tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-88565124862056335232024-03-13T08:35:35.925-04:00why she runsMariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12541281876496528189noreply@blogger.comBlogger192125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8856512486205633523.post-81442518133635813182013-01-30T23:56:00.000-05:002013-01-31T08:05:11.561-05:00Wordless Wednesday: Reminders & On This Day<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagr.am/p/VIMBIvlleN/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; "><img src="http://distilleryimage1.s3.amazonaws.com/ae9051d46b3c11e28e5722000a9f195f_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1359637458128.416" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="412" height="412"></a></div>
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<p> </p>
<p> </p><div style="text-align: right; font-size: small; clear: both;" id="blogsy_footer"><a href="http://blogsyapp.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://blogsyapp.com/images/blogsy_footer_icon.png" alt="Posted with Blogsy" style="vertical-align: middle; margin-right: 5px;" width="20" height="20" />Posted with Blogsy</a></div>Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12541281876496528189noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8856512486205633523.post-52257106945687805642013-01-29T19:39:00.001-05:002013-01-29T23:22:43.562-05:005 Day Roller Coaster<p>When I jump-started this blog at the beginning of this year, I swore I would blog no matter how I feel. Well, I felt awful one day which led to a missed blog post. And then another. And another. I'm not going to back track and write a separate blog entry for each day missed, so I'm just going to unroll on today's blog, the days leading to my crash. Yes, crash.</p>
<p><strong>FRIDAY</strong></p>
<div class="separator" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); clear: both; text-align: left; "><a href="http://www.wpclipart.com/smiley/alien_smiley/smiley_green_alien_sick.png" target="_blank" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; "><img src="http://www.wpclipart.com/smiley/alien_smiley/smiley_green_alien_sick.png" id="blogsy-1359519627226.555" class="alignleft" alt="" width="69" height="92"></a></div>
<p>After a flu-like feeling last Thursday, I finally got to the Doc today for a physical exam. Blood work ended up being normal. BP med dose reduced to 5mg (half). Any feeling of lightheadedness during marathon training I have to report. Thyroid seems enlarged, so I have to get that looked at. Could it be why I've been SO INCREDIBLY tired????</p>
<p><span style="text-align: left; ">I napped the day away. It was awful. Completely useless. Could it be the flu shot the Doc gave me??</span></p>
<p><span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); "></span></p>
<p>I did manage to squeeze in my #plankaday and #wallsit challenges. Not stellar, and definitely not as far as I can go on this day, but I did it. </p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagr.am/p/U7wboAlleU/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage0.s3.amazonaws.com/81e6db22677111e2bee422000a9f14ea_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1359519627242.9348" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="412" height="412"></a></div>
<p> </p>
<p>Thoughts meandered towards my long run tomorrow, Saturday. 16 miles. I would definitely need an alarm like the one below, preferably the screaming kind, to get me out the door. Yes. I am determined to still make my long run. I'm going to go to bed early, get a ton of rest, and be refreshed the next day. Yes.</p>
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<p> </p>
<p><strong>SATURDAY</strong></p>
<p>Yes, Saturday, the promise of a new day for this sickly runner. Well, not really. I got up, gave my alarm clock a good pounding, and went back to sleep. Not feeling good still, in fact, the not-so-great feeling spilled over into my family. My poor, poor boys, especially, The Hubs, who gets the brunt of all my crabbiness. I was feeling so tired all the time, yet I have a ton of stuff to do, now that I've decided not to run today. </p>
<p>Definitely feeling un-balanced, struggling with the demands of motherhood, wifehood, daughterhood and personhood. My one and only therapy, running, I couldn't even do because I felt like crap.</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagr.am/p/U6j-TAllV3/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage11.s3.amazonaws.com/2cb39530671411e2a74422000a1ddb8e_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1359519627226.1526" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="412" height="412"></a></div>
<p> If this is my struggle and they say that to struggle is to grow, then I'm sure as heck that I must grow like a weed soon. I just can't get myself to celebrate the struggle right now. Not yet. </p>
<p> It became apparent to me how much a part of me running is. How everything seems better after a run.</p>
<p> </p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagr.am/p/U9T7cNFlQi/" target="_blank" style=" "><img src="http://distilleryimage10.s3.amazonaws.com/f6c029d467ea11e28e7522000a1fbe50_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1359519627202.6643" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="412" height="412"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">From Run The Edge on Facebook</td></tr></tbody></table>
<p> </p>
<p>Struggles aside, The Hubs has been great about getting me to do my #plankaday and #wallsit challenges. They <span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); ">were definite challenges today because our boys walked between us and shoved Pillow Pet Sharkie (Little Man's beloved stuffed sidekick) at our faces while we planked.</span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="http://instagr.am/p/U-PZsoFlZL/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage11.s3.amazonaws.com/8ffd0caa683311e2b48222000a9f1915_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1359519627198.7104" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="415" height="415"></a></p>
<p> </p>
<p><span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); ">I think I took all my frustrations onto my plankaday. One of few times I broke 3 minutes! Definitely a sure sign my inner warrior is lurking in the depths of my pathetic shell of a runner.</span></p>
<p><span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); "><br>
</span></p>
<p><strong>SUNDAY, RUN DAY? (The Crash)</strong></p>
<p>So The Hubs and I decided that he would run his 15 miles first and then I would run my 16. </p>
<p> I actually woke up Sunday feeling better. It must be my meds. I'm on the right dose. I made chocolate chip pancakes for the boys and even found something to laugh about with the boys.... </p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagr.am/p/U_kUGQFlcD/" target="_blank" style=" "><img src="http://distilleryimage3.s3.amazonaws.com/3721e0b6689b11e2b4d922000a1fae83_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1359519627250.7568" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="414" height="414"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Caught Our Foam Roller Romancing Jenga!</td></tr></tbody></table>
<p> </p>
<p> Next thing I knew, The Hubs was back from his run and I was off to do mine. </p>
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<p> It was chilly, but once I got moving, I felt good. What I determined to be my MCL tendon, was feeling a bit sore since Friday, so on <a href="http://www.dailymile.com/people/MarieS6/entries/20557275" target="_blank" title="">this long run</a>, I made the extra effort to be mindful of it and did the most stupidest thing ever.....consciously changed my gait DURING a long run. I'm so, so, very, very smart. My thinking was since my right foot splays out as I push off, it pulls my MCL tendon. So if I consciously keep my foot straight as I pushed off, it wouldn't pull. If my MCL tendon doesn't pull, then no pain. </p>
<p> Wrong. </p>
<p> My right quad felt sore. So sore that I had to stop my run at Mile 6.5 and walk the 1.5 miles home. In the cold. Normally I would've pushed myself if it was just sore, but it did not feel good all around. MCL tendon was starting to twitch along with my ITB. I felt SO discouraged. Tears. More tears as other runners passed me. </p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-dmJEahW9kZI/TwZzD4nfG3I/AAAAAAAAEVU/a7DiHpdmlnc/s290/round_haired_girl_crying.jpg" target="_blank" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-dmJEahW9kZI/TwZzD4nfG3I/AAAAAAAAEVU/a7DiHpdmlnc/s201/round_haired_girl_crying.jpg" id="blogsy-1359519627224.848" class="alignleft" alt="" width="201" height="213"></a></div>
<p>More tears at home as I sat on the floor feeling like I don't want to run anymore, feeling tired of injury after injury. I started to question why I want to run another marathon when clearly I can't even balance my life at home. What is wrong with me? What am I doing? What am I trying to prove? </p>
<p>I will always be forever grateful for The Hubs. He listened, he hugged, he offered kind, sensitive words. He just knows me so well to let me wallow in my sadness for the rest of the day. To let me purge every negative cell in my body, knowing full well that I will come around stronger. </p>
<p>He tried to get me out of my huge slump for my #plankaday and #wallsit challenges, but I just didn't have it in me. I squeezed out just the #plankaday challenge early the next day to make up for the missed plank with The Hubs. </p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagr.am/p/VDbEFnllYB/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage9.s3.amazonaws.com/6c78f78a69c811e28a0c22000a9d0ded_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1359519627220.4343" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="414" height="414"></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: left;clear: both; ">I can only hope that this feeling of being dragged could only mean that tomorrow will be better.</div>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong> MONDAY - Resurrection</strong></p>
<p><span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); ">I started my day with this:</span></p>
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<p>I pushed away the dark clouds to let the sun shine through. After a day of darkness I just wanted to get back and move on. I really like the quote above, about embracing the flow of life....to see life as an adventure, not a hardship. </p>
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<p>So I got back on the bike trainer for just 15 minutes, not too long, but enough to loosen up my legs. I then started working on strengthening my ITB, my MCL, hip abductors, then rolled the heck out of my legs and upper back, and finally iced a lot. ]</p>
<p>Starting to feel more myself. Determined and hopeful.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>TUESDAY</strong> - Today! </p>
<p>I almost didn't, but I did. And i'm glad I did. I ran today. 5 miles. Very easy pace. I was a bit creaky, a tiny bit sore from yesterday's workout, so I was happy about the easy pace.</p>
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<p>The 43 deg F temp felt like a heat wave! The sun was out and I knew this may be the only Run Day for me this week. So at the very last minute, met up with my friend, "J," and since we had a lot to talk about, we didn't care about pace and took it very easy. It was definitely a therapy run. </p>
<p>Halfway through our run, my friend "S" catches up to us and the three of us ran the rest of the hilly route home. For a moment I felt this surge of my old self again. I didn't care about my gait, let my legs and feet land however they want to land. Surprise, surprise, no pain! I just felt sluggish. (It's gotta be the flu shot). </p>
<p>I'm still looking for my old self, that happy runner girl who lives for every run. Hopeful my running mojo will be back. Well, it better, because in less than 7 weeks.....</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagr.am/p/VE9ZZtllY_/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage3.s3.amazonaws.com/758c9a5c6a4011e2ac3122000a1fb77a_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1359519627181.048" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="414" height="414"></a></div>
<p> EEEK! How is that to break you out of the slump and get back to busy?!!! I'm excited to run it with The Hubs. It will be his first full marathon! I just want to get there in one piece and finish in one piece. </p>
<p>I finished off the day with my ITB Rehab Routine, a short Myrtl Routine, some Foam Roller Moves, and of course, my #plankaday and #wallsit challenges.</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagr.am/p/VGAI3YFlfR/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage9.s3.amazonaws.com/ee4cc8086a9111e283e822000a1f8e5b_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1359519627253.77" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="412" height="412"></a></div>
<p> </p>
<p>A couple of things about the roller coaster last couple of days - it's ok to have bad days and to let yourself feel bad for a little bit. The next day, forgive yourself and pick yourself back up again. Let go of things that keep you from being strong. Listen to your body. Be kind to your body. Be patient. Embrace the flow of life.</p>
<p>I'm going to do everything I can to get to Shamrock Marathon. I won't let fear keep me from it. I will go with the flow, with what The Universe gives me. And know that everything will be ok.</p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Janathon Day 25, 26, 27, 28, 29</strong></p>
<p><b style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Moon Joggers Mileage To Date: 89.82</strong></p>
<p><b style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"> </strong></p>
<p><b style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"> </strong></p><div style="text-align: right; font-size: small; clear: both;" id="blogsy_footer"><a href="http://blogsyapp.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://blogsyapp.com/images/blogsy_footer_icon.png" alt="Posted with Blogsy" style="vertical-align: middle; margin-right: 5px;" width="20" height="20" />Posted with Blogsy</a></div>Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12541281876496528189noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8856512486205633523.post-72732734205464863062013-01-24T23:13:00.001-05:002013-01-24T23:13:25.608-05:00Snow Day Somewhat Sick Day<p>Going to see my doctor tomorrow, but I've been so tired lately. Like run over by a truck tired. I hope it's not the flu, but I don't have a fever. It's not fun feeling tired all day!</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagr.am/p/U31F53FlUy/" target="_blank" style=" "><img src="http://distilleryimage6.s3.amazonaws.com/b25811a6663e11e2b9c422000a1f968f_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1359086998371.678" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="415" height="415"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Little Man having a blast scooping snow</td></tr></tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> </div>
<p>Today was a snow day, so the kids were home which meant no run for me, or so I thought. I discovered that 3 laps up and down and around my street is half a mile. So while watching the kids play, I did laps. I only got to 0.67 though, no thanks to the trash truck who left leaving tracks of black ice on the road. Ugh. So much for my 4 miler today! Nope, I do not have a treadmill and this is one of those days when I wish I had one. </p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagr.am/p/U4L6qFllcN/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage1.s3.amazonaws.com/8eed8ab8665a11e2896422000a1fb003_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1359086998420.3901" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="412" height="412"></a></div>
<p> </p>
<p>The temps were in the teens. I couldn't last out there especially in running shoes, but the boys were loving it. "It's an after Christmas miracle, mom!" I do like it when it snows. We get to stay in after playing outside, have hot chocolate, and just be lazy and cozy in our warm house. Very grateful today.</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagr.am/p/U4LGBNllbP/" target="_blank" style=" "><img src="http://distilleryimage7.s3.amazonaws.com/8de7655e665911e2b39e22000a9d0df1_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1359086998422.8628" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="414" height="414"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tank (8yo) making snow angels</td></tr></tbody></table>
<p> </p>
<p>Since I've been feeling so blah and low in energy, I did not try to make up for not running by getting on the bike trainer (which I thought about doing). I just decided to rest and hang out with my boys. </p>
<p>I forced myself to do my #plankaday and #wallsit challenges with The Hubs. Took a lot out of me. So I'm hoping this lack of energy is just from my meds and NOT the flu. I'm anxious to find out tomorrow. I cannot afford to get sick right now - not because of Shamrock Marathon training, but because I'm the captain of this ship and I've got boys depending on me.</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagr.am/p/U5FpXrFlUE/" target="_blank" style=" "><img src="http://distilleryimage0.s3.amazonaws.com/0783ed9666a111e2864822000a9f09cf_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1359086998404.74" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="415" height="415"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Yes, ironic, but this is all I've got tonight.</td></tr></tbody></table>
<p> </p>
<p><strong style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Janathon Day 24</strong></p>
<p><b style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Moon Joggers Mileage To Date: 76.67</strong></p><div style="text-align: right; font-size: small; clear: both;" id="blogsy_footer"><a href="http://blogsyapp.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://blogsyapp.com/images/blogsy_footer_icon.png" alt="Posted with Blogsy" style="vertical-align: middle; margin-right: 5px;" width="20" height="20" />Posted with Blogsy</a></div>Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12541281876496528189noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8856512486205633523.post-51225407965336029012013-01-23T23:53:00.000-05:002013-01-24T22:56:03.941-05:00Wordless Wednesday<p class="'separator'" style="'clear:" both;="" text-align:="" center;'=""> </p>
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<p><strong style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Janathon Day 23</strong></p>
<p><b style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Moon Joggers Mileage To Date: 80</strong></p>
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<p> </p><div style="text-align: right; font-size: small; clear: both;" id="blogsy_footer"><a href="http://blogsyapp.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://blogsyapp.com/images/blogsy_footer_icon.png" alt="Posted with Blogsy" style="vertical-align: middle; margin-right: 5px;" width="20" height="20" />Posted with Blogsy</a></div>Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12541281876496528189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8856512486205633523.post-92111763849119449912013-01-22T21:57:00.000-05:002013-01-24T22:55:20.613-05:00This Calls For A Refresh<p>Busy day. I collapsed in bed after my #plankaday and #wallsit challenges. This calls for a refresh. I need to simplify my life. I have to learn to say no. Or maybe I'm just a little off-balance and need to shift a little. </p>
<p>I did wake up early - not as early as I wanted, though - and did my ITB Rehab Routine, Fast Abs workout and I got back on the bike trainer thanks to The Hubs installing my bike computer thingy. I only got to do half of the Myrtl Routine after my challenges.</p>
<p>And then...BOOM. Fell asleep by 10pm. Exhausted. Utterly exhausted. </p>
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<p><strong style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); ">Janathon Day 22</strong></p>
<p style="-webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); "><b style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); ">Moon Joggers Mileage To Date: 76</strong></p><div style="text-align: right; font-size: small; clear: both;" id="blogsy_footer"><a href="http://blogsyapp.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://blogsyapp.com/images/blogsy_footer_icon.png" alt="Posted with Blogsy" style="vertical-align: middle; margin-right: 5px;" width="20" height="20" />Posted with Blogsy</a></div>Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12541281876496528189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8856512486205633523.post-10498793471051855352013-01-21T22:21:00.001-05:002013-01-21T23:30:30.133-05:00Why I Ran Today<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-9DQh6vig1Kg/UP4FoOUR4QI/AAAAAAAATic/lHAh33UwnhE/s500/Photo%252520Jan%25252021%25252C%2525202013%25252C%2525209%25253A55%252520PM.jpg" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-9DQh6vig1Kg/UP4FoOUR4QI/AAAAAAAATic/lHAh33UwnhE/s500/Photo%252520Jan%25252021%25252C%2525202013%25252C%2525209%25253A55%252520PM.jpg" id="blogsy-1358829023670.4314" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="415" height="415"></a></div>
<p>After running consistently now for 2 years, you'd think it gets easier to get out the door to run. No. It's still the same. This is was me today, having a hard time to get out that door to run. It didn't help that today was a holiday - MLK, Jr., so I hit that annoying snooze button for 30 minutes. Yes, 30 minutes. And after 30 minutes, I just turned it off! I was so tired!</p>
<p>When I FINALLY got my butt out of bed, it still took an hour for me to head out the door. I felt awful for taking so long, especially since The Hubs was planning to do his run today too. After some oatmeal and a banana, I stepped out into the cold.</p>
<p>I had 8 miles to do and you know, having 2 big slices of pizza the night before is not bad fuel for a run. Usually, I feel so sluggish in the first 2 miles. On this run, it only took me half a mile to warm up and then my legs just wanted to GO. I always run by feel, so I let my legs pace me, and I felt so light, "fast," and so free! Is it the pizza? Or my Nike Free 3.0s?? Or is it because my BP is now normal, not too low? Or all the above? </p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagr.am/p/UwqIYwlldg/" target="_blank" style=" "><img src="http://distilleryimage4.s3.amazonaws.com/70f6c27a640e11e2890a22000a1fbc9a_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1358829023691.2808" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="414" height="414"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Found that "Peace" necklace on my run today</td></tr></tbody></table>
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<p> <a href="http://www.dailymile.com/people/MarieS6/entries/20384068" target="_blank" title="">Runs like this </a>remind me <span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); ">why I love to run. It's that feeling when you can just keep going, your body feels good, and you feel so much a part of what surrounds you. This is why I ran today:</span></p>
<p>I ran to make peace with myself. I am back on BP meds (Sigh), and after refusing to let genetics decide my fate, I let it go and went back to taking meds. I took half the dosage today which I think helped me feel less woozy and weak. I will know more when I see my doc this Friday.</p>
<p>I ran for a 3 yo girl with pneumonia, complications from the flu. One side of her body is paralyzed and I just cannot imagine what her mother, her family is going through right now. So I ran for her.</p>
<p>I ran to celebrate my RUNniversary. Four years ago today, after watching President Obama first inauguration, I decided to start running outside. It was the first day I took a step out the front door to run. It was cold, snow was on the ground, and I had no clue how to dress for a run outside. I ran with my winter coat! <span style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); ">I remember running down my street and feeling like my lungs were going to explode (I sprinted, having no clue how to warm up of course). </span>Up until that day, I was running on the treadmill, and it's only been a week since I started. It took me 2 years after that day to run consistently. </p>
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<p> It is incredible to look back to where you started. I still have no idea where I'm heading, but all I knew at that moment during my run, is that this run feels good. I am alive, and I am grateful for this gift of running.</p>
<p>Of course, the day is not complete without closing it with my challenges: #plankaday and #wallsit with The Hubs. </p>
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<p><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><strong>Janathon Day 21</strong></span></p>
<p><b style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); ">Moon Joggers Mileage To Date: 76</strong></p>
<p><b style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); "> </strong></p><div style="text-align: right; font-size: small; clear: both;" id="blogsy_footer"><a href="http://blogsyapp.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://blogsyapp.com/images/blogsy_footer_icon.png" alt="Posted with Blogsy" style="vertical-align: middle; margin-right: 5px;" width="20" height="20" />Posted with Blogsy</a></div>Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12541281876496528189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8856512486205633523.post-16027986881735572092013-01-20T23:33:00.001-05:002013-01-21T23:29:26.742-05:00Sunday Rest Day<p>Another short post. </p>
<p>A warm Sunday called for outside play. Scooter rides made me feel 6 again. I am liking spirals in my hair.</p>
<p>I find out why I felt so zapped yesterday. Low, too low BP. </p>
<p>Consoling my 10yo after a NE loss made me think of when he was just 2, crying after a fall. The Hubs is consoled as it falls into perspective.</p>
<p>I am zapped yet again, but I clam-shelled, leg lifted, #wallsit'd and planked with The Hubs. I crave more rest. The End.<br>
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<p><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><strong>Janathon Day 20</strong><br>
<strong>Moon Joggers Mileage To Date: 68</strong></span><br>
</p><div style="text-align: right; font-size: small; clear: both;" id="blogsy_footer"><a href="http://blogsyapp.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://blogsyapp.com/images/blogsy_footer_icon.png" alt="Posted with Blogsy" style="vertical-align: middle; margin-right: 5px;" width="20" height="20" />Posted with Blogsy</a></div>Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12541281876496528189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8856512486205633523.post-18377097836144631452013-01-19T23:25:00.000-05:002013-01-20T14:26:53.387-05:00Long Run, Long DayShort post. <a href="http://www.dailymile.com/people/MarieS6/entries/20356886" target="_blank">Early 15-miler</a>. Ran 7 miles with new mother runner friends. Daisy balloon finish line at Mile 7. Running IS a gift. And so are mother runner friends.<br />
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Ran the last 8 solo. Glycogen-depleted and zapped at Mile 13. It's when your legs disappear and all that is left is your heart and you just want to get it done. When stopping is not an option. Yes, I am addicted. </div>
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Came home beat, low in sugar. If only food can jump in my tummy. Starved. Desperate for sleep. Couch potato for 2 hours.</div>
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Renewed after 2 hours and after coffee. Legs felt great, YAY!
Laundry. Mom's night out, mother runners, wine, race tales, lots of laughter, and a Yankee Swap. </div>
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Happy to see home and The Hubs. </div>
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Midnight #plankaday and #wallsit. Tired
and ready for bed. Good night. The end. </div>
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<b style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Janathon Day 19</b><br />
<b style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Moon Joggers Mileage To Date: 68</b><br />
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Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12541281876496528189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8856512486205633523.post-46413064706559588712013-01-18T23:19:00.001-05:002013-01-20T13:31:17.087-05:00"...and there is only your heart.."<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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A much needed date with The Hubs this morning for an early brunch, re-connecting, and falling in love all over again. Very grateful to know that no matter how crazy, stressful, and dizzy days could be, he is always there, my compass, my everything.<br />
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<b style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Janathon Day 18</b><br />
<b style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Moon Joggers Mileage To Date: 53</b><br />
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Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12541281876496528189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8856512486205633523.post-10541613040971695732013-01-17T23:53:00.000-05:002013-01-20T13:30:44.655-05:00Seeking Inner Peace <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I chose wisely today. I was feeling worn out, uninspired to run on another dreary, cloudy, cold morning, but I got out there anyway before I had a chance to think about it again. I felt off-balance running, and the inside of my knee was aching. :( It is not fun to have your right leg shorter than your left. I honestly think that's the source of my injuries (note to self: do SI Joint exercises from PT). The other thing that's so wrong with me (LOL) is that my right foot is at an angle, to the right - even though my knee is pointing forward. It's no wonder I run like a duck. Another root cause of all my injuries? Probably.<br />
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This quote struck a chord with me: "I don't have a runner's body, but I have a runner's heart - and that is all you need." Jennifer Morris. I also may not run like a runner, but I do have a runner's heart, duck feet and all!<br />
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The longer I ran this morning, the less ache I was feeling, so I kept going and felt good about shaking my legs off a bit. I didn't know where to go, so I just followed the sidewalk again and ended up tracing them around my neighborhood.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My treadmill when I don't know where to go, where to run...</td></tr>
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I ran by feel, as always, and today I did not want to run fast. I thought about how good and relaxing it felt to slow down. It reminded me about an article I read about running based on how your day/week went/is going - if you're having a stressful day or have had a stressful week, run easy. I've had a stressful week, so it's no wonder my body just wants to chill out on a run.<br />
I didn't get a negative split on this run, but I did finish <a href="http://www.dailymile.com/people/MarieS6/entries/20296612" target="_blank" title="">my 4 miler</a> with that last mile being at a faster pace. I had that happy, satiated feeling at the end of my run. (Note to self: you will never ever regret going out for a run, so just go out and run. Don't think, just run.)<br />
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My kids were equally as stressful to me as yesterday. I'm sure being cooped up in the house due to the damp, dreary, cold weather is not helping, and neither is Little Man's interrupted sleep. He woke up again at 3am, then at 5am. I had a cooler head today, so I think the 4-Miler was long enough to give me a little bit more patience, haha! Yup, THIS is why I run, people! LOL.<br />
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So did I find my inner peace today? Not until this evening. I am learning and trying to cut myself some slack. I am learning to accept that I will never get everything done and it's ok. I am learning to simplify. I am learning to show love more and focus more on all my boys. I am learning to accept my duck feet.<br />
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I capped off the night with some foam roller love (gotta love that kind of hurt), and my #plankaday and #wallsit challenges with The Hubs.<br />
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I totally surprised myself by holding the plank up to 3 min. again. I almost died the last time I did 3 min. The Wall Sit challenge was HARD! Burning! Legs burning! I collapsed afterwards, and swore my head off. It's all done, the day is done, and I'm done. Good night, the end!<br />
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<b style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Janathon Day 17</b><br />
<b style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Moon Joggers Mileage To Date: 53</b><br />
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Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12541281876496528189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8856512486205633523.post-42358972272542463842013-01-16T22:34:00.001-05:002013-01-17T16:02:54.551-05:00Stormy Weather Outside, Inside<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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No matter what kind of weather Mother Nature throws at me, I still go out there and run. Rain, snow, ice (yes, ice), sleet, wind, heat, humidity, hurricane (weather during MCM)....but I do draw the line when it comes to tornadoes and lightning storms. I do not have a treadmill at home, nor am I a member of a gym. As long as I dress for the weather, I'm good. </div>
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Today, however, it was HARD to get out there for a run. Damp, cold, drizzly morning. The kind that makes you want to just stay in bed under the warm blanket. I thought about skipping today's run - it's ONLY 3 miles - junk miles I can afford not to do...right? But before I could think about it again, I was lacing up an old pair of Kinvaras and ran out the door.</div>
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<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-RZ668sSb5NA/UPdxKpbN_fI/AAAAAAAATPg/RFQMewrekWU/s1024/Photo%252520Jan%25252014%25252C%2525202013%25252C%25252010%25253A45%252520PM.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="" class="aligncenter" height="415" id="blogsy-1358393800643.5833" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-RZ668sSb5NA/UPdxKpbN_fI/AAAAAAAATPg/RFQMewrekWU/s500/Photo%252520Jan%25252014%25252C%2525202013%25252C%25252010%25253A45%252520PM.jpg" width="415" /></a></div>
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The drizzly rain wasn't so bad as long as you have a brimmed hat. I decided to run to my Wednesday Workout class again, so I did a warm-up jog, added a few so I got a mile and half jog, and then went to class.</div>
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Class was a lot of fun. I don't know why I stopped going during MCM training. We did some plyometrics, a lot of lunges, squats, jumping, lots of planks, pushups, dips, hand weights, and some circuit training. I was happy at the end and really felt like I got a good sweat off of the workout. I skipped the ab workout because I hate crunches with a passion (I prefer to do planks), so I set off for home and got another 1.5 miles in (easy, cool down jog) for the <a href="http://www.dailymile.com/people/MarieS6/entries/20273350" target="_blank" title="">3 miles</a> I'm suppose to do today (btw, negative split, baby!)</div>
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My morning jog-workout-jog combo left me feeling very centered, relaxed, and ready to tackle the rest of the day. Or so I thought.....</div>
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Little Man woke up twice last night. Yes, twice. One at 5am, the next at 6am. Not sure if he ever went back to sleep after I walked him back to his room. Well, he was one cranky, whiny boy today. Something I didn't have much patience for. To make the day even more challenging, my two older boys decided to push Little Man's buttons - all afternoon! So lots of crying, yelling, and fighting. I normally would have a little bit more patience, but I didn't get much sleep last night, and The Hubs was working late. </div>
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I wanted to be rescued and I so wanted to run away. Sigh. Note to self: get more sleep for more patience! I put everybody, me included, on time-out, which means everyone goes off do their own thing, no talking. We needed a break from each other! So I went to the dining room, got productive, and put away the Christmas decor from that room. I know. I'm STILL not done! But another room down, 2 more rooms to go (living room and family room). </div>
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I was so relieved when The Hubs came home earlier than expected. Hurray! I'm saved! As a team, The Hubs and I fed the boys and got them all in bed by 8:30am! It was awesome! Before collapsing on my bed, I managed to get enough energy to do the #plankaday and #wallsit challenges. The Hubs did the plank with me. </div>
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NOW I'm ready to call it a day. Good night!</div>
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<b style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Janathon Day 16</b></div>
<b style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Moon Joggers Mileage To Date: 49</b><br />
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Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12541281876496528189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8856512486205633523.post-65314208290847494272013-01-15T23:10:00.001-05:002013-01-16T22:36:19.159-05:00How To Squeeze In A Workout On A Busy Day<p>So I think I've finally figured out how to squeeze in some workouts into a packed day like today. It does not involve getting up at the crack of dawn to do a 1 hour strength/core workout. Nope. It involves breaking down workouts into manageable chunks throughout the day.<br>
That is what I did on this "No Running" Day, today..</p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-kHhJ5OLyY2M/TbjkL06UdhI/AAAAAAAADUg/Zi_d7IVucoo/s512/alarm_radio.jpg" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;" target="_blank"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-kHhJ5OLyY2M/TbjkL06UdhI/AAAAAAAADUg/Zi_d7IVucoo/s414/alarm_radio.jpg" id="blogsy-1358393730593.0164" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="414" height="270"></a></p>
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I TRIED to get up at 5:50am today to work out downstairs, but it did not work. I snoozed and snoozed that annoying alarm, and when my body finally gave in, I only managed to get <a href="http://www.runnersworld.com/workouts/fast-abs?page=single" target="_blank" title="">Greg McMillan's 15- Minute Core Workout for Runners</a>, which, by the way, I HIGHLY recommend. It doesn't take up too much time, but it gives you a quality workout specifically designed for runners - check it out!</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Once I dropped off Little Man at preschool and picked up some things at the store, I went home, cranked out 3 sets of 26 lunges and then moved on to putting away Christmas decorations. Yes. I STILL have Christmas stuff all over the house.</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-u9cejOb3Rws/UPV7x6U2l7I/AAAAAAAATCs/IXR7MM97uzc/s2048/IMAG2643.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-u9cejOb3Rws/UPV7x6U2l7I/AAAAAAAATCs/IXR7MM97uzc/s415/IMAG2643.jpg" id="blogsy-1358393730593.2021" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="415" height="234"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I have a lot of Christmas decorations.</td></tr></tbody></table>
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After putting the container of wreaths away, I started the <a href="http://strengthrunning.com/2011/02/the-itb-rehab-routine-video-demonstration/" target="_blank" title="">ITB Rehab Routine</a> that I love so much, clam-shelling my way to ITBS-free runs (oh I wish!) and then went on to put away more Christmas decor. <br>
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<p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-gop5Ahhiz9g/UPWAFu7QBoI/AAAAAAAATEQ/XGncj0-eH6w/s2048/IMAG2645.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;" target="_blank"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-gop5Ahhiz9g/UPWAFu7QBoI/AAAAAAAATEQ/XGncj0-eH6w/s415/IMAG2645.jpg" id="blogsy-1358393730604.622" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="415" height="234"></a></p>
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Yes, it's multi-tasking at its best. I did this, alternated between working out and cleaning until I had to pick up Little Man from preschool. The multi-tasking went from 10:20am - 10:30pm! It's crazy, I know, but I was able to add the <a href="http://www.coachjayjohnson.com/2011/12/building-a-better-myrtl/" target="_blank" title="">Myrtl Routine</a>, a wall-sit challenge, a plank challenge, and this new foam roller workout I just found today called, <a href="http://m.ajc.com/videos/news/roll-out-with-these-5-foam-roller-moves/vmTLn/" target="_blank" title="">Foam Roller Mov</a>es (<span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);">which I can see would be a nice workout after a long run - a little TLC for sore running muscles!). Yes all that workout </span>in between cooking, homework, cleaning, playing, baking banana bread, picking up & dropping kids off at bus stop, then after-school activities, and hanging out with the kids.</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-x0bDBJ4i5Jk/TXE_z6wRDtI/AAAAAAAADOk/M1awS6qqglo/s2048/foamroller.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-x0bDBJ4i5Jk/TXE_z6wRDtI/AAAAAAAADOk/M1awS6qqglo/s417/foamroller.jpg" id="blogsy-1358393730549.2764" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="417" height="311"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Foam Roller Moves with Foamie Jr.</td></tr></tbody></table>
<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody><tr align="left"><td>I even got to help Little Man with some extra sight words to read. Yes, I'm excited that my preschooler is interested in reading already! </td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br>
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<a href="http://instagr.am/p/UhNCFwFlVY/" target="_blank"><img src="http://distilleryimage4.s3.amazonaws.com/0bb69f4a5f5711e2bc2222000a1f98f9_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1358393730604.851" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="414" height="414"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Reading With His Pet Shark </td></tr></tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagr.am/p/UiCaEQlld9/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img src="http://distilleryimage5.s3.amazonaws.com/334a77e85f9811e2a68422000a1fb163_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1358393730566.5344" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="415" height="415"></a></div>
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I was exhausted at the end of the day, but managed to pull a plank with The Hubs to end the day.</p>
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Good night....The End! </p>
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<p><b style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); ">Janathon Day 15</strong></p>
<b style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Moon Joggers Mileage To Date: 46</strong><div style="text-align: right; font-size: small; clear: both;" id="blogsy_footer"><a href="http://blogsyapp.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://blogsyapp.com/images/blogsy_footer_icon.png" alt="Posted with Blogsy" style="vertical-align: middle; margin-right: 5px;" width="20" height="20" />Posted with Blogsy</a></div>Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12541281876496528189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8856512486205633523.post-29747237258710751102013-01-14T22:38:00.001-05:002013-01-15T08:21:06.211-05:00Where I run, the pretty parts...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://instagr.am/p/UeetsFllYv/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="" class="aligncenter" height="414" id="blogsy-1358222885771.0544" src="http://distilleryimage7.s3.amazonaws.com/411a3af05e8211e2a1c022000a1fb718_7.jpg" width="414" /></a></div>
Sometimes you have to run without music to actually see where you're running to and what's around you.<br />
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I did just that on my <a href="http://www.dailymile.com/people/MarieS6/entries/20224063" target="_blank" title="">7-Miler this morning</a>. No music, just me, the sound of my breath and every step. I used to run without music back in 2011 because at the time, listening to music made me run TOO fast for my liking. I couldn't relax in the mile I was in. When I started training for MCM and the miles got longer, music became my companion on those lonely 3-4 hour long runs. Music did help the miles go by faster and less painful.<br />
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Running without music today, however, felt relaxing, calm. I didn't feel rushed, and with all the stress I've been feeling the past week, it was a nice change welcome change. My run was easy and slow, and I didn't care. My right leg was acting up again which bothered me, so I took it really easy, taking pics along the way, and to just get the miles in.<br />
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So I never knew how scenic it really is, even in the dead of winter, the itty bitty paved trail I run through, until I stopped to take it all in. I wish there are more miles and miles of it.<br />
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<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-90jalqyd71Y/UPTVUgioncI/AAAAAAAATB4/mqvaOnlgECk/s1024/Photo%252520Jan%25252014%25252C%2525202013%25252C%25252010%25253A44%252520PM.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="" class="aligncenter" height="415" id="blogsy-1358222885813.903" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-90jalqyd71Y/UPTVUgioncI/AAAAAAAATB4/mqvaOnlgECk/s500/Photo%252520Jan%25252014%25252C%2525202013%25252C%25252010%25253A44%252520PM.jpg" width="415" /></a></div>
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I hope the views don't ever go away. It just seems like they are building more and more houses here, obliterating views like these.<br />
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<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-UZOjUiuVmNM/UPTVWFcKaBI/AAAAAAAATCA/djdI9zqDIeA/s1024/Photo%252520Jan%25252014%25252C%2525202013%25252C%25252010%25253A43%252520PM.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="" class="aligncenter" height="412" id="blogsy-1358222885823.129" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-UZOjUiuVmNM/UPTVWFcKaBI/AAAAAAAATCA/djdI9zqDIeA/s500/Photo%252520Jan%25252014%25252C%2525202013%25252C%25252010%25253A43%252520PM.jpg" width="412" /></a></div>
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Hard to tell from the pic, but lots of geese poop on the trail today.<br />
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<a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-SXjLok66OhI/UPTVXv3aYyI/AAAAAAAATCI/LlIYvEvWnCs/s1024/Photo%252520Jan%25252014%25252C%2525202013%25252C%25252010%25253A43%252520PM.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="" class="aligncenter" height="415" id="blogsy-1358222885778.7117" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-SXjLok66OhI/UPTVXv3aYyI/AAAAAAAATCI/LlIYvEvWnCs/s500/Photo%252520Jan%25252014%25252C%2525202013%25252C%25252010%25253A43%252520PM.jpg" width="415" /></a></div>
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<span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); text-align: -webkit-auto;">I do live in suburbia, where all the houses look the same, but there are places like the ones I took above that take me away from suburbia, even for just a mile.....I know..such a short stretch of WOW.</span></div>
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<a href="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_0Ks74WBJzE/UPTVZBdG7qI/AAAAAAAATCQ/rYWhocFUhx8/s1024/Photo%252520Jan%25252014%25252C%2525202013%25252C%25252010%25253A45%252520PM.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="" class="aligncenter" height="414" id="blogsy-1358222885811.727" src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-_0Ks74WBJzE/UPTVZBdG7qI/AAAAAAAATCQ/rYWhocFUhx8/s500/Photo%252520Jan%25252014%25252C%2525202013%25252C%25252010%25253A45%252520PM.jpg" width="414" /></a></div>
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I do not like running on sidewalks, but they are a necessary evil running surface in my neighborhood especially on this road. </div>
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So there you have it, where I run, the pretty parts, anyways. On my next run, I will take pics and show how cookie-cutter my world really is. <br />
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In the meantime, my #plankaday and #wallsit challenges for the day. I honestly cannot imagine holding a plank longer than this, nor doing a plank for 3 minutes ever again. It hurt!<br />
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<a href="http://instagr.am/p/UfQVczllRJ/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="" class="aligncenter" height="414" id="blogsy-1358222885829.4233" src="http://distilleryimage9.s3.amazonaws.com/d3c0ef485ebe11e2884a22000a9f1588_7.jpg" width="414" /></a></div>
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<b style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Janathon Day 14</b><br />
<b style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Moon Joggers Mileage To Date: 46</b><br />
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Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12541281876496528189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8856512486205633523.post-87570087824458972382013-01-13T18:50:00.001-05:002013-01-13T21:43:56.462-05:00Playoffs, Peanut Butter Protein Bites, & Working Out<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=10200456829769993&set=a.1516098429120.2068359.1434246006&type=1" target="_blank" style=" "><img src="https://sphotos-b.xx.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ash3/s600x600/537391_10200456829769993_1127845133_n.jpg" id="blogsy-1358131377788.789" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="415" height="234"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Guess Who We're Rooting For...</td></tr></tbody></table>
<p> </p>
<p>Football playoffs all day and my boys whooping and hollering at the TV, means sneaking in my <a href="http://strengthrunning.com/2011/02/the-itb-rehab-routine-video-demonstration/" target="_blank" title="">ITB Rehab Routine</a> and <a href="http://www.coachjayjohnson.com/2011/12/building-a-better-myrtl/" target="_blank" title="">Myrtl Routine</a> between helping Little Man deal with tantrums, breaking up fights, in-between laundry loads, warming up the pizza, and getting the kids to eat dinner. My right leg feels good today, so, very hopeful, and it motivates me to get these routines done however, wherever, and whenever I can. I slept in today, so my routines were spread throughout the day.</p>
<p>I forgot to share this yesterday, this AMAZING, to-die-for, post-run treat that I savored and enjoyed yesterday after my 10-Miler....<a href="http://womensrunning.competitor.com/2012/10/nutrition/recipes/peanut-butter-protein-bites_6589" target="_blank" title="">Peanut Butter Protein Bites</a>.</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-Hxln1lNz4jA/UPGWLtgNHNI/AAAAAAAASuE/dreO-Pzrtz0/s2048/IMAG2597.jpg" target="_blank" style=" "><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-Hxln1lNz4jA/UPGWLtgNHNI/AAAAAAAASuE/dreO-Pzrtz0/s417/IMAG2597.jpg" id="blogsy-1358131377755.1724" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="417" height="235"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Peanut Butter Protein Bites</td></tr></tbody></table>
<p> </p>
<p>It's this heavenly mix of oats, dark chocolate chips, peanut butter, chia seeds, and this one had cranberries instead of dates, and my friend didn't have shredded coconut, but I never noticed nor missed it. Check out the <a href="http://womensrunning.competitor.com/2012/10/nutrition/recipes/peanut-butter-protein-bites_6589" target="_blank" title="">RECIPE</a> and try it after a run. Totally YUM to the tenth power. Easy to make. It was hard NOT to have just one, but each Peanut Butter Protein Bite is 142 calories, so beware the urge to pop in more than 2. I am going to be making these little bites for my long runs. </p>
<p><strong>What is your post-run treat to refuel? Do you have any equally yummy recipes to share? Please do!</strong></p>
<p>Of course the day will not be complete without my #plankaday and #wallsit challenges. I am really digging these 2 challenges, not only because I know they do my marathon-training body good, but I LOVE sharing these pics on Instagram! Yes, I'm on Instagram! Please follow me there! I am @whysheruns on there! </p>
<p> </p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagr.am/p/UcpHUPFlYo/" target="_blank" style=" "><img src="http://distilleryimage0.s3.amazonaws.com/b33cb06c5df211e2b22b22000a1f96e2_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1358131377728.8662" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="414" height="414"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Cheesy Fist Bump Elbow Side Planks With The Hubs</td></tr></tbody></table>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Janathon Day 13</strong></p>
<p><strong>Moon Joggers Mileage To Date: 39</strong></p><div style="text-align: right; font-size: small; clear: both;" id="blogsy_footer"><a href="http://blogsyapp.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://blogsyapp.com/images/blogsy_footer_icon.png" alt="Posted with Blogsy" style="vertical-align: middle; margin-right: 5px;" width="20" height="20" />Posted with Blogsy</a></div>Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12541281876496528189noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8856512486205633523.post-29868579376393212312013-01-12T23:30:00.001-05:002013-01-12T23:31:57.430-05:00Plank-A-Day and Wall Sit Challenges<p>How could I forget? I had a blast doing the challenges with The Hubs that we decided to ham it up for my Instagram photos. We had both just ran 10 miles so these challenges were a bit, well, more challenging! (I got the date wrong on the #wallsit photo below).</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagr.am/p/UZaY4Allck/" target="_blank" style=" "><img src="http://distilleryimage4.s3.amazonaws.com/5979a28a5cf611e2b48222000a9f1915_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1358051475472.6978" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="415" height="415"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Laughing while planking does not help either</td></tr></tbody></table>
<br>
<br>
<br>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagr.am/p/UZ9xDzllZZ/" target="_blank" style=" "><img src="http://distilleryimage9.s3.amazonaws.com/890fddfe5d2111e2bd3c22000a1faf7b_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1358051475427.3713" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="415" height="415"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Hubs got all Zen and I was still laughing</td></tr></tbody></table>
<p> </p>
<p> </p><div style="text-align: right; font-size: small; clear: both;" id="blogsy_footer"><a href="http://blogsyapp.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://blogsyapp.com/images/blogsy_footer_icon.png" alt="Posted with Blogsy" style="vertical-align: middle; margin-right: 5px;" width="20" height="20" />Posted with Blogsy</a></div>Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12541281876496528189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8856512486205633523.post-52422282001159159972013-01-12T22:57:00.001-05:002013-01-12T23:25:58.853-05:00Running Goal<p>If I could run everyday, I would, and maybe I should. Everything IS better after a run. Today was another cloudy, dreary day, a bit warmer than yesterday and foggy. I decided to meet up with the local Moms Run This Town (MRTT) running group for my long run - to change things up a bit. I haven't run with others in a month, and while I cherish my solo runs, I was looking forward to meeting other mother runners.</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagr.am/p/UZDpqNFleS/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage6.s3.amazonaws.com/97edf6185cda11e2b9c722000a9e07b7_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1358051135299.9822" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="415" height="415"></a></div>
<p>The run was a lot of fun (Daily Mile details <a href="http://www.dailymile.com/people/MarieS6/entries/20185162" target="_blank" title="">HERE</a>), and the 10 miles went by quickly. When my right leg started bugging me a little, I knew we went out too fast in the beginning, and suddenly it became clear to me what my running goal is for this year: it's not to PR on the marathon distance or to become a Marathon Maniac. It's to stay injury-free. Sure, it would be nice to get a full marathon PR at Shamrock, but I don't want one if it means I'd be in pain for weeks or months after that. I can't afford NOT to run.</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagr.am/p/RNU22LllQF/" target="_blank" style=" "><img src="http://distilleryimage9.s3.amazonaws.com/18d25e241eae11e2bfc622000a9d0dda_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1358051135337.4712" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="415" height="415"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Training for MCM was not injury free</td></tr></tbody></table>
<p> </p>
<p>Not only do I NEED to run to help get through crazy weeks here at home, I NEED to run in order to stay away from blood pressure meds. Four years ago, before I became a runner, my doc declared that I have high blood pressure. It's genetic, he said - my dad has it, my sister has it, therefore I have it and I have to be on meds for the rest of my life. I wasn't overweight, I wasn't sedentary, I ate as healthy as I could, and I still have high blood pressure. Meds for the rest of my life. It's like there was nothing else I could do. I refused to accept my life sentence just like that.</p>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagr.am/p/SwdVS5FlWh/" target="_blank" style=" "><img src="http://distilleryimage9.s3.amazonaws.com/d17f40fa3cee11e2815722000a1fa518_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1358051135333.3489" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="415" height="415"></a><br>
</td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Blood pressure during MCM training</td></tr></tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: left;clear: both; "> </div>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: left;clear: both; ">So when I started training for MCM all summer last year, my doc was surprised to see my blood pressure so low with meds that he eventually had to take me off of the meds! I was thrilled to the moon to prove my doctor wrong!</div>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: left;clear: both; "> </div>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: left;clear: both; ">But you know what though? After MCM, when running became a once a week thing rather than a 3x a week thing, my blood pressure started creeping up again. :( I was devastated. It totally confirmed that my condition was indeed genetic, and running more consistently helped it just enough to keep it at check.<br>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: left;clear: both; "> </div>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: left;clear: both; ">My first thought was, I can't be training for a full marathon for the rest of my life! Or can I? Sure, why not, right? So that is why I am signed up for Shamrock Marathon in March and for Richmond Marathon in November. Now if I can just remain injury-free.<br>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: left;clear: both; "> </div>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: -webkit-auto;clear: both; "><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">That is why I run now. To stay off of the meds. That is why staying injury-free is so important to me.</span><br>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: -webkit-auto;clear: both; "><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><br>
</span></div>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: left;clear: both; ">So I stretch more, I roll more, I ice more, I do my rehab routines more, and I am more aware of any aches here and there, no matter how little. If I can help it, I will stay injury-free. </div>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: left;clear: both; "> </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagr.am/p/Qmt0ftlldZ/" target="_blank" style=" "><img src="http://distilleryimage1.s3.amazonaws.com/b1d802b012e511e2b3af22000a1fb856_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1358051135286.7214" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="415" height="415"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Meet my foam roller, Foamie Jr.</td></tr></tbody></table>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>What are your running goals for this year? How do you stay injury-free? I'd love to hear some tips!</strong></p>
<p> </p>
<p><strong>Janathon Day 12</strong></p>
<p><strong>Moon Joggers Mileage To Date: 39</strong></p>
<p> </p><div style="text-align: right; font-size: small; clear: both;" id="blogsy_footer"><a href="http://blogsyapp.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://blogsyapp.com/images/blogsy_footer_icon.png" alt="Posted with Blogsy" style="vertical-align: middle; margin-right: 5px;" width="20" height="20" />Posted with Blogsy</a></div>Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12541281876496528189noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8856512486205633523.post-9624622138096983032013-01-12T00:01:00.001-05:002013-01-12T00:03:21.314-05:00Running: My Refresh Button<p> It was one of those stay-at-home mom days when you feel utterly stretched out thin that you feel paralyzed. The Christmas decorations are still up, toys are scattered everywhere, dishes in the sink, clean clothes piled up as high as the dirty clothes..</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-ZjyajpuEPXQ/TbZRhhLgi1I/AAAAAAAADUQ/hsMoIWb2Bys/s400/busy_mom_1.jpg" target="_blank" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-ZjyajpuEPXQ/TbZRhhLgi1I/AAAAAAAADUQ/hsMoIWb2Bys/s204/busy_mom_1.jpg" id="blogsy-1357966918527.3647" class="alignleft" alt="" width="204" height="244"></a></div>
<p>So I decided to take a day off. While Little Man was in preschool, I just sat on the couch reading. I realized it was the longest time I've sat down in awhile where I'm not eating a meal. It gave me a much needed pause. </p>
<p>The two and a half hours went by fast, though, and next thing I knew, I was on my way to pick up Little Man. The day dragged for me and a lot of it was due to the dreary weather. It's a Friday, after all, and I was ready to call it a week! I couldn't shake off the cloud over me, especially when I had things to do (groceries, cleaning, oh what to have for dinner!), but I didn't want to do them!</p>
<p> </p>
<p>As Little Man played, I got sucked back into the couch with my laptop. I stumbled into my Daily Mile 2012 year in review and was surprised at how many miles I ran last year! I nearly doubled last year's total mileage! At the same time, I couldn't believe how close I was to 1,000! So close! It gave me the determination to reach 1,000 this year. </p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagr.am/p/UWRYcSFlf4/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage0.s3.amazonaws.com/fad92b605c0011e2ada222000a9f3cf6_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1357966918470.133" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="405" height="405"></a></div>
<p> A few clouds lifted as I got excited about 1,000 miles.</p>
<p>Then came this pleasant surprise in the mail! My running club's 2013 calendar!</p>
<div class="separator" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); clear: both; text-align: center; "><a href="http://instagr.am/p/UW5WwZllUS/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; "><img src="http://distilleryimage6.s3.amazonaws.com/c6a08a925c3111e2b3af22000a1fb856_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1357966918502.449" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="414" height="414"></a></div>
<p>It brought back so many wonderful memories from last year. We virtually trained together for marathons, ultramarathons, half marathons, and every distance in between. We met up for races, encouraged each other, cried, whined, sympathized, and celebrated each other. The calendar lifted more clouds. (Btw, check out the butterfly girl on the front cover! Ahem....yup, that's me!)</p>
<p>Once again, on my "No Running" Day, I get the doldrums and I am lifted up from it by thoughts of running. Yes, I'm THAT addicted to running, I guess. It's my drug. It makes me happy. When my life at home starts to feel overwhelming, I want to run, but not to run away from it all. I run until I hit that refresh button somewhere in my body so that I come home a refreshed mom, a stronger mom, who can't wait to tackle another week and be with her boys. </p>
<p>Tomorrow is my long run. And I can't wait!!!</p>
<div class="separator" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); clear: both; text-align: center; "><a href="http://instagr.am/p/UXqqXRFlcD/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; "><img src="http://distilleryimage3.s3.amazonaws.com/f5c5fa5a5c6d11e2925f22000a1fb71a_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1357966918529.282" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="412" height="412"></a></div>
<p> </p>
<p>P.S. I did squeeze in a little workout while I caught up with a friend on the phone (ITB Rehab Routine) and while my boys took showers (Myrtl Routine). Of course the night has to be capped by #plankaday and #wallsit challenges. Good night and thanks for following!</p>
<p> </p>
<p style="text-align: -webkit-auto; "><b style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Janathon Day 11</strong></p>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: -webkit-auto; clear: both; "><b style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Moon Joggers Mileage To Date: 29</strong></div>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: -webkit-auto; clear: both; "><span style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);"><strong>Plank A Day: 2:17.2</strong></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: -webkit-auto; clear: both; "><b style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Wall Sit: 2:25.1</strong></div>
<p> </p><div style="text-align: right; font-size: small; clear: both;" id="blogsy_footer"><a href="http://blogsyapp.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://blogsyapp.com/images/blogsy_footer_icon.png" alt="Posted with Blogsy" style="vertical-align: middle; margin-right: 5px;" width="20" height="20" />Posted with Blogsy</a></div>Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12541281876496528189noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8856512486205633523.post-26528043604908361462013-01-10T23:15:00.001-05:002013-01-11T10:39:09.129-05:00Running Towards Free<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagr.am/p/UUNax5FlSr/" target="_blank"><img alt="" class="aligncenter" height="420" id="blogsy-1357883558481.0806" src="http://distilleryimage3.s3.amazonaws.com/e4468da85b5f11e2882622000a1f985d_7.jpg" width="420" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fave kicks - Nike 3.0 v.3</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); text-align: left;" />
<span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); text-align: left;">You know it's "love-at-first-run" when you cannot wait to run in them again. That's what my Nike Free 3.0 v.3's are for me, my go-to-shoe for runs up to 10 miles. I have yet to try them for distances beyond 10 miles. I'm no expert in minimalist shoes like my Nike 3.0s, but I can tell you that I love feeling closer to the ground, how very flexible the soles are, and how much "faster" and free I feel running in them.</span><br />
<span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); text-align: left;">But this is not a shoe review. No. Just a post about a run that I couldn't wait to do, in my favorite running shoes on a slightly warmer day. I had 4 miles on my training calendar, and I think my expectations were high starting out on this run until I started moving. I. Felt. So. Sluggish. My first mile split says it all - 12:08 min./mile. (Daily Mile run details </span><a href="http://www.dailymile.com/people/MarieS6/entries/20131658" style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); text-align: left;" target="_blank" title="">HERE</a><span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); text-align: left;">). It was one of those runs where you just want to get it over with, but I knew I had to hang in there, so I plodded along feeling betrayed by my "fast," free shoes. </span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagr.am/p/UUOzkkllUI/" target="_blank"><img alt="" class="aligncenter" height="422" id="blogsy-1357883558504.7166" src="http://distilleryimage0.s3.amazonaws.com/95d359065b6111e28e6622000a9f0a1a_7.jpg" width="422" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At Mile 1 - waiting to feel "free"</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); text-align: left;">Am I feeling burned out already? From life? From training? I can't be! No! So I push on, stopping to take a quick pic, deciding to take it easy, just to get the miles in. (But how I long to be free).</span><br />
<div style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);"><br />
</span><br />
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875);">To keep my mind off of this sluggish run, I thought about how nice it would be to run to a gorgeous view. While you can't get much scenery in suburbia, I remembered a little trail that made you forget you live in a culdesac world. So I ran to that, hoping to find my free. I got distracted by what I thought at first was a pretty cool looking thing on the ground, only to realize that what I was looking at was the remains of a doe? A deer? And where its eyes used to be. Ugh. I don't know why I thought it was something else, but then this IS suburbia!</span></div>
<div style="text-align: left;">
<span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875);"><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<img alt="" class="aligncenter" height="400" id="blogsy-1357883558510.316" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-VbsgpPL9bMM/UO7hW-63YFI/AAAAAAAASlE/7K44NWYvXMc/s400/IMAG2583.jpg" width="225" /></div>
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<br />
After leaving that awful discovery, I turned and ran to where the little trail was, but stopped at the top of the hill. I was alone, and while I longed to lose myself down in that little trail....to feel the wide open-ness of the field...and trace the meandering little trail, so I can forget the monotony of my suburban life, I didn't feel safe....<br />
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<a href="http://instagr.am/p/UU6FQ5llWw/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="" class="aligncenter" height="420" id="blogsy-1357883558475.6345" src="http://distilleryimage8.s3.amazonaws.com/69b642ea5b9611e2a9d822000a9e29af_7.jpg" width="420" /></a></div>
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<br />
...which was more disappointing than feeling sluggish at the start of my run. I've run that little trail before, but only with friends, and I wasn't about to chance it, running down there tucked below the hill, completely out of sight.<br />
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<span style="text-align: center;"> </span></div>
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So I stopped to just look out at that little trail with my back towards the cookie cutter landscape....imagining that I was somewhere else for a few minutes. It is so peaceful down there on that little trail. Sigh.<br />
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When I was ready, I turned around to run back to my cookie-cutter world, to my routine, to my boys with fighting, angry, whining words, and ran home happy towards free.<br />
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(Imagine my surprise after I uploaded my run to Garmin Connect and saw that I got a <a href="http://www.dailymile.com/people/MarieS6/entries/20131658" target="_blank" title="">negative split</a>!)<br />
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<a href="http://instagr.am/p/UVIgVhllVa/" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img alt="" class="aligncenter" height="420" id="blogsy-1357883558484.237" src="http://distilleryimage10.s3.amazonaws.com/04e709f05ba811e29b7122000a1f9a64_7.jpg" width="420" /></a><br />
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<b style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Janathon Day 10</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Moon Joggers Mileage To Date: 29</b></div>
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<b style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Plank A Day: 2:11.8</b><b style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); text-align: left;"> </b></div>
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<b style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); text-align: left;">Wall Sit: 1:33.2</b></div>
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<div id="blogsy_footer" style="clear: both; font-size: small; text-align: right;">
<a href="http://blogsyapp.com/" target="_blank"><img alt="Posted with Blogsy" height="20" src="http://blogsyapp.com/images/blogsy_footer_icon.png" style="margin-right: 5px; vertical-align: middle;" width="20" />Posted with Blogsy</a></div>
Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12541281876496528189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8856512486205633523.post-48425182813538266132013-01-09T22:30:00.001-05:002013-01-10T23:50:47.580-05:00A Sandwich Type of Workout and A Wordy Wednesday Rant<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagr.am/p/URfnJdlldL/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage7.s3.amazonaws.com/b9a89b885a8b11e2851d22000a1fb71f_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1357879826926.5237" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="419" height="419"></a><br>
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<div class="separator" style="text-align: left;clear: both; ">A 3-mile run with a 30-minute workout in the middle was not enough to carry me through this day. I don't like to dwell too much on the not-so-great stuff here, so let's just say that this momma could use a long run to hit that refresh button. Patience. I need more patience with these 3 boys. If only long runs could come in a pill form so all I have to do is pop one in my mouth. Ok, end of rant.</div>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: left;clear: both; "> </div>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: left;clear: both; ">Pre-frustrations, I had a GREAT run/workout today! My training schedule called for only 3 miles today. I was all set to just go and run after preschool drop-off when a friend asked if I was going to exercise class. This exercise class is a free class offered by a friend at her church. </div>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: left;clear: both; "> </div>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: left;clear: both; ">Yes, you heard that right...FREE. No strings attached. A group of stay-at-home moms attend this class and we are allowed to bring our kids. So the only thing is that kids are free to roam, run, and crawl around the gym while the moms work out - plyometrics, ab workout, cardio, etc. It can be challenging sometimes to make sure you're not kicking a toddler in his/her face when you do kick-boxing, BUT it's a great class. The kids are great, there are toys for them to play with, and the gym is big enough that it never feels too crowded. My friend, who teaches it, is also a runner, so she knows what we need. I've been going for almost 3 years now, but had to stop once MCM training last year got really heavy. </div>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: left;clear: both; "> </div>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: left;clear: both; ">Anyways, I decided to go since I only have 3 miles to do today, so I ran to class (0.6 miles), worked out for 30 minutes (lunges, squats, planks, cardio, plyometrics), left early so I can run the last 2.4 miles and got back home just in time to shower, dress, and pick up Little Man from preschool. It's crazy - I have just 2 hours - yup, 2 hours to run/exercise/shower while Little Man's in preschool. I can't complain, really...better than no "me time" at all, right?</div>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: left;clear: both; "> </div>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: left;clear: both; ">So this run I did, I was really excited about because I got a negative split! I usually run by feel and never really look at pace or try to hit a specific pace range, but when I get back home to upload my run data, I'm happy when I see I got a negative split. I don't feel 100% back to my old self yet pre-sickness, but I ran it at a comfortably hard pace for me - 10 min/mile - which is a notch below my 5K race pace, but I was happy to get a good hard workout, a change of pace.</div>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: left;clear: both; "> </div>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: left;clear: both; ">Daily Mile post with my splits <a href="http://www.dailymile.com/people/MarieS6/entries/20104982" target="_blank" title="">HERE</a>. </div>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: left;clear: both; "> </div>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: left;clear: both; ">I'm sitting on the floor typing this and I have yet to do my timed plank. I did a whole set of planks in class, but I want a timed plank. Waiting for The Hubs and I'm growing tired. Thinking about running my 4 miles tomorrow easy or doing some fartleks along the way. Not sure.</div>
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<div class="separator" style="text-align: left;clear: both; "> Ok, time to plank.</div>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: left;clear: both; "> </div>
<div class="separator" style="-webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.296875); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); clear: both; text-align: center; "><a href="http://instagr.am/p/USfdsbFlbx/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; "><img src="http://distilleryimage5.s3.amazonaws.com/ab818b5c5ad911e2a3ff22000a1fb762_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1357879826898.3784" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="419" height="419"></a></div>
<p> </p>
<p> <strong style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); ">Janathon Day 9</strong></p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; "><strong style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Moon Joggers Mileage To Date: 25</strong></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; "><strong style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Plank A Day: 2:42.3</strong></div>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: -webkit-auto; clear: both; "><strong style="text-align: left; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Wall Sit: 1:38.9</strong></div>
<p> </p><div style="text-align: right; font-size: small; clear: both;" id="blogsy_footer"><a href="http://blogsyapp.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://blogsyapp.com/images/blogsy_footer_icon.png" alt="Posted with Blogsy" style="vertical-align: middle; margin-right: 5px;" width="20" height="20" />Posted with Blogsy</a></div>Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12541281876496528189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8856512486205633523.post-27405952493547464212013-01-08T23:35:00.001-05:002013-01-09T00:05:34.114-05:00No Run Days and Some Math Love<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagr.am/p/UP2mYollbG/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><br>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: left;clear: both; "><strong>No Run Days</strong>. Rest days to me are just "no run days." Today was a "no run" day. I REALLY wanted to get on my bike, but then realized I hadn't set up my bike computer thingy that I got from Christmas that tells you distance, pace, time, etc. I had zero time to figure out how to set it up so I just opted to do Coach Jay Johnson's Myrtl Routine. </div>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: left;clear: both; "> </div>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: center;"><iframe title="YouTube video player" class="youtube-player" type="text/html" width="427" height="260" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/2GLrKr54yA0" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen=""></iframe></div>
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<div class="separator" style="text-align: left;clear: both; ">If you're not familiar with the Myrtle Routine, it's this strengthening exercise routine that works out your hip girdle area and gives you a wide range of motion in that area. The routine is great for those with tight hip flexors, like me, and recently, I heard it's great for those who suffer ITBS. Instead of doing 5 reps, I did 25-30, because this momma clearly has no time to do anything else and all I had on this crazy busy day was 30 minutes. I know, such is my life most days.</div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagr.am/p/UP2mYollbG/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage10.s3.amazonaws.com/896e9a7e5a0b11e2b93522000a1f96b2_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1357707930095.584" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="419" height="419"></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: left;clear: both; "> </div>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: left;clear: both; ">I did manage to squeeze in Plank A Day and Wall Sit Challenges, and a few yoga poses to stretch out some tight areas. I was hoping for more yoga today though, but will try another day. Planks on my hands/straight arms are not as easy as I thought. I couldn't hold it as long as the planks I do on my forearms. </div>
<p> </p>
<p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Some Math Love</strong>. Ok, proud momma moment here. My preschooler, Little Man, has declared his love for math today. I'm not talking counting to 10. No. More like addition and subtraction problems - 3+3, 5-2. He totally gets it. Instead of doing his preschool homework of coloring these pages and practicing his scissor cutting skills, he would rather do addition and subtraction problems. The boy could not get enough of math problems. So I HAD to document this moment, so that when he decides to give me excuses for not wanting to do his math homework in high school, I can remind him about this moment of math love....</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagr.am/p/UQA5eollUm/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage10.s3.amazonaws.com/1bac37dc5a1811e2a1bd22000a9f1361_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1357707930051.0105" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="420" height="420"></a></div>
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<div class="separator" style="text-align: -webkit-auto; clear: both; "><strong style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Janathon Day 8</strong></div>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: -webkit-auto; clear: both; "><strong style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Moon Joggers Mileage To Date: 22</strong></div>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: -webkit-auto; clear: both; "><strong style="-webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0);">Plank A Day: 2:05.8</strong></div>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: -webkit-auto; clear: both; "><strong style="text-align: left; -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; background-color: rgba(255, 255, 255, 0); ">Wall Sit: 1:29.7</strong></div>
<p> </p><div style="text-align: right; font-size: small; clear: both;" id="blogsy_footer"><a href="http://blogsyapp.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://blogsyapp.com/images/blogsy_footer_icon.png" alt="Posted with Blogsy" style="vertical-align: middle; margin-right: 5px;" width="20" height="20" />Posted with Blogsy</a></div>Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12541281876496528189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8856512486205633523.post-11102136292478281892013-01-08T00:03:00.001-05:002013-01-08T01:07:54.210-05:00On Pace and Being Challenge CrazyI did not want to go out there in the cold, blustery outdoors to do my 7 miler. I procrastinated long enough until I realized how little time I had to run, shower, and pick up Little Man (5yo) from half-day preschool. So I put on my thermal big girl panties (I don't really have thermal undies) and set out for my run.<br/><br/><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-3Hgp5N4KIHw/UOuohgmTpsI/AAAAAAAAScg/LVbQlRQh2W8/s1840/IMG_20130107_161814.jpg" target="_blank" style=" "><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-3Hgp5N4KIHw/UOuohgmTpsI/AAAAAAAAScg/LVbQlRQh2W8/s425/IMG_20130107_161814.jpg" id="blogsy-1357624863762.977" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="425" height="425"></a><br>
</td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Found a nickel and a penny!</td></tr></tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: left;clear: both; ">The cold pierced through my nose and sure felt like ice picks poking at my head. I'm not 100% recovered from the nasty cold, but it sure felt somewhat refreshing to clear the sinuses.</div>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: left;clear: both; "> </div>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: left;clear: both; ">I did the most boring thing ever - traced both sides of the sidewalk of my neighborhood. Amazing to know that there are at least 7 miles of sidewalk in my suburban 'hood. I didn't care about the boring. I didn't want to be too far away from home because I also realized that I didn't bring GU or water. </div>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: left;clear: both; "> </div>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: left;clear: both; ">By Mile 2, I knew this run was going to be as slow as molasses so I gave in to the turtle within me. I didn't mind, because I knew I'd be at that fat-burning aerobic zone and with no GU to replenish glycogen, it was the perfect pace!</div>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: left;clear: both; "> </div>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: left;clear: both; ">I started to think about pace a lot during this run. I'm not fast at all. I run by feel a lot. Some days I surprise myself that my pace was faster than I thought and then there are other days when I feel so sluggish I might as well walk. I remember when I first started running, I felt like I had to beat my personal best for whatever distance I was running every time I went out there to run. Gosh it was so stressful. There I was, on what's suppose to be a relaxing time away from my hectic life, and I was stressing! Not fun. So whether it's an interval training run or a tempo run, I just go out there and do it. No stress, no expectations. I just try to cover the miles. However, during a race, I do become mindful of my pace especially in the beginning so that I don't fall apart at the last half of the race.</div>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: left;clear: both; "> </div>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: left;clear: both; ">My husband thinks I need to be a little bit more competitive with myself. I do when I want to, but for now, I'm so into the full marathon distance, that all I want to do is to keep running so my blood pressure remains normal and to be injury free while doing it. A PR at Shamrock Marathon would be nice, but I'm not too focused on that.</div>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: left;clear: both; "> </div>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: left;clear: both; ">More details about my run today <a href="http://www.dailymile.com/people/MarieS6/entries/20050352" target="_blank" title="">HERE</a>.</div>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: left;clear: both; "> </div>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: left;clear: both; ">With the new year, I'm sure some of you were enticed by all the fitness challenges all around the blogosphere. I know I am! I'm participating in 4 challenges: <a href="http://janathon.com/" target="_blank" title="">Janathon</a>, <a href="http://www.moonjoggers.com/" target="_blank" title="">Moon Joggers</a>, and Plank A Day & Wall Sit on Instagram. I just started Wall Sit today. So far so good. </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-gI_kHSDKvBA/UOuogYvv6ZI/AAAAAAAAScY/BXpDcRwZYYg/s1280/Screenshot_2013-01-07-20-25-27.jpg" target="_blank" style=" "><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-gI_kHSDKvBA/UOuogYvv6ZI/AAAAAAAAScY/BXpDcRwZYYg/s415/Screenshot_2013-01-07-20-25-27.jpg" id="blogsy-1357624863793.6157" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="415" height="739"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wall Sit</td></tr></tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: left;clear: both; "> First Wall Sit - I wanted to stop earlier, but I couldn't get myself out of that Wall Sit position, lol! </div>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: left;clear: both; "> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-dQjoERFMePs/UOuojrCaPaI/AAAAAAAAScw/OHKmZ_2X4JE/s1836/IMG_20130107_235826.jpg" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-dQjoERFMePs/UOuojrCaPaI/AAAAAAAAScw/OHKmZ_2X4JE/s422/IMG_20130107_235826.jpg" id="blogsy-1357624863753.3384" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="422" height="422"></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: left;clear: both; "> Side-planking in my Zensahs while my achilles recovered. 30 seconds each side. I am also loving my new running skirt!</div>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: left;clear: both; "> </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-Yqq8CgTPxts/UOuoiN-N6wI/AAAAAAAASco/R9jbb3CkGHw/s1280/Screenshot_2013-01-07-23-50-38.jpg" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-Yqq8CgTPxts/UOuoiN-N6wI/AAAAAAAASco/R9jbb3CkGHw/s422/Screenshot_2013-01-07-23-50-38.jpg" id="blogsy-1357624863757.6514" class="aligncenter" width="422" height="751" alt=""></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: left;clear: both; ">By far, my longest plank to date on my forearms. When I collapsed in a heap at the end, I did not want to get up. Wanted to sleep right there on the floor. </div>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: left;clear: both; "> </div>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: left;clear: both; ">And now that it's so late, I think I'm done. The End. Good night!</div>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: left;clear: both; "> </div>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: left;clear: both; "><strong>Janathon Day 7</strong></div>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: left;clear: both; "><strong>Moon Joggers Mileage To Date: 22</strong></div>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: left;clear: both; "><strong>Plank A Day: 2:11.7</strong></div>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: left;clear: both; "><strong>Wall Sit: 1:10.0</strong></div>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: left;clear: both; "><strong><br>
</strong></div>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: left;clear: both; "><strong>What challenges are you participating in this year?</strong></div>
<div class="separator" style="text-align: left;clear: both; "> </div><div style="text-align: right; font-size: small; clear: both;" id="blogsy_footer"><a href="http://blogsyapp.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://blogsyapp.com/images/blogsy_footer_icon.png" alt="Posted with Blogsy" style="vertical-align: middle; margin-right: 5px;" width="20" height="20" />Posted with Blogsy</a></div>Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12541281876496528189noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8856512486205633523.post-89029807034370141742013-01-06T20:12:00.000-05:002013-01-07T00:03:37.126-05:00Clam-Shelling FoolWith the Play Offs on TV all day and today being my "rest day," I did my <a href="http://strengthrunning.com/2011/02/the-itb-rehab-routine-video-demonstration/" target="_blank" title="">ITB Rehab Routine</a> while watching the Redskins play a good first half. (Off-Topic Side Note: it's now the 4th quarter with 45 seconds left, and I'm no football expert, but the Redskins should've taken RGIII out of the game earlier with that knee injury. Oh and why they must replay a play that shows body parts bending in unnatural ways is beyond me. I'd hate to be RGIII's mom. Ok, end of long off-topic side note).<br/><br/><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-ZbcYpUf8HOE/UOoYsEHfDcI/AAAAAAAASO4/1axS7qAcHVc/s1600/IMG_20130106_190658.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" target=""><img src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-ZbcYpUf8HOE/UOoYsEHfDcI/AAAAAAAASO4/1axS7qAcHVc/s640/IMG_20130106_190658.jpg" id="blogsy-1357534939259.802" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="399" height="399"></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Clam-Shelling Fool. And yes, my Christmas tree is STILL up.</td></tr></tbody></table>
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I clam-shelled during the first quarter of the game. This busy mom chose to sleep in this morning instead of doing my ITB Rehab Routine. So while my boys yelled at the TV, I clam-shelled, <br>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="-webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(175, 192, 227, 0.230469); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(77, 128, 180, 0.230469); -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969);">......and I side-step shuffled my way across the family room. I </span><span style="text-align: left;">am hoping to not have a repeat of what happened to me during training for Marine Corps Marathon last year - ITBS. I am very determined to be injury free for Shamrock Marathon. Now that my knees feel better from yesterday's long run, I am actually looking forward to my 7 miles tomorrow. This will also be the first time I will have 4 running days a week. Last year, I ran just 3 days/week and I'm not sure if that was enough. We'll see how the 4 days/week will go. </span></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><strong><span style="text-align: left;">Day 6 of Janathon</span></strong></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><span style="text-align: left;"><strong>Plank A Day Challenge Day 6: 1:39.4</strong></span></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagr.am/p/UKrxecllf1/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage5.s3.amazonaws.com/b2180d56587711e2b48222000a9f1915_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1357534939235.2131" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="500" height="500"></a></div>
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<br/><br/><div style="text-align: right; font-size: small; clear: both;" id="blogsy_footer"><a href="http://blogsyapp.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://blogsyapp.com/images/blogsy_footer_icon.png" alt="Posted with Blogsy" style="vertical-align: middle; margin-right: 5px;" width="20" height="20" />Posted with Blogsy</a></div>Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12541281876496528189noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8856512486205633523.post-36742136834734166052013-01-05T18:46:00.003-05:002013-01-06T18:41:23.664-05:00First Long Run of 2013.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-f8tpObW4Hxk/UOi7ZngKceI/AAAAAAAASLI/3Tr5y5D8kFY/s1840/IMG_20130105_184114.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-f8tpObW4Hxk/UOi7ZngKceI/AAAAAAAASLI/3Tr5y5D8kFY/s455/IMG_20130105_184114.jpg" id="blogsy-1357515672830.891" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="455" height="455"></a></div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Was it the raw garlic & honey concoction? The hits-the-spot Pho from yesterday? Or maybe it was all the clementines I've consumed all week? I felt better enough today to do my first long run of 2013! My training schedule for Shamrock Marathon called for 13.1 miles, but I stopped at 12 because my legs were screaming at me. I guess running 12 miles after being off for 2 weeks is a lot, especially when you end up on a hilly route.</div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">You can find the nitty gritty details of my run <a href="http://www.dailymile.com/people/MarieS6/entries/20010306" target="_blank" title="">HERE</a> on Daily Mile. Feel free to "friend" me there!</div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">During my run, I couldn't help but think of one of the best advice I've received about long distance running. "Be where your feet are." In other words, be in the mile you are in - don't think about how many miles you still have to go. So I did just that, enjoyed each mile I was in, grateful & happy to be back to running again, and next thing I knew, I was approaching Mile 12. If my legs weren't protesting as much, I would've pushed towards 13, but it was also getting cold and I didn't bring another layer to wear (NOTE to self: bring a long sleeve tech tee to wrap around waist). </div>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Speaking of stopping 1 mile short of what I'm suppose to run today, I learned from my training for Marine Corps Marathon that I DON'T have to be so OCD about my miles and that I need to listen to my body and not beat myself up when I can't run the distance I'm suppose to run. I also learned to not be afraid of taking some time off to rest, to let my body heal. Better to train with a healthy body than with an injured one! I sure learned that the hard way at MCM. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-1vEJhVahf0A/UOi7p70ZEaI/AAAAAAAASLQ/QTfg0yEVoXI/s719/IMG_20130105_184514.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-1vEJhVahf0A/UOi7p70ZEaI/AAAAAAAASLQ/QTfg0yEVoXI/s424/IMG_20130105_184514.jpg" id="blogsy-1357515672894.6562" class="aligncenter" width="424" height="424" alt=""></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ice Bath!!!</td></tr></tbody></table>
<br/><br/>Post-run, I knew my legs needed some stretching and I needed to get to an ice bath STAT. I drew a bath using just the cold water and slowly lowered myself, screaming because it sure felt like daggers on my feet & legs! Holy crap it's COLD!!!!!!<br/><br/>I believe in ice baths and sure enough my legs didn't feel like they're about to cramp up and the soreness went away. <br/><br/>Now if only my knees felt better (I've got ice on them now), I'd say it was a good run.<br/><br/><strong>Day 5 of Janathon</strong><br/><br/><strong>Moon Joggers Mile Count To Date: 15</strong><br/><br/><strong>Plank A Day: 2:01:0</strong><br/><br/><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://instagr.am/p/UIP4jFllYU/" target="_blank" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img src="http://distilleryimage8.s3.amazonaws.com/66a0e76257b911e2bb3522000a1fb076_7.jpg" id="blogsy-1357515672860.4307" class="aligncenter" alt="" width="424" height="424"></a></div>
<br/><br/><div style="text-align: right; font-size: small; clear: both;" id="blogsy_footer"><a href="http://blogsyapp.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://blogsyapp.com/images/blogsy_footer_icon.png" alt="Posted with Blogsy" style="vertical-align: middle; margin-right: 5px;" width="20" height="20" />Posted with Blogsy</a></div>Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12541281876496528189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8856512486205633523.post-65015564586836926542013-01-04T22:19:00.001-05:002013-01-05T22:48:17.547-05:00Wiped OutHoly cow. Wiped out this evening. Squeezed in some ITB Rehab exercises while my 5 yo brushed his teeth. Also did some planks. Did not want to but I did anyway.<br />
Not easy planking and taking a pic..like my new running skirt?<br />
Ok, off to bed.<br />
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Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12541281876496528189noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8856512486205633523.post-90156611225704679042013-01-04T07:44:00.001-05:002013-01-05T22:51:48.536-05:00Plank A Day: Day 3I'm a day behind in posting, but I did do this yesterday with The Hubs AND in a running skirt, not in PJ's, nor in jeans, lol. <br />
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The Hubs wasn't up to seeing how long we can hold the plank so we planked for 1 min, side planked for 30 seconds, each side.<br />
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Is it just me or did this post sound a little kinky? LOL!!<br />
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<a href="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Ex3KCY0hbW0/UObOs9sPcII/AAAAAAAAR5U/OuCIra6ibW4/s1600/IMG_20130103_213657.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" height="320" src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-Ex3KCY0hbW0/UObOs9sPcII/AAAAAAAAR5U/OuCIra6ibW4/s320/IMG_20130103_213657.jpg" width="320" /> </a> </div>
Mariehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12541281876496528189noreply@blogger.com0