600 miles in 2013

Holy crap. I did it. I reached 600 miles this year. I normally only get 300 miles in each year but this year I went way over. :)

Thank you to everyone who has encouraged me along the way this year. I can't wait to see what 2014 has in store.

Hope everyone has a great New Year!



What are your race plans for 2014?

Cleaning Out My Closet Giveaway

I have accumulated so much energy supplements this year that I can't possibly use it all. So instead of letting it go to waste (or be thrown away), I am going to be giving away a few things from my stash. :) Because of the number of items, I will select 2 lucky people to win. :)

Here is the list of items in box 1:

• Nature's Bakery - Raspberry Fig Bar
• That's it.  (1 apple + 10 cherries fruit bar)
• Happy Squeeze - Coco - Orange Mango-  Coconut Milk
• Body Glove Surge Double Expresso
• Energems
• Chocolate Agrave #9
• N/O. - Xplode - Blue Raz (drink mix)
• Frog Fuel - Protein Shot - Berry Flavor

Here is the list of items in box 2:

• A3 Bar Honey Graham S'Mores
• Happy Squeeze - Coco - Orange Mango-  Coconut Milk
• Body Glove Surge Chocolate
• Aero Shot Energy
• 2nd Surge Ultra Energy Gel -  Double Expresso
• Quest Bar - White Chocolate Raspberry
• Frog Fuel - Liquid Protein - Berry Flavor
• Pr Bar -  Apple Pie

To enter the giveaway use either or both Rafflecopter. :)

a Rafflecopter giveaway a Rafflecopter giveaway

Giveaway information and disclaimer:  The giveaway starts at 12:00 am EST on Monday, December 30th and ends at 12:00 am EST on Monday, January 6th.  Open to US residents only.  Winner will be picked at random by Rafflecopter. I will contact the winner and they will have 48 hours to respond to me with their mailing address. The items in this giveaway are from my own stash.

Merry Christmas

Merry Christmas everyone! I hope you were good this year! :) 

I haven't opened my presents yet (waiting on 2 family members to get here) but I will definitely let everyone know what I get. :)

I finally got a Facebook page

After going back and forth with myself for a few months, I finally decided to get a facebook page today. Half marathon #2 training will begin very soon so I decided now was the perfect time to create a page so I don't have to annoy my facebook friends list with a lot of my running talk.

If you would like to "like" my page. Follow this link:  https://www.facebook.com/inthelifeofarunner


Hope everyone is ready for Christmas - I know I am!!! It just stinks that Christmas is coming way too quickly this year. :(

Esprit de She 10K Recap

Esprit de She Atlanta took place at Piedmont Park. This was my first time actually running in the park. Normally I just run to the park and finish in the park for the Peachtree Road Race. This time I got to run in the park which was nice even though I wasn't able to really able to enjoy the park beauty so much since it was dark.

We started off at 10th Street and Monroe. We had to run up 50 yards before turning into the park and making our way around the loop. The 5K ran the same route as the 10K. The 10K participates had to run the loop twice. I normally try and avoid races like that only because it gets boring seeing the same thing twice. Hoping maybe next year they have the 10Kers go another way.

I started off up in the front of the pack like I always do, but I knew I wasn't going to make this race a PR race (even though it would have been nice to).

The horn went off at 7:09.

I immediately knew something was up with my knee once I started running. Perhaps standing around in the cold didn't help one bit. I had it in my head I was going to quit and not do the race because I just didn't feel right. But I told myself to get to 3 miles and if I just wasn't feeling it to stop running and just quit. Luckily, I warmed up and was able to finish the 10K.

I finished the 10K at a time of 53:26. Not too bad for it being dark, very cold out, and slightly injured.

Overall this was a fun race. There are a few things they need to fix before next years race though (too many things to list).

Would I run it again? Maybe. If the 10K has a different course than the 5K then I will consider it, but if its the same route as this year I am going to have to pass.

Thanks Jen for taking this picture for me.

Happy Thanksgiving

I hope everyone has a wonderful Thanksgiving. Eats lots of food and enjoy being around family. :)

So sorry for not posting my recap of the Esprit de She 10K. I have been slacking big time but I promise, I will do that soon.

Esprit de She Atlanta 10K TONIGHT!

Jen and I are going to the Esprit de She run tonight at Piedmont Park. She is running the 5K and I am running the 10K. :)

Look for a recap later on..

Right to Hike Ella's Run 5K and Fun Run Recap

I have done this run for three years now. I wasn't sure if I was going to even it this year because normally its at the beginning of the month and I had my half marathon the second weekend of the month. Luckily, they set the date for October 19th. :)

I have been excited about this run since I signed up. It isn't an easy 5K course but its still lots of fun. 

This year we started in a different area which meant we were running the course backwards. I definitely prefer the other way we use to go. 

Since it was wet out I was taking it easy in some areas especially going down in the trail. Those leaves can be mighty slippery.

I think the only true struggle I had was when we came out from the trail and had to up hill. (Not really a hill person, lol) I kept pushing. I had to stop and walk briefly just so I could get my breathing under control again (I forget how to breathe when its cold out).

I got up that one hill and had descent stretch of flat road before I had to make my way back up some more hills.

After tackling the last bit of hills I was on the homestretch. We had to run through a wooded trail which nice, but I definitely had to watch where I was going since the trees roots were popping up through the pavement. I can't risk getting injured.

Before I knew it I could hear the crowd and the music from the wooded area, so I knew I was getting close to the finish line. I made one final turn before taking off (I always sprint at the end). 

I finished.

I wasn't quite sure of my time, but I did know I beat my previous times for this race. :)

M told me he believed I was the 5th woman to close the finish line. I immediately began questioning if I was going to place in my age group or not.

Sure enough.....I placed 1st in my age group. Holy cow! I was seriously grinning from ear to ear.

I love the award. It isn't a medal or big trophy. It's a hand painted dog bone. 

My official time: 27:50

This was going to be my last race of 2013, but I decided I would do one more. My next race isn't until December 7th. I can't wait since its a Christmas themed one. One of my running friends, Jen, is also going to be running it. :)

What is your next race in 2013?

Publix Ga Half 2014

Well, I said I wasn't going to, but I ended up signing up for the Publix Ga Half Marathon which will take place March 23rd, 2014. :)

I guess in a month I will start back up with my training, but for now I am going to enjoy taking it easy for a little bit.

Source

I Am A Runner

I AM A RUNNER because my runs have names. I do tempo runs and threshold runs and fartlek runs. I do long, slow runs and track workouts. My runs are defined, even if my abs are not.

I AM A RUNNER because my shoes are training equipment, not a fashion statement. The best shoe for me is the one that makes me a better runner. I choose the shoe that goes with my running mechanics, not my running outfit.

I AM A RUNNER because I don’t have running outfits. I have technical shirts and shorts and socks. I have apparel that enhances the experience of running by allowing me to run comfortably. I can say “Coolmax” and “Gore-Tex” in the same sentence and know which does what.

I AM A RUNNER because I know what effort feels like, and I embrace it. I know when I’m pushing the limits of my comfort and why I’m doing it. I know that heavy breathing and an accelerated heart rate–things I once avoided–are necessary if I want to be a better runner.

I AM A RUNNER because I value and respect my body. It will whisper to me when I’ve done too much. And if I choose to listen to that whisper, my body won’t have to scream in pain later on.

I AM A RUNNER because I am willing to lay it all on the line. I know that every finish line has the potential to lift my spirits to new highs or devastate me, yet I line up anyway.

I AM A RUNNER because I know that despite my best efforts, I will always want more from myself. I will always want to know my limits so that I can exceed them.

I AM A RUNNER because I run. Not because I run fast. Not because I run far.

I AM A RUNNER because I say I am. And no one can tell me I’m not.

- John Bingham 




I saw this on facebook and just had to share. :) Hope everyone is having a great week!

Allstate 13.1 Recap

I did it! I finished my first half marathon! :) Last Sunday (October 6th) still seems like a dream to me, but when I see the medal hanging it hits me...I actually completed my first half.

Here's a quick recap of what my day was like.


My day started off at 5 AM. Jen, Jill, and I stayed at the Marriott which was 4 miles away from the race. We got to Town of Brookhaven a little after 6 and met up with Brandi.

The race started right at 7 AM. About 5 minutes before the race started they asked people to start moving to estimate time of finish. I knew I would either finish at 2 hours or a little after so Jewell and I got in the 2:00 pace group. 

Five minutes went by quickly because before I knew it the race had started and my group started moving up. 

-Insert freak out mode- 

Some people started running before they even got to the start line, but I opted to walk until I had no choice but to start running. 

Before I knew it....I had crossed the start line. :)

Mile 1 to 5 went by fast. The hills weren't bad. They reminded me of some of the hills I trained on these last 12 weeks.

Between 5 and 6, we had to run back by where we started and would be finishing. I definitely didn't like that part.

Mile 7 - My friend, Kat, was out on the course cheering the runners on and waiting for me and my friend, Jewell, to show up. She made us both signs!! :) During this point in the race I was feeling pretty good. I wasn't going too fast which is what I wanted.

Around mile 8 and 9, I met few other runners who were also running their first half. We stayed together for awhile chatting helping pass the time.

Somewhere between mile 9 and 11, we hit this hill that just kept going and going or so it seemed. I absolutely hated this part of the race. I wanted to stop so bad, but Jewell wasn't going to let me.

Before I knew it I was back on the home stretch making my way back to mile 12 and soon I would be at the finish line. 

After I reached mile 12, the last 1.1 miles seemed to be taking a longer than I wanted to, but I kept on running.

Once we got to that final turn and I could see the finish line I took off using what energy I had left to book it across the finish line.

Once I crossed I found my Mom, who was there to give me my medal. :)

My official time for my first half marathon: 2:07:56

After I was done, I found my way over to the front of the finish line to cheer on the other runners who were making their way to the finish line. That little extra motivation from someone in the crowd really does help. :)

I can honestly say I had an absolute blast. I am ready to do my next half. I am still undecided as to what it will be, but the way things are going right now I see the GA Publix Half being my next. :)

I want to say thank you once again to some special running friends in my life. Brandi, Jen, and Jill....thank you so much for encouragement along the way. I definitely wouldn't have done it without you ladies. :) I can't wait to run another one.

Left to right: Brandi, Me, and Jen. Jill, you should have stuck around for a pic. :P

Kat, thank you so much for getting up early on a Sunday and cheering everyone on and being a great running partner at the group runs on Tuesdays and Thursdays at Big Peach. :) 

Jewell, thank you again for running with me and keeping me at a steady pace. Oh, and most importantly not letting me quit. Maybe we can run another race sometime. 

Half Marathon Training Recap: Week 12

My half marathon training has come to an end. Its crazy how these 12 weeks have flown by.

Monday:

I was suppose to start my week of T25 Beta but decided I would just focus on my core only. Sit ups, leg lifts, and planks to start the week off.

Tuesday:

Not going to lie it felt weird getting up and not going for a run. I did do my core work out and in the evening I went to my group run over at Big Peach in Suwanee. I did an easy 3 miles.

Wednesday:

Since I wasn't feeling well after my run on Tuesday, I decided I would use this day to sleep in and hopefully get myself to feeling better. Luckily, I woke up feeling much better. Maybe getting more sleep is all I needed.

Thursday:

Group run was amazing. It was definitely a lot better than Tuesdays run. I was able to keep the pace I want for the half on Sunday. Can't believe its almost here. :)

Friday:

Rest day!

Saturday:

Rest day!

Sunday: 

Race Day!! I will have a recap of my first half marathon sometime later on in the week.

Half Marathon Training Recap: Week 11

I can't believe week 11 is over with. I am going into my final week. So crazy.

Monday:

Dynamic Core.....I killed it. What a great way to start week 2 of T25 off.  :)

Tuesday:

Decided to split my 5 miles up again so I would be able to run with the group later on in the evening. 

Had a somewhat fast 2 mile run in the AM. I believe the cooler weather had a major part in that.  As soon as I was finished my run, I got started on my Core Cardio work out from T25.  For whatever reason I was struggling with that. I did the best I could. 

The evening run took place in Town Park for the second anniversary of SBPRC (Suwanee Big Peach Running Co). They had about 7 vendors there who demos. I went to to the Mizuno tent and tried on the Sayonaras. I took those shoes on a 3 mile run. I have say I liked them but would have to see how they feel to me on a longer run. Hopefully they will be back for another demo sometime in the future.  The run went well. Cooler temps definitely help me.

Wednesday:

I didn't allow myself to make up any excuses about getting up and getting my work out over with. T25 Rip't Circuit was a lot better than last week. I felt more comfortable using the resistance bands.

Thursday:

I am not really a fan on skipping work outs but since I sore from Wednesdays work out, I decided I would just run today and do nothing else.

My 2 mile run in the AM was another fast one. Faster than Tuesdays. I wasn't even trying to run fast it just happened. :\

I love joining the group run. Had another 3 mile run followed by some yummy pizza afterwards.

Friday:

I had a hard time getting up to go for a run. I really wanted to sleep in but I knew the run wasn't going to get completed without me. I was able to run my 10 miles in one hour and thirty-five minutes. I believe I am ready for my half. I just hope the weather is gorgeous next Sunday as it was on my run. :)

Saturday:

Rest Day.

Sunday:

Rest Day,

Half Marathon Training Recap: Week 10

It's hard to believe that I am on week 10 of my training. It seems like yesterday I was just starting it. In 3 weeks, I will have my first half marathon under my belt.

Monday:

Started month 2 of T25. So far Beta means some serious business. Core Cardio kicked my butt. Maybe next time I will be able to say I nailed it.

Tuesday:

This morning felt amazing outside and since I was going to be running with the running group in the evening I decided I would split up my 5 miles. I did a slow 2 mile run in the morning before doing my T25 Speed 2.0.

Speaking of Speed 2.0....wow! That work out was crazy. I walked away feeling great. :)

The evening run went better than expected. Even though I hate the hill at the end, I can tell I am getting better and faster (trying not to get too fast though). :)

Wednesday:

It was a little weird working with the resistance bands today. I normally just use weights, but since I don't have any at home the bands will have to do.  I nailed my T25 Rip't Circuit. Hopefully next time won't be so awkward using the bands.

Thursday:

Since I am doing another run later with the running group, I decided I would get up and just run 2 miles in my neighborhood.

As much as I would love to say I nailed my work out afterwards...I didn't. :( T25 Dynamic Core means some serious business.

It was a little warm on my second run of the day. Decided to run a little slower than I did on Tuesdays run.

Friday:

Another busy weekend means getting my long run in early. Since the half marathon course is hilly, I have been taking my long runs to the park to run the hilly loop around the lake. Granted the hills there aren't like what I will see on the course, it is still better than training on a flat course. I felt slower than normal, but in the end my avg pace was  9:13" which is where I want to be anyways for my race.

Saturday:

Decided to take advantage of the wonderful weather, so we headed up to the mountains for the day/night.

Sunday:

Got on the boat for possibly one last time before the cooler weather sets in. It was so nice to be able to get out on the lake to relax.  Great way to end week 10 of training :)

Half Marathon Training Recap: Week 9

Hard to believe week 9 is complete. Tomorrow beginning week 10. :)

Monday:

Started week 5 of T25. Crazy how fast these 5 weeks have gone. Anyways, today was Total Body Circuit. I have to say I really gave it my all today and nailed it. :)

Tuesday:

I had a hard time getting into my run today. Probably for the fact I was on the treadmill and the shows that were on TV were not interesting. I got my 5 miles done though. I am hoping to get up sooner on Thursday to get my run done outside instead of running indoors.

T25 Ab Intervals was challenging today but I got it done. :)

Wednesday:

I wasn't really wanting to do anything today, so instead of being lazy I went to the gym for some core work. I rewarded myself with the hot tub afterwards. I needed that.

Thursday:

Decided I would do my 10K run today instead of this weekend since I may not have time for it. It was the worst 10K time for me. I just wasn't into my run.

After my run I came home and took it easy for a few before getting starting with T25 Cardio. Not going to lie I was pretty tired after my 6 mile run. I pushed through it though and finished.

Friday:

Since I switched up my running days, I decided I would run my 5 mile that I was suppose to do on Thursday. First I had to get T25 Lower Focus done. I nailed it! :)

I did my 5 mile in the evening. My legs felt a little sluggish at first but quickly warmed up. 

Saturday:

Rest day.

Sunday:

Rest day.

AllState 13.1 Marathon Series - Atlanta

Just a quick post today...

If you are looking to do a half marathon in 3 weeks, check out the 13.1 Marathon Series in Atlanta on October 6th.  This will be my first (and I am sure not my last half). I am starting to get super excited about it! I would love to have everyone I know running it or at least doing the 5K. Use the code below if you are interested in participating in the half marathon.

P.S. Some exciting news coming soon. Can't wait to share... :)

Half Marathon Training Recap: Week 8

Oh my, week 8?! Only 4 weeks to go....I CAN DO THIS!

Monday:

Started week 4 of T25. Hard to believe I only have one more week left in the Alpha stage before moving on to Beta.

I really nailed the Cardio portion today. It was only towards the end that I was starting to get tired. I am also happy to say I did all the moves without going to the modifier :)

Tuesday:

Since I normally don't like to drive too far to run and since I just so happened to be in the area, I decided I would go run where it all started for me. It was nice being back where I started running. I really like this greenway because for the most part its pretty shady and since I was running at 10 AM I needed all the shade I could get it. I completed my 4.5 mile run in 40 min. :) Maybe just maybe going back to where it started at will give me a boost. :)

I moved my T25 Total Body Circuit work out to the evening. It was a good and bad thing. Good because I was tired and didn't get back home until 2. Bad because I like getting my work outs over with in the AM even though I am not the morning person by all means. LOL. Unfortunately, I wasn't able to nail the work out. I just wasn't into it.

Wednesday:

Tuesday night I felt a little pain in my lower back (not sure how I even strained my lower back muscle either), so I decided I would take the day off and rest.

Thursday:

Back felt better so I decided I would go for a 2 mile run. Painless run. I would have done the other 2.5 but didn't want to push it.

Got my T25 Lower Focus in that I was suppose to do on Wednesday. Nailed that work out. My legs are looking and feeling amazing! :)

Friday:

I didn't want to do anything. I went to bed with a migraine and woke up with what was left of it. I normally can't do anything when my head is throbbing. So I decided I would just chill for a bit. I took some medicine to help kick that lingering headache before attempting to do my double day of T25.

After about 45 minutes of relaxing, I was able to get started on my work outs. First up Ab Intervals. I have to say I have a love/hate relationship with this particular work out. Instead of complaining to myself about doing it, I sucked it up and nailed all the moves. Talk about ouch. My abs were on FIRE! :)

Next comes Speed 1.0. I have to say this one has totally grown on me. And its exactly what I needed this morning. Just like the ab intervals, I nailed this work out as well. :)

Completed week 4 of T25. Next week is my final week of T25 Alpha. I am excited to see how Beta is going to treat me. :)

Oh, and it's one month until my half marathon.

Saturday:

I got up early (even though I didn't want to on my day off) to beat the heat for my 8 mile run. I still wasn't sure where I wanted to run, but decided I would go to Little Mulberry Park to get in a hilly run. Took my EnergyBits before heading out of the house (I was going to need them today, lol). I knew when I started running that I didn't want to take off too fast. I am trying to keep my pace down so I don't over do it. Before I knew it the run was over. I completed my longest run yet. My avg pace (according to my Nike+ GPS) was 8:59. Close to 9 which is where I wanted to be. I felt great when I finished. I am extremely happy I was able to run the whole time without stopping to walk. :)


Sunday:

After an amazing run Saturday, I definitely can say I earned my rest day! :)

Week 8 was amazing. Now on to week 9....

Half Marathon Training Recap: Week 7

For whatever reason I just wasn't feeling it on week 6. I am hoping that week 7 is a lot better.

Monday:

After having a crappy week last week I wasn't sure how I was going to do starting off the new week of training. Luckily I kicked some major butt during my work out. I felt amazing afterwards. Three weeks in to this program and I can definitely tell a difference in some of the things you have to do.

Tuesday:

I decided that I would go to the park and run some hills. One loop around the lake is 2.2 miles. Perfect place to get my 4.5 miles in. I was feeling pretty good the first loop around. Second loop I wasn't feeling it. Normally I like to switch it up and go back the way I came when I get to the start area but today I kept going the way I had started. I pushed through it though. Glad I did. :)

Came home and relaxed for a little bit before starting T25 Speed 1.0. I am not sure where my energy came from but I nailed it. I was able to do all the moves with no stopping. It wasn't easy but I did it!! :)

Later in the evening my friend, Kat, and I decided to go for a run together. It was nice to run somewhere different. Ended up doing another 4 miles.

Wednesday:

Today was tough. T25 Lower Focus was strictly working on the lower part of my body. I really pushed myself to do everything that Shaun T and the crew did. Definitely an amazing cross training work out.

Thursday:

I decided I wouldn't run in the AM so I got started on T25 Cardio. Love walking away knowing I completely nailed the work out. :)

Friday:

Double day! Decided I would start off with T25's Total Body Circuit today. This is my least favorite. As much as I wanted to skip it I kept pushing myself through it.

Ab Intervals was up next. I felt like I gave it my all. I think the next time I had to do Ab Intervals on a double day I am going to get it over with first.

Saturday:

Since its a holiday weekend, I decided I would get my run in a day early. I waited a few hours after I got off work to get in my 7 miles. Surprisingly, I was faster than I had planned. I ended up getting a new PR in my training 10K. I also finished 7 miles in under an hour. A lot better than I did 2 years ago. :)


Sunday:

Rest day.


Week 7 was definitely a lot better than week 6. Here is to week 8 being even better.

No Motivation

Lately I have been feeling like I shouldn't have signed up for this half marathon in October. I have been running since Jan until now. I feel like I am honestly burnt out of running which is odd because I love running, but I guess I don't love it as much as I thought?

I went from one 12 week program to another 12 week program. I am only week 7 and I can tell you right now I am so close to throwing in the towel, but I can't and won't. Why? Because I have so many people pulling for me. I really don't want to disappoint.

It's really bad that I am actually looking forward to taking a "break" from running afterwards. I'll continue to run but it won't be more than 4 miles if that. I need time to relax and not worry about having to run.

I really wish I knew what was going through my head. I just know something needs to spark or its going to be a long 13.1 miles..

Half Marathon Training Recap: Week 6

Wow, I have made it to the halfway mark. It's hard to believe I have done 6 weeks already. I am going to be running my first half marathon before I know it.

Monday:

Today I started week 2 of T25 Cardio. I have to say I pushed myself harder today then I did last week. I am so happy to know I didn't have to go to the modifier as much. :)

Tuesday:

Woke up not really in the mood to run, but since I had a double work out today I had to get up and get it over with. So I decided I would switch it up a bit and go to the gym and run on the TM. I felt great running. I ended up finishing my 4 mile run in 34 min and 58 seconds.

After my run I came home to do my Total Body Circuit work out. I have to say even though my whole body was tired I pushed through it. I can't say I completely nailed it but I can't say I barely made it. I am sort of in the middle.

Wednesday:

Woke up to rain...blah. I could have ran at the gym but since I only needed to 2 miles I decided I would just do my cross training instead. Today's work out was Speed 1.0. I have to say I nailed it. :)

Thursday:

I woke up not feeling too hot, but knew I really needed to try and get my run in. Since it was already warm out I decided I would just go back to the gym and run my 4 miles on the treadmill. I felt sluggish on my run. I am starting to think getting to bed late and waking up early is catching up with me. :-\ Time to change up the sleeping schedule.

After my run I came home to immediately get started on my T25 Cardio. I got 15 min into the work out and really seriously thought about turning it off. I kept on going though. Sometimes you just have to tell the little voice in your head to shut up. :)

Later in the evening I went to the Big Peach Suwanee group run. I had originally planned to only do 3 miles but once I was on the course I decided to push it to 4 miles. It was a great slow run through puddles. :)

Friday:

I was suppose to do my 2 T25 work outs, but I only got one in. :( I did Ab Intervals. I didn't feel as awkward doing it this week. I guess I am slowly getting the moves down. I really hated not doing the other but seeing how I really worked out the day before I felt like my legs needed a break.

Saturday:

Rest day! :)

Sunday:

I wish I could say I ran but I didn't. Ended up moving furniture around that took up a good bit of the day. By the time I wanted to go run I ended up taking a nap because of my head hurting. I'll try to make it up sometime this next week.

Half Marathon Training Recap: Week 5

I knew from the beginning that this week would be a challenge and here is why...

Monday:

Instead of going to the gym I started day 1 of T25 Cardio. I was expecting this work out to kick my butt but it didn't. Since I have been doing lunges and squats since June the leg work outs in this weren't too bad. I can't even imagine what I would have felt like afterwards if I hadn't been working on my legs for a few months.

Tuesday:

I woke up tired. I wasn't sore in the legs which is always a good thing. It took all I had to drag my butt out the door to get to running. I had 4 miles planned but as soon as I got to 3 miles I cut my run short. My legs felt really tired. I guess I will be running the mile I didn't do later this week.

As soon as I got in the house I put my ProCompression socks on and my cross trainers. I was ready to get day 2 of T25 over with. I am not going to lie I wanted to puke in Speed 1.0. I haven't felt like that since Pure Cardio in Insanity. I can't say I "nailed it" today. I wanted to quit but since it was only 25 minutes long I kept on going.

Wednesday:

I decided I would just do XTing today. I did day 3 of T25 - Total Body Circuit. It kicked my butt. I definitely walked away sweating after just working out for 25 minutes.

Thursday:

I was going back and forth with myself about where to run. I get bored with the same thing every week, but I also wasn't in the mood to take on some hills. Decisions decisions. I finally decided I would just take on the hills. I am glad I did! It was a perfect morning for it. Low 60s. I couldn't have asked for better weather. I can tell my legs are getting stronger and stronger.

After running I came home to do my T25 - AB intervals. Loved working on my core. I was honestly dreading 25 minutes of just core stuff, but it ended up going by fast.

In the evening, I decided I would go for a quick 2 mile run in the neighborhood since it felt amazing.

Friday:

Normally this would be my off day, but since I am doing T25 5 days a week I decided I would just move my off day to Saturday.

Friday was a 2 part work out for a total of 50 minutes. If you aren't able to do it all right away you can break it up. I decided I would just knock both of them out of the way. I didn't want to have to do them over the weekend.

I decided I would start off with the Cardio first. I knew I was going to be able to do that without a problem since I basically nailed it on Monday. After I finished it, I took a 5 minute break before putting Lower Focus in. OMG! That had to be the longest 25 minutes of my life. I definitely worked my lower half. My legs were screaming at me. My favorite part was the 3 minute cool down/stretch. I needed it after all that.

Saturday:

I switched things up AGAIN. Since my birthday is Sunday, I decided I would just go ahead and get my 6 mile run in at the gym (it was raining and I just didn't want to run outside). I ended up doing a 10K to finish my Happy 10K virtual race. Legs felt great during and after. I was able to do my 10K in at 54 minutes. I am hoping to eventually beat my current PR


Sunday:

Finally my off day. Since it is my birthday I am going to take the time to relax and enjoy it. Oh and I will cheat a little. I can't pass up a cupcake or two on my birthday. :)

Light Up the Corner's Recap

This event was suppose to take place May 4th, 2013 but due to really bad rain that day they had to postpone it until August 10th.

I have been excited about running in this event since I signed up for it back in July. Maybe it was because it was at night? Or maybe it was because I knew this route really well? Or maybe it was both. :)

The event took place at The Forum in Peachtree Corner's. The proceeds from the event go to benefit the less unfortunate children and families in the Peachtree Corner's community.

Two events took place the 1K Twilight Run and the 4 Mile Run. I participated in the 4 mile run. And since it was a night event, they had the race route lite up with blinking lights. They also handed out glow sticks for us to wear or hold while running on the course. For the crafty ones, they had a contest at the end for the "glowiest" person and team.

I got to the Forum at around 6:30 just to make sure I was able to park somewhat close to the start/finish. I immediately went to get my shirt and number.Good I went right away because when Brandi got there they didn't have anymore small or medium shirts. Most races I have done pre-registered participates get their shirts before race day registration participates.

Not too long after I got there Brandi arrived so I went to meet up with her before heading on over to the start. Brandi decided she was going to do a costume for this race and was determined she was going to win this contest..

Any guesses on what she is suppose to be??? Oh, and check out those socks!!

Brandi was a very popular person once she got into her costume. She had so many people coming up asking for a picture with her. 

Jen and her brother arrived sometime after 8 to see us off. :) Thanks again Jen for coming.

Race got started at 9. It was a little crowded at first, but once we were on the main road I was able to move around people and get into a comfortable pace. I remembered after I was on the main road that I have the RoadID app so I quickly sent Mike a text with a link so he could see where I was and when to expect me to come running to the finish. 

It started to rain on us for a little bit. Thankfully it didn't last long. It was just enough to cool you off.

Before I knew it was I was back at the Forum. I made the final turn and started to pick up some speed. Since I normally sprint at the end I waited until I was down the hill before giving it all I had.

My official time 35:02. :)

I made my way around the crowd to where Jen and Mike were standing. Brandi told us when to expect her since she was planning on walking the entire thing due to her costume.

Brandi crossed a little after an hour. We met up with her and made our way to the glowiest contest because after all we wanted to see Brandi win.

And of course...Brandi won!  :) Congrats girl!

We stayed around to listen for the winners of each age group. I had already decided that I didn't place, but I was wrong. I placed second in my age group!!!

I got a coffee mug, a small trophy, and 2 coupons. Not what I was expecting but hey, I will take it.

Oh and of course we had to get a picture of the winners...

If they do this run again next year (and I am sure they will), I will for sure sign up for it. I had an absolute blast running it.

Half Marathon Training Recap: Week 4

After coming back from vacation on Sunday I wasn't sure how I was going to do this week. I had to get back into the swing of things with work and also my training.

Monday:

I woke up feeling completely exhausted still. I did a few push ups and sit ups just to do something even if it wasn't what I was suppose to do.

Tuesday:

I went for my 3.5 mile run. I decided I would hit the hilly part of the neighborhood just to do something a little different. I was doing fine until my neighbors dog decided to chase me when I was going out of the neighborhood. I had to stop running and walk a different way just to stop the dog from chasing me. My run went down hill from there. I felt very sluggish after that.

Wednesday:

I was going to go on my 2 mile run, but I woke up with a migraine and decided I really didn't want to make it worse trying to run. Since I have a 4 mile race on Saturday night so I might run the 2 miles that morning or on Sunday morning.

Thursday:

I decided I wanted to switch things up so I went to Little Mulberry Park in Auburn, GA to get a hill workout in. One loop around the lake is 2.2 miles. I decided once I got all the way around that I would go back the way I came then turn around when I got close to 3 miles. I probably could have ran the rest of it, but I wasn't wanting to push it too much.

I ended up running another 3 miles in the evening with the Big Peach Suwanee group. I love when I am able to make it. Running with others is so motivational to me. :)

Friday:

Rest day and carb overloading day!

Saturday:

Since my training schedule has me scheduled for a 5 mile this weekend and I am doing a 4 mile race later, I decided I would get up first thing in the morning and run a fast 1 mile. I knew since I have been doubling up my run days anyways that I wouldn't be tired come 9 PM.

My race went great! I honestly wish I still lived in that area so I could train there. It ended up raining a little bit on the course, but I didn't mind since it felt kind of refreshing. I ended up finishing around 35 minutes. I am not sure on the official time. I also ended up placing 2nd in my age group!

I'll have a race recap up sometime this week so be on the look out for that.

Sunday:

Since I wasn't able to run my 2 miles on Wednesday, I got out in the AM to run the 2 miles. My legs honestly didn't want to move at all. I got it done though! :-D


Week 4 is now complete. Next week is going to be a test, but I am ready to take it on full force. :)

FrogFuel Winner!

Many thanks to everyone who entered my first giveaway. I hope to have another sometime in the future.


 The winner is....


a Rafflecopter giveaway



Jen, I will be contacting you soon to get your information to send over to the frog fuel people.

Half Marathon Training Recap: Week 3

Crazy how I am already on week 3 of my half marathon training. :) With the way time is flying by, I will be at 12 weeks in no time.

As I mentioned in my previous recap post, I was on vacation for half of this week which meant I had to switch up my running just a tad bit. But it also meant no cross training for me. :(

-----------------

Monday: 

Since I had to work all day on Monday, I wasn't able to get to the gym to do a full work out I decided that my ab work out was the only thing I was going to get done. I still feel bad, but I did something even if it wasn't what I had wanted to do.

Tuesday:

Since I had a 3.5 mile run scheduled, I decided I would take advantage of the cooler morning and get out there before work. Loved it! At around 2.7, I stopped by my house to grab the dog so she could finish out the last leg of my run. She really hasn't ran in over a year. She did great even though if she slowed me down some. I am hoping to get her out there more often for my smaller runs since she enjoys it.

After my run I came in to do my ab work out. This was suppose to be my rest day for that, but since I was going to be traveling on Wednesday I decided to get it over it.

Wednesday:

I got a 2 mile run before packing up the car and heading to the beach! :)

Thursday:

I woke up at 6 AM central  to go for a run on the beach. My plan was to run 3.5 miles, but when I turned around I noticed I was getting a blister on my right foot. I ran back to the condo but decided that I was done. I did a little over 2 miles.

Friday:

Off day aka spend all my time on the beach!!! :)

Saturday:

I had originally planned to let this day be my long run day but I decided that I would skip running. I instead went for a walk on the beach. Very relaxing.

Sunday:

Did nothing since it was travel day.


-----------------

Week 3 is over with! I didn't do great but I will get back into it this week. I am also looking to get back into Insanity along with running. Or maybe T25. Either way I am going to be tired and sore.

Here is to a new week of training. Oh, and I have a race on Saturday. 4 mile night run. I am so excited about it!

FrogFuel Review and Giveaway

I am always looking for other ways to fuel myself during my runs/ work outs. When I saw this product I couldn't wait to try it. 

I decided that on Sunday I would give FrogFuel a try for my 4 mile run. The taste was interesting. It definitely was something I wasn't expecting. It kind of reminded me of a certain energy drink (not naming any names here). I like how it was liquid and not gel. It was easy to drink. It also didn't leave any weird after taste in my mouth.

I took off on my run. About a mile or two in, I could tell it was helping me push through some of the hills in my neighborhood. Unfortunately, I felt like I was dragging closer to the end of my run. I definitely think FrogFuel helped me with the majority of my run. 



Here's why I think you should try FrogFuel:
 
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4. Berry flavored!
5. No Mixing. Just open it up and drink.
6. 60 Calories - sugar, fat, gluten, and lactose free.
7. Enhanced Aminos. 
8. Shelf life of 2 years without refrigeration.

Check out their website for info: FrogFuel

To make things fun be sure to check out this quiz to see what your fuel level is and then leave me a comment with your answer. :)

My Quiz result says:

Free Spirit

Hanging out in the gym just isn’t your style, you are the free spirit of the fitness world! Although you have a preferred fitness method, you will always choose variety over routine. From cycling to yoga sessions on the beach, you love squeezing in a workout wherever and however you can



And now for the main reason you came here....

FrogFuel is letting one of my readers have a chance to win 3 FrogFuel 1oz Protein Shots. 

a Rafflecopter giveaway


Giveaway information and disclaimer:  The giveaway starts at 12:00 am EST on Monday, July 29th and ends at 12:00 am EST on Monday, August 5th.  Open to US residents.  Winner will be picked at random by Rafflecopter. I will contact the winner and they will have 48 hours to respond to me with their mailing address. I was not compensated for this giveaway.  All opinions are my own.

Half Marathon Training Recap: Week 2

Monday:

I wasn't able to get to the gym due to work but I did do a little Insanity at home. Something is better than nothing. :)

Tuesday:

I got up did 3 miles in the neighborhood. During the run I thought I was running a little slower than normal. but when I finished I looked at my avg pace and was surprised I was actually in a race pace. I'll take it. :)

Later in the evening I went down to Big Peach Suwanee to run with the running group. I decided I would only 3 miles. I didn't want to over do it. Plus it gave me a chance to demo some compression sleeves from Zensah. LOVE THEM! I didn't feel any spin pain in my left leg (I normally have some kind of shin split if I over do it).

Wednesday: 

I decided to switch it up. Instead of doing strength training on Thursday, I decided to do it on Wednesday. I did chest and back. After lifting I went up up to the treadmill to run my 2 miles. I felt great afterwards. I may actually keep my strength training days on Wednesdays instead of Thursdays.

Thursday:

Since I woke up with a headache, I was a little late getting out there to run my 3 miles.  Around 11:20, I crawled out of bed to go for a run. It wasn't a super fast run or a super slow run. I was pleased with my time and avg pace.

I was suppose to go for a run with the Big Peach group, but I decided to skip the second run of the day. I just wasn't feeling it.

Friday:

Off Day! :) I love this day.

Saturday:

I had to work today so I basically did my cross training at work. Walking is considered cross training, right? If so, then cool. If not, well, nothing I can do now.

Sunday:

I really didn't want to get out there to run 4 miles. I was still really tired from having to work on Saturday. I did get out there though. I can't say it was an easy one or even fun one, but I got it done. That's all that matters right?


--------------------------

Week 2 was much better than week 1. Week 3 is going to be a little crazy. I am going to be out of town starting on Wednesday so I am probably going to be switching up a few things. I am going to try my best not to miss a run day.

Half Marathon Training Recap: Week 1

Monday:

I was suppose to go to the gym to work on my strength training, but after a weekend at the lake I was still completely drained. So I skipped my work out.

Tuesday:

I woke up not really wanting to go for a run, but I knew once I got out there I would feel a lot better. I did my 3 miles. It was a bit humid out but I lived and definitely felt better afterwards. :)

Wednesday:

Instead of running 2 miles or doing something else, I decided I would go to the gym to lift weights. I guess you can say I was making up for Monday.

Thursday:

I had 3 miles scheduled. Normally, I would just run outside but I decided I wanted to do something different. I headed off to the gym to get my run in. Instead of dong the 3 miles, I decided I needed to go ahead and complete my Running Mad virtual 10K run. I did 6.2 miles in 54 min. I was proud I didn't even stop on the treadmill. I didn't even slow own the speed. I actually upped it to 7.5 for the last bit of my run. I also was planning on going to the group run in Suwanee in the evening to run another 3 miles, but I decided to stay home since I was feeling a bit sore from lifting the day before.

Friday:

Rest Day! :)

Saturday:

Since I had a wedding to go to that day, I decided I would only do my ab work out, which is part of the 30 Day AB Challenge.

Sunday:

I woke up not wanting to really run my 4 miles, but after fighting with myself for a few minutes I finally got out the door. It was a hot one, but I am glad I got out there.


---------------

Week 1 of my half marathon training is complete. I am hoping I will get back into the training groove soon. It seems after the Peachtree I just haven't felt like training.

Half Marathon Training

After multiple suggestions I decided to go with the Hal Higdon's half marathon training program. I felt like it fit my schedule better than the others even though I may have to switch up a day up every other week.

Monday started week 1 of my training. So far it just feels like a normal week for me. I imagine it will get a little bit harder as I progress. I am definitely up for the challenge though! :)

A long with that program, I am doing the 30 day ab challenge. That's definitely a work out. I usually do it after my runs or work outs. I am slowly starting to see a little results. :)

I hope to do a recap of the previous training week at the beginning of each new week.


Do you have any races you are currently training for? If so, how is it going?

The ABC's of Me! :)

A local running friend, Jen, tagged me in the ABC's of Me. I guess, it's time you learn a little something about me, huh?

A.  Attached or Single: Attached!! :)

B.  Best friend: Alysha B, but I also have other friends that I consider best friends too.

C.  Cake or Pie: Hmm...CUPCAKES!!!! 

D. Day of the week: Saturday or Sunday. It really depends on which day I am not doing anything.

E.  Essential item: My phone. I never leave home without it!

F.  Favorite color: Blue. 

G.  Gummy bears or worms: Gummy bears!

H.  Hometown: Norcross, GA

I.  Favorite indulgence: I love ice cream or cookies. LOL

J.  January or July: July.. it's summer time!!

K.  Kids? I have a furbaby named Angel.

L.  Life isn’t complete without: happiness and friends

M.  Marriage date: Not married

N.  Number of brothers/sisters: 3 brothers (2 older and 1 younger)

O.  Oranges or apples: Apples

P.  Phobias? Heights. I won't ride roller coasters because of that.

Q.  Favorite quote: “Your time is limited, so don’t waste it living someone else’s life. Don't be trapped by dogma — which is living with the results of other people’s thinking. Don’t let the noise of others’ opinions drown out your own inner voice. And most important, have the courage to follow your heart and intuition. They somehow already know what you truly want to become. Everything else is secondary.” - Steve Jobs

R.  Reason to smile: family and friends

S.  Season of choice: Summer :)

T.  Tag 5 people: Brandi at Girl on the Run, Jill at MRScrashmattb Thinks Aloud, Ari at The Pace of it All, The Rushing Herd at The Rushing Herd, and Jennifer at runlikeagrrl

U.  Unknown fact about me: I like to watch stupid reality TV shows, lol

V.  Favorite vegetable: Ooo that's a tough one. I like a few.

W.  Worst habit: biting my nails

X.  X-ray or ultrasound: X-Ray

Y.  Your favorite food: Sushi but I also like pasta

Z.  Zodiac sign: Leo

There you have it the ABC's of me. If you like to do it, then awesome. If not, no big deal!

Happy Wednesday everyone!

Peachtree Road Race Recap

Hard to believe this race came and went just like that. It feels like I just signed up for it. I am already excited about signing up for next year! Why? Because it will be my tenth Peachtree Road Race.  :)

Enough with that let's move on to the recap...

All week they were calling for rain on race day. I was seriously dreading it. I have never ran in the rain before and really don't want to especially a crazy downpour like they were expecting. So on Wednesday, after looking at one of the groups I belong to on Facebook, I decided I was going to duct tape my shoe to try and prevent as much water from getting into my shoe as possible. But with it the chance of rain, I also had to decide if I wanted to wear my normal running shoes or an older pair. I decided I would wear an older pair that I knew would be okay to run 6.2 miles in. Good thing I chose them. More to come on that.

I woke up at 3:15 AM the morning of race day. I was running on 3 hours of sleep (I can never sleep the night before a race anyways). Since my Mom was volunteering before the race, we needed to get down there around 4:30 for her to check in and definitely beat the road closure. We parked at Phipps Plaza which is right across the street from Lenox Square Mall. I was able to take a short power nap before having to get up and tape my shoes up.

By the time I got my shoes all taped up, it was time for me to make my way to my start wave. My wave was set to start at 7:45. It was raining a little bit when I was walking over to it, but as soon as I got there it had stopped and luckily it held off until I was walking back to Marta. 

Please excuse my fuzzy photos. My iPhone was in a zip-lock bag to keep it from getting wet.

Mile 1: Was a little crowded. I had to deal with a few people not moving over to the right hand side. Once I was able to get around them the race seemed to fly on by.

Mile 2: Saw one person receiving medical attention. From what I heard it was a heart attack. I really hope they are okay.

Mile 3: I knew I was getting close to Cardiac Hill. I never slow on this hill. A lot of people are usually stop mid way and walk up. 

Mile 4: I knew I only had 2 more miles to go.

Mile 5: I was already planning my tenth Peachtree Road Race. Hey, I had to think of something other than the run.

Mile 6: I knew I was going to come in under an hour as long as I didn't cramp up at the end. A few years back, I cramped in both of my calf muscles right at the end. Sucked majorly!

Mile .2: I finished strong.

Official time: 55:03

Not my fastest PRR, but I did beat my time from last year which is perfectly fine by me.

Credit to MarathonFoto for the pictures

Since I wasn't raining when I finished, I decided I would stick around Piedmont Park to wait on my Mom and my other friends running the race.

When I turned to go into the park, I didn't notice how muddy this park was from all the rain until I started making my way through the park. Yuck! It was awful walking through it.

I headed over to the Atlanta Track Club for some yummy Waffle House food and a cold water. Oh, and I can't forget this... 

I love free stuff!!! :)

I caught up with Jill after she finished along with Katie and Marcia. It was my first time meeting Katie and Marcia. :)

While making my way around the park with Jill, Katie, and Marcia, Jen texted me asking where I was so I met up with her and Brandi for a photo.

They decided to go as ducks because it was suppose to be raining during the race.

And since Brandi ended up having her Peachtree medal with her so I asked to get a picture with it...

After saying bye to Brandi, Jen and I waited for my Mom, which didn't take long. My Mom and I took a picture up on the hill (to avoid going back into the mud pit) before making our way to Marta.

As I mentioned earlier in the post, I am so excited about next year. :) If you ever want to participate in the world's largest 10K then I highly suggest coming to Atlanta for the 4th of July. It's really a blast. I mean, why else would I keep running it? Registration opens up in the middle of March as a lottery system.

And now for the reason a lot of people run this race...

This is the "finishers medal".

Did you participate in a 4th of July race? Or did you run on your own?