Running Rampant

Running Wishlist

2011-11-16T07:39:00.000-08:00

With the holidays coming up, what better way to get all your running necessities than adding them to your holiday gift wishlist! Here are a few work out/running items that have been on my mind recently...

1. Hydration belts - You can buy these at any sports apparel store (rei.com, sportsauthority.com, etc.)

2. Lululemon Wunder Under Pant - I've heard incredible things about these, but mostly that they just don't wear out and never fall down! (Or, and I'm being quite honest here, ANYTHING from lululemon!)

3. Breathable running tops - Again, you can find these at any sports apparel store, these just happen to be from Champion. There's not a whole lot worse than sweating in a regular cotton t-shirt that's sticking to your every move!!

I am LOV-ING the black Champion Double Dry® Training Women's Tank Top!

4. Yoga Mat Bag - There are a zillion at Everything Yoga in all styles and colors. You can find one of these at any Yoga store or even your neighborhood Whole Foods! This gorgeous bag is from athleta.com.

Happy shopping/running/yoga-ing (that doesn't sound right??) this holiday season! Hope you get everything your little pumped up heart desires!

Techno Running Mix

2011-11-15T07:18:00.000-08:00

I'm in a very technoy mood this morning so I thought I'd share a couple of fun running songs that I like listening to. Enjoy.

1. Christophe Willem - Heartbox
2. Rihanna ft. Calvin Harris - We Found Love
3. September - Cry For You
4. Cascada - Everytime We Touch
5. Cascada - What Hurts the Most
6. Kaskade ft. Martina of Dragonette - Fire In Your New Shoes

If you have any you listen to or that I can add to mine, let me know!

Gobblepalooza 5k

2011-11-12T09:46:00.000-08:00

Guesssss what! I PR'd! Holla!

High-Five!!

I made it in 28 minutes on the dot and I couldn't be more thrilled (aside from my throbbing calves right now). The morning was pretty miserably cold, but with the jazzercise going on in the HS parking lot, the kids dressed as turkeys, and the general thanksgiving merriment Marisa and I were pretty pumped to get on our way.

The course was SUPER hilly. I had read that on the website this morning, but I don't think I was fully prepared for the types of hills. We ran from Mount Vernon HS, through a few quaint neighborhoods, and back around to the school and the hills JUST. KEPT. COMING! And to make matters worse, at one point a man with a stroller passed us...and then a child, no older than 10, passed us with her dad. I mean really, kid? I think we were both pretty psyched when it was over and we could get out of the cold!

The shirts we got were pretty silly - that turkey looks like he's on some silly hard drugs.

Gobble Gobble!!

Aside from the cold I'm pretty psyched about the 15k. Thank goodness for doing so well today.

21 days left...

2011-11-11T19:01:00.000-08:00

I finally hung up my bibs and medal!

I don't have much to say other than I ran 11 miles so far this week and I have another 3.2 tomorrow for the Gobblepalooza 5k. Only 21 to get to 9.3, sigh, I feel like this might be another race where I just DON'T. FEEL. PREPARED. I know I will get there and it's not a matter of if I will finish or not. I'll finish (I hope I finish in a time that doesn't totally embarrass me). I just want to feel oh-so-good about it.

Hopefully if I PR tomorrow it will instill a bit more confidence in me for the 15k. PR would be under 29. I secretly hope for between 27 and 28 minutes.

This is exactly what Marisa and I will be doing if I PR...air high fives....and singing Calculus.

23 days left...

2011-11-09T18:25:00.000-08:00

Today was tough.

Let me rephrase.

Today was torture. And everything about it sucked aside from running on the treadmill next to mister cutie cute.

Hey there sailor!

That's about all I got. It was hard. I busted out 3 miles. Then I went home and ate my weight in sushi. I think this is the last time I can run before the 5k this weekend. NBDeeeeaaallll. But I still haven't run over 6 miles and I have only 23 days to get to over 9. Wah.

25 days left...

2011-11-07T18:29:00.000-08:00

You know what's funny? The most trivial thing about running seems to be the hardest thing for me to accomplish...properly fueling before a long run. It's not rocket science. You fuel the body, the body gets stronger and can perform better.

Last week I decided to keep a box of granola bars in the glove box of my car so I'd have a snack on the way to the gym/trail/etc. after work.

That picture looks way more delicious than what I actually got, but you get the jist.

....It was probably the most genius idea I've ever come up with.

Even something small makes it SO. MUCH. EASIER. to power through a workout. Tonight I had a few slices of grapefruit around 5pm and then a granola bar on the way to the gym around 6pm and I made it through my 6 miles like it was no big thang.

It's simple..hydrate + fuel = FUN RUN and HAPPY/HEALTHY ALLISON!

27 days left...

2011-11-05T12:55:00.000-07:00

In case you you were wondering about my date last night, it went really well!

Also, in case you were wondering if you should run outside today because it's absolutely beautiful...well, you probably should!

Insert Joey & I after a nice 5 miles around Gravelly Point Park. SUCH. A. NICE. DAY. OUT! You are wasting it if you're inside.

Also, check out those new puppies on my feet. Yeah, they feel pretty darn good.

AND - Marisa and I signed up for a Turkey Trot for next weekend. Whoop!

28 days... (ah, crap, that's not a lot of time...)

2011-11-04T06:34:00.000-07:00

This work week in running and cross training hasn't been so bad. I got in 6 mi Tuesday, a tough 50 min spin class on Wednesday, and 3 miles last night. I won't be able to get to the gym tonight because my date that was supposed to happen earlier in the week was rescheduled for tonight...

Yep, this one.

I'm hoping to get in a good long run outside with my good friend, Joey, this weekend. I'm glad to be giving my calves a rest tonight because they were super sore and tight on the TM last night. I'm not really positive how to stretch those out. I've been living in my compression socks as of late, but it doesn't seem to be doing a whole lot. Any suggestions?

On a different note - look what I found yesterday...look at the difference between Dec 2009 and now...

Marisa and I stretching it out before out very first 5k together!
VERY SERIOUS RUNNERS!

Right before the 5k...and YES, we were freezing out nuggets off!

And right after...this was probably around the time I thought I was going to be sick....
But we are SO SERIOUS anyway!

Numerous 5ks, one 10k, and one Half Marathon later we are prepping for distance runs like 5ks are nothing.

Marisa, Joey, and I at the VA Beach Rock N' Roll Half Marathon!

My how far we've come...

This is what temptation looks like...

2011-11-02T08:14:00.000-07:00

And this is me worried I'm going to hoard both those trays and hide them in my office to eat so no one else can have them...

Only me!!

30 days...

2011-11-02T06:15:00.000-07:00

Finally got in a 6 miler last night at the gym. FINALLY. It was tough though and I stopped a few times because my foot kept falling asleep, but it happened. And in under 60 minutes no less! Yay!

I'm curious though, my right foot kept falling asleep last year too whenever I would run on the TM in the winter, but I pretty sure it stopped after a while. I'm not sure if it's the way I step or I'm still getting used to the new shoes, or what, but it makes it awfully hard to keep going.

I figured if I can get in a short run tonight and maybe another 6 tomorrow, I can shoot for 8 this weekend and I will feel pretty golden. I should probably come up with some sort of training schedule....

Anyway - have a good laugh and happy Wednesday!

Source

32 days...

2011-10-31T17:58:00.000-07:00

Remember that time I said I was going to work out every day until the 15k on Dec 3rd?

Yeah, I'm not doing the best job of keeping up with that. With this past Halloween weekend I sort of...skipped out on a few workouts.

Check out me with these two beautiful ladies!

Ok, I got to the gym Thursday, Friday, and Saturday...but skipped Sunday and today. And tomorrow I may or may not have a date so I won't be able to get to the gym after work. I'm also pretty terrible at waking up in the morning before work to run, but that's the plan, so we will see how it goes!

Anyway, I expect my date to turn out like this...

I may be watching Twilight right now...

....only no vampires, no proposals, and no half vampire babies. Secretly, I just hope Edward Cullen shows up. I'll be terribly disapointed if he doesn't.

Anyway, enough of my fantasy and back to my running. The alarm is set for 6am. I really hope I don't roll over and turn it off like every other morning. I really got to get my motivation back!!

Boo! Run For Life 10k Race Photos

2011-10-28T06:11:00.001-07:00

36 days to go

2011-10-27T14:49:00.000-07:00

Inspired by Ericka over at The Sweet Life...

Recently, on my runner friends blogs, I've been seeing a ton of inspirational quotes, pictures, and even videos over at Carly Bananas. It's made me think a lot about how I got into running and how far I've come. I can remember how I used to think 3 miles was a long shot, how I almost got sick after my first 5k, and how it took next to nothing to convince Marisa to be my race partner. I've come quite a long way in the past year and a half. Namely, having run my first half marathon. I am so proud of myself and my accomplishments and as the above picture says I'm not stopping. At least not any time soon.

Sometimes it's hard, I mean really hard to stay motivated and sometimes it's not, but the results are all the same. Healthy body, healthy heart, healthy mind. I run because of the swag, the friends, the mental clarity, and effects on my body. Amongst 100 other reasons. I'm not the best athlete around. Not by a long shot, but I'm the best I can be and I'm only going to keep getting better.

Stronger.

I even think my parents are proud of me!

36 days until the the 15k and I'm going to bust my ass to get there. Can't wait to blow it out of the water and get my hands on on a wind breaker and a large mug of hot cocoa!

40 days

2011-10-23T15:11:00.000-07:00

Guess who got new shoes today!! This happy girl. Can't wait to try them out tomorrow!

43 days....and life decisions...

2011-10-20T17:28:00.000-07:00

There are only 43 days to get to 9.32 miles and I had to stop after 2 miles on the TM tonight. *Sigh* At least I got that in and capped off my workout with 20 minutes on the elliptical.

I think I'm going to try out the Hal Higdon 15k Trainging Schedule for the intermediate. I used his trainging schedule for the novice for the half marathon and it worked out pretty well.

And on a different note...

Things I've decided recently:

Stay Positive - Sometimes it's hard, but there's no point dwelling on negative emotions and I do not do not do not want to be a negative person. Some things and some people you can't change, you just have to accept it and move on.
Work out every day until the 15k - I WILL do this, even if it's just 15 minutes on the elliptical or going on a walk. Getting those endorphins flowing will help with the positive attitude as well.
Work harder on finding a better job - I've been a total slack ass about this and the only person who can change/improve my future is myself. I have to keep reminding myself of this.

Positive affirmations are so cliche, but sometimes they are needed when you're feeling crummy.

Boo! Run For Life 10k

2011-10-17T09:18:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I ran the Boo! Run For Life 10k and didn't do too shabby for only having run a handfull of times since the half marathon (and not once being over 4 miles!).

Boo! Run for Life 10K

Washington, DC October 16, 2011
ChronoTrack Timing and Scoring
by Capital Running Company

Official Women's Results

Place Div/Tot Num Name Lname Age Hometown Gun T Net T Pace
177 64/113 271 Allison Alter 26 ARLINGTON VA 60:56 60:43 9:47

I REALLY didn't want to do this race to be quite honest, it was only $25, and I just didn't feel prepared. I had a hard time motivating myself to do any running, which is why I only ran a handfull of times. But all in all I'm very glad that I did, if for no other reason then I felt better about day drinking and eating greasy/cheesey nachos later in the afternoon.

The day was beautiful and the weather/temperature was perfect for a nice flat 6 miles around the tidal basin. There were nearly 1,000 people running the race, some in silly costumes like Harry Potter, and we even ran into Colin Farrell (before he turned into a vampire bat and flew off...). Ok, not really, but this kid looked eerily like him from 10 years ago...

I have 46 days before the Hot Chocolate 15k. Here's hoping I get that motivation back and train for this thing. 9.32 miles sounds easy until you're out there and it's below freezing!

Pilates

2011-09-28T07:56:00.000-07:00

"Pilates is a body conditioning routine that helps to not only build flexibility, but also strength, endurance, and coordination in the legs, abdominals, arms and back."

I took my first Pilates class at the gym last night as a substitute for Yoga since Yoga wasn't offered at a time I could go and I'm going to have to say I'm hooked!

I was pretty skeptical about the whole ordeal because I've never taken a class before and I was curious to see how it differed from yoga. I set up my mat and stretched out a bit since I was still pretty sore from Sports Conditioning the night before. The teacher came in and was annoyingly positive, pretty, and skinny with abs of pure steel.

Ok, she wasn't annoying, she was actually really sweet and knowledgeable and I was kind of jealous of her!

Anyway - the class started with 20 minutes of straight core work. I was already hurting from yesterday so this was not an easy task, but I managed to power through. We then worked through some side, back, and stomach stretches, which I won't lie, I felt a little silly doing even though they all felt really good. Everything we did seemed to work my abs (core) which is a big part of Pilates so I'm going to hope/assume I was doing the positions correctly.

Even though the class was only 45 minutes long and we barely moved from the floor I felt like I got just as good of an ab workout as I would have going to the abs class. I even felt as stretched out and limber as I did after a good yoga class.

I really enjoyed myself and the class last night and wouldn't be surprised if I started going on a regular basis! Yay Pilates!

I think it's about time....

2011-09-27T06:08:00.000-07:00

I take my iron suppliments again.

That big sucker right below my knee cap is from falling during sprints at Sports Conditioning (AKA do sprints, sit-ups, and push-ups for an hour) at the gym last night, the other is fairly old and maybe from the Oktoberfest over the weekend? Might be just from being clumsy and walking into things in general.

PS - 18 days till the 10k and I don't feel prepared in the slightest.

Boo! Run For Life 10k

2011-09-13T09:26:00.000-07:00

So much for giving myself a month off training before the 15k in December! Yesterday afternoon I signed up for the Boo! Run For Life 10k that is Oct 16th.

This basically happened when I signed up for the race...pretend Jake is me and Heath is the act of signing up for races...

This race just so happens to be the weekend after my birthday weekend that I am spending in Nashville, TN with 2 of my very best girlfriends. Blugh. I can assure you that no running will actually get done that weekend and lots of drinking/country line dancing will. Somehow, between right now and a few weeks I have to get back to 6 mi.

I just ran 13.1, it can't be THAT hard, right?

Want to see something gross?

2011-09-12T06:02:00.000-07:00

Pretty nasty, right? Yeah, I can assure you it doesn't feel so good either. That super black one started to bruise immediately after the 1/2 marathon and was only made worse by people stepping on my feet at the bar last night.

I've never seen, let alone HAD, a bruised toe/toenail before. As intriguing as it is I'd kind of rather it go back to normal so I can paint my toenails again.

VA Beach Rock N' Roll Half Marathon

2011-09-05T18:29:00.000-07:00

The half marathon has come and gone in an insant and it's BIZZARE that it's over! I had such a fantastsic long weekend it's so weird that it's done and I don't feel like I have to spend 90 percent of my week training. I can go to happy hour tomorrow and not feel bad about it! Yay!

The weekend started off with Joey and Marisa meeting at my house at 9am to start the long 3.5 hour journey to VA Beach. We had quite the trip eating sour patch kids, drinking coffee, playing Would You Rather, and eating Subway on the curb of a rest stop.

Once we finally made it to VA Beach we had to stop off at the Convention Center Expo to pick up our race packets/swag bags and get sucked into signing up for more races and buying running clothes. We didn't end up staying long because we wanted to check into the hotel and hit the beach as soon as possible.

We stayed at The Sandcastle hotel, a lovely little hotel right on the beach with rooms that looked like the red light district.

Roxxxxannnneeeee, you don't have to put on the red liiiighttt!

It had a great view of the beach and the boardwalk, but we ended up spending the majority of the afternoon laying on the beach and meeting up with Marisa's friend Scott and his room mate, Bobby. We hung out with them for a while and then Joey, Marisa, and I went back to the room to shower and get ready for dinner with Scott, Bobby, John, and Lauren. After looking for somewhere to eat for over an hour that didn't have a 2 hour wait we ended up at a bar/restaraunt called Calypso that was basically begging us to get drunk. Of course with having to get up at 5am the next morning, no one was going to drink so it was extra torture to have all the tables around us being served drinks. Dinner ended up taking FOREVER and was a total disapointment, but the company was good...when we weren't ready to gauge eachothers eyes out because we were all so hungry. After dinner ended around 10pm, and we stopped for icecream on the way home at Ben & Jerrys, we bid eachother farewell until 6am the next morning.

The alarm blared at 5am, which I'm sure you know isn't anyones favorite time of day by ANY stretch of the imagination. The 3 of us preceded to mope around the room getting ready and caught the shuttle to the Convention Center.

Marisa, Joey, & I

We hung out around the starting line with thousands of other runners until we had to bid farewell and head to our seperate corrals. I headed over to corral 14, hoping to run into my room mate, Megan, and of course immediately as I saw her I FLUNG myself onto her in a huge anxious and nervous bear hug. We hung out in the corral and slowly crept our way to the starting line every 2 minutes as other waves begun their 13.1 mile journey. Ours didn't start until 7:30am. I shockingly didn't get nervous until about 5 minutes before we started. Our corral was having too much fun being called serious drinkers with a running problem! It made me laugh a lot because it's pretty spot on.

Then the whistle blew and we were on our way.

I was shocked how easy the first 3 miles felt on my body. I was way too high on adrenaline. Spectators were cheering left and right and runners were screaming and cheering for eachother. I think I had the biggest s*** eating grin on my face the whole time. We ran up and over a bridge around mile 2 or 3, then mile 4 passed, then 5 and 6. Once 6 hit I kept telling myself it was all a race to the finish line from here! By this point the people in corral 1 were already at mile 11 and I could see them running past us slow-pokes. It didn't phase me in the slightest. I felt great passing people who were walking and I wasn't yet. Mile 7 was up ahead and I could see it! LAND HO!! ...as Marisa and I would say.

I had already taken a Espresso Love Gu before the race and stopped a few times for water along the way and was feeling pretty good.

Around mile 8 my body started to really feel it. My legs were shaking and I was huffing and puffing, but I was still moving. That silly blue fish from Finding Nemo was in my head chanting just keep swimming, just keep swimming, swimming, swimming! Before I knew it I was coming up on mile 10 and REALLY hurting. My knee was REALLY unhappy with me and I had to stop and walk for a few seconds. I think it was around there I ran into Megan and what a sight for sore eyes! We ran/walked together for the next .5 miles before she took off ahead of me. I had about 2.5 miles to go before the finish line and I was determined to get there!

I'm not going to lie, I might have been shuffling a little bit. Ok, maybe a lotta bit! I was hurting. My knee was wobbly and painful and my legs felt like dead weights, but I was NOT going to let that stop me. Those last 2.5 miles were the toughest miles I've run in my whole running career. ESPECIALLY having to run up that bridge again. Did I say run? I may or may not have actually walked up the hill and then run the 2 miles back.

The last .5 miles was down the boardwalk and you could see the finish line the WHOLE TIME. It was somewhat torture, but I had to keep reminding myself that every step I took was a step towards the end.

And then it was over.

2 hours - 29 minutes - 44 seconds.

Four plus months spent training and it was done. I grabbed a water bottle and downed it in about 30 seconds. Then I grabbed a banana, a granola bar, and a Cytomax, and tried not to pass out. I grabbed my medal, choked back tears...and vomit, and lurched toward my posse waiting on the beach.

Everyone was hurting a bit, but proud of everyone else for finishing! I was the last one to finish and the only one not willing to walk back to the MGD tent to claim my free beer because I felt like I was going to lose my breakfast all over the beach. We sat on the beach gaining back some strength before heading back to our respective hotels for showers and naps and meeting at the bar.

Marisa, Scott, Bobby, Me, Joey

We relaxed the rest of the weekend away with some drinks, live music, good food, and lots of groaning from the mornings festivities - and after a lovely brunch this morning we all headed on our way home.

I'm SO proud to say I've finished and super proud of everyone who ran it (Marisa, Joey, Scott, Bobby, John & Lauren, Megan & Ari, and Sara). GREAT job everyone!

Now on to the next one...

3 days to go

2011-09-01T17:15:00.000-07:00

So, I just finished my last run before the race. Not going to lie, I wish it felt a lot better, but it could have felt a lot worse! I ran 3 today on the TM and 3.5 yesterday on the W&OD trail with Sara and Sunday I'm just going to wing it and hope for the best! I'm going to spend the rest of the night relaxing on the couch with an icepack strapped to my knee.

This has been a long time coming and I'm thrilled to get it over with (that sounds worse then I meant it...), rest up, and get on to the next race!

This will probably be the last post before the race, but I'm sure I will report afterwards on time and how it went! Again, wish me luckkkk!

4 days to go

2011-08-31T07:58:00.000-07:00

My thoughts on the race can best be described as this...

Marisa: 4 more days!!!!!
me: eeeeeeeek!!
Sent at 9:22 AM on Wednesday
Marisa: how are you feeling?
me: ha honestly, just that im going to wing it and hope to finish

I can't believe it's right around the corner. I've been training for this for about 4 months and it's here, it's really here. I already feel like I've accomplished so much. Even if I still haven't ever made it to 10 miles, I've made it to 9.5. NINE POINT FIVE. That's a huge accomplishment in and of itself and I'm proud of myself. I'm happy that I've found something that I enjoy doing and I'm happy that I met Sara & Megan and convinced them to share this experience with me and I'm happy that I'm doing this with Joey and Marisa, 2 very close friends. I can't wait to find Brett Michaels and try and steal his wig.

I mean....one day I'll have to explain my theory on Brett Michaels hair...

I'm just happy with my decision to do this and I'm sure I'll post again before the big day. A big thanks to everyone to who supported me in training and dealt with me not going out and being "lame". Keep on sending those positive vibes my way and I can't wait to have my post race MGD64.

I mean really...I'm like a kid who can't have a cookie and all they want is a cookie!! Gimme cookie!

6 days to go

2011-08-29T08:40:00.000-07:00

*Sigh*

I don't know what else to say except my knee doesn't seem to be getting any better and I'm going to have to take some serious time off between the Half Marathon and Hot Chocolate 15k. Yes, there's no chance I'm going to skip the half marathon. I've been training too hard, for too long. I will take it easy and run/walk the whole thing, but I will not skip it. I can't skip it.

I borrowed a knee brace from my dad on Sunday and it makes me look like the bionic woman. He got pretty serious knee surgery a while ago and wore it to play tennis aftewards. To be quite honest, I'm not sure if it helped or hurt more, but I think it'd be a good idea to run with it during the Half to help stabilize my knee.

Anyway - I think that's it for now. I attempted short 3 mile runs both Friday & Sunday, but they were both pretty pathetic.

I just want to get through Sunday without any serious injuries. I'd be pretty ok without having to get x-rays or worst case scenario, knee surgery. Although, I think once I come home from VA Beach it'd be a pretty solid idea to make an appointment with someone to get it looked at.

11 days to go

2011-08-24T07:06:00.000-07:00

From me to....well....me! And any other injured athletes out there!

Shhh...I think I'm dragging my restless butt to "Power" Yoga tonight. Don't worry I'll take it easy!

12 days to go

2011-08-23T14:15:00.000-07:00

My knee is still feeling pretty sore when I walk...or just in general. I've been icing it a bunch and taking excedrin and trying to stay off it, but I'm just feeling SO RESTLESS! All I wanted to do last night was go for a run in the beautiful weather, but noooo, my STUPID knee has to rest.

Can you tell I'm getting bitter about it?

I know, I know, I know. Rest it. Ice it. Take the advil, excedrin, whatever.

*sigh*

I'm giving myself until Friday to rest. One can only hope I can get a good run out of it. One can only hope.

13 days to go

2011-08-22T06:00:00.000-07:00

Two different things - first and foremost, Marisa and I both signed up for this last week!!

We're doing the 15k on December 3rd and we're getting sweet wind breakers & lots of hot chocolate - yay!!

Now on to the not so happy part of the post...

My knee is still bothering me. A lot. instead of running on Saturday I took an hour and 1/2 Ashtanga Yoga class at the gym and picked up a Pro-Tec Patella Tendon Strap from P.R.R. On sunday I tried out the strap for what I was hoping to be another 6-9 miles. It felt good on my knee, but I still only made it 2.5 miles before giving up because of the pain.

Well, fuck. Excuse my language, but seriously, just....FUCK.

The race is 2 weeks away. The longest I've made is 9.5 miles...ONCE. And now my knee has picked the perfect time to start giving up. I've spent the last 3-4 months training for this and I feel defeated before the race has even begun.

I'm taking the week off running and will hopefully get something in on Friday, but we will see. We will see.

16 days to go

2011-08-19T06:21:00.000-07:00

Ok, Allison, just breath, you're not injured, you're still going to be able to run the half marathon, evertyhing will be fine.

Want to know what my definition of my worst nightmare is right now? Besides a brain eat amoeba? Getting injured 2 weeks before the half and not being able to run. My friend and old co-worker, Louis, was training for his first half marathon last year and injured his knee a few weeks before the race and was unable to run and ended up in pysical therapy. Can you even imagine? Putting in all that time and effort? I would be devestated.

I woke up this morning to a shooting pain in my right knee. Oh. My. God. I mean, it was sore after my run last night, but I didn't really think anything of it and now I'm freaking out a little bit because it hurts every time I bend it.

I was going to try and work out tonight, but I think it best if I stay off it. Might even stay off it until Sunday and see how it feels. I really REALLY wanted to get another 10 miler in on Sunday, but I'm not going to stress it.

I'm bugging out.

17 days to go

2011-08-18T08:14:00.000-07:00

Look what I got in my inbox last night!! (Sorry, terrible picture, but my iphone and the light in my office is sub-par...). It's my half marathon confirmation sheet & last minute details and parking info. This thing I signed up for is really happening!

I'm in corral #17 and my race # is 17287, which is nowhere close to any of my other friends because I lack confidence and entered that it would take me 2 hours and 45 minutes to finish the race.

I'll honestly be thrilled to finish in under 2 hours and 30 minutes. Also, it looks like there's going to be a finish line festival from 8am-1pm, with a complimentary MGD64, as well as the post race concert later that night!

I'm excited and terrified all at the same time. I want to finish. I want my medal, swag bag, and MGD64. I'm so excited. I'm excited to carbo load the night before and dance in the sand the night of!

Wish me luck everyone!

20 days to go

2011-08-15T12:48:00.000-07:00

Disclaimer - This post is kinda gross, might not want to read on...

So - I kept up my end of the bargain. I got in 6 miles on the TM on Saturday and 9.5 miles on the track by Marisa's house on Sunday.

{Note to self: DON'T GO OUT DRINKING HEAVILY THE NIGHT BEFORE YOU HAVE A LONG RUN! Although...it was kinda worth it seeing as I had a great Saturday night ;)}

Sunday was hard and to be quite honest, it stopped being fun after about mile 7.5. I actually felt really good when we stopped at mile 5 to refill water and use the restroom, I even felt ok from mile 6-7, but then my legs started locking up and feeling like jelly. I started getting super naucious and sore and had to force myself to finish. I'm somewhat depressed that I only had 2 more laps on the track to finish to make 10 miles...I would have finished those 2 laps if I didn't feel like I was going to throw up and collapse and die.

Not an over dramatization.

After Marisa finished the 10 miles we went over to Smoothie King for some protein and carbs in delicious fruity smoothie form. In case you were wondering, pineapple and passion fruit doesn't taste that great coming back up. I'd really like to go back to Smoothie King when I'm not feeling so crappy. Anyone?

Anyway, long story short, I spent the rest of the night not being able to keep anything in my stomach, including water. It was fairly miserable and I woke up this morning a dehydrated mess. It's currently 3:48pm and I'm finally starting to feel like a human being again.

Point is when you're attempting to run your first 10 miles....don't go out drinking firefly/water until 2am the night before and don't have the last time you eat be 2:30pm when you aren't even running until 6:30pm.

Words of wisdom from me to you.

23 days to goooo

2011-08-12T09:17:00.000-07:00

This week has been pretty awesome when it comes to working out! I feel pretty proud of myself!

Monday - Hour long Vinyasa Flow yoga class
Tuesday - 5.something miles with Sara on W&OD trail
Wednesday - 50 minute Spin class
Thursday 7.25 miles with Marisa at Gravelly Point Park

Which is why I feel justified to eat this sucker at work today...

It's huge and delicious and filled with white chocolate and macadamia and shhhh I may have had an oatmeal raisin cookie the same size at work yesterday....

Tonight is my rest day in the week...thank goodness cause I could use a rest day! Saturday I plan on running 7-8 and Sunday I have to make 10. HAVE TO. Rain or shine.

On a totally different topic - anyone tend to have digestive issues after a long run? Without getting into wayyy too much information, I find that I get severe stomach cramps after any 7+ mile run and they usually last until the next day. I've heard it could be the GU. I've also heard it can just come on naturally. But point being, it sucks, and it's uncomfortable, and I wish it would go away!

#sadface.

25 days to go

2011-08-10T06:24:00.000-07:00

Last night Sara and I ran/walked a pretty pathetic 5 miles down the W&OD trail. I don't know what it is about that trail that we always run, but I never seem to be very good at it. I don't want to complain much about it so I'm going to leave you with this...

13.1 Reasons to Run a Half Marathon

With reasons like bling, parties, new shoes, and updating your wardrobe what's not to love??

27 days to go

2011-08-08T05:58:00.000-07:00

This weekends runs didn't exactly go as planned.

After my 7 mile run with Marisa Thursday night I was laying on my bed and must have turned over funny and pinched something in my back and immediately pain shot right up my back! It was awful! I decided to ignore it and try to run Friday after work because I wasn't going out on the town. I made it 2.5 miles before throwing the towel in because it hurt so badly!

I'm just falling apart here! First I get all bruised up from Jennys BBQ and playing Stop, then I fall over my own feet and scrape up my body, then I pinch something in my back doing absolutely NOTHING. Ugh!

After my disapointing run Friday I decided to take Saturday off from working out and pop a ton of excedrin, which proved to be a great idea, because come sunday I ran a nice easy 6 miles on the TM - when I didn't evne want to run at all! - and felt great.

We have 27 days until the 1/2 marathon. That's not a very long time, but I think it's doable. Tough....but doable! I'm very excited for that weekend! A weekend of carbo loading, sun, sand, running, friends, laughing about rediculous things with Marisa including "Wilson", and most imporantly Brett Michaels HOPEFULLY singing Every Rose Has It's Thorn.

Marisa and I concluded that if I run a 10 minute mile the entire time I should finish in 2 hours 10 minutes, which would be AWESOME! I honestly just want to finish at all. Maybe I'll concenrate on time another race.

Everyyyy roseeee has it's thornnnnn. Just like every night has it's dawnnnn. Just like every cowboy sings his sad sad song. Evvvverrrryyyy roseeee has it's thornnnnnn!

30 days to go

2011-08-05T06:38:00.000-07:00

I don't like to complain about running. In fact, I love almost everything about it. I love the effect is has on my body both mentally and physically. I feel toned and happy to have a hobby with friends and I've gotten many a compliment about how I'm looking these days, but this post isn't about that.

Training is hard. It's really hard and it's exhausting. It's hard to say "no, I think I'm going to stay in Friday night because I need to run Saturday morning" and have your friends be disapointed. It's hard to sit through a 9 hour work day, spend 10 minutes at home getting a snack, and then spend the next 2 hours getting a run in. It's hard coming home at 9pm after a long run and barely having enough energy to make something for dinner. It's hard, I'm drained, and I ache in places I didn't know my body could ache.

Don't get me wrong. I love that I've made new friends and formed stronger bonds with some of the friends I already have. I also like spending the time outside and having that feeling of accomplishment every time I tack an extra mile on. I'm just tired and my body is sore from being pushed to a place I haven't pushed it before.

*deep breath*

Anyway, enough rambling. I ran 5 on Tuesday and 7 last night. My goal is to run an easy 3-4 miles either tonight or tomorrow, and to hit 9 or 10 on Sunday. Wish me [and my achey parts....] luck!

34 days to go

2011-08-01T06:29:00.000-07:00

So this weeks work outs were pretty awesome.... I ran 5.3 miles on Tuesday, took a power vinyasa flow yoga class on Wednesday, ran 6 miles Thursday, took Friday off to rest, ran 4.5 miles Saturday and 8 miles Sunday!

However, I did that on Saturday! I was supposed to run at least 6 miles with Marisa around the track by her house and by the time we hit 4 miles and 10am the sun was beating down on us so I asked if we could find a shady trail around the neighborhood to finish up. We ran over to the trail and a rabid poodle with beedy little eyes and fangs BRUTALLY attacked me!! Ok, maybe that didn't happen, maybe I just tripped over my own feet and my ego is more bruised than my knees, but it's that poodle was intense!! Ok, the poodle wasn't very intense, apparently I just can't walk on gravel.

Anyway - on Sunday I made my first 8 miles! I was very proud of myself even if it was on the treadmill at Golds and GU helped! It's only going to get better from here!!

39 days to go (still...)

2011-07-27T07:56:00.000-07:00

I am a happy girl!

Last night I remembered my parents have camelbacks from when we went to the Grand Canyan AGES ago! They are old and the tubing is moldy, but I apparently I can go to any REI store and simply replace the tubing! Hopefully that'll be way cheaper than buying a waistpack and more comfortable to run in.

Pics to come when I make the mighty transition Saturday!!

39 days to go (uhh we have 6 weeks...)

2011-07-26T17:56:00.000-07:00

89 degrees.

Feels like 90 degrees.

Nice breeze, but still sunny and hot!

Got in a very slow 5.3 miles starting at Gravelly Point Park. It was nice to get outside and I was feeling good even though I had to stop a few times. I was happy to get out there, especially because it's only 90 degrees and not 100! It took me about an hour or a little over an hour, but I blame that on walking a bit.

On a different topic - I think it's worth noting that playing Stop while trainging for the Half Marathon is not a good idea because things like this happen that can very easily hinder any sort of training...

You can't see how bad it actually looks, but my ankle is all types of bruised and swollen.

44 days to go (running playlist!)

2011-07-22T06:04:00.000-07:00

I think the heat really took it out of me this week.

After my disapointing run on tuesday I decided to use my cross day to take a kickboxing class at the gym that TOTALLY kicked my ass. It was a really fun class and I felt great doing it, but couldn't move my arms/shoulders the next day. And today for that matter. So I skipped my run last night and I'll take my rest day tonight and then run again Saturday and Sunday. Hope to make 6-7 on both days!!

Anyway - I FINALLY made a running playlist and thought I'd share some of the songs I listen to while running. Maybe you will find something you like listening to also!

It's random and extensive, but I'll spare you and only liste a few...

Spoon - You Got Yr. Cherry Bomb
The Dirty Heads - Check the Level
Rihanna - Breakin' Dishes
Christina Aguilera - Candyman
Hot Chelle Rae - I like to Dance
Robyn - Dancing on my own
Cascada - Everytime We Touch
Jason Derulo - Ridin' Solo
Pitbull - Krazy
Buckcherry - Crazy Bitch
Ashlee Simpson - L.O.V.E

46 days to go

2011-07-19T18:27:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I went to a fantastic yoga class at the gym. It was an hour long vinyasa flow class that totally stretched me out and made me feel awesome and relaxed.

It's amazing how much your mood can change in a day.

See that diet coke over there? That's dinner for tonight because my stomach is not very happy with me. I was supposed to have a 4.5 mile run tonight, which I DID, but not very well....

That with a combination of heat and disapointment is giving me a killer headache and stomach ache.

I ran with Sara tonight and had to stop 3 times during the run. Granted, it was super hot out, probably about 100+ degrees, but I still didn't feel very good about my performance.

I was struggling a lot and I was really disapointed in myself considering how amped I was to get outside and run. My legs felt like lead and jelly at the same time.

Sara ran great though and kept up a super good pace. She kept back tracking to check up on me and then would continue on my way and I know she was trying to be nice, but it really just made me feel awful and a few times I was pretty close to tears.

I finished the 4.5 miles in just about 50 minutes, but I didn't feel particularly good about it. I'm also really super sore and not really looking forward to working out tomorrow. It's a cross day or short run. I think I might try and take the 6am body pump class. We'll see if I actually wake up this time.

Anyway, I hope Thursdays run is better than this one. The weather is only supposed to get hotter so that sucks considering I want to stop running in the gym! It's another 4.5 mile day. Ugh. I kind of can't wait until the rest day Friday...

48 days

2011-07-18T06:35:00.001-07:00

I haven't run since Wednesday of last week and I kind of feel like a cow. Philly was a lot of fun and we did a lot of walking around, but I also did a lot of eating crap so I think this week I need to step up my game.

Until next time!

52 days

2011-07-14T06:44:00.000-07:00

So I had my 'cross' day last night...it was supposed to be '2 m run or cross' so I chose a 1 mile run AND cross. I did the elliptical for 30 min (2.53 miles) and didn't really feel the burn. Recently I've come to realize that I don't really like working out when it doesn't make me sweat because I don't feel like I'm getting a work out! So after that I did a short 1 mile run on the treadmill and headed home.

I didn't feel all that great about this workout to be honest. I didn't push myself because I wanted to get up this morning and run, which of course didn't happen because I am severly opposed to waking up at 5:30 so of course I got up and reset my alarm.

Unfortunately, I can't run after work today (which was my origional plan!) because my best friend wants to get on the road relatively early for our Philadelphia vacay. Ugh.

Looks like this week I'll only get a few work-outs in which is INCREDIBLY disapointing because I feel like I've been trying really hard to train for this half marathon. I really hope we come home at a decent hour on Sunday so I can get in a workout then.

54 days still

2011-07-12T17:27:00.000-07:00

I wish I got a better picture of my beautiful veggie burger that I made myself tonight for dinner, but this is the best I could come up with using my iphone!

After a scorcher of a 4 mi run in the gym tonight I decided to make myself a veggie burger with lots of veggies (spinach, onions, and sprouts), some cheese, and mustard. I had some blue corn tortilla chips with it and a huge glass of water. All in all, I would say it was a very successful run and dinner!

54 days left (that's less than 2 months....)

2011-07-12T06:34:00.000-07:00

I just decided I'm going to start posting my daily diet on this sucker as well in hopes that it will possibly get better or I will get some tips on what to eat to get my body going while running. With that being said this mornings breakfast consisted of a banana (eaten in the car on the way to work!), coffee, and a chobani pineapple yogurt. Yum!

Yesterday marked week 6 of the HH training schedule and last night was supposed to be a Stretch & Strengthen day. I kind of took that day as a "I'm going to make delicious vegetable soft taco's with low fat sour cream, whole wheat tortillas, steamed veggies, avocado, and cheddar cheese and watch the Bachelorette and THINK about maybe stretching". So, that is what I did.

Tonight I have a 4 mile run which will most likely happen in the gym because of the heat advisory around DC. I don't know if I'm happy about these short runs on the training schedule or if I'm worried I'm not going to be prepared for the Half. I think a little of both. Either way I'm getting more nervous about the half as the day gets closer!

OH! Also, I forgot to report back on my Clif Builders bar! It was pretty delicious. It was just sweet and heavy enough to carry me through my workout without being tired or too full. Although, I will say I have to eat further in advance than I did because I ran with a stomach cramp. Ick! But! I liked it so much that I bought 2 more!

There are only 8 grams of fat in each and 20 grams of protein, which is perfect for this pescatarian because I have a problem getting protein into my diet. I suggest picking one up because for a suppliment bar, they are pretty yummy!

55 days left

2011-07-11T06:11:00.000-07:00

I'm terrible at blogging, things, like life, always get in the way and I never seem to find enough time to sit down and blog.

My first week doing HH's training schedule went swimingly. I did 4 mi Friday, 40 min cardio Saturday, and 6 miles sunday. Sunday was total TORTURE because I got up at 7:30am and got over to the gym only to find out the gym didn't open until 8am so I had to wait outside in the heat for 15 minutes when I DIDN'T WANT TO BE THERE IN THE FIRST PLACE. In the end I somehow pushed out 6 miles, even if I had to stop once or twice. I also rewarded myself by going to the Capitol Skyline pool party in DC and ran into this D-list actress...

Tara Reid

This week in training might proove to be a little difficult. I can bang out my runs during the week, but I'm going to be in Philly this weekend on vacation and will not have time to run. At least both Friday & Saturday call for rest, but I'm kinda bummed to be missing out Sunday.

Tonight I'm supposed to do stretch and strengthen, but I don't really want to do anything. Maybe I will see if there are any classes I can take at the gym later in the night because I'm supposed to pick up the dog so I won't even get home till after 7pm. Wish me luck!

58 days

2011-07-08T10:35:00.000-07:00

So - I'm a bad little runner. I definately turned in my running sneakers last night for a pair of flipflops, a few too many mojitos & fish tacos. FOR SHAME, ALLISON! I expected 2 of my good friends to be announcing they were getting engaged so I skipped the run to make sure I was there for....well...an announcement that wasn't ever made! I felt stupid, but it was still nice to be able to get 10+ friends all together all the same time!

I'm going to make up my 4m run tonight, do some crosstraining tomorrow, and finish off the week with a 6 miler on sunday before hitting up the Capitol Skyline pool party.

Oh! I'm also going to try out the Clif Builders bar tonight. I hope it doesn't taste like sand.

60 days to go (day 2 of hh schedule)

2011-07-06T17:05:00.000-07:00

Today marks day 2 of the Hal Higdon half marathon schedule and so far so good! Last night I ran 4 miles in the gym in 37 min and tonight I biked 6 miles in the gym in 30 minutes. Not bad at all! After the gym today I was pretty ravenous so I stopped at Whole Foods on the way home to pick up dinner and some snacks.

I bought a these bad boys on the right because I was inspired by the blog Eat, Live, Run, and mainly because I've realized as I start to push for longer distances I will need something to keep me going. I haven't really tried any of these for that purpose yet, but I'll report later on if they actually do anything!

I think the Clif Builder's bar is the only one that will proove any results and quite honestly....I only bought the Lemon Zest Luna because they are delicious. Shame!

Anyway, tomorrow I have a gym date with Marisa at 6am in hopes I'll be able to run my 4 miles and stretch a bit and then meet people for happy hour after work.

We will see how it goes! Until next time!

61 dyas to go

2011-07-05T05:35:00.000-07:00

Not a long post this morning, but wanted to say the Half Marathon schedule starts today...and with all the drinking and eating I did this past 4th of July weekend it couldn't have come at a better time!

Wish me luck on my 4 miles today!

66 days to go still (in other news...)

2011-06-30T17:24:00.000-07:00

Did 15 min on the eliptical and took a zumba class tonight instead of Body Pump because my best friend wants me to take Body Pump tomorrow with her...ended up pulling a hammy shaking it too hard and now I'm walking like an 80 year old woman.

As a good friend of mine said...

#whitegirlproblems

66 days to go

2011-06-30T11:15:00.000-07:00

I've been having a pretty hard time running recently. I don't know whether to blame the heat, hitting a wall, over training, or my own lack of motivation...but it hasn't been going well. I haven't hit a solid 6 outside in a couple of weeks, let alone get above 6.

With that being said - I've decided to take the week off from running in hopes that once I do pick it up again it will come back like nothing changed. Both Sunday & Wednesday I've taken spin classes at the gym and I hope tonight I take some sort of strength training class, maybe weights. Ugh, I hate weights.

Once this week is over I'm throwing myself full speed into a the Hal Higdon Half Marathon Training Schedule for the Novice, I have to start at week 5, but I consider the past couple weeks good enough training to make up the 4 weeks prior.

73 days to go

2011-06-22T19:01:00.000-07:00

Well, yesterday and today didn't go as planned.

Yesterday Sara and I were supposed to do 4 miles, but instead I made us dinner and we gossiped about the 4th of July beer pong olympics over crab cakes.

Tonight we decided to run inside at the gym because it was 90 degrees outside and about 100 percent humidity. We were going to do 4 mi, which quickly turned into doing 7 while talking on the way over in the car, which actually turned into doing 2.5 miles before I ran to the bathroom and barfed. Yep, you heard me. Barfed. It wasn't pleasant. It was SO hot and SO humid everywhere and my body just wasn't having it and my abs hurt from Monday and just...ugh.

Sara is always so positive when we have days like these and I'm like Megan, we both get so hard on ourselves. I know there's no point in beating myself down, but I knew I could have done better and I knew I could have kept going....after I was done throwing up stomach bile.

Anyway, that's all. We all have 2 months to go. Crazy, right?? I think I'll run again Saturday before Beckys wedding. Hopefully that's at least 6!

75 days to go (still can't get above 6, but we booked the hotel today - yay!!)

2011-06-21T11:43:00.000-07:00

Just a quick couple of bullet points...

Made my 6 miles on Sunday! Yay!
Had a minor panic attack when Marisa and I found out most of the hotels were booked, but we found one for a decent price, a mile away from the starting line, and we'll be in VA beach all of labor day weekend! Yippee!!
Sara and I have a short 4 mile run tonight in the heat and humidity - we will see how I do.

79 days to go (this should worry me more than it does...)

2011-06-17T10:03:00.000-07:00

Sara and I hit the trail yesterday for a very hilly 4.1 miles through the woods of the W&OD. It was right after it rained so it was cool, but kinda muggy and humid, and there were a couple times either one of us could have very easily fallen down a wet/slippery hill and ruined our running careers for the next few months. Thank goodness that didn't happen and we finished the run in 40 or so minutes barrelling down the trecherous, sidewalk-less, busy road known as South Four Mile Run.

Because we tend to leave for our runs around 6:30pm (more like 7pm) we always get to see beautiful sunsets on the tail end or on the ride home. Last night was no different. Sooo pretty!!

After our run we walked the 15 minutes to Lost Dog Cafe where we split a pizza, Sara chugged a chocolate milkshake, and I threw back a beer. I will definately need to go back and drag Jenny because their beer selection is next to none!

Today I definately need to take a break from running or working out because my legs need a break. I was SO sore when I woke up this morning! I did Step Aerobics Sunday, ran 5.5 mi Monday, rested Tuesday, took a cracked out Zumba class Wednesday, and ran 4 mi Thursday.

I think I will take a break until Sunday and maybe then I'll round off the week with a 6 miler. Fingers crossed!

As for the rest of today I'll be hanging out with the furry beast that inhabits my house. I got my exercise for the day running around the park with him for the last hour. I've filled my quota if you ask me!

82 days to go

2011-06-14T06:12:00.000-07:00

With last nights run I can definately say that the heat was the cause of my problems running the past couple times. The hot, humid, walls closing in and you can't breathe type of feeling has been less then pleasing and more than mildly discouraging! But yesterday the weather was beautiful and Sara and I got in a nice 5 miler down on the W&OD trail in about 50 min.

I can't say that I am totally back in action because yesterday I was struggling a little bit, but at least I finished the whole thing without needing a break...albeit I was pretty slow the whole time though. The point is just that I did it.

With that being said, a few weeks ago all us VA Beach 1/2 marathoners got June newsletter with a picture of the medal we will recieve once we cross that finish line.

'Aint she a beauty?? I'm excited to be able to get one of those bad boys to show that I did it. And maybe a little excited to get the swag bag too!

Also - yesterday I got an email for the Anthem Great Pumpkin 5k in October....isn't is June? I mean let's be honest, I'll probably do it, but I won't be signing up for it 3 months in advance. Not to mention the "great" pumpkin from last year was a little bit disapointing!!

Ok, I'm off. Till next time - happy trails!

87 days to go (holy crap...)

2011-06-09T06:28:00.000-07:00

It's been a little bit since I've blogged last about my running. A few things have happened since then.

BOTH Sara and Joey signed up for the 1/2! Yay!
I stopped being able to run more than a mile without stopping and not being able to breathe.

That second one is devestating. My runs with Sara are going progressively downhill and it's depressing and embarrassing and I blame the heat and my asthma. There was one day last week I ran 6 at the gym and that was a little pick me up, but then a weekend in OC kind of killed it all and we ended up walking most of the time on our run Tuesday...thanks to me and my inability to run anymore.

I've really been told it's just the heat, but it's starting to get to my head and it's really starting to bother me that I'm not moving forward anymore. Maybe I need to run with an inhaler or a bottle of water or SOMETHING, but something needs to change and soon!

I'm not losing $100 because of some damn heat advisory. I am not.

103 days to go (still...)

2011-05-24T17:10:00.000-07:00

Note to future self: Don't try to run 6 mi with Sara after running 2 mi and doing spin for 45 min the day before. You can't. You're legs will feel like dead weights and you will feel like a total failure because you need to stop 100 times in 5 mi. It's sad.

Sincerely,
Self who tried to have a good run with Sara tonight and failed miserably.

PS - That thing on your wrist (otherwise known as the Garmin Forerunner)....learn how to use it before you take it to the trail. Knowing that you ran 43 minutes with 0 distance is clearly wrong. It's also clearly the size of your head and is not the most comfortable thing to run with. This will take some getting used to.

PPS - SARA IS SIGNING UP FOR THE HALF THIS WEEK!! SOOO pumped to have my running buddy with me for this!

103 days to go

2011-05-24T06:01:00.000-07:00

Last week was rough, I really hope this week is going to be better. This weeks schedule...

Monday - 2 mi run & 45 min spin class (check)
Tuesday - Run w/ Sara
Wednesday - 2 min run & 45 min spin class
Thursday - Run w/ Sara
Friday - Rest
Saturday - Maybe a short run before Matt & Seans wedding?
Sunday & Monday - Beach...will probably un-do all the training with drinking...

In a week or 2 I think I really need to pick up a training schedule and stick to it, all this back and forth bs isn't really working for me anymore.

109 days to go

2011-05-18T06:22:00.000-07:00

Last night I opted out of running (Re: Monday night) and chose Spin at the gym - in a pleasant turn of events I ran into Sara & Dion and ALL OF THEIR GYM BUDDIES doing weights. I did maybe a total of 4 reps of nothing (because I hate weights and as RJ said "You look totally miserable down here...") and then convinced Sara to participate in my lovely Spin class (Marisa has been away for ages and I was getting lonely!) with me. It was a good class, hard teacher who likes keeping us at an EIGHT, but a good class.

Anyway - that was just an update, the real reason to post was I found this great article about eating healthy and curbing cravings on active.com called Healthy Ways to Handle Food Cravings.

That picture to the left is me (not really me, but basically what I look like stuffing my face). Ever since I really started running I haven't been watching what I ate. Actually, I think it was because I stopped Weight Watchers before going to Thailand and Vietnam and once I got back I just stopped caring. After that once I started running and working out I told myself I could just eat whatever I want because I would work it off later....which is bullshit. I make a really concious effort to eat healthy around other people because I find it totally mortifying to eat junk because I don't want to be judged, but let's be frank, if I had that pile of Cinnabons in front of me and I was alone - they would all be gone in a matter of minutes. Gross.

My big problem is that I have a craving for bread 24/7. Crackers or fruit or whatever else doesn't cut the carb craving and I tend to nosh on a piece of bread while I'm making dinner or just sitting around or need a snack...or really, I don't need a reason, I just do it because it tastes good. I also like bagels...a little too much. If I had my way I would eat a bagel for every meal with differents spreads. I'd never get bored and I'd be the happiest person on the planet. Normal people cannot do this as evidenced by my being a 35 lb over weight kid (don't ask to see pictures, you won't get to see them!). Anyway, this article raises a good point...

"The question arises: What's so bad about cravings in the first place? Is there really something wrong with eating what you truly want to eat? Cravings are not addictions. That is, if you crave a bagel because it tastes good, why should you not enjoy the bagel? When you eat a food you crave, your brain experiences a biochemical change that signals happiness. Can eating an appropriate portion (as opposed to overeating "the whole thing") be a bad thing to do?"

The answer commonly depends on if you are eating the food for fuel vs. mindlessly devouring it for its drug-like effect. If you find yourself on the verge of polishing off the whole bag of bagels, stop and ask yourself, "Does my body need this fuel?" If the answer is yes, you need to learn how to prevent the extreme hunger or deprivation that triggered the overeating.

If the answer is no, then ask yourself, "What am I doing with my feelings?" Over-eating a craved food can distract you from sadness, smother your emotions, and protect your from feeling alone and lonely. But you are using food for the wrong reason. No amount of bagels, chocolate, or chips will resolve the real problem: you are likely hungry for a hug.

In my case the answer is usually always no, I don't need the whole bag of bagels, but that doesn't make them taste any worse! I need to learn to curb my cravings and not have carbs with EVERY meal. I need to work lean protien (I suppose only fish because that's all I eat) and veggies back into my diet. I assure you it's going to be a real pain in the ass, especially when I like beer and pizza so much, but it will make me feel better. It will make me stronger and more able to push to my goal.

Which, after last night, is a possible Triathalon with Sara after the Half Marathon - which, we will see...

Anyway, the article is a good read and you should look into it. Sorry for the super long post, I just really don't want to get to work this morning!

110 days to go (last post should have been 110 also...)

2011-05-16T18:03:00.000-07:00

Just got back from my 6mi run (at least I think it was 6mi...) with Sara and might I say I had a TOUGH day. I couldn't tell you why (ok maybe I can tell you why, maybe it was Sunday Funday, maybe it was the pizza, beer, and pasta...but just maybe...), but my body was feeling pretty terrible today. My calves were tight, and my chest was tight, and I could feel myself starting to wheeze like I needed my old inhaler that I haven't needed while working out in ages. It didn't feel good. In fact it felt pretty down right terrible! I'm going to somewhat blame it on the mugginess and humidity that says rain is on it's way.

At least Sara had an excuse as she ran a 10k yesterday and was feeling pretty sore herself. I had nothing to say for myself as I hadn't run since my 6.5 on Friday.

I was thinking we were only going to do 4 mi on the Mt. Vernon Trail tonight since we were both feeling pretty blegh, but then we realized once we hit Reagan National airport that it was actually 2.2 mi till we GOT TO the Mt. Vernon Trail. THEN, us being the smart cookies that we are, decided to take a "short cut" to get back to the car, which ended up taking us whatever distance in the wrong direction, so we decided to backtrack to Reagan. That pretty much wiped us out so we walked for 10-15 minutes (in the right direction, finally), then booked the last 2 miles back to the car.

I'm only guestimating 6mi, maybe more/maybe less, who knows, all I know is it sucked a whole lot, and I'm not particularly looking forward to another run. And on top of that I forgot my new running gadgets....as if that wasn't the exact reason I bought them in the first place. So tonight I was stuck holding my iphone again and [not] tracking any sort of accurate distance. I can't be too hard on myself - at least we went and I'm super glad we went, I just wish I didn't feel so crummy doing it.

Bummer central.

111 days to go

2011-05-16T12:53:00.000-07:00

This week in the life of Running Rampant...

Monday - Running with Sara
Tuesday - Spin class at Golds
Wednesday - Run....somewhere....depending on weather
Thursday - See Wednesday
Friday - Friends BDay dinner
Saturday - Wedding in NY
Sunday - Come home from wedding in NY

It looks like tonight is the only time this week the weather is going to cooperate and let me run outside so I am taking full advantage and doing spin class tomorrow instead. It's amazing to think this beautiful day is going to turn gloomy and cloudy and make it rain all week...and not in a good way.

I've been trying to make it my mission to do at least 5mi every time I run now, and on good days, 6mi (and on beastly days like last week 6.5mi!), so we will see how tonight goes.

Also! My lovely running mate, Sara, ran her first 10k yesterday so CONGRATS to her for finishing in a little over an hour. She kicked that races ass and then proceeded to hang out with me all day (ok, I hung out with HER all day) and do silly things like eat pizza and ride golf carts.

In her words "I'm wearing my race tshirt today to show people that I ran a 10k this morning - what did YOU do this morning?! Not run a 10k!"

114 days to go (still...)

2011-05-13T17:18:00.000-07:00

*yells* OH MAN! Tonight I ran 6.43 miles at the gym! Not exactly the ideal place to run by any stretch of the imagination, BUT I STILL DID IT AND I FEEL AWESOME! I'm telling you...as every mile went by I kept upping the speed and kept thinking "What the fuck? How am I still going and still feeling good about this? And not wanting to die? And my legs don't want to fall off????" I don't know is answer, but I still did it!

And oh geeze did I need this tonight. After the past 2 terrible work days, feeling pretty awful about canceling my run last night, then getting drunk on my couch and eating a bunch of crap, I was not exactly feeling like a million bucks. I wasn't even thinking that I was going to make 4 tonight. I was even thinking about canceling AGAIN tonight while driving home from work. But no, the powers of positive thinking! Eep! I feel so damn good it hurts!

Alsooo!! Look what came in the mail today! Can't wait to try those bad boys out on Sunday. For $7.99, that ipod case is pretty damn awesome!

Sorry for so many exclamation points in this post.

Anyway, the rest of tonight will be spent ordering Chinese food (and not feeling bad about it), working on my resume, and applying my booty off to attempt to get out of my dead end job...all while having the biggest S eating grin on my face!

Bye for now!

114 days to go

2011-05-13T14:12:00.001-07:00

Yesterday was rough. I had an awful day at work which ended with me leaving late and cancelling my run. Instead, I drank ¾ a bottle of wine, ate my roommates mac & cheese and blueberry pastry (don’t worry, she knew and left it out for me!), and watched a Criminal Minds marathon on ION.

In case you were wondering, Garcia got shot and then almost shot again, but she ended up being fine. Then something about religion and murdering psycho pentagram killers happened and all the while I was really just wondering when Garcia and Morgan are going to get together. Actually, Garcia ended up meeting Xander from Buffy The Vampire Slayer and I think they are going to fall in love.

Point being – I woke up this morning and I’m taking it really hard that I missed my run (and ate a cupcake yesterday during lunch that wasn’t even that good!!). I’m going to go tonight and hopefully Sunday between helping my boyfriend and his boyfriend pick things out for their new apartment.

Stay tuned and hopefully these posts become a bit more positive as the days go on.

116 days to go

2011-05-10T19:32:00.000-07:00

Had a nice little run with Sara after work today. Went a little slower than I would have liked, but that's my bodies fault...ok, maybe my mind's fault....ok, or a combo of both. We also only ran 5mi instead of 6, but that's ok, there's always Thursday.

I really can't wait for my watch to get here. The damn app on my phone that tracks distance keeps shutting off mid run so I can't get accurate reads and it's super annoying!!

Anyway, I don't have a whole lot to say tonight other than my abs have been feeling super great recently which is awesome. I've also been told that I'm like the incredible shrinking woman, haha, which I guess is code for I've been slimming down with all the running. Just an AWESOME added bonus!

Oh! One more thing, I'm really glad to be taking a break from working out tomorrow because as of right now my body is really feeling it after my 6mi run today, insanely hot hour long spin class (due to faulty ac in the gym) yesterday, and 4mi run Sunday. I'm looking forward to spending a relaxing evening with the boyfriend, watching tv, snuggling, and not tracking distance!

Get on that horse, girlfriend!

2011-05-09T14:41:00.000-07:00

An old friend of mine from HS, Alyssa, mentioned to me today that she was interested in running and starting the Couch to 5k program (or c25k as she called it before I stupidly said "OH! That sounds like couch to 5k!!"). I am so proud of people who decide to jump on the running horse as I know just how hard it was for me to begin training for ANYTHING. I couldn't be more excited for her and thrilled that she came to me to ask for advice.

With all that being said I've compiled a short list of advice for the running novice (not to say I'm a master runner now by any means).

Eat a little while before you run, no matter the distance, and drink plenty of water. I've come across too many instances where I went to the gym straight from work and had little to no energy for a work out because I hadn't eaten anything. You don't have a good run, you don't feel well or energetic, you feel bad because you had a bad run, you don't run again. It's a vicious cycle.
Come up with a bangin' running playlist and change it often. Good music is always a great motivator, but it becomes routine, switch it up a bit or put a long playlist on shuffle. I can't even count the times I got pumped up during a run where a good song came on that I forgot I had.
Don't get discouraged. News flash!! We're all beginners at some point! and we all have bad days where we want to give up. You're already 10 steps in front of the other person who decided not to start.
Find a good running partner. I was fortunate enough my good friend, Marisa, decided to pick up running with me. She was the one to always tell me "Don't ever think about being too tired, or there being a possibility that you won't go to the gym. I never let myself think that, I just do it." So I'm going to tell you - find someone who motivates you! ....and maybe someone your even a little competative with!

Those are the big one's....and if you need more motivation, start a blog [like me!] or join dailymile.com or just bite the bullet and sign up for the 5k so there's no turning back.

As for my friend, Alyssa, if and when you sign up for your first race (and it's in the DMV) - I'll be there to run/jog/power walk across the finish line with you.

Best of luck!

118 days to go

2011-05-08T17:35:00.000-07:00

I ate a lot of junk this weekend...here's less than 1/2 of it....

Sake Bombs

Pho @ Boyfriends brothers grad party

Flat Bread

Birthday Cupcakes

Today was Mother's Day so I took mom out to a nice brunch at Season's 52 (SO GOOD!). I tried to eat healthy with my lemon grass salmon salad, butttt I also had a glass of wine, 4 pieces of flatbread with chipotle dressing and shrimp, and dessert. Yikes! The day before I went to my boyfriends brothers grad party and ate things like fried rice and pho. That night I drank lots of wine, ate spring rolls, ate sushi, did a few too many sake bombs, and ate birthday cupcakes for a dear friend of mine's bday. Just re-reading it makes me sick to my stomach. By the time Sunday was coming to a close I felt pretty defeated about getting a run in this weekend, but I knew it had to happen. Nothing exciting, but I ran 4 mi at the gym, which I'm sure didn't really offset all the junk I ate, but it's still better than nothing.

I really need to get on a schedule. I also really needed to have not skipped my run Saturday morning. Shit's about to get real up in my training schedule. I hope.

120 days to go

2011-05-07T06:37:00.000-07:00

I missed my run this morning because I was lazy. My alarm went off at 7:30 and I didn't want to get up, so I didn't. Then my room mate woke me up 30 minutes later running around the house getting ready for Gold Cup. I should have gotten up then and went for a short run around the neighborhood, but again, I didn't. Instead, I cleaned up the kitchen, unloaded the dishwasher, and made coffee.

Anyway, then some other shit went down this morning, it's only 9:36am, and I want to go back to sleep.

121 days to go

2011-05-06T10:48:00.000-07:00

Yesterday my car got hit by a bad driver who doesn't know the difference between drive and reverse. Don't worry, it didn't ruin my Cinco De Mayo plans, just my running plans for tonight....sigh. I really wanted to get a run in after work today seeing as the weather is so nice and I feel so good about my run from Wednesday, but unfortunately I have to take my car back to the parents house so I can take one of theirs instead. Looks like I'll either be driving that one for a week or a rental car.

I'm hoping to have the motivation to get a run in before my boyfriends brothers graduation party saturday afternoon. Hoping being the operative word. Maybe another one on Sunday after Mother's Day brunch.

Anyway - on a totally different topic...I just bought this "Garmin Forerunner 305 GPS Receiver With Heart Rate Monitor". Nifty, right? Not only will it track distance and speed, but it also tracks the course and is a heart rate monitor. I'm hoping it will be a lot more useful than the ap on my phone that tends to totally drain the battery after a single use. I also bought one of those armbands that holds my iphone while I run so I can listen to music.

Bam! I'm going to start looking like a real runner in no time!

123 days to go (still...)

2011-05-04T19:09:00.000-07:00

Pretty sleepy, but here's a recap of my night;

Got in a fight with a coworker that caused me to flee to McDonalds and house a m&m McFlurry.
Sara backed out of running because of a stomach bug.
Rained on the way home from work so Meg and I decided to go to our seperate gyms to run.
Then, instead, decided to go run outside anyway after the rain let up a bit.
Got a little lost around the airport, but finally found our way to the trail.
RAN 6 MILES IN THE BEAUTIFUL WEATHER NEXT TO THE BEAUTIFUL SUNSET
Came home, showered, ate carrots/hummus and 1/2 a broccoli/cheese lean pocket.

Now I'm in bed, watching Real World, and feeling pretty damn proud of myself. Tomorrow I will not feel bad about the multiple margaritas I drink with my closest friends and awesome boyfriend because I not only went to spin class Monday & Tuesday, but I RAN THE LONGEST I'VE EVER RUN IN MY LIFE TONIGHT!

Whoop.

123 days to go

2011-05-04T06:40:00.000-07:00

I haven't been running since Saturday's race. No, actually, that's a lie. I ran 2 miles in the gym last night before spin class, but that's it. Also, it took me over 21 minutes. Really? Really.

Tonight I'm supposed to go running with Sara and Meg, granted the rain stops by tonight. It's supposed to. Hopefully. I really don't want to run in the gym, but I will if I have to.

That's all I really have to say for now. I'll report back tonight.

125 days to go

2011-05-02T10:22:00.000-07:00

You know what the best part about running is? I'll give you a hint. It kind of looks like the picture to the left. You got it...

CARBO LOADING!!

The fact that I am almost required, nay encouraged, to eat a ton of carbohydrates the night before a race (or before any long run for that matter) makes me giddy with excitement.

However, Allison, this does not mean not watching what you eat at all...which is exactly what I've been doing. I'm telling you it's been pasta, bread, crackers, cheese, etc ever since I got home from Thailand/Vietnam and as much as I LOVE ALL THOSE THINGS WITH THE PASSION OF A THOUSAND FIREY SUNS....I need to throw in a vegetable or two seeing as these also carry healthy carbs with them.

However, with all the crap I've been shoveling down my throat recently, I was told on Saturday that it looks like I've been losing weight, which was the perfect topping to my Saturday muddy Run-A-Muck cake.

Maybe I'll try to make that recipe to the left one of these nights during the week. Whole grain linguine with a ton of veggies thrown in and maybe some shrimp? I like shrimp.

*Sigh* This sounds like what I eat every night. I need to jump on the potatoe band wagon and start eating potatoes with veggies, or beans with veggies, or actually, nevermind - I'm just going to straight up eat pounds of pasta by the handful...

Anyone have any yummy high carb recipes good for a pescatarian who attempts to run a lot?

Run-A-Muck 2011

2011-05-01T06:29:00.001-07:00

How fun does this look??

Actually, if you can imagine, we started out looking like this...

Run-A-Muck 2011 was just as fun as expected and the weather was PERFECT for a nice run through the woods! Unfortunately, they had dredged the lake at the park the event is at so we weren't able to run through the water up to our waist. Oh no, this year was something much more fun.

This year we got to army crawl for 1/2 a mile through mud that was waist deep! I have never encountered something SO HARD in my athletic career! It took everything in my power to not scream "LEAVE ME HERE! SAVE YOURSELVES!!" when I could no longer move my legs because I felt like I was drowning in quick sand. It was so draining! Even more than the run itself with all it's lovely 45 degree hills in the sun. And to make it better?? Having to run with what felt like 10 lb weights on each ankle once you managed to drag yourself out of the mud.

Oh man, such a workout, but so worth it! I felt so good about how I did as well. Last year I had to stop a whole lot and this year I was moving right along like no big thing. Ok, maybe not no big thing, I may or may not have been huffing like a pregnant woman, but I still didn't stop and I felt really good about that.

I think our team finished in about 43 min, which is awesome if you think about all the hills, obstacles, and mud we had to endure! Next year I think Marisa and I are going to run as a costumed team of 2 and go as nudists with nude body suits and a little leaf covering our privates. Sooooo funny! If only 2 other CERTAIN SOMEONES thought it was funny and would join us! *Cough cough* Joey & Dom *Cough cough*. Oh well.

Anyway, check out my dear friends Maggie (and her friend Amanda), Ericka, and Michelle - another awesome team that ran the same race as us - great job ladies and super cute costumes!! (Also check out their blogs...).

So proud of everyone who ran and can't wait for next year!!

It's allll right cause I'm saved by the bell!

2011-04-28T16:50:00.000-07:00

130 days to go

2011-04-27T17:16:00.000-07:00

Running in the gym is terrible compared to running outside!

Oh wait, maybe that's just tonight because my right calf feels like daggers are being thrust into it every time I took another step. Just what I need before my race on Saturday that coincidently happens to have a lot of hills....or one very big hill in particular. I think those hills Sara and I did on Monday really took a tole on my calves because I'm not used to it and now they are killing me.

I'm also pretty disapointed that the weather duped me into cancelling my run with Sara tonight and deciding to run in the gym. *Pout* Oh well, at least I got a nice little 2.66 mi run in on the treadmill before heading home.

Saturday is Run-A-Muck and I CAN'T WAIT!! Whoop!

"Let's Move!"

2011-04-27T10:49:00.000-07:00

Ok - this post has absolutely nothing to do with running, but sometimes when you find something you just have to post!

I found this AWESOME music video of Beyonce's dance inspired work out to Move Your Body that is part of Michelle Obama's Let's Move! campain (which promotes a healthier lifestyle for children).

HOW BADLY do I want to do this work out and be part of the video?? Hands down the best thing I've found all day. I may have shimmied once or twice (or 10 times) in my seat.

If you're looking for me tonight, check my room, I'll be watching this over and over again trying to get the moves down.

132 days to go

2011-04-26T05:44:00.000-07:00

Run #2 with Sara was awesome, with a few minor bumps in the road that won't be talked about. We did 4.51 yesterday on the W&OD Trail again in Shirlington. This time we went a different direction through the woods/creek which was VERY hilly to me (maybe not so hilly to a more experienced runner!). By the time we got back to the car my calves were KILLING me, but I was so glad I went.

I finally got my first taste of running outside during the summer - it was HOT and very muggy, but since we didn't hit the trail until 7ish it was barable. I think the heat slowed us down though because with the hills and short stop we finished in just about 50ish minutes. Yes, very very slow, but at least we did it!

Honestly, I don't think I'm too worried about how slow we are going, just as long as I don't fall over and die mid run...aka, just as long as I keep going. I think the best approach is to work on speed AFTER I know I can get to....hm....7? I'm not terribly far! I'm hoping to get to 7 in the next couple of weeks! Our goal for last night was 6, but with the hills and Sara not feeling well and my calves starting to burn, we copped out at 4.51. Again, not so bad!!

I'm hoping to get another run in on Wednesday, anyone want to join?? I'm noticing that I have a real problem running alone so maybe it's better to get up the motivation to keep myself going. I don't know, the run last Saturday was pretty shitty by myself.

Anyway - until next time!

Run-A-Muck 2011

2011-04-25T08:32:00.000-07:00

Run-A-Muck 2011 is this saturday and I can't wait for hills (shockingly), mud, and obstacle courses!!

I just found this little number on someone's Picasa photo album from last year!

I'm not sure, but I think Marisa and I are stretching up there in front....or mock stretching and acting like idiots, can't tell which!

This weekend I only hope for a great afternoon and great weather dressed like this...

That's me in the corner with the crazy curly hair! Obviously pics will come after the race and I will probably have a complaint or 2 if that first hill was anything like last year! Then again, I NEVER complain!

What bad run?

2011-04-25T06:11:00.000-07:00

I'm determined to not let Saturdays bad run get me down! I'm going to run with Sara again tonight (Megan, one of my room mates, may come too!) and Wednesday. I'll report back on that later.

Thanks Chuck Norris - I think I can do it too.

Beautiful sunny day on Mt. Vernon Trail - TERRIBLE RUN

2011-04-23T14:24:00.000-07:00

I feel bad about myself and my run today. I was really psyched to get outside on this beautiful day! I was even on my way to the gym before turning around and saying "Hell no! I'm going to run outside!". I think that's where things started to turn.

I was supposed to run Mt. Vernon Trail by Reagan National Airport around 2:30. I've run it once before with Joey and Marisa last summer, but I've never gone alone and I figure it's a beautiful day outside I might as well get used to getting off my own butt and getting out there without anyone else beside me. Well, apparently my sense of direction is terrible and I ended up completely bypassing the entrance to the park and ending up driving 20 min into Alexandria before turning around and heading home. On TOTAL HAPPENSTANCE I find the entrance to the park on the way back and decide to get my run on.

Which I thought would be great! The sun was shining and there was a nice breeze, etc, etc. It was a total disaster. I don't know why I was so tired today! I might have gone 3.8 mi, but I probably only ran about 2.8.

Sigh. I just couldn't get my act together. I'm happy I went at all, but I just want to know why it's SO HARD to be your own motivational speaker! I feel like if Sara, Marisa, or Joey was there I could have done a much better job.

Oh well, maybe next week...

What is Goo?

2011-04-22T07:09:00.000-07:00

My aunt, Amy, just finished her first 1/2 marathon (Way to go, Amy!!) and in attempts to give me some advice she's told me to become very friendly with Goo. Basically, anything small and packed with sugar, electrolytes, and caffeine that can push you through the last couple miles....while trying not to go into a glucose meltdown and dragging my sorry butt across the finish line 1 inch at a time.

In my searching I've come across Clif Shot Gel Turbo and it sounds pretty promising. - CLIF SHOT® Turbo Energy Gel offers all of the performance upgrades of the new CLIF SHOT® Energy Gel, but also includes an extra concentrated caffeine kick for those days that require just a little bit more.

I'm sure I will soon run into those days that require just a little bit more.

Anyone else have any good advice for when I start hitting the long runs? Carry a 5 hour energy with me perhaps? Also, where do runners put these things? Fanny packs?

Wow, I guess so! Could you imagine me running the half marathon in my hot pink LuLu Lemon fanny pack?!

Oh, the remarks that would come out of Joeys mouth would be priceless.

I think I might need to invest in one of those.

Blind running date @ W&OD Trail

2011-04-21T19:35:00.000-07:00

My neighbor, Dion, "set me up" on a running date with his room mate, Sara, who is training for a 10k the other day. Somewhat of an akward situation seeing as we've never really talked before, but I could 100% use a running partner who lives 5 ft from my front door. Turns out to be the most PERFECT situation ever!

We went running on the W&OD trail in Shirlington tonight and it was awesome! We ran a little over 4 miles, probably could have done more, but I didn't want to overexert myself too badly on one of the first runs outside. Anyway - it was beautiful weather outside, a little windy and a little chilly. It was great and I felt really good about the 4 miles and not wanting to die afterwards. There's talks of doing 6 next week - I think we can do it!

Earlier this week Joey and I ran 3.25 miles around McLean and I was dieing! 1) because I didn't eat anything before I ran so I was running on empty, but 2) and more importantly, because he decided to take me up these massive hills! Not to mention the first mile or so of the trail we ran was straight uphill. There is this insane hill right near my old apartment in McLean that I REALLY want to be able to make it up before Joey moves out of the area. When we went, I didn't even make it up the first few feet. How pathetic.

I need to train on some more hills because Run-A-Muck 2011 is coming up in 9 days and if it's anything like last year, the first quarter mile will be straight up hill. YEOUCH! Can't wait.

Until next time.

Struggling 5k to Half Marathon

2011-04-21T12:53:00.000-07:00

So. It's only been over a year since I have updated this particular blog. Since then I have done this...

Great Pumpkin 5k - Oct 2010

Love The Run You're With 5k - Feb 2011

Run-A-Muck 2010 - April 2010

As much complaining as I did in previous posts and as hard as it was/is I wouldn't give up picking up running for anything. It's healthy, enjoyable, and has brought me closer with a few particular people.

Since those 3 things, plus the race this whole ordeal started with, I've decided to do this...

http://runrocknroll.competitor.com/virginia-beach

(Oh, and Run-A-Muck 2011 dressed as Saved By The Bell, of course!)

Why? Probably because I was dropped on my head a few times. Or because both my parents used to be serious runners with my mom running the Marine Corps Marathon a few times and my dad/mom running Jay's Run a few years in a row. Maybe because I just want to be able to say I accomplished it on my own. Whatever the reason is - I'm officially signed up and there's no turning back now....unless I want to lose $90 ($97) if you include whatever crappy processing fees.

I'm going to try my best to chronicle this whole process of struggling 5k to Half Marathon. There will be talk of running shoes, sore feet/ankles, goo, and the like. If it sounds boring, stop reading now. For those of you who choose to continue reading, I could really use the support.

I have 136 days to go (roughly 4.25 of the hottest months the DC area has to offer).

I've said it 100 times before and I will say it again - "The miracle isn't that I finished. The miracle is that I had the courage to start."

WISH ME LUCK!

I'm boring -

2010-03-04T06:45:00.000-08:00

So...the run for Haiti isn't happening because Marisa and I are both poor...and by poor I mean yes, we are poor, but I am also lazy. I haven't gotten back into it yet. I seriously have lost any and all motivation and I certainly don't love it anymore.

It's tough. And somewhat depressing.

I went to the gym on monday and was only on the treadmill for a total of 45 minutes. Pathetic. Only cumulatively running maybe 35 of those 45 minutes. Pathetic. Pathetic. AND to make matters worse, my coworker came into my office yesterday and told me that she ran 9 miles last weekend! I am so super proud of her because that is a lot, but I'm also devestated that I am nowhere near that mark.

I was talking to the pres. of our company yesterday at work and then last night at the soccer game and his advice is to just not train at all. Uh, NOT train at all? Is he clinically insane? He said he ran a half marathon solely by not psyching himself out. Yeah right. But then again, we all know this certain someone sells dreams.

Anyway - tonight I'm either going to run with Pacers or I am going to get in the gym and run a couple miles. I can do it.

I think.

I have to do it.

Falling back in love with it...

2010-02-25T09:35:00.000-08:00

This week is dedicated to falling back in love with running (Mostly because I have a race coming up in a week and 1/2).

I've been to the gym to run the past 2 days in a row. I feel good about that. Tuesday was a lot better than yesterday, but at least I made it there both days! I am giving myself today to rest and then I will probably go to the gym Friday night after work. Marisa and I have also planned to run around DC either saturday or sunday afternoon which I am really looking forward to!

Another thought aside from that...I figured with all the running I've been doing I would have lost some weight and I don't think that is happening. In fact, I feel like I have been gaining weight, and that is incredibly frustrating. I think I need to take a serious look at what I've been eating and maybe the answer is there.

That's all for now.

Run for Haiti 5k

2010-02-24T11:51:00.000-08:00

This just in - Marisa & I will be running another 5k on March 7th: Run for Haiti 5K.

Fun runs!

2010-02-23T06:29:00.000-08:00

So, yesterday Maggie cued me into something awesome! Every Tuesday & Thursday night at 7 Pacers has a complimentary "Fun Run". People gather at the store, the runs range from 3 to 7 miles, and they are FREE and open to the general public...and what a coincidence, there is a Pacers in the heart of Clarendon...OH! And what else? Parking around Clarendon is free after 6pm? Yeah. It is.

After further investigation I am finding just how diamond in the rough this find is. I have been skimming over the event calendar and there are some awesome finds here! For example, this Thursday and next Thursday there is a Free Injury Clinic at the Pacers in Clarendon! Which is right up my alley considering I hurt myself just about every other day. They also post races on the event calendar. The one coming up soonest is the Back on My Feet - St. Patrick's Day 8K. Now I don't know if I will be ready for an 8k in 2 weeks, but it's nice to dream.

This is really cool and dare I say I am somewhat excited. I don't want to get my hopes up, but I am super psyched about getting in the gym tonight and going for a run. :)

Welcome Back.

2010-02-22T09:15:00.000-08:00

I haven't posted in ages. Somewhat due to lack of information to post about and mostly due to a certain degree of laziness. I haven't been running in a week. A FULL WEEK. In fact, I am pretty positive it has been over a week, GUH! Can you believe that? What the hell is wrong with me? Now, there are certain key factors relating to this awful turn of events:

1 (out of my hands and most importantly). Snow: Snow has caused horrific driving conditions and binge drinking, which leads to complete and total laziness.

2. (work related) PMA: Photo Marketing Association trade show in Anaheim, CA that started this past saturday. Meaning the entire week before was dedicated to staying late at work, massive amounts of coffee, sleep deprivation, and trying not to kill myself.

3. (health related): SICK SICK SICK: This past weekend I thought I was going to die. It was lovely, I promise you. Friday I was feeling iffy, and saturday morning I woke up with an AWFUL headache, and body aches, and nausia. The whole 9 yards. I'm still feeling somewhat under the weather. Awesome.

I need to get back on the horse. I am going to have to unwillingly admit that I am 110% off the horse and need to get back on...and fast. I talked to Marisa last week about how I was struggling with this and how I've been thinking that I will not be ready for the 10 miler we had origionally planned to do. She was supportive, enthusiastic about getting on the horse even, but I knew she was disapointed and still gung-ho (however you spell that...) about the race in general. Something I have not felt in a few weeks. I blame the snow.

Shotty, but it's better then blaming my lack of motivation.

It's time to get back out there. Last Thursday I met one of Ari/Jenna's good friends, Maggie, who just moved to VA and is looking for someone to run with. Perfecto opportunity for me! We exchanged numbers/emails and hopefully we will get to running around the neighborhood soon! I'm psyched for Marisa & I to have a new person to run with! I also think there's a chance she will join AAR with us! All signs point to new running motivation in my life and that can bring nothing but positive vibes. :)

Stay tuned. I hope to get in the gym at least twice this work week, granted this headache subsides. I will post later about how my stamina has gone WAYYY down and how I currently struggle to run 2 miles. I will leave no detail unaccounted for and promise, it's as pathetic as it sounds.

Get back on the horse.

2010-02-03T06:26:00.000-08:00

I haven't been running since Sunday and it's Wednesday. I really need to get back in the gym and get a few miles on the treadmill. I have, however, gone to bikram yoga twice this week. It's making me feel really good and really stretched out and calm. I'm kind of hoping soccer gets cancelled tonight (since it's at 11:30pm, UGH!) and I get to get in the gym and run.

That's about all I have for now. I'm out!

Quick update - and....GO!

2010-01-31T10:03:00.000-08:00

Ok, I don't have a ton of time to update and I realize it's been days since my last.

I ended up going to the step class with Marisa tuesday night, sending my shoulders into a MELT DOWN. YOUCH! But that's ok because at least we got a workout in. Wednesday night I had a soccer game so that was a bit of exercise there. Then everything went downhill and I did not work out again until today, ugh.

I went to the gym this morning an ran 3 miles and in a few hours I am driving home to take a bikram yoga (heated room to about 100 degrees yoga!) class with Ari. Sounds good to me.

I hope to get in the gym or workout more then the 3-4 days I did this past week. I definitely need to run more because I only got a few runs in this past week and I am still nowhere NEAR running 10 miles.

Argh, I am beginning to get frustrated with that and thinking maybe April is too soon and too big a task and maybe I should run a 10mi next year and focus on shorter races this year.

I think my eyes were bigger then my stomach on this one... :(

I don't wanna!

2010-01-26T12:56:00.001-08:00

I brought my gym bag to work this morning with the full intention of going to the gym tonight and as of now (3:56pm) that is the last thing I want to do. My shoulders/neck are killing me because of a stressful day at work and I'm tired and complain, complain, complain. All I want to do is get into bed with my heating pad, some good music, and my book (which I don't even know what is going on in because it's been that long since I've sat and read it!!).

Maybe I will go straight home after work and hang out for a while and then hit the gym around 8 or 8:30. Maybe. I need to see if Jenny is going to go tonight too, that would be more motivation to get my ass off the couch. Maybe I won't run tonight and do an exercise class instead....

*checking gym class schedule*

Everything sucks and doesn't work with my schedule. Maybe I can convince Jenny to take body step (step aerobics) with me at 8.

Stay tuned to see if I did or didn't psych myself out.

New running buddy!

2010-01-25T17:51:00.000-08:00

So I've recently found out that my coworker, Louis, goes to the same gym that I do and coincidently is into running as well! Can you say extra motivation?! I think so! :) Tonight was the first time we actually ran together [well, not together, we didn't even start/end together, but it was somewhat at the same time and just seeing him running in front of me was motivation enough].

I had a pretty good run tonight. I did about 4.24mi all together, but that included a 5 minute warm up walk, another 5 minute walking break, and a 10 minute sprint on 6.5 (and yes, that did me in, YIKES!).

Anyway - I think those are all the updates I have. I'm looking forward to getting outside with the weather getting a lot better!

Stay tuned!

Wake up, foot.

2010-01-22T07:21:00.001-08:00

Ever since I started running, I've had a problem with my right foot falling asleep 20 minutes in. It's really quite annoying and can get painful at times making me stop when I would have otherwise kept going. I've been chalking up the whole thing to needing new orthotics, but those are going to cost me a pretty penny...which I don't exactly have right now. I also just got new running shoes in October, so that could be the issue also.

I decided to do a bit of research and apparently I am not the only one with this problem (thank god). I've read it has to do with conditioning, shoes that are too tight, shoes that are too tight in the wrong area, socks that are too small, socks that get pushed backward towards your heal...somehow, just restricting blood flow to your foot or pinching a nerve or something to that effect.

I've read enough though that I think I should probably go back to my podiatrist and get it checked out, which is such a pain in the ass. I might as well throw more money away and get those $500 orthotics. :(

You go Glen Coco!!

2010-01-18T10:55:00.000-08:00

Marisa & I after the race.

Susan & I before the race.

Race day has come and gone and I have to say I am SO proud of myself! My first 5k and I got through it without stopping!! Although, I must admit upon hitting the finish line I definitely thought I was going to vomit (Proud to say I did not!! But next time I will definitely not be drinking 2 beers the night before, no matter how nervous and depressed I may be feeling). I finished the race in 29 minutes and 20 seconds, that is 5-6 minutes BETTER then I ever had in the gym!! Roughly meaning I ran a 9.4 minute mile and that is NOT half bad! :)

It was such a good time, minus freezing feet and a 45 minute delay so everyone running the 20k could get their shit together. I felt really good watching the 20k-ers run by before our race and cheering for them and even better when I dragged my butt over the finish line and had Marisa & Susan cheering for me. They both finished a few minutes before me and I am SO happy that I had them to run with.

Marisa and I are still dead set on running the GW Classic on April 25th, meaning we are seriously going to have to step up our training. Ten miles is an awfully long time considering I was dragging after the 5k. But we still have 3 months left to train. I think I can, I think I can, I think I can!!

I also found an AWESOME race/obstacle course/music festival called Run a Muck. It's another 5k, but you run in teams of 2-4 and through all these obstacles like mud and hills and rediculous crap. You can also dress up, if you choose to! Plus, there is live music playing all day and vendors. I just think it sounds like too much fun to pass up and I can going to try to convince Marisa to run it with me! Cannot wait.

CANNOT WAIT!!

Game Day.

2010-01-15T07:30:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow is the big day. Granted, it's not an intense race. It's not even a very long one. But it's my first one and it's something I've been looking forward to for a while now and that is pretty awesome. I'm really proud of myself for the last month or so, especially for the days I really didn't want to go to the gym because I had to pick Eddie up and come home and then go back out.

I've managed to work out at least 3 days a week since I've begun this process (a lot of running [inside & outside], cardio, soccer, etc) & I feel like my stamina is in a pretty good place. I'm also finding that I look forward to getting in the gym and going on a 30-45 minute run and that running outside in the [FREEZING] cold isn't all that terrible. I've also come to enjoy working out later in the evening, 7:30pm/8:00pm? Gym time.

Anyway, with all that being said I will leave this post with the quote that I started my blog with (because sometimes my positive affirmations are not appreciated on facebook).

"The miracle isn't that I finished. The miracle is that I had the courage to start."

Now let's just see if I can finish ;)

Frustrated.

2010-01-12T06:14:00.000-08:00

So with the bit of motivation I had after work, picking up Eddie, hanging around the house for a bit I got to the gym last night...only to find out my knee has picked the PERFECT time to start acting up. Awesome. I don't know what caused this. I didn't fall or twist anything the wrong way. It just hurts. And I'm not even 100% sure it's my knee because it's right below my knee so I'm really hoping my shin splints aren't acting up again. When I ran indoor track in highschool we used to run inside the school when the weather was too bad and that's when it really started to bother me.

I really hope it starts to feel better soon because it was really painful to even walk upstairs last night...and this morning. :(

Exhibit A.

Chariots Of Fire.

2010-01-11T08:43:00.000-08:00

Every time Marisa & I run outside with AAR (and by every time I mean, the 2 times we have ever done it) I am reminded of the Chariots of Fire theme music & running in slow motion. We are incredibly witty those mornings actually, possibly steming from the fact that it's 8:30am on saturday and we are both quite delirious.

Reason I bring this up is we had an AWESOME run this past saturday morning and I was really proud of us! It was icey, snowy, and COLD that morning (I believe it was in the teens). The group ran from the key bridge (VA side), over the bridge, and down along the water on the DC side. It was supposed to be 3.5 miles out and 3.5 back to make 7 in total. Marisa and I made it 5 of the 7 miles non stop! Which is pretty awesome for first time runners, I have to admit. Not to mention the wind was coming at us, which made it a hell of a lot harder to run.

We celebrated that night by going out with Becca (my cousin) & Jenny and getting sauced. :)

The race is this saturday morning and if this past saturday is any indicator I think I will do alright! I may not get the best time ever, but at least I know I can do it and finish in some sort of reasonable time-frame. I'm very excited.

Here is my workout/running breakdown for the week:
Monday - take Eddie to doggie daycare, work, pick up Eddie, drop Eddie off, gym (Running), grocery store
Tuesday - take D to daycare, work, pick up D, Gym (maybe)
Wednesday - Soccer
Thursday - Work, Gym (Light cardio)
Friday - Work, Rest
Saturday - RACE DAY!!

After this 5k there's only 4 more months till the GW Classic (10 miles) so keep sending positive vibes my way! :)

So far, So good.

2010-01-06T07:57:00.000-08:00

2 out of 2 days isn't bad! I ran 4 miles on saturday and another 4 on monday, then 2 yesterday along with some other random cardio [because my body was just not feeling running], and I have a soccer game tonight. I have to make it to the gym tomorrow too or else I just won't feel good & then I will break on friday or do some light cardio, & run with AAR saturday morning.

I'm really liking having a running plan for the week. I should make these more often, because then I have something to stick to.

On a different topic, because blogs are supposed to be creative outlets, what is with all these people [and their new years resolutions to get fit] invading my gym?!? I finally have the motivation to go all the time and I find it completely unacceptable that on monday night at 6:30pm I spent 40 minutes looking for parking at the ballston golds gym before giving up, going home, and coming back again at 8pm. I was SO furious & frustrated that at one point I actually screamed out loud in my car! I would have gone to the tysons golds [which is almost never full], but I had to pick up Eddie from daycare and drop him off at home, which meant I was in arlingon anyway. I was ready to kill someone. AND to make matters worse, it was still a mad-house when I got there at 8pm and I almost didn't get a treadmill!! WTF!! - Ok. I am done venting.

Completely random thought: I really like it when I get on the treadmill, the person next to me gets on after me, and then gets off before me. :)

12 days and counting...

2010-01-04T11:28:00.001-08:00

So the race is in 12 days and I'm feeling ok about it. Aside from the fact that I will probably freeze my butt off, I feel like my stamina is alright and I may even be able to get through the whole thing without stopping, that would be my personal goal. I'm not so much concerned about what time I get right, just completing the race in general.

To make things easier for myself, here is my running breakdown for this week (jan 4th-10th).

Monday: Bring Eddie to daycare, Work, Pick up Eddie from daycare, Dinner, GYM (Running)
Tuesday: Work, Jammin' Java to see Diane's DJ friend, GYM (Cardio, but not running)
Wednesday: Work, Soccer Game
Thursday: Work, Target to get running clothes, GYM (Running)
Friday: Work, GYM (Cardio, but not running)
Saturday: 8am run with AAR
Sunday: Rest

I hope I can stick to it - I think I can. I think I can. I think I can.

I'm starting to really enjoy running. Runners high is probably the best thing I have felt in an awfully long time. Last week I hit a brick wall where I went to run at the gym and couldn't even run for 15 minutes straight (read last blog post about feeling pathetic). I need to understand that I can't run every day and some days it's ok to do other cardio works outs.

Anyway, stay tuned and keep sending positive thoughts!

Feeling sorry for myself -

2009-12-31T10:43:00.000-08:00

Last night I had a pathetic work out. I still did cardio for an hour at the gym, but not straight running, and that made me a little depressed and not excited for the impending race. I suppose I should be happy that I made it to the gym at all considering I really had no desire to go and was home for over an hour and 1/2 before deciding to finally get up off my ass and go. It didn't really help that my dinner consisted of mainly vegetables and some tuna and 2 hard boiled eggs, so I really had no energy to run to begin with.

I ran into Marisa on the way in to the though. Congrats to her for sticking with it and me! Knowing she is around and still working towards the same goal as I am is good motivation. I've also been communicating with a very good old friend of mine, Nicole, about running and getting in shape. I am so proud of her. She is running all sorts of marathons and as much as a struggle as some days may be, she's still doing it and pushing forward. It's real motivation knowing she is working towards the same goals as I am too!

Anyway, Marisa & I have a run coming up with AAR on the 9th and then the 5k is the following weekend so there isn't a lot of time left. I was hoping to maybe try running outside tomorrow, but I fear I will probably be too hung over from tonights NYE festivities. Looks like I will be sticking to the gym until the 16th.

I need to buy some real running clothes, and soon. Aside from the fact that all my work out clothes are old and ratty, I literally have no clothes that are running specific. I would like something along the lines of the following items...

I would really like some running tights. Those are highest on my list right now. Target here I come!

Happy new year and happy running everyone :)

"I thought you were going to say you're happy you shaved..."

2009-12-29T12:48:00.000-08:00

Running through the holiday has been less than pleasing. I have not once ran outside (except for that one saturday morning with Marisa and AAR). Plus, I have been eating a whole bunch of crap that doesn't make running any easier. I really need to get on that.

I ran at the gym the last 3 days in a row and those runs were all sorts of up and down. Saturday I walked 5, ran 20, walked 5, and ran another 25. Sunday I ran for 20 before feeling like I was going to pass out and switched to 30 min on the bike. Monday I ran 45 min. I was proud of myself monday because I checked it out while I was running and I ran a 37 minute 5k! Which is 3 minutes faster then the last time I tried! And talking to all my other runner friends/coworkers, the general concensus is running 3.1 miles in 37 minutes aint that bad. Hopefully I will be able to keep that up considering the race is oh, I don't know...

EIGHTEEN DAYS AWAY! AHHHH!!

Side note: I might treat myself and go to AC after my race to see Jess for her bday, wouldn't that be a good gift to myself. :)

Slacker.

2009-12-22T07:46:00.001-08:00

It's amazing how much your stamina can go down when you haven't ran for a week.

I finally got back in the gym last night and it was pretty sad, I must say. I did my 4 miles, but it wasn't non stop (did about 2.9 non stop, ugh). The snowpocalypse of 2009 prevented a lot of running over the weekend, especially the 6 mi run with AAR. This week I plan on being a lot better. Hopefully I can get into the gym on wednesday and then when/if it's closed thursday and friday I can get some running outside in. Hopefully. Running outside seems so awful when there aren't other people around to motivate you, or....make you feel stupid and pitiful for not being as ready as they are.

Oh dear lord, the race is in 26 days. That is NOT a lot of days to get prepared. I need to crack down. I also really need to stop eating the junk that is in my office.

STOP BRINGING IN BROWNIES, COOKIES, CAKE, ETC! PLEASE, I BEG OF YOU!

1 month to go

2009-12-16T10:48:00.000-08:00

It is official. I have signed up for my first race: MLK 5K!!

I am very excited, yet very nervous about this. But I have plenty of supporters, Marisa is #1 of course, plus a few new running partners! I have convinced 2 of my coworkers, Louis & Kesley, to run with me. And Kesley is even bringing her kids to run! Also, anyone who keeps up with this should sign up too (hint hint, susan!).

This week is a bad running week for me though, so I am worried once I get back in the gym I will be back to sqaure 1. I got to the gym on monday, where I ran 4 mi, but the next time I will get to run is saturday morning with AAR again and that is supposed to be 6 mi. Ugh.

Another thing. I didn't realize so much goes into running. Am I running for time or distance? Well, I don't know. Apprently there is a difference when you are training for a race. It is a lot to think about it. And this crazy chromo-something or other-timer-doo-dad that I have to attach to my shoe during the race so I get the most accurate time. Can't I just run and enjoy myself and not have to worry if I ran a 33 minute 5k or a 37 minute 5k?

For inquiring minds, I ran a 3.9 mi/40 minute on monday at a 5.0 on the treadmill. I was really proud of myself, but the more I talk to other runners about it, the more I realize that is pathetically slow.

Frown.