Jenni Says....

knits

2012-01-17T06:23:00.000-08:00

Since I do not have a single race on my calendar for this year, YET. Training has been slow... but knitting has been abundant.

I knitted myself a pair of mittens to match my All*Stars. CUTE, RIGHT?!

Sheldon needs some new love...

2012-01-01T10:28:00.000-08:00

I've been cruising the net looking for bearded hat patterns... I think they're hilarious.. and in the process I ran across ChemKnits... She's got some pretty great stuff.. her pup stocking is awesome... But then I saw her Sheldon turtle and his new garb! MUST HAVE!!

ChemKnits: Arrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr!

pinterest strikes again...

2011-12-02T13:43:00.000-08:00

saw this...

made this...

MAKE IT STOP!

damn pinterest

2011-12-01T11:24:00.000-08:00

Pinterest makes me want to be crafty...

I saw this the other day on pinterest...

and I made this... It didn't take very long (+/- 30 min) .. and was basically free

trying to figure out what type of string was used to make it stand out more.. I think a couple of tries I could be a pretty decent mockery of the original...

Mr thinks I should do Colorado.. har har har

day 27, 28, 29: oops

2011-11-29T18:07:00.001-08:00

day 27: Sunday -- Tree hunting! Took the family on our Christmas tree hunt Sunday! We had a great time (not typical - I usually end up screaming) with decent weather (really not typical- it's usually screaming cold).

day 28: Monday -- NO LEFTOVERS! Finally, we balked on the leftovers and cooked another meal, after 4 days of surviving on leftovers (not really true - but it seemed like it).

day 29: Tuesday - - An electronically inclined husband that likes to tinker! He installed an AUX CABLE in the Peach this afternoon so NOW I can listen to MY music! YAY... Also that the Mr didn't get the axe today during the 'big layoffs'.

day 26: Papillion

2011-11-26T17:47:00.000-08:00

I love the city we live in. Tonight was my favorite event they hold, and to top it off the GRINCH was there! *SO HAPPY*

Day 25: unexpected mail

2011-11-25T21:31:00.001-08:00

I love finding unexpected items in my mailbox. Something about a letter, or card, or package, that I don't expect to receive makes me smile a little more. It means someone else is thinking about me enough to share something about them. Even better: I love it when Ben opens the mailbox to find something addressed to him. His eyes light up a little more.

day 24: my phenomenal guys

2011-11-24T14:05:00.000-08:00

These three people make my everyday incredibly happy. I hope to live every day of my life with every one of them.

day 23: late breakfast

2011-11-23T19:53:00.001-08:00

Today I was able to sleep in till darn near 10:00! How awesome is that! And to make things better I awoke to the aroma of breakfast pizza!

day 22: recycling

2011-11-22T12:02:00.000-08:00

I was disappointed when the house 2 doors up sold, instead of ours.

Now I've come to realize it is not so bad, now that the newbies have moved in they are throwing their seemingly new boxes to the curb with recycles. And since they are only two houses up and I am all for reusing, I snag them every week. I am saving a small fortune on moving boxes! (I purchased 30+ boxes LAST year when we initially had the idea of listing our house, I KNOW how expensive they are.)

day 21: Christmas music stations

2011-11-21T20:42:00.001-08:00

I've already discussed that the Peach is O L D. She was born b/f the time of aux outlets and docking stations. Today, I was pleasantly greeted with holiday music on the radio. One of the local stations becomes THE holiday music station until Christmas day.

day 20: second chances

2011-11-20T18:03:00.001-08:00

Seems the Tooth Fairy forgot to visit our house last night. Fortunately, the tooth wasn't in the pillow where it should have been - so the Fairy gets a second chance at pleasing a little boy.

day 19: Friends that are more daring

2011-11-19T13:52:00.001-08:00

Not really a dare devil here, especially when it comes to eateries. I like to go with what I know. Pete, on the other hand, will try just about anything. He even tricked me into eating raw fish. I hate fish, and the thought of raw fish terrifies me, but the food was decent and I never have to try what Ben dubbed Ninja food again.

Back in our BDU days, we would frequent a little joint in Bellevue, Stellas. They are famous grease burgers served on a napkin and the place then was a total dive. We were in the area today to take a friend out for lunch and they decided on Stellas. We were pleasantly surprised when we pulled into an updated building with an actual parking lot. The food was just as delicious, and still served on a napkin.

day 18: Peppermint Lollipops

2011-11-18T21:54:00.001-08:00

Busted out the Peppermint Lollipops -- Tis the Season!
VERY Thankful I bought a few extra bags last year.

day 17: perseverance

2011-11-17T10:41:00.001-08:00

Today - I set out to complete projects that should've been completed by now. I was tied up in a pillow that shouldn't have been difficult - and ended up cutting it out to start OVER. Flustered, I gave up, pushed it to the side, and started to finish the Grinch hat for Pete's Jingle Bell Run costume. When I thought I was finished I gave it one final iron on the eyebrows and ended up melting the eyes off!

Fortunately, this was one project I knew I could finish fairly easy, even with melted eyes.

I think its Hilariously cute

day 16: HSA Card

2011-11-16T07:20:00.001-08:00

A while back we had a trip to the ER for stitches. Today I received the bill and I am thrilled to know that I have an HSA card that will take care of it.

day 15: battery life

2011-11-15T17:54:00.001-08:00

Today I was thankful for my shuffles perfect timing of its battery life.

I set out on a five mile cruise this afternoon and upon returning the shuffle powered down. It was perfect timing, unlike my camera battery that ALWAYS has the worst timing to power down on me.

day 14: Event Photographers

2011-11-14T17:20:00.001-08:00

Pictures from Beer and Bagel showed up in my inbox today. Nothing like a not-so-flattering photo to help a person recall a fun race.

Gots to love me an event photographer. I always look forward to the race day photos arriving.

day 13: family runs

2011-11-14T17:15:00.001-08:00

Yesterday my guys decided on ice cream - and that we would run up for it!
I cant be happier than when I have my entire family on a jog.. We have so much fun.. and Benjamin ran over 3 miles (with an ice cream break in the middle). and still averaged better than 11min miles!

day 12: silly socks

2011-11-12T17:56:00.000-08:00

I have always had a few pair of silly socks. They make me happy when I wear them.

I am thankful for Trista and Shayla, who insist on gifting Ben and Clouds silly socks.

day 11: Ms Gilmore

2011-11-11T10:50:00.001-08:00

Today I'm thankful for Ms Gilmore. She is a wonderful neighbor and strong lady. She turns 50 in a few days and today is the 2nd anniversary of her oldest sons death. Stephen died from H1N1, and was her rock. Through everything she's been through, she still smiles! She's an amazing person and I'm glad to have the opportunity to know her.

day 9: The Sun

2011-11-09T10:48:00.000-08:00

That's right -- SUNSHINE makes me happy. I like to watch it on the horizon, across a body of water, peek through the clouds, and send rainbows across the sky. I love the warmth that radiates through the car window as I drive down the road on a cold day. It can be -2 degrees outside, and if there's sunshine it somehow seems ok. I like how after a good snowfall, the sun will melt just enough snow to help pack the sledding trails.
I enjoy summer sun just as well - if not more. But today seems like a day that I should be thankful for bright blue skies in my day with lots of ooey gooey sunshine.

day 8: homemade bread

2011-11-08T17:22:00.000-08:00

I love my family's bread recipe...

and tonight was a great night to enjoy a warm loaf of bread.

day 7: The Giant Peach

2011-11-07T09:43:00.000-08:00

Definitely not the prettiest car out there, or the fastest, coolest, smartest, most fuel efficient....

The Peach owes me NOTHING (I owe her a new catalytic converter).

It has become a competition: which of us is going to make it longer...

day 6: Beers and Bagels..

2011-11-06T17:22:00.001-08:00

Definitely thankful for Beers and Bagels (and chili) after that run.

Today was 3.8miles of fun, and torture, water, mud, even a sasquatch (that tried to scare the hell out of people coming around the bend - AND the photographer was on the other side taking photos of the scared faces - -FANTASTIC!)

Results: placed 26/320 in age

380/2105 overall

with a 35:09 (8:48 splits)

The first mile was an 8:18, and a lot of jumping around since I lined up too far back.
Mile 2 wicked mean hills slowed my pace to a 10:00 There was a teensy little creek crossing that was easily jumped over.. but the decent required hanging on to a rope and waiting your turn.
Mile 3 included another creek crossing (twice) - not one you could jump across.. wet shoes, splashing from the runners already headed back, and a slippery bank on the other side.. it was AWESOME! and a 9:49 pace
the last split was a 9:11 pace I was happy to be toward the finish and done with the hills..At the end we indulged in Beer, Bagels and some chili...totally negating the calorie burn.. but a great start to the day...

And while we were out playing in the mud and drinking Beer -- our brother in law was running the NYC marathon! Finishing with a wicked fast 3:15 - and a new PR.. I'm in awe! That's an entire HOUR faster than me..

day 5: Blood pressure

2011-11-05T19:36:00.000-07:00

Coming from a family that lives on Blood Pressure meds - I am very thankful for the numbers below.

tsd4: my mad sewing skills

2011-11-04T11:58:00.000-07:00

well I might not be the best - but I'm not scared to try... and for that - I ROCK.

today's craft - a camera strap cover...LOVE the fabric.

I also purchased some fabric to fix a Grinch pillow that's been sitting entirely too long in my bin, and I like the fabric so much, I believe I'll go back and buy more for seasonal pillowcases for my bed.

day 10: YNP

2011-11-03T12:25:00.000-07:00

What an amazing trip we had this September. This place on earth is incredibly peaceful.

TSD3: My brother!

2011-11-03T12:14:00.000-07:00

He might've put hot coins down our shirts as kids, or made us jump off the barn, trick us to believe the hot wire fence was turned off, or made us touch the fish guts. He might've done all that, but I still love him.

So glad we're as close as we are! I talk to him almost every day, and the days I don't I miss him.

TSD2: Talus Mae

2011-11-02T08:43:00.000-07:00

This is the BEST dog ever! I can't believe our family started with her 14 years ago.

Thankful series day 1

2011-11-01T10:16:00.000-07:00

Halloween is over and I still have flowers

I quit smoking and fell back in love with running! (ran a sub-7 mile today!!!)

6 years ago someone taught me to knit, not sure I ever said thank you.

sneaky snacks

2011-10-27T06:59:00.000-07:00

Ben's halloween party is tomorrow and we signed up to bring snacks.

I saw the witch hats on Pintrest and couldn't resist. They don't seem like they are going to be uber tasty but they make up for it with cuteness.

Never in my life have I made Popcorn balls (or rice krispy treats using marshmellow goop). I used to love these as a kid! My marshmellow goop was easy enough, the recipe sayed to quickly shape the balls befor the goop cooled, and what it should've said is let it cool! It would have saved me a lot of time washing my hands from all the stickyness. I'm not a fan of the mashmellow goop, next time I will try using the carmel recipe - YUMM.

I still haven't tied running shoes on after the marathon. I've been keeping busy crafting, baking and shopping. I did attend a yoga and spin on Tuesday (and plan on going today) which counts for something. I want my next run to be enjoyable and I'm not there mentally. My legs become exhausted just watching other people run.

Nike Women's Marathon

2011-10-18T09:12:00.000-07:00

Nike Womens Marathon Garmin Details

This weekend was the Nike Women's Marathon. It was fantastic! I even have to say running it as a Team In Training member made it kinda great.
All weekend there were Team members from Omaha and Lincoln to hang out with. Some of the things that were hyped up about the race were a little disappointing: Pasta Party, the spirit was overwhelming - the food sucked, much like every pasta feed i've been to. Victory part - meh. The crowd support along the course LAME! EXCEPT for the TNT areas! NWM encouraged entrants to be Nike+ users, and a while back Pete bought a Nike+ and we both had signed up for it so I entered as a Nike+ user even though I don't use it, for all the "perks" of being a Nike+ member.. My perks : a Nike + bracelet that got me NOTHING. I received no special perks as a Nike+ member. NONE - b/c apparently I wasn't a "black member", which I think meant people who actually use it and had logged so many miles before the race.

The course itself was nice, there were ample aid stations and support at the aid stations. The finish line however was a huge disaster in my opinion. after crossing the finish line, they FIRST scanned your bib to let you in line to receive the race medallion, in this case - a Tiffany's necklace. People were having pictures taken with the guys there, and after running for 26.2 miles the last thing I want to do was STOP and wait for some jackass to have her picture taken. Then after grabbing my box, they want to hand me a DRY ASS bagel. Not a water or gatorade, but a dry ass bagel. I haven't peed in 5 hrs and they want to hand me a bagel!? I found no place to have a finishers picture taken, I never saw bins and bins of drinks that I could grab. I was lucky enough to have bumped into people carrying boxes of drinks around and grabbed them that way. After race snacks - SAW NONE (besides the dry ass bagel I passed on)
TNT had there own recovery tents. And THEY had snacks, but not real drinks. They were pouring soda in little 6oz cups. And I needed about 10 of them!
Also - as for the necklace, I kinda wish they had a different necklace for full maratoners vs 1/2.

The awesome things about the race:
I PRd! I had a time of 4:12, which is 10minutes faster than my Lincoln time. I had a SUB-Split - AGAIN! My first half was 2:07 and second was a 2:05. The scenery was amazing. The TNT support was phenomenal. I ran the majority (minus 2-3 miles) by myself. On the back 1/2 of the course there were TNT Coaches EVERYWHERE, and almost every one of them cheered me on, and made sure I was ok. It was pretty fantastic. The inspiration dinner/spaghetti feed - food meh, inspiration was incredible! I cant even start to describe what it was like to walk into the building lined with people cheering for us - and the line want on and on and on - and it just got louder. It meant something. The money we raised actually meant something to the people. And the thank you we got from them walking through was tear jerking. (yes I cried). At my table - a mom (walking the 1/2) sat with her husband and two college boys, one that was close to 5 yrs in remission. Also at our table was a girl 4 years younger than me, and 8 years in remission who was running the full marathon - her first race ever! A lady who was walking her first full marathon and had lost her husband five years ago. And my friend, and a mom who amazes me with her emotional strength (and spongebob arms) lost her son 2 years ago, he was only a baby. And that was JUST my table! Talk about an emotional dinner!

I would definitely do this race again. Next time just a 1/2 and I would take a camera along the way and even try to leave the garmin 610 at home.

best not to cry

2011-10-12T12:40:00.000-07:00

Last night I picked up my jersey for this weekends marathon. There was a "Jersey Decorating Party" but I'm not much of a social crafter so I waited until today. I was really doubting whether or not to do anything with it... Hell I even considered not wearing it, it's sized all wrong and uncomfortably short. Then I started, and after all these weeks of training I finally realized why I was motivated to do it. Sure I get another marathon finishers medal... but it hurt today on my run when I was thinking too much about it.

I'm sad for Ben

Jacob, Ryan, Cloudy, and Ellie will never know what Ben does, and that hurts too.

Hopefully Ben will never have to run a race like this. The End.

poor tommy plants

2011-10-06T17:28:00.000-07:00

Checking my tomato plants this evening - picking off the last of my crop.. I was horrified when I bumped into this guy!

A green horned caterpillar. I let him be, he can have what ever tomatoes are left and turn into a moth as he sees fits. HE WAS HUGE (and scary)

Change change change.

2011-10-04T20:38:00.001-07:00

I had 6 short miles on the schedule today and I flaked out. Around 2:30 I contacted the mr. And suggested we hit up the lake on a 90 degree October evening. It was a blast! Even the boy (without staples) took a turn on skis! Makes me one happy chica. So I'll change my trainin schedule a bit to accommodate. And change my work schedule a bit to accommodate my running schedule. :) a joke... Get it.... Work + me. Haha. Yeah ok. But I am training a new girl and that's tough work to sit there and look pretty while someone else does all the fun stuff. On top of all todays changes - there WILL be more changesTomorrow that I'm totally stoked about!!!! *going to be a rough night sleeping - so excited *

20 miles

2011-10-03T07:38:00.000-07:00

Saturday I ran 20 miles.. and OMG It was easier than I thought...
I averaged a solid 9:45 pace... the first 12 were closer to 9:15-9:30s... the last 8 I still ran 9:30s but I had a few essential stops -- fueling and emptying.
I had not pinned down a time for Nike... yet. .and I know the hills might be brutal on the first half.. but I think I might line up at 4:15.. why not right!

Update

2011-09-28T17:54:00.000-07:00

I have been horrible at keeping this blog updated. I don't really have much to say. I've been running. SLOW, but running.
Saturday is the big 20miler before Nike in 18 days!
I tried a shot blok again last weekend and surprisingly liked it. Last time I tried them I had braces and it was an EPIC fail!
I've logged over 920miles for the year! 80 to go to reach my goal. I had initially hoped to reach 1,000 miles BEFORE the marathon. However, I skipped running last week in lieu of hiking Yellowstone with the family, so I missed 30+ miles. Now I will be hitting 1,000 miles during the marathon (which is cool too - 1000 miles in 10 months isn't too bad - I'll have to wait and have a celebratory cake when I return home).

BIRTHDAY

2011-09-06T19:44:00.000-07:00

So apparently - today is my annual celebration of another year as an earthling.

As if running around like a nut the past several days wasn't enough - I decided I would take some time and bake myself a cookie cake. I attempted to decorate it like a race bib. I totally stole the idea from a gal in one of my run groups.. but I didn't pull it off quite as well as she did. I think it looked pretty decent for the 10 minutes I had to spare to decorate. I used some leftover icing from the Cloudy disaster cake, hence the yellow bib when they are usually white - but i was WAY too lazy to make more icing.

Good thing I don't live in Texas - I'm not sure with the Burn Bans I would've been able to light this many candles... YIKES!

This past weekend we took a quick trip to Ft Worth and I was able to join up with Team DFW Metro and met some great people. Their coach, Sue, hooked me up with a couple of girls for my first 6 and then she finished the last 9 with me. Pretty amazing I think.

And while we were in Texas - we hit up a Diners, Drive Ins and Dives place.. and I guess it wasn't enough of a dive (pete says) because the food was just - MEH.

But we did get to see THREE AMAZING PEOPLE! We hadn't told anyone we were headed down, and last minute I realized that Jenn was now living about 30 minutes from where we were going to be. So I called her and asked her to come up and visit and to bring her sister. Well she did even better!!! She brought her sister and her BROTHER!
I can't even remember when the last time I had ALL three of these kids together and to MYSELF! (summer 2006)

Me and my TWO year old!

800 miles

2011-08-26T06:56:00.000-07:00

This weekend I have 14 miles on the schedule and as of today I'm sitting at 793. So Assuming nothing major changes between now and 8am saturday I'm pretty safe to say - I'll be at 800+ miles for the year.
e i g h t hundred! *eeeeee*

Running has been fine -- I have to say - I am getting a little burnt again. I keep looking forward to the goal .. and that's exciting - if not nerve wrecking. I had such a great first marathon. What if this time I bunk, hit a wall, or the hills destroy me; mile 6-7 is my big concern - it's the steepest and longest climb.

I know I'll be skipping a few training runs coming up.. and that too scares me. I rarely skipped anything for Lincoln. I actually started doubling up workouts (runs + bikes/swims/weights). I know I shouldn't worry but it's hard for this girl NOT to worry.

I'm not able to run Omaha in September, which claims to be the greenest marathon in Nebraska, because I'll be in Yellowstone. So I'm thinking I might just sign up for Jackson Hole 1/2 Marathon - which is a REALLY HONEST green marathon-- CUPLESS! come on.. and they are using a solar generator to power the clocks! Lets see Omaha do anything but recycled glass medals - which I really really wanted - they are uber cool.

New New New

2011-08-10T20:12:00.000-07:00

Last October I started prepping for my first marathon and was tracking about 20miles a week. Since Jan 1st I have logged over 700 miles.. i.e. I have ran out of at least 2 pairs of shoes: asics 2160s, NB 760s. I love both of these shoes b/c they have a larger toe box and I have mad toe action when I run.

My feet and knees started bothering me and I knew it was way past time on shoe renewal so I walked in the local running store and picked up another pair of 2160s, with a different flava...

I thought I was going to LOVE them.. but the darn things rubbed a blister on the 3 run out.. too late to return them. Knowing I have another 300 miles till Nike, and November with San Antonio followed with Dallas Rock and Roll 1/2 in March. And I still think April 1/2 in Clearwater FL would be a great excuse to go to the beach!
Anyway... KNOWING I'm going to keep running and continue needing shoes.. I picked up a pair of NB 1190s ...

Once these bad boys hit me feet I was amazed. They are so light, and my foot doesn't get hot in them. Plus, I kinda dig the color combo. But the shoe itself is great.

I also grabbed a pair of 860s. These are the faithful shoe for me. I love my NB shoes.. Now the problem is.. Do I break all of them in and rotate through them or pick and stick... hmmmm... I've never had three pair of running shoes b/f.

Mayors Triathlon

2011-07-18T21:46:00.000-07:00

Sunday I participated in Papillions Mayors Triathlon. This was my second Tri and I figured I was going to bomb pretty bad. I have not been in the pool swimming since school has been out. I have tons of excuses: the Y changed the schedule on me is my favorite. I also haven't been in many spin classes, or on the bike much. I have, however, been running.
When I arrived I was intimidated by all the guys and their race bikes: Trek, Specialized, Cannondale, it seems like everyone had a Fuji, and then there were some FANCY looking bikes with FANCY looking names that I won't even attempt to google and add here. Oh well, I paid the same fee they did.
I loaded up my gear and headed to the transition area. It was first come first serve, so I saw an empty and racked my bike, right when the girl next to me pointed out we had the SAME bike, what luck! The last thing I wanted to do was rack right next to an identical bike. Damn tunnel vision.
The swim was worse than I expected. I really should've been hitting the pool. I have to find me a swim coach before I sign up for another one of these. I hate knowing when the gun goes off I'm already out of the race; and that's what the swim does.
The bike was decent. I didn't have any chain problems this time, which is a plus. My average pace was the same as Omaha Women's Tri, but I stopped several times to fix my chain and then just plain gave up shifting once I got in a top gear. I will say Papillion was ridiculously hilly. I would try to make time up going down hill knowing the momentum would not even come close getting me up hill. But I managed through. I saw one girl go down, almost like she passed out, just tipped right over with no attempt to catch herself.
The run was a run. What can I say - 3 miles - easy peasy.

Results:
100 overall
5/21 age division
21/85 in women
swim: 16:05
trns1: 1:23
bike: 52:51
trns2: :59
run: 25:32
1:36:48

the fastest girl finished at 1:19:15 -- 17 minutes faster. the winner in my age division finished at 1:20:40. I wish I could say it was all the swim.. but its about 6 min in the swim (with such a short swim thats A LOT).. and another 10 min faster on the bike, but they probably have one of those superduper bikes with rockets attached.

I have a couple 5k races I want to do this summer and since Omaha 1/2 is out - I would like to find another 1/2 before Nike. For now I'll be content with an open schedule.

iTrick

2011-07-10T19:51:00.000-07:00

So it's been like a month since I've posted anything.... I was on a PR high I suppose.
I hit 600 miles a few weeks ago... 60% to my 1,000 mile goal!

I've been hitting all my scheduled runs for the Nike Marathon. I haven't pushed the pace at ALL. If I hit under a 9min mile I'm happy, but those miles are few these days. That's all I've been doing though... running. An occasional spin class if I'm lucky... but I haven't been in the water (swimming) in a long time.. which could lead to a very interesting Triathlon this coming weekend. I've been out to Walnut Creek to paddle the canoe around and I can honestly say I hope like hell the water turns out a high content of Blue Green Algae so they cancel the swim. That water is FUNKY!
In other race new... I've decided not to run the Omaha Half this year, a bit of a disappointment. But we have family plans and hopefully WAY cooler *wink wink*.

In non-running news - we've been skiing when we get the chance. And by skiing I mean: slalom, wakeboard, kneeboard, tube (not going to cry), and my latest craze - trick ski.
Today I finally pulled off a 180 and back bf crashing and no one in the boat saw it.. I was a bit disappointed, it was like it never happened.

Run for the Young

2011-06-11T19:01:00.000-07:00

This morning as we hunkered down under the covers on a cool summer morning, we debated whether or not to get up or sleep in. We had almost convinced ourselves to sleep in when we heard mood killer 1 AND 2 milling about in their rooms. Knowing that sleep would not be an option, we then decided to scramble and try to make a last minute entry for a 5k this morning.
Child Connect/Children Square is a non-profit that helps foster kids, and they host a run to send kids to summer camp! Last year we ran Run for the Young with Matthew (who placed 7th overall with a 21:53). Peter and I both ran 28:02s while pushing the double stroller. This year Ben ran his first 5k and I'm not sure what he placed.. but he finished!! Pete pushed mk2 in the jogger and prodded Ben along. I however PR'd!
They haven't posted results online and I didn't stop my RunKeeper at the end of the race, so I don't know my finish time... I think I saw 23:something on the clock as I ran by.. but I think the course was a little long (Runkeeper on mine and Pete's was closer to 3.3mi). Either way - I PR'd - my splits were pretty awesome! I think I was about 7th overall (of about 150) and 1st in my age div.

My splits:
mi 1 - 7:15
mi 2 - 7:35
mi 3 - 7:24

CRAZY right!!?? I thought so too! I opt out of headphones during a race - so my RunKeeper screams at everyone around me the pace and split. At mile one I knew I had gone out fast, but I was expecting a 7:45.. and all I could think was "it's ONLY 3 miles... keep this pace".
Woooo -- I might have to add a few more 5ks to my summer rotation and see how I can improve (and place :D)

slacking AGAIN

2011-06-10T09:59:00.000-07:00

lately I've been really slacking off. I haven't been getting my runs in like I should. I haven't been in the pool in FOREVER, and I haven't been on the bike either. It's going to make the triathlon in July fun.

So what have I been doing? I don't know. Wandering around aimlessly I suppose. I wish I was making excuses.. but I'm not... I'm just in a serious funk. I'm just hit 550 miles, and I would really like to hit 600 b/f the month is over. That should be my motivation. 600 miles in 6 months.

but for now...ck out the video by Amoura Productions of the Omaha Womens Triathlon. (0:11, 0:35, 1:38).

Boys Town run 2011

2011-05-31T14:00:00.000-07:00

Monday we went out to Boys Town for a 5mile run. It was warm, humid, and wicked windy. The course had hills.. but mostly they were down and not to miserable. The first 2 aid stations were miserable -- so much that we skipped the first one completely... people were stopping and waiting b/c the volunteers had only one table and were all standing right on it. I really appreciate them coming out, but BT needs to consider asking for twice the help b/c the course never thinned. I was knee deep in people the entire run. I started off running with Pete and lost him somewhere during mile 4. I stepped it out on my 5 and saw 2 people down on my way.

here's the splits.

mi 1: 9:06

mi 2: 8:59

mi 3: 9:13

mi 4: 9:44 (aid station stop)

mi 5: ******* 7:52 *********

Schools out for summer

2011-05-27T10:36:00.000-07:00

mirror mirror on the wall, who's the fittest of them all?

Monday I was cleaning up around the house and I noticed on the corner of my mirror was an inexcusable amount of clutter. EARNED clutter. I picked up five or six bib numbers and stashed them away -I guess I need to find a place for these beasts too. Might as well wait until Monday. We are running a 5miler at Boys Town, and my oldest is running his FIRST race!! I'm stoked! He's indifferent. Either way, I'm going to be one of those moms that runs down the race course taking photos every 10 seconds, embarrassing the snot out of him.

Ben's last day of Kindergarten was today and I'm excited to have him around the next few months. He is going to become my official race support staff. He loves riding his bike - I hate carrying the fuel belt - so I'll strap on a few camelbaks to his bike and away we will go...

Triathlon Weekend

2011-05-22T19:45:00.000-07:00

Today was the big day... my first Sprint Triathlon.

Amy, Nikki and me

A few years ago - I saw a woman walking through Hy-Vee with numbers sharpied all over her arms and calves. I was envious. A triathlon is something I wasn't sure I had the guts to do. I swim - but I am NOT a swimmer. I'm uber slow and just learning technique. I bike - but I am NOT a biker. I don't own a $1,000 bike or go on 45mi bike rides for fun. Two strikes I'm out, right?
I took to the pool twice a week and built my endurance - I can now swim 1mi without touching the walls for rest. I also started spin classes in the winter time, once a week. Add those to the miles and miles I was running for my marathon training and I was pretty busy at the YMCA this past winter.

Now I've done a triathlon - and I'm pretty sure I'll do Papillion in the summer. It wasn't as exhilarating as I had imagined. I don't have a feel of great accomplishment afterwards. I'm stoked I did it, and I had a great time, but I don't see going all in and buying a multi-thousand dollar bike.

Here's how the race went - a 13 yr old girl - BLEW the national anthem out of the park -- the girl was fantastic! The water was a cool 64 degrees (6 degrees warmer than the open swim on Thursday). Nikki and I started together, but I somehow ended up swimming with Amy. We cheered each other on...we seemed to alternate between side strokes and freestyle when we could. One minute I'd be swimming all alone - the next I would be getting kicked in the face or feel someone grabbing my ankles..so I tried not to kick. 22 minutes later I finally crawled out of the water.
Ripped my wetsuit off, went to grab my bike and it was stuck. The bike opposite of mine had the handle bars jammed in my tire spokes. I asked a girl that was on a team, watching me struggle for a little help, and she did - and off I went.
1 mile into it - we hit cobblestone road for a mile! about mile 3 or 4 (they weren't marked) my bike chain fell off 3 times right in a row. Turns out my shifter got banged around too. I finally got the bike in a gear that it wasn't jumping and left it... powered through. The course was way more hilly than I had imagined.
On the run I felt pretty slow -- but it was three miles and I knew I could finish.
Again no mile markers so I couldn't time my splits.
I had a goal of finishing before 2hrs.
Here's the results:

Time: 1:42:52
Overall Place: 52 of 214
Place in Gender: 52 of 214
Place in Division F3034: 10 of 43

Swim: 20:59 Rate: 2:34 Place: 113
Transition1: 2:14
Bike: 52:55 Rate: 14.1 Place: 77
Transition2: 1:04
Run : 25:42 Pace: 8:17 Place: 20

Nikki and me at finish

Papillion with a PR

2011-05-15T14:36:00.000-07:00

This morning it was 45 degrees, windy, and a bit wet. I finally commented to Nikki that I was going to go for that PR during todays 1/2. Turns out it was a good day too! I bested my time by 7 minutes, but was disappointed I wasn't 34 seconds faster. 34 seconds would've put me 1 hr 49 minutes and 59 seconds. I could've said I was in the 1:40s. bah! It kinda makes my 7 min a little sour. I hate If Only races. I felt like I ran really well must of the race.. Early on I found two girls chatting, and running the pace I needed. I had flashbacks of the first yr I ran when two girls ran in front of me the first 7 miles where I bunked. I was sure hoping history wasn't going to repeat itself. I also found a fella that was running the right pace and had a garmin. He kept us pretty steady until mile 10 - it was nice to run with him, who ever he was.

Here's the splits:
1-8:14
2-8:34
3-8:08
4-8:16
5-8:18
6-8:13
7-8:20
8-8:39
9-8:38
10-8:41
11-8:45
12-8:36
13-8:33

I should also mention that out of 482 half runners - 133 were in my age division. Just a little shout out to all those 30-39 females! Pete asked what that told me - I said that I wasn't going to place until I hit 40. But I'm sure all those other girls will move up too and then I'm in the same boat - just older.. hmph!
If I would've ran the 10k I would've placed 3rd in my age div. bummer

Next Race

2011-05-11T10:46:00.000-07:00

So I'm ready for the next race... Sunday is Papillion 1/2 and I'm bouncing back and forth on what I want for a time.
I'm thinking I can PR on this race, my best is 1:57. I know I've trained well enough to do it.. I haven't pushed myself under 9:30s since Lincoln so it kinda scares me that I might be slower when I hit the course. I would REALLY like to hit the 1:40s though.
Do I attempt a PR and hope for a speedy recovery before the following weekend Triathlon - or do i ease through it and save the legs for my first Tri? ... hmmmm decisions to be made in the next few days I suppose.

As a side note - but very important note for ME - I hit 500 miles on Saturday!
I'm half way to my 1,000 mile goal in 2011. I'm pretty excited about that.

I also just signed up for Team in Training to participate in the Nike Womens Marathon come October.... now to Fundraise! eeek

26.2 club!

2011-05-02T11:42:00.000-07:00

May 1 we ran our first full marathon, and I'm already looking forward to the next one!!!

It was such a great run. We lined up with the 4:30 pacers - but they start off the first mile an entire minute slower and then slowly pick up the pace until they are 5-15 seconds faster than the average mile pace. So we quickly passed them - and they caught up to us somewhere around 17 or 18. As they continued to pull away from me, my competitive side outweighed finishing with my best friend/husband/running partner. And when he saw me ripping apart my emotions he gave me the nod to continue on without him - I LOVE HIM!

The second half is an out and back and as we were headed out, the runners coming back looked distraught. Almost like they seen something no one should ever experience, they had the worse looks on the faces: fear, pain, disgust - and i ENVIED it! I was also scared as hell of what lied ahead. I still felt great and had lots of run left - but was holding back in fear of "the hill" and "the wall" everyone talks about. At the turn around I picked up the pace and soon met up with the 4:30 pacers. After a short chat, he convinced me if I kept going at that pace I could easily finish at 4:27, so off I went. I had a wave of emotions hit me when I realized I was going to finish under MY set time. Then I caught the 4:25 pacers and breezed right past them - on comes another set of emotions. Thank goodness for shades. I few quick swallows to keep from tearing up and I got a little freaked out when I hit another pacer. When I asked her the pace she said she had dropped back to help a runner finish and 4:20 was still ahead. No worries - No wall! Mile 24 split I'm still hitting 9s and decided it's only 2 more their would be no wall for me today. And I almost feel a little cheated, like its a right of passage that I missed out on. But instead of a finish line picture of an agonized face - I'm pretty sure mine's all smiles!!
I waited around for a bit and watched the megatron screen - and then turned around and headed back out to find Pedro. He looked so strong when I saw him running towards the finish. I ran the last 1/2 mile in with him and was hit by more emotions! Now I never actually cried - but i felt it - right there - on the verge. So strange!

Best quote " I love Crazy people with Cowbells" (thanks pete)

20 Mile	3:24:36
25K Split	2:38:30
Half Split	2:12:57
15K Split	1:34:01
10K Split	1:02:55
5K SPLIT	32:07

Here's the mile splits:
mile   1: 10:25
mile   2: 10:15
mile   3: 10:24
mile   4: 10:01
mile   5:   9:58
mile   6:   9:43
mile   7:   9:50
mile   8:   9:58
mile   9: 10:13
mile 10: 10:10
mile 11: 10:29 (port-a-jon break)
mile 12: 9:57
mile 13/14 21:33 (pete hit the jon and I forgot to split)
mile 15: 10:14
mile 16:   9:53
mile 17: 10:17
mile 18: 10:52
mile 19: 10:33
mile 20: 9:41
mile 21: 9:18
mile 22: 9:38
mile 23: 9:29
mile 24: 9:23
mile 25: 9:12
mile 26: 9:03

T-6 days

2011-04-25T10:35:00.000-07:00

So the end is here! Marathon is on May 1st and I have heart flutters every time I think about it.
Last week was vacation and before we left Pete and I trudged through 12 cold, wet miles. We ran 3 to the ymca, 6 on the treadmill and 3 home. It was raining and W-I-N-D-Y (20mph+) and freezing, literally!
I got in several great runs while on vacation. One of my favorites ended me up on the beach 1/2 way through. It was early in the morning and absolutely beautiful. I did have a little run in with a viscous frog that looked like he was going to bite my leg off, but that's another story.
In Tampa they have the Pinellas Trail and I ran on it twice. It's a fantastic trail in the area! On Saturday I had 8 and was too lazy to get up in the morning - so at 430pm I loaded up my fuel belt and headed out in the 80+ degrees for a sweaty run. I figured I would enjoy one more hot run before I returned to Nebraska where the highs aren't reaching Floridas overnight low temperatures.
This week is minimal running --- I think I'll get in a few 4milers and call it quits.
I did really appreciate how my figure looked in my bikini at the beach - so thank you running! :D

18 days!

2011-04-13T07:12:00.000-07:00

There's only 18 days until my first marathon.
..
..
..
eighteen!!
..
..
Monday I started off with 5miles on the hills in the neighborhood. The wind was a bit breezy so it was nice to stay tucked in. I nice 'recovery' run after the 20.

Tuesday I rad an 8 mi and my pace was all over the place.. I had a few fast miles in the middles and a few slow miles on the edges.. just no luck in keeping it steady. Finished out the day with the boys outside playing while I completed some yard work b/f we had to the beach!!

I've backed off on some of my workouts. No spins and swims for the next few weeks. I kinda feel like i need to be doing more, but I guess i'm getting a lot of stuff down around the house. Exercising can be a HUGE time suck!

T-W-E-N-T-Y!!!!

2011-04-10T20:47:00.000-07:00

1-blogging from the phone really sucks but I never have time to sit at the computer so here we go Again..
2- twenty miles on the books!! Saturday we ran, and ran, and ran. 3hrs and 36min. It's a slower than the pace needed for a 4:30 finish, But we made it and honestly it didn't suck. 18 a few weeks ago was painful. 20 wasn't bad. I didn't ever experience a Runners high, like last weeks 14, but was still manageable. I think it hurts me more to stop and walk, not the walking, the starting to run again part - kills! Everything tightens up so fast. So begins the taper before the Lincoln. Yay we made it past the hard part!!!
3- seven days till beaches and hopefully a shiny, new niece.

14 miles

2011-04-04T09:55:00.000-07:00

Saturday we ran our 14mi and it felt fabulous! The weather was perfect, we were camping, and I had great company (<3 pedro). The first mile was a 9:07 and we slowed it down a bit, but still managed an average 10:05pace. I felt fantastic... Definitely a top 5 run for this year..

feeling better!!

2011-03-31T09:49:00.000-07:00

I traded in my grumpy pants for a pair of running shoes - and BOY does it help the attitude. This week has just been typical spring weather - not really cold, but cold enough to be convinced it's cold - not really windy, but windy enough - wet and cloudy. It was springy enough that I convinced myself it was ok to run on the treadmill all week.
Tuesday I ran my 9 - on the treadmill - at a 9min pace - and it was so b.o.r.i.n.g. I always try to chose the machines in front of the ESPN TV, so Tuesday I got to see the Yankees play Detroit in Tampa. I'm not much of a baseball fan - I don't hate the sport - it's kinda of nice to watch a game while running though.. gets that adrenaline going.
Wednsday - now there's a day for ya! Wooo Wednesday I knocked out my swim - completing 1 mile (in 40min - I'm so slow) with no wall touches AT ALL! Then changed clothes and hit the treadmill again for a 5mi run at another 9min pace.
I had an early lunch with Ben and it was complaining a bit. Then in the evening Pedro and I hit the Wednesday spin class. It felt really good to do so much in one day too....
Today I knocked out another 5mi - the first 3.75mi were at a 8:30 pace - and the old man next to me as my witness - I finished the last 1.25 at a 7:30! I contemplated turning it down around 4.5mi but whats a 1/2 mile right? I'm stoked about my 7:30mile!
This weekend is a 14 and I am only thinking good thoughts! We'll see how camping and running works out for us.

18

2011-03-29T07:13:00.000-07:00

Sunday we ran our 18 miler. I hate running on Sundays. It screws my entire weekend, and the entire following week schedule. But I'm at the mercy of my babysitters schedule. These are the moments I wish we had family near to drop off kids. Instead of paying $20 +/- for a good run.

We headed out to the 7mi lake for a few laps. That place really smells! The lake has been drained and the left over water puddles and rotting fish smell is really foul in certain areas. It is NOT my favorite place to run, but it is a 7 mi loop. somewhere around 12 I started falling apart - physically. Mentally I was trying to figure out what was going on. Then Pedros knee started being a jerk. Our few last miles we both were struggling. It hurt to jog, to walk, to even think. When we hit 18 we both struggled to drag ourselves the last mile to the car. It was ridiculous! A few weeks ago we had a great 16.5miler and then completely bombed on this run. Our times were steady 10s until we broke. The only reasoning I can come up with is lack of hydration. I decided not to carry my fuel belt, so the only time we hydrated was at 7 and 14. oops!

Yesterday I missed my scheduled run - taking a 'rest' day. Those days kill me! I feel the need to go run - but know I'm better off resting. I actually have a sensation of something missing when I don't run.

here's to better runs

catch up

2011-03-22T11:49:00.001-07:00

Not on running -- I've been doing well at that -- on blogging though -- so time consuming! Really, who would've thunk it eh.

Last Saturday pedro and I ran a 14miler. I convinced him to stay in the area and start out the front door. We have these wonderful paths that literally are right across the street. If you had east you can go 20+ miles, if you head south it's an easy 1.5 to the lake and 3.1 around. From the lake though there are M.O.R.E. neighborhood trails. I'm always miffed when I see someone running on the streets or, worse, not using the path underpass under the streets and highways - instead crossing into traffic. I really just don't understand. You're out exercising it's not like the extra .1 mile is going to tire you out.
So Saturday -- Pedro follows my plan to hit the paths and around mile 4.5 there's a section where there is no path, no sidewalk even, and we are forced to hit the shoulder for an ENTIRE BLOCK and for and ENTIRE BLOCK I hear mr negative yapping in my ear about using the paths.. now we're those people... blah freaking blah... it was really kinda funny i have to admit.. B/c I'm not one to let stuff slide..You poke me and i'm a little fire cat. Poor pedro - I love him so for putting up with my orneriness.
We some how managed through it - and on the trip home we both actually admitted it was a nice run - A nice 14 mile that wasn't too difficult and nice to have a diff scenery.
TODAY!
Well TODAY I hit 300 miles!!
today I ran a 9mi at an 8:45 pace! I haven't worked with speed much since I've been lucky enough to stay off the treadmills for the past few weeks. I think an 8:45s not too bad for a 9'er.

4 month weigh-in

2011-03-16T10:25:00.000-07:00

This must be the slowest weight loss ever recorded! But I finally hit 10lbs. I've been seeing the number dip down occasionally.. but it always seemed to come back up. Today after my 1mi swim I jumped up on the scales at the Y. They have the fairly accurate dr style scales and I was shocked when my weight came up a good 3lbs lighter than I've been seeing it! So YAY me - 10lbs down - I guess I shouldn't bust into those peanut butter m&m's pedro bought me last night - but what the hell eh? a hand full or two wont hurt me.. maybe.

New Schedule

2011-03-15T07:58:00.001-07:00

Saturday Pedro and I ran 16.5mi - at a pretty decent clip too. We avg'd 10:10 pace. It wasn't too grueling to complete 16 miles, but when we were done - I looked over and said I wasn't sure I had another 10mi in me. TEN MILES.

We both tried ice baths afterwards, neither of us are dealing with sore muscles afterwards, but everything says it helps in recovery and we thought we would try it. I guess in winter we don't really have to put ICE in our cold water, something we didn't realize till after the fact. We couldn't stay in longer than one minute - heck I could barely tolerate 30 seconds. It wasn't my legs - it was my feet - they were SCREAMING! I yelled, and groaned in pain for a good minute after I jumped out of the freezing abyss (each time - yeah I tried more than once).

We then looked up in the internet what could possibly be the issue, and it seems the water temp should be around 50-58 degrees. Ours must've been closer to 30s b/c the ice refused to melt! Lesson learned - maybe we will try it again next weekend - minus the ice.

With Cloudy in school now and me back at work in the mornings - I'm trying to feel out a good schedule: When am i going to run, what time do i need to leave to pick mk1 up, or mk2 up. If I walk will I have time? And - when do I eat lunch! I've skipped lunch everyday I've been at work. I work till noon or 1:00 and by the time I get home - it's not like I want to scarf a sandwich b/f setting off for a run. I must come up with a better plan!

Yesterday I set out for a 4mi in the neighborhood - which if you hit the right roads can be pretty damn hilly. Mile one had 3 l.o.n.g. inclines and I was struggling to recover on the downs - when the time went off i was shocked. Surely as hard as I was working I would have had a decent time, but I ended up with a 10. Mile 2 was much the same. 3 I hit less hills and had an 9 and mile for was down and flat with a solid 8.

B U R N T

2011-03-04T10:24:00.000-08:00

Last week was challenging. I'm felt so burnt out on the routine.
Wednesday I hit the pool and my sour mood made it worse. I barely got in 900m. But I talked to another swimmer and she gave me some encouragement - which was nice!
Thursday was another 4mi - and after 1 i was ready to quit. I hit the treadmill b/c i was informed the weather was going to be awful - I did my calisthenics and knew something was off with my leg. 1/2 mi into the run I jumped off the treadmill and was ready to throw in the towel. At 1mi wasn't really hurting anymore - but I knew I could use it as an excuse to quit. Instead I decided to run hills and ended up with a pretty decent workout. The knee hasn't bothered me since.
On Fridays swim I was chatting up another virgin triathloner and it reminded me to register... so I did as soon as I got home.
Sunday Pedro and I headed out for 15 at Lake Zorinsky. The lake is drained and I haven't been out there since last summer. It was gloomy! Not to mention - someones car got broken in to! We ran solid 10s and it felt REALLY good and lifted my spirits for the week prior long run - when i crapped out the entire 13miles.

7mi run

2011-03-01T10:59:00.000-08:00

this a.m. I drove over to the YMCA and dropped Clouds off at Ycare. I headed out for my long mid-week run, and the first mile I couldn't decide if I was running too fast, or my legs were too tired. I was sucking wind and just couldn't find a steady pace. At one mile i had a 9min pace and I was a little disappointed. 9 min is a GOOD pace! But all winter i've been on the treadmill and running solid 8:30s. And all winter Pedro has been telling me that the treadmills at the Y can't be calibrated right. So I let go of time thoughts and pressed on, each mile was faster than the one before; mile 7 being a 7:45! I think I proved Pedro wrong - I think its possible the treads at the Y are calibrated JUST FINE.

Is it possible to become faster as you grow older?

I wore the new shoes, it's my 5th run in them, first outside, and I like them ok - They're a bit diff from my NB, but I ran out of those already. Still not really sure I love them - but its too late to return them now.

Trek up the Tower weekend

2011-02-27T15:38:00.000-08:00

On Saturday Pete and I joined the Kendall's for a vertical climb up the First National Bank building in downtown Omaha. We all did fantastic! Pete improved his time over last years by :06 seconds. I had a goal of besting Pete's 8:26, but I never pinned down a time to aim for. I guess I was just hoping to beat it with anything I could - even if that meant 1 second; BUT, I smoked him! I finished at 7:28 and somehow managed the top 50 (females). I think I ended up 16th in my age div, 38th in females, and 207th overall. The fastest time was a 4:27! Ridiculous! The rest of the day I felt like i had swallowed a dozen razor blades and taken back to smoking. I coughed and coughed until it hurt to cough.

Today we ran another 13.1. It was cold, and mentally I abused myself for 12 miles. It was slow and there was nothing I could do to get moving. Pedro slowed down at every mile to let me catch back up. It was a hard run, and I'm thankful he was there to make me finish.

I have a total of 198 miles to date.. I'm totally counting the tower trek as a mile to bump it up to 199

new standard

2011-02-23T09:40:00.000-08:00

Last week I set a new standard for myself in the pool. 1 Mile. A few months ago I was barely making it 100m front crawl before i was breathless and had to rest between laps. I am not sure entirely how it happened... I know I changed my breathing pattern and now I can swim all day without touching the wall. Last Wednesday I shaved several minutes from my 800m time, and the following Friday I repeated the 800m time TWICE. I swam an entire mile (at the faster pace)! Today I was slower, my goggles came apart at one point and mentally I wasn't in it, but I finished another mile. My shoulders are screaming at me - which only tells me I need to be hitting the weights harder. It feels like a huge accomplishment to me. Maybe I won't totally bomb during the tri this summer.

Last Saturday was a 13mi run - and we finished in ok time and spirits. I'm going to chalk it up as a win seeing how i didn't fall this time. This Saturday is the TowerTrek. 40 flights up the First National building. I'm hoping to obliterate Pete's time from last year *8:26* (mine was a 9:14)..

Goals

2011-02-15T11:30:00.001-08:00

Since we started running back in 2007 my goal to run a 5k in 24. I wanted to achieve this at the Turkentucky turkey trot. One thing lead to another and I didnt even try - I ran the race, but shared stroller duty with Pedro.
In 2008 I ran my first sub 8 mi. It was summer, and the first mile of my 3 mi run and when I hit the split (7:20) I was scared to death and immediately backed off and fell back to my trusty 9s. This year I haven't been on the pavement much, just Saturday's, and I've been pushing myself to new limits on the treadmill. I'm hoping like hell the speed will show up on the street. Yesterday after a 30min hard core spin class, I ran what possibly could be my fastest 3mi ever - 23:45. AND it felt so fantastic. Ugh - I really love running. I'm not sure a 21 min 5k is in my future - but I'm thinking I'll have to enter a few 5ks this yr with atleast! A 24time.

Saturday Long Run

2011-02-14T06:19:00.000-08:00

LINCOLN IS SOLD OUT!
10,000 runners

I keep telling myself - I just want to finish with no injuries. I would love to make it all the way through training with no injuries. I would be devastated if I became injured and had to watch Pete finish a marathon without me (BEFORE ME - yes I'm that competitive).

Saturday we sat out on our 12mi run and ran a really nice 10min pace. The weather had warmed up the day before and there was a lot of melting, but overnight it refroze. Which means Saturday morning there was ice everywhere! It was the most treacherous run to date, and I fell. But not on ice. Going over the dam I was battling the wind, and looked down just in time to see a crack grab the front of my shoe and trip me up. I have a little road rash on both my knees, and a broken pride for the next two miles, but still managed to squeak out a few just-barely-sub-10s.

I feel like the faster short runs are making me a stronger long runner. During the 12(.5) I never broke down mentally. I felt like I had at least another 3 in me. Who knows.
144mi YTD!!

Smokin!

2011-02-08T12:59:00.000-08:00

I set out today to run my scheduled 6 with hopes of running the first four at a solid 8:30 pace, and I ended up running the first 5 at that pace and feeling amazing! In fact, it felt so great when it came time to drop the speed - I bumped it up! I intended to do 2 min @7.5 then back down to 7.0 - I ended up doing 3 and thinking it wasn't too bad so I ran the 7/10 at 7.5 and bumped it up... and at .85 i bumped it up again - finishing the run at 8mph. Tomorrow is a swim - and my hips are going to enjoy the break.

After weeks of maintaining 20mi per week b/f training started and now 6.5 wks into training I've lost about 5lbs and an inch here and an inch there. I actually measured myself at wk one and wrote them down - last week I remeasured twice just to make sure I was doing it right b/c an INCH already! Yet I see myself - 5 lbs lighter and 2 pant size smaller - and all i can think is - ugh! So far to go till to my ideal body.

That's ok though - I'm totally getting there and get excited when I notice the 'runner' legs coming back.

Boston

2011-02-06T12:30:00.000-08:00

Look at me - I haven't even completed half of the training for my first marathon and I'm already thinking ahead. I'm sure that every long distance runner at some point thinks - "wow, Boston..."

Yesterday during our short long run (we were scheduled 7 and ran 9, it was a drop down week)Pete and I were chatting away and he mentioned, out of the blue, that Lincoln was a qualifier for Boston. So it got me thinking, what exactly would I have to run to qualify: the answer - sustain an 8:24 pace and that doesn't include stops!
AN 8:24
I can sustain that pace on the treadmill for 3-4 miles - But I haven't proven to myself that it is possible on the streets. AN 8:24 for 26.2 miles!

Right now in the back of my mind, my goal for Lincoln is 4:30 (fifty minutes slower than BQ). The gravy on top would be to run the first 1/2 under 2 (our 1/2 pace), which would give me ample time to finish and reach my 4:30 goal.

100!!

2011-01-31T21:33:00.000-08:00

I hit 100 mi today - the last day of January. I wanted to yell and jump around and high five people at the gym, instead I quietly walked over to the stairmaster and knocked out a solid 10minutes.

I failed to make it to the yarn store which is a complete bummer. I hit a few fabric stores and came up empty! My craftiness is seriously taking a hit here. Hopefully I'll find time to sit at a computer and make a few online purchases to keep me happy.

self control

2011-01-28T13:30:00.000-08:00

We all know the other great love in my life, besides running, skiing, camping, hanging with my mood killers and my smarter half, is knitting. I have been knitting away the past few weeks and LOVE it. I've made hats for every member of the family... well almost every. Cloudy's hat is still on sticks, and today I had that marvelous idea, wonderful idea, marvelous wonderful wicked idea of creating it into a jester hat. Looking for a little guide pattern on splitting the stitches I hit the web. One thing leads to another and before I know it I'm in love with a pattern. A GOTTA HAVE THAT, GOTTA KNIT THAT NOW pattern. I can't wait - I have to do it now! I have no self-control when it comes to yarn (i.e. FULL bins hiding under my bed of yarn-in-waiting)
I found these at Susan B Anderson's blog - she is a GENIUS! Headed to the store this weekend!!!! Right after my 10mi run.

9 miles

2011-01-24T12:16:00.000-08:00

My weekend run was a 9 miler. We set out Saturday morning to avoid the snow that was forecasted to hit on Sunday. The trails were fairly clear , but running through the snow, even a little snow, starts wearing on the legs after awhile. We had a fairly slow pace, slower than normal for the first few miles.
We are very fortunate to live here b/c the city does a fabulous job clearing the trails after a snow fall.. now if the wind blows that snow back on the path, we're kinda screwed.. But all in all it was a nice 9 miles. We hit two trips around the lake and really didn't feel cold until mile 7. I made the mistake of taking my glove off to fix my music and it never warmed up after that.

Right now we are using runkeeper to track our miles - and even if we start at the same place and the same time - it never records are miles close to each other.. I think I'm going to move back over to mapmyrun - it doesn't seem to be as much of a battery hog. If I continue using runkeeper I will have a dead phone for sure by mile 15.

Head up, hips forward

2011-01-21T11:01:00.000-08:00

I had another great week of workouts. Wednesday I felt a little sore in my legs during spin, later that night I realized it wasn't an injury but in fact sore muscles from 30 day Shred! I have been focused on faster running and losing some weight, looks like I need to start working on strength! So as I sit here in bed at 1:00pm, gnawing on my peppermint tootsie pop, I can think of all the things I Should be doing.
Next week I'm switching up the schedule: adding a swim and taking a run break bf the long miles on Saturday.
This is the end of week 4 and we aren't even 1/4 of the way there.
Yet I've already logged 63mi as of today! 100 by the end of January (planned)!!!

Week 3

2011-01-17T11:43:00.000-08:00

Pete finally said the words! "I want to run a marathon. I want to be a runner." YAY I'm completely stoked knowing that my first marathon will be OUR first marathon!

I had a great week of workouts. I felt fast on most of my runs and really strong on the bike and the stairs. The swim this week killed me. The only thing that I can think affected my swim is Tuesday I ran at night instead of mid morning. Next week I plan on switching up my schedule and hopefully hitting the pool twice a week.
On Saturday we set out for a scheduled 5 - but knew we would do at least 6, maybe 7 or 8. It wasn't until mile 5 that we decided 6 for sure, by then my ears were burning from being so cold and I had two layers on them. I'm not sure the temperature was colder than last week, but the sun never stayed out for long this week and the wind (which wasn't much) was more.

For now - i think I'm in the market for another pair of shoes!

4 Mi PR

2011-01-12T07:56:00.000-08:00

Tuesday evening childcare was open at the YMCA, and since neither of us had squeezed in a run I suggested we go after supper. We had 50 minutes until y-care closed and once a treadmill opened up for me I took off on a 4mi trek while watching Biggest Loser on one TV and the Washington vs Michigan game on another. I worked on speed again, and for every 2.5 minutes I alternated between 6.7 and 7.5 - except a few times I opted to leave it at 7.5 and ran 8 minutes. For the last .5mile I bumped the speed up even more and finished at 8.3. My legs felt good, but I need more conditioning before I can run 7.5 the entire 4. And I know it probably doesn't sound like much, but i finished in 33:55!!!! I'll take it! (Now if only I can make it 8min miles and get my time down to a 32:00)

week 2

2011-01-08T19:38:00.000-08:00

*** not my picture***

Today was our 7miler. It was a gentle breeze and a COLD day. 21 degrees! We had a great run though. We hit our 6mi route around the lake and on our way back to the house we saw a beautiful sight. There on a tree, right next to the path, and only about 15 feet up sat a Bald Eagle! Pete and I neither one wanted to stop to pull our phones out, take our gloves off, and stand still long enough to get the phones camera up and focused to take a picture. We were on mile 5 and in a pretty great groove. But he was gorgeous and I do hope to see him again. He just watched us as we slowly jogged around, and I thank him for not pooping on us as we went under him (and I was looking up of course).
We hit 6.5 and I swear I could have gone all day. It felt really great to be out running and the pace was nice and steady, then, THEN, Pete started striding out on me.

Week totals:
runs 19mi
stairs 20min
walks .5mi
swim .5mi
spin 45min

run ytd: 25mi : 975 to go

elusize PR

2011-01-06T08:31:00.000-08:00

So the elusive PR is taunting me. Last week i thought I had 4 sub-34 and today I was striving for 3 sub 24. I think if I would have started my time after my warm up walk and setting up pandora I would've hit it! But for now I'll have to settle for 24:20.
I finished the fourth mile in 11min and walked another 1/2 mi at an incline of 15% bc the stairs were occupied.
I did however cut 1:30 off my 800 swim time! I consciously tried to slow my arms down and work on the pull (thumbs to thighs).. guess it worked, but I can really feel where I need to strengthen my shoulders.

7 miles coming up this weekend... The only thing i'm worried about is if the weather is going to hold out... I'm not confident the YMCA will have treadmills available with all the New Years Resolution people. Good for them right! I just wish there was a policy that says lay off the perfume, body spray, and cigarettes b/f working out.

OH - ITS OFFICIAL - I signed us up for Lincoln!

Week 1 of 18 done

2011-01-02T21:12:00.000-08:00

Training week one over and nothing too surprising popped up. I skipped a run during the week; I was scheduled to run three 3milers and instead I ran two fours. I thought I was going to PR on Thursdays run (can you PR on a treadmill) but I was robbed. I guess I miscalculated during the run. I was positive I was going to finish under 34 but I hit 34:30. Darn it!
Wednesday I hit the pool for the first time in 2 wks and as bad as it sucked I still managed 800m in 24min. Not record setting times, I know, but hopefully I get stronger and faster in the water.
We pushed off our long run due to bad (I.e. Freaking cold) weather and gambled on today being better conditions. We won! It was a great run with Nikki and Pete.
Ooooh I almost forgot - Santa hooked me up with a pair of Pearl Izumi cycle shoes! I wore them during spin on Wednesday and *octave higher* loved them!

Week overview:
4mi 34:50 10min stairs
800m swim 24min/ 45min spin class
4mi 34:30
6mi 1:03:00

6:994

Training Begins!

2010-12-26T14:18:00.000-08:00

Today is the first official (as official as me making out a spread sheet goes ) day of marathon training. And just typing it my stomach goes into knots. It looks pretty easy until March, which will be nice for me to run on the treadmill at the Y during the week.
I have to say - the past 1-2 weeks haven't been that great as far as mile accumulation. Kid 1 was sick for a while and after a few days I just started making excuses. However, on the 24th the Hubby and I participated in a 2 hour event at the YMCA, and 2 days later I am still feeling my quads scream at me.
18mi this week seems completely reasonable
125 days to go!

man I'm terrible at this...

2010-12-15T11:04:00.000-08:00

I haven't completely forgotten about this blog. It requires sitting at a computer and I haven't the time these days.
'Maintaining" b/f the training is going REALLY well. I have missed a few runs - but I still log at least 16 +about 40min on the stairs (according to the machine is equivalent to 1.1mi ever 10 minutes ). My swims are getting stronger - I can actually swim 800m without breaks and it feels really good. I'm hoping Santa brings me some cold weather gear so I'm not wearing the same outer shell and leggings every Saturday.
I'm not doing real well on the losing 5-10 lbs. I know I have a long way to go, but I also know it'll be easier the lighter I am. Stupid holiday cookies.
only 11 more days until official training begins, and I'm finding myself nervous and anxious already.

first cold weather run

2010-11-20T15:47:00.000-08:00

This week was much of the same
monday - 4mi at the Y followed by 10min on the stairhell
tuesday - I ended up working ALL day - and ran outside pushing Clouds in 37 degree weather to Ben's school. The only bad part was mi 4 was 8/10 UP HILL.. good part I ran the first mile in 8:30!
Wednesday - I cut 2 min off my 800m swim. I am seriously taking way too much time to recover. In the afternoon another Spin class with Pete
Thursday - I ran fartleks on the treadmill.. it was SO FUN and I finished 4 in less than 35! +stairhell for 10
Friday - The fartleks were so enjoyable I ran fartleks on HILLS! killer! +stairhell for 10 - the lady next to me started at the same time and was going for 60MIN.. she is INSANE.
That brings us to Today... it was a cool 36 - NO SUN - wind.. and I ran too soon after lunch and felt SLOW.. but still finished in 40.

5 more weeks of 'maintaining' b/f marathon training begins!

Wk review

2010-11-13T14:29:00.000-08:00

Goal for this week was to get my miles back to 20.
Goal Success!
I actually ran 21.
Monday: treadmill - 4mi hill work
Tuesday: treadmill - 4mi stroller with Pedro
Wednesday: 800m swim in am and Spin Class in pm
Thursday: treadmill - 4mi flat followed by 10min on the stairmaster (57fls)
Friday: same as thursday - I really hate the stairmaster
Saturday - I ran outside on the hills in the neighborhood. Set out for 4 - ended up running 5 in 45!

Next weeks goal:
Stronger swimming (Less recovery time) and add a body pump class
Pretty happy with my running.

It's me again.

2010-11-10T11:17:00.000-08:00

I've decided - time to make the Blog public and active again... I doubt there are many readers anyway... But it's a good outlet for my upcoming events..
This year I had a goal of running 1,000 mi. My plan failed. I stopped logging runs somewhere around July when it was OBVIOUS I wasn't going to make it. I was over 1/2 way finished with the year and no where near 500 miles..
2011 however will be a different game!

I'm entering in my first AND most likely SECOND marathon (right nikki?): Lincoln in May and Nike in October. I also plan on doing 2 sprint triathlons.
The training program alone for the two marathons will get me incredibly close to 1000 miles. once I add a few more short runs I will exceed 1,000 miles.

I'm not officially training - but I'm gearing up. I'm pushing my miles back up to 20/wk and i'm hitting the pool once a week, add a spin class, a pilates class, and some wt training I should be good to go. Now - to find a running group. :/

Stupid baking

2010-01-31T19:16:00.000-08:00

A few weeks ago - I mastered the science of making my Grandma's cornflake candy. And the problem here is I can't seem to stop, and I eat it like it's - well candy. It's sooo good.
- and THEN - I ran across a recipe for pecan pie squares (via Paula Deen) - its heaven! They are like brownies that taste like Pecan Pie, the stuff is PURE evil.
Pete decided that the "pie" filling would be a great shoo fly pie mixture... and then he decided that we should make a Shoo Fly Pie. We've tried once before and failed failed failed.
This time we nailed it. Pete says it was a good ShooFly Pie (I don't like it - and would rather gorge myself with cornflake candy or pecan pie )
Why we are torturing ourselves is beyond me, but THIS weekend - someone came up with the brainy idea of making fudge. I've never ever made fudge and thought ok, why not.
First we started with "Mom's Easy Fudge Recipe" from the sally recipe stock - and it was easy and good - a pure cheaters fudge.
Then SOMEONE decided it had been ages since he had Rum Raisin fudge and we should try to make it. Well, you know me... I'm all in at this point. I hate to report that the Rum Raisin fudge didn't harden enough. Which only means - TRY AGAIN. but not this weekend!
For now I'll be running 4 mi and 10min on the stairs each day just to counter balance this weekends caloric intake.

ShooFly Pie

SURPRISE - A POST!

2010-01-20T20:33:00.000-08:00

Today - Clouds and I were looking through one of my cookbooks and decided to make "Pecan Pie Bars"
They were in a Paula Deen book - but I can't find the recipe online - so she must not have made it on her show.
After collecting Ben from school - we made dessert. They were so easy to make, seeing how the base was a yellow cake mix.
We had a few nibbles b/f supper and ooooh so good. It's like pecan pie in a brownie style.
Pete seems to think if you left out the pecans and added a crumble topping it would pass as a PA shoo fly pie. I'm not a fan of shoo fly pie - but this was great and will definitely go on the repeat list.

happy hatter

2009-09-30T12:44:00.000-07:00

I really really wanted to knit a hat lately.. I just haven't found time (can't imagine why). I'm still working on other projects in my "spare" tme. Do you know how hard it is to knit with a baby laying on you?
So today - i thought what the hell... I pulled out my stash box from under the bed.. and their sat a knitted block. It was just the perfect size to seam the sides and make a hat. Clouds isnt too sure about it.. but I think it's stinkin cute for taking a whole 10min this morning.
And even though it looks like I dressed him to match the hat.. not the case.. it must've been fate..

I am curious as to why I had a knitted rectangle in the varigated yarn... OH WELL .. it has a home now.. :D

Crabby

2009-08-22T19:43:00.000-07:00

So this little guy has been posted on knitty.com all summer.. and I thought he was cute.. but didn't really want to do another SMALL toy... So I've kinda ignored him. Then the other day I had to run into the yarn store (against my rule of finishing all current projects first) and I saw this HUGE crab, Ben and I both fell in love. He's way bigger than the original and so incredibly easy to knit.
I think I started him a week ago.. and have set him aside a few times.. so not very time comsuming. I still need to sew him a mouth.. but isn't he CUTE!

counting down...

2009-08-20T20:05:00.000-07:00

Had an appt today. All is well in Cloudy land.
Talked to Dr about missing last wks appt and (from the dr that refuses to induce unless you're past your due date)she offered to induce me on monday. I stammered around a bit and needed to talk to Pete first.
Figured it was best to not have a guaranteed birth date, even IF it would make A LOT of things EASIER! We'll let Cloudy come when Cloudy's ready. only 10ish days left any how.

I have 2 claws to knit and then sew on all the legs to my crab. IT's SO FLIPPIN CUTE. Can't wait to finish it, but can't get motivated to knit anymore, incredibly tired recently.

hello blogger my old friend.. I've come to talk to you again

2009-07-15T19:58:00.000-07:00

So it's only been 3 months.. that's not long.. just 1/3 of a pregnancy.
Not much has really happened. Belly expanded, butt expanded, boobs.. well you get the picture.

Anyway - I've hit the 'nesting' phase, something that didn't happen with Ben. Suddenly I have the urge to get EVERYTHING done, and I know it's not possible... because I have the attention span of a ... oh look a kitty...

I've been knitting a lot. I knitted 3 rockets. Cloudy's is the reverse of this one (which is Ben's)
They were great projects to knit in the car and on the plane when we went to Texas.
Which was a great trip, always good to see fam, always better to be home.

I bought some great fabric online - the sewing/quilting shops in town only carry girly fabrics. So I ordered some very manly boy dinosaur fabric and made Ben and Jake pillowcases. There's enough for one more... Maybe one for Cloudy, but I bought some other fabric for him. Just haven't busted it out yet. Too busy with other projects.

Like knitting this Steggy!
Maybe it's the Stegosaurus song, maybe it's b/c besides T-rex and Pterodactyls this is the other guy Ben recognizes in a flash. Which ever way, I found him cute. A pain to piece together after everything was knitted... but I think he's cute. Ben decided a few days ago that he was Cloudy's Steggy and chunked him in the crib. I'm not sure
what's going on, b/c I think he was mad at me at the time. I would wager that Steggy is back to Ben's room pretty soon.

Can't forget the sewing projects:
I couldn't for the life of me find a skirt I liked. And the trim at the fabric store I wanted to use was over $10/yd. So today I took a little trip to the local antique/junk store and picked up an old lace crocheted table cloth for $5!! Cut, sew, and voila. In my humble opinion it's the best crib skirt EVER!
(it reached the floor b/f Pete raised the crib mattress tonight.. but I still think it's great - just wish I would have thought about the height adjustments b/f I sewed the thing.)

And just for fun - me and my helmet that I wore like twice (so far). It's identical (besides in color) to Pete's, so I'm sure we look like complete dweebs on the bike together.

As for the pregger and Cloudy.
I wonder sometimes if we're going to make it to completely cooked. Contractions started a few weeks ago.. Nothing severe, Doc knows and when I do everything needed they go away. So that's the good news. Bad news - no more skiing - BLAH! Well I told Pete not for 3 more weeks.. once I hit 37wk - which is considered full term - GAME ON! (Seriously - kidding)
Ben likes to yell at Cloudy - "Hey Cloudy - Come out and Play" and loves to feel him kick - which he does A LOT!

So - I best go - I have 2 projects on sticks and 3 sitting at the sewing machine. yikes!

Another month - another appt..

2009-04-15T18:21:00.000-07:00

Today we had THE ultrasound and visit with my doc..
So fun to see Cloudy moving around - waving - kicking - and chomping on some of that yummy amnio fluid (ew - but healthy).. We saw lots of other THINGS too..
The good news is all parts were in the right place... and everything looked to be healthy.

movement

2009-04-01T13:09:00.000-07:00

5:12AM I got my first good definite movement from Cloudy.
Then i couldn't sleep for the next hour - b/c I was sore from laying on my shoulder.. I don't know when I became a back sleeper.. but I hate not being able to sleep on my back these days...

Had another strange dream last night... included an old friend from tech school (#2) and extremely large camera equipment.. trust me.. WEIRD!

Keep on Dreamin'

2009-03-31T20:50:00.000-07:00

So the pregnancy dreams are really starting to get to me. The other night at 4:01Am I awoke to a noise I was sure an intruder in our house. Oblivious to the first clue everything was fine - both dogs snoring - I woke Pete and had him check everything out. Of course, everything was fine.. but that's how freaky these stupid dreams are. And it's at least 2 crazy dreams EVERY night. Between waking up freaked out from dreaming, and waking up for my trot for nightly pee breaks.. It's a wonder I get any sleep at all.

Tamaqua Trip 09

2009-03-25T18:25:00.000-07:00

Last week we took a trip to Pennsylvania. During the trip we visited Aunt in Tamaqua.
One day Umpah was telling us he used to climb these stairs 3 times a day during high school... So Laura, Pete and I went for a walk and hit these stairs... (tammy did them last April ). I was sucking wind at the top.. but we made it.. and then went for about 2 miles up and down hills.. it was a nice walk.. Until the next day when my butt was sore..
On Monday, Pete and I did the stairs again with Tom.. After walking back to Aunts, Pete and I hit the 2nd set of stairs which was brutal.

This is the Prius we rented.. and there's the little bitty dent where the deer ran into the car...

Spring is Finally Here...

2009-03-14T18:59:00.000-07:00

Yesterday while running I was telling Pete that I wasn't sure winter was over yet. The temperatures have been jumping around like mad, and there's always a chance for another snow - until..... we start seeing Red-winged blackbirds. And as of yesterday I hadn't seen any.
Today on our bike ride, I saw SEVERAL and was so excited, it's a sure sign that Spring has finally arrived.

Welcome back little birds!

Pregger Appt

2009-03-12T08:44:00.000-07:00

Ok - a little update.. I know I haven't been blogging.. I've been busy.. *that's my story*

Went to Dr today.. Was totally stoked when the scales said - "HURRAY" - ok.. they didn't say "Hurray" - they did say I haven't gained any weight since my first appt.. and that weight stinks..b/c I had Thanksgiving and Christmas pies still on my thighs...
But the good news is - as soon as the doppler hit my belly (which is now expanding -- even though baby and cervix is only extending about an inch or more over my pelvic bone) we had a strong loud heartbeat.

So now -- we wait until April 15th for the ultrasound that may be able to show us the sex of the baby. I'll be sure to post as soon as we know..

Happy St Patricks Day, April Fools Day, and Easter if i'm not back b/f then..

who needs 'em...

2009-02-11T20:47:00.000-08:00

Who needs Uncommon Goods? All you really need is a Good idea..
This is what I made for Ben in about an hour.. and less than $5.

Dr visit #2

2009-02-05T09:41:00.000-08:00

This morning I went to see the lovely Dr Hoffman. I just love my ob... she's the best! Anyway - it was a heartbeat check visit.. and our little critter was being difficult. Doc started asking the scary questions: Any spotting? Still feel pregnant? Anything change? She finally decided to go get "Alice" (the ultrasound machine) and I got another look at my little critter. THANKFULLY, everything is in working order, we still have a strong heartbeat, and little nubbin arms and legs.. I felt bad - b/c i had convinced Pete not to come to the appt with me, in hopes he could scam out early for our trip tomorrow. I have a little picture for him though, its your prize for paying $300 for a 3 minute ultrasound. (not sure on the exact amount - could be exaggerating a tad).
Must admit - FEELING SO MUCH BETTER - could be the weather! could be that I actually lost a few lbs since my last visit (even though I feel the opposite).

impatient pessimist

2009-01-27T19:41:00.001-08:00

Ok - I'll be the first to admit - I am a huge fan of pessimism. I love to rant about things that really don't matter. You've heard people say "I'm going to put my 2 cents in"... but you only get "a penny for your thoughts"... so you lose by saying anything.
Here's the deal.. I'm very impatient. When I want something I want it now.. I don't want it in 2 days, 6 months, or 2 years. I want it yesterday. So this entire process of baking a seed for 9.5 months and not having the fun of starting little Randy or Randella's very own "why i need therapy" book.. is pure torture.. Worse than the thought of an episiotomy.

I wish this process was unicorns and rainbows... but for me it's just not...

fiberific

2009-01-27T10:06:00.000-08:00

I'm not a breakfast eater (well the non-pregnant me is not a breakfast eater). I'm lucky if I grab an apple or banana on the way out the door. If not no big deal, the thermos of hot, tasty coffee always satisfied my innards. NOW, not only is there no more coffee, no more soda, no more anything that resembles flavor or taste. I have to eat breakfast so my gut isn't flipping on me and so i can digest the horse pill of vitamins required to be taken by all impregnated. Sticking for the horse theme, my breakfast usually consists of a bowl of horse feed, ALL-BRAN. It has to be the most dull cereal ever made, but low on calories, and high on the much needed fiber. I figured out a little fresh fruit mixed in helps liven it up some. You might not want to hear this, but a common problem among us "blessed" carriers of human(hopefully) life is constipation. Yeah EWWWW.. go ahead say it again. Another thing easily pushed out of memory. So high fiber diet is needed to help 'regulate' things.
I'm not a happy pregnant woman. I don't enjoy the fun-sucking, squid looking, 9 month leech that lives inside of me. I know (from past experience) in 6 1/2 months my attitude towards the little twerp will change. I'll forever be in love, and be thankful for the hairless monkey looking person. But until then, I feel doomed.

oops i did it again...

2009-01-26T10:13:00.000-08:00

ok - I'm knocked up and NOW i'm remembering all those reasons NOT to be knocked up. Those little things that you push to the back in hopes of forgetting the torture a body goes through. For example, WTH is morning (err ALL DAY) sickness about -- how is that supposed to help ANYONE? And whats up being exhausted all the time, how am I supposed to make this a memorable event for anyone when all i want to do is SLEEP.
I hate the lack of sleep "training" I'm going through, those midnight, 3Am, and 530AM pee breaks EVERY NIGHT. I know it's to get me used to the lack of sleep I'll NOT BE HAVING in 7 months.. but HONESTLY - does it have to start NOW! And even when I am happily in bed with an empty bladder - I'm not really happy - Everything hurts.. I can't get comfortable, and the changes in temperature.. one minute I'm freezing my butt off, the next I'm sweating to death.. I feel like I have had the flu for the past 3 weeks.
And to top it off -- I caught Ben's cold yesterday - I can't breathe, I'm sneezing, and sniffling, and there's not much out there that I can take. So last night between trips to the potty, I would wake up gasping for air, since it is SO dry, and I can't breathe through my nose, my mouth would get dried out and literally I would wake gasping.. drink some water to moisten everything up, which just increased the trips last night...
I can't win.. I really can't win..

out on a cold day

2009-01-24T15:49:00.000-08:00

This afternoon - we drove over to the lake across the way to do maintenance on one of our geocache.. and flying high in the sky was Pilot Steve, he took us up a few months back... These guys must be really nuts.. b/c it was like MAYBE 8 degrees outside. There was a gentle breeze and the balloon looked like it was dancing around. I just can't believe they were flying on such a cold day!