I Can Do Hard Things

So I've kinda been feeling down about running lately. I thought that I would be so much further along in my running journey. And that makes me sad. I feel like running is such a huge part of my life, but yet I don't have a lot to show for it. Maybe it is time to step up my game, but being available for my family is a HUGE priority for me. Balance.

I spent 2 hours at the gym today and I felt a lot better when I left.

3x

Squats on the Bossu ball with weights

Single leg hamstring lift with weights

Push ups-mix of real and girl push ups

LLL with weights

Dips

Lunge matrix with weights

Sweaty mess

Then 5 miles on the stairmill. I chatted with the lady on the machine next to me. She was running on the stairmill. Holy heck she was fast and strong. I had a huge pool of sweat beneath me. Yuck!

Long stretch and foam rolling session.

I've got the fever, chills and body aches. I feel like my sinus' are going to explode. I stayed in my jammies all day. I figured I couldn't feel any worse, so I went to the gym when my hubby got home from work. But I had to hurry to pick up a daughter up from dance.

I actually felt okay while running. My sinus' started to loosen up. Miles were slow, but at least they were run :)

Oh the joys of winter and Christmas break!

I slept really well last night and feel so much better.  I was even awake at 5:00am and headed off to the gym.  I was pleasantly surprised to see an EMPTY gym.  Maybe that 5 degree weather scared everyone off!!

3 miles on the stair mill

3x

lunge matrix with weights

single leg hamstring lift

push ups on  bench

dips

LLL

Stretch and back to my warm bed! 

I woke up right as my alarm started beeping.  I did a few LLL before I left for the gym.  I got to the gym right a 6:00am as they were opening.  I was one of the three people there!!

I watched Law and Order  until I saw my friend Collette.  We are running the St George Half Marathon together.  It was fun to chat and made the time go by so much faster.  

My ankle felt good, but now (several hours later) it is tired and achy.  

I hurried home, showered and had a massage.  Yep...I'm spoiled.  And I love to trade services!!

Hurried home again, so hubby and son could get to basketball practice.  After they left, I did some more core work.  Lots of crunches, push ups, planks, and bridges.  My body is very sore!

BEST PART OF THE DAY!!!!!!  I've been saving my pennies  to buy a treadmill and a few small pieces of workout equipment.  AND TODAY I got them!  Hooray for the Step Up store and their insanely cheap TM.  I got some free weights (10, 12, 15 and 20lbs), workout mat, bench (it is coming on Friday) and a bosu ball (I need to order it on Amazon). So I just need to get a spin bike and mirrors for the wall.  Hubby even wired for a TV to be up on the wall.  Time to catch up on some shows!!

I'm SO excited to get this workout equipment.  I will still be going to the gym, but on my running days, I would have to get up quite as early.  And if I miss a morning...I can do it at night in the comfort of my own home.  YAHOOOOOO!!!!!!

AND my neighbor sold us his Iphone 5 for $50.  My old phone is SO slow, so I am very excited about my upgrade!

What an excellent day! 

AM:

7 miles on the stair mill.  I started at my regular speed, then the last .25 of every mile, I would bump up the speed 12 units.  At the end of the mile, I would put the speed down 10 units (so 2 higher than my original).  I did this for 7 miles and progressively got faster.

I felt good, not great.  My legs were tired and I was definitely breathing heavy.  I hope to get on the stair mill more to "replace" some of my runs until I can get back to running everyday. 

PM:

Core challenge:

50 crunches

15 push-ups

60 sec plank

30 sec side plank

30 sec side plank

60 sec plank

15 push-ups

60 sec bridges

50 crunches

60 sec plank

2 min bridge

50 crunches

1 mile walk

Tried out my new TM!!!! The handle bar is just a bit further away than the gym's TM. It will take a bit to get use to!

I slept until 6:30am (one and a half hours later than usual!!!!) and worked out at home.  We don't have the TV set up yet, so I watched Netflix on my Ipad, but it was hard to hear over the TM.

3x

lunge matrix with weights

push ups (regular and girly)

dips

LLL

calf raises - regular, toes out, toes in

B6 

4 miles on the TM

I would run .75 miles and bump up the speed 12 mph for the last .25.  Then with the start of the new mile, I would only bump the speed down 10 mph.  That first fast .25, I thought I was going to die.  My legs felt like lead and my breathing was out of control.  They did get easier as I went on, but definitely not a smooth or polished workout.  

This is the my first attempt at speed since my SF.  I guess I have to start somewhere, but today wasn't pretty.

Stretch.  I think I need a new foam roller at home.  Mine is getting quite flat. 

Hoping to get in a core  challenge tonight.

I did wear my Kinvaras today instead of my stability shoes.  Verdict is still out on how everything feels. 

AM: 7 miles on the stairmill. Not quite as fast Monday, but still a good effort. Legs were tired.

PM: I didn't have anytime to do strength training this morning since I spent almost a hour doing cardio. I found an awesome workout on Pinterest (I have such a love/hate relationship with that website!!!!)

3x

Burpees ( I think I did between 7-10 each rep)

20 jumping jacks

Push ups (girly and regular)

3 room lengths of walking lunges with weights (I tried to go in the hallway, but was ambushed by nerf guns!!)

10 side to side lunges

20 dips

10 shoulder press

10 squats with overhead press

10 jump squats

20 mountain climbers

10 reverse lunges

60 sec planks

LLL

So darn sweaty! I didn't wear a visor like I usually do and paid for it with sweat in my eyes!

We finally got the TV hooked up and it is SO much better working out downstairs. I need to think of a new name for my workout area.

I slept in and worked out while preschooler was playing at a friends house.   

1 mile - warm up (6.0mph)

2 miles - tempo run  (started at 6.5 and ended at 8)

1 mile - cool down (varied speed)

I felt like crud.  I am out of shape and these were very hard. Wore neutral shoes.

60 sec plank

30 crunches

40 russian twists

5 lying leg raises

50 bicycle crunches

30 mountain climbers

60 sec plank

B6

20 flutter kicks

10 V-ups

15 oblique cruches

20 russian twists

10 lying leg raises

30 bicycle crunches

20 mountain climbers

60 sec plank

My ankle was VERY sore after this workout.  And this makes me depressed.

Designated rest day.  All this extra lifting/core work has made me utterly exhausted.  I can't believe HOW tired and sore I am.  AND my ankle has been very hurty.  

Hubby gave my lower leg a good, hard massage tonight and it seemed to help a little. 

I was at the gym at 6:00am to get my long run in early.  My son had a basketball game and I needed to be home.  I wore my stability shoes in hopes that it would help my ankle pain.  

I ran my first 4ish miles alone and then Collette arrived.  It made the last 6 miles go by SO fast.  Ohhhh....it was SO nice to run with someone!  We had a great conversation even though it was hard to hear over all the various machines.  

My ankle felt okay during the run, but now is still very achy.  I really concentrated on my step count today.  Since I am running the SG Half next Saturday, I am going to run an easy 3-4 miles on Wednesday and cross-train the rest of the week.  Hopefully, the rest will get rid of the aches.

I decided to put up all my marathon posters, medals and race number in my workout room.  I think I'm going to get some vinyl letter to put my favorite  inspirational quotes up on the wall.  It is almost done! 

Recovery day.

3x 

10 x Squats on Bosu ball with weights

10 x lunge matrix with weights

10 x single leg hamstring lifts

push ups on bench

dips

LLL

30 easy minutes on the bike 

AM #1 

55 minutes on the stair mill.  One stair mill #1, I can do 7 miles in 55 minutes.  But I was on stair mill #2 today and I only did 5.5 miles (same speed).  I think there may be some calibration issues?  Regardless, it was a good sweaty mess.

 AM #2

I got the kids off to school and headed down stairs.

3x

10 burpees (I really REALLY dislike doing these)

20 jumping jacks

15 push ups

walking lunges with weights

10 side to side lunges with weights

10 bridge and scissor crunch

20 dips

10 squats with weights

10 jump squats (I really REALLY dislike these too....I guess I don't like to jump)

60 second planks

LLL

I used my new foam roller....smooth as butter!!!  My ankle feels SO much better than it did at the end of last week.  Hubby has been working out all the kinks and hopefully we are making headway!

I received a new calling at church on Sunday.  I received a phone call from the 1st counselor in the bishopric.  We were going to start our cub committee meeting in a few minutes and he asked if I would come a bit early.  I assumed we would be talking about cub stuff.  

When I got there, he told me he was going to release me from all my callings (cub committee chairman and CTR 5 teacher) and call me to be the 2nd counselor in the YW.  I'm over 18 Beehives.  My world just got ROCKED!!! 

4 easy miles at home.

I found an ab workout on Pinterest, but once I started it, I realized that it was WAY too hard for my current ab condition! So I did a modge/podge of one legged planks, incline planks, sit ups, one lunge matrix and one LLL.

Foam roll and stretch. Then upstairs to feed the troops breakfast. I'm really liking this workout at home business.

On a side note, I've been enjoying lifting way more than I thought I would. I'm so much more sore and tired than I am with running. Goes to show that I need to be lifting if I am that sore. Even though I can't run every day right now, I feel like I'm getting stronger which will hopefully improve my running.

Off to St George!  It is definitely NOT going to be a race of a lifetime, but it is going to be FUN!

I knew going into this race that I was out of shape and fat.  My first 13 miles AND race since my stress fracture (my longest run has been 10 miles).  So my main goal of the weekend was to have fun (even though secretly, I knew I would be disappointed with my time).

I dropped my preschooler off at school and picked up Collette (we went to SG last year together and had a blast!!!) and Kellie (my newest running bud in the neighborhood).  I knew I instantly liked Kellie because she wanted to stop and get a soda before we hit the road.  My kind of gal!!!

We had a wonderful conversation on the way down to SG.  These are such intelligent, interesting, educated, and funny women.  So darn awesome!

We headed to the expo and then to the hotel.  After unloading our stuff, we ate dinner at Brick Oven.  While eating, I started to get a case of the chills and body aches.  I just prayed that I wasn't starting to get sick.  After we ate our fill and laughed until our cheek bones hurt, we headed back to the hotel for some shut eye.  I took some Advil before bed in hopes that it would help my pending cold.

I struggled with my clothing choice for the race.   But finally settled with capri tights, tank and long sleeved shirt - which ended up being perfect.  I found Smooth and Karen and brought Smooth's stuff to my car (I got to bring her home after the race....lucky me!!!).  We walked right up the start and the gun went off.  

I ran with them for the first 6 miles.  It was SO wonderful to catch up on life with those lovely ladies.  I started to loose steam after 6 miles and lost them on a hill.  I took a GU somewhere in there too.

My lack of fitness was starting to shine through.  It bothered me.  Though I can't train any faster after this dumb injury, it was eating at my ego.  I could see Smooth's green hat just ahead of me, but could never catch her.

Around miles 7, I caught up to Collette.  We chatted for a minute, but were both too tired to say more than a few words.  So we just ran.  I left her after a mile.

Mile 12-13 seemed to take forever.  It never seemed to end and my ankle was starting to get tired.  Not to the point where I needed to quit, but just tired.  Finally the bridge came and then the finish line.  I saw my cousin Callie at the finish area and was SO darn proud of her PR!  Yahooo!!!!  I caught up with Rachel...oooo...I miss her! And lots of other FRB's!

I started to get a bit nauseous and just weird.  So I sat down and chatted for awhile.  But then I started to really get cold.  So Collette, Kellie, Smooth and I headed back to the hotel for a HOT shower (I even took a 10 minute cat-nap).

We ate lunch at Cafe Rio in Cedar City.  Again, it was a wonderful conversation on the way home.  I was able to catch up even more with Smooth and realized just how much more I love that woman!

Though I ran my slowest half marathon ever, I was very sad to see the weekend end.  It was just long enough to feel rejuvenated, but short enough that my family didn't suffer.

This morning, I was showing my kids a few running you-tube videos.  Team Hoyt, SGM home page videos, Proctor and Gamble Olympic commercial and a few others.  I'm such a sucker for those kind of inspirational videos.  They always make me cry!

I've been thinking a lot about my running goals and where I want to be. I'm realizing the more I learn about running...the less I know.  I have so much to learn.  I have so far to go. And it is a long, slow road.

As I was watching those Olympians in the weepy videos, I had even more respect for them that I had before.  You can't become GREAT over night.  It takes patience.  Time.  Lots and lots of time.  That is what has made them GREAT.  

I'm not going to hit my goals today or probably this year.  But I'm hoping to be closer than I was.  I still have a long ways to go.

Every night since last Thursday, I've gone to bed with body aches, chills, sweats and a very sore throat.  Last night, I had white spots on my throat and a few cold sores.  My intent was to head to Urgent Care this morning and be checked for strep.  Ughhhh...

But when I woke up this morning (and I slept in too), my sore throat, white spots, and chills were gone (not the cold sores...booo).  I felt so much better!!!  So I decided to skip the doctor and go to the gym.

I am running less miles this week to give my ankle a break.  Not that I am running very many miles any way.  BUT I am trying to be smart and safe.

30 sweaty minutes on the stair mill

3x

10 x squats on the Smith Machine

10 x lunges on Smith Machine

15 x push ups after each squat/lunge set on SM

8 x assisted chin ups

10 x dips

50 x cherry pickers after each set

50 x calf raises

60 second planks

foam roll and stretch

My ankles feels really great!  I'm still going to be safe and take it easy this week, but it gives me great hope.

We made homemade fruit roll ups and fruit snacks tonight.  Mmmmmmm.... 

Workout at home!!!!!

3x

lunge matrix with weights

squats on Bosu ball with weights

chest press on bench

single leg hamstring lift

2x (ran out of time for that last set!!!!) - Abs workout from pinterest (definitely hard, but was able to get through it!!).

10xswiss ball jack knives

15x bench v-ups

 60 sec decline swiss ball planks

10 x swiss ball leg lift

25 russian twists with weights

5x one arm alternating planks 

2 VERY easy and slow miles while watching the Biggest Loser on DVR

stretch and foam roll

Massage....awesomeness!!! 

I was still very tired when I woke up this morning.  BUT I only had to go downstairs to workout.  Sweet!

I came up with my own strength training routine this morning, but I wasn't quite as wiped out as I thought I would be.

LLL

60 sec plank

30 sit ups

5 burpees

40 russian twists

5 lying leg raises

50 bicycle crunches

30 mountain climbers

60 sec plank on ball (arms on ball)

LLL

20 flutter kicks

15 v-ups on bench

15 push ups

20 russian twists

5 burpees

15 oblique crunches

30 mountain climbers

20 russian twists

15 push ups

30 bicycle crunches

LLL

20 bird dogs

40 donkey kicks

60 sec plank on ball (feet on ball) 

It took me about 35 minutes to do all that.

TM workout

1 mile warm up - 6.2 mph

1 min on/1 min off for 1.5 miles (it was actually 1.6 miles because I didn't want to cut the minute short.  I did about 8 sets)

Ons=8.2

Off=6.2

.5 mile cool down

My legs were definitely tired during the run (especially at the beginning).  I struggled mentally too....speedwork messes with my mind. 

stretch and foam roll

Then I had to go clean up a spilled box of rice krispies and put out a major battle over who got to wear the pink skinny jeans.  Somebody lost their pink jeans privileges for a week for saying some VERY unkind words.  GOOD MORNING! 

From coach Jay Johnson

The steps between the first step and the goal Posted on January 25, 2013 by CoachJay

A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. - Lao-Tzu

You’ve no doubt heard this. And you’ve probably recited it in your mind on a run or at the gym when you’re just beginning to get in shape. You have a goal in sight and this quote brings you back to the current moment.

But the problem is that many runners forget all of the steps between the first one and the goal. If your goal is to run under two hours for the half marathon then you need to be honest about all of the little steps to get to that goal. …and what I’d rather see you do is to get the goal out of mind completely, but rather focus on the process, not the outcome. Process orientation, not outcome orientation.

You should have goals, but you should take it one step at a time. And you should be honest about the fact that you don’t know how many steps it will take to get there.

Loving that post by Coach Johnson.  LOVE IT!  

Lazy this morning and only ran 3 miles.   

7 miles on the stair mill

3x

squats on the smith machine

15 push ups between each set

assisted pull ups

assisted dips

10 planks curls on ball

quick foam roll 

I had kids up all night with sore throats and body aches.  I think I may be ready for spring to come.  I ended up running at 4:30pm while my big girls were at Activity Days.

38 minutes...so slow but I felt good.

LLL

60 sec plank

B6

30 crunches

5 burpees

40 russian twists with weight

20 lying leg raises

50 bicycle crunches

30 mountain climbers

60 plank on ball (arms on ball)

LLL

20 v-ups on bench

40 russian twists with weight 

15 push ups

40 russian twists 

5 burpees

leg crunches on ball - abs

30 mountain climbers

20 russian twists

15 push ups

30 bicycle crunches

LLL

20 bird dogs

40 donkey kicks

60 plank on ball (legs on ball) 

55 minutes on the stair mill at the gym.  Ughhhh...I was so darn sweaty this morning.

Hoping to get in a strength training workout tonight. 

I already posted this blog post from Coach Jay Johnson, but it has been on my mind a lot this past week.

The steps between the first step and the goal Posted on January 25, 2013 by CoachJay

A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step. - Lao-Tzu

You’ve no doubt heard this. And you’ve probably recited it in your mind on a run or at the gym when you’re just beginning to get in shape. You have a goal in sight and this quote brings you back to the current moment.

But the problem is that many runners forget all of the steps between the first one and the goal. If your goal is to run under two hours for the half marathon then you need to be honest about all of the little steps to get to that goal. …and what I’d rather see you do is to get the goal out of mind completely, but rather focus on the process, not the outcome. Process orientation, not outcome orientation.

You should have goals, but you should take it one step at a time. And you should be honest about the fact that you don’t know how many steps it will take to get there.

One slow step in the right direction will get you there.....

4 miles on the TM at home in 38 minutes.  I watched the Biggest Loser....nothing like having Jillian Michaels screaming in your head first thing in the morning!!

3x

squats on bosu with weights

overhead press

skull crushers

LLL

B6

plank on ball (90 sec)

ball-plank-abs thing

quick stretch and foam roll

Shoveled my driveway (that is at least a few hundred calories!! 

Thursdays are my "rest day" and usually I do absolutely nothing. But I'm doing my long run tomorrow ( hubby and I are heading to SL for our anniversary and don't want to spend 2 hours in the gym when I could be out playing) and won't have time to lift. Hence tonight's workout in the basement ( and I ate a few whoopie pies and was feeling a bit guilty). It still amazes me how a good sweet session can make me feel so much better!

3x

10 jump squats

10/side side to side lunges

10/side single leg hamstring lift

10 overhead press

10 butterflies

10/side bicep curl

60 sec wall sit with weights

15 ab cruncher with ball

60-90 sec plank on ball

30 donkey kicks ( last 10 were a circle donkey kicks)

LLL

Stretch and foam roll

I contemplated getting up at 4:15am to go to the gym to run 12 miles. But instead, I got up at 5:30am and ran at home. An hour and 15 minutes more of sleep. Yes, please!!!!

My longest run on my home TM has been 4 miles. So today was a mental struggle to add an additional 8 miles. Physically, I was fine. But I had no mental mojo.

I broke the run up into 2x6 mile runs. I would jump off every 2 miles to blow my nose, change the channel, open the window or get a drink. I needed something to look forward too. Anything....

My first 6 miles was 58 minutes (6.2 mph) and my second 6 was 57 minutes. Took a GU at mile 6 and seemed to feel a bit better mentally. I always do better after the halfway hump.

On a side note, all this strength training is kicking my trash. When I wake up, I feel like I am 80 years old. My body is SO sore. I can hardly move. I turned my light off last night at 9:01pm. I could have easily gone to bed at 8:30pm, but my kids were still up. I'm wiped out.

Tim and I are celebrating 14 years of marriage!! We always stay in a hotel in SL. Usually we go shopping since we don't have the kids! I scored some major finds at City Creek! Then we got a huge piece of chocolate cake with extra whip cream from Cheesecake Factory. We ate it in bed. I have not had to get anyone a drink, make toast, or wipe any bums tonight. Heavenly! Thanks for a great life together Tim!

Ohhhhh....the joys of sleeping in!  And then just laying in bed and being lazy without any little voices declaring, "I'm hungry" and "I want breakfast".  So darn nice!

Tim and I went to the fitness center at the hotel.  The moment I walked in, I could tell the room was extremely warm. I looked at the thermostat and it was set at 85 degrees.  I immediately turned in off and opened up the door.  But the damage had already been done.  I was sweating bullets.  AND I had torn one of my contacts, so I was only wearing one contact.  I had a headache because my vision was so funny.

3x

7 burpees

30 hip lifts

5/each arm - one arm pushups

20 dips

20 lying leg raises

20 squats with overhead press with weight

60 sec planks

20 fire hydrants

LLL

Tim was getting close to finishing his run, so I only had time to walk 1 mile.  That room was so HOT that I was glad to getting out of there!  We headed straight to the breakfast buffet.  Two bowls of oatmeal and a bowl of fruit.  Mmmmmm....

Then I took a nap.  Such a great way to end a spectacular date! It was awesome to see the kiddos when we got home.  And they were glad to see us!

I'm going to try to run an extra day this week for a total of 4 day of running.  But it's only going to be 2 miles.  We'll see how the ankle feels at the end of the week.

AM:  6.5 miles on the Stepmill PT 7000 (I was on the faster machine today and my ego soared when I hit 6 miles in 53 minutes.)

PM:

Before dinner, I ran 2 miles SLOW.  My ankle has been a bit achy today.  Weird...because I haven't run since Friday and today was only 2 miles.

2x (I would have liked to get 3 of each set, but my family was ready to eat dinner and I needed to be done.  So I was.)

30 speed skaters

15 squats on Bosu ball with weights

12 overhead press

10 butterflies

60/60 side planks

10/each single leg hamstring lift

10/each side to side lunge with over head press 

I was feeling a bit discouraged today.  I haven't lost as much weight as I was hoping.  It certainly doesn't get easier the older you get!!  These two/a day workouts aren't doing the magic that I had hoped.  

And I was hoping I would be further along in my running.  I've decided that the Ogden marathon is going to be a training run.  I truly believe you can learn from every race.  So even though I won't be tip top shape, I can certainly benefit from doing it.  Sigh.... 

The gym TM's are different than my home TM. It took me a few minutes to adjust. I actually felt good fitness-wise. But my lower leg and ankle totally bugged. With all the strength training I've been doing and every other day running, I'm thinking it has to do with my form/biomechanics. Maybe my stride was too long this morning hence the achy lower leg. I haven't had any achies for awhile....ughhhh....

I've really tired today, so I skipped my strength training tonight. REALLY TIRED!!! I went back through my training log and have been doing strength training at least 4/week since Thanksgiving. That is a new record for me. Boo-ya!

AM #1 (early morning):

1 mile walking while I waited for a step mill to open.

45 minutes on the step mill - slow machine -4.67 miles

AM #2 (after kids went to school):

3x

10 regular push-ups, 10 girly push ups (I'm getting so much better with these. I used thinly be able to do 2 regular push ups)

12 single leg hops

10/each leg step ups on bench

5 side plank with leg lift....ooooo those are hard

10x ab v-sit ups

20 kneeling leg circles

LLL

20 super mans on Bosu

20 B6 on Bosu

30 sec-2:30 min balance on flat side of Bosu

Shins feel a lot better today, but ankle is still very achy. Icing. Sigh.....

I didn't start my workout until 7:20pm. Ughhhhh....decorating those valentine's boxes took way too long.

I had an ankle adjustment and ART done on my lower leg. There was a lot of cracking and popping. Lots! The verdict is still out on how my ankle feels.

1 mile very slow run. Really focused on my step count.

Running low on time, I only did one measly set of:

10x star plank

20 x squat with a side kick

20 x side to side jumps over the foam roller

2 sets of

20 x B6 on rounded part of Bosu

2:00 min balance on flat part of Bosu

1 mile very slow run.

Since I survived last week's long run on the home TM, I decided I could do it again (and enjoy a few more minutes of sleep).

I watched a bunch of recorded shows, but saved Biggest Loser for the last 45 minutes of the run....when I needed the motivation.

I was nervous about how the ankle would do.  The shins aspect feels a lot better, but the actual ankle bone was still achy.  Again, I think it is a form issue.  I have HORRIBLE form.  HORRIBLE!!  I've been strength training like crazy and running every other day.  What else could it be?  I'm not sure what else to do....sigh.

The ankle held up okay on the run.  I felt a lot better than last week (mental wise).  I put my ipod on the last 3 miles and turned it up to fight the mental demons.  I won.

I broke the run into 2x5 mile runs and a 3 mile run and it worked out.  Took at GU at mile 7 and soon thereafter felt the rush of the double caffeine.  Yahooo......

Lots of stretching and foam rolling after.  And lots of ice.  I'm taking the next 2 days off from running (not strength training), so hopefully things will calm down.

All this snow is great for our trip to Brighton tomorrow!!! 

AM: 

1.5 easy miles at home

3x

10 star planks on Bosu (wowzer...those are hard)

20 lying leg raises

40 squats

10 ab cruncher on ball

20 dips

20 side to side jump over foam roller

10 regular push ups

10 girly push ups

20 russian twists with weight

20 donkey kick - last 10 had full circle

2:00 balance on flat side of Bosu

1.5 mile easy run

Ankle felt better than last week but not 100%.  These workouts aren't as hard and I'm not as sore.  I need to figure out how to up my game. 

I registered my baby for kindergarten.  Sigh....  Then I made sugar cookie dough and ate half of it.  Sigh....  Felt like a fatty.  Sigh....  

PM:  Walked 2 miles

Ankle felt even better after the walk.  Interesting. 

 AM #1:

5 easy miles at the gym.  My friend Kellie (she came with me to the SG Half) happened to walk in the same time I did.  I was SO very glad to see her.  We chatted our way through 5 miles and I was grateful for her company. 

AM #2:

I had a total mental breakdown in my basement gym. Tears were freely flowing and the running demons were charging full force.  "You can never be the runner you want to be" "You will never get there" "You don't have the mental toughness to get through it" "You are NOT good enough to make it to Boston".  I know...I know...silly.  I'm taking this all too serious.  

But I'm sick of these stupid injuries.  I'm tired taking one step forward and two steps back.  Why is this "amazing sport" such a challenge for me?  

I truly hope I can look back at this entry someday and laugh.  But not today. 

Sorry for the weepiness....no need for responses.  I write this madness for my own running journal.

2x (I ran out of time for the 3rd set...had to change the home reading books at the school)

15 squats on Bosu

12 overhead press

12 butterflies

12 reverse butterflies

15 wall squats with ball

60-90 sec plank on ball (fore-arms and feet)

LLL

B6 on Bosu

15 clamps

50 calf raises

12 supermans 

Achy ankle 

Designated mental and physical rest day.  I'm teaching my Beehives tonight how to embellish t-shirts.....its gonna be fun!

1 mile easy run

3 x

15 supermans on Bosu

10 star planks on Bosu

30 side to side lunges with weights

20 plank (with feet on stability ball) - shoulder taps

15 rollout on arms with stability ball

1 mile easy run

Deciding what to do about tomorrow's run.  BUT My decision right now is to finish eating truffles and chocolate dipped strawberries I purchased from my neighbor (YUM). 

Hubby tore into my ankle/calf last night and surprisingly didn't leave any bruises.  It did feel better after that, so I decided to proceed with the run.  If things started to get "messy", I could hop off and head upstairs back to bed:)

14 miles.  I broke it up into 2x7 mile runs (1:10 and 1:07).  Took a GU, blowing-nose, and adjust the window break at 7 miles.  Though I took some Chomps before the run, the GU is way for effective for me.  By mile 8, I was feeling much for peppy, the sun was starting to come up and I was watching Biggest Loser.

I picked up the pace a  bit on the second 7 miler and didn't die.  Nice.  Ankle started to get tired around mile 11/12.  But I really tried to stay focused on short steps, lean forward and no arms crossing body.  

LONG stretching session and foam rolling.  Ice, compression socks and old ankle brace for precaution.  The GU is wearing off and I'm getting sleepy..... 

I'm babysitting my 2 nieces this weekend while mom and dad are in Mexico (5 and 18 mo).  So I will have one set of triples, one set of twins and a baby.  Ummmm....that is a lot of kids :) 

I knew I wouldn't have a lot of time this morning since we were watching my nieces and my son had an early basketball game.  So fast and efficient was the name of the game this morning!

3 x

15 overhead press

15 butterflies

12 reverse butterflies on stability ball

5/side one arm pushups on Bosu (ooooo.....those are HARD)

30 donkey kicks

15 supermans on Bosu

40 Russian twists with weight

25 dips

30/30/20 LLL

20 rollout on stability ball

10 plank shoulder taps with feet on ball

20 fire hydrants

stability stuff

Quick stretch and off to Maceys with 6 kids.   I would have liked to get some cardio in, but it will have to wait until Monday :)

I was planning on running this morning, but when I walked into the gym and saw an open stairmill, I jumped at the opportunity!  It was nice and quiet at the gym this President's Day morning!

5 miles on the stair mill

Sledding with the YW/YM at Mutual Dell.  Skiing is so much easier than sledding :)  Quick lunch at In N Out with my cute kids.

PM:

3x

16 plank with a row

10 jump squats

10/side   side plank with lift

10 lunge matrix with weight

15 wall squats on ball with weights

15 skull crushers

1 mile walk on TM to loose the In N Out gut!  Cousins are leaving today and my house needs a good cleanin'!!! 

We got new health insurance at the beginning of the year.  It will pay $20/month toward a gym membership if you go 12 times/month.  Our current membership expired in January, so we decided to do a month-month contract for $25/month.  With our new insurance gym plan, it only costs us $5/month to go to the gym.  Did that make sense?  

Except I only went to the gym once last week (but I still worked out every day at home).  So to make up my "days", I have to go to the gym every day this week.  Which means early...early...early.....

It was a running day for me (recovery week!!!!!).  First I decided to hunt down a Smith Machine to get some hard-core squats in.  But they were all used, so I had to use this other machine that I didn't like as much.  Hard life I have :)

3x

10 squats

10 REAL push ups

50 calf raises

20 v ups

3 miles on the TM.  I've been wracking my brain for the past few weeks as to WHY  my ankle is still so achy.  It was fine up to the St George Half Marathon in January.  Which is when I bought my home TM.  I'm wondering if they might be a contributing factor???  Maybe one of many.  But I'm going to keep track of achiness and running at home.

Long foam rolling session and a set of LLL and roll outs on SB.

AM:

Early morning at the gym.  The only open stairmill was the slippery handle one...yuck.  I did 3 miles on it.  Then I went to refill my water and the guy next to me was getting off his machine.  I quickly claimed it and pounded out another quick 3 miles.  The last 1.5 miles, I did a minute hard, minute easy.  Total of 6 miles.

PM:

1 mile walk at home TM

3x

30/30/20 - LLL

20 B6 on the Bosu

60 sec plank with feet on ball

10/side - side planks with lift

30 scissor

15 roll out on stability ball

20 supermans on Bosu 

Hubby had stuff this morning, so I opted to go to the gym when he got home from work.

3x

10 x squats on the Smith machine

10 x real push ups

50 x calf raises

Various ab stuff

20 x B6

10 x roll out on stability ball

5 mile run. I really tried to focus on form and I really stink at it.

Long foam roll and stretch

I slept so horrible last night and had a hard time rolling out of bed at 5:00am.  But I did and got to the gym in one piece.

4 miles on the TM.  I wore my lighter weight shoes this morning to see if it would help my ankle.  I felt like it was easier to run shorter steps in them, but my ankle is still very achy.  

I was thinking last night of trying to get into my PT.  But then I thought maybe I need to see my sports medicine doctor.  Maybe I need another x-ray???

This achy ankle is driving me nutso.  I got my stress fracture in August, started run/walking again in October.  I only run 3 days/week and increase my mileage by 2 miles/week.  WHAT GIVES!!!! 

No running today...just high hopes of good snow with my daughter.  Family blog post: 

Annie and I headed up to the Brighton Ski Resort this morning with high hopes of good snow and lots of laughs.  We had lots of laughs on the way up, but were met by Mother Nature fiercest's snow storm.  "White Out" would be an understatement.

We did two very painful, cold runs and decided to eat lunch at 10:55am!  We layered on extra socks and layers.  Then headed out for another attempt.  One run later, we skied directly to the car despite the incredible snow.  Poor Annie was frozen to the bone.

The parking attendants at the resort did a VERY poor job of parking the skiers vehicles today.  I had about one inch of extra room to get my vehicle out of the parking lot.  It was a bit stressful with all the snow and wind.

After many prayers of safety, we headed down the mountain.  Unfortunately, our van is the WORST in the snow.  (and NO it is not the driver)!!!!  I happened to pull out first in a long line of cars.  My top speed was 15 mph and there were many times where we were at a complete stop because we couldn't see.  The wind was blowing SO violently and there was NO visibility.  I have never been that scared driving EVER.  

We finally reached the mouth of the canyon and were welcomed by blue skies.  I have NEVER been so grateful to see the plowed freeway.

Annie and I stopped at Cheesecake Factory and snarfed down a piece of chocolate cake.  It was definitely the highlight of our day.

Though we didn't ski a lot of slopes, we definitely had a lot of stories to tell!

AM:

5 slow miles at the gym.  Just after I started running, my pal Kellie walked into the gym and got onto a TM next to me.  I was SO very grateful for her company and she made the miles fly by.

I had to buy a new swim suit this morning for a trip hubby and I are going on with his co-workers.  Swim suit shopping can certainly hurt a girls body ego!!!

PM:

When my big girls went Activity Days, I headed downstairs for some strength training.

3 x

10 star plank on Bosu

16 plank rows

20 scissors

10 lying leg lift

12 overhead press

12 butterflies

20 skull crushers

15 supermans on Bosu

LLL

B6

Lots of foam rolling on ITB and inner shins. 

My arms were very sore from yesterday's arm workout.  Even though it makes me feel totally wiped out, I love that feeling.

Am #1:  7 miles on the stair mill.  After 3.5/4 miles, I would go hard for 2 minutes and easy for 1 minute.  Surprisingly, I felt very good.  I  was sweating like a pig, but my breathing was controlled.  I should probably do this more often.

AM#2:  I had a hard time getting moving for workout #2.  But I finally headed downstairs and just got it done!

3x

10/side - side to side lunges with overhead lift

10 hamstring lift

5/side - single arm push ups (though they are still very hard, I am getting so much better at these!!!!)

40 russian twists with weight

30/side - donkey kick (last 10 had a full circle)

Long foam rolling session on shins and calves. 

AM #1 at the gym:

6 miles on the TM.  I was VERY pleasantly surprised at how great this run was.  This is the fastest I've run in a long time and had NO achiness in my ankle or shins. I don't think I'm quite out of the woods yet and will probably have a few more step backs.  But today's run gave me great hope.  I still need to work on my form and step counts.  I felt like my legs were a little flappy today.  Hopefully, all the painful foam rolling is paying off. 

AM#2 at home:

3x

20 side to side step ups on bench

10/side lunges on bench

20 SB hamstring curl

8 SB V pass

LLL

Long foam rolling on shins and calfs and a B6 on the Bosu 

Official reast day. I loved every minute of sleeping in and deep cleaning my bathrooms (not so much the bathrooms).

I had a hard time sleeping last night. I bought some new compression sleeves and wore them yesterday. Because they are such a pain to get on and odd, I decided to sleep in them. Major mistake! They bugged me all night!

I had told Kellie that I was going to do my long run today, so we planned on meeting when the gym opened at 4:30am. So I was worried I was going to sleep through my alarm.

My alarm went off at 3:55am, and I headed downstairs to my home TM to run 2 miles before I headed to the gym. I only had 2 hours at the gym before I needed to be home-hence the 2 miles at home. But I felt super horrible. I had a major migraine headache. I realized that I didn't drink enough water yesterday...too much coke. I drank a whole thing of water and some GU chomps on the way to the gym and felt much better.

I set up my TM with all my junk-2 water bottles, GU's, 2 sweat towels etc. Kellie got there shortly thereafter and we chatted for most of the run. During the last 2-3 miles, I was getting sick of running and getting bored. We both turned on our music and grinded through.

I was nervous as too how my ankle would hold up as it had been doing so great. It started to get tired the last few miles. I rubbed out my calves and foam rolled them when I got home. Feeling better! We'll see how they feel in the morning.

I took two 1hour naps today and still feel tired. I'm just doing a core workout tomorrow, so hopefully I can catch up on some sleep.

Taking it easy today.  Though my legs/ankle feel super great, I didn't want to push my luck!

3x

10 star planks on Bosu

20 skull crushers

40 russian twists

16 row planks

25 dips

15 superman on Bosu 

60 sec planks (feet on ball, arms on ball, regular)

6 one arm push ups on Bosu

20 scissors

30 donkey kicks

LLL with weights

20 B6 with weight on Bosu

50 calf raises

LONG stretching and foam rolling session. 

100% pure laziness this morning.  I took a long nap yesterday and couldn't fall to sleep last night.  Hence I didn't want to get up this morning.  Hence a workout in the basement.

2 miles

Several minutes on monster walking at a 15% incline with the band around my ankles.  My buns were burning.

LLL and foam roll ankles/shins.

A pathetic workout. 

I was so tired yesterday that I went to bed at 8:45pm.  I felt much better when I woke up this morning.

AM #1 

7 miles on the gym TM.  I felt very sluggish and yucky the first 4 miles.  The last 3 miles, I started to pick up the pace just to get the darn run over with!  Then I started to feel better.  67:40.

AM #2

Strength training in my basement.  

3x

25 squats with overhead press

10/side single leg hamstring lift

10/side side lunges

10 side line leg lift

15 REAL push ups

Ling stretch and foam rolling.   My left shin just above my SF site has been bugging the last few days.   I took my rolling pin to it this morning.  Now it really hurts.

Workout at home gym

1.5 mile run

3x

12 overhead press

12 butterfly

20 skull crushers

16 plank rows

15 supermans

LLL

1.5 mile run

Long stretch and foam roll..achy..achy..achy 

I got my ankle worked on today by my massage therapist.  It is still tender, but definitely feels better.  That was the only working out going on.  Lazy...

Oh my....what a morning.  I slept super great last night.  I wasn't meeting anyone and had no pressure of missing my alarm.  I got to the gym right at 6:00am.  I ate a peanut butter and honey sandwich.  Since I felt pretty good last week, I was excited to get this run ON!  After all, it was only one more mile.

I set up my treadmill and started my first 7 mile run.  I felt good and watched Law and Order.  Took a GU at mile 6.  

Reset the TM and only made it to 2 miles.  My mental mojo fell in a dark hole and I started to struggle.  I took a potty break (but couldn't go) and a few GU Chomps to see if it would help.  But the thing that got to me was A.  watching the clock and know I still had HOURS left to go and B.  seeing people come into the gym and then leave.  For the most part, I am a good TM runner.  I don't get super bored and can handle the miles alright.  Except for today.  I totally crashed. (so maybe I'm not a good TM runner anymore)

I barely made it through the last 7 miles.  I took a 2xcaffeinated GU at mile 11.5 and was really banking on the caffeine.  I think it helped physically, but not mentally.  I stopped every mile for a few seconds just to try and finish.

Another thing that assisted in losing my mojo was that I wore a cotton tank.  It was soaking wet.  It was heavy and sticking to my stomach.   I would have given anything for a new shirt.

I walked for a long time after and laid on the floor in the stretching area.  Physically, I was tired and my ankle felt good, BUT mentally I was gonezo.  Finally, I mustered up enough strength to do two LLL, foam roll and stretch.  I also took off my tank and put on my long sleeve shirt.  Sorry for all you that I offended.  I just didn't care anymore.

I stopped at the gas station and got  a Coke on the way home..  

This is probably too much TMI, but I couldn't pee until 1:30pm.  I drank 3 large water bottles and a 1/3 thing of gatoraide during the run.  I ate a peanut butter/honey sandwich, 2 GUS and a few chomps.  So I'm not sure what the dealo was.

Regardless, it is done. 

Daylight savings totally messed me up last night. I was awake all night and didn't make it to the gym this morning. So I headed to my basement gym while my big girls were at Activity Days. One of the *few* perks of working out at night is I have so much more energy. I can workout longer and harder.

I really wanted to wait two days to run again since my long run on Saturday. But since I waited until this evening, I figured I was close enough.

4 very strong miles

3x

20 plank with shoulder taps on ball

20 hamstring curls with ball

6 one arm push-ups on Bosu

Abs

LLL

Walking lunges

B6

20x dips

Long stretch and foam rolling

Ankle felt strong on the run.

Ankle still feels good - yeah!  

6 miles on the stairmill in 46:20:00.  I felt very strong this morning and did some "sprints" during the last half of the workout.  SOOOO sweaty.

5 miles in the basement while watching the Biggest Loser

3x

LLL

60 sec plank

30 donkey kicks

15 supermans on Bosu

20 skull crushers

quick stretch.  Ankle felt good.   

Designated rest day.  It makes sleeping so wonderful!

5 miles on the stair mill in 38:40.  

1 mile warm up

3 min hard - 1 min easy

3x

10 squats on smith machine

12 REAL push ups

10 leg presses

30 calf raises

Quick stretch

I'm excited to do my short-long run tomorrow with the gals.  Its been way too long since we've giggled while running. 

1:48:35

AP: 9:48

10:28, 9:45, 9:25, 9:26, 9:38, 10:00, 9:33, 9:39, 10:40, 10:03, 9:19

I met up with Smooth, Karen and Collette this morning on the JRP. I haven't run outside since the SG Half and was a bit nervous about how my fitness would hold up. I really miss running with friends....especially these amazing women!

We weren't breaking any land speed records today and even walked a time or two at the end. But I had SO much fun catching up, laughing and sharing a run with these ladies. I really needed it and am grateful for their gentle push to get together.

My legs are definitely tired from running on asphalt and I could feel my lack of fitness. Ankle is a bit achy today.

I had to hurry home as we had an out of town family friend who we were entertaining for the day. We went for a hike at Rock Canyon, got ice cream at the BYU creamery and enjoyed the sun! I'm so very tired.

AM  

3 very slow miles on the home TM.  I'm trying to be smart and take it easy today.  My hip has been very tight all weekend.  It didn't help that I forgot to stretch after Saturday's run.  So I spent a LONG time stretching, foam rolling and LLL.

PM

If I wouldn't have been lazy this morning and gotten up 30 minutes earlier, I wouldn't have to do my strength training tonight.  But I was....

3x

12 overhead press

20 skull crushers

12 butterflies

LLL

10/side  side to side lunges

10/side single leg hamstring lift

60 sec plank

B6

More stretching and foam rolling. 

I was WIDE awake at 3:00am this morning.  I'm not sure what my deal-o was, but I laid there till 4:45am and then headed to the gym.

7 miles

During the last .25 of every mile, I would pick up the pace a lot.  It definitely made the miles go my faster.  I felt good aerobically, but my lower shin was bugging a bit.  And I was very sore from all the lifting yesterday.  I love that feeling.

Quick stretch - couldn't find a foam roller.  Back to bed for a quick nap before all the kids got up.  I love my morning power naps. 

I was suppose to do this run on Thursday, but I didn't have to have a back to back run which included a long run.  So I thought Wednesday night might be a good medium and take Thursday off.  I'm not sure if this thinking makes any sense, but we'll see how it rolls.

PM:  

3 easy miles that were constantly interrupted by texts and children needs.  Oh well it was suppose to be easy :)

3x

15x push up

Lunges - down and around my back yard

30 sit ups

Planks on ball

Stretch and foam roll.  Ankle feels good.  I'm still very sore from Monday's ST.  It had better rain because I just put a bunch of fertilizer on my grass!!! 

Designated rest and sleep in day.

3:50am my alarm went off

Shorts and tank:  8 miles on home TM (GU at mile 6)

Running tights and 3 shirts:  7.5 miles with Smooth, Karen and Collette.  I was SO VERY grateful to be out running with these ladies.  I made them get out of bed and run in the dark with me.  We ran on a new trail and it was pitch black.  Kinda creepy.  I love our running chats.  I had to be home by 7:00am so hubby could leave, so I said goodbye to the ladies.  They are so amazing and I couldn't have done this run without them. (GU at mile 12)

Clean shorts and t-shirts:  1.5 miles on the home TM 

Quick stretch and foam roll. Done by 7:30am.  Off to do lots of laundry (5 shirts, 1 pair of tights and 2 shorts).

3 easy miles on the home TM (which meant sleeping in.... yahooo!!!)

3x

10/side side to side lunges

LLL

8/side one arm push ups on Bosu

15 supermans on Bosu

20 sec fire hydrant holds (leg bent and extended)

20 B6

quick stretch and foam roll

Hip has been a tiny bit achy the past few runs, so I am going to increase my LLL and hip exercises.  Ankle is feeling pretty good after last weeks long run.  I'm not getting super excited yet.... 

7 early miles on the gym TM. The gym was crazy busy this morning! I ran the last .25 of every mile as a pick up. It definitely made the run go by faster. 65:00. Very sweaty.

My form was totally off today. My feet felt very flappy and I couldn't figure out what I was doing wrong.

I finished with a quick set of LLL and push ups. Stretch. I'm definitely sore from the side to side lunges yesterday. They worked their magic.

No running.  Lower shin is really bugging.  So just strength training today at home.

3x

12xoverhead press

12xbutterflies

20xskull crushers

10xside plank with leg lift (so hard.....)

LLL

10/side single hamstring lift

20xB6 on Bosu

16xplank row

15xab roll with feet on ball

Long stretch and foam roll.  I really rolled on my calves and shins.   

4 slow miles on the home TM.

3x

30 squats

30 sit ups

60 sec side planks (I hate those)

LLL

10 real push ups

30 mountain climbers

Stretch and foam roll.  I have a good friend who is a massage therapist (Amy) and she's been working on my lower legs for the past while.  I have one small spot a few inches above my ankle that is bugging.  I don't think it is a stress fracture, but as she was working on it she maybe said it was tendonitis.  Makes sense, but I'm not sure what to do for it. 

2:56:10  AP:  9:47

Miles 1-11:  9:48, 9:30, 9:27, 9:28, 9:46, 10:20, 9:50, 11:18, 9:27, 9:51, 9:37

Miles 12-15:  10:10, 10:01, 10:02, 10:06

Miles:  16-18:  9:10, 9:26, 8:41 

I was so very grateful to meet my good friends Smooth, RAD and Collette at the JRP.  Everyone had different agendas for the day, but everyone accomplished their goals.

I ran the first 11 miles with Smooth, RAD and Collette.  We stopped half way for water, GU and bathrooms.  It was a bit chilly, but we had wonderful conversation about motherhood and life.  We had a few walking breaks too (hence the AP time).  When we got back to the parking lot, we said goodbye to RAD and Collette.

Smooth and I headed out for 4 more miles.  She gave me wonderful running advice.  She knows her stuff!  It was fun to catch up on her family.

I said goodbye to her and headed out for my last 3 miles.  I turned on my tunes and wanted to pick up the pace.  I stopped for a second at the turn around point.  Then I was ready to turn it up a notch.  

I felt really great on the run.  I definitely could have gone farther which gives me a bit of hope.  Ankle was definitely achy after the run and is still achy today (Sunday).  Sighhhh.....

I hurried home and we headed off to a family Easter party.  Then hurried back home so I could attend the YW broadcast.  Tired! 

3 very long miles on the stair mill

3x

10 squats on the smith machine

10 x real pushups

12 x leg press 

50 calf raises

60/60/60 planks

LLL

Stretch, but I couldn't find a foam roller.  Ankle is very achy after Saturday's long run.  I'm not running tomorrow either.  Gotta be safe.  I just felt blah this morning.  

Spring break this week and I made the kids move their beds and clean under them.  I washed all their bedding, wiped off baseboards, cleaned out closets, pulled out clothes that don't fit (and took them to DI), and gave everything a good scrub.  I love spring cleaning.  My children, on the other hand, do not.   

Ankle still very tender from Saturday's run. This is very annoying.

I walked .5 miles, ran 1 mile, walked .5 miles, ran 1 mile.

One round of LLL, foam rolling and stretching.

I was lazy and slept in this morning. Plus, I knew the weather was going to be beautiful and I wanted to run outside.

My five-year old was spending the morning with her cousin, so I quickly made an executive decision to take my big kids on a hike. Kinda of like skiing is our winter family thing, hiking is our summer family thing. When I heard Annie say to Carter, "lets run up this mountain", I swear I heard heavenly anglers singing. We had a super fun hike up to the Battlecreak water falls. It was awesome to see so many moms and kids having a good spring break!

For my run this evening, I had planned on having my son side his bike with me, but he had a flat tire is it was going to take awhile to fix. We were both sad he couldn't come. Now his bike is fixed and he can come next time.

5.3 miles around the 'hood. I really tried to focus on form and step counts, but it made me feel vey floppy and uncoordinated. It was definitely a progression run. Big hill first mile, then I finally started to warm up. Once I got going faster, I had a hard time holding the pace-lack of fitness!

When I got home, I grabbed my son and 5 year old daughter and headed over to the baseball field. I took my shoes off and we ran 2 laps around the field. I've never run barefoot before. I ran more on the balls of my feet than on my heels. It was a rather exhilarating experience. Plus I love running with two of my kids.

At home I did the following:

2x

Walking lunges back and forth across my back yard

10/side to side lunges

20 B6 on Bosu

LLL

Foam roll and stretch

Great day!!!

Designated rest day.

After 7.5 months of still having a bugging ankle, I decided to make an appointment with my PT. I've been quite bothered by the whole situation. It's made me a bit mental. I've done EVERYTHING the PT asked me to do when when I saw him in November.

So I brought my iPad so I could show him my workouts, I brought him my shoes and my list of questions. I think he was a bit surprised at my preparation. And even more surprised that I actually did what he told me. I jokingly responded that I do what to get better and will do whatever he tells me to do.

Then ankle tendons/muscles are still inflamed and have some edema around them...hence the pain. He gave me some good suggestions to help reduce the inflammation. Then he video tapped me running. My cadence wasn't perfect, but definitely better. The major issue in my form is I am as straight as a brick. So my legs are landing way in front of my body....making my heel striking even more prominent. This sending major shock up my ankle/leg. He had me stick my neck/belly button out 1 inch and to hold it for 30 seconds. It totally felt unnatural and I'm not sure I could have done it longer. I guess I get distracted easily :).

So that was my main homework from the session. He said all my lifting/stretching/foam rolling was perfect. I just need to stick my neck out more to try to get my legs to fall under my body and not in front. We'll see how it works out.

This session with the PT was very successful in my opinion. I thought he listened well and answered all my million questions. He gave me hope that I can accomplish my running goals.

Heading up to SLC to spend the night in a hotel with my family. There is something magical about swimming in a hotel pool :)

AP 9:23

1:35:14

9:48, 10:10, 9:30, 9:23, 9:41, 9:20, 9:12, 9:08, 9:10, 8:29

We took our kids to stay in a hotel last night in SL for spring break. Oh, the thrill of swimming in a yucky hotel pool! We went with my hubby's sister and her hubby and kids.

Mandy is a wicked fast runner and we planned a run for this morning. It was a shorter run for me, but long for her. I know she could have run A LOT faster today, but she hung back with me until the last half mile. I really love running with her. I actually raced her at a high school national cross country meet (I was from GA and she was in UT). Little did I know I would marry her brother.

The weather was so perfect. It was overcast and not very cold. Then the rain came hard during the last few miles. We ran around Liberty Park on the wood chips. It felt so heavenly on my legs. I wish we had a park like that near my house. But there was no Allie sighting!

We didn't stretch because we were too cold and wet. We hurried back to the hotel, changed into our swimming suits and warmed up in the hot tub. We had a full morning of swimming, going out to lunch, and Croon movie. Yeah for spring break.

I went to the PT dark and early this morning. They did the estim, lazer and massage. Then they redid the tape job. I realized since they taped it on Thursdy, I have not had any ankle pain. I bought some of their magical tape. I probably wont go back to see the PT until after my 20/22 miler.

The I headed to the University Gold Gym today. WOWZER....that is a HUGE gym. I've never been to such a big gym before. I felt a little lost. One of the things the PT suggested is to not workout by miles but by minutes. Thesis going to take me awhile to get used to.

45 minutes on the stair mill -5.3 miles

15 minutes on the elliptical to help my "trunk rotation"

3x

Walking lunges with weights

10/side hamstring curls

60 sec planks

10/side to side lunges

10/Crossover drill. ( I was calling it the B6)

LLL

Quick stretch and hurry home to walk conference!

If I hadn't taken an hour long nap yesterday, I could've slept better and woken up early. Plus the wind was insane last night which didn't help my cause. Monday mornings are always hard to get moving.

AM:

4 miles at home. Really focused on sticking my neck out 1 inch as per PT. Then I had to keep my thumbs tucked in the top/side of my running bra to help my trunk rotation.

Quick stretch and foam roll

PM:

3x

10 star planks

20 skull crushers

20 russian twists with weight

16 plank rows

20 dips

20 supermans on weight bench

60 sec plank with feet on ball

6/side one arm push ups on Bosu

30 scissors

One final round of 30 donkey kicks and a set of LLL 

I finally got my hiney up and out of bed at 4:40am and headed to the gym (I was too big of a wimp to run in the blizzard).

AM: 

8 easy miles on the TM  The last .25 of every mile, I would increase the speed.  I tapped my ankle and it made such a big difference.  I also had Amy massage the lower leg. 

PM:

We had a few spare minutes where all my children were playing with friends and dinner was cooking in the oven.  SO hubby ran on the TM and I lifted.  Working out with Tim is pretty darn awesome and I can't wait till the day when we can do it more often.

3x

walking lunges with weights

10 x overhead press 

10 x butterflies

20 x skull crushers

LLL

v-ups on ball

My son came into the workout room and I convinced him that he needed to run a few laps around the baseball field with me.  We picked up another daughter heading out into the garage.  I TRULY love running with my kids.  I took my shoes off when we got to the ball field.  My daughter decided to do sommer-saults while running and kicked me good a few times.   No way I could do sommer-saults while running!!!  2 laps barefoot around the ball field.

Early morning TM run at the gym.  I wasn't tough enough to run in the rain storm.

I ran next to the "fast girls" today and it was confirmed once again, I still have a long ways to go until I'm fast.  

BUT I felt like I had a good workout.  I ran the last .25 of every mile fast.

Quick stretch and back out into the rain.  I think the gym has lost all their foam rollers.  Bummer. 

I was extremely lazy this morning and didn't get out of bed. Even though it was a cross training day, I had no motivation. Well my laziness has been eating at me all morning. I felt yucky - mentally and physically. Uhhhhh....

When my 5 year old daughter and I got back from grocery shopping she asked if I would take her on a walk. I love that girl for so many reasons, but especially for the fact she loves to be outside (like her momma). That was just the motivation I needed. Even though I had already showered and gotten ready for the day, I put my workout clothes on, made her a quick lunch to eat on the way.

I pushed her in the jogging stroller for a mile and we ended at a park. While she played for a minute, I did a park's length of lunges (and back), a quick LLL and planks. Then we walked home. Even though it was only 2 walking miles, it made me ungrumpy and it got rid of my guilt for not getting up this morning. Exercise and fresh air is a miracle drug.

AP:  9:34      

TT:  2:32:16

10:43, 10:22, 9:57, 9:26, 9:44, 9:42, 9:43, 9:39, 9:24, 9:25, 9:36, 9:22, 9:14, 9:25, 9:18, 7:08

1816 calories burned - maybe that negated the cheese fries I had last night!

I was able to find a few friends (Callie - my cousin, Karen and RachelT) to meet me at 5:30am this morning.  I sure was glad to see their smiling faces in the dark!! 

We headed up the monster hill for the first mile...by the look at those first few miles, it took us awhile to get warmed up.  We decided to try the new Murdock Canal Trail.  It is every bit as wonderful as it seems.  We ran in the dark for the first hour, but had good conversation.  We saw lots of deer.

There was a bathroom/water fountain at mile 5.  We took a GU and refilled water bottles.  Callie decided to turn around and head home.  I was sad to see her go.

Karen, RachelT and I headed out for 3 more miles.  I remember doing these longish runs last year and how long they felt.  NOW, they are getting much easier and don't seem as hard.

Another water stop/GU at mile 11. 

We said goodbye to Karen at mile 14.  She needed 20 miles so she headed out for few more miles.  RachelT and I headed the short stretch back to my house.  The double caffeinated GU must have really started to kick in.  RachelT wanted to walk the last mile, so I left her and turned on the gas.  Granted I got to run down the mile 1 hill, but I felt incredible strong and in control.  That made me very excited especially since it was at the end of the run.  

It was harder to focus on my PT assignments during the run.  I was too busy talking and enjoying my friends.  But my  ankle did feel alright during the run (with tape).  Now (several hours later) it is tired, but feels good.  I did ice after.  We'll see what tomorrow brings.

Last night we had some major family drama that finally came to a head.  Sometimes it is very hard to stand for what is right even if it is not popular.   I hope that it will all calm down.  I was up very late dealing with the situation and am now totally tired.  Hopefully, I can get to bed early.  Ohhhhh.....families. 

I totally made my kids watch the marathon this morning before they left for school!  it is such a great race!!!  Go USA!!

Ankle was a bit achy this weekend, so I decided to be safe!!

25 minutes on the bike

3x

10 squats on the smith machine

12 x pushups

60 sec planks

10 side to side lunges

20 dips

20 sit ups

Long stretching session. 

It's been 2 days since my long run, so I feel like it is safe to do an easy run. 

3 easy miles on my home TM.

I found this abs workout on Pinterest...it definitely worked

30 sit ups

20 bicycles

30 toe touches

20 reverse crunches

15 side plank hip lift R

30 crunches

15 side plank hip lift L

40 russian twists

30 bicycles

15 oblique v-up

20 reverser crunch

15 oblique v-up

10 leg left

Two quick LLL and a long foam rolling session. 

I had planned on calling Collette to see if she was interested in meeting at the gym.  Despite my lack of preparation, Collette was already pounding out miles on the TM.  We ran together for 5.5 miles and had a great conversation.  

I only had 1.5 miles to finish on my own.  Easy 7 miles for the day.  I'm still miffed the gym doesn't have foam rollers anymore.  I'm too lazy to do it at home since I have only a limited time to get my morning nap in. 

My ITB has been tight the past few days.  Though today is my official rest day, I did head downstairs this morning to stretch, do a few LLL and walking lunges.  Lots and lots of foam rolling.  Lots of it.

26.47 miles (my Garmin was way off the whole race) (I'm using my Garmin times)

4:23:03 (my slowest marathon yet, but an average pace for a training run...go figure)

AP:  9:56

So today I ran a marathon (or a long training run).  It hadn't been in the original Ogden Marathon training plan, but I'm heading to Europe next week and didn't want to run 22 miles on a cruise boat TM.  Hence plan B.

My main goal was to not get injured.  So I decided to do the Jeff Galloway run/walk thingy (it is very official).  Too keep it simple, I ran a mile and walked two minutes at the mile marker.  I made a deal with myself that I had to follow this plan or risk some dumb injury (who knows....maybe it won't work).  But I'll stick to the holding back during this race to defend off injuries.

(They had this sweet Boston sign at the race expo.)

This is my first marathon that I haven't run with Karen.  I missed her sweet spirit and optimism today.  But I was grateful for her encouraging texts yesterday.  I also had several texts from other sweet friends (HI Collette and Kellie) and they brought me good luck treats.  They are the best!  Also, a big shout out to Tim for once again supporting my habit!

Onto the race: 

I woke up at 4:25am, got ready, and headed to the 1300 S Trax station.  It was raining lightly and for a split second I thought of leaving my rain jacket in the car (thankfully, I brought it with me).  The running shoe company Altra was handing out sweet Boston t-shirts at the station.  So I got to wear one during the race.  Thanks Altra!

At one of the Trax stops, two officers had several of the passengers get off the train.  They brought their bomb sniffing dogs in to check out the train car.  Though they were polite, there was no monkey business!

We finally arrived at the starting line and I made a bee-line to the POPS.  Thankfully, the lines were shorts and I could take care of business quickly.

I was VERY impressed with the race organization.  They had police EVERYWHERE, large tents for rain protection, food and water, and a ton of volunteers. It was finally time for the start of the race and I threw my drop bag into the truck.  I found Allie at the start and said a quick hello!  She's fast!

I found Rachel with her sweet 4:09:32 pacer balloon, but didn't see Lowell anywhere.   They played Neil Diamond's "Sweet Caroline" just before the gun went off.  I love Neil (and even saw him in concert last summer).

Mile 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 (9:47, 10:55, 10:01, 9:43, 9:40)

I'll admit, it was very demoralizing to start walking at mile 1.  I had a few people say, "keep going...you can do it".  I know it wasn't meant to hurtful or unkind, but I had a certain plan that I HAD to stick to today. Ironically, I did see a lot of other people doing the run/walk thing early in the race. It did take me awhile to warm up and find my groove.  Ran through Sugarhouse Park.  Took water at every stop.  I saw a guy pushing a son/friend (?) in a wheel chair...go Team Bart!  There were a lot of people wearing USA and Boston shirts too.

Mile 6, 7, 8, 9, 10 (10:09, 9:41, 9:26, 9:33, 9:27)

I took a GU at mile 6 and started to feel my legs come alive.  The thought did cross my mind to keep running through the mile markers, but I stuck to my plan.  There was literally an officer every 400-600 meters.  I made a point to tell every one of them thank you.  They were standing in the rain all morning!!  The rain continued to fall and the wind was picking up.  Brrrr....  

One of my favorite parts of running races is the spectators.  I love it when little kids hold signs for mom/dad and freely give out high-fives!  There were a lot of great spectators and signs today despite the pouring rain.

Mile 11, 12, 13, 14, 15 (9:10, 9:13, 10:28, 10:07, 9:24)

I spotted a guy with the signature Lowell hat.  Sure enough, I found him at mile 12.  It was so great to see a friend!  He was running with Susan and also doing the Gallo-walking thingy.  Lowell is such a great chatter and it took my mind off how many miles I still had left.  Took another GU at mile 12.  I lost them at the water station around mile 15.  Sad.  My legs were still holding up quite well!  Rain stopped for awhile.

Mile 16, 17, 18, 19, 20 (9:25, 9:31, 9:44, 10:21, 9:31)

I found the couple that I sat next to on the Trax train. We chatted for awhile and I told them about my crazy race plan.  I was hoping I could run with them for awhile....they were great company. I was relieved to hit mile 16....only 10 miles to go.  GU at mile 17.  Bathroom stop at mile 20.  

Mile 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26.2  (9:56, 10:33, 9:59, 10:27, 11:14, 10:45, 4:41)

The reality of the marathon started to set in.  My legs/hips were getting very sore.  My mental state was tired.  The rain started again and I was getting cold.  Water was dribbling off my visor and soaking my tights.  My nose wouldn't stop running.  I lost the Trax couple and I was now running alone.  

It was getting harder to start/stop walking at every mile marker, so I just ran.  Occasionally, I would walk through a water station but it was very painful to start running again.  I knew I still had 50+ minutes of running even though I was ready to be done for the day.  Mind over matter.

The volunteers at the aide stations were incredible.  So cheerful and positive.  But I felt foolish to be cheered for.  I was slow.  I was shuffling.  I looked like a wet rat with mascara running down my face.  Why would anyone cheer for me?  But they did and it brought tears to my eyes.  My mental demons were fighting hard and the volunteers gave me hope that I could finish this race.

Around mile 24/25, I came upon a young girl walking.  I asked her to run/shuffle with me.  I needed a buddy to help me through the last mile - I was fading fast.  At first she ignored me.  Then I could hear her breathing behind me.  I asked her name, Laura.  She was using the marathon as her long run too.  She told me she had recently lost 120lbs.  She explained parts of her success story.  She was an angel sent from heaven to help me for the last 13-14 minutes of the race.  I was so grateful for her company.

I finally saw the finish line.  There is something so surreal about seeing that timing clock, banners, balloon arches and a sea of spectators.  The emotional reality of just completing 26.2 miles is all unleashed at that very moment.  The mental demons ran away and a flood of tears flow freely.

I grabbed my medal and a bottle of water.  I quickly looked for the bag drop area.  I was starting to shiver uncontrollably and wanted to change my wet shirts.  Sorry for all you innocent folks who had to witness that! 

Liberty Park (the finish area) was one big mud pool and I wasn't interested in hanging out.  The rain was still coming down and I was freezing.  

As I walked to the shuttle, I passed by several bomb unit trailers,  SLPD, SLFD and many race officials.  Thank you Salt Lake City for keeping us safe today! 

(Sick of the cold rain! )

So now that I've eaten (an In n Out burger on the way home...mmmmm), showered and taken a nap, I've realized once again that 26.2 miles is to be respected.  As much as I would like to take the bull by its horns, it is still a beast.  

25 minutes biking

LLL 

30 sit ups

20 bicycles

30 toe touches

20 lying leg lift

15 side plank hip lift L

30 sit ups

15 side plank hip lift R 

40 russian twists

30 bicycles

15 v-ups

20 lying left lift

15 v-ups

2- lying leg lift

LLL 

LOTS and LOTS of stretching and foam rolling 

I am amazed good I feel.  I still sore, but feel significantly better than I did yesterday.  I stretched/foam rolled a lot Sunday morning and wore my compression socks all day.

I went to the PT to get worked over this morning.  He told me to take the whole week off just to be safe.  Since my inflammation is so close to the tibia, I need to take a few extra days off to be safe.  CAN DO! He strongly suggested that I do lots of non-impact stuff for a week, then start back next week with a 10 minute run and see how it goes.  I will do everything he says...it is not worth the injury to jump back too soon.

AM: 

7.5 miles on the stairmill in 60 minutes.  Sweaty MESS!!  I need a HUGE fan right on top of me because the gym is JUST TOO HOT!!  Besides my ankle, I feel back to normal after the marathon.  Ankle is still a bit achy.  

Hoping to get in some lifting tonight. 

PM:

I had a few minutes while my 5 year old was playing outside with a friend.  I was recently reading on the Hungry Runner Girl blog about how she does the "8-min Abs" and "8-min Buns" You-Tube videos.  So I thought I would give them a try.  Maybe I was doing the exercises wrong, but I wasn't feeling the burn. Glad I tried it once and now I know!  I also did a few clams.  Next time, I'll just stick to my regular stuff.

Foam roll 

Day 4 of no running.  I know it is the smart thing to do, but I would like just a little run. In a few days....

35 minutes on the sweatmill (aka the stair mill) - 4.4 miles

I saw Josse's core challenge and gave it a try today.

50 crunches

15 push ups

1 min plank

45 sec/side planks

1 min bridge

15 push ups

1 min plank

45 sec/side planks

50 crunches

1 min plank

2 min bridge

75 crunches 

Tim and I flew to Atlanta this morning at 4:45am, then took another plane to Rome, Italy.  I had a goal to walk before we left, but I wasn't feeling the motivation when my alarm when off at 3:15 am.  

I'm not a very good traveler.  I don't do well with big time changes and lack of sleep. So I felt like a zombie all day.

We arrived in Rome at 7:00am. Lots of sight seeing today.  Sistine Chapel, St Peters, Spanish Steps, Tomb of the Unknown Solider.  We walked from 11am-8:00pm.  My dogs were barking by the end of the day.  And my back was sore too.  But we were in bed by 9:00pm and I slept great all night.

We went to the fitness center this morning and I did the elliptical for awhile then did 10 minutes on the TM.  Still trying to decide how the ankle feels.  Something is still sore, but I'm not sure if it is the bone or tendons.  I think walking the several miles yesterday was less of a beating than running...maybe??

I have a limited time to work out.  Tim earned this trip for work  and we have planned excursions with his co-workers that usually start early....then we are gone all day....then we have a company dinner at night.  So my working out time has been pushed to the back burner.  I'm trying to look at it as a blessing in disguise, so I'm forced to take it easy.  15 minutes on the elliptical and 15 min running.  Then off to the Amalfi Coast and Sorento (I've decided I want to move there some day).

My days are all messed up, but think this is the day US day.

30 minutes of running.  The treadmill was in kilometers, but I'm thinking it was 3 miles.  Ankle felt slightly better.  Today we went to the island if Sicely.  I ate too many canolis and gelato.

We have a day at sea, so I has all morning to work out.  I did 5 miles on the TM.  There is NO ventilation in the fitness center.  No fans.  And it is incredibley humid.  Holy sweat feast!!!!!! 

After the first run, I did 3x

10 push ups

16 plank rows

20 dips

I was swearing so profusely that I had a gigantic puddle under me.  The Europeans were looking at me weird.  Hubby came into the fitness center and I ran 2 more miles with him.  All the TV shows were in Italian.  But I was able to find one with English sub-titles.  

I felt good on the run.  Ankle didn't hurt at all.  I had it taped.  I stretched for a few minutes.  We'll see what tomorrow brings. 

They even had a foam roller.  Wow-that totally made my trip!  

Nothing...natta...pigged out on too much food!  We were in Croatia today.  Beyond beautiful!  

I had acupuncture done on my ankle last night.  I was too nervous to look at the needles! Verdict is still out on if it helped!

6 miles in the sauna (aka the fitness center).  Another day in Croatia.

I figured my ankle might need a rest after a few bigger mile days.  30 minutes on the elliptical.  We were in Slovenia today.  Unbelievabley gorgeous!  

My hubby asked me if I was feeling ready for Ogden.  NO! It is going to be a suffer feast!

Today is our last day on the boat. So I knew I had to get some sort of workout in!

2.3 miles on the fitness center TM. I couldn't handle the heat/humidity any more. Because it was early, I thought the track on top of the boat would be empty. It was and there was a wonderful breeze! Much better! Venice was extremely beautiful on this quiet morning!

Finished up 5 miles.

Hiked around Venice for 11 hours. Oh my feet hurt!

We had a wonderful experience today at the Venice ward.  Only 50 people in the ward and I was very grateful for the missionaries that translated for us.  

 Church is true where ever you go!

Several hours of walking around Venice! 

COMING TO AMERICA TODAY.......one of my favorite Neil Diamond songs!

We left our hotel at 5:00am and flew to Paris.  Then hopped on another plane to SLC.  Home...sweet....home!

I had mystery meat sandwiches all day long at various airports.  I felt sick to my stomach for the majority of the day.

I honestly didn't think I would get a workout in, but my big girls went to Activity Days and I was super tired.  I thought if I ran, it would help me stay awake until bed time.  

4 easy miles around the 'hood.  2 barefoot laps around the baseball field.

My ankle didn't hurt AT ALL today.  Then when I started to run, it was buggin.  Grrrrrrr....

Lots and lots and lots of laundry to do.  It sure does feel good to be home and give my babies a BIG squeeze after being gone for 13 days. 

I can't tell you how wonderful it was to give all my babies BIG loves last night.  Though it is fun to travel the world, there is no place like home.

I was tired last night and went to sleep around 9:00pm.  But I woke up at 2:24am and was WIDE awake.  So I laid in bed until 4:09am and finally got up.  I like being the first person to the gym :)

My goal was to run 7 miles.  Then it turned to 8.  When I was 5 miles into the run, Collette walked in!!  Hooray for buddies at the gym!  We caught up on life.  I thought I was done at 9 miles, but she was still going and so I threw in another mile.  I wanted to make sure I was good and tired when I finished!!!

 Hurried home, showered and tried to take my power nap.  But I still wasn't tired.  I am very tired now and have to keep moving.  I'm hoping to sleep good tonight!

 I've hardly been stretching and can totally feel it.  I need to spend a LONG time working out some kinks tomorrow morning! 

I unpacked the suitcase with all my dirty running clothes.  13 days of stinky TOXIC running clothes.  Yikes!

I had to tape my ankle with white athletic tape and I also wore a compression sleeve.  I'm not sure how it feels yet.   

I knew I needed a cross training day after yesterday's miles.  

25 min on the bike

Core Challenge (with a few extras)

10 x side to side lunges

LLL

50 crunches

12 push ups

1 min plank

45 sec side planks

1 min bridge

12 push ups

10 side to side lunges

LLL

1 min plank

1 min side planks

50 crunches

1 min plank

2 min bridge

50 crunches

10 side to side lunges

LLL

LONG stretch and foam rolling.  Hurts so good. 

2 mile walk with my neighbor pushing Peachy in the stroller.

At home:

Walking lunges 

75 crunches

15 push ups

Walking lunges 

60/60/60 planks

1 min bridge

15 push ups 

60/60/60 planks

100 crunches

60 plank

2 min bridge

50 crunches

15 push ups

Walking lunges

LLL

stretch and foam roll

ART done on ankle yesterday.  It is so very achy.  Sigh...I feel like I'm never going to be able to run. 

6.5 miles on the stair mill.  

My ankle is SO very achy.  I'm really questioning if I should do my 8 mile run tomorrow.  If I don't do it, that will give me 1.5 weeks of no running before the marathon.  I'm already counting this race as a bust.  I'm so very tired of this nagging injury.

I was suppose to run 8 miles with the ladies this morning, but I bailed. My ankle has been so very achy. I think it is tendinitis (I'm hoping not another SF), but I may try to see the doctor next week.

So instead, I did 9 miles on the stairmill in 1:20:00. I was one of the first people in the gym this morning and got the good machine! I was a sweat bomb.

Then I lifted:

3x

10 x single leg hamstring lift

10 x side to side lunges

12 x push ups

30 x donkey kicks

Quick stretch. 3 soccer games, 3 kids haircuts, several hours of yard work. I got most of my garden planted, but I need to clean out my raspberry patch. I always get so scratched up though!

We went out to dinner tonight with hubby's family for Mother's Day. Nice......

7 miles on the stair mill - about 60 minutes. Halfway through, I did a few 2-3 minute pick ups.

Amy worked on my lower legs today. Still tendinitisy.

7 days no running and I still have a very achy ankle.  The soonest I can get into my sports med doctor is Friday.  We'll see what he says.

25 minutes on the bike

3x

10 x side to side lunges

6 x one arm push ups

20 x skull crushers

15 x supermans

LLL

B6 

Quick stretch 

I went on a 3.5 mile walk with my neighbor pushing Peachy in the stroller. I did a few lunges at the park. It sure was beautiful out today!

I decided to do a short run to see how the ankle felt. 2.5 miles on the TM. It felt okay during the run, but I'm more concerned how it will feel in the morning.

Long stretching and foam rolling. I'm going to Target to buy a big box fan to put on a ladder in front of my home TM. I'm not a fan of the heat!

Designated rest day

Designated rest day.

I went to see Dr Rich this morning.  First thing out of his mouth, "What did you do to yourself now?"  Ha!  They took some x-rays.  There was fuzziness all around my ankle and up my tibia.  Unless I have an MRI done, they won't know for sure what the fuzziness is.

 He said to run tomorrow.  He gave me some super Advil that they give the BYU football players.  I can only take it for a few days or it will eat a hole in my stomach.  Then he gave me some anti-imflammitory cream.

 He said not to run for 2 weeks after the race.  If it doesn't start to feel better, get the MRI. 

I drove up to Ogden to get all the ladies race packets and met Jeff Galloway.

This is how I am feeling about running injuries right now:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hVfB8Nlsduo

It may be a long morning tomorrow.  Be kind Ogden...be kind! 

4:17:20 (as per Garmin)

AP: 9:45

My love for the Ogden Marathon grows every year I run the race.  So when my ankle continued to ache and ache this week, I wasn't sure if I would be able to run.  I went to my favorite sports medicine doctor and he gave me clearance to run with VERY strict instructions to take two weeks off after the race!

After my appointment, I immediately headed up to Ogden to get our race packets.  While I was at the expo I met the legendary Jeff Galloway.  Awesome! 

This is the earliest I've ever gotten up for a run/race.  Yikes....that is early! 

I drove to my good friend Karen's house to carpool up with Jill (Karen's sister), Smooth, Karen.  As we drove up to the start, the weather forecast manifested itself.  Rain, rain, more rain AND a headwind.  We tried to catch the last bus so we wouldn't have to wait in the rain and mud. But we still had a good hour to contemplate the upcoming 26.2 miles! 

 The start line staging area is so majestically beautiful.  We all wore rain ponchos or garbage bags to try and stay dry from the pouring rain!

My main goal for the race was to stick with Smooth and run a 4:30/4:45.  I knew with my lack of training and various injuries, I wasn't going to be making any personal records! 

MILES 1, 2, 3 (9:48, 9:50, 9:50) (water stop 3) Finally, it was time for the start gun to go off.  I started with the group (Karen, Jill, Smooth, Lowell and Susan), but we quickly started to trickle away from each other.  Karen and Jill took off.

MILES 4, 5, 6 (9:22, 9:30, 9:58) (water stop 5)  I lost Smooth/Lowell and Susan at the water stop, but was able to find Paul and Tiffany!  What a blessing to find friends!  It made the miles go by SO MUCH FASTER!  We talked about gardening and traveling.  I was so engrossed in our conversation that I forgot to take my GU at mile 6.  

MILES 7, 8, 9 (9:36, 9:32, 10:09) (water stop 7)  Took GU at mile 8.  Still hanging with Paul and Tiffany.  We were having such a wonderful chat and taking in all the beautiful surroundings.  Last year, we ran by a field of stampeding horses and luckily, they were there again!  Majestic!  

MILES 10, 11, 12 (9:53, 10:12, 9:54) (water stop 11)  Though I was feeling great mentally (compliments of friends and good conversation), I felt like I hadn't found my physical mojo.  I felt like I was really making an effort to keep the pace (slow as it was).  I started thinking this could me a long few hours.  We had a short walk break.

MILES 13, 14, 15 (10:37, 10:34, 10:00) (water stop 13, 14, 15) We stopped at the POPS at mile 13.  It was a nice reprieve from the rain for a few minutes.  BUT, I lost Paul and Tiffany.  I waited for a minute or two and then took off.  The only hill in the race is at mile 14.  Last year's feelings from conquering the hill and having a race turnaround came flooding back.  I knew I wasn't in last year's "super-star race shape" and I wasn't sure how to process my mental state. I heard a volunteer say to another runner, "Just gut it out".  It became my new motto.  This stretch is my favorite part of the course.  I finally turned on my Ipod.

MILE 16, 17, 18 ( 9:34, 9:41, 9:25) (water stop 17 and 18)  I felt my physical mojo coming alive, but I still had a long way to go.  I knew my mojo could quickly leave as fast as it came.  My favorite songs on my Ipod came on and I tried to just "ride the wind".  I happened to run into Maynard (Smooth's friend).  I said, "Hello.  I don't really know you but I'm glad to see you.  If you are a friend of Smooth's, then you are a friend of mine". We hardly talked, but I was grateful for his company.  I saw Jill and Karen at the mile 17 POP.  I was so surprised to see them.  I thought they would be miles ahead of me.  So seeing them gave me the mental boost that I wasn't totally bombing this race.    GU at 18.

MILES 19, 20, 21 (9:12, 9:36, 9:05) (water stop 20) I really was feeling wonderful and was just trying to keep the momentum going.  Maynard had a great pace going and I was hanging on.  My body was starting to get tired.  My quads, hips and feet were starting to ache.  I wasn't sure if I was going to blow up, but I still had about an hour left of running. 60 minutes is a long time to suffer.  We started to see spectators and it gave me a mental boost.  I was starting to miss my family and kept thinking about them during the next few miles.

MILES 22, 23, 24 ( 9:35, 9:21, 9:58) (water stops 22, 23, 24)  I had not looked at my watch the entire race.  I had no idea how slow/fast I was going.  When we got to mile 22, I asked Maynard (who wasn't wearing a watch) if he wanted to know the time.  He said no, so I didn't look.  In a way, it was liberating to just run by feel and not time.  Around mile 23, I couldn't keep up with Maynard any longer and let him go.  I still felt strong, but knew I still had 30ish minutes to go and couldn't keep the pace that long.  "Just gut it out".

MILES 25, 26.2 ( 9:55, 9:48, 3:14) (water stop 25)  After I had walked through the water stop at mile 25, I had a bit of a mental breakdown.  I started to cry (which no one probably noticed since it was still raining and my face was already wet).  My body was done.  I wasn't sure if I could make it one more mile.  I knew I just had to put one foot in front of the other.  Literally.  I was beyond wet.  My clothes were heavy with 4 hours of rain.  My feet were squishy in my shoes.  My body had been up since 2:15am.   "Just gut it out". Those last 1.2 miles was a pure mind over matter moment.  One foot in front of the other.  Left...right...left...right.

Crossing a marathon finish line is such a surreal experience.  My body started to go into shock.  My legs started to cramp up and I wasn't sure if I could even walk to the car.  The Coke I drank was starting to make me sick to my stomach.   I started to shake uncontrollably.  While we were waiting for Smooth to finish, I sat on the curb with chattering teeth.  A sweet medic came up to me and asked if I wanted a space blanket. It was like manna from heaven.  Karen's husband gave me another blanket to help me warm up.  

One of my favorite parts of the finish line experience was watching other runner's reaction as they "crossed the line".  Friends holding hands, emotional runners bursting into tears as they conquered their own mental demons,  giving loved ones hugs, family members cheering with delight, children holding signs for Mom and giving 5's, and some falling to the ground with exhaustion.  I just got teary eyed watching their own stories unfold.  I understood  every one of their emotions.

 (Smooth, Lowell and Susan crossing the line)

 (Jill, Karen, Smooth and Me)

I didn't have an epic run today.  I wasn't even close to a personal best.  But I ran 4 hours and 17 minutes in the rain and conquered a few of my own mental demons.  Running with friends is much more enjoyable than running alone.  And I learned the real meaning of "Just gut it out". 

I'm taking the next few days off from exercising and the next 1.5-2 weeks off from running. I'm still incredibly tired and VERY sore.  

It was awesome to sleep in, make my kids a big breakfast, get the laundry going and have my ducks in a row for the day.   

40 minutes on the bike - easy

3x

20 skull crushers

40 russian twists

20 dips

12 real push ups

20 scissor

30 donkey kick

LLL

B6

Soreness is getting better, but that race wiped me out.  It is nice to just chill and continue to chill for the next week or so. 

3.7 mile walk with cul-de-sac neighbor.  She's a dang fast walker.  Pushed Georgia in the stroller.

Down/back lunges in the cul de sac

Core Challenge 3x

100 crunches

15 push ups

60 sec plank

1 min bridge

2 min bridge

quick stretch 

40 min bike

3x

20 skull crusher

40 russian twists

20 dips

10/side   side to side lunges

100 crunches

15 push ups

walking lunges

B6

LLL 

30 minute bike

3x

20 skull crushers

40 russian twists

20 dips

10/side side to side lunges

100 bicycles

15 push ups

walking lunges

B6

LLL 

15 squats with overhead press 

1 hour hike with the family up "Unicorn Mountain" (aka Grove Creek Canyon).  We ate breakfast burritos at "Burrito River".  And we like to personalize our mountain's name!!! 

3 miles on the home TM (it was a mish mash of run/walk)

3x

B6

one arm push ups

This is my first run since the Ogden Marathon.  Pathetic.  My ankle is still achy.  When I went to see my doctor the Friday before the race, he said if it still hurts 10 days after the race, he would order an MRI.  I'm really torn if I should pay the $1000.  I think there is still lingering "stuff" left over from my SF back in August and *maybe* a new one according to the xray he took 2 weeks ago.  

It would be nice to actually know what is going on.  BUT they will just tell me to rest for XX weeks.  Do I really want to pay $1000 for them to tell me to rest?  

I'm really done with injuries.  They are such a nuisance!   

At home gym

1 mile run 10:00

3x20 squats with 15lbs weight

15x ball pikes

B6

1 mile run 9:24

8 min abs (leg lifts, side v crunch, toe touch crunches, cheek to cheek planks, side plank lift, scissors, butt lifts, windshield wipers, planks)

1 mile run 8:30

10/ side Single leg hamstring lift

15 push ups

20 skull crushers

1mile walk on TM

Stretch and foam roll. I bought an $8.99 box fan from Target and put it on a ladder right in front of the TM. Heavenly!!

Last day of school...need to find my mom mojo quick!

On Memorial Day, we took our kids on a hike. I kept thinking..."oh, this would be fun to run someday". So I headed up Grove Creek Caynon today. After 400 M, I realized I was WAY out of my league! My heart was beating SO fast and I could hardly catch my breath. Granted, I was running straight up the mountain, but I thought I had a little more toughness in me. Guess I don't!

So I walked/ran (more walking than running) for 35 minutes up. My Garmin kept losing signal, so I don't know how far I went. But I was out for a total of 1:05:00.

It was eating me up that I hadn't run enough, so I drove a mile down to the Murdock Canal trail. I decided to run 4 miles. I really tried to work on my cadence. On my way back, I saw Smooth and Karen! What a treat! I love those ladies. I quickly finished.

All three of my girls were in a dance recital today. Whew...lots of hair!

I was lazy and slept in. So I worked out at the home gym this morning.

2 miles on the TM (really focused on cadence)

3x

10/side one arm push ups

b6

20 skull crushers

10/side m side to side lunges

15 side v crunch

Walking lunges

2 miles

Stretch/foam roller

I took my kids on a hike this morning to Ensign Peak. I'm on a mission to get them to love hiking as much as I do this summer. In the past 7 days, we've been on 2 hikes. Not bad!

Last night, my husband tuned up and changed tires on everyones bikes.  I took the kids on a bike ride to a local park.  Fun times!

 Tim came home from work early today so I could get in a ride.  I decided to take my son on the ride too.  Tim let our son ride his mountain bike.  But after going a mile I could tell the bike frame was too big for Carter.  And he is not quite ready for a real road bike ride yet.  On our way back, he got a flat tire.  So he walked and I rode very slowly.  

I dropped him off at the end our street and I was going to ride for 30 more minutes.  Then I got a flat tire.  STINK!!!

All these great intentions, but nothing was working.

3 miles on the home TM

3x

12 bench press

20 skull crushers

10 pike push ups

10 bicep curl

10 butterflies on ball

And my arms feel like Jello!

Long stretch and foam roll. 

It has been several weeks since I've gotten up in the 5am hour to workout. Collette invited me to join her for an 8 mile run this morning at 5. I didn't sleep well last night because I thought I would miss my alarm.

It took me a while to warm up so I was a bit pokey. But halfway through, I was able to pick up some speed and the last half mile, we took off.

It was super fun to run with her and we had some great conversation! Plus it was great to see the sun rise!

AP 9:22.

Down Farm Hill Road 

35:15:00

AP:  8:48

9:44, 8:55, 8:20, 8:12

I got up earlish to get my run in.   That first mile is always a kicker...going up Temple Hill.  But I'm pleased with my splits...considering that mile 3 has got some big rollers and I was still able to have a negative split.

Walking lunges up and down cul-de-sac

LLL

ankle stability exercises on Bosu

Stretch and foam roll. 

3 miles on home TM

3x

15 squats

15 push ups 

15 v ups on bench

B6 and other balance stuff for ankle

LLL

20 Knee tucks with plank 

Stretch and foam roll.  

I cut down lots of BIG tree branches by myself today.  It was awesome! 

Workout at home gym

3 miles

3x

walking lunges in my yard - down and up back lawn=1

20 push ups

stability exercises

stretch and foam roll 

3 miles on home TM

.6 miles at running camp with my kids

3x

front plank

back plank

20 squats

20 supermans

B6

20 dips LLL

walking lunges

I'm in a bit of a dilemma.  When I went to the doctor the day before the Ogden Marathon, he said to come back in 2 weeks to have an MRI done.  I've had such mixed feelings about have the MRI done.  Mostly because it costs $2000.  Yikes...that is a lot of cash.

And I think I already know what they are going to tell me.  Tendonitis, and tibialis posterior.  Ankle strengthening  exercises, stretching, low milage.  

BUT...I still don't know what to do.  It does still ache and is sore.  What's a girl to do? 

I met Collette early this morning.  My Garmin had a hard time finding the satellite, so I'm not sure what out pace was.  As much as I don't like getting up early, I always love running with friends!  I felt like my form was totally off this morning.  Not sure what the deal was.

3x

10x one arm push ups

30xcherry pickers

20xskull crushers 

LLL

Walking lunges up and down the cul de sac 

Long stretching and foam rolling.  Back to bed for a quick power nap! 

My kids started running camp yesterday.  They are encouraged to run on the days they don't have camp.  My oldest daughter (who is quite the athlete) was asking me how many miles it was to different places around the neighborhood.  Then before I went to bed, I noticed she had made a "training log" on a stickie note.  That's my girl! 

AP:  8:14

7:43, 8:21, 8:37, 7:57, 8:04, 7:47, 7:49, 8:08, 8:22, 8:32, 8:17, 8:11 (splits were totally messed up due to satelite in the canyon)

I've purposely been keeping my mileage low lately in hopes that it would help my tendonitis.  It's been refreshing to keep running low key this summer.  I haven't had any stress out incidences.  BUT I had very low expectations for this race today.

Collette suggested we do this race.  I was a bit nervous about doing a race so close after racing Ogden....since I have a horrible recovery track record.  I was semi-regretting signing up for it until this past week.  Then I was excited.

I've only run 3-4 miles/day and one 8 mile run, so I knew I wasn't going to make a PR today.  My main goal was to run under 2:00.  My alarm went off at 3:50am this morning and I gave the standard, "WHY do I do this craziness" groan.  But I quickly got ready and Collette picked me up.

I lost Collette and Kellie at the busses, but ended up riding with Karen (yeah!!!!  I didn't know she was running today) and Emily.  We hit the POPS and the drop bag vans.  I still didn't find Collette or Kellie at the start and felt bad that I lost them so soon.

Finally the gun went off and the reality of my ability to get down the mountain was made manifest!!  I hung with Karen for a few miles and then we ran into Larissa (Smooth's daughter).  Shortly thereafter, Collette came zooming by.  

One of the things I really like about this race was that hometown feeling.  I knew so many people along the course and never felt like I was running alone.  I saw neighbors, friends, people from church....so fun to know so many people.

I took water at all the stops and took a GU at mile 6.5.  My Garmin was going crazy and kept losing satellite so I was unsure of my time/mileage.  When I would look at my current pace and I saw 7MM, I became nervous.  I was just waiting to BLOW  UP!!

We finally came out of the mountain and I saw Smooth...love her!  Collette had to make a potty stop (and I lost her) and I had finally caught up to Karen/Larissa and passed them.  I was running alone, but was able to hang on.  When I realized that I only had 5 miles left, I was definitely feeling better about life.

My  mile 10, I was starting to grow weary.  I tried to hang on and eventually ran into Kelli/Rachelle pacing the 1:50.  I NEVER expected in my wildest dreams to ever run a 1:50 today.  I hollered to them that I needed help and was struggling.  Those were the only words that I could mutter.  

Kelli kept pacing and Rachelle transformed into my life saver.  I appreciate her yelling at me and putting those thoughts into my head that I could finish.  She fought those "final few mile" demons for me.  I had no kick and shuffled across the finish line, but she saved me today.  THANK YOU RACHELLE!!!!

Shortly thereafter, I caught up with all my friends.  Again, I loved that hometown feel and seeing so many familiar faces. Collette and I chowed our french toast and chocolate milk and reflected on the great morning.  I love to talk running with people who understand.

I had to get home, shower and get my ankle/lower leg scrapped.  YIKES!!!!  That was painful, but so vey helpful.  I learned a lot in the short amount of time I was there and have a renewed hope that I can run to my full potential.

All in all....it was a super morning and I was just grateful to run. 

45 minutes on my new spin bike.  Various speeds and inclines.  Good sweat and workout

3x

10 ball squats

10 ball lunges

20 push ups

60/45/45 planks

LLL

various yoga poses - I couldn't do these vary well.  Guess I'm not flexible :)  My calves are still very sore and tender from Saturday's scraping.  The bruising is going down some, but I can still feel going down stairs!

Ice

Lots of garden and yard work! 

My workout was crazy this morning.  I woke up late (I set my alarm, but forgot to turn it on), so I was only able to get in 2.5 miles before I had to get all the kids up for running camp.

I ran a mile with my kids at running camp and pushed Georgia in the stroller.

While the kids did their running games, I did the core challenge:

3x

50 crunches

15 push ups

60/45/45 planks

walking lunges 

and a 1 min/2 min bridge and LLL (only once)

 On the way home, one of my daughters reported to the running camp staff that she was going to run a mile.  BUT she only ran a 1/2 mile.  So when we got home, I made her run another half mile.  She was smokin' mad at me.  We ran around the baseball field twice (and I ran barefoot).

Then once we got home, I did:

3x

10 ball squats with weights

10 rows

10 flys

1x

B6

Finally a good long stretch.  That workout took forever!!! My calves are definitely feeling better, but are still fatigued.  

44:12

AP:  8:49

9:04, 8:54, 8:41, 9:18, 8:04

I got my booty handed to me on a silver platter this morning!  I met Collette and Kellie for an "easy" 5 mile run.  HA!!  It took everything I had to just barely keep up.  There was no good form going on.  My calves were still sore and I could totally feel it.

I need to run with them more often.  They pushed me and are wonderful company!  It was so fun.  

Cross training day.

30  minutes easy on my new spin bike  (I really like having a home gym....it makes working out so much easier!!!)

3x

10 ball squats with weights

10 side to side lunges with overhead press

10 single leg hamstring lift

10 ball lunges

10 rows

10 flys

10 skull crushers

50 crunches

15 push ups

60/45/45 planks

Stretch and foam roll 

I met Kellie at 5am under the lamp post.  I feel like our planning texts are drug related..."meet under the lamp post"!  We ran our 8 mile Murdock canal loop.

AP:  8:57

1:13:17

9:51, 9:15, 9:01, 8:18, 8:57, 8:43, 8:51, 8:33

We had such a fun time this morning in the deep darkness and I'm always glad when I get up early!!  I run so much faster when I run with someone.  I hope my buds will keep going with me even though I am slower than them!

I got my ankle scraped again last night.  OUCH!!!!  It is VERY bruised and sore.  I sure hope it helps! My butt is quite sore from yesterday's lifting.  Glad to know it is working. 

4.5 miles on the home TM and .5 miles barefoot on the baseball field with my son. Very slow and creaky.

Long stretch and foam roll.

I made fresh strawberry pie today with whip cream....yum! I really start to love my garden this time of year and all the yummy stuff that comes out of it!

I found a TM workout on Pinterest that I thought might be a bit challenging.

1 mile WU at 6.0mph

5:00-7:00 at 6.4mph

7-8 at 7.0 mph

 8-10 at 6.3mph

10-11 at 7.2 mph

11-13 at 6.2 mph

13-14 at 7.4 mph

14-16 at 6.1 mph

16-17 at 7.6 mph

17-19 at 6.0 mph

19-20 at 7.8 mph

20-22 at 6.0mph

22-23 at 8.0 mph

25-26 at 7.7 mph

26-28 at 6.5 mph

last cooldown mile at 6.0mph 

3x

10 ball squats with weights

10 side to side lunge with overhead press

10 single leg hamstring curl

10 ball lunges with weights

10 row

10 fly

10 skull crushers

50 crunches

60 sec plank

15 push ups

Stretch and foam roll 

2 miles on home TM - 1 min hard/2 min easy

1 mile pushing Georgia in stroller at running camp

3x

walking lunges

B6

LLL

LLL - circles/over unders/pulses

squats with side kicl

2x

1:00 russian twists

1:15 plank

side plank pulse ups

15 push ups

1:00 ankle taps knee taps 

1:30 crunches

1:30 bridge pulse ups 

1:21:09

AP 9:24

10:21, 9:18, 9:15, 9:11, 9:10, 9:17, 9:11, 9:14, 6:07

Early morning run with Collette. We did our standard 8 mile loop in the canal. My form was totally messed up today. I'm still quite sore from all the lifting which was probably the contributing factor. So my right knee/ITB was totally bugging.

2 laps around the baseball field barefoot. It was very sprinkler wet.

Cross train day tomorrow and LOTS of stretching and foam rolling too.

45 minutes on the spin bike

3x

10 ball squats

10 side to side lunges

10 ball lunges

10 single leg hamstring lift

LLL

LOOOOONNNNNGGGG foam rolling and stretching session 

A totally pathetic workout today. Blahhhhh..... 1 mile shakeout 3x 10 rows 10 flys 10 skull crushers 1x 1:00 russian twists

1:15 plank

side plank pulse ups

15 push ups

1:00 ankle taps knee taps 

1:30 crunches

1:30 bridge pulse ups 

I met the "Lamp Post Ladies" under the lamp post this morning.  I sure love running with them and they sure run fast!  I didn't do a lot of talking this morning because I was working so hard just to keep up with them.  If I had been alone, I would have probably run 45-60 sec slower.  

9.77 miles

AP:  8:52

9:58, 9:17, 8:45, 8:46, 8:42, 8:52, 8:44, 8:31, 8:35, 6:16 

It would have driven me nutso all day to be .25 short on my mileage, so I ran another .25 on the TM at home!!

Everyone was still asleep when I got home, so I headed down stairs to get some lifting in.  I had to just sit for a few minutes to cool off though....so hot outside.  Because of all the lifting, my buns have been quite sore the past few days/week.  BUT I can tell a difference that they are getting stronger.  Just keep at!

3x

10 ball squats with weights

10 ball lunges with weights

10 side to side lunges

10 single leg hamstring lift with weights

10 one arm pushup on Bosu

10 rows

10 flys

10 skull crushers 

Lots of foam rolling