And I'm back!

I was starting to get antsy since I haven't ran since Saturday. I've wanted to run all week, I just didn't want to run in the cold. At all. Everyday I contemplated it and it was just too cold for me! Today we moved out of the 30s and into the 40s so I bundled up and went out the door. Really the first few seconds of a cold run is the worst, but at times it can actually be enjoyable because you never get overheated. While training for the half marathon, I would only count the miles I was running, never walking. For the marathon training, I am counting both- including warm up and cool down. I am doing this, because I read it's all about mileage, and walking is mileage too! I walked down my street and back, about two blocks total walking and I ran the rest. I ran at a very comfortable pace today, but even managed to do three short sprints! I am intrigued by interval training, since I have never done it before. Since I did well on the last 5k race I competed it, I figured I could do even better if I added some interval training!

I ran 5.5 miles in 57:15 

My hip felt great, and my knee too. It was a great run! I actually have to jump in the shower, because I'm going to see My Run tonight. I REALLY hope I enjoy it...

Grace Ormonde!

I really thought by posting about the run earlier, it would make me go in the cold. But it didn't. The sun was nowhere to be found and it was freezing, so I put my run off again for another day. I am starting to feel unprepared for my marathon coming up, since I am skipping so many runs on my schedule. During my  half marathon training, the ONLY runs I skipped were about 2-3 when I was sick, other than that I stayed 100% on schedule. Tomorrow is supposed to be 45 degrees and the rest of the week is 45-47 so I am ready TO RUN! YES! I even bought fuel today at REI to prepare for the long runs. I bought 12 different Cliff Bloks in all different flavors, because if you bought 12 or more you save $.40 on each one. I figured I will use them eventually! The man at the store told me the cherry one had the most caffeine. I didn't realize that some of them don't have any caffeine, and I don't really know if it makes a difference or not. All I know is after how sick I got using the Gel during the race, I am ready to try something different. Maybe I can switch it up...

I still worked out today, even though it wasn't a run. I did Jillian Michaels on Exercise TV. She is nuts! I really thought with all the Yoga I have been incorporating I have been getting stronger, but I felt so weak doing her workout. It was a 30 minute workout, then I did 10 minute Ab video. Although it was a good workout, I didn't exactly care for it. I have liked other workouts by different instructors better. I really like when the workouts have a timer on the corner that counts down, and doing a few different ones that are shorter so I don't get bored.

I left early for the Grace Ormonde fashion show so I could stop at REI and Lululemon.  I really wanted to buy a strap for my yoga mat, because it drives me crazy since it is so big carrying it around and how it unrolls in the back of my car. I went for the cheaper option of a strap for $12 instead of a bag which was around $28.

The Grace Ormonde event was fun! It was a beautiful set up and the fashion show was fun. I even met Grace! The food was great, the fashion show was fun and it was kind of fun to get out and do something during the week.

With Grace Ormonde

I am going to see My Run tomorrow. It's a documentary about a man who runs 75 marathons in 75 days. If he can run 75, then I can run one! 

I just need to RUN AGAIN! 

COFFEE!

I am putting a end to my sleepy week RIGHT NOW! I am drinking a cup of coffee out of my favorite A cup, because I don't have time to nap today! The weather claims it's 40 degrees out, even though it's cloudy and I am determined to do a 5 mile run today! I figured once I put it in print, I will have to commit to it today. I want to run, I just don't like being COLD. I still have a few e-mails to write, and things to catch up on, but I will not nap during this process. Today I told my work that April 15 will be my last day, since I am officially moving TO ORLANDO!

Tonight I'm going to a Grace Ormande fashion show in Birmingham. I need to be there by 6, so I better hurry up to start getting ready! Coffee, please wake me up!

It's a good day for MUFFINS!

I am still in my hungry sleepy phase :( I really don't know what is going on. I've been waking up about 30 minutes before my alarm clock the last two days as well. After work I went to the Chiropractor today, and expected to run when I got home. I caught up with a few e-mails, and thought about going out in the freezing cold. It was about 35 degrees, and although it was sunny I still felt cold. I ended up laying down for what I thought was going to be a few minutes, but it turned into a hour. I woke up just in time for Yoga and figured I would do that instead again today, since I know I can't go for the next two days. I'm glad I went to yoga, but I'm worried I'm not getting enough running in. I have a few weeks still until the marathon, but I really should be building up mileage and I don't feel as prepared or on track as I was for the half. It's supposed to start to get to the 40s, so I'm hoping the few degrees warmer will push me to get outside! I have no problem running when it's warm out, I really just hate being cold.

Yoga was the "fusion" class I tried a few weeks ago, and I really liked the instructor today. Yoga Shelter is located on top of Trader Joe's and the parking structure is free if you purchase something from Trader Joe's. I usually just run in and get a water, but today I decided to try something new! I got a Cliff Mojo Peanut Butter Pretzel Bar. It had 9 grams of protein, so I figured I would enjoy it after Yoga. I am a little confused when it comes to yoga and strength training, if it counts as strength of if only using weights does. Is protein necessary or recommended after yoga? I will have to look into that. I did know I would be hungry after yoga, since I've been pretty hungry after my workouts lately. It was tasty, I didn't love it and couldn't really taste the pretzel, but it was decent.

I was supposed to have a "Cooking Club" this week with my girlfriends. It's where about six of us get together once a month and choose a different "theme". Each girl then brings a different dish, appetizer, main dish, drink, side, dessert. Then we all come to cooking club with our recipe and food item, and eat the meal together, drink wine and chat! It's really fun, but this month was cancelled because everyones schedule got crazy. The theme was supposed to be breakfast food, and I already bought all my ingredients to make the muffins I was excited to try on my Hodgson Mill Oat Bran Box.  Today seemed like a good day to prepare these muffins, anyways! I only made 6 muffins instead of 12, because I didn't know how they would turn out and they were only for me. Also, this is the recipe on the box- but I added flax seeds and fresh blueberries. I am not a chef, and the blueberries made them a little mushy but I thought they still turned out DELICIOUS! I could actually eliminate the brown sugar, and have a VERY healthy muffin! I ate my first two hot out of the oven with a side of Almond Butter. Yum! I want to try different variations to these muffins, I think the oat bran and flax seed combination is a really good mix.

Here is the recipe: (taken from the back of my Hodgson Mill Oat Bran box)

Oat Bran Applesauce Muffins

1/2 cup Brown Sugar packed

1-1/2 cups Oat Bran Cereal

1-1/2 cups Flour

1-1/2 tsp. Baking Powder

1-1/2 tsp. Baking Soda

1/2 tsp. salt

2 eggs or 4 egg whites

1 cup applesauce, chilled

4 Tbsp. Vegetable Oil 

Preheat oven to 400 F. Line 12 muffin cups with paper liners or grease muffin cups. Blend together dry ingredients. Add eggs, chilled applesauce and vegetable oil. Mix well until blended. Spoon batter into muffin cups. Let stand 10 minutes. Bake 15 minutes or until golden brown. Yield: 12 muffins. 

This was the sunrise on my way to work today. I love when the sky is pretty during my drive! It's the start to a great day :)

I'm on the Disney Blog!

I saw a post on facebook today, from the "Disney" group I "like" which discussed "great costumes" from the Disney race. It was a 5 minute slideshow of costumes they liked during the race, and guess who popped up 2 minutes and 57 seconds into the slideshow... ME! I was so surprised to see myself on the slideshow, of over 13,000 runners! I remember taking this picture RIGHT after the race as well. I was so happy I couldn't stop smiling!

Here is the link to check out the slideshow from the Disney Blog. 

And here I am!

What to do today...

The last few days I've just felt hungry and sleepy. I don't know how to explain it, maybe it's the stress of everything, or from the long runs my body is not used to. Either way, I haven't been eating the healthiest, and I think because of it it's caused me to hibernate. With my move almost exactly a month away, I kind of wish the marathon training wasn't at this moment. I am trying to mix my remaining Yoga sessions, training for the marathon, visiting the new baby, spending time with family, figuring out where I will live in Orlando, packing, and making all of the possible appointments (dentist, dr., etc.) before my move. Add spending next weekend in Florida and the following week in California, and I am pretty overwhelmed! I actually feel guilty just sitting here writing this post, with so much on my plate.

I was originally planning on going to Yoga tonight, but my cousin invited me over for dinner. Since my family is out of town, I will go and enjoy the new baby and the company of my cousins. It's a little cold out right now, but supposed to be nicer tomorrow so I think I'll postpone a run until tomorrow. I think I'll end up doing a few Exercise TV  workouts.

Today for a snack after school I had pretzels and red pepper hummus. It was delicious!

I am trying to save money, yet decorate my new room CUTE! What can I use, and what do I get rid of? I'm thinking all white bed, black and white pictures, maybe some of these silly college pillows...

I have some catching up to do right now until my workout, dinner is at 5 (really early, eating with toddlers) so I am going to finish it up. Happy Monday!

FUN Yoga!

I fell asleep last night around 1 AM, which was early considering I took almost a 3 hour nap during the day. I slept in until 9:15 AM and woke up right in time to get ready for YOGA! I was excited for today's because it was something different, and I loved it! It was called xflowsion.

xflowsion is the class getting national attention created by Eric Paskel. Xflowsion is a fun, exciting, challenging and one-of-a-kind class that integrates Yoga, Martial Arts, and Dance. It moves to the sweet sounds of music from all genres and generations. (A Trademark of uKarma Corp.)

It was CROWDED. Usually a crowded class at Yoga Shelter is 3 rows full, today all 4 were full! It was a exciting, fast moving, great class. I really enjoyed every minute. I'm bummed because Wednesday is the next time it is offered and I have plans Wednesday night, which means I have to wait another week! I felt like a got a great workout, loosened up a bit and had a great stretch.

The weather looks like it might warm up a bit this week... I am thinking I will attempt the 18 mile run I didn't complete on Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday when the weather is in the 40s.

I'm supposed to have 13 miles the following week, then actually I only have a 20 left before the marathon. I need to keep stretching too, I can tell my body feels different and not so tight this time around from the Yoga and extra stretching I have been doing. 

Brrrrr

This morning I woke up, excited to try out "The Ripper" at Yoga Shelter.  My sister was supposed to meet me there after her eye doctor appointment. She texted me as I was getting ready for class, and told me she didn't want to go because she had a headache and her eyes were dilated from the appointment. I didn't even consider canceling, instead I went ahead to try out this class.

The Ripper and Vinyasa differ in a smilier way to regular and decaffeinated coffee. Both regular and decaf come from coffee beans but one provides a little more stimulation than the other. The taste and effect are similar but one is more substantial. The ripper is a full bodied strong intense physical Vinyasa that will leave you with an intense buzz. This class is designed to whip us into shape, experience our physical and mental edges and kick our butts! If you are looking for a more intense challenge, look for the ripper. 

It was definitely a challenge. However, when the moves are faster such today I don't feel that I get as much stretch as I crave from the slower ones. Especially with the running, the stretching is what I love about yoga and when we go through the poses so fast I miss it. Also, my wrists hurt in certain poses, and this class was challenging for my right wrist. It was not a favorite. I still prefer the gentler classes, however I am trying one called Xflosion tomorrow which combines Yoga, Martial Arts, and Dance. It is taught by the same instructor with the drums and guitar, so that should be fun.

When I got home from Yoga I was really hungry, luckily my sister picked up lunch and we had a family lunch to discuss a few things going on with my move. Some of the things on my mind is, where to live, how to pack, what day to get down there, etc. It helped to hear some feedback, but I was exhausted just thinking about it. I came upstairs around 12:30 and the next thing I knew it was 3:00 PM. I must have been exhausted because I slept really well, and woke up confused where the time went. I really wanted to attempt my 18 miles today, even though it seemed colder than the last few days. I went out, walked my first mile then kept a slow and steady pace for another 5 or 6. I ran right the boarder of Detroit, I knew I didn't feel comfortable running any further into the city and turned around to come back. The moment I turned back, the weather completely changed. It was now snowing a very little bit, but running against the wind was unbearable. I was wearing gloves, but even my fingers started to go numb. I stopped to drink some water and eat a GU Chocolate Outrage Gel packet I had leftover, but I was miserable. I don't think I will buy the Gels anymore, but switch over to chomps and give them a try. I called my brother to pick me up at a local store because I was so cold. My run ended up being 9 miles exactly, and although physically my body could have done more, I was too cold and was not enjoying it.

I walked 2 miles and ran 7 miles in 1:59:11.

I need to look at my schedule, I'm not sure how I am going to adjust this accordingly. I know I need to add more long runs, but this week was just too cold! Hopefully next week will start to warm up, and the next warm day I will just take advantage of the day by extending the mileage.  

I just got home from visiting Peter Nicholas. Here is my brother and the baby, how cute!

Cold Run

I felt 100% better today. Even though it's past twelve, I am writing about March 25, 2011. I really HAVE been THAT busy lately. After work I went directly to the hospital to see my new baby boy. Today was the first day I saw his sweet little eyes open! He is just precious. I had dinner plans tonight, so I couldn't make any of the scheduled yoga classes. I was really getting antsy from not running all week, and with the sun shining and a chilled 28 degrees, I bundled up. I wore a silly green hat, a long sleeve, sweatshirt, gloves, you name it. (Also, I am starting to pack all of my good clothes to take to Orlando, therefore my wardrobe of regular and workout clothes have been clothes that are a few years old...)

Usually I walk down my street before I start my run, it's kind of like a ritual. I ALWAYS do it, except today. The minute I stepped outside I started running, missing my 5 minute warmup. The reason? I was cold! The cold motivated me to go a little faster, and it went by fast indeed.

I ran 5 miles in 42:09, with a 8'25 pace.

When I got home, I felt great. However, my stomach was FREEZING, the sweatshirt I wore must have rode up when I was running because the bottom of my stomach was almost blistered and red from wind burn (or just the cold.)

I am absolutely exhausted from this week. Tomorrow I am meeting my sister at Yoga for a "intense" yoga class called "The Ripper" at yoga shelter. I need to get some rest before that! My phone has been going crazy taking baby pictures. I have been really stressed, but it's a "good" stressed, which is making time FLY by. I have 2 million things to do in about 2 weeks... I will write a list tomorrow, after my 18 miles... until then GOODNIGHT!

Busy!

That's right. I'm BUSY. I have about a million things going on at this moment with the new baby, move, decisions, decisions, and working out. It was still freezing out, but I went to a Fusion yoga class. It flew by, but the instructor wasn't my favorite. She kept messing up left/right hand and foot and people were moving all over the place. I know this blog is called "Style Running", and I know I haven't done much running this week! However, I am REALLY missing it. I can't wait to feel 100% and have a decent weather day to lace up and go! Until then, here is the new precious baby boy, Peter Nicholas. Goodnight!

It's a wonderful world!

Today the world seems a little bit sweeter. I woke up to "BABY DAY" marked across my calendar. My cousin Julie, who lived with me a few years growing up- is just like a sister. She had her third beautiful child today, Peter Nicholas! I was anxious to get out of work and go to the hospital to see the little guy. Peter Nicholas, welcome to the world! I was so excited during school, a few of the kids even made cards for me to bring the baby. They said things like "To Baby, From Bob" and had random drawings on it. It was very sweet! I did bring them to my cousin at the hospital. The baby is precious, and so little! I could have put him in my pocket and no one would have noticed.

This morning I had the cereal I talked about a few posts back, that everyone complained had no taste. I am still a fan of the crunch, but it's mandatory you add it with fruit, in my opinion. Here is the box, and the 0 sugar Nutrition Facts.  They are called Mom's Best Naturals Toasted Wheat-fuls. 

I am still not feeling one hundred percent, but I feel a lot better. The weather is terrible, it's absolutely freezing so I have no desire to run in the freezing ice and cold. I went to Yoga tonight, and was still a little stuffed up, but I'm glad I went. It was called "slow drumming flow" at Yoga Shelter which was basically the same as a slow flow class with one main difference: drums! At first I felt a little weird, because when the instructor played the drums and we kind of had "free range" to wobble around. People around me were getting really into it, but I had a hard time. The rest of the class was great, I went to the 8:30 PM class so it was dark and candles were lit which really gave the class a cool vibe. At the end the instructor played the guitar and sang too, which was very unexpected but he had a beautiful voice so it ended up being a really interesting class. I see a lot of yoga for the week. It's going to be cold again tomorrow, and I still have 2 days left on my z-pack. I can't wait to go back to the hospital and see that little baby again tomorrow!

Gloomy!

I am still sick. I have been fighting my body's request to rest, because of everything going on right now. Today I gave in. I am laying in bed, but still working. I am busy looking at apartments, and taking care of "things" I have to do before my big move. There are a lot of things I have to consider. It was so fun driving my new car to work today! I love that I can plug my Ipod or flash drive directly into it for music. My friend Justin in Thailand gave me this cute little Mickey flash drive when I left Bangkok as a going away present, and I saved it for the perfect time. I think this is it!

I really need to use the rest of my Yoga sessions before my big move, along with about 23423894320432 other things on that list. Tomorrow I will have a new baby cousin- but more like a nephew. My cousin Julie lived with me for a few years growing up, she is one of my best friends in the world and I can't wait to meet the new little baby! The last few weeks have been a whirlwind... 

Sick :(

I tried to fight it. I really did. I tried to convince myself that I wasn't sick. Last week I slept terrible. It was an exciting week, with a lot of exciting news, but I didn't really sleep well at all. Saturday I started to feel really run down, but I thought it was from my 17 mile run/ walk. Sunday I felt worse. And today, I knew I needed to go to the Dr. I squeezed in an appointment right after work at 2 PM and when I got into my room, I fell asleep on the bed! When the Dr. came in he was like "hello?" and disoriented I thought it was my dad. It took me a while to figure out what was going on. Anyways, I have another bacteria infection and was given a z-pack. The Dr. was getting annoyed with me because I kept asking when I could run again. He told me to take off until Friday, but I am going to see how I feel in a few days and do Yoga. 

Today was a "rest" day on my schedule, but it wasn't very restful. It was exciting! I got a new car! I got a Mercury Mariner 2011. I wanted a Escape, but I fell in love with this little blue Mariner and ended up getting a better deal. I am so excited! I have never owned my own car before. I can't wait to do silly things such as keep a sweatshirt in the back and my tennis racket. I always shared a car with other family members and my dad would get annoyed when I left things in the trunk. It will be so fun to keep my own things in the car! I think this is my first step to officially becoming a grown up. Unfortunately that means the payments... 

The next step for my big move: find an apartment/ condo! The search is on for the perfect place.

Spring!

Yes, it's spring! I woke up stuffed up. I think a cold is coming on. I really don't want to get sick, so I think I might make a Dr. apt to go in tomorrow before it gets worse. I woke up to go to YOGA this morning at Yoga Shelter.  I went to a fusion class, and really enjoyed it. It was slow, yet a little bit challenging and stretched out my legs exactly where I needed it. My right leg is a little sore today, but not too bad. I was exhausted yesterday, I went to bed early and it felt great. I stayed up only late enough to see the "Supermoon". 

"About every 28 years a 'supermoon' occurs. This is when the moon's orbit is closest to earth at the same time as a full moon. Saturday night will be the biggest, brightest full moon you will see in the next 28 years."

Today in Yoga, our instructor talked about the first day of spring and the great thing about changing seasons is we can make life changes every season, actually every Sunday and we don't even need a new week or a new season, but we can make changes every second in our life. My life is going through a lot of changes right now, and I am excited. I need to stay calm the next few months as I make some of these changes... 

17 Miles and Pancakes.

Last night I met some friends for sushi at Ronin in Royal Oak, Michigan. It was delicious! We went out for a little bit, and I saw a few people I haven't seen in a while but I had one thing on my mind the whole night: resting up for my 17 miles today!

Does the dress look familiar? It's the one I bought in Orlando!

I stayed out a little later than I wanted and went to sleep around 2:15 AM. This morning my mom woke me up at 8 AM to go to The Pancake House with her and my aunt. I wanted to have a little more sleep, but of course I accepted a offer for pancakes. I had 2 of my pancakes and a piece of bacon. I also had a few cups of coffee, I don't think it's good to dehydrate yourself with coffee before a long run, but it was better than falling asleep!

I came home and started to get ready. It was a sunny beautiful day, but cold. Much colder than last week, I wore a yellow long sleeves Brooks shirt and the white Nike fleece I've been wearing. I wore my lululemon black crop pants and a old black headband for my ears. Last week I thought about purchasing a camelbak for water for the long runs- while researching them I remembered a backpack purse I bought in Hawaii a few years ago that looked very similar. I pulled it out of my closet and decided it would be my own camelbak!  It worked PERFECT. It didn't bounce at all on my back, and I barely noticed I was wearing it. The brand is "Da Kine", it's a surfer backpack I think, I'm not really sure. I packed in my bag 2 water bottles, Cliff shot bloks in Tropical Punch, my Ipod, phone, a few dollars, and my running watch. I was ready!

I started my run, and it was quite chilly but when I started I warmed up a bit. I ran a little under 10 minute miles for the first 7-8 miles, then my knee and hip started bothering me. I really don't want to injure myself, so I walked about 2 to my friend Beth's house (who is also pictured above from last night). We discussed that she could join me for some of my adventure today, so I walked there to meet her and a new buddy- Woodly! We ran about half a mile together, then walked an additional 3.5. It was great to have her and Woodly to break up the run, it really made it fly by. By the time I dropped her off I only had about 3.5-4 miles left. I decided to go straight to my cousins to tell them the news, that I AM MOVING TO ORLANDO. Yes, it's true! I am moving to my favorite city. I can't wait!

ALSO, I found $5 on the sidewalk in a neighborhood. I looked around to see if anyone dropped it, but there was no one in sight! I was worried at first if I picked it up it would be stuck in dog poop and there would be a group of teenagers laughing at me, but I kicked it a bit and it looked safe to me :) I got paid for my run today! Fun! 

I ran/walked 17.02 miles in 3:56:54

When I arrived at my cousins I called ahead of time to have a protein shake ready for me. I ate some leftovers they had and came home and showered immediately. I have kind of been lounging around since 4, I talked on the phone quite a bit today, catching up with friends, telling them the news about Orlando. I am EXHAUSTED right now. And thirsty. I literally can't keep my eyes open and it's 8:15 PM. I am waiting to go to sleep, I wanted to go to sleep early anyways so I can wake up tomorrow for YOGA. It's a cross training day, but I really want to do Yoga as well. I have about 19 left from my Groupon I purchased, and I need to use them before I move to Orlando! Although I walked most of it today, and had company, chatted on the phone, it was a fun and the miles went by pretty quick. 

REST day!

I have been doing my stretches all morning. Unfortunately I can't get a chiropractor appointment until Tuesday, so I really want to take it easy to try to feel better for tomorrow. I really don't want to injure myself. I am thinking of going to Yoga today at 4:30 PM, depending on how my two calls go at 3 and 4 PM. I might just really rest. This morning I mixed blueberries, strawberries, almond butter, greek yogurt and these unfrosted mini wheats. I will take a picture of the box tomorrow, they have absolutely no taste by themselves and my mom has complained they taste like hay, but mixed with other things they add the perfect crunch!

17 miless tomorrow! Woo HOO! 

Japan!

I tried my "foam roller" a few times today. It actually felt pretty good! I ended up doing a 4 mile walk/run with my dad on this beautiful sunny day. We walked more than ran, considering this is his first outside jog of the season. It was perfect for my hip, which was hurting.

We ran/walked (mostly walked) 4 miles in 59:24. 

When I got home, I used my foam roller again, and ate some dinner. After dinner I did the 25 minute weight video on Exercise TV, as well as a 10 minute abs video and 10 minute pilates leg sculpt. Then back to the roller. Tomorrow is my "rest" day, but I could really use a "Gentle Flow" Yoga at Yoga Shelter.  I think a slow yoga class would be a good rest day activity.

I donated $5 today on livingsocial and they donated an additional $5. Click HERE To make your donation! So far they have raised $472,820. It's pretty awesome what social media can do!

Melaleuca is also helping out, by matching each dollar you donate with $2. Check it out HERE. So if you donated $10, they would donate $30! Awesome. You can do this by calling 1-800-417-2581 and tell the associate you are calling to donate to the Japan Relief Fund.

I have been thinking about this disaster a lot, and it feels more personal because of my connection with Japan. I have met the people, and have even had Japanese students. It makes the situation seem "real" even though it's far away. I even have family (a cousin) and friends who live there. I have found myself stopping and feeling guilty doing day to day things, when I think about how so many lives have changed the last few days... 

Big block of, foam.

I just bought a "foam roller" from Hanson's Running Shop in Grosse Pointe. Yesterday at the end of my 8 miles my hip and knee hurt really bad. I was hoping I would never experience the "running pain" I've heard so much about, but after yesterday's run I knew I had to do something or it would get worse. I tried to go to the chiropractor today, but she wasn't in- so I will try again tomorrow. Instead, I went to Hanson's, explained my problem and was recommended the foam roller. My friend also recommended it to me yesterday, so I was anxious what this piece of equipment would look like. Well, it's not really a piece of equipment at all, it's exactly what it sounds like. A big piece of foam. It looked like packaging in a box, and I couldn't believe it was $20, but if it helps it will be worth it! The runner at Hanson's also showed me a few stretches I can do to help my hip, and advised me not to do a long run until it feels better. I'll see how I feel on Saturday, I am hoping to do my stretches, a chiropractor session, and yoga before then.

The runner at Hanson's also showed me how to use the roller, but I also found a youtube video to demonstrate it.

I have a important phone call in about 15 minutes, then I am anxious to get outside for a 4 mile run. I think I am going to do some strength training today as well. It's St. Patrick's Day, it was a great day at the preschool. The children have been trying to catch the leprechaun all week by writing him letters, and leaving out traps. Today we left small pancakes and a box out, and went outside to play. When we got back in the classroom, it was trashed! There were little green footprints everywhere, chairs knocked over, bites taken out of the pancakes, and even green pee in the small toilet! The kids went wild, and the rest of the morning talked about how they think the leprechaun got in their lunches and took a bite of their sandwich, and how they would attempt to catch him again in the afternoon. This will be my first time in about seven years not going out to "celebrate" it. This year I am perfectly content with rolling my hip on my new foam roller, and going to sleep early to prepare myself for a long weekend of running/ yoga/ and staying on track.

the PERFECT run

Today I experienced "the PERFECT run". It wasn't my fastest time by any means, but I felt like I could go on forever. The weather was a perfect 50 degrees and SUNNY! I wore a long sleeve white Nike fleece, and I was never too cold or too warm. I probably could have pushed myself a little harder to go faster, but this was my first "longer" run since the half marathon and I really wanted to run at a comfortable pace. I listened to mellow songs such as Ben Harper and "She & Him" and didn't look at my pace at all until the end.

I ran 8 miles in 1:33:11. Pace: 11:38

My hip and knee bothered me a little bit at the last few miles, and I considered watching but instead I ran at a very slow pace and finished it and right when I was finished stretching I was good as new. The only problem I had was how long 8 miles really is, I did a huge circle which I thought would be 8 miles and it only ended up being around 6.5, so I had to run around my neighbor hood a few times for the extra mileage. I am really going to need to research the 17 mile run this weekend, where in the world will I go?

Today spring was in the air! The sun was shining, the snow was melting and it just felt like spring. I couldn't help but think how fast the winter has flown by, and how running in fall and now running in spring just feels different. I received my e-mail to register for the Pittsburgh Marathon, so soon I will be a official participant! I saw at my last half a lot of people used "nicknames" on their bibs. I am debating if I should use my real name, or some kind of "nickname".

The rest of the week looks pretty nice here in Michigan as well... the weekend will be a little chillier, maybe I can readjust my runs for the weather?

I came across this article "5 Elements of Chi Running" on Active.com and found it interesting, I tried to incorporate some into my run today. I am scared of injury, but I think I need to stop thinking about it all together, because I truly believe when something is in your mind, it happens. Below are the 5 elements from the article I listed above...

Lean Forward. One of the biggest forces we have to fight every day is gravity. Why not make it work for us instead of against us? By adding a slight forward lean when you run, your body falls forward and you use gravity for your propulsion instead of your legs. This lean also helps keep your body in alignment, with your foot landing under you.

To do this, lean from your ankles, not your waist, and keep your spine straight. The lean is subtle; don't lean so far forward you are out of control or actually falling.

Land on the Mid-Foot. To keep your posture in alignment--which helps reduce injuries--while you're leaning forward, land with a mid-foot strike when you run. You want your foot to land underneath or slightly behind you, in line with your hips and shoulders.

Run from Your Core. Many women I work with suffer from hip problems while running. Often this is caused by weak core muscles, which aren't strong enough to keep the hips and pelvis aligned. To reduce injuries, it's vital to keep your pelvis level. You do this by engaging your core muscles while you run.

To level your pelvis, try this simple exercise: Stand against the wall and try to press your lower back into the wall. Watch what happens to your pelvis. You have to engage your lower abdominal muscles in a vertical crunch movement. Remember that feeling in your body and try to maintain it as you run.

Relax, Relax, Relax. It's common for runners to tighten up their shoulders or other muscles as they get tired. But all that stiffness and tension wastes energy and makes you less efficient. When you feel your technique slipping, ask yourself: Where am I tense, and what can I do about it?

Sense and respond with the correct adjustments, which might be as simple as straightening your arms and shaking them out or reminding yourself to lower your shoulders. In my book, I recommend a series of pre-run body looseners--such as shaking out your arms and legs, ankle rolls and hip and pelvis circles--to help your muscles learn to stay relaxed when you are running and throughout the day.

How hard is it to change your running technique?
Some coaches say you can't change your running form, but I don't believe that for a second. But it does take time to break inefficient habits. So, you'll need to slow down your pace at first to focus on the basics. Practice makes perfect. The more you practice, the quicker you'll learn it. For the average person, it takes one to three months for his or her muscles to learn something new.

Devote at least one run a week to technique. Don't listen to music or talk to a friend; instead, think about your body position and alignment and make adjustments throughout your run to stay relaxed and move efficiently.

Learning ChiRunning is like learning to ride a bike--once you get it, your muscles remember the movement, and it becomes intuitive. You'll feel a difference in your body once you get it. Many women have told me they suffer less hip, back and knee pain once they switch to this technique, in addition to increasing their endurance and speed. Hopefully, you'll be able to run for years to come.

I had good intentions...

My day started out with the saying "Your intuition is your best friend" on my Goji Berry tea from Yogi teas. I really believe this!

With three weeks off of work and daylight savings times, plus a few "life changes" the past few weeks, everything seemed to catch up with me today. I had every intention of starting my training again today and bearing the cold with a brisk 4 mile run. I had a hard time falling asleep again last night, and when I got home from work around 1:20 PM, I had one thing on my mind: catnap! Unfortunately, this catnap turned into a 2.5 hour slumber.

All day it was extra grey outside, but when I woke up it started to rain as well. In my mind I thought it would be a good time to test out the "running without music" experience, since I didn't want to ruin my ipod with rain drops, so I bundled up. I put on black and orange lululemon stretch pants, and a black long sleeve New Balance long sleeve running shirt (actually it's the official 2010 Detroit Half Marathon shirt, my dad gave me after he volunteered at the race). I put on a hot pink headband and long socks I used to wear in high school for lacrosse games! I was ready (or so I thought) for the cold. I even tried a GU Chomp (it was delicious, tasted like a giant gummy bear) in Cranberry Apple for some energy after my snooze, walked outside and made it almost all the way down my block. While I was on my "warm up" walk I was freezing, my glasses were getting fogged up (nerd), and rain was pouring down. I really was NOT enjoying the experience, so I figured I would start tomorrow and go to my nice warm home and do a few Exercise TV workouts. It all worked out! I did a abs and "walking" (lame) one before dinner, and after dinner did a total body toning, standing abs, and hips and thighs. I did about 70 minutes total in TV workout, I like to do short ones and mix them up, rather than do one for a long time.

Tomorrow is a new day, and I have a 8 mile run ahead of me. The weather is supposed to be 50, so basically 15 degrees higher than today. I can live with that ;). I'm really excited, my good friend Hannah is running the San Diego Rock 'n' Roll marathon in June and now I have someone to chat with during the marathon training experience going through the same thing. Although we have different training schedules and goals (mine is only to finish) and hers is speed, it was such a help to have her guide me through my half training it is great she is training now as well! She gets to run in warm San Diego however, while I'm stuck in Michigan. I am going to visit her in California April 15-April 22 and we coordinated our schedules to fit a long run together! I can't wait!

There are a few things I need to look into buying the next few days:
1. Running pack (fanny pack!) for long runs/ races- especially to hold fuel and phone/ etc.
2. A new running watch/ preferably GARMIN! 
3. Water pack/ some way to carry water for long runs I will be encountering
4. Any other suggestions?

9 week training schedule... until the MARATHON!

I have heard a lot about "Hal Higdon's Marathon Training Guide".  I decided to go with the Full Marathon Training Schedule: Novice 2.  I actually feel relieved that half of my training is done. I missed two weeks of long runs, but I ran after the race a few times, so I'm not too worried :) However, I'm supposed to jump right into a 17 mile run on Saturday. This will by far be the furthest I have ever ran, considering the half prior to this was the furthest at 13.1 miles! I will go slow, and not worry as much about time as just completing the run. This is going to be a challenge!

Although I chose this schedule, I am making starting at week 10 since I only have 9 weeks until the race. I feel like I properly trained up until that point for the half marathon, so I am confident if I follow it and take the first few long runs slow it should be fine. The only thing I am worried about is, time. I have a lot going on from now until the race, so my goal is going to be to FINISH. I am not going to concentrate as much on time, and set a time goal as I did for the half, but really concentrate on the long runs, and getting through them! I have never ran over 13.1 miles, so this weekend will be a first. I think I am going to take the "rest" days, and even possibly after the 4 or 5 runs to go to Yoga.

So there it is, my first FULL MARATHON training schedule. Tomorrow it will be exactly two months until the race. I know it will fly by! Now, what will I pick out from lululemon for race day? 

Taken from Hal Higdon's Novice Marathon Training Page... 
PEOPLE DIFFER GREATLY IN ABILITY, but ideally before starting a marathon program, you should have been running about a year. You should be able to comfortably run distances between 3 and 6 miles. You should be training 3-5 days a week, averaging 15-25 miles a week. You should have run an occasional 5-K or 10-K race. It is possible to run a marathon with less of a training base (particularly if you come from another sport), but the higher your fitness level, the easier this 18-week program will be.
This program consists of several different increments:
Long Runs: The key to the program is the long run on weekends, which builds from 6 miles in Week 1 to 20 miles in the climactic Week 15. (After that, you taper to get ready for the marathon.) You can skip an occasional workout, or juggle the schedule depending on other commitments, but do not cheat on the long runs. Notice that although the weekly long runs get progressively longer, every third week is a "stepback" week, where we reduce mileage to allow you to gather strength for the next push upward. Rest is an important component of any training program.
Run Slow:  Normally I recommend that runners do their long runs anywhere from 45 to 90 seconds per mile slower than their marathon pace. The problem with offering this advice to novice runners, however, is that you probably don't know what your marathon pace is, because you've never run a marathon before! Don't worry. Simply do your long runs at a comfortable pace, one that allows you to converse with your training partners, at least during the beginning of the run. Toward the end, you may need to abandon conversation and concentrate on the act of putting one foot in front of the other to finish. However, if you find yourself finishing at a pace significantly slower than your pace in the first few miles, you probably need to start much slower, or include regular walking breaks. It's better to run too slow during these long runs, than too fast. The important point is that you cover the prescribed distance; how fast you cover it doesn't matter.
Walking Breaks: That includes walking breaks. Walking is a perfectly acceptable strategy in trying to finish a marathon. It works during training runs too. While some coaches recommend walking 1 minute out of every 10, or walking 1 minute every mile, in the CARA Marathon Training Class, we teach runners to walk when they come to an aid station. This serves a double function: 1) you can drink more easily while walking as opposed to running, and 2) since many other runners slow or walk through aid stations, you'll be less likely to block those behind. It's a good idea to follow this strategy in training as well. Our class that trains on the lakefront finds water fountains (also known as "bubblers") every mile, or more often. We teach them to stop frequently to drink. Our classes that train elsewhere in the suburbs don't always have easy access to fluids, but we teach them to wear a water belt and also stop frequently to drink. You will lose less time walking than you think. I once ran a 2:29 marathon, walking through every aid station. My son Kevin ran 2:18 and qualified for the Olympic Trials employing a similar strategy. And Bill Rodgers took four brief breaks (tying a shoe on one of them) while running 2:09 and winning the 1975 Boston Marathon. Walking gives your body a chance to rest, and you'll be able to continue running more comfortably. It's best to walk when you want to, not when your (fatigued) body forces you too.
Cross-Training:  Sundays in this training program are devoted to cross-training. What is cross-training? It is any other form of aerobic exercise that allows you to use slightly different muscles while resting (usually) after your long run. In this program, we run long on Saturdays and cross-train on Sundays, although it certainly is possible to reverse that order. The best cross-training exercises are swimming, cycling or even walking. What about sports such as tennis or basketball? Activities requiring sideways movements are not always a good choice. Particularly as the mileage builds up toward the end of the program, you raise your risk of injury if you choose to play a sport that requires sudden stopping and starting. One tip: You don't have to cross-train the same each weekend. And you could even combine two or more exercises: walking and easy jogging or swimming and riding an exercise bike in a health club. Cross-training for an hour on Sunday will help you recover after your Saturday long runs.
Midweek Training:  Training during the week also should be done at a comparatively easy pace. As the weekend mileage builds, the weekday mileage also builds. Add up the numbers, and you'll see that you run roughly the same mileage during the week as you do during long runs on the weekends. Midweek workouts on Wednesdays build from 3 to 10 miles. (I call these my Sorta-Long Runs.) There are similar slight advances on Tuesdays and Thursdays. The program is built on the concept that you do more toward the end than at the start. That sounds logical, doesn't it? Believe me--as tens of thousands of marathoners using this schedule have proved--it works.
Rest:  Despite my listing it at the end, rest is an important component of this or any training program. Scientists will tell you that it is during the rest period (the 24 to 72 hours between hard bouts of exercise) that the muscles actually regenerate and get stronger. Coaches also will tell you that you can't run hard unless you are well rested. And it is hard running (such as the long runs) that allows you to improve. If you're constantly fatigued, you will fail to reach your potential. This is why I include two days of rest each week for novice runners. If you need to take more rest days--because of a cold or a late night at the office or a sick child--do so. The secret to success in any training program is consistency, so as long as you are consistent with your training during the full 18 weeks of the program, you can afford--and may benefit from--extra rest.

I am the GRAND PRIZE winner!

Although it was tough falling asleep last night, I woke up excited to go to work today. It's been three weeks since I've seen the young preschoolers, and I was anxious to see their smiling faces. I was greeted today with hugs and pictures. Different students drew me pictures ranging from flowers, to castles to my favorite- a picture of myself, dressed as a lion with a small squeaky mouse next to me. (See below)

While I was at work, I checked my messages to find out I AM THE GRAND PRIZE winner of Arctic Ease's 

Pittsburgh Half Marathon Contest!

Show us your Black & Yellow Pride!

Arctic Ease the Official Dicks Sporting Goods Pittsburgh Marathon Cold Wrap for our runner friends. Arctic Ease is proud to sponsor this amazing series of races. We’re giving away 19 entries to the race of your choice; the marathon, half marathon or relay marathon!

Six daily winners will receive a race number to the race of their choice, and an Arctic Ease prize pack complete with Arctic Ease running jersey, wraps and pads. One grand prizewinner will receive a race entry and hotel or air fare for the race.
Rules:

1. You must become a fan of Arctic Ease by clicking “Like” on our Facebook page.

2. You must answer our question of the day by Midnight Eastern Time, posted “CONTEST:” in the comments section of the contest post.

3. Check back daily for the winners! Arctic Ease will select six winners at random each day from Wednesday, March 9th through Friday, March 11, 2011.

4. After all 18 daily winners are announced, we will select one winner over all the daily entries (not just daily winners) to win race entry and airfare or hotel (winner’s choice).

We’ll announce the grand prizewinner on Monday, March 21st. Bib numbers are non-transferable, so if you win, you’ll be the one running! Please keep all entries family friendly; inappropriate entries will be deleted and not eligible to win.

Start Thinking of Fun Answers Now! The Daily Questions Will Be …

Wednesday: What’s your favorite Pittsburgh landmark?
Thursday: What’s your favorite Pittsburgh sports team?
Friday: What’s your favorite Pittsburgh restaurant?

To qualify to enter you must respond in the comment section of the daily wall post marked CONTEST:

Thanks! Good luck!  

I received a message in my facebook inbox that I was the Grand Prize winner! Now I have to decide between the half marathon or the full marathon. I think I am going to go for the full :) YES, THIS WILL BE MY FIRST FULL MARATHON. A few months ago, I didn't even know if I could complete a half. Now that I have finished my first half under my goal time, it's time to go for the full! Since I just completed my first half about two weeks ago, I still feel like I'm in training mode. The marathon is almost exactly two months away, so I am going to research a few training schedules to see if I can incorporate what I have ran so far into marathon mode! This is exciting news. It is a REALLY busy time for me at this moment, but I feel really excited and like good things are going to happen to me career wise and athletic wise. I will do some marathon research and share what I find :) I am headed to Yoga tonight at Yoga Shelter, but maybe I need to start running again!? ;)