on every stride.
Well if I do not incline my treadmill then I will not be able to run fast outside, correct? No, not true. It will feel different to run outside, but this does not mean you will automatically be slower. Since getting my treadmill I have recorded my 4 fastest marathons to date. Running distances up to 20 miles on it during each training cycle. Do I think it is as effective as running outside, no, but it can get you into great shape if you treat each run on it as a treadmill run and do not attempt to make it like a run you would do outdoors.
What are your thoughts? Do you incline the treadmill?
If you like my posts, check out my blog at http://www.mile-posts.com/
Running on a treadmill is NOT like running outside in any way shape or form, so it is my firm belief that in order to avoid injuries you should not treat it as thus or try to make it like running outside. This is why you will see me distinguish between tempo runs outside and treadmill tempos, a timed mile on a track and a treadmill mile, and so on and so forth.
I don't hate on the treadmill. Why? Because with out my treadmill this mom of three would have never have been able to train for and run numerous races, including marathons. My treadmill, though not as fun as running outside, is one of the most important tools in my training routine. On most days it is either the treadmill or no run at all. This makes it very important for me to make sure I avoid any injuries typically associated with treadmill overuse.
In my opinion you should not incline the treadmill and keep it at a level zero percent grade. If you want to make the workout harder then I would attempt a faster pace than you typically run outside. Running with your treadmill on an incline, even a small one, is associated with overuse injuries. Typically I hear people complain about pain in their Achilles, this is from overstretching on every stride.
Well if I do not incline my treadmill then I will not be able to run fast outside, correct? No, not true. It will feel different to run outside, but this does not mean you will automatically be slower. Since getting my treadmill I have recorded my 4 fastest marathons to date. Running distances up to 20 miles on it during each training cycle. Do I think it is as effective as running outside, no, but it can get you into great shape if you treat each run on it as a treadmill run and do not attempt to make it like a run you would do outdoors.
What are your thoughts? Do you incline the treadmill?
If you like my posts, check out my blog at http://www.mile-posts.com/
Wednesday, May 11, 2011
Using Your Blog As A Training Tool
Before I had a blog I will admit, I did not really understand them. They seemed time consuming and for what?
Blogging has changed my life. It sounds like a dramatic statement, but it's true. It can change your life too and possibly help you become a faster, more consistent or happier runner.
How?
Blogging and using sites like dailymile or even Foursquare can help keep you accountable to your training. It is harder to skip a run when you know that what you did or did not do for the day will be posted for all your friends or training partners to see.
If you do not have friends who run or you are not part of a running group or club, the Internet allows you to make friends virtually. Running can at times, be a very lonely sport. While the Internet can not always help you find a friend to run with, it can help you find a virtual community of runners where you can share your passion for running.
In order to have a successful relationship with running, you must do it for yourself.
What do I mean? You are ultimately the only person who can get you out the door. The only person who can push yourself farther or faster on a run. You are the person who will have the internal head battle that all of us runners have. Should I run today? Will I feel better if I run? I'm tired, maybe sleep is more important today? I ran 2 days this week - I really deserve a rest day - right? You can not and should not run to impress others, to make someone else happy, it has to come from with in - in order for it to become a life long endeavour.
Allow the Internet to help you on your quest to become a runner, but do not let it take over your training life. Do not log miles just to log miles for your weekly total, those are junk miles and get you no where fast. Do not run faster than you should just because you know someone will see it on your facebook page. Ultimately if you are the type of runner who trains for and run races, your blog, daily mile, etc. will hurt you if it pushes you at the wrong times. Remember the training runs are not the race. Do not peak when it does not matter.
Run your own pace so you are ready for your own race.
Has blogging, dailymile, foursquare or twitter helped you become more accountable to running and working out?
Like my blog? Visit http://www.mile-posts.com/ to become an official follower!
Blogging has changed my life. It sounds like a dramatic statement, but it's true. It can change your life too and possibly help you become a faster, more consistent or happier runner.
How?
Blogging and using sites like dailymile or even Foursquare can help keep you accountable to your training. It is harder to skip a run when you know that what you did or did not do for the day will be posted for all your friends or training partners to see.
If you do not have friends who run or you are not part of a running group or club, the Internet allows you to make friends virtually. Running can at times, be a very lonely sport. While the Internet can not always help you find a friend to run with, it can help you find a virtual community of runners where you can share your passion for running.
In order to have a successful relationship with running, you must do it for yourself.
What do I mean? You are ultimately the only person who can get you out the door. The only person who can push yourself farther or faster on a run. You are the person who will have the internal head battle that all of us runners have. Should I run today? Will I feel better if I run? I'm tired, maybe sleep is more important today? I ran 2 days this week - I really deserve a rest day - right? You can not and should not run to impress others, to make someone else happy, it has to come from with in - in order for it to become a life long endeavour.
Allow the Internet to help you on your quest to become a runner, but do not let it take over your training life. Do not log miles just to log miles for your weekly total, those are junk miles and get you no where fast. Do not run faster than you should just because you know someone will see it on your facebook page. Ultimately if you are the type of runner who trains for and run races, your blog, daily mile, etc. will hurt you if it pushes you at the wrong times. Remember the training runs are not the race. Do not peak when it does not matter.
Run your own pace so you are ready for your own race.
Has blogging, dailymile, foursquare or twitter helped you become more accountable to running and working out?
Like my blog? Visit http://www.mile-posts.com/ to become an official follower!
Monday, April 25, 2011
Why I Don't Wear Gym Clothes To School - By Crumbs
Honestly, I know I'm amazingly privileged. How many people wish they didn't have to work and could spend time doing the things they love, playing with their kids or doing nothing at all but surf the web? Everyone. Well, for a few years, I get to do that. The price? Being the official First Responder to 3am bedwetting and my toddler's "The Toy". Done. Don't get me wrong - I ADORE witnessing my youngest's exponential learning curve and being read to for the first time by my older boy. I love the soccer games and playgrounds and easter egg hunts and rock skipping and team photos and piano practice and cuddling and all those delicious experiences mothers enjoy. But I also love the open schedule that having 1 in Kindergarten and 1 who naps allows. Could I better use my time? Absolutely! But then I might miss out on this precious time to do nothing in the middle of the day - when no one is watching or waiting; kind of like at college. I know it won't be forever...just when they are young. Supposed to graduate sometime, right?
Like when my eldest was 4, I went back to work. I baked in a cupcake shop, waking up at absurd hours so I could be home by 1 to pick him up from preschool and enjoy the day with him. I'd like to say it was hard to get back into the demand of work & home, but it wasn't. I was ready to be productive again- and have an excuse not to spend 12 hours a day with my boy (it's true! absence DOES make the heart grow fonder). But then after several months, what I thought was impossible, happened: I got pregnant again. Not only did my energy drop from 60 to nothing in 3 seconds, but I threw up so much, it made me stupid. I'm pretty sure my ability to count without using my fingers got flushed down the bakery toilet. I was fired for being an inept employee. Totally. Deserved. (but the 1st trimester's fault). And then the Stay-at-Home-Mom cycle re-started, which is super cool.
But I know it's an indulgence I can enjoy for just another wee chunk of time. What do they say about if you want something done, give it to a busy woman? Yeah, don't give it to me. It's not going to happen. If I'm not on a run at the Y, them I'm sitting in my stinky clothes checking my facebook page (friend of a friend's wedding photos? don't mind if I do!) This stay-at-home mom lifestyle is a luxury my husband has sacrificed for because he knows it's good for the kids, and lord knows, HE doesn't want to spend all day with them!
What's my point? Despite it all, I draw the line at wearing my gym clothes to my son's school because nothing flaunts Privilege like wearing a Dri-Fit tanktop and yoga pants at drop-off. No matter how late I might be or how disheveled, I won't let anyone see me looking like I have plenty of time in the middle of the day to go to the gym. Why? I'm totally embarrassed to look unproductive AND selfish... and I fear my ostentation will goad Karma into taking it all away too soon. Regardless of convenience, no one, especially working moms and dads rushing to get their child to class AND themselves to work on time, needs to go by a lil' pony-tailed chick in a running skirt who's 'Off For a Workout with My Trainer, Emmanuel, and then Mimosas with the Ladies at Lunch'. Of course, that's not what happens, but I want to guarantee it doesn't look like that either. Now, if I actually had a job with non-traditional hours and I had to s-q-e-e-z-e in a quick run at 7:30 am, perhaps I'd feel justified...but I don't, so I'm not. I'm on a sabbatical from the hard, real world. I don't want to rub it in.
Saturday, April 16, 2011
Get Off the Road!
Disclaimer: don't try this with a newborn, but once your kids are a bit older (I'm currently running with a 2-year-old), try to go off the road!
I have developed a passion for TRAIL RUNNING and actually managed to win my age group in the EX2 Adventures Backyard Burn 10-mile Trail Running series this spring BUT I still do the large majority of my running with my daughter in a jogger. Much can be accomplished running up and down paved hills, but don't shy away from getting off the paved paths!
What are the benefits of trail running? It gets you away from traffic - both the hazards of motor vehicles and the fumes, it is so much quieter, and there is often more to look at. We pass people walking dogs, we have seen birds, ducks, geese, squirrels, storks, turtles, frogs, snakes, foxes, deer, caterpillars, butterflies, and more. The terrain can also be more exciting for your child. We do up and down and through curvy turns. The occasional bump, bump, bump is fun!
Where to go? There are, of course, a variety of levels. Here in Northern Virginia, there are SO MANY choices. Burke Lake Park, for example, is a partially paved and partially packed dirt, fairly level trail that circumnavigates the lake in a 4.5 mile loop. This is a path oft-traveled by our local See Mommy Run group. The recently renovated Cross County Trail has both paved and unpaved sections as well. Part of that trail also skirts Lake Accotink with the much-enjoyed waterfall! There is also the C&O canal and the WO&D path. Even Wakefield Park in Annandale is passable with a stroller with a little upper-body strength :) If you are feeling really adventurous, you can often follow underneath power lines and telephone lines. I'm told that the telephone lines passing next to our house go all the way to Richmond! I haven't yet brought the stroller to Fountainhead, but I'm game to try.
I have developed a passion for TRAIL RUNNING and actually managed to win my age group in the EX2 Adventures Backyard Burn 10-mile Trail Running series this spring BUT I still do the large majority of my running with my daughter in a jogger. Much can be accomplished running up and down paved hills, but don't shy away from getting off the paved paths!
What are the benefits of trail running? It gets you away from traffic - both the hazards of motor vehicles and the fumes, it is so much quieter, and there is often more to look at. We pass people walking dogs, we have seen birds, ducks, geese, squirrels, storks, turtles, frogs, snakes, foxes, deer, caterpillars, butterflies, and more. The terrain can also be more exciting for your child. We do up and down and through curvy turns. The occasional bump, bump, bump is fun!
Where to go? There are, of course, a variety of levels. Here in Northern Virginia, there are SO MANY choices. Burke Lake Park, for example, is a partially paved and partially packed dirt, fairly level trail that circumnavigates the lake in a 4.5 mile loop. This is a path oft-traveled by our local See Mommy Run group. The recently renovated Cross County Trail has both paved and unpaved sections as well. Part of that trail also skirts Lake Accotink with the much-enjoyed waterfall! There is also the C&O canal and the WO&D path. Even Wakefield Park in Annandale is passable with a stroller with a little upper-body strength :) If you are feeling really adventurous, you can often follow underneath power lines and telephone lines. I'm told that the telephone lines passing next to our house go all the way to Richmond! I haven't yet brought the stroller to Fountainhead, but I'm game to try.
Thursday, March 17, 2011
RunFit Kids 2-day Camp
RunFit Kids 2-Day Running Camp – in Springfield on Sunday April 3rd & April 10th at Orange Hunt Elementary School - OR - in Fairfax on Sunday, May 8th & May 15th from 2 to 3:30pm at Van Dyck Park.
This is a 2-day program available for kids in grades 3 thru 8. RunFit Kids provides a fun and safe environment to learn about running mechanics, proper nutrition/hydration, pacing, and goal setting. Our instruction includes dynamic warm-ups, strengthening and speed drills, plyometrics, and plenty of games. We want kids at all levels to learn how to run better, faster and smarter. Cost is $30 for both days. For more info visit http://www.FairfaxCityFit.com or email avincent@fairfaxcityfit.com (Andrea 703-586-5037).
This is a 2-day program available for kids in grades 3 thru 8. RunFit Kids provides a fun and safe environment to learn about running mechanics, proper nutrition/hydration, pacing, and goal setting. Our instruction includes dynamic warm-ups, strengthening and speed drills, plyometrics, and plenty of games. We want kids at all levels to learn how to run better, faster and smarter. Cost is $30 for both days. For more info visit http://www.FairfaxCityFit.com or email avincent@fairfaxcityfit.com (Andrea 703-586-5037).
Tuesday, March 15, 2011
Boston & Mommyhood
It's been awhile since I've blogged over here :) I promise to be better!! Getting the hang of 3 kids is hard! How do you mom's of 3 or more do it? Advice please!
~ ~ ~ ~
BOSTON MARATHON BIBS were announced. For those of you who don't know [I didn't either] Boston is one of the very few, if only, race where your number is based on how fast you are. The lower your number the faster you are. Literally on race morning you walk around and look at every person's number. oooo he's fast oooo man look at her she's even faster.....It's sort of like highschool or something.
My number this year is #8625. My previous # was 14843. I went down over 6,000!! My number is fast enough to put my in the 1st wave[there are 3 waves this year for the 1st time - each starting 20 minutes after each other]. Okay so who cares about waves? Well really it doesn't matter, getting to Boston is what counts. The reason I care is because I used to run 11 minute miles. So to me the wave reminds me that all the runs I went on, all the situps and pushups I did, all the tempos after sleepless nights, all the things I sacrificed, were worth it. My number makes me smile because it says to me Dorothy, hard work pays off.
Are you running Boston? What does your number say to you?
Today I will share the last 24 hours -
I made baby C sleep in his room last night for the entire night, for the first time. I'd like to say that he slept the whole night or that I didn't have to make 8+ trips into his room to replace his pacifier, calm him down and/or feed him - he didn't sleep and I did all that and more. At about 3 am I was questioning why I decided now was a good idea to make him sleep in his room. Oh yeah cause I need sleep and I'm not getting ANY. I ended up curling up on his rocking chair and sleeping for over an hour in there before walking back to my room. I'm exhausted.
For those of you who don't have kids - I'll fill you in on something - sleep will become more valuable to you than gold. Some parents get lucky and have kids who sleep through the night at 8 weeks. Me not so much. I've been told by friends that my kids sleep issues, meaning their lack of sleeping, is somehow my fault. It's not. Chloe, Miles and Colton take after their mommy and daddy - they are early risers and have way too many things they would rather be doing than sleeping [or so I like to tell myself].
Coffee is my best friend. I dream about it.
For some crazy reason the traffic was insane this morning. Chloe was late to school for the FIRST TIME EVER. I'm a crazy freak when it comes to being on time for things. I was so nervous walking her in to school. It was as if I was 10 years old and was going to be scolded by the teacher. Silly thing was that LOTS of other parents appeared to be late as well. TWO HOURS later baby C, Miles and I were back home. Yes I said two hours. Chloe's school is less than 20 miles away and it took us 2 hours to get her there and get back home this morning.
Did I mention already that I was exhausted before I even took her?
Here's the bright light to the day.
Last night before I went to bed I wrote a list of what I wanted to accomplish today and stuck it to the fridge. When I got home I wanted to collapse on the floor and sleep. I didn't. I got on with the day. I got completely caught up on the dishes, laundry, and ironing. All in between baby snuggles, playtime with Miles and attempting to get caught up on my Bible Study lessons.
When hubby got home I was able to head OUTSIDE for a 6 mile run. I also finally ran with my heart rate monitor for the first time ever. I've only owned it for a year so I figured it was about time I figure out how to use it!
Today I am proud of myself for getting all I wanted accomplished, getting in a run, and keeping a positive attitude despite the rocky start to my day and a serious lack of sleep.
What are you proud of yourself for today? Tell us!
~ ~ ~ ~
BOSTON MARATHON BIBS were announced. For those of you who don't know [I didn't either] Boston is one of the very few, if only, race where your number is based on how fast you are. The lower your number the faster you are. Literally on race morning you walk around and look at every person's number. oooo he's fast oooo man look at her she's even faster.....It's sort of like highschool or something.
My number this year is #8625. My previous # was 14843. I went down over 6,000!! My number is fast enough to put my in the 1st wave[there are 3 waves this year for the 1st time - each starting 20 minutes after each other]. Okay so who cares about waves? Well really it doesn't matter, getting to Boston is what counts. The reason I care is because I used to run 11 minute miles. So to me the wave reminds me that all the runs I went on, all the situps and pushups I did, all the tempos after sleepless nights, all the things I sacrificed, were worth it. My number makes me smile because it says to me Dorothy, hard work pays off.
Are you running Boston? What does your number say to you?
Today I will share the last 24 hours -
I made baby C sleep in his room last night for the entire night, for the first time. I'd like to say that he slept the whole night or that I didn't have to make 8+ trips into his room to replace his pacifier, calm him down and/or feed him - he didn't sleep and I did all that and more. At about 3 am I was questioning why I decided now was a good idea to make him sleep in his room. Oh yeah cause I need sleep and I'm not getting ANY. I ended up curling up on his rocking chair and sleeping for over an hour in there before walking back to my room. I'm exhausted.
For those of you who don't have kids - I'll fill you in on something - sleep will become more valuable to you than gold. Some parents get lucky and have kids who sleep through the night at 8 weeks. Me not so much. I've been told by friends that my kids sleep issues, meaning their lack of sleeping, is somehow my fault. It's not. Chloe, Miles and Colton take after their mommy and daddy - they are early risers and have way too many things they would rather be doing than sleeping [or so I like to tell myself].
Coffee is my best friend. I dream about it.
For some crazy reason the traffic was insane this morning. Chloe was late to school for the FIRST TIME EVER. I'm a crazy freak when it comes to being on time for things. I was so nervous walking her in to school. It was as if I was 10 years old and was going to be scolded by the teacher. Silly thing was that LOTS of other parents appeared to be late as well. TWO HOURS later baby C, Miles and I were back home. Yes I said two hours. Chloe's school is less than 20 miles away and it took us 2 hours to get her there and get back home this morning.
Did I mention already that I was exhausted before I even took her?
Here's the bright light to the day.
Last night before I went to bed I wrote a list of what I wanted to accomplish today and stuck it to the fridge. When I got home I wanted to collapse on the floor and sleep. I didn't. I got on with the day. I got completely caught up on the dishes, laundry, and ironing. All in between baby snuggles, playtime with Miles and attempting to get caught up on my Bible Study lessons.
When hubby got home I was able to head OUTSIDE for a 6 mile run. I also finally ran with my heart rate monitor for the first time ever. I've only owned it for a year so I figured it was about time I figure out how to use it!
Today I am proud of myself for getting all I wanted accomplished, getting in a run, and keeping a positive attitude despite the rocky start to my day and a serious lack of sleep.
What are you proud of yourself for today? Tell us!
Monday, March 07, 2011
Find my friend a running partner in DC
Hello Running Mommies! I made the online sign up and am planning to run the Marine Corps Marathon with 4 other Army Wives from my past. One of the Moms lives near DC and wrote to seemommyrun looking for a group and no one wrote back-- how do I get her hooked up? She's a new runner-- on the treadmill now, but could use support, non judgmental types, and the mother of a very active 4 year old boy.
One of the Army Wives set up a google page called Schweinrunners that we are having a BLAST with. At some point we'll go live and I'll hook you in with a link.
One of the Army Wives set up a google page called Schweinrunners that we are having a BLAST with. At some point we'll go live and I'll hook you in with a link.
Tuesday, February 22, 2011
New Hydration Rules
I never knew there was such a prominent link between being “a little bit” thirsty and having a BAD run.
But experts now say that if you are more than two percent dehydrated on a warm day, your performance goes down, down, down.
Here’s what to do to stay on top of it:
1) drink first: The rule of thumb is 8-16 ounces an hour or two before a run.
2) go cold: It’s a fact that the colder the beverage, the lower your body temperature goes, and therefore you can exercise longer. So opt for ice water before your run, and take a little extra with you in case you keep on going :)
3) be consistent: Here’s an interesting thought. While you are running (or biking, treading, etc) set your watch to beep every 15 minutes in order to rehydrate. Taking a few sips at frequent intervals avoids stomach sloshing. (I had the worst experience with this during my last race!)
4) just swish: If you can’t stand to swallow a sugary drink, new research says that swishing it around in your mouth can trick your brain into thinking it’s rehydrating! But beware, for runs over a half hour, try to find a drink you can swallow because although you may trick your brain temporarily, it ain’t stupid!
I hope these hydration tips gave you something to think about. Happy sipping!
For more info: Runners World
Thursday, February 17, 2011
Love this: ID Your Butt Type
I couldn't help but share this link to Shape Magazine online. The title of the link in email was "ID YOUR BUTT TYPE NOW!" Of course, I had to click. Check out the workouts!
Wednesday, February 16, 2011
Dust off the runner's journal
Greetings Running Mommies! Running weather here in Houston got better. I was having to wear long sleeves the last few weeks which necessitated pulling out a race t'shirt from my last marathon- NY in 2003- 9 months after my 3d child. I had a 4th child in 2006 and started training for a marathon and once I got to mile 15 of a training run just lost the oomph. Now I feel silly wearing t'shirts from a 2003 race and wonder if these 46 year old knees have another one in me? I've put feelers out to my other running Mommies that Marine Corps next October 30th is looking like a go. That gets me thinking maybe just maybe I could actually train for a time and not just finishing alive. I am from Boston, do need to run it, and am running out of years and knees. This sent me to the Garmin Forerunner to really figure out my heart rate, time, pace, and distance. It is in a box on the counter. Must get to it!
Sunday, February 06, 2011
Groundhog's Day
I'm tired. I'm tired of the cold weather. I'm tired of it taking 15 minutes to get all of our clothes on to go outside. I'm tired of my hands being so cold that it feels like my fingernails are going to fall off whenever I run in fewer than TWO pairs of gloves. I'm tired of the kids being home for fear-of-snow days. I'm tired of fighting with kids about getting dressed in the morning (like it is a surprise EVERY day that you have to put clothes on?!?!) I'm tired of climbing over piles of gross dirty snow at every intersection. I'm tired of drivers looking at me like I am a negligent parent because I am running on the street in bright daylight, facing traffic on a road that is at least three lanes wide. I'm tired of stepping in dog poop because it seems that dog owners only feel like picking it up when it is comfortably warm and convenient for them to do so. I'm tired of searching for the matching mitten. I'm tired of waking up at 4:30 am to go to the gym when I don't want to brave frigid temps outside. I'm tired of snow getting packed into the treads of my running shoes. It feels like I'm running in high heels. You can pretty easily conclude I don't like high heel shoes either. I'm tired of my jogging stroller refusing to roll in a straight line. I'm tired of wet snow gear sprawled across the entry way, kitchen, and dining room. I'm tired of the older kids - stuck at home for another snow day - teaching the 2 year-old curse words. I'm tired of drivers looking at me like I am a negligent parent because I've taken my children outside at all.
And I'm going to do it all again tomorrow.
And I'm going to do it all again tomorrow.
Monday, January 10, 2011
My First Tempo and 14 Miler Post Baby #3
I ran three times last week. This isn't enough. It isn't enough mentally and it's certainly not enough if I plan to successfully run Boston. I could dwell on this or I can choose to move on and focus on the success's I had.
I've often talked about how running is not just about the physical but also the mental. Dwelling on things that don't go according to plan or perceived failures in your training, only bring you down. In order to be successful and meet your goals you must use things like this as motivation, but never dwell on them and allow them to discourage you.
The positives about my week, in regards to running, were that I ran my first tempo and first 14 miler post baby #3.
Mile 1 - 9:06
Mile 2 - 8:46
Mile 3 - 8:56
Mile 4 - 8:27
Mile 5 (tempo) - 7:07
Mile 6 (tempo) - 7:07
Mile 7 (cool down) - 9:26
This was a perfectly executed tempo. I almost did negative splits in the warm up part, I was dead on for both tempo miles and my slowest mile of the whole run was the cool down.
TIP:
Tempos are an excellent way to include speed work in your training. They are perfect if you don't have access to a track or simply don't want to do track workouts. Include these in your training if you are at a point where you no longer walk during your runs. It's important that you run the entire workout and push yourself hard during the tempo portion, but not to the point that you are unable to run a cool down mile or two after. As my training goes on, the tempo portion of the run will increase, but I will keep the mileage between 6 to 8 miles.
On Saturday I ran my first 14 miler post baby. I had company for 8 of the miles, but had to run 6 of them alone.
I don't typically run with music, preferring to test my mental strength and also be aware of my surroundings. I'm sure this has helped me during the marathon. I don't need any outside help to get through the race. I DO NOT RACE WITH MUSIC. I know I will catch some slack for this but I just don't believe it in. You don't see athletes in other sports wearing music during their games, races, competitions, etc. I think it should be no different for running.
My goal for the run was to complete all the miles and to keep them between 9:00 and 10:00 minute pace. I consider the run a success.
Mile 1 - 9:46
Mile 2 - 9:17
Mile 3 - 9:30
Mile 4 - 9:36
Mile 5 - 9:21
Mile 6 - 9:27
Miles 7 - 9:10
Mile 8 - 9:22
Mile 9 - 9:10
Mile 10 - 9:32
Mile 11 - 9:50
Mile 12 - 9:46
Mile 13 - 9:44
Mile 14 - 9:55
I've already moved on from my lack of running last week and am looking forward to a new week, a fresh beginning.
5 COLD miles tonight alone. Thankful that I was able to literally start the week off on a good foot.
You can find me running around on my personal blog at http://www.mile-posts.blogspot.com/ or on twitter as mileposts
I've often talked about how running is not just about the physical but also the mental. Dwelling on things that don't go according to plan or perceived failures in your training, only bring you down. In order to be successful and meet your goals you must use things like this as motivation, but never dwell on them and allow them to discourage you.
The positives about my week, in regards to running, were that I ran my first tempo and first 14 miler post baby #3.
Mile 1 - 9:06
Mile 2 - 8:46
Mile 3 - 8:56
Mile 4 - 8:27
Mile 5 (tempo) - 7:07
Mile 6 (tempo) - 7:07
Mile 7 (cool down) - 9:26
This was a perfectly executed tempo. I almost did negative splits in the warm up part, I was dead on for both tempo miles and my slowest mile of the whole run was the cool down.
TIP:
Tempos are an excellent way to include speed work in your training. They are perfect if you don't have access to a track or simply don't want to do track workouts. Include these in your training if you are at a point where you no longer walk during your runs. It's important that you run the entire workout and push yourself hard during the tempo portion, but not to the point that you are unable to run a cool down mile or two after. As my training goes on, the tempo portion of the run will increase, but I will keep the mileage between 6 to 8 miles.
On Saturday I ran my first 14 miler post baby. I had company for 8 of the miles, but had to run 6 of them alone.
I don't typically run with music, preferring to test my mental strength and also be aware of my surroundings. I'm sure this has helped me during the marathon. I don't need any outside help to get through the race. I DO NOT RACE WITH MUSIC. I know I will catch some slack for this but I just don't believe it in. You don't see athletes in other sports wearing music during their games, races, competitions, etc. I think it should be no different for running.
My goal for the run was to complete all the miles and to keep them between 9:00 and 10:00 minute pace. I consider the run a success.
Mile 1 - 9:46
Mile 2 - 9:17
Mile 3 - 9:30
Mile 4 - 9:36
Mile 5 - 9:21
Mile 6 - 9:27
Miles 7 - 9:10
Mile 8 - 9:22
Mile 9 - 9:10
Mile 10 - 9:32
Mile 11 - 9:50
Mile 12 - 9:46
Mile 13 - 9:44
Mile 14 - 9:55
I've already moved on from my lack of running last week and am looking forward to a new week, a fresh beginning.
5 COLD miles tonight alone. Thankful that I was able to literally start the week off on a good foot.
You can find me running around on my personal blog at http://www.mile-posts.blogspot.com/ or on twitter as mileposts
Wednesday, January 05, 2011
Meet TR
So this is my treadmill, affectionately names "TR," and the bane of my existence lately. TR and I have been through years of ups and downs, and this winter just has not been a good one for us.
Last night, I tried to put in my miles. I really did. But mentally, I was totally defeated. How is it that one can run 8+ miles in freezing temps, wind, hail, snow and ice, yet fails to run a measly mile on the mill.
Last night, I turned to my peeps at DM and here are some thoughts / suggestions they came up with:
The Una Runner: "drop it off the roof."
Shawna L: "intervals"
Esther J W: "I am much faster and less bored outside"
The Una Runner: "glad I live down south" (warmer)
Scott S: "check out these DVDs - http://www.vafitness.com "<--- I did, and an awesome idea!!
Killer: "dreadmill. enough said."
Michael S: "if you get a good answer to that one, let me know."
Ihopeagain: "these last 7 weeks of jogging outside have made me a convert."
Jeni: "I make sure to have Pandora radio turned on"
Mark H: "Im real close to going with Una Runners suggestion"
Jocelyn: "I put a towel over the timer and guess how much time is left"
The comments go on, but Im sure you get the idea: I am not the only one who has a mental barrier with treadmill running!
So..
If you have any other ideas, please, throw them my way!
Tuesday, January 04, 2011
Tuesdays Tips
Re: Running Shoes
Buy Running shoes during your lunch break. Afternoons are the best time because your feet are at their largest midday.
Heat Destroys. The trunk of your car is not the best place to throw your shoes. Heat damages the form & shape of the shoe.
Untie the Laces. Believe it or not, kicking off your shoes with the laces tied can not only ruin the fit, but the heel counter as well. (fyi- the “heal counter” is on the inside of the shoe between the lining and the outsole. Dont worry, I had to look this one up too.)
Softer Surfaces Preserve. Obviously, pavement and hard surfaces wear the shoe out faster. Grass and track are more friendly. So. Happy Trails ;)
* I’d love to know of any other shoe tips you’d like to add??
Sunday, January 02, 2011
It's final: My blog has moved
I am no longer Marathon Mommy. I'm now Watch Mom Run. Sorry for the Confusion!!
Follow me at www.WatchMomRun.com
Thanks so much!!
Saturday, December 25, 2010
Merry Christmas -Happy Running in the New Year
Howdy Running Mommies! Hope all your dishes are dried and put away and you all got a run in over the holidays. I am thinking about a 1/2 marathon. Last time I ran 15 miles was 3.5 years ago and now that I'm creeping up to age 50 I might just try and qualify for Boston my hometown. Sad that the marathons I've run have all been other places, but I'm not fast enough to run in my own town. This is my oldest girl-- about to start a track season!! Gave up soccer for running. How can I keep a smile off my face?
Thursday, December 16, 2010
Boston Bound
When registration opened the morning of the 18th for the Boston Marathon, I fed into the hype. I sat there coffee in hand and waited for those precious minutes to tick away before registration opened. I started the process the moment the clock turned. All in all it took me about 10 minutes and about 5 failed tries before my registration went through.
At the time it seemed like a great idea and here's why:
I qualified this past March. With an 18 month window for your qualifying time, this meant that I had to run Boston in 2011 or try to re-qualify again if I wanted to run in 2012.
I love marathons. I hope that I am able to run a marathon a year for most years of my life. That being said I don't know how I will continue to fit in the training while the kids are this little. It's a huge sacrifice. The sacrifice is not just my own. My friends and family have been instrumental in helping me train for marathons now that I have kids. Without help from others I would never have been able to train. That being said I wanted to be able to run Boston one more time just in case I never make it back there [fingers crossed I will]
My mom recently moved to Boston[and qualified to run the race as well]. Two of my best.best.best friends live in Boston. They both happen to be twins, though not twins to each other. Between the three of them, I will have a place to stay, someone to run with and people to cheer me on. What more can I ask for?
I really, really, really wanted to run B & A Marathon again this spring. Being that Colton was born on the 9th I didn't and don't have enough time to train for that race. Boston gives me over a month more to train and hopefully get in some sort of shape. Though I am being realistic and am in no way shape or form trying to PR at this race.
Two of my other best friends qualified and will be running Boston as well. They are twins, to each other. This means I won't be running all my long runs alone, in the cold. I am very thankful for this one. I have no problem running 20 miles by.my.self, but would always rather run it with company. I know this will help motivate me, which is something I definately feel that I will need as a mom of a newborn.
It's Boston. I don't think this needs any explanation.
What I didn't think about. Sleepless nights, the cold temperatures and just generally how I was going to train in the winter with a newborn......
This Saturday will mark the 4 month mark till Boston. This weekend will be spent coming up with my training plan.
At the time it seemed like a great idea and here's why:
I qualified this past March. With an 18 month window for your qualifying time, this meant that I had to run Boston in 2011 or try to re-qualify again if I wanted to run in 2012.
I love marathons. I hope that I am able to run a marathon a year for most years of my life. That being said I don't know how I will continue to fit in the training while the kids are this little. It's a huge sacrifice. The sacrifice is not just my own. My friends and family have been instrumental in helping me train for marathons now that I have kids. Without help from others I would never have been able to train. That being said I wanted to be able to run Boston one more time just in case I never make it back there [fingers crossed I will]
My mom recently moved to Boston[and qualified to run the race as well]. Two of my best.best.best friends live in Boston. They both happen to be twins, though not twins to each other. Between the three of them, I will have a place to stay, someone to run with and people to cheer me on. What more can I ask for?
I really, really, really wanted to run B & A Marathon again this spring. Being that Colton was born on the 9th I didn't and don't have enough time to train for that race. Boston gives me over a month more to train and hopefully get in some sort of shape. Though I am being realistic and am in no way shape or form trying to PR at this race.
Two of my other best friends qualified and will be running Boston as well. They are twins, to each other. This means I won't be running all my long runs alone, in the cold. I am very thankful for this one. I have no problem running 20 miles by.my.self, but would always rather run it with company. I know this will help motivate me, which is something I definately feel that I will need as a mom of a newborn.
It's Boston. I don't think this needs any explanation.
What I didn't think about. Sleepless nights, the cold temperatures and just generally how I was going to train in the winter with a newborn......
This Saturday will mark the 4 month mark till Boston. This weekend will be spent coming up with my training plan.
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