tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-40530442189767084672024-03-21T12:35:04.220-07:00Kicking Assphalt"Most sports only require one ball"Emhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10103710453565529801noreply@blogger.comBlogger61125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4053044218976708467.post-17534243931556856222012-01-22T09:10:00.001-08:002012-01-22T09:10:14.500-08:00Confession:<p>SO I'm sure that everyone has noticed my serious lack of posting lately. I have decided to confess the reason why:</p> <p>Its the word that no runner (especially one that is training for a BQ marathon) want to hear.....</p> <p>What is it?....Come on, everyone say it with me....</p> <p>INJURY!!</p> <p>And the worst part is that I am not 100% sure what it is, so I'm not 100% sure how to treat it. All I know is that it is scary because it is in my chest. </p> <p>I made the rockie mistake of going all out to quickly and after almost a month off after my first marathon. I decided I was gonna do planks, arm workouts, lift weights, etc. etc. Well, my upper body was just not ready for this. It was all like "<em>hey dummy, cut me a little slack here, this is the first workout you have given me in years"</em></p> <p>And so my muscles went and broke on me. I'm pretty sure it is a pulled muscle in my chest, but everytime I go to run it is SO painful it feels like my heart is gonna stop! </p> <p>So I have made the executive decision to take a full week off and see if that lets it heal a little. I know that injuries happen, and that I shouldn't let it bring me down. But it really has! I just hope that taking a full week off doesn't mess up my entire training. </p> <p>A good runner knows their body and knows their limits. It is better to back off when you are injured and let your body heal, then to push to hard and suffer irreversible damage. </p> <p>And this leads me into some motivational quotes:</p> <blockquote> <p>"<em>hang in there, trust your body. It may need time, but it knows how to heal itself"  -</em>Kara Goucher</p> <p>"<em>Every wall is a door" - </em>Ralph Waldo Emerson</p> <p><em>" Believe in yourself, know yourself, deny yourself, and be humble." </em>-John Treacy</p> <p><em>" Pressure is nothing more than the shadow of great opportunity." </em>- Micheal Johnson</p> <p><em></em></p> </blockquote> <p>What is your favorite inspirational quotes that keeps you going?</p> <p>Make me feel better! Share your injury experiences!</p> Emhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10103710453565529801noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4053044218976708467.post-11307165189095556432012-01-14T09:30:00.001-08:002012-01-14T09:30:17.562-08:00Houston Marathon...Who is wearing who?<p>I'm sure everyone is getting pretty sick of hearing about all of the hype behind the Olympic Trials at Houston this morning....well, maybe not if you are like me ;)</p> <p>Also, if you are anything like me you are OBSESSED with running shoes. I currently have a deep ever-lasting love for my newest addition to the collection:</p> <p><img src="http://www.fleetfeethouston.com/images/products/detail/womenselixir.png" /></p> <p><em>Mizuno Wave Elixir 6</em></p> <p>And I have had my eye on these babies for this season's training runs:</p> <p><img src="http://img.runningwarehouse.com/shoeviews/MEL7W1-fv.jpg" width="544" height="468" /></p> <p><em>Mizuno Wave Elixir 7...Just came out this month, can we say LOVE?!</em></p> <p>So now to the point. I found this really interesting article on <a href="http://running.competitor.com">http://running.competitor.com</a> about what the athletes are wearing on their feet today at the Houston marathon. </p> <p>Ryan Hall is sporting these babies:</p> <p><img src="https://encrypted-tbn1.google.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRtcGp-FpCCeqUc1seyOQmqqxAaYGpzjMz0hKRhwlHUMxteavaD" width="511" height="467" /></p> <p><em>The Asics Hyperspeed 2 weighing in at under 7 ounces!</em></p> <p>Kara Goucher is wearing Nike's in Pink</p> <p><img src="https://encrypted-tbn1.google.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSUCps1VzuBBgiWrKnHz0WNt2eZiqv6q6bCGMlsaN3XQS8WD71U" width="512" height="349" /></p> <p><em>The Nike Lunar Racers, weighing in at 7 ounces.</em></p> <p>Saucony came out with these special addition racers for their Houston athletes:</p> <p><img src="https://encrypted-tbn2.google.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcTtgXM_X0syvYq_ub8DpocDR5alCBJLosNi6msyPe62rg8EWo2mwA" width="510" height="350" /></p> <p>Brooks also released their special addition Houston Marathon Racers, the T7:</p> <p> <img src="https://encrypted-tbn2.google.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcRoz9QmgK4mfQFZVnK8PwC_sS_ndHAkXTK7oIqDP7_B0ybVla3mYQ" width="336" height="336" /></p> <p><em>Which ones would you choose? Who followed all of the coverage of the marathon this morning? thoughts?!</em></p> <p> </p> <p><em></em></p> <p><em> </em></p> <a href="http://running.competitor.com/"></a> Emhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10103710453565529801noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4053044218976708467.post-10438981756321437082012-01-08T15:28:00.001-08:002012-01-08T15:28:28.361-08:00First Long Run of Training...DONE!<p>Since this week was my first official week of training, today called for the first long run of 8 miles. </p> <p>I had prepared myself for this run all week and thought I was ready until I woke up to 20 degree weather and icy roads. </p> <p>As much as I <em>REALLLY </em>did not want to run 8 miles on the treadmill, I was willing to suffer in return for comfort and safety....Until I went down to the gym and every. single. treadmill. was taken. I guess everyone had the same idea as me. </p> <p>I took this as a sign. I ran back up to the apartment, threw on my running tights, my warmest jacket, gloves, and a hat and braved the elements. </p> <p>Hell, I'm in Denver now, I may as well suck it up and get tough! When in Rome right?</p> <p>After getting out I was so glad that I had made that decision. Not only did I feel like a feakin bad ass treakin it through the snow, but it turned out to be not as cold as I had imagined it would be. I even had to take off my gloves and a layer half way through the run! </p> <p>I ended up getting in 8.5 miles in about 1 hour and 10 minutes. I'll take it. Considering I had to seriously slow down through most of the run, because I almost ate concrete at least 5 times. One of those times being right in front of the office of our apartment complex where the cute runner guy works and was sitting at his desk. Damn. So much for being smooth. Good thing I have a boy that loves me even though I am an extreme nerd. :)</p> <p>In other news, last night was the boy's mom's <u>60th BIRTHDAY!</u> The whole family went out to dinner and then to Cirque Du Soliel, which was Michael jackson themed. oh yeah!</p> <p>And what is a 60th birthday without a ginormous birthday hat?</p> <p><img src="https://twitpic.com/show/iphone/84vs8u" width="354" height="468" /></p> <p>And here is a shot of the whole fam at dinner, love these guys:</p> <p><img src="https://twitpic.com/show/iphone/84vrxz" /></p> <p>It was definitely a fun night! Now I am off to relax and finish up this Broncos game! Tomorrow I start my new teaching job, wish me luck! Im a little nervous!! </p> Emhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10103710453565529801noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4053044218976708467.post-52069165940288308152012-01-06T09:04:00.001-08:002012-01-06T09:04:07.801-08:00In it to win it<p>New year, new job, new challenge. </p> <p>Thats right. I finally am going to venture into my career choice (you know that one that I spent about 6 years getting a masters degree in.) I was offered a teaching job last week and will be starting on Monday! I can not wait and I think that its a great step in the right direction. </p> <p>I also kind of jumped the gun and quit my other job, so I have had sort of a weeks vacation. Which has been perfect because this week I officially started training for marathon #2, with the goal of achieving a BQ this time! Not sure if its possible, but I'm sure as hell gonna try! :)</p> <p>Here is my week in training thus far:</p> <blockquote> <p>Monday: Easy run (6 miles, avg. 8:30 pace)</p> <p>Tuesday: Intervals (20 min warm up at 8:30 pace, then 20 minutes of alternating 1 min=7:30 pace 1 min=8:30 pace, then 20 min cool down at 8:30 pace)</p> <p>Wednesday: Easy run (5.1 miles at 8:30 pace)</p> <p>Thursday: Weight training and Easy run (4 miles at 8:30 pace)</p> <p>Friday: Rest </p> </blockquote> <p>Tomorrow will be an interval run and Sunday will be my first long run. I am going to play it by ear, but I'm aiming for 8 miles. </p> <p>So far I am off to a pretty good start. My goal pace for the marathon will be about 8:15-8:30, and my comfortable pace is about 8:30 right now, so I'm feeling pretty good! Hopefully it will continue to improve!!</p> <p>Another thing I have done with my week off is a little DIY project that I'm quite proud of:</p> <p><img src="http://d3j5vwomefv46c.cloudfront.net/photos/full/490376209.jpg?Expires=1325870315&Key-Pair-Id=APKAIYVGSUJFNRFZBBTA&Signature=oD477WHMrpdhMAP4Ub-PrQ7-rIrun7FKweyFepqGUAOCQl~F9aDrVs0amb1WZvSDY9C5dSaRKrotfXLXE5sjm4zZjt1eB7UDgwcIfWG9BRd6r-6oxl1BP8Y3yjQsxudPvJ6lzDQGyItLr9m8r0DDP7sLMvrxR-bApYoZWEdmkLQ_" /></p> <p>I have been wanting to make one for forever and finally decided to take matters into my own hands. Next project will be one for my race bibs! And if you guys are interested in a tutorial on how to make one yourself let me know and I will post it! Its super easy!</p> <p>What is everyone doing this weekend? Any race plans?</p> Emhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10103710453565529801noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4053044218976708467.post-29799382394453684952011-11-09T08:20:00.001-08:002011-11-09T08:24:57.924-08:00Spring Training and Racing ScheduleSo I know I've been somewhat of a stranger lately. You know that whole grad school, full time job, full time kid..err..boyfriend. Those things take up A LOT of time. Who knew?!<br />
I'm definitely getting the itch to start training again. Too bad the weather here is pretty much going to be below freezing until who knows when, and I FREAKIN hate the treadmill! I did throw on my bad-ass-ness yesterday though and plunge into the freezing weather for a nice little run. <br />
I was worried that my speed may have declined a little, since I'm not officially training right now. But I was pretty surprised with my splits!<br />
<ul><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #741b47;"><b>Mile 1: 8:02</b></span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #741b47;"><b>Mile 2: 8:06</b></span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #741b47;"><b>Mile 3: 7:54</b></span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #741b47;"><b>Mile 4: 7:50</b></span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #741b47;"><b>Mile 5: 7:52</b></span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #741b47;"><b>Mile 6: 8:16</b></span></li>
</ul><b>Total Miles: 6 in 48:05</b><br />
<i>Not too bad em, not too bad. </i><br />
<i><br />
</i><br />
I will say that the one thing that I like about running is cold weather is the gear. Here are some of my favorite things to where when the temperature drops.<br />
<img src="http://runnersami.files.wordpress.com/2011/10/nike-element.jpeg" /><br />
Nike Element Jacket. I got mine last year at TJ Maxx for a steal! And it is always my go to jacket when I run in colder weather. <br />
<img alt="Mizuno Women's Wildwood Running Tights" height="335" src="http://s7d4.scene7.com/is/image//MizunoUSA/mizuno-running-womens-wildwood-running-tights-420840-f-pri-906B?fmt=png-alpha&hei=406&wid=625" width="512" /><br />
Mizuno Running Tights. These things are the best! They feel like you are hardly wearing anything at all because they move so well, yet they keep me warm and toasting in the CO weather. PLUS they are my favorite color (purple) and the boy says I look like a pro when I wear them!<br />
<img height="236" src="https://encrypted-tbn1.google.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcS9Dcm4Sel92bRXCq5vHXYl34P2W2UFPqHUub3zFY-iqSBvnLIm" width="236" /><br />
Fleece earwarmers. <b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #351c75;">They have a variety of colors at Wal-mart for $3, not kidding</span></b>. <br />
<br />
I also really like <a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/cda/whattowear/0,7152,s6-240-325-330-0,00.html"><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #741b47;">this app</span></b></a> from <a href="http://runnersworld.com/"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #741b47;"><b>Runner's World</b></span></a>. You just give a little info, like the temperature, wind, etc. and they will suggest what to wear for your run. I also read once that you should always dress for 20 degrees warmer when you are running, because that is how much your body temperature goes up. I generally find this to be a good rule of thumb. <br />
<br />
As far as training and more races, I have a few cooked up for the spring. So far for sure I'm doing the <a href="http://www.ftcollinsmarathon.com/">Colorado Marathon</a> and attempting to get a BQ from this one. Its in May, so come January I'll be training my ass off for that time!<br />
<br />
<b><i>I have a few other races on the agenda, such as a Turkey Trot (of course), a few halfs, and maybe a relay. so stay tuned!</i></b><br />
<b><i><br />
</i></b><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000; font-size: large;">P.S. If any of your girls reading this are from Colorado, or think you may want to join a team for the Wild West Relay, go to the website: <a href="http://www.wildwestrelay.com/">www.<b>wildwestrelay</b>.com</a>, check it out, and leave me a comment or send me an email telling me you are interested. I really think it would be awesome to get some bloggers together to do this! Plus you need 12 people on a team, and I just don't know that many people around here that are THAT into running. </span>Emhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10103710453565529801noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4053044218976708467.post-53878693467615194632011-10-31T09:02:00.001-07:002011-10-31T09:13:26.602-07:00Halloween and FootballThis weekend was filled with fun "fall" type events. On Saturday I finally decided what I was going to be for Halloween:<br />
<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-QQgCrEATfHM/Tq7GcbfHmEI/AAAAAAAACJk/bjxI_IPSbGE/s1600-h/IMG_2528%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2528" height="429" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-32N0gnuerDI/Tq7Gc360yiI/AAAAAAAACJs/ZlvWS22im98/IMG_2528_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="328" /></a><br />
Black Swan!!<br />
<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-k0cnz-H8tEY/Tq7GdVd-PqI/AAAAAAAACJ0/pPqQvG1KxVI/s1600-h/IMG_2530%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2530" height="315" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-wdcwVIh1yyA/Tq7GdvJ3JaI/AAAAAAAACJ8/u4DYaafjq00/IMG_2530_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="412" /></a> <br />
Among my friends were a soccer player, Keith Stone, and a Geisha<br />
<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Vt-mTX7l1ck/Tq7GeFVZtvI/AAAAAAAACKE/yOFLcWve1X8/s1600-h/IMG_2533%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2533" height="349" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-SVHR9NdamB8/Tq7GepsOg5I/AAAAAAAACKM/1KjUUKrcNko/IMG_2533_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="458" /></a><br />
Pilot and Keith Stone, again<br />
<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-9wPdA8AGPz4/Tq7GfOCFPoI/AAAAAAAACKU/3FpJG9-6SXQ/s1600-h/IMG_2535%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2535" border="0" height="355" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-pwl6fHMBAJ4/Tq7GfQ4FyuI/AAAAAAAACKc/Ky7jJ_8NMYE/IMG_2535_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="466" /></a> <br />
<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-0RtAD9TFR5w/Tq7GgteYL4I/AAAAAAAACKk/gZvHi630Ut4/s1600-h/IMG_2531%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2531" height="354" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-hiytMtYvGPs/Tq7GhDzuMaI/AAAAAAAACKs/x08V6_bJDrY/IMG_2531_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="463" /></a><br />
After partying all night for Halloween we woke up the next morning and hiked to Sports Authority Stadium for my very first pro football game<br />
<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Z9wDVTzUOdE/Tq7GhpEvTmI/AAAAAAAACK0/HutKufeoqAA/s1600-h/IMG_2539%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2539" height="359" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-EhP9RXVwnXg/Tq7Ghzih31I/AAAAAAAACK8/srhSHZ8OfDc/IMG_2539_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="470" /></a> <br />
<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-h3CHcyFJ1m0/Tq7GirTGLXI/AAAAAAAACLE/QofFYqemZAU/s1600-h/IMG_2538%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2538" height="365" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-z97eH2sepDw/Tq7GjJ0fLMI/AAAAAAAACLM/iPhXdffTpys/IMG_2538_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="479" /></a><br />
Ready for the game!<br />
<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/--Y8WhoWguzk/Tq7GjrGncNI/AAAAAAAACLU/Bu23ubsUxdU/s1600-h/IMG_2540%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2540" height="370" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-MIAQUI_fdrU/Tq7GkHv8CwI/AAAAAAAACLc/L4h9yf55fy4/IMG_2540_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="485" /></a> <br />
We had amazing seats! 14 rows up from the field!<br />
<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-eAYvzMJIfqw/Tq7GkqNELJI/AAAAAAAACLk/FL1dWwEJ_9E/s1600-h/IMG_2544%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2544" height="379" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-hMbQOcRPiA0/Tq7GlPdm2UI/AAAAAAAACLs/puYpV2IQs3A/IMG_2544_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="496" /></a> <br />
<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Yo5iscClbTg/Tq7GllqKjLI/AAAAAAAACL0/INLgxzKD3PE/s1600-h/IMG_2547%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2547" height="386" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-UrqWl3GOoKM/Tq7GmOeXj-I/AAAAAAAACL8/xX_7SM3HW04/IMG_2547_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="502" /></a><br />
This was the boy's favorite part...the cheerleaders<br />
<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-DoAWie_nUQk/Tq7GmnQRWtI/AAAAAAAACME/Db4DkM8ttWI/s1600-h/IMG_2545%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2545" height="387" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-p5Bf8xsYD98/Tq7GnCQANaI/AAAAAAAACMM/7C3XE70qmek/IMG_2545_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="506" /></a><br />
Pretty fun weekend, and now its time to get back to work.<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #b45f06; font-size: large;">Happy Halloween everyone!! </span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;"><i>What are you dressing up as?</i></span>Emhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10103710453565529801noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4053044218976708467.post-41546198112082859012011-10-27T08:45:00.001-07:002011-10-27T08:49:56.237-07:00You guessed it!After carefully tallying all of the votes and taking into consideration all sides, we have a clear winner...<br />
It was a landslide win for pumpkin #1<br />
<img height="513" src="http://hphotos-iad1.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/306468_711470346136_57500297_35547340_1616166850_n.jpg" width="457" /><br />
Who carved this work of genius you ask?....<br />
<a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-uqRpshxlHBo/Tql8sEGMq1I/AAAAAAAACIU/5sXVsZ1hDJM/s1600-h/birthday0284.jpg"><img alt="birthday!! 028" border="0" height="355" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-zoHvyXQxUBA/Tql8sgEi1TI/AAAAAAAACIc/AJFvtrNyUnw/birthday028_thumb2.jpg?imgmax=800" style="border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-top-width: 0px;" width="465" /></a><br />
Yes, I guess you could say my pumpkin trumped pumpkin #2<br />
<br />
On the running front I have been DYING to do another race! I loved all of your suggestions from a couple of posts ago. I looked into some relays and this one seems pretty freakin cool...<br />
<img height="678" src="http://www.wildwestrelay.com/posters/images/posters/2005_WWR_Poster_large.jpg" width="442" /><br />
Its not until August, but that would give me plenty of time to get a team together. Anyone wanna join?!<br />
I also would LOVE to do the Vegas Half Marathon, like ALOT of you are doing. My roommate is actually going to be in Vegas that weekend, so I might just try to make it happen, we will see. <br />
And now I leave you with the most important question of all....<br />
<i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #b45f06; font-size: x-large;">What in the world should I be for Halloween?!!!</span></b></i>Emhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10103710453565529801noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4053044218976708467.post-52698420958576709112011-10-18T18:42:00.001-07:002011-10-18T18:42:45.555-07:00You Be the Judge<p>Tonight was the second annual pumpkin carving contest between the boy and I. We already went through two rounds of judging..and now its your turn! </p> <p>So take a look at the two jack-o-lanterns that we whipped up last and tell me which one you like best...</p> <p>Contestant #1:</p> <p><img src="http://hphotos-iad1.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash4/306468_711470346136_57500297_35547340_1616166850_n.jpg" width="475" height="524" /></p> <p>Contestant #2:</p> <p><img src="http://a2.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/312873_711469203426_57500297_35547331_1555367519_n.jpg" width="483" height="596" /></p> <p>Ok, make your decision. Contestant #1 or #2. We have a little bit going on to see who will win this round of judging ;) I'll let you know whose is whose after you vote!</p> Emhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10103710453565529801noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4053044218976708467.post-40441809822535803582011-10-16T14:10:00.001-07:002011-10-16T14:10:03.726-07:00First Award on My New Blog<p>I was pretty pumped when I was browsing through blogs this morning and came across <a href="http://happyhealthyrunner.com/">Happy Healthy Runner's</a> blog. This is because she had tagged me in her post to receive this award:</p> <p><img alt="VB" src="http://happyhealthyrunner.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/10/VB_thumb.jpg" /></p> <p>So here is what this award entails, according to <a href="http://happyhealthyrunner.com/2011/10/11/winner-winner/">Happy Healthy Runner's Post</a>:</p> <p>1.  Thank the person who gave you the award and provide a link to their post.  CHECK! <br />2.  Share seven things about yourself. <br />3.  Award this award to 15 recently discovered blogs</p> <p>So here it goes, seven things about myself...because I know that you are DYING to know more about me! ;)</p> <p>1. I have THREE tattoos...where you ask? I'll keep that a surprise for now ;) But one of them does have to do with running. </p> <p>2. My all time favorite food is toast and jelly. Im not kidding. I could LIVE on this. And I also like to mix up the jelly flavors too. You know. Keep life interesting. </p> <p><img src="http://fc06.deviantart.net/fs70/i/2010/077/f/0/Toast_love_jelly_by_Puffy7.jpg" width="409" height="484" /></p> <blockquote> <p><em>Image found <a href="http://puffy7.deviantart.com/art/Toast-love-jelly-157661861">here</a></em></p> </blockquote> <p>3. I am SO ADD that I can barely sit through a movie without wanting to get up. The only movies that can hold my attention for longer than about an hour are scary movies. </p> <p>4. Speaking of scary movies, Halloween is my all-time favorite holiday. I love the costumes, haunted houses, candy, and carving pumpkins. </p> <p><img src="http://t2.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSjtFFsLn0DkNQ2dbZlrWSiRNXRMJaSme_iIC8vtoRhSxKo0MndQQ" width="402" height="280" /></p> <blockquote> <p><em>Image found <a href="http://www.myreadablefeast.com">here</a></em></p> </blockquote> <p>5. I have never once broken a bone, nope not ever. </p> <p>6. I only own two pairs of jeans. I never wear them! Its dresses and skirts in the summer and leggings and tights in the winter. Hey, once you get used to the elastic waist, its hard to go back! </p> <p>7. My family has their own gospel band. Yep. They are called the Harvey's. Google it. </p> <p>15 Blogs that you should read NOW:</p> <ol> <li><a href="http://www.blogger.com/profile/13485070247433437203">Miss Erosion</a></li> <li><a href="http://southgirlrunning.blogspot.com/">Southern Girl Running</a></li> <li><a href="http://chicrunner.com/">Chic Runner</a></li> <li><a href="http://theskippingpixie.blogspot.com/">The Skipping Pixie</a></li> <li><a href="http://lillysrunningmomma.com/">Lilly's Running Momma</a></li> <li><a href="http://workoutwarrior-chels.blogspot.com/">Workout Warrior</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.cynthiasadventures.com/">Cynthia's Adventures</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.neonblonderunner.com/">Neon Blonde Runner</a></li> <li><a href="http://healthnut-em.blogspot.com/">The Health Nut</a></li> <li><a href="http://oual.wordpress.com/">Once Upon A Lime</a></li> <li><a href="http://wealthshealth.blogspot.com/">Wealth is Health</a></li> <li><a href="http://betybliss.wordpress.com/">Bety Bliss</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.confessionsofafitnessinstructor.com/">Confessions of a Fitness Instructor</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.blondeponytail.com/">Blonde Ponytail</a></li> <li><a href="http://mandiwithani.blogspot.com/">Mandi with an I</a></li> </ol> <p>Alright girls! Go for it!!!</p> <p></p> <a href="http://happyhealthyrunner.com/"></a> Emhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10103710453565529801noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4053044218976708467.post-25745719611939561152011-10-13T12:49:00.001-07:002011-10-13T12:52:29.687-07:00What's Next?!<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #a64d79;">Well, it hasn't even been a week and I am already itching to start running again! </span></b><br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #a64d79;"><br />
</span></b><br />
I took a good solid 3 days off and just rested and relaxed. Yesterday I was about to chew my arm off because I wanted to go for a run so bad! SO today I threw on my running clothes and grabbed my playlist from the marathon and did an easy 3 mile run on the treadmill...<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #351c75;"><b>and ALOT of stretching. </b></span><br />
<br />
After that I came home and sat on the computer for hours trying to plot my next running move! <i><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0b5394;">Another marathon? A half marathon? Maybe a few smaller races over the next few weekends? </span></b></i>Ahhh, the possibilities are endless!<br />
<br />
And the boy thought that he would get to stop hearing all the running banter every night after I ran the marathon ;) It didn't burn me out at all, <b>only encouraged me to do more</b>! <span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #741b47;"><i><b>And hey, if I put up with him looking like this when he takes me out to dinner...</b></i></span><br />
<img height="528" src="http://a7.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/s320x320/298968_708465013846_57500297_35520106_1201413230_n.jpg" width="400" /><br />
Then he can put up with my "running-obsessive-ness".<br />
AND he isn't the only one that can dress up with balloon accessories either!<br />
<img height="529" src="http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc7/304249_708464784306_57500297_35520104_555044181_n.jpg" width="398" /><br />
<em><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #cc0000; font-size: large;"><b>Anyone have any suggestions for future races?! Tell me about your races coming up!</b></span></em>Emhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10103710453565529801noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4053044218976708467.post-31603193355410560412011-10-11T08:37:00.001-07:002011-10-11T10:04:48.603-07:00Denver Rock N' Roll Marathon Race Recap<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: purple;"><b>SO here it is, finally getting to my marathon review.</b></span> It has been a CRAZY and amazing weekend and I am sooo happy to report that on <b>Sunday I successfully completed my very first marathon!</b> And here is how it went:<br />
<br />
The race was scheduled to begin at 6:55AM. The start line was only about 1.5 miles from my apartment and the boy had decided he would drop me off and then head for the first park that we were going to run through and wait there for me. This meant I didn't have to wake up TOO early, so that was great!<br />
<br />
I woke up around 530 (except I think I was waking up every hour the night of, because I was afraid my alarm wouldn't work and I would miss the whole race.) I threw on the clothes I had strategically picked out the night before, loaded up my spi belt, and strapped on my garmin and my ipod..and I was ready to go!<br />
<a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-YmwaiyXySgQ/TpRiupfwx0I/AAAAAAAACGk/a-RT-ZLdBEQ/s1600-h/IMG_2526%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2526" border="0" height="468" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ndXINalqv5U/TpRivQhni7I/AAAAAAAACGs/Gb38HX2M6es/IMG_2526_thumb%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="359" /></a><br />
<em><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #a64d79;">What I wore: Mizuno Wave Elixir shoes, Mizuno compression capris, Nike DriFit Tank, and Nike Jacket. </span></em><br />
I was so nervous that I didn't think I could eat a damn thing, but I knew that I was about to be running 26.2 miles, and I should probably eat something. So I brought a banana and a CLIF bar in the car with me. I ended up only choking down the CLIF bar. <br />
<br />
The boy got me pretty close to the start line, so I jumped out of the car and walked a few blocks to my Corral, just as they were telling people to start lining up. <br />
<br />
The sun had not come up yet, so it was still pretty cold. (about 35 degrees). But as we were standing there waiting for the start the sun started coming up and you could tell it was going to be a PERFECT day for a run!<br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #351c75;">They made a few announcements, sang the national anthem, and then we were off!</span></b><br />
<img alt="P, Start" height="329" src="http://images20.brightroom.com/0/75792/44/75792-044-029f.jpg" width="487" /><br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #741b47;">My plan for the marathon was to run the first 10 miles at a conservative pace and then pick it up for the last 16. </span></b>And it turned out to work pretty well that way. <br />
<br />
I knew that the boy was going to be waiting in City Park, which was at about miles 6-9. So I kept counting down the miles until I got to see him.<br />
<br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #741b47;"><b>First 6 mile splits were 9:26, 9:01, 9:02, 8:54, 9:08, and 8:41</b></span><br />
<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #741b47;"><b><br />
</b></span><br />
We made our way into the park and I saw him! It was pretty quick though, because I just got a chance to chuck my gloves at him and keep going. But then a little ways into the park I see a boy racing through the field on a bike with a little dog trailing behind. It was the best/funniest site I have ever seen. <i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0b5394;">He made it to the next turning point in the park before I ran by, so of course I had to run and jump into his arms and give him a big kiss.</span></i><br />
<i><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0b5394;"><br />
</span></i><br />
We ran through the park until about mile 9. I knew that we were going to split with the half marathoners at about 11.5 miles, so I used that as my next thing to count down to. <br />
<img alt="6126 Full Marathon Finish" height="490" src="http://images20.brightroom.com/0/75792/691/75792-691-034f.jpg" width="329" /><br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #741b47;">Mile 6-11 splits were 8:52. 8:49, 9:05, 8:50, 9:05, (took a GU at mile 10), 8:31. Notice mile 11...told you I was going to try and pick it up after mile 10 :)</span></b><br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #741b47;"><br />
</span></b><br />
We finally made it to the point where the half marathoners went one way and the full marathoners went to other way. <i>I remember running by this when I did my first half, and being so glad I was almost done and not regretting just running the half AT ALL</i>. <b>But this time, I felt SO PROUD to be splitting with the full marathon runners, and everyone waved and cheered when we split and it was the best feeling in the world.</b><br />
<b><br />
</b><br />
From here I decided that the next check point would be the half marathon mark. Up until this point the 4 hour marathon pacer had been slightly in front of me. I didn't want to push it to catch up with them, but I knew if I kept up my pace I would eventually catch up. <b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0b5394;">And right before the half marathon mark I found myself right in the middle of the 4 hour pace group!</span></b><br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #0b5394;"><br />
</span></b><br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #741b47;">Miles 12 and 13 splits were 8:59 amd 8:35</span></b>.<br />
<br />
I realized that the average pace of the 4 hour pacers was about 8:30 and this pace felt pretty comfortable for me, so I decided to just stay with the pace group and not try to run ahead until the last 10K. <br />
Well, I did that for about ohhh a mile, and then I thought, <em>"<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #b45f06;">what the hell, I'm feeling good, I'm going for it!!"</span></b></em><br />
<em><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #b45f06;"><br />
</span></b></em><br />
I knew that we were going to be running through another park at about mile 19 and I secretly hoped that the boy would have taken it upon himself to be there too. So I made this my next check point. <br />
<img alt="6126 Course" height="501" src="http://images20.brightroom.com/0/75792/2588/75792-2588-036f.jpg" width="340" /><br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #741b47;">Miles 14-19 splits were 8:41, 8:35, 8:39, 8:47, 8:45, and 8:40</span></b>. (took another GU at mile 19). <br />
<br />
We made it to the park and there was the boy, the puppy, AND his sister and her whole family!! This really gave me that extra little boost that I needed at this point. I passed them and high fived them all as I ran by.<br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #674ea7;">Then I see the same awesome sight that I saw in the park before. Except this time it was even more awesome. It was the boy, with his niece on his shoulders, his other niece running with the puppy, and his sister pulling the twins in a red wagon...all sprinting across the field so they could meet me again!</span></b><br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #674ea7;"><br />
</span></b><br />
When I ran past the boy the second time, I took off my headphone and yelled <b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000;">"<em>I passed the 4 hour pacers!!!" </em>He gave me the thumbs up, said I was doing great, and I kept on running. </span></b><br />
From here I didn't have much of a checkpoint, except for the end! I knew I just had a 10K left to go, so I settled in and kept running. <br />
<br />
<b>Everything was going great...until it hit at about mile 22</b>....I HAD to use the bathroom!! There was no more water going into my body until I could let some out, and I knew trying to run 4 more miles without drinking anymore water would have been stupid. <br />
<br />
I kept looking for the next port-a-potty. <b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000;">I wanted to keep going SO BAD</span></b> and I even considered just letting it go while I was running. But it was so damn cold, I knew that probably wouldn't be a good idea ;) Finally I see one up ahead, so i book it for the closest one and speed-pee as fast as I possibly can. <br />
I was so disappointed that I was doing so well and had to stop, I just knew that the 4 hour pace group had passed me, but as I kept running I never saw them, and I was starting to see some of the same people that I was running with before I stopped. <br />
<br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #741b47;">Miles 20-24 splits were 8:46, 8:43, 8:41, 9:19, 8:49.</span></b><br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #741b47;"><br />
</span></b><br />
<b>And then it happened. The wall. A big, huge, ugly wall. Right at mile 24.</b> I decided I might need to take in more calories, so I got out my last GU. <b><i>I squeezed a plop into my mouth</i></b>....<br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #990000;">and almost barfed</span></b>. Then the guy in front of me stopped and barfed, and I REALLY thought it was going to happen then. Then I started thinking about the huge spaghetti dinner I had the night before....<br />
<br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #351c75;">I knew it was all mental from here. Yeah, my body wanted to stop. I had been running for over 3 hours!! I pushed bad thoughts from my head and told myself <em>"just 2 more miles and you will be a marathoner". </em>So I put my head up and kept running for the finish. </span></b><br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #351c75;"><br />
</span></b><br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #741b47;">Miles 24-26 splits were 9:19, 8:45 and 8:17</span></b>. Yeah I think I picked it up the last mile because I was so ready to be done.<br />
<br />
<b>We turned a corner and there was the finish line</b>. I started tearing up because I couldn't believe I had accomplished something this big. I knew I was going to beat my goal and I was going to be a SUB4 marathoner! Then I saw the boy and his family all cheering me on at the end and I REALLY lost it! <br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #741b47;">I crossed the finish line at 3:55:28</span></b>. (The clock time shows the time from the very start and my coral started about 5 minutes later)<br />
<img alt="6126 Full Marathon Finish" height="468" src="http://images20.brightroom.com/0/75792/3108/75792-3108-024f.jpg" width="316" /><br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #741b47;">Official Stats: </span></b><br />
<ul><li><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #741b47;">Finish Time: 3:55:28</span></b></li>
<li><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #741b47;">Average Pace: 8:59</span></b></li>
<li><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #741b47;">Overall: 618 out of 2381</span></b></li>
<li><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #741b47;">Division: 39 out of 210</span></b></li>
<li><b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #741b47;">Female: 136 out of 1020</span></b></li>
</ul>Im so proud that I can now say "I am a SUB4 marathoner"<br />
<img height="491" src="http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/299557_708398082976_57500297_35519913_856541731_n.jpg" width="368" /><br />
<b>NEXT UP...BOSTON QUALIFIER!! :) </b>Emhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10103710453565529801noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4053044218976708467.post-60430630536033846612011-10-10T21:50:00.001-07:002011-10-10T21:53:35.465-07:00Official Marathoner!<img height="500" src="http://a3.sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash4/299557_708398082976_57500297_35519913_856541731_n.jpg" width="374" /><br />
<div class="wlWriterSmartContent" id="scid:0767317B-992E-4b12-91E0-4F059A8CECA8:d60486ff-7043-405b-bd8d-1a4c274f5696" style="display: inline; margin: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-top: 0px;"><br />
</div>I made it through alive!! I am now an official marathon runner! :)<br />
Race report and weekend update coming tomorrow....but I'll give you a little teaser now....SUB4!<br />
Thats all I'm sayin' :)<br />
Hope everyone else had a great weekend<br />
<em><span style="color: purple; font-size: small;">Anyone else run any races this weekend? How did it go?</span></em>Emhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10103710453565529801noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4053044218976708467.post-63259158779446312532011-10-07T09:42:00.001-07:002011-10-07T09:42:10.909-07:00Its the Final Countdown<p>Thats right people, after the 4+ months of training and doing nothing but think about running, talk about running, and actually running...it has come down to one more 2 mile run tomorrow and then BAM:</p> <p><img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEijzn9I9ASTeV79I4sLpkmwLPiwRD4ENGWkWAQv4SweOau85OFrUQjqITLziJnJ0mkFJi5Y072KY60mE_RPOzeCNXw2DvwwV1k63v8EmJbDubtrmmPKU2IcEhkGF_2-ltZM0A_NU2nNg1Or/s1600/RNRDenver1.jpg" width="554" height="271" /></p> <p>Im pretty sure I spent a good 3 hours last night on the <a href="http://runrocknroll.competitor.com/denver">website</a> reading every. single. sentence. about the marathon. And I'm pretty sure my stomach was doing flips the whole time. </p> <p>Im nervous! and excited! and FREAKING OUT! all at once. man this whole running a marathon is GREAT!! I just hope I make it across the finish line without having to crawl or be carried across. Everyone cross your fingers :)</p> <p>Tonight I planned on going to the expo, since they say that locals should take advantage of the Friday expo because Saturday will probably be packed with people traveling for the marathon. However, one thing I did not want to miss was this girl speaking at the expo:</p> <p><img src="http://t3.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcQv3icOUbFjMb_jKdAL9q7Cyl9MKtr1IH_54icEIHJfDzsEvoo1wQ" width="234" height="345" /></p> <p>Yep. Kara Goucher is going to be there! I'm thinking about getting her to sign my running shorts. You know. maybe the speediness will rub off! </p> <p>She is scheduled to be there on Saturday, but I really wanted to go to the Expo today, so I may just be the biggest dork in the whole world and go both days. I was thinking about wearing a disguise in case anyone noticed me and then getting double the free stuff. </p> <p>SO stay tuned on a recap of the expo! It should be a good one!</p> <p>In other news, I got the most excited email the other day from <a href="http://www.honeymilk.com">Honey Milk</a>, and guess what?!</p> <p><img src="http://t2.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSAqjc0X3ADes-oxu9myI2tEDWcFezBKlg8tr9eS2oRBKDWCYgVIw" width="347" height="193" /></p> <p>I'M ON THE TEAM!!! Thats right, I am a HoneyMilk Athlete :) You can go to their athletes page at <a href="http://www.honeymilk.com/athletes">http://www.honeymilk.com/athletes</a> and scroll through the bazillion athletes and find me if you want. Its a horrible picture and a horrible write up. But do I feel pretty awesome about it?! You betcha' </p> <p>Also, today and tomorrow will be spent trying to put together 4+ hours of awesome, adrenaline pumpin' music for my marathon playlist....AND I NEED YOUR HELP!! Everyone tell me some of the music that you love to run to, so that I can fill my time listening to the music that gets you going while I run 26.2 miles. Thanks!</p> <p>P.S. I LOVED reading everyone's comments on waving to fellow runners. It looks like an overwhelming majority of you are avid wavers. And for that I salute you! Maybe its just because ALL bloggers are super awesome and nice. Keep those waves coming! </p> Emhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10103710453565529801noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4053044218976708467.post-17837620164032334832011-09-30T09:03:00.001-07:002011-09-30T09:09:16.692-07:00Are You A Waver?<img height="334" src="http://t1.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:ANd9GcSnYDlGxr2CD11hDlSCqk3pyQEbi1lhI-M5v5Ga51Kl_W8h-xuZTQ" width="442" /><br />
OK friends, its time to discuss a hot topic in running....waving. <br />
<br />
Its been something that has been on my mind every time I come back from running and I want opinions!<br />
Being from the south (<b>and we ALL have heard of southern hospitality</b>) EVERYONE waves. If you are a runner and you run past another runner you are more than likely going to be greeted in some way. Nothing big, a nod, a wave, a "good morning". You know. <br />
<br />
So then I move to Colorado and its a gamble every time. <em><b>Are they going to wave at me? Should I wave at them or will I look cheesy? What about bikers, they can't really take their hands off the wheel, so I guess they have an excuse. </b></em><br />
<em><b><br />
</b></em><br />
<b>I am most definitely a waver</b>. I'll say it proudly. I like to acknowledge a fellow runner with a little smile and a wave. And I like it when they do the same back. <br />
<br />
According to an article that I found in <a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/">Runners World Magazine</a>, age matters when it comes to waving. According to the article, older people are more likely to wave than younger people. Which I find to be mostly true, but then again, I am an avid waver. hmmm...<br />
<br />
What if I told you Kara Goucher was a waver? Yep. In her book <em>Running for Women, </em>she clearly states that you should "wave to runners as you pass, this is an old custom among us. Let's keep it going". Read it and weep. <br />
<br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><i>So I now I ask your opinion. Are you a waver or a nonwaver? And what are your reasons for either one? </i></span></b><br />
<b><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: large;"><i><br />
</i></span></b><br />
P.S. 10 MORE FREAKIN DAYS UNTIL MY FIRST MARATHON!!Emhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10103710453565529801noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4053044218976708467.post-22562554681094406062011-09-27T18:39:00.001-07:002011-09-27T18:39:04.506-07:00Wedding Time!<p>whew! What a BUSY weekend! The boy was the best man in his best friend Justin's wedding this weekend and it was a PACKED weekend of events. I had the whole weekend off of work, but I felt just as tired because of all the activities that were involved in the weekend!</p> <p>It turned out great, though. The wedding was gorgeous and it was a fun time. Of course, I got some pics to show off...so nice of you to ask! ;)</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-XyVinakbc_M/ToJ6jgmy3DI/AAAAAAAACFU/DNZ5O5WIP2M/s1600-h/IMG_2481%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2481" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-VscXlpfVHVI/ToJ6kObcm6I/AAAAAAAACFY/7ZiBrwSmsbo/IMG_2481_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="442" height="335" /></a></p> <p><em>Me with the in-laws</em></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-bNs_i3gCSRk/ToJ6lM5R-JI/AAAAAAAACFc/rG9O_Ztuamw/s1600-h/IMG_2482%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img border="0" alt="IMG_2482" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-0dxmOkKCpck/ToJ6lhvKu_I/AAAAAAAACFg/Zfh5J226G6o/IMG_2482_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="453" height="346" /></a></p> <p><em>The groom and his mother walking down the aisle</em></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-fGg6O4eTR_4/ToJ6meM2YKI/AAAAAAAACFk/1-txNzunK_A/s1600-h/IMG_2489%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2489" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ShHw87i7hOI/ToJ6m1HXuFI/AAAAAAAACFo/Skk2jvsmlcQ/IMG_2489_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="467" height="357" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-eGVGayxoFGU/ToJ6naiGZMI/AAAAAAAACFs/xJvPWrBkHkI/s1600-h/IMG_2491%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2491" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ZycPsOGHwhk/ToJ6n9VSPOI/AAAAAAAACFw/uvOwntIo8Kk/IMG_2491_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="471" height="359" /></a></p> <p><em>Saying the vows</em></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-SlhC7XsKx5Y/ToJ6oktAxjI/AAAAAAAACF0/9i2F-_GYLgA/s1600-h/IMG_2494%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2494" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-CdSV6UXJKxQ/ToJ6pNSBN0I/AAAAAAAACF4/krEGnaQD9BU/IMG_2494_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="464" height="354" /></a></p> <p><em>The first kiss</em></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-WS22JNgqjIw/ToJ6ptpHqZI/AAAAAAAACF8/jR_7YdedMOk/s1600-h/IMG_2496%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2496" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-2mmymfs9Na8/ToJ6qNkUOoI/AAAAAAAACGA/8ioFu5llKBk/IMG_2496_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="469" height="358" /></a></p> <p><em>The boy walking down the aisle</em></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-hiRmXf7CyT8/ToJ6qgTuJvI/AAAAAAAACGE/W35Mtng2xVw/s1600-h/IMG_2500%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img border="0" alt="IMG_2500" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-fBtNRvvTRJc/ToJ6rN6cp-I/AAAAAAAACGI/H3a-wFkshRU/IMG_2500_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="473" height="360" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-VU_G84vOMv4/ToJ6riYOP6I/AAAAAAAACGM/FN3kf4gAj3I/s1600-h/IMG_2513%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2513" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-BhWArSIdd1o/ToJ6sGZaUpI/AAAAAAAACGQ/FaD7fBunoLg/IMG_2513_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="481" height="368" /></a></p> <p><em>The two groomsmen....they clean up well</em></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Nwli7FYC79k/ToJ6saUxGHI/AAAAAAAACGU/oR7IWYn0Vw0/s1600-h/IMG_2520%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2520" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-gae86kf-njQ/ToJ6tHB4zrI/AAAAAAAACGY/p_XoLsqmzwo/IMG_2520_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="365" height="475" /></a></p> <p><em>The boy and I</em></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-k-NSl-cdN4Q/ToJ6tUXiVWI/AAAAAAAACGc/R7KHBpy3v0I/s1600-h/IMG_2517%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img border="0" alt="IMG_2517" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-KMv5hQL8ano/ToJ6t9kbpxI/AAAAAAAACGg/m1eLQaD_GWQ/IMG_2517_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="343" height="449" /></a>      </p> <p><em>Me with the gorgeous bride</em></p> <p> And thats it for now! The boy is yelling at me to make dinner so I gotta run :) Ok, maybe my tummy is just yelling at me to make dinner!</p> <p>Oh yeah, and did I mention....12 MORE DAYS UNTIL MARATHON DAY!!!! AHH!!   </p> Emhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10103710453565529801noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4053044218976708467.post-46219382348312989662011-09-16T10:26:00.001-07:002011-09-16T10:35:38.448-07:00Denver Half Marathon RecapThis weekend was the Denver Half Marathon. As you guys know, I was kind of worried about this race because it was my first trail race and it was small. I was worried my time would be super slow because of the trails or that I would get lost because there was not that many runners to follow. So heres how it went down:<br />
<ul><li><span style="color: #800040;"><span style="font-size: small;">6:30AM</span>: Alarm goes off. Roll out of bed, throw on my running clothes and gear, brush the teeth. </span></li>
<li><span style="color: #800040;"><span style="font-size: small;">6:55 AM</span>: Punch the still asleep boyfriend in the face and tell him he has five minutes to get ready because that is when I'm leaving. (Ok, you guys know I'm kidding, I was actually really sweet and nice about it) Plus we made a deal that he would get up and go with me if I got up and made him coffee. I make the best coffee. It gets me things. </span></li>
<li><span style="color: #800040;"><span style="font-size: small;">7:10 AM</span>: We leave the apartment 10 minutes late. What the hell? Why am I always freakin late?!</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #800040;"><span style="font-size: small;">7:40 AM</span>: We get to the park where the race is being held. 20 minutes from the start time. We kind of speed walk to the start line, while the boyfriend makes jokes about how dorky runners are. Thats right fellow runners, this guy thinks your a dork:</span></li>
</ul><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-dou246ZfAb4/TnOG1NBO5kI/AAAAAAAACFM/hGRl8iUjfus/s1600-h/004%25255B9%25255D.jpg">lk<img alt="004" height="398" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-oQRQfhpSnyo/TnOG1kSWehI/AAAAAAAACFQ/I_lIkAV0JNo/004_thumb%25255B7%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="363" /></a> <br />
<ul><li><span style="color: #800040;"><span style="font-size: small;">8 AM</span>: Line up at the start line. The race announcer talks for a little about the course. I don't really listen. Figure I'll just wing it. Why was I afraid of getting lost on the course?</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #800040;"><span style="font-size: small;">8:10AM</span>: These things never start on time. </span></li>
<li><span style="color: #800040;"><span style="font-size: small;">8:11AM</span>: WERE OFF!!</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #800040;"><span style="font-size: small;">Miles 1-3:</span> Feeling pretty good. The trails haven't really started yet, but they said that they wouldn't until about mile 4 or 5. <span style="color: #ff0080;">Mile splits are 8:15, 8:03, 8:02</span>. I'm on pace so far to beat my 2 hour goal. </span></li>
<li><span style="color: #800040;"><span style="font-size: small;">Miles 4-6:</span> Hit the trails. they are single track, so if you get stuck behind a slow poke your doing some bush waking to get around them. Luckily I got just the right distance behind a girl that was right on pace with me. It kept my pace up and kept me confident that I following the right course. </span><span style="color: #ff0080;">Mile splits are 8:12, 7:54, 7:58. </span></li>
<li><span style="color: #800040;"><span style="font-size: small;">Miles 7-9</span>: HIt the half way point still feeling pretty good, it starts to warm up a little but right about then we go through a wooded area. I keep thinking "THIS IS SO COOL!!" we ran across streams, rocks, and the whole time it was shaded by trees and prefect weather. </span><span style="color: #ff0080;">Mile splits are 8:16, 7:59, 8:05.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #800040;"><span style="font-size: small;">Miles 9-11</span>: I knew that this was an out and back course and on the way into the wooded area I saw the sign for the 11 mile mark. I just kept waiting to come back through those woods, because I'm tellin ya it was awesomeness! About this time I catch up with the guy that has been slightly ahead of me the whole race. We stop at the water station and he asks me what mile we are on. I tell him and for the rest of the race we are BFFs. </span><span style="color: #ff0080;">Mile splits are 8:19, 8:13, 7:53. </span></li>
<li><span style="color: #800040;"><span style="font-size: small;">Miles 12 and 13</span>: Last leg of the race. I keep counting down the mileage to my new BFF who is pacing off of me now. I also tell him not to use me for an unfair advantage. (Totally kidding). Finish strong! </span><span style="color: #ff0080;">Mile splits are 8:19 and 7:40.</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #800040;"><span style="font-size: small;">The last leg</span>: My watch says 13.1 but the finish line is no where in site! "Oh yeah, I think I remember them saying it was a little more than 13.1, <em><span style="font-size: small;">Ok now I see it...wayyyy up there....at the top of that HILL!" What kind of cruel joke is this?!</span></em> I have a little "<em>Kara Goucher-esk</em>" race with a girl right at the finish line. Smoke her. See the boyfriend and the dog, high five em'. FINISH!!</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #800040;">My watch ends up saying 13.6 miles. Geez can we adjust my time for that?!</span></li>
<li><span style="color: navy; font-size: small;">I FINISH 13.6 IN 1:50:02!!!!! WOO NEW PR!! </span></li>
</ul><span style="color: purple; font-size: large;">I was so proud of myself for reaching my stretch goal. I had a blast and spent the rest of the day looking up what trail race to do next. Its love. </span><br />
<span style="color: purple; font-size: large;">Oh yeah, and if you want to see some awesome (in a totally "<i>I'm running 13 miles, don't even THINK about taking my picture</i>" way) you can go to this link: <a href="http://orders.racephotonetwork.com/QPPlus/Images.aspx">PBC Sports Photography</a>. This guy did a great job with the pictures. Im thinking about buying one in poster size for the living room. The boyfriend and the roommate would LOVE that huh?!</span>Emhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10103710453565529801noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4053044218976708467.post-17870732165034722602011-09-04T22:28:00.001-07:002011-09-04T22:45:12.995-07:0020 Miles..In the Books!!Thats right kiddos,<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #674ea7;"> I tackled the 20 miler this morning!</span> And it actually wasn't so bad. <br />
I didn't even have to get up at the crack of dawn to run either because the weather has been PERFECT here. It was about 65 this morning, with a little bit of a chilly breeze, so it was great for running. <br />
I woke up around 730, strapped on my camelback, packed up some GUs, ate a cliff bar, started up the Garmin and the Ipod, and was out the door by 8! <br />
I swear sometimes I feel like I'm bogged down with all the crap that I have to bring on long runs, but it really does make all the difference to have all of that when you are running for more than 3 hours at once. <br />
I ran on my usual running trail, out and back. The first 10 miles were great, I started out slow and just tried to enjoy the run and before I knew it, it was time to turn back around and head for home. I stopped for a bit and stretched out my legs and ate a GU and then booked it for home. <br />
I was planning on stopping at mile 15 and stretching again and taking another GU, but when I hit mile 15 I was still feeling pretty good so I decided to keep truckin'<br />
I'm not gonna lie, my legs are pretty mad at me, but I still feel good about the run and feel like it was a strong run. This makes me SO excited for the marathon! Let the taper begin!<br />
Here are the splits:<br />
<ul><li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #741b47;">Mile One: 9:45</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #741b47;">Mile Two: 9:27</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #741b47;">Mile Three: 9:28</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #741b47;">Mile Four: 9:31</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #741b47;">Mile Five: 9:36</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #741b47;">Mile Six: 9:28</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #741b47;">Mile Seven: 9:24</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #741b47;">Mile Eight: 9:23</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #741b47;">Mile Nine: 9:27</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #741b47;">Mile Ten: 9:19</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #741b47;">Mile Eleven: 9:14</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #741b47;">Mile Twelve: 9:25</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #741b47;">Mile Thirteen: 9:07</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #741b47;">Mile Fourteen: 9:08</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #741b47;">Mile Fifteen: 8:57</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #741b47;">Mile Sixteen: 9:12</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #741b47;">Mile Seventeen: 9:04</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #741b47;">Mile Eighteen: 8:59</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #741b47;">Mile Nineteen: 9:16</span></li>
<li><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: #741b47;">Mile Twenty: 9:09</span></li>
</ul>I feel pretty good about the splits! I don't know if I can do the sub 4 hour marathon that I would LOVE to do, but we will see! The half next weekend will be a semi-determining factor. So we will see how that goes :)<br />
<em><span style="color: red; font-size: small;"><b>Does anyone have any Labor Day races this weekend? </b></span></em>Emhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10103710453565529801noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4053044218976708467.post-34374838949236471702011-09-03T07:52:00.001-07:002011-09-03T08:23:52.516-07:00Earndit<a href="http://www.earndit.com/"><span style="color: purple; font-size: small;">Earndit</span></a>...have you guys heard of this website? If you haven't you should totally click on that link and check it out. My friend from work, who is also a runner and training for a half marathon, told me about it and its awesome! Basically you just go to this site, sign up, and then you can upload all of your runs from your garmin or any other device you use. Certain mileage gives you a certain amount of points, and once you save up some points you can cash them in for things like gift cards, etc. If you are a runner you should totally check it out NOW!<br />
In other news....<span style="color: #800040;">I GOT SIGNED UP FOR THE HALF MARATHON NEXT WEEKEND!! </span>I had mentioned in my previous post that I wanted to run the Denver Half Marathon next weekend, but it was limited to only 1000 runners and they were full by the time I found out about it. Well, I did a little begging (no shame here) to the race director and he let me in!! <br />
It looks like a pretty cool race. Here are some of the details:<br />
<ul><li><span style="color: purple;">13.1 miles</span></li>
<li><span style="color: purple;">Only 1000 runners</span></li>
<li><span style="color: purple;">90% dirt tails, bike paths, and roads</span></li>
<li><span style="color: purple;">Paths mostly take you along the Cherry Creek Reservoir </span></li>
<li><span style="color: purple;">Elevation: around 5,500 feet</span></li>
</ul>Here are some awesome picture from their <a href="http://www.denverhalf.com/"><span style="color: #400040; font-size: small;">website</span></a> of some of the trail. <br />
<img height="296" src="http://www.denverhalf.com/img/0START.JPG" width="400" /><br />
<img height="299" src="http://www.denverhalf.com/img/mile1.JPG" width="400" /><br />
<img height="299" src="http://www.denverhalf.com/img/mile5.JPG" width="400" /><br />
<img height="299" src="http://www.denverhalf.com/img/mile6.JPG" width="400" /><br />
<img height="299" src="http://www.denverhalf.com/img/mile11.JPG" width="400" /><br />
<img height="299" src="http://www.denverhalf.com/img/mile12.JPG" width="400" /><br />
<em>All images are from <a href="http://www.denverhalf.com/">Denverhalf.com</a></em><br />
I am kind of nervous about it being such a small race because of issues like getting lost, not enough water stations or course support, etc. I also have never done a trail race, which worries me a little as well.<br />
BUT! I am just going to use this as a fun training run and do my best :) I am aiming for under 2 hours for my main goal and a stretch goal of 1:50 or better. Stay tuned for the race review after next Sunday!<br />
<em><span style="color: red; font-size: small;">Anyone else have any races or events coming up?</span></em><br />
<em><span style="color: red; font-size: small;">Any advice for trail runs?</span></em>Emhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10103710453565529801noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4053044218976708467.post-36875621586807906322011-09-01T07:37:00.001-07:002011-09-01T07:37:32.291-07:00Getting Organized<p>I am now down to <font color="#ff0080">5 more weeks until marathon day</font>! That means that next week will be my biggest week as far as mileage, and then starts the taper.<font color="#800080"> Next week I will total almost 40 miles if I get all the runs in that I am on schedule for</font>. Here is what it looks like:</p> <ul> <li><font color="#800080" size="3">Sunday: 20 miles</font></li> <li><font color="#800080" size="3">Monday: REST</font></li> <li><font color="#800080" size="3">Tuesday: 5 miles</font></li> <li><font color="#800080" size="3">Wednesday: 5 miles</font></li> <li><font color="#800080" size="3">Thursday: 10 miles</font></li> <li><font color="#800080" size="3">Friday: REST</font></li> <li><font color="#800080" size="3">Saturday: Cross Train</font></li> </ul> <p>I also am looking for a half marathon for Sunday the 11th. Hopefully I can find one, because I haven't done a race in a while and I think that would be a fun way to get my long run in. I found one but it was full, I emailed the race director but I have yet to hear back :(</p> <p>Hopefully I can get all those runs in this week, because my schedule is getting filled up pretty quick! <font color="#800040">The last semester of grad school starts today, so in honor of that I went out and bought me a nice little planner...and already have it filled.</font></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-oue84ac3ux8/Tl-Ynbx9BvI/AAAAAAAACEw/Z564jnTf3iM/s1600-h/IMG_2480%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img border="0" alt="IMG_2480" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-fWkBFrgkoi0/Tl-Yn_CZGbI/AAAAAAAACE0/kf7mKVlDpZw/IMG_2480_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="431" height="327" /></a></p> <blockquote> <p><em>Yes I am a super nerd, but hey it helps to be organized!!</em></p> </blockquote> <p>Speaking of organization, I had a little spurt where I kept losing EVERYTHING! <font color="#8080ff">I left</font><font color="#8080c0"> my ipod at the gym (thank GOD someone turned it in), I left my phone at work, etc, etc.</font> So the boy gave me a little tip. Have a home for everything and always make sure whats supposed to be there is there. Sounds easy enough.</p> <p>So on my next Target trip I picked up this little baby on clearance for $1!! </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-CCuWJOC86yY/Tl-YojCE3CI/AAAAAAAACE4/wH4fHKtdV9s/s1600-h/IMG_2470%25255B2%25255D.jpg"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-m88Dkr4KR4Q/Tl-YpBE2_uI/AAAAAAAACE8/_sFeQdvNODU/s1600-h/IMG_2473%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2473" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-V4D1HJlQdwE/Tl-Ypp9n-AI/AAAAAAAACFA/qN63ySleHC0/IMG_2473_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="414" height="314" /></a></a></p> <p> It holds all of my running gear:</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-emcjjYs43kI/Tl-YqBI4VPI/AAAAAAAACFE/g3LYAFvIxf0/s1600-h/IMG_2476%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2476" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-86UrcZvY2ZQ/Tl-Yq-uru-I/AAAAAAAACFI/U6mXb60P7pM/IMG_2476_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="414" height="314" /></a></p> <p>Anything that I use for running is in here. <font color="#0080c0">My ipod and headphones, my </font><a href="http://www.roadid.com"><font color="#0080c0">RoadID</font></a><font color="#0080c0">, my </font><a href="http://garmin.com"><font color="#0080c0">Garmin</font></a><font color="#0080c0"> and all its little plugs, my Spibelt, and everything in between. </font>So far I think its a pretty awesome idea. And great for my because I tend to "misplace" things pretty easily. </p> <p><em><font color="#ff0000" size="3">Do you have any of your own organizational tips or tricks?</font></em></p> <p><em><font color="#ff0000" size="3">Anyone else running any race on the 11th?</font></em></p> Emhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10103710453565529801noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4053044218976708467.post-12221350055376300472011-08-30T08:14:00.001-07:002011-08-30T08:14:53.218-07:00Awesome Splits and Long Runs<p>I have some runs backed up that I haven't really talked about since I had a little friend time. <font color="#8080c0">So instead of talking about them all in a long boring post, I will just talk about the most recent ones.</font> </p> <p>And those just happen to be my favorites. Is it weird that I have "<em><font color="#ff0080">favorite</font></em>" runs? Probably. Oh well. </p> <p><font color="#800080">The first one was a five mile tempo run</font>. Since I'm still new to the area (<em>and lets face it I hate track running and really am making excuses</em>), I have not found a track to run on yet. So when I do my tempo runs I will usually do them on the treadmill or outside but really informally. <font color="#800040">When I say informally I mean "sprinting to the next tree" or "sprinting for the last quarter mile", you know, things like that. </font></p> <p><font color="#ff00ff">I also try my best to get negative splits</font>. <em>Sometimes it happens, sometimes it doesn't. </em>When it doesn't I'm pretty bummed, when it does I do a little internal celebration (<em>and maybe brag a little to the boy</em>) :)</p> <p>I went on a five mile run on Saturday and tried my best to get the negative splits. I think I am adjusting to the altitude change better because I am slowly seeing my times improve. This was the best one yet! Here are the splits:</p> <blockquote> <p><font color="#800040">Mile One: 8:45 <------starting out at a comfy pace</font></p> <p><font color="#800040">Mile Two: 8:30</font></p> <p><font color="#800040">Mile Three: 8:17</font></p> <p><font color="#800040">Mile Four: 8:14 <----two pretty even miles, but picking it up a bit</font></p> <p><font color="#800040">Mile Five: 7:36 <----WOAH!!!</font></p> <p><font color="#800040">Total time: 41:36</font></p> </blockquote> <p>I<font color="#800080"> don't know if there was a cute guy up ahead or a dog chasing me or what. But I booked it on that last mile!</font> Those times were pretty average for me in Tennessee, but I haven't seen those kinds of numbers on training runs in Colorado yet! </p> <p>The next run was my long run yesterday. I decided to just see how I felt since I had skipped my long run when my friends where here. Technically I was on schedule for 18 again, but I had skipped the 12 miler, so I knew I shouldn't push it too much. The boy told me to only do 12, in my mind I wanted so bad to do 18. <font color="#800080">I ended up compromising with my head and my body and only doing 15. Sometimes its all about compromise :) </font></p> <p>I had also just read an article about going easy on long runs the night before from<font color="#ff0080"> </font><a href="http://runnersworld.com"><font color="#ff0080">Runners World Magazine</font></a><font color="#ff0080">. I</font> know a lot of us, me included, try to push it on every run because we want to get better. This article really made me think twice about being so hard on myself when I don't run my fastest on long runs. <font color="#ff0080">Here are some of the tips that I took away from the article:</font></p> <ul> <li><font color="#ff00ff">Running slower allows your body time to recover and build a fitness bases. It also allows you time to focus on your running and not get burnt out.</font></li> <li><font color="#ff00ff">70% of your weekly runs should be easy running. </font></li> <li><font color="#ff00ff">Your muscles need on average about 30 to 60 hours to recover from a hard run. </font></li> <li><font color="#ff00ff">If your event is a marathon, your long runs should be about one to two minutes slower than race pace. </font></li> <li><font color="#ff00ff">Easy runs allow your body to build up its fitness level, this helps your body adapt better to stress on the joints and muscles. It also helps your cardiovascular and respiratory system become more efficient so that you can run further and longer. </font></li> <li><font color="#ff00ff">If your are breathing at a comfortable pace you should be able to hold a conversation and control your breathing.</font> </li> </ul> <p>Keeping all of these tips in mind, I set out for my long run and tried to pace myself a little better. <font color="#800040">I know my goal marathon pace it between 8 and 9 minute miles, so I tried to slow down to about 10 minutes miles. </font>I am really bad at slowing myself down though, so some of my miles were a little faster. I still felt comfortable though, so I think it was a success! Here are the splits:</p> <blockquote> <p><font color="#800040">Mile One: 9:23</font></p> <p><font color="#800040">Mile Two: 9:17</font></p> <p><font color="#800040">Mile Three: 9:27</font></p> <p><font color="#800040">Mile Four: 9:23</font></p> <p><font color="#800040">Mile Five: 9:48</font></p> <p><font color="#800040">Mile Six: 9:21</font></p> <p><font color="#800040">Mile Seven: 9:06</font></p> <p><font color="#800040">Mile Eight: 9:09</font></p> <p><font color="#800040">Mile Nine: 9:13</font></p> <p><font color="#800040">Mile Ten: 9:09</font></p> <p><font color="#800040">Mile Eleven: 9:01</font></p> <p><font color="#800040">Mile Twelve: 9:04</font></p> <p><font color="#800040">Mile Thirteen: 9:25</font></p> <p><font color="#800040">Mile Fourteen: 9:25</font></p> <p><font color="#800040">Mile Fifteen: 9:01</font></p> <p><font color="#800040">Total Time: 2:29:03</font></p> </blockquote> <p>Not too bad. Like I said I was aiming for 10 minute miles, and averaged about 9 minute miles. But I still would call this an easy effort. Success!</p> <p><font color="#800040">Today is a day off for me and I have a whole list of things to do! So I better get to that. Hope everyone is having a great week!</font> </p> <p><em><font color="#ff0000" size="3">Do you slow down on long runs? Or do you still try to push it? </font></em></p> <p><em><font color="#ff0000" size="3">What are some goals that you are trying to meet this week?</font></em></p> Emhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10103710453565529801noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4053044218976708467.post-75619611183872021592011-08-24T09:20:00.001-07:002011-08-24T09:20:28.066-07:00Where Have I Been?!<p>With this girl...</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-_igRxNhXCQA/TlUkYTXefAI/AAAAAAAACCo/Y2b05cUr6Bs/s1600-h/IMG_2423%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2423" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-2pyDC6w7nZw/TlUkYyfAuxI/AAAAAAAACCs/AkOO0EkA-lc/IMG_2423_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="392" height="297" /></a> </p> <p>And this girl...</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-u_8sIdpYm-c/TlUkZwLCP2I/AAAAAAAACCw/XSd-fB3ejAk/s1600-h/IMG_2461%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2461" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-CcsC4gGg90A/TlUkafNQzkI/AAAAAAAACC0/mINVMc-k7e8/IMG_2461_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="399" height="305" /></a></p> <p>Two of my friends from Tennessee came to visit me all last week, and even though I technically wasn't on vacation, I sure acted like I was :)</p> <p>The first couple of days my friend Jaime was here. She is a runner too, so of course she needed a taste of the Colorado altitude, so she ran a 5K the second day she was here!</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-82avs4LGYMc/TlUka7v_cUI/AAAAAAAACC4/rfMwwSo32Qg/s1600-h/IMG_2432%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2432" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-396yHkrzEcU/TlUkbsRkvjI/AAAAAAAACC8/lbEXhsynKXc/IMG_2432_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="316" height="414" /></a>  </p> <p><em>Gearing up at the start</em></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-HloO9GxJOIM/TlUkcWMsRdI/AAAAAAAACDA/0oUFMas-djk/s1600-h/IMG_2434%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2434" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-J6jmNxV6nRk/TlUkfB4eWCI/AAAAAAAACDE/yYtd6KBkNYY/IMG_2434_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="446" height="341" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-S1boSPWvTrE/TlUkgq_31mI/AAAAAAAACDI/GU105i_r3vY/s1600-h/IMG_2438%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2438" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-7eTSIljhW0I/TlUkhM6wHDI/AAAAAAAACDM/1H_tIASruTA/IMG_2438_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="456" height="348" /></a></p> <p>Unfortunately this was the first race that I had been too where I didn't get to run and was stuck on the sidelines cheering. Let me tell you, running the race is so much more fun. I give the boy mad props for coming to watch all my races because it is BORING!! I did get to see the first place guy cross in under 16 minutes though...wish I could do that!</p> <p>The next day we visited the Coors Brewery in Golden, CO. Hey, free beer tasting at noon?! Can't beat that ;)</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-SSkz_zUAZMs/TlUkh2eT3jI/AAAAAAAACDQ/XABY3hNr9Sc/s1600-h/IMG_2440%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2440" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-KwH1ID44Qy0/TlUkisJezII/AAAAAAAACDU/T7I7PKa1BR4/IMG_2440_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="451" height="346" /></a></p> <p><em>I'm not a humongous fan of Coors, but it is brewed in Colorado, so its practically a sin not to like it here. I do like Blue Moon though. </em></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-3oCQJ9otmlY/TlUkjZfKsWI/AAAAAAAACDY/JncBzUacRhY/s1600-h/IMG_2448%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img border="0" alt="IMG_2448" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-WgO47gm41w8/TlUkjrcJ4MI/AAAAAAAACDc/AZXOT5UlAno/IMG_2448_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="448" height="342" /></a></p> <p><em>It was pretty cool seeing how they brew beer. Its a process for sure! I wonder how the first people who made beer thought to do it? They told us that even the Egyptians brewed their own beers back in the day!</em>    </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-xkOMcecaMX0/TlUkkeKdTjI/AAAAAAAACDg/K6wsmKLe8-w/s1600-h/IMG_2446%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2446" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-zJVrY8QpkU8/TlUkk7HA19I/AAAAAAAACDk/AG9sFBpHCtc/IMG_2446_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="450" height="343" /></a></p> <p><em>Reaping the rewards of being educated all day. Listening to the boring lecture about many hops go into their beer and blah blah blah can only be interesting for so long!</em></p> <p>And no trip to Denver is complete without going to a  Rockies game!</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-BD4UW5b9pZg/TlUklkhrPqI/AAAAAAAACDo/uJEpRrMsEvI/s1600-h/IMG_2454%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2454" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-QgLi0hMec3g/TlUkmSl_XHI/AAAAAAAACDs/ztaNg_FWTqI/IMG_2454_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="447" height="342" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-rRc3zUbX_WI/TlUkoUr6XXI/AAAAAAAACDw/dxSB9XTSsx0/s1600-h/IMG_2455%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2455" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-KDsfyT2viHU/TlUko3gaBYI/AAAAAAAACD0/CUthwupVzxY/IMG_2455_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="442" height="337" /></a></p> <p><em>Sportin the purple and black!</em></p> <p>Halfway through the week was my favorite part, because it was time for my bestie to come!</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-roqRQkawHaI/TlUkpfhsT_I/AAAAAAAACD4/VpJQhKgef-E/s1600-h/IMG_2460%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2460" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-dqr7t1Iy94E/TlUkqLy07II/AAAAAAAACD8/VYvO-eiwXKA/IMG_2460_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="445" height="339" /></a> </p> <p>  <em>Moe and I missed her LOTS!</em></p> <p>Her number one request on her first trip to Colorado was to see the mountains. So I took her hiking outside of Boulder, CO.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-wWoAvyh5mAU/TlUkq1kvsDI/AAAAAAAACEA/vk5zP_FylDY/s1600-h/IMG_2462%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2462" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-QOyyhPPeybk/TlUkrSnh1HI/AAAAAAAACEE/V75ES0MUNPg/IMG_2462_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="440" height="336" /></a></p> <p><em>The summit was almost 8.000 feet above sea level. And the view was amazing!!</em></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-t0NUq7voA2g/TlUksSnq2MI/AAAAAAAACEI/p7sldAIXbKQ/s1600-h/293426_1888075970600_1502460085_31487237_1381571_n%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="293426_1888075970600_1502460085_31487237_1381571_n" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-nowaLOMpKZ8/TlUksxtM0GI/AAAAAAAACEM/4qNtskLeEyA/293426_1888075970600_1502460085_31487237_1381571_n_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="451" height="344" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-f7H04wOXnP8/TlUkty_4ySI/AAAAAAAACEQ/C5UuJ7NHqDU/s1600-h/308744_1888022889273_1502460085_31487133_8229800_n%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="308744_1888022889273_1502460085_31487133_8229800_n" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-X8p7xLKoCjU/TlUkuvpEtKI/AAAAAAAACEU/6TjlZe2alZg/308744_1888022889273_1502460085_31487133_8229800_n_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="452" height="345" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Stn8kxZhOFc/TlUkvCTFeAI/AAAAAAAACEY/1hp0BLD_Mik/s1600-h/IMG_2465%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2465" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-ytJOeNc2sK0/TlUkviR9HbI/AAAAAAAACEc/Xsf3fccDJPQ/IMG_2465_thumb%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="466" height="360" /></a></p> <p>And lastly to top it all off we had a day of Elitch Gardens!</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-SPvafnT8UR4/TlUkwXlJSQI/AAAAAAAACEg/dKfWx8Yuc1g/s1600-h/316149_1888011608991_1502460085_31487106_4921679_n%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="316149_1888011608991_1502460085_31487106_4921679_n" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-w0PD8BKrc-c/TlUkw8PbNHI/AAAAAAAACEk/1SRZi1te33E/316149_1888011608991_1502460085_31487106_4921679_n_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="470" height="358" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-B5seNukVheY/TlUkxz2_YgI/AAAAAAAACEo/p5_TGj3FcJU/s1600-h/309554_1888014129054_1502460085_31487114_2845556_n%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="309554_1888014129054_1502460085_31487114_2845556_n" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Lm5VoS16Nx0/TlUkyiY_uNI/AAAAAAAACEs/JS09ze-TFQw/309554_1888014129054_1502460085_31487114_2845556_n_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="477" height="363" /></a></p> <p><em>I chickened out of this ride. But if you look closely you can see the boy and some of the other peeps that went with us!</em></p> <p>Now everyone is gone and its back to work and back to normal life. I promise your regular running topics will be back shortly! <em>That is why you read this right?!</em></p> Emhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10103710453565529801noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4053044218976708467.post-2601454718205005892011-08-12T09:40:00.001-07:002011-08-12T09:40:13.063-07:00Five Things Friday<p>Since this blog is fairly new I decided to let you guys in on a few things about me. <em><font color="#ff0080">Excited? You should be. </font></em></p> <p>I figure I could probably do a different "five things" every Friday, so for the first one I thought we would start with the basics. </p> <p><font color="#800080" size="3">Five Things that Make Me Me:</font></p> <p><font color="#800080" size="3">1. I am the oldest of three sisters</font>, thats right my poor Dad had to live in a house with four women. He got a dog as a companion...<em>oh wait, she was a girl too.</em> I think my dad probably has stock in tampons. ;)</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-kdEa1-vJGdA/TkVXFnbbB6I/AAAAAAAACAg/J4kwr7q46A4/s1600-h/Easter%2525202011%252520098%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="Easter 2011 098" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-qSpt-NKPIsk/TkVXGEMbOYI/AAAAAAAACAk/W9gMT7-ixf8/Easter%2525202011%252520098_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="375" height="383" /></a> </p> <p><em>Allie, Kelly, Me, and Tatum</em></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Tf5ZzpCm6JY/TkVXHKrHkwI/AAAAAAAACAo/6X8JzVOLmhg/s1600-h/Easter%252520031%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="Easter 031" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-fwY44RltdBY/TkVXHrC0AQI/AAAAAAAACAs/tDCSaUOrgNI/Easter%252520031_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="399" height="321" /></a></p> <p> </p> <p><font color="#800080" size="3">2. I am currently two classes away from receiving my Masters Degree in Early Childhood Education</font>. That's people, watch out, I may be teaching your children some day!</p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-pSXRz4HCgI8/TkVXIZ_WmmI/AAAAAAAACAw/50pirPNLWUI/s1600-h/12-05-08-gingerbread%252520man%252520002%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="12-05-08-gingerbread man 002" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-zXYfmQodcwE/TkVXIxEofqI/AAAAAAAACA0/3aZs30Vfy_k/12-05-08-gingerbread%252520man%252520002_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="401" height="306" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-21S7bLHr6xU/TkVXJbXQW7I/AAAAAAAACA4/o9zV-NDax_8/s1600-h/12-05-08-gingerbread%252520man%252520026%25255B6%25255D.jpg"><img alt="12-05-08-gingerbread man 026" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-DOEbxWN-zSg/TkVXJ_WQNFI/AAAAAAAACA8/eNsyr3McMZo/12-05-08-gingerbread%252520man%252520026_thumb%25255B4%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="412" height="316" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Mk-1WmueB3A/TkVXKWmhJRI/AAAAAAAACBA/_rNDfUHouJ0/s1600-h/teacher%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img alt="teacher" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-z3mBRaPTpYw/TkVXOQVVV2I/AAAAAAAACBE/aSKZJiqMU6w/teacher_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="307" height="235" /></a>    </p> <p><em>My best "teacher" pose...yes, I am holding an apple. <font color="#ff0080">Thats what teachers do, right?</font></em></p> <p><font color="#800080" size="3">3. My Second Family here in Colorado includes the boy, Moe (our dog), and myself.</font> We're cute, I know ;)</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-HvfgMgFDa80/TkVXO5TeSoI/AAAAAAAACBI/5ovUOssH-cc/s1600-h/Easter%2525202011%252520092%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="Easter 2011 092" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-wfmhdh-q3bc/TkVXPV-rjKI/AAAAAAAACBM/jrurpaOx1ak/Easter%2525202011%252520092_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="383" height="363" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-Hob0ywntfJc/TkVXP0ol4JI/AAAAAAAACBQ/L35QHhsxcIY/s1600-h/Easter%2525202011%252520002%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img alt="Easter 2011 002" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-G_0TptIQhOA/TkVXQVi91iI/AAAAAAAACBU/cFi0v-3ICnk/Easter%2525202011%252520002_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="265" height="349" /></a> </p> <p><em>He also doubles as my race photographer/coach. He is pretty tough. </em></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-rPTLJoL7gR0/TkVXQwar1CI/AAAAAAAACBY/-ogX5K1A9Dc/s1600-h/005%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="005" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-oSEnSex6dcM/TkVXRU2wS4I/AAAAAAAACBc/JMOHwoXLhuw/005_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="304" height="398" /></a> </p> <p><em>He also cleans up pretty nice too. </em></p> <p><font color="#800080" size="3">4. My third family is by best friends from back home in Tennessee.</font> We have all been through a lot together (did I mention we were all coworkers as well?!) and I can honestly say that I love these girls more than anything. They truly are family.</p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-NtOZV6MnKOw/TkVXRyS3sUI/AAAAAAAACBg/q3oRktMOFsY/s1600-h/002%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="002" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-HgnSLn6tomE/TkVXSYfMe0I/AAAAAAAACBk/N8p6lco10jM/002_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="411" height="314" /></a></p> <p><em>Kelli has never smoked a cigarette in her life. This was merely a prop!</em></p> <p><a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-fDT-bssZ9II/TkVXS3fQqXI/AAAAAAAACBo/jTgcb57Dr4k/s1600-h/gals%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img alt="gals" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Sa4xY3UNsvY/TkVXTWaicNI/AAAAAAAACBs/mfnaTqVB45E/gals_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="406" height="308" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-CM7zobbG4aA/TkVXT8BWTqI/AAAAAAAACBw/3Q_2qSiOEwM/s1600-h/surprise%252520engagement%252520party%252520003%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img alt="surprise engagement party 003" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-1r6ACuNtOkM/TkVXUTQtmOI/AAAAAAAACB0/6zqtzDrp4UI/surprise%252520engagement%252520party%252520003_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="403" height="306" /></a>  <em>My best friend Kelli also just got engaged. She has a ROCK! and by that I mean this thing is freakin HUGE!</em></p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-NAQQeQwWt1U/TkVXVCw9D7I/AAAAAAAACB4/61mxDemRHoE/s1600-h/surprise%252520engagement%252520party%252520024%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="surprise engagement party 024" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-BxF_wommztQ/TkVXVh5ImBI/AAAAAAAACB8/-fjL76EAuLQ/surprise%252520engagement%252520party%252520024_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="417" height="318" /></a></p> <p>I miss all these girls alot. But Kelli is coming to visit this weekend, so I am SUPER excited about that :)</p> <p><font color="#800080" size="3">5. I fell in love with running 3 years ago when I ran my first 10k.</font> Since then I have done so many races I lost count. And I am now preparing for the biggest step in my running career...THE MARATHON, in two months! But you guys knew that, where have you been?!</p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-nCI-2GZS0VU/TkVXWEYNzbI/AAAAAAAACCA/wovHzh1paXg/s1600-h/First%25252010K%252520007%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img alt="First 10K 007" src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-g2T-GdAkRi0/TkVXWX-offI/AAAAAAAACCE/r_Xo_DYVvZI/First%25252010K%252520007_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="247" height="326" /></a> </p> <p><em>This is me 3 years after running my first race. It was cold, raining, and miserable. But I LOVED EVERY SECOND OF IT and I was hooked!</em></p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Ji5BEXokq6Q/TkVXXC_eLGI/AAAAAAAACCI/_tiZE1ikasU/s1600-h/676_44_1544%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="676_44_1544" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-3JoKmqKfMXg/TkVXXrJyUoI/AAAAAAAACCM/-_53FXs3_eg/676_44_1544_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="385" height="262" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-5naztCf3ato/TkVXYd38ckI/AAAAAAAACCQ/_lWuED1W_k8/s1600-h/IMG_2330%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="IMG_2330" src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-Zne901PjFXE/TkVXYybvtmI/AAAAAAAACCU/TfydqcafXvs/IMG_2330_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="392" height="299" /></a></p> <p><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-LKOBv9YUW8s/TkVXZYSvl-I/AAAAAAAACCY/ijxT3fisAyU/s1600-h/Run%252520for%252520the%252520Hill%2525205%252520028%25255B7%25255D.jpg"><img alt="Run for the Hill 5 028" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-V-R_NKvibfk/TkVXZ1Y0vMI/AAAAAAAACCc/GFqTlqdkbvI/Run%252520for%252520the%252520Hill%2525205%252520028_thumb%25255B5%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="398" height="302" /></a> </p> <p><a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-roWvr0Y4jdE/TkVXapY8ejI/AAAAAAAACCg/zhR9c9vShaA/s1600-h/half%252520marathon2010%252520004%25255B5%25255D.jpg"><img alt="half marathon2010 004" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Ht4EHoFwJ1M/TkVXbAf78hI/AAAAAAAACCk/Vf74EDBJijQ/half%252520marathon2010%252520004_thumb%25255B3%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="398" height="304" /></a></p> <p>Ok so there you have it. The top five things that make me me. Because you were <em><u>really</u></em> interested. I know. I know. Thank me later!</p> <p><font color="#ff0000" size="3"><em>So now that you know more about me. Tell me something about you!</em></font></p> Emhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10103710453565529801noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4053044218976708467.post-20765277110688616712011-08-09T11:25:00.001-07:002011-08-09T11:30:27.899-07:0018 Miles...CHECK!Today I completed the longest run of my marathon training so far. <span style="color: #800040;">18 miles! Oh yeah!</span><br />
Last night I got everything ready...<em>my camelback, my ipod, my garmin, my running clothes, my GUs</em>...man it takes a lot to be a runner huh?!<br />
I set the alarm for 6AM and went to bed ready to tackle my long run this week! I'm not gonna lie, <span style="color: purple;">I was DREAMING about being finished with this run. I know pretty nerdy.</span> I kept waking up thinking it was time to get up. Man I really need to get more of a life outside of running! ;)<br />
Before I knew it the alarm was going off and I was rolling out of bed to start my 18 miles. <br />
I'm pretty sure that I was still half asleep for the first 3 miles, but after that I snapped out of it and really started feeling good. <span style="color: purple;">It is such a confidence booster when you can run like that and still feel good afterwards. </span>Maybe I actually will complete this marathon! :)<br />
I ate one GU at 7 miles and then the other at 14. And I stopped at 13 miles to refill my camelback. Here are the splits:<br />
<ul><li><span style="color: #800040;">Mile 1: 10:08</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #800040;">Mile 2: 9:50</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #800040;">Mile 3: 9:32</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #800040;">Mile 4: 9:30</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #800040;">Mile 5: 9:08</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #800040;">Mile 6: 9:04</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #800040;">Mile 7: 9:03</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #800040;">Mile 8: 9:27</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #800040;">Mile 9: 9:06</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #800040;">Mile 10: 9:06</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #800040;">Mile 11: 9:22</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #800040;">Mile 12: 9:06</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #800040;">Mile 13: 9:25</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #800040;">Mile 14: 9:12</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #800040;">Mile 15: 9:02</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #800040;">Mile 16: 8:46</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #800040;">Mile 17: 8:20</span></li>
<li><span style="color: #800040;">Mile 18: 8:24</span></li>
</ul><span style="color: #800040;">Total Time: 2:47:12</span> <br />
<em>Those are some weird splits!</em> The first mile was slow because after about half a mile I got a nose bleed! I had to stop and walk for a bit and I almost turned around and came back home. But I kept walking and after a few minutes it stopped. I took it easier for the first few miles after that just in case, but it never came back. Weird huh?! I also worked on picking it up and paying more attention to my pace on the way home. The first half of my long runs I usually don't even look at my Garmin and just try to stay at a comfortable pace. I am pretty proud of my time thought, because I was really planning for about 3 hours. <br />
Good thing I have the rest of the day off because I am taking it easy! I have a Target date with the boy tonight when he gets off work. Gotta replenish that toothpaste and paper towels. <span style="color: #ff0080;">Oh we live exciting lives :)</span><br />
<span style="color: #ff0080;">I leave you with one of my favorite pictures from the <a href="http://emkickingassphalt.blogspot.com/2011/08/double-birthdays.html#comments">Double Birthday Weekend:</a></span><br />
<a href="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-ipi-P3cgj8w/TkF7qrfs8PI/AAAAAAAACAY/E4oYt_9iAHI/s1600-h/281999_689355913636_57500297_35321616_7906419_n%25255B4%25255D.jpg"><img alt="281999_689355913636_57500297_35321616_7906419_n" height="317" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-0UveSu0PBvM/TkF7rnmZgGI/AAAAAAAACAc/GJ6jG9q9fDY/281999_689355913636_57500297_35321616_7906419_n_thumb%25255B2%25255D.jpg?imgmax=800" width="239" /></a> <br />
<span style="color: red; font-size: small;"><em>Anyone else have any good runs this week? Any long runs planned?!</em></span>Emhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10103710453565529801noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4053044218976708467.post-80555961206615881082011-08-06T08:50:00.001-07:002011-08-06T08:50:13.670-07:00Double Birthdays!<p>This weekend has been CRAZY so far...and its not even over yet! Why you ask? <font color="#ff00ff">Well, because not only was it the boy's birthday, but it was also our roomates birthday too!</font> Pretty random huh?!</p> <p>Well, their actual birthday was on Thursday, so we celebrated a little then...we celebrated a little on Friday...and we are having a cook out tonight for the BIG celebration!</p> <p>On top of working all day everyday and all the "celebrating" that has been going on, I haven't had much time for anything else!</p> <p>I did however, get my butt up this morning to get a run in before work and it felt good! </p> <p>I did 8.5 miles at a 8:50 pace. Here are the splits:</p> <ul> <li><font color="#800080">Mile 1: 9:20</font></li> <li><font color="#800080">Mile 2: 8:55</font></li> <li><font color="#800080">Mile 3:8:43</font></li> <li><font color="#800080">Mile 4: 9:00</font></li> <li><font color="#800080">Mile 5: 9:03</font></li> <li><font color="#800080">Mile 6: 8:17</font></li> <li><font color="#800080">Mile 7:8:31</font></li> <li><font color="#800080">Mile 8: 8:10</font></li> <li><font color="#800080">Half Mile cool down: 10:14</font></li> </ul> <p><font color="#800080">Total Time: 1:15:31</font></p> <p>When I got home I went for my go-to after run fuel...<font color="#ff0080">coffee, greek yogurt with banana, and wheat toast. </font>Now its time to shower up, get ready for work, and then get ready to celebrate tonight!</p> <p><font color="#800040" size="3">Everyone with the boy and the roommate a HAPPY BIRTHDAY! </font></p> <p><em><font color="#ff0000" size="3">What is your go-to after run fuel?</font></em></p> Emhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10103710453565529801noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4053044218976708467.post-2210159615151528552011-08-01T08:46:00.001-07:002011-08-01T08:48:50.106-07:00Running With Music: Good or Bad?<span style="color: #ff0080;">Listening to music while running, exercising, biking, or whatever physical activity you do has been something that has been debated for years. </span><em>Does it just come down to personal preference, or is there actual science behind this debate?</em><br />
A recent study done at the Research Institute for Sport and Exercise had 12 subjects ride a stationary bicycle at a pace that they could sustain for 30 minutes while listening to a song of the subject's choice. In successive trials, they rode the bikes again, with the tempo of the music variously increased or decreased by 10%, without the subject's knowledge. <span style="color: #800040;">The researchers found that the riders heart rate and mileage decreased when the tempo was slowed, while they rode a greater distance, increased their heart rate and enjoyed the music more at the faster tempo.</span> (Hudson, 2010). <br />
However, A 2004 found that runners performing at a pace where they were at 90% of their peak oxygen uptake <span style="color: #8000ff;">enjoyed listening to music, but that the music had no effect on their heart rate or running pace, regardless of the music's tempo.</span> (Tennebaum, 2010). <br />
Here is a video that I found on the effects of music on athletes from <a href="http://www.bbc.co.uk/">BBC News</a><br />
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Dr. Karageorghis is a professor at Brunel Univeristy who organized a series of tests to study the effects of different kinds of music on athletes and runners. <span style="color: #800040;">According to Dr. Karageorghis there are 4 different factors of music that effects athletic performance. These four things are:</span><br />
<ol><li><u>Rythmic Response</u>: Your bodies response to the beat of a song</li>
<li><u>Musicality</u>: combinations of cords and instruments that effect our moods while listening to a certain song. </li>
<li><u>Cultural Impact</u>: Your personal response to a certain song based on social upbringing. </li>
<li><u>Association Factor</u>: How we relate to a certain song based on past experiences and life associations. </li>
</ol>According to this, the science is behind choosing the right song for you that meets all of the 4 criteria for the perfect song to get you pumped up. <span style="color: purple;">So a song that you may love to run to, another person may not get anything at all from it. </span><br />
Some runners find that listening to music motivates them to get up and go, <em>while others value quiet while running so that they are more in tune with their bodies. </em><br />
Really when it comes down to it, staying "plugged in" while running is a personal choice. <span style="color: #ff0080;">I personally think that it is best to experiment with both "natural" running, and running with devices such as watches, ipods, etc. </span><br />
There is definitely something to be said for just getting out there and having nothing else between you and the road. But something a little upbeat music can get you out the door and going, and there is nothing wrong with that!<br />
Now that you have heard all the boring scincetific facts, I am going to bless you with some of my favorite songs to run to. Please don't judge :) And remember, according to good ol Dr. Karageorghis every song has different effects on different people!<br />
<span style="color: purple;">Some of my ALL TIME FAVORITE SONGS include:</span><br />
<ul><li><span style="color: purple;"></span>The Blackeyed Peas - Just Can't Get Enough</li>
<li>Pussycat Dolls - Don't Cha</li>
<li>Nicki Minaj - Super Bass</li>
<li>Jennifer Lopez - I'm Into You</li>
<li>Shakira - Did it Again</li>
<li>Wiz Khalifa - Mezmorized</li>
<li>Kayne West - Im Your Pusha</li>
<li>Destiny's Child - Solider</li>
<li>Glee Soundtrack - Open Your Heart/Boderline</li>
<li>Paramore - Feeling Sorry</li>
<li>Eminem and Lil Wayne - No Love</li>
<li>The whole Girl Talk Album</li>
<li>Maria Carey - Side Effects and Cruise Control</li>
<li>Outkast - The Way You Move</li>
</ul>All pretty random huh?! I change it up depending on my mood so my music changes alot. This is just a small sample of what gets my butt in gear during runs!<br />
<em><span style="color: red; font-size: small;">So what do you think, music or no music?</span></em><br />
<em><span style="color: red; font-size: small;">What are some of your go-to "pump up" songs?</span></em>Emhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10103710453565529801noreply@blogger.com7