may recap.

sorry. just a tad late. vacationing took my mind away from knowing that may was ending. but better late than never right.

May was a bad month for running, better than April, but still pathetic. 25.53 miles total  but I added things to my training & experienced new and wonderful things so I am happy with May and that is all that matters!  I celebrated 1 year of running … don’t quite call myself a runner yet … but i have been at this for a FULL YEAR!

First – I added Saturday swims. I am unsure how beneficial they are going to be and I think they may be better suited for a workout after a long run, but to make that switch it is going to have to come to me persuading Kyle to let me have Saturday mornings for long runs rather than Sunday.  Back to swimming… I am getting better and I have not drowned yet and that is all that matters.  Second – I had my first ever trail run while at home in Northern VA.  And wowzas did it kill my legs, definitely used muscles that are not normally used when on the pavement.  But, I liked it, it was a total full leg workout, and now I wish I lived in VA and could run at Burke Lake all the time.  Anyone know of any trails in Atlanta? Third -  I put spin classes back in my routine.  Like swimming, I am unsure how this will work for me and if it will at all… but anything to strengthen my lower body and anything to make me faster… I will try it.  Fourth – I ran a Saturday at Stone Mountain.  Awesome but killer. Once my miles increase I will run there more. Hold me too it!  Fifth -  I discovered Lululemon super short running shorts and fell in love. I was also introduced to a new pair of Wigwam running socks and have switched my loyalty to another line (but still Wigwams).

I have been tossing around the idea of getting involved with an organization here in Atlanta called Girls on the Run … they have them all over the place.  I need to decide if we’re staying down here or moving back to NoVA before I make a decision… they have a chapter up there too… I want to dive in heads first and be able to stick around. So that is up in the air….

I am super pumped because Lori gave me a training schedule thanks to Team in Training that will help build my endurance which is going to help with Marine Corps.  Back to low 3 or 4 mile runs (SCHEDULED!!!) and not stressing about 7 or 8 mile Saturdays for a month or so.  Thanks Lori, you rock! :o)

I have another half marathon on my schedule, which I signed up for in May but will run it in September.

running music discovered in may and stuck on repeat:

1. “Can’t Be Tamed” –Miley Cyrus
2. “The Instrumental” –Lupe Fiasco
3. “Airplanes” –B.o.B ft. Haley Williams
4. “No Other One” –Tiao Cruz
5. “I Like It” –Enrique Ingelsias

also. this past month i have been approached by a lot of people in regards to raising money for races (both asking for donations and wanting tips) and as someone who was begging for money is a tough economy just 1 year ago the biggest tip I have been sharing is to THANK THE PEOPLE WHO HAVE DONATED.  It seems so simple but it is often forgotten.  :: cue mini-rant ::  I have donated to quite a few races in 2010 for many non-profits and not a single person has sent me a thank you note and only 1 has given me a verbal “thanks”.  If you’re gonna ask people to dig in their pockets when everyone is watching their budgets, the least you can do is send someone a thank you note, let them know you appreciate them working your cause of choice into their budget.  As a 26 year old, my budget is tight and sometimes my donation to you and your cause means I cannot grab dinner with a college friend to catch up.  Not trying to say that I do not think my donation went to good because it did and i know it did … but take some time to thank the person who donates.  We dug in our pockets, you can dig and yours for a stamp and a thank you note.  Without that show of appreciation what is going to make someone want to donate the next time you ask?  or maybe i am the only 20-something left that writes thank you notes still…  rant over.

Other than having a lack of shoe hitting the pavement, May was not so bad and I for once didn’t fret over my lack of running.  I understood that life just got busy and embraced it for once.  Soon enough my life and work load will level out… I can just feel it!!

how did your May turn out?!

Friday Favorite - Words To Sweat By

A lot of blogs lately have been talking about these cute little towels created by Words to Sweat By for their in the gym workouts. They are created to make you giggle, motivate you, or motivate you while you're giggling. After trying and trying to win one in a blog giveaway and never doing so, I decided to pull the trigger, spend $8.00, and buy one. Afterall, I have been needing a towel for spin class since my dog has shredded all the little towels and no I am not brining a big towel to the gym like a fool. I know, I know... how can a towel be a favorite thing... but if you have ever done spin class you know how key a towel can be and what I like most about these towels are that they are cute, funny, and motivating (the price tag isn't too bad either). Not only are these towels great for spin class, but they're perfect for sessions on the elliptical & treadmill - not only to wipe your brow but to also cover up the timer so you aren't tempted to keep looking down. I love how the towels are actually soft (100% cotton), hold up well in the wash, and are shipped insanely fast. *after some investigative research I learned that all the towels are prewashed to ensure they do not shrink and I am guessing that is why they're already soft.* They also are great conversation starters but what I love most is that they're just unique and fun.

I of course bought the pink one that talks about cupcakes because I love pink and well am obsessed with anything cupcake and honestly, I have been quite happy. Sure, any towel would work fine... but why not have a fun, funky towel to make you WANT to go to the gym?!

Also! One of my fellow Team in Training people (who I have never met but her and I motivate each other via social media) is hosting a fundraiser with Words to Sweat By. SO! If you're interested in purchasing one of these snazzy towels, a portion of the profits will go towards Courtney's fundraising efforts to raise money for The Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. Between May 15 and June 15 30% of each towel & 25% of each keychain will be donated back to her. All you have to do is enter the code "runcourtrun"

why do i run?

one of my favorite blogger’s allie posted on the reasons why she runs (you can find her blog and her entry here).  and with that and even though i do not hit the pavement or treadmill nearly as much as i want and need to, i have decided to piggy back her idea and explain why i run.

we all know i started running about this time last year (holy moly, my runniversy is coming up in may!!) and i did so because i got involved with a little organization called team in training.  i got involved because my friend from middle school and high school was diagnosed with CML (chronic myelogenous leukemia) which is a non-curable, but manageable form of leukemia.  i wanted to do something to show i cared and wanted to help her and find a cure. so. i ran. and i walked. and i ran some more. and i loved it.

so a year later (almost) i am still running and in bullet form, these are my reasons.

• i have a stressful job and sometimes i just need to exhale
• sometimes i need to have a hour alone to myself
• so i can eat cupcakes and lots of them
• the running clothes – so funky and fun
• it gives me a reason to discover more great music
• the running community is just inspiring
• it is an excuse to take a hour away from the office to enjoy the weather
• there is nothing like crossing the finish line of a marathon – total sense of accomplishment – even more than graduating college
• finishing ANY race is a feat and makes you thankful and grateful for your abilities
• i have a legitimate excuse to go get a massage
• knowing that you have burned 1000 calories before most people are awake is a pretty awesome feeling
• it reminds me to shave my legs more than 2 times per week
• you cannot rely on anyone else to make you do well – how you do is all a direct result of how you prepared
• the free tech tees at the end of races. oh and the medals
• i can eat brownies and cookies without feeling too guilty
• i know that if i am ever being chased i can make it pretty far and hopefully escape
• Most importantly, it’s all about the mental toughness
• last but certainly not least – because i want to and because i can

think about it … why do you run?!

10k - cannot check off list.

You read the title right. The 10k did not happen yesterday. I am so bummed about it you have no idea. Race start was 7:45 am. I thought leaving my house by 7:00 would give me plenty of time to get there, park, get on a shuttle, stretch, and be ready to run up some hills. But, I really never venture to that part of Atlanta and I got insanely lost. Roads were closed. The directions included in the packet sent to me were less than stellar. And at 8:00 when I was still on 285 and now crossing over Cobb Parkway I could see the hundreds of runners descending the first hill and I felt defeated. I know I know... you can normally start races late and with my Garmin I could have accurately known how long it took me... but with the sense of failure and still being lost and knowing there were killer hills I figured it just was not meant to be and headed back home. I am a true believer that all things happen for a reason and there must have been some reason why I was not to run that race. There is always next year right?

....however. I am running the Big Peach Sizzler 10k at the end of this month. And there is no way I can get lost since it literally starts in my backyard. So I have longer to train for my first 10k and it won't be such a butt kicker. Or so I hope. I kinda want to finish that run with a grub meal from Flying Biscut. Barbie, let's just try to get to the starting line before the race starts this time.

Last blog I was talking about how I am stuck at a 12-13 minute mile. And my twitter, dailymile, and blogger pal Tammy mentioned speed work and how long my long runs are currently. I felt like discussing my lack of long runs because honestly, the farthest I have run is a little under 6 miles. I think I could go farther but it just gets so dark earlier and I don't want to be out running alone in the dark in Atlanta so I tend to pack up shop and head back to my car. Yeah... and I have to run 13.1 in a little over a month. I have no excuses I really have not taken this half marathon nearly as serious as I should have.

She also mentioned that I need to be running 3-4 times per week to really work on it. I run at the least 3 times per week - life just seems to get in the way sometimes. ....And then there is speed work. Which I do not think I quite understand what it is or how to do it so I have been googling it (I found this article which gives some insight). I am wondering if this is something that I need to do on the local high school track or do I need to incorporate hills since I am running in San Francisco.

I guess I really am a newbie at this running, racing thing.

Lastly: in honor of blood cancer awareness month think about donating to the cause that is fighting the fight against blood cancers and help the researchers find a cure and give those battling a blood cancer hope for a brighter future! http://pages.teamintraining.org/ga/nikesf09/bvines

26.2 Things I’ve learned through my Training (so far)

I posted this originally on my facebook page. Why I did not share it here, I have no idea. But now I have. However, from then to now I have slightly modified it!

As the world knows. I am running in the Nike Woman’s Marathon to help find a cure for blood cancers. Go here to learn more - http://pages.teamintraining.org/ga/nikesf09/bvines

Mile 1 – I’ve been more than impressed by the generosity of family members, co-workers, long lost friends, neighbors, people I thought that hated me, and strangers.... but surprisingly disappointed by some of my friend’s lack of support. People who I wouldn’t expect to donate/support me have taken time to look at my page, donate, read my blog, and send encouragement throughout the process. Then on the other hand, I have some friends who have watched me struggle through every part of this experience and haven’t given me a dime or even offered some of their time. It’s been shocking.
Mile 2 – Fundraising large amounts of money is not an impossible challenge. It is terrifying on the front end, but amazing as the funds start rolling in. It just requires a lot of time, effort and creativity. My biggest suggestion to anyone who takes this challenge on is to START EARLY and TELL EVERYONE!!
Mile 3 – People are willing to give you $25.00 without much too much begging and $25.00 from a lot of people adds up. Heck... $10 from a lot of people adds up!
Mile 4 – People are even more willing to help if they get something out of the deal. But I cannot blame them one bit! $25 AMEX cards are quite enticing.
Mile 5 – Many people want to donate but cannot donate with money. People are more than willing to help out in any way they possibly can. I had some great friends review local business... and a lot of local business at that. My marathon was highlighted on two friend’s blogs I have had GREAT people standing behind me 110%.
Mile 6 – It feels good to know you’re making a difference in someone’s life, even if the someone is a 7 year old stranger or someone you have not seen since High School.
Mile 7 – Granted, I am no where near as active with my Team in Training team as I should be... getting to know members of your community and becoming an active member of the community is rewarding and a great time.
Mile 8 – Early morning long runs really aren’t that bad (and I hate mornings). You can nap when you’re done and it’s kinda neat to be up and moving before the rest of the world. Plus, it is no where near as hot at 8am as it is at 1pm.
Mile 9 – Knowing that you burned over 1000 calories before 9am feels pretty good.
Mile 10 – Gatorade, gels, bagels and pretzels are your friend. Make sure you hydrate before, during and after your run because dehydration headaches are the awful.
Mile 11 -Body glide [even though sometimes I swear I am not using it right], wicking shirts and shorts will make the heat and humidity just a little bit more tolerable. Cotton is not your friend.
Mile 12 -Make sure you thank everyone who donates. People really appreciate the recognition, as well as updates on your progress. My Dad has relayed to me how much my thank you notes have made people feel. I am sure that thank you note or my hello email, pales into comparison for the feeling I felt when they donated!
Mile 13 – Take care of your feet. Having the right pair of running shoes matters. But having that right pair of socks matters so much more than you would ever think. ($17 for one pair of socks?! What?! ....So worth it!!)
Mile 14 – Getting injured is a total bummer, but it is all about how you handle it. Take it in stride. Stay active so you won't lose focus and motivation.
Mile 15 – A good playlist on your iPod can and will make or break your workout. Your ‘good’ playlist only lasts so long. Switch it up.
Mile 16 – 26.2 miles is a long distance. Make training fun. Throw in some actual local races. Races give you a total sense of accomplishment and will make you want to train more and harder. Make running a game. Do something to liven up the training. You won’t dread hitting the pavement. [I am doing 13.1 one now... and that is even a long distance!!]
Mile 17 – Run with a group. I love/adore my hour of alone time. I get to clear my head and listen to Miley without getting crap from my boyfriend. But there is something about having someone push you just a half a mile farther. Having someone encourage you when they’re going through the same trials and pains is an inspiration. If they can do it, you can do it!
Mile 18 –Keep a log of your training experience. It is a total adventure and wild ride. You will want to look back at the moments and smile. My log is on dailymile.com [to track my actual mileage] and my blog is what tracks the training as a whole
Mile 19 – Don’t be prideful. Whether you’re running your 1st or 40th marathon... it is never bad to ask for training tips, great doctors, and new running routes. Yes, this is my 1st marathon but I have learned so much from my coach and running friends made on twitter and dailymile.com. What is inspiring? The people who run 10+ miles per day, but they’re still asking for suggestions and swapping tips.
Mile 20 – Admit defeat. You cannot always run more than you ran yesterday or even last week. It’s a fact of life; everyone has “off” days. As long as you’re getting in some sort of running you’re in the clear.
Mile 21 – Endurance/Stamina is key and it’s amazing how quickly you can lose it. Stay active – even through injury. It will do a world of difference once you can get back at it! Also, get enough sleep, water, and the right foods. For me, being tired and undernourished will break my run.
Mile 22 – Having a reason to run makes is 10 times easier and better. Set goals. Set them high. Sure my reason to run is HUGE… find your reason to run (lose 10 pounds, get back into shape, whatever) and run. Overall it makes you feel better in general.
Mile 23 – Respect the miles. Like I said before, 26.2 is a long distance. It is better to get your head around just how far it is early on … it will only push you that much more when it comes to training.
Mile 24 – Don’t obsess about sticking to the “official” training schedule. Make sure you do what is expected of you… but if you want to run on a rest day. Run! When I first started training, I stuck to the schedule… but now I just make sure I am getting in 5 days of running, 1 day of “active recovery” and 1 total rest day.
Mile 25 – The athletic world just really wants you to succeed. Runners encourage runners. Runners encourage cyclists and triathletes. Cyclists encourage runners. I was doing a 5K one weekend and was taking a quick walk break, only to be given a high five and a 'you can do it' from a cyclist going the other direction. Talk about encouragement.
Mile 26 - The first and last mile will always be the hardest. Just know that it’s all worth it once you’ve gotten past those hurdles.
Mile 26.2 – Most importantly, running is 100% a mind game - it’s all about the mental toughness. You can do only as much as you think you’re capable of, set the bar high. When your body says 'no more' you have to say 'yes more'.

Atlanta Summers.

I am gonna make this short, sweet, and to the point. It has been a rough week of training. I had been doing 100% of my training on the treadmill and decided that I need to get out and run on the roads. Experience the elements if you will. Well... it is totally kicking me in the butt. I feel like I am back and square one and over the weekend I began to really doubt my ability to do a full marathon, let alone a half. The Atlanta heat and humidity is really starting to take a toll on me and it makes it just that much harder.

Granted. I had a lot of really encouraging words sent my way over the weekend via facebook, twitter, and dailymile. So to everyone who told me to keep my chin up and keep at it. I really really appreciate it. One person told me that I wouldn't be a real "marathoner" if I did not doubt my abilities. I hope that is true.

I am going to my first Team in Training track training session tonight. It will be the 2nd thing I have done with the team since signing up. They're gonna wonder who the heck I am. It's at 6:30 and we evidently get in all the mileage required for the day... which means I will run 4 miles before going to bed tonight and I will have someone behind me shoving me as I want to die. Hopefully the fact that I knock out 4 miles will give me the confidence to keep going and chugging along for the rest of the week. After all... I have 22.2 more miles to go after I complete 4. Oi.