Game Night!

My husband and I had a great time tonight at our neighbor's.  We organized an impromptu game night after our handy-dandy neighbor (who has helped us so much in the past 3 years of home ownership) helped Steve put our new bedroom furniture together.  We got to talking and decided to get together for dinner and some cards.  I was already planning to try a new chili recipe, so it worked out perfectly.  I love when plans just magically come together.  I especially love walking just a few short steps over to my house at the end of the night.

Here's the recipe that I tried...  It was delicious, super easy, and we have lots of leftovers.  Perfect recipe in my book!


Bear's White Chicken Chili 
(courtesy of The Recipe Club)

I'm back!!!

I'm returning from a hiatus for three reasons...

Reason #1 -  I finally graduated from UVA!!!  I now officially have a Master of Education degree in Curriculum and Instruction, with a focus in Reading.  After 2.5 long years, my life is returning to normal!  I'm also loving my new job as a Reading Coach for my district.  It's definitely different from teaching, but so far it's been a great experience.

Reason #2 -  My leg is messed up, but I'm finally having a procedure done to fix everything.  I discovered after months of pain in my left leg, and a visit to a vascular specialist, that I have a varicose vein that is not pumping blood properly.  It's causing pain behind my knee and in my calf whenever I do strenuous exercise.  The aches have all but wiped out my running, and I've basically just been walking and doing yoga.  I'm trying to stay fit and upbeat, but it's frustrating.  I'm so glad that after the procedure, I'll be good as new within a week!  I can't wait to try out some new classes at my gym and get back to running.

Reason #3 - A friend of mine wrote a blog post recently that I commented on, and he said I should include my point of view in my blog...if I had one.  Turns out, I do!  I've just been too busy to write in it!  Don't worry, friend, I'll get around to that post...  ;)

Now that I have a bit more free time, and I'll be active again, I'm excited to return to blogging.  Since the new year is approaching, I thought I would set some goals of what I would like to write about.  So here's goes my list of "resolutions"...

1.  Blog once a month about a new workout experience.  
     - I really want to try new classes and push myself to improve in strength, endurance, and flexibility.

2.  Blog twice a month about new healthy recipes that I try.
     - I'm continuing to try new Paleo and limited-carb recipes, and I would love to pass them along!

3.  Blog once a month about new books, restaurants, experiences, etc.
     - Basically, I want to write about something fun at least once a month!

Wiggle and Jiggle

Today was my moment of truth.  After running the half last weekend, and then basically enjoying whatever food I wanted this week, I decided it was time to get focused again on my overall health.  I weighed and measured myself to see where I stood, and I was happy and disappointed at the same time.

Weight wise, I lost 4 lbs since starting to train.  That also means I've lost a total of 9 lbs since this time last year.  Consistency.  I like it.

Inches wise, I barely lost anything.  I lost an inch from my hips and an inch from each thigh, which is definitely great, but not much to brag about.  And I've also noticed that my body is just overall, jiggly.  I know that's probably TMI, but it's true.  I tried on a two-piece swimsuit the other day and shuddered.  Mostly because I'm freakishly pale right now, but also because things that should be more toned are not.

This brings me to today.  My decision to return to weightlifting to build muscle and lose inches, while also running, going to Zumba, and practicing yoga once a week.  I know I need a balance of cardio, strength training, and stretching to be in overall great shape, and running basically took over my life and made cardio my only focus.

So what's my plan?  Well thanks to my friend Liz and her helpful fiance, David, I have new workout buddies to keep me accountable and more knowledge of what to do in the "scary" part of the gym.  (I always avoid the weight area like the plague)  This is the schedule I hope to keep up throughout the week:


Sunday - Lift Legs, Abs, and 30 min of light cardio - ie: elliptical or walking on an incline


Monday - Morning Yoga 


Tuesday - Lift Arms, Abs, and 30 min of light cardio


Wednesday - Run 2-3 miles 


Thursday - Zumba!


Friday - Rest day 


Saturday - Long run (4-6 miles)


The only problem I see right now is the running.  My knee is still very sore from the race.  I ran a mile today and it hurt the entire time.  I plan to substitute walking for running for a few weeks to give it time to heal.

In regards to my eating, I will be sticking to a mostly Paleo/Primal plan.  I love the way it makes me feel, and I definitely notice a difference when I start to slip from it.  I do add in a few non-Paleo foods (Greek yogurt, sweet potatoes, beans, dark chocolate) for some variety and added benefits, but otherwise I still stick to lean meats, eggs, nuts, seeds, vegetables, and fruit.  I'm excited to hear that some of my friends are looking into this plan as well.  I hope they love it as much as I do!

So here's to great health everyone...  The summer sun will be here soon, and I plan to be ready!!

Check that one off the bucket list...

I still can't believe it.  I seriously completed my first half marathon!!!  I ran 13.1 miles and I didn't quit.  It was fun, emotional, challenging, thrilling, frustrating, and gratifying all at the same time.  It was everything I hoped it would be and nothing like I planned.

I was incredibly calm when I stood in the corral before the race with 10,000 other hopeful runners.  The sun was just rising, and the cool temperature was perfect.  I wasn't nervous, and that honestly surprised me.  I saw many of my friends before starting, and that helped me feel even better.  I knew we wouldn't be running the same pace, but just knowing they would be out there too gave me a boost.  My parents also stood on the sidelines cheering for me, and I waved excitedly as I crossed over the starting line.

My first mile was amazing and flew by, and before I knew it I was passing the 3, 4, and 5 mile markers.  I was keeping up a 10:30 pace and I felt incredible.  We passed lots of cheering supporters and adorable dogs dressed in St. Patrick's Day get-ups, and the energy was so infectious.  After mile 5 though, we headed into the woods and all became quiet.  I focused on the music on my iPod, and I kept telling myself that soon I would take a little fuel break at the halfway point.  I stayed hydrated with Gatorade at the water stops, and I found some people around me to keep pace with.  But then, a crushing moment happened.

My goal at the beginning had been to finish around 2 hours 30 minutes.  I wasn't basing all my hopes and dreams on it, but I figured it was a realistic goal I could strive for.  Around mile 6 though, the 2:30 pacers ran PAST me.  My world was crushed.  I watched that tall, green sign float farther and farther in front of me, and I realized my goal was slipping away.  I tried to speed up, but the pace felt too uncomfortable.  I knew I couldn't keep up with them for another 7 miles.  After that, my mental state took a nosedive.  I started really doubting my ability to finish, and I felt completely defeated.  For miles 7 and 8, I had to literally repeat over and over again "Just. Keep. Running."  By mile 9, I was crying.  I honestly didn't think I could muster up 4 more miles.  I thought about faking an injury and asking to be picked up by the Rescue Squad.

Luckily, we were running through Fort Story, and a great group of Navy men and women came out to cheer us on.  I absorbed all of that positive energy, and I basically told myself to get it together.  I felt so much better, and I kept running to mile 10.  At that point, I think Karma came back to bite me.  Instead of having to fake an injury, I felt actual excrutiating pain.  My muscle above my left knee turned into a tight knot, and I could actually feel a lump under my skin.  Every step felt like my knee was ripping apart from my leg.  I hobbled over to the side of the road, tried to stretch, and then started limping slowly.  I thought to myself, "Oh my gosh, am I going to have to WALK these last 3 miles?"  I continued to crawl along, and after about 7 or 8 minutes, the pain began to subside.  I said a prayer of "thank you" and then began running again.  This time though, I couldn't return to my previous pace.  I felt like I was moving like a snail.  But I knew even slow running was better than walking.  I felt frustrated that my time would be so poor, but I also felt proud that I would be able to run to the finish line.

Right before turning onto the boardwalk for the last straight sprint, I had to make a turn onto the sidewalk.  There, a group of Livestrong volunteers dressed in yellow cheered wildly for us.  They wrote inspiring notes in yellow sidewalk chalk on the ground, and I realized how blessed I was.  I was grateful for my body and my health that brought me through to that moment.  And I thought of my family members who had lost their battle with cancer, but who were no doubt looking down on me.  I cried again for the second time, but this time only joyful tears.  The sun was shining beautifully over the ocean, and the view from the boardwalk was priceless.  Then I heard the best sound ever.  Two of my friends shouted "Go Crystal!" and I spotted them cheering on the sidelines.  Just a little farther down, another group of friends were shouting for me as well, and I found the strength to finish that last small stretch.  I gave it all I had, and I finally (and slowly) crossed the finish line.  I threw my hands up in the air and gave out a huge "Woohoo!"  And then I heard my husband shout my name.  I don't think I've ever been so happy to see him.

I reunited with my friends and family members on the beach, and I couldn't stop smiling.  I was so relieved to be finished, and I was proud that I accomplished what I set out to do.  My only small disappointment was my time.  I finished in 2 hours 44 minutes, which is horribly slow, but now I have a new goal to focus on.  I plan to go back to running shorter races and improving my time.  I love that I have something to keep me motivated!


Check out my post-race photo with my new, snazzy medal!!

Ready to Shamrock!!!

Today's run solidified for me that I'm so ready for this race.  13.1 baby!  Bring it!  I ran 11 miles today in the pouring rain, and even though my legs were burning and I felt like I had barely anything left by the eleventh mile, I kept going.  I'm sore and I'm tired, but I'm also extremely excited and motivated.  I finished the 11 miles in 2 hours and 4 minutes, which means if I keep up that time, I will finish under 2:30.  That is my goal, although ultimately I'll just be happy to finish.  In the next two weeks I'll go for some 2-3 mile runs during the week, and next weekend I'll probably do an easy six.  

Seriously, who am I?  When did six miles become "easy"?  Blows my mind.

Freaking out!!

The Shamrock Half Marathon is 15 days away!  FIFTEEN!!!  How did this happen???  I feel so incredibly unprepared.  I know that I've been training, but not to the extent that I would've liked.  My schedule and workload kept me from working out and running as much as I would've hoped.

Tomorrow will show me what I really can handle.  I'm going out for 11 miles, and I'm actually going to time myself.  I'm going to go for a walk to warm up, and then I will see how long it actually takes me to run 11 miles.  And I. will. not. stop. running.  There will be no walk breaks, or fuel breaks, or anything else.  I will pop those little sport beans in my mouth and I will keep going!  I know that I can do it.  Now I just have to prove it to myself in actuality.

I'm fighting a sinus infection, so today I'm going to take meds, drink lots of green tea, get plenty of rest, and pop some vitamins.  Any germs that are still hanging out in my body need to get out by tomorrow.  That is an order!

What is that smell???

Today was my longest and coldest run so far.  The weather report said that with the 15 mph winds, it was 28 degrees outside.  Brrrrr.  I ran the Kiln Creek loop twice, which I believe is about 10 miles.  It was miserable in the cold, but I knew I wouldn't have time to run for that long at any other point this week.  So I pushed through and just kept running, even though it felt like my face might freeze and fall off.

While cars passed by me, I noticed that a lot of people were staring.  And I mean obviously staring.  Like the driver was watching me intently instead of the road.  It creeped me out.  I'm not sure of the reason for the stares, but I can only assume that either:

A.) They were impressed that I was running on this cold, windy day.
B.) They thought I was an idiot for running on this cold, windy day.
C.) I'm the most awkward runner ever and they couldn't look away.

Let's hope for A or B.

After my run, I got back in my car to head home, where I was greeted by a familiar but rather obnoxious odor.  "What is that smell?!" I thought to myself.  It took a minute to realize...it was me!  And I knew why the smell was familiar.  The scent reminded me of when my dad would come home from a long day out in the cold at work, or after shoveling snow, or running in the rain.  It was gross, but comforting at the same time.  I know.  Very weird.  But even more weird was my reaction.  I started to cry because I realized I missed my dad.  I'll tell you, running has turned me into an emotional basket case.  I called him immediately to relay the funny story and share a laugh.  In all honesty though, I wish he lived close enough that we could go for runs together.  Running has always been a big part of his life, and I'm glad that we can share that now.

Ok, enough reminiscing for one post.  I seriously need to shower...

9 miles! And some goo...

I had a great 9 mile run today.  I increased my stride and forced myself to keep up a quicker pace than usual.  I've really been trying to increase my speed during my short runs, and I wanted to push myself to see what I could do over a long distance.  My legs were SCREAMING during my 9th mile, but I still felt like I had enough energy to keep going.

I've really seen an improvement in my mental capacity lately.  I used to become so frustrated and overwhelmed, and I would let that control how far or fast I would go.  Now, I mentally picture myself competing on the day of the race.  I imagine the finish line in my view, and it really helps me keep going.  I also love seeing my shadow while running on sunny days.  It might sound cheesy, but it's cool to see myself and what my body can really do.  It reminds me that I'm stronger and tougher than I ever thought or imagined.

I also have some awesome friends who let me stop at their house for a water break after 5.5 miles.  While there, I decided to try a GU Energy Gel for the first time.  I was pretty excited because the sales guy at the running store I went to yesterday really talked it up.

O.M.G.  It was incredibly disgusting!  The consistency reminded me of phlegm and mucus.  I already struggle with that feeling sliding down the back of my throat while I run in the cold.  Why on earth would I want to willingly ingest that?!  It might work for some people, but I'm definitely not a fan.  I'll stick to my Sport Beans and ShotBlox, thank you.

Cravings, Intervals, and Inspiration

What a week!  I conquered quite a few "firsts" this week.  I stuck to the Whole 30 diet for the entire week (minus a small handful of M&Ms one day), packed a healthy lunch daily, made my first smoothies, and conquered a raging craving for pizza.  I'm loving the new Paleo recipes that I've been trying, and I'm amazed at how much better food tastes.  I can literally feel my taste buds changing, and something as simple as a handful of almonds or an apple with cinnamon is absolutely delicious.  The hubby and I were even able to go out to dinner last night and find entrees to order that fit the plan.  I had a grilled tilapia fillet with shrimp and scallops, and a side of mixed veggies.  It was so filling that I didn't feel like I missed out on anything.  I was tempted to order a margarita (it was a Mexican restaurant after all!) but I stood my ground and just drank water.

Even on the day that I caved and ate M&Ms, I had what I consider to be a "first".  I stopped after that handful.  I didn't keep eating an entire bag.  I didn't use it as an excuse to eat more crap later.  I said enough is enough, and I went home to cook a healthy dinner.  I have NEVER been able to do that before.  I saw this quote on Pinterest the other day, and it has really stuck with me.

So true, right?

Another first was an interval workout that I tried yesterday at the gym.  I ran one minute at a 9:30 pace (which for me is really fast) and then walked one minute at a 15:00/mile pace.  I alternated between those paces 10 times.  Man, was that challenging!  Afterwards, I ran at a comfortable 11:00/mile pace while watching the Olympic Marathon trials.  Talk about inspiring!  I have been following Shalane Flanagan and Kara Goucher (who are sponsored by Nike) for the past year.  They are such incredible women.  I actually started crying watching them take 1st and 3rd.  And yes, I was at the gym.  I don't know what it is about competitions like that, but they just move me.  I had to pretend to wipe sweat off my face while I was running.  Slightly embarrassing.

I'm going to hold on to that inspiration to motivate me to run 8 miles today.  If they can kick ass while running 26.2 miles, I can handle 8.

Whole 30 Challenge

I'm so ready for this!  Today is Day #1 of the Whole 30 Challenge.  I did this once before and felt amazing, but I didn't stick "exactly" to the plan.  This time I think it will be much easier because my husband is participating with me.  We are also taking part in a healthy 90 day challenge with some friends.  The Whole 30 will be a great way to get us started.


Basically, this plan challenges you to "clean up" what you've been eating and get back to REAL, WHOLESOME food.  No additives.  No preservatives.  No long lists of ingredients.  Just delicious, fresh food.  We will be eating lean meats, fish, seafood, eggs, fruits, vegetables, nuts, some beans, sweet potatoes, and plenty of herbs and spices for flavor.  What we won't be eating are processed foods, grains, dairy, alcohol, or any forms of sugar.  


Is this difficult?  Of course.  It's called a challenge for a reason.  But with proper planning and a bit of willpower, it is achievable.  And I know that with my hubby's support, we can definitely accomplish our goal.  


How does this play into my training?  I know it will make me feel lighter and healthier, but I also know that with less carbs and sugar, I may feel a little tired in the first week or two.  I will make sure that I eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables to keep my energy level up, and I also plan to eat some quick fuel choices (Sport Beans or Shot Blox) during my long runs.  Obviously I realize that these don't fit the "plan", but I guess that will be my only cheat.  I'm not going to run 8 miles with a bag of raspberries in my pocket.  Sorry.


I weighed myself this morning as a starting point, but I love that the Whole 30 is not focused on simply weight loss.  They actually encourage you to NOT weigh yourself during the process.  I'm curious to see my weight at the end, but I'm more excited about how this will make me feel.


If you are interested in trying the Whole 30 Challenge yourself, check it out here.

Seven!

I ran 7.2 miles today!  That's officially the farthest I have ever run!  It was probably one of the slowest and sloppiest runs in the history of mankind, but I don't even care.  I freakin' did it!

Now I'm going to go collapse on the couch and watch some football because I'm exhausted...

But not before including a movie quote that popped in my head during my run:

"[I'm] trying this new fad called uh, jogging.  I believe it's jogging or yogging. It might be a soft ' j '.  I'm not sure but apparently you just run for an extended period of time.  It's supposed to be wild."