Five Things Friday

I have so so so many things to blog about.  This is going to be my draft.  And a little taste of what should theoretically come.   Plus I need to get back on that Thankful Post Thing. You know.  When I find the time to sit down and blog. In-between all the 4 zillion errands I need to run (I have needed an oil change since SEPTEMBER) and chasing a 15 month old around the house and laundry and catching up on crap TV (which, by the way. Grey’s Anatomy last night? Yes? To everyone who bowed out seasons ago - you’re missing out.  And Quantico. Goodness I am hooked.  And my guilty pleasure - Scream Queens.  Yup. Don’t recommend it.  It is bad. Real bad.)  …. I have found it hard to spend time blogging.  My bad.

O.N.E
I ran a half marathon at the very beginning of October.  It was not pretty.  My training was (per the usual) less than stellar or structured or disciplined. Long story short I did not run more than 6 miles to prep for 13.1 … my bad.  But, I survived. And I have a medal to prove it. Post to come. Theoretically. And, we have a family 5k tomorrow.  It will be the 2nd time we run this one as a family.  Fingers crossed it is not too cold.  Post to come on that one too.

T.W.O
Actually this is going to be a busy weekend and you just may get one big blog post.  We are going to a Pumpkin Patch on Sunday afternoon.  I am sure McKenna is going to be unamused and wonder what we are doing there.  But.  She will suck it up and love the hayride and love pictures with pumpkins.  After all, she is a budding white girl and we all know white girls love all things fall and one of those things is pumpkin patches.

T.H.R.E.E
A few weeks back we went to Florida to visit with my parents and it was great to get away.  It was McKenna’s first plane ride and I had a tiny bit of anxiety.  Full disclosure: I started googling “one year olds on planes” and things like that back in March.  And I read a lot.  And all you really need to know is - keep that kid distracted and you will be A OK.  But, we had a great time.  McKenna warmed up to the pool (after 3 days) and she enjoyed eating out and hanging out with her grandparents.  She did not sleep well, so I did not  sleep well, but it was just great to get away!  Again. Theoretically. Post to come + pictures.

F.O.U.R
Kyle has been asking me what I want for Christmas and I cannot give him any answers. I have no idea what I want for Christmas.  So. I need ideas.  Give me ideas people. I mean, there are things that I want. For example. Red Glossy Hunter Rain Boots. But then I ask, when will I actually wear them?  A new Tory Burch York Bag.  But that is out of our budget range.  Le Sigh.

F.I.V.E
Speaking of “Le Sigh” - I joined the world of Fantasy Football this year and I cannot handle it.  As always I expect too much from players (that I know nothing about) and get mad at them each week.  I think Kyle thinks I am 25% funny and then 75% annoying as I complain about my players who “should think about a new career path because the NFL isn’t working for them anymore” …. or when I tell him I am dropping players or benching players.  I just don’t lose well & if a player is projected to get 10 points he should get 10 freaking points.  What needs to happen each week is this.  I need to set my roster.  Then delete the app off my phone.  And then check the outcome Tuesday morning. 

Welp.  I hope everyone has a really good weekend.  And I have A LOT of writing to do this weekend and upcoming week.  McKenna has some exciting things going on in her life too.  Well, exciting for her.  I am having a hard time dealing with the fact that my kid is basically going to high school.  OH.  And if any of you mom’s want to do a book swap thing - message me and I will give you all the details! 

three things thursday {+1}

I have not done this fun little thing in awhile so why the heck not. plus, i don’t have a lot to say... but i feel like there are things going on in my {our} world. This is nothing exciting, but we got a new roof {whoop whoop, thanks USAA} and it is a beauty. However, the shutters don’t 100% match and Kyle now wants to get the shutters painted, but that has been tabled.  Our bank accounts need a breather.

{one}
I HAVE STARTED RUNNING AGAIN . THIS IS HUGE . SERIOUSLY
and it is getting easier and easier by the day. :) It was on my “new years goals” to become a runner again and it has taken a few months, but i am getting back into it. I even signed up for a 10k {that is far enough out that I can prep for it}. Now I just gotta find a handful of 5k races to run as prep.  I had forgotten how therapeutic it is to just run. ....if only I could figure out why my feet are falling asleep & if I could get over the calf pains.

current favorite running jams to add to your playlist:
1. Run This Town/Posthumus Mix – Jay-Z, Rihanna, & ES Posthumus
2. I Need Your Love – Ellie Goulding + Calvin Harris
3. I’m All Yours – Jay Sean + Pitbull

{two}
One of my “things to do before I am 30” is to spend a full month and not buy myself anything. Well. This month is the month. Is is partially because I have over indulged on ME and I need to get my checking out back to a comfortable level and another partially because I want to see if I can do it. And let me tell you.... it is HARD when you’re constantly getting emails from stores about free shipping & 50% off everything till 2:00 PM and so on and so forth. This is going to be a true test of willpower. I said no lunches either – but I broke down and had lunch with the girls from the office today. I just won’t make it a weekly habit. :)

{three}
Mulligan and Kennesaw’s food has been recalled {gasp} so when I went to get dog food from PetsMart today I had no idea what to do. I guess I assumed the bad food had been pulled & new good food would be stocked. Yeah. That is NOT how a recall works. Evidently, it will be months before Innova is on the  shelves again. So, I had no idea what to do – I couldn’t just buy anything and I couldn’t trust the PetsMart employees.  Kyle and I are crazy – WE have to research their food and make the decision what we’re going to feed them. Therefore, the only logical thing to do was to come back home with dog toys and treats.

{four}
work for me is starting to slow down and go back to a normal pace. I am off to Hazleton, PA next week for a sales meeting {and I am a little nervous} to hopefully gain the 2nd location of the onsite that I implemented in Birmingham.  I am having a little bit of turnover on the team that I manage, but when in the past I would be panicking this time i feel like it is a good thing {more on this later} and am excited for the changes that I am about to make. I have a new boss. Which I am good with & excited about. I am reporting into someone who I admire and respect and know that I can and will learn a lot from. Not that I didn’t admire, respect, or learn from my past boss – he was awesome too – i just think that me reporting into this other person is just better for my career development. And. I am also now the new and first ever corporate recruiter for my company. Which also is okay. And fingers crossed, I may have my 1st official placement as a corporate recruiter. {the headhunter bonuses are an added plus}

three things thursday–truth edition.

 

TRUTH #1.  I am going to have to make a BIG decision on if I want to continue with Blast900 or not.  I  have a few reasons why I am trying to decide if I want to continue on or not, but it really comes down to money.  It is SO expensive and I go once a week.  I will never ever ever say a bad thing about Blast because it REALLY is a great workout.  But looking at all the money I am spending on it vs. going to the gym – it just doesn’t really make sense.  In addition I am not seeing a real big impact on my running – granted, many weeks Blast is my only workout.  I  just need to decide if it is worth it or not.

TRUTH #2.  Um.  I have a half marathon coming up that I am NO WHERE and I mean NO WHERE near ready for.  I have never had a “DNS” but I kinda wonder if I should even attempt this.  Yeah…. I blogged about this on Sunday but I have been thinking about it ever since.  I am unsure if running 13.1 miles when I haven’t really run more than 3 is worth it – in the past when I have not been really ready, I have at least been in shape enough to push through, walk a bit then run.  But I just do not think that is the case this go around.

TRUTH #3.  I think I have like an OCD personality.  My reasoning?  I tend to throw myself fully into something but I can only really focus on 1 thing at a time.  Last year it was running – this year it is wedding planning.  I wish I could find a way to balance everything, but I tend to let 1 thing take over my life.  Maybe since the wedding is pretty much planned – I just have more candy and candy buffet accessories, the guestbook, welcome bag stuffers, and some super cute signs to buy and then I am 100% done (I think).  Maybe I can take the that time and move it to running.

starting over with marathon training.

to date this month i have only run 17.40 miles. this month starting off so well and i was hoping for a 40+ mile month. life got in the way. work got busy and sadly, i have pushed running to the side. not that marathon training was not always on my mind and important, work just literally sucked my life dry. i ran this past friday and this morning for the first time in almost 3 weeks and man was it hard. i have totally lost my base and everything that i had been building so if i want to run marine corps and not want to die, i need to start over.

so as of today marine corps is 14 weeks away which means I have 97 some days to get ready for it. not as much time as i would have liked, but i have to rebuild my base and my cardio and grow from there. i guess we will see how this all plays out, but i going to start my training from the start but on a modified schedule. i won't push too hard too fast, but once i get back to where i was on july 4th (which was 6 miles easy...) i may add more onto my long runs. and i am going to keep up the weekly friday runs to the office.

wish me luck. starting tomorrow it is gonna be all about telling people no and doing my workouts. if that means no to a happy hour or a dinner that means no. the hardest part is going to be dragging myself out of bed on sunday mornings for my long runs.... bye bye social life for about 3 months.

Running in Northern VA!

**caution** this post has a little bit of complaining in it.

Forgive me runners for I have sinned. I have not be running like I should be and I have no excuse other than a dog who eats rocks and has to be rushed to the vet, training a new gal at the office, and in town visitors in the form of parents and old bosses. But! That all changed when I got home to Northern VA. There is something awesome about running back home. I do not know if it is just the newness of the routes and roads. Or if it is because it is the ‘burbs and running in neighborhoods is much better than the city. So, as I packed I packed up 5 days worth of workout gear because I had every intention of running, spinning, hitting the elliptical every day I was home. However, mid last week I had a feeling that my vacation away from life and my hopes of getting in some major gym and road time was going to be squashed when Kyle started making my vacation away from my busy life busy with not one but two meals with his mother, drinks with his best friend, and dinner with his dad. Mind you all I wanted to do was dinner with his dad and 1 meal with his mom but of course me speaking up turns into “why do you hate my mother”. Kyle even had the balls to ask why I wanted to grab coffee with a high school friend. Yes, 4 events in like 5 days home made for a pretty hectic first few days home. No gym time as planned Friday. Saturday was spent recovering from 2 days in the car and dinner with K’s dad till oh 11:30 pm, followed by Saturday dinner with his mom and drinks with his friend. blah blah blah – the first 2 days home were packed and Monday was a 4 hour lunch with his Mom (and all I could think was, why does it take 4 hours to have LUNCH?!) …so leading up to leaving I packed running clothes, my iPod, and Garmin in hopes of running Burke Lake and around DC and around my neighborhood but I had a sneaky suspicions I wouldn’t get in too many quality runs and I was right…

so here were my planned runs and let’s see if they happened or did not happen

Burke Lake :: miles run = 4.65 :: I had planned on doing this run at 8 am and well, if you know me… waking up in the morning isn’t my strength so after hitting the snooze button about 5 times I postponed the run to the afternoon. worst.idea.ever. 90 degrees is still hot in the shade. The gorgeous views of the lake distracted me a bit from the terrain for the most part but I did have to take quite a few walk breaks. I never knew how hard trail running could be until this run and I the verdict it still out on how I really feel about it but my legs were dying after the run because of the ups and downs (more ups than downs) which I know if beneficial. If/when we move back to DC I think Burke Lake runs will happen… quite honestly, I wished I had more time home to go run it again. …next time…

Washington DC, around the mall :: miles run = 4.42 :: This was the one run I was looking forward to the most and it was a great idea in my mind but once I did it … no so much. I spent more time on the metro than I did running but other than that it was a cool run. I shall call in “find the monuments” because when I got off the metro I had no idea where I was and I was thinking “ok just find the Washington monument” … well I found the capital instead and then spotted the Washington monument and headed that way. So I ran from The Capital, to the Washington Monument, to Lincoln (where I wanted to wade in the nasty reflecting pool like Jenny from Forest Gump because it was so hot) and then back to the metro. Looking at the map of my run (thanks Garmin connect) I wish I had sucked it up and ran around the tidal basin, but the heat was getting to me. Needless to say it would have been a super cool run if it wasn’t so hot and if/when we relocate back to DC it will for sure be a spring/fall run. Now lets just hope it isn’t this hot in October for Marine Corps!! ….after getting home I kinda wanted to run Burke Lake again (crazy me) but the rain came in so I laid in bed instead! :o)

Around the neighborhood :: miles run = 2.01 :: the heat, hills, humidity, high pollen count, and hangover from 1 too man Blue Moons the night prior cut this run short. Who ever said a good run will cure a hangover was crazy, it just made my stomach cramp up and want to hurl in Taylor Ward’s parents front yard. (I didn’t though.)

For a grand total of 11.08 miles. Not impressive but not too bad for the busy vacation.

In other news… I pulled the trigger and signed up for a half marathon in Nashville on September 25th. It will be an easy trip up, spend the night, 7 am start, run for 2 hours, hop in the car and head back to Atlanta. I think it would be great training for Marine Corps… nothing like forced long runs with a shiny medal at the end! :o)

Tomorrow is national running day – I hope you all get out there and RUN. I will rock my running gear, but I will be trekking back to ATL from DC so no running for me. Happy running to you all tomorrow!!

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?!

Charles Harris 10k & February Recap.

This morning was my first 10k of 2010. I had known for awhile that I wanted to run this event (not because it was an easy Peachtree Qualifier) but because it benefits leukemia research at Emory. As everyone knows the mission to finding a cure for leukemia holds a special place in my heart. This course was GREAT. I was a little skeptical that it would be unattractive and I was convinced that since it was in Tucker that it had to be hilly. I actually told Erin at the VERY beginning to just go and not to let me hold her up. Sure, it wasn't the prettiest course I had ever run but it was fairly flat and what hills we had to run were not too bad. The hills were "rolling" in a way. Never were there screeching up hills, break your back hills, and the hills going down were not that bad either. Mile 4 was pretty rough, I don't quite know why but I was pretty pumped to see the Mile 5 marker. The last mile was for the most part downhill but as you rounded the 1st corner to the finish it was fairly flat and then you hang another right and BAM hello hill. I felt 100% out of steam rounding that last corner and I really thought I would be walking across the finish, but I have a little too much pride and I trotted across the finish to find Erin.

...As I went to try and pick up my race tee (always gotta get the finishers shirt) I ran into my run coach from Team in Training Joanna. It was great to see her and say hi. She joked that I must have found the love of running. I laughed back and said "yeahhh...". But it was great to see familiar faces and meet new people. (Erin and I finally met Anne from DailyMile). Overall it was a good race - fairly easy - I for sure need to incorporate hill training into my work out plan because I cannot getup hills - I loved how they had a clock at every mile so you could know where you were time wise - if I still live in GA next year I will totally do it again.

February recap:I did not quite meet my goals (the only goal I completed was setting a PR at Charles Harris), but I am content and okay with that. I realized that I had a crazy busy month with work and I was really bad at getting any sort of workouts in and honestly, I am okay with it. There is no point on being too hard on myself... it is all in the past now, I just have to improve and be more dedicated in March. So what were my miles this month -- I had hoped to run 48.94 in the month of February but I actually ran ... 19.75 Trying to hit 48.94 miles may have been a stretch anyways because my miles were SO high in January thanks to Disney! ...I guess I am just going to keep on keeping on!
Highlight of the month: I PR'd at my 10k. Now my 10k goal is to run a sub 1 hr. :o)

So March - what is on the calendar? What is the plan? First things first, make training and working out a priority. Work and Kyle have been my #1 and #2 (not in any specific order of course) for months now. I need to work in "me time" where I don't feel bad if it is a Tuesday and I want to do something aerobic after work. For too long I have been too concerned about getting home and making dinner. Dinner.can.wait. The schedule?! I am running a ShamRock and Roll 10k on the 14th through the Atlantic Station part of Atlanta which I am actually pretty stoked for and then the following Sunday I am running ING. Yes, I am no where near ready for it but what is new? I am sure the hills are going to kick my ass but I am gonna spend the next two weeks trying to get in some hill work and just some serious running before the event. You know me, it's like college - cramming for a final exam after skipping a bunch of classes. ...I graduated college didn't I?! **I bet you're happy I am not your child** :o) And now onto my March 2010 goals...

1. Run at least 21.73 miles. Sticking with my 10% rule ... that is 10% more than I ran this past month. Ideally, I would love to run 40+ since I have a half marathon this upcoming month - but I am a realist and know that may not happen.
2. Again... cross training. Swim.Spin.Pilates. Done. With running.
3. I would like to PR at ING Atlanta. I ran my last half in 2:54 ... I would like to do ING Atlanta in 2:30 or under.
4. If I end up doing the 5k ... I would like to PR in that as well.

Super big congrats to everyone who raced today. There were a lot of PR's happening so everyone should take great pride in their accomplishment!!

Soothes my Soul.

The other day when I was walking my dog my neighbor Mike mentioned that he has not seen me out running lately. I basically thanked him for calling me out and told him that work was running my life and it the cold was scaring me away. He laughed and asked me why I did run so much this past summer. I told him that I was training for my first half marathon last summer and that I continued to run because running was one of the many things that soothed my soul. He nodded and we parted ways.

It was true though. Running really is something that soothes my soul and it is a cheap form of therapy. It just seems like whenever I have a lot on my mind, need some time to myself, or just want to think and clear my mind running helps more than just talking to someone about it. It is my time to think about what is going on and think about the next step. Sometimes I just have to run because my dog and boyfriend are driving me bonkers. For me running really is just my personal time and sometimes that personal time is needed more than other times. Today, I really needed that time to myself (and I invited Lady Gaga to join). I know I didn't run too far today, a little under 4 miles, but it was just what I needed today. There has been a lot going on in my life the past month or so and I have never really had the time to sort it all out. I learned a lot more last night and I just really needed a good long run. I do not want to get into the details, but cliff notes version: someone who I thought was a good friend really isn't and she has stabbed me in the back. The worst part is that she does not know that I know everything and I cannot confront her about it.

....But today's 30 minutes therapy session made me realize how I am going to handle the situation and what the next steps are going to be. ...Needless to say, there will be some BIG changes in my life later this year and as much as they scare me and make me apprehensive, I am excited for them and will welcome them with open arms.

It is Cold. Life is Busy.

Every morning for the past few days the thought of running outside in the cold makes me shudder. Last I heard it was colder in Atlanta than it is at the Winter Olympics. And to be honest, that is out of control. I moved to the south for mild winters not freezing ones. ...I digress. But all this cold weather has been zapping my motivation to run and with ING 4 or so weeks off I am beginning to realize that I am stepping into yet another half marathon that I am NOT ready for. Wasn't it one of my resolutions to actually take endurance events seriously and train for them? I just do not know how people muster up the willpower to get out in 20-30 degree weather and run. My lungs burn, my Garmin freezes my wrist, and I feel just miserable. I know I am a HUGE baby and I should just suck it up ... but for some reason I just cannot warm up when I run in freezing temps.

On top of it all I wonder how people work 40 hour work weeks and still log 40+ miles each week. I know it is all about scheduling your workouts and staying focused and keeping your eye on the final goal, but after working a 9 hour day (sometimes longer) and constantly being on call all I really want to do is make dinner, take the dog outside a few times, sit on the couch, watch mindless TV, play with my dog, read my book, and then go to bed. In that order. Lately I have just been so exhausted and want to do nothing but relax and take it easy. It was so much easier to get out after work to run when it wasn't cold and dark too. It was also so much easier when I would take a mid-day break and run for a hour, but the office is just so busy right now that it is not possible. I just do not know how people do it and I have major respect for them.


I have been super inconsistent with the weekly spin class and weekly swims and weekly pilates class as well. Sunday mornings are just so much more peaceful in my warm bed than trekking to LA Fitness. I wanted to run 48 and some miles this month and I think I am at like 8 total. Granted I do have a 10k next weekend and I will get some miles in this weekend I am going to be no where near the 48 mile mark. I just always feel so stretched thin and pulled in 4 million directions and like there is not enough time in the day. My friend Erin gets up some morning at 5:30 AM to work out and I think she is out of control, crazy to do so but I respect her dedication to running and staying in shape. ...I think I just need her to share that with me.

Maybe I am just impatiently waiting for spring. I do know that I am over all this cold weather and I really do miss running and the time it is for me to clear my mind and decompress. I just would much rather run on the streets than the treadmill. Where is the sunshine and cool weather and pretty flowers?! I miss you!

Running Etiquette

We all know that I have an odd fascination/love for twitter (shameless plug: Follow me @bamabarbie06). I don't quite know what it is all about, but I do like posting random thoughts and responding to people's statements. 2 days ago @cool_running asked the question "What are your running pet peeves" and as I got to reading the answers ... it got me laughing, agreeing, and thinking. It took me back to all my Stone Mountain runs and how I typically get so super annoyed because of the inconsiderate runners and walkers taking up the whole path talking about what little Timmy did last night or last week's episode of Glee. Yes, I am a "beginning runner" and I do take walk breaks still and I am slowly learning things but I feel some things that were mentioned as pet peeves just seemed like common knowledge if you were a courteous person in general.

some of my favorite answers: drivers not yielding to runners. people stopping to ask you for directions. competitive runners who finish the course and then run it backwards (okay, you're the hare, I'm the tortoise. Lets not remind me just how slow I am by you running past me in the wrong direction!). people walking side by side taking up the whole sidewalk/path or them walking in the smack middle. people blocking the sidewalk walking towards you who are barely moving, just gossiping. people who walk/run on the wrong side of the path and then don't get out of my way. idiots who yell from cars or honk (trust me boys, when I am running I am sweaty and normally I am also snotty and spitty. Not attractive at all. Don't let the bobbing ponytail fool you.) unruly dogs at local races.

It then got me thinking. What are the rules of the road for running? What are some common etiquette rules for us runners? So since I am still "newbie" and by no stretch of the imagination a pro (despite what my friends like to think), I paired up with my friend Google and did some research. Here are my findings.

1. when running in the road: run against traffic (so that's on the left). run on the little white line, not in the lane of course. that way the cars can see you coming and both you and the driver can react appropriately. when running on paths/sidewalks: run on the right side. If you approach someone who is walking, slow down so you can pass them safely. It's also nice to announce yourself. Say something like "passing on the left (or right)".
2. Group running is the best way to do long runs, it is the truth. But run in twos. Just like you're getting on Noah's big boat. two.by.two.
3. When it comes to races. Runners are supposed to be on the left and in the middle. Walkers move to the right.
4. Another race tidbit. When it comes to lining up for the start, line up according to ability and be honest. Nothing is worse than having to weave in and out of the walkers. And there is nothing wrong about walking - I do it. Just please move towards the back! ;)
5. Give a friendly hello, head nod, or wave to fellow runners you pass. A little courtesy in this world is great. And the positive reinforcement really does go a long way.
6. If you listen to music while running (I do) listen to it at a lower volume. That way you can be alert and aware of your surroundings. Nothing is worse than trying to pass someone who cannot hear you huffing and puffing, your feet, or even you saying your trying to pass. More importantly, so you can hear traffic.

Here is another list of okays and not okays. And most importantly, for whatever reason you chose to hit the pavement do it safely. That way it will be more fun for both you and all us other runners! =)

Have I forgotten anything? What are your peeves? What are some rules I have left out? As a "new" runner I don't want to look like a fool!

Running in Northern VA.

First. A little background on me. I am not an Atlanta native. I was born and raised in Burke, VA - right outside of Washington DC in the beautiful Fairfax County. I go home 3 times a year and well... I am home now. I figured I would take my week off work to really focus on getting in the miles and the work in the final preparation for the Disney Marathon (which is in 46 freaking days). I don't know what it is about Northern VA but the runs are so much easier and the miles don't seem as long. Maybe it's running in the 'burbs ... the air is a different quality and you don't have to dodge cars or wait for the light to let you go. But I have had 2 great runs since being home and hope for at least 4 more.

I have never been so giddy about running (maybe giddy is the wrong word but you know what I mean). I get excited about all the different routes I can take since all the neighborhoods seem to snake together. The hills here are butt kickers and seem to be EVERYWHERE but evidently hills are your friend... blah blah blah. The weather is colder than I am used to so I have been dealing with burning lungs. But most importantly, I just have really enjoyed being able to vary my runs. I feel like in Atlanta I have to stick to Peachtree and the side roads off Peachtree and if I want to vary it I literally have to hop in the car. Not the story up here, just head down the driveway and go. Which is nice. And convenient. It's been great to just clear my head and think. Granted a lot of thinking has surrounded my marathon '10 race schedule and how I want to do it. Like which race I want to do with Team in Training and which ones I want to do solo. But it has been nice to have 1 hour of just me time.

It has also really got me thinking about how I am gonna fit running back into my life when I get back to Atlanta. I think I truly have found the like of running (not the love yet, but one step at a time my friend) but running is such a struggle and I know I am supposed to schedule it like an appointment and I do have it scheduled ... it is just soo hard to stick to the dang schedule. From 3pm-4pm everyday, M-F, but I just get into the work groove and it is so hard to just disconnect from it all. With that said: I need to just disconnect. I am thinking about doing 1 hr runs daily to just de-stress and clear my mind (while training for Disney) and then hit the elliptical for 30 minutes and the bike for 15 when I get home at night. I know I am not going to conquer Disney, but I do want to finish it in less than 6 hours! =) **when I finish Disney I will start on a real methodical marathon training plan, until then I will just put one foot in front of the other and GO!**

I have about 5 more days up here but my life is about to get crazy busy with seeing my boyfriend's family and with the holiday. However, I will get in some miles because there are at least 2 more "routes" I am dying to run - lots of hills of course. And I will more than likely hit the Gold's Gym in Burke 1 or 2 more times for cross training - FYI that gym is really nice.

In case I do not blog before hand - have a great and safe Thanksgiving. To everyone running Turkey Trots or the Atlanta half and full marathon - have fun and run like the wind! =)

Frusterations.

Disclaimer: I am just venting a bit. So feel free to pass on reading this blog entry. Granted, if you have any insight please share with me. I feel as if I am going to blow.

As the world knows (or should know by now) it now gets lighter in the morning earlier and darker later. This is a battle for Barbie. I love my bed plus it is still kinda dark at 5:30am. I work too late every night. Many nights I cannot even disconnect from work and I am working from home until all hours of the night. So the question is raised - when the hell am I supposed to run? How the hell do I get in marathon training type training runs.

I was planning on doing midday runs - but that is only 1 hour of my day. I can get in about 5 miles, but today I was scheduled to run 7. Many days I cannot even get out of the office for 1 hour because there is so so so much going on. I feel like at this point any miles and staying in shape is really really important but I also want to be building the miles and a great base for when I have to knock out 26.2 in a few months!!!

I hate the treadmill, but I am going to have to learn to love it and really honestly commit to long runs on Saturdays. I just have to be in better shape for Disney than I was for Nike and with having an entourage of 4 going to Orlando plus friends who live in Orlando attending the event to cheer me on ... I have to impress. I was thinking about running Zooma but then I learned it was this weekend and I thought it was next... which means I cannot run it. And next weekend is a 5k with my office ... but I need to be logging more than 3.2 miles next Saturday so I will have to double up the runs.

I guess I am just flustered and overwhelmed and do not even know where to begin or start. I need a breather.

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'.

Headed home to DC!

So I am in for a much needed vacation, yet it will not be a vacation from training. Just the daily stress of life. I am headed back home to Northern VA tomorrow evening and I could not be more excited. However, I feel like my life will be in a panic trying to fit in running and seeing everyone (my family, Kyle's mom and stepdad, Kyle's dad and stepmom)... but I am hoping to be as consistent as humanly possible. After all... there is only so much time in 1 day.

I am pretty stoked about tomorrow because I took the day off. Other than having a million and 1 things to do before hitting the road, I am gonna check out this class called 'Tighten Up' at a local aerobic dance studio. According to them it is 1 hour to tone the entire body, increase muscular endurance, and help build stamina. 3 things I so desperately want. It's at 10:30 am and since I have the day off... I am gonna try to get a few miles in that morning. After all... I won't have the opportunity to run on Thursday since we will be driving the 2nd leg to DC.

As lame as this sounds... I am excited to run back home. The elevation and terrain changes so much... plus it's a new opportunity to people watch and take it all in. I want to try and hit the high school track/bleachers some and fingers crossed my Dad can/will sneak me into his gym. Anything to get some cardio/movement in while I am gone.

On a happy note -- I am getting back to where I was pre.ankle.injury. My endurance is getting back up... I am still walking a lot more than I would like, but all in good time. I have done about 4 miles on my last 2 runs and I could not be happier. Too bad Saturday is a scheduled 10 mile run and well, there is no way that is happening!! NO SIR! Fingers crossed for 6 miles, fingers crossed. I am also happy to report that the weather here in Atlanta is amazingly beautiful. It has made it so much easier to run for longer distances. However, I do need to get something to carry water with as I run and increase my miles... I do not want the belt... I have heard nightmares about it!!

Well. I hope to keep you posted on my runs in VA! If not, I will give you the skinny when I am back! If anyone is in VA and wants to run with me, let me know! I think I want to run Burke Lake and I would love love love a buddy! (You know in case I keel over and die around mile 5) =)

::Endurance:: Going the distance ::

So. Endurance is still my biggest issue with running. It always has been, ever since I could remember endurance was not holding my hand while running. I think that my two biggest issues with running are 1) my breathing and 2) my endurance. I feel like I need running 101 and a personal run coach... but wait, Team in Training has provided me with a 'run coach'. This is all well and good, but I have yet to make a Track Training session. Whoops. So I have decided to take on the mission of finding solutions and ideas on how to build my endurance online. Going into this, I was fully aware that building endurance is a process... it happens over time... it's a gradual thing.

This is what I have found on how to do it:

1. Go faster.harder.longer every time: I am going to say that this is something I strive for every run. Pre-ankle-injury I was doing this. Now I just gotta go back to pushing myself. Like I said in a previous post, I try to make my runs a game and fun. I just have to find that fun... when I am outside.
a. Course of action: go back to making it a game. Push myself harder everyday. Not too hard though. I do not need an injury. I used to have so much fun seeing if I can go just .10 father.

2.Cross train: I am going to be honest. I do not know why cross training helps. But I feel like I need to get my little butt on the elliptical because that machine kicks me in the rear. I think that if I could go miles... or even 1 mile on that thing it will help a lot. Hmm... new mission.
a. Course of action? Get on the elliptical. I know when I go home in a few weeks I am going to run in the mornings but also hit the gym with my parents. I will do the elliptical there... but I need to do it here too.

3. Hills/incline training: I need to be integrating inclines into my training. Not only because I am freaking doing a marathon in San Fran and their known for the hills, but it also gets your heart rate up. So I read... getting your heart rate up helps build stamina.
a. So... my course of action? There is a big hill in front of my apartment and I am going to run it. Run it back and forth. My plan is to run that 1 road for about 1 mile. I think it will kick me in the butt. I also want to find a high school and run bleachers. I remember doing that in high school... it was a killer work out. And lastly, Piedmont Park. The terrain changes so much - I think I am going to try and incorporate it into my training. Sunday mornings maybe?

4. Soda/Carbonation: evidently soda decreases your ability to fully breathe while working out which does not help proper breathing.
a. course of action: ugh. 1 soda per day. at the most 2. If I am dragging at 3pm then I can have the 2nd. But I have to have total self control.

Like you can image I hope to just build my endurance. Like everything... patience is a virtue. I know it will come in time. I know if I just keep working and working hard I will get back to where I was 2 weeks ago before my injury and I will also get better than I was. I just gotta stay positive and I gotta keep looking forward. I want to start running in the morning... and I am going to start that on Monday. Wish me luck, I treasure my mornings.

Pink Asics - I covet thee.

I was told that you were never supposed to pick your running shoes based on color or style, but I am sitting here hoping that the pink Asics will be a perfect match for my feet and running style. I currently run in Asics. I love my Asics. I was professionally fitted to my Asics. They have done no wrong until now (if that is even the issue). I have my ankle appointment tomorrow, which could not come at a better time since my ankle is really furious with me. I am going to take my current shoes and see what the doc has to say and then I think I am going to go get a new pair of shoes. And, I want these bad boys (or should I say girls... since they're pink). Big Peach. Please, make it happen! ....with my luck, watch them be perfect for my foot but they don't have them in my size. Say a little prayer for me and these shoes as you tuck yourself into bed tonight. =)

Now... I guess I shall head back to work and get the running shoes out of my mind. Oh how I covet this beautiful pink kicks that I will literally only run in for a few months or so. Why do running shoes wear out so fast.

Long Run Day. Did Not Happen.

Mood: off.
Running song of the day: "Bang Bang" ~K'naan (ft. Adam Levine)

This morning was my weekly group training session with my Team In Training team and my body would not get out of bed. Talk about frusterating. But maybe that was a blessing. I do not know. I tried to run the scheduled 4 miles on my own this afternoon, but I just barely got over 1 mile. I felt horrible.pukey.weak.disoriented.light headed. -- I could keep going, but I will sum it up with awful. I do not know if I am not hydrated enough or if it was just one of those days. My breathing was wack today as well... which of course did not help the mission of getting to the goal. I am going to try again tomorrow and make it my long run day.

I am also debating on taking these fitness dance classes at a place here in Atlanta called Dance 101. There are 2 classes I am specifically looking at. They're geared at boosting your endurance and stamina (since I took a whole year off from hitting the gym and pavement, I need to do a lot to get in super shape). I need to get some mixture in my workout that way I do not burn out. The problem is... they're so dang expensive. I also REALLY need to start going to the Tuesday night Team in Traing track sessions every other Tuesday night. Evidently, those sessions focus 100% on pace and form... while getting in the required miles for the day. The dang humidity is so awful though.

I am $30.33 away from reaching my goal of $3900 to go to The Leukemia & Lymphoma society. Exciting news. So Close. So Close!

Run Barbie Run!

Mood: Drained
Running song of the day: "Fire Burning" ~Sean Kingston

Welcome to the world of Barbie and her wonderful tales of running... and walking. I got this idea from this girl Tammy I am following on Twitter to really track my running and training for San Fran. All in all as most people know it is going really well. I recently decided to push the envelope and do the full marathon rather than the half. 26.2 miles of fun hills, but I heard the course is BEAUTIFUL.

It has been an off week for running for me. I have done about 10 miles total this week (according to my dailymile.com account) and I should be at 16 miles this week. Tomorrow is our GTS (Group Training Session) long run... which is 4 miles... so I have an extra 2 to make up somewhere. I am playing a new game with myself and I have decided right now to run 1 hour per day (with walk breaks of course) and see how far I can go. And everyday I hope to go farther and farther.

Surprisingly, I really am enjoying getting back into shape and running. If you have not done so already, please think about donating to the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. Of course, I am running mainly in honor of Beka... but this is so much larger than just her. You can go here to make your contribution to the society... http://pages.teamintraining.org/ga/nikesf09/bvines