running on stilts

Running in pictures

2012-01-27T11:48:00.000-08:00

Seeing as my week has been picture-less (I found my camera cord behind my night table) I feel I need to enlighten you on my run ...

Did I mention my cake run? Yeah, I decided to wear a sweatshirt to help make-up for my slice if ~~heaven~~ cake I had the other night. Shame healthy runner blogger ... for shame! (Yeah, no I feel no remorse over it).

My kids have recently decided they will let me run in the morning. Ben goes to the gym before me, so to shave some workout time off and we can have more time as a family in the morning they sit on my bed while I run. They really are reasonable human beings. That or Super Why is pretty exciting.

It worked out pretty well until I had a 25lbs medicine ball to work with.

With all the excitment it was time to nap. And when we nap, we nap HARD:

Yeah, that's an overturned rocking chair... and a missing top. What can I say, ~~like mother like daughter~~ it's a crazy house.

Giveaway Winner

2012-01-27T05:33:00.000-08:00

This was a small giveaway- I didn't get it out there as well as I'd like to have. With 8 entries I decided I would through in an extra prize.

I had random.org sequence it for me and the first number was #3 - Jen from Running With The Girls
Jen, I know you have been following me for a while, and I do really appreciate the support. It helps me get out and run so I can share it with my virtual friends. So thank you for following!

The next number was #7 Trisha from Gert n Bert. Thank you for following! And I love you craft blog!

Send me an email at soakuppthsun (@) aol (dot) com so I can get your addresses and such.

Thanks for following! Now I've got to go run!!!

Camera Cordless.

2012-01-26T10:30:00.000-08:00

So in the excitement of ... well, nothing, I have misplaced my camera cord. It's making me feel pretty ... well, nothing. Either way I had some funny things to say, and now, well .... nothing.

6 miles today. Half while the kids watched a movie on my bed, and the other half during nap time/quiet time. I have a light cold, so I'm still sucking a bit of wind, but I'm also sucking down zinc and plan on being over this bad boy before my 12 miler on Monday.

Cold or not, I'm still feeling stronger and pain free this time around then last year. I'm pretty positive my shoes were the contributing factor to my stress fracture, and I am enjoying running pain free. Whoop!

Fresh Legs and Cross Training

2012-01-24T09:26:00.000-08:00

As I awoke this morning, I slowly squinted open one eye. Then I straightened and bent my leg a couple of times to see if any post run twinges would effect my workout this morning. I was pleased to feel that, other than groggy and not wanting to get out of my warm bed, my body felt well enough to (gulp) run.

The question came to me: Do I run? Is it safe for my leg to run again? It's amazing how much damage my stress fracture did to my confidence in my body's abilities. So I decided to head to the gym for a very quick cross-training adventure. I hit the spin bike for 5 miles, then did some light weights and walking. The whole time I wanted to run.

After I got home I decided to email a pro-to-me TMB and ask for some advice. It would be cool to work out a plan with a runner who I may meet up with in June for the Zooma race I'm doing. I'm hoping it all works out!

*Enter my giveaway for a silver bracelet with inspirational quote on it!

11 miles!

2012-01-23T10:22:00.000-08:00

Last night I decided to switch my run days... it had nothing to do with eating a piece of chocolate cake. At all.

Actually, I have to change my days because Ben's work schedule changed. Again. ~~That, and I wanted a piece of chocolate cake.~~

I was happy this morning to try on my new Asics GT 2150s which I received for Christmas. They are teal, so I'm saving them for the marathon and later long runs. Oh Asics, how I love you and your no need for break-in time. It's quite charming and you have won me over.

So 11 miles felt great. I used a Honey Stinger Waffle (vanilla flavored) again. I love these because they don't make me feel sick to my stomach like Gu does. I have also learned to fuel earlier than I did last year. Food sits my my stomach a long time before breaking down, and I was finding myself fatigued with a stomach ache instead of fueled. So I fuel about 45 minutes in. I used to wait until I was at mile 6, because that's what books told me. Unfortunately, I did not grow from the runner tree and have to do things my own way.

Now I am resting comfortably in my recovery stockings snack on turkey bacon and pink milk. Don't judge.

Never Ever Give Up ((Giveaway))

2012-01-20T15:21:00.000-08:00

Today I should have done a pace run, but my chest felt heavy. It's funny how some days a runner (and please, real runners, do not take offense at my considering myself a runner) can feel like flying through the miles and other days the lungs or legs, or, most commonly, the mind doesn't want to do it.

Mental battles are so fun.

I was shopping on Etsy a while ago and found the perfect inspiration to wear while I run.

Never Ever Ever Give Up

I was not surprised when I emailed Emily at Chapelhil and she said she was a runner, too! I wore my bracelet while I ran today, and it was a beautiful reminder of more than just finishing what I had started, it reminded me of the person I want to be. I don't give up, and I face things head on even when it's scarey.

I was very grateful that she said she'd be willing to give away a bracelet to one of my followers. Other than following my blog, I'm going to ask that you go to her Etsy store and in the search box type "running" she has many motivational bracelets for runners.

It's a perfect addition. I wore it last night to dress up a sweater, and I was able to wear it while I ran- nice and light. Love it!

Friday January 27th at 8am I will have the drawing. Good luck!

**Remember to make an entry for BOTH following me, and going to Emily's Etsy store HERE

The Joy of Running

2012-01-19T06:57:00.000-08:00

I wonder what kind of recipes we could come up if we wanted to put together different ingredients for a run. That could be entertaining...

Anyway, I have been MIA on my blog, and that always makes me sad when I don't have to chance to sit down and come up with something to say about my day. Well, maybe "sad" isn't so much the word as "guilty." Isn't that weird?

My running week has only consisted of one 3 mile day and yesterday's 5 mile run. Burn-E, my treadmill, is kind of giving up the ghost. He has seen hundreds of miles with me, and for a craigslist cheapy he's really held together. Unfortunately, he's jerky for the first little bit of the run now. I will be sad when he goes. However, he is still holding out. I think he wants to see me through one more marathon. Or maybe he's just trying to get me to go outside more, and in that case he's kind of a trader.

3 miles today and hopefully I get a little spunk back into my blog soon. Maybe after a good rest tonight.

5 miles and Jillain Michaels Fitness Adventure!

2012-01-14T11:40:00.000-08:00

I kid you not I went up and down the stairs three times forgetting my camera cord. Each time remembering a snack, but then forgetting the cord again. Oy vey. Normally I'd say "forget it" but that's how much I love you. See. Love. L-O-V-E.

This morning while Ben was at the gym I was getting my running bug, and since that never, ever happens, I did something I never do: I turned on Super Why and went up to run. As soon as I warmed up Ben walked in and I no longer had to worry about the kids plotting to take over the ~~world~~ house. No, I don't worry about them being destructive, never had that issue, but the other night while watching Rise of the Apes I saw way too many similarities between Caesar and my daughter. And I'm worried.

Wait, where was I going with that? Absolutely no where. You're welcome.

Anyway, I ran my 5 miles, which is only secondary to the fabulous healthy egg nog I had afterwards. It's like ....like ... wait and I don't want to over sell this- but the best freaking drink ever. 1 cup fat free milk, 2 packets pyure, 1 egg white, a few drops of vanilla and some shaved nutmeg and blend until it's frothy and fabulous. Then immediately take sweaty no-make up picture. Sorry, it's the rules:

Yeah, apparently Capiline only dries quickly when there's wind. I mean, really, who runs outside ... oh, wait ... never mind.

After that I decided to give my Jillian Michaels kinect game a try. Word is- I had fun.

See, that's me rocking my pink pjs! And I still kicked some butt. My son wanted to do it, but being 4 he wasn't coordinated enough to do it. In the game you run around the temple collecting green jewels (watch out for red!) when you get to an obstacle Jillian shows you which workout you have to do 10xs before you can run on. It was a lot of fun, and my legs are sore from the squats, so good game, Jillian!

Biggest Loser Update: Weighed in -4lbs. Woo Hoo!

Cross Train Array

2012-01-12T11:15:00.000-08:00

I set out to the gym this morning (no, super early) for a cardio cross-training day. Alas, I was caught in a funk when I realized all of the cadrio equipment ~~sucks~~ is in need of repair at the YMCA. But what can I really say, it's the YMCA and it was one of four free workouts I get for signing up for their "Weight No More" contest.

I walked for 10 minutes while I thought up a game plan. Then I headed over and did some quick abs and hip abduction thingys, then headed of to the stair stepper. I had 10 minutes on that until I was about to beat the bloody thing for beeping at me the whole time to get my heart rate. No wonder all the equipment is broken. Then I headed over to the elliptical where I promised myself I would 1) not break any equipment, 2)stop complaining, and 3) get 30 minutes in on the sucker.

Cross training done and done. Let's move on.

The Non Observant Runner

2012-01-11T10:21:00.000-08:00

*%@$%&$!

Pardon the language.

First I'd like to say that I ran my "8" miles in 75:25 which made me feel like a rockstar. Which I attribute a lot to my rockstar moves on the treadmill.

Yes, there was dancing to celebrate. Dancing in compression socks makes it that much more sexy. Trust me.

I keep my little display thinger covered up on the treadmill, and felt I had a little more speed in my around 4 miles, so I went up a bit. When I glanced down I realized I had been running at a 7.0mph on the treadmill. That's fast for me on a longer run. So I felt pretty proud.

And now- just as I went to cross it off I saw it was supposed to be 9 miles. Dang. I'm on crack. Again.

Meh. I can walk a mile tonight, heck I'll walk one while on my date with my son today, so I'm counting it as good (shhhh, don't tell anyone)

Diary of an Over-Stressed Mother Runner

2012-01-10T15:07:00.000-08:00

Dear Diary,

Today I ran. Not because I wanted to, but because I was what is known as a "train-wreck." I ran because my head felt like it was going to explode. It was not pretty. At all.

Blogs are usually the "lighter" side of a runner's personality, and to that I add a lot to. However, life isn't always a pretty package tied up with a humor bow.

While my run yesterday was pretty awesome (3 mile sprints that had my shirt soaked!) my slow 2 mile run today didn't even feel like a victory.Well, it didn't until just now, as I was able to put a big "x" through the day. Last year, had I felt bad, I would have skipped my workout and pretended it wouldn't make a difference in the (please pardon the expression) "long run."

Today I ran, and was able to cross off another tiny victory. Yeah, that makes it a pretty good day.

Hope you were able to check things off your running list, as well.

Two Big Losers:

2012-01-07T09:23:00.000-08:00

Yeah, that came out wrong...

This morning Ben and I weighed in for our local YMCA's "Weight No More" competition.

You can see who was and wasn't happy with their weight ;)

I am number 83 and Ben is number 22. Meaning there are 83 women in the competition and only 22 men. What the? There were some pretty big girls there, too. Even with my best efforts I only had a couple of extra pounds. My goal weight will only put me at 12% weight loss, so I don't think that'll be enough to win. Ben's is not much higher, although we do get to enjoy some friendly competition.

On a side note- I'm pretty sure fast food is out to kill people. Please head my warning and do NOT eat it. Unless, however, it is Subway, and then you have my blessing. Subway has never made me feel like death.

I see a lot of Eating Fresh in my future.

I'm off to cook off my Orange Roughy for the week. YUM!

And on que:

2012-01-06T14:09:00.001-08:00

The stomach flu has hit my family.

Fan-freakin-tastic.

My Marathon Training Schedule

2012-01-05T17:42:00.000-08:00

Today while I was writing -yes, writing- out the first ten weeks of my training schedule I was thinking: "What the heck am I doing?" Those double digits are looking crazy intimidating, especially since I haven't been (honestly) brave enough to run a double digit since my stress fracture. I think anyone who has experienced that pain know the fear in which I speak.

Secondly, am I freaking retarded? Don't I remember what happened last year throughout my training? Apparently I needed a reminder of the trip out to my half marathon, because my son reminded me what a champion barfer he is. I mean, really, this kid needs a trophy, and the timing couldn't have been better. What better time to barf (other then in 15 degree weather, in a car, 2 hours from home) then after a nice bath and in bed. I mean, personally mine's calling to me ...

Once again, am I crazy to go after this again? Meh. Depends on the crowd you hang with. Fortunately, my whole crowd of girls boarder bat-crap-crazy right along side me.

I've got this.

I'm a Winner ... the biggest..

2012-01-04T08:13:00.000-08:00

Did I ever mention that I won a beautiful table setting from Brittant Stiles blog. She's an adorable designer. She doesn't know I'm going to have her make me a table design for every holiday. including Rosh Hashanah. We don't discriminate in my house. Anyway, here are my pictures:

Yeah, no I'm not taking it down. Ever.

I know what you're thinking, could I possibly get one more picture of it on here? Why yes, yes I can.

Last night Ben and I were talking strategy in the Biggest Loser competition at our YMCA. We decided we'd eat whatever we wanted before the weigh in so our number is higher. But really I think we just wanted to indulge in some junk food. Shhhhhh. Everyone can have some junk every now and then However, I had chili, which isn't exactly horrible. The shake, however ...

3 of Janurary

2012-01-03T14:42:00.000-08:00

Things are finally settling down from the holidays in our home, as I am sure many other homes. Today was our first day off together in 8 days, and we took it easy with the exception of family pictures first thing in the morning. I am so excited to see how those came out.

Then we spent the day relaxing and hiding from our first freezing temperatures of the winter.

The boys spent some time mastering Lego Batman:

and as you can see above, our daughter ensured we were all pretty. Let me show you again:

Time for a short jog on the treadmill. Tomorrow begins our new gym membership. We had to let one end so we could go to one in walking distance over the winter. Let me hear it for the Y-M-C-A. They are hosting their own Biggest Loser style competition, and we are both going to enter it. I personally think Ben can bring it home. We'll see.

ps, I have a very cute little giveaway coming. Super excited about it!

2011 - From My Point of View

2012-01-01T17:47:00.000-08:00

Oh yes. It is that time of year when ALL bloggers are reflecting on our year because we were smart enough to document it. 2011 started off pretty exciting, I was done nursing my last baby and my body was once again my own, so I saw big things coming. I did, however, forget to factor in that, although no longer attached to my milk supply, that baby was now a toddler, and my other toddler became a preschooler. These two things obviously made it hard to train for my first marathon. What was I thinking?

So lets review my Epic Fails of 2011 and see where we can improve, hmmm?

I ran my first double digit in 2011, and it was strong and felt great.

I was preparing for my first half marathon, in which I signed up for in February. in New Jersey. On a trail. After a puking kid in the car, arriving late and having to switch races, I sprained my ankle halfway through and had to walk on ice for three miles. Epic Fail #1

After that I had to ice bathe regularly to keep that from hurting after runs. These got pretty creative:

thank you KT Tape for saving me in 2011

After a series of colds that lasted forever, I was finally well and training hard for the marathon again:

and enjoyed a wing eating contest (this was probably one of my highlights):

Then my last long run before the marathon I started feeling stabbing pains in my hip, and tried to treat it like muscle soreness. (and in there I had oral surgery to boot). Epic Fail #2

Then I went in for Rivertown. It was hands down the best I have ever felt for a run. I went off steady but not too strong. At some point with the uneven ground pounding, my already delicate hip cracked, and made for a very, very fun marathon. Epic-ish Failure #3.

Obviously now I am a bit more seasoned in endurance running, I realize I messed up in training effort and strength training. It's a lot of effort for me to do this now, but I believe I'm up to the challenge. And if anything, I have my buddy Phil to keep me company at the back of the pack at Rivertown, again:

I can just feel an amazing year coming in 2012, can't you?

Although I joke about my year, there was a lot of growth, and for that I am thankful.

Welcome 2012!

2011-12-31T22:52:00.000-08:00

Endurance Running Babes New Year's Eve

2011-12-31T08:40:00.000-08:00

Yesterday while I was looking over my sitemeter I saw someone from the Netherlands found me while googling "endurance running babes." Poor fellow was hoping to find some forum of running babes and came across all of my randomness. Sorry my friend to disappoint. But I think I found my new blog name. A new name for the New Year, right? Right? Ah nevermind.

Today is New Year's Eve!!! Normally I do nothing on NYE, but tonight I decided I would call up a babysitter and go see my husband, and eat some great food. Might as well take advantage of those perks while I can! So yes, be expecting another post full of pictures of the food I eat. I'm going to Glass, which is a small plate type menu, so I know my friends and I won't be over-doing it, but just enough to enjoy that we live active lives and can have fun.

I'd like to trot out 6 miles today, but my stomach pain (and now matching bruise) is still around, and it hurts to run fast. I guess I should call someone about that. After the holiday and AFTER family pictures on Tuesday.

Happy New Year!

Friday Night Alone- with my resistance bands.

2011-12-30T18:40:00.000-08:00

I am a wife of a chef. Yes, perks of good dinners occasionally seep in when he's around. That being said, during the holidays I take on the roll of mommy, daddy, mechanic, handyman, maid, taxi, soother, diaper changer, disciplinarian, and protector and sole head (gulp) of the bedtime routine. It is an exhausting and lonely roll so when it comes down to my own time, all I want to do is veg and watch tv (thank you netflix). It's almost New Years, which means it has been a very long week for me. I am human. I get impatient, worn out, and frustrated, and some days the last thing I want to do is get into the head space of pushing myself any more for the day.

Tonight I'm kind of in that place. This morning I was running in the non-sweaty-but-still-tiring way and my workout was going to have to come in after I finished my day. It's now 9:37pm. No, I'm not jumping on my treadmill (don't worry, baby, I haven't forgotten you) but I do have my resistance bands to work my legs and whatever else I feel like (however, today is a leg strength day). LOVE, love, LOVE having my own resistance bands. A mini workout that gets my muscles firing.

Another mini victory- my diet was golden. I knew I wasn't going to have a sweat session, and I was able to control and be smart. More on diet and such next time, I'm ready to rest up. Tomorrow's New Year's Eve! Yes, I am going out. This full time mama needs to get out and enjoy some good company and music.

Late Night, Slow Run, and Food Issues

2011-12-29T10:06:00.000-08:00

I stayed up way too late last night. Maybe 4 hours of sleep. I got up and dressed for my slow run. Heck, though. I may have barely been jogging 3 miles, but I still did it after only a few hours of sleep. I also used my resistance bands, and did some ab workouts. I'm not going to lie, I'm pretty proud of that, seeing as most days I'd just forget about it and stay in bed, pretending I'd actually do something later. I'm usually good at convincing myself I'll do it later, so I've decided to use that self convincing and switching it to "I can still workout this morning." Sure performance isn't up to par, but I can be proud of the hour I put into getting my heart rate up, and lifting my mood. The type of mood lift that has me dancing around the house; it's going to be a stinkin' good day.

I have quinoa made, and orange roughy cooked off and frozen. Now to get on track with my diet goals for 2012- which is to fuel my body with healthy food. It was kind of fun last year to pull the "I just ran 20 miles, lets have a wing eating contest" (ahem, I still might do that) but I want to focus better on my relationship with food. I have called in some expert help to work on that. Tonight is my first meeting with a food and fitness expert, but he's also a psychologist. I want to know why I have certain triggers, and hopefully make me a stronger athlete. As embarrassing as it is, I will use this blog to also share my feelings and issues on my journey to overcoming my few remaining issues.

Here's to health and healing in 2012!!

Random Day- Sprints

2011-12-27T14:52:00.000-08:00

Last night my son spent the night at a friend's house so everyone here slept in until 8:30am. Except Ben who I let sleep until 9:30. It's kinda rare that he will actually sleep in, so I'm happy to do it. As soon as he woke up I hoped upstairs to workout. Hopefully that didn't offend him too much, but I felt like going for a run.

I did a slow even first mile then I decided to run half mile sprints, mostly to get it over with, because I had a playdate for myself to be at.

When I came home (son in tow this time) we decided to try out the new xbox kinect. We played some fun games and got our heart rates up. Pretty fun, I have to admit. I'm even considering trying the weird Jillian Michaels safari type workout game he got me ...

Back on track - Handstand Style

2011-12-26T09:20:00.000-08:00

This morning I was finally feeling like I could talk myself into working out. Which, of course, means I needed a new picture. While I had Ben take a picture of me he said "I wonder where our son gets his picture pose from?" (there was a bit of a sarcastic overtone):

I don't know what he's talking about...ish.:

Since I have been out of commission for over a week I took an easy 2.5 mile run on the treadmill, then walked while I used my new resistance bands for my arms. When I finished that I used the RB on my legs for some side squats and other leggy type workouts.My resistance bands came with a booklet of workouts- but I still will not remember the names of an of them.

Then it was time to try to master my handstand pushup. I have the handstand part down (because no one takes a stupid bet more seriously then I do!):

and then I attempted the pushup..

Why I post these things is beyond me. At least I didn't topel over on my neck this time. My 2 year old may just do it before me. (I apologize for the sports bra thing. It's very warm in my house. If it bothers you just don't watch it.)

Merry Christmas Running Buddies!

2011-12-25T10:29:00.000-08:00

Dear Santa,
I only have two kids. Is this really necessary?
Love,
Me

I finally got over the stomach flu/whatever the pain was I was having. Just in time for Christmas morning. Since it landed on a Sunday we dressed and headed to church before even laying a finger on the presents. I was very impressed with how well the kids took that.

It was worth watching these happy faces:

I didn't do too shabby either:

From my family to yours, Merry Christmas. I hope you have a wonderful day loving your family.

December 21st?

2011-12-21T16:15:00.000-08:00

As I get older I realize the months are just going to keep going by faster and faster. And here I just thought my grandma said that because of the Valium. Go figure.

I have spent the last 5 days pretty ill. I don't know what was wrong, but I stuck to my guns, refused to see a doctor, and am now healed. It's that easy, folks. What's that you say? It's unhealthy to have severe upper abdominal pain and not go find out why? Well, bah-humbug to you, too. I did tell my doctor friend I would go to an actual doctor after the holidays. If the pain was still there. It is mostly gone now so I say brava!

As you can assume pictures of me laying in bed saying "ow" every time I moved wouldn't be very interesting. Touche and I'll raise you funny pictures of the kids while we picked out our Christmas tree:

I think Santa is bringing me new running shoes. Before I actually need them. It's a Christmas miracle.

Ask Me Anything

2011-12-17T18:10:00.000-08:00

I'm sitting with bleach on my hair right now., and I still haven't painted my wall. I did however polish off a bag of dark chocolate Reeses Pieces mini cup things. It wasn't my fault, my husband brought them home for me. So he's the evil one. And it's the holidays, and seeing how ~~I don't have any friends~~ I'm not going to any Christmas parties to over indulge at, I don't feel bad! OK, maybe a little. No, really I don't.

This week I'm printing my official marathon schedule and putting it on the wall. I would us it to cover the paint, but that would make too much sense. I'm running a risk with my marathon timing, just two days later my husband goes off to take a culinary test in New York. So pray that I don't break anything this time. That or pack your bags and come visit/nurse me back to health. Thanks, I appreciate it.

I was thinking of ways to be a little more interactive with my running friends/bloggers. So I'm open to answering any question posed to me if you so feel inclined.

Now I have to go get rinsed. Talk to you later!

**Edit to state I feel like crap after eating those things. Never. Again.

Best (virtual) Running Friend

2011-12-15T13:16:00.000-08:00

I have the greatest virtual running partner ever. Priscilla at A Beginners Journey was not only my initial motivation to start running, but we met when I was about 16 and she instilled in me a desire to be a better girl and woman. She and her companion Lindsay were the example I had been praying for when I was young. Now I am lucky to have her knowledge and wisdom and dedication to help me through my high and low points of fitness while having kids to juggle.

Her kindness contiunes and she sent me a wonderful gift:

Everyday Endurance Footprint Tee

I love my new shirt, and I really love my running friend. I am thankful for all the blogging community who encourage me to keep on going through their own determination!

30 Day Shred today on our new TV in lieu of Insanity. No more laptop workout videos for me! Ben's Christmas gift is going to benefit me, too a little, I guess.

on a random side not, I'm currently typing this while my 22 month old climbed onto my neck. My life is so weird.

5K and I Needed to Paint that Anyway

2011-12-14T10:26:00.000-08:00

This morning on the treadmill I was about to hit a new PR for a 5k, then in trumped my little girl who so sweetly wanted to join me on the treadmill. I had only a lap left. but couldn't help but give into her big Puss in Boots eyes. I'm such a sucker for blue eyes.

Last night I looked at my wall so confused how it got way messed up looking. Then I realized it's from my shoes when I do handstands. Stupid bets made after eating turkey should be outlawed- but I needed to paint the wall anyway:

That red has been there since I moved in. I guess it's easy to miss a big red spot with holes in it when you're painting. But it obviously doesn't bother me that bad. I plan on putting a rack for my medals there, so what's the point? I understand a normal person would be embarrassed to admit this, but, eh well.

Tall Mom 2011 1000+ Miles- Done and Done

2011-12-12T16:30:00.000-08:00

Another week...

2011-12-11T16:26:00.000-08:00

It's officially the 12 days until Christmas (eve). I think it's time to do a little more hardcore work, because I'm pretty sure Santa is bringing me some Big Cherries (I hope, I hope, I hope-- my sister has to buy them and mail them) and I'm not going to pretend that I won't eat them.

One of my new goals is hand-stand push-ups. It started as a joke, but now I'm actually going for it. I can do one. And then on my way down for the second one I tumble on my head. ~~It's fun.~~

This week is like so:

Monday: 9 miles

Tuesday: XT with Insanity

Wednesday: 3 miles (might as well go for a 5k)

Thursday: XT with Insanity

Friday: 5 or 6 miles, I haven't committed yet.

Saturday: 3 Miles

And so we begin another week! May the fitness force be with you.

Early Christmas Celebration

2011-12-10T17:37:00.000-08:00

Today I spent the day making this:

And it was so good. Yum. My church had a Christmas party tonight, and I made one of the 4 turkeys (and mine was the prettiest). I brine in apple juice, and I stuff it with only veggies. My secret is a little bit of cinnamon and nutmeg. The apple juice makes it a little sweater and the cinnamon and nutmeg match that perfectly.

I am officially pooped out and plan to head to bed. It's been a long few weeks without my husband around, and my bed is calling my name.

Better Early than Later

2011-12-09T08:54:00.000-08:00

I think that's how the saying goes...

I am usually a pretty punctual person. So it bugs me when it is now Friday and I am just getting my 8 mile run in. But it's done, and next week is a new week,and I'll start over again, listing my goals and working even harder to meet them. Because that's what we do. We get it done. And look good while we do it! (ps, Priscilla- what all did you pick out from Everyday Endurance?)

I was just logging my miles on Tall Mom's 1000+ mile challenge and I realized I just ran my 1000th ++ mile today. So. Freakin. Awesome.

I got a few early Christmas gifts this year. I am the ~~kid~~ person who cannot wait to get Christmas gifts, but if I get them early I'm sad I have nothing to open Christmas morning. Which makes it good that Dagny is still little and I can rip them open ~~for~~ with her. Anyway, I have a point to this rambling- ah yes, I received a Patagonia Capilene 1 teal (of course) shirt in the mail yesterday from my dad, and running capri's from Old Navy from myself (aka Ben). Aw, I love new running clothes.

I went with grey for the first time, and thankfully it doesn't show sweat where the moon shines. Funny story, years ago when I was a gym rat I thought it would be really cute to get white cotton fitted pants to workout in and, well, yeah -no. From my waist to my knees were soaking wet. And see through. Aw the follies of youth.

I'm off to shop for Ben. And for me for him, because I hate surprises and like to get presents, so I buy stuff and let him wrap it. I know, I'm awesome.

Have a fantastic day! What new gear is on your wishlist? Or are you like me and buy for yourself for them to give you?

Croup, Pneumonia and Asthma- Oh. My.

2011-12-07T20:52:00.000-08:00

But none of them belong to me! Or, well, I am not suffering from any of these, but the boys in my family ... well, it's been a long week.

I hope everyone's family is staying well. Long run is now tomorrow because the last three days have been a joke/blur. But it's snowing! Snow is one of the elements that calls my name and says "take me on" and I say ~~"maybe"~~ "you got it."

Week in Review and things

2011-12-04T16:52:00.000-08:00

So I'm laying here in bed because ~~I'm a loser~~ I have been feeling a little crummy for the last few days. I hit all my workouts except Saturday. A new addition to my workout family comes in the form of Insanity (no comments on that one, it's too easy) and I'm joining an Insaniac workout group on Facebook. That should be fun, I love accountability in forms of embarrassing pictures, so lets get to it, already!

The week is looking almost identical to last week, with the exception that I'm switching my long run to Tuesday, because, you know, shopping trumps long runs. No, it's just a jam packed day, and I'm already not feeling great, so I'm playing it smart.

What are your holiday goals? I think my marathon training is perfectly placed for my personal goals. The harder I work out the easier it is for me to make healthy choices. and honestly, feel less guilty if I choose to indulge.

Preparing Yummy Food

2011-12-01T10:42:00.000-08:00

The last few days my husband was off work and required a lot of attention. Go figure, he doesn't want me to spend time blogging on his few days off he gets each month. Selfish.

Anyway, I'm pleased to say the kids are back up and running, and so is Ben, so hopefully we stay healthy the rest of the winter. Or at least through the holidays!

While we were cleaning up our "fall" decorations we discovered our pumpkins that grew in our garden had turned fully orange! I didn't think they'd rippen since we had such a bad Fall for pumpkins out here in NEPA. So, of course we baked them and pureed them (I can never have too much!)

Blue marker on the face and everything. What a Champ.

So funny story, my poor food processor is old and broken, and I jimmy it to work each time. So when it wouldn't turn on I was getting hopeful that I would get a new one for Christmas. I pulled out the blender and it wouldn't work either- and I realized I had to push the little reset button on the outlet. Dang. Nope, no new food processor for me this year. (this is me being really sad) OK, maybe it's not that funny of a story.

Then I made a big crockpot beef stew. Yum. The key to healthy stew is refrigerating it before you eat it so you can get all the fat out:

This was all white before I started picking at it. Gross, right? You don't even know it's there if you eat it hot!

So I put it in a bag and said "Sayonora, Gordo"-- Because we're a learning community I decided to be trilingual today. You are absolutely welcome.

Food for a week. Awesome.

Stay healthy and run hard!!!

Today's run was....

2011-11-28T11:01:00.000-08:00

hard. I totally set you up for a TWSS moment. Go ahead. Enjoy it.

8 miles in 90 minutes is a result of mother nature and cocoa cake colliding. Of course the chocolate cake is a result of mother nature and mother nature resulted in me having an internal battle the first 4 miles of "I don't wanna." That, in turn resulted in a whole lot of walk/run/jump off scenarios. What can I say- it's a vicious cycle.

Half my run I looked just like this.

Well now I'm clean and dressed and ready for some Christmas shopping. I love this time of year!

Weekly Goals

2011-11-27T16:39:00.000-08:00

I hope you had a great Thanksgiving holiday. I had an enjoyable time. There is a school across from my inlaws and we were able to play at 3 different playgrounds (seems like a bit much for a school, right?) and ran and played until it got cold and it was time to go in for dessert. Which was cocoa cake, and no, I don't have a healthy recipe, but I do have a pretty awesome one full of bad things. Every now and then it's ok in my opinion.

The week looks like so:
Monday: 8 miles
Tuesday: XT, Strength
Wednesday: 3 miles
Thursday: XT
Friday: 4 miles speedwork
Saturday: easy 2

Sunday, of course I rest. Sounds good. What's your plan for the week?

Healthy Thanksgiving Sides

2011-11-23T12:56:00.000-08:00

If I had thought about it, I would have prepared more food today so I could share with all my friends the wonderful food I have created, but I do want to share a few of my special recipes that I really love. While my measurements aren't exact, I always flavor to taste, and I think everyone should do what they like best.

Mashed Potatoes

3 cups pureed Butternut Squash
5lbs Yukon Gold Potatoes
1 TBS Chicken base (it's a form of dehydrated chicken stock, which would work as well)
1 Yellow onion
1/4 c skim milk (optional)

Cut and boil potatoes as normal, then mash. Add Butternut Squash. If it's your first time only add 1 cup and see if you like the flavor.

In a separate pan, roast onions in cooking spray and puree a long with 1 TBS of chicken base.

Add base to taste into mashed potatoes

Start with small amounts of onion/chicken base to mashed potatoes. This along with the butternut squash puree will make your potatoes creamy, but if you'd like it a little more creamy feel free to add 1/4 cup milk.

My husband likes it to be a little more "buttery" so he uses Move Over Butter, which is olive oil and buttermilk. It's husband approved for butter replacement.

I can't take credit for this one- Meringue-Topped Sweet Potato Casserole.
Please go check it out, it is FANTASTIC! (For those of you used to using Stevia can use that in replace of sugar for the meringue, but I wouldn't recommend it for people who are not use to the flavor.

More to come...

Pre-Thanksgiving Run

2011-11-23T11:37:00.000-08:00

This morning we were still off our kilter a little bit. Ben still has man flu, so he slept until he went into work (about 11:30) so I didn't get my little run in until nap time. I was able to get in 4 miles while watching the new season of The Biggest Loser. Now I dislike John more then ever. That's all I will say in case some of you haven't seen it yet.

Tomorrow is Thanksgiving for the average world, we celebrate on Friday. However I will enjoy a Turkey Trot of my own, and enjoy the crisp Fall morning. I haven't ventured out in the cold yet, I don't know what my issue is. Last year I signed up for a virtual 10K on 10-10-10 and was excited to run in the cold. I don't know what my issue is this year, but I think a little 5k in some fresh air will put the cold weather running bug back into me.

This year I'm being smart about the holidays. I'm going to my inlaw's home, but I'm preparing yummy things that I know are healthy choices. I don't want to over-indulge, and it's never really been my thing, but I know I need to be smart- there's no way I'm wasting my calories on potatoes loaded with butter ... I'm saving that for the cocoa cake I'm making ... duh.

Zooma wha?

2011-11-22T17:27:00.000-08:00

I've decided on another race!
As long as I don't fracture my hip here:

Rivertowns Marathon

I plan on running


Zooma Annapolis

with a bunch of girls. Can you tell I'm trying to inspire myself for more? Is it possible to do a half a month after a full marathon? Well, if I feel bad I'll switch over to the 10k.

I'm excited to do a female friendly race. Besides, I am part of a family that consists of half girls (ha, ha, get it, there's only 4 of us and there's two gir... nevermind)

This little beauty keeps me going strong, and honestly my goal is to build up her self image so ~~when society takes knocks at it she'll stand strong~~ she can witness strength, and therefore mirror it and achieve her dreams while hurdling whichever obstacles are placed before her.

So Zooma it is, baby (girl).

Sometimes Running Isn't Pretty

2011-11-21T15:00:00.000-08:00

I don't know what my deal with late posts are, and I apologize to anyone who comes here hoping for regular inspiration, but I am still only a woman. As many times as I have tried to put "Wonder" in front of that it seems more like "blunder." Although I was Wonder Woman twice for Halloween in my life. I know, you care.

This afternoon I ran 5 miles while my husband was at the doctor's office with one croupy toddler and one bronchitis pre-schooler. I heart public school.

I caught myself dancing and singing along and I recalled reading once (no, I don't know where) that you aren't pushing hard enough if you're singing along. I say you aren't having fun if you aren't singing along! I had to make a deal with my body (which recently revolted to the idea of training for another marathon) that I would have fun with my runs, and remember that I enjoy running, and the races are for fun. So I danced.

While I was stretching I realized that running has made my feet ugly.

And my hair look like this:

Don't worry, Hunny, I'll fix myself up before our night out.

Oh Right, I run sometimes, too.

2011-11-17T17:44:00.000-08:00

The best thing about runners is their dedication to wake up by 5am and run a load of miles before getting their day started. Feeling fresh and spunky for the rest of the day's challenges that lay ahead, ready to tackle them full force, because they've already done what half the world hasn't: RUN.

Then there's me.

Yeah, no I love running as much as the next person, but I may be a little more in love with my warm bed. Waking up at 5am is my Mt. Everest. In fact, I'm willing to bet I'd climb that puppy as long as I got to sleep in until 7 to do it.Well, since it is Everest I may need until 8:30- hunny, you'll wake up with the kids (again) right?

I knew I should have patented my idea. (source)

Anyway, it's now 8:30pm and I just finished 5 miles to add into my Pile on the Miles challenge from Run, Eat, Repeat. Seeing how my husband is off in Philly ~~acting 15 again~~ at a (I say this as I bow my head in shame) hardcore show, I figured I'd watch a show of my own.

My idea of a Thursday night show:

Ben's idea of a Thursday night "show":

Meh, to each his own.

Then again I can't be too judgmental since he'll be waking up with the kids in the morning so his "runner" wife can sleep in. I mean run. No, who am I kidding, I'll be sleeping in.

Everyday Endurance Giveaway WINNER

2011-11-16T05:40:00.000-08:00

Congrats to Priscilla at A Beginner's Journey for winning the $100 giveaway! After my son drew the name, my daughter dug into the bowl and grabbed and ate two names, one of which was Priscilla again- so I figure it's a pretty fair win. :P Email me at soakuppthsun (@) (aol) . (com) with your address.

Thank you to all who entered. Remember Everyday Endurance for your Christmas wishlist!

Please keep following my journey, I have more fun things in store!!

Rock N Roll USA

2011-11-14T17:33:00.000-08:00

I am the most horrible racer in the world. No joke. I am not a fast runner, and that really beats down on my competitive nature and I often feel like "what's the point?" the whole time. Obviously I haven't had the best of race luck, either. And each time my family was no where in sight as I finished. Maybe some people don't need that kind of thing, but I was expecting it, and it didn't happen leaving me pretty heartbroken instead of filled with pride and excitement. Needless to say those experiences have really blemished my feelings on racing.

Anyway, the other night I decided to find some big races and just go for it. And I did:

March 17th I will be toeing my first RNR race. Meaning, I need to get my butt in gear and start training!

Another exciting aspect of that race? I don't have to rent a hotel, I can stay with a friend. Seriously, if anyone reading this is running this, lets meet up!

Oh yeah, one more thing. Guess who'll be running the half?

It's hard getting a picture of a person running on an iphone. But I downloaded a training schedule for him and he ran 6 miles today. Not bad, right?

3 More Days to Enter the Giveaway!

2011-11-12T10:33:00.000-08:00

Just a reminder that November 16th we will draw the winner of the $100 gift certificate to Everyday Endurance!

Thank you, thank you to everyone who has entered and to my new followers!

Settler's Inn Italian Wine Dinner

2011-11-11T20:33:00.000-08:00

This was the most formal of the dinners I have been to at the Inn. It was downstairs in the Undercroft, so it felt more private and comfortable.

The menu was actually in Italian, so, no I can't really tell you what I ate other than a lot of really excellent food. It was by far my favorite dinner. I was with a couple of my friends, and met some new interesting people. I had an excellent time. Lots of laughing. LOTS. Probably as much laughing as eating.


Someone ate her desert before getting a picture. Just sad.

My friend Justin- you remember, from the 15 mile hike that never ended?
See why there was laughing?

Love this guy, seriously, made my night!

6 Miles and Then Some

2011-11-11T09:24:00.000-08:00

Last night I realized I was behind on my Pile on the Miles weekly challenge that Run Eat Repeat is doing- and I really, really want the Subway gift card, so I turned on an old episode of Biggest Loser and got to running my poor, sore muscles out. I opted to do this right after I put the kids to bed, and only one of them slept through my workout, the other did not. Before I blogged this would have irritated me, but now I'm like "meh, photographer."

It took 3 miles just to get this picture:

I figure sine this is a running blog I should run from time to time.

Can't be picky when it's a 4 year old who somehow looses his balance just as he's about to take a picture.

So funny story, as I put on my shorts my son walks in and says "those shorts are for underwear, right?" in a tone that may have well said "And where do you think you're going dressed like that young lady?!" Before he could lecture me on modesty I told him it's OK to wear shorts like this when you're running.

This morning was upper body at the gym. And guess what tonight is? Yup, another (un)Wine Dinner at The Settler's Inn. I'm excited to pretend I'm carb loading for some big run.

Anyway, you should be excited, because maybe there will be a picture of me not looking like this:

It is 11-11-11, so possibly your lucky day.

Join the Resistance ...

2011-11-10T09:39:00.000-08:00

I like my little gym. I really like when I asked for resistance bands today they handed me the ones the Indians used before the Pilgrims took over.

I was little worried it would snap at some point, but apparently tied off headbands do, indeed, make for some great burning pain. I wanted to work my saddlebag area today after torturing my quads with more squats and lunges and I realized, while poking around my leg like a piece of steak, that my, uh, hips needed some work.

I was handed two colors. Neon green was the "light" resistance, and apparently I need to do these more often because after a few sets the burn set in. So I opted to do like 5 more sets. No one has yet to mention to me that the burning isn't actually cooking the fat off my hips, so I'm going to continue to be blissfully ignorant and pretend I melted fat off.

Although where, exactly I am not sure.

It's the time of year where I start thinking about marathon training. I'm thinking about the National Marathon and the Zooma half which is also near DC. Where are you running your next big one? I have my eye on a few half marathons this year, and I would like to go back to Rivertown to smoke my last time. I'm definitely going into it stronger, not sure if I'm smarter yet.

My $100 gift certificate giveaway for Everyday Endurance ends next week, so make sure you have entered (ahem, Priscilla you need to put in an extra entry for following them)

Finally. Final.

2011-11-08T12:58:00.000-08:00

Last night I finally took my first final for my clinical research class.Yeah, I can now say that it is much harder to go to school when you have kids. You go from mindless banter to memorizing FDA regulations and it's tough.

"Dear Students: No iphones allowed during the exam." but I think it said something about Blogger exceptions:

p.s. Studying by mp3 lectures SUCKS.

This morning when I realized I didn't have to workout while listening to lectures I did a~~n extremely embarrassing, uncontrollable~~ little dance. Oh, yeah, no- don't worry. I took a picture for you.

Seriously, though, I was excited. More excited, maybe, then I should have been.

Arms, back and abs (say it ten times really, really fast. Go ahead. I'll wait.... slipped, didntcha?)

Family gym day was successful after a little coaxing for my daughter. She is so shy it takes a while for her to warm up to people. Even people she knows. By the time we were done working out she didn't want to leave, so I'm hoping she remembers that from now on.

Finally! A great family gym day.

Just Another Manic Monday

2011-11-07T10:14:00.000-08:00

Don't you love cliche blog titles? Boy do I ever!

Today Ben returned to work. If I were 16 I'd post a little tearful emoticon. Alas, ~~I can't figure out how to do it~~ am too old for such tomfoolery.

I got to the gym early enough for the Sock Hop. No, wait, not early, late, dangit, late. The ONE day I leave my ipod on all day and it dies in time for the majority of the gym to request Rock Music of the 50s. Which wouldn't have been so bad if some weirdo hadn't been whistling along in a creepy type way. I almost walked out as soon as I walked in but I thought "No, Rebecca, no, think about the ~~Twinkies~~ importance of strength training your clodhopper body."

So I stayed for 5 miles on the bike and strength training for my legs. I hit a new squat weight (because I know you're dying to know) 50lbs! 3 sets of 12. I wondered the whole time if I'd be walking tomorrow, but whatever! 50 freaking pound squats!

Anyway, it was a good workout considering.

Don't forget to enter the running tee giveaway!

A Date with NYC

2011-11-06T11:50:00.000-08:00

So Wednesday I had a conversation that went something like this:

Me: "Hey Hun, what do you think about driving up to New York so I can have frozen yogurt with a bunch of people I've never met?"

Hun: "Sounds good."

And thus we packed our family up for the 2.5 hour drive into the city so I could meet up with some other runners and have time to meet and ~~eat~~ greet. Ben was sweet and took the kids so I could have "girl time." There were so many of us we flooded the 16 Handles on the Upper Eastside- they gladly set us up in the party room when they realized we were only going to grow larger and stay longer.

I finally met Hungry Runner Girl, who I just barely missed in California when I was out there in July, I also met Barbora:

In case you don't recognize Janae in the first picture, here's an expression that should ring a bell:

And sweet Margaret. She's so sweet and ran ING today, too!

After eating a ton of frozen yogurt I felt I needed some real food. So we headed to Shake Shack- an obvious choice for a proper meal... or, uh, well- best hamburger ever, so enough said. Their fries are ~~good~~ great, too.
"Hey Hun, can I have a fry?"

They said no.

Then we headed over to the American Museum of Natural History which would have gone better had we grabbed the drinks we packed for the kids. Every trip can't be perfect, what can I say?

My sweetness loved the "animals" there and we spent a large portion of the time getting her off of exhibits. How do you explain to a 20 month old that the animals aren't real? I mean, the kid demands a bottle of milk for her stuffed kitten everyday.

Cabs were sparse by the time we set out. Fortunately, I brought this good looking fellow with me:

Thanks for hailing the cab, buddy.

So glad to have met the "buddies" my husband has been teasing me about for so long. Now if I could only run a 3:26 marathon like, ahem, one of them did today, I would be good.

ING is definitely on my "to-do."

Today Running Was:

2011-11-04T17:05:00.000-07:00

A mood stabilizer. As you can see from the picture in my last post I have been Cujo for the last few days, and today was no exception. I had to talk myself into going to the gym. An inner conversation that wasn't pretty but necessary.

Once I got there I hit the treadmill for a slow 3.1 then strengthened my upper body.

Mood stabilized; husband grateful.

Then, in honor of my NYC marathon friends, I carb loaded on Chinese food, you know, so I can send them carb vibes from the comfort of my couch. You're all welcome BTW.

Tomorrow I am doing something out of character: I'm meeting up with a bunch of strangers for frozen yogurt. Well, not so much "strangers" as "people I online stalk". And not so much "meet up with" as "crash their party." So good time shall be had all around, I am sure.

This is my appetite on PMS:

2011-11-03T10:36:00.000-07:00

(source)

You're welcome for the TMI, by the way

Want to know what's funner then fun? Other than craving salty foods that make me look and feel like a water balloon, my difficult disc herniated yesterday. So I slowly walked a mile then leg pressed and did hamstring curls.

I may have been more motivated to keep going had I not been listening to lectures on my ipod. Yes, finals are this week. One more stress almost out of my life. Although, I do enjoy that they (the finals) and mother nature decided to coincide, and chose to show themselves in large red mounds on my face. Yes, I bring new meaning to "hot mess."

"... the sun will come out tomorrow.." and so will the Noxzema.

Don't forget to enter the $100 Everyday Endurance running shirt giveaway

Everyday Endurance Running Tee Giveaway!

2011-11-01T07:20:00.000-07:00

Good Morning! Happy November 1st!

October flying into November always reminds me that I'm going to wake up and it'll be Christmas. I want to share with you a few things that are on my wishlist this year (psst, Husband, pay attention to this). I was searching etsy.com for something "running" that was different then the usual "I run like a girl" type thing. Not that it isn't cute, but it's not me.

Enter Everyday Endurance.

As soon as I saw this shirt I knew I loved them.

When I emailed Joseph at Everyday Endurance he told me that Etsy only had a few of their items, and that their website had even more designs! They are stylish and modern, not super girly and have mens wear as well. Not just for runners! Tris, Cyclers, Climbers etc. There are short and long sleeve cotton shirts and performance tees.

this is on my wishlist

this I'm getting for my father-in-law

The best part? They are the sweetest people to work with, not to mention generous.

They are offering ONE of my readers a $100 gift certificate to spend on their website Everyday Endurance. Is that just amazingly awesome? And of course, I will be sending you my favorite treat to refuel with- a box of Strawberry Sensation Instant Breakfast.

To enter:

You must be a follower of my blog (leave a comment)

You must follow Everyday Endurance on Facebook (leave another comment)

For an extra entry you can follow them on Twitter (again, leave a comment)

and again, if you post about the giveaway on your blog, Facebook, or Twitter you can leave me a comment with the link.

You can enter from now until November 15th. I will have my two assistants draw at random for the winner, and they will be announced November 16th.

Halloween Workout.

2011-10-31T10:23:00.000-07:00

This morning after dropping my son off at preschool I went to the gym while Ben stayed with our crazy little girl. She only likes one daycare person at the gym, so Monday/Tuesdays we have to do a swtich.

I started with a mile on the treadmill at 2.5 incline to warm up. Then it was time to battle the fat arm gene (thanks mom) and abs. I'm sitting here now 3 hours later and feel like a nap, so it must have been good. I use the stability ball for just about all my arm weight training.

Something new I tried today was using a 25lbs weight, knees bent in squat position, then up to standing w/weight, then pop it above my head. 25lbs is a lot of weight for one girl arm, and I realized my right arm is much weaker than my left. Go figure, I'm left handed. I also used the stability ball for push-ups and abs.

Then I rode the bike for 15 minutes at about 130rpms. A good stretch and it was time to pick my son up.

I'm pretty pooped, but I have enough energy for my Princess Leia costume tonight.

Halloween Week Goals

2011-10-30T08:24:00.000-07:00

I love Halloween. I love getting dressed up with the kids. Best of all, this year I haven't touched any candy, and I don't plan on it. I guess that's goal #1 for the week

#2 I'm going to work on counting calories. I should have been doing this for a long time, and I've been lazy. I'm looking into good programs for it, and I'm taking it seriously this time. (but give me a little leeway if it's not perfect, ok?)

#3 cardio 6 days this week and weight training 4 days.

#4 cook off ground turkey for fast, healthy meals.

It's Ben's vacation week, so it should be a great week for us to both meet goals.

Snow Day

2011-10-29T17:22:00.000-07:00

So pretty as long as it doesn't knock my power out.

It's 8:20pm and they are just now plowing the road. That's about 13 hours too late. Dang.

We got nearly 10 inches today! So much fun.

May the Fitness Force be with you

Race Tomorrow

2011-10-28T12:09:00.000-07:00

Forecast:

(source)

Yeah, I'm not kidding. I wonder if anyne will show up? I know I'll be out running in it either way! Snow = no cars on the road. I live in an area with no sidewalks and many cars, so snow is my time to run outside and not die. Possibly break and ankle, but that's still a step above the latter.

Off to make my runner cinnamon rolls. I'm such a nice race director.

Got Squats?

2011-10-27T09:00:00.000-07:00

Today I focused on legs. A quick 10 minute warm up on the bike and I hit the weight room. I asked Ben to take a picture for me and now I realize I should have looked at them first. Thanks for the butt shot, Hun. But it really wouldn't be my blog if awkward pictures weren't there.

This is one of my favorite exercises. I squat then lung each leg (10xs each) as a set x3.

I used that bench in front of me to jump up and down on, then did leg extensions on my hands and knees. I love that balancing works so many more muscles as opposed to doing it on the floor.

I ran 400s at 7:30 x4 and called it good.

Wednesday? Where did Monday and Tuesday go?

2011-10-26T10:10:00.000-07:00

It's a little bit funny, but Monday/Tuesdays are my husband's Saturday/Sundays. I guess I could have simplified that by saying : It's our weekend. There. Simplified. We had a wonderful time, despite a croupy little kid, but I didn't get any workouts in. My husband, however, did his first 4 mile run in 10 years. He was glowing yesterday and even said "this must be a runners high." I lost him when I asked "and after 3 miles, didn't you feel like you could just keep going for miles and miles?" Not only did I lose him, but I heard some cheeping in the background. So proud of him, either way.

This morning I woke up at 9. I'm not kidding. The kids slept in after a Halloween parade, and I'm pretty sure I heard angels singing. So I got a very late start to the gym. A quick mile run, 3 mile bike, and then I hit the upper body pretty hard.

About two days ago I started having pain in my right lower shoulder blade, which has yet to subside. Hate that. Here's to hoping the lat pulls today will help smooth out whatever kink I made back there.

And of course, no blog would be complete without an after workout "Glow Like a Pig" (royalty pending) picture. You're welcome.

Name This Gym Equipment

2011-10-23T10:33:00.001-07:00

A restful Sunday. Thinking about the week ahead if me. First up - arms and back. But what the heck is this thing called?

IMPORTANT UPDATE!

2011-10-21T17:36:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the yelling- but The Biggest Loser 1-11 are now on instant play on Netflix!

Now if they'll give me Will & Grace I can be a happy woman.

Sorry if you were hoping for something bigger ...

Rest Day ... of sorts.

2011-10-21T08:18:00.000-07:00

Bench pressing my 50lb 4 year old is not as easy as I had hoped.

OK, today is actually a "rest" day for me. A 45 minute walk on the treadmill to loosen up my quads from the squats I did yesterday and that's about it for me today.

I have two more months before I start training for Rivertown Marathon where I am planning my come back. Strength training correctly this time will hopefully keep stress fractures away. Which is what I have obviously been focusing on from now until December with 3-6 mile runs 4 days a week.

Good plan, right?

PS- Follow my blog the the right (although I appreciate the email followers!) because I have found the cutest store to share with you all soon. Check back in with me!

Thursday Means- FGD

2011-10-20T17:39:00.000-07:00

Family Gym Day. It's what we do, what can I say?

I warmed up with only 20 minutes of cardio today. I had drops and toilet paper in one ear and the other I left open just in case. You never know if someone's going to be shouting "FIRE" all unbeknownst to me because I have kindling in both ears. Sometimes I am pretty pathetic looking.

Anyway, I did more legs today. Weighted squats and lunges in the big kid area. That's right. I came out of my quiet corner for that one. As I went from station to station I did a lap around the indoor track. The first few steps were all "eh, owe" but it kept them loose so I could keep going.

Abs came after that. I'm a little obsessed with them lately. But after a few years of neglect and abuse I am sure they are enjoying the attention.

On a separate note- soap.com sent me a coupon. I actually bought 5 boxes of Strawberry Sensation. And I'm going to share some with my buddies next week when I have my first little giveaway. Cool, right? Should be fun.

Finding Inspiration In Your Own Strength

2011-10-18T07:13:00.000-07:00

Today I'm laying here resting so hopefully my head cold leaves my sinuses alone. I was feeling a bit like a failure for not tagging along with Ben and the kids to the gym. So what do I do? I go through my pictures to nit pick on all of the work I have ahead of me. That's normal, right?

So here I was, thinking how my legs will never look like last month's Runner's World cover girl if I'm sick all the time -sickness brings on a lot of bad thoughts for any cancer survivor; the immune system just never gets back intact and that's sometimes hard to deal with. Anyway, I love that model, because she's realistic, in my opinion, and I have her on my wall of inspiration to keep moving.

Then I randomly found a picture of my back taken to mark melanoma, but for once I looked at it and saw a strong woman. Boy I wanted to say girl, but those times are long gone...

I thought: I am strong. Then my mind went to all of the things I, personally, have overcome.

I Am Strong.

Guess what's going on my wall?

Time to believe in our own abilities.

Arms and Abs Strength Training + IT Band issues.

2011-10-17T08:32:00.000-07:00

I'm officially "into" weight training. I'm loving it and working it hard!

The bad about today: I still have a double ear infection that's knocking me out.

The good? Well, I have a husband who drags me to the gym even though I'm still groggy. Lucky for him I dressed myself ... today.

Warmed up 10 minutes of cardio. I walked 5 and then stretched my ever-so-tight IT Band. I've been neglecting it and I feel it in my knee when I run. Outside knee twinges while running= IT Band issues. My post on IT Band stretches here is what I should be doing, and every runner for that matter. The other 5 minutes I sprinted. And by sprint I mean 7.0 sprint. My ear infection has made me lose my balance easily, so I played it safe. That and I wanted to focus on strengthening!

Upper body essentials for me:

10lb round weight for stability ball abs (50 weighted, 50 weight free per set x3)

12lb free weight for stability ball chest press and bicep curls (obviously I'm toning not bulking)

10lb bar for stability ball tri press and other various things

I also did lat pull

I still workout in the side room which is usually pretty empty. I do a lot of random workouts I was taught a few years back by my trainer. You know, when I was single and had money to blow.

Then I went for 20 minutes on the Arc Trainer

I was going for the no impact cardio, and this was perfect. It was my first time on it, and it was fast to set up a quick hill workout. Love.

Then I heard an unhappy shout from my little lady who was solo in Day Care, because her brother was at Pre-school. So we went walking on the indoor track until Daddy was done.

Reluctantly refueling with chocolate milk because someone drank all her Strawberry Sensation. Don't judge.

Family Gym Day!

2011-10-13T11:17:00.000-07:00

My little cuties now love the day care at the gym. The hours are pretty sparse, but we manage to get in at least every Thursday.

I warmed up a mile in the treadmill, did too hard miles on the bike, and then another slow mile on the treadmill. I didn't want to be too dripping with sweat for my weight session, but that was a massive fail.

I worked my legs, mostly, today. I like all the embarrass machines, I'm the girl who doesn't care at the gym. I'm not trained in any lingo, and if I once knew the name I have long forgotten- but I love the thing that you learn over while holding a weight (I use 25lbs) and then straighten your torso. Have fun googling that one. Maybe next time I'll get a picture. Then I did the leg press, 4 sets at 115lbs, starting easy so hopefully I can still bend over tomorrow.

On a random side note I also fixed the dishwasher. It was clogged with bacon grease. Ben is no longer allowed to load the dishwasher. Sometimes I think he does that kind of stuff on purpose.

A tribute to my friend who had the same thing done that day ....

Yeah, that's gross. I'm pretty sure bacon fat does the same thing to your arteries.

Hiking and Kayaking

2011-10-11T05:23:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I set out for a "hike" with a friend. It was initially going to be a run, but they hurt their knee and couldn't run. As I have said before, we were also going to ride the bike. Yeah, I wasn't looking forward to it.

I arrived late (I know, I was totally THAT person) and my friend asked if I wanted to kayak part of our trip. OK, why not?

It was a beautiful morning, in the 50s. We set off on an unofficial hiking area, that we plan on finishing off with some fund raising. He owns many properties in the area, and asked if I would head the project to finish the trail and restore a bridge. How to raise the money? By directing races. Um, yes please! It took us an hour to hike 9 miles, then we set off to kayak to another hiking point.

This was only my second time kayaking, but I caught on easily and managed to keep up pretty well. It was a mile out and back. It was going great until I realized the back of my friend's kayak was under water. It was taking in water, so we had to get onto land sooner then we expected. Unfortunately, I do not know that area at all, and although he had done it many times, the water in the man-made Lake Wallenpaupak had been lowered for construction. We had about 3/4 mile climb around large rocks until we found our spot. I should have turned around then, but I continued to follow my friend.

We weren't sure where we left the kayaks after that, so we left the trail to find our kayaks. Another mile of rocks later, we found them. The 30 minute journey ended up taking us two hours, and the weather was now 80 degrees. Ugh. Although, the view was beautiful, I wanted to see my family!!

My feet were thrashed when we got back to the other side of the lake. I put a few band aids on, guzzled a cran-pomegranete drink, and we headed back home.

5 hours later, and 14.55miles, I got back to my car to rush home to see my family. I felt sorry my trip had lasted so long on our day off together, but I was really glad I had a rigorous workout. It felt great.

This morning my shoulders and back are very sore- which means progress, so I'm happy. Great workout.

Rest day today. Hubby's turn to get his stress out in sweat.

Oh, and yes, I forgot my camera. Shame on me. I will get the gorgeous pictures of the area soon, when I start working on my new trail project! I think my virtual friends should come to one ... you don't mind coming to Pennsylvania, right???

Refuel With Chocolate Milk- scratch that

2011-10-06T11:13:00.000-07:00

Make it Strawberry Milk. AKA Manna from heaven. AKA Sweet nectar of life!

That's right, the heavens parted at the grocery store today when I saw this:

Finally!The store has some. But let me give a background to my happy tale:

Today was Family Gym Day. The kids played in the child care center, and Ben and I got our sweat on. I kicked my butt today by switching cardio up- 2 miles on the bike, then 1 mile son the treadmill. I repeated this twice then headed over to the weights to get my abs and arms done.

After that we decided to stop at the store and get snacks. So I came out of the isle with 4 boxes of Carnation Instant Breakfast. Ben told me no, because he's no fun (or didn't have enough cash- I forget because I was busy pouting).

Don't worry Strawberry Sensation, I'll be back for you. I believe in refueling with Strawberry milk!

NYC!

2011-10-05T06:01:00.000-07:00

Ben and I went on a trip to New York yesterday. We didn't have to drive, because his sweet boss' drove us out and treated us to a wonderful day of "food research." I got to come and enjoy the experience while the kids had babysitters for the day.

We got there in time for our lunch appointment at Maialino. I abstained from the rabbit meatballs and suckling pig. Some things I just think shouldn't be killed and eaten. All ugly things are fair game IMO.

See, clams- ugly and I'm pretty sure there's no brain

After shopping for a little while (restaurant stuff) we headed over to the Shake Shack for milk shakes. there is obviously a Danny Meyer theme to our trip. Don't worry, I don't know who he is either, but they love him.

We crossed the street past this beauty:

to go to Eataly. It's basically the most giant Italian food store- ever. Except maybe those in Italy.

The best part for me was the cheese. Glorious cheese. I found my Christmas present:

But Ben wouldn't buy it for me. I think he thought I was kidding. Maybe I was~~n't~~.

Our last stop was to be the Gramercy Tavern, but it was closed for a special event. Darn. Next time, I guess.

time to run off that shake. 6 miles today, and then I have a ton of class work. Saturday is my charity 5K!

Bike - friend or foe?

2011-10-03T17:17:00.000-07:00

Aside from my girl bits having a say about my newish found biking trend, I feel I am working muscles I don't use when I'm running. Although, I doubt I can get over the boredom of a stationary bike. I don't need my kids to annoy me with "are we there yet?" because it somehow became my biking motto. I'm sure once I'm outside I'll feel differently.

OK- I'll stop complaining about it. I did 8 miles today in my 30 minute allotment. I am obviously not a hardcore machine enthusiast, since the thing is lucky if I'm patient enough to set my weight. I usually hit the big green button that says "GO!" or "Treadmills for Dummies" I wouldn't know, I don't pay enough attention. I did, however, learn in kindergarten that green means go, and I have followed suit ever since.

I felt like running today, but I held back. I went and did 30 minutes of abs and arms. I know muscles is important for this big girl not to get hurt (ahem, again) so I am making that a focus each and everyday. PT got me doing basics everyday, now I'm ready for big girl panties- weight machines and dumbbells.

Tomorrow I will attempt another "get-up" at 6. There's actually motivation behind this, and I'll fill you in on it later.

No Race

2011-10-01T07:56:00.000-07:00

Due to current stressful circumstances, I was unable to make it my 5K. We are dealing with very difficult people in regard to our foster son.

Sorry if I disappointed anyone. I plan on hitting the treadmill later and running a 5K.

Spin Bike!

2011-09-30T09:32:00.000-07:00

Look who got to the gym early enough to ride on the spin bike? I feel a rare habit forming, and I am unsure if I like it or not.

I have a habit of over-doing it on a spin bike. It's not the same without class, but I had a great time. Stand, sit, stand sit- until my legs hurt. Then I remembered I'm supposed to run a 5K tomorrow. I knew I was forgetting something. Being totally real, I've never actually "raced" before. I'm doing it for the number.

I decided weight training would be safe, I mean who goes overboard on weights?

This medicine ball is my new gym buddy. Tossed it on the stability ball, used it for a medicine ball pass, and a few other things. My arms are beat.

Another interesting thing happened. I left a mommy of three and came home a mommy of two. Some people make very selfish decisions.

Mid Term

2011-09-29T16:35:00.000-07:00

Hello random blog title. Welcome to Running On Stilts, where no real topics are ever discussed. I am Rebecca, your host.

So I have a mid term tomorrow. Guess what I'm doing? Blog Stalking, no wait, I mean twitter stalki-- studying. That's what I'm doing, studying. Hard...

Today is a rest day. Tomorrow is gym day, although I will not be doing my 5K Friday, since I have a 5K on Saturday. Which I was kind of going to skip, but I was tweeting with Sarah Bowen-Shea, aka my new bff (I've been saying that for over a year, I know, but it's news, no wait, new to her.) So I decided I'll still try to rock it. It's going to be raining, which I love, love love. Weird, right? The only thing is they wear pink to race, so I may have to ditch my usual Ovarian Cancer badge color. What do you think I should do? I don't not want to participate, but it is kinda my thing. Anyone?

We had a wonderful day with our new foster son. He's adjusting to having consistent limits. Three kids is a challenge (two 8 months apart ... let me just say there's a reason pregnancy is 9 months long), but I believe I have found the balance I need to ~~not run away, forever~~ maintain my sanity.

Run strong, friends! We can't control the health of our bodies, but we can control what we chose to do with it.

9 mile Bike Ride. In the ...

2011-09-28T07:18:00.000-07:00

Morning! Oh yeah. I only pushed myself for 8 of the miles, but I'm counting the warm up, because gosh darn it I earned it!

Good morning Koles, and good morning rain. I took a picture, because I'm pretty sure no one believes that I woke up at 6am and went to the gym. My husband didn't even believe it.

And here's proof I was on the bike. I only did 30 minutes. No, not, wait- not only 30 minutes- I rocked 30 minutes and 9 miles. I was a wonderful sweaty mess.

I got home in time to take my son to school. Ben was having a hard time this morning, because our foster son was coughing all night. Again. But at least we found out why. Two weeks into having him, and we just now get told he has asthma, and has medication. Poor guy! He's doing better this morning.

After my little man was at school I had German Pancakes for breakfast. Re-heated, though, as I had the idea to make them ahead of time. Don't get all excited. Maybe one time our of 365 days do I do something like that.

I feel great this morning. I may have to say it felt good to wake up early and have my workout. I'd hate to go back on my morning-hatin' ways, but today almost turned me. We'll see.

Bike Challenge- Accepted

2011-09-26T16:21:00.000-07:00

Friday night after my awesome run, I put the kids to bed, dressed myself in buh-bye clothes and went to The Settlers Inn for an Australian Wine Dinner. My friend and I don't drink alcoholic drinks, but they sent out a paired drink for each course. I don't know why people drink wine, when there are so many other options. We had a sugar-high that fit in well with their, well, wine. Sorry, I meant to take a picture of me looking something other than sweaty, but I failed. Must have been the Shirley Temple.

I was sitting with a friend just joking around, and somehow the subject of a 40 mile bike ride came up. Those who know me know I hate the bike. It hurts my lady parts! I said "no" and the conversation went on. Then I tried to get some people to go running with me, and one guy bit, with the exception that I journey on a bike ride with his friends and him. Ugh. Think, Rebecca, think - this could be fun. Right?

I've been wanting to break into triathlons for a while, but the bike thing has completely held me back. And since I decided I'm not going to let fears hold me back, I decided I would do it. We shook on it, and he's a business man, so that means, well, "business."

And so I start a journey for the next 3 weeks focusing on the bike. Go ahead, laugh a little. I said a little!

5K Friday- Gym Edition

2011-09-23T09:29:00.000-07:00

We have been thinking about doing a gym membership for both Ben and myself, because, well because this is our life now:

Exercise keep us both happier people. But the YMCA near our home doesn't have child care, so that is something we've decided we would like in a gym.

I returned to my old stomping ground aka where I lost the baby weight after Brock: Koles Fitness Center. It remains my favorite local gym. The best reason is the placement of the treadmills- looking over the weight area. I hate staring at a wall while I run so this is perfect.

I like gyms. They keep me grounded by reminding me how much I have in common with old people. My workout time, for instance, is not early in the morning with the young people, but mid morning with all the retired people. They're my kind of people.

My shirt after my 5K. I didn't take my camera into the gym. I don't want them know I'm crazy. Yet.

Speaking of old and young- The Biggest Loser is on, again! Seriously (not sarcastically) I love this show. The grouping is an interesting concept. My guess is the middle aged people will bring it home- young people have never really worked hard for anything before, and the old people sometimes look as though their kids told them they were sending them to a retirement spa. I could be wrong, though.

Have a great weekend. Get out and work up a sweat, and feel alive!

Ah-Chew!

2011-09-22T15:57:00.000-07:00

As annoying as sneezing and a running nose are, I am always thankful when it moves out of my head. This morning was a rough one. I walked 2 miles, trying to pick up my speed, but I just didn't have gas. Even though it was tiny, it did mighty things for me throughout the day.

I had more patience with the kids, especially the one who cries. A lot. Had the energy to have a hear-to-heart with him and talk about his screaming. It has gotten better over the last two days, and I think he's learning how to use his words. I am still blown away that no one ever taught him that. So sad.

Now it's the end of the day, and I am once again floating at some stellar comments my professor left me in an open forum. It's always nice to hear a little praise.

Next week I'm supposed to run a 5k. I'm thinking it won't be a PR (heavens know I'll still try!), life threw a little wrench in training. But things are smoothing out, and I found a gym with child care- so those suckers better be prepared for me to get my money's worth!!!

Hello Running Community

2011-09-20T17:29:00.000-07:00

I have been away- as in adjusting to my new life. We are doing better each day, and so is our little foster son.

This morning I got a nice little run in. We are all recovering from colds, so it was a bit winded, but 2 miles is the longest run I've gotten in since my last post.

Then I proceeded to have one of the worst ideas ever. I drove the kids to a cider mill about 40 minutes away. Me, a 4 year old, a 26 month old and an 18 month old. They had a good time, and I, the eternal introvert, was overwhelmed.

Major progress in our home. I should be updating a little more often now.

I'm off to stalk all my virtual friends!

2 hours and 10 miles

2011-09-13T16:59:00.000-07:00

that should be a time. You know, like when someone asks you the time you look down and say "Oh it's 5 miles past 4." {cheep cheep cheep} Anyway, there was some change with that time, but I forget cuz I ignore minute little things half the time.

I set out to jog through my lectures, because I have noticed my hip has been hurting after sitting through lessons (which is an online lecture) but I didn't realize the class was over 2 hours. My ham strings are kinda sore and I have a headache. Maybe learning and running don't go hand-in-hand.

One more class to sit through tonight. Maybe the stairmaster is a better learning forum? Anyone?

OH! And HORRIBLE, HORRIBLE, TERRIBLE news. Yes, it is that bed. No store within an hour of my home sells Strawberry Sensation Carnation Instant Breakfast. Horrible. One more thing I have to have mailed to me.

Sometimes Failure is Good

2011-09-11T17:42:00.000-07:00

As I am trying to be a better wife, mom, friend, person I still fall short everyday. Some days I may never lose my temper with my kids, but I don't get around to the laundry. Some days I get ahead on school work, but I fail as a friend. Some days I have great runs, and some days I allow myself to just breath.

Last week was a week where I removed myself from my own chaos and saw that there was havoc in many other peoples lives, and I was too busy trying to complete my "to-do" list and allowed myself to fall into my own hole that I forgot some of my friends I really loved. How did I ever let that happen?

I realized I failed people as a friend, and it is painful. However, it reminded me that I am human and thankfully still wake up each day with the opportunity to progress and "succeed" where it will matter the most. I know I feel better while serving those I love.

Ian is our new foster son. He is very, very sweet, yet has a lot of anger. I witnessed, though, a little boy find peace and joy with his brother and sister. I watched anger slip away and laughs and smiles covered his face. He is back home for the next couple of days while we get his new room ready, but I look forward to sharing our home with him.

As for my other friends, I still have to work. When I named my blog I had two thoughts. 1)I'm tall as heck, and 2)the awkward balancing act of all I have to accomplish in life sometimes feels as though I am trying to run on stilts.

Finding that balance, for me, requires so much energy. An energy I haven't had since my first battle with cancer, but I have found a renewal in spirit through exercise, which makes possible all the other things I need to do.

I hope you can find that same energy. Life is just too hard to not take care of these beautiful bodies were were blessed to receive. Sometimes we slip up. Sometimes it's for a little longer then we'd like to admit. And that is O.K. as long as we seek out those changes and strive to be better.

Here's to an excellent week both mentally and physically.

Taking an Unscheduled Rest Day

2011-09-08T10:10:00.000-07:00

My school work this week has been overwhelming. Over 8 hours of reading, not counting two lectures, two discussion forums and a paper that's due tomorrow.

I am hoping that I finish the paper before it is too late to run tonight, but I'm thinking it may be a rest day.

Sometimes- just sometimes- I Hate People

2011-09-07T14:57:00.000-07:00

Today was just not my day. We had planned to take my son to pre-school, then I would run and Ben would take our daughter to work with him in the morning. That all went as planned, except I forgot my stupid hat, and it was pouring rain. I do love the rain, but it's hard to run in it while having one's eye balls pelted with massive (and somewhat violent) raindrops.

My only other real option was to go to the local new gym. It is a beautiful gym, and while I was in the bathroom I realized it was nice and cool, which made me happy. Until I got out on the floor and realized the heat was on. &^@!$#*^%#&^%! What the? What gym uses heat in September? Or, um period?! Then I walk up to the treadmills, which are placed right in front of giant windows. So I pick one with a nice view, climbed on and realized each cardio machine has a 90 inch tv on it (that may be a slight over exaggeration) and it totally blocks the view.

Let me break down the other awesome events
        A) I don't watch tv. I don't care what's on it, I just wanna get my sweat on
        B) I forgot my ipod, so I couldn't tune out business woman yelling at people on the
             phone while she "worked out" - which term I use, well, the use of it in refernce
             to what she was doing is downright reckless... and somewhat dangerous.
             I was scared. A lot.

Finally when said business woman shouted at me to help he with the weight machine, I was done. I did my stretches and pushsups and walked out the door.

10 bucks I'll never get back.

See Title for my ending remark. Don't you love when things come full circle?

Trail Run Around Lake Wallenpaukpack

2011-09-05T18:13:00.000-07:00

You remember that episode of The Office when they go on a company trip to Lake Wallenpaupack?

just in case you don't know...

I couldn't get motivated to run my usual area, so I dove out to run a new path that goes along the lake.

Originally I planned to do a long run, but I found out the path wasn't quite finished, so I only had my fuel belt, which ended up being a big pain. It made me feel heavy and shifted way too much. Other than that, though, it was a beautiful, quick, yet challenging run.

Yes, I am that dedicated that I carried a camera. (Between that and the fuel belt I was pretty distracted- that and I am now very aware of my Rainman fingers.

It's a 2 mile out and back, but excellent trail with a lot of hills. Great for training. I can't wait until it's finished and will be 6 miles. My Garmin was spotty because of rain and trees, but it felt like a strong run.

We're going back tomorrow, there's a cute playground within the trail, so the kids can play with Ben while I finish my run.

Exciting Rest Day

2011-09-04T16:09:00.000-07:00

Today is my usual rest day. Labor Day weekend marks the end of Ben's busy season, which means I may have a husband again. Hip-hip-hooray!

The humidity is coming to a crashing stop out here. I mean that literally, too- big storm coming tonight- so that means I'll have wonderful rain for my Labor Day Long Run. Yes, that's a self titled run.

I have more exciting news, and nothing is for sure yet but I can't tell anyone else so I'm telling the blogging world- we may foster a little 2 year old boy. I know it will be hard, but it feels so very right. I want to set everything up for him, but I don't want to be disappointed in the end.I hope this doesn't mean I'll have to share my marshmallows...

Never a dull moment at Running On Stilts!

5k Friday

2011-09-02T10:17:00.000-07:00

I was going to have my usual 5 miles over easy this morning, but RER tweeted something abut joining in for a 5k. So since ~~I stalk her religiously~~ I really love her blog, I decided to go for it and test out my legs from the many workouts I've been doing over the past two months.

I didn't hold back and saw if I could kick my own butt. My goal for the 5k in October was 26 something.

Today I ran it in 24:44 (but the stupid timer kept going before I could grab my camera.)

apparently I Am Sam when I run

Today's run was brought to you by the basic food group: Marshmallows

don't act like you never thought about it...

and by: a sweaty after glow.

And yes, I have a Twitter account. No, I have not figured out how to use it.

238mile to Go!

2011-09-01T09:51:00.000-07:00

Last year I signed up with Tall Mom on the Run to run 1000 miles this year- today while I was entering my miles for August I saw that I only have 238 mile to run!

Time to think up my 1000 mile mark picture....

Not Enough Sleep = Bad Run

2011-09-01T09:27:00.000-07:00

Not horrible, but I felt -blah- my whole run today. I stayed up way too late last night, and now I am paying for it. My muscles are stiff and my head is groggy. What was I thinking?

I made 3.70 miles of my scheduled 5 mile run. Fortunately, I'm only training for a 5K, but I know better than this!

Running Times had an article about this very thing here and if I weren't in a mental stupor I would recite some of it- but what I do remember is even a *real* endurance athlete said they don't feel the same excitement for a workout or race if they didn't have enough sleep. Why, oh why won't I learn this lesson?

How do you get yourself to bed early?

Thoughts for Beginning Runners

2011-08-31T09:17:00.000-07:00

Today while I ran my easy 5 miles my favorite trainer was with me.

mayhaps I should Photoshop trainer clothes on her...

I have a new found respect for one of my blogging friends Julie who actually runs 7:30 miles AND reads articles in magazines. She officially reached Super Hero status in my book. I ran at 9:30 pace and couldn't read a thing. Instead I pretended Jillian was yelling at me every time I got bored and wanted to jump off. That may make me a little creepy, but I'm very over it by now.

I have defended the technique used on Biggest Loser for a long time. It's hard for people who haven't competed in any sport or physical workout to know what it takes to have an inner voice shouting at you to keep moving. The contestants on Biggest Loser are severe cases, and haven't found that voice, so Jillian and Bob teach them what that is. By the end you hear less yelling from the trainers and more from the contestants telling themselves to KEEP. MOVING.

I started running a month after I had my second baby. I had about 20 pounds to lose, and was watching Loosing It with Jillian Michaels, and it had a 5k plan on the website. So I printed it out and followed it. I remember the first time I ran an entire mile I talked about it as though I had completed a marathon. The feeling was amazing, and got me out of the dark hole I had fallen into after Ben had to return to his long hours. That was the one time in my running life I was able t o bounce out of bed and head to the gym.

You've got to get that inner voice shouting that no- your body is NOT giving out- your mind is. Hold on and keep moving. The beautiful thing about running is that you train not only your body, but your mind to handle so much more stress.

Keep moving. If you have pains or issues, ask someone. There are hundreds of bloggers who know what they are doing and are more than happy to answer questions. Don't stop. Keep moving!

Take a Hike

2011-08-30T17:05:00.000-07:00

No, really it's good times. As long as you don't mind coming home with some sort of amphibian. Personally, I went out in search of baby squirrels who'd fallen out of the trees after the storm, so I enjoy critters to say the least. In fact I like them ~~better than most people~~ so much I almost came home with a bunny the other day.

We hiked up to a little landmark in our area- the Star that lights the Christmas season in our area. Just shy of a half mile up a very fun trail.

I can see my house from here!

Me and my redheaded mini me - cute as can be!

Oh yes, there's the toad. The Ribitnator . Yeah, no, seriously.

Instilling an active life into our kids lives is on the top of our priority. We both have a chubby gene, and plan to knock it out with this generation, and hopefully carry it on and on and- ok, you get the point.

Cooler weather is upon us, so it's easier to plan trips with lots of walking. What are you doing to keep your family healthy?

5 Miles and P!nk

2011-08-30T05:20:00.000-07:00

I want P!nk's body. I'm not gunna lie.

That's an entertainer.

Hopefully my 5 mile run this morning will get me a little closer. And maybe a few less Gold Fishes stolen from the kids. That may take a little more will power than I have, though. Somedays I forget I'm not carbloading for 15 mile runs anymore.

Life is so cruel.

2 Mile Victory Lap

2011-08-29T17:06:00.000-07:00

After this scare today:

Seriously, though, that was making me sick to my stomach ...
Thankfully they provided this:

It's like they give you a shot to run away.

Imagine my relief and tears when she looked at my trouble spots from last time and said they were normal. Imagine the confusion while she looked through her own charting. I still have to go back soon to have the minor surgery on my knee where they will remove a deep pit of tissue and then sew it back together (which scar I prefer over the dime size circle I have now) because the sneaky sucker is coming back.

Apparently I'm a comfy home for cancer cells. Much like that of rotting tomato to a fruit fly. And just as hard to get rid of.

While I am not yet out of the woods, and not quite happy enough to through my shirt off and pose for pictures in front millions of soccer fans (oh come on, don't act like you never dreamed of looking like that and doing the same thing!) I felt good enough for a 2 mile victory lap and some sets of pushups.

The expression comes from impatience. Take the freakin' picture.

I remember when I was very ill, I learned what a gift life was. I remember lying in bed and feeling my heart beat against my hand. I get so sad when people hurt otherwise perfectly healthy, strong bodies by misuse and abuse. How do you bring awareness? How do you help them understand?

Excellent, Excellent News Today

2011-08-29T10:25:00.000-07:00

No, not the run.

5 miles, though.

I got to the doctor and was kind of freaking out. Are they cutting stuff, and they freezing stuff, are they poisoning stuff??

She got in and looked me over and decided not to even prescribe lotion, and she said all of my other spots look pretty good. My knee, well, that's a headache of it's own and will need surgery to cut deeper- but um, I'll freaking take that! Much better option in my opinion.

Today is a good day.

Irene or Bust

2011-08-28T09:57:00.000-07:00

Other than being awoken this morning at 4:43 by a gust of wind bursting through the window and some power outages, we have been blessed to remain safe from Hurricane Irene. Now that it is at Tropical Storm status, Ben did have to go into work, which has me nervous - I don't like the idea of driving around when there are still trees falling over.

I realized last night that I'll have to -- HAVE TO-- get up for an early morning run, because at 9am tomorrow I will be getting my first treatment for the Melanoma and many more skin biopsies so I'm not sure how soon I'll be able to get around, let alone get a good sweat on.

Kind of a long week ahead, but I am so very grateful my house is still standing, and everyone was safe in this unusual weather

Today I Ran ...

2011-08-27T15:15:00.000-07:00

Today I ran to feel lively and strong.

Today I ran and felt invincible, while so many around me feel fragile and scared.

Today I ran and realized the people around me are worried they've been given a time limit; a time limit I was once given and am now comfortable with.

Today I ran because I am alive, and grateful for every step, every breath I have been blessed with.

By the time I wake up tomorrow Hurricane Irene will be here, and I'm not scared. Cautious, of course, but never scared. I have seen my world crash around me before, and I have seen many miracles.

Life parallels with running in that each day I wake up I don't know how I'm going to feel or what hurdle I will strive to get over. I don't always like it, but most times I love it.

Today I ran for the experience and growth.

Did you?

(sorry I stole your thing RLAM -please don't sue me)

Dear Hurricane Irene:

2011-08-26T16:05:00.000-07:00

Last year I ran with:
2 inches of ice
4 inches of snow
45 mph gusts of wind
PMS

BRING IT.

Sincerely,
Hurricane Rebecca

Early to Bed, Early to Rise

2011-08-26T09:34:00.000-07:00

I am obviously not that healthy, wealthy man.

As hard as I have tried to wake up early, I just roll over and go back to sleep. I realize where my daughter gets her need for 13 hours of sleep a night from. Training to wake up- now there is a schedule I'd like to see, although I most likely would not follow it.

So I haven't run yet. I really enjoy evening runs on the treadmill. You know, though, had it been raining I would have been out the door. Same as snow. Must have been all the horrible weather I trained in last year- I find myself in the creepy position of looking forward to running in miserable weather. In fact, the best part of my marathon was when it started raining.

Funny fact, for the past two years the sun has made me feel sick to my stomach, so I have been avoiding it well before I was diagnosed with Melanoma. It's funny what your body is capable of telling you, anyway, that was the hardest part of the marathon- trying to deal with warm weather my body wasn't used to running in. With my new Orc status, I need to find a marathon with lots of rain or clouds or both. Or a night run seeing how some of my best runs have been at night I'd probably fair rather well running all night long.

So there are possibilities :P

Hill Repeats - what a hill of a good time!

2011-08-25T09:52:00.000-07:00

The Hill:

The Runner:

For fun, because I'm weird, my friends and I tried to make cotton candy aka homemade fiber glass. I don't recommend it.

The Weather:

My Garmin didn't get satellite service until after my first few reps. I realized then this hill was about a 30 second run up. I did 10 runs total and went for a 3 mile jog. I'm sure my quads will be saying something like this !@#%* to me tomorrow. But I was imagining beautifully toned legs, so it was easy to leap up that monster hill.

I LOVE running in the rain. Natures way of saying "I love you, Rebecca, run harder, and I'll pee on you to stay cool"

My 5K is coming up, well both are. One is the one I put together to raise canned food for the local food pantry (September 17th), and the other is my chance to be a Run Star (Oct. 1). Those girls are way fast, but I'm doing everything I can to try and keep up.

I'm also hoping to put together a Turkey Trot. My husband always does a Turkey Bowl before he has to work, but maybe I can steal a few to run with me on Thanksgiving.

Why Don't I Ever Take My 20lbs Kid?

2011-08-24T10:11:00.000-07:00

Today Little Buddy and I set out for a run, together. Well, "together" as in I hauled his 55 pound body around in my single jogger. Always, always, ALWAYS (there I go with those cyber shouts again) an excellent upper body workout.

I was doing a short workout before meeting friends for brunch. Cuz that's how I roll (don't be hatin'). We went to the fabulous Cottage Cafe and met up with Ben and my little girl.

I always order "Bird's in a Nest" with two eggs. I actually have to explain that I want less bread and more eggs. After a while of going back and forth the waitress said "so they're more like French Toast?" Yeah, no lady, but since she had just spewed her life story of anxiety attacks, I left it at that. I wasn't surprised they came out with butter and syrup on the side ...

We still enjoy it there because the kids can play in the gated area, and we don't have to stress about bothering people.

I haven't received my Pantagonia Silkweight shirt yet, but I do wear my Under Armour Heat Gear long sleeve while I'm out on my runs- and it does keep me cool. I added a bit of my own "flair" to it:

Yes, three badges today- the pink is jelly from my little lady. She feels the need to mark her territory on a regular basis

I still need to make up some miles tonight, but it's been a great start to the day so far.

Night With My Hubby

2011-08-23T19:10:00.000-07:00

Last night I went to Ledges Hotel with my husband for a night away from the kids. It is always super refreshing to have time alone with each other, and see the playful side we both fell in love with.

Ben took the kids to the babysitter, checked us in, and then went to work so I could stay home and relax and do whatever I wanted. I did my weight training and stair master, then I watch The Spirit of the Marathon. It's back on instant play on Netflix, which means I'll watch it 10,000 times while training for my next marathon. I also realized I really want to run a big marathon -I want to feel to rush of excitement from the crowd, not run alone the whole time.

I can spend hours looking through marathons, and thinking about it running one.

We met up and I ordered Chinese food, which was a last minute call on my end

It was pretty dark, but that helped me not try to discern if it were chicken or rat

Nom Nom Nom Nom

And the hotel ... gorgeous!

Our room:

it was a two story suite.

Deserts were "shooters" I had Tiramisu and Death by Chocolate

Guess where I spent the whole night? Yes, a hot bath that didn't have floating letters in it. Awwwwwwwww.

I promised Ben I wouldn't make this one too big. Thankfully both of my readers are friends.
And a big thank you to running for sporting this bath suit I bought 10 years ago.

Then we did what any two parents do when out on their own- watched T.V. until midnight and went to sleep.

Party. Animals, I tell ya.