A change of scenery-25 miles

This week was pretty fabulous! I got all of my runs in-except for moving Saturdays to Monday. Kim, Hillary, and I ran the Jordan River Parkway. It was beautiful! It was so good to have a change of scenery. We did 10 miles, and it felt great! I have really loved having friends to run with. It is making something that is really hard, really fun. Pony Express 5K is coming up and I am really stoked about it. I have a lot of great friends running so it will be so much fun! Nothing more really to report except that school is almost out, YEAH!!! I am hoping to get the kids out in the mornings and get some good activity in, I haven't got it quite figured out, but I have a few more days. TaTa for now!

2 week review-lots of miles!

So, I wasn't so good about posting my last two weeks, but the fact that they actually took place is what matters, right? I have upped my runs to 4 weekday, and a long one on Saturday. It's good. I feel good. I have started working a little bit on speed intervals, hard stuff. I know it will help me so it must be done. The last two weekend runs I have buddied up with a partner. I have never really ran and carried on a conversation before. I was hoping I could do it, and I did. It was so nice to chat with someone, rather than fighting with my head for the first few miles. It really made things go by faster. For my Saturday runs I did 9 miles two weeks ago, and about 7 this last week. I am trying to convince myself for 10 on Saturday. I am trying to target my weekly mileage around 22-26 miles. I got all signed up for the Pony Express 5K, should be fun! I'll do better about posting this next week. I promise!

New opportunities-I don't know how many miles

Just because I haven't been posting, doesn't mean I haven't been running. Running seems to be the only thing that has helped get me out of the slump I have slid into. I have only done 3 and 4 mile runs recently. I started a new training schedule this week. Let me lay it out for you. I plan on heading out at 6:30 in the morning on weekdays, slightly later on the weekends. I will do 3 on monday, 4 on Tuesday, 5 on Wednesday, break Thursday, 3 on Friday, and 8-10 on Saturday. I will most likely just be posting at the end of my week and recap the weeks runs. Unless of course, something significant takes place. I just signed up for the Hobble Creek Half Marathon in August. Apparently it's a pretty popular event because it sold out in only 24 hours. I feel so lucky to be one of the 1200 runners that has a ticket! I also plan on doing the Pony Express 5K. Emity and I had talked about it years ago but never acted on it. So, better late than never. I am excited to do some training with her, I have been on my own for months now. Mr. Tim(Lucas' pre-school teacher) told me that his wife runs regularly, so I dropped him a note to pass to her, all but begging for a running partner. She responded and we will start doing our Saturday runs together, and more once school lets out. I feel renewed by these new opportunities. Somebody really is watching out for me!

INSTALLMENT #1-postpartum race day

I haven't got around to posting much, due to postpartum race. Yes, I feel like I just had a baby. Not physically(amazingly), but mentally. It seems that having a baby is the only thing I can compare it to. I will cry at the drop of a hat if I even start thinking about the training, the race, and the knowledge I have gained. So I will post my experience in installments, there is simply too much I feel to lay it all out in one post, and it would take forever. So please be patient with me as I am processing all of this. It may sound silly that I have such high emotions, but I really have put my whole heart and soul into this for the last 3 months. I am feeling better today. I was itching to get out and run this morning. I did 3 miles, it was so therapeutic. It was exactly what my heart and my mind needed. My run was definitely was what got me through the rest of my day. For now, enjoy this tiny little pic. I copied it off of the site that took photos at the race. So unless I buy it(which I plan on doing), it remains small so as not to be duplicated. I would post some of my own pics, but I have none of me running the race. For some odd reason my photographer(Steve) thought I was dressed in red, not white. Can't imagine why. He watched me get dressed, spent the morning with me, and even hugged me and bid me farewell before the race. He didn't even see me finish. He was looking for his Lady in Red(not to be found). In fact, I didn't even see him for a good 20 minutes after finishing. I had to borrow a cell phone and call him. He asked where I was. I told him I had finished long ago. It was oh so lonely. Ok, I have to stop writing now, I am holding back my tears. See, still to soon for me to write. I will leave you with my official time which was 2 hours 2 minutes 10 seconds.

I DID IT!-13.1

I DID IT!!! It was incredible, and so much fun!!! That's all I can say for now, I haven't quite wrapped my head around it yet. My time was 2:01 and maybe some seconds. I don't have an official time yet, but from the clocks I was watching that is my best estimate. I will have a whole post with pics later, for now, I am snoozing. Thanks everyone for all your support. I have the very best friends and familyever!!!

LAST WEEK...AND THIS WEEK

This last week of training was great! I cross trained on Monday, ran 4 on Tuesday, cross trained Wednesday, ran 3 on Thursday, and ran 8 on Saturday. This week is mainly a week of rest. I thought this week would never come. I only have to do 2 runs of 3 miles, and then walk 2 miles on Thursday. I ran my first 3 today, so only one more run before the big day! On Sunday we went and drove the half marathon course. I really needed to see the course so I knew that I had really trained for what I was about to do. The course was beautiful. I am excited to put my feet to the road. After scoping out the course, we stopped at Sugar House Park to meet Steve's side of the family for a picnic. His cousin Linsey(my hair dresser, and the one who got me excited to run the race)was there and I couldn't wait to make plans with her for Saturday. I asked her if she was ready to run. She then let me in on her little secret about being pregnant, Yeah!!! That was a legitimate, and wonderful excuse not to run. Her dad(Uncle Daryl), and her sister Megan are still running the race. They took me under their wing(being a first time marathon runner)and made plans with me for the day. They are even going to pick me up at the hotel that morning, just to make sure we meet up. Aunt Julie and Linsey will stop at the cheering sections to offer food and fluids, and then meet us at the end, along with Steve and my boys. I feel so much better about everything. Just knowing I have friends on the course makes it all that much better! I have a few things left still that I would like to do before Friday. I'll keep you posted as I get them done. I feel so giddy this week. I couldn't even sleep last night. All I could think about was running the course. I really can't wait until Saturday. I wish it would just get here already!

SUMMING UP MY WEEK AGAIN-walk-3-4-9

I have been so lazy about journaling my runs. This last week was a really off week for me. I felt like I "hit the wall" after my 12.5 mile last Saturday. Monday started off a little rough. I left with the best of intentions for my run, but it was so chilly and windy, so I walked instead. So I tried for Tuesday, and I literally felt like I was dragging a cow behind me. I was going to quit after mile 2 miles, and then I ran into Marianne(who is an awesome gal who runs like crazy) and she said "come run", so I did. She helped me get the rest of the way. I was so thankful for her influence, and for the man above for placing her there right when I needed her. She gave me some great suggestions, like, "it's OK to take a break if your tired, "listen to your body", "just cross train", and "don't focus so much on your time, just finish". All of this advice has really helped me get thorough the rest of my week. Wednesday I received a package from my Sister-in-law in Massachusetts. She had made the cutest t-shirts for my boys to wear the day of the marathon(I'll post pics of them from the marathon once I'm done). It has a big picture of me on the front and it says, "My mom ran a 1/2 marathon". And then for the finishing touch, on the back it says, "Who's your mama?"(I think that was my brother's little addition!)I was laughing, and wanting to cry all at the same time as I pulled it from the box. It really was a pick me upper, and I needed it desperately. Another little thing, pushing me forward to reach the end, I mean gees, how could I NOT do it, now that I have these shirts saying that I did? Thursday's run was interesting to say the least. I ran 2 miles, and had the WORST side ache, so I walked for a couple minutes, and then ran again. Then I walked for a few again, and ran, and walked, and ran. It was just how I had to do it to get it done. But, the important thing was that I DID get it done! I was worried about the weather for Saturday morning. My plan was that I woulds do it Sunday if needed. But, the weather held out just for me. It was perfect running conditions for my liking. I did my 9 miles just fine, no problems. Steve had a side job he was at, so I had no one to replenish me with fluids, but I did fine. I am feeling sooo much better now. I am excited for this week. It is my last REAL week before the half marathon. I am looking forward to it!

WEEK IN REVIEW-4-6-12.5 miles

I have neglected to journal my runs this week, due to a crazy week at our house. Don't worry, I haven't given up! I skipped Monday's run. My hip flexer wasn't doing well after Saturdays long run, so I opted to take a healing day and I am glad I did. It was doing a lot better by Wednesday. Running Monday wasn't worth worsening my injury and blowing my whole week. Wednesday I did 6 miles, nothing to exciting to report. Thursday's usual run took place on Friday because of the crappy weather. I did 4 miles. I usually have Friday as a rest day to prep for Saturday, so I was hoping it would be OK, it was. Today's run was awesome!!! Steve found me at mile 6, and was there for the remainder leading me through. He stopped every 2 miles to replenish me with fluids. I finished at the corner of Smith's. I took a little detour from what was planned to avoid construction. We remeasured on the way home and I actually did 12.5 miles. My time was 1 hour 52 minutes. I was pleased! I had a one on one with Hawk Harper (this man is amazing, actually his whole family is, click on his name for all the info)yesterday up at his store, the Runners Corner. He gave me some great suggestions to help with my form and speed. I tested it today and it helped a ton! A pep talk from him was exactly what I needed for today. I feel well prepared for the half marathon. I am totally stoked. the next few weeks leading up to it are a bit less intense, it will be a good break. I will keep you posted!

ENDURANCE-11 miles

My run was great today, 1 hour 41 minutes. Upping my miles this week really helped my endurance for this long run. I am excited for 12 miles next week. I am going to change my route and head towards Smith's. I haven't measured the miles out yet, but I'll probably end up in the parking lot. Anyone need me to pick up a few groceries? The route for the marathon is down grade for 9 miles. I have trained a lot uphill, but need to train a little more downhill. The run down to Saratoga will closely compare to the marathon. It will also be a good change of scenery. My hip flexer is killing me today. I can hardly lift my leg to walk up the stairs, of put my pants on. I am really going to rest this so I can recover for Monday. Hopefully all will be well.

WE BOOKED A ROOM-4 miles

This weeks miles increased to 4-6-4. I was hoping I could do it. I did. Yeah!!!! We booked a room today at the Marriott for the marathon. We are going to make a weekend of it. My mom-in-law had a coupon for "buy a night, get a night". So we will go up Friday and pick up my registration packet, head to the pasta party, and chill for the night. We are going to bring the boys with us, and leave the girls. The boys need some good bonding time with mom and dad, so that's what they'll get. We will stay the next night as well, so we;ll hang out after the race and maybe hit the planetarium and the pool. I am so excited. Staying in Salt Lake seemed like the best way to do this. The race starts at 7:00, so we would have to leave the house by 4:00 to get to the starting line through the 25,000 spectators they plan on attending. Now I can get up early and head on TRAX to get to the start. Then my boys can sleep in and meet me at the finish line, hopefully by 9:00. I think it will all work out well, I hope!

GEARING UP-6 miles

I ventured up the hill today, hoping to mentally prepare myself for Saturday. I am anxiously awaiting Saturday, 2 more big runs before the marathon. It's all is starting to feel so real now. I just keep reminding myself that "I can do hard things!" And ya, this is definitely hard!

HOT! HOT! HOT!-4 miles

And did I mention windy. Well ok, maybe just breezy. But combine it with the heat and WHOOOO BABY!!!!! For the first time today on my run I was reallly really thirsty. I usually run 6 miles before I am ready for fluids, but today I was ready at mile one. I couldn't believe it! I have been drinking water all afternoon! It was hard today, but I got it done!!! Thank goodness!!!

A BEAUTIFUL MORNING-10 miles

It was an absolute perfect morning for a long run. Clear blue skies, a slight chill in the air, and not even a breeze to push or hinder. This week was much easier than my 9 miles last week. I haven't been eating enough(so I've been told). Apparently 1200 calories a day isn't enough for an avid runner, especially when your burning that many on your weekend run. So, I've upped my calories a bit this week, and I can see a difference in my performance. Last week I almost didn't make it up the hill, I wanted to cry and quit. This week was fine, I flew right up. My time was awesome today, 1 hour and 31 minutes. I did 10 miles today in only 4 more minutes than my 9 miles last week. My time is improving a lot faster than I thought it would. I am definitely not complaining about that! This next week is pretty intense. By the end of the week I will have ran 25 mile2. Wish me luck!

UP AND GOING-3 miles

I got out early and got my run in. Once again, nothing to exciting to report. Same cracks in the road, same landmarks in the sky. I'm just mainly trying to mentally prepare for Saturday. It will come so quickly! I loaded some new songs on my IPOD tonight. I'm looking forward to running to a few new tunes.

WHAT NEXT-5 miles

The thought has crossed my mind about what I'm going to do after the SLC Half-Marathon. I really don't want to go back to doing nothing. I am planning on doing the 5k for the city, so I'll work on getting good speed, but what else? I checked into the Wasatch Back relay marathon today. My training schedule correlates with theirs. The timing is perfect. It's sounds like so much fun. You have a team of 12 runners and you each take 3 legs over a 170 mile course. All you do is sleep, run , repeat. And, of course cheer for all your team members. So, all I need is a team! That's the not so easy part. Anyone interested? I could always join a team of 11 people I don't know, SCARY!!!! I am going to give it some more thought, we'll see if anything comes of it. At least it has me thinking. My run was energizing today. It feels so good, most of the time!

MORNING RUN-3miles

Today's run was good! I was able to get out early this morning since there was no school today. The weather was perfect. It snowed this afternoon. So glad I got out early. I was browsing on the SLC Marathon site today, It got me excited! I'm all registered now so there is no turning back.

A GOOD HARD RUN-9 miles

I will keep my post short today, since I have been so long winded all week(I'm really just so exhausted). I did it! It was hard but good, as always. I was pleased with my time today. I was gone and back in 1 hour 27 minutes. The weather held out just for me. Sun was shining strong, with a slight breeze. Next week will be hard, I'm thinking about it already. My miles bump up again throughout the week. All I can say is that this is getting really, really, intense. More so than I could have ever imagined.

26 MINUTES&28 SECONDS-3 miles

Yesterday's run was hard. Only 3 miles, but I think my head was messing with me from my previous days trauma. I bought a stop watch at Wal-mart today. It is so lame. Nothing, compared to the GPS one I have my eyes on. But, it will time my runs for me, so it was worth the twelve dollars I spent. Upon finishing my run the numbers read-26 minutes, and 28 seconds. I was floored! I shaved a good 3 1/2 minutes off of my normal run. So, something was to be gained from my run on Wednesday. My purpose for running up Unity Pass was to increase my speed, due to working hard up the hills. Pushing through the wind was great resistance training. It wasn't planned, but it worked. I got exactly what I wanted. See, somebody really knew what I needed. He did answer my prayers, just in a different way. He knew what I wanted most in my heart of hearts. He knew I wanted to run, and be good at it. He provided a way for me to receive it, to train for it, even though it was hard. I know he was hurting, to see me hurting. But he had a plan for me, i just needed to accept it. I did, and rewards were recieved. He knew what was best for me. He was ultimately watching out for my interests. He gave me the inner strength to push through, and achieve.

DOWNHILL BATTLE-5 miles

Today was pivotal for me. It was either going to make me, or break me. Today's forecast-windy. I prayed all the way to the head of the trail that just maybe the heavens would open and swallow up all the wind, just for an hour, so I could get my run in. The wind pushed from behind as I began to head up Unity Pass. "Great", I thought. I could use nature's force to help me up that hill. The wind pushed harder than I needed it to. It was making me move so fast that I felt myself tripping over my feet. My heart rate and temperature climbed. I decided to ditch my jacket and my car keys at a post just off the trail. I would just grab them on the way down, no big deal. Going up was really hard. My body wasn't use to moving at this speed. I always tell myself that if I go up, I get to go down. That is usually motivation enough to reach the top. I made it up, and reversed to go down. An enormous blast of air greeted me. It blew my hat off and tossed it down the hill, the other direction. So, up again I went, chasing my hat. I grabbed it and headed down again. It felt like I was headed nowhere. I've told you my gripe with a treadmill. Well, this was worse. Resistance on top of going nowhere. I watched the ground as I seemed to only inch forward. Where was my reward of getting to go down? I had worked so hard for a few pleasurable moments. I seriously would have rather run up this hill twice, than go down it once. So, trying to be positive, my thoughts were, "If I can get down this hill, the wind will be less forceful in the valley. So I persisted downwards. The valley offered no relief to this awful wind. In fact, it was maybe worse(I don't know, it all felt bad). I wanted so badly to stop, and walk. But I knew I would have to hang out in this wind longer if I chose to do that. So the only alternative was to just RUN! So, I did. Deep down I was hoping someone I knew would drive by, see me struggling, and rescue me. In the distance I saw a familiar vehicle. Sure enough, Marci was driving by. Maybe she would see me and return for me. At that point I had some serious decisions to make. If she did, would I really jump in? I couldn't possibly give up now that I had made it down the hill. No worries, she didn't come back, so I didn't have to make that choice. It was made for me. I could no longer hear my music, that I depended so much on to get me through my run. The wind was howling so loudly. I was dodging tumbleweeds left and right. I couldn't breathe. I literally felt like I was being suffocated by air. How is that even possible. I wanted to throw up! Then I realized that I had passed my jacket and keys. I had completely forgot about them as I was trying to just focus on getting home. I turned around to go back and spotted the pole I had dropped them at. It was at least 1/4 mile back, which meant another 1/2 mile running in the wind. I turned right back around and left them without another thought. I had a spare key in a box under my car. So long as it got put back after the last time it was used. If it hadn't, my plan was to go to the school and call and beg for a ride home. I kept praying through my last stretch, pleading for the wind to stop. I only needed 10 minutes to fly to my finish mark. Surely, that couldn't be too much to ask? It wasn't, but someone had a different plan for me. Something was to be learned, that couldn't take place in any other circumstance. I kept remembering that "I can do hard things." I made it back to the car. Can you believe it? I can't! I grabbed the key box and tried to open it. The box would not let go of that key. I couldn't believe this was happening! I threw it on the ground and started stomping on it. I even reopened a new wound and was bleeding on what ever would absorb it. Still producing no key. I said a quiet prayer in my head, and with one more slide the box opened. I smiled at that key I was waiting to get my hands on. I opened the door and jumped in. I sat back and closed my eyes for a moment. Grateful for my refuge from the storm. I checked the clock to see the lenght of this ordeal. Only 55 minutes. I couldn't believe it, it seemed so much longer. I was impressed that with all that wind that I still made my run in good time. I'm sure the push uphill helped. I rushed to my Havie Baby, who was hanging out with Jenny and Kassidy. I knew she was in good hands, and having a blast. But I wanted, no I needed to hold her and hug her. Through my run I pictured her round little face and bright pink cheeks, just waiting for me. She felt so far away. I felt comforted as I stepped into Jenny's safe Haven and was greeted by her. I needed her. She let me vent, breakdown, and retell my tale. I was so grateful for her. Grateful to her for keeping my Havie safe, and entertained, so I could go and accomplish something I never thought possible. Something I will not soon forget.

NOT TOO EXCITING-3 miles

I always look forward to my Monday run. It seems like such a breeze after my long weekend runs. Nothing to exciting to report today. My IPOD didn't give out on me, so I guess that was pretty exciting. I am really worried about the weekend weather. I need it to hold out for a 9 mile on Saturday. They say it should be snowing. There is no way I can bring myself to run 72 times around the track. My brain could never handle it! PLEASE pray for good weather!!!!!

ABOVE AND BEYOND-8 miles

I was shooting for a seven mile run today, but I ran 8. It was good and hard all at the same time. I ran from my house to the top of unity pass and back. The hill was hard. I think it's a good mile. On my way back my hip flexer decided to be a brat. It made the rest of the run pretty painful. It just didn't want to stretch my full stride. Probably from taking shorter strides UP the hill. It's hurting pretty bad right now, but nothing Advil won't cure. Steve came to check on me during my run. He drove up just as I was reaching the top of the hill. Just when I needed him he was there. He went to go get me a Gatorade at the gas station. I was well down the hill when he finally returned with fluids. He ran up to the trail to offer me a sip. I took a little one as I kept running(I never even stopped through my whole run), and left him in the dust. Then he drove off and left me in the dust. Home seemed like such a long ways away, but I made it.

TRAUMA ON THE TRAIL-3 miles

Yesterdays run was full of trouble. I was down one mile with two left to go. My IPOD stopped! I seriously thought I was going to cry. I charged it before I left so don't ask me what the heck even happened. I had even loaded some new songs on it. I was so mad I was going to just stop and turn back home. My music is what makes me run. I have certain songs that help me focus on my breathing, my stride and pace, and a few that really get me moving. I just didn't know how I was going to finish with out them. Then, I thought how pathetic I would be if I had come this far into my training and then would just quit because of stupid music. I have never stopped short on any of my runs. I have never slowed down and walked because I am tired. I have never even stopped for a drink. So, I wasn't going to stop this time. Instead, I listened to the ugly sound of huffing and puffing all through my run. I did it. I was proud. Then, for part 2 of the trauma. I bent down to give Havie a kiss and noticed her little beanie was missing. This is a hat that has sentimental value to me. She has worn it since she was born(yes, it still fits her). She is also wearing it in one of my favorite pictures of her. It was something I wanted to hold onto forever. It even has a little sweater that matches it. I went back out and looked for it alot of the afternoon. No luck. The wind had also picked up so who knows where it could be. Probably somewhere in the desert, or on some other babies head. Well, I think I did good today, considering. It at least gave me some good angry energy to work through on my 7 mile tomorrow.

ME AND MY GIRL-4 1/2 miles

I took Havie with me on my run today. She has been soooo sick, and I'm sure it all stems from the day care at the legacy center. So, I am going to try to avoid doing my runs on the track. As long as it's not raining we'll be headed outdoors. Haven was so good. She didn't make a peep the whole run. As I was cooling down I noticed she was asleep. I don't know if she had just drifted off, or if she slept the whole run. I was suppose to run 4 today, but I felt so good I decided to push a little further. It is always so rewarding. I hadn't ever pushed Haven for more than 3 miles, and that was on the track. I was so proud that I hurdled hills and bumps with her in tow. I talked with Melissa on the way home. She is training for a triathlon this summer. I suggested we do the Pony Express days 5K. She was all over it. She is going to join me for a 3 mile tomorrow. It will be nice to have a Friend out on the trail. For now I am hoping the weather holds for tomorrow.

FRIENDS ALONG THE WAY-3 miles

Today's run really helped me sort my head out. Haven has been so sick and miserable. Which obviously interprets that I too am miserable. I didn't get much sleep last night and we spent the whole morning at Dr's offices. It was a good break to be able to go home and leave for a run, even if only for a short time. I guess I could have made it take longer, but I was a little anxious to get Havie Raye back in my arms. I got a honk along the way, I think from Kelly, maybe not. Anyway, it looked like her car so I waived back. The honk came just when I needed it. Then as I was winding down, Emity and Tiffanie pulled up and I had a quick visit with them. Of course I blabbed about myself and all the things I was excited and frustrated about. Hopefully they didn't mind. I know I can be so annoying. It was so good to have good friends today to help cheer me on.

WET MARSHMALLOWS-6 miles

Saturdays run was totally awesome! I ran the whole 6 miles without stopping. It took just over 1 hour. I started about 7:45. It was cold, but I had to get out and do it so I could stop being afraid. The sun popped up over the mountain and it was gorgeous. It made me think, "Oh ya, this is why I run". I immediately felt the warmth. It was just what I needed at that moment. I was so ready to reach my finish mark, but it's crazy how you also feel like you could just keep running. My hips started hurting a little towards the end. I just imagined them as big wet marshmallows sliding around. It must have helped because I finished. It was such a great feeling. I think I'll reward myself by buying more tunes! Today finished week 4 of my training. I have ran 51 miles this month! I have burned at least 5000 calories! That should be rewarding enough. My miles really bump up this week. No more short runs through out the week. I am really going to concentrate on my liquids, and food for fuel, not for fun. Wish me luck, I'll need it!

PERFECT TIMING-3 miles

My run took place outside in the afternoon today. It was beautiful, and somewhat warm. As I was running I thought, "what the heck have I gotten myself into?" "This is crazy!" I think I was starting to feel some anxiety about doing 6 miles on Saturday. Not to long after I ran into MariAnne. She is a cutie who runs all over Eagle Mountain with her kiddies in tow. She is amazing! I have her number and have wanted to call her and recruit her for help and motivation. It has sat in my drawer and I have done nothing with it. I didn't want to bug her for fear that she would think I was a nerd. We chatted for a few minutes as I begged for her help. She offered it up freely. I know she can help me. She even said she would be happy to do some long runs with me. There is hope! In the meantime I am gearing up for Saturday. My other ankle has been hurting this week. Oh the pain! Oh well!

40 MINUTES-4 miles

I wish I could break my 10 minute mile rut. I've only done it once. It's just such a good comfortable pace for me. Today I focused on lengthening my stride, but it didn't help my time. Although my legs are starting to feel sore, so I must have worked some good muscles. I have my eye on a GPS watch. It can help me train to increase my time and distance. It will most definitely help me in my training. I am hoping to get it very soon! tomorrow I will catch my run outside in the afternoon. Looking forward to it!

BACK AT IT-3 miles

So, Saturday's run doesn't exist. My mind was so tired. Running involves major brain power for me. I have a few weeks extra to fit in my schedule so I started last week over again today. It is almost 3 miles from my house to the stop sign by the school. I took that route and threw in a lap around the block. It doesn't seem far at all when you drive it, but it does when your running it. It was good today though. The sun was so hot I had to strip my jacket. My ankle is acting up again tonight. I think from taking a few days off. Good reason to NOT take a break.

UPHILL BATTLE-no miles

It was an uphill battle to get my run in yesterday. It didn't happen. I actually cried over it. I was ready with the kids to head for the gym after dropping other kids off at school. I realized I left my IPOD so I turned back home. The roads were so icy. I was determined to go, even if the weather was not in our favour. I was a witness to an accident and stopped to lend help. At that moment I knew I wasn't making it to the gym. I had another plan. I put Haven down for a nap and went to Stephanie's to use her treadmill. Haven woke up screaming just as I was ready to start. We ended up at the doctor with double ear infections. At this point in the game I had to stop and tell myself that today I can't be a runner, I need to be a mom. So I was, to the best of my abilities considering the circumstances. I have thought about how to get myself ready for a 6 mile on Saturday. Each run prepares me for the one ahead. I'm not sure it will happen. That's OK, I keep telling myself. I will run as far as I can on Saturday, and start my week over. I have an extra week of training to spare. I'll use it now and hope I don't need it later. What I learned from all of this is that the reason I am running is so I can do better at being me. So, when the time presents itself for me to be me, I need to just be me. Who knows if I can be me later.

TIME FOR ME-3 miles

My post is somewhat like my run yesterday. I wasn't sure if it would get done. Haven is sick, probably from the day care at the Legacy center. So, I couldn't go in. everyone else in the house had such hectic schedules, I didn't know how I was going to fit myself in. So I panicked. I found a solution. Put Haven down for a nap, and beg Stephanie to take the monitor, and Lucas. She offered her help and I left. I did my 4 mile up towards unity pass. It was hard. My butt and thighs felt so heavy. They did not want to move. I just kept talking to my parts and told them to get up and move. It must have worked because I finished. Thank goodness. Now I am on my way to do my 3 mile for today. I'm gearing up for a 6 mile on Saturday!

28 MINUTES-3 miles

It snowed last night-danget! Saturday's run was awesome and it got me excited about runnung outside more often. For now, I'll hope for good weather for my long weekend runs. The track was hot today. At one point it felt hard to even breathe. There were so many people there today. I was hoping the snow would have been discouraging for others(I'm so rude), but no such luck. I got a good time on my run today. Since my first week my time has been the same for my 3 mile run. I lowered it by 2 minutes today. I know it doesn't seem like much, but believe me it is. It was a celebration for me today. I have kept myself motivated by buying music from itunes. I load a few new songs on each week that are fun to run to. Tomorrow is a rest day. I plan on enjoying it!

ON ICE-5 miles

So, my foot hasn't been the only thing on ice thus far. Today, a good portion of my run took place on ice. I have to get my run in early. I am so fearful that if I wait until later in the day that it may not happen. Plus, I'd rather go get it done, and feel good about it the rest of the day. So I left the house at 8:30 and headed to the trail. It had rained last night and the trail was spotted with ice. The reason I don't run on a treadmill is because I hate the feeling of working and getting nowhere in the end(and I am not lucky enough to have one). Well, today, the ice made me fell like I was on the treadmill. Going, going, going, and getting nowhere. About half way through I decided to hit the road(where no ice was present). I could imagine all the annoyed drivers wondering why the city paid for a trail and I was using the road. Oh well. All of my runs so far have taken place inside, on a track. Today was the first day out, and it made all the difference. I could actually imagine myself running this race. I started at the stop sign by the school. My half way marker was the unity pass sign. It was a good climb up the hill. I kept telling myself, "If you go up, then you get to go down". Down was awesome! The view was fabulous! Mist gathered around the base of the mountains. The sage was invigorating as I inhaled the cold air. This really felt as good as it gets. As I approached my final mile to my ending marker I felt a surge of energy. I raced the last mile. It was Incredible. Today has been so great. I have had a feeling of accomplishment that has carried me through my day. And, I am excited about the week ahead. Week 2 accomplished. Week 3, here I come!