Running Rocks

THREE THINGS THURSDAY!

2011-06-01T21:35:00.000-07:00

1. Allergies are here...my head is swollen....It feels like it may be three times the normal size...which give me three times less energy! I usually get them mid May...I was hoping they decided to skip a year...instead they were just playing with my head! Literally!
Needless to say, I decided to skip the workout... turn off all the lights and go to bed..then I could see my computer light flashing...so I decided to blog about my poor me stories....whaaaa whaaa! =)

3. Can you tell we have recently been to the zoo! I love animals...they instinctively follow natural laws...Like you don't have to eat all the food around you... especially if it is not meant for you! Here this monkey sat in the middle of an ocean of Carps, and completely ignored them! He did not even so much as took a lick! How come I don't have that instinct? I make myself a nice chicken grilled salad, and the kids some mac and cheese with apples! I eat my salad...I feel good! Do I stop there??? NO!! The kids nibble a bit on their food ...SO I EAT IT! If you have one child...this may not be so bad...I have 5! That's my scrambled eggs for breakfast...and 5 pancakes! My salad for lunch....5 bowls of mac! My small perfectly sized bowl of ice cream....and 5 Large over sized bowls of ice cream! EEEK! THIS IS A PROBLEM!

3. I am really trying hard to set and accomplish goals! Especially in the fitness category...since that is the one that slid out of control last year! I think it is good for kids to watch their parents set...and complete goals! Problem is I feel a ton of pressure! It's not such a good lesson if you just set goals...and then....do nothing about them! Tonight when I decided against running, due to my horrible allergies...I could feel 8 blue eyes, and 2 brown eyes watching my every move. It didn't help the matter, when all the kids....everyone, except Brady...who doesn't talk...asked me if I planned to run!

Seriously kids???
We woke up at 7 to go to the Bee farm, and take a tour, and buy some Local Raw Honey! =)
Then had a picnic in the park (where I finished off all the plates...good mommy!)
Then off to the Lake to play in mucky waste high water and call it playing at the beach!
Picnic for dinner
Play at the Park
Ice cream (I didn't order one for me...because I am getting smarter...I know I have 5 to eat~)
Home by 9:30
Face blown up like a blow fish...
"Are you going to run?"

Let me tell you I feel it...those eyes are watching me!

Truth be known...I'm thankful they try to support and help me with running!

*This post contains exaggerations!=)

A Whole New Level Of Running!

2011-05-29T20:32:00.000-07:00

On my quest to run 20 miles...I was on a role!
7 miles on Monday
40 min. of Elliptical on Tuesday
5 miles on Wednesday
1 hour spin on Thursday!

12 miles completed going into Friday and Saturday
Where I had planned to run 5 on Friday and 3 on Saturday!

On Friday, I ran all over Omaha Zoo...miles and miles...I just know it!
but I failed to run that night... =(
I woke early on Saturday and ran 7 miles!!!
Giving me a total of 19 miles!!!!

1 miles short...kind of ridiculous to fall 1 mile short!
I thought about counting my zoo running...but I decided it wouldn't really count!
so 19 miles it is!

20 for next week!

New Program!

2011-05-25T12:52:00.000-07:00

I have been stuck at the 15 miles a week...
It feels impossible to reach 20!
This week I am on my mission for impossible!

One major problem has been my Saturday Long runs!
It seems like there is all kinds of conflicts that seem to arise on Saturday!
I have decided to rearrange my schedule...I am going to go long on Monday!
That gives me all week of unexpected situations...to catch up and get my long run in!
If Monday fails...just think....I have 5 more days to try!
This week I got it on the first try!
Whooo Hooo!
Love having my long done and over with...now I can just relax and make it through the rest of the week!

Right now long is 7!
And trust me it felt L...O...N...G!!!!

Whoo Hoooo for 20 miles!
I'm cheering ahead of time...hoping that helps me break through!
(I have finished 12 and it's Wednesday...I've got to be able to pull another 8 out by Saturday! ;) )

Boston is a bit WET!

2011-05-19T13:11:00.000-07:00

We decided to come to Boston with dad!
Unfortunately we hit a COLD AND WET week!

I missed the cue....we were suppose to look cold and miserable!
The truth is...we still had a BLAST!

The original idea ....
was to come to Boston, get a hotel downtown!
Run around the AWESOME downtown of BOSTON!
BUT....It's the 4 weeks of graduation!
Everything is sold out!

Instead we are outside of the city...back on a treadmill....but we are loving our trip...wet or not!

Tonight we are going for a LONG run outside...even if I have to run on the freeway!
Long for me ....may be short for you! =)

Frantic Friday!

2011-05-14T17:36:00.000-07:00

What am I FRANTIC ABOUT????
Nothing!
I just liked the sound of it!
I'm am at a great spot in my fitness right now!
Still SUPER FAR from where I would like to go...but I am moving along at snail pace...and loving every minute!
I figure....you can't stand still....you either have to improve, or decline..and I have been working out consistently for 8 weeks!
This week is I ran 3 times...and hopefully a 4th....tonight!
I did 1 day of yoga...I would like to get that moved up as well to 3 or 4 times!
I did a spin class...an hour...and it's a tough one!
I love the teacher...it makes me cry...before and after...PERFECT!!!!
(I don't really cry...but it's tough)
Well, I am wishing a great weekend to all of you!
Good luck to those with competitions!

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!

2011-05-08T20:48:00.000-07:00

Today was the perfect day!
Perfect weather!

And a great game of volleyball with no rules!!!

Klompen Classic!

2011-05-05T06:23:00.000-07:00

Last night was our towns BIG 5k of the year!
I always love to run this race...I love to see everyone...running the actual race is not the most enjoyable part! =)
Above is Robyn Friedman...sorry it's not a good picture!
She is out of this world amazing!
She ran 16:5- something...and was out last year, pregnant with her third child!
She broke her half marathon record at Drake Relays last month!
She is humble....and FAST!

My hubby ran and is is catching me!
This is the only thing I can beat him at....
HELP!
I can not let this wonderful man beat me!

He ran a 25:06...and felt wonderful!
I ran a 23:25 and felt...not so wonderful!

At mile 2 I felt like making a quick turn and running home...I live 1 mile from there!
I'll be honest it was a tough race!
My time was fine...I would have loved to run 15 sec. faster...or more!

My two oldest daughters ran in 27:12....I was very proud of them..and thankful to my fantastic fast friend, LISA, who stayed with them, and helped them run a solid race!

My oldest daughter was amazed how hard it was for Lisa to hold back. She couldn't understand how running slow can be hard! =)

It was a great night of running!

I guess there can be good out of Caos?

2011-04-28T04:41:00.000-07:00

I heard some giggling from my sweet innocent kids...
then I heard the older girls scream..."oh no!"
I knew it was bad!
My two little ones had super glued their feet to the bathroom floor, their hands to the counter, except one...which my son helped his sister glue it to her face!
Yup!!!!
Super glue.....EVERYWHERE!
It was an absolute disaster!

That is just the beginning of my week, as my 5 year old son goes through the stage of experimenting...how far can he go????

I hope this stage is short lived...He has put toothpaste in my 3 year olds hair, (lots of it), and then brushed it!
Yuck....

How can all of this be good?

I have needed my workouts more than ever!

My report is this...
I have continued to maintain consistency....and for any of you who have read my blog...I have had a rough year or so with consistency!
I'm going on week 7!
Whoo Hoo!

1st 5k ....of the season!

2011-04-24T18:37:00.000-07:00

I love to race!
I actually love to race more than run....
racing is what gets me excited about running!

Yesterday, was my first race of the season...
I have been working out for 5 week...with a small bit of running...here a little ...there a little!
I was hoping to run in the 25 min range!

I was SHOCKED to find out that I ran 23:29!
Not too shabby for this momma!

Even more than the time...I was excited about my mile splits...
Usually I go out way too fast...and then hang on to dear life!
I know better....but I just can't seem to get myself to change the way I race!

This time, I was just looking for a time...so that I would know where I was.
I took off to fast...with the rest of the crowd...but my whole body was shutting down after about 2oo yds...so I decided to wait for my younger daughter and just run with her...
as I was shuffling along, I saw my daughters teacher from last year...and I knew that she ran a 25 min. 5k...and was a consistent runner!

I decided to stay with her, and see how I felt after a couple of miles!
This helped me get into a good pace....

1st mile 7:30...
I quickly did the math in my head and realized that I was not ready to run a 7:30 pace!
I then thought I better slow down a tad....
As I slowed down I thought "Sherri, this is a mental sport and you feel good....so if you talk yourself into slowing down ...then you will not run the correct time!"
So I decided to keep that pace for as long as I could!

7:30 is a 23:10 5k....so I almost ran a perfect split race...(minus 20 sec.)
That is what I am excited about!
I ran a smart race...I felt what it felt like!
It was still hard...but I had my head on the whole time...much better....than praying for ankle to break so I could quit! (which I have done!)

I got 1st in my age group...(which is always an ego booster)
that is what I love about small races...if I ran a big race, I would have just fallen into the crowd...this helped me get excited about racing!
This race was 366 people!

The 2nd medal is from my daughter....7 years old...who ran 26:37!
WOW!!!
I was so proud of her...she ran her little heart out!

Here's the BIG QUESTION!
We have a race here in our town next Wed.
just 10 days after that race!
She is signed up to run...she is young...and untrained!
Is it okay for her to run another 5k...already????
I hesitate...but she insists!!!

HAPPY EASTER!!!!

(The little one in the green is the one who ran 26:37)

Sometimes a Scooter would be easier!

2011-04-18T17:03:00.000-07:00

I am on week 5 of consistency!
I have not had this for a very long time...at least not with working out!
It feels good!
I lost a bit of weight early...but nothing else!
I hope it will just all come together!
I am running a small 5k this weekend with my girls and hubby!
I love to race....even though I am not in racing shape...I love the energy!

Today I am going on a week of not much sleep...and it is catching up with me!
I really need to get my run in...and I am rather tired...plus I have 5 hyped kids!
I thought maybe if I posted I would get excited to get out and run!
I think it's working!

I have noticed that running outside it tough after being on the treadmill all winter.
I enjoy the smells, and the breeze...but the hills are killing me...I feel like I'm moving at snail pace!
At least I'm moving! =)

I'm Not Dying!

2011-04-06T19:06:00.000-07:00

Okay...so last week...week #2...I stuck to the progra!
Monday....1 hour body pump...1 mile run immediately following!
Tuesday....1 hour spin class
Wednesday...1 hour body pump...1.5 mile run following!
Thursday...1 hour spin class....3 mile run immediately following!
Friday 4 miles running

This week I could feel a typical week 3 syndrome ....loosing steam...
I am determined to make this the new habit!
Monday....1 hour body pump (intended to run, but day care called me for crying baby! =( )
Tuesday....I got Mastitis...HIGH FEVER...miserable!
needless to say...I did not workout!
I did get on antibiotics right away...
and
by
Wed. I was feeling much better...still sore...but better!
I decided I needed to avoid all excuses and just run!
I ran 3 miles..
and the entire time, 4 vultures circles around me!

Seriously guys???
Don't they only circle dying things???
Well, I've got news for them...
I'M NOT DYING!

Love Treadmill Games...and March Madness!

2011-03-31T07:58:00.000-07:00

Last week, I actually did get a couple of runs in! Whoo Hoo!!!
Friday I ran an easy 3miles! Then Saturday, I was going to do the same thing, just an easy 3. Lucky for me March Madness was on, and we were having so much fun cheering on the underdog...that my time flew by...and the miles added up! I played a little game with myself, I put a towel over the dashboard of the treadmill. During commercials I ran 6.0, when the game started I would go up to 6.3, and every free throw I would go up 1! If the game tied up ,then I would do a 1 min. celebration at 7.0! (It tied back and forth often). When I started my run there was 9 min. of basketball time left....I thought that I would be able to get my 3 miles in ...No problem! I was not expecting overtime! I told myself I would not stop running until the game was over! Conclusion I ran 6 miles! That is good for me....right now! I am excited to do the whole thing over this Saturday...and maybe run 7!

I have kept up the body pump and spinning! I can already tell, that my muscles are slowly responding! I knew I had muscles....somewhere???!!!!

My hip is hurting, I have to use my arm to lift my leg! I am pretty sure it is just the muscle tightening up after lack of use! I hope! I am going to get some yoga in today and this weekend!

I have dropped 4 lbs! HOOORAY!
I only need to loose another 15....but that 15 feels like 100!

I hope everyone is having a great day!
Big thanks to all of you super stars who give encouraging stories and quotes, that keep popping in my head...and get me excited! It took a bit to actually get me moving...but I'm on my way! =)

I'm finding it...

2011-03-25T06:42:00.000-07:00

This has been along rough year...for running. I have been fighting lack of motivation, time, and balance! During that struggle I have managed to gain weight, lose muscle, and age a bit!

I don't know what happened....but I can tell it happened. I'M FED UP! I decided that the time isn't going to stop...or slow down, while I figure my fitness out! Somehow, I have managed to fit in an hour workout everyday this week! WHOO HOO!

My husband who has been trying to help me find my "mojo", with encouraging words. He is thrilled! We both know that the truth is, if you just take the time to fit in fitness, and scripture time...then the day flows smoother. Suddenly, you may not need more hours, because your able to accomplish more in the hours that we do have!

I'm not going to pretend I am at that point...yet. But I have been there...and know that it is there! Right now I am paying for my lack of exercise! This week is just survival!

I did not run this week! I decided to work on building some muscle. I did 2 body pump classes...circuit weight training! Two days of Yoga! Two days of 1 hour RPM class.....spinning....talk about burn! I'm talking major leg burning...and calorie burning!

I'm excited for next week....it's just a week at a time...and this week was a success!=)

Just Six!

2011-03-16T20:32:00.000-07:00

I just need 6 more hours in my day....is that really too much to ask?
It's not like I'm asking for 48...just 30!
I feel like I'm on an all out sprint all day...and still I am behind the eight ball!

If this sounds like I am complaining....I AM!!!!
Not because I don't LOVE MY LIFE!
I do....I just need more time!!!

Let's just go over a typical evening conversation....between my husband and I....if we get one! (wink)
Blue is Mark
Red is ME!
Green is in my head!

Everyday it's the same thing....bills, bills, bills. I go through more checks than anyone else I know!
U HUH!
Everyday it's the same thing....laundry, laundry, laundry. This family goes through more clothes than any other family!

They only time I feel like I have to prepare for the day is late at night and early morning! When I go to the office, everyone wants me, I'm torn a million directions!
U HUH!
The only time I have to prepare for the next day is late night or early morning! When those kids wake up, they all want me, I'm torn in 5 important directions!

I need balance!
You need 6 more hours!
I need 6 more hours!

Please tell me as you read this...your mind is feeling in the blanks with your own busy life????
or
are we just poor time managers???

I know what I'm going to do about it!

GRIN AND BARE IT!!!
and
LOVE IT!!!

Gators!

2011-03-01T05:11:00.001-08:00

I woke up early to go running, and as I left my sister said,
"Watch out for the Alligators!"
I was thinking ....
"come on, I'm not swimming in the swamp, just running through your neighborhood1"

It's unbelievable....
they are right in the neighborhood...HUGE....SCARY... alligators!!

As I was running I could see a gator watching me from under the water!

I have to admit, I enjoy seeing them....because we don't have gators at home....but it would take some time getting use to sharing my neighborhood with them!

I took my kids to a trampoline gym....
I planned on just watching and reading....
but I couldn't pass up on all the fun...
WOW!
I think I burned some serious calories...and had a ton of fun!!!

A Little Slice of Heaven!

2011-02-25T06:38:00.001-08:00

The only view from my treadmill is a white wall!
I have learned to not see the wall, but to let my imagination run wild!

If I had been asked 10 years ago if I ran on treadmill, I would have said....
NO....NEVER!!!

It's funny how life changes...
now with 5 kids, and a long hour working husband...I have no choice but to run on the treadmill, 90 percent of the time!

It took some time, I had to change my attitude, from...
"I hate treadmills"
to
"I'm thankful for treadmills!"

I never pass up the opportunity to run outside,
even if the conditions are dreadful.....below zero....or over 100!

This last week we took a road trip...
actually we are still on the road trip!

We headed south, and now we are beach hopping!

I am loving every second!
Running on the white sand, with blue green crystal clear water...
temps at 70 with a light ocean breeze!

I'm pretty sure this is close to HEAVEN!

So tell me??????
Why does my husband choose to run on the treadmill????
I run....I tell him how wonderful it is...
then he runs...and he chooses the treadmill and the wall....
over the ocean and cool breeze????
I just can't figure it out???

Let's get this party started!

2011-02-12T06:42:00.000-08:00

As I reschedule my calendar for races, I plan to add some fun ones in there!
Do you have any adventure runs planned?

How about the Dirty Dash?
A Mud Obstacle Course, and it even has a kids fun obstacle course....
love it!

or the Warrior Dash?
They are located all over the country, and look like some dangerous fun!

Living History Farms race?
I believe it is the largest cross country race of it's kind...tons of fun, never know what you'll get!

Race for the Rose?
Every participate is handed a rose at the finish line!

Ragbrai?
A week of biking and even some fun music, food and more1

Thank goodness for flexibility....

2011-02-11T14:22:00.000-08:00

Not the stretching kind!

Well, I have had a rather exciting 2011....exciting in ....interesting!
I promised a mystery...but I spoke to soon!

We were 12 weeks into expecting our 6th child...
unfortunately, things must not have been quite right...
and so....
back to plan A!

Plan A....
was to get in shape, run some races, and just have a Great year!

It's a Mystery!!!

2011-02-01T17:35:00.001-08:00

I may seem to be MIA...
but I am preparing for a special event!
I cant wait to share my little mystery with you...
but in the mean time, don't loose faith in me!
I will post when I can!

A few of my .....

2011-01-08T10:44:00.000-08:00

Favorite things are...
1. kids
2. parties
3. weekly dates
4. running
5. yoga
6. art
7. travel
8. road trips
9. baking
10. cooking!!!!

I am trying to enjoy cooking even more...and less baking!
Which is easy...because I truly LOVE LOVE LOVE to cook!
I would attempt healthier baking...but I grew up in a super healthy house, (Love the example), but cookies tasted like biscuits.
I would come home from a date, and my dad would offer my friend a "cookie", the look at the first bite will stick with me forever! I would quickly let them know....they have NO sugar...sweetened with maybe honey, usually dates, and raisins, fresh ground wheat, and applesauce as oil. (Which now has been replaced with coconut oil...much better! =)

Growing up I did not mind at all. My taste buds were trained. Which is a gift!
But my husband grew up in a home with amazing bakers.
Everyone of his aunts is award winning!
It is his favorite memory.
Going to Grandma's and sitting at the table to a cold glass of milk, and a frozen cookie!

He has never been fond of the healthy version!
Me...being a people please-er...especially a husband please-er...set out to learn to make cookies as good as any he had ever had!
I will have to say...I have mastered his favorite...peanut butter, and snicker doodle!

With that mastery went my healthy taste buds...and my thin waste line!
I believe you can have a few yummy goodies.
I just have to get my metabolism moving again!
So for now I am going to stay away...mostly...from my sweets.
If I want something I will buy it...instead of making a batch....or double batch...and then eating the whole thing!

The other thing I love about cooking is change!
Cookbooks are a favorite around here!
I enjoy making something new almost every night!
With that comes some nights that are awesome...and some that are not so great!
At the end of the night, I always ask...."Is it a keeper?"
They all laugh and give me a "yes, or No".
For a long time I did not understand why they laugh!
Until, Brooke, said, "Why do you ask us if we want you to make it again...if you never do?"

With that said...
here is one I made twice!

Asain Lettuce Wraps

All this delicious fresh ingredients.
I LOVE fresh ginger, cilantro....but I now cook with already minced garlic.
I can never get the garlic off my hands...never!

Delicious!

I serve them wrapped in lettuce with a toothpick, so that they are easy to pick up, and dip in the awesome sauce!

Asian Lettuce Wrap

Heat 2 tsp. of olive oil on med high
Cook about 1-2 tsp of grated ginger and 4 cloves or 3tsp. of minced garlic.
cook for 1 min.

Add 1 1/2 lbs. of ground turkey, 1c. minced mushrooms, 1/4tsp. salt....Cook until meat is done!

Add can of chestnuts (finely chopped), and 1/2 cup of minced green onions.
Cook for a few minutes

Add 1/4 c. soy sauce, 2 tsp. sesame oil , zest from 1 lemon, 1 tsp. hot sauce.
Cook through
Remove from heat...Add 1/3 c. chopped cilantro.

Wash seperated lettuce leaves, wrap in paper towels and put in frig, so they will be cold and crisp.

Dipping Sauce
1/4 c. soy sauce
1/8 rice vinegar
1 TBS. fresh minced garlic
2 TBS chopped green onion

Thirty things Thursday!!!

2011-01-05T21:04:00.000-08:00

1. I got my first schedule from my coach!
I was rather pleased! She obviously knows how to coach the "use to be's"...
I am running 3 times a week....3 miles, 3 miles, and 5 miles.
I am running them at 10:00 pace...which is tough...I think my legs hurt more when I go slow...
The idea is to have them last longer...A year would be nice!
I really do think this is exactly where I need to be!

2. My whole house is sick...and it is in our lungs! Including me! My lungs are frying, even when I am just sitting. I hope it does not last long!

3. I am still getting my runs in! YiPPEE! It's miserable with weeeeezzzzyyyy lungs though!
But I am not about to email my coach the first week and give an excuse!!!

4. I plan to count how many times I go up and down the stairs in a day...I'm pretty sure it's 100!

5. I'm not eating after 7! I actually didn't think that I ate much after 7! I am shocked at how many times I have to stop...back away!! No wonder I have weight to lose!

6. That's been my week...it felt like a lot more stuff....your lucky...I'm not going to make it to 30!

HAPPY NEW YEAR!!!!

2011-01-01T12:17:00.000-08:00

Yes!!!!
That would be me...scaring my friends....
Terri's scared face is not an act....I think she was really scared I might eat her!
Look at my trooper friend Melissa...she kept her hat on....
We had a Taco Bar....Crazy Hat party!
It was so fun!!!!

Check out these young ones....I was able to keep them all awake until midnight...
The secret????
Lots of Sugar....Loud Music, with crazy dancing, hyper moms, charades, and few trial runs of running out in the freezing cold night banging pots and pans!

So now it is the 1st of the New Year....2011!!!
I am so excited to ROCK this next year!
I opened the time capsule from last year...and looked at my goals...
I did not accomplish 1 of my fitness goals!
I am rather embarrassed...so going back to the blog survey...an embarrassing moment...
RIGHT NOW!!
This year I am going to set reasonable goals...and I am going to keep on track!
Hows that?????

On a good note...
I accomplished ALL my goals for....

Spiritual
Mother
Wife

Housekeeper...well, not so much....that is going to be better in 2011 too!

Basically I am going into 2011
Chubby...Hyped on Sugar...but Loved by my husband and kids....=)
Could be worse!

Here are my 2011 Fitness goals:
1. 750 miles!
(I should go for 1000....but I am going to open that capsule next year...a winner!)
2. Loose 10 lbs.
(I have 15-20 to lose, but down 10 is better than up 10!)
3. PR in a race...any race!
4. Follow my coaches schedule!
5. Be Injured FREE!!!!

HAVE A GREAT NEW YEAR!!!!

Three things Thursday!

2010-12-30T15:32:00.000-08:00

1. I did Zumba today. It was fun...I have NO coordination...but it was fun! Brooke, my 10 year old did it with me, and she loved it too. I think we will be making this part of our week!

2. 2010 was such a great year! I am excited to RING in 2011!
We are having a kid friendly party, with a taco bar, and crazy hats!
My kids love the midnight hour...I predict they will all be awake....I may be asleep though! =)

3. 47 degrees feels like summer....I am loving every minute of it! It is suppose to go back to 25 tomorrow...no need to stay warm for long!

4. I know...there is suppose to be 3...but I have never been good at following rules.
I am taking my tree down already! It feels rather sad....I do love the Christmas Holiday!!! I just figure now is better than EASTER. My kids are rather sad...I just say, "hey look, your mom is so proactive!"

It's Monday!

2010-12-27T19:30:00.000-08:00

That means I'm starting a week of Good eating...and running!!!!

Blogging Survey!

2010-12-23T14:33:00.000-08:00

Here goes nothing!! :)

1. What are you most proud of accomplishing in 2010?

Hmmmmmm!
Am I aloud to pass!
.......PASS!....

2. What are you goals for 2011?
Besides I would like to have something accomplished that I am proud of...when asked!
I would like to put my 2010 behind me and move on with excitement and determination!
I would like to PR!

3. What was your favorite race?
Utah Marathon....5k!
Even though I was not overly impressed with the actual race...it was the highlight of my entire running for 2010!
I got to run a race and meet of with family....Perfect!

4. What is your favorite guilty pleasure?
Guilty???
Whose feeling guilty???
I love to drive around with my husband, after a date night and eat Haagen Daz....Vanilla Swiss Almond...that is my absolute favorite!!!

5. What is your most embarrassing running moment?
I can't remember ever being embarrassed...although I am sure I should have been...plenty of times! =0

Thirsty????

2010-12-20T16:47:00.000-08:00

I attempted to go without sugar for the weekend.....

I succeeded...mostly....I stayed away from sweets....not everything with sugar in the ingredients!

It is a tough time of year...so that was fun for one weekend...but I am going to go back to being addicted for now! =)
I don't know if it is just my constant thought of "no sugar", that made me more aware of what all the kids were eating and doing with food...but
Check out my weekend of food....

The above picture is my son...who begged for my dish towel...and when I gave it to him, he started to suck it dry.
Gross....
Maybe he needs more water?????

Breakfast....Larger than him!!

He stacked and unstacked these fruit for hours...

In the end I found all the animals stuck in them....they were thirsty...was the plea!

Salsa is a favorite around here...but...usually ....

without jello!

Candy Cane Elf...for mommy!

A Gift I Want...but No one can give me!

2010-12-16T21:41:00.000-08:00

Now that I have posted all my cRaZy fun...
it is time to get serious...
well, back to business...
I'm rarely serious!!!

I would graciously take anyone of yours motivation to stay focused and accomplish your fitness goals!
(Just wrap it up and mail it to me!...)

I promise somewhere deep inside me I do have the ability to do it!
I am rather disappointed at how deep it is!
Lately....the whole past year....I have been ALL talk...no action!
So I took a first step...
I contacted a coach!
I'm not positive that this is what I need, but if she can just think for me....I think I can do the actual workouts??? maybe???
Although I did put it off until the first of the year...typical!
Always waiting for Monday!

So I have 2 weeks to get a little base running in!
I know...that is what I was suppose to be doing all along!

I did a quick time trial...because I am suppose to give my new coach one before I get my first program....
1 mile warm up
2 mile time trial...(I'm not suppose to be dead...but push)
1st mile: 7:50
2 mile: 15:40
mile cool down!

I was happy that I could finish!
Not thrilled with the times!
Happy that I ran my second mile the same, would have preferred negative splits...but the same will do for now!

My BIGGEST problem is sugar.
I admit, I am addicted!
So here goes nothing...let's see if I am all talk or ready for action....
this is scary!!!
Why wait for Monday??? =)
I'm going NO sugar for this weekend!

That may seem easy...but it's not!
I'll report back on Monday...hopefully I'm brave and will continue on...

Have a great weekend!
Thanks for listening to all my babbling!

Cake Eating Contest!

2010-12-15T05:33:00.000-08:00

My sister surprised me with a secret lunch out with friends...
That tops my wish list...

Of course we had to end with a chocolate cake eating contest...

With LARGE pieces!

I'm not 20 anymore...this much cake...in a little amount of time...is not recommended!
unless, you are seeking....fun memory making moments!

My sister Kim...she's the champ...I plan to beat her next year!
Probably not a tradition I should start...but why not!

Dinner with the crew!

Wishing for another great year!

Starting to fall apart!

Here's the kicker...Shopping for new running shoes!

This was as perfect of a day....as possible!

Today should be a bit Healthier!

Passing on a Smile! =)

2010-12-12T05:15:00.001-08:00

This could be a lengthy post....
quick version....LIFE IS SHORT, ENJOY EVERY MOMENT!

It is so hard to imagine life.....gone!
We just found out our good friend...whom we consider family...has cancer!
I'm in shock!
It seems to me that cancer is going up...it seems like everyday I hear of another case!
For some reason...this one has sent me into shock!

He's young...30!
He's in incredible shape!
Has a family....4 kids...youngest 7 weeks!

It is such an eye opener that it can happen to anyone at anytime!

Then I had a friend from high school who, was driving down the highway, and was hit by a run away driver...and killed!
Strange to think, she kissed her husband good bye, just like every other morning.
Dropped her daughter off at preschool, just like every other day!
GONE!

I'm sorry this is a depressing post...but LIFE IS SHORT!

I can't seem to quit thinking...
If...I was told that I had 2 - 5 years left to live...
What would be my priorities?

I want to live my life as if today is my last!

As I think about it...
I just want to LOVE!
Everyone...my kids, my husband, my brothers and sisters...mom and dad!
But more than that...
I want to love others!
I want to give what I can!
Even if it is only a smile!

Imagine if your smile was the last smile someone saw????

It's my Birthday.....almost!

2010-12-09T11:22:00.000-08:00

Might seem strange...but I love getting older!
It's like a scoreboard at the football game...I have earned each and everyone of these years!
I love my birthday...okay...I love all birthdays...but mine included!
Every year I throw a party...with close friends...for myself...WHY NOT!
Who else is going to do it?

This year I am changing the pace...
My great friend Kris...called and asked if she could take me out to lunch for my birthday!
OF COURSE!!!!

I plan to go to lunch everyday...or as many as I can...and spend an hour or so with my friends...kids...hubby...all those that make my life complete!
If I need to continue into January...I will!
I have No problem celebrating for months! =)

If you double click on the picture...it will enlarge...and graciously show you all of my earned mileage!!!
(In a few years I may look like a raisin...but a happy raisin!)

But who could resist a birthday picture at a darling cafe...with a delicious bowl of European soup???
Sounds like another memory to add to my life!

If lunch is not enough...she bought me a Christmas ornament to go on my tree...notice unbreakable...I do have 5 little ones!
I absolutely LOVE it!

I have to include a picture of my sweet friend!
Thanks Kris...I had a TON of fun!

****Now a special note to all my darling computer friends!
Don't forget to back up files...I am horrible at it...and my computer crashed, erasing lots of pictures and file...putting me out of computer commission for awhile!

What really happens???

2010-11-27T06:38:00.000-08:00

I was so excited to put on Christmas music!
We had a wonderful Thanksgiving...loved it...and now on to the next excitement!

When I walked in the family room...the kids were rocking out!

Wiggling, jumping, swinging, lifting, shaking, and just moving in every direction!

NOT to leave out LAUGHING!!!

It reminded me of an experiment I once did!

I know as we get older our metabolisms slow down...
or
DO WE SLOW DOWN??????

I decided to take a day and do exactly as one of my kids did!
If they ate...I ate...what they ate....
If they moved I moved...the same as them...(if my body moved like that???)

It was NOT hard to choose who to pick...
I decided to go with Brooke!
She is the oldest...so I figured she would eat more and move less!
(Exactly what I am talking about!)

The result was rather depressing!
I did this for 1 day...I was going to do a week...but
I was STARVING!!!
(weak minded mommy!)
When I woke up, my muscles were sore...like the kind of soreness that would come if you ran an ultra marathon untrained!

I can't even imagine what would happen if I picked Luke..
Who eats like a bird...and moves like he is competing at a national dance competition!

If Luke is 5 and Brooke is 10 and I can already see the difference in food consumed and energy burned...
Then what happens if your 36?????

WE SLOW DOWN!

Okay how is that for a worthless experiment???
It was FUN...and I am always up for FUN and CRAZY!

Check out these super fun challenges and parties!
Big Daddy Diesel....pass on your love for running, biking, swimming, crawling...
and
Jill....gift giving....in the blog world...so much fun!

Giving Thanks to Thanksgiving!

2010-11-22T18:19:00.000-08:00

I owe so much of my running love to Thanksgiving!
Where to start????
I tried to locate some pictures from my childhood...running the Turkey Trot...but I may have to post those at another date...I couldn't find them!

I am the third oldest of 12 kids!
Everything about a BIG family is FANTASTIC!!
Even the adventures of getting a turkey for Thanksgiving!

I am not sure how young I was when I first ran the 10k Mesa Turkey Trot...but I have some fun stories to share...and they all came from our attempt to be the "most people from one family to run the 10K"...and win a TURKEY!!!

1. One year my cousin came down from Utah to visit us. She was not a runner!!! Note: NOT A RUNNER!! ...All she brought with her was flip flops!
Most of you are thinking ....she probably watched!
NOT DONNA....she ran the entire 6.2 miles bare foot!!!
Some of you Barefoot runners will appreciate...the untrained feet on pavement for that long...also she ran the entire way...even though she had NEVER ran!
AMAZING!
I'm not sure she ever ran again!
Probably not the kind of running experience that creates desire for more from a young 12 year old!

2. My younger sisters...(by 9-15 years), started running the Turkey Trot before they could even walk! ;)
Kim always amazed me...she always ran her heart out...and never stopped!
Now Cindy...she was a little different...she always started the race...but we usually found her at the playground that was maybe 200 yards from the start.
When asked why she didn't run...she would simply reply...
"The playground looked like more fun!"
Coming from a 5, 6, or 7 year old....I think she may have been right!

Funny part of that story is...Cindy is the most consistent of all of us now...I think that playground did her good! =)

3. My dad and mom still run the Trot with whoever can make it!
Usually there are cousins, aunts, uncles, grandchildren, and friends!
Now my Dad is usually last...sometimes far behind the tail end car!
But there is NO ONE who runs with more enthusiasm!
He is always smiling!

My MOM never really ran it...she is a walker. She prefers to man the sidelines.
The last few times that I have been back home to run it with them...my DAD has carried my mom to the finish line ( which by this time was broken down, and empty)...but our family is ALWAYS there waiting...most of us run back and join them in the end of the race.
He refuses to end short!

I think they know that this race has become a tradition that will NEVER die!!!

Have a great Thanksgiving...and make memories with you families that will LIVE on FOREVER!!!!!

Sunday Ramblings!

2010-11-07T17:20:00.000-08:00

Hello My Friends!

1. I am not sure what is better me rambling or the picture from the last post! But since I couldn't stand it...I had to cover it up with a bunch of nonsense from me!

2. I never realized how much kids enjoy their parents to be fit! I'm not sure if it is because I am looking saggier or if I am lacking happy endorphins...but something has triggered my girls into helping me get back into running! I'm pretty sure it is my constant talk, about how I love to run, but I don't do it! Any who..they are all over me! Every time I reach for a piece or two or three of Halloween candy, they tell me, "NO MOM!" Then I try to shove it in my mouth before they take it away! I was laugh hysterically while listening to them tell the story to my husband...rather embarrassing! I am not going to shove chocolate in my face anymore...not a pretty picture, when being told by 10 and 7 year olds!

3. I found some races! Thanksgiving Day....a family tradition since I was a wee one!
Then there is a Freeze out in December...my girls want to run with me! They have already started to train. They ran 1/2 mile yesterday! They have a great plan for us to all dress up! That works for me...I'm all for anything crazy and fun!
Don't roll your eyes!
But I am going to register for a half in Florida so I can go see my sister and have a race to train for!
I figure the third is the charm....I've signed up for 2 other halfs...and well, ran 5k's instead! What a wuss!!!
That's the plan...

4. My youngest child...who by the way is so sweet...you would never know how destructive he can be! He threw my cell phone in the bath tub, while I was bathing the other kids! Then he pulled my lap top off the counter, busting the shift key! Then he threw my home phone in the toilet...yuck! Luckily flushed!

That's it for now!

Pain????

2010-11-03T07:53:00.000-07:00

Party Time Over!
I have had 35 days in a row of guests!
We have had a ton of fun!
Gained a few pounds...of butter.....Lost a few pounds of ....muscle!

After reading the great quote on Tri Diesel's Blog...
"All must suffer one of two pains. The pain of discipline or the pain of regret!"

I love quotes!
For me right now....this one is PERFECT!
It not only spoke to me....but SCREAMED at me!

I am responsible for my decisions!
We all have the same time in a day!
What I do and don't do with it is up to me...but then I must suffer the back lash!

I am suffering from the pain of REGRET!
I know I can do it!

So here we go!

I am signing up for the Living History Farm race today!

Okay...never mind!
When I went to get the link...it said it is full!

I will sign up for "A" race today!

Do you OVER TRAIN?

2010-10-26T11:46:00.000-07:00

Well, worry NO MORE!
I have the perfect plan!
It even comes with the guarantee that you will NOT over train!

It's simple really....
2-3 days of running, and then 2-3 months off!

I promise you will feel refreshed and excited to get back to your 2 days of running!!!

I have tested this out on myself!

There are a few disclaimers though:

You may have sore muscles every time you run your 2-3 days!
You will NOT increase your speed or endurance!
It will NOT reduce stress!
You will find racing to be tough!
You may gain weight!

Good Luck!
=)

5 Things Thursday!

2010-10-14T11:54:00.000-07:00

1. 100 Post!!! Well, it was actually last post...but still....100!!!
Can you see the 100! Kids in the middle are the center of the 0!

2.I have had this sticky "frog" on my ceiling for 7 years! I know...pathetic! It became part of our home! Everyone would walk in and say, "Did you know you have a frog stuck on your ceiling?"

My sister and brother and all the kids decided that 7 years was long enough! They were determined to get the frog off the ceiling!
They all throw towels of every shape and size...until their arms ached!

Finally my 6 foot 5 inch, brother, made a ceiling reaching tool....and got it down!

3. It was not a frog, but a lizard! If you want to have Free Fun Entertainment....that is the way to do it! We celebrated like none other, after that lizard came down!

4. Your NEVER too old to have fun! I am the Biggest kid at my house. Then we took all the kids to the pumpkin patch...and I realized I am not the only kid ....my brother and sister were having so much fun on the rope swing...

I decided to join it!

It's a lot harder than it looks!

5. I am not any good at taking self pictures! I tried over and over to take a picture of us three girls...but instead I got a ton of eyes!

and cheeks...

Thank goodness for nice bystanders!

3 Things Thursday!

2010-10-07T20:16:00.000-07:00

1. I LOVE HALLOWEEN!!!! One time a year you get to dress up as anything you want! I'll take it! I would dress up as something different everyday if I had the time. So of course I was thrilled when my sister threw herself a birthday party...and it was Halloween themed...with costumes! YIPPEE!!!

2. I also think everyone should throw their own birthday parties! Why not???? Why sit around wishing someone remembered! For Pete's Sake....PARTY!!! Aging is inevitable! It's going to happen no matter what. So why not "Bring it!" I have been throwing myself birthday parties for 10 years.

3. I Love Fall! Everything about it! The weather is perfect right now! I just wish I could do everything I have to do, while sitting or standing outside! Too bad my laundry and dishes are indoors! Bummer!

Goals For the Week!

2010-10-05T04:25:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Anne Marie, I am hoping to post my "Goals for the Week!"
What a fantastic example she sets...week after week!
She also suggests writing the goals in your planner or somewhere where you can easily access them ... so they can be a constant reminder!

I am going to just follow her categories...

ATHLETE: (that's a bit strong for this mommy) PHYSICAL: (there that sounds more like it...I will adapt to "athlete", when I become one1 =)
Workout every day! - except Sunday
Hopefully run...but do something!

FRIEND: (Is this suppose to be for me or the kids????... If it is for me, I have NO idea what to do with friends...so how about we combine them???)
Set up a play date at a park, so that the kids can all play...and I can visit! =)
OOOOOH! This is such a great idea!

MOM: Speak softer!
Can I explain? I am NOT a yeller! But I talk LOUD...just naturally, maybe because I come from a house of 12??? I love when I go to houses and the Mom talks softly...so I want to try!

COMMUNITY: ( See I love her...she extends herself!) Continue to run with the Junior High kids!

PERSONAL GROWTH: Follow through with Total Women, and have dinner planned early! Make a "To Do List" and do my best to finish!
(On my family blog I am reading "Total Women", and trying to apply it to my life! ...come join in on the fun!)

I am going to add just a few categories!

EXTENDED FAMILY: Call my sisters Shauna and Julie! Write a letter to Kim! Write and send letters from the kids and I to Grandma Young!

HUSBAND: Rub his head everyday for 5 min.

SPIRITUAL: Listen to one Conference Talk a day...until I can get through them all!

Okay!
Here it goes!

Another THANK YOU TO ANNE MARIE for this great example!

What's in my fridge????

2010-10-02T06:13:00.000-07:00

I know I am only about 6 months behind...
for What's in your fridge?????
But...
Seriously???!!!!
There is one thing, you can ALWAYS count on, to be in my fridge!??!!

KIDS!
Every time I walk into the kitchen...
The fridge is open and kids of all sizes are peering in, to find their next snack!

Have a great weekend!

So Much Fun!

2010-09-29T12:06:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I got to go watch the Junior High Cross Country Meet!
OH MY GOODNESS!!!!
I was in heaven!
I had the time of my life!
I love watching people run!
Especially when you know them!

The kids did AWESOME!
I was so proud of them!

I have been known to tell my kids, that I would love them to run, but I want them to do what they want to do!
I will NOT be disappointed if they don't run!

FORGET ALL THAT BULL!
I NEED my kids to run!
It is just so stinkin' fun!!!

I lost my keys on the course!
Not the smartest thing to do!
"Did you back track your steps?"
Seriously????
I was ALL over that whole golf course!
Lucky for me I have a SUPER BIG....OBNOXIOUS....key chain!
So someone found them and turned them in!

Lesson learned!
The BIGGER the BETTER!....when it comes to key chains and cross country meets!

A Little Foggy!

2010-09-23T12:54:00.000-07:00

WOW!
What a long drawn out illness!
It's been over two week and I still have a foggy head!
At least I am feeling somewhat better!

The main question I am getting is...
Are you pregnant?????
I can understand...since usually when I am ill, I am pregnant...especially when it drags on for days and weeks!
But......

NO!
I am not!
Just clogged up!

I have been helping out with the Junior High Cross Country kids...unfortunately due to weather, we have had more canceled practices, than actual practices!
It is fun to encourage young kids to be all they can be...and to believe in themselves!
I enjoy their young spirits!

Home school is dreamy! My kids and I are enjoying every moment as we learn together!
They work hard...and they are self motivated...which in return, makes my job easier!

My running...is patiently waiting for me to feel better! I love that friend...it seems to always be there!

I've been tagged!

2010-09-13T17:35:00.000-07:00

The Flu Bug Caught me!

Seems early in the season...maybe I will be able to get it over with early!

This is one of those treats I don't wish to pass on...I will NOT be tagging any of you...just wishing you HEALTHY week!

I'm being STALKED!!!

2010-09-07T09:06:00.000-07:00

I am 100% sure that I am being followed...stalked...by a rain cloud!
It can be beautiful outside...and then I decide to go for a run!
I check the sky...
everything looks absolutely PERFECT!
So I run...

EVERYTIME...IT RAINS...
not a little....
A TON...DOWN POUR!

I have had quite a few people tell me they are surprised at my dedication!
I hate to disappoint them...but it has nothing to do with dedication...and everything to do with STALKING!
I feel like giving them the blog address of thousands of dedicated athletes!

Now before this post comes across as complaining...
I actually do not mind rain...even hard rain...
It peaceful really....
I rarely feel the pains of age...while running through small pieces of hail!

I just find it ironic...that every time I manage to make it out of the house for a run...the rain cloud is over head...watching out for me????

Flood Gates are Open!

2010-09-03T09:17:00.000-07:00

Thanks to Giorgio and Genesis for this super fun award!

This rule comes with the rule that I have to tell about one time or thing in my life that I would go back and change if I could!

While running yesterday, I thought about this question....
and I realized this was going to be a Rambling Post!
It opened the Flood Gates...so here we go!

What would I change?

Maybe...
I wish I would have accepted the full ride scholarship to University of Utah and finish my degree. I signed on....but backed out, due to extreme eating disorders.

But...
If I had changed that part of my life I may not have met the man of my dreams...and I may not have experienced the last 14 years of Happy Marriage!

Maybe....
I would go back and change the way I stressed about not being able to have kids. We tried for 4-5 years to have a baby...NOTHING! I was so worried! I should have just fully embraced the time without kids....but I had NO idea....that I would soon be a rabbit!

But....
If I changed the way I looked at it...maybe my heart would not have been open to have as many kids as the Lord would allow me. Maybe I wouldn't have my 5 blessings!

Maybe....
I would change some of the business decisions that put a strain on our family and ultimately caused me to have to go back to work for 6 years and work 40-70 hours a week. And miss out on so much of my childrens young lives.

But....
Maybe I wouldn't grasp the amazing opportunity I have right now to be home with them. Maybe I wouldn't look at each moment as though it was made of gold. Maybe I wouldn't cherish each morning, mid day, and evening.

I came to the conclusion...
THAT I AM SO THANKFUL FOR EVERY MOMENT IN MY LIFE.
I am not sure I would change much....I would fear the effect that change would have on my life today!

WITH A CHERRY ON TOP!!!

Comments!

2010-08-28T04:25:00.001-07:00

I lOVE Comments!
They bring sunshine into my day!

Yet I often have a hard time getting my comments in...
I find myself reading blogs while waiting ....
whether it is in the grocery line
doctors office
soccer field
next to the toilet...(potty training)
while writing with chalk on the sidewalk
playing barbies...

I can't comment from my phone...so I always think,
"I will go back and comment tonight"

Instead, by the time I am done laying with each child, I usually fall asleep!
Then the next day hits...and busy, busy , busy!

This morning I got up extra early...
around 4:30!

I dragged myself out of my warm covers, and thought ...
"I have got to get my comments in"

I AM NOW EVEN MORE GRATEFUL TO YOU!
I have had the most amazing morning...
as I sit in my comfy chair...
reading all the great blogs..
getting inspired...
NO NOISE!
NO "MOMMY!"
and it is beautiful outside...

I am always up for the sunrise...
by I NEVER see it!

IT'S GORGEOUS!

3 Things Thursday!

2010-08-26T11:31:00.001-07:00

I Love 3 Things Thursday....
It's my unloading time...
Lucky You!!

1. Home school is better than I ever could have expected! I must have super good kids...because it is easy! Then again, it has only been a week! I guess I will be a better judge in a month or two!

2. I am going to run with the Junior High Kids twice a week! I am having a hard time finding a babysitter, who can come over right after school for an hour! As soon as I pass that hurdle, i am sure I will love the time! I truly enjoy working with kids. Especially, with running, because, running has blessed my life so much! I hope to pass that on! =)

3. I am running! I have not been updating my blog as to what I am running, because I am not sure it is very exciting. I jump on the treadmill whenever I get the chance. Sometimes, I get a solid 3-6 miles in, and other times it is a 1.6 or 2.2...due to KIDDIES! Sometimes, I have to run twice in order to get a decent mileage in! I figure anything is better than nothing. I'm just thankful that I can run!

Zero!!??

2010-08-23T10:28:00.000-07:00

About two weeks ago, a friend of mine, was wondering why the Cross Country Program at our school, seemed to be dying!
I discussed some of the experiences from my High School programs and College Program....both which were FANTASTIC, and SUCCESSFUL!!!

She called me last week, to inform me that there was ZERO new Freshman Cross Country Runners for this year....boy or girl!
ZERO!!!!

This was shocking!
How can not one single Freshman go out for Cross Country????

She also informed me that she has given my number to the head coach as a referral for someone who would help running with, coach, and recruit runners.....at the junior high level!
I am more than happy to help!
The fact that ZERO freshman are interested...scares me a bit!

I love running....I love racing....I love the team aspect...I love the competition!
All of which I believe are important for these kids to grasp early!
You can run your whole life!!!!
I want to pass this on...
How?

Do you have any tips of how to get the Junior High kids excited about running?
Do you know of a program that is good for beginning runners?

Running as it passes through the generations!

2010-08-16T06:38:00.000-07:00

I am so thankful that my dad taught me to enjoy running, and encouraged me to do my best!
He is still running...slow...but he finishes without stopping!
Here is the race that my daughters got to run with their GRANDPA!!!

For warm ups they did some high knees and then spent the rest of the time learning to whistle with a leaf!

Right before the start...the two little ones stayed behind with me and Grandma!

Grandma helped them look for alligators!

I was so proud of these two little girls!
This is Brooke's 3rd 5K...and she did not stop...plus...she encouraged Chelsea to not only finish her first 5K...but to do it without stopping!

It was a fantastic experience!

Then we went and had Ice Cream...

Tried to catch a Hornet...

And listened to good music!

I even got to meet some Blog readers...actually their sister Blogs....
HI JANE!

Finally we thought it was probably about time to go find Grandpa and finish with him!
So we all ran back...and came to the finish line with him...

He never stopped!

3 Things Thursday!

2010-08-05T10:33:00.000-07:00

1. This is the best week of my summer? It makes no sense! My house is a mess...my runs are at risk of extinction...and I haven't had time to put a stitch of make up on. BUT...My parents came in for a day...we ordered my curriculum...we took pictures with them...we ate good food, laughed...and just enjoyed them! Plus, My two nieces on my hubbies side came into town...and we are just going to have a ball...then we leave to go see our other Grand parents! I think I must be a FAMILY GAL!!!???

2. There was a 5k last night that I had planned to run with my sister. It would have been our first race in at least 15 years...together!!! I was super excited. Instead, my two girls wanted to run the 5K with Grandpa...when would they get the chance again? I did not want to leave my mom with the other 3 kids all alone...so I stayed and helped! I LOVED IT! I took pictures while my fantastic mom looked for Alligators with the kiddos..(we don't live in alligator country...but they had fun trying) Both my girls ran the entire way without stopping. When I get back from vacation, I will post the pictures! I was so proud of them...and shocked...I had hoped they would walk...but they are tough!!!

3. I need fun ideas to do with teenagers??? I am stuck in under 9 years old mode. Remember I live in a small town...so be creative!

A Family Affair!

2010-08-03T07:17:00.000-07:00

My brother came out to visit,
So why not have a race?
(NOT MY IDEA- but I did participate)

We raced a 200! x's 6
In the above picture...my sister and brother are in front...and I am trailing!

Okay...there is a picture that makes me look like I am in front...but I am really just racing my little guy!
After 6 races, and me losing every one....I was glad when it was all over!

My 2nd daughter, came up to me, and said, "Mom, now you know how I feel?"
"I'm always behind Brooke, and you always tell me, to just keep trying. The harder I work, the faster I'll get. Today I am going to tell you the same thing...the harder you work, MOM, the faster you will get!"

If you need an easy solution to putting kids to bed...
Have them race each other for an hour...
they will fall asleep, before their heads hit the pillow...literally!

I am enjoying running pain free...NO INJURIES!

Is it Love?

2010-07-31T19:58:00.000-07:00

How do you show love?

Here is the scenario....

Your spouse comes home from a long day at work. They are suppose to get their workout in, but they are too tired!

A. You say to them, "It's fine honey! Missing one workout is not going to kill you. Let me make you dinner and then I will rub your head!

B. "I know you had a long day at work, but you will feel better if you get your workout in!"

Today when we got home from a long day of stuff!
We were both tired...and both needed to run!

I was the "A" wife, and then I realized that I am always the "A" wife!
Is that truly LOVE?
If I loved him the most I would be a "B" wife!
So I feel proud today...as I put down my wooden spoon...and jumped on the treadmill!
And then encouraged him to do the same!

3 Things Thursday!

2010-07-29T05:56:00.000-07:00

1. Why do I eat all the baked goods that I make? I love to cook and bake! It's what I like to do for me time! The problem is that I eat it! There is a saying, "Never trust a thin baker!"

2. Probably the Biggest News for my life is.....I am homeschooling next year! All 5 of my kiddos! I know this is not a good decision for training. However, I am so excited about the opportunity to teach my kids, and travel with them! There is so much history I want to show them, and this is my chance. So I am doing it!!! I have the best situation in the world, my kids love school! We live in an area where the school system is FANTASTIC! So I can't go wrong. If it does not work for one reason or another, I can just put them back in school! NO PROBLEM!

3. My garden is small, but I love to pull fresh veggies out for dinner! The kids seem to enjoy trying new veggies, if they are the one who picked it out of the garden! I have always wondered how weeding can bring joy...and I am finding it! I enjoy taking a few minutes to weed around my flowers and my garden!

Just Rolling Out of Bed!

2010-07-26T07:12:00.000-07:00

This bedroom, brings a whole new idea to just rolling out of bed! Can you imagine?

I am not sure what all the tri athletes are doing her in my little town!
Our pool has been closed for 2 or 3 weeks, and right now, there is NO opening date!
I was bummed, because I sprained my ankle and was hoping to get some swimming in!

Good News is that my ankle is better!
and...
My treadmill is fixed!

Hip Hip Hooray!!!!

We Stick Together!

2010-07-15T09:35:00.000-07:00

Last Saturday I made a post of how excited I was to be back in the running swing of things!
Right after my post, I went on a run, with my Hubby! It is always a treat to be able to run together...I was on cloud nine!
We were at mile 3 when I looked over and saw the cutest picnic table sitting on a beautiful lot of Oak trees! I slipped into a day dream of the great picnic I was going to plan with my kiddos....when....BAM!!! BOOM !!!TUMBLE!!! TWIST!!!
I hit a pot hole and just trashed myself!
I twisted my ankle and bruiesd my whole left side!
I sat on that curb and cried...no I balded....maybe even a sob!
(I sobbed because I want to run...yes, my ankle hurt, but I wanted to run!)
My ankle was BAD!
I have had dozens of sprained ankle and this one was bad!
Mark carried me over to the picnic table, which now lost all it's luster!
All I could see was an old rusted picnic table, covered in spiders, and ants!
I tried to walk...but NO!
Mark, left to try and get help...thank goodness, because I would have sat there forever if he had not ran a mile and waved down a car!

It seems like we are a family who likes to stick together...
We like to play together
work together
and get injured together!

Chelsea stubbed her toe....not even an hour after I came home with my sprained ankle!

I stepped outside and saw Mark on the top of our hill, in front of our house. It is a BIG hill! He was riding Brooke's HiTide!
I said, "Mark your going to break your head!"
Mark, "NO! I'll be fine!"
So he takes off....and sure enough at the bottom of the hill he hits a pebble..and wipes out!
It looks like a down hill bike accident!
He was a bloody mess!
However, he did not Break his head!

What do you think he did?
He went straight up to the top of the hill again...AND DID IT!
STUBBORN BOY!

With our family covered in bruises and scratches!

I am very blessed, my ankle is NOT nearly as bad as I thought!
I am going to take the week off of running and then jump right back in!
I have cycled and lifted this week and plan to swim!
I have to admit, I am enjoying the change!

I made the paper!

2010-07-13T13:14:00.000-07:00

LOL!
This is the perk of living in small town America...
You can make the paper running 26 minutes!

Remember the race that had my blog name?
Running Rocks...
Well, this just confirmed that that race is mine!

Notice the headline....
Enjoying the run...
it's my blog address!

How Super Duper Fun is this?

I wish it was a picture of me and my hubby that made us look like super stars...but instead we look like us!
He looks like an ex football player...and I look like...well, ME!

(Mark, is in the gray, right out front. I am next to him in the white hat and blue shorts! =))

Awesome Week!

2010-07-10T05:21:00.000-07:00

This week has been AWESOME!
Back...early spring...when I just started this blog and just started running again...I sat down and made some goals!
And then life hit!
When I realized that I had set goals that my body was not ready for ...I got a bit discouraged!
Training fell apart...yes I had injuries...but I also was in a state of "What now?"
Then I totally blew my half marathon...and ran a 5k instead.
At that point I seriously was feeling like me and running where just not meant to be!
but...

I LOVE TO RUN!

I just needed to get my head back on and relax and understand that everything takes time!
I set aside goals of speed and activities that took more time then I was able to commit to.
Picked a new race, set up a schedule...
and now the past 2 weeks I have followed my 4 days a week plan to get me to a half marathon!
This week has been so fun because I am feeling the excitement all over again!
Plus, I can never stay on one plane of thought!
So I am racing my husband in a 200!
(remember he is running backwards)

Half marathon training and 200 training are not really the same...
But at this stage of running, it will all be fine!

Yesterday, my sister, who is known for her kick!
Took me to the soccer field.
We let our 8 children run around, while we practiced sprinting!

I can't believe that I ran in high school and college and never really developed those muscles!
(My husband tells me that it is not true, he claims that when we met, 15 years ago, I had speed....but I have NEVER beat ANYONE in the last 100 yard!)

I have to say....we just ran about 14 100's...8 at 90%...
OUCH...my arms were killing me!
No wonder I don't like my arms...I've been ignoring them for all these year....those poor things need some muscle!
So next week I am going to add 2 days of lifting to my 4 days of running!

I think this time I am not over setting goals...I can DO IT! =)

My Next Race!

2010-07-08T09:40:00.000-07:00

We are going to have a fun couple track meet...
in 2weeks
it only has two events!
My sister and her husband are going to race a 200!
and
Me and my hubby are going to race a 200!
Only in my race he is going to be running backwards and I am going to be running forward!

Believe it or not...
He is probably going to beat me!
He has never been beat backwards...NEVER...not even by his teammates in college!

I need to work on my sprint!
So it gives me a little motivation to work on SPEED!
plus
It is just FUN!

My last race, I finished 2nd in my age group!
So my sister asked me how far ahead #1 was.
I told her, maybe 50!?
She said, "You mean you could see her and you didn't go get her?"
She was in complete shock!

Family Freedom Run!

2010-07-06T06:55:00.000-07:00

This weekend has been so much fun...we started on Friday and ended with this race on Monday!
I ran the mile with Chelsea...
Then Mark, Brooke, and I ran the 5k!
Typically the 4th of July is blazing hot.
So I appreciated the misty cool day!
I ran the best 5k for this season....23:25

After 4 days of 4th of July fun!
I am happy to say I have a whole new attitude...
Thanks to a friend of mine!
They invited us to their lake home on Saturday to BBQ and then watch the fireworks over the lake...which I must say, was FANTASTIC!

I just happened to ask if he was still running.
"Every day...8 miles!"
me: "How?"
I just do it!
me: "I am having a hard time finding time:
"I don't have time, I take it from my sleep!"
me: speechless

I could tell he had No interest in my GIGANTIC list of excuses!

I knew he was right!
Every time that I have been able to be consistent with my running I have to do it EARLY!!!
I am sure that the majority of you would say the exact same thing?

Fair Weather Treadmill!

2010-06-30T19:32:00.000-07:00

What's a mom to do?
I have to get my runs in!

If I....

Go up this hill...

down this hill...

up this hill....
and then a few straight areas..
then I get 1 mile...
passing my kids at least twice!
then do it again...and again...until I reach the miles that I need!

It is actually a pleasant run...and I can get my run in!

Last time, my little 4 year old boy ran a full mile with me...hills and all...no stopping!
I was literally in shock...I had No idea he could run!
I would like to say that I was slowing up for him...but I think he was slowing to stay with me!
I had to make him stop...he wanted to keep going...but I didn't know how good it was for him???
All day today he has been asking me..."When are we running MOM?"
Seriously?
My oldest daughter told me, "Mom, today you ARE getting your runs in!"
I think they realize how much I want this...and that I dedicate my whole life to them...they are giving back...gotta love it! =)

HAPPY 4th OF JULY!!

Personalities!

2010-06-28T11:59:00.000-07:00

I don't think it really matters what personality one is...a running schedule or program always helps!
I would have to say...I am rather spontaneous....a little "fly by the seat of my pants" girl!
I'm Not overly structured!
(stopping laughing if you know me personally!)
I have always functioned well this way!
I love me...and am happy with the way the Lord created me!
BUT...
I need a program!
To help me stay on track....give me direction...and just plain, help me get to my race!
There are soooooo many wonderful training schedules on the internet!
Since I would consider myself at beginner level, I didn't spend the time to review very many!
I just googles half marathon training, picked one...and I am starting today!
4 days a week of running....hopefully cut down on injuries!

Since running is more mental than most people think....
I have to admit, that my personality gives me an advantage!
(We already know of the disadvantage...and that would be...I am always under trained)
But the advantage is, that I don't get worked up over small bumps in the rode.
Actually the opposite....I thrive on them!
Bumps like....

HILLs
HOT
HUMID
COLD
RAIN
MUD
SNOW
SICK
TIRED
JUST ATE
NOT READY
WRONG TURN
ECT.

Since the majority of runners that I am friends with both in the "real" world and the bloggy world, are great example of consistency!
Thank you !
If I could find just a bit of that I would do a ton better!
But I can offer the other side!
Enjoy each and every moment of each and every run or race!
Don't let the little things bother you!
At least YOU'VE done the training!
Now just BELIEVE!!!
BELIEVE IN YOURSELF!!!!!

How many????

2010-06-26T16:39:00.000-07:00

How many miles do you think I get in a day?
If I chase 3 non swimmers around the pool ALL day?

The Perfect Name!

2010-06-23T05:19:00.000-07:00

I was so excited to see my blogs name on the tshirts!
This would have been a perfect run...
IF...
we could have eliminated the EXTREME
HEAT
HUMIDITY
HILLS!

Oh My goodness!
This may have been the toughest race I personally have ever run!
It was 97 with a heat index of at least 110!
Blazing Hot!

Everyone was just beat!
But I loved this race...it was small and simple!
Perfect for getting in a run!

Mark, my hubby, is in the green!
And Mellissa is in the purple!
I am so proud of her, she just started running about 3 months ago...
and is on FIRE!
Amazing!

Small races are perfect for lifting moral!
I got first in my age group and 3rd overall!
There was 100 runners!

After, they did a tower run!
One at a time they had the runners run up the tower as fast as they could!
Most of the competitors had just run the 5k.

I decided not to do it!
Mark, did it in 38 sec.
OUCH...the thought hurts!

There are the tower climbers!

Try Again!

2010-06-22T07:45:00.000-07:00

Since my last half marathon turned into a 5K....I am going to try again!
There is a half in Sept.

My sweet sister thinks it is smart to run before racing!
I have learned to love running without races...and now I am getting use to racing without running!
It does leave my legs extra sore...but at least I can count on getting a run in every once in awhile!

Today I have a 5k here in town!
I figure if you schedule on every week...you can count on getting 3 miles guaranteed!

I do plan on finding consistency...and soon!

On the Road!!

2010-06-20T20:04:00.000-07:00

For Father's Day we hit the road...
It was time to relax and drive the country side!
We each took the chance to run.
I don't know what I was thinking ....
it was blazing HOT and I was in all black!

I ran on the main highway...
I wanted to get it over with...
probably NOT the safest run I have ever done!

I am always thankful for the opportunity to run!
I enjoyed every minute, and every diesel that whizzed by me!
I was a little freaked out, at what ever animal was lurking in the trees next to me!
I know it is probably my imagination...but I swear it was BIG!

Then it was Dad's turn...
being the smarter one, he waited until we came to a town!
I knew the kids were anxious to get out,
so I encouraged them to make signs for DAD,

Then they would wait at the mile marks and cheer him on!
They absolutely LOVED it...
I think he loved it too!

I hope all you Father's had a great Day!

My Treadmill

2010-06-17T19:04:00.000-07:00

I remember the day I went to buy my treadmill! I had talked to many friends who advised me NOT to get one! Most of them had invested in their treadmill, but not used it! I went against the advise they gave me and bought one for my husband for Christmas! (Kinda tricky...now that I think about it) I laugh at some of the features I paid up for....like speed at 12.0....oh that's been used a ton! -wink- (It wasn't for me...my husband only ran sprints...after lifting weights!- but he didn't use it for that either...since he has turned runner!)

IT WAS THE BEST INVESTMENT EVER!!!!!! WE HAVE USED THAT TREADMILL, AND ABUSED IT! I LOVE HIM! (My hubby too...but this is about my treadmill)

It is broken right now! I have had the tech out...and it needs $1000 in work. It's been down for about 1 month...and I need a treadmill. I wish I could run outside...the weather is so nice, but it never works...too many little ones! I have no problem with the repair cost...it is worth it! I just can't wait! It seems like the parts are taking forever!

We are looking to buy a second treadmill! What kind of treadmill do you recommend?

I DO have a Vertical!

2010-06-15T08:23:00.000-07:00

So my sweet kids survived without me!
I knew they would..but I just like to believe that they need me more than they actually do.
Although, their triathlon was canceled due to rain...BIG BUMMER!

As for my time in UTAH...it was FANTASTIC!
I hiked to the "Y"..(It's on a mountain...for BYU!)
I have always wanted to hike it...but never seem to fit it in!
Lucky for me, my race was more about running with family than actually racing, and so I was able to hike it the day before!

My sister, Cindy, and I put our babies on us...and booked it up that mountain.
About 1 min. into the hike, I realized that my "book it" pace would have to slow down to a mere stroll. We finished in 31 min.

I am more excited about my vertical.
I told the girl taking the picture.."try to get me in the air, it will be hard, because I don't come off the ground much!"
YIPPEE for air!

As for the race, it was a BLAST!
The best part was that I was running with family, and that we also had a cheering squad!
It is not very often that I get to have a whole section of people yelling for me!
And my DAD at the finish line!
Super Special!

(Above is my Aunt Eloise, my Aunt Nancy, and my brother Jeff!)

My newest Brother In Law toted Brady around while I ran the race!
I am so glad...he was well taken care of!
My sister Debbie made sure there was enough love for both those boys!

My Mom, Dad, and Jeff flew in from Arizona!
It was so fun to have them there!
Reminded me of all the many years that they spent going to races for me!
(Now I get to do that for my kids)

Here I am running, behind me is my sister, Cindy!
This is a fun picture, because I will never again have a picture with me in front!
She ran with me...she is WAY faster...but for some reason, my camera crew got a picture of me in front!
Thanks guys!
She ran right next to me for the finish line...I wish I had a picture of that!

This is my cousin Laura...it is her 2nd 5k, and she just started running!
I am so proud of her!

My Uncle Ivon...he too has done 2 5k's and he beat his time by 2 min.

My cousin Steph...she also has run 2 5k's and I wish I would have captured her little gig...she is full of fun!

As for the race itself, I was rather disappointed!
They did not have any porta potties for the start of the 5k...I was in BIG trouble...I feel blessed that my bladder held!
The finish line was caotic...with the full and half finishing together!
But with all the family there...it was SUPER Fun!

I ran an unofficial 24:33

I'm Out of Here!

2010-06-10T03:21:00.000-07:00

Unbelievable!!!
I am 1 hour away from going on my first ever trip away from the kids.
(Not completely...Brady is coming)
I love taking my kids with me...so I am actually more sad than glad.
But since they can't go,
I am going to have a BLAST!

Originally I was planning on running a half marathon, but due to injuries mixed with busy life, I did not get the correct training in.
I would have probably just run it out of pure stubbornness, except my husband, encouraged me to just run the 5k.
Now that the day is almost here, I am thankful it all worked out this way.
I have an Uncle and a couple of cousins running the 5k with me.
It will be nice to all be in the same race

Have a great weekend!

70 and perfect!

2010-06-07T20:23:00.000-07:00

I have not been able to go outside, due to extreme allergies!
It is such a bummer, missing out on all the beautiful weather!
But tonight I decided to go for a run and pay the price!
We just had a heavy rain and so usually that will push all the pollen down for a time!
My daughter, Brooke came with me.
We had a Wonderful run of talking, laughing, and just enjoying the special time together!
I was 100% pain free!!!!!
I think if I will take it slow...I may be able to be a runner!
What a great opportunity to have one on one time with Brooke!

PLUS...NO RUNNING EYES AND RUNNING NOSE...ALLERGIES STAYED IN CHECK!
LOVE IT!

I am Giddy with Excitment!

2010-06-04T14:04:00.000-07:00

I am having the time of my life!
Summer is here...Kids are home...and everything is perfect!
Except that my allergies are all flared up..and I can't go outside and enjoy the beautiful heat!

So Next week which originally was my marathon...turned into half marathon...and now is the 5k....Is coming FAST!
I get to fly to UTAH with just my baby..(First time leaving the rest behind...which is not the good part... I love to have my kids with me)
But I get to meet a whole bunch of first cousins and an Aunt and Uncle whom I have not met...or remember meeting!
We have connected through the blog world, and now we are running a race together!
Plus to make GOOD...GREAT..I get to meet my sisters first baby...my little niece!
PLUS...I know there is more... I get to see my mom and dad and my other sister!
This is just too much!

Bad news...my two oldest girls are participating in a tri that same weekend!
I will miss it!
I am so sad...they have cried many nights!
I feel like a bad mom...but when we signed up I told them I would not be able to watch them.
It didn't sink in until now!
But I am thrilled that they are doing it!
I think it is a fun, small, low pressure race with a TON of experience for them!
After they get to watch the elite race.
We have been watching them for years now...it is awesome!
Plus, last year Brooke got a picture with Shawn Johnson...so if we could double that for Chelsea...it could be the top of all tops for her!

My injuries are well rested!
If there is one thing I am good at....it would be resting those injuries!

I look forward to a great summer!
Have Fun!
Remember your sunscreen!!!!

Is This The End of the Road?

2010-05-27T20:42:00.000-07:00

Or Just the Beginning?

This post is sooooo very over due!

Is it NOT obvious yet????
That I may need some HELP!

If I didn't care about running...and fitness...then there would NOT be a problem!
So the problem is I do care!
But I am not finding the time or energy...anywhere!
I am wondering if maybe I need a personal trainer???
Some one to tell me what to run...what to eat...what to wear! =)

What I am doing is NOT working....
Maybe because I AM DOING NOTHING!!!
(Often....Nothing brings not such great results)

I am a firm believer in the Harder you Work the Luckier you get...
Well, let's just say my luck may have run out!

Does anyone one use online trainers?
Who?
Does it work for you?
Do you feel like you can still get the needed council?
Who do you use?

I have said this 100 times...and I will say it again...probably another 100 times!
Thanks for all the great comments!
You guys keep me going!

I promise to get everyone's blogs read...
and I am sorry for falling behind...
I miss reading them...it is the best blogging community around!

Need Rest?

2010-05-26T06:50:00.000-07:00

Out of all the useful bike ideas...this one grab my attention the most!
Now that is a "Home on Wheels!"

I am thankful I get to come home and rest...I really don't want to carry my home on my back..or bike!

Our Bodies Heal!

2010-05-21T11:59:00.000-07:00

The other day I posted about my families temporary club...of the injured!
Well, I am always amazed at how our bodies heal!
This is a picture of Brooke's rip, on her had.
I took this picture 3 days after the actual injury!
It was one of the worse rips that her coach had ever seen.
Her entire skin was gone...not just the top layer, or a couple layers...it was just ripped.
It's the kind of injury that all you can do is just wait for the body to heal.
For some reason, as I looked at her hand, I had a hard time believing that the skin was just going to regrow.
Well, it has done just that.
She is back to normal, everyday activities...gymnastics and tennis.
AMAZING

I have to admit that I often feel like I am going to be injured forever!
I need to have FAITH in our miraculous bodies and know that they DO heal!
I think the number one key to healing, is to allow the body the correct amount of time to rest and repair itself.
That is hard to do when your working against time lines...but if not....More Injuries are the results!

I guess it would be like speeding on the way to a meeting that your already late to...but then you get pulled over by a cop, given a ticket, and now your even further behind and it was costly!

I probably have a tendency to SPEED!
...and to get pulled over!

Have a Great Weekend!

Just another Fad Diet????

2010-05-20T07:09:00.000-07:00

I live in a small town....10,000 people!
I am floored with the % of people who are participating in this new diet. Since this is a blog of running, most of you live healthy lifestyles! I am curious what your take is on this diet. It was originally designed to help obese people get ready for surgery. Now it is blanketing my town. I personally know of at least 2 dozen people on it, most of them who had "some" weight to loose, but NOT obese!

If you have never heard of it....they send you all your food. Which means it is ALL processed! It is set up so that the dieter consumes 900 calories a day. They do not encourage physical activity, due to the low calories.

Everyone that I know is loosing weight, and loosing it fast!

It is a multilevel product.

I can not say that I have gone to any clinics, or really studied it. So my information may be off a tad here or there. But I just don't see how this is healthy at all, or that it is teaching good life long habits.

It seems that every day I find another friend who has decided to "giver herself or himself a boost"!

What is your opinion?

Missing Running!

2010-05-19T16:00:00.000-07:00

I have been missing running lately!
I do hope that this is a short lived option!
I have tried to just enjoy the walking time that I have!
I must say that my family is loving it and hoping that I never recover!
Just this week alone, the kids and I have walked to almost every park in town!
I really should walk more even when I am able to run again...it is just hard to find time for everything!

Once a week, my hubby and I go on a date....just us...No kids!
It is a must!
I love the time together!
This week, since we are both injured, we decided to walk to dinner, eat and walk home!
6 miles later and one of the best dates we have ever had...we are now going to make that a regular part of our date night!
The only down side, is that my date night is one of the only times I get out of mommy or workout mode and dress up!
I love it, I even wear high heels and ditch the running shoes...but I don't think I will walk 6 miles in my heels!

I am going to catch up on everyone's blogs tonight...after I put all the kiddos to sleep!
Have a Great Day...and run a few for me!

You may not want to join our Club!?

2010-05-15T14:43:00.000-07:00

My House, has officially become the Injured Club!
I think I posted a little late about shin splints..and I am soooooooooo very thankful for all the great advice! I have taken it all in and put it immediately into action!
I just wish I would have posted about it weeks again...instead of just running!
I am always thinking .... "Quit being a wimp!"

1. I am taking this week off running (that has never happened -wink-)
2. I bought new shoes!
3. I am taking advil, and icing!

My hubby....pulled his hamstring, while going for a quick break during noon ball!
Brooke ripped her hand up in Gymnastics....severely...and will not be able to practice for a couple of weeks...at least!
Brady is teething...and full of tears...and chomping!
Luke got a paper cut!
Annika got a hair cut from Luke, and though there is not any physical pain...it is an injury all the same!
Chelsea has a case of early childhood heartache, since I was not able to make it to her last field trip of the year.
Hers caused the most tears....and all out sobbing!

So we are going to have a BIG BREAK PARTY!
NO cake allowed...only fresh fruits and veggies...and some raw almonds! =)

All I can say is it could be worse!

Enjoy your weekend!
Good Luck to all who are racing!

Shin Splints!

2010-05-12T18:44:00.000-07:00

In all my years of running, (or lack of running), I have never had shin splints!
I have had every other injury...but not this one!

Does anyone have a good suggestion?

I have iced them...and I do exercises with my feet....like making the alphabet!
But they are still on fire!

As far as I know it is safe to run on shin splits...
right?

It seemed like in track and cross country the coaches gave little notice to shin split complaints...so I'm guessing it means that it is uncomfortable, but not damaging?????

Does anyone know what causes shin splints?
Is it being heavy?
or
Lack of Muscle?
or
Need of more stretching?

Thanks again for all the great comments and encouragement....YOU GUYS KEEP ME GOING!!!!

MOM'S WEEKEND!

2010-05-10T10:38:00.000-07:00

I love to be a mother...it comes 1st in my life!
So for me every day is MOTHER'S DAY...because I love what I do and I love my KIDDOS!

This year Mother's Day fell on the Sunday after our city's Dutch Festivities!
So My Weekend was full of
Family, Fun, and Festivities!

Here we are all dressed up...ready for anther Dutch Parade!
It really is fun..and exhausting!

(Take Note: of my running shoes...I am suppose to have wooden shoes on or Black shoes...but I prefer my running shoes!)

I truly can't get enough of these little ones!
I must be the LUCKIEST MOM ALIVE!!

As for my workouts....Let's review!

Running:
Ran a race with my husband and it really got me excited again!
Had a second good run
And then when I went to run my long....I only went 4 instead of 10!
What's up with me thinking I can cut my longs short?
I am really disappointed!
Other than I can say I enjoyed the 4!
I may not enjoy my half marathon though...when I show up unprepared!

PX90:
I shattered the standing joke around here.... (at my house)
When I say I am going to do PX90...that really means Chest and Back again!
Well, I have successfully done the second workout!
I'm one proud mommy!

Biking and Swimming:
What is that?
I am going to google "How to find more time!" Today!

Weight:
Am I allowed to be happy with stable?
NO loss, No gain!

All in All I had a great Week!
And I am ready to do it again...maybe even better!

Kim is Here!

2010-05-07T17:34:00.000-07:00

I decided to post a picture of us after our race on Wednesday, since I did not take the time to download it before posting about the race.
I was so excited to be back running, that I couldn't wait!

Now for the reason why I was so out of routine!
First, I'm not a routine person...so it is easy to throw me off!
Second, my sister, Kim moved here, and we had 8 kids under 9 in one house for 2 weeks...we were all out of whack!

I may have gone 2 weeks without running, but she is going to whip me into shape.
She is 10 years younger than me...and has always been faster than me!
(And thinner....but whose paying attention???? ... ME...)
This is the sister who would come to all my track meets...she wrote papers about me being her hero....and then when her turn came she blew ALL my times out of the water!

So we went running this week...she has not run in a year...she is AWESOME!
She just played with me...she wasn't even breathing hard...infact, she may not have been breathing at all!
I am Super Nervous and even more excited!
We all know that the best way to get better is have your little sister chase you!

I am in need of a new pair of shoes...
from what I read I should go barefoot...but I am not ready for that stage!

After watching my good friend run in these shoes...I will not be complaining too much!
She claims her feet feel better in these than her running shirt!

5K Race Report!

2010-05-05T19:48:00.000-07:00

Today was our city's annual 5k! It's a great time for the whole family...the little ones do a 2 block run and then Mark and I run the 5k! Last year and this year my oldest daughter, now 9, ran the 5k with her friends. Well, before I give you the race report, last time I ran the race, 2 years ago, Mark asked me to run with him! The gun went off and I couldn't help but to race and so I ran my own race! He was so upset...He asked me NOT to tell him I would run with him if I was NOT going to! I told him that I liked to race and most likely would NOT "run with him" at races!

Today came, and of course I was going to run, even though I have been 14 days without running, and having a very difficult time getting motivated! Once again he asked if I wanted to run with him. I agreed! Once again the gun went off and I had to do everything in my power to hold myself back from racing.

The third mile I was so excited, I knew that if we maintained our pace Mark would be able to get his goal time. (he wanted to be in the 25's) So I started to encourage him to stay with me and I would pace him to his goal! Oh, he was steaming! So there we are running a race, 1 mile to go, and we are fighting! I couldn't believe it! So I just decided to relax, let him pace and to enjoy myself! We finished in 26:10ish! He was thrilled...I was thrilled...and NO, we were not in a fight!

I was so happy, because I felt great the entire time! I could talk normal....my breath was relaxed...and my mind clear! This is EXACTLY what I needed! I needed a good run to feel positive again! I needed the race to get me all pumped up again! And I needed to realize that it is okay to run races differently and to develop different talents, that in the end will result in faster times. For example, I am the queen of taking the first mile WAY TO FAST! And then hanging on for dear life...until the end! My first mile today was 7:59 and felt fantastic...so if I would teach myself to run a controlled first mile, pick it up 2nd, and then kick it in 3rd...I think I could have more success! But it is hard to teach an old dog new tricks. So we will have to see!

LET'S DO IT!

2010-05-02T18:38:00.001-07:00

JUST ANOTHER MANIC MONDAY!

I absolutely LOVE Mondays!!!

They always give me a new start...why wait till Monday...I have NO idea!

Good thing they come every 7 days...or I would be in BIG trouble!

So I admit...I have been slacking...10 days with zero running!

I would hardly say I was playing....no way!

I have been working my tail end off!

(Except now my tail end is Bigger)

Makes NO sense!

I am super excited and kind of scared to jump back in!

I mean I do have a half marathon in 6 weeks...I kind of need to run...but my last run was a horrible one!

And yet the weather is perfect!

I just love it...in my mind I feel like I could run for hours without stopping...and then I run to the mailbox and remember that running is not as weightless as I would like to pretend!

So heres to wishing everyone a great Monday and a great Week!

LET'S DO IT!!!

Take time to Flip

2010-04-30T13:41:00.000-07:00

While coaching high school girls in Gilbert, AZ, the coach taught me that the best way to teach young ones to love running and to excel at running is to teach them to have fun!
Once a week he would have them play a game that involved lots of running, but that they would not feel like they were working...more just for fun!
It worked year after year for him...he was State Champs or runners up almost every year!
I loved the example...especially now that I have young kids!

So with that said...I hope jumping on the trampoline counts as working out!

MIA

2010-04-29T09:06:00.000-07:00

It's been a week since I blogged or read blogs...
and I feel like it's been a life time!
Well, maybe not quite a life time...but I can't wait to catch up on all the exciting things everyone has been doing!

As for me...my life has been CRAZY!
And in a Wonderful way!
My sister moved here!
HOORAY for me!
and my cousin came to visit...DOUBLE HOORAY!

I have not ran, biked, swam, yoga-ed, lifted, or anything...except walk and climb the tower...for a whole week!

But I have to admit....I'VE HAD A BLAST!

Grand Blue Mile!

2010-04-23T04:55:00.000-07:00

Both of my girls ran!
Brooke is the one in the pink shorts, and her friend Jacque is in the black shorts!

Chelsea was the youngest competitor!
She decided last minute to run...and she did awesome!

It was such a great event to have the girls go to!
We stayed and watched the Competitive runners and the Elite!

They got to go on the podium and be interviewed and they got a signed painting from Suzy Favor Hamilton!

The the winner for the Women's Elite was incredible!
She took the time to make the girls feel like a million bucks!
She autographed their shirt, gave them her race number, and autographed it, and then gave them her winning flowers too!
Amazing!

The winner of the Men's Elite...was gracious as well!
He too autographed their t-shirts and took pictures with them!
(He has the second fastest mile time in the world!)

There was not many kids who stuck around to watch the Competitive and Elite runners...so my girls got to embrace all of it!
I am so thankful I took them, and we will be back next year for more!

My young ones PARTIED the whole time...
they danced to the band, played in dirt, ran around, and just wore themselves out!

It ended up being a late night....and well worth it!

This was the kick off for the Drake Relays...I am so excited to go watch the races on Saturday!

Double Standard

2010-04-22T07:25:00.000-07:00

I was suppose to go for a long run yesterday, 10 miles, I headed out...and felt horrible! After 3.5 miles I turned around and figured that I would just have to settle for 7..and try to fit 10 in on Saturday! Well, I passed a friends house and she was in the yard....I can't believe what happened next! I asked for a ride home! YUP! I quit! I ran 3.5 miles and asked for a ride home! I know for a fact her husband will NEVER let me live it down...I may never!

Since that moment of quitting...I have been sulking in self pity! And yet, I can't sulk too much, because my life is the best! I have never been happier! I have a Fantastic Husband who works hard everyday, and then comes home with a smile on his face, prepared to play Lions and Tigers with the kids, before I put them down to bed! (or usually after I already put them in bed...he gets them out...plays the game and them back they go!...Odd routine!) I have 5 children, who give me 100% pure joy all time! We have so much fun together....I really need nothing else! (Except you...my dear blog buddies....I live in a virtual social world!)

So this morning I sat down and was trying to figure everything out!

Probably the hardest part of my fitness life is that I am carrying 10-20 pounds too much weight. If I did what I am doing now, 2 years ago, I would have been back to my normal weight. I really am trying...but my metabolism has dropped....(probably lack of muscle)! I realize as life goes on this is only going to continue to get tougher. So why do I have a hard time making the adjustments needed? I think it is because I am a human trash disposal...I munch on all my kids left overs!

Then, my wise husband solved the problem....If I fed them what is healthy it would not matter if I munched behind them. So I have a double standard of what they need and what I needed! Honestly, it is not different! Their young bodies need the same healthy nutrients to build a strong body as mine! I am thankful, for this little breakdown...so that I could realize that not only do I need to eat better...but they do as well. In the end we will both win!

Tiptoe Through The Tulips!

2010-04-21T04:34:00.000-07:00

We are covered in Tulips!
It is so AWESOME to run through town....every street is lined in different colored tulips!

I generally prefer to run out of town on the dirt country roads...as much as possible!
But, for right now, I am running in town, and enjoying every minute!

We have a Tulip Festival every year...and this year I think it may be a stem Festival...the Tulips are out a bit early!

Have a Great Day and Enjoy Spring!

Silver Rocks!

2010-04-20T05:30:00.000-07:00

Have you ever used Silver?

I have it in every form!

I love it!

While we were in Florida, I discovered a new way to use it!
We were running on a not very often used trail!
I was in long pants, but my husband was in shorts.
He broke out in a sever rash...all over his legs!
It itched like none other!
He took the silver and sprayed it all over his legs...
ITCH GONE!
He continued to apply the silver in spray or gel form for 3 days...and then it was all GONE!

Saturday's Run!

2010-04-18T15:16:00.000-07:00

I forgot one simple way to run faster...Run with people who are faster than you!
It has the same effect as the treadmill....
The choice is simple...
Run faster...keep up!!!

So this is exactly what happened to me!
I usually run by myself...plod along...hoping someday I will pick the pace up!
Occasionally, I get to run with my husband...and then, we are too nice to each other!
(Which makes NO sense, because we are extremely competitive with each other)

But when we run, we slow down for each other!
Probably to emphasize to the other one that we are NOT as tired..
Lot of good that does!?

So Saturday, I was meeting up with a couple of ladies...
We were going to run 5 together...
The pace was fast...at least for me!
I am proud of myself for keeping up with them...and I hope to run with them on as many Saturdays as I can..they are the ticket to helping me run faster!

It took a lot out of me though...I felt like I had ran a race!
So I guess, I may have been a tad cranky...just a tad!

On the way to the State Gymnastics Meet, my 6 year old daughter said,
"Mom, I know why your cranky! You went to bed late, because you were on a date with Dad. Then you got up early to run, and the girls you ran with, were faster than you! But you didn't want them to know they were faster, so you ran fast and stayed up with them. Now your tired, and we have to have a Cranky mom!"

My Response:
"Yup, that is pretty much exactly how it all happened!"

How does my 6 year old know how this all works...and I am still trying to figure it out?

I hope everyone had a great weekend!
I look forward to reading all the race reports...and the non race one! ;-)

Run Faster?

2010-04-16T11:58:00.001-07:00

I had a good friend ask me yesterday, "How do I increase my pace? I can run forever at the same pace!"

As far as I know the best way to run faster...is to practice running faster!
So If you are in a rut, or a plateau, and you just don't seem to be getting faster...you need to implement speed workouts!
Early on in a training program, hills are a great way to build leg strength, which in return will increase your pace! When I say running hills, I mean actually planning a workout with hill repeats....or up a mountain! We don't have any mountains, but we have tons of hills. In fact, it is hard to run without running hills...but it is different! If your intent is to strength your legs and increase speed, then find a good hill. Size would depend on what distance your training for! Warm up for a mile or two, and then run repeats.....jogging (recovering) on the down hill!

My next favorite early on speed workout is just fartleks...run hard for 3 min. then jog for 3 min. You can choose your duration, but rest (jog) for the same time! Save the 1 min. intervals for closer to race time!

Tempo runs are my absolute favorite! Probably because that is my strong point. I am not as good on the track....so I should be on the track more!

Which brings us to track intervals...there are so many fun intervals to do!
I most often hear of people doing 800's!...Those are tough!
I get bored...and need variety...so I prefer to do ladders...
example would be 1200, 800, 600, 400, 400, 600, 800 ,1200!
(Now that is not an example of one I have done lately....but would love to be able to) =-)

The bottom line is you have to train your legs to run faster, increasing duration over time!

"If you do what you've always done, you'll get what you've always gotten"

What is your favorite way to increase your pace?

Bike Shopping!

2010-04-14T14:44:00.000-07:00

I stopped by the local bike shop to get a bike for training...and I thought these cruiser bikes looks nice and comfy!
There was a beautiful lime green one....
But the nice man, told me, maybe I should get a different bike for Tri's?!

I will be honest...it is all a bit overwhelming!

Running is so simple!
Buy a pair of shoes, or not, and then run!
That's it!

This is a whole new experience!
He told me there was a lady with a used Tri bike, and it was my size.
So I can't wait to get the info, so I can tap into the LARGE amount of knowledge on the blogsphere....and see if it is a good deal!

And then I have to buy stuff...all kinds of stuff....
helmet, shoes, clothes, bottles....UNBELIEVABLE!

I did go to a cycling class yesterday!

It was tough!!!!
Super Duper Tough!!!

"NO FROG LEGS!"
"PULL UP , PUSH DOWN"
"STAND, SIT"
"INCREASE TENSION"

Can't I just ride my bike?

So tell me....Is it difficult to learn all I need to learn?

Hip Relief!

2010-04-13T07:39:00.000-07:00

I have been a little frustrated lately...my hip has been screaming in pain!
In fact, I only ran 2 times last week and 2 times the week before!
I am not one to complain much about pain....I just figure everyone has it...so just do it!
But this hip got out of control!

I have only been to a Chiropractor once in my life!
I have so many friends who go once a week or at least once a month.
To me that just sounded like a BIG scam!
So I have stayed away!
Well, I needed to run...so I humbled my stubborn self and called the Chiropractor!
He did his thing...crack this...pop that and I stood up and it felt better.
Not 100% , but better!
I mean this thing has been killing me while I am laying in bed!

So I tested it yesterday.
I ran 7 miles...It felt about 75% better! That is all I need!
I am nervous to open up much...I can tell I am super hesitant!
But at least I am back in the game!

And I will be going back to my Chiropractor...maybe on a regular basis! =)

It's Been Beautiful!

2010-04-12T06:39:00.000-07:00

One of our favorite family activities to do is to do repeats of the watch tower!
It is 180 steps!
As soon as the weather gets nice...my kids start asking if we can go to the tower!
Mark and I love it, because all the kids are confined inside the gates and we can do repeats!

Mark, carries the baby...and does pull ups!
I am NOT that tough yet!

These two are afraid of heights...and so they sit and protect each other, while the rest of us do our thing!

Brooke's whole goal every time is to beat Dad!
She wants to do more repeats and she want to finish them first!
She did 10...and she was done way before either one of us!

Eventually we all made to the top. After Luke and Chelsea finally reached the top and realized that they were NOT going to fall...they were maniacs...and both finished at least 7!

Anni...is 2...and refused to have help up.
She completed 3 full repeats...even though she ended up crawling the last one!

When she gets to the top....She Parties Like a Rock Star!!!!

After I finished my repeats..
I thought it would be fun to do one as fast as we could...get a time...and then we can improve on it all season!

One thing I can't stand to do is lose...and I lost!
I did it is 1:26
Brooke 1:08
and Mark :35!

That is smokin'...I can't believe he did that!
He is so explosive...(He played Division 1 Football)
But I am so determined to beat him....it is going to take some hard work!
I have zero explosiveness in my legs!
He wants to beat me in a 5k...and I want to get him on the tower!

Bottom line...he is way closer to beating me in the 5k...so I need to keep my edge there first!

He gave it his all on that 35 sec. tower climb. He felt like puking for about 10 min. and then when he finally got up...he couldn't talk normal!

What is your favorite way to sneak a workout in...without the kids knowing!
They think we are just playing! =)

The Stinky part of Running!

2010-04-09T07:14:00.000-07:00

When I was trying to come up with a name for my blog...I thought of many different ideas! The reason I decided on "Enjoying the run," was because that is exactly what I wanted to learn how to do! It was time to enjoy the run! Not that I have not always enjoyed running. But I would have to say that the reason I have always liked to run is for competition. I love to compete...against myself...but it is always been a competitive thing for me. In fact, I ran just so I could race! I have always been amazed at the runner who runs everyday, just out of pure love of running!

I actually never realized this about me, until a couple of years ago. When a dear friend of mine, Kris, was running with me! It was right around our towns Tulip festival, so as we ran she mentioned all the beautiful tulips and other blooming spring beauties. And then she said, "Oh I love the smell of fresh baked dutch spice cookies!" I thought to myself, I don't smell anything. So I took a big sniff, and couldn't believe what my senses smelled, flowers, fresh spring air, dutch cookies, and many more! I think that may have been the first time that I smelled while running!

I am serious. This is how I run...I just run! I don't look around...I don't smell....I don't even hear! I just run! So I decided that day to start to enjoy running more! Of course it is difficult to teach an old dog new tricks...and so I slowly fell back into old ways!

So when I started running this year I decided that I was going to put aside the whole competition thing and enjoy everything around me as I ran. Once again, I started, then immediately started to make goals...all which were based on running faster! I forgot what I wanted to teach myself.

So lately I have been evaluating what I am doing and have decided to scrap all my previously written goals. I am going to enjoy running...I am going to see ....I am going to smell! I am excited to try a Tri! I am still going to race, and maybe even PR, but I am not going to set expectations on myself...not this year! I am going to let my body fully recover from being so depleted...and slowly get back into shape!

With that all said, I went on a run yesterday...no pace or distance, I just ran for time. I ran out 35 minutes and them back! While I was running I thought , I really don't know how to do this. I had stared at the road the entire time! (I know...poor running form....been doing it my whole life!) So I decided to take a deep sniff, and enjoy the air.

I about fell over backwards....my nose hairs burned with the intense aroma!

And then I looked over to the left and there was a freshly hit road kill....a skunk!
That smell is still in my nostrils and will remain FOREVER!

Next time I am going to check out the scenery before I smell!

2010-04-08T08:34:00.000-07:00

How come when I run against the wind on the way out...I am so excited to be pushed on the way home...and then the wind STOPS!
or at least it sure feels like it!
I am starting to believe the stories of my dad walking to and from school uphill in the snow!

Yesterdays 4 miles was 2 miles against the wind and 2 other miles against the wind!

I think I finally get it!

2010-04-07T08:07:00.000-07:00

I have been HUMBLED!

I have really been down lately....
After each of my first 4 babies...I was able to just bounce back...no problem. Maybe not to the same level...but I could train for a couple weeks and then run a competitive 10k or 5k!

Not this time...it has been HARD!
I suffer from the syndrome....YOUR36ANDYOUTHINKYOUR20!
Any of you had that syndrome?

Ever since my race on Saturday I have been HUMBLED over and over again to the point that I just want to say "I GET IT!"

Saturday, after the race, I had to get an Easter dress for my oldest daugher...again....this will be #3...she is just getting picky...and yet still wants one!
So we go to the mall, while I am there I see 3 life changing situations....almost like the ghost of Christmas past, present and future!

As we are walking in, there are two women in there 20's that both weigh about 400 pounds. Making it difficult to walk! My heart breaks...here I am complaining about loosing 10-15 pounds. When really I should be thankful that the Lord blessed me with an able body to not only be able to walk...but run! I quickly said a prayer in my heart for them...that they would be able to find what they were looking for and that they would have a good Easter and that others would not be critical of them!

We get in the store...find the right section and pick out about 7 dresses! There are lots of mothers with their daughters doing the exact same thing. As the daughters try on their dresses the girls come out and model for the mom! I look over to my left and there is a mom who is blind, with her white walking stick and her daughter, leading her to a safe spot. The daughter walks into the dressing room with her stack of dresses and we don't see her again. I can't help but to feel like crying as I can only imagine how hard this would be. The mother sat quietly on the side as all of us "oohed" and "ahhed" about the dresses our daughters were trying on. Finally, her daughter came out with the dress she picked out, she walked up to her mom, and with their own special process, they shared the moment of picking out the Easter dress. Completely different than what any of us were experiencing! I was filled with warmth as I realized how good God is and how he allows us to have JOY even when we have obstacles! I think maybe they enjoyed their shopping more than the rest of us moms, as we felt rushed and impatient at times! Once again I found myself offering a quiet prayer for that sweet mother!

Time to grab a shirt for Luke, and as if I had not already been humbled.... I saw a mother walking next to her young paralyzed son...maybe 10 years of age! Here I stood, tired, and flustered with my 5 healthy kids. There must have been an accident, but her son would never be the same. Their lives would never be the same. And yet, once again I could feel joy and happiness from them. Yes! More than I felt from others.

Is it not our obstacles that make us stronger?
The last three days I have enjoyed life more...and remembered that I am blessed!!!!

I am so thankful to be able to run!
And to be able to run with my kids!

Completed the Race or Run!?

2010-04-05T06:59:00.000-07:00

I had it all planned out! I would get up at 6am, pack the car with diapers, lunch, water, kid activities, and extra clothes! Then I would wake up the kids and feed them breakfast, and be out the door and on our way by 7 am.

Around 6:30 my husband came down to the computer room and said, "Oh your not going to run?"
"Yes, I am !"
And he left! He figured I knew what I was doing.
As I came up stairs I noticed the clock on the stove said 7:38! Oh NO, I had forgot that my cell phone time is an hour off...there was NO way to get everything done. If I left right that moment I would maybe make it....yet all the kids were still sleeping!

I decided to race!
I threw all the kids in the car, and headed out. I am pretty sure that would have been a record time for leaving with 5 kids. Of course I had not prepared anything like planned! No food, water or activities...I was just praying that the babysitter was there! (My husband did opt to go to work rather than run)

I was able to get there...find the babysitter....and get all the kids in the stroller and ready to watch...with 3 minutes to spare.

Those are my cheerleaders and the reason I run. I need all the energy I can muster to keep up with their active lives!

It was a small race ....160 participants!

As I ran to the start line...the gun went off...I was NOT able to warm up or even prepare mentally!

I did not wear a garmin or an ipod....I never have in a race....and so I have no idea what we ran for the first mile! All I know is that from around that mile point, my mind was shot. I can't believe the negative chatter that was going on in my head. I have never experienced anything like it!

"Just stop and tell the kids that you couldn't do it today"
(No way jose....I was not about to quit and let the kids see me)

I decided to slow down the pace...relax and calm down.

Around this point we went from pavement to trail...I am guessing it was about 1 1/2 miles into the race! I was so thankful for the trail and the mud, even though I did slip quite a few times. But it helped calm me down.

Here I am finishing in the all black....40:35!
I was thrilled!
I was glad that I still had my head on....I had so much talking going on in my head, I felt like taking it off and throwing it to the side!
One time I raced with a CD Player (before ipods) and I did just that...I threw it!
Although I think I would have enjoyed an ipod this time!

Here is the beautiful Lake that we ran around!

The best part of small races is that you can have an off day and still medal!
I got 5th overall for women....and 1st in my age group!
Which made the kids think I was WONDERFUL!
They are the reason I was able to finish the race....and I loved that they were proud of me!

A couple times over the weekend I would start to voice frustrations about the race...and say negative comments...and my husband would remind me that I need to be the example of doing my best and then being proud of it!

My oldest girls sat down with me and talked to me about what I think I could have done better....and what preparations I could improve on!
(Just like I do with them when they have a gymnastics meet or a soccer game!)
It truly made me smile!

Yesterday I was ready to post all the negatives
But today I am ready to POST only POSITIVES!

I truly needed this race and not for the reasons I thought I needed it!
I thought I needed to know what to run my tempo run at!
I thought I needed a time to improve on!
But what I really needed was to remember to ..."ENJOY THE RUN!"
In fact, I may not run tempo runs or intervals for awhile!
I think I will focus on building a base!

It's Time!

2010-04-03T05:06:00.001-07:00

The reality of time is that we all have the same amount! Yet, it is still NOT enough! I am sure the majority of you would agree that life is busy and it is extremely hard to fit everything in! This is the conversation I had with my husband last night as he tried to get out of running the race we have scheduled for this morning! He has been swamped at work and putting in long hours....therefore he has missed most of his runs this week! It really does not matter what the situation is...you have to make time to run, and you have to know that running is forgiving! It will wait for you to get through stressful moments of life! It is so easy to feel that if we miss a work out or two or three that we have ruined our whole schedule. We will Never be ready for the race! NOT TRUE! I believe the stress of missing the workout is the only damaging factor. You have to have confidence in what your doing...and have faith in the fact that previous training will cover you in time of absence!

So with that said...today is my first race....READY or NOT!

I hope he runs with me....but regardless, I am going to go and do the best I can!
It is natural to feel unprepared...which is what keeps popping into my head. I have an advantage here...I can do no wrong. This is my first race since my baby. So I have not ran a race in over two years. I just need a time...and then to be happy with it! I mean come on...slower is better....than I have room for improvement!

I don't know why I post my goals on here...I think it is to get over the fact that I am afraid of failure. But is it truly failure to try and run 40 min. and then to run 45? I don't think so! But it feels like it!

There you have it....I am hoping to run 40min. ....it is a 5 mile trail run!

Things I have learned!

2010-04-02T05:47:00.000-07:00

With the week not quite over, I have already learned that I am an AMBITIOUS DREAMER!
What was I thinking on my whole...."kick it up a notch?"
I must have forgot at least 50 of the "must do's" on my "be a mother list!"
Oh well, that is just me...I don't see it changing anytime soon...so maybe I can try and get 50% of my weekly goals accomplished!

I have learned that I am really good at reading great advise and passing on it on others.
As for following it myself...I could use some help!

I had two articles that literally spoke to me this week!
First one: By Anne- about choices! It is wonderful...if you have not read it...DO!
Well, I decided right then and there that I would make better decisions!
I had my husband read it and several siblings!
And then I ate a handful of Hershey kisses!
What?

Second: By Diesel- about patience
Another must read!
I consider myself a very patient person....I am patient with my kids, husband, friends, neighbors, everyone...except myself!
Yet, still I have spent the week beating myself up!
UNBELIEVABLE!

Two or three times I have had comments about my 10K race, back in 2004, after child 2!
It always makes me feel good...because they refer to me as fast!
That would make anyone's day!
And then they always say....as long as that is a correct time?
Of course it is a correct time!
Why would I post the wrong time?
Well, I decided to verify the time of 43:59...I went back and looked it up in my running logs. I couldn't find the one from that year...but the time of 43:59 had been carried over to the other logs as races I have run.
It stands strong in the last 5 years, of logs!
But just to DOUBLE check I decided to check the results on the internet!
And guess what I found out?
I was wrong!
I am so sorry!
I have to surrender all my "your fast" comments!
BUMMER!

I actually ran a 44:59!

Although for me right now...that time is a dream!
I'll take it!

I have learned that my memory serves me well....it keeps me faster! =)

Have a great weekend!

2010-04-01T07:27:00.000-07:00

Have I already told you guys ....I LOVE YOU!

No kidding!
This blogging things Rocks!
I have a family blog...and yes it is fun...I love it too!
But WOWZERZ!
I never would have guessed that this mommy needed running and running friends so much!
I look forward everyday to the comments and to read up on what everyone is doing!
It has given me a whole new enthusiasm to life!

IT'S LIBERATING!

After this last baby...I was having a super hard time getting back into working out!
My husband knows how much I love to work out...mostly run...but anything will work!
So when I came to him and told him, "I'm done! I just don't have the energy anymore...it is too hard!"
He got worried!

He encouraged me...and slowly I started to run/walk a little!
He bought me some personal training sessions for Christmas...
But I had to drive an 90 min. both ways...and for a mother of young kids I don't have an extra 3 hours just hanging around!

Then I decided on a whim to start a running blog.
I didn't even tell him!
I knew I was crazy...I didn't have time...I already blogged about my kiddos and life as a mother!
I truly thought "What am I doing?"

I made my first post...and went to bed!
The whole night I thought about it...and thought, I would just NOT try and do the running blog!
I got up in the morning and their was my first follower...holding her daughter....beaming with energy!
Anne Marie from Goals for the Week
Had it not been for her sweet comment and taking a chance on following me...I would have just canceled my blog and walked away!
Instead, I get to blog everyday about running or just about me!
Odd really...I hardly knew "I" existed!
Don't get me wrong...I LOVE MY LIFE....but now I just love it MORE!

There is something special about the running bloggers...they take time to care!
You ALL take time to read the posts and then comment....sending love from all over the country and world!
I am so thankful that I am a part of the Bloggy world!
And YOU ALL have changed my life forever!

Although I am rather tired now!
Hopefully soon my body will get use to working out again!
otherwise, I will just have to get more sleep...because there is NO way I am walking away from this running gig!

* Treadmill training DVD giveaway at MissZippy's (another great motivator)

The Swim!

2010-03-31T09:05:00.000-07:00

Wow!
It was quite the chore finding a lap swimming suit!
I guess maybe it has been a while....16 years!
I finally found one...didn't fit the best...but I squeezed into it! =)
My goggles were a bit worn....okay totally shot!
I ran to the local sports store (which thankfully we have one now), and picked up a pair of goggles!

I was ready to go for my first swim!

I just happened to mention to my oldest daughter, on my way out, that I was going to go swim a mile! (I wasn't planning on actually swimming a mile)
But she laughed at me!

"I don't think so mom! You don't swim!"

Well, from there it went like this...
Me..."Honey, I can swim!"
B..."a mile?...no way! How many laps is that? 10?"
Me..."72 (I think)!"

Then she ran downstairs laughing....telling Dad that I think I can swim a mile!

I was getting in way over my head!
But you can guarantee...I was not coming home until I had swam 72 laps!

Said "Good Bye" to all the crying kids...."We want to swim too!"
It was 9:00 at night...they probably should have already been in bed!

As I am driving away...Brooke comes running out..."Remember, 72 laps without stopping!"

BUMMER!
I was looking forward to a few stops!

I DID IT!
I swam a mile....No stops....41 minutes!
I know that is slow...but HEY! I DID IT!

I am super excited about swimming and biking....(well, I think I am excited about biking)! I really feel that this is what I need to help my running. I get injured so quickly, that this will be great cross training. That is how I first started to swam ....back in that day! I swam for training in college!

Oh by the way if you have interest in a home yoga video...I am giving one away on my family blog!
I love to do yoga...I feel like it helps me a ton! I don't live in a big city and so I have found some videos that I feel are super good and challenging!

Code word?

2010-03-30T05:56:00.000-07:00

I love the article in Runners World about Sara! I think there are many principles that can be applied to everyone's running. I am someone who when a race or workout gets tough...I talk to myself and encourage myself to finish! When I was younger I used to tell myself "You have to want it to win it, and I want it more!" So when I read about her one word that she says to herself during a difficult time in training...and then her body responds to it during the race...I immediately decided that was a concept that would work for me. I am not creative and so I just use the word "fight"....which I believe is the same word she uses!

Do you talk to yourself at difficult times?
or
Do you have a code word that helps you push through tough moments?

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Mommy's Fit for the King