Pre-Marathon Training Week #4

Monday - Ran 3 miles & 20 minutes of Kickboxing (Abs)

I ran at 7:30 this morning. I loved being outside in the cool fresh winter air. The neighborhood was so dead and quiet. Christmas lights were still on outside. I only saw two cars. Kind of peaceful. Workout went well. Struggled a little on the hill going up to Lone Oak from Flint Ridge, but did not stop to walk. I also tried the 10 minutes Solutions Kickboxing and I like it a lot better compared to the other 10 minute Solutions video I was using. It was more fast paced and the abs workout is way more intense. I might do the whole 60 minute workout on my cross training days. I went over the calorie count yesterday on Christmas, but not by much. It's going to be a little bit of a harder week with travel. I always say I am going to run at least once or twice when I am at my parent's house, but I never do. It's a little easier to get away since Kara is older. But I am hoping I can get at least one or two runs in. It helps it's a kick back week and all the mileage is lower.

Tuesday - Ran 4.5 miles & 30 minutes of kickboxing

Run was tougher today. I was overdressed again. I really could have run in a t-shirt and shorts. I had no idea it was so warm out. Again I did not feel as good until the third mile. I struggled a lot the first three. I love kickboxing! It was tougher today and I was quite tired from the run. I like the abs workout and the fast pace of it. I actually did not eat enough when I checked the calories. I was so busy cleaning, packing, and getting ready for the trip that I am prone to not snack or eat smaller meals. It is kind of running off adrenaline. I had two snacks at 8:30 PM.

Wednesday - Intervals 9 x 400 and 10 minutes of abs

I got out the door at 7:30 and did intervals around the park. Intervals still kick my butt. Once I got to the fourth or fifth it was not so bad. I did Rob's karate ab workouts and those kick my butt even more. Hailey did a few with me too.

Rest of the week

We were in Chicago with a pretty intense schedule. I was a little relaxed about the food though tried to not to pig out. I think my eating got worse and worse as the week went on so now it's time to gain control again. My goal was to run at least twice while on vacation. I ran once. I did a 4 mile on Saturday which was a fabulous run. I love the bike paths by my parent's house. I felt like I could have ran forever. I planned on running Monday. But with the freezing temps and slippery paths, I decided not to. A few years ago it would not have stopped me. My Pacific Northwest accustomed body is not used to it. I could hardly stand walking outside. Nice to be back in 50 degree temps again and hope to continue to pre-marathon training until the end of the month.

Pre-Marathon Training Week #3

Monday - Crunch Abs - 32 minutes

I had another crummy morning, but was able to work out straight through while Derek played outside and Hailey & Kara played dolls and watched TV. It was a really good workout. Would have liked to run, but could not do so during the lunch hour today and I'm gone tonight. And I was not going to get up early the first of Christmas Break.

Tuesday - Ran 3 miles - Abs - 10 minutes

So last night I went shopping for jeans and I am about cried in the dressing room. Rob and I both agreed we've been pretty reckless with the snacking lately. Lots of sweets, treats, and ice cream. I want to go back on Weight Watchers in January just because it helps with regulating points with running. I am going to three conferences between January and April. This is where I cave...you feel like you just sit and eat for three days. My goal is to tone my abs and get my weight back down before our beach vacation to Penticton in July. Running did not goes as well this morning. I felt crummy until the 2nd mile when I started to feel normal. I woke up feeling dehydrated. I had a beer at Applebees last night and I usually wake up dehydrated when I have a beer after 8 PM. I have never had a lot of self image problems and it's never been the source of my anxiety. Honestly I hate talking about it with my friends because some of them (not all of them) struggle with their weight more than I do and are not training for marathons and exercise less. Some of the more self conscious about weight and that is more of their source of anxiety. Whereas my source of anxiety is relationships/friendships/being included. When I went on WW last time after I had Kara I had people tell me I don't need to be on it and were almost offended when I shared I wanted to lose weight. Why is it so hard to talk about weight with people? Especially women!?

Wednesday - Ran 4.5 miles & Crunch Abs Attack 32 minutes

I almost had another breakdown when I got on the scale. I am the same weight I was when I started WW in April of 2010. Yuk! So I started tracking calories on My Fitness Pal that Alyssa recommended. I know I am going to cheat on the holidays and probably lose a couple days of exercise. I figure I need to start now or I am just going to feel miserable and become another emotional Christmas Break wreck. So far I feel so much better to have a plan and some goals. I thought I was only running 4, but I did an old route from marathon training. When I got home and realized it was 8:15 AM not 8, I realized it must be more like 4.5 miles. I was right. It was a good run though. I felt good through most of it. I just struggle a little on the Sunnyside hill by Baxter because it's so long and drawn out. The kids were so good this morning that I did the whole Ab Attack workout while they watched Christmas cartoons. Bonus to be able to squeeze that in this morning.

Thursday - Pace Run - approximately 35 minutes & 10 Minute Solutions Abs & 5 minutes of abs

I am feeling so much better using the My Fitness Pal. I don't feel a slave to it like I did with Weight Watchers. I think it's easier to cut out some of the snacking and high fatty foods the second time around. I ran Lone Oak to Kuebler to Sunnyside and back up Idylwood. It was a great run except my left ankle started to ache around the second mile and was in and out the rest of the run. I really need to buy new shoes ASAP. I iced it after I ran and that seemed to help. Abs & core workout was fine.

Friday - 3 mile run & 10 minutes of abs/core

I ran really hard at the beginning. Halfway through the second mile, I felt winded and exhausted. I walked up for about 1 minute. I was too overdressed. It got a lot warmer out since yesterday and is not nearly as cold as it was earlier this week. After I took my jacket off, I felt better. Ankle was not hurting today. I felt dehydrated when I woke up. I have been trying to drink water throughout the day but still feel like my body is not getting enough. Today I am also very hungry. Once starting the My Fitness Pal earlier this week, I did not feel overly hungry. Today I feel like raiding the cupboards and I am glad it's only about two hours until dinner!

Saturday - 6 miles!

I felt great right from the start so I knew it was going to be a good run. I only stopped to hydrate and I had a powerbar gu packet around the 4th mile. I ran my 5 mile route, but I went all the way to Ewald and then back down Liberty. I walked about 10 minutes after I completed 6. It felt awesome to get this mileage in--it's been several months. I went over the calories because we had Christmas Eve dinner with the Vande Burgts. I really did not need that piece of pie. I wasn't even that hungry for the pie...if I had to do it all over again I would have had a half piece or skipped it all together. I knew I would go a little over Christmas & Christmas Eve. So trying not to beat myself up over it.

Sunday - Rest

Pre-Marathon Training Week #2

Monday - Ran 3 miles

I did my regular route to Holder and back up Liberty. Tired. Exhausting. I was so not motivated to run at all. It's funny that sometimes makes the run go bad too. I didn't walk at all. Just kept moving sometimes at a very slow pace.

Tuesday - Rest

Still not motivated and came home from Bible Study a little later than expected. Plus I had to get some stuff done for Hailey's Christmas party at school. I was going to pop in an exercise DVD, but never got around to it.

Wednesday - Intervals - 8 x 400

Intervals kick my butt. They are so good for me. I really need to do them. I did three on city streets and five in the park by our house. Tough at times, but I felt really good afterwards. It's a nice break from a straight forward run. Still feel not motivated and "a little off" but I still feel tired from all the activity last week. Look forward to not having much at all next week.

Thursday - Crunch Boot Camp - Abs - 32 minutes

Awful, awful morning with the kids. I got interrupted like six times. Constant bickering and fighting even with the TV on. Shut the TV off and put them in their rooms. I made Derek and Kara stay apart from one another--had to be in separate rooms from 10:30 AM until lunch time. It was good for Derek. He did better. Worse for Kara. She had constant temper tantrums. I was determined to finish my workout though. And I did. Thankfully they were angels in the afternoon and evening. What a crummy morning.

Friday - Ran 3.5 miles

I ran around noon. Now that Kuebler has sidewalks, it is much more runner friendly. I am surprised by all the runners I see now. It makes sense because there are few roads that connect Sunnyside to Commerical and Lone Oak to Sunnyside. No one wants to run on Boone because the hills are killer. Though I need do to them next week. It was a better run than earlier in the week. I felt pretty good.

Saturday - Ran 4 miles

I ran around noon again. Thankfully Rob did not mind playing taxi cab and pick up Hailey & Derek (with Kara in the car) and drop off Hailey again. He even took Kara and Derek to Roths to build a gingerbread house. I felt sluggish between the second and third mile. All in all it went really well. I ran Lone Oak to Valleywood to Sunnyside up Kuebler back to Lone Oak. Running on Kuebler is so much nicer with the sidewalks. Don't feel like I am hugging traffic anymore and being blown away by trucks. This is going to make marathon training easier.

Sunday - Rest

Probably should have run, but too lazy...

Pre-Marathon Training Week #1

One year ago I was running my second marathon! Now a year later I am starting pre-marathon training for my third. I picked a tough week to start pre-training. I have something EVERY SINGLE night this week. This is probably my busiest week of the holiday season. Looking forward to next week when I have next to nothing.

Monday - 3 mile run and 10 minutes of strength training

I ran my 3 mile route to the Sumpter neighborhood. I did not feel as good today at all. I pushed my way through it and felt like I was going at turtle pace. I did 10 minutes of arm on the 10 Minute Solutions Target Toning. I know I should be abs too, but I have 100 things to get done this week. I am just happy I got a workout in!!

Tuesday - 3 miles

The running has been SO good for me because the pre-winter anxiety is starting to kick in. Handling it better this year! But had a few bad nights last week. Even though this week is insanely busy, I am getting good sleep. Running seems to help with that. Felt kind of weak and tired again today, but better than yesterday. I felt at my best around second half of the second mile. I ran around Sumpter Park and I like the quiet and peacefulness of that neighborhood and the small rolling hills that are easier to deal with when you start up running again. It's really cold outside, but I find the outside air refreshing. It's only in the 40's so compared to most places in the country in December--it's not that cold. Hailey went off to school today without wearing her coat. We had to make a detour to ILS on our way to Bible Study.

Wednesday - Tempo Run - about 30 minutes

I ran at a slow pace for about a mile, then sped up for another mile, walked probably 1/4 of a mile, and ran the rest of the way. I did the Ewald route. I forgot how the big the hills are. The last half of the run was the hardest. It still is really cold, but it has been clear all week. So I can't complain.

Thursday - Rest Day

Friday - Ran 3 miles

I ran at 4 PM and ran to Woodmansee Park. I ran through the park and through the woods. I love the short trail run. I was surprised how many people were in the woods walking dogs and playing frisbee golf. There were even people playing tennis and a few kids on the playground. And it's cold. I guess if there is no rain in Oregon, people still venture outside and stay out there. It was probably my best run all week. I felt really good. So glad I stuck with it. This has been a very, very busy weekend. Something every single night and morning.

Saturday - Rest

Super busy day!! Was hardly home.

Sunday - Rest

I had way too much to do and I NEEDED a nap. We were out late Saturday night and Kara decided to rise and shine at 5:45 AM. She stayed semi quiet in her room until around 6:15 AM. For some reason the other two were up at 6:30 which is highly unusual for a Sunday. I had to do some work on Christmas stuff to do before evening church.

November 27 - December 3

Monday - Ran 2 miles

So here we are and it's the end of November. I needed a break from running. For a variety of reasons. I felt like I was starting to get an unhealthy mind set. Like if I did not run or keep up with my original exercise plans, I was taking it way too hard. And I did not have much motivation. I was starting to feel drained and worn out.

I have felt better again. And energized.

I know I feel better mentally because I ran 2 miles straight today. I felt stronger and more energized than I did three weeks ago. I feel like I am moving into "training" mode where I am so motivated to get out and run versus dreading it, putting it off, not doing it, and then feeling extremely guilty and frustrated.

I really want to do the Newport Marathon. I am going to start pre-training next week that will put me around 6-8 miles and then begin official marathon training in February. Training in the winter in Oregon is going to be a challenge. Today was beautiful and even a little warm. Yesterday was pouring, blowing, cold rain. It rains here a lot but it doesn't rain everyday. Sometimes we get these warm ups in January and February. Our spring really begins around late February. So I think it is doable.

I'm really proud of my friend Alyssa who is losing so much weight and did her first 5K on Thanksgiving. It has motivated to get myself out the door and starting getting my miles up back. I need this. I can do it!

Tuesday - Crunch Boot Camp 30 minutes

Not motivated to do videos. Would much rather run outside even in the rain. But I needed the strength training and stretching. Even though I do get bored with it...I push pause and see how much time if left...I know I need to do it. I actually felt energized and good after I was done. It's better than laying around the couch and watching TV while the kids nap...or pretend to nap. I need to look through Netflix one of these mornings and find a few more videos to give myself variety. I have been doing the same one and really only this one since the summer.

The only thing with exercising is my appetite is so huge. Like it's 8PM right now and I feel like I could eat another meal.

Wednesday - Ran 3 miles

It hurt at times and my muscles feel so incredibly tight. But I pushed through it and completed it. It helps that is so sunny out today and even a little warm--very unusual for this time of year. I love running in the Sumpter neighborhood again. I missed it. I think I crave running more in the fall and winter months. I struggle to keep it up in the spring and summer. My crazy children are not napping again so I needed this extra dose of energy to get through the long afternoon.

Thursday - Crunch Abs 30 minutes

Did a quick Netflix Instant search and found all I get on Instant Netflix are the 10 minute workouts or the Crunch Gym. Jillian Michaels in only available by mail. So I tried Crunch Abs. Although the first 20 minutes were fast and dancey, I think I can get used to it. I liked the last 10 minutes better. I know I worked my abs because they are sore. I am still not very motivated to do it in the afternoon, but it worked out OK today.

Friday - Rest Day

Saturday - Ran 2 miles

It has been a sunny week, but cold. I didn't mind the cold air so much though. It felt refreshing. I ran my regular 2 miler down Loan Oak to Browning and back up Liberty. I ran around 4. Wanted to get it in earlier, but still enjoyed running in the late afternoon. Running has gone well this week--significantly better than a few weeks ago. I think I need more miles. The 1 to 1 1/2 mile runs were not challenging enough and not motivating. I thought it would be the opposite. I would look forward to running a shorter distance, but it made me enjoy it so much less.

Sunday - Rest Day

October 31 - November 6

Monday - Crunch: Burn and Firm Pilates - 48 minutes

I wanted to try a different video. I have never done any kind of pilates before except the little bit in Centergy class back when I used to go to it. I did around 10 AM with the kids watching TV and then playing all around me. I didn't think it would work, but it actually did. I was only interrupted once to clean up some spilled milk. Derek played contently at the table with his cars and city boxes. Kara played with her baby dolls. Sometimes they do this and other days it is like pulling teeth to get them to do anything all they do is fight. Anyway the length was too long. I can't workout that long in the morning unless I am up before the kids. But the stretching was great. I really needed it. I liked the overall workout. I think I like Crunch Boot Camp slightly better. I do miss the days I used to do more with yoga and pilates. It's just hard to squeeze that in with running.

Tuesday - Ran 1.75 miles

Did my two mile route, but walked the last .25 miles. Good workout.

Wednesday & the rest of the week

Wednesday was super busy so I decided to make it my rest day. I had to bring Derek to Christina's, run a bunch of errands for ETM while Derek was there and set up for ETM. I did not finish by 11:15 AM. I realized 1) I don't need to make this ETM program so complex...I spent way more time on things than I needed to...especially since it was just a few kids this time around. 2) I have to be realistic on how much I can really accomplish during the two hours Derek is in preschool. So because I did all this all morning, nothing got cleaned and laundry was at a halt again. But whenever I make my midweek my rest day I never run the rest of the week. Which is exactly what happened. Thursday I was exhausted and mentally drained. Rob told me to leave the house at 5:15 PM and not come back until after the kids were in bed. :) I went to French Press & the library. I SO needed it. I worked on my Bible Study and read 40 pages of a book and enjoyed a wonderful crepe. Yesterday we had to leave to go Harris' around 3:30 and we had to do haircuts in the morning. With baths, laundry, and cleaning that was enough. Rob and I also worked on Christmas budgets, gift planning, meal planning and birthday planning--it took almost two hours by the time we were done with it. It was fun and we love working on it together, but it took up most of the morning. I could have gone out and run, but there was so much more I had to. Today I just lost all motivation so I am sitting here. :) I'll try again next week.

Week of October 24-30

I took another break. My sister and her family were here. Then I got this really bad cough after they left. Earlier last week I felt so overwhelmed. I don't know if it was the fact I missed my sister (I'm always a little "emotionally off" for a couple days after I see family), or the fact I had a lot going last week (ETM & MOPS), or the fact I was coughing and had a head cold--but it was triggering a lot anxiety. Like I almost felt like I was in a panic when I was in Costco on Tuesday. I felt so overwhelmed, but I handled it a lot better than a year ago when I had this. I decided to put exercise off until I get myself together. Rob gave me a lot of time to myself this weekend. I've had very little time to myself lately. I stayed home from church yesterday because Kara was still sick. I actually took too much Nyquil and Dayquil and I was in a loopy fog all day. All I wanted to do was sleep. Yet I felt like my body would not fully let me. Thankfully the kids were really really good yesterday. Derek and Kara have been playing better.

Monday - Crunch Boot Camp - 30 minutes

I still feel weak from the cold and the fact I've not been exercising. But I was able to get through the workout. I drank A LOT of water and pushed myself through it. I still feel a little dizzy and weak in the arms and legs--but nothing like the last few days. Feels good to get moving again. Hope it's a productive week in terms of exercise.

Tuesday - Ran 1.5 miles

It is officially cold here. It was only 45 when I went running at lunch. Not cold for October, but it was in the 60's over the weekend. I ran to Walgreens. It felt really good to run. I thought I would be lagging and feel dizzy, but I felt great. I have had no anxiety since yesterday morning and that helps. Derek and Kara were not great today, but I handled it better. I seriously think it was all the breaks Rob gave me this weekend--I was getting really drained with all the household and kids stuff. Nice to be back in an exercise routine again.

Wednesday - Ran 1.5 miles

So good to be running again. Felt great! I just ran up Liberty to Ewald and then to Cunningham. I had to stop at Roths and buy stuff to make muffins. I feel so good having worked out this week. Derek is sick today, but not too bad. I think he should be fine by tomorrow--if not for sure by Friday. Very relaxing day. Got a lot done around the house and Kara was good.

Thursday - Crunch Boot Camp 30 minutes

A little bummed Hailey is sick today and we had to miss the pumpkin patch field trip. And the weather is absolutely perfect too. It's been so sunny this week and nice out. Too bad we have had sick kids. I am hoping she is better by tomorrow. Derek is back to normal. Very glad he is napping this afternoon. I did the work out at 2:30 this afternoon and it was tough. I did not feel as strong today. I also kept thinking about everything I still have to do today. Which is why I would much rather work out in the morning and get it done and over with. The afternoon is nice when it is a less intense time...reading, writing, etc. But glad I got it done and been able to exercise this week.

Friday - Ran 1.5 miles

Had a great run! Ran at 8 AM and it was super nice to get it done in the morning. Perfect morning out. I just ran my two mile course, but walked the last half mile. Feeling strong and ready to start adding the miles. It's been a great week. Stayed on top of the cleaning, laundry, and exercise. It has made me so calm and less anxious. It also barely rained. We saw the sun all week. I wish every week could be like this. I'm really enjoying just being at home. I don't feel as overwhelmed. I did not think dropping out of vet. school would make a huge difference, but it's made all the difference. I am pleasantly surprised. I don't miss it nearly as much anymore.

Saturday - Rest Day

Really busy day. I helped the VS family set up for Fall Harvest Carnival most of the morning. Then I took a nap in the afternoon and Harvest Carnival stuff all evening. Fun night.

Sunday - 40 minute walk

Had such a good week and weekend, but in a crummy mood today. I slept funny and strained some muscle in my neck and it hurts all the way up to my right ear. It goes in and out. Plus I just feel mentally and emotionally drained. And tired!! I went on a forty minute walk around the neighborhood and that was probably the highlight of my whole day. Honestly I felt so at peace. I am just starting to feel overwhelmed again and not sure what is causing it. It's always a guessing game whether it is hormones, life situations, or just randomness. I honestly think one of the biggest reasons is the lack of alone time. Last weekend I felt SO rested and relaxed...and calm. I had a lot of time to myself. This weekend I had next to nothing. Just the way it worked out. I don't want to be antisocial, but I just can't do all this running around anymore. I have kids in my space ALL DAY long. I love them and enjoy being with them, but it can be very very draining. By 8 PM I have nothing left. I am hoping for an OK week though. I'm glad the only major thing I have going is ETM which is pretty manageable.

October 3-9

I am here! I really needed a 10-14 day period to get my fall routine "re-established." I am happy to say I have been getting up EVERY morning at 6:40 AM to read my Bible and pray. I have been super consistent and have benefited richly in every single area of my life. I feel like "the spiritual desert" I was describing is in my past and I have pressed forward relying on God's leading. The Tim Keller books I read last winter and this summer also helped. So my goal this week to get my exercise routine in order. I am not pushing myself to exercise in the mornings anymore. It just doesn't work. I cannot get up at 5:45 or 6 AM. With us not sitting down to dinner until 6:15 two to three nights of the week because of soccer, the kids not getting to bed until 8--I cannot go to bed around 10. Usually I am in bed by 10, but I often read for a half hour to forty-five minutes. I might try mornings again later in the year. Right now it is way too dark in the morning anyway and the rain hit this week. There is constant rain in the forecast. It looks like it is going to be a very wet October.

Monday - Boot Camp - 30 minutes

Love this DVD and going to stick with it a couple more weeks. I am just getting the hang of it and really like it. I managed to do it at 9:30 while both kids were finishing up watching Dora, playing and having snack. I had to stop once to change a diaper, but otherwise it worked out just fine.

Tuesday - Ran 1.5 miles

Ran to Hailey's school and back during Rob's lunch. Good run. It went fine. Awesome weather (I ran in between rain storms).

Wednesday - Boot Camp - 30 minutes

Kara and Derek watched about 10 minutes of Sesame Street and were done. I guess I can't complain my kids are not that interested in TV! Some people have the opposite problem with their kids. Derek watched the utility truck outside for like 15 minutes and Kara ate her snack. So I could do most of the workout interrupted except for like a five minute pause to check on Derek and get Kara her snack. It was a really good workout. When I did this DVD a couple weeks ago, it was so hard in some places. I dreaded parts of it. Now I am slowly getting the routine down.

I looked ahead at Newport Marathon. I would have to officially start training end of February. So I am going to stick with the short runs for about 8 weeks. Then get my mileage up to around 8-10 miles for 12 more weeks. After that, I should be ready to train.

September 19 - 25

Monday: 20 minutes boot camp

I got at 6:40 and read my Bible and prayed. I got a lot of cleaning done before 9 AM so my plan was to exercise while Derek and Kara watched their morning DVD. It was all going great. I am living Boot Camp and it's the right amount of challenge. Unfortunately my workout got cut short about 10 minutes as Derek and Kara ran to my room covered in fish water. The fish tank was moved to the family room a few days ago to make room for the new mixer. Kara pulled down, cracked it, basically destroyed it and poor Sarena the goldfish was laying on the floor. I rescued Sarena and spent a good 45 minutes cleaning everything up. I was pretty ticked off. Rob bought a new fish tank. Sarena held on. By 3 PM she bit the bullet and died. :( She was one year old. I was more upset than Hailey. I think we are going to go out and buy a beta. I meant to finish my workout later, but I never got there. Today was an awful day and the only cure is going to bed and getting up tomorrow and starting over.

Tuesday: Ran 1.75 miles

I got up at 6:15 and managed to get devotions done plus run 1.75 miles and be back by 7. I ran Liberty to Boone to Lone Oak back to Hrubetz and I felt amazing. Great run!

September 12 - 18

I have been exercising off and on...just not blogging about it.

I am actually beginning pre-pre marathon training. What the heck is that!? Basically I am beginning a new fall routine where I wake up 6 AM and read my Bible and exercise all before the kids get up. So far I am happy to say I have been quite successful. Labor Day Weekend threw me off a little, but I'm back on. Because getting up early is very, very difficult for me and I am not a morning person at all, I am doing very short runs right now. I could do 3-4 miles. But I feel like I have to establish this routine first. This means I am only doing 1.5 - 2 mile runs and getting up to 3-4 miles in a couple weeks.

Once I begin pre-marathon training which will mean getting up to 8 or so miles, I hope to do most of my running still in the morning...and possibly my long run on the weekends. I figure I can try 5:45 AM and 5:30 if needed. I really hate being more tired at night. I accomplish very little after 9 PM anyway...sometimes earlier.

Dropping out at vet. tech. school as hard as it was has freed up my schedule significantly. I am amazed how much time it has given me. I STILL miss it a lot to the point I have a hard driving by vet. clinics. I had to drop something off at the humane society and that was really hard. I took Hailey and her friend with me so that helped. But I am pressing on. I am realizing as time passes, I made the right decision. I am more excited about what my future holds in terms of going back to work someday versus stressed and worried. There IS something about doing youth ministry and NOT being paid. It's a whole other world being a regular volunteer and yet not having to deal with some of the hassles of being on staff at a church. In some ways I feel like I already am on staff as the PW.

Anyway I am recording my weekly workouts and I am following a loose training plan until I can up my mileage and do hills, long runs, and tempo runs again...

Monday: 10 minutes of thighs, 10 minutes of arms

I did the 10 minute solutions. I know it is very basic and not challenging enough. I am focusing more on getting the routine down and exercising in the mornings. Then I will switch back to Boot Camp workouts or something similar.

Tuesday: Ran 1.5 miles

I ran to Hailey's school and back. I am not at my best. I could do it and run the whole way, but I just don't feel strong right now. I am hoping the structured morning routine will help get my mileage back up.

Wednesday: Boot Camp - 30 minutes

I did not get up at 6 AM. It is getting harder. I realized since I'm home all day and do not have much in the morning I could work out during Derek and Kara's nap. The problem is I felt gross being in workout clothes all morning plus I don't get as much done in the afternoon. I remembered this is why I like exercising in the mornings. I still was up by 6:40 AM to read my Bible, but exercise was postponed to around 1:30 PM. I like the Boot Camp DVD better than the 10 minute solutions--more challenging. I think I will stick with it for awhile and then switch to something else.

Thursday: Ran 1.5 miles

I knew getting up early was going to be hard for me. Yesterday afternoon and evening were really busy. I was pretty exhausted. I again did not get up the 6 AM wake-up--got up at 6:40 to do devotions. I was going to run at Rob's lunch, but realized he's not taking lunch at home today. I ran at 7:15 while the kids were eating breakfast and Rob was getting ready. We were a little ahead of schedule this morning so it worked out fine. Hailey was actually ready for school ten minutes early. I just ran to Hailey's school and back again. I felt so good--like I could have run for miles. I really think the Boot Camp yesterday helped stretch some of my muscles and the push ups (as much as I hate them) have helped too.

Friday: Rest

Saturday: Ran 1.5 miles. Picked a new route running to Lori and around to Fir Dell. The run went fine and the weather was perfect.

Sunday: 30 minute walk. Not sure how long and far I walked because I was not keeping track. My walk ended at Walgreens to pick of Oro Gel. I have three canker sores all over my mouth and it kills! The Oro Gel only numbs it for a little bit. I think this was a result of eating a lot of tomatoes. What a pain!

August 22 - 27

I decided I am NOT going to train for anything yet. If I do the Newport Marathon I will need to start training around February. I would like to get up to 8 miles by then and I am going to take my time doing it. I really want to concentrate about toning, ab workouts, and run/walking. I might do a 5K in the fall, but not sure when. I am only going to run 3-4 days a week and 2-3 miles for the first few weeks. No hills or interval runs for a few weeks.

I am no longer sick, but I have a sore throat (NOT strep) and mild laryngitis. The girls have it too. Last week I did no regular exercise except hiking 10 miles at Silver Falls. Rob strained his knee and I think he has bursitis. He was fine the whole hike...it started to hurt the next day. I was a little sore, but recovered fairly quickly. I LOVE hiking!!! Was awesome.

So I just am going to record my weekly workouts. I also am cutting myself down to one sweet snack a day. I am going hard core again with the fruits and veggies like I did when I was on Weights Watchers.

Monday: I ran/walked 2 miles. I ran most of it. I gave myself three very short walking breaks. I did not really need them. I could have ran the whole way. I really want to ease back into it and not overdue it. I am still fighting the after effects of this virus or whatever it was. I enjoyed the morning so much more doing it this way. I was pleased I got out there at 6:40 AM. I've not done these morning runs all summer except once or twice during VBS week. I also did 10-15 minutes of abs on my own: crunches, bicycle, side planks, regular plank. So thankful Camelia brought over fresh blueberries and tomatoes! Need fresh fruit and veggies in the house!

Tuesday: I did 20 minutes of abs and thigh workouts on the 10 Minute Solution on Instant Netflix. Good workout and got going at 7 AM. Need to stay on this morning routine. It helps the day go smoother!!

Wednesday: Did 20 minutes of arms and glutes. Really challenged myself on the push ups and am quite sore! I also did my own ab workout for about 10 minutes while I had Fox News going on the background. I was glad I got out bed before 7 again.

Thursday: I ran 2 miles and my did 2 mile timed route that goes by the park and along Liberty. Originally I was going to walk when I got to Liberty for 1-2 minutes, but felt better after 1 mile. So I just kept moving and ran the whole way. I am not at the place I was running wise in June, but I am taking my time getting there. I am enjoying running now and not feeling bad about not training for races right now. My motivation is more toning and enjoying the mornings. I got out at 6:45 AM. Four mornings a row! It's been a good week. I also did 10 minutes of abs again on my own. I would not say the morning exercise makes my day any less stressful. I had a few struggles with the kids this morning and then again in the evening. I would say my anxiety kicks in during certain circumstances. But I don't feel out of control. I now know what triggers it and I am handling it so much better than I did six months ago. I'm not yelling at the kids or zoning out on the computer (I intentionally keep the computer off from 9 AM until nap time every single day now). I'm also eating healthier. I'm also more intentional with reading my Bible, praying throughout the day, and listening to others instead of talking all the time. I think it's all a matter of balance. All those components were out of balance last December right after Christmas and I really just fell apart. Here's hoping that does not happen again this winter.

Friday - Rest Day

Saturday - 10 minutes of arms, 10 minutes of glutes, 5 minutes of abs

Managed to squeeze in it even though we had a very, very busy Saturday with meetings at church in the morning and party at the Hiemstra's at night. Good workout.

Sunday - Rest

I wanted to run before church, but my knee was hurting me. I don't know if I strained something yesterday while working out. I did trip off a wooden step at Hiemstra's and felt like something was twisted. I was a little worried about straining something so I stayed back. I was going to try and run on it in the afternoon, but it was in the high 80's and we were at Ramak's all afternoon. It was a very exhausting Sunday and I think I cried three times throughout the day. Yes, the kids are a little crazy right now and I don't know why.

Catch up

Ugh--can't seem to stay well for more than 4-5 weeks. It throws off the whole running schedule. Last week I ran in the Willamette Valley Roadrunners 5k. It was very competitive and lots of good runners. A little intimidating. But I got like 25:58 which is not bad. It's not as good as I did in April & May. I got 6th in my age group. The winner was like 22 minutes which is crazy! I had a great time though. Rob's mom was supposed to come with us, but unfortunately got held up in Seattle. Margie was able to come and watch the kids while I ran. Hailey also had a blast doing the kid's run. Thankfully Rob's mom made it by 9 and I kept Hailey up.

On Friday I had a great tempo run to Crossler Middle School and around the track a couple times. I took Saturday off because I had VBS follow up in the morning and then Rob and I went to Brownsville. On Sunday I did a brisk cross training walk. I've done NOTHING since.

Monday I packed most of the day getting ready for vacation. Both Sunday night and Monday night I felt fatigued, had sinus headaches, and my stomach was off. Hailey was sick and we postponed or vacation by a day. We left Tuesday and went to Bonneville Dam. Everything was going well and Hailey was doing better. I felt a little "off" but I would not call it "sick." Derek would not eat his supper and he complained of a stomach cramp. I knew he was probably getting it. I just hoped it was mild. He was acting normal again. Kara and Derek were so wild trying to go to sleep at night.

I forgot to turn the A/C on in the motel room that I was so warm I could hardly sleep. I did not want to climb over Derek and turn on a light. I ended up turning it on and put it on "Low Warm" on the coldest temperature because I could not see anything which basically equaled room temperature. Kara was sleeping very restless, but that is typical of Pack and Plays and motel rooms. At 3 AM she cried out, but then stopped. All the sudden we heard throwing up. Rob said, "Derek is throwing up." I was so confused and said, "Who?" Rob went to Derek's bed and realized it was not Derek, but Kara. Throw up everywhere. We tried to clean it up as best as we could. I was ready to pack the sickies in the car and drive home at 3 AM because I knew I was not going back to sleep anytime soon.

I managed to sleep until 8 - a very restless interrupted sleep. Derek woke up lethargic, sick, and just wanted to lay down. Kara was pretty much sick. I had absolutely no appetite. We really debated about staying for Hailey's sake. She took it well when we decided we had to can the vacation. Staying in a motel room all day with two sick kids (in the same room) and not feeling good myself seemed absolutely awful. I just wanted to be at home. Derek is very high strung when he is sick. He screams, cries, tantrums, and does not make a lot of sense. Kara is overly clingy and does not sleep well unless she is a room by herself in her own crib.

I was sick, but not nearly as bad as the other two. I did not throw up or anything. I just felt so lethargic (and some of it was from lack of sleep and a busy last couple weeks) and had no appetite. I had sinus pressure again, but I think it was from dehydration.

So now Derek is doing a lot better. Kara is too--just still clingy and lethargic. I am almost back to normal. Since Rob has next week off too, we're going to make up for it and plan a bunch of day trips. I am really sad...and a little pissed too (not sure who to get mad at?) since this is the second time we've all been sick of Rob's vacation. Then Rob and I got to thinking about all the times when we were little and someone threw up in a motel room or in the car...or someone had to miss out an event. I guess you cannot avoid in this phase of life. We had such a healthy winter compared to other years. Seems like we got hit hard this summer and Rob and I have seem to got the worst of it. I had strep twice and Rob had it once. Rob, Derek, and Hailey had a stomach bug in June. But when you look at it, we weren't THAT sick. No one was down for more than 1-2 days. No ER visits.

It's just been very hard to have any kind of running routine with all this. I don't think I will be ready to a 10K in a couple weeks. I think come school starting I am going to get to some kind of running routine so I can start training for another marathon this winter.

10 K training Week #3

Monday - Ran 3 miles, stretching and strength training

It is finally hot out. I planned on running in the morning and was even awake in time. Rob said his throat still hurt and he was calling the doctor. He wanted to get tested for strep. Then he said his throat hurt, but he felt fine otherwise. He said he was going to work and would be happy to watch the kids during his lunch I could run. I hate running in the heat even though it was barely 80 degrees. I had to stop and drink water twice. I also missed my turn on Welcome Way and got a little mixed up on what streets dead in to where. I think I did about three miles. I really did not want to mess with the exercise videos today. I did the plank, 50 crunches, 25 bicycles, 20 leg lifts, and some basic stretching. At this point I am not sure if I am going to the 10K, but I like this amount of running 3-5 miles 4-5 times a week (although I am averaging running more like 3-4 times a week). So I'm going to stick with the training guide for now. Even if I end up doing a 10K later in the fall or winter, at least my mileage will be up already.

Tuesday - Ran 4 miles, stretching and abs work

I ran during Rob's lunch again. A little hot out, but I took a whole bottle of Gatorade with me. Went fine. I ran to Valleywood and back. Running much stronger and getting more used to the heat. Still don't want to mess with exercise videos so I did side planks on each side, 55 crunches, 20 bicycles, leg lifts, and basic stretching.

10 K Training Take 2 Week #2

Monday - Ran 3 miles

I ran over Rob's lunch and I made a new route on Welcome Way. Loved it! Need a change. Perfect amount of small hills and nice neighborhood. I will be doing that one again. I ran pretty hard because by Mile #2 I was dragging. I got a second wind by 2.5. Feel like I am back in the running mode again. Hailey and I might do one of the Willamette Cross Country Nights on August 4th.

I also ran about 1/4 mile with Hailey and Derek at Crossler Middle School. Then they played in the long jump sand pit afterwards. It was nice to be outside with them. Hailey wants do the short run so I told her I wanted her to practice a couple times.

Tuesday - Ran 3.5 miles

I ran over Rob's lunch again. I just ran to Sumpter School and back. It was hotter out than I realized. I kind of wish I would have had water with me. The run went really well.

Wednesday - Intervals 8x400

I took Hailey and Derek to Crossler Middle School again. Hailey did the 400 and I ran with her part of the way. That was my warm up run. She got to about 200 and then kept wanting to walk. She did fine though. She also did half of my last interval and raced me at the end. The kids loves playing in the sand pit again.

I did my intervals while they played. Intervals kick my butt. I try to run them hard. But by the last two, I was sweaty, tired, and thirsty. It is nice to do have something different. It gives variety to the schedule. I also like including Hailey and Derek. I do have a memory of my dad taking me to the track while he ran. I must have been like 4 years old because it was at the high school in New York where Jennifer took gymnastics.

Thursday - Sunday

I got a little thrown off by the end of the week. Rob has been on and off sick with a sore throat. He is getting tested for strep right now. He is not wiped out like I was, but it is has been pretty persistent. He was in bed all of Saturday morning. I did not run any of these days. But Friday I did LOTS of walking. I went shopping with Cheryl and Trisha in Portland from around 2 - 8:30 PM. We were all over the place. Yesterday I hiked the South Falls at the church picnic in my flip flops. I know I worked myself because my legs are sore. I feel a blister coming, but I don't think it's bad.

10K Training Week # 1 Take Two

Monday - 3 Mile Run and Strength training

I am going to do a 10K! I really want to do it. I picked VBS Week as my kick off which is crazy. But I am not doing as much for VBS this year. Honestly VBS has stressed me out very, very little. I am thankful Hilda is in charge of all the stuff that stressed me out last year.

Anyway I ran three miles at Rob's lunch. I seriously need new streets to run on. I ran to Browning and on Alderbrook which is a very nice neighborhood. Then I back tracked on Lone Oak and back home again. I think my pace is still pretty slow and I don't feel as strong as I did a couple weeks ago. But I am completing workouts and I am not totally exhausted. Since it is a crummy cold summer and it was not even 70 when I went running at 12:30 PM (which I am not trying to be bitter about), it is possible to run during the day and not overheat.

I also did the arm training on the 10 minutes workout and it felt great to stretch my triceps, biceps and even do push ups. I also did about 7 minutes of abs on my own. Good way to start the week!

Tuesday - Ran 3 miles

Good run today! I ran my regular three mile (Lone Oak to Holder to Liberty). I ran during Rob's lunch and it was still so cool outside. Went really well. More tired today, but had a hard time sleeping last night.

Wednesday - I'm way behind on this! It's almost a week later! Trying to remember what I did!! I am pretty sure I rested on Wednesday.

Thursday - Ran 3 miles in the morning

It was so good to run in my peaceful neighborhood first thing! Great run!

Friday - Rest

I was so exhausted I could not get up early. I really tried, but I needed the sleep. I was busy all morning with VBS and the service project in the afternoon. Then I was finishing up VBS clean up stuff until 5 PM. Rob wanted to go out at night. I guess three runs for VBS week is good.

Saturday - Cross train

I hiked with Kara on my back for about 2 miles. We wanted to hike Mary's Peak, but the road was closed. People were hiking the road, but we had no idea how far it was to the trailhead. We decided we would go as far as the kids could handle. They did great! We did not make it to the trailhead--I don't think I could even done it with Kara on my back. The kids loved seeing all the wildflowers and bugs. Rob carried Kara back down. It was a really good workout. I love hiking!

Sunday - Ran 2.6 miles

I wanted to do a long run, but again we've been absolutely exhausted. I was really pressed for time. I did the Ewald route before church. Then I was in Portland all day with the kids visiting Jonathan and Megan. I was so tired I was crying by the time I got home. Good day with them. It's just been A LOT to juggle lately. Ready for some downtime.

July 10 - 16

Monday - 2 miles

I am back after too long of a running break. I had the same problem last summer. It's really hard to squeeze running in when you want to spend time with the kids and work on VBS stuff...and sleep in. I was up to 8 miles and had several good weeks of running. It was very frustrating getting strep twice in there and also dealing with seasonal allergies. I lost the drive to train for a 10K. :(

I am going to start a 8 week training program to improve my 5K. And possibly do another 5K in August or September. Then we'll go from there. If I do the Newport Marathon next June, I would not mind doing a 1/2 marathon in the winter. Right now the idea of improving on my 5K and doing 3-5 mile runs sounds best. Especially with VBS, family vacation, and trying to spend extra time with the kids before Hailey goes back to school.

This morning I got out the door at 7:25. I just did an easy 2 mile run around the neighborhood. I went really slow and I could tell I have not run in over 2 weeks...closer to 3. I did not have to stop and walk at all. I felt pretty strong. It was just good to get out there again.

Tuesday - 10 minutes of legs stretches/10 minutes of abs/1 hour of walking

I got up at 7:25 and did the 10 minute solutions leg stretches and abs. Felt so good to stretch. Really needed that! We did canvassing tonight for VBS and did a lot of walking. Again it felt really good to move and walk around. As I am writing this I have a minor sore throat. It's not like the last two times I had strep. I am SO hoping it's not. I had some anxiety about it this afternoon. I don't feel fatigued and it does not hurt to swallow at this point. I told Rob I will either be waking up in the morning and calling the doctor or else going running.

Wednesday - 2 mile run

No strep. By yesterday evening my throat felt more hoarse. Not like painful swallowing. I am congested and my eyes a little itchy. I think it is allergies. It still feels this way. It's not gotten worse. I am pretty sure it is seasonal stuff. What is up with this week? It's COLD here for July. Crazy. It's been raining the last two days. We can't even hit 80. What is the deal!

I ran on Rob's lunch because the timing worked better than going out in the morning. I did my regular 2 mile square and I felt really really good. The stretching was much needed yesterday and I think it made a difference. This is warm up week and then I am going to start a 5K improvement training. I need to scan fall/winter races and see if anything catches my eye.

Thursday - Rest Day

Friday - around 3 miles

I ran to Woodmansee Park and back which I believe is just under 3 miles. It was a great fun. I felt wonderful. I also saw that there is a race to support firefighters at Minto Brown in September. I could do the 10K. And Hailey wants to race again too. She could do a 1/2 mile. That is kind of our plan as of right now. Like I know, plans change.

Saturday - Rest Day

I really needed to catch up on cleaning today. I was active cleaning the house. Just did not get out and run.

Sunday - Rest Day

I was planning on running today, but I am starting a pretty intense 10K training program on Monday. I did not want to start it coming off a long run. Also I REALLY needed a nap. The fact Hailey actually took a nap allowed me a long Sunday nap. It was wonderful.

No running this week

I am not going to force myself to run this week. I feel like my body is still healing from the strep. I am taking the middle schoolers camping this week. Plus Derek was sick. Hailey had a stomach ache tonight (though I think it was due to eating too much ice cream). I really don't want to overdue it. I am probably too paranoid about overduing it. I will probably run again on the weekend or for sure start up next week. I don't know if I am going to do that race on July 30th yet. It really depends on scheduling at this point.

10K Training Week #8

Monday - Rest

I had thought resting might be a good day today after such a long run today. Honestly I was hoping to get a 3 miler in this afternoon. Not the case. Rob was feeling sick last night after we watched a movie. It turned into full blown sick during the night and he was pretty much in bed all day. I juggled everything including overseeing the whole canvassing the neighborhood for the park ministry which was a little crazy with juggling my kids at the same time. In the end it worked out really well. I was really active with Hailey in the backyard. We played soccer and ran around. I have not been doing a lot of cross training, but I have taken the kids to the park a lot and played with them. I am basically counting that as my cross training until I can do more. I still planning on running on Friday. I just have to realize I could get sick since typically (though not always) catch it after Rob. He was only down for a day as was Hailey. It hit them both pretty hard. I did find another 10 day at the end of July here in Salem. I would be OK with waiting another few weeks. We'll just see what happens the next few days.

Tuesday & and the rest of this week...

On Tuesday night I felt exhausted. I was outside with the kids pretty much the whole day. I was in the sun. But my throat was starting to hurt. I had a feeling it might be strep again. Rob tried to convince it wasn't. I don't blame him because it actually motivated me to not freak out and enjoy my evening before I was doomed to strep throat for a day. By the way as I am writing this, I am on some really strong medication that is making me loopy and like my head is partially a balloon. So hopefully this makes sense.

I went running for 3 miles Tuesday night. I ran to the Vista Roths and back. I felt a little more fatigued than usual. Not to an extreme. I've had 3 milers this training period that have been worse. Anyway when I got home, I was exhausted. Normally I have energy to do 10 minutes of thighs and 10 minutes of abs. I could not do anything. Just lay on the couch and watch TV. Throat was getting worse. Dumb throat kept me from sleeping well. In the morning I told Rob at 7:15 AM my throat hurt and I needed to go the doctor. He was really surprised and asked if I was just in a panic. I said I was not anxious and was not in a panic. My throat hurt. I could hardly swallow anything. It was not as bad as last time, but I was pretty sure it was strep again.

This time they swabbed it and I almost threw up on the nurse. Sure enough it was positive. The doctor put me on this strong antibiotic. I was in a loopy sleepy phase from 11:00 AM - 4:00 PM. I remember Rob coming in the room a few times, but I don't remember much else. Just that I wanted to sleep. By 8 PM, I felt better and was up and and walking around the house. Today, other than feeling slightly light headed and dizzy I am getting things done around the house. The house is a complete mess, but that is to be expected with everything this week. I had such a great day with the kids on Monday & Tuesday that I would not count this week a full loss.

I can't run the 10K tomorrow. I could probably do the 5K, but with the strong antibiotics, I am a little scared of falling or worse passing out or puking (one of the other side effects is nausea). There are a couple 10ks in July--one in Riverfront Park where the kids love to go. So I will probably just repeat the last 4 weeks of training, but keep my long runs at 7-8 miles. Then I hope to do one of those. I guess that is the way things go sometimes.

10 K Training Week #7

Monday - 3 miles run, 10 minutes of arms/chest, 5 minutes of abs

It's going to be a lot of running this week. If I complete everything, it will be the most miles I have run in quite awhile. I felt sore from last night's run. I ran around 3:30 PM when the younger ones were napping and Hailey was playing a game with my mom. I felt light headed around Mile #1. Not enough water. I got more at Woodmansee Park and that faintness went right away. I was able to complete everything. I did the arms/chest on the 10 Minutes Solutions on Netflix. I did my own ab workout so I could listen to Synod. Am I a Christian Reformed geek or what? Had a really good discussion with some people from Chicago, Canada, and California. It's help me feel connected to what is going on. Not sure if I should run tomorrow or take it as rest day. I will probably decide last minute and it depends on what we do in the afternoon.

Tuesday & Wednesday - Rest

Both these days were super busy and there was not a break in any part of the day to run. I got myself some slack. Even with my wonderful mom here helping me out, it is hard to get those runs in. Sleep has been way off. I can hardly get out of bed before 8 AM (the kids have been sleeping in too). I am falling asleep after midnight. I have been active enough with the kids at the park and I worked in the garden as well weeding.

Thursday - Tempo run - 50 minutes

Yes! Got a run in this afternoon around 4 PM. Came home to my sweet mom doing crafts with all three children around the kitchen table. :)

I am not sure if I am supposed to run at a slower pace, work up to a 5k pace, and then slow down. I kind of did longer intervals. I ran slow for a mile and a half, then hit it hard, then slowed down for a mile, and then ran hard for a mile. I walked about 30 seconds. Then ran the last five minutes quite slow. I felt like it was a good workout and the pacing was helpful. The only issue was I got really winded around Mile #3 to the point I could not take deep breaths very well. It hurt. It's like what Rob gets in high humidity when he can't catch his breath. My mom said she had the exact same thing when she walked to Walgreens this afternoon. I really felt such a difference in the air today...curious it was high humidity. I know the air was much warmer and my body is not used to that yet. I always go through that when spring turns to summer. I am really thankful I got a good run in today. I really needed it.

Friday - 4 mile Run & 10 minutes glutes & 10 minutes abs

The run went fine. I ran at 7:45 PM and ran to and around Sumpter Park and back. I felt the best on the last mile again. No pain anywhere. I still had some seasonal allergy issues again, but not near as bad as yesterday. It started getting breezy and cooling off at 6 PM. We're supposed to get a little bit of rain tonight and some tomorrow so I felt the weather patterns changing.

The other workouts were fine. Glutes way more challenging than abs. I need to find a new abs workout as this one is not as quite challenging anymore. That's a good thing.

Rob is home now!!!

Saturday - Rest

Yesterday we were so fatigued and by 7 PM I was spacey. Our Internet was down the entire nap time and I could not get any of my Banner work or church work done. So Rob sent me to the Roths cafe from 6 - 8:15PM and I got so much done. It dawned on me by 7 that I had not not even run that day even though I planned to. I was surprised because I will often forget about the laundry or to send an e-mail to someone, but never about running. I knew by that point it was too late. I did not feel too bad about either. We were so tired. Rob and I ate Garlic Jims, watched two old Cosby episodes on Netflix and went to bed. I heard Hailey coughing during the night and she woke up sick. Seems to be on the mend, but still really fatigued and no appetite.

Sunday - Ran 8 miles

Yay! I made 8 miles. I ran around 3:30 PM. I did my 8 mile route I have not done since the fall around the Rees Hill loop. It started out hot outside. I took Powerade and a Gu packet in my new water bottle holder. By around Mile #3 I did not feel quite so hot and less dehydrated, but I felt like my stomach was off. I thought 1) I am getting sick and catching what Hailey has (and Rob has it mildly) or 2) I am really anxious about running 8 miles. I think it was more of #2 because once I was through the Rees Hill neighborhood I felt more relaxed and I was running even better. I felt the best around Mile #5. I barely stopped. Just at Commerical and Madras for gu. I drank Powerade at every red light. Then I allowed myself to walk up the Idylwood Hill. My stomach was acting up again and this time it was not anxiety. I don't think my system is used to the powerade and gu yet. It takes a couple weeks.

I figure if I get sick this week, I can run another 10K. There's two close by in July. So I am not really sweating if I miss out. We don't have a whole lot going this week so I am not too worried about it. I just hope we all get over the fatigue and everyone can have their energy back soon.

10K training Week #6

I am going back to my weeks being Monday - Sunday instead of Sunday - Saturday. Yesterday (Sunday) I did not run, but took a much needed rest. I did take the kids to the park and played with them so I did not lay around all day. :)

Monday - 3 mile run & 10 minute solutions - arms and abs

It's funny how long runs can go so well and a 3 mile short run is tough. I think it is mental. I expect it be so easy going and it's not. I ran my regular three mile route - Lone Oak to Holder to Liberty. The weather was perfect. People are complaining about the rain coming back, but I'm just glad we're staying in the 60's and it's not so cold. I am thankful the kids still got some outside time today despite it being cloudy. I'll take that over what we had last week. :) I ran during Rob's lunch. I am finding I crave that midday break. As long as Rob does not mind, I am going to keep that as my prime running time until it starts getting into the 80's--which for us can be as late as mid July. It will be easier to run in the mornings once Hailey is done with school and Rob is back from Grand Rapids. Then I can easily run around 6:45 AM and be back before Rob goes into the office.

The 10 minute solutions is still really good for me. I want to stick with it for a few more weeks and then try something else on Netflix. I did the arms workout instead of the thighs and I felt it right away. I had not done arms/chest stretches for awhile. The abs workouts are still really good--not sure if I am seeing huge results. I honestly probably am not doing them enough. They recommend 4-5 times a week. It's hard enough scheduling running times in, but maybe I can be more dilligent with it once school lets out? Don't want to set my goals too high.

I am still planning on doing the 10K at the end of this month. We'll see where I go from there.

Tuesday - Intervals - 10 x 400m

I did enjoy doing intervals today and I pushed myself pretty hard. I felt like I got my speed up to the point I was craving that break in between the intervals. I ran to Woodmansee Park and ran on one of the trails in the park as well. All in all I felt pretty good. Now things are a little crazy with Rob being in GR. I am going to run tomorrow night as Denise offered to watch the kids. Then I probably will not run again until Sunday night.

Wednesday - Ran 5.5 miles

It was so nice that Denise could come and play with Hailey and Derek...and put them to bed. I had such a wonderful run to the Sumpter Park neighborhood and back. The weather was perfect and I felt great. I must have worked myself pretty hard because my legs are pretty sore today. We are having perfect running weather right now. There were so many people out walking and running last night.

Thursday & Friday - Rest

I had not planned on working out these days. With Rob away in Michigan, it is too much to find people to watch the kids so I can run. With Hailey's graduation and everything else, the break was needed anyway. Thankfully this is the first time I have been on my own with the kids and not in a constant state of anxiety. It has all gone very, very well. Stressful at times, yes. But not overwhelming. The kids have done great.

Saturday - Cross training - 10 minute Solutions for 45 minutes

I did the whole 10 minute solution program which works the glutes, abs, arms, and thighs. I skipped the 5 minute cool down. The glutes was the most challenging. I could really feel it. I thought the whole thing was not a major workout, but the fact I am a little sore right now makes me think it was what I needed. I know of two runners who got major injuries that put them out of major races from cross training and strength training workouts. I could probably work myself a little harder on cross training or strength training days, but I am really cautious of it.

Sunday - Long Run - Ran 7 miles

Today was one of those days where I felt like I could run forever. It felt so refreshing to run! I felt amazing. I love days like this. My mom came at 4 PM. She put Derek and Hailey to bed. I ran from around 7:45 - 9:00 PM with a 10 minute water/pit stop after Mile #5. My five mile run only took me 45 minutes. I went a little a slower the last 2 miles. I felt great. I am glad my mileage is up again. Can't wait for the 10K!

My friend Alyssa is started a big weight loss project with some of her friends. My weight is pretty normal for my height. I am not out to try and lose a whole bunch of weight. I do want to focus on eating healthier and working my abs. So I signed on to one of the calorie counting sites and I am going to try to do abs 3-4 times a week versus just twice a week. If I can lose a couple pounds or tone my flabby areas, I am all for it! I have been eating way more fruits and veggies in the last few weeks so that is a start.

10 K Training Week #5

Sunday - Cross training - 30 minute hike

While on our church campout, I went for a walk around the lake and around the camp (about 30 minutes total) with Kara on my back in the back carrier. She was much heavier than when I hiked with her last fall! My goodness--my shoulders were killing me. It was a good workout and I LOVE being out in nature and hiking--so much solitude! Derek and Rob were napping in the cabin and Hailey was fishing with Caleb and his girls. We're going to try more hiking with the kids this summer.

Monday - Rest

We were pretty dead and very crabby when we got home from Camp Tadmor. Derek was miserable in the car and Kara was exhausted. They napped ALL afternoon. The fact we got to sleep until 8:30 AM did not make me overly tired--I did not nap in the afternoon. But I was ready for bed by 9 PM.

Tuesday - Ran 3 miles

I had not run in well over a week so I knew my muscles would be pretty tight. It felt good to get moving again and run. I just ran to Woodmansee Park and back. I wanted someting flat and boring. It rained all morning, but thankfully was sunny by noon. Did I say this spring has been awful weather wise? Glad I am not training for a marathon.

I also did the 10 minute solution workouts on Netflix (thighs and abs). Although I was interrupted three times by children and the door bell...and then the phone which I did not answer (I figured it was for Rob anyway). It felt nice to do some stretching.

Wednesday - Rest

Had a very busy morning, afternoon, and evening. Rob and I are both having a tough time getting up before 7. We've been sleeping until 7 almost every morning. I have been really tired at night starting around 9 since we came home from Tadmor. Yuck. Want to get over this fatigue, but the last two weeks have been non-stop busy. Guess I cannot expect anything more.

Thursday - Intervals - 9 x 400s

Was scheduled to a tempo run, but wanted to intervals instead since I have only done them once since I started training for this race. The weather was crummy as usual, but thankfully not raining too hard. I almost felt like screaming outside at the rain today or cussing...yes it is affecting me THAT MUCH. I am also having a bad hormone day which has caused extra anxiety, but thankfully I am handling it better and not making everyone around me miserable. Anyway the intervals went great and were exactly what I needed. I felt refreshed and renewed when I came home...and the anxiety level has been lower ever since. I don't like the fact I am going to miss four days of running next week with Rob at Synod. I am hoping to do some extra cross training at home.

Friday - Hills - 3 miles Stretching and abs

I decided to run up the Lone Oak Hill which is the absolute steepest hill. Never have run up it. Only down it...and it was really hard on my knees. My goal was to run up as much as I could. I knew I would need to walk a little and I was right. I ran up the first part, walked about 2-3 minutes, ran up the second part, walked about 3-4 minutes and then ran the rest of the workout without stopping. I ran in the new housing development off Mildred then put me back on Holder and then back to Lone Oak. This is where I took the kids sledding about three years ago when we had that artic blast. So many houses have gone up in that area. Good rolling hills. The weather was beautiful--finally sunny and in the 60's.

I was going to do the 10 minute solutions, but we've had sporadic Internet today. It was down at the time. So I did my own strength training and abs workout which was probably not as good, but it was better than doing nothing. :)

Saturday - Long Run - 6 miles

Pretty psyched to be up to 6 miles! It was not easy actually. I struggled at times. I loved being back on Barnes by the Wes Bennet park & neighborhood. I had not run over there since training for Sacramento. It is such a nice peaceful area. I decided to run the Baxter hills...always avoided them. That is one of my goals with this training--do a little more with hills. I knew I would not be able to run up all the hills, but I only walked about 4-5 minutes up the last 1/3 of the first hill. All the rest I ran up and down. I actually felt the best around Mile #4. I was very thirsty. I stopped for water at Woodmansee Park and was going to get water there again on the way back. There was this big birthday party going on with these little kids all playing in the water fountain so I just kept going. I need to get a new water carrier. I am not sure where mine is, but it does not hold enough. I really liked the one the girl I met at Sacramento from Coos Bay had. It had four different little bottles on it and a zipper back for energy bars. I was shopping on line today and saw them for like $25-30, but I am wondering if I can get one cheaper at the discount sports store.

10K training Week #4

I decided to take the whole week off to let my body fully recover from strep. My friend Margaret said she always caught strep when she got overly busy. I am wondering if was my body's way of telling me to slow down. Tricia was also here all week (left this morning). I had the last MOPS meeting I had to do a lot for. Plus our church camp out is this weekend (leave tomorrow late morning). I am behind of Banner stuff as well. I did not want to put pressure on myself by following a rigid training program this week. Tricia and I took the kids to the coast and were pretty active on Tuesday. We went for a long walk in Vancouver on Wednesday and in downtown Portland. We also went for a walk yesterday. I am sure I will do plenty of walking (with Kara on my back too) this weekend. I hope to continue the training on Monday. I miss running, but I was thankful for a break too.

10K training Week #3 - May 16 - 22

First of all let me say that when I started this running blog, I was not sure people would actually read it. Who wants to read about my daily workouts!? I am honored that some of you do and have been very supportive and encouraging to me. It is not easy to run 5-6 days a week with my schedule and demands, but I can't imagine NOT doing it. So thank you. :)

Monday - Ran 3 miles, 10 minutes of legs, 10 minutes of abs

It was not easy to run today. My legs felt like jello. My side ached off and on. Again I felt my best around mile 2 - 2.5. I did my regular route from Lone Oak to Holder to Liberty. Very few hills. I think my body is just tired. I've done some pretty intense workouts the last few days. I was not going to run today because I was supposed to meet a friend for lunch at the park with the kids. Hailey woke up with a stomach ache (thankfully she's feeling better and should be able to go school tomorrow) and we cancelled. So I took advantage of Rob being home for lunch from 12 - 1 and ran from 12:15 - 12:45. The kids were super crabby today anyway so maybe it was for the best. Kara is teething really bad and was feverish by bed time. Derek was crabby and exhausted. I could hardly wake him from his afternoon nap.

I did a new exercise video on our Instant Netflix called 10 minute Solution: Target Toning. I have to say I love it! I like it even better than Exercise TV which I was missing since we dropped our extended cable. I am going to stick with it for awhile, but I also get a few exercise videos on Instant. So I can switch it up if I get bored with it or need something new. My abs are being worked and it feels great to work a part of my body I neglected for too long.

Tuesday - Rest Day

Enjoyed it!

Wednesday - Ran 4 miles

Not sure what my deal is. My body is very tired. It was a tiring day. Kara napped maybe an hour and is teething really bad. Derek was a handful in the morning. This afternoon I felt a sore throat coming on. I felt like I could have laid on the couch and slept. I wanted to go running. I got out at 7 PM. The run went pretty well. I did not have to stop to walk. My heels hurt, my shins ache a little bit, and I just feel--tired. Hard to explain it. It's like my mind wants to go and my body can't keep up. I felt a little better by Mile #3. My throat still hurts and I have a minor head ache. It's either I am catching a cold even though no one in the house has had one. Kara had a very mild one, but always gets one when she is teething. Or it's seasonal allergies. I had awful season allergies in Michigan starting around 1996 and they were at their absolute worst the summer we moved. I've had nothing since we moved to Oregon, but have had sneezing, sinus pressure, head aches for the first time this spring. They say the pollen count is crazy and allergies are at their worst in Oregon this spring so it makes sense. Now that I am sitting here, I am feeling a little bit better. Honestly I could lay on the couch all night and watch movies and call it good. I was not going to try and accomplish anything tonight anyway.

Thursday & Friday - Rest

Little did I know the throat thing was strep. Never had it before. I know enough people who have had it to recognize the symptoms. I went to bed at 9 on Wednesday night. My throat kept me up all night long. By 6 AM I was crying. Rob brought me some Extra Strength Tylenol and PowerAde. It took the edge off and I managed to sleep off and on until 7. I managed to get a 9:20 doctor appointment. He told me my glands were totally swollen and my throat looked absolutely terrible. He said it was a good thing I came in when I did so I start the antibiotics right away. My throat felt like it has knives in it. I took Tylenol throughout the whole day and did not do much of anything. I probably could have eaten, but it hurt so bad. Today it still hurts, but it is slightly better. I am just a little weak and fatigued. I am supposed to run in the Run For The Iris tomorrow and I asked the doctor if that would be OK. He said the fact I'm a long distance runner, I could handle it. He said not expect to break my PR and walk if I need to. I'm already feeling better now (it's around 10:00 AM so I think I'll feel even better tomorrow). I tried to quarantine myself as best as I could so no one else gets it. I know it can be really contagious. So far everyone is doing OK.

Saturday - Race for the Iris 5K - 24:18!! Second in my age category

I went out to my friend Kelly's to scrapbook Friday night. My throat still had that knife feeling a little bit, I knew it was getting better. I felt fine. Saturday morning I knew I could run. I felt like I could run pretty normally, but I was not going to push myself if I felt weak. The weather was perfect--not too hot but not too cold, no rain. I ran the race last year with Trena so I knew the course. Rob dropped me off at the packet pick up in the Safeway parking lot. For some reason I had it in my mind he was going to meet me at the starting line which is at the Roths parking lot in front of Starbucks. I walked over there with my packet. Only a few minutes to the start, I still did not see him. I did not know what I was going to do with my packet. I kind of liked the t-shirt and did not want to lose it. Thankfully he showed up and thought I would be waiting for him at registration. Bad communication on my part. Not a big deal.

I felt a little weak at the start, but around Mile #1 I felt great and I started passing people. I tried to increase my speed around Mile #2 and carried it through to the end. The course was all flat except for one little hill. I was really excited to see the clock was around 24:14 when I finished because I knew I broke my PR! I was thrilled. Rob thought I did not place because he saw a lot other women finish first. So I didn't even go to the awards and I wasn't sure where they were anyway. I went on line and realized I placed second in my age group. Last year I did not even come close to placing. The weather was lousy, my feet were numb half the race, and I had Kara nine months prior...my body was still recovering. I do have a ribbon and gift card to pick up Salem Chamber of Commerce.

Racing is becoming more fun now and less intimidating. I don't get overly nervous anymore. I don't feel as intimidated by the other runners.

I am not going to put pressure on myself to run a lot next week as my body might still be recovering from strep. The antibiotics are giving me nausea off and on...it's at its worst at night. Tricia is also coming from Michigan and I have not seen her in three years!! I have not spent any quality time with her since we moved to Oregon.

Sunday - Took a rest. Rob and I got to celebrate our anniversary after PM church. It was nice to have a Sunday afternoon to watch movies and relax.

10K training Week #2 - May 9-15

Monday - Ran 3 miles, 10 minutes of stretching, 10 minutes of back/abs

I had a crummy morning. I felt pushed over the edge. I do Hailey's hair in the middle bathroom every morning before she goes off to school. I have to close the door or Kara will push all the shampoo bottles into the tub, empty all the bath toys, put things in the toilets or pull all the toothbrushes off the counter and put them in her mouth. It only takes me a few minutes to do her hair. As I get out of the bathroom I see Corn Flakes and Rice Krispies all over the floor. I intentionally put the cereal away in the cabinets after we're done eating because Kara and Derek were climbing on the table eating it out of the box after breakfast and spilling it all over the place. Apparently Derek started playing in the cabinets and Kara, of course, was joining in. It should not be a big deal--cereal all over the floor. But it was the last straw. I have been dealing with this kind of stuff multiple times throughout the day for weeks on end. People complain about "the terrible twos." I have a much harder time with "the threes." When Hailey was three, I really struggled. I remember feeling this way and felt like I was losing my mind. Needless to say I made Derek clean it all up. It took him a 1/2 hour, but he stuck with it and did it. The boy is not defiant. He never fights time out or really only fights discipline when he is tired. He's not mouthy. He just gets into everything and breaks things.

Then the family room was an absolute disaster. Like I can't ever remember it being so bad. It was like someone picked up the room, shook it, and everything scattered all over the place. We found Legos in just every single corner of the room. It took over an hour and a half to clean it and I think that's a new record. Derek helped me and did pretty well. Kara's room is terrible too and we have to tackle that later this afternoon. While I was on the phone with my parents last night, Derek and Kara had "let's just trash the room for the heck of it" including throwing clothes and laundry everywhere. It kept them occupied, but I hate it when the rooms get so bad.

Then I had some issues with my current Banner article, but I think those are ironed out. I have to write two articles tonight and I'm still waiting on photos for one and another response for a second. They have to be in by morning Eastern time. I hate playing it so close, but my sources are really busy like me. I have to be patient with them.

So I knew I HAD TO RUN this afternoon. There was no skipping that. Yes, now my mind feels much clearer and I feel less overwhelmed. Exercise is wonderful, isn't it? If only people knew how much better it makes you feel. How it does not make your problems go away, but they seem much smaller and less looming. I tell so many people I don't exercise for the physical benefits...that's an added bonus. I do it for the mental benefits...which of course affect the physical.

I ran my regular three mile route on Lone Oak and Holder. Kind of wish I would have been able to cross train because I did not feel as strong. My right heel was hurting and my body felt tight. I had a side ache off and on. I kept moving and some stretching will help. The abs workout and stretching workout have been very good for me. I am glad I am implementing them into my workout.

Tuesday - Rest

Did not really plan on resting today at all. I was out late and then I had to write two Banner articles. I was not asleep until 12:30 AM. I did not want to try and get up and run. Running in the late afternoon was not possible.

Wednesday - Cross training?

Been really struggling with mornings. I just can't get up. I am usually awake by 6:40. If I had two just a two mile run or exercise TV program, I could do it. Running 3-4 miles and being back by 7 is not possible. It will be much easier in the summer and more doable because we won't have school to worry about. The kids generally sleep in until 7:30 or 8 on the weekends. Kara will sometimes get up early, but it all depends. I was going to run at 5:45 PM, but then Rob realized his meeting was not at 6:30 PM not 7 PM. I did a ton of cleaning...like a whole bunch of it. Derek and I cleaned his room and Kara's room. Hailey helped with Kara's room. I cleaned my room and vacuumed most of the first floor. I also scrubbed all the walls in the bathroom. I worked up a sweat and did it more than an hour so I think it qualifies as cross training.

Thursday - Ran 3.5 miles

Yay! I got out bed before 6:30 AM. The light was so bright in the morning it woke me up. I got out the door by 6:30. I did my regular 3 mile route to Lone Oak, Holder, and Liberty. Then I went an extra half mile to Idylwood and back. I normally don't run as well in the early mornings, but I strong and great. It was a good way to start my day!

Friday - 8 x 400 5km pace Intervals

Still trying to figure out what intervals are. I do about 90 seconds of hard running and then 90 seconds of a slow pace. I do it by time, but distance wise it was about three miles total. I used to hate the stop and start, slow and fast combo. When I trained for the riverbank run in 2003, I did something similar to intervals. You actually stopped and walked. I hated that. This time I run a fast pace and then slow down to a slower pace. I only walked a couple feet to the crosswalk on Kuebler. It's really helping me with pacing and it's a different workout. So I do like the variety in it. I would like to try it on a track. For now I just picked a flat course and used my stopwatch.

Saturday - Hills 4 miles

I ran on the hills behind Roths again and then ran up Joplin to Crosian Scenic road. The first hill on Cunningham is always a killer. I almost walked. Once I get past that, I am usually OK. I feel even better after the first mile and a half. It was a good course and I would do it again. The weather was a little cloudy, but no rain. Temperature was high 50's so pretty comfortable.

I need to find a new strength training workout and abs workout. We just cut our cable back to basic and lost all our "on demand channels." We're saving a ton of money. While I do miss Exercise TV, I don't seem as affected by all the extra channels we don't have. Honestly with Netflix back, the kids don't really care either. I am looking on Netflix for something and Rob found some yoga videos on the the Sports Network we get. I need to go through it and see if we can find one that works. Not an excuse not to do abs, but I miss my Amy Dixon video.

Sunday - Long run - 5 mile run, 10 minutes of abs and stretching

I was surprised that it hurt and was uncomfortable to run. I felt tired, dizzy at points (yes, I am drinking enough water) and wanting to walk. I did not stop and walk...sometimes it's easier to just keep moving. I did my five route to the Sumpter neighborhood which is not very hilly. I actually felt the best around the last mile. The weather was perfect. It was supposed to rain today, but thankfully held off. The high 50's/low 60's was wonderful. Today was one of those days I needed to run again. Not the kids this time. Just other stressors. I knew if I would have laid around all afternoon, I would be in a pretty crummy mood right now.

I did my own ab workout and stretching. I kind of remember the ab workout from the song "Who Are You" from Group Power. So I did it as best as I could remember it with some simple stretching. My abs killed throughout the whole thing so I knew I was working them. Does it make sense that I need to stretch to music but I prefer NOT to run to music?

Awesome 3000 Training - Last Week!!

Sunday - Hailey was active all day

Hailey was at the VB's house all day. She hiked, canoed, and played. She had a great time.

Monday - Rest

Once again yucky miserable rain. It has not left yet! We decided to take a rest today.

Tuesday - Ran/walked 10 minutes

I am not following the training plan as closely. The training plan really caters to the kids running the 3K and Hailey is running half of that. We've done at least a mile and a half a couple times. I figure we should be tapering by now. So I had Hailey run around the parking lot and church for ten minutes. She took 2-3 walking breaks of around 30 seconds. She did the whole thing by herself. I did not run with her at all. I was trying to make sure Kara did not fall off the swing set while Hailey ran. Hailey is disciplined enough now to run on her own. When she started this process a few weeks ago, she could not do that. And she could not last more than a minute. Now she ran four minutes straight! I am looking forward to Saturday and hope it does not rain!

Wednesday - Hills

Hailey ran up the Hrubetz Road hill once and back down. She did this three times. Derek ran up once and ran back down once.

Thursday - Rest Day

Friday - Short run around the parking lot

Rob had Hailey do three short laps around the parking lot. He also made a pasta dinner in preparation for our big race!

Saturday - Awesome 3000!

I put the pictures up on facebook. We had a fun morning! The kids were very excited when we woke up. We got to Bush Park around 10:00 AM. We were told there would be massive amounts of people everywhere and that was the case. Thankfully we snagged a parking place not too far from the stadium. As we approached the stadium, we ran into Team Winter! It was very cool to see Winter and her brothers walking around. I kind of wished I would have had the kids wear their Team Winter shirts, but I also wanted them to wear their purple Awesome 3000 shirts like all the other kids.

It was starting to cloud over, but thankfully we only got a sprinkling of rain here and there throughout the morning. No downpours. As we checked in we ran into one of Hailey's close friends Sophie. I was glad Sophie was there to run in Hailey's heat. It was kind of crazy because you hand off your child to a volunteer who brings him/her to their age division in this roped off area. Then you don't see them until you pick them up from the finish line area. I knew Hailey would be fine. We saw her take off. She was near the back of the pack. As she passed by us, she looked so happy and excited. As she came in, she still had that smile pressed on her face. It was so adorable. It made me realize that it does not matter what time she got or if she was near the front of the pack. She had so much fun and tried something new. She said she enjoyed it. She ran/walked and got tired at some points, but just kept going. She wants to do another race with me this summer.

Derek and I did the very last race for kids three and under. It's untimed and just for fun. The track was so congested and packed. Derek did better running when he was not holding my hand. He fell a couple times. I think he tripped over his shoelace and then ran into another girl. I think he also got really excited and lost his balance. He was so excited to cross the finish line. He had a big grin on his face and high fived people. He was thrilled to get a medal and Clifford book. He's been carrying them around all day.

We went to Mc Donalds for lunch and there were a bunch of racers. It was cute to see the kids all talking about the race with one another.

I am really glad Hailey and I took this on and it was a great thing for our family to do together.

10K training Week #1 - May 2-8

Monday - 3 mile run, 10 minutes of Strength, 10 minutes of Back/Abs

Rob and I have been having a hard time getting up in the morning again. I was able to run at Rob's lunch and do strength training while the kids napped. It helps to not have a vet. course right now. My schedule greatly opened up in the afternoons. I ran through the Sumpter Park neighborhood. I did not feel as strong as yesterday, but I still felt OK. I did not have to stop and walk at all. Then I did Holly Perkin's strength training for runners and walkers. I really like Holly Perkin's workouts especially because they cater to runners and walkers. I really struggle with doing "the plank" and side "plank." This used to kill me in Group Power as well. The abs workouts are good. I really feel like I am working a part of my body I neglected for so long. I wish I was not so hungry all the time and craving junk. I need to work on that!

Tuesday - 3 mile run

Rob did not sleep very well last night and decided to sleep until 7 AM. I was lazy and could not get up. I went running at 6:45 PM and it was SO nice out. Everyone was out--runners, walkers, bikers. The weather was warm and it was a BEAUTIFUL evening. I ran Liberty to Holder to Lone Oak route. I felt great.

Wednesday - 35 minutes tempo run & Abs and Back - 10 minutes

I've never done tempo runs so this is new to me. They recommend doing it on a track and a friend of mine said the track at Crossler Middle School is open to the public. They also recommend doing a flat course. I just ran my 2 mile speed run course and up and down my street. I ran a slower pace for a half mile and ran hard for a half mile. I did this three times. I know the speed work is really good for me. I need to work on pacing. I am just used to running by distance not by time. So I was not sure how to far to run and what route to take. Now I have a better idea of it. I also did the abs workout. Which is getting a lot easier.

Thursday - Rest Day

Friday - Hills - Ran 3 miles, 10 minutes of strength, 10 minutes of back/abs

I was really crabby in the morning and I just wanted to clean--and everyone to leave me alone. The weather was awful by the afternoon, but I knew I had to run. I would be even more crabby if I skipped out. I ran the hills behind Roths. Although it was so rainy and cool, I felt better after 1 mile. I felt strong and it did break me out of my crummy mood.

I also did 10 minutes of Holly Perkin's strength training and 10 minutes of Exercise TV Amy Dixon's back and abs. Both were good and are getting easier to complete. Been trying to work on my form as well.

Saturday - Long Run - Ran 4 miles

I ran my 4 mile run through Sumpter Park. The sun came out and it felt great! Felt really good to run today.

Sunday - Rest

I really wanted to cross train, but could not squeeze it in. Rob made a special breakfast, then it was getting ready for Sunday School, then church. then lunch at Hilda's. Rob had to get ready for evening church by the time we got back. I stayed home from evening church with the kids. By 8 PM, I was absolutely exhausted. I don't mind those "marathon" Sundays once in awhile, but they take a lot out of me. I was practically crying by the end of the day I was so tired.