What's Next For You?

Well, did you do it?  You know, that 5K or 10K you've been training for.  The first one you've ever done.  How was it?  Did you get the bug?  Are you addicted?  Maybe you're even thinking about signing up for another one.  MAYBE you're thinking about doing something else.  How about, dare I say it, something bigger?

The great thing about goals is that they show us just a glimpse of what we're capable of achieving.  They are the gateway to the next level.  Goals are meant to be building blocks.  They show us what we're made of.

So if you are thinking about what to do next, let me tell you my story.  Maybe it will help you determine where to go from here.

I ran my first 5K in 2003.  It was a little one that raised money for a local neighborhood here but it was still enough to get me hooked.  Once I crossed that finish line I knew I had to do more.  I still go back and run this 5K every year.  It brings back so many good memories.

I spent the rest of that year getting comfortable with 5Ks.  I think in total I probably ran five by the end of the year.  I was still in love with running.  I loved that feeling of accomplishment you get when you do something challenging. 

The next year I challenged myself again, this time in the form of a 10K.  I was extremely nervous.  I think probably more so than my first 5K.  Again though, I ran it and couldn't believe the runners high I got. 

Then after about 2 years of running, I signed up for my first half marathon.  The Indy 500 Mini Marathon, an amazing race if you ever get the chance.  I literally cried when I crossed the finish line. 

From there, I've moved on into marathons and triathlons.  At this point it is truly a lifestyle and the races are just little milestones that keep me on track. 

The moral of the story is in order for you decide what your next goal should be, you should probably determine what kind of training and time commitment your comfortable with.  I chose a very steady climb into the longer distances.  For me is was a better transition.  It allowed me to learn how to adjust my life to account for training gradually.  Training for halfs and fulls and especially tri's are time consuming.  They require you to think ahead and plan out your training.  If you want to see an example of a plan, I posted mine a few months ago.  Half Marathon #10...It's On. 

Once you set that goal, stick with it.  Yes, it will be hard.  There might be days when you want to give up but don't.  You can do it!  You will do it!  If you need support, give me a shout.  I promise I'll be there.  I'll answer any questions you have, and provide you with any guidance I can. 

Part of what I really enjoy about this blog is being able to support and help others reach their goals.

So, what do you think?  What's your next goal or race going to be?  Need help building a plan?  What have you found that works for you?  Let's talk!

St. Louis Blues Teach Life Lessons

As you may know, S and I went to the St. Louis Blues playoff hockey game on Saturday night.  If you ever have a chance to go to a playoff hockey game, you have to do it.  It is like no other experience you'll have.  Even regular season hockey doesn't compare.  I'm not even a huge hockey fan but I got chills during that first period of play.

I also got schooled a little bit in some lessons that can apply to so many aspects of our life.  You may already know these but sometimes it's just good to hear again.  Hopefully they will inspire you as much as they did when I was watching the game.

Lesson 1: It's never too late.



St. Louis Blues



If you aren't from STL, you probably don't know much about the Blues.  Sadly, up until last year, even some St. Louisans weren't really on the Blue's bandwagon.  Who can blame them?  They weren't good.  In fact, they had to give food away just to get people to come to the games.  But they did something about it.  They reconnected with their fans and inspired their players in ways I can't even begin to understand.  They have gone from a nothing team to one of the hottest in the NHL which I have to say is amazing. 

Just like the Blues, we need to remember that it's never too late to go after a goal or a dream.  You have to start with baby steps (like giving food away) and work up to it.  You'll get there you just have to be patient and work hard.

Lesson 2: If at first you don't succeed, try try again.

Again, a lesson you already know but man, did it get reinforced to me last night.  There were a few moments when (excuse my lack of technical hockey knowledge) a player with the puck would attempt to get a goal only to get shut down.  The great thing was he just kept going back to try it again.  I wish I could pull up a clip but I can't.  It wasn't like the player waited a little while and then went to try it again.  I could almost hear him yelling for the puck just so he could try again. 

Be relentless.  That's what I got out of this one.  You won't always get it right on the first try and that's ok.  If you're anything like me, you have to learn from your mistakes.  It might sting a little but it will make you stronger if you let it.  Don't give up!

Lesson 3: Fight for what you want.

I think we all know hockey is famous for their fights.  I'll admit there's something about watching someone play like a crazy man that gives me chills.  But there were a couple moments where they weren't just fighting to be fighting.  They were mad and they were doing something about it.  Our Blues are tough and I would NEVER cross them. 

You should be the one no one wants to cross.  The words "I can't" should not be in our vocabulary.  In fact, I think we should pledge to ourselves that we should never doubt ourselves again.  Life is all about overcoming challenges.  You have to give yourself a fighting chance.  (Did you see what I did there? Pretty smooth huh?)

So do you feel inspired on this Monday morning?  I am!  What other life lessons do you live by? 

Week Recap: Relays, Birthdays and Ambassadors

I can't even begin to tell you how much of a crazy week this was.  Why you ask?  Well let me tell you.

Nuun announced their Hood to Coast Team.  I had applied and was holding my breath anxiously waiting to see if I was going to be part of the fun.  Once Tuesday rolled around you would've thought I was back in high school waiting to find out if I made the Cheer leading squad (which I did).  I was all set...at 2:00 I was going to find out. Then it happened...someone had the audacity to schedule a meeting from 2 - 2:30.  SERIOUSLY!  They obviously didn't know.  So I had to wait.  At 2:30, when I went to the Nuun Blog, there I saw it. My name on the list.  I'm an alternate but who cares!?

Nuun

 What's that you say?  You've never heard of Nuun.  Well that's about to change.  I found them when I was looking for an alternative to Gatorade.  My stomach just couldn't take all the sugar anymore but I knew I needed more than water giving all the running I've been doing.  I found it at Big River Running here in STL and I've never turned back.  Why don't you go take a look?!  I promise you won't be disappointed.  The Hood to Coast is the largest relay in the world.  I'm so PUMPED to even have a shot at doing this. 

What's also cool is that I have gotten an email from the CEO of Nuun personally congratulating me for making the team.  It's not just one of those form emails.  This one was legit.  Turns out he's a STL native which is awesome; however, he's a cubs fan, which is not so awesome.  Either way though, this company stands behind their product and it shows.  GO NUUN!

OK NEXT big event of the week.   My husbands birthday.  We have been married for almost 4 years now and I love him so much.  For his birthday I bought him St. Louis  Blues playoff tickets for tonight.  We're both so excited!

Then Friday rolled around.  I was really happy with my workouts this week and was feeling real good about my Nuun invitation and then I got another amazing surprise.  I had been invited to join an elite group.  The FitFluential Ambassadors.  What?!  You don't know what that is?  Well, the way I describe the FitFluential Ambassadors are a group of fitness fanatics spreading a positive healthy message year-round. FitFluential is Fitness Found.

FitFluential

What's this mean to you?  Well it means that I'll be able to use the network of Ambassadors to help inspire you to achieve your fitness goals as well as bring you amazing brands that do the same.  It's a win win for everyone.  You know what else is great about this group?  They are seriously made up of some amazing women (and men).  A few of which I am proud to consider personal friends.  Madeline over at FoodFitandFam is one of those and she just blogged all about it. 

Madeline   |  Kristien   |   Me (& E)

And I can't forget about Annica Nicole. She's not pictured but she's also pretty cool and I'm so glad we got to meet in person.

Tonight is the Blues game so I've got to get a workout in before then.  Thinking about going to the gym and lift some serious weights!  I need to make Kelly Olexa proud! 

Blast from the Past

Lastly, I can't tell you how honored and humbled I am to be apart of these two groups.  When I started this blog 2 years ago, I was seriously just keeping my nana and family informed of my pregnancy.  I couldn't have imagined how it's evolved. 

In the future I promise tons of helpful hints to squeeze in fitness, nutrition and family fun. 

I also pledge more super cute E pictures and videos. 

How was your week?  How were your workouts?   

Nuun News is Good News & Giveaway Winner

I'm going to have so much fun with this.  Nuun is such a fun name to play with.  :)  So if you haven't figured it out yet, I have good news.  If you remember a while back, I posted my video application for the Nuun Hood To Coast Relay Team in August. 

NUUN - After Nuun Delight

Well, believe it or not, they liked it!  They really did.  Enough to make me an alternate on the team.  I am still so excited E and I wanted to tell you all about it so we vlogged about it this morning.  It's a little random and all over the place but what do you expect?!  It's 7:00 in the morning!  Who VLOGS at that time of day?  This girl!

I can't even tell you how honored I am to have my name listed amongst the amazing female bloggers that gets to work with such an amazing company.  Seriously, it's just an amazing achievement. That I'm still on cloud 9 about.  Have you ever done Hood to Coast or any other relay?  Any training tips?  I can't wait to start this journey.  I hope you'll follow along with me as we go.

In other amazing news!!! I get to announce the winner of the 1 Month Supply of Chia Seeds and 6 Pack of Chia water from XioMega.  Another amazing company with an amazing product.  They have been great to work with and I am still feeling the benefits from my chia seeds (as I finish the last part of them up).

So..using random number generator here we go...(I can't get my screen print to work, so you'll have to trust me)

Laurel C @pace_of_laurel

And one final note...I am still off of soda and feeling really good.  I did fall off the bandwagon Saturday morning.  I had to have a fountain soda so I could sit through 8 hours of Stats and Law but I felt terrible and dumped half of it out and just munched on the crunched ice which is what I really wanted to begin with. 

Now I'm finding that Milk doesn't like me too much.  Dang...aging is no fun!

Don't forget to check out my favorite Kitchen brands too.  This is a non paid opinion.  Just the things I love.

Brand Love...In the Kitchen

First off, let me start by saying that I haven't gotten compensated for ANY of these posts.  This is all based on personal opinion and nothing more.

So here's the deal...I have gotten asked alot..how do you do it?  To which my first thought puts my mind right in the gutter but we won't go there.  After asking for clarity, I usually find out they are asking about how do I fit it all in or how do I think of dinners that will please my picky husband and toddler or how do I look so good all the time (ha, I threw that one in for effect).  :)

Anyway, my response is that I don't do it alone.  I obviously have a great support system in my husband and family but we also get lots of support from great brands that make our lives a little easier.  So I wanted to share with you, what brands we lean on to get through our days. 

We'll start in the kitchen first and every room in the house will be a different post and then you can request which room we go to next.  I hope this will be one of those posts where I start the conversation and we share with each other what makes our lives easier.  I know I'm ALWAYS open to suggestions

(Source)

So here we go...

CHALLENGE 1 - What's for Dinner?...I usually make dinner at least three nights a week.  I set the menu on Sundays and go shopping.  When I'm planning out meals, I usually have a pretty easy time figuring out the main dish.  It's almost always a chicken of some sort, grilled, sauteed, etc.  But what I've struggled with is finding side dishes that aren't your run of the mil rice or baked potatoes, etc.  That was until I found...

Near East

They have all kinds of things that make E and my hubby very happy eaters and I love that they are getting food with excellent nutritional value.  I almost always have the Couscous and Quinoa in the pantry ready to go.  They take no time at all to make and reheat well.  

I can usually find them in my grocery store with the other rice dishes and if you get them on sale, STOCK UP!  These babies make planning side dishes easy! 

CHALLENGE 2 - E's Snacks - So if you didn't pick up on it up above, I don't make E any special menu.  He eats what we eat and he has become pretty fond of things like chicken pesto, couscous, rosemary chicken, etc.  But when it comes to his snacks, I like to buy him some special things but I hate all the sugar and other ingredients in some of the standard options.  So browsing the Organic isle I came across these and we haven't gone back since...

Annie's

We started with these fruit chews.  E ate them like the were going out of style.  I tried them and have been addicted ever since.  I can read every ingredient on the box and they are pretty reasonably priced.  They are awesome.  The taste is like no other fruit snack around. 

I'm not a HUGE organic person or anything but these are legit.  We are starting to branch out to some other products that I can find.  I'll let you know how those go. 

Ok and the last challenge for our first room...

CHALLENGE 3 - Child Proofing Cabinets - We didn't think we had an issue until we watched this little cabinet rat do this...

So we started looking and found these

Especially for Baby Flex Locks

They are working well for us.  E has yet to get them off.  So hopefully we won't have anymore cabinet creeping.

Ok, there you have it.  Just some of the products and brands that we love in the kitchen.  What are you hidden gems?  What have you discovered that you rely on?  I'm all for learning about the great brands out there.

Earth Day Challenge - Get Running!

Happy Earth Day!

Today is the day we mobilize to help preserve our environment. Remember back in the day when you use to get a little tree at school to plant? Well, I’ll have you know I planted everyone of those little guys; however, I can’t guarantee that they all made it.

Well, since we do not have anyone handing trees out anymore, I wanted to do something to help Mother Nature, just as I am sure you do. Therefore, here is what I’m proposing. I’m calling it the #5KCleanUp Challenge.

DETAILS:

1. PREP - As you are heading out for your weekly run (or walk), grab a garbage bag (my bag of choice is an old grocery bag) and take it with you.
2. PICK - As you come across some trash, pick it up. Maybe do a modified squat while you’re picking it up for a little added benefit.
3. PICTURE - Then, before you recycle or through it away, take a picture of yourself with the trash and do one of two things:
4. POST - Post it to your blog and link to mine (then if you could, leave me a comment with the link) and/or tweet the picture using the hashtag #5KCleanUp (I’ll be monitoring the tag to make sure I get everyone’s picture)

Side Note: I called it the #5KCleanUp Challenge because most of my weekly runs are on average 3 or 4 miles. If your runs are longer so be it!

Is this a glamorous challenge?  Nope.  But it is a gratifying one. 

PRAISE - Even though I know you aren’t going to do this for the glory or the praise (even though I promise to provide some), on Friday, I’ll follow up with a post highlighting everyone who participated and the pictures we received. Just to say thanks!

What’s that you say? You’re run route is already clean…Well then maybe you should consider a different route. Make it a family event, take the kids, show them that we all have a role in keeping our environment clean. The last thing any of us want is to see our kids or pets playing amongst the cigarette butts or old soda cans or whatever else is littering our world.

So there it is, that’s the challenge. I’m throwing down the gauntlet on behalf of Mother Nature. I’m planning to do mine this evening. The route I run from my gym has the potential for some clean up.

Are you in? Let me know!

Cha Cha Cha Chia Review and Giveaway

I have been so excited about getting this post up but before I could I had to convince my husband to show his face on camera.  Soak it in, it's probably the last time I'll get him to do it.  He's a little bit more introverted than I am.

The reason I wanted him to be part of this vlog is that he has been using this product as much as I have and I wanted you to know it.  Chia Seeds...I've been reading about them and hearing people talk about the value of them so I wanted to try them myself.  When XioMega  came calling and gave me the chance.  Turns out all the hype is spot on.  This little seed packs a HUGE punch.

I'll let you learn all about it in the vlog.

Ok, you sold on the product?  I thought so.

I want to make sure you're sold on the company too.  They are amazing.  They are a company with a conscious.  For every product you buy, XioMega will donate one spoon of Chia seeds to various regional programs in Africa that go to  children's health and development. 

You ready to try to win your own 1 Month's Supply of Chia Seeds and 6 pack of Chia Water (almost a $40 value)?  I thought so!

So here's how you enter:
1. Leave a comment telling me why you want to try Chia seeds.
2. Follow me on Twitter (Leave a comment letting me know)
3. Follow XioMega on Twitter (Leave a comment letting me know)
4. Tweet the following: (Leave a comment letting me know)
I just registered for a chance to win a 1 month supply of @xiomega3USA chia seeds at @momslrb blog.  http://www.momslittlerunningbuddy.com/2012/04/cha-cha-cha-chia-review-and-giveaway.html

Don't worry if you don't win.  When we announce the winner, we'll give you a discount code to purchase your Chia Seeds and another opportunity to win. Stay tuned!

The winner will be selected at random on my hubby's bday (next Wednesday, 04/25).  Open to US Residents only.

18 Months - Fearless Reader

E has been around now for 18 months.  I can't believe how time is flying.  He continues to make us laugh, scratch our heads and even wonder what we did to get a kid like this.

E and S are starting to become pretty good buds.  I'll admit that E is a HUGE momma's boy.  I'm mean HUGE but lately he is starting to want to be around S more and I think it's awesome.  I caught this moment one Saturday morning as they were primping in the bathroom.  I swear they take longer in there then I do.

Interacting - At this stage, he is trying desperately to talk in full sentences although what you hear is obviously German or some other language than English.  Here's a clip.  Maybe you can figure it out.  Whatever it is, it's adorable and I'm glad I was able to get it captured on film (or iPhone). 

Diet - He is becoming a much better eater these days.  Currently breakfast is half a bagel, cereal or some pancakes.  Lunch is usually turkey, cheese and one of the Elle's Kitchen Pouches just to make sure he gets some veggies. 

Sleep - E is still not yet sleeping consistently through the night.  I'm sure I'm a large part of the problem here but I'm sorry, I can't stand to hear him cry for more than 10 minutes.  After that, I have to get him.  All it takes is a couple good minutes of cuddling with mom and he's right back to bed.  What's so wrong with that?!

Personality - This kid has NO fear.  My husband walked out of the room for 1 minute only to come back to find him standing on the kitchen table.  He is teaching himself to put his face in the water in the bathtub.  Every time he does, he sits up and claps for himself. 

Favorite Past time - Reading.  E refuses to go anywhere without a copy of "The Very Hungry Caterpillar" going with us.  It goes to the sitters, the gym, the grocery store, church, grandparents, etc.  You name it, that book has been there.  It's looking pretty ratty by now and I'm sure I'll have to replace it soon.  But if I'm not reading it to him, he's attempting to read it to himself in whatever language it is that he's speaking.  It's freaking adorable.  See what I mean. 

While this age does seem to be presenting challenges, it is so much fun.  I'm loving every minute of it and can't wait to see what the next few months will have in store for us. 

Go! St. Louis Half Marathon Recap

Well, I can now say Half #9 (or 10) is in the books.  I completed the Go! St. Louis Half Marathon yesterday in a time of 2:24. 

The first question you might ask is that consistent with your goal?  Yep.  I have to be perfectly honest, right now, training to finish is about all I can handle.  School is taking the majority of my free time (after work and family) so getting to the finish was my goal in a modestly reasonable time.  Check!

My pre-race prep included planning what I was going to wear.  St. Louis is notorious for having random weather and given that the day before it was cold (50 and rainy), I knew I needed to have a couple options in the event that it decided to down pour on us. 

I also prepared a water bottle with water and Nuun Hydration ice cubes.  I can't drink Gatorade while I'm running.  It's too sweet.  Nuun is much better and if I mix it with water, then I know I'll be ok.  Subsequently I forgot the bottle in the freezer.  Fail!

The morning of, I had to take E with me because he was going to stay downtown with my family while I ran, so we both loaded up at 5:30 A.M. and headed down. I parked at my parents condo which is about a  mile from the starting line (well it sounded like a good idea at the time). Free parking, who doesn't love that?! 

On my way to Corral C, I got a glimpse at what the elite athletes at the front of the pack look like.  I like to call them Beasts!  I will never see these people again!  They will be home and showered by the time I cross the finish line but that's ok.

I had planned on starting the race with Maddie from Food,Family and Fitness as well as Annica Nicole but the corrals were so packed there was NO WAY we were going to find each other.  They were back further than me so I waited till the run started and found them as runners passed by.  I did manage to find my long time friend and half marathon virgin Shane whose excitement over his first run made me that much more excited.  How cute is he?!

Once the race actually started, it took us about 10 minutes to get moving and actually cross the start line and I found my running buddies right before we officially started.

Annica, Maddie and I started together but Maddie soon took off and blew us away.  Annica and I stayed together the rest of the race and had a great time.  We even managed to talk some and given the crazy hills on this course that in itself was an accomplishment.  For those of you saying.."You're in the Midwest, what hills do you have?" Let me answer by saying we have those nasty rolling hills.  They just keep going and going.  I could feel my butt calling on the plentiful reserves that it had just to get through it.

We were consistently running about a 10:00 - 10:30 min mile.  It was a very comfortable pace which I was happy to race at.  Especially considering I had somehow wrote down the date of the race wrong and so therefore missed one week of training.  Fail #2. 

The first few miles featured a Soulard neighborhood that welcomed us with a PJ party, and clydedales. I did have a First in this half. My first spectator sign. My family (little sister made it) came out to support me and touted this amazing sign. I might hang it in my cube at work just because I can.

Photo Courtesy of Go! STL

The middle miles gave the tourists a glimpse at the downtown area of the city.  The final miles sent us down to the Central Westend and back.  Did I mention it was ALL HILLS?

Overall I would say we were fortunate to have great weather,overcast skies and breezy are just fine by me.   I knew the course wasn't going to be easy, I've done this route 4 times so I was ready to just gut it out.

After the half, we (Annica and Maddie and I) met up for lunch with Kristen (ConcreteRunner) who crushed the race.  She is such an amazing runner. We met at the Schlafly Bottleworks and I ate some delightfully high caloric Mac'n'Cheese but mostly I just chased E around.  I am so ready for him to know how to sit nicely in a restaurant.  At 1 1/2 years old, he just doesn't get it yet.  :)

Then we headed off but not before getting a group pic, check out Food, Fitness and Family for a great pic of us before we left.  These girls are great!  I'm so glad we met.

It's on to the next event..the only triathlon I get to do anymore..a Sprint next month in my hometown.  It should be fun considering I've had very little (none) time in a pool and I haven't officially ridden my bike since last year's tri.  I know, I might want to squeeze in a little training which I'll try to do between all the other activities. 

What's your next race?  How is your training going?  Let me know!

Are you on Twitter?  Follow me @momslrb. 

I'm Breaking Up with Diet Dr. Pepper

My love affair with Diet Dr. Pepper (DDP) is about to come to an end.  Over the past few months, I've realized that it doesn't like me as much as I like it. 

My days always started with a DDP and Granola bar for breakfast on the way to work.  Now I couldn't just grab a soda out of the cabinet and go. NOOOO that would not work.  It had to be either an ICE cold can or a fountain drink from the gas station on my way to work (because they have crushed ice that is glorious). 

I usually had another for lunch at 11:30 with a turkey sandwich and chips and then another on my way home from work with another granola bar.  I know that's a lot of soda.  The worst part is that by the end of the day my stomach felt like the size of a basketball.  I felt just very bloated and gas bubbles seemed to build up. 

The bigger problem was that my workouts were suffering because of it.  Add to that, the wonderful effects that Diet Soda has on your body.  Here's just a few of the fun facts about how diet soda and all it's ingredients effect us (source):

• diet soda has been linked to 30% greater chance of weight gain around the belly
• diet soda has Aspartame, commonly known as NutraSweet, is a chemical that stimulates the brain to think the food is sweet.  Aspartame has been linked to obesity  by stimulating the brain causes more cravings for sweets and leads to carbohydrate loading.
• diet soda also has carbonation which contains phosphoric acid, which can severely deplete the blood calcium levels; calcium is a key component of the bone matrix. This means that drinking sodas and carbonated water increases your risk of osteoporosis.
• In some extreme cases, come cases of bladder cancer has been linked to diet soda drinking behaviors.
• diet soda can also lead to dulling the color of those pearly whites and can result in bad breath 

I thought about it a little more and realized I only feel like I need it at work so I'm assuming it's a stress related addiction (sort of like comfort food).  On the weekends, I'm perfectly content with water, tea and wine (and maybe a little more wine).  :)

So yesterday I tried to go one day without soda at work.  The morning rush was a little shaky.  I didn't know what to do but once I got to work, I got my tea and water and got busy.  The next big hurdle was lunch, that too was hard.  I yearned for the sound of the can opening and taking that first drink but by 3:00 when I was usually starting to feel uncomfortable, I felt pretty good.  I was still focused on work, and getting very excited about my run in the evening. 

I went straight home (no soda on the way) and ran 6 miles.  Usually the first few miles are VERY uncomfortable while my stomach tries to deal with running and the already built up gas.  But yesterday was awesome!  My intention was to run 6 at a 10:00 pace.  But the energy I had and the strong stomach pushed me to finish in about a 9:40/mile pace.  Amazing for me!  And that's when I knew, I needed to get rid of the soda. 

Sure I may have one now and then and possibly on days when I don't run but for the most part, it's gone!  I was just amazed at how much better I felt.  I still had caffeine that can't go yet.  I am WAYY to dependent on that but I think I can finally say so long to the soda.  Cross your fingers, we'll see.

Are you a diet soda drinker?  Have you tried to give up anything and succeed?  What are your tips?

Did you like this tale of my diet soda woe's?  If so, would you head over to Fitness Magazine and vote for my blog as a "Best Healthy Living" nominee? 
http://blog-awards.fitnessmagazine.com/blog-awards/fitness_blog/406-moms-little-running-buddy

Little Victories: Katie 1 - Treadmill 0

I promise this will be one of the last "heavy" posts about my dad but this one has a happy ending. 

So if you've been reading my blog recently, you probably know I lost my dad unexpectedly about a month ago.  What you might not have picked up on is the circumstance of his death. He was working out on a treadmill and collapsed.  I didn't even think about it till the first time I tried to get on a treadmill afterwards and I literally couldn't do it.  I couldn't get more than 3 feet from it without breaking down.  I was so angry at it.  I wanted nothing to do with it for several reasons. 

That was over 4 weeks ago.  I've been going to the gym about three times a week since and everyday it taunts me.  I tell myself everyday that "today will be the day I conquer it" and I stop short unable to get past the mental images and pain that fills me.  So I take my run to the street and run around the gym, literally.

Well today I couldn't do that because S wasn't with me so I didn't want to leave the gym while E was in the nursery.  I knew today I'd have to deal with it or put off another run which I didn't want to do. 

I dropped E off and headed towards the row of treadmills and again I got 3 feet away and couldn't go any closer.  I started to tear up, frustrated that I'm not stronger than this.  That I can't seem to overcome it, that it's beating me.  Even now as I write this, I can't control the emotions.  Never in my wildest dreams did I think a treadmill would invoke this kind of resentment, pain and frustration.

I opted for the stair machine for a 15 min warm up and then weights.  About half way through my weights, I started hearing my dad's voice.  He was pressing me...asking me why I let it get the best of me and I just kept getting madder and madder.  I didn't realize it either but I was putting up weight that I haven't put up in a LONG time. 

When I was done, I knew I had to try it again or I wasn't going to get my run in and for whatever today that as unacceptable.  So I walked over to it and stepped on.  I was shaking and tearing up.  I didn't think I could do anymore than that.  (If that's all the further I had gotten, I would've considered it a victory). But then I just did it.  I remember that E was in the nursery waiting for me and I needed to remember that I need to keep living my life and if that meant getting over this hurdle so be it. 

So I hit "Quick start" and went.  Slowly adding speed at first..6.0...6.1...6.2, about every minute.  I was starting to find a rhythm.  Then my mind started up again...I started thinking about everything and got madder and madder and I kept hitting the arrow..6.3..6.4..6.7...7.0.  I'm not even watching the time anymore, I can't.  It's all I can do to keep from jumping off.  I was crying and I'm sure people thought I was strange but in the moment it was just me and the treadmill.  7.1...7.2...7.3..still wasn't fast enough to make the pain go away.7.5...7.6..finally I realized that I was about to fly off the treadmill when I started to slow down.   It was then that I looked down at the time....

I couldn't believe it.  Keep in mind, my fastest 3 mile run to date is about 28 min which I'm proud of. I still can't believe it or understand why but I'm going to assume it's my dad's way of saying "get on with your life".  Run, live, love.  It's ok, I'll be here with you.  So that's what I'm going to continue to try to do.  It's a long road but it's little victories like this that make it seem doable.  I love you dad!

It's Nuun Somewhere

As many of you probably have, I've submitted my application to be a part of the Nuun Hood To Coast Relay team in August.

For those that don't know, the Hood to coast Relay is 199 mile relay that starts at Mt. Hood and ends in Seaside, Oregon which raises money for the American Cancer Society.

Nuun, an amazing company which has an amazing product, sponsors three all female teams. Nuun has developed a rehydration alternative which is really good (my favorite is the lemon lime).  The other awesome thing about this company is that they are beyond socially responsible. It's a company I would LOVE to be associated with.

To say I'm nervous is an understatement.  Being a part of this team would do so much for me. 

Hang with the ladies - I am surrounded my men all day.  I work in a male dominated field and I live in a male dominated house.  Don't get me wrong, I love the fella's but every now and then it would be good to just relax with other ladies like myself.  That's what this event would do.  It would allow me to meet and bond with girls women that have the same interests and passions by doing the very thing we love to do...RUN. 

Much needed vacation - I move at 150 MPH all day and all night.  Just like many of you, my life is stressful.  With all the expectations to succeed at work, and to get through grad school, it can be a little exhausting.  Add to that the recent loss of my dad and I'm just a little worn down.  This would be the swift kick in the pants I need to recharge my batteries.  Take me out of day to day routine and just live for the moment. I mean really?!  What more could you want?!  Three days of fitness oriented fun with fitness oriented people. 

Drawing attention to a good cause - One thing that I think is super important in all this is to remember the reason.  The Hood to Coast Relay does a great thing in supporting a great charity: American Cancer Society.  My family has had multiple run-ins with cancer and I would love nothing more than to see it eradicated completely. 

Ok, so I've procrastinated enough.  Want to see the homemade amazingly profession video that's going to win me a spot on the team?  If it doesn't then I've at least had fun learning iMovie and just getting motivated to try something different. 

I'd love to know what you think.  Did you apply?  Let's compare!

5 Tips For Rookie Runners

On my long run last weekend, I found myself running back on my heals which we all know is not necessarily the best form.  That thought evolved into
          "I wonder how many other runners are running like this?" 

          "I wonder how many of these runners are newbies?"

         "If any of these rookie runners stopped me and asked for my advice, what would I tell them  about getting into running?"

Yep, that's how my mind works during long runs, I just run through a bunch of random thoughts.  I wish I could easily get to a voice recording function on my phone.  I seem to have great ideas when I'm running but can't remember them afterwards.  DANG YOU BLOOD FLOW!

I actually have been putting a lot of thought into this over the past couple days and I've come up with my list:

1. Take it slow - No one is a marathoner out of the gate.  It takes time.  When you go out for your first run, set a realistic expectation that it might only be a mile or so. 

2.  Leave the Watch at Home - Your first run should be all about the experience and learning to listen to your body.  Seasoned runners do this a lot.  I call it "Naked Running".  I leave all my techno-gadgets at home and just go.  You really learn to pay attention to your breathing, your form, and your surroundings.  You'd be surprised what you learn.  I know, it's scary to think you're going it alone but sometimes that alone time is good.  Especially if you're a mom or dad, that might be the only peace and quiet you get all day.

3. Running Shouldn't Cost an Arm and a Leg - The only thing that I suggest spending some money on in the beginning is a good pair of shoes.  Those might cost anywhere from $50 to $100 but having a good pair will make the run comfortable.  The last think you want to be doing is worrying about your shoes.  My favorites right now are Asics Gel Nimbus.  They are great for me but I would suggest finding a running store and getting some advice.

 

4. Find Your Support System - I'm not talking about a good sports bra but I imagine that's probably a good thing to invest in too.  What I'm talking about is making sure that you surround yourself with people that get your goals and can support it.  The quickest way to give up on a goal is to hang around with a nay-sayer.  Seriously, social media is great for providing support (Twitter, Pinterest, Facebook).  Runners are out there and we're ready to support.  More importantly though, make sure you tell your friends and family.  They can be your harshest critique or your best support.  My family doesn't run, they think I'm crazy but they support me and that's the way I like it. 

5. Form Isn't Everything but a Little Form Helps - I'm not an expert but I know there are a few things that you should try to keep in mind when you're running along. 

• As often as possible, try to breathe through your nose
• Relax your upper body - If you're shrugging your shoulders, you're probably not using your arms to help you generate forward momentum.
• Do not allow your heal to strike the ground - this was the problem that started it all for me last weekend.  Doing this is a result of being lazy and can prevent you from pushing off your foot adequately. 

Think you want to take this advice and now go train for something?  How about a 5k?  Here's a plan that will help you get there.  5k Training Plan

So hopefully, that will help you get moving and stay moving.  Remember running is supposed to help you not hurt you.  Take your time and enjoy it!!

What's For Dinner: Pasta, Turkey Meatballs with Bocconcini

I grew up in a house where my mom made us dinner every night.  It was always a lean meat (turkey or chicken), a steamed vegetable or salad and a starch.  Looking back I realize now how spoiled we were.  We all know how hard it is to got to work, workout, take care of our families and get dinner on the table but I always feel better when I know that I was able to give my family a good meal. 

That's why today I'd like to introduce you to one of my family's favorite meals.  I will warn you, it does take a little time to prepare (about 30 min) but it satisifies my criteria: 1. Healthy, 2. Heats up well, 3. Favorite of everyone.

This is the first time I've provided a recipe so bear with me.  I managed to take a few pictures during the prep work but then got so excited to eat it, that I forgot to take a picture of the finished product.  Then I took it for lunch yesterday and today so now it's gone!  I promise it looks amazing done!  Just make it and you'll see.

I usually make this on Sunday nights so we can eat it all week.  Yeah, it makes that much. 

Hopefully you'll enjoy it too:

Ingredients:

• Coarse salt and pepper
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/2 cup fresh chopped parsley
• 8 oz orecchiette pasta
• 3/4 -1 lb Ground Turkey Breast
• 1 large egg
• 2 Tablespoon butter (I like to use real butter not margarine, it's better for you)
• 1/2 pint bocconcini (Fresh Mozzarella)
• 1/4 cup italian breadcrumbs
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan Cheese
• 1 pint grape tomatoes, halved

Steps:

1. Start to boil water for pasta
2. In a large bowl combine turkey, breadcrumbs, garlic, egg, 2 T Parmesan, 1/4 cup parsley, 1 teaspoon sald, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper.
3. Use your CLEAN hands to mix it all up and mix
4. Using a small scoop, form into balls.
5. In a large nonstick skillet, heat 1 T butter over medium heat. Add meatballs and cook, turning occasionally until browned (5-7 min).
6. Add 1 1/2 cups water and simmer, stirring occasionally until meatballs are cooked through and liquid is reduced to about 1/2 cup (10-12 min).
7. Add tomatoes; cook until they begin to soften, about 1 minute
8. Drain pasta, add bocconcini, meatballs and sauce, remaining parsley, butter, parmesan and season with salt/pepper.
9. Toss and enjoy!

Wish you had this recipe in a printable? Well, you're sure...Here you go! RECIPE PRINTABLE

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I've got a great post about my Last Resort Workout.  You know, for the days you just don't feel like working out. I promise, doing this one will keep you going.