Trying to figure out where I am at because I haven't recorded anything since last Tuesday.
Last week Wednesday I went to Group Power in the early morning. It was a great workout and I am getting much more confident with the weights. Wednesday was a hard day. I felt tired and overly fatigued all day. I don't think it was due to the early wake up. I think it was the fact we were at the coast all day Tuesday (Rob's brother was in town). Tuesday was a lot of fun hanging around Lincoln City a good part of the day. Taking the kids everywhere was tiring. Rob had a meeting Tuesday night and I gave all three baths and put all three to bed by myself (Christopher played with the others while I was giving baths) was exhausting. Wednesday evening Rob gave me a break and told me to go do whatever I wanted. I went to Wal Mart to buy a jacket. Then I went to the gym and swam for twenty minutes. I think it's crazy I can run seven miles, but I can't swim more than a length. Not a lap. A length...that's only half a lap. Crazy. I am not a swimmer. But I am doing better. The hot tub felt great afterwards on my sore muscles.
Thursday was another hard day due to a whole bunch of reasons. Rob had another meeting at night and was doing visits or had meetings most of the afternoon. I didn't get up and run. Rob had to get up when I usually get up to take Christopher to the bus shuttle. I was still pretty tired. I could not run on Rob's lunch or during the evening as he was gone. So no exercise on Thursday.
On Friday I had it with the rain and went to the gym in the afternoon and did three miles on the treadmill. The gym has all new treadmills and it was my first time running on it. I am still trying to figure out all the new settings. It was a great run. Trena showed halfway through so it was nice to talk to her for awhile.
This weekend we were at Camp Tadmor for the bulk of it. Trena and I had every intention of going running on Sunday, but it did not happen. I did walk everywhere with the kids and went on a little hike. That counts for something. Our schedule was too busy that we did not go running. I really didn't want to leave Hailey with someone while I ran for a half hour. I was craving the one on one time with Hailey and I wanted to make the most of every minute of it. I am going to start up tomorrow morning and run a couple miles.
Food wise I did absolutely horrible this weekend. It's like I threw my whole diet out the window. It is really hard when there's a lack of food choices. Like last night was hot dogs and chips...and that's it. What else could I eat? Ironically last week was my best week ever sticking to the points...and I stayed the same weight possibly gaining a half pound. I think I was dealing with a hormone imbalance. I was having other symptoms related to this. Now it's back to eating better again. I am curious to see how my weight will be on Friday when I "weigh in." It might be kind of humorous if it's down.
Monday, May 31, 2010
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
May 25
Because we are away this weekend, I did my long run this morning. I did the exact course I did two weeks ago which is about six and a half miles. Throughout most of the run I felt distracted and anxious. Whenever my kids get sick, I always get this way. I always worry way too much about them. That was on my mind. I wanted to get out the door at 5, but did not get out until 5:30 AM. I was worried the whole time about leaving Kara screaming in the crib since she has been getting up super early again. I like to leave her until 6:30 AM. She was sleeping until 7 and even later. I don't want to feed her at 5 because I know she doesn't need it. I haven't fed her before 6:30 for over a month. She did get up at 6 and Rob got up with her. I felt guilty, but he said he did not mind.
Anyway my stomach felt tight and yucky. I was able to run the whole way, but I stopped at the Port-a-potty on Boone on the way home. After I went to the bathroom, I felt better. I was able to run up the hills on Boone. Because I felt fatigued and "off" my plan was to walk up them. I didn't need to. I actually felt great the last mile. Had it not been past 6:30, I could have gone another mile.
I am not sick. We went to the coast today with Rob's brother who is visiting. I have felt great all day. I'm not sure if it was anxiety or the fact I ate a big cookie at 9:00 PM or just randomness. Maybe a mix of all three. I would rather do my long run on the weekends, but we have had so much lately.
My right heel still hurts, but it goes in and out. It's not enough to not run on it. It seems to be better in my New Balance shoes, but I still question if my other shoes are not fully broken in yet.
Anyway my stomach felt tight and yucky. I was able to run the whole way, but I stopped at the Port-a-potty on Boone on the way home. After I went to the bathroom, I felt better. I was able to run up the hills on Boone. Because I felt fatigued and "off" my plan was to walk up them. I didn't need to. I actually felt great the last mile. Had it not been past 6:30, I could have gone another mile.
I am not sick. We went to the coast today with Rob's brother who is visiting. I have felt great all day. I'm not sure if it was anxiety or the fact I ate a big cookie at 9:00 PM or just randomness. Maybe a mix of all three. I would rather do my long run on the weekends, but we have had so much lately.
My right heel still hurts, but it goes in and out. It's not enough to not run on it. It seems to be better in my New Balance shoes, but I still question if my other shoes are not fully broken in yet.
Monday, May 24, 2010
May 21 - 24 and the Run for Iris 5K
Sanity returns. I am doing much better. The last couple days have been smoother. And normal mood wise. I am pretty sure I was dealing with an imbalance of hormones again. I also made some significant changes to my morning routine. That has helped more than I ever believed it would.
On Friday I did a short run about a mile and a half in this crummy, cold, wet weather. It is painful right now to go on facebook and see all the people in Chicago and Michigan who are experiencing 80's. Since I came home from Chicago a little over a week ago, it's been nothing but this gray, cold, miserable weather. I hate looking at the ten day forecast because it is not going to change. I love our summers here and I think we have the best autumn season. May is bad and June can be awful. That is my rant on the weather. I know if I were still living in Michigan I would be begging to get out of the snow every winter. That I don't miss at all. Anyway I kept my run on Friday short because I knew I would be racing on Saturday. We were a little pressed for time because we were going out for our anniversary Friday night and I had a MOPS event during the day. Plus some other things to get done.
On Saturday I ran in the Run For the Iris 5K in Keizer. Originally Rob was going to come with the kids. When we saw how awful the weather was we dropped that idea. I am really glad they didn't come. It would have been nice to have them there. It was too cold. It felt colder than when I ran the 5K in January! Anyway Trena picked me up and we picked up our packet. We had about a half hour before the race started. We sat in her car for fifteen minutes, then stretched and did a lap around Starbucks.
When I started the race, I realized my feet were numb. This was the first time I ever ran a race with my feet numb. The feeeling in them started to come back after the first mile. The course was straight down Liberty and back. No turns or anything. Only one small hill. I felt really strong the whole way. I was able to pick up my pace at the third mile and sprint at the end. My time was 26:18 which is a whole three minutes better than January. It's not my PR which is like 24:50 if I remember right. That was from the Fruitport 5K in 2004. Trena was right behind me with 27 and a few extra seconds. We both felt pretty pleased with how we did. We could not stick around afterwards for the awards and parade as Trena had to get to a wedding. I needed to get home because I had a lot to do and we were having a bunch of people over for Sunday. I don't get the prerace jitters as much. I get really pumped up after I race and can't wait to race again.
I will probably run in Tracy's 6.21 K at the end of June and I am also looking into that breast cancer 5K a couple days later. The cancer one is at Minto Brown which is almost all flat terrain. I really want to do a 5K pushing Derek in the stroller. Kendra said I could borrow her stroller. I have to find out if the breast cancer one will allow strollers because Tracy's won't.
I also started my fundraising campaign for Team Winter. I really feel like God led me to this charitable organization. I trust Him with whatever happens--whether I reach my goal or if I don't. I will do the best I can. I am looking at doing some kind of soup sale in the fall. I am planning on doing the Columbia Gorge marathon. I talked to someone on Saturday who knew a lot about it. She said it's a beautiful run and I should enjoy the scenery.
Yesterday I did not exercise. We had friends over for lunch and by the time we got done cleaning the kitchen it was close to 4:30 PM. I stayed home from evening church because Kara was crabby. Derek was exhausted. He's been running a low grade fever, but I am pretty sure it's related to a cough and cold that Kara has too. His appetite is normal. He ate all his supper and asked for a second helping.
Today I made it to morning Group Power. Karen was not the instructor this morning. It was the instructor from the Biking Class. This lady is like Iron Woman. She is so buff and strong. I bet she can eat whatever she wants. She teaches like 5-6 classes a day. It was a great workout and I feel so much more confident with the various tracks. I have not increased my weights the last few weeks. I have really been focusing on my form.
Weight wise, I hit 125 which I am really happy about. I stick with the points pretty well and found some of my favorite meals. It's much harder going out to eat. I went over when we went out for our anniversary--not quite as bad as when we ate at Red Lobster when my mom was here. I don't think I will ever go back to sugar pop. I'm a Diet drinker now for good.
On Friday I did a short run about a mile and a half in this crummy, cold, wet weather. It is painful right now to go on facebook and see all the people in Chicago and Michigan who are experiencing 80's. Since I came home from Chicago a little over a week ago, it's been nothing but this gray, cold, miserable weather. I hate looking at the ten day forecast because it is not going to change. I love our summers here and I think we have the best autumn season. May is bad and June can be awful. That is my rant on the weather. I know if I were still living in Michigan I would be begging to get out of the snow every winter. That I don't miss at all. Anyway I kept my run on Friday short because I knew I would be racing on Saturday. We were a little pressed for time because we were going out for our anniversary Friday night and I had a MOPS event during the day. Plus some other things to get done.
On Saturday I ran in the Run For the Iris 5K in Keizer. Originally Rob was going to come with the kids. When we saw how awful the weather was we dropped that idea. I am really glad they didn't come. It would have been nice to have them there. It was too cold. It felt colder than when I ran the 5K in January! Anyway Trena picked me up and we picked up our packet. We had about a half hour before the race started. We sat in her car for fifteen minutes, then stretched and did a lap around Starbucks.
When I started the race, I realized my feet were numb. This was the first time I ever ran a race with my feet numb. The feeeling in them started to come back after the first mile. The course was straight down Liberty and back. No turns or anything. Only one small hill. I felt really strong the whole way. I was able to pick up my pace at the third mile and sprint at the end. My time was 26:18 which is a whole three minutes better than January. It's not my PR which is like 24:50 if I remember right. That was from the Fruitport 5K in 2004. Trena was right behind me with 27 and a few extra seconds. We both felt pretty pleased with how we did. We could not stick around afterwards for the awards and parade as Trena had to get to a wedding. I needed to get home because I had a lot to do and we were having a bunch of people over for Sunday. I don't get the prerace jitters as much. I get really pumped up after I race and can't wait to race again.
I will probably run in Tracy's 6.21 K at the end of June and I am also looking into that breast cancer 5K a couple days later. The cancer one is at Minto Brown which is almost all flat terrain. I really want to do a 5K pushing Derek in the stroller. Kendra said I could borrow her stroller. I have to find out if the breast cancer one will allow strollers because Tracy's won't.
I also started my fundraising campaign for Team Winter. I really feel like God led me to this charitable organization. I trust Him with whatever happens--whether I reach my goal or if I don't. I will do the best I can. I am looking at doing some kind of soup sale in the fall. I am planning on doing the Columbia Gorge marathon. I talked to someone on Saturday who knew a lot about it. She said it's a beautiful run and I should enjoy the scenery.
Yesterday I did not exercise. We had friends over for lunch and by the time we got done cleaning the kitchen it was close to 4:30 PM. I stayed home from evening church because Kara was crabby. Derek was exhausted. He's been running a low grade fever, but I am pretty sure it's related to a cough and cold that Kara has too. His appetite is normal. He ate all his supper and asked for a second helping.
Today I made it to morning Group Power. Karen was not the instructor this morning. It was the instructor from the Biking Class. This lady is like Iron Woman. She is so buff and strong. I bet she can eat whatever she wants. She teaches like 5-6 classes a day. It was a great workout and I feel so much more confident with the various tracks. I have not increased my weights the last few weeks. I have really been focusing on my form.
Weight wise, I hit 125 which I am really happy about. I stick with the points pretty well and found some of my favorite meals. It's much harder going out to eat. I went over when we went out for our anniversary--not quite as bad as when we ate at Red Lobster when my mom was here. I don't think I will ever go back to sugar pop. I'm a Diet drinker now for good.
Friday, May 21, 2010
May 19 - 21
Although I feel more sane than a couple days ago, I have been dealing with a lack of motivation this week. It feels like pulling teeth to get out of the door and exercise. On Wednesday I went to Group Power and felt awesome. I got through every track feeling confident. The abs/core workout was much easier. It was our anniversary so I had the attitude that it was going to be a great day! Aside from the fact the wind took our patio umbrella and the glass table with it. There was glass all over the patio. We need a new table. There were some other things that happened too, but it starts to sound like a laundry list of complaints. I don't really want to go there. Thankfully things are falling into more a normalcy.
On Thursday I dealt with the motivation thing. I did go swimming for twenty minutes, but it took me a half hour to get out of bed. I was home by 6:45 AM, but I was hoping to have more time at the gym. I was going to try to do a quick run on the treadmill as well as swim. I was only able to fit the swimming in. Which went pretty well by the way.
Today I wanted to go to the gym first thing. I decided to sleep in instead. Friday is Rob's day off so it's a little easier to go running in the afternoon while he's home. It would have been nicer to have running out of the way and wake up before everyone else. Then again it's that bad motivation factor I need to get over. So I haven't gone running yet today. I am going to a short run and will be doing the Run For the Iris tomorrow morning. Trena is doing it too. Rob is going to come with the kids unless it's raining.
On Thursday I dealt with the motivation thing. I did go swimming for twenty minutes, but it took me a half hour to get out of bed. I was home by 6:45 AM, but I was hoping to have more time at the gym. I was going to try to do a quick run on the treadmill as well as swim. I was only able to fit the swimming in. Which went pretty well by the way.
Today I wanted to go to the gym first thing. I decided to sleep in instead. Friday is Rob's day off so it's a little easier to go running in the afternoon while he's home. It would have been nicer to have running out of the way and wake up before everyone else. Then again it's that bad motivation factor I need to get over. So I haven't gone running yet today. I am going to a short run and will be doing the Run For the Iris tomorrow morning. Trena is doing it too. Rob is going to come with the kids unless it's raining.
Tuesday, May 18, 2010
May 18
So today I felt absolutely crazy. Insane. And I had good conversation with Rob about it. I was telling him how I didn't know what I was doing all morning. I had no idea how I was using my time. While some things are getting done, it seems like nothing is. Laundry piles and piles up. The house is a mess. Not so much that. It just feels like chaos. Disorderly. And I am sick of it. Whatever routine we had about a month ago is gone. I don't know where it went. Tomorrow is a new day. Tomorrow is a day to start over again. I have a better handle on how I want to establish a new routine. I am realistic about how much I can accomplish in a day. And what can be put off for another day.
Running today cleared my head temporarily. I had every intention of running at 5:45 AM and had the alarm set. Kara woke up around then as well. I let her cry for a little while. But I knew if I went off running for a half hour and came back, she'd still be crying. With her still adjusting to the time change and being "off schedule" I got her up at 6:00 AM. It really didn't mess up her schedule because she took a three hour morning nap and then went down for her afternoon nap the same time as Derek. She actually did really, really well today. I ran during Rob's lunch and now I remember why I don't like running during this time. It's way too busy. But I didn't really have a choice today so I made it work. I ran two miles on my normal two mile course. I felt strong and really good the whole time. My right heel is still sore, but I wouldn't say it is a major injury. Because it doesn't really bother me much. I came home and felt energized. Then I felt around 3 PM that I was falling apart again. I felt crazy and in a complete state of chaos.
Eating has been frustrating today. I have felt hungry all day long. It doesn't seem to matter what I eat. I am still hungry. Bleck.
I am not doing a long run this week. I am doing shorter runs since I am doing the Run For the Iris 5K on Saturday. I registered today. I am also pretty sure I will be running the Columbia Gorge Marathon in October. Woo hoo! I am really excited to run this one! It's a fairly new marathon and small in terms of participants. Supposed to be very scenic and I LOVE the gorge. I can't wait to see more of it. This means training would start mid to late June. I need to put together my training schedule soon.
Running today cleared my head temporarily. I had every intention of running at 5:45 AM and had the alarm set. Kara woke up around then as well. I let her cry for a little while. But I knew if I went off running for a half hour and came back, she'd still be crying. With her still adjusting to the time change and being "off schedule" I got her up at 6:00 AM. It really didn't mess up her schedule because she took a three hour morning nap and then went down for her afternoon nap the same time as Derek. She actually did really, really well today. I ran during Rob's lunch and now I remember why I don't like running during this time. It's way too busy. But I didn't really have a choice today so I made it work. I ran two miles on my normal two mile course. I felt strong and really good the whole time. My right heel is still sore, but I wouldn't say it is a major injury. Because it doesn't really bother me much. I came home and felt energized. Then I felt around 3 PM that I was falling apart again. I felt crazy and in a complete state of chaos.
Eating has been frustrating today. I have felt hungry all day long. It doesn't seem to matter what I eat. I am still hungry. Bleck.
I am not doing a long run this week. I am doing shorter runs since I am doing the Run For the Iris 5K on Saturday. I registered today. I am also pretty sure I will be running the Columbia Gorge Marathon in October. Woo hoo! I am really excited to run this one! It's a fairly new marathon and small in terms of participants. Supposed to be very scenic and I LOVE the gorge. I can't wait to see more of it. This means training would start mid to late June. I need to put together my training schedule soon.
Monday, May 17, 2010
Running recap May 20 - 23
I flew out to Chicago on Thursday and hit the gym before I left. I swam for twenty minutes and felt way more confident. Like I could actually do laps. I am slowly getting there. My rotary breathing is better and I am getting the rotation together.
On Friday I ran while my dad biked on the trails behind their house. Let me just say I am jealous of all those Chicagoans who have these trails! I ran about four miles. We saw a fox and three deer which was really cool.
Saturday we went to Madison and were with family or in the car all day. No chance for exercise.
On Sunday I was in the air most of the day. I walked around the Salt Lake City airport for twenty minutes straight mainly to stretch my legs and soothe Kara. I found with all the running I was doing, I was getting leg cramps from sitting long on the plane. I had thought maybe I woudl run last night after getting home, but I was way too exhausted. I also had thought about going to the gym this morning, but I need a recovery day. I will get there tomorrow.
Today I feel overwhelmed, stressed, anxious. I have SO much to do and get caught up on. It WILL get done. It's just the amount of it and seeing piles everywhere. And the fact Kara naps terrible in the afternoons. I don't know what it is. Hailey was the same way around this age. She would take a long morning nap and then only like forty five minutes in the afternoon. Her afternoon nap did not get longer until she was seven to eight months old...and really did not get longer than an hour and a half until after she dropped the morning nap. Frustrating! It makes Kara so happy in the mornings, but cranky and wanting to be held constantly after 1 PM.
And we've run into some big time scheduling issues for running a marathon. We may be taking vacation with my whole family in October which is great. I was going to run the Portland Marathon the weekend before we go. But we have a wedding that weekend. So I am actually looking at doing a marathon in California in the late fall or early winter. I am hoping to get it figured out soon.
On Friday I ran while my dad biked on the trails behind their house. Let me just say I am jealous of all those Chicagoans who have these trails! I ran about four miles. We saw a fox and three deer which was really cool.
Saturday we went to Madison and were with family or in the car all day. No chance for exercise.
On Sunday I was in the air most of the day. I walked around the Salt Lake City airport for twenty minutes straight mainly to stretch my legs and soothe Kara. I found with all the running I was doing, I was getting leg cramps from sitting long on the plane. I had thought maybe I woudl run last night after getting home, but I was way too exhausted. I also had thought about going to the gym this morning, but I need a recovery day. I will get there tomorrow.
Today I feel overwhelmed, stressed, anxious. I have SO much to do and get caught up on. It WILL get done. It's just the amount of it and seeing piles everywhere. And the fact Kara naps terrible in the afternoons. I don't know what it is. Hailey was the same way around this age. She would take a long morning nap and then only like forty five minutes in the afternoon. Her afternoon nap did not get longer until she was seven to eight months old...and really did not get longer than an hour and a half until after she dropped the morning nap. Frustrating! It makes Kara so happy in the mornings, but cranky and wanting to be held constantly after 1 PM.
And we've run into some big time scheduling issues for running a marathon. We may be taking vacation with my whole family in October which is great. I was going to run the Portland Marathon the weekend before we go. But we have a wedding that weekend. So I am actually looking at doing a marathon in California in the late fall or early winter. I am hoping to get it figured out soon.
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
May 12
Ugh I am having one of those bad "stay-at-home mom" days where I can't get anything accomplished. I am trying to get ready to fly out tomorrow to Chicago and I can't even start packing. It's been a little chaotic around here. Kara has been sleeping great at night and taking a good morning nap. Afternoons lately have been super rough. I only post that here on this blog. I think there is a balance between exercise/food/moods/fatigue. I think the stress and fatigue I am feeling right now is not due to the fact I am getting up at 5:00 AM. It is more from not having much of an afternoon because Kara is not napping and when she is awake she's fussy. I know there are "off days" but it's been like this all week. I remember having a trying two weeks with Derek when he was around six months old...it was this time of year. I feel "off" today and smothered. My energy level is not what it was on Monday when I spent almost the whole afternoon outside with the kids. It isn't that I feel like crawling into bed and sleeping. It's more like I feel like "checking out" or doing my own thing for a couple hours.
Anyway I did make it to Group Power this morning. I was a little late and hate setting up while everyone is halfway through their warm up. You would think with it being 5:15 AM, there would be a few latecomers. Not the case. I was the only one. The workout was better than Monday. I struggled again big time on the shoulders track. I still do not like the abs track. It's so confusing. I need another couple times to get it. I felt good afterwards. Then I ran for seventeen minutes (about two miles) on the treadmill. I am hoping I can get a run in this weekend while I am gone. We have a pretty packed schedule so I am not going to plan on it. At least I will not be missing any Group Power.
Anyway I did make it to Group Power this morning. I was a little late and hate setting up while everyone is halfway through their warm up. You would think with it being 5:15 AM, there would be a few latecomers. Not the case. I was the only one. The workout was better than Monday. I struggled again big time on the shoulders track. I still do not like the abs track. It's so confusing. I need another couple times to get it. I felt good afterwards. Then I ran for seventeen minutes (about two miles) on the treadmill. I am hoping I can get a run in this weekend while I am gone. We have a pretty packed schedule so I am not going to plan on it. At least I will not be missing any Group Power.
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
How I found Team Winter
I posted this on my other blog but wanted to post it here as well...
In May 3, 2008 Michael turned 40 years old. He and his wife Dawn Estelle were entering the prime years of parenting their four children ages 5, 7, 9, and 11--three boys and one girl. Gone were the years of potty training and afternoon naps. It was much easier to go skiing together as a family or take a day trip to the beach. They are an active bunch. Their nine year old, Winter, had already been competing in triathlons at her young age. Michael with Winter were going to launch, Team Winter, a charitable organization. Prior to this they were looking for a cause to raise funds for and chose childhood obesity.
However on that May 3rd everything changed. On his birthday, Michael was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive form of prostate cancer. Despite a courageous battle, Michael passed away on March 12th, 2009 in Gaylord Michigan (where his family resided at the time). Following Michael's diagnosis, the entire family became involved with Athletes For A Cure, a branch of the Prostate Cancer Foundation.During his battle with prostate cancer and after his passing away, Winter continues to run, bike, and swim for Athletes For A Cure. She founded Team Winter which will raise money for prostate cancer research and find ways to cure this disease her dad fell victim to.
Winter and her family moved to Oregon almost exactly a year ago. They actually live less than five minutes from us and Winter goes to school at the middle school down the street from us. I actually ran into her at the gym last week and it was the first I met her. I first read about her story last summer in our local paper. At the time I was six months pregnant with Kara and running a marathon was not even an option. Four years ago in the summer of 2006, I trained for the Portland Marathon which I ran that October. After seeing some of my friends involved in breast cancer runs and walks, I wanted to do something similar. I really wanted to do a run in memory of my grandpa. The organization I chose had an entry fee and a requirement to raise a certain amount. At the time Rob was finishing seminary. He was working part time and I was doing odd jobs here and there while staying home with Hailey. We barely had enough to buy running shoes or pay the Portland Marathon entry fee. I always kept the dream inside and knew one day I would be able to do it. After reading Winter's story last summer, I was inspired. I became excited about the idea of running in memory of Grandpa while creating prostate cancer awareness.
My Grandpa Mensink was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 1981. It had already spread to his spine. I was four years old at the time and I have no memory of when my parents received that news. My only memories of Grandpa were when he had cancer. I don't remember him complaining of pain, chemo treatments, or hospital visits. If anything I remember the exact opposite--his cheerful smile, his creative ways at making us laugh, and the numerous vacations we took with him and my grandma. We rented cottages on the lake and went camping. He came to "Grandparents Day" at my school. I remember sitting with him outside on lawn chairs on the driveway as the sun was beginning to set. I am grateful for these childhood moments. I will never forget them. In January of 1989, Grandpa went home. I was in sixth grade. Though the events of his last days on earth, his death, and funeral were heartbreaking and even confusing as a young adolescent, I knew I was blessed to have him in my life. Even if it is was a short period of time.
This summer I will be running a few 5Ks and/or 10Ks and ending this fall with a full marathon. I am thrilled to be running for Team Winter. My hopes is I can raise $1,000 for Team Winter. Please join my efforts by making a donation. You can do so directly to my fundraising website I've also created a facebook page. Just search for 19 Miles and Counting and join. Why 19 miles? When I ran Portland, this was the most trying part of the race for me. I was questioning why I did this and if I could go on. Then a fellow runner told me to walk up the next hill and keep going. He encouraged me that I could do it. I don't know from experience, but I am sure cancer is even more painful and trying than nineteen miles. This is one thing I can do. I am excited to take it on. I hope you'll consider donating to my cause!
I will be kicking off my running with the Run For the Iris 5K on May 22nd in Keizer. From there I hope do another 5K or 10K in June or July and then again in August. I have not decided on a marathon yet, but have a couple options. It will probably be one in Oregon or Washington. We're waiting to figure out some vacation schedules and other commitments before I can determine which one to do. Because most marathons are on Sundays and that is our busiest day of the week, it takes some juggling of schedules. Rob would really like to see me finish as he did not get this opportunity when I ran Portland. Thanks for reading about my latest endeavor!
In May 3, 2008 Michael turned 40 years old. He and his wife Dawn Estelle were entering the prime years of parenting their four children ages 5, 7, 9, and 11--three boys and one girl. Gone were the years of potty training and afternoon naps. It was much easier to go skiing together as a family or take a day trip to the beach. They are an active bunch. Their nine year old, Winter, had already been competing in triathlons at her young age. Michael with Winter were going to launch, Team Winter, a charitable organization. Prior to this they were looking for a cause to raise funds for and chose childhood obesity.
However on that May 3rd everything changed. On his birthday, Michael was diagnosed with a rare and aggressive form of prostate cancer. Despite a courageous battle, Michael passed away on March 12th, 2009 in Gaylord Michigan (where his family resided at the time). Following Michael's diagnosis, the entire family became involved with Athletes For A Cure, a branch of the Prostate Cancer Foundation.During his battle with prostate cancer and after his passing away, Winter continues to run, bike, and swim for Athletes For A Cure. She founded Team Winter which will raise money for prostate cancer research and find ways to cure this disease her dad fell victim to.
Winter and her family moved to Oregon almost exactly a year ago. They actually live less than five minutes from us and Winter goes to school at the middle school down the street from us. I actually ran into her at the gym last week and it was the first I met her. I first read about her story last summer in our local paper. At the time I was six months pregnant with Kara and running a marathon was not even an option. Four years ago in the summer of 2006, I trained for the Portland Marathon which I ran that October. After seeing some of my friends involved in breast cancer runs and walks, I wanted to do something similar. I really wanted to do a run in memory of my grandpa. The organization I chose had an entry fee and a requirement to raise a certain amount. At the time Rob was finishing seminary. He was working part time and I was doing odd jobs here and there while staying home with Hailey. We barely had enough to buy running shoes or pay the Portland Marathon entry fee. I always kept the dream inside and knew one day I would be able to do it. After reading Winter's story last summer, I was inspired. I became excited about the idea of running in memory of Grandpa while creating prostate cancer awareness.
My Grandpa Mensink was diagnosed with prostate cancer in 1981. It had already spread to his spine. I was four years old at the time and I have no memory of when my parents received that news. My only memories of Grandpa were when he had cancer. I don't remember him complaining of pain, chemo treatments, or hospital visits. If anything I remember the exact opposite--his cheerful smile, his creative ways at making us laugh, and the numerous vacations we took with him and my grandma. We rented cottages on the lake and went camping. He came to "Grandparents Day" at my school. I remember sitting with him outside on lawn chairs on the driveway as the sun was beginning to set. I am grateful for these childhood moments. I will never forget them. In January of 1989, Grandpa went home. I was in sixth grade. Though the events of his last days on earth, his death, and funeral were heartbreaking and even confusing as a young adolescent, I knew I was blessed to have him in my life. Even if it is was a short period of time.
This summer I will be running a few 5Ks and/or 10Ks and ending this fall with a full marathon. I am thrilled to be running for Team Winter. My hopes is I can raise $1,000 for Team Winter. Please join my efforts by making a donation. You can do so directly to my fundraising website I've also created a facebook page. Just search for 19 Miles and Counting and join. Why 19 miles? When I ran Portland, this was the most trying part of the race for me. I was questioning why I did this and if I could go on. Then a fellow runner told me to walk up the next hill and keep going. He encouraged me that I could do it. I don't know from experience, but I am sure cancer is even more painful and trying than nineteen miles. This is one thing I can do. I am excited to take it on. I hope you'll consider donating to my cause!
I will be kicking off my running with the Run For the Iris 5K on May 22nd in Keizer. From there I hope do another 5K or 10K in June or July and then again in August. I have not decided on a marathon yet, but have a couple options. It will probably be one in Oregon or Washington. We're waiting to figure out some vacation schedules and other commitments before I can determine which one to do. Because most marathons are on Sundays and that is our busiest day of the week, it takes some juggling of schedules. Rob would really like to see me finish as he did not get this opportunity when I ran Portland. Thanks for reading about my latest endeavor!
May 9-11
On Sunday I ran three miles and tried a new route. I did Lone Oak to Boone to Sunnyside (stopping at the park for water) to Idylwood back to Hrubetz. It was a great three mile route. The weather was perfect and I felt really good afterwards. I never used to run on Sundays and saw it on my day off. Now I love running on Sunday afternoons and find much solitude in it.
On Monday I got up at the crack of dawn and went to Group Power. It's Launch Week. I don't know if it's the economy or the fact my gym is putting in all new exercise equipment, but there's no freebies! Usually during Launch Week there's prizes. Now there's nothing--just new workouts. Which were really tough by the way. The class totally kicked my butt. I struggled the most with the shoulders track and normally that one is easier for me. The abs/core track was very confusing and a lot of people complained about it afterwards. I don't think anyone really likes change. I don't care for the music as much. The songs were either really old--like 60's or early 70's or really new. What happened to the 80's and 90's tracks?
I'm doing my long run during the week now for a few weeks since it works out better with my schedule. Today I ran 6 miles, but technically it might been closer to 6.5 miles. I need to look at the map and determine that. The alarm went off at 5:20 AM and I was making every single excuse not to go. I knew if I didn't go I would really regret it. And probably be crabby all day. It took me until 5:40 to get up and out the door. I did go in the opposite direction towards Battlecreek. That worked better. Aside from the huge hills on Boone, it was relatively flat with rolling hills. The hills on Boone are doable and help build up endurance. I was able to run the whole way! Very happy with that. Once I get my mileage up, I'll need to detour on side street and stop at parks. If I keep going on Commerical like I did this morning, I am going to start getting into Turner and it gets a little too remote.
I don't have the heel pain with my New Balance shoes so I am wondering if it's a shoe problem. Or maybe my other shoes aren't fully broken in yet?
I really feel like Weight Watchers is making a big difference. Since I am eating less "junk" I don't crave it like I used to. Last night at the shower, I bypassed the dessert table and didn't think twice. I had 1/8 of a piece of choclate cake and didn't feel like I could eat more than that. I'm having a harder time with some of the more fattening foods like cheese, hamburgers, french fries etc. I had quiche at the Mother/Daughter brunch and I didn't realize how many points I was eating. Again it is going to be harder this weekend with traveling.
On Monday I got up at the crack of dawn and went to Group Power. It's Launch Week. I don't know if it's the economy or the fact my gym is putting in all new exercise equipment, but there's no freebies! Usually during Launch Week there's prizes. Now there's nothing--just new workouts. Which were really tough by the way. The class totally kicked my butt. I struggled the most with the shoulders track and normally that one is easier for me. The abs/core track was very confusing and a lot of people complained about it afterwards. I don't think anyone really likes change. I don't care for the music as much. The songs were either really old--like 60's or early 70's or really new. What happened to the 80's and 90's tracks?
I'm doing my long run during the week now for a few weeks since it works out better with my schedule. Today I ran 6 miles, but technically it might been closer to 6.5 miles. I need to look at the map and determine that. The alarm went off at 5:20 AM and I was making every single excuse not to go. I knew if I didn't go I would really regret it. And probably be crabby all day. It took me until 5:40 to get up and out the door. I did go in the opposite direction towards Battlecreek. That worked better. Aside from the huge hills on Boone, it was relatively flat with rolling hills. The hills on Boone are doable and help build up endurance. I was able to run the whole way! Very happy with that. Once I get my mileage up, I'll need to detour on side street and stop at parks. If I keep going on Commerical like I did this morning, I am going to start getting into Turner and it gets a little too remote.
I don't have the heel pain with my New Balance shoes so I am wondering if it's a shoe problem. Or maybe my other shoes aren't fully broken in yet?
I really feel like Weight Watchers is making a big difference. Since I am eating less "junk" I don't crave it like I used to. Last night at the shower, I bypassed the dessert table and didn't think twice. I had 1/8 of a piece of choclate cake and didn't feel like I could eat more than that. I'm having a harder time with some of the more fattening foods like cheese, hamburgers, french fries etc. I had quiche at the Mother/Daughter brunch and I didn't realize how many points I was eating. Again it is going to be harder this weekend with traveling.
Saturday, May 8, 2010
May 7
I am feeling a little defeated right now. A little grouchy. It makes such a difference when I get up before the kids. On the weekends it is hard to do that. I hate going to bed at 10 or earlier on a Friday or Saturday night. So I guess that is why I am paying for it right now and in this grumpy state of mind.
Anyway I did run five miles yesterday. I picked a bad route though. My goal eventually is to run towards downtown. I can stop at Hillview Park on Ewald and then Fairmount Park for water before I would eventually get to Bush Park. The problem is there are a zillion lights on Commerical especially at the Liberty intersection. There is so much starting and stopping that it really gets annoying. Plus people pulling out of driveways not looking for runners. I always have to stop and make eye contact with the driver. A couple years ago I almost got hit by a car. So I think I am going to have to run the opposite direction towards Battlecreek where there are less lights. I can stop at Wes Bennet Park and I am wondering if there's another park in the area. This was my old marathon training route. Or else park my car at Bush Park and do laps. But anyway my goal was to run the whole thing except for the massive hill on Scenic Drive (which is probably the steepest hill I've ever run). I ran up the first hill and halfway up the second so I felt pretty good about how much I accomplished. I took water with me in my hip pack which helped. It was hot enough to need hydration througout the run. I drank at all the stupid stop lights.
I am feeling a little sore today, but not too bad. My right heel hurts a little bit when I run. I am wondering if it's a shoe problem. I was going to run in my New Balance shoes next time and see if that makes any difference. I am going to do my long run on Tuesday or Thursday morning the next two weeks as I will be in Wisconsin next weekend and doing the Keizer 5K the following weekend. I am going for six miles next.
Anyway I did run five miles yesterday. I picked a bad route though. My goal eventually is to run towards downtown. I can stop at Hillview Park on Ewald and then Fairmount Park for water before I would eventually get to Bush Park. The problem is there are a zillion lights on Commerical especially at the Liberty intersection. There is so much starting and stopping that it really gets annoying. Plus people pulling out of driveways not looking for runners. I always have to stop and make eye contact with the driver. A couple years ago I almost got hit by a car. So I think I am going to have to run the opposite direction towards Battlecreek where there are less lights. I can stop at Wes Bennet Park and I am wondering if there's another park in the area. This was my old marathon training route. Or else park my car at Bush Park and do laps. But anyway my goal was to run the whole thing except for the massive hill on Scenic Drive (which is probably the steepest hill I've ever run). I ran up the first hill and halfway up the second so I felt pretty good about how much I accomplished. I took water with me in my hip pack which helped. It was hot enough to need hydration througout the run. I drank at all the stupid stop lights.
I am feeling a little sore today, but not too bad. My right heel hurts a little bit when I run. I am wondering if it's a shoe problem. I was going to run in my New Balance shoes next time and see if that makes any difference. I am going to do my long run on Tuesday or Thursday morning the next two weeks as I will be in Wisconsin next weekend and doing the Keizer 5K the following weekend. I am going for six miles next.
Thursday, May 6, 2010
May 5 and 6
It looks like Wednesday is going to be my crazy workout day. I went to morning Group Power. At first I felt a little queasy and fatigued. I knew I was not getting sick. Because I have dealt with so many stomach bugs over the past four and a half years, I am in tune to my body. I know when I am sick. About fifteen to twenty minutes into the workout, I started to feel normal again. I struggled again on the biceps workout, but the rest were fine.
I am trying to run four days a week. With Group Power twice a week, swimming once or twice (right now it is just once) a week, and running four days a week, there has to be at least one or two days I combine some of these activities. I ran into my old Centergy friends in the locker room this morning. One of them said I looked so good after having a baby six months ago--what a nice compliment! I told them it was going to be really tricky to try to get to do Centergy right now. I think this is something I might try and do after the marathon. They said the class has grown and that you really have to get there by 5:05 AM or you don't get a spot. Crazy. Everyone is doing Centergy right now.
Anyway I ran on Wednesday after Group Power. Although I can do it, I am not nearly as strong after having done weights for an hour. I only ran a mile and a half on the treadmill. That was enough. I was sweating like crazy afterwards. I was home by 6:45 AM and Kara was just starting to wake up. So the timing worked out pretty well.
This morning I swam. I really didn't want to overdue it. I have worked out everyday since Sunday. So I only swam for twenty minutes. That was enough. I am doing the front crawl now very slowly and I stop and take a lot of breaks after each length. It is tiring because I am not used to it. I will slowly get up to thirty minutes with time. I don't know how people can swim laps for an hour. Then again people don't know how I can run for an hour and a half. Anyway I was home just before 6:30 AM (and I stopped at Wal Mart real quick). The kids did not get up until 7:30 AM. I got a jumpstart on the laundry. This helps so much! It really makes household work less daunting. I can get more done during the day. Now if this crummy spring weather would go away so we can actually do some stuff outside.
I really stuck with the points this week and lost almost two pounds! I am down to 127! I was so excited when I stepped on the scale. This coming week will be easy to stick with the points again. The following week will be tougher as I am going to Wisconsin to see Grandma M. Fast food restaurants, airport food etc. will be tempting. I am hoping I can get out and run at least once. Since it is a short visit, I imagine we'll have time restraints. I am hoping to get my long run done before I leave so I don't have to worry about doing that in Wisconsin.
I am trying to run four days a week. With Group Power twice a week, swimming once or twice (right now it is just once) a week, and running four days a week, there has to be at least one or two days I combine some of these activities. I ran into my old Centergy friends in the locker room this morning. One of them said I looked so good after having a baby six months ago--what a nice compliment! I told them it was going to be really tricky to try to get to do Centergy right now. I think this is something I might try and do after the marathon. They said the class has grown and that you really have to get there by 5:05 AM or you don't get a spot. Crazy. Everyone is doing Centergy right now.
Anyway I ran on Wednesday after Group Power. Although I can do it, I am not nearly as strong after having done weights for an hour. I only ran a mile and a half on the treadmill. That was enough. I was sweating like crazy afterwards. I was home by 6:45 AM and Kara was just starting to wake up. So the timing worked out pretty well.
This morning I swam. I really didn't want to overdue it. I have worked out everyday since Sunday. So I only swam for twenty minutes. That was enough. I am doing the front crawl now very slowly and I stop and take a lot of breaks after each length. It is tiring because I am not used to it. I will slowly get up to thirty minutes with time. I don't know how people can swim laps for an hour. Then again people don't know how I can run for an hour and a half. Anyway I was home just before 6:30 AM (and I stopped at Wal Mart real quick). The kids did not get up until 7:30 AM. I got a jumpstart on the laundry. This helps so much! It really makes household work less daunting. I can get more done during the day. Now if this crummy spring weather would go away so we can actually do some stuff outside.
I really stuck with the points this week and lost almost two pounds! I am down to 127! I was so excited when I stepped on the scale. This coming week will be easy to stick with the points again. The following week will be tougher as I am going to Wisconsin to see Grandma M. Fast food restaurants, airport food etc. will be tempting. I am hoping I can get out and run at least once. Since it is a short visit, I imagine we'll have time restraints. I am hoping to get my long run done before I leave so I don't have to worry about doing that in Wisconsin.
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
May 3
I've really needed my morning exercise this week so far. It's been NUTS around here. Potty training Derek is a full attention type thing. Today Kara has decided not to nap very well. Hailey is frustrated because she's not getting the attention she normally gets. I am not sure if I want to continue the training with Derek because I'm not sure he's really getting it. It's a little too early to tell. Kara hates all forms of solid food right now and is not pooping. And the laundry keeps piling up. And this weather stinks! It actually was hailing! But exercise is good. It's MY time of the day even if it's at the crack of dawn. I'll take it. I am more ready to dive in and change diapers, clean up bodily messes, make up a bottle, etc. after I have been able to go running, swimming, or lift weights.
Today I ran at 6:00 AM. The alarm goes off at 4:55 AM. That's enough time for me to throw on clothes, grab my stuff, get in the van, and make it to Group Power with a minute or two to spare. Today I really wanted to run outside. Since I washed and dried my headphones, I hate running at the gym because I can't hear the TVs. I have never liked the treadmill as much as running outside except when I was pregnant. I don't have as much motivation on the mornings I run outside to get up. My plan was to get up at 5:30, but I didn't get up until 6. I ran 2.27 miles around the neighborhood (my regular 2 mile run with an extra detour hence making it 2.27). I didn't feel as good as I felt Sunday...a little more fatigued. Not soreness. Just felt like my endurance level was a little down. I was able to complete everything and I did feel stronger as the run went on. By the time I came home around 6:45, Kara was very awake and crying. Derek was up and crying. Hailey was just waking up. So the day began. It started out very crazy this morning. So I was thankful I did go running or I can pretty much guarantee I would not be in the greatest mood right now.
Tuesdays are hard for me. Rob works an extra hour because he has a 4:30 meeting. Which really is not a big deal. Two Tuesdays of the month he has a 7 PM meeting (and a few times it's been 6 PM and he doesn't come home at all) so he's only home for an hour and doesn't get back home until 9 PM. It's a very long day. For him and for me. I kind of wish the schedule could change, but for now it is this way. I can be thankful it's not every single Tuesday.
Today I ran at 6:00 AM. The alarm goes off at 4:55 AM. That's enough time for me to throw on clothes, grab my stuff, get in the van, and make it to Group Power with a minute or two to spare. Today I really wanted to run outside. Since I washed and dried my headphones, I hate running at the gym because I can't hear the TVs. I have never liked the treadmill as much as running outside except when I was pregnant. I don't have as much motivation on the mornings I run outside to get up. My plan was to get up at 5:30, but I didn't get up until 6. I ran 2.27 miles around the neighborhood (my regular 2 mile run with an extra detour hence making it 2.27). I didn't feel as good as I felt Sunday...a little more fatigued. Not soreness. Just felt like my endurance level was a little down. I was able to complete everything and I did feel stronger as the run went on. By the time I came home around 6:45, Kara was very awake and crying. Derek was up and crying. Hailey was just waking up. So the day began. It started out very crazy this morning. So I was thankful I did go running or I can pretty much guarantee I would not be in the greatest mood right now.
Tuesdays are hard for me. Rob works an extra hour because he has a 4:30 meeting. Which really is not a big deal. Two Tuesdays of the month he has a 7 PM meeting (and a few times it's been 6 PM and he doesn't come home at all) so he's only home for an hour and doesn't get back home until 9 PM. It's a very long day. For him and for me. I kind of wish the schedule could change, but for now it is this way. I can be thankful it's not every single Tuesday.
Monday, May 3, 2010
May 1 and 2
I figured out how to use Map My Run so I know my exact mileage! I ran 3.37 miles yesterday. I missed the turn on to Cloudview and ended up on Cloud. I thought they were the same street. Apparently they are not. I ended up on some massive, massive uphills. I was very excited I was able to complete them all without walking. Uphills are more of mental battle with me than a physical. I really like the neighborhood behind the grocery store, but it's a bunch of winding roads that dead into one another. It is super easy to get lost. I also did quite well sticking to the WW points even with the Auction Saturday night and the potluck yesterday. I dipped into a few of my weekly points. I am finding my hunger is not as intense as it was a couple weeks ago.
This morning I went to Group Power and felt really good. The bicep workout killed me again and I could not keep up. The rest of it was fine. I do work out so much better in the morning. I feel like I have more motivation and strength.
I am probably going to running this fall for Team Winter. It is through the Prostate Cancer Foundation's Atheletes For A Cure fundraising program. It was founded by a eleven year old girl named Winter who lost her father a little over a year ago to prostate cancer. She is a triathlete and can already run a half marathon at her young age. She lived in Michigan and moved to Oregon a year ago. I read about her in the Statesman journal and saw that she appeared on Rachel Ray and has been on the local news several times. Well this morning at the gym I met her! I recognized her and her mom from the pictures on her website. It was kind of cool!
This morning I went to Group Power and felt really good. The bicep workout killed me again and I could not keep up. The rest of it was fine. I do work out so much better in the morning. I feel like I have more motivation and strength.
I am probably going to running this fall for Team Winter. It is through the Prostate Cancer Foundation's Atheletes For A Cure fundraising program. It was founded by a eleven year old girl named Winter who lost her father a little over a year ago to prostate cancer. She is a triathlete and can already run a half marathon at her young age. She lived in Michigan and moved to Oregon a year ago. I read about her in the Statesman journal and saw that she appeared on Rachel Ray and has been on the local news several times. Well this morning at the gym I met her! I recognized her and her mom from the pictures on her website. It was kind of cool!
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