Here We Go ... Ridiculousness Pt. 1

back to running... and I'm feelin good!

the savannah river bridge run 5k & 10k went very well! I was completely exhausted after the 9 miles, and my hips/legs really hurt, but overall it was an awesome run that challenged me both body and mind.
I couldn't have run without Amy's help! She stuck with me the entire way and really motivated me as we were going across the bridge back and forth 3 times!!! Don't ever run bridges just for fun - that's all I'm sayin girls :) I hope running this race will become a tradition in our family! The trip down to Savannah was fun too - as you can only imagine!
I've started back running at the Y. It's too cold for me to run outside because I get a sore throat to easily, but I'm enjoying getting back in the routine of going after work! it's been a little more difficult now that I am seeing Miles during the week :) but that is a good thing - haha!
Right now I'm stuck in bed with severe tonsillitis... my throat is completely raw, and I have to see an ear, nose and throat doctor before the end of the week. So I'll probably be scheduling my surgery to remove my tonsils this week. Probably won't have it done until the new year though. The only positive to being sick like this, is that I can play catch-up with emails and the blog!
I'll post some of my crazy videos... these are utterly ridiculous, so please laugh!
sending lots of love to my little runners out there...
xoxo
Mir

Getting Back in the Saddle...

After a long hiatus from participating in races... I'm back at it this weekend in Savannah, Georgia! The girls & I (Amy, Mary Clyde, Hadley, Mallory, Mimi) are all going to run the Savannah River Bridge Run which is the largest bridge run in the South! ahh....
Now I am a little more excited about it - but it is going to take a lot out of me to cross that thing!
I've gotten past 5 miles over the last 2 weeks, so I'm glad I know I can atleast run that far!

The drive down should be half the fun of our trip... anytime we all get together its pretty crazy! I'll make sure to take a video... or two! :)Be thinking of me early Saturday morning as you are cozy in bed - 'cause I'll be freezing my ass off on a bridge.

xoxo

p.s. sorry about the other post i had to delete - I was testing out an image for work and needed to see if the code would work in blog editors....so i did a test run on our blog! lol. it works! thanks! :)

ONE DAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Love you girls!!!! Can't wait to see you!!!!!!! WHAT A SWEET REUNION IT WILL BE!!! :)

Goin' to the Chapel...

and we're gonna get married!
In honor of Anna's nuptials this week - i thought id do a little throwback :) Post one of your favorite Anna photos up! i'm gonna have to dig and find some more!

xoxo so excited to see y'all soon!

Video #4: The Lonely Stretch

Video #2: The Back Roads

Video #1 : There Go the Kenyans...

Well, I Did It .... :)

Girls. I ran 13.1 miles yesterday. WOW! Let me set aside my excitement for a second and tell you how it went!
I went to Goldsboro for the weekend, and Uncle Johnny and I had planned on getting up early Saturday morning to go run 12 miles! Mimi and I ran 10 last weekend in Goldsboro, so I knew I could get up there - but I was nervous to get past 10! We woke up at 5:45, and set out at 6am. It was dark outside when we started and I got to watch the sun come up over beautiful fields of tobacco, corn and cotton :)
UJ set out a great course that took us all over Goldsboro! I liked it because it was flat and we didn't double back over any of our path. It's hard for me to run the same thing over and over again. We reached the halfway mark and stopped for some water that UJ had hidden for us in a friend's mailbox. After slurping down a Raspberry HammerGel and downing it with H2O we set back out on our way. The run was good, I didn't feel too tired and my breathing was insync. I was breaking in my new Brooks running shoes though, but I'm proud to report that I didn't have ANY BLISTERS! Yay! So the new shoes must be just the thing I needed!
We made it through downtown and then were headed home with stops thru the Hospital & the Community College. Once we got to Wayne Community, I was feeling a little tired - but I really wanted to keep it going. UJ told me to just keep running a little past the street and then we'd be done. So I kept running, waiting for him to shout out already that we were done and that I could walk!!! Then he said "Ok we're done... Congratulations Randa - You just ran your first 1/2 Marathon!" - I looked at him and said "WHAT!?". Sure enough he showed me 13.11 on his Garmin! He had tricked me the whole time and I didn't know any different! Needless to say I was thrilled and super super excited! To commemorate the run, UJ let me have the hat I had borrowed from him! It is an awesome Nike hat that didn't allow a drop of sweat to run down my forehead. It was amazing and really helped my eyes.
Anyway... I'm really pumped to know that I can make it the 13 miles. I am still nervous to run in the race, but alteast I won't have any doubts as to whether or not I can finish. I know that no matter what happens out there - I have it in me to finish, and finish strong! thanks for all the encouragement along the way girls! Y'all have kept me going, and I'm so glad that I have reached my goal! This makes me want to continue to run, and to really make exercise/running a priority in my life! I can't wait for the acutal fun in 3 weeks with Ferretti and Mimi and UJ & Amy! It's going to be so exciting!!!

:(

After 2 days of PT, a few days of gel and medicine and no running for 1.5 weeks - I was feeling MUCH better - I could walk normally and go down stairs without pain. My hips are officially realigned and the PT and I agreed I'd try an easy run today and if I had no pain I could just keep doing my stretches on my own - and I'd have hope for the half.

I am so upset - I tried running this morning - only planned on doing 3 miles. I got to 1 mile and I felt the pain but it wasn't too bad. I stopped - did my stretches - walked - ran again - and I had to stop and walk the rest of the way back to the car. I couldn't help but cry - I've worked for 2 months - mostly alone - getting up at 5:45 in the morning to do my runs and I really felt like I was getting good. And now my knee is blocking that. I go back to the PT tomorrow and we'll see what he thinks but I'm not sure now (for the first time) if I'm going to be able to do the race. I'm mainly disappointed because I've worked so hard - but I'll also lose my $100 for registration - they won't even apply it to next year. Hopefully I can try something else and work through it - without any time goal - but a goal of completion. This really has been my focus most of the summer and I want to be able to do it. :(

Injury Update

Hi girls,

I went to the orthopedic doctor on Wednesday and I do have an IT band injury - he prescribed some medicine and gel to ease inflammation. I put the gel on 4 times a day!

I am also doing some physical therapy. I am really happy about this because when I visit the physical therapist I feel like I am doing all I can to recover quickly. The doctor spent 5 minute with me but the therapist spent an hour - telling me that my right hip is rotated up which causes the IT band to tighten - resulting in pain on the side of my knee. He explained a bunch of other stuff in a thick Alabama accent and I didn't quite catch it all :) First he tried to align the hip properly by making me do certain exercises and kind of pulling on me - he couldn't quite get it - but I also learned some stretches for the it band and did some strengthening - I need to strengthen the areas around my hip to keep it from rotating. Then they put ultrasound on the knee for about 15 min to break up the scar tissue - and they also put this little electric pads on your knee and kind of electrocute you for 15 minutes with ice on the knee - I'm not quite sure what that does. Anyway, he sent me home with homework - so I do my exercises twice a day.

Today I went on the bike ride I usually go on. I was a little timid at first that I would make my knee flair up like it did last Saturday - I was pretty scared. But I rode with the slower group and was able to exercise with no pain - I felt some nagging in the knee at times - but nothing that wasn't bearable. I am glad I at least got that workout in. I am going back to the therapist on Tuesday - and hopefully I'll keep getting better - I am going to secretly run (the doctor said no running for two weeks) on Wednesday - just to see how its going - nothing hard or long.

These three weeks of training were pretty important because they held my 4 longest runs - so I am bummed -and NEED to run in order to be able to complete the half. I am going to try to do some running while Brian is here and see how it goes. I've got to find a balance between making sure I've healed and still trying to get the half done. Thankfully I can not create long term damage by running with a hurt it band - so as long as I can handle the pain - or get rid of the pain - I'm good to go :) Hoping it keeps healing - I am so focused on it - I've been pretty distracted from school work - it's all about taking care of the leg :)

Larissa

9,10 a big fat hen

9 miles. Auburn Alabama.

9 miles. Boy was I a little scared. I had run 8 the week before all by myself - but I was really longing for a running partner - so I pleaded with friends on facebook to even run part of it with me :) A new student in the lab, Alex, agreed to meet me after I'd run about 4 miles. I started a little later than planned that morning so he ended up meeting me a bit earlier. It was so nice to know that I could look forward to seeing him and to have him on the last half. I felt a bit sluggish the whole way - it was so hot - even that early in the morning. I listened to a great Radiolab podcast on Limits - I highly recommend it - the first part talks about physical limits which was perfect for the run. They explain that research suggests we all have an energy reserve - and when we feel pain it is because the energy reserve wants to hold on to the rest of the energy because it thinks it is going to run out - our body wants us to stop - but really we have plenty of energy left. They did research were athletes put gatorade in their mouth and then spit it out - and guess what - they tricked their energy reserve into thinking more energy was coming - and they were able to go faster and longer without even swallowing it - amazing isn't it! Our body is prepared to do this work - we've just got to trick our brains :)

10 miles. Vero Beach Florida.

I had a great week running at home. I ran 4 miles 3 different times - way faster than my normal Auburn pace (thanks to the flat course!). On my last 4 mile run my knee was really hurting during the last mile - I probably have mentioned a bit of knee trouble before - I ran through it but boy did it hurt! I had the next day off and prepared for my 10 mile run. I was, of course, nervous but looking forward to running in familiar territory and on flat ground! I started the run before the sun came up and got to watch it rising over the ocean - beautiful! There were quite a few other runners/bikers out - which always makes it more fun for me. I was going up the bridge (one of two hills on the course) - and my knee really started hurting like it had during my previous run. I stopped and tried to stretch - tried to run again - but truly couldn't. I walked abit and figured I'd start running again - tried - and couldn't. I started crying I was so upset with myself. My legs felt great - my breathing was fine - but this dang knee wasn't working right. I walked the 3 miles back to my car :( I got home and iced it (to the point of blisters oops!) and took medicine. I figured I'd take a few days off and be just fine. So far I have taken 3 days off - this will be my fourth day. I have been icing and taken alieve. It doesn't seem to be getting better - the pain is minimal when walking - but I do feel it. And once in awhile my knee will just give out - like when I am going down the stairs of the bus :( Yesterday I was really arguing in my head about what to do - I emailed my friend Jackie who is in clinicals for physical therapy school. She responded that she thought it was my it band. I goggled it and her assessment was spot on! I talked to another active friend and he gave suggestions about what shoes to wear - to run on soft terrain once in awhile - to get back into the run with a quick walk first - and he assured me that I wouldn't loose fitness until about 2 weeks off. I still wasn't sure if I needed to see a doctor because I felt dumb - it didn't hurt that bad unless I ran 4 miles or more. Other people can't even walk.

Jackie assured me that she sees people with it band problems all the time. And that the pt won't think I am being a baby - they'll actually be glad that I came in to take care of it before it got to bad. Apparently it is more a problem with my hip than my knee - even though I feel it in my knee. She said even if I don't see the doctor now - she suggests I do after the half because this isn't a problem that will just go away on it's on. So I've got to deal with it. So I decided to make an appointment- I wanted to just go straight to the physical therapists but in Alabama you have to have a referral - so I have an appointment tomorrow with the orthopedic doctor - and I already told them I really don't expect them to do much I just want a referral. I want to be sure I take care of this now so that it doesn't continue to ache in the future. Jackie told me about how both running and cycling are using specific muscles that propel the body forward so my other muscles are very weak - I'll have to send you all her e-mail because it is very informative :)

Anyway - Doctor tomorrow at 1. I'll let you know how it goes - Jackie said they may try to stick me with a cortisone shot - I'm going to try to avoid the long needle and go to the pt :)

Hope everyone else is enjoying some injury free running!

Larissa

7,8 lay them straight

6,7,8 :) I have 3 great long runs to report on. Here we go!

6: West Long Branch, NJ

Easily one of my favorite runs to date. I got to run with Brian and his brother Scott. We ran down near the beach - so it was straight and flat (SO EXCITING!). They both run faster than me but stayed at my pace (later I found out they were pushing me a bit without me realizing it). We got to run along the boardwalk and there were tons of other people out there running/walking. It was funny/sometimes frustrating trying not to run into people. We got to 3 miles and turned around and I felt great - so I was really happy about that! The weather was so much cooler than it is in Alabama and we didn't have to wake up till 7! My legs were getting a bit tired with .5 miles left. Brian said I was doing a good job hiding it - but I felt like I was really having to carry them forward and think about each step. We finished with a quick sprint - and I found out that I had run 1 minute faster than I usually do - and it was for 6 miles. I was very happy! Right after the run we got to run down on the beach and meet Brian's uncle to go fishing.

-Larissa you should know that even though I was running with Brian and Scott - I still had the pod on and I was listening to your mix :)

- I have learned that I like water right when I stop running :) and fresh fruit is also helpful - especially when it is hot!

7: Central Park, NJ

I was a little apprehensive about this run because the night before we had gone out with my cousins and we had been up very late. But we slept a bit later than originally planed and hit the subway for the 45 min. trip to Manhattan. Brian (so sweet) had brought water and I brought an apple for the ride - so of course, when we got to the park I had to pee. Brian lived right near the park 2 summers ago - and knew there weren't any bathrooms in the area we were starting the run. He asked if I could go 10 minutes and then stop. I tried to say I could - but I had to be honest. It was one of those "I need to go" moments that hurt and I wouldn't be able to run like that :/ thankfully - there was a race going on in the park that morning and they had port-o-pottys set up right where we entered the park. I was SO grateful! So we hit those up and then started running - we got to run with the race participants for a bit - they were doing a 10k. It was nice to see what the half will be like in a few months - tons of energy! We kept running around the park - it is one of our favorite places in the city (if not the favorite place) - so I really enjoyed taking in my favorite views while exercising. There were tons of runners even when the race was finished so it was a great atmosphere. I enjoy playing the game of trying to get to the next person in front of you - it helps me push myself and in Alabama I run in areas where I only pass 1 or two people - so it was nice to be surrounded by that. I was hurting at about 6 miles - that very quick 6 miles the week before had really taken a toll on my legs. My ankle injury from high school has been acting up and right below my knee has also been very sore. This run really brought out those issues. At one point (late in the run) a girl passed us by a few feet, then fell behind, and then was running literally right next to me. I was really talking to myself while she was there saying "don't let her get by, pass her, leave her back, you can do it, be strong" - so I did :) We finally stopped near the lake and finished walking around it and then got back on the subway - of course Brian had me walk all the way down the stairs to the wrong subway, all the way back up, and then all the way back down again. My legs thanked him ;) It was nice to go home and sit on the couch and ice my ankle and knee while he made lunch :)

8: Auburn, Al

Wow - was I nervous. 8 miles - alone. I woke up and felt like I was running a race even though it was just me. Brian had set up an 8 mile loop, but I run in that area almost every morning, so I decided to use a 4 mile loop that I know that goes around campus - and just run it twice (don't think I will do this again - too tempting to stop and go home). Per my friend Alyse's suggestion, I downloaded a podcast from Radiolab. It was very interesting and did a great job with keeping me entertained - I wanted to hear all the story which helped me keep going. Despite this, the first 4 miles were killer - mentally I really struggled - I missed having someone to pace me - having others running near me to compete with. My legs felt pretty achy. I got the first 4 done - chugged some water and ate some GU - and turned around to do the loop again. I instantly felt better mentally knowing I was half done. My legs finally started feeling strong at about the last 2 miles or so (which is probably also connected to my mental thoughts). As usual, I kept telling myself I was strong, I thought about funny stores - and I kept saying 8 is great - Just like the poem Mir had written for me. 8 is great, 8 is great, 8 is great - I would literally repeat it in my head :) I finished! I was exhausted once it was over - more so than ever before (perhaps I was adjusting back to the heat). I was having trouble focusing my sight - so I walked for a bit and stretched. I had to go home quickly to shower and get to work - I really wanted to just go to sleep - I ate 4 full meals that day - and took a one hour nap that afternoon :) oops

Today I got to get back on the bike again (after 2 weeks away) - I wanted to take it a bit easier since I had just run 8 the day before - so I did the medium (18 mile) ride - I'll take the day off tomorrow - going to ice my knee tonight for a bit and then enjoy a hot bath :)

The solo long runs are difficult. Your support really has helped! 9 miles this week! eek!

8 MILE.

No... not the Eminem movie, but that is definitely how far I ran yesterday! SO EXCITING! That is the longest distance that I have ever run at once in my life! I keep breaking my own records week by week! Once again, I could not have done it without Mimi running ahead of me... but I'm just so proud that I kept pushing on and made it to the end! We went out again at night because it is much cooler (it was still high 80's though at 8pm :/) and a little easier to run. On this run we decided to deviate from our normal 3 mile loop and run elsewhere. So we ventured out into our neighborhood in a different direction; we ran through the neighborhood to Meredith and then around Meredith, then all the way up and down Ridge Road and then headed back to our house via Wade Ave - the really hilly street that we always take to get home from the airport - just so you girls can picture where we are! Ridge was a flat road, so that was nice and easy, but running through the neighborhood and on Wade was difficult. We encountered several hills, and Mims and I are both feeling those today in our legs.
I figured out that at around 1 and a half miles I finally get my breathing under control. It becomes regular and much easier to breath rhythmically. So that is a good marker for me to remember!
This weekend we run in the Historic Beaufort Road Race 10K! This weekend is my 10 mile marker - but since I'm running the 6 on Saturday I think I'm going to run 4 on Sunday. We'll be staying down at Harkers for the weekend so it will be lots of fun! Drew & Travis are running the 5K - I'm excited they are running an event with us! I'll have my camera on me, so never fear - there will be photos that document the journey!
Thanks for all of your encouraging words girls! Larissa and I are getting down to almost a MONTH until our 1/2 Marathon!!! We'll need lots of love and support as we get into the home stretch of training in August! I'm getting nervous & very excited :) If I can do 8, I can do 13!

"The only thing I hear is my heart, I'm inspired by the challenge that I find myself standing eye to eye with"

well... i sure don't know how I pulled off this last run, but it sure was amazing and so hard! Last night Mimi and I went to Umstead to run our 7 miles for the weekend (remember we are still on our long run weekends in preparation for the 1/2). We've both been finding that we are struggling on our long runs - and it's so much better when we run together. So off we went - it was beautiful at Umstead. The sun was setting, and it was getting considerably cooler outside, but have no fear - I still sweat right through everything on my body. eww. So just imagine this - we're running (around mile 4) and all of a sudden we are swarmed by these massive black bees - and I can't figure out why they won't get away from us - I start to think maybe they like the way I smell - or that they are attracted to our sweat, so I start swatting them - and mimi starts kicking them and running around to try and get them off her trail, but they are persistent little suckers. So then more come around my body and I start freaking out. I started to swat at them, and they were landing on my body inbetween swats, and so in a panic, I threw my iPod (brand new) on the ground, my earbuds fly into a bush, I peel off my shirt and start running around in a circle screaming "I can't get stung, I can't get stung... aaahhhh" all while Mimi is dying laughing and trying to take my shirt from me so she can swat them away from me. I know I looked ridiculous to passers by. So then Mimi takes off her shirt too because we decide that we can use it as a bee swatter. So we proceed to run the next 2 miles without our shirts on, swinging them around our bodies as we mosy on down the trail. NEXT, Mimi had to go to the bathroom (if you know what I mean) and she couldn't wait 'till we got back to the car. So on our way back up I tell her to go over off the trail and I'll watch to make sure noone comes by - so she could go squat. Hahahahahahhahaha it was hilarious. The worst part was that she had to wipe with her shirt (a leaf wouldn't cut it). So there went her bee swatter. For the rest of the run she used her headphones to ward off all the bees. Come to find out - the "bees" weren't "bees" afterall. THEY WERE HORSE FLY's. seriously. it was probably the funniest run that I have ever had. Our run sure did pass by a lot quicker - I can't believe I ran 7 miles! Next weekend we have to run 8 - oh Lord!!!
New to the Playlist: Dr. Feelgood - Travie McCoy (AWESOME to run to), Love the Way you Lie - Eminem & Rhianna, and my new 1/2 marathon anthem: The Fire - The Roots feat. John Legend. It's amazing!!!!
xoxo loves.

someone get me back on the band wagon... i think i've fallen off. :(

Hills = Hell

Ran my 5 miles today - the most I've run in 1.5 years. The run felt good - I was so grateful I had Larissa's pump up mix! I have been listening to it on every run and it hasn't gotten old! My legs felt a bit tired by the end, but my breathing was really normal. I did run much slower than normal - so I was disappointed at the end of the run. But I am trying to maintain focus on just finishing the race, not on how fast I do it. I also think that since I haven't run 5 in so long, I started slower because I wanted to make sure I made it through. Seems to have been a good strategy because I made it through with very minimal cramping and no pain in my shoulders (Both of which I have been getting during my faster runs). Today I even got to see a turtle make it to the safe side of the road (When Brian we were we saved two turtles while running). The hills, however, were TERRIBLE. At one point I felt like I could speed walk up the hill faster than I could run it. There are two pretty steep ones on the route and then 2-3 that are a good incline but at a slower rate.

Found this article with good "hot" running advice - I know Mir and I are combating the heat these days. I have been getting up at 5:45 am to run so that I can avoid the heat - today by 6am it was already 75 degrees with 98% humidity. Blah

http://www.active.com/running/Articles/20_Tips_to_Stay_Cool_on_a_Summer_Run.htm

Life happens....

"Life happens when you're busying making other plans"

And boy did it! I was all set to run all 4 of days I was home about two weeks ago. I didn't run a single day! Each morning I was up no later than 6am working on things for my sister's graduation. We had family in from NY - and a party each day - plus 2 graduations (one was in the rain and got cancelled so we had to go back the next day). I had a bit of free time during the day on Saturday but the heat index was 102+ and I just can't make myself run in that (especially after I had been sitting in it for 3+ hours for Lia's graduation). Depsite my disappointment - it was well worth it. Lia's graduation was wonderful - we were surrounded by family the entire time - and her party was such a blast - the entire family contributed. It was really difficult to leave early Monday morning - I am so proud of Lia and all she has accomplished - it was a weekend I will never forget!

I fit in a quick run the morning before I picked Brian up from the airport. I also planned to run with him - but we ended up doing more biking the running. We both really enjoy the bike - so we rode 15-20 miles everyday he was here. We managed to get in one 3 mile run - we got out there at 7:30 but it was already way to hot! We did spend some time one afternoon mapping all the runs I needed for half marathon training - and then we drove the routes to make sure they'd be okay. We tried to cut out any huge hills, but you can't really do that in Auburn - so there are a few big ones I'll have to battle each run. There is a big hill on my 3 mile route and as we were going up Brian was trying to encourage me and said "pick up your knees" and I turned to him with a serious face and said "I am. This is just the way I go up a hill sir" - He laughed at me - I was going pretty slow but it felt like the road was hitting my face. We got all my routes ready - he was really helpful!

I officially started the half marathon training this week. It's a pretty easy start with only 3 and 4 mile runs - It'll up to 5 next week. I sat down last night and rearranged the schedule I found online so that my long runs would be in the middle of the week so I could still do my Saturday morning bike rides. I'll be up in NY for my 6 and 7 mile runs and then Brian will be in Auburn when I do a 10 and 12 mile run - so I am really happy about that!

This morning I was able to run with a friend in the program. I was a little nervous because she said she ran 4 miles in 35 minutes - I warned her I might slow her down - but she encouraged me to come anyway. She runs at 6am - so I got up really early (I feel like this will become the norm this summer) - I couldn't believe how much easier it was just having her beside me. We both just ran with our ipods on but it helped to have her pace me. It also helped that it was only 75 instead of 85+ :) And we did it in 34:59! Anyway - I am hoping I can run more often with her!

I guess that is it for now. I got nervous last night looking at all the miles I'll be putting in these next 12 weeks - but I remember my triathlon training - and I look at pictures of when I did the Nation's Tri - and I can't believe I did it - swim 1 mile/bike 25/run 6.2 - This girl ran 6.2 miles after all that other activity? It doesn't seem like it was me - but it was :) and that encourages me that while I look at 13.2 miles right now thinking no way - I hope Sept 6th I'll be looking back thinking "that was a breeze - what's next!"

AAAHHH! Training!

The heat down South is making me crazy (hence the self portrait)...
So I've been training for the 1/2 using Jeff Galloway's method for 4 weeks now, and I must admit, I'm getting tired of it. I think it's about time that I customize it a little bit more - and start running more each week. I feel like I'm not working out as hard as I was pre-training. I only run 2 times during the week, with my long run during the weekend. The rest I cross-train. I feel like I'm in a rut so hopefully I'll get out of it soon. I'm definitely looking forward to running in SF with Larissa next week! That will give me the boost of energy that I'm needing. Granted I do have 3 months to train - so I'm not stressed yet, but come July when I have to run 10 miles (July17) I'll prob. be a little freaked.
The blogs been dead for a while ladies - so I want to hear how y'all are doing. Just because AJZ got ENGAGED :) doensn't mean we stop running - ya heard? jk.
xoxo - ps download: Paris by Grace Potter & the Nocturnals. It's fabulous.

4 Miles? Not me...

So this week I ran a little over two miles at Shollenberger (pics in one of the old posts). It was really nice. I felt good on the run and felt like I was able to keep a more consistent pace.

Then on NATIONAL RUNNING DAY, I ran 5k. Did anybody else do that like we talked about? It was good. I got up early and ran in the neighborhood and it felt good, although I was definitely tired.

I'm having a hard time getting to 4 miles. I can't seem to get used to running the 5k distance... It still really knocks it outta me.

Hope you've all been having good runs. Anna good luck on your race tomorrow!!

4 miles!

4 miles 4 miles 4 miles 44444 miles :) sing it baby

I am happy to report that I ran 4 miles today for the first time in almost 1.5 years. I have had some great workouts this past week!

Monday May 24 12 mile bike @ 13 mph
Tuesday May 25 3 mile run
Wednesday May 26 3 mile run
Thursday May 27 3 mile run
Friday May 28 OFF
Saturday May 29 18 mile bike ride @ 15mph
Sunday May 30 3 mile run
Monday May 31 3 mile morning run and 12 mile afternoon bike @ 13 mph
Tuesday June 1 4 MILES

I don't drink coffee - but I feel like morning runs have become my morning caffeine. Days that I don't run in the morning I feel a bit jittery and empty. Running has become so much a part of my day that I miss it when it is not there. I have really come to enjoy the morning runs because it is much much cooler - I am more energized because I haven't been working all day - and I feel happier/more awake throughout the rest of the day. I think it is easier on me mentally as well because I can't sit and think all day about how I have to run 4 miles - I wake up - do it - and then the rest of the day I get to say I RAN 4 miles instead of I still have to run 4 miles.

I have been having some trouble with side cramps. Brian suggested I was dehydrated -so I drank a ton throughout the day yesterday. I also read online that it could be from drinking too much water right before the run - or from your insides getting pushed around too much. So, today I attacked the cramps from all sides - I hydrated a ton the day before - I only sipped water this morning instead of trying to have a whole glass before getting out the door - and I went a bit slower down the big hills on the run so that I wouldn't be jumping as much. Towards the end it felt like a cramp might be coming on - but it was nothing compared to what I was experiencing this past week on every run. I am going to continue hydrating throughout the day as much as possible - I hate using the bathroom so much - but I now it is needed since I am sweating so much on these runs!

I go to Vero tomorrow for my sister's graduation. I know it'll be a bit hectic but I am looking forward to the "me" time each morning. Vero is my favorite place to run - so I am excited! Plus...after 9 weeks apart----Brian will be here in 8 days!!!! I am so excited just to see him (I tease that I forgot what he looked like after 9 weeks) - but even more excited to work out with him - he is really encouraging - and I always run faster when we run together!

National Running Day tomorrow! :) love you all - and official blog congrats to Anna and Matt :)

Onto the Next Run

Another 5k today at the gym. This run was easier than the last one and I kept a steadier, faster pace. I ran on a treadmill close to the window so I could look out on this little lagoon in the river. I also had the TV attached to my treadmill tuned to soccer and the iPod running full volume. I had a lot going on but it really helped keep me from getting bored. Often I feel like I need a distraction from the running itself or I just think about all the effort it takes to move one foot infront of the other. I liked being able to alternate from focusing on the music, to the TV, to the lagoon, to the stats on the treadmill screen. The run definitely went easier will all that stuff going on!

Favorite new running song: Supermassive Black Hole, Muse.

This song just PUMPED me up around 2.5 miles in.

Another Favorite is Follow Me Down (remix), by 3OH!3. Both good songs that just put some pep in my step!

After Running I went and worked out. I haven't worked out other than running in a while and it felt good. I did ab work, leg work and arm work. I think I'll be sore tomorrow!

I liked Mir's idea of all of us running 5k on June 2nd for National Running Day. What do ya'll think?

How Did I Ever Run Two 10ks?

Well I ran 2.5 miles on Friday and 5k today. It feels good to have more time to run now that the semester is over. The running has been hard though! I feel like I'm dragging in the middle and regain some energy at the very end. I have no idea how I ever managed to do the two 10ks a couple weeks ago. I think it was sheer stubbornness and will power. I've decided to go back to the basics. I'm gonna keep running 5k for a while until it gets easier, then I'll gradually increase.

I sent some mixes to ya'll that I hope will inspire some good running. I ran to many of the songs on your mixes the last two runs. My favorites are Bullet Proof by La Roux and I Made It by Kevin Rudolf. The one that always helps me pull through at the end of a hard run is Shake It by Metro Station.

Hope you all are having good runs! I will keep, keepin' on.

Pump it up!

Hi running partners :)

I am SO happy to say that I have been running running running :) When I went home last week I knew I would have tons more free time than I do at school - and Vero Beach is my favorite place to run - so I went for it and ran 7 out of the 10 days I was home. I mostly just ran 2 miles and on my last run I ran 3. I now have two miles under my belt and can just go out and run it - without a worry - and I don't have to feel my best mentally or physically - my body just kicks in. So I am trying to master that with 3 now as well.

My runs at home were so beautiful. I ran the bridge over our river several times - and then for a flat run I ran near the water at a park - all the old people walk there in the mornings so it was nice to work out with them. I tried to run early morning or late evening since it is already so hot and humid. I find it amazing how some runs can feel so fluid and easy - others I felt overheated and like I was really having to work. It felt it good to have the time to run each day.

Now I am back at Auburn - and I find it harder to run here because my schedule is busy - but I also love to run near water - and we don't have that here :) Plus it is a lot more hilly here! So far so good - I ran yesterday at 2:30 (terrible time but the only one I had) - I went out to the dog park which is a bit flatter - but boy was it hot! I knew time would be tight today - so I decided to go right when I woke up. I was at the running trail (very very hilly) near my house by 8. It was sooo much cooler - and it felt so nice to start my day that way. Sometimes as I go through the day I get so drained and so running at the end seems more difficult - I enjoyed feeling fresh and mentally strong that early - I really talk to myself while running lately - I tell myself "you're strong" over and over - I also tell myself "just settle in" - I also like to run with the sun at my back so I can watch my shadow as I go.

Anyway - I am enjoying the running - Does anyone else run first thing in the morning? Can you suggest any good pre-run food? I know I need to eat and drink since I haven't had anything in 8 hours or more - but cramping is always an issue. Today I had some juice and half a banana before running and it seemed to be okay - I used to eat a lot of power bars so I may try those again.

I almost forgot! The Auburn 2010 Bike Bash about 2 weeks ago went wonderfully - I biked 20 miles all over Auburn and met some leaders of Auburn's Bike Club. They have rides here everyday of the week - and about 5 that I'd be able to do (the 2 others are a too fast for me) - so I am looking forward to getting involved with that - running in the morning and biking in the afternoon.

I guess that is it :) oh and if anyone has a fun summer pump up mix - send it my way :) I need some new music!

Happy running,
Larissa

new hopes.new dreams.new ways...

Pre-Race group shot: Me, Uncle Johnny, Amy & Mimi!rounding the bend to the Finish Line!!!

Post Race Photo with Team JAMM - you can see how hot i was...

so after 5 long months...I'm officially claiming the title "RUNNER"! I completed my 1st 10k (6.2miles) this past Sunday morning and it was such a thrill!!!!! I've been in training mode since January and I think my body is really getting into the groove of my running exercise - and it has definitely gotten easier and more enjoyable! I love it :)
I ran in the Inside Out Sports Classic 10k with Uncle Johnny, Amy and Mimi bright and early on Sunday. It was a nice morning - sun was out, but extremely humid. I was wiping the sweat from my forehead around the first 1/4 mile! Drew, Had, and Mal came to show their support for us all that morning - and it meant the world to me! I have really enjoyed how much my family & friends have been apart of my running journey. Your love & support I could not do without!!! UJ, Amy and Mimi... or Team JAMM as we are now called all ran at my pace and stuck with me through the whole race! I loved running with a group. The conversation keep me going and most importantly we had FUN! We ran through Umstead which is my favorite, and then back through the Greenway on a path that Mims and I had never taken before - it was beautiful! On the last little hill though, my legs were just having so much trouble leaving the ground... and Mimi literally had to pull me for a second! After I made it up that hill we were in the home stretch and rounded the bend to the Finish. The other half of our team was there cheering us on as we came down to the home stretch. We all got to cross the finish line together with me leading the way which was so much fun :) Our official time was 1 hour & 10 min. I met my goal of not walking again which I was excited about! After the race, UJ treated us all to breakfast at the Farmer's Market - and boy was it good! We all got huge delicious butter biscuits and a smorgasbord of other breakfast items. Much needed after running in the heat!
Now I am looking forward to finding another race to run in this summer. I know that I want to do one of the beach runs this summer, because I think that would be a fun challenge... but other than that I don't have anything planned! Don't think this is the end my friends... 'cause it's only the beginning !!!!!!!!!! Thank you for all your love and encouragement - keep it coming!

Human Race 10k

On Saturday morning, Emily (my friend from grad school) and I got up bright and early for the Human Race. We ran the 10k. We started the morning with bagels and cream cheese and bananas (good race day breakfast) two hours before the start of the race (to give enough time for digestion... and poops! haha). Here are some picture I took while we waited in the sea of people for the start. Keep in mind 10,000 people participates 5,000 runners and 5,000 walkers, so it was pretty crazy!

This is a picture of all the people infront of us and the big balloon thing is where the starting line is.

This is a picture of all the people behind us. We were in between the 7 minute milers and the 11 minute milers. Somewhere around nine minute milers.
Emily and I waiting. Anna notice the head gear. It was in the mid sixties and my ears still needed warming! :)

The race started right at 8AM with Beautiful Day by U2 on the pod. In the beginning it was pretty clogged up. The 3k and 10k runners started together with the walkers in the back and then everybody split up at mile 1. After the split it was easier to run without feeling so crowded in. I just got into my own groove.

Side Note: I don't think you all know, but on Thursday I was rear ended in my car. I'd been having some problems with whiplash in my neck but decided to run anyways.

Well, at mile three all of a sudden I experience this very sharp and VERY intense pain shooting from the base of my skull, down my neck and into my shoulder blades. I had to stop and walk to calm the shooting pain. I walked a short distance and mustered up my strength determined to continue running and finish the race.

I kept running but each time I swung my left arm shooting pain would go from my neck into my shoulders. I was in tears most of the run. I hadn't properly trained (or trained at all!) and the course was ALL hills. I was totally struggling. I finished and I actually finished with a pretty good time given everything.

It was a beautiful morning and an absolutely beautiful course (actually somewhere I often took the dogs to walk/run when I lived in Santa Rosa). It was actually more enjoyable than it sounds. Sure my neck was killing me and I was gasping for air, but I finished and finished with a decent time: an hour and six minutes - faster than my time when I ran my trial 10k last Monday (an hour and nine minutes).

I kept thinking of you girls the entire time. Mr. Brightside made me think of Anna and for some reason of all of us together in Italy and in Chicago. It really pumped me up at mile 4. I finished the race sprinting the last 1/2k which was lined with people cheering me on. As I turned onto the straight away leading up to the finish I listened to Viva La Vida. I thought of Mir. I thought of how inspired I am by her dedication to running and that helped me muster up my last bits of strength and just GO FOR IT. Several people (strangers) remarked to me after the race about how impressed they were that I was able to sprint so fast down the straight away.

I've got terrible shin splints and my neck is still really messed up, but I completed the race and had a great time raising money for CCI. I raised $575! The whole CCI team raised over $15,000! Incredible. It felt so amazing to be doing something that would benefit an organization that I am so passionate about and involved in. I know I've done a lot of volunteering for CCI, but raising money for them was a very different sort of volunteer work and something that I feel very accomplished about.

Next time I run a race, I'll hopefully decide to run it with more than a week to go before race day so that I can properly train. With school coming to a close in the next six days I'm looking forward to having more time to run again. I plan to do some races with classmates over the summer :)

"Gonna Fly Now"

Today after work, I met Matt at the metroparks for a run. The course was downhill for the first 1.5 miles and gradually went uphill for the last mile or so. In total, we ran 3 miles and even squeezed in a couple of pullups too :) which were a lot more difficult than I had anticipated! Matt was great - we started the run off humming the theme song from Rocky, and talked and laughed the whole time! It was a beautiful day out and we had a ton of fun :) we documented the run for you with some photos...which I hope you enjoy!

As you can see we did some serious stretching before the run...always important! (This is a Matthew Welch classic stretch. "good for the glutes" I hear...)

We did have to make one pit stop....we'll try to avoid that next time...

We did it!!! :)

one more phot.

Running for a Cause

Hey Girls,

So I signed up today to run a 10k race, to benefit Canine Companions for Independence! It is the biggest non-profit race in the nation btw. I'm doing really well on fundraising and I'm hoping to double my goal. I've got to be honest, I've been a little MIA from the running craze. I haven't been on a run since I ran with Mir. OVER a month ago. I know it's bad, but school has just been so insane and I was sick, etc etc... no more excuses!

So I went out running today to see if I could force myself to get 10k done (6.2 miles). I did it! I totally though I was going to die about halfway through all the way till the end. it was sooooo hot today and I felt like such a slug. I ran in the most beautiful place though which is definitely what kept me going- and thinking about running for CCI, and in Jessica's honor. I have all the donations being done in her memory.

At one point I was running so slow I looked like one of those middle aged women who run so slowly with weights attached to their ankles, and barely pick their feet up off the ground. You know how the look like they are running in slow motion?? Well that is what I looked like! I probably could have power walked faster than I was running!

The point is though that I did it, and I can do it, and I WILL do it on SATURDAY! WOOP WOOP.

Here is a photographic journey of my run, Enjoy!

"Happy Running to You..."

Happy Running my friends! It sounds like we are all doing well on our respective journeys! I'm so thrilled that everyone has been active - Larissa I'm glad you got started again today :) Do y'all remember this photo? When Princie & Doug sent me the amazing birthday cake that we all devoured! Y'all made my 21st so special - we sure did have fun! I miss 27 via del cortone!

So here are some developments: I've continued running since the 4mile race. I've been consistently running the 4 miles since the race, so on Wednesday Mimi is pushing me up to 5! It's Cinco de Mayo, so it's only fitting... :) On May 16th I will run the 10k race in Cary. Mimi and I are running it together, and I couldn't be more excited! I am a little nervous, but I know that it will be a fun challenge. I feel that if I can run the 6 miles confidently, then training for the Half Marathon this summer will go a little easier.

keep posting girls! I want to hear all the details! Anna - so excited that you are running with Matt & Amanda! Ferretti - did you bike Auburn last week? What was that status I saw on FB?

miss you & love you all. xoxo. Mir.

Back on the Running Train

So it's no half marathon, but it will keep me motivated.....Matt (the b.f. - for all of those strangers out there reading this blog...ha! who am i kidding? :), Amanda (a great friend!), and I are running a 5K on June 5th. It's at the Gates Mills Land Conservancy, where Amanda lives, and it's going to be gorgeous! It's something to look forward to, and to motivate me to get a couple of miles in! Yipee! Now that the weather in Ohio is sunshiny spring, it's going to be something exciting to look forward to! Running together adds a whole other element of fun to it! - AJZ

I MADE IT!

I MADE IT! I finished the race that I have been training for since January - and met both of the goals that I set for myself from the very beginning - no walking, and finish under 45 min! I am on top of the world right now! This morning when I was standing in the middle of the street at 7am in Chapel Hill amongst 2,000 other people - I thought that I was a little insane, but that was quickly laid to rest once my feet started moving! I established a good pace right from the beginning and stuck with it all the way through! The hills def. got me one time, so I had to make up for it once I hit the flat road around mile 3.

Y'all wouldn't have believed me! Once I turned the corner and knew that I was making my way into the stadium I turned up Coldplay's "VIVA LA VIDA" all the way and started sprinting around the track to the balloon finish! I felt such a surge of energy and excitement! As I turned the corner I saw Hadley & Mallory screaming for me in the stands - so I waved and cheered back. Then I realized that I was turning the last corner of the football field. I saw the clock just ahead of me - and realized that I was going to achieve my goal of finishing under 45 minutes! So I threw my hands up, screamed ridiculously loud and crossed that finish line loud and proud! Just like you would expect a southern gal to do :)

Girls, I can not tell you how exhilarating it was to cross that finish line - actually y'all already know how it feels, but can you remember your first race and the feelings that were running through your body? It was simply amazing - I've never felt better! The personal accomplishments that I met in this race have given me the energy to want to do more and to keep running! I know that I can try my best to compete in a 1/2 by the end of the summer! I'm going to do it!

One last thing... check out the pics on facebook. there is one photo that i took during the first mile, and in it you can see a man who was competing in the 4 mile race in his wheelchair. I came across this man several times throughout the race and watched him intently. One moment when we were both going up hill my emotions got the best of me and i just started to cry (go figure :)) while listening to Jay-?! Despite this man's obvious disabilities he was still competing and not letting anything get in his way. He had no barriers. If he could keep pushing, then I could keep on going too. It made me think about how blessed I am in all areas of my life and how meaningful that finishing this race was to me. I set a goal and I achieved it. That is what I am most proud of. I couldn't have done it without all the love and support from each of you (mimi, had, mcp, amy, & UJ included). To each of you - thank you SO MUCH! ...This is only the beginning!

xoxo - MJE

A Shout Out to Our Girl Mir!

Ok Girls...Tomorrow's the big day for Miranda. Can you believe it? The race is finally here!!!

Mir - just wanted to wish you good luck and happy running! YOU'RE going to do GREAT! And WE are SO PROUD of YOU and LOVE YOU SO MUCH! Crank up the jams, get into your groove, and run you amazing heart out! If you're nervous and need to get your mind off of it, just picture me and the Larissa's doing something ridiculously goofy (i.e. looking up stupid stuff on google in the chicago hotel - you know... - while lounging in our long underwear, etc. etc. etc.) Remember to RUN YOUR RACE! That's all that matters and it matters the most! So RUN RUN RUN dear fabulous friend! We can't wait to hear all about it! And just in case you need a mental image of something motivating, just think, "You are ROCKY, in girl form that is" :) Much love to you and happy running! XOXO

Raise the Roof 5k

Saturday April 3 Brian and I ran a 5k over on the beach in Vero. I was nervous because I have never run with him - and I know he is faster than me - plus I had run 3 miles the week before and was very slow :) But we got out there - and ran the first mile in 8:34 -- we slowed a bit for the last 2 miles but finished right at 27 min - It was so so great to have a running partner - Brian and I could talk along the way and he'd challenge me to catch up with the next person in front of me - and of course he kept telling me how great I was doing :) It was so fun - I wish we could do that together every weekend! I told him that when I run my marathon - he has to do it too - It is amazing how much it helps to have a supporter running with you the whole way! I've never had that in a race! Anyway - he got 3rd in his age group and I got 4th. Mama and Papa came to watch and even help a sign for Brian (per his request) - my Aunt Tina was one of the organizers - so a great family event.

Brian and I also did a lot of bike riding this past week while he was in Auburn - Last Tuesday he had me bike 15.5 miles and then the next day we did 25 miles - Usually those distances aren't too hard for me - but Auburn is so HILLY! We were constantly going up and down and up and down - by the last hill both of our legs were shaking and I was ready to eat a whale - literally - when I got home I had 4 small chocolate doughnuts, a Pb&J, a wrap and a piece of ice cream cake Wow :) The weather was just beautiful and perfect for biking - I picked up a nice tan along the way - Again - I love biking, but half of the enjoyment was having Brian out there with me cheering me on/making fun of me/racing me/commenting on the sights along the way. Now I know 2 new loops to go on - and I hope to get out again really soon (before it gets to hot around here!)

The month of April will be misery - so I am hoping I can remember the feeling of running and get myself out there. I know it'll do me good - but finding the time will be difficult.

Hope everyone had a Happy Easter! What are the current half plans?

"Even if you're on the right track, you'll get run over if you just sit there." - Will Rogers

Tonight Mimi and I went to the Y for a Beginner's Spin Class, and I must say that it was awesome! We learned how to properly bike, etc... and it was very intense! I'm hoping to go back each week because it was an awesome workout. I think I could give Lance a run for his money now :) Larissa - is that something you did in preparation for your Tri? Anna, have you taken spin classes before, or just Yoga? I highly recommend them now! I'm glad Mimi suggested we go!

After 30 min of Spin we went to the track and ran 3 miles! Needless to say, I am exhausted! The 3 miles went easy though and it's always great to have Mims run with me :)

The weather here in NC is supposed to be 80-85 all weekend long! So we are expecting to have an amazing Easter weekend! I'm throwing Blythe's bridal shower this Saturday, so hopefully everything will go smoothly and we will have a nice time! I'm hoping to get some nice outside runs in. Anyone else have plans for this weekend ??? Let's hear them.

xoxo

we run things.

Finally catching up on the running blog! Sorry that I've been behind, but I promise I haven't stopped running! I've done really well keeping up with my training and I'm really excited! There are only 11 days left until I run my race - I CAN'T BELIEVE IT!
Larissa was here last week/weekend, and we had such a great time together! Her visit was much needed on both ends, and I thoroughly enjoyed her time in NC! To say the least we were busy everyday, except Sunday :) We spent it just like we spent our endless Sundays in the lovenest on 27 Via Del Cortone! It was amazing!
On Friday I took Larissa to Umstead State Park, which is my favorite place to run outside in Raleigh, and we ran 4 miles in 38ish minutes! It was awesome to have Larissa's support during the run! I love running with others, because it really is nice to just have the encouragement whether you need it or not! Larissa was the leader while we ran hills, flats, and trails! It was great! Now i just have to run 5 miles a couple times before the date of the race and I'll be ready to go! Girls, my goal is within my reach now, and I'm just so so so excited!!! Thanks for all of your support!

There was one song that I listened to on repeat for most of the run ... I had to borrow LA's iPod because mine is dead, and it's called Black & Gold by Sam Sparro. It's awesome. It might be a good one to catch at the beginning of a run or warm up because its kinda slow, but it will help you set your pace, and i think it is super sexy!

xoxo

Runnin' with My Homie!

We did it girls! We ran together at Umstead Park, which is a beautiful state park in Raleigh. It was HILLY. It was sooo great to run with Miranda! I always run by myself and it was nice to have somebody running alongside me or at least in the same area to chat with or just to motivate me to keep going. We ran a little over four miles in 38 mins-ish, which is awesome. I was soooo proud of Mir because she met her running goals. I wish that we could all run together all the time it would be so inspiring and FUN.

There is nothing better than going for a run on a sunny day in a beautiful park with your best friend and some good music!

PS I just have to say, I LOVE running to Do Somethin' by Brit. It just fires me up to run so hard.

smile!

Hi girls!

I think I have hit the running jackpot - and hopefully this high will last (If only school doesn't get in the way!)

I FINALLY ran 3 miles yesterday - I know I am still behind all of you by about a mile - but I am glad I got past my 2 miles wall - I did run way way slower than I used to - but for right now I just want to get the miles under my belt and work on my speed later. Anyway - I felt so good after I did it- I was really hungry though! While I was running I was thinking of getting home and eating a banana and everything else in my kitchen!

I think I was able to go ahead and do the 3 miles because I am doing a 5k on April 3- about only a week away - My aunt asked me to do it because her reality firm is raising money for Habitat for Humanity - how could I saw no? Last night I decided I had to run 3 miles - just to make sure I could still do it! :) I am so much more motivated when I have something I am working towards - So now I realize that signing up for a race is even more important than before.

The races Larissa picked out seem great - I am just not sure if I'll be able to afford the airfare all the way to the west - :( If I don't make it though - Mir you have to go with me to the Virginia Beach Half - It is in September - if I can't make it to the one you all do - I think I am going to do that one. It is the same RocknRoll thing - and they've had some great bands before - like the Goo Goo Dolls!

I am also looking into doing a Tri this summer - and then I really want to do a full marathon next year - but I need to really think if I'll have time to train while I try to finish up my thesis. Anyway, I want to do the Country Music Marathon in Nashville!

Brian is running the 5k with me - I told him yesterday that I think we're just going to have to walk it :) He is so much faster than me!

Anna - Hope you're are recovering well after your trip to China
Mir & Larissa - Have a blast! Hope you get in a run together and can report to us!

Also, I titled this post smile - because I know from research that just by smiling we can change our attitudes - so I decide to apply this to running - I probably look like a total cheese ball -but as much as I can - I try to smile now while I run :) I think it helps keep you happier when you're pushing through that last bit - so smile!

Larry2

Back To Running

Hey Girls! I know I've not been on here in a while! I haven't run in ages because school has been so hectic. Things have settled down a lot though, so I decided to go running this evening when I got home from school. I love that the sun is staying out longer so I can get good runs in at night. I ran at this beautiful bird preserve sanctuary in Petaluma. It's a big loop around a lagoon surrounded by green rolling hills. There are all kind of beautiful birds there. I ran 5k right off the bat! It felt so good to be running. After my run I did lunges, and all kinds of sit ups and push ups. Then I did a cool down and stretched. It's amazing how much running just makes me feel better!

I am so looking forward to getting in some running with Miranda next week!

PS My favorite running song that I never get sick of = SINGLE LADIES. OH OH OH WOAHOH OH

no smoking on the running trail

1. i saw a man last week smoking on the running trail - and he really made me mad

2. I did great last weekend - ran Friday-Mon - didn't get any runs in Tues-Fri this week -

3. After my run on Monday I did a whole song of lunges - most of the time I am not sore after a run - but the lunges KILLED me - ladies I could barely bend down to get to the toilet - I walked like I had something stuck up my rear end - but it felt really good. I am thinking that I am going to keep doing those at least once a week (hard to believe I did them after 3 hours of lax practice and in the middle of sprints in my younger days) - anyway I think they'll help make me stronger - lately I feel like my legs way a ton when I run

4. Ran today in the cold cold cold - I only saw two other runners out on the trails - but it was nice

Looking forward to a sunny slightly warmer run tomorrow and hopefully Monday.

Who uses the Nike thing where it tells you your mileage? Do you have to wear Nikes to use it? I'd like to have something like that letting me know how much I am running.

Anyway - You guys really inspire me - and keep me hitting the roads!

Love,

Larissa

4 MILES!

Girls - I ran 4 miles today :)

Needless to say I am very proud of myself and very excited that I have pushed through and reached this mile marker. My race is in 1 month, so knowing that I can atleast run the 4 miles puts me at ease a little bit. This month I will work on getting better on my time - and try to push it up to 6 miles.

I was able to run outside in the sunshine today and I def. think that helped me keep going. It was a beautiful North Carolina day. I have used the Nike+ website to map out some routes around my neighborhood, so I went and picked one to try out. It had a few big hills, but I ran them, didn't walk! My head kept telling me to stop - so I had to keep telling myself that I was fine and to just keep going. I need to work on the mental aspect of my runs - I hate it.

Hope y'all are doing well this weekend! Any good stories?

Music: Nothin' On You - B.o.B., and the Killers :) thanks anna for the inspiration. i love their first album.

Smile Like You Mean It

Last night I got out to do a 2 mile run which felt pretty good! It was a super short workout (that's all I had time to do) but I'm glad I was able to find the time to get something done!

Have any of you ever ran with small weights before? I've seen people do this - either put weights on their calfs or carry small ones in their hands. I'm thinking maybe instead of weights I could do something more like what Fred is doing....just a thought.

Happy Running to you all this weekend!

Musica: The Killers. love them.

"I like the way you work it ... no diggity."

so after being sick all last week, this week i have gotten back into the swing of things - slowly.
tonight was a 2.5 mile run. i was going super slow, so I'm hoping that this weekend I can bump it back up to 4 miles. we shall see.
does anyone have any good ab exercises to share? mimi and i have been doing some with a 4lb. medicine ball, but id like to see what other ways we could use the ball in the routine. please share if you have any good ideas!

music tonight: telephone - lady gaga, uprising - muse, knock you down - keri hilson & kanye west, this is how we do it - montell jordan, no diggity - blackstreet.

A weekend of spring

Boy what good weather can do for your desire to run. So, yesterday I wrote that I'd be doing the 10 min runs - today I went to the park with the longer trail and ran instead for 20 minutes - I am realizing that the 10min runs will come into use when I am so tired or don't have time - just to make sure I get out there and at least do something. Otherwise - I am going to stick to running about 2-2.5 miles until I feel like my body has that down again and it becomes natural.

I am feeling again that running gives me energy - but I am really trying not to think about school while I run - that is hard! I keep thinking about multiple regression and relationship beliefs - and urgh so today I really made an effort to think about other things but it kept seeping in.

Anyway - so grateful for this great weather - makes me wish I could run 8 miles so that I could just stay out there in the sun! Hope everyone else is enjoying some lighter weather as well!

Running Machine

One more run to add to the list today. I ran two miles. I was sore from yesterday's long run so I took it at an easy pace. My left knee is really sore and my right calf muscle. I'm a little worried about my knee since I've had a lot of injuries on it in the past. I'm considering going to a sports store and having them watch me run to see if the shoes I'm running in are good for me. Have any of you ever done that? I think I'm going to take tomorrow off and maybe run again on Monday. We'll see. Just as precaution I'm going to RICE (rest, ice, compression, elevation) today and tomorrow when I'm studying. Maybe not the compression part I don't think it's totally necessary but we'll see!

Tracey Anderson

So I was just catching up reading Gwyneth's blog... I've gotten behind lately, and I found this post.
It's amazing and I can't wait to try it out once I feel better! It looks like I won't be able to move my arms the next day, but it sounds like its a good work out. I also like the fact that she isn't pairing any weights with the routine. Simply using your own bodies resistance. Try it out - looks fun ... who knows... those moves might make their way out on the dancefloor! haha.

I ran! I ran! :o)

So, I have been the total slacker of the group - with weather, not having easy gym access, travel and school - I am just full of excuses :o)

But I got home from work today and was exhausted - I had 4 options

1. Do school work (NO)

2. Go to the grocery store (eh)

3. Nap (looking good)

4. Run (but I am so tired!)

It is 60 degrees here today and I hate to waste a beautiful afternoon - so I decided that I'd go to the running trail with my ipod but just walk briskly since I was tired. Well, I got there and realized I didn't have my ipod (which hasn't really been working anyway) and on top of that - it was a little too chilly for just walking - so I changed plans - and I decided that I'd just run for 10 minutes. I know you guys are all breaking 3 miles but I think I need to take things back to make the running more manageable for where I am right now - so I ran 5 out and 5 back - a little over 1 mile - and then I just did 50 quick crunches. I think that I am going to keep running my 10 minutes for the next week and then move it up to 15 and so on - I can always run for 10 minutes - you can do anything for 10 minutes - so it helps erase all of my excuses of no time/tired etc. - plus the weather is supposed to be great this weekend and I find that to be a great motivator!

So - here is to the mighty 10 minute run :o)

Love,

lkf

Procrastination Through Running

When I get tired, I remember the girl who used to be able to run forever as long as she had a soccer ball with her. In the moments when I just want to stop and not do this running thing anymore I remember the athlete I used to be and how much I miss being that person. Running like we have been and setting goals for ourselves has inspired me so much to reconnect with that girl.

Well procrastinating by running has been really helping me to meet my running goals!

Yesterday after Head Start I went to the gym. I started off by running 1 mile as fast as I could. I had a hot guy next to me running so that was an additional motivator! I ran a mile in 7 minutes. Then I went and did some weights and ab work, stretched and got back on the treadmill and ran another mile. I was pretty tired after all that so my second mile was a little sluggish.

Today I ran 6.5k just over 4 miles! I totally agree with Mir that pushing past 3 miles has been really hard. So I forced myself to take the opportunity to do it today! It was hard! I started off running well, but the route I mapped out for myself was pretty hilly (kind of unavoidable where I live) and I struggled when I got to the hills. I told myself when I got tired on the hills that it was okay to stop and walk twice for 100 meters as long as I actually ran a full 4 miles. It turned out that I was tired so I did stop and walk twice. I didn't need to walk for long before I got running again, though and ended up running a little over 4 miles and walking abut 125 meters. I am really proud of myself for pushing through and forcing myself to JUST DO IT!