Music Monday: Do What U Want

Artist: Lady Gaga, featuring R. Kelly
Title: Do What U Want
Fave Line: "I feel good, I walk alone, But then I trip upon myself and I fall. I, I stand up, and them I'm okay."--just like a normal run day for me!

Miles logged: 0.0

Sprinting

I've been living in the city of Richardson, and have been paying School District taxes for nearly 8 years, which I've always seen as a complete waste. I do not have children and never plan to, so I really have no use for the public school system, until today. No, I am not pregnant. I discovered that the track at the local high school is open for public use. I've been thinking about running sprints ever since my failed attempt to beat a T-Rex a few weeks ago.

I've never really done any serious training outside of my long runs and maybe some hill work. I've worked on speed a little on the treadmill, but some days it takes every ounce of energy I have just to press start on the stupid thing. Sprints have never even been part of my vocabulary. I'm a long distance runner, and a slow one at that. But I run for the love of running, not because I'm going to win any races.

With my newfound motivation in mind, I ran down to the high school, just over 2 miles away, to get in some time on the track. I really didn't have much of a plan, just visions of Usain Bolt dancing in my head. I actually have no idea how to run sprints and I've only had my Garmin long enough to figure out how to start and stop it, so you can imagine how well this went for me today.

It took me about 10 minutes to finally find the entrance to the field. Thankfully there was a sign confirming that it was open to the public, because I doubt I could have passed for a kid half my age. I love the feel of a track, slightly bouncy under my feet. I haven't been on a real track since I was in middle school and barely knocking out a mile in under 15 minutes for the President's Physical Fitness Challenge.

I dropped off my camel on a bench and walked up to the starting line. Then I ran a mile; not quite the speedwork I had planned. So I started over and ran back and forth between the markings for the 100m. I'm pretty sure that I'm the slowest sprinter ever, but we can never confirm that since I can't figure out how to use "laps" on my Garmin.

Miles logged: 7.0

Merry Belated Christmas

It's been a busy few weeks of holiday parties and family gatherings and very little running. It hasn't all been bad. I've enjoyed the all of the food (maybe indulged a little too much), visiting new places, time with family, and even managed a few days of vacation (and haven't worked too much during them). 

For my office Christmas party, we were at the Perot Museum of Nature and Science, which I've been wanting to visit since it opened earlier this year. I ate, drank, and was merry. I also raced both a cheetah and a T-rex, many times, and each race ended with me getting eaten. 

Here's a video of me, running ridiculously slow, in a party dress, losing to a T-rex.

The gym in my building finally opened. I made it down for a tour, but haven't tried it for a workout yet. I also tried a new gym (once), that's on my way home that will be a nice alternative as well. Now for the hard part, getting back into my normal routine.

My husband gave me these to wear at my next race! Hope you like the view!

Eddie photo-bombed me

Miles logged: 8.1

Music Monday: Holiday Edition

Artist: Olivia Olson (from my 2nd fave Christmas movie, Love Actually)
Title: All I Want for Christmas is You
Fave Line: "I just want you for my own, More than you could ever know"

Miles logged: 0.0

Graze Box

Subscription boxes are the latest craze, and I've finally given in and ordered my own. A few weeks ago, I received a code to "join" Graze.com, an all natural snack box subscription. I love to snack, so I figured what the heck! 

I just received my first box and I'm so excited! The subscription that I have arrives every 2 weeks, with 4 different snacks in it. The packaging is very well done and the snacks look fabulous. You can also select from over 90 different snack options on their website. If something doesn't suit your tastes, you can tell them not to send it to you, ever. A Graze nibble box only costs $6, and shipping is free!

Graze is an invitation only service, so if you'd like to try it, I invite you to use my "friendcode", SOMMER7GE, to sign up. Graze works with small suppliers who provide top ingredients and it appears that they are hesitant to grow too quickly, which is a pretty smart business plan.

Turn me over before you open or you'll make a mess

My yummy snacks!

Miles logged: 0.0

New Beginnings

The New Year hasn't arrived yet, but I'm doing my best to recommit myself to running. It's been miserably cold winter in Dallas so far and with the ice and cold temps, I haven't gotten in a long run in close to a month. This past weekend, we went to NYC to celebrate my birthday. It was also freaking cold there!

In addition, my company has recently moved offices and now my super convenient gym is no longer super convenient. There is a gym in our new building, but it just opened today and I haven't had a chance to check it out yet.

So, I tried out a new 24 Hour Fitness that is in my way home. It's on the way, but I had to sit in traffic for 30 mins to get there, which wasn't so bad. I ate my energy bar in the car on the way and got angry enough at the stupid drivers that I had some angst to pound out on the treadmill. This new gym is quite nice. I think it used to be a grocery store or something. The space is huge, with rooms for classes, a pool, and racquetball courts. I was impressed with how clean it was. Too bad it is the same crappy equipment that needs service...

Miles logged: 3.0

Music Monday: On Top of The World

Artist: Imagine Dragons
Title: On Top of The World
Fave Line: "And I know it's hard when you're falling down; And it's a long way up when you hit the ground; Get up  now, get up, get up now."

Miles logged: 0.0

Rock 'n Roll Discount--Today Only

For all of you Rock 'n Rollers out there, make sure to take advantage of this deal!

Miles logged: 0.0

Music Monday: My Body

Artist: Young the Giant

Title: My Body
Fave Line: "My body tells me no, But I won't quit, 'Cause I want more"

Miles logged: 0.0 

Christmas Gifts for your Favorite Runner

It's been a frigid winter in Dallas already, and winter hasn't even ethnically arrived yet. We've been iced in for 2 days (work was cancelled on Friday) with temps below freezing.

My poor oak tree

They cancelled the Dallas marathon that was scheduled for today. I feel terrible for the runners, but there is no way that there would have been a safe course for them.

The extended time at home has allowed me to clean the house, do laundry, and get me in the holiday spirit. I've put up and decorated the Christmas Palm tree, so it is beginning to look a lot like Christmas in the Year of Run household.

While I had hoped to get some Christmas shopping done this weekend, instead I made this list of Christmas gift ideas for the runner in your life.

1. Socks
I know, they seem like no big deal; really, how many pairs of socks do you own? But new socks are the best! There are a million different ones to choose from, but my personal faves are Feetures! light cushion, no show tab. And they come in a variety of colors.

2. Hats

From the bottom of the body to the top! Since I am so sensitive to sun, but can't run in the dark since I fall down all the time, hats are my savior. I have 3 white ones (I know, I really branch out) and have recently gotten hooked on the visor. Definitely is cooler on those hot summer days!

3. Headphones
I go through headphones like crazy. I sweat on them until they short out, drop them in the driveway and run them over, lose them, you get the point. A couple of years ago, I bought Yurbuds at an expo and I still love them. They fit inside your ear and you can't yank them out on accident. The company sells much fancier options now, but mine just fit over your standard earbuds, so I can continue using them when the headphones go out. These are a little difficult to gift since you have to have your ear measured...but gift cards are always nice! I've also become a fan of the new Apple earbuds (come in the box when you buy the iPhone 5s). I have relatively small ears and the standard earbuds have always hurt my ears after a while. The Apple earbuds fit nicely and don't bother my ears.

4. Garmin GPS Watch
I was a little late to the game on the GPS watch, but now that I have one, I would recommend it for even the most junior runner. I used the mapmyrun app on my iPhone for 3 years. And it worked OK, except for really long runs (18+ miles) and anywhere there were tall buildings. I always ran the same trail, so I knew where my mile markers were. However, the smartphone apps aren't all that accurate. So I decided I wanted a Garmin. My husband bought me the Garmin Forerunner 210 for my birthday and I absolutely love it. I can glance down at any time and see my pace, distance, and time elapsed. There are a ton of different models that Garmin sells, at varying price points--a must have for the runner in your life.

5. Sports Drinks/Snacks
I'm sure I've blogged about my undeniable love for Zipfizz before. Zipfizz has no added sugar, a crapload of B12 (it's also an amazing cure for a hangover because of this), and great taste. I always run with Zipfizz in my camel, so I run through a case pretty quickly. Orange is my favorite flavor, followed by Citrus (which I just discovered at the Malibu Marathon expo). These would be great for stocking stuffers.

Also, any type of energy bars would fit in a stocking nicely as well. I've been eating a lot of the Clif Mojo bars, Dark Chocolate Almond Coconut is my fave. And a friend recently turned me on to That's It bars. Each bar contains 2 fruits and is 100 calories. I don't know how they do it, but they are delicious! Highly nutritious and highly recommended!

There's the short list for Christmas gifts for the runner in your life. Let me just make one plea--no tech shirts. I have so many from the races I've run that tech shirts are taking over my dresser. I'm sure I'm not the only runner with this problem!

Happy shopping!

Miles logged; 0.0

I'm a Streaker!

No, not like Frank the Tank, like Mark Covert. I have an official running streak going, with 3 straight days of running! After publishing my blog yesterday, I laced up my aqua socks (they don't actually have laces, but saying that I slipped on my shoes doesn't sound like a hard core runner), and went for a run.  And I managed to make it to the gym for a short run after work today. I've been running for 3 years (almost exactly) and have never run more than 2 days in a row before. 

Now I have a 3-day running streak behind me! To not string my readers on in suspense, I want to let you know that the streak will end today. I have plans to go to a Mavs game tomorrow night and basketball wins over the gym!

Miles logged: 3.0

Music Monday: The Monster

Artist: Eminem, featuring Rihanna
Title: The Monster
Fave Line: "Somebody once told me to seize the moment and don't squander it, cause you never know when it could be over tomorrow."

Miles logged: 0.0

I'm a Primadonna

I've realized that I'm a bit of a primadonna. Those of you that know me well are rolling your eyes and asking yourselves, she really didn't know this? As it relates to running, I have to have perfect conditions or I will talk myself out of going. Which is what has happened this entire holiday weekend. It's been cold in the mornings, really cold. Who likes running with tons of layers and ear coverings? Not me. Every morning this week, I've gotten up, considered running, decided to wait until it was warmer in the day, and then got distracted by something and never made it out the door. 4 days off in a row, and I've only managed to run one of them so far. Pretty pathetic, right?

Miles logged: 9.25

Music Monday: Bruises

Artist: Chairlift
Title: Bruises
Fave Line: I know this song is about love, but it feels like an ode to my falling down... "I tried to do handstands for you, but every time I fell for you, I'm permanently black and blue"

Miles logged: 0.0

Arctic Blast!

With a weather forecast like this for the weekend:

I had no plans to run, let alone leave the house. While the temps haven't really been that bad, cold and wet have made it mostly miserable.

Without having run in over a week, I was itching to get out for a run today. I took the Chiweenie for a walk to test the temps first. He was not pleased and I confirmed that it was really cold outside. Thankfully the gym was open, but I really wanted to try out my new Garmin. Hopefully this next week and holiday will lend itself to better running weather!

Miles logged: 4.0

My New Toy

I'm still feeling some pain in my groin, so I decided to skip a run and hop on the elliptical at home tonight. Also, I was anxious to get home to try this out!

My husband got me a Garmin for my birthday and it arrived last night. My birthday isn't for another couple of weeks, but he let me open it early! I charged it up last night so I could play with it today. 

Since I was not running tonight, I wore it while I walked the Chiweenie. The watch is easy to use and requires no set up. I put it on, pushed the start button, and had to wait approximately 30 seconds for it to locate a satellite. That's it!

It worked perfectly and validated just how slow the Chiweenie is! His walks consist of mostly sniffing and peeing, so it's not really a work out!

I still need to figure out how to sync it with my computer, but I can't wait to use it on my next run!

Miles logged: 0.0

Music Monday Throw Back: Now That We Found Love

Artist: Heavy D & The Boyz
Title: Now That We Found Love
Fave Line: "I dig the way you wiggle, You don't jiggle."

Miles Logged: 0.0

Failure

I did the responsible thing, but I feel like a complete failure. I considered not even blogging about my run today, but figured others might learn from my experiences.

Since I started running, I never stop, I never cut my run short, I never give up no matter what hurts. I ran my first half marathon with a stress fracture in my foot (I didn't get the official diagnosis until after the race, but I still remember the run that I did it). I used to think this made me a bad ass, but now I realize that it was just stupid. When you have an injury or strain rest is always the best answer. I never follow this advice, unless it is required by a physician, and then it is still questionable.

Today I started to feel tense and tight in my left inner thigh around mile 2 of the run. I stopped to stretch it out and kept on going. I paused to stretch several more times and couldn't get it to loosen up and the pain got progressively worse. I considered turning around to go home, but couldn't make myself actually do it, until about mile 9 and I was already on my way home. I finally gave in to the pain and fear of hurting myself further. I called my husband to pick me up. I know it was the best thing to do, but I still feel like a quitter for doing it. Hopefully some ice, and maybe rest, will help the muscle strain.

Miles logged: 9.4

First Post Race Run

Today was my first post marathon run. The marathon high has not worn off yet, and neither has the "temporary" tattoo. I scrubbed that thing for several minutes in the shower this morning, but it has only faded a little. If I didn't know it before, I know now that I am definitely not a tattoo person. While they may look good on other people (namely David Beckham), their permanence, even the temporary kind, is too much for me!

In addition to the tattoo, I still have a little soreness left over from the race. Hopefully both of these will be gone in the next few days!

Miles logged: 4.0

Malibu International Marathon Race Report

Race morning was an early one. The 3:45am alarm was pretty brutal. But I slept well and was fairly well rested considering. We were out the door on time to catch our 5am bus to the starting line. First present of the day? Low tire pressure sensor pops up on the rental car. We pulled over in a parking lot to inspect the tires, and all 4 looked fine. So we continued down to Zuma Beach, where we would be bussed to the starting line. We made it in plenty of time, found a parking spot easily, and jumped on the 2nd bus. It was completely dark and I was hoping for a quick nap on the bus. But, with my social butterfly husband, we ended up making some friends. One was a first time marathoner and the other was training for an Iron Man in December. He rode 120 miles on his bike the day before, so I felt like a major slacker trying to limit my activity and stay off of my feet as much as possible!

We also saw the race director, Alberto Perusset, at the starting line. We met him several years ago at the San Francisco marathon. He is a fellow barefoot runner. 

I also was fortunate enough to get to meet Yolanda Holder, the Walking Diva. She was completing her 449th marathon! I'd heard an interview with her on the Marathon Show several weeks ago and was looking forward to meeting her. She's the most humble person, and quite shy. She completed the NYC marathon last weekend and was disappointed that Pamela Anderson beat her by 1 minute! 

This is a fairly small marathon, so the start line isn't big with lots of fanfare. It feels comfortable, homey almost. No big crowds, reasonable lines for the potty, and lots of nerves!

We had a moment of silence for Boston, sang the national anthem, then we were off on time. The race plan was to run, have fun, and not to have to shoot my husband like a lame horse if he reinjured his ankle. We decided that I would pace for the first 20 miles, then he would pace the last 10k. In reality, my husband held the pace the whole way. We a hung with the 5 hour pace group for a couple of miles. I enjoyed the comraderie of running with a group, but my husband tired of it quickly. He wanted to get away from the crowd and enjoy the race course in peace and quiet.

Early during the race we were treated to a video from the Year of the Run mascot, Eddie. He's staying with his grandparents this weekend and shot a video of him going for a walk, so we could run with him!

The weather was beautiful. After a stunning sunrise, we enjoyed cool temps and clouds that hung over the sun for a while. I certainly appreciated a bit of reprieve from the sun. As we turned onto PCH, we ran into a head wind. It was pretty punishing in the last few miles when we were working up long hills, but nothing I haven't run against in during my training. 

The views were spectacular and like last year, there were very few spectators. The pitch on the road was pretty bad in some spots, but the scenery made up for it! One of my best friends from college came out around mile 22 to cheer us on with her family. It was great having someone there to yell out my name! It definitely helped me get through the last few miles, as I my left foot was cramping and my calves were on fire. We saw our friends Erin and Brian on the course as well. They were looking good, but I think the distance was getting to them. We hung with each of them for a little while before pushing on. I also ran into a Beyoncé on the route; I had to stop and get a picture of her!

If you haven't read this blog post about Beyoncé, you must! it is one my faves!

Finally, we made it to Malibu! With less than a mile left, I was elated. It was downhill to the finish and the 5 hour pace group was no where to be seen!

We crossed the finish line with a time of 4:50:22, an almost 13 minute PR for me! I could not have done it without the support and pushing of my husband. Thank you Babe for making this such a fun race and an amazing finish time!

After the race was over, we spent some time with a group of my friends and their families. We kicked off our shoes and enjoyed the sand between our toes. Instead of rushing back to the hotel to ice our feet, we splashed around in the freezing cold Pacific!

Loved the tattoo for about a minute...it didn't wash off with my shower and me no likey anymore!

One of my favorite photos of the day. This was right before he face planted in the water, so he still had his dry clothes on!

Thank you to everyone who supported me in my training, gave me well wishes before the race and to those that came out to see us while we were in town! Who wants to run it next year?!?

Miles logged: 26.2

Malibu Marathon Eve

Race day is almost here! And the most exciting thing leading up to the race is the expo and packet pick-up. I wasn't expecting much...as last year's expo consisted of a merchandise table and bib pick up in the lobby of a hotel. I was blown away by the difference a year makes. We had a full-on expo on the beach!! It really doesn't get better than that!

Both Zipfizz (my fave sports drink) and RooSport were there. I ended up buying a ton of Creamsicle flavored Zipfizz. Orange has always been my favorite flavor, and this was just a better version of it (though not available in stores). I haven't used my RooSport pouch yet, but I'm sure it's going to work perfectly for me tomorrow. 

Bib pick-up was under a tent, with the cool sand beneath our feet.

Two Morales' ready for the marathon!

I am so excited for tomorrow!

Miles logged: 0.0

Not the Day I Planned

Days never go quite as you had planned. Today was one of those that gets completely thrown off... I was scheduled down to the minute on where I had to be and when, including inhaling a sandwich in the car for lunch on my way to a client. With a 6:30 flight to LA, I didn't have much time spare. 

So when the fire alarm went off in the middle of a conference call, I knew I was in for it. You see, I work on the 25th floor of an office building. And when the fire alarm goes off, guess what becomes non-functional, elevators. And guess who was not about to walk down 25 flights of stairs. Yep, that's me! 

Over the summer, they were working on the elevators in the garage where I go to the gym and the elevators worked on my way up to the 10th floor, but were out of service by the time I was ready to leave. So I had to go down 10 flights of stairs and I was almost  in tears by the time I got to the bottom. 

My knees aren't in the best shape. My quads couldn't take stairs and a marathon on the same weekend. Instead I walked down 3 flights of stairs and resigned myself to potentially dying in a fire in the 22nd floor. Fortunately it was only a drill and my life and my knees were saved!

Lucky for me it all ended with a cookie cake from my team! Having their support means so much to me! Plus, I have carbo loading material for the plane!

Miles logged: 0.0

Last Pre-Marathon Run

Today was my last run before the Malibu marathon. And what a relief it was that it was a good run. I felt great, my legs were light, and I was fast. A run like that is definitely good for the spirit.

I've been doing my best trying to not think about the big race. The less I think about it, the less anxious I will be for the next few days. However, I did break out my 2012 Malibu Marathon Finishers Towel (yup, the Malibu Marathon gives out a finishers towel instead of race shirts! Just one more reason it is the best marathon ever!) for my shower today. I did feel like a winner when I was drying off!

We fly out to LA tomorrow night and will be meeting up with some of my husband's family and some good friends from college. I'm so happy to have their support since my cheering squad from last year aren't able to make the trip.

Miles logged: 3.5

Music Monday: Pompeii

Artist: Bastille
Title: Pompeii
Fave Line: "But if you close your eyes, does it almost feel like nothing changed at all?"

Miles logged: 0.0

Music Monday: Best Day of My Life

Artist: American Authors
Title: Best Day of My Life
Fave Line: "I'm never gonna look back. Whoa, never gonna give it up!"

Miles logged: 0.0

Last Long Run

Long should be in quotations, as my run was only 10 miles. While training for a marathon, your perspective gets totally effed. I remember training for my first half marathon and 10 miles was complete agony. Now, it's quick, easy, and done in less than 2 hours. That means I have the WHOLE day to do whatever I want, which equals boring chores around the house. But it also means extra time lounging on the couch snuggling with the Chiweenie! 

I decided to live on the edge and not even ice my feet after running. I'm such a rebel!

Did I have 16 miles left in me? Hell yea!

It's one week until race day people. Malibu better be ready for me!

Miles logged: 10.3

Juice Fasting Again

I've started another juice fast (modified, I drink juice and eat raw fruits and veggies only). This time it's for a max of 10 days. I'd like to lose a couple of pounds and feel great before the marathon arrives. I have forgotten how difficult the first few days are... Yesterday (the first day) wasn't too bad. I went to bed hungry, but that was about the extent of my pain. Today started with the headache (which I still have), the constant hunger, and a little crankiness. I've asked my team at work to please forgive my bad attitude for the next couple of days. I'm really trying, but it's hard.

And, to add insult to injury, we had a group lunch to welcome a new hire. I didn't want to be the poor team player by not going, so I did my best to order within the confines of the juice fast. I ordered the soup and salad combo. The soup was gazpacho...and while I'm a hot soup person, I figured I could make do with the cold soup and not blow the whole diet. Well, the gazpacho was green. That was a bit of a shock, once I tasted it, I realized there was a ton of basil in it that must have made it look like pesto. The flavor wasn't terrible, but the texture was. It was the most bizarre thing. It was fizzy, almost like someone dropped a pop rock in it. WEIRD. I attempted to eat it, but couldn't get much down. So I basically had about a cup of lettuce for lunch. I was still starving!

I snacked on grapes and carrots and had a protein bar right before my run today (this is the only allowance I give myself, before a run). But I still couldn't get my full mileage in. I felt weak and a bit dizzy at the 2.5 mile mark. I squeezed out another mile, but couldn't get to 4 miles. Looking back, I'm sure I could have run that last half mile--5 minutes, but mentally I quit.

Hopefully by Thursday I'll be over the juice fast hump and feeling great!

Miles logged: 3.5

Music Monday: Burn

Artist: Ellie Goulding
Title: Burn
Fave Line: "Cause we got the fire, fire fire. We gonna let it burn, burn, burn." (I'm kind of a pyro).

Miles logged: 0.0

I Broke the World Record for the Mile

Actually, according to mapmyrun, I shattered it! I ran a mile in 1:30. That's lightning fast! And it's weird because I ran the mile before took me 21:25. I must have been conserving energy, or mapmyrun was on the fritz today... The lady that announces your progress and your pace was having a hard time giving me feedback, her updates were extremely slow. When I realized that I had gone much further than 7 miles, but hadn't heard my progress, I took out my phone to see what was going on. The app hadn't updated in over a mile and had me far behind. I gave it a moment to catch up and shortly thereafter I received the news of my epic mile!

Anyone else having issues with the mapmyrun app?

Miles logged: 15.0

6 Year Old Half Marathon Finisher

In our great state of Texas, a 6 year old girl has stirred up quite the controversy. Not because of something outrageous she did at recess, or for a YouTube stunt, but for her athleticism. Little Keelan Glass finished her first half marathon this past weekend and made a world record with her finishing time of 2:47:30.

Did you get that? A first grader ran a half marathon; at a time when her friends were watching cartoons, playing Barbies, and coloring in their coloring books, she was out running 13.1 miles. And it was her idea. 

Now critics are surfacing about the damage a child this young could be doing to their body by running such distances. Look, I'm a fully grown adult and I experienced cartilage damage and a stress fracture while training for my first half marathon. Running these kinds of distances is dangerous for all of us, not just kids. But with the proper coaching and training, you can run them safely. 

I think the bigger concern here is who drank her finish line beer? It better not have gone to waste!

Miles logged: 0.0

Music Monday: Summertime Sadness

Since the cold weather has arrived and summer is officially over, it's OK for us to mourn it.

Artist: Lana Del Rey
Title: Summertime Sadness Remix
Fave Line: "Honey, I'm on fire, I feel it everywhere. Nothing scares me anymore."

Miles logged: 0.0

Almost There

I was really dreading today's run. It was the longest on my training schedule and the last of the ridiculously long runs, so I should have been elated. If I could finish this, I would know I was ready for race day. However, I was still feeling soreness from the shin splint episode earlier this week and was truly afraid that I wouldn't be able to finish.

Thankfully it was freezing out (in the low 40s, the coldest temps we've seen this season, so it felt much colder than it actually was), so I could focus on how cold my hands were and how much my ears hurt and by the 3rd mile, I wasn't feeling any pain in my legs at all. That doesn't mean this was an easy run for me, because it wasn't. I made it through 16 miles before having to stop to go potty (which means I should only have to stop once during the marathon) and since I usually am about to pee on myself by mile 3, I think this is significant progress!

Let the tapering begin!

Miles logged: 22.0

Shin Splints

So this is what I get for hauling ass, anterior shin splints. Either that or I have a tumor (thanks to a quick google search, I could be dying). 

Ever had them before? I haven't, and they hurt like hell. When I was running my long run this weekend, I noticed that the lower part of the inside of my shin was sore. The pain wasn't unbearable and everything hurt at the end of that run, so I thought nothing of it (I blame this on a different pair of aqua sox that I didn't like). It also was bothering me a bit yesterday, but I couldn't figure out how to stretch it out. I felt like I needed to use the foam roller on it.

Normally I don't run 2 days in a row, but due to some work obligations tomorrow, I had to run today instead. Boy did the pain come on strong. I couldn't even finish my 4-mile goal (I may have also been struggling a little bit from the Tiff's Treats cookie I had minutes before leaving the office). It hurt on both legs, but my right leg was much worse. I stopped my run short and spent a few minutes on the elliptical. 

I came home and iced the area and used the Thumper to massage it. I don't have another run until this weekend, so I'm hoping that a few days is enough rest for the pain to subside. 

Miles logged: 2.5

Bad Days

Do you ever just have days where everything is off. I had one of those evenings, but the running was fine, it was everything else. This week is my highest mileage week, with a 22-miler coming up this weekend, and my body is starting to feel the wear and tear of training for a marathon. The outside of my knees are starting to hurt, as are the inside of my lower calves (no idea what the heck to attribute that pain to). But all in all, I'm feeling pretty good. 

So, what all went wrong, you ask? Well, let me tell you. Just over halfway into my run, some guy got on the treadmill to my left. He had a beard, a backpack, and a horrible funk. The kind of funk that you would imagine comes from lacking a shower for a week. It was repulsive. I almost turned to him to say something about how offensive he smelled, but decided against it. I coughed and gagged, but made it through. I did not complete my quarter mile cool-down. I hopped off that treadmill as quickly as possible once I was done. 

After running, I've taken to using one or two of the arm machines before going home. I had plenty of time today, so I did just that. And my stupid cell phone died between sets. For the record, it had 27% power when it spontaneously died. So I couldn't call my husband on my way home or check how bad the traffic was in the pouring down rain. And I had to stop and get gas. And some a-hole almost hit me on my way to fill up while I had a green light to turn. And Eddie pooped on my bathroom rug because it is just too wet outside for his bowel movements. 

Miles logged: 4.0

Healthy Competition

I guess I'm more competitive than I like to think, especially when it comes to running. I run for me. I know I'll never win a race. I'll never qualify for Boston. I'm totally fine getting beat by thousands of people. I can only run as fast as my training has prepared me, and I'm OK with that slow pace.

So I was surprised with myself today. As I was running up a fairly long hill, complaining to myself about the hot humid morning, about how tired my feet were, and pondering walking, I saw another runner in my peripheral vision, who was beating me up the hill! I don't know where she came from. I don't know if she was running on the other side of the street the and got ahead of me, if she just turned onto the street, or if she had been running up the hill before me and I was catching up to her.

I don't know what clicked in my head, but I had to beat that woman. I turned on the afterburners and sped up the rest of the hill. By the time I reached the top to turn around and do it again, the woman was way behind and walking. I totally beat her!

Miles logged: 15.0

Music Monday: Applause

Title: Applause
Artist: Lady Gaga
Fave Line: "Live for the applause-plause. Live for the way that you cheer and scream for me." I think this could be the best finish line song ever!

Miles logged: 0.0

The Year of the Run Blogger #Exposed

It's Exposed Movement Week and if you read any other fitness related blogs, you've probably heard of this movement already. It's about exposing your body (not like that, you pervert!) and recognizing it for what it has accomplished. Basically you post a photo of yourself, up close, in a bikini and celebrate your body. 

In theory I love this idea. Break down the barriers of self hatred, improve self esteem, and applaud the amazing things your body has done.

In reality, there is no reason for there to be a picture of me in a bikini floating around on the internet. It's not that I have body image issues, because I really don't. I wear spandex, tank tops, and white pants, but not all at the same time. It's not because I am not proud of the legs that have carried me through 13 half marathons and 1 full marathon that I've completed, because I am-I talk about them all the time.

I just don't need a bikini photo popping up if my current or future employer googles me, or if an old boyfriend needs a target for dart practice, or for some reason I'm on the news and that's the stock photo they pick (you know how unfortunate some of those pictures are). 

More power to the ladies that are embracing Exposed Movement Week! You all are an inspiration to me and others and deserve tons of recognition for what you are doing!

Miles logged: 0.0

A Big 20 Miles

The good news is that spring fall has FINALLY arrived. The bad news is that I'm still sick. I skipped running yesterday in favor of sleeping in, cooler temperatures and hopefully, less congestion. I got 2 out of the 3.

I woke up around 7:30 unable to breathe through my nose and with a hacking cough that made me think those guys from the mucinex commercial had taken permanent residence in my chest. I took a decongestant and waited around for the magic to happen. It never did. By 9, I knew I had to get started. No matter if I had to crawl the whole way, I was going to finish the 20-miler. And if I was crawling, it was going to take me a long time! 

Thankfully temps in the 50s made running bearable, and by the second mile, I was feeling like I could breathe. I ran 2 8-mile loops, pausing at the driveway after each to collect a new water bottle and grab a Clif bar. I felt remarkably good and was maintaining a sub-11 minute pace, including 2 bathroom stops at the park. The last 4 mile loop was pretty tough, but I made it through and I feel like I'm actually on track with my training. Last week I felt the opposite. It's surprising what 30 degrees can do!

After I finished my run, I was so excited to use my new foot bath. I've been climbing on the countertop in the guest bathroom for years and soaking my feet in the sink (my bathroom was a pedestal until just recently and is now a vessel sink, which is also not conducive to foot soaking). But, we just went through a major remodel and replaced the vanity with a much taller one and it's difficult for me to clamber up after a long run. 

So I've been looking for a foot bath that will allow me to sit in a chair and ice my feet. I remember my mom had one when we were kids and you put hot water in it and it vibrated and it was so cool! According to the reviews on Amazon, something like I remember doesn't exist. Instead, I settled for one that would (hopefully) fit my husband's size 13 feet. It's features included not keeping water hot, not massaging, and bubbles. For $25, it would hold enough water and ice to refresh my feet. And on that, it did not disappoint!!

Miles logged: 20.0

Sweat Much?

I used to joke that I worked out in the comfort of an air conditioned gym because I didn't like to sweat. Mostly it was because I was lazy and climate control made exercising easier. What I've learned since I started running is that I'm quite a sweater, inside or out.

For example, today I sweat so much (inside the gym) that I couldn't hear my headphones through the sweat that had dripped into my ear. I use those Yurbuds that fit a bit deeper into your ear than traditional earbuds. Apparently my ear canal filled with sweat and sweat must have the same sound conducting properties as water, because I couldn't hear any music in my right ear. It was a bit disorienting, as I could feel the bass in my head, but I could only hear it in one ear.

I managed not to fall off the treadmill, though I did have to pause to dry out my ear. Gross!

Miles logged: 5.0

Music Monday: Work Bitch

Artist: Britney Spears
Title: Work Bitch
Fave Line: "Now get to work bitch! Bring it on, ring the alarm. Don't stop now, just be the champion!

Miles logged: 0.0

Racing the Rain

When I woke up this morning, I knew I was racing this. We were in for a weekend of rain and I wasn't interested in running 15 miles on the treadmill.

Yum, who wants Chick-fil-a??

It was cloudy and dark and I wanted nothing more than to roll over and go back to sleep after my alarm sounded. I was dumb enough to get up. Even though it is almost October, it was hot and humid out. At least the sun wasn't shining. I had a pretty terrible run, and now I'm doubting my training. With only 6 weeks left until Malibu, I'm not feeling like I'm going to be ready in time. But I have 4 good weeks of training before tapering starts, so I need to have a tight focus on the race.

This puddle is the sweat that dripped from my hat when I stopped to eat a snack. GROSS!!

Miles logged: 15.0

Still in Recovery

The road to recovery has been a long road for me this time. I haven't been able to bounce back as quickly as I usually do. After two rounds of antibiotics and several weeks, I hope I'm actually going to get over it this time. 

We spent last week in California and only managed to get in one run. My lungs burned for several miles, so it was probably a bit premature. We hiked up to Vernal Falls in Yosemite, so I'm going to claim that as a workout too! It was a much needed trip of rest and relaxation and a break from the petri-dish of an office that I've been working in. 

I've made it to the gym twice this week and have run reasonably well considering I'm still coughing. Hopefully only a couple of more days until I'm as good as new!

Miles logged: 5.0

Music Monday: Harlem

Artist: New Politics
Title: Harlem
Fave Line: "Run like me, like hell, like everybody else"

Miles Logged: 0.0

Music Monday: The Walker

Artist: Fitz and the Tantrums
Title: The Walker
Fave Line: "Crazy's what they think about me. Ain't gonna stop cause they tell me so. Cause 99 miles per hour baby, Is how fast that I like to go!"

Miles logged: 5.0

Sickness Strikes Again

I had my 2 year blogging anniversary this week and then I just dropped off the planet. I had a couple of after work activities and I managed to get sick, AGAIN. I've been fighting a sore throat for the last week and it got the best of me on Thursday. The great news is that I was in an all-day planning sessions with one of my clients, so a whole group of people got to watch my downward spiral. Friday was even worse and I didn't make it to lunch before I had to get myself to the doctor. This cold progressed the opposite way for me, starting with coughing and congestion in my chest before moving into my head.

I didn't get a diagnosis, but I got a shot in the arm (which still hurts today) and a prescription for antibiotics. I've spent the last 2 days in bed and I am feeling a little better today. I attribute any and all progress to the help of the Hot Toddy. I've missed the 19 mile run that I had planned this weekend and will be on vacation (again, yay!) next week. Hopefully I can take it easy and get my respiratory system back into shape.

Miles logged: 0.0

Happy Blog-aversary

Today is the 2 year anniversary of this blog and I thought I would memorialize the occasion with my Running Top 10 List. Yep, just like David Letterman, but less funny.

1. My Camel is my security blanket.

2. I don't believe in recovery runs.

3. Stretching is stupid.

4. I have an unhealthy obsession with aqua sox.

5. I might be addicted to Zipfizz, orange flavor.

6. I keep a bunny count during every run so that I can share it with my Chiweenie when I get home.

7. I run races for the medals and beer.

8. I wear sunglasses because my eyes are sensitive to light. Also, I like to stare at other people and judge them while I'm running. 

9. It's sometimes necessary for me to go to the bathroom in the woods. I consider it marking my territory. 

10. I love carbo loading. 

Miles logged: 0.0

Music Monday: Ways to Go

Artist: Grouplove
Title: Ways to Go
Fave Line: The chorus--"I've got a little bit longer. I've got a ways to go." This line is exactly what runs through my head during long runs, but in the opposite order. It sounds like this: I still have a ways to go, 10 miles left to run. It's only a little bit longer!

Miles logged: 0.0

Running Alone

I was convinced that as soon as September arrived, so would the cool weather.  I think I've been stupid enough to believe this farce for several years. Well, we are a week in and it's still in the 100's. I would venture to say that it was almost cool when I left the house this morning in the dark. 

I was on my own today, because my running buddy is out to a back injury. At least there wasn't a threat of him drinking out of my camel again... And I realized that I run better alone. When it is just me, I can't use anyone else as a crutch or excuse to to slow down or walk. It's much easier for me to justify in my head that we need to take a walk break because my husband is having a bad day-I'm doing a good deed and walking to help him out. Such a crock, but I do tell myself that!

While today's run was long, hot, and difficult, I just keep focusing on Malibu. Less than 3 months and I'll have another marathon under my belt!

Miles logged: 18.0

Have an Awesome Run!

Miles logged: 4.0

Malibu Marathon 2013

Malibu is going to happen again this year! 10 weeks left until D-day!!!

Miles logged: 4.0

Music Monday: Counting Stars

Artist: One Republic
Title: Counting Stars
Fave Line: "Old, but I'm not that old. Young, but I'm not that bold."

Miles logged: 0.0

Sharing

I'm not an only child. I have an older brother. He is 2 years older than me. We were in high school and college together. So how I got to this point in my life, I'm not sure. Here's my confession: I don't share.

How does this relate to running at all? Well, today I had to share my ice cold zipfizz with my husband.

Today's run was supremely hot; it was tough from the first mile. I had been running with a water bottle and was wearing my Camel. In this heat, my Camel will only last me about 8 miles and we had 15 to get through today. I refill the water bottle until I only have 8 miles left, and then toss it out and start lightening the load on my back. It's not a bad plan, until you have to alter it.

My husband was struggling today and at one point said he was dizzy and on the verge of throwing up. So we took a break at a picnic table so he could cool down. I offered up a sip of my yet-to-be touched zipfizz. And he took one long swig. And then another. And I started to silently tally the number of extra miles I was going to have to continue drinking hot, dirt tasting water. But he needed the liquid and I wanted to do whatever he needed to start feeling better. When he took the third drink, why did I feel so irritated about the whole thing? It's not like he purposely started feeling bad just so he could trick me out of my zipfizz. And I must remember, I am the one that offered it up--how effed up is my head?!

Miles logged: 15.0

I keep missing the memo

Yesterday was Jersey day at one of my clients' and I was wearing a suit. Today, apparently was boy short day at the gym, and I was wearing my baggy running shorts. You know the strange thing? It was only boys wearing them...

Miles logged: 4.0

Music Monday: Give it 2 U

In honor of the end of summer, here's another song by the singer of the summer!

Artist: Robin Thicke featuring Kenrick Lamar
Title: Give it 2 U
Fave Line: "Runnin' through your mind like Jackie Joyner" (who I saw speak at an American Heart Association lunch once...she didn't talk much about running though).

Miles logged: 0.0

El Fin del Mundo

I know this is supposed to be a running blog, but I'm in the southernmost city in the entire world, in the middle of winter. I would not be caught dead running on ice and snow in sub zero temps, but I want to share my trip with you. So, this post will chronicle my adventures of not running in Ushuaia!

First of all, I'm really excited to be here as you can tell. We've arrived at the end of the world after spending several days in Buenos Aires. Now is our time to relax and unwind with nature. I'm fighting off a cold, which really sucks, but even more so when you are on vacation. Thank goodness for very helpful pharmacists or else I would be worse for the wear. 

Ushuaia was once a penal colony and has obviously weighed heavily in their history. They've preserved the original jail and have turned it into a museum, with each of the cells holding maritime, prison, and local art history. It was built like a starfish, with 2 story arms of cells. I noted that this setup is very similar to the way old folks homes are now being built. Coincidence?

Just like the Green Mile, right?

Some of the prisoners needed counseling, so I stepped right in with my long list of credentials.

We took a short cruise down the Beagle Channel.

The city of Ushuaia is in the background. 

Despite being the middle of winter, we got to see sea lions and penguins (I guess some of them didn't get the March of the Penguins memo)! After just enjoying Shark Week, I was half expecting to see a Great White shark crest and gobble up one of these guys, but we didn't see anything of the sort. 

And to round out a very exciting day, we took a night trip to Valle de Lobos for a once in a lifetime experience. With temps hovering around 5 degrees Fahrenheit and heavy snow, we drove 4x4's in the dark, rode in a dog sled, and went snowshoeing. 

My husband let me drive and I repaid him by kicking up snow in his face.

We had to have 13 dogs pull this load!

I did a little running in these snow shoes. However, they don't prevent you from falling into the snow very much. Perhaps Wilson rackets would have worked better.

And finally, today we hired a car to take us to the Tierra del Fuego national park. We were hoping to see some wildlife, preferably a fox (our driver had seen several of them on a recent trip), but we weren't so lucky. We were rewarded with amazing views and a fantastic day of sightseeing. 

The adventure unfortunately ends tomorrow, with a very long trip home. While this has been a fantastic vacation, I'm looking forward to getting out of the cold to get over this cold and snuggling up with my puppy. 

Miles logged: 0.0