The Coach's Wife

My blog is pretty much going to be a baby blog now

2011-04-22T11:17:00.014-05:00

A few weeks ago, when Luke turned six months old, we began introducing solids to him. We started with rice cereal and oatmeal and have since started vegetables. He's had green beans, sweet peas, carrots and squash so far. Before we started the solids, I was really looking forward to feeding him "real" food, thinking how cute he'd be while he ate. But, once we started it...man, that stuff is MESSY! I almost wish I could keep him a little infant forever, only nursing. It's soooo much easier and more convenient.

He's still nursing/eating bottled breast milk (at school) 6-7 times per day, which means I'm still pumping three times at work throughout the day. I thought that maybe once he started solids, he'd outgrow needing a mid-morning or mid-afternoon bottle, but I guess not. Not at this point in the game anyway, but that's OK by me. My favorite part of the day is first thing in the morning, waking up my little guy, to nurse. He's just looks so sweet and so innocent, which he is. He's seriously a very laid back little guy, rarely cries and smiles all the time.

We had his 6 month doc appt a couple weeks ago and he weighed 18 lbs 4 oz and was 27.5 inches long. He's in the 90th percentile in height and in the 75th for weight. And, his head has finally caught up a bit as he's in the 50th percentile for his noggin (he was only in the 25th percentile at birth...so his brain is growing quickly:). Not too bad for a preemie, if you ask me. But, after all, his dad was about 11 lbs at birth.

The last couple months, Luke has been drooling a ton. This past Sunday, it looked like I could see his two bottom teeth right under his gums. And, sure enough, when I picked him up from school on Monday, they had both popped through the skin. It's so cute to see him smile and see his little teeth! I've tried to get a picture of them up close, but haven't been able to get a good one yet.

So, that's all that's new on the baby front. Coach is on a fishing trip this weekend, so Luke and I will be spending a lot of time with my sister and mom and, hopefully, relaxing a bit. Parents as Teachers is coming over on Monday to do Luke's 6 month assessment, so I'm anxious to make sure he's hitting all of his milestones. Our doctor already confirmed this, but you can't hear it too much :) He's rolling all over the place and sitting up pretty well at this point. It's true when they say that each stage of their lives gets even more fun :)

Sitting up

Push-ups

Luke and Me

And.....I'm Back!

2011-04-17T20:00:00.014-05:00

It's been just under a year since my last post. Since then, much has happened. I've gone from this

To this

(yes, my boobs and stomach are HUGE and I still had two and a half months left of pregnancy...LOL)

I had this little guy 4 weeks early. Ok, so he wasn't THAT little, weighing in at 7 lbs, 5 oz at birth, but still made a dramatic entrance.

He's now over 6 months old!

So, a lot has happened during this past year. We went on a couple of vacations last year. We went to Beaver Lake in Arkansas for a week. It was a lot of fun and we did a lot of relaxing. Here are a couple snippets from that trip.

This is a typical picture of Coach. He frequently has his eyes closed in his photos.

My nephew, Jackson

We also went to Destin, FL with another couple. It was a lot of fun as well and nice to have another person who wasn't able to indulge in any alcoholic beverages! Tiffany and I are both pregnant on this trip, however, she was only about 3 weeks pregnant!

Yeah, she's just a TAD bit smaller than me

Seaside, Florida

Life has been pretty great this past year and we have more fun stuff to come this summer. I haven't really been working out at all, but am desperately trying to get motivated to get back into running or at least SOMETHING. The only exercise I've been getting is feeding my baby...lol. Hey, at least I'm burning some calories!

Hope everyone has had a good year and I am still blog reading religiously, so I'm keeping up with you!

i'm a complete failure

2010-05-13T15:00:00.003-05:00

Well, I've been pretty down on myself lately, running-wise. I had a 10k on the books last weekend and I had to bail out at mile 3.75. I was completely bummed because I've absolutely never quite mid-race before! I never even walk if I get tired, let along completely bail!

I pulled into the race location (Krug Park) last Friday night really nervous about the run. Not so much the distance, but the course. It was going to be 5 loops around the park which has a steep hill about the first quarter mile. Not too bad if you're doing it once or maybe even twice, but five times would be brutal. I freaked when I heard we were going to have to loop five times! So, mentally, I was already in a bad place. Anyway, when I pulled into the park, I saw a teenage couple making out in the middle of the road. So, my last two races (and within one week of each other) I see kids making out! Strange! At least they weren't 11 years old this time...LOL.

When we lined up for the race, there were only 14 of us doing the 10k. And, by looking at the runners you could tell these were SERIOUS runners! So, I didn't exactly fit in. I made up my mind to start of slow and just keep that pace the entire run. Well, I started off slow in my head (my first mile was a pace of 7:47!), which was basically just comparing myself to the other runners since I was already in last place! At that point, though, I didn't care. I was just doing it for the exercise and to finish.

The first loop was OK, but once I got to the uphill portion, it was really tough. But, I made it to the top and realized I had to do it 4 more times?! Second loop was slower (pace: 9:28) and again, I struggled up the hill. Seriously, I could hardly breathe once I made it to the top. I joked that I could feel my baby gasping for amniotic fluid, even! LOL. By the third loop, I had to walk up the hill and was still completely exhausted. I decided that since I was so out of breath and I knew my heart rate had to be pretty high (higher than I should have had it in my condition, probably) that it was in my best interest to stop.

I was so disappointed in myself, mostly and even went to the car to call Coach and started crying. Of course, he was praising me for even attempting to do it at all and he was still proud of me, but I still felt like a loser. I got over it soon enough to cheer on my friend Kerry near the finish line. She came in first in her age group (I would have come in second...out of two people:) and last in the race. All racers ran a sub-ten minute mile. Actually, I'm pretty sure Kerry even ran a sub-9:30 mile, so in my opinion, those racers were amazing!

So, needless to say, I've definitely been in a running slump lately and wondering if it's time for me to turn in my sneakers for the remainder of my pregnancy or if I should continue to try to do 5ks or even flat 10ks. I haven't decided, but am definitely in need of some words of encouragement right now....anyone?

Oh, and, it probably goes without saying that the half marathon on my schedule for Sunday morning, is now off the schedule :(

official 5k results are in

2010-05-04T07:42:00.003-05:00

Just checked online today and the official results are posted from the Apple Blossom 5k.

Total Time: 27:33
Average Pace: 8:52

I'm very proud of myself as this would be a good pace for me without being pregnant. So, the fact that I am, makes me even more happy! Yippee!

apple blossom 5k and other misc items

2010-05-03T15:11:00.005-05:00

Saturday morning was our annual Apple Blossom parade and 5k. The 5k follows the parade route right before the parade starts. So, basically, the entire town was there to watch me run....yes, I'm a local celebrity:)

The race started at 9:15 and the weather was perfect for short sleeves and shorts/capris. I opted to wear a pair of running capris which I normally love b/c they're not too tight around the waist (and that is really crucial to me right now). However, the only other runs I've worm them on were longer runs where I had my fuel belt on me. Little did I know that the fuel belt was really good at holding these capris up. Because I literally pulled those pants up somewhere around 50 times throughout the 5k! Annoying! But, glad I figured that out while doing a short run.

Anywho, the first 1/2 mile of the race was uphill...during which I thought I was going to hyperventilate and die (not kidding). My mental devil was in my head telling me that I should just quit at the top of the hill (that is where my family would be standing for the race/parade)....that I've run the first three and a half months of my pregnancy and I can no longer do it. But, I got to the top of the hill and saw my family all waving at me. Then, most importantly, I saw my 4 year old nephew Jackson waving at me (he's never seen me running before, but we talk a lot about it) and, I know it's silly, but he just had this proud look on his face and that gave me the push I needed to continue. That, and the fact that I new the rest of the race was downhill helped my mental state at that point.

Those of you from St. Joe will appreciate my observations on the race course down Frederick (from Leblond to the YMCA).

1. Dodged about 20 potholes and roadkill
2. The majority of the race/parade spectators were missing at least three teeth
3. Saw two 11 year-olds making out in front of their parents (I almost lost it when
I saw this!)
4. The entire race course, I was breathing in fresh cigarette smoke (second-hand,
of course)
5. Emmitt was dancing at the finish line...ok, this one isn't true...LOL.

I finished the race sometime between 27:30 and 27:59. I'm not sure yet as the race results haven't been posted, I wasn't wearing my Garmin, and because someone was standing right in front of the time board blocking the seconds! I'm pretty certain it was over 27:30 though. But, I'm pretty sure my average pace was UNDER 9 minute miles, which is good for me even not pregnant! So, I was thrilled!

As for the most recent pregnancy news....we got to have a sonogram last Monday. A friend of mine is a nurse practitioner and works at a local non-profit where abortion minded girls go for counseling regarding options they have other than abortion. Well, this friend offered me a free sonogram at that clinic! I was of course really excited and of course emailed her (and texted her!) to set up an appt. So, we went last Monday when I was 13 weeks, 3 days. We heard the heartbeat again (172 bpm), saw the spine and femur bones, saw the baby's hands...the baby was really moving around a lot which is so surreal to see b/c you can't feel a thing! Crazy! She measured the head and it measured at 13 weeks, 5 days (to which I responded "oh, our baby's already advanced!"..again, those of you who know me will know that I WOULD say something like that, jokingly.) It was too early to tell the sex, but she said I could come back at 15 weeks or anytime, and she could tell us the sex. I'm a little torn about what to do b/c I don't want to have our sonogram with the doctor at 20 weeks and not be excited about hearing the sex for the first time. She'd probably think I was a freak if I was like, "oh, I already knew that. I've already had two sonograms!". Coach, being the patient one of the two of us, thinks we should just wait until 20 weeks with the doctor. So, we'll see......

picking up momentum

2010-04-21T14:26:00.006-05:00

Well, I'm trying to jam pack as many races in my schedule as humanly possible before it gets to hot and humid for this pregnant lady to run (and I promise that I won't milk the pregnant thing too much on this blog:). I'm HOPING I can make it through May and maybe some of June before it just gets too hot for me. And, considering I complained in STL when it was 55 degrees at the start of the race and probably almost 70 when it finished.....I'll be darn lucky to still be running in June..LOL.

Anyway, I just updated my race list (to the right) and added three new races. The first is a 10k here in my hometown around one of the city parks. What reeled me in was the fact that Olive Garden will have salad, breadsticks and spaghetti at the finish line...LOL. The second race is another half marathon on May 16th in Leavenworth, Kansas. I'm pretty sure Leavenworth is about 45 minutes away from my town, but I've never been there. So, I have no idea what the course is like. The website did have an elevation map and it looks like there are a couple big hills. But, hopefully nothing too horrible. The last race is a 15k. I've never run a 15 k, but I'm kind of excited for the fact that I know exactly what to expect. It's in my hometown and I've actually run the entire course before (though not all at once). The last 5+ miles of the 15k meets up with the half marathon course I did last Saturday. So, I know exactly where all the hills are...up and down.

I tried to upload a couple of photos from my race last weekend, but it wasn't working. I'll try to post those later.

half marathon redemption

2010-04-18T13:46:00.003-05:00

Yesterday, I ran my second half marathon of the week. I finished in 2:08:48...so I shaved off about three minutes since the STL half. I was pretty pleased b/c there were some KILLER hills...not as many hills, but they were steeper. I felt pretty good most of the race, but was pretty beat by the time I finished.

So, my news about why my training hasn't gone as well this time around????? I'M PREGNANT :) I'm 12 weeks now, so the cat's out of the bag! Needless to say, I get fatigued more easily and therefore can't run as fast as I used to. But, that's ok...I'm still getting exercise and it's kind of cool to be able to say I ran two half marathons while I was pregnant.

Last night we went to our friend's engagement party and spent the night in Kansas City and had a great time. We told all our friends about our news the afternoon before, so it was nice not to have to keep lying and act like I was drinking when I wasn't. A couple of them definitely suspected it since my lower belly is already pooching out a little...LOL!

Well, that's all the exciting news I have for now. Hope everyone had a great weekend!

another half

2010-04-14T16:50:00.007-05:00

Last weekend was my STL half. It didn't go as well as I had hoped, but was somewhat expected. The hills, the heat...they both led to me running slower than my previous half in November in the upper 30s weather. I'd much rather run when it's 30 than when it's 70...weird, I know!

Anyway, I ran the half in 2:11:44. This is over 7 minutes slower than my last half = bummer :( This picture below pretty much sums up how was I feeling afterwards....defeated and tired.

A friend at work, Kerry, talked me into doing a half marathon here in my hometown with her on Saturday. So, this is two halves in back to back weekends. I'm hoping I'll be able to redeem myself a little this Saturday, but we'll see. The temps will be a little cooler than last weekend, but the course is still a little hilly. Not AS hilly, but still hilly. This will be Kerry's first half marathon....and I think, first race period. She runs about 4 miles a day and does the elliptical for 30 minutes a day...everyday. And, she's recently been throwing in longer runs on the weekends with me. So, she is in great shape. The most she's ever run at once is about 7.75 miles, though. I know she's a little nervous, but I know she can do it.

I'll post sometime soon (probably early next week) about why I think I ran slower in this past half and what was different in my training this go-around versus the half in November. I know you all can't wait for that!

Hope those of you running Boston have a great time and all get your PRs!

three more days

2010-04-08T19:28:00.002-05:00

I'm getting very excited for this weekend for not only my half marathon, but more importantly to hang out with my best college friends! Tomorrow night we're staying in KC and going to the George Strait/Reba McEntire/Leanne Womack concert and then heading to STL first thing Saturday morning. When we arrive, we'll head downtown to the expo to get our race packets and shop around a little (I'm sure). I'd also like to drive the race course to see what is in store for me. Then we're throwing our friend, Alison, a baby shower....she's expecting her first baby...a girl! Not sure what's in store for Saturday night, but I'm guessing whatever it is will be low key for those of us running in Sunday's race.

I just checked the weather and they're calling for a high of 78 and sunny. So, I'm seriously stressing out that I'm going to get too hot! Thank God the race starts at 7 AM, so I'm hoping it will be cool and cloudy for at least the first half. Not sure why I can't run when it's over about 65 if it's sunny, but I seriously get a headache and feel like I'm going to wet my pants every 10 minutes...weird, I know.

Tonight I'll be packing all of the race gear I could possibly ever need, just in case the weather forecast changes. I'm planning on running with my fuel belt so I don't have to get in the mess of people fighting for water/gu. I like to drink and fuel when I want to and not rely on the race volunteers anyway.

I've really been slacking in working out this week, meaning today is the first day I've done a darn thing! So, again, yet another thing to spaz out about. My last long run before the race was last Saturday and it was six miles. I was pleased with the pace (9:04) so hopefully I'll be able to do that for another 7.1 on Sunday!

Good luck on the races this weekend ladies!

one week and 4 days

2010-03-31T14:41:00.003-05:00

I've really been slacking at posting. This may have something to do with not being 100% happy with how my training has been going :( But, I've been doing the mileage I need to do to be ready for race day, so I guess that's all I can ask for.

Last Saturday, I ran the Rock the Parkway 10k. I actually had 10 miles in my plan for that day, so I ran about 3/4 of a mile before the race, ran the 10k and then added on a little over 3 miles.

When we got to the race location (about 30 minutes before the race started), the weather was cloudy and a little chilly. I checked the radar on my phone in the car and supposedly there was a big green/yellow cell right over Kansas City, but it wasn't raining. I debated on whether or not to wear my rain jacket and a hat and decided I wouldn't. As if the Lord was listening, it immediately began sprinkling, so I changed my mind and ended up wearing the rain gear. Thank goodness I did because it rained the entire time! I'm talking water-running-off-the-bill-of-my-hat, raining. And, I haven't really run more than just a couple miles in the rain, but I secretly loved it! It kept me nice and cool, too. And, I do believe it's good to train in the rain because you never know what it will be like on race day. I know last year, it was raining the entire STL half....so you never know!

My overall pace for the 10 miles was 9:36. Not as fast as I would like, but I definitely wasn't pacing myself very well. Before the race I told myself I wasn't going to do the 10 full out since I had to tack on those extra miles. Well, after spending the first mile going slow due to weaving in and out of people (I've never understood why slow people get in the front of the race start line!), my competitiveness kicked in and I picked up the pace. My total time was 59:34, which I wasn't thrilled with considering I ran three miles under an 8:45 pace, but I also know that first mile really slowed me down. So, it's ok. Also, we ran a little before the race and I didn't reset my Garmin so that I could track the entire 10 miles I had to run that day. Then, after I crossed the finish line of the race and stopped running for probably 5 minutes to recover and talk to a couple people I saw that I knew, I totally didn't stop my Garmin. So, that really threw off my overall pace for the 10 mile run.

But, I ran the 10 miles and felt pretty good after. I was a little nervous that I'd have some digestive issues during the race, but thankfully, they held off!

Yesterday, I had to run a quick three miles. It was beautiful weather here....77 degrees and sunny, which was wonderful after the harsh, long winter we've had here in the Midwest. But, it was also a tad bit hot for me. I know that once I got going, it probably felt around 90+ degrees. Thank God there was a little breeze! I swear, if it's that hot on race day in STL, I don't know what I'm going to do....other than constantly be dousing myself with water (note to self: do not wear a white shirt on race day). I'm sure a running drowned rat will be a nice sight!

Anyway, just wanted to give you all an update and hope everyone enjoys their Easter weekend. We have a busy weekend planned: a long run on Saturday, engagement party Sat night, church Sunday and the Royals home opener on Monday! Can't wait!

training week #3

2010-03-20T14:31:00.006-05:00

Well, the first day of spring has arrived in the Midwest and it looks something like this.....

Needless to say it was pretty smart of me---alright, it was my running buddy, Katy's, idea---to move my 8 mile run from today to this past Thursday when it was 65 degrees and sunny. Now, normally I need to mentally prepare myself before my long runs (I know...to some of you 8 miles isn't a long run, but it kind of is to me). And, this mental preparation usually starts the day before. So, when Katy emailed me mid-morning on Thursday with this proposition, I had a minor freak out but then decided that she was right. We should move our run. And, it went pretty well. I was hoping for a little faster pace, but I'll take it. Here's how the miles looked.

Mile 1: 10:05
Mile 2: 9:17
Mile 3: 9:40
Mile 4: 9:42
Mile 5: 9:27
Mile 6: 9:34
Mile 7: 10:08
Mile 8: 9:13
Total: 1:17:13 @ 9:39 pace

I'm a little bummed I had two miles with over ten minutes b/c that doesn't happen to me very often anymore. Both miles with over a ten minute pace were mostly uphill, but still....I really expected a little bit better. I'm not going to stress, though, because my body felt great at the end. So, I probably could have pushed myself a little more during some miles.

As for the rest of this past training week...

Monday: totally planned an elliptical workout, but it didn't happen :(
Tuesday: 3 miles @ 25:33 (8:15 pace)
Wednesday: 35 minutes on the elliptical
Thursday: 8 miles @ 1:17:33 (9:39 pace)
Friday: Rest
Saturday: 40 minutes elliptical, abs, free weights

I was hoping to get out and run about 4-5 miles today, but that's not gonna happen. I'm hoping that I can tomorrow afternoon/evening. It's supposed to hit about 41 degrees tomorrow so hopefully at least the running trails will be clear.

As for fun stuff this weekend, Coach and I have been watching basketball pretty much non-stop. Also, an old high school friend is in town this weekend to visit her parents, so I'm going to head over there soon. I'm really excited to see her and her baby. I haven't seen in her in almost 8 years which is crazy to think about....how time flies!

Hope everyone enjoys their weekend and is seeing better weather than we are here.

half marathon training - week #2

2010-03-13T12:26:00.005-06:00

This morning I did my long run of 6 miles. The miles looked like this....

Mile 1: 9:17
Mile 2: 8:57
Mile 3: 9:18
Mile 4: 9:17
Mile 5: 9:18
Mile 6: 9:32 (uphill)
Total Time : 55:37 (avg pace = 9:16)

I was pleased with this run and felt pretty good afterwards. I've been doing pretty well sticking my training program this week.

Sunday, my rest day, I did 40 minutes on the elliptical since I knew that Monday I wouldn't have time to get my workout in. Turns out also, Monday I came down with some sinus issues, so I ended up not having the energy the workout anyway...nor did I on Tuesday. Tuesday night I went to bed at 7 PM, was asleep by 8 PM and slept until 6 AM! It was glorious! Wednesday I did 30 minutes on the elliptical and Thursday I did my short run. Friday was supposed to be another cross training workout, but I decided to get a pedicure after work instead. And, then my nephew came over for a couple of hours in the evening. So, my workout was basically shot!

Today, Coach and I have had some free entertainment around our house. Turns out there's a opossum (sp?) hanging out in our back yard so we've been watching him. They are such nasty animals and I really hope he leaves soon! I thought they were nocturnal?! Anyway, Coach has been outside with his BB Gun hoping to at least scare it away. He almost pulled out his 22, but then we'd have to find something to do with the dead carcass so we nixed that idea.

Tomorrow, my nephew Jackson is turning 4 years old so we will be attending his Batman Birthday Party. Should be a lot of fun.

On a sadder note, my running buddy Katy and her husband just bought a house in Kansas City so she will be moving away :( Sad for me, happy for them.

Hope everyone has a great weekend!

half marathon training week #1...down

2010-03-06T16:17:00.002-06:00

On Tuesday I mentioned that my run kicked my butt and I wasn't sure if my Garmin was right since I lost signal in a couple of places. Now, I'm pretty sure it was right because I was so winded afterwards. And, my Tuesday pace was definitely fast for me at 8:48, which explains why I was so winded.

I ran two miles on Thursday as well and finished at a pace of 9:07. My elliptical was FINALLY delivered on Thursday night and Coach spend about a total of 5 hours putting it together on Thursday and Friday....he's awesome! It's pretty massive and heavy duty. I tried it out on Friday for my cross training workout and did a 30 minute interval workout. It was a good full body workout and I definitely feel like throwing those cross training days in my training plan will be worth it.

Today was my first "long" run for my half marathon training. I had to run four miles, so I opted to run all hills since the mileage was short. It was tough in some places, but I actually felt pretty good the entire time. I did 4.18 miles in 37:47 for an average pace of 9:02. Not too shabby. So overall, I've been very pleased with my pace this first week and I hope that I can keep it up throughout the training. If so, I'll easily PR the STL half.

Tomorrow is a rest day, but I may end up doing an elliptical workout...we'll see. I'm also going to see the movie Dear John tomorrow, which I've been dying to see. I love ALL Nicholas Sparks movies/books!

This morning I started my day volunteering at this event called Cinderella's Closet. It's where girls in and around my community can shop for prom dresses that have been donated. It was so much fun seeing those girls in their prom dresses and seeing their face light up when you tell them how beautiful they looked! It's sad because a lot of them seemed to be shy, quiet and probably have low self-esteem. So, it felt really good to see them realize how pretty they looked in their gowns. It was such a fun event.

Hope everyone had great long runs today!

commence training program

2010-03-02T18:56:00.002-06:00

Yesterday my training program began for the STL half. And, yesterday was the first workout I skipped :) It was a cross training day and my elliptical STILL has not been delivered! That's another story, but I've been promised it will be there Thursday or Friday. Therefore, I had no cross training I could do--I totally could have done yoga and some weights, but didn't do that either...FML.

Today my training called for a 2 mile run which is what I did. My pace was 8:48 which I was really happy with, but I know I had a weak GPS signal in a couple of spots, so I'm not sure if that somehow affected it. I felt like I was going slower my second mile and my Garmin said I was quite a bit faster. Oh well. I'll just trust my Garmin :)

The weather has gotten fairly nice here and is supposed to be in the low 50s and rainy all weekend, but I'll definitely take it!

love 2 run 4 miler - recap

2010-02-18T13:50:00.008-06:00

Sunday morning, Valentine's Day, I ran the Love 2 Run 4 Miler with The Running Worm. I was planning on leaving my house at 6:45 AM in order to be at the Worm's house by 7:30ish and then at the race location by 8 AM so that we could get checked in. My alarm was set for 6 AM....or so I thought. I woke up at 4:30 AM, looked at my clock and fell back asleep. Awhile later I woke up again and laid there for a few minutes thinking that surely it must be close to 6. When I looked at my clock it said 6:18! So, I had to opt out of taking a shower before the race which was ok, but I really need a shower to wake myself up and get my blood flowing. Luckily, I made it to the Worm's house in plenty of time to get to the race start.

When we got there, we checked in and went back to the car in attempts to stay warm. The temperature outside, including wind chill, was -3 degrees. I made a promise to myself to not run outside if the temps are below zero with the wind chill, basically b/c I didn't want to freeze to death or lose any fingers/toes. But, in the name of "Love", I had to break my promise. I had on two layers of running tights, three shirts (one of them fleece-lined), smartwool socks, a neck gator (I think that's what it's called) and a stocking cap.

I know...I look pretty effing sweet, don't I?! Oh, did I mention that black is my favorite clothing color?

Here's the Worm sporting her favorite color, Pink!

I seriously think we laughed for about 10 minutes straight at our outfits and how bundled up we were. It was fun since we had about an hour of time to kill. Note to self: do not get to a race that early again when it's sub-zero. The race took place at the downtown airport in KC. It's mainly just used for private planes now and there is a 3.6 mile track around the perimeter of the airport. It was such a boring route and I had absolutely no concept of where I was the entire time or how far I had run (other than I had my Garmin on) b/c it was just one huge circle. I didn't even try to PR or anything b/c based on my current 4 mile PR, I really didn't think it was possible....especially b/c of the winds that day. So, I'm a wimp and didn't even attempt it.

Overall, the race was OK. They didn't have much for entertainment....just a little music at the end and b/c it was so cold, we pretty much just finished the race and then went out to brunch:)

Here's a pic of us after race. You can actually see our faces...LOL.

On another note, this past Saturday, I met up with a couple of friends to get a run in. Normally, I wouldn't run the day before a race, but since I wasn't wanting to PR on Sunday I really didn't care. Actually, let me back up even more. I met my friend Katy for a short run last Friday after work. I basically wanted to get some sort of running in since I had been sick with the flu last week and hadn't run in over a week. We ran 2.5 miles of mostly hills and I was completely winded at the end. Also, my pace was only 9:33 which is slow for me on that route. So, I was feeling very defeated after that run. I didn't know whether my body was still fatigued from having the flu Tuesday and Wednesday or if I was just slow and out of shape already from not running for a week.

When I met up with Katy and Kerry on Saturday morning to run, I told them I might not run as far as they were going to run or I might run slower as I didn't know how my body would feel. I started off ok and after about three miles was feeling really good. I was a little bit slower than Kerry (we normally run about the same pace), but I tried not to let it bother me....I can get a little competitive :) At the round-about in the trail where we normally turn and do our last mile of the 6 mile route, Kerry decided she wanted to keep going straight to add on about 1.3 miles to our usual route. At that time, I still felt pretty good so I continued with her while Katy headed back. She had an injury a couple months ago and really didn't want to overdo it. Once I hit about 6 miles, however, I completely ran out of gas. I know that had I known I would be running 7.3 miles I would definitely have eaten breakfast and probably carried a GU with me just in case. I ended up running a 9:21 pace which isn't bad and actually was quite surprised I was that fast because of the last mile, but I was still frustrated with how I felt after the run.

So, as you can see, this is why I was really not in the mood to even try for a PR on Sunday. And, my confidence with running and getting ready to start my half marathon training program in a week as definitely been put in check a little bit. I guess we all need that from time to time, but enough already!

Hope you all have a great weekend!

what a nightmare

2010-02-12T15:51:00.002-06:00

Last night after I finally fell asleep, I had the strangest dream. It started off with me getting ready to run my half marathon. My friend Cookie was in the dream with me, running, so I assume this was supposed to be at our STL half marathon.

Anyway, at the start of the race, I realize I forgot my Garmin....I was pissed. Then, we started running and about a mile in, Cookie needed a bathroom break. Again....pissed. Then, while on the restroom break, we noticed some shops. So, we shopped. Then we ate lunch. Then, in my running gear, suddenly I was at the Gynecologist's office...receiving my annual exam!!!! After that, I decided I better start running again so I could actually finish the half marathon, but it was dark. It was already night time!

This is a random post, but I seriously hope this is not a foreshadowing of what the real race day will be like.

under the weather

2010-02-09T07:42:00.003-06:00

Today, I am staying home from work---sick. I'm having some stomach issues, the details of which I will not disclose. We got snow on Friday - Monday and now are having frigid temps. Needless to say, I haven't gotten outside to run since last Thursday and I'm feeling it. Whenever this happens I start stressing that I'm going to have to completely "start over" and work my way up to easily running 6 miles. To some, this may not sound like much, but I felt pretty accomplished getting to this point.

Also, the STL half marathon filled up last week, so my two friends who were also running this race didn't get in. One of them just signed up for the full marathon and is going to run the half. The other one can't decide whether or not to do that (you're "strongly" discouraged to do this by the race committee and this friend doesn't like to break rules:) I tried to convince her to sign up for the full and run the half, but she informed me that she was told her chip timing wouldn't be accurate if she did this, nor would she get a medal. And, this being her first half is really a bummer.

Hopefully next week, I'll have some running updates for you. Other than that not much is going on. Coach is taking me out to dinner on Sunday night for Valentine's Day in Kansas City and neither one of us has to work on Monday, so that means I'll get to enjoy a glass of wine...or two :)

ellipticals, running and VD

2010-02-02T18:55:00.004-06:00

Coach and I went elliptical shopping Saturday and after a slow start finally ended up making a purchase. I love it when you're looking at exercise equipment and the employee helping you is an overweight 50+ year old man trying to show you how to use the machine. He started in on how ellipticals keep the impact off your knees unlike running on a treadmill, blah, blah, blah. Apparently I looked like I had never worked out a day in my life! I was utterly annoyed, but got over it. I ended up ordering my elliptical online and it won't be delivered for three weeks max, but with free shipping (which would have been over $200 for an overweight item) it's worth the wait. I'm sure it will be in about a billion pieces when we get it too. Good thing Coach is handy!

I started a new goal a few weeks ago to run at least three days per week up until my half marathon training starts on March 1st. I ran three days the first week, but only two the second week which was last week. So, to make up for it, I've already run three days this week with another run planned on Thursday (hopefully 6 miles or some speed training. I haven't decided yet) and 7 miles planned on Saturday afternoon. So, I feel that more than makes up for it. I've been logging 6 miles fairly regularly now, which used to seem daunting when running alone. Now it seems that the time flies by and after the first couple of miles I get into my groove. That being said, I have this notion running through my head that if I'm easily running 6 miles when not even doing a training program right now...and since that's about half of a half marathon, maybe I need to train for another full marathon???? Maybe Chicago???? I'm really scared to do the training alone as I cannot imagine running up to 22 miles alone during training. Also, I'm nervous about doing over half of my training during the summer here in the Midwest. The humidity kills me when running and I'm just not a warm weather runner. So, I still have a lot to contemplate on whether or not to do it.

Also, I've started a spreadsheet logging my miles, total time, average pace and my time during each split so that I can see if my time is improving. I'm hoping that it does and welcome any suggestions of how to speed up :) For the most part I average anywhere between a 9:00-9:20 average pace/mile and each mile is pretty all over the board. I'd love to be able to pace myself better, but I think that will just come with practice.

The Running Worm and I just signed up for the Love 2 Run 4 Love four mile race on VD (Valentine's Day). It's at the downtown KC airport and completely flat. Should be a good run and I'm looking forward to it. I didn't realize it, but when I signed up it's actually a couples run and you can run it with your spouse or a friend. Had I known that, the Worm and I could have signed up as a lesbian couple and saved about $5 on registration. We talked about crossing the finish line holding hands, which would be hilarious. The Running Worm is running at least one race per month this year, so although I didn't run anything in January, I'm signed up to run a race in Feb, March and April already and am looking into another half marathon (of hills..eek) in June. Guess I need to find something to run in May too!

On an unrelated note, please share your favorite running/workout songs on your iPod. I need to add some new stuff to my running playlist.

my life in a bubble

2010-01-29T10:32:00.002-06:00

I'm a member of a women's community volunteer organization here in town, for those of you who aren't aware. Part of being a new member in this org requires you to do a project, locally. This project must include finding a need, coming up with a plan to help those in need, obtaining PR about org and our project and reaching out to area people/businesses to help with our project.

Last night, my group met and we were brainstorming project ideas. There are a couple of elementary teachers in my group, so we started talking about schools and wanting to focus on Middle Schoolers since many of them fall through the cracks. It seems like most people want to help out the younger kids (this is just my opinion...not factual:) But, seriously, most of the time I was sitting here listening to the stories these teachers told (both of them teach at or have taught at Title 1 schools...the low income schools) with my jaw on the floor. I mean, I grew up in this town and have lived here the majority of my life. Could I have been so naive and not seen the needs within my own community? I grew up in a happy little bubble where everything was roses with my home life and my friend's home lives. I made good grades and had two parents at home with me every night who were able to help me with my homework and give me baths and teach me how to take care of myself and it's importance. And, for these reasons, among many others, I have been blessed with a life for which I am very grateful. I realize now how lucky I was when I hear stories like these.

1. These Title 1 schools have washers and dryers so that teachers can wash their student's clothes. Many of the students continuously come to school in dirty clothes as I imagine their homes don't have these appliances and it can get very expensive washing your clothes in a laundromat if you don't have the money.

2. Some of the kids continuously have lice because of unclean living conditions. Although there is shampoo that will get rid of lice, their parents can't afford it.

3. There are kids that don't even have socks or have shoes that fit them. In gym, kids wear flip flops since those are usually just a couple of bucks. Or, they wear shoes that are too small, too big or shoes with holes.

I know that most of your are probably aware that this is a problem and I was too. I just thought it was in larger communities or those really small towns. I didn't really think this was going on in my mid-sized community of around 75,000 people. I've lived my life not leaving a radius of a couple of miles from my home. And, even within this small circle, there were areas I avoided because I had no need to go there.

So, I have decided that I'd like to volunteer some time with the lowest income school in my town and either tutor or become a mentor to one of those kids. I seriously believe it when teachers say that there are some kids who may only see one smile a day...and it's from their teacher. And, this just breaks my heart.

What are you doing to help those in need in your community? Prior to yesterday, I was doing nothing, so don't feel bad if you're in the same boat.

weekend recap

2010-01-25T10:35:00.008-06:00

Once again, we had a full weekend. Friday after work I met up with my friend, Katy, for a run. Katy and I ran the Gobbler Grind together, but she was injured and had been off running for the past two months--kind of like me, only I was just lazy...LOL. So, this was her first run back. We just went out and ran a quick three miles, but it made me feel better about eating the pizza Coach and I had for dinner that night. Coach and I had a Netflix night at home and went to bed rather early since we had an early morning and long day on Saturday.

At 7 AM, Coach and I got on the highway and headed to Joplin. Coach, who never speeds by the way, ended up getting pulled over doing 81 mph in a 65. I was annoyed because we were making good time without him speeding and there was no need for him to be going that fast. I was also annoyed because of course the cop was waiting right where the speed limit changed from 70 to 65. On a positive note though, he reduced the ticket to 75 mph in a 65 mph zone. The reason we left for Joplin so early was because I had to attend a baby shower at 11 AM. One of Coach's college friends is expecting, so I went to her shower and then we all went out that night and stayed in Joplin. It was just the girls....and Coach.

Here's a pic of us girls at the beginning of the night. Please forgive my appearance...I was already tired and did not feel well the entire day!

After partaking in some morning mimosas and afternoon beverages, I opted out of drinking Saturday evening and became the DD. Like I said, I wasn't feeling too hot, but I also had plans to meet a friend to run 6 miles at 4 PM Sunday. And, I didn't want to be hungover. We went to the new casino in Joplin (it's actually in Oklahoma, but just right over the border) where I lost $20 playing blackjack. But, the casino was really nice for a small town like Joplin. Some people down there were comparing it to Vegas and were very serious about this comparison. However, I didn't even think it was as nice/big as the Kansas City casinos, but almost....LOL. Silly people!

Sunday morning, my plan was to wake up and get on the road. However, since I was the only non-hungover one, my plans were altered. We ended up going to eat breakfast (at 10:45) at Cracker Barrel where I ordered the cold cereal breakfast (I'm not much of a breakfast person...especially at 10:45 AM. I'd much rather hold out for lunch) which might be illegal to order there. Finally, we got on the road at 11:30. I was kind of bummed because we had plans to stop in Kansas City on the way home so I could check out--and possibly purchase--an elliptical down there since the selection is bigger than in my town. But, needless to say, that didn't happen since I wanted to be able to shower (for my running buddy's sake) before my 4 PM run. We walked in the door at 2:45 and then I hit the shower and got ready to meet Kerry for our run.

My friend, Kerry, is actually my old boss here at work. We're the same age and know a lot of the same people from growing up in the same town even though we attended different schools our entire lives. Well, she runs about 4 miles EVERY day, but does this on a treadmill (dreadmill). So, I convinced her to meet me for a run on Sunday, outdoors. By the time we ran, weather.com said the temperature felt like 26 degrees and it was very windy. I didn't notice the wind the first three miles, but it hit us like a ton of bricks the second we turned around! Anyway, Kerry is used to the treadmill pacing her so when we started out she was running very fast. Faster than her usual pace (and mine) anyway. So, I immediately told her the pace she was running, per my Garmin, and we slowed down...LOL. Overall though, the run was great and I seriously shaved 30 seconds per mile off my average running pace. She shaved a minute off hers! We ended up running 6 miles in 53:48 for an average pace of 8:58/mile. I was very impressed with her running because I can remember only running on the treadmill and then taking it outside to the wind, inclines, etc and it kicking my butt!

So, I met my goal last week of running three days a week. I've already run one this week and have another run scheduled for Tuesday so it'll be easy to squeeze one more in later in the week to meet my goal.

Hope everyone had a great weekend!

back on the saddle

2010-01-21T13:33:00.003-06:00

Well, I'm pleased to announce that I've worked out twice this week! Yippee! For some, this would not be an accomplishment at all, but for me it is. You see, until this week I have only run one time (2.5 miles) since my half marathon. And, I really don't count this run since it was one time in two months. So, I've run twice this week with another run planned with a friend tomorrow after work.

Monday, The Running Worm and I met up in Platte City which is about halfway between our houses. We ended up running four miles on a really pretty trail with snow surrounding us and even a little creek (crick?) with some running water and water falls. I struggled the first two miles, but after that I found my groove and ended up running a decent pace. Yesterday, I ran on my favorite trail at home and planned on running four miles. When I got to the 2 mile point, I decided to run a little further and ended up turning around at 2.5 miles for a 5 mile run. I felt even better during this run and ran a 9:26 pace, which was definitely within my pace range while I was doing my half marathon training. I was actually pleasantly surprised with this pace since I had taken those two months off...I figured it would take me awhile to get up to a pace like that regardless of the mileage. So, I guess I now need to raise the bar on my goal time for my next half marathon! I'm also planning on incorporating some more speed training into my training this time around.

Speaking of half marathons, I registered for the St. Louis half marathon in April. I'm getting very excited and am ready to start training (even though I have awhile). So, my goal over the next month is to run 2-3 days per week and get in some weight training at home. Hopefully this will get me ready for the training since I plan on PRing! And, some more exciting news.....Coach and I are going elliptical shopping on Sunday. Hopefully I find something I like that isn't ridiculously expensive! Knowing me, I won't like anything less than the ellipticals at the gym! Wish me luck!

and....I'm back!

2010-01-12T14:55:00.005-06:00

Welcome back! I know, I know...I've definitely been slacking on the blog posting. Truth is, it doesn't seem like much has been going on since the holidays. Well, actually that's not true because I have a new hobby of eating horrible foods in enormous proportion. Seriously, I've gained 7 lbs since I ran my half marathon. I know the fact that I've only run 3 miles since then has definitely played a role, but so have my eating habits, my portions, what I put it my mouth..it's all horrible.

To portray the severity of the situation, before Christmas I went over to a friend's house. She was in town and I hadn't seen her in awhile. So, she starts asking me if I'm pregnant. I tell her no and she asks again....I mean, she thought I was lying because she asked me like four times! I practically had to swear on my life that I was NOT pregnant (which I'm not), but it's really b/c I have put on weight. And, I can't even use the excuse one who works out might be able to use...you know, Muscle Weighs More Than Fat because there's NO MUSCLE HERE!

Anyway, on a less disgusting and depressing note, I got my arm warmers for Christmas (which I obviously haven't used:), my new camera and a healthy amount to go towards my elliptical which I'm hoping to buy next month. I can't wait.

Please let me know who is really in for running the STL half marathon and who will be spectating b/c this is really still in my plans. Hopefully the snow holds off here starting next month so I can train adequately since I'll be starting from scratch...hopefully it's like riding a bike!

I'll leave you with a pic from one of the Christmas parties Coach and I attended. These are a couple of guys Coach grew up, so I'm not claiming them! Oh, and no, your eyes are not deceiving you...they re-pierced their ears (apparently this was a big thing to do in High School in Nevada, MO) and were wearing Christmas bell earrings...one each. This was taken during a break while playing Survivor Flip Cup where the losing team votes one person off the island after every round (I passed out shortly therefore--I think drinking excessive amounts the past two months may have played a part in the 7 lbs too, but that's just a guess). Stay Classy!

getting in the Christmas spirit

2009-12-15T08:16:00.009-06:00

Christmas truly is my favorite time of year. I had pretty much all of my Christmas shopping done this year before Thanksgiving....I'm not joking! When I was younger, I started listening to Christmas music in September! Last year, I really got into baking new sweets/candies for Christmas parties I attended so I'm going to keep this tradition going again this year.

On the menu for an Ugly Christmas Sweater Party I'm going to on Saturday night.........

Cake Balls (recipe found here)

Rather than doing red velvet on the inside and milk chocolate on the outside, I'm planning on a dark chocolate inside with a white chocolate outside. I can't wait to try these puppies!

The other new item I'm baking for the first time....

Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough Brownies (recipe found here and here)

No, you're not hallucinating. That is a chocolate ganache icing on the top to make these brownies a little more melt in your mouth, wonderful deliciousness! Caution: This WILL make your love handles a little more lovable! Um, Honey, I REALLY need that elliptical......

Bakerella just might be my new favorite baking blog! I was introduced by her by this lovely lady's blog--Pioneer Woman! Seriously, if you have some spare time (like, really...a LOT of spare time) check out Pioneer Woman's blog. She is absolutely hilarious! Okay, so she's been around awhile and maybe everyone already knows her, but I just discovered her. And, she has a ton of amazing "Cowboy/Cowgirl" recipes on her blog that are a little more my speed. She lives in OK and is the wife of a 4th generation rancher. So, she's a city girl turned country girl. Although I can't relate to country life, Coach would absolutely love live in the country someday, so maybe her blog will help me be more open minded about the possibility of that....someday.....like WAY down the road.....uh, let's not get ahead of ourselves here:)

half marathon training....failed

2009-12-09T13:01:00.003-06:00

So, this week marked the start of my training IF I decide to do the Topeka to Auburn half marathon. I'm still on the fence about it--since I'd be doing it completely solo, running through the country roads of Kansas with God knows what kind of weather in mid-January--but was planning on starting to train for it and then would decide whether or not I'd run it once I got a little ways into my training. The temperature is below zero today with the windchill with ice and snow covering all the trails and sidewalks in town. And, since I cancelled my gym membership and don't have a home gym, running is impossible right now. I refuse to run outside if the temps are below zero with the windchill...I'm not that crazy.

So, basically, I just need a kick in the butt to get me on my training program and the weather to cooperate...that's not too much to ask, right?

On a less depressing note, I talked to my friend Cookie last night and she's thinking about running a half marathon--come to find out she was inspired to do this from my blog, so even more exciting for me:) And, since another friend of ours, Twit, is going to run the St. Louis half marathon--and Cookie lives in St. Louis--Cookie and I decided that we should all do that race. So, I sent Cookie a couple of training schedules to get her even more motivated! It's going to be so much fun!

chiefs football game

2009-12-07T16:16:00.002-06:00

Coach and I scored some free tickets (very good tickets, might I add) to Sunday's Chiefs vs. Broncos game. We got a late start heading to the stadium and discussed selling our tickets since it was kind of cold outside. Yes, this is greedy, but we seriously had our money spent by the time we pulled into the stadium, on many glorious Christmas presents for one another. Too bad we didn't pull into the stadium until 11:50. Yes, I know. We didn't have any time to sell our tickets, so we ended up going to the game.

But, to entertain ourselves during the 25 minutes of stop and go traffic outside the stadium, Coach and I did some role playing of what I'd say to someone who was interested in buying our tickets.

Me: Two tickets....anyone need some tickets?

Coach: Sure, I'll give you twenty bucks each for them.

Me: Twenty bucks? You mean to tell me that you're trying to STICK ME (Coach informed me I meant to say "STIFF ME") by offering me twenty bucks per ticket to the Chiefs/Broncos game, one of the Chiefs biggest rivals, the game at which they're retiring Derrick Thomas's jersey, for two tickets with a face value of $90 each?!?!?! I'd rather rip both of these tickets to shreds and throw them out the car window rather than sell them to you for that price!

We role played many other scenarios and had a ton of laughs....I was crying by the end of it! The Chiefs lost, of course, and we ended up leaving in the 3rd quarter, but still had a good time. Coach informed me that Chiefs fans are known to be some of the white trash-iest of any NFL fans. This, I didn't realize. But, after he told me that, I started to look around at some of the other ticket holders and by golly, he appeared to be right.

Our favorite quote of the day by a Chiefs spectator. Said by a man holding a beer, "I haven't been this drunk since last week!"

So, we were among Missouri's finest Whiskey Tango! Hopefully we didn't blend in!

from the beach to the freezing cold

2009-12-04T20:01:00.003-06:00

On Thanksgiving, Coach and I left for Mexico. We had a wonderful time away, although we wish it would have lasted longer. Here's the view we looked at for 5 days.

We returned to Missouri just in time for temperatures in the twenties and blustery winds. I took my workout clothes to Mexico with full intention of working out in the fitness center, but needless to say they never made it out of my suitcase. In fact, even more depressing is I haven't even run a millimeter since my half marathon.

Tomorrow, Coach and I are going to get our Christmas tree which I'm so excited about. I've already wrapped about half of my Christmas gifts and only have about two more gifts to buy before I'm done. This is my absolute favorite time of year: listening to Christmas carols, trimming the tree and wrapping presents. So, I've got a very festive weekend ahead of me.

The next couple of weeks are filled with parties, one is a Snuggie couples shower (yes, we are being forced to wear Snuggies out to the bars) another is an ugly Christmas sweater party, and the last is a girls Christmas party with some fellow Jr. Leaguers. So, many fun things to look forward to.

I hope everyone has a great weekend. Oh, and one last thing. Coach and I were thinking about hanging lights this year outside and I like the white lights, but Coach wants to hang blue lights. I seriously thought that blue lights were for Hanukkah...anyone want to weigh in on this?

christmas wish list

2009-11-25T15:38:00.011-06:00

So, in case any of you need any Christmas gift ideas (this is mainly for Coach:), here you go!

#1 on my list is a new camera!
I've had my current camera for probably 7 years and I think it only has 5 or so mega pixels. So, it pretty much sucks. Yes, that's the camera that took those wonderful half marathon pictures. And, since Coach was the one taking the pictures, he finally realizes how bad it sucks. This Sony Cybershot camera has 12.1 mega pixels and 5x zoom. I would love it in Black or Silver...heck, at this point I'd even take the Navy Blue one. I'm really not going to be picky. Also, my parents just got this camera and took it with them on their trip to San Antonio. I saw the pictures today, and they look great! So vibrant and clear.

#2 is arm warmers
I saw so many people wearing these at my race last weekend, which made me want them even more. They are so cute, but practical too. In fact, last Sunday's race would have been the perfect time to wear them. I was just a little warm with my long sleeves on so if I had been wearing short sleeves with my arm warmers it would have been perfect.....with just a little air being able to cool me down. I really like these black/grey ones below.

Finally, #3 on my list is an elliptical
I know, I don't ask for much, do I?! HA! And, this isn't really a wish to receive as a Christmas gift, but maybe money to put towards one to get next year. I mean, can't you just see me rocking out on this! We'll see if Santa thinks I've been really good this year.

So, that's about all. I hope everyone has a wonderful Turkey Day and enjoys spending time with their family and reflecting on what they're thankful for. Coach and I, however, will be reflecting with a fruity, slushy drink in our hands while laying on the beach....yes, we're leaving for Mexico bright and early tomorrow morning. Hasta La Vista, baby!

goal achieved

2009-11-23T18:43:00.008-06:00

Yesterday was my first half marathon in three years! Back then, I ran the KC half marathon as part of my marathon training. I had just started running a couple of months earlier and finished with a time of 2:16 and change. After my marathon, I ran very sporadically up until about 6 months ago when my running became much more consistent. That being said, I really had no idea what except for my time in this half so I set my goal at a ten minute per mile average. Once I started training, I thought this goal was very realistic and one that I could attain. Well....yesterday I ran my half marathon in 2:04:05, earning myself a new PR! I was so excited because that is an average of 9:29/mile which is really good for me for this distance.

The course was a mix of trails and sidewalks and was pretty flat. The only down side was that because most of it was on a trail, and the trail was only about three people wide, you occasionally had to run in the grass to pass people. Overall, though, I really liked the course.

Coach came down and followed me at a few points on the course. I was really excited b/c this is the first race he's been able to come to. I stressed to him the night before, that I wanted him to make sure to take a bunch of pictures with our camera**.

RaceReport

Mile 1-3
I started off the race feeling really good, but was stressed out about starting too fast right out the gate. You see, I did that when I ran my full marathon and was completely exhausted by the time I was at mile 13, so I didn't want to make that same mistake this time. The view on this part of the course wasn't the greatest. It was a little hilly and we were literally running through parking lots during some parts. By the end of this portion, the crowd was starting to thin out a bit so I got a little more comfortable and was able to keep my pace better.

Mile 4-6
The first mile of this was seriously a blur. I was just running away to the music on my iPod enjoying the scenery on the trail. At mile 5, I sent Coach a text saying I was at mile 5. We had planned this the night before b/c he was going to be around mile 6 or 7, which is where the course was on the street rather than the trails. I already had the text all typed out, so all I had to do was pull out my phone, hit send, and put it away. Coach, being the considerate husband that he is, of course didn't text me back as he knew I was running. But, then I started wondering where he would be. Then, I swear I thought I saw him driving down the street the opposite direction of where I was running. So, I pulled out my phone and text him that I thought I saw him and told him where I was located at that moment. He text me back and told me it wasn't him and told me where he was. He was one block ahead!!!!

Mile 7 & 8
Since I knew Coach was just ahead I started looking for him and spotted his light blue Royals hat. I started waving really big and he continued to just stand there staring. A few moments later, he waves and get the camera in picture-taking position. I was really excited and could tell he was snapping away. So much picture taking, in fact, that he didn't even speak to me. No words of encouragement, no "hi honey", nothing! At first I was a little disappointed, but then after the race he told me that he was so nervous about getting good pictures for me that he didn't want to stop taking pictures to say anything to me. So, then I decided it was really cute. Right after I saw Coach, a car full of girls I know drove by and all shouted my name and got me pumped up.

(Me just past mile 7. I'm in the blue---the one with the ponytail:)

Mile 9-11
At mile 9, I saw my aunt and uncle who had come to cheer me on.....another boost! Mile 9 was pretty much all downhill, which was nice. It was also the end of the street/sidewalk running and heading back onto the trail. I was passing quite a few people at this point too. Then, sure enough, I saw coach again at mile 10, snapping away again...this time I got a "hi" too :) I figured this would be the last time I'd see him since the trails started and I was getting pretty close to the finish.

(I'm so bummed this one was blurry, but I'm posting it anyway)

Right when I got back on the trail, I heard someone call my name. It was my friend John who ran the Phoenix Marathon with me. He tore his ACL and had surgery earlier this year and this was his first race since. He had a knee brace on which was bothering him...he was hurting pretty bad and I could tell by the look on his face. My compassionate side really wanted to hang back with him for a bit to help keep him going, but my competitive side want to keep running. Of course, he told me he was fine and for me to run ahead, so I did.

Mile 12-Finish
By this point, I picked up my pace for the last mile. All of a sudden, out pops Coach! (This reminded me of watching New Moon the other night and how Edward kept popping up on Bella...and that made me happy too:) He decided to make one more stop to see me before the finish and this time he said "You're almost done Honey!" I started sprinting once I saw the finish line (Coach popped up again right before the finish line) and ended the race feeling really good. I wasn't sore, tired, nothing.

(Mile 12 - Coach was right above me on a bridge taking this one. I love it because my left quad looks muscular. It totally might just be the blur on the camera and probably is since my knee appears to be concave, but either way, I'll take it!)

(I'm coming up on the finish on this one...still smiling!)

(Sporting my medal after the race)

Afterwards, I found Coach and he was so cute. He looked so proud of me and told me how good I
did. We were both happy that he got to experience watching me do this! I'm sure he won't be able to come to all of my races in the future, but it's nice to have a cheerleader on the sidelines every now and then.

So, next on the agenda is to plan my 2010 races. There aren't many races of any distance other than 5K's in January-March, but there is one half marathon in the Topeka, KS area in January. And, I have a friend in law school there so I'll probably see if she wants to run it with me. I looked at the website today, though, and it said it was a very challenging course with many hills. So, if I do it, I'm not planning on PR-ing again. It will be more of something to do to keep my running up in the really cold months. I'm also thinking about maybe doing the Saint Louis half in April, but we'll see.

**As a side, many of the photos are not the best quality. I don't really like my camera, but I really do think that most of the reason they didn't come out very clear was because I was in motion. Sorry if you get motion sickness while looking at them.

team jacob

2009-11-19T15:23:00.006-06:00

Last weekend, I went to the Mizzou/K-State football game in Manhattan, KS. The tigers pulled off an easy win and I got to have some fun spending time with my extended family. I have a cousin who is a senior at K-State so it's become a tradition for him, me and my cousin Aaron (Aaron and I went to Mizzou) to go the the football game each year with our dads---our dads are brothers.

I was reminded that I can't really party like I used to. The game started at 11:30 and then we immediately went to the bars to start drinking. It was a lot of fun and I even got to play some rounds of PhotoHunt on the Mega Touch! Good times. But, also, after spending some time at my cousin's house (basically a fraternity house for the seniors in his fraternity) I was very grateful that I don't have to deal with immature college guys anymore and made me feel even luckier to have my wonderful husband back at home waiting for me (OK you can all gag:). My parents had to drag me out of the bar (and off the dance floor) at about 11 PM to take me back to our hotel room. Here's a picture of some my three cousins who went to the game with me.

Tonight I'm going to the movie theater to see Twilight and then to watch the midnight showing of New Moon. I absolutely cannot wait and have really found it hard to concentrate at work today, I'm so excited. I'm going to have to pay for it tomorrow, though since I'll be lucky to get four hours of sleep tonight. I'm sure it will be worth it though.

For those of you who don't understand the Twilight hype...take a look at the photo below. And, yes, I know he's only 17!

crazy week

2009-11-13T18:16:00.006-06:00

So sorry for neglecting my blog all week, but I'm so happy the weekend is here. Work has been so crazy and I really need to unwind. On the work front, we had a reorganization and now I have new team members, a new boss and am working with about 40 agents up in WI now (previously I worked with agents around St. Cloud, MN and I loved them). These WI American Family agents have a lot to live up to! But, I feel like my work load has at least doubled...not kidding!

On the personal-life front, I went to the doctor this week as I'd been feeling tired and fatigued. Well, after some blood work, I found out that my B12 was really low. So, now I have to go in for a weekly B12 shot for 4 weeks and then get monthly shots indefinitely. My doctor said that if I got in a couple shots before my half marathon next weekend, I'd shave 10 minutes off my time. So, we shall see! I really hope he's right, although I'm not really sure what I think my time will be. So, in turn, I don't know what ten minutes less than that time will be. I haven't run a half in over! three! years! and I don't know how accurate that time was compared to my pace now. I guess I'll find out in about a week.

Because I haven't run a half in over! three! years!, I'm feeling a little anxious about the race. I know I'll it will be fine because I felt really good about my 10 miler last Saturday, but the pre-race jitters are starting to hit. My new goal is to run at least one race a month, but it seems like around the holidays down here all of the races are only 5K. And, I really just don't want to run a 5K. I'd like to run only in races with a minimum distance of 10K if I can help it. I'd also like my next half marathon to be somewhere fun so that I can make a mini vacation out of it. Some friends of mine had talked about running the Mardi Gras half in February in New Orleans which would be so much fun, but I'm not sure if it actually panned out and they are really going. Any takers on running a destination half or full?!

Tomorrow I'm heading to Manhattan, KS to go to the K-State/Mizzou football game---Go Tigers!!!!! Coach is down in southern MO hunting all weekend. Hopefully he doesn't bring any of that nasty deer meat home :) Next week doesn't seem to get any less busy, but I'm so excited that Coach and I are heading to Mexico on Thanksgiving. We are in desperate need of a vacation.

Finally, speaking of vacations....I've yet to blog about the rest of my Hilton Head trip last month. And, quite honestly, I'd like to forget that trip so I'm not going to blog about it. So, instead, I'll leave you with a picture of the beach.

comments

2009-11-07T21:27:00.001-06:00

Thank you to those of you who left comments. Since I'm new to this blogging thing, I didn't have my settings set up to email me when anyone left comments. So, I've now responded...better late than never. And, my settings have been updated;)

mind over matter

2009-11-07T12:10:00.003-06:00

You may not know, but I'm training for a half marathon I'm running in Kansas City on Nov 22ND. Today was my 10 mile run and I was very nervous. Last weekend's 8 miler was pretty rough on me. To make matters worse, my friend Katy (with whom I'm training) was having some IT band problems and would probably take it pretty slow today...and that's if she was even able to make it the full 10 miles. So, after the first quarter mile I ran ahead and spent most of the run not knowing if she was behind me or if she had to stop, turn around and head home due to her injury.

I find training alone very hard because I have a hard time motivating myself. So, I was pretty nervous about running the 10 miles, basically, alone. I felt pretty good the first 7 miles or so---by the way, Katy was able to run 8 miles and I saw her when I turned around after mile 5, so it was comforting knowing she was still behind me---and then I started to psych myself out. You see, I truly think most of running is just mind over matter and I can easily start to lose focus on running and start focusing on the hills coming up or the sore muscles...basically anything to get me off track.

Right around mile 7.5, I was running towards a female walker decked out in head to toe zebra print. Thankfully, this lady gave me big smile, a thumbs up and said, "You're doing awesome!". Even though she was a total stranger, that was exactly the boost that I needed in order to keep pushing on. So, if you ever see someone running that looks like they're training (a Fuelbelt and Garmin are good indicators:), please say something uplifting to them to cheer them on! The last couple miles were rough as they were all uphill but I was pleased that I finished without walking an inch!

t.m.i.

2009-11-03T20:40:00.004-06:00

Today I had a doctor's appointment. While in the waiting room, there was only one other person (also, why is it that even when there are 15 empty seats, people choose to sit in the seat right next to you?!)...a woman, although she resembled a man (this may be why she wanted to sit directly beside me if you catch my drift), with a permed mullet. In the waiting room, there was also a TV. So, I was sitting there minding my own business when the permed mullet woman says, "I just can't take this anymore". I was confused, unsure whether she was referring to the HGTV program we were watching or something else. She proceeds to tell me that she hated coming to the doctor. I just kind of laughed nervously like I tend to do when I'm uncomfortable and said, "Yeah".

A couple minutes later she elaborates and begins to tell me (through half closed eyes, mind you. Like maybe she was high, drunk, or maybe just tired???) that she had to drink 40 ounces of water (or maybe 40 ounces of vodka by the looks of her) to fill up her bladder so the doctor could get a good "look". I'm not sure what body part, exactly, the doctor was looking at because then she tells me that she's going to get a hysterectomy. Last time I checked, those parts don't have anything to do with the bladder. Nurses, help me out if I'm misunderstanding, though. Remember that the only response I had to her was "Yeah" after her very first comment. But, apparently I opened the door for her to share her entire medical (and menstrual) history. She goes on about how they don't have to do a total hysterectomy, but that she's going to have them do one because "as you get older your periods get worse. They're a b!tch. They just get heavier and heavier".

As if God sent one of his angels, a nurse opened the door and called my name. Note to self: next time a mulleted freak starts small talk with you at the doctor's office, do not try to be polite and respond or else you might hear how heavy her periods are.

worst! day! ever!

2009-11-01T00:36:00.003-05:00

So, I just got home from a trip to Hilton Head with one of my old coworkers from Kansas City. Our old boss, gave us his timeshare that was otherwise going to go unused. It was a very nice gesture, so Lori and I jumped at the chance to go. I will tell more about the trip on a later post, but in the meantime will tell you about my day today.....the worst! day! ever!

This morning I woke up around 8 AM in order to leave our hotel room by 9 to make our way to Savannah, GA to see some sights and possibly take a tour prior to catching our 4:20 PM flight home. Mind you, I was already not in good spirits since the trip was going downhill fast (starting on Thursday night when Lori invited a random guy..random to me anyway, she used to date, whom I had never met, to crash our vacation. He arrived on Thursday night and didn't leave until Sat morning when we left for Savannah. Nothing like sharing your hotel room with some random guy you've never met, who monopolizes your trip and keeps you from doing what you want! Oh, and she texted me the day before we left asking me if it was ok if he came in town and had dinner with us one night....I had no idea at the time what was in store). All that said, I was determined to have a good day in Savannah. So, around 8:45, I go down to our rental car to put my suitcase in the trunk when I notice the remote unlock isn't working. Then, I tried to pop the trunk....not WORKING! Finally, I manually unlock the door and try to start the car....DEAD!!!!!!! Lori's friend, who was driving our rental for us all day on Friday, left the lights on all night. I was absolutely livid! I'm lucky I cried all the tears I had on Friday night, otherwise I might have thrown a full blown tantrum right then and there!

I'll cut to the chase and just tell you that we finally got on the road to Savannah around 11. Then, I was in such a hurry to still try to do at least a couple of things in Savannah before we had to catch our flight, that before I was even out of the Hilton Head city limits, I got pulled over doing 58 in a 40 mph. So, now I'm $81.50 poorer.

FINALLY, we arrive in Savannah and make our way to Bonaventure Cemetery. It is absolutely beautiful, with tons of those trees you see in the movies with the hanging down thing-ies blowing in the wind. This cemetery dates back to the 1700s, I think. Anyway, I had to convince Lori to walk through the cemetery rather than drive. After about 20 minutes, she was continuously sighing about being hot or having blisters on her feet, that I just gave in and said, "let's go!". So, I wanted to drive through Savannah to see some of the old mansions and the downtown area. Since we were running so far behind my original schedule, I was unable to do any of the Trolley Tours like I wanted to. So, I asked Lori to follow our map and guide us through downtown while I drove. Another sigh and absolutely no direction from her, I finally had had enough and snapped! I know it's hard to believe, but I just couldn't keep it bottled in any longer. I proceeded to tell her how the trip and taken a completely different direction than I thought it would and that I didn't appreciate her inviting some guy that I don't even know to spend our trip with us and keep me from doing the things I wanted to do. I told her that it was obvious she didn't even want to be in Savannah so we would just go sit in the airport until our flight left.

She was rather quiet after that and did apologize, but it didn't mean much to me. I mean, you seriously should have heard me talking to mom on Friday night.....hysterical and wanting to go home. I felt like a kid at summer camp or something who was homesick. The icing on the cake was that our flight was delayed an hour, but I guess it could have been worse.

Anyway, as I mentioned, I'll tell more about the trip in another post since I'm sure you're dying to hear more about this wonderful vacation getaway! It's sad when you'd seriously rather be at work, than on this vacation. Oh, and also, there will be very limited photos of Hilton Head, since I didn't get to do any sightseeing or anything. All I saw was the f***ing outlet mall!

it's all a blur

2009-10-27T08:53:00.001-05:00

So, the other day I went to my parent's house to finalize the photos for my wedding album. Coach and I have been married for nearly 15 months and am just now ordering my wedding album...sad. The cost of one of these albums is equivalent to feeding a family of four in Cambodia for about five years. That being said, I'm very excited to see the finished product. It's been a long time coming.

While at my parents, I was looking through photos on their computer and came across some that I hadn't seen before. They were from one of my bridal showers thrown by some of my parent's friends from church. One of the things you hear often while planning and celebrating your wedding is "Enjoy every moment. It goes by so fast, it's all a blur." Well, apparently so do bridal showers. Hey, don't take my word for it. See for yourself!

A bit of a blessing this one is blurry as I'm not fond of my profile.

My sister, mother and me...can't you see the resemblance?

No, I don't really have three rows of teeth as it appears above. I am quite thrilled, though, that my gold sandals look extra sparkly in this one!

So, there you have it! I'm sure you almost feel as though you were there at the shower, celebrating with me. And, if anyone is in the market for a new camera that only takes the highest quality snapshots, the above photos were taken with a Sony Cybershot.

like a virgin

2009-10-24T11:40:00.004-05:00

Well, this is my first post (hence the title). Unlike most people, who start blogging in an attempt to capture memories of their families/travels/accomplishments, the reason I'm blogging is different. I set up my blogging account many many months ago so that I could follow the blog of a friend of mine, Journey to a Better Me.

Once I started following her blog, I found all of these blogs created by women (not that I'm opposed to following the blogs of men...just haven't found any that I like yet:) whom I found inspiring. Whether it was inspiring me to be more creative or to lace up my running shoes that had been collecting dust in my closet for far too long. These wonderful women had giveaways, asked questions, wanted advice, etc. And, I so badly wanted to comment on their posts. So, bloggers, THIS is why I wanted to finally create my blog. It was so that I could make comments and enter to win said giveaways. But, most importantly, it was so when that blog owner clicked on the link to my blog by my comment, it wouldn't pull up a (nearly) blank profile without any blog entries. Because, you know if you did this, you would think, "Who is this crazy lady?! Is she a blog stalker?" The answer to that is "No." But, those bloggers have now inspired me enough to come out of the closet, so to speak. And, not I don't mean what you're thinking. Get your minds out of the gutter...I am married after all!

So, thank you ladies for giving me the courage to "come out"!