EPIC Dinner FAIL

I always laugh at posts about failed attempts at recipes found on Pinterest.  So far, I've had great luck following recipes that I find online.  Tonight, though, I experienced my own depressing recipe gone wrong.

First, I must reference the dish that I was attempting to recreate.  I found the recipe for Cheesy Sweet Potato Crisps and thought they sounded like a yummy (and healthy) side.

Here's what they were supposed to look like:

Don't they just look delightful???


Well my first tip off to impending doom should have been the 45 MINUTES that I spent grating the stupid sweet potatoes.  My fingers even turned orange in the process.  Apparently I own the world's smallest grater.

Then, I followed the directions EXACTLY, which meant attempting to squeeze all the water out of this pile of potatoes and spraying the cooking rack and sheet with oil.

After 35 minutes of baking (in an attempt to make these babies nice and crispy), I finally couldn't wait any longer and attempted to remove them from the cookie sheet and onto my plate.

I ended up with this mess...

FAIL.

My hope was that maybe they still tasted good after all that time and effort.  By this point, Steve was home and he was pretty excited as well.

The verdict?  They were DREADFUL.

EPIC FAIL.

We both began to gag and almost threw up after attempting to eat a few.  I can't even describe the flavor.  It makes me feel like vomiting all over again.

To make matters worse, the Old Bay-seasoned tilapia we were supposed to have with it was also watery and gross.  At that point I gave up.  In the 6 years or so that I've been cooking for Steve, there are very few dinners that I've messed up.  Tonight, this took the cake.

Steve is out getting Subway right now...

The Low From Which We Are Grown

The snow and slush outside made me tempted to stay in my bed all day, but I fought the urge and headed to the gym instead.  This was my first trip back since my surgery, and also my first attempt at running in months.  I walked for 25 minutes on an incline to warm up, and then I ran a mile without stopping.  I was really happy, but also frustrated at the same time.  It felt good to run again, but I started to think back to last year at this time when I was running 8 and 9 miles without an issue.  

Starting over SUCKS.  

But I also realized that I have a lot to be thankful for.  I'm thankful that a simple procedure was able to fix my leg.  I'm thankful that after just a couple weeks of recovery, I'm able to start back to being fit.  I'm also thankful that my body still allows me to do pretty awesome things, as long as I'm dedicated enough to push myself and stay motivated.

I found this quote today, and I absolutely love it.  I think it really highlights why we need to go through the tough times, and why we can actually rejoice and be thankful for them.  


“And so, I walk through the valley and I am not afraid for I know that the valley is where we go to learn, to grow, and to transcend all we once imagined ourselves to be. We are so much more than our own limited thoughts could ever comprehend. The valley is where we let go and is the point from which we rebuild. We must not let sadness or disappointment keep us from rejoicing in the low from which we are grown.” 
― Jennifer Hall

A Little Splurge

My entire life, I've always been a bargain shopper.  I like buying good, quality brands, but I refuse to pay full price.  When I shop, I get a huge thrill from scrounging through clearance and sale racks to find the best deals.  What can I say?  I'm my mother's daughter.

What happened yesterday almost killed me.  I paid (gasp!) FULL PRICE for a pair of running shoes.  I never thought this day would come.  It physically pained me to hand over my debit card.  But I had to do it.  I went to my favorite running store, Point 2 Running Company, bound and determined to replace my worn out, beat up Asics.  I had planned to pay around $80, knowing full well that I would get great use out of them.  I tried on two pairs of Asics, my usual, and they both felt good.  But then the saleswoman convinced me to try a pair of Mizuno Wave Inspire 9.

My life was changed then and there.  I did the obligatory lap around the store, and my feet felt like they were light as air.  It was like I could literally bounce off the floor.  I loved them.  And then I had to ask the fatal question...

Me: "Do I even want to know how much these cost?"

Saleswoman: "They're $115.  But the Asics you just tried were both $150."

Excuse me?  I'm going to pay over one hundred dollars for ONE pair of shoes???  I've never paid that much for one item of clothing in my life!  I continued to pace the store, and even did a quick look online with my phone.  Sure enough, they were $115 online as well.  At least I knew they fit great, and I was buying from a small business instead of a massive cyber warehouse.

So I did it.  I splurged.  And after walking three miles in them today, I'm so glad that I did.  They are officially the most comfortable shoes I've ever worn.  I'm really excited to get back into running now that my leg is healing, and these shoes make me even more motivated.  It might seem silly to someone else, but this splurge felt totally worth it.  It's money well spent to help me get healthy and be the best version of myself.  You can't put a price on that.

New Year...New Post!

My first post of 2013!  Woop woop!

I returned to work today and felt so tired and foggy.  After sleeping in for days, it was tough to get up at 6am.  I powered through my day though, successfully ate only the food I packed, didn't snack on any junk, and came home to make a healthy dinner!  Starting the year off right!

I made one of mine (and Steve's) favorite recipes.  It's so simple, perfectly Paleo, and we always have enough leftovers to take for lunch the next day.  Enjoy!!

Turkey & Vegetable Skillet

(from fatsecret.com)

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."

Quick Fuel

Now that I'm running more often, and for farther distances, I decided I needed to try some quick energy options that I could consume before, during, or after a run.  Most of the time I run first thing after waking up (whether that's at 4am or 9am) and I don't feel like eating breakfast before working out.  I can't, however, run on a completely empty stomach either.  I tried the Jelly Belly Sport Beans because, let's face it, jelly beans just sound fun and delicious.

My verdict?

They have a fruity but slightly odd taste if I eat them before working out, but during or after a run they taste like juicy heaven in my mouth.  I'm sure by that point my body is craving energy from carbs and needed electrolytes, which is why they seem so delightful.  I usually eat just one pack (100 calories, 19g sugar) and that seems to keep the shakiness away that I used to feel.  I've tried the Fruit Punch and Lemon Lime flavors, and so far Lemon Lime is my favorite.


Next up to try: Clif Shot Bloks

Lessons Learned

So the past couple weeks have been tough on my training schedule.  I was swamped with work and also traveled 18 hours round trip in my car to visit my family.  They live near the Pennsylvania/New York border, south of Buffalo, and man was it cold!  While up there I planned to run outside for my long run of 5 miles, until it decided to snow and cover the roads with a nice slippery sheet of ice.  My running shoes have zero traction, so I had to run inside on a treadmill instead.  Ugh.  I made it 3 miles  and almost died of boredom.  After that I said a little prayer of "thank you" for the fact that I live in southeast Virginia, where the coldest it's been lately has been maybe 40 degrees.  I had a great time visiting my family, but when I returned, I had lots of work and 22 very anxious fourth graders waiting for me.  Once we got out for winter break, I proceeded to sleep 12 hours straight from sheer exhaustion.  I think my body was trying to tell me something.  


I didn't run again until this past Saturday, when I went a little over 4 miles.  The main problem?  My iPod lied to me.  I got the new little iPod Nano (so cute!) as an early Christmas present from my hubby, and I never calibrated it beyond entering my height and weight.  I found out my mistake when I returned to my house.  It said that I ran 4.9 miles and I was pretty happy with that.  But part of me felt this nagging suspicion that I didn't run quite that far.  I hopped in my car to drive around and check the mileage, and sure enough, I only ran 4.2 miles.  Wamp wamp.  I learned my lesson though, and I will definitely be calibrating the darn thing before I use it again.  After that run, my knees hurt SO BAD, and I knew it was because I didn't run at all last week.  Another lesson learned.  I realized that I'm going to have to stick to my training schedule if I'm going to pull this race off.  


I started the week off right by taking my dog for a walk on Sunday to stretch mine and his legs.  Yesterday I took a rest day since my knees were still sore, and this morning I met a friend to go for a run outside.  We started out on our 2 mile course, and after about 5 minutes a nice, cool rain started coming down.  It actually felt really refreshing!  We ran from a local high school down to a river dock, which was neat to see, even on a stormy day.  At the end of our run, we ran into another friend who was walking her dog, so it was nice to stop and chat for a bit.  My legs felt much better today, and I plan to go for a 3 mile run tomorrow.  


I will stick to my schedule, and I WILL run 7 miles THIS SATURDAY.  Sounds scary, but I know after those first couple miles I will find my stride.  




My mantra: I can do this, and I will.  

A Run With History

I returned to the Yorktown Victory Center today for another run.  It was about 40 degrees and a bit windy, but the sun was shining and the water on the York River was bright blue and glistening.  I stopped to take a few pics during my run, and I also walked around a bit afterwards to take some more.  It's become my favorite training spot, because I love running amongst the historic sights.  It keeps my mind focused elsewhere besides the throbbing pain in my legs.  All in all, I felt good while running, and I completed 4.2 miles.  Very pleased!  Here are some of the sights/views I enjoyed while passing through:

Yorktown Victory Monument - Commemorates the victory over the British in the concluding battle of the Revolutionary War.

Part of the running path near the York River

View of Riverwalk Landing from the pier

Nelson House - Home of Thomas Nelson, the Governor of Virginia during the Revolutionary War, Commanding Officer of the Virginia Militia, and a signer of the Declaration of Independence.

And then there's just me!

Very happy I met my goal of 4 miles for the day!

So not cool, PF

Planet Fitness apparently had the brilliant idea to create "Free Pizza Mondays" on the first Monday of every month.  I've never experienced this marketing ploy before, and let me tell you, I never will again!  Do you know how difficult it is to keep running on a treadmill when the delicious scent of piping-hot pizza is wafting through the air?!?!  I couldn't decide if it made me hungry or slighting nauseated.  Then, when I went into the locker room to grab my bag, a woman was CHOWING DOWN on 3 pieces!  Sooooo not helpful!  I literally ran, grabbed my things, slammed the locker shut, and power walked to the front door, where I had to pass the 20 or so boxes full of forbidden goodness.  Cruelty, I tell you!  I tried to remind myself that I was going home to make some delicious, home-made beef stew...

But really. Beef Stew?  Come on.

No Pain, No Gain (and other cliches)

Yeah, yeah, we've heard it all before.

No pain, no gain.  


Pain is weakness leaving the body.  


Feel the burn.  


Mind over matter.

Blah, blah, blah.  I've heard these annoying statements so many times.  I've also been told the whole line of needing to "push through the pain".  Well, I've definitely never pushed myself to do much of anything when exercise or fitness is concerned.  If it becomes painful, annoying, or frustrating...I stop.  Well now that I'm attempting to take this half marathon training seriously, I realized that I'm going to HAVE to push myself to make any progress.  I can't just stop when something becomes uncomfortable.

Tonight, I hit a physical and mental block after about 15 minutes of running on the treadmill.  My legs ached, my stomach hurt, I felt like I might vomit, and my mind kept wandering to thoughts like:

"You can't do this."
"You will never finish 13.1 miles.  You can't even finish 2 miles without stopping!"
"You can just stop and walk.  It will feel so much better."

But then I started remembering the moments I've spent running in races.  I never quit during a race because:

A.  I paid to participate.
B.  People were cheering me on.
C.  I wanted to have the best time possible.

I started to realize that I need to treat every workout like a race, at least in the sense of persevering.  I told myself to basically shut the hell up, and I also told myself that I could run for much longer than 15 minutes.  I ignored the ache in my legs and the queasiness in my gut, and proceeded to crank up the speed.  I ran for 28 minutes at a 10:30 pace, and I DIDN'T STOP!!!  I know this may seem like a small feat to many, but for me it's a big deal.  I always take little walking breaks, and I finally proved to myself that I don't need to.  After about 20 minutes, my legs felt better and my stomach stopped hurting.  Magic!


So from now on I will be keeping this in mind, no matter how cheesy and cliche it might be: