12 months of racing... well almost!

So here is my tentative racing schedule.  I am sure excited about.  I am a planner and need to plan ahead.  I am lucky to find a bunch of races in my city to limit the time away from my family on race day.  My wonderful inlaws have already offer to babysit for the long races that cant push L Boogie in.  I would love to do a race a month but not sure if time or money will allow.  Now just to start saving to pay for all these race fees.

January Frosty four
February Hampton half
March The Black Cat 10 miler and  Olde Salem Green XC 5K
April
May Cox Marathon & Boston Runs to Remember
June Worcester Half Marathon
July
August The Derby Street Mile and  Yankee Homecoming Road Race 5K
September Wicked half marathon
October Devil Chase 6.66
November Wild Turkey 5 Miler
December Reindeer Run 5k


What's your racing schedule like?  Do you plan ahead or go by the sit of your pants?  How many races do you typically do? 

Hitting the pavement

My gym was closed this morning due to some damage from the Blizzard yesterday... I bundled myself up ( it was 12 degrees I should add) and "hit" the pavement.  And because the streets and sidewalks looked like this

I literally hit the pavement and slipped a couple of times... Lets just say after that run I am even more grateful that Santa brought me this

and these...

These gifts will certainly be put to good us this winter and I can wait to they get here!! 

 My favorite reindeer and I would love to wish you all a very belated but merry Christmas!


What's the weather like by you?

Plans for the week and HBBC update!

Marathon training week one starts this week.  I cant believe it!!  I am ready to start and cant wait for May to put all my training to work.  Here is the plan for the week.

Tuesday 10 minute warm-up 6 x (1 minute fast then 3 min. easy)  10 minute cool-down

Wednesday Spin

Thursday 2 miles easy, 2 miles @ Tempo pace 2 miles easy

Friday: 4 mile race

Sunday: 8 miles 11:00 pace

Plus 30 day shred Monday-Friday

I found special momentum this week and was really impress how much exercise I was able to get in!  I think it was impart due to all the eating I did…. Let’s just say I really enjoyed the holidays.  The bright side is I am down another pound!!  That is 6 total… not too bad for this month. 

HBBC breakdown for the last week

Monday: 12/20

45 minute spin 4.5

2 mile walk (2)

7 fruits/ vegetables (1)

30 day Shred (1)

20 minutes/steching yoga (1)

Total 9.5

Tuesday:  12/21

4 mile run (4)

3 mile walk (3)

7 fruits/ vegetables (1)

30 day Shred (1)

Total 9

Wednesday: 12/22

4 Mile run Hill work out (4)

3 mile walk(3)

7 fruits/ vegetables (1)

30 day Shred (1)

Total 9

Thursday: 12/23

45 min spin (4.5)

90 min hot yoga (4.5)

1 mile walk (1)

7 fruits/ vegetables (1)

30 day Shred (1)

Total 12

Friday: 12/24

5 mile run (5)

1.5 mile walk (1.5)

7 fruits/ vegetables (1)

30 day Shred (1)

Total 8.5

Saturday: 12/25

4.5  easy run

2 mile walk (2)

7 fruits/ vegetables (1)

Total 7.5

Sunday  12/26

12 mile long run (12)

60 minutes yoga (3)

7 fruits/ vegetables (1)

Total 15

Monday 12/27

2.5 hours shoveling (7)

3 miles walk in the snow (3)

7 fruits/ vegetables (1)

30 day shred (1)

Total 11

Enjoy the day!!

Plans for the week and HBBC update

This is the last week before my marathon training will start.  I have decided to run the marathon in RI  and post pone the Vermont City till 2012.  Thanks for all the feedback and support.  I think this is the best decision for me and I am pretty happy with it.  I am very excited about finally getting underway with my training.  I cant believe I am on the road to becoming a marathoner!  I am still deciding on my training plan and will post about it next week. 

Plans for the week:

M: 30 day shred

T  30 day shred and 4 mile speed work out

W: 30 day shred and 4 mile easy run

Th: 30 day shred and 4 miles with hills

F:  30 day shred and a spin class

S:  Maybe a family walk but probably a rest day

Su: 9 miles

I have been having great success with HBBC and it is really keeping me  going during the holidays when I totally lose all control and get back on track in January.  With the help of HBBC and WW,  I am down a total of 5 lb since Dec 1.  Only 25 lbs more to go!!

HBBC Point Breakdowns from 12/13 to 12/19

Monday:

4 Mile speed work out (4)

2 mile walk (2)

7 fruits/ vegetables (1)

30 day Shred (1)

20 minutes steching yoga (1)

Total 9

Tuesday:

4 mile run (4)

2 mile walk (2)

7 fruits/ vegetables (1)

30 day Shred (1)

Total 8

Wednesday:

4 Mile run Hill work out (4)

1 mile walk(1)

7 fruits/ vegetables (1)

30 day Shred (1)

Total 7

Thursday: rest

90 min hot yoga (4.5)

2 mile walk (2)

7 fruits/ vegetables (1)

30 day Shred (1)

Total 8.5

Friday:

45 min Spin 4.5

.5 mile walk (.5)

7 fruits/ vegetables (1)

30 day Shred (1)

Total 7

Saturday:

4.5  easy run

2 mile walk (2)

7 fruits/ vegetables (1)

Total 7.5

Sunday

9 mile long run (9)/

2 mile walk (2)

7 fruits/ vegetables (1)

Happy Monday and here's to a short cheerful week!

92.5 and other random things...

This is the number of miles I must run each month to  reach my goal of 1111 miles run in 2011.  I have never set a specific miles goal nor have I ever track my mileage for a whole year.  I am very excited to see what the next year brings in terms of my running.  I have big things  planned in terms of racing and training and I think this goal will help me stay motivated especially on mornings like today when it was 11 with a windchill of 2. 

Speaking of cold weather running I think it is time for me to invest in one of these

THE DREADMILL

I never would believe that I would get one of these because as much as I try I just cant enjoy running on the treadmill.  However, it is going to be a cold long winter and J is going to be gone alot between work and school.  I have a training plan to stcik to and I think the treadmill maybe the only way to go.  So I am on the lookout for good treadmill that doesnt breal the bank. Any suggestions??

Speaking of suggestions, I have been getting some great comments on my blog lately and it makes me happy ( takes so little sometimes).  Anyways  I am confused on how to comment back to people...do I just comment back in the comments ?  Or do I something else and what is that??  People are providing some great feedbacka nd I dont want them to feel ignored...   I am probably over analyzing this too much as I dont most things..,, thats me!

Lastly, I am starting my training for my marathon next week and I am debating between two plans:

Run Less Run Faster

OR

Hal Higdon Novice

I am leaning toward the Run Less Run Faster but I want to get feedback and insight from others.  What training plan did you do for your first marathon?  Would you recommend it?

Enough rambling...

Have a great night!

How to choose???

So as some of you may know I signed up for my first marathon in Vermont on May 29th.  Then one of my best friends from college announced  she was getting married on May 27th in Connecticut ( she told me days after I signed up for  the race).   Since the race is in Vermont we would not be able to stay over night for her wedding and I would have to keep my celebrating to a minimum.  I have already registered for the race but can deffer it for a year.  I started thinking about trying to find another marathon in the spring instead.  I found this one in RI but I cant decide if I should stick to my original plan or to do the race in RI.  So I do what I do best and made a list of pros and cons.

2011 Cox Sports Marathon
Pros:
Only an hour away
Only one night hotel stay
Friends doing the half so we could run together in the beginning and the end
Family/ Friends could come and sheer me on
Can attend my friend's wedding and really enjoy myself
Cooler Weather

Cons:
Training start next week
Not as big or well organized  ( not sure of this more of a feeling)
Pick winter race based on the Vermont race and would not correspond with this training schedule
Falter course
Not a cool as destination





This is the original I was going to do..

KeyBank Vermont City Marathon

Pros:
I know few ladies running this race but wont run with them they are too fast
More time before training
Mini a getaway
Cool destination
Lots of cheese and chocolate to taste afterwards
Well organized race
Already registered for the race
Better scenery


Cons:
Could not stay over night at friends wedding
Only J and L Boogie would come sheer me on
4 hours away
2 nights in a hotel
Hillier Course
Possible warm temps


I am even more confused that when I started.  So I turning to the bloggy world for some help...

What race would you do and why?

Thanks!!

HBBC Update and Plans for the week

So it has been one busy week and I am  looking at other busy one.  I managed to get all my workouts in but I could not do some of the extra stuff I have been doing in the previous weeks .  The competitive side of me has noticed that I am slipping in the rankings and I would love to up my exercise and HBBC points this week.  On a positive note, despite the copious amounts of birthday cake consumed, I manage to lose another 1.5 lbs.  which is a total of 4lbs since starting WW two weeks ago.  More on WW later to come this week. 

My plan for the week:

30 Day Shred Monday through Friday plus 1 to 2 mile walk with the dog and baby each day

Monday: 4 Mile speed work out
Tuesday: 4 mile run
Wednesday: 4 Mile run Hill work out
Thursday: rest
Friday: Spin
Saturday: 3 easy run
Sunday 8 or 10 mile long run

Total mileage 25(23) miles


HBBC Catch Up


12/4 Saturday
3.1 (3)
7 veggies/ fruit (1)
3 mile walk (3)
20 minutes streching (1)

Total 8

12/5 Sunday
10 mile run (10)
1 mile walk (1)
20 minutes stretch (1)
7 veggies/ fruit (1)

Total 13

12/6 Monday
30 say shred (1)
9 Minutes  Yoga (4.5)
7 veggies/ fruit (1)

Total 6.5

12/7 Tuesday

5Mile run (5)
30 say shred (1)
7 veggies/ fruit (1)

Total 7
12/8 Wednesday
30 say shred (1)
4.5 Mile Run (4.5)
7 veggies/ fruit (1)
20 minues streching (1)
Total 7.5

12/9 Thursday
30 say shred (1)
6 mile run (6)
7 veggies/ fruit (1)

Total 8
12/10 Friday (rest day)
2 mile walk (2)
7 veggies/fruit (1)
40 mintues Yoga (2)

Total5
Week 3 total 55
12/11 Saturday
1 hour Spin (6)
2 Mile Walk (2)
7 veggies/ fruit (1)

Total 8

12/12 Sunday
9 mile Run (9)
1 mile Walk (1)
7 Veggies/fruit (1)
20 minutes yoga/ streching (1)

Total 12

How are you doing in HBBC? 

Enjoy the rest of your Sunday!!!

A little of this and that

I have a bunch things rolling around in my head and want to share.   I had such a wonderful weekend but it left me a little tired to write a long blog entry tonight. Here are is a little of this and a little of that...

--My race result for the last two races.  Both races I missed my goal time by under 20 secs.  Sucks to be so close and not meet a goal

Wild Turkey 5 Miler
1038 KARYN         188 F 29 F2529 104 SALEM      MA   52:13 10:27

Reindeer Run 5k
282 532 Karyn          30:18  9:46  35/71   F2029 29 F Salem        MA


--  The race on Saturday was the last race in the 20 to 29 age group.  I am actually pumped to see how my racing/running can develop in the next age group.

-- This weekend was filled with many fun things including a date night to see A Christmas Carol, Pizza Party with friends, a sprinkle, and the 5k.

-- I had made some wonderful friends since I have become a mother and it makes my heart swell with joy1

--The downsidee of the weekend was there was many wonderful sweets, treats and other foods.  I did not hold back and now I am feeling it.  Back on the bandwagon tomorrow.

--I have 4 great giveaways in the works and I can't wait to share them.

-- I made some awesome healthy treats for the sprinkle.  Watch for recipes and pictures this week.

-- Long runs are much harder after a late night  with a couple glasses of wine and some yummy appetizers.  I managed to squeak out 8 miles but it was HARD.  Not a good idea on my part.

-- The better the weekends are the quicker Monday comes...


So that's what has been going on in my life right now. 


What is your this and that of the weekend?

Running Reindeer and other weekeng plans...

So happy it is Friday! It is my birthday weekend and there is lots of stuff planned!!  Today L boogie and I had a play date and then when down and watched Santa come to town by Helicopter. It was very cute and got me into the Christmas spirit... LBoogie still has not clue what Christmas spirit is! Tomorrow I am running local Reindeer Run 5k.  It is a great little race I run every year to celebrate my birthday.  It is fun and festive but very cold.  Tomorrow night J and I have a date night/ birthday surprise and L Boogie is  sleeping at is grandparents.  I am so excited for some couple time!  Sunday, I have sprinkle for a couple of mom friends of mine.  Then Sunday we are having some friends over for Pizza and Cake and then we will take the kiddies to the zoo to see it all decorated in the lights.  It is going to be a busy but fun and festive weekend.  Yay!

Goal time for my race tomorrow is under 30 would love to PR but my PR for that race is under a 27 I think so that might not happen.  I will settle for under 30.

HBBC Recap
Wednesday
3.60 mile run and .4 mile walk (4)
20 minutes 30 day Shred (1)
20 Minutes stretching (1)
8 Fruits and veggies (1)

Total 7

Thursday

2mile Walk (2)
yoga one hour (1)
20 Minutes 30 day shred (1)
8 fruits and Veggies (1)

Total 4

Friday

3 Mile Walk  (3)
4 Mile Run (4)
30 Day Shred (1)
7 Fruits/ veggies (1)

Total 9

Total for the 3 days 20

Total for the Challenge 118

What fun things do you have planned this weekend?

Happy Weekend!

I can't run I don't have a hair elastic...

This was actually the thought that popped into my head when I could not find a hair tie this morning.  I am not proud but I have talent of finding the lamest excuses for not working out. I typically talk myself out of one run a week.  Right before I sat down on the couch to ditch my run, I decided that I am done with the excuses.  I love to run and I never regret working out, however, I do regret the lame excuses and not working out.

 So I got my sneakers on and headed out for a run with my hair flipping in the breeze sans elastic.  It was a slow start but it felt great to be on the road.  I was planning on heading to the gym for a treadmill speed work out but instead I headed here to do some speed work around the 1/2 mile loop. Much better scenery then the gym or a track.

I was motivated all day to not make any lame excuses and just do what I needed to get done.  Tonight the motivation/ no excuses motto continued.  When I got from home at 6pm, I put on  my work out clothes on and finally at 8:30pm ( after doing all the night time/ next day routine) I did this.

Normally I would have made some lame-o excuse like the jumping would bother my neighbors tv watching or that I would have to take another shower but tonight I just did it and I am happy I did!

Did you make excuses?  What did you do to overcome the excuses??

HBBC Check In with a smaller bootie

Ok so maybe my bootie isn't smaller yet but I am doing this check in 3 pounds lighter!  Yay for small victories!! I am so happy with the HBBC--- it is just  what I needed to kick my butt into gear.  I have been struggling with extra 30 lbs for over a year.  I feel like I am finally on my way back to healthier me. I hope I can keep this up through this rest of the holidays!

Thursday
5 mile race (5)
2 mile walk (2)
30 min walk with the whole family 1 +1 turkey day point (2)
7 servings of  veggie/fruit (1)
20 minutes of  stretching/abs (1)

11points

Friday
1hour of yoga (3)
4 Mile walk (4)
7 servings of fruit/veggies (1)

8 points

Total for first week 65
Saturday
3 mile walk (3)
Day of one of the 30 Shred DVD (1)
20 minutes of stretching/abs (1)

5 points

Sunday
10 Mile Run (10)
20 minutes of stretching/abs  (1)
7 fruits and Veggies (1)
2 mile walk (20

14 points

Monday
1 hour Yoga (3)
30 Day Shred (1)
7 fruits and Veggies (1)

5 points


Tuesday
4 mile run (4)
20 minutes of stretching/ans(1)
7 fruits and veggies (1)

6 points

Total for Day 8- 11 is 30

What was your small victory over the last week???

A whole lot of thanks...

I am have been slacking on doing the 30 day of Thanks Challenge.  I figured today is a great day to catch up and be grateful.

12 A good book--- there is  nothing like snuggling on the couch with a good book and a warm cup of tea at the  day
13 Good hair days-- makes going to work a little better when you have good hair
14 Yoga-- I love the way I feel after a hot yoga class...it is a work out both for the mind and body.
15 Story hour--- I love watching L boogie listen to stories and do crafts with his friends.  Plus nap time is extra long those days
16 Catching up with old friends-  I love when you can meet up with a friend after a long period time and it feels like no time has past
17 Chocolate--- I love it!
18 Our home--- it may not be big or stylish but it is ours and I feel complete there.
19 New Running gear-- I have had the same gear for 4 years  so it is a treat to get something new.
20 The ability to run-  running just makes me happy.
21 Our Siblings-- they are supportive and have become great friends.
22 Our parents-- they have been there for us no matter what.
23-- My nieces and nephews-- I love that my boy has cousins.
24-- The aquarium--- I love penguins.
25-- Racing -- I love thrill and atmosphere of racing.

Have a Happy Thanksgiving!! Don't forget to check out Hot Legs Runner Thanksgiving Day Blog Hop

Ready to run with the turkeys...

Tomorrow I am running this 5 mile race.  It is my 4th time running this race and I love it!  It is packed and has a great energy.

Here is the swag

My outfit

With this added thanksgiving flare fromBic Bands 

More to on Bic bands later and a giveaway!!

My Goal

It is supposed to be cold and windy tomorrow.  I am hoping to complete the race in 52:00 with a 10:24... which is not a PR but would be a Pr for this race post baby.

Good Luck to everyone trotting like turkeys tomorrow!!!

HBBC Day 3 , 4 and 5

I am totally pumped for this competition.  I have been trying to fit extra points here and there and I have been striving to be healthier overall and I am feeling great!!!  I do much better when I have something to motivate and hold me accountable.

Day 3
Yoga( One hour) 3
Weights 1
2 mile walk 2
Veggies/ Fruit 1 (Orange, Pear, 1.5 cups of spinach, 1/2 cup celery, 10 baby carrots, 1 cucumber, 1/2 peas)
Total 7

Day 4
Five Mile Run 5
One hour hike 4
Stretching/ Yoga 1
Veggies/ fruit 1 ( Orange, Pear, 1.5 cups of spinach, 15 carrots, 1.2 celery, 1 cup broccoli, 1 cup summer squash)
total 11

Day 5
Yoga  (one hour) 3
Weights 1
3 mile walk 3
Veggies/fruit 1 ( 1/2 cup grapes, a pear, 2 cups lettuce, 1.5 cups spinach, .5 cup peas, 1 cup broccoli, 1/2 cup pumpkin in oatmeal)
Total 8

Total for 3 days 26

Total so far 45

How is everyone else doing?  Do you find you are more committed to a healthier lifestyle when you have something to hold you accountable???

In honor of my upcoming 30th birthday...

I am closing in on 30 in a couple of weeks.  I thought as a way to celebrate I would do another giveaway when I get to 30 followers.  I am almost there so spread the word.  I will give bonus entry for spreading the word on your blogs.

What of giveways are your favorite?

Holiday Bootie Buster Challenge Day 1 and 2

Holiday Bootie Buster Challenge

The 3rd annual Holiday Bootie Buster Challenge is here!!  We have had over 120 participants for the last two years and I expect even more this year.  The goal of HBBC is to provide a little additional motivation to stay active and make good choices throughout the holiday season.  The stats say the average American may gain at LEAST 5lbs…but even if you gain 2lbs and don’t lose it that adds up each year. 

WHY PARTICIPATE??
A. We had an awesome time! The involvement from everyone and encouragement is amazing.
B. It kept folks from gaining holiday poundage
C. Some seriously good prizes…Sweaty Bands, Once Again Nut Butter, Lara bar, New Balance Shorts, Oiselle Running tank, CEP socks, green teas, yoga bag…to name a few…more details to come.

HBBC Rules
1 Point per mile (run/walk/snowshoe)
1 Point per 3 miles biked
1 Point per 20 minutes of weight lifting, Pilates, yoga, stretching or abs
1 Point per 15 minutes of another form of cardio (i.e. kick boxing, aerobics elliptical)
1 Per day where you reach a minimum of 7 servings of fruits and veggies

Challenge will run from Nov 20 to Jan 7…this helps to cover you for the major holidays!

Additional points: Because I am all about taking care of your entire mind, body, soul connection there will be additional posts/questions where you can earn points throughout the challenge.

DAY ONE

Today is day one of the booty buster 1challange.  I plan to do check in couple times a week to keep me accountable.

Today I did:
3 mile run
20 mins of lifting
2 mile walk
Total 6 points

Fruit/ veggies
1 Pear
1 Cup Spinach
1 Cup Lettuce
2 Baby Cucumbers
1/2 cup grapes
3 stalks Celery
1/2 cup brocolli slaw
Total 1 point

Day One total points-7

DAY TWO

Activity points:
8 Mile Run
2 Mile Walk
20 minutes streching/yoga
Total-11

Fruit/Veggies
1 Orange
1/2 cup grapes
Salad (2 servings)
1/2 cup Celery
1/2 cup grape tomatoes
1 green pepper.
Total-1
Day Two Total- 12


Overall So far 19

I am so pumped for this challenge!  I keep looking for ways to add to my points.  How is everyone else doing?

Resting is hard sometimes.

Last week, I posted that I was not feeling well and should I run or not.  I got some inspirational comments about powering through it.  So that is what I did.  I ran 3 times last week but could not shake this cold/cough.  At the urging of J, I finally went to the doctor and found out I had bronchitis.  It was actually pretty surprising to me since I did not feel that bad expect my horrible cough. The doctor advised rest for a week since my lungs were very irritated. 

Tomorrow is the day I can finally run again.  For so many months, I looked for excuses to work out.  Now I am completely bummed I can't funny how things change.  I cant wait to hit the pavement again.  I do worry that I have lost come fitness.... guess we will see tomorrow.

Have you been force to take a rest period from running?  Did you notice any loss of fitness?

Winner of the iTunes Gift Card

The winner is

Crystal from Am I a runner....or just crazy?

True Random Number Generator

 Min: 1 Max: 34

Result: 10

Crystal said...

It is official... I will be a marathoner come May!!

I signed up for this over the weekend

No turning back now!

Last day to enter my giveaway!

30 Days of Thanks days 8, 9, 10 and 11

Wow... slacker much.  I have been sick, swamped at work and plain tired.  Enough with the excuses and on with the thanks.

Day 8: My Husband

I am so thankful for my husband J.  He is my biggest supporter and wholeheartedly believes I can do whatever I want to.  He makes me want to be as good of a person as he thinks I am.  He is an amazing father and loves L Boogie with his whole being.  He supports and encourages my running.  Without his support, I could not run and train.  I am so thankful to be blessed with a man like this in my life.

Day 9 Scenic Runs at the Beach

I am thankful that this is 3 miles from my house.  It is a 6 mile stretch of beach with a boardwalk that run along it.  It has mile makers so I can do speed work.  It is well lit and many other run/walk along it so it is safe early in the morning and later in the evening.  I love that I get to run this on a regular basis.

Day 10: My Job

For a long time, I just went to work did my job and came home.  I finally found a job that I enjoy and look forward to.  I am thankful I found a family friendly company that appreciates we have a life outside of work.  Although, I wish I could stay home full time with L Boogie, 3 days a week is a good comprise. 

Day 11: New Fuzzy Socks

I look  foward to slipping my cold sore feet into these at night.  Sometimes it is the little things!

What are you thanks for today?

PS Dont forget to enter my giveaway!!

Running Date??

(not J and I )

Today I was driving and I saw six different couples running together.  At first, I thought nothing of it but then I started to get a little jealous.  I wish that J and I could run together.  When I was pregnant with L Boogie, we would talk about going on family runs and  doing a 5k with the jogger.  I was excited to be that kinda of family.  J claims he came to his senses and remember he hates running.  He used to run and now decided it is not for him. Although, I have accepted that we may never do that family 5k, I hold out hope that we will some. 

Sparked by all the running couples, I decided to look up some articles about the benefits of working out together.  I found this article about the  benefits of workout together. I decided to make list for J of all the reasons we should workout together.  

Here is the list:
Why the Smaileys Should Run Together:
Safety: You know I am klusty... I am bound to fall better to fall with you then alone.
Common Interest:  L Boogie is a wonderful interest we share but we could use another!
Encouragement:  You are the best cheerleader a girl could ask for and I can make up some great cheers for you!!
Quality Time:  We could always use more time together...
A Deeper Bond:  Studies show couples who exercise together have more sex... (hope that seals the deal)

He found the reasons somewhat compelling and agreed to give a try in the next couple of days.  I will keep you posted.

Do you exercise with your partner?  If not, do you wish you did?

Running while sick... what do you do?

So I have come down with my first cold of the season and I feel like crap.  It is cold, rainy and windy here so that does not help.  I was planning on running tomorrow morning but with this cold and how I feel I am not sure.  Part of me wants to give myself the extra day to rest and part of me wants to push myself.  Of course, my husband the sweet non runner that he is says take the day off.  I guess i will set the alarm and see how I feel in the morning.

How about you... do you push through illness or give your body a rest???

My first Giveaway...

In honor of renewed love of my iPod and music while running, I have decided to giveaway a $10 iTunes gift card. I really feel that having the right music for the right situation can make the difference. I love being able to add new songs to my play list and get pumped when I hear them.  I wanted to share that with you.


To Enter:

You must be a follower of runningmumma.blogspot.com and leave a comment

Leave a comment with your all time favorite song to workout to and 3 songs you would download with your gift card.

For an extra entry, link my giveaway on your blog and leave me a comment

The giveaway will end on 11:59pm November 15.  I will pick a winner at random and notify them on November 16th.

Goals for the week and 30 Days of Thanks Day 6 and Day 7

Last Week in Review:
I had kinda of a bad week.  I only worked out 3 times and did not make it on my long run.  I fell last Tuesday  and got a terrible cut/ bruise on my leg.  My leg was really hurting so I decided to give it a rest.  Kind of a lame excuse but I trying not to dwell.  I also ate like crap and need to get my eating back on track. 

Weekly Workout Goals:
I have finished my first two weeks of baseline training and this week calls for some moderate runs.. so I vague so here it goes:

11/8 Monday: 30 day Shred
11/9 Tuesday: 5 mile Run at 10:30 pace
11/10 Wednesday: Spin / 30 day Shred
11/11 Thursday: 5 Mile run at 3 miles at 10:30 and 2 miles at 9:30 pace/ 30 day Shred
11/12 Friday: Rest
11/13 Saturday 4 mile run at 10:30
11/14 Sunday 7 or 8 miles

Other Goals:

Eat out planned meals and no impulse snacking
Limit myself to one cup of coffee a day


30 Days of Thanks

Day 6- Lazy weekends

I love lazy weekends with no plans.  They always end up to be the best.  This weekend we had no plans which is very unusual and much appreciated.  There was lots of time spent in pjs, yummy breakfasts and extra naps.  These weekends almost never happen but are pure bliss in my book

Day 7- Blogging

I may not have lots of followers or know as much about running as other but I love blogging.  I have made other attempts at blogging before about various subjects and have always failed.  But I love all the blogs/bloggers and I love running so this maybe the prefect combo to keep me blogging. 

Happy Monday!

Great Garmin Give away

Dont forget to enter to win a Garmin

Go here to enter 26.2ismycooldown.com

30 Days of Thanks... Day 5

I am grateful for Mom Friends.  Obviously, I am grateful for all my friends but this post to dedicate to my  mom friends...

I just got home from our monthly Mom Night In and I was thinking of how blessed I am  to have these women in life.  I had my wonderful friends prior to becoming a mother unfortunately I am the first of those friends to pave the path of motherhood.  I felt alone and isolated I decided to join the local mother's group.  After a little while, I met some wonderful women and we began to bond over breast milk, colicky babies and sleepless nights.  Overtime, we began to form real friendship and alliances.  These women are there to share a laugh, a cry and a glass of wine.  Only common interest is motherhood but somehow that is enough. Although, it has been over 18 months and people come and go the core group remains and gets together with and without babies and husband.  I am so lucky to have them in my life.

Lessons learned from Last Night's Speed Workout

I have done speed work before but not in a long while.  Last night was my third speed workout since starting this round of training.  Here are somethings I learned at night from my speed workout.

-My headphones suck and I need new ones.
- Don't eat dinner and then do a speed workout.
- I prefer to warm-up and cool-down outside and not have the whole workout on the treadmill.
- I really need to get my own treadmill-- I hate the gym esp how crowded it is about to get
- Speed workouts really do make you faster and stronger
- Music makes the workout tolerable
- I love speed workouts once they are done

What have you learned from your workouts recently??

30 Days of thanks... Day 4

During my speed workout today, I realized how much love  my I-Pod shuffle.  I have not had music to run with for a while since my last I-pod broke.  I really never thought that music made a difference in my running until I started running with music again.  Tonight I really was struggling getting in the running mood... my favorite song came on and I pushed through my speed work out.  I know in the grand scheme of things this is a silly thing to be grateful for but it sure made my workout a little more enjoyable tonight.  Sometimes it is the little things. 

What  is something that made your day a little more enjoyable???

30 days of Thanks... Day Two and Day Three

For some reason Day Two did not post so you get two in one day...

Day 2
I am thankful for Trader Joe's Gingerbread Coffee.  I know this is a silly thing to be thankful for but the flavors just scream the holiday season to me.  Each cup is like a little trip down memory of Thanksgivings and Christmases of the past... remembering all the family, laughter and good time.  The holidays always have held a special place in my heart and even more so now that I have my own family.  I cant wait for all the joy to come this season and more gingerbread coffee!!

Day 3

I am thankful for family dinners.  Today J, L Boogie and I were all home to make and eat dinner together.  This is a rare occurrence in our family maybe once a week do we get to eat dinner together due work and school schedules.  I typically cook something the night before or in the morning and we reheated in the evening.  Today we got to savor our time as a family...dancing in the kitchen listening to Jimmy Buffet ( a favorite of L Boogie's) while I whipped something yummy up for dinner.  Then sitting down and eating together discussing our day  well at least J and I were L Boogie still does not add much to the conversation...Ha!  I am so thankful for anytime we can connect as a family and enjoy our time together.

30 days of Thanks... day One.

 Always a Reason to Run, launched her 30 days of Thanks and invited other bloggers to particpate.   Everyday I will post one thing that I am thankful for... big, small, silly or serious.  I have been wanted to take find more joy in the little things so this perfect for me.

 

Day One-

I am thankful for my son, L Boogie.  He is the best thing that happen to me/ us.  He made us a true family.  I never knew I could love someone so much for just simply being them.  He is such a happy and sweet boy.   He is inquisitve and adventorous with a zest for life!  I am so thankful I get to be his mama.

L Boogie the Spider

What are you thankful for?

Goals for the week...

Last week in Review

Last week was my first week writing down my goals.  I did pretty well and did all exercise as planned expect for one extra rest day.  I was travelling and did about 5 miles of walking per day so on Friday my legs were sore and needed a rest.  I also ate well while away and drank a lot of water.  I met my race goals but I will go into that in to my race report.  Also October was my first month of blogging.  I am completely hooked and can’t wait to get to know more of you in the blogging world.

Weekly Goals for November  1^st to November 7^th

Monday-Rest

Tuesday-60 minute run at 11 minute pace/Strength

Wednesday- Spin/ Strength

Thursday -One mile warm up 1min 8:00 1 minute 10:30 x10 One mile Cool down

Friday-Rest

Saturday-45 min run 10:30 pace

Sunday-30 minute half- marathon pace;  5k at brisk/controlled pace

Other Goals:

Drink at least 9 glasses of water a day

Do more core work

Sign up for the Vermont City Marathon

What are your goals for the week??  Have a great week!

Race outfit preview...

I typically do not dress up on Halloween and never have dress up for a race.  So I surprised myself and created this little number for Devil Chase Race tomorrow. They encourage people to dress up as a devil.  I did a little twist and did half devil/ half angel.  I had limited time since I waited to the last minute and I just got back today.  I am not going win any prizes ( they are handing out 17) but I am glad to step out of my comfort zone.

Here is the front...

And the back...




I have not raced in a long while so my goals are simple:
Positive self talk and not to be my own worst enemy with negative talk
Under 1:10 with an 10:30 pace
Not to start out to fast

Off to bed so I can rock the race tomorrow... Good luck to anyone else doing races tomorrow!

Three Things Thursday

This is my first three things Thursdays...

1. My new I-Pod shuffle-  I won this in a raffle.  My old ipod died and I was too cheap to  buy a new one. It had been over a year since I had an I-Pod.  I realized how much I miss having music whenever I wanted it.  I have been having some kick ass runs with my new I-Pod.  Sometime it helps to gives you that extra boost.  I was speckitcal of the shuffle and might not have bought it on my own but it was free.  I love it!  I love how portable it is and  that it is compact enough to itn in your pocket.  Plus I downloadedsome new songs from Glee and that just makes me happy.

2.  Travel--- I always knew I loved to travel but after spending the last two days sightseeing it really reminded me how much I love it.  I love seeing new places, learning about that city and people watching.  I really wish we were able to travel more. 

3.  Healthy Eating/ Exercising while away-- My goal on this trip was to stick to eating healthy, exercising and drinking water.  I have done a pretty good job so far.  I am lucky that there is a grocery store next to the hotel so I was able to get a few healthy snacks, fruit/veggies, and water for the room.  I have gone for my scheduled runs and walked over 4 miles each day.  I did treat myself to a cookie and a glass of wine tonight opps...

Running Through DC

I am in DC right now for work.  This is my first trip away from LBoogie and I thought I was be too sad to enjoy it.  Well I was wrong, I complete miss him and my hubby J but I am having a blast.  Today I got to my hotel and decided to go for a run.  I was just going to go around my hotel in Old Towne Alexandra but based on the recommendation of Amanda, I decided to head into the city and run around there.  I was just going to go for short 3 miler but ended up so engrossed in the sights of the city I ended up going 6. 

I started out coming out of the Metro and just starting running.  I got luck and after about a mile I ran into this

I took a quick pictures and chatted with some tourist that loved my new "Will Run for Wine" Bondiband.

I took off towards my favorite spot in DC...

I don't know why but I love the Washington Monument and the area around it. Then I ventured down to the Mall and  ran along there.  I looking at Smithsonian Museum's and remember my childhood trips there.  I stopped and snapped this picture. 

I was hoping to do to run up the stairs ala Rocky ( I know that Philadelphia but I was going to pretend) but it was closed. So  I just headed back down the mall and over to the Metro.  It was such an amazing run.  I wish all my runs could be in new and different places each time.

Where to run and what to do?

I am off to D.C. in the morning for a training for work.  I will be there from Wednesday to Saturday.  I will have a lot of extra time.  I have no clue what to do.  Well one thing is for sure there will be some naps!!  Anyone have any recommendations on good spots to run and what to do.  I have not been alone for thing long in over 18 months.  What a strange feeling!

Insomnia and Early Morning Run are not a matched made in heaven.

I have always struggled with insomnia for most of adult life and it really has not interfered too much with daily life. I have always fallen asleep easily but struggled with staying asleep and can be up for 2 or 3 hours in the middle of the night.  This has made it hard to wake up early and go for a run. When I started running in 2005, I was engaged but we were living apart so if I needed to sleep in and work out at night no problem.  Even when we got married, J often worked at night or had class so i continue to run after work.

Once I had L Boogie, my insomnia got better for a while probably because I was so tired I slept whenever I could get it.  Once we were on a schedule and I was back at work my insomnia came back too.  Unfortunately I cant sleep in anymore and I cant sneak in missed runs at night due J's schedule.  I used to put L Boogie in the jogger after work but now it is dark and getting cold to do that. 

The only conclusion I have come to is I either have to suck it up and run on 3 or 4 hours of sleep or we need a treadmill to try to get some workouts in. Now if I can only convince J that we NEED a treadmill and find a place to put.

I guess there is no real point to the post... just some middle of the night ramblings from an insomniac runner!

Goals for the week 10/25 -10/31

This is my first week blogging and keep track of my goals…I think it will be a great motivator this week. I have a unique challenge this week as I am traveling for work Wednesday through Saturday. I know this is not a big deal for most but I never travel for work so this week is challenge. At least I am traveling to a little warmer climate, the hotel has a workout room and there are great safe areas to run.

Monday
4.5 miles at 10:15 pace/ lift 20 minutes

Tuesday
Spin 45 minutes

Wednesday

3.5 miles at 10:15 pace/ lift 30 minutes

Thursday
1 mile warm up then 3 minutes at 8:50 pace and 3 minutes at 10:30 ( four times ) 1 mile cool down

Friday
1 mile warm up 1 minute hill/incline at 8:50 pace and 1 minute downhill/no incline at 10:30 pace 1 mile cool down (five times)

Saturday
Rest

Sunday

6.66 Halloween Run

Other goals for the week:

*To stay within my calories for the week and to track everything I eat include the bite here and there

* Make healthy choices while traveling

* Drink more water

 

Happy Running and have a great week!!

Run in a costume... yes or no?

I am running in a Halloween Race next Sunday and runners are encouraged to wear devil costumes. I typically do not dress or wear costumes especially when running but there is a sizeable prize and it is the Halloween Capitol of the US ( Salem, Ma).  I am thinking embracing the spirit of the race!  I feel a little silly but not sure why.  My two ideas are devil in a blue dress or a devilled egg.  The devil in a blue dress I would wear red running tights and a red shirt and a simple blue cotten dress over it.  For the devilled egg, I would  red running tights and a red shirt with a felt egg cut out on it.  And of course horns for both.

Any votes on which costume?  How about you... do you stick to just running gear or embrace the spirit of the race?

Speed Workouts...

Today, I did my first speed workout in over a year.  I loved it!  Well, actually, I haated it while I was doing it but afterwards I loved it.  It feels great to push yourself sometimes. 

I did:

1 mile warm up to the gym
Then did the following 3 times on the treadmill
3 minutes at 8:40 pace (10k pace)
3 minutes at 10:30 pace
1 mile easy run back home

I prefer  to do speed/fartlek runs on a treadmill during these time of year when it dark on the track.  And for some reason I cant just do them just out on the road.  Any tips on that??

Half Fanatic

Since becoming a mother, I have become a planner.   I love lists, calendars and plans!   I realized as a mother especially a working and running mother everything just follows better with plans and schedule.  So I have started to plan my races and goals for next year.  My first goal is obviously to train and complete the Vermont City Marathon in May.  But since getting bitten by the running bug (again!) that is not enough for me and I have planned my challenge for the next half of the year.  And what better goal for the NEXT half of year goal then trying to become a Half Fanatic.  

The plan is the complete the Neptune Level by completing these 3 Half Marathons:

Providence Rock and Roll Half Marathon August 7^th 2011

Salem Wicked Half Marathon September 24^th 2011

Smuttynose HalfOctober 2^nd 2011

I would love to add these 3 half Marathons to the schedule to complete the Uranus Level: ( However that would bring my race total to at least 11 and I am sure my bank account or husband would be too happy about it!!)

Worcester Half Marathon

Lowell sun Half Marathon October 2011

Maine Coast Half Marathon November 2011

I am not if I have not been racing as much as used to or what I am so excited to get racing!! 

How far in advanced to you plan you races?  How many races to you typically do in a year?