A mom. A marathon. A month.

Thoughts about food.

2010-06-07T15:21:00.000-07:00

Today I was eating a saltine. After a long, hot, outdoor run (and yes, I enjoyed it) and the salt and the texture tasted so good.

I was so present in the moment of eating that saltine.

I think I had an epiphany.

As long as I am eating and enjoying every level of the food, then it is ok. Using all five senses to enjoy it and really feeling and tasting it.

I think if I do this and the moment I stop using every sense to enjoy the food to stop eating.

This may in fact be the trick to finding the, "I can eat anything I want and as much of it as I want and still look great" phenomenon that those rare aliens speak about.

I don't know, but man those saltines tasted good. And I am content. Ahhh.

MIA.

2010-06-02T09:49:00.000-07:00

I wrote about this on my other blog, but this blog warrants a blurb as well.

I have been busy living life. Taking classes at the new gym, logging a few miles and just enjoying the warm sunshine.

I have been checked out from technology.

It has been nice.

I think I will be back to blogging, but I can't make any promises.

Sorry, just trying to keep it real.

When is your next marathon?

2010-05-12T10:26:00.000-07:00

I get asked this question quite often. And rightfully so. The goal was twelve in twelve months. And clearly, that is not going to happen.

First it started with the weird foot injury. Then it was too little recovery time. And then it was just no longer fun.

Running was (and hopefully will be again) my me time. Where I could escape and be with my thoughts. No tugging little fingers, nagging housework, nagging real work, etc. And suddenly, the very thing that was what I did to escape the demands of life became a demand itself.

It was always there. Three miles wasn't enough. Five. Not enough. NOTHING WAS EVER ENOUGH.

All of a sudden I was that post pardum gal again that could not handle life. To top it off, I was lonely.

A little background on that. We move every three to five years. READ: we don't have a lot of friends in close proximity. Both Ralph and I work from home. READ: we don't have office interactions. Until three months ago, Gia went to a babysitter. READ: we interacted with one person other than the Three T's in person on a daily basis. I was training at forty to sixty miles a week. READ: by myself.

That is a pretty lonely existence. Like SERIOUSLY lonely. So in early April taking the above into consideration, Ralph and I decided to join a gym.

Now this is not any gym, because I HATE THOSE. This is really more of a spa that has amazing Les Mill's classes and random large pieces of equipment scattered through out. If you are in the Sacramento area, check it out http://www.trufitness.com .

I will tell you more on that later.

But, for now this is what we are doing. Taking classes. (you can't pay me to get on a piece of equipment) I have not yet made any "friends", I think that that will come. But for now just having a very high level conversation is enough. And I actually think that I am in better shape now. Which just proves how comfortable I had become with long distances.

For now, I don't know when my next marathon is. But I am still committed to living a very healthy, active life.

I am looking into a 5k. Now that sounds like fun.

Realizations that oddly come from running.

2010-04-29T08:54:00.000-07:00

I am big boned. And by that I don't mean that I am overweight and attribute it to my big bones. I truly am big boned. At my thinnest I weigh about 145 pounds. And that for me is very, very skinny. And also my goal weight.

Example- my wedding ring is a size 8.5. On days when I have had too much salt, it is snug.

Ralph has frequently (as in three times) questioned by jewelers if I am a very large gal.

I feel like I look pretty darn good in exercise clothes. I love gladiator sandals. And just today I realized why....because they cover the widest part of my foot.

It is amazing how when I wear those absolutely precious sandals that have a single strap up the middle of my foot how incredibly large my entire silhouette appears.

And then it hit me....it is because of my gigantically, abnormal wide foot is amplified.

So today I am taking a boat load of cute sandals to Goodwill (let me know if you wear a size nine and are in need of a ridiculous amount of summer sandals). I am sticking with ballet flats and sandals that have some sort of food hiding involved.

Crazy how being athletic leads to other epiphanies in life.

Just wearing gladiators makes me feel thinner. Even if it is in my own mind, it does.

And I am ok with that.

Little slips, to the slippery slope.

2010-04-23T20:55:00.000-07:00

The fitness thing I pretty much have down. I love a good sweat. That really great feeling you get after ridiculous amounts of activity. It is the diet that I struggle with. I am such a weird person. I love, love, love, fruits and veggies. So much so that I have toyed with becoming a vegan....not just a vegetarian, but full on vegan.

On the flip side, I am from Texas and an occasional rare steak is a great treat (Laura, I am confident that you may have just thrown up a little just now....my apologies.)

But the meat thing is not really my problem. Nor is the junk thing. I love McDonald's. This we know, but I really can limit it and only indulge on occasion.

My problem is cheese.

I eliminated all dairy for this simple fact. Giving myself the exception of really special occasions (Pebble Beach Food and Wine Festival, Paris, etc).

But after Pebble Beach, I have been on the slippery cheese slope.

I feel like an adulterer.

Extreme and dramatic? Check. This is who I am at my very core.

But I do. I purchased a hunk of Gorgonzola today and felt a rush of blood due to the excitement of doing something wrong.

I used cream to make whip cream for strawberries today.

Oh, I am sliding. I have to get back on the program. Dairy makes such a HUGE difference in the way I feel and in the way my body holds on to fat that I don't want to eat it. But I do.

Cheese. You are so wrong, but you feel so right.

Say, spin-what!!?!

2010-04-21T23:55:00.000-07:00

I have done spinning three days in a row. I am in pretty darn good shape and it is seriously kicking and bruising my butt. Seriously.

I have to say that I think this diversion from running is actually putting me in better shape. I think that I had just settled into a routine that was keeping me at a plateau. But this spinning thing. Criminy. It is hard core.

Sweat.

Huffing.

Puffing.

I think, I hope that I am burning mad crazy calories.

Now, if I could only get my bottom to stop bruising.

I should have written sooner.

2010-04-12T07:26:00.000-07:00

But I have not. I have been participating in my three a days, but not in the normal way. I am doing things that I truly enjoy. Which includes running, but is not the sole form of exercise. Furthermore, I have not run a marathon in over thirty days and I feel GREAT. I am not sure what this means, but I just want to be honest with the blogging world. I am WAY off my goal of twelve in twelve. Like working for a start up, there is a trajectory and we must deal with that or we will drive ourselves crazy.

Hubs and I are embarking on some yoga work and I am really excited about that. I am also excited at the thought of doing things WITH someone versus alone. Running is a haven...without a doubt, but as much running as I have done alone can become bothersome.

So here I am, running, but maybe not as cool as it started out to be.

Yikes.

Three a day.

2010-03-29T11:05:00.000-07:00

I am over long runs. I am over training for marathons. In opposition of complaint, I am going to try something new. Three a days. Pretty much three small work outs that add up. Anyone tried this?

Here is my eight week plan:

Week 1-2: 20 minutes/day, 3x day, 7 days/week
Week 3-4: 30 minutes/ day, 3x day, 7 days/week
Week 5-6: 45 minutes/day, 3x day, 7 days/week
Week 7-8: 60 minutes/day, 3x day, 7 days/week

The way I envision this working is an eight week program that starts again at week one. Doing two running work outs (one before anyone in my house is awake, one during lunch) the third work out being strength, speed, family. I think this will break up my frustration and get me excited.

I know weeks five through eight seem a little brutal, but it is not that different than incorporating fifteen to twenty three miles into ones schedule. I think.

Also, I need to tell you about eliminating cow's milk from my diet. Three weeks...two inches off my waist (w jumping rope and sprints) and two inches off my hips (mind you, this is not my trouble spot....mine is waist and upper back).

So, here we go in an effort to add variety.

Has anyone does this? Does it work for endurance and I would certainly think that it works for speed, etc.

Excited. And really, what more can one ask for than a little excitement?

Go away crud.

2010-03-24T21:38:00.000-07:00

I've had it for a month now. A solid, full on, not even a measly February, but a real entire month. The crud. Not sure if every other part of the country has it but everyone in California does.

You know, the crud in your nose that slithers its way into your chest. Hacking, uncomfortable crud. It really started bothering me during the Napa marathon. Hacking from mile two on. I have been fine dealing with it, but I just want it to go away.

Despite the fact that I run far enough to warrant a few snot rockets and hacks the southern girl that resides in my heart just does not think it is right.

So crud, please go away. You are making me do things that would highly upset my grandmother. And you make it hard to breath.

Jump rope.

2010-03-24T07:16:00.000-07:00

After my last marathon, I have been doing some evaluating of my goal. I have not determined what the outcome of this evaluation will be but I am certainly spicing up my activity routine.

Daylight Savings Time has given such a boost and lift to both the entertainment for our family and our health. I have made a pledge to spend several nights each week outside from around 5 until the sun goes down. This can include eating outside, taking a walk, (when it warms up) heading over to the pool, just something that gets us moving, engaging and having fun.

I found an old jump rope. My heart starts to pitter patter. Jump ropes instantly bring back memories of Ms. Koester and the Owens Elementary School carpeted (because that is so stinkin' weird) gym. And Jump Rope for Heart. If you are a child of the eighties (they may even do it today) you remember? The program to get us fit by jumping rope. But that wasn't the cool part. It was all of the tricks that you could do with the jump rope.

Not that I can do those.

But I have my memories.

And I have been jumping rope. For about thirty minutes a day (over the entire day...broken into three ten minute segments) and some sprinting and some hula hooping---which is awesome.

My spirit is renewed. I really feel like all this activity is field day. Gia loves it. Ralph loves it. I've lost two inches off my waist in three weeks. I love it.

It also makes running easier which translates for me to more enjoyable. Go grab a jump rope and start jumping.

Iron Yoga.

2010-03-11T15:36:00.001-08:00

Typically, the week after a marathon I stretch, participate in yoga and all of the other things that I can not find time to do when I have to log miles.

Usually, these are just half ass work outs because I am so sore from the marathon. For some unknown reason I recovered super quick this go around and have been feeling amazing. So I decided to take yoga to the next level.

I have had this video for a while and I have to tell you I am in love with it. One, it is so stinking challenging and two the guy guides your breathing (which is the part I am horrible with and really the entire point of yoga) and it makes so much more sense and feels so good.

I am currently doing it with three pound weights, but I am looking at increasing it to five. Love it. Love it so much that I may add it to my routine.

Six, six, six.

2010-03-08T08:58:00.000-08:00

Well, I did it. I have now completed six marathons in eight months. I finished pacing 12.9 minute miles (not bad for me....I know quite an embarrassment to most of the running community) but as always I am ok with that.

I went in to the Napa Valley Marathon thinking this would certainly be the last marathon for a while. That I was going to completely change my goal and present it to my blogging world today.

I am not completely against that.

But I am not completely for that.

I met two amazing people on this breathtaking trail and we had some great conversation about running, life, kids, work.

It is liberating to meet these people, asses the goals and ponder.

I am also thinking of posting a "missed connections" thing on CraigsList. One of those things where you are so exhausted post 26.2 and the thrill of seeing your supporters....you forget to exchange information.

But you feel a connection. You have shared something that you have shared with few others in the world. It is inspiring.

Three things that I am certain of after this run:

1. It was not my last marathon.
2. Physical challenges, lead to mental enlightenment and that is an inspiration.
3. Napa Valley Marathon has one of the best goodie bags on the planet. And it is breathtaking.

Nightmares.

2010-03-06T08:10:00.001-08:00

Last night I awoke from sleeping three times about this Sunday's marathon.

In a cold sweat.

I am not sure why I am so nervous, but I am. I just don't really have a good feeling inside. Which bums me out.

I had a conversation with a friend of mine yesterday about all of my frustration with running. I am tired of feeling like five miles is not what I need to do. That I am never doing enough. That I am not getting faster because I do not have the mad athletic skills to keep running for twenty six point two miles going any faster than what I have done.

Plus, I still have ten extra pounds.

Nightmare.

Plus, I (we) really want to have another baby.

Nightmare.

I think that I may be making some adjustments to my overall goal after this marathon.

Nightmare.

That makes me feel like a failure.

Cold sweat.

I did it. Begrudgingly, but I did it.

2010-03-02T10:36:00.000-08:00

I registered for the Napa Valley Marathon. It is this Sunday. I had decided that I was going to run a half and tell the world (or those of you that read) that I was going to do a half because I just thought that it would be best for both my spirit and my body. But guess what, the Napa Valley Marathon only has a 5k or the full 26.2. No half.

So, here I am running a marathon on Sunday.

Let's do the count off.....

1. San Francisco
2. Santa Rosa
3. Cowtown
4. Fresno
5. Redding

and soon to be
6. Napa Valley

Here we go. Dear God, please be on my side Sunday. I trust that you will make it happen because I know that I can not with out you.

Please, show me some love and inspiration because I am to cheap. My credit card has been charged and I have to go through with it.

Run. Run. Run.

My hair makes me not want to work out.

2010-02-28T09:35:00.000-08:00

Really stupid, right? But I seriously don't think I am the only one that feels this way. There are days when I just can not get out of the house for a run first thing or just don't want to face the cold. I have greasy hair. You can read more about that here if you feel so inclined.

I must wash daily. Much to the dismay of every stylist that I have ever encountered. Otherwise, I really look like I should be more of a bag lady. I have tried every powder, spray solution that I have heard of and nothing works. I just end up with greasy hair that has specs of white in it. Gross. I know.

So in an effort to save myself some embarrassment and self pity, I just wash my hair everyday. But then, if I work out that means I have to wash it twice a day. Which is even worse.

So I switched to this apple cider vinegar and baking soda method which has worked wonders. But it still did not eliminate needing to wash and STYLE twice daily.

Seriously, I am not the type of person that wants to spend hours daily primping. I have zero desire. But I want to run and I want to look cute.

Think, think, think.

I think I came up with a solution. At least one that works for me.

First, when exercising I do the first grade hair style of one pony with the sides up and one pony holding the bottom ( will post a picture once I take one). Then I go run. Sometimes I use a headband, a hat, whatever. It really doesn't matter.

When I come back before I hop in the shower I undo the bottom pony, get out a duck clip, pull the top hair into the duck clip and refasten the bottom pony.

In the shower I wash the top pony (duck clipped portion of my hair). When I get out, I take it all down, comb together and style as usual.

It is amazing how this takes five minutes and I look like I have just done the entire hair process. It works for me and makes me love running that much more. Because I feel more like a guy....like I can get in and out with little to no trouble.

I hope I am not the only one that worries about my physical fitness versus the presentableness (so not a word) of my hair. If so, oh well maybe I am that shallow.

Shakeweight.

2010-02-27T11:06:00.000-08:00

Just an update on the Shake Weight. After the company charged my card THREE times and I fought with them endlessly. I never received it. I was able to get a refund after HOURS of time on the phone. Frustrating.

Is it not the most annoying thing in the world to try to go get something and in this modern world where we are supposed to click a button for something to arrive we can't do it. Then, to have it compounded by ridiculous hours of wading through a voice over trap to get to a person where they really have no authority or ability to help you.

I think that working in these capacities must be one of the worst jobs on the planet. No one is happy when they have to deal with you. No one. No one ever calls and says, "hey, my transaction was flawless, thanks." Maybe I will do that some day so that I can spread some good transaction karma. I always try to sit there on the phone and calm my boiling blood by repeating, "it is not this persons fault, it is not this persons fault" over and over. It rarely works. My blood still boils.

I did see the Shake Weight at Wal Mart the other day and I am now thinking of buying it there.

So, I have no review and I would not order from the Internet. If I get it at Wal Mart, I will let you know.

Just got back.

2010-02-22T11:01:00.000-08:00

From twelve miles and I feel good. Sweaty and sticky and cold (I am in Houston where it is unseasonably cold) and I feel good. This is amazing, because I have been so anti running lately.

One of the things that I realized is making me anti running is that I have upper back fat and a pooch. I run a ridiculous amount and I still have this. ANNOYING.

That being said, I am making some major over hauls in my diet. One step at a time. I strongly believe that one food item, group, etc can cause major imbalances in ones system.

Ralph and I gave up sweets for lent, so that is a start. In addition, when I return from this work trip I will be eliminating dairy to see how this takes. I have soy yogurt and almond milk here with me now to start developing the taste on my pallet. I have also switched to stevia or sugar in the raw when I must sweeten something.

Looking for solutions. Day in and day out. Isn't that what we all do?

This gal that works at my grocery store cut out corn and lost 87 pounds. Seriously, EIGHTY SEVEN POUNDS. Is that possible? Yes, for her.

I figure I have ten. I think dairy and sweets should get me ten. If not I am seriously thinking of taking a knife or vacuum to my upper back.

Oh, and yes I do love being a mom. Despite the aftermath (three year aftermath to be precise).

Renewed spirit.

2010-02-19T11:41:00.000-08:00

I just met a gal at a conference. I think my spirit is back. Right now all I want to do is go run. I am going to write this up and let you know.

RUN ALLISON RUN.

Still running away.

2010-02-14T12:31:00.001-08:00

Napa is a few weeks away, and I have been pounding the pavement. I am at the point in this journey where the fun and excitement has worn off and the irritation of the process is here. But I am still pounding the pavement. Trying to find inspiration. Does anyone have some they can share with me? I am in Houston for work next week and hope

....see, I started writing this over a week ago and can't bring myself to finish it. HELP ME!!!!!

10 things running has done for me.

2010-02-04T10:45:00.000-08:00

One of my running, blogging buddies Allie did this and I thought that it was a great idea. I think it may bring some joy back to running for me, which right now I am lacking. Inspiration is desperately needed out there. So, here it goes.....

It gave me a way to shed those final baby pounds.
For a long while it was a great escape. It allowed me to be alone with my thoughts. The simple rhythm of pounding the pavement provided a sense of calm in a world of chaos.
It gave me something that my daughter can be proud of. Not that there are not other things, but for some reason my three year old thinks that the fact that I run is something that is pretty darn cool.
It forces me to move. Movement is necessary for life and with this ridiculous, lofty goal that I have taken on I am forced to move. Whether I want to or not, I have to move. Otherwise I will kill myself at my next marathon.
It taught me that there are so many definitions of the best. Even my worst marathon time is one of the best things I have ever done. Best for me is different than you. That is ok. We are all winners when we are out there running. For this competitive gal, that is a true life lesson.
It makes me a little more forgiving of the things that are left from having a baby. My body is capable of so much more than I was back then. It may never look the same, but I am stronger and more able than ever.
Running gives me a buzz. A nice, healthy, legal buzz.
It makes my skin look better. I have struggled with my skin my entire life, so this is a big deal.
It has let me see some paths and parts of the country that otherwise I would have never crossed. My love affair with SF is so deep and strong because of running. Who knew that Fresno is actually pretty and that Redding, CA is one seriously breathtaking place of God's country?
It reignites my spirit. It gives me self knowledge, inspiration, physical and emotional health.

I just need to remember each of these right now. I am in a really bad slump. I hope I come out of it.

The slosshy's.

2010-01-31T18:17:00.000-08:00

When running long distances, you have to consume a certain amount of water and a certain amount of gu. One of the problems that I come across is that when I am on long distances that my pace amounts in a large amount of gu: Caffeine, sugar and electrolytes and water in my stomach. My last few long runs have left me feeling less than stellar. I have so much of this in my stomach that I feel like I am going to throw up.

Does this happen to anyone else? How can you fix it?

Probiotics.

2010-01-29T17:14:00.000-08:00

Probiotics have been linked to the maintaining a long term health weight. This makes me happy. I think probiotics are amazing and I certainly feel healthier when I take them. If they can help me stay at a normal weight, then that is even better.

How many of you take probiotics? What brand? Pill form or liquid? What do you think that they do for you?

Loathing it.

2010-01-28T07:11:00.000-08:00

Do you ever have days when pounding the pavement is the most horrific thing. Today I thought that I was going to have to stop every step of the way. I don't like that. I didn't really feel better afterwards. I did not really feel anything other than I wish I had stayed in my warm bed. That does not happen.

Maybe I should do some shorter, warmer runs before heading out for more training.

Does this ever happen to you?

Redding pics.

2010-01-22T15:40:00.000-08:00

The marathon that makes me want to stop running.

2010-01-17T22:17:00.000-08:00

The basics:

slowest marathon EVER.
three miles completely uphill. with no breaks.
twenty mile an hour winds.
forty six degrees
steady, heavy rain.

More details to follow. Needless to say, this was not my favorite. However I do have another 26.2 knot in my belt. That makes me smile. But really, that is it.

a little perspective, and also in honor of MLK day:

“The ultimate measure of a man is not where he stands in moments of comfort and convenience, but where he stands at times of challenge and controversy.”
Martin Luther King Jr. (1929–1968) American civil rights leader Nobel Peace Prize winner

Redding.

2010-01-15T06:00:00.000-08:00

Redding is Sunday. I am prepared. My foot feels good. My joints are flowing nicely. I feel like this is going to be a good course that I am really going to enjoy. My darling family is following me to the fantastic city of Redding, CA to carbo load and cheer for me. For that, I am forever grateful. I must say, that having a "real" time goal is really freaking me out.

Helpful tips?

The shake weight.

2010-01-12T13:55:00.000-08:00

So this crazy looking thing that is toted on infomercials has caught my eye. I think that I am going to spend twenty of my hard earned dollars to see if this can really give me Michelle Obabama arms in just six minutes a day. It should be coming soon, so I will let you know. Has anyone used it? What do you think?

Running goals.

2010-01-10T14:04:00.001-08:00

Run eight more marathons.
Get pregnant.
Run my entire pregnancy.

Mobile blog test.

2010-01-05T09:37:00.000-08:00

This is me sitting at my desk. Wanting to run. Working and seeing if I can mobile blog. Happy running!

2009-12-31T11:18:00.000-08:00

Cold, crisp and just right.

2009-12-29T09:01:00.000-08:00

When I come home from a run, I often say to RT and G that, "I feel like a new woman." My post run shower then makes me repeat this testament.

I love this feeling. It is honestly what started my running path. Feeling like a new woman with a new outlook is something that absolutely blows my skirt in just the right way. I still get this feeling during the winter, but motivating myself to get out the door and do it is so much more difficult. (Please note that I do not feel like a new woman after logging treadmill miles. NOT AT ALL.)

But today, today was perfect. Cool, crisp and just right. I did not have to push myself out the door. I did not have to take the big deep, dig down, just do it. I got out and by three minutes in, I knew why I was pounding the pavement.

One foot in front of the other. Before I knew it, I had gone fifteen. Fifteen mile and I think I really should have pounded out a few more.

I love that. I love running. I love it when the perfect running day comes in to play. And often, a perfect running day makes for a perfect all around day.

What makes you keep pushing?

2009-12-26T10:56:00.000-08:00

All runners that I know have a strategy of some sort. A strategy for every distance. A strategy for every type of run. Strategy changes depending on what you are looking to accomplish, but a strategy is always necessary.

I run with slow music. I am beginning to think this may be a bad strategy.

Before I was a runner. When I ran for punishment in my given sport, this was a great strategy. I always went out of the box way to fast. I ran as hard as I could and then I could never finish.

For me, having really slow and relaxing music made me slow the pace and enabled me to cross the finish line. Regardless of the distance.

Well, now that I clearly have the ability to find my distance pace down, I think I may need to rethink my playlist.

I am getting a little faster, but not that much. So are there any suggestions out there for a good playlist that will help me go the distance but pick up the pace just a little....just enough to shave a minute off every mile for 26.2?

2009-12-25T11:17:00.000-08:00

Keeping on track during the holiday season.

2009-12-22T07:47:00.000-08:00

One of the most difficult things for me about running this time of year is the time change. Not to mention the holiday madness.

We live in a community that has no street lights. I hate the treadmill. And hate may be an understatement. So finding the time to run and run safely becomes more and more difficult this time of year. I really love running in overcast and cold, so that is a plus.

I have been currently running during what is considered lunch time. This helps keep me on track in two capacities. I am able to log my miles, be more focused, get more sleep and eat less overall. So right now I see this as a great way to log my winter miles.

For those of you out there....what are your tricks to staying on track with your running goals during the winter/holiday season?

Running Christmas wish list.

2009-12-15T05:27:00.000-08:00

Santa baby, hurry down the chimney for me...... {So I can share my obsession with the world}
{So I can run at night}

{Because if you know me in real life I am more of a fashionista than a runner and Stella McCartney makes my heart pitter patter}

{40 pairs please....10 a quarter}

{So I can remember why I train so hard}

{12 pairs please. Being a hyperhydronic and a marathon runner gets expensive}

What is on your running wish list?

Redding goals.

2009-12-09T06:20:00.000-08:00

I have a while before my next marathon. Nearly a month and a half. It has been a while since I have had some real recovery time and some real time to think about what my goals are for the next race.

I have currently just been running to finish. And running to finish twelve in twelve months. It not appears that I may have to do it in thirteen. Thats fine. Not the original goal, but like all things in life we have to deal with unexpected happenings and this ankle thing was certainly unexpected.

So, I am trying to do some "speed work". I may be the worlds slowest runner, so this truly is an oxymoron. However, my goal for Redding is 4:59.

Thats right. 30-45minutes off all my times.

Wish me luch.

CIM pity party.

2009-12-07T08:47:00.000-08:00

I was supposed to run CIM yesterday. It was recommended that I sit it out...and I did. I ran a total of sixteen miles this weekend and I feel really strong.

As I sit here this morning and read others CIM updates, I can't help but feel a little angry. Angry that I don't have that post marathon I can't move afterglow. Angry that I am either going to have a month that is going to kill me or I will be more than a month off in finishing my goal.

But thankful that I am seeing my orthopedist again on 12.31 (Happy New Year's!) and that my body is feeling stronger. I am running faster and with more conviction. So for that I am thankful.

But I still am having a pity party.

Five miles never felt so good.

2009-12-04T09:15:00.000-08:00

The weather here has been perfect. I spend so much of my running time with a jogging stroller in tow that my posture is horrific. Thankfully, I have been able to use my time in the CST to my advantage. I am trying to keep on my two hour earlier schedule and get in some quality running time.....A-L-O-N-E.

It is amazing how much faster I am sans jogging stroller. It is amazing how much more soothing the time is when I am not worried about entertaining, feeding, keeping the child buckled in.

Granted, I LOVE having her along for the ride. She enjoys the time and I like having her outside. We usually stop and have some park time and all that jazz.

But it is so nice to have five miles to myself. And a cup of coffee when I get home....by. my. self.

In some ways I think I was a loner in my past life.

Dallas turkey trot.

2009-11-30T09:08:00.000-08:00

We spent Thanksgiving in Dallas this year. On Thanksgiving morning, my sister in law and I woke up and headed to the 42nd Annual Turkey Trot with one of her best friends, sister and one of her best friends. It was crazy. I think the last count was 36,000 participants. Many with strollers and dogs. It was a measly 5k, but a lot of fun. I think that I finished in 32 minutes which is really good for me. There were no timing chips so this is a garmin estimate. Hope that you all had a great Turkey day. I don't know about you, but I MUST put in some serious miles to work off the tremendous amount of food that I consumed!

Thankful.

2009-11-26T07:00:00.000-08:00

Today I am thankful for running. It is still an ever learning process and something that I am growing in and becoming better at every day. You have provided me with endless therapy, release, calm and enjoyment. For every mile logged, I am infinately better to my loved ones. And for that, I am sure that they are thankful too.

Holiday weight gain.

2009-11-24T10:19:00.000-08:00

I get countless "Newsletters" in my inbox. JCrew and Runner's World are really the only two publications that I even open. While I ooooowwww and ahhhhhh over JCrew I read Runner's World.

Like every other woman on the planet, holiday weight gain is something that I do not want to experience. So when this popped up, I was certainly reading for retention. For the most part is is the same ole, same ole....eat less, move more...blah, blah, blah.

A couple of things really stuck out.

Because you are naturally logging fewer miles, work more on strength and flexibility. This is something that I know I tend to slack on. My core is a mess. It could use some serious work and I really think that on those cold, rainy dark mornings/evenings that instead on begrudgingly logging miles or not logging miles at all participating in P90X's Core workout is a better option. In the long run it may even make me a better runner.

The second which is at the crux of the entire Weight Watcher's program is to plan ahead. Seriously, if you fail to plan then plan to fail. I think that there is so much truth in this statement. Just taking the time to plan your workouts (runs, strength, stretch, recovery, etc) around holiday festivities and craziness. As well as your meals. While I am a sucker for a snicker doodle and a sausage ball (oh heck, why not both) if I can go into those situations armed with a snack of almonds and a broth based soup in my stomach taking just one is oh so attainable.

What are your tips as a runner to ward off the holiday weight gain or to continue on the path of weight loss?

Davis turkey trot.

2009-11-23T10:49:00.000-08:00

Well, Saturday marked Gia's first "competitive" event. She had a blast. We arrived in a whirlwind (which I think is just part of being the mom of a tot) and grabbed her bib number and t shirt and raced off to the starting line.

This "race" was so well organized I was really in shock. And the number of participants just warmed my heart. The 5k and 10k's had been early in the morning so many of the parents running with their kids had already done their race. It was such fun to see so many parents passing on their love of the pavement to the little tykes.

Gia did have a spill mid race. But like a true champion she picked her self up and just kept going. She kept saying, "See mommy, I just like you." Now, I have not fallen in a race, but I do just keep going. I have to say that certainly was a heart swelling moment.

When she crossed the finish line there were ribbons. Which I was a little bummed about. I thought they were giving "medals". I would have happily paid five dollars more for a plastic medal for Miss Thing. The disappointment quickly left when she realized there was free chocolate milk, Greek yogurt and face painting galore.

Don't you remember the orange slice smile from soccer when you were a kid? I just thought it was too sweet. All in all, it was a great time. She has talked about it non stop. I am keeping my eyes peeled for more family events like this. I think all kids should at least be exposed to the joy of activity and healthy competition.

{Super proud mom and dad}

{At the finish line}

And in case you were wondering, yes we are THOSE parents. Not only was I shooting pictures of her the entire time, RT had the video camera. Oh well, at least her early years are well documented.

Humidity and running.

2009-11-22T14:09:00.000-08:00

I live in California. If you are a runner, living in the Bay Area is the single best place to run. The climate is so incredibly moderate that running is always fantastic.

We now live in Roseville, and it gets hot, but the temperatures still dip enough in the morning and at night that running is enjoyable and possible all year long.

Everytime I come to Texas I am amazed at the humidity. Even more so, I am amazed at the number of runners. I am amazed at how much more difficult running is when the weather is not either what I am used to or lets be realistic, just perfect.

So, runners in humid climates....what do you do to make life easier? How do you perform at your best given the conditions that surorund you?

Off and running.

2009-11-20T14:40:00.000-08:00

I just registered Gia for her first race. On November 21, 2009 at 11:45am she will be participating in a two hundred yard dash at the Davis Turkey Trot. I can not wait to see how excited she is about her own bib, goody bag, medal and T shirt. She always steals mine.

I will be sure to post all about it when it is said and done.

Who knows, this little monkey may just have the running bug. Lord knows she is better built for it then me!

Reason for running.

2009-11-18T01:47:00.000-08:00

I have many reasons for running, but the number one reason on my list turns three today. GIA IS THREE!!!! Can I believe it!?!?! No. Can you....well of course. She is a human being and ages just like the rest of us.

One thing about being a mother is that the minute you hold that child in your arms you suddenly really understand what YOUR mom was talking about. You really did have no idea how much she loved you. Until that moment.

For me, it was 3:49am on 11.18.2006. After hours of labor, no drugs and a just all the way around stressful delivery this precious bundle arrived in my arms. I was in awe. She spent three days with me and then was rushed to the NICU. Long story that you can check out my other blog if you want to know all about our little lovey.

But with this little girl came nearly an extra hundred pounds. I had always run. But as punishment. I started out walking. Step by step. With walking and Weight Watchers the weight came off. S-L-O-W-L-Y. But it did come off. It was always more of a chore.

Then I discovered mile ten and a half. Oh for the LOVE of mile ten and a half. That is when the fog lifts for me and I feel like a million bucks. I never did experiment with drugs, but I really think this is what it must be like. Because mile ten and a half is what I love.

That is how the journey began. Then it became so much more. Gia was the first one to really consider me a runner. She is the one that starting saying, "Mommy, you run?" "Mommy, you wet?" "Mommy you feel good?" And then I realized. I am a better mommy because I put one foot in front of the other and run.

With running, I set a good example for her to be healthy and have internal drive. And like most things, I had no idea I was doing that when I started, but now I know.

So regardless of what Gia wants to do when she gets older I know that my running is something that inspires her to put one foot in front of the other and find the mental part no matter how rough things seem and how impossible it looks.

Happy Birthday Baby Girl! You are my inspiration!

California marathon link.

2009-11-14T10:11:00.000-08:00

http://www.mustrun.com/index.html?gclid=CPLA1Jqkgp4CFSn6agodHmJOpQ

When looking for marathons to run, I am lazy. As my schedule is changing due to some unforseen circumstances I think that this link is going to come in very handy. I thought some of my fellow California runners might find it helpful.

Enjoy.

Flipping foot update.

2009-11-13T09:44:00.000-08:00

I am not running CIM. Bummer. Right now, they are not sure exactly WHAT is wrong with my foot. I need new shoes. I need to rest. I need to be on my feet fewer miles each week. The good thing is, I don't have to stop running. Just don't run another marathon until January.

I am going back in three weeks and they are going to do a bone scan.

So there it is. Beware of going just fifty miles over on your shoes.

I'll be back later, but for now I need to both wollow and rejoice that I am not running CIM.

Happy Friday.

Scared.

2009-11-11T23:54:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow at 2:30 I am meeting with the orthopedist to see what on earth is going on with my foot. I can walk, but it is certainly a challenge.

I don't like going to the doctor. For anything. Which is a shift that happened somewhere in my late teens. When I was a kid, I LOVED the doctor. I loved everything about it. I used to wrap my arm and pretend I had a sling.

Now I loathe it. Everything about it. The thought of going to the doctor just freaks me out a little bit. The thought of a doctor telling me that I can not run freaks me out a lot.

I have friends that are athletes, performers and just extraordinary people. I watch TV. I know who Sam Bradford is. I keep thinking to myself mind over matter. Just breathe through it. It will go away. You can heal yourself. Think good thoughts. Think foot ok. Think foot ok. THINK FOOT OK. It still stinking hurts.

I know I HAVE to go. Luckily my mom and my husband won't get off my back about it. But I don't want to go. I don't want to end up in a boot. I don't want to not be able to participate in a marathon for the next few months.

Now I sound like a kid.

I must admit, I have been enjoying showing off my ankle brace....LOL.

Two Cities Marathon aka Fresno Marathon.

2009-11-10T20:43:00.000-08:00

I can not tell you how impressed I was with this incredible marathon. Second only to San Francisco (which is mainly because seriously, how can you beat running the Golden Gate or through Haight Ashbury?) this is by far the best marathon.

The course is beautiful (I know, in Fresno....really? YES!), flat and filled with runners of all capabilities. It was a nice even spread of super fast qualifiers (one runner was looping around on mile thirteen when I was on mile four) and super trying folks like myself.

The goodie bag was amazing....a hat, a fleece hoodie, a long sleeve tech shirt, three bars, olive oil, Gatorade mix and a fantastic Michelob Ultra beer garden.

If anyone is looking for a great fall race, I highly recommend Fresno. And it truly is only 45 minutes from Half Dome....but not to the top!

PR: 5:25.

2009-11-09T13:45:00.000-08:00

orthopedist on Thursday. Great course. Well organized. Will write more later.

Babysitting, carb loading and trying to sleep.

2009-11-07T23:21:00.000-08:00

I may have bitten off more than I can chew tonight. Not only do I not feel fully prepared for this marathon, but I agreed to watch my daughter and nephew while the rest of my friends and family went to the Jay-Z concert. Not that I have any inkling of desire to sit through that. However, getting multiple youngsters to bed can prove to be more difficult than one would like.

So here's to the two precious darlings knocking out so I can get my much needed rest. On a high note, I was certain to hydrate beyond belief and have taken MULTIPLE doses of Replenex. Which I SWEAR by. This time tomorrow. Four down. Eight to go.

Hi, my name is Allison and I am a marathon a holic.

This is my foot.

2009-11-05T22:51:00.000-08:00

And I am running on Sunday. I am giving myself an out. If I think I am going to break my ankle, then I will only run the half marathon. I am making an appointment with a sports medicine doctor to make sure that I have not done some serious damage. Oh, and yes I did photoshop my big ole, callused clod hopper to help minimize its repulsiveness.

Feeling good. On rest week.

2009-11-04T19:14:00.000-08:00

I have not been resting, but I have not been running. I will log about forty miles this week, which is a little high for a rest week, but I need it. I have been doing less because of my ankle and that is just not going to cut it when the beastly twenty six point two stares you down in the face. So here I am logging....WALKING miles. Let's hope this strategy proves to be good. Otherwise I will be in a heap of trouble on Sunday. Happy running.

Seven days out.

2009-11-01T21:12:00.000-08:00

Well, this time next week I will be in the now familiar aftermath of 26.2 miles. My ankle is tender, but making due. Ralph keeps joking that he is going to buy me this crazy thing that is advertised in the coupon circular of the Sunday paper.

There is something exciting about knowing that I will have completed four marathons in four months. And something somewhat daunting about the thought of six more marathons in the next eight months.

One thing that this journey is teaching me is that life really is one step at a time. I am not sure that all runners feel this way, but I do. If I can just keep putting one foot in front of the other, I will get there. And sometimes, just getting there is success in itself.

Little Shadow.

2009-10-28T15:23:00.000-07:00

So I am dying to know from more experienced moms out there....what do you do when you have a shadow? I am honored, shock and completely blessed.

Yes. I also, sometimes actually have to get things done AND also at some point in my life would like a moment when someone is not following me or hanging on to me.I was having this conversation with my friend the other day.

I have never been so busy or exhausted in my life.In my younger days, I was a work a holic. Working sometimes 90 hour weeks and averaging 70 hours week. For years. I loved it. I was tired, but it was what I wanted to be.

Then, I was a full time working mom. I worked 40-45 hours a week and commuted 90 miles round trip each day. I was tired. I was really tired. And pretty cranky.

Then I had a job share. I worked about twenty hours a week, but had two weekdays off and the weekend. This was a good balance.

I still work about twenty hours a week, but I work five days a week. I am a real stay at home mom while here. I cook three meals a day, scrub floors, scrub bathtubs, go to the park, cuggle, read, paint and all of the other fantastic things that a stay at home mom does. When my kiddo heads to nap time, I head out to work.I am exhausted. I have also never logged as many miles as I am currently which I am sure ads to my tired level.

I feel like I do not ever have a moment to myself. At least when I worked full time, I had lunches, shopping, etc. Any suggestions on the ever asked question of work life balance? Suggestions requested.

Oh, and I love my little shadow.

RT's knee surgery.

2009-10-25T20:06:00.001-07:00

Ralph is having knee surgery in the morning. I am taking him at 5:30am then I am taking my mother in law to the train at 11:30am (after bringing my man home to rest) then I am going to go for ten miles....and take G to the nanny while I work.

I have to get some major miles in.

Stat.

Has anyone had a hairline ankle fracture....what does it feel like?

Fresno entry complete.

2009-10-20T20:41:00.000-07:00

I am not running the Silicon Valley Marathon this Sunday. My best friend is turning thirty (the personal chef) and we are going with our honies to Chez Panisse for dinner. Needless to say, I do not think that after a night of celebrating thirty years of one of my dearest friends that I would be in any shape to run the next morning.

So, Fresno is next on my list.

I am a little apprehensive because it is a Boston qualifier. Not apprehensive because I wonder if I will qualify for Boston. I don't know if my body will physically allow me to ever run Boston. But because often smaller marathons like Fresno sell full marathon entries to half marathon runners.

Not a problem if you are really trying to qualify.

But if you are a slower runner and all of the slower people have no intention of running the full twenty six point two, you are alone and isolated for the last thirteen miles.

I have met some great folks being slow.

But it is infuriating that race coordinators do not factor in the psyche of slower runners.

I guess they do not consider us runners.

Go figure.

It is raining sideways.

2009-10-13T17:09:00.000-07:00

We got back from LA last night...late. This morning we woke up to the pitter patter of rain. Sideways rain. I really love running in the rain, but this is sideways with thirty mile per hour winds. I think I will be staying in and doing P90X Cardio instead.

2009-10-08T06:10:00.000-07:00

When I run, I have a cloud clearing effect. When I run marathons, I feel like I can master the world problems from the thoughts that I have on the road. Anyone that runs will agree that there is something so freeing about placing one foot in front of the other. Over and over and over again.

I also become very emotional. This is something that I do not understand. I traditionally do not listen to music for the first half of a marathon. It gives me something to look forward to on the second half, and during the second half when I feel like I can not go any further the music makes it easier. It is a distraction from the torture I am putting my body through.

I am known to sing and dance down the path towards the finish line if I really like a good song. I am also known to be sobbing as I am running too.

The funny thing is, I just don't care.

The people around me, think it is cool.

What are the odds? There is a certain camaraderie among runners. Something that is so sadistic about our souls that binds us together and makes us understand and not judge one another.

I think there also becomes a point where you are so exhausted that you just don't care.

There are many reasons that I run, this is certainly one of them.

The serious crisis is over.

2009-10-06T09:38:00.000-07:00

I have not needed my Garmin since we returned from Miami. I knew I took it out of my bag and put it away. With last week being a rest week, there was no need to really track mileage. Furthermore, I have a pretty good gauge of a six/seven/eight mile loops that are around my house.

I don't like to run "races " with a GPS. Often, mile markers are one to three tenths off (farther) than what the Garmin reads. I think this is really a product of not being an elite runner and starting farther back on the course. Especially in larger marathons.

So yesterday, I wanted to make sure I went for a LOOOONG walk. Begin the search for the Garmin. I can't find it, but seriously that is not that big of a deal. My legs were like Jello, physically exhausted. Looked for fifteen minutes. No big deal.

This morning I decided that I needed another long walk and wanted actual tracking information. Begin search. Text Ralph. Text three more times. Are you screwing with me dude? Do you have it and not want me to know.

Freaking out.

Freaking out.

Feeling tears start to well.

Keep looking.

Look at the picture frame on my desk where I hide it from Gia. Everyday.

Look behind the dern frame. There is the dang Garmin.

Found it. And feel like a total idiot.

Feeling pretty good.

2009-10-05T14:27:00.000-07:00

I am feeling pretty good today. I went for a six mile walk with Gia and we came home and did some pilates. Thinking that I will be walking between six and ten miles daily and have my first run on Monday.

I can't find my Garmin.

Marathoning is such a great experience.

I will write about some thoughts that I had on the Cowtown marathon.

#2 in the series, complete.

2009-10-04T20:25:00.000-07:00

Finisher. 5:56. I told you it would be slow.

Cowtown mornings.

2009-10-04T06:12:00.000-07:00

I am sitting here listening to my coffee brew and trying to chug down another twenty some odd ounces of water. Under normal circumstances I am a hydration freak, but for some reason when I really need to, or the pressure is on, I can not for the life of me get enough water into my body. Go figure.

Yes, the coffee may assist in dehydrating me further.

But, it will make me run faster.

Ha, ha, ha, ha.

I can not tell you how relieved I am that there is a seven hour time limit and the weather looks to be a very nice mid seventies high. I choked down some glucosamine tablets (Melaleuca Replenex to be exact, which are the stinking BEST) and I am about to get up and consume some sort of bar.

I really loathe eating prior to running. Does anyone else out there feel this way? I just don't see any other viable solution when facing 26.2.

Have a good day, and I will let you know what my glorious finish time is later today. Much later I hypothesize.

I'm a slacker.

2009-10-01T09:02:00.000-07:00

Not in the running sense, but in the blogging sense. I am running CowTown this Sunday and it has a seven hour time limit....woo hooo. Given that my knees are a little tender and I am running two more marathons in the next five weeks, I have a very good feeling that I will be taking this one a little slowly. I don't race to win it, I race to finish.

Life has been hectic. I turned thirty. RT and I went to Miami, I am working, mommying, wifing and all of that jazz. Sometimes I have these crazy ideas and then I let them slip to the wayside....like two blogs. But, when you slack you just have to get back in the game.

One thing I think to is that I am better at all of my roles when I take a little time to run and blog. So here's to the new start, back to being a more consistent blogger. Running shoes out. Ready to go.

Oh, also anyone out there that has custom orthodics...is is worth it?

My knees have been healing.

2009-09-14T10:00:00.001-07:00

My knees are hurting in a serious way. Actually they have been recuperating. I think they are back in business. We shall see tomorrow. I have not been running, but I have been walking to keep up my endurance. Hopefully this is just a speed bump and not a big problem. October is going to be challenging....two marathons and then one the first week of November. A little scared.

Running in the morning.

2009-09-08T11:19:00.000-07:00

Running in the morning is truly a treat. I find that after about forty minutes, the fog lifts (both literally and figuratively speaking) and I am ready to face the world and a few more miles. There is something so peaceful about watching the sun rise as you place one foot in front of the other. The best part? Coming home to the sweetest little girl and the best husband in the world. I am blessed. And somehow, I think that this running journey makes me even more blessed.

Zero Week.

2009-09-02T08:53:00.000-07:00

Today marks day three of zero week. Which means Gia and I will do some walking to the park, but nothing strenuous. Tomorrow I have the clearance to do an easy three to five mile jog. My legs are pretty normal today. Which is a relief.

Marathon #1 of the series: complete.

2009-08-30T21:04:00.000-07:00

And I shaved nearly thirty minutes off my SF time. I will post more tomorrow. I am tired for now.

I love my husband.

2009-08-28T21:29:00.000-07:00

Last night I came home to this. This morning, it looked like this on my arm.
Then, he treated me to a new fuel belt, a new pair of shorts and some shot blocks at Fleet Feet.

Love you handsome!

Great day.

2009-08-27T21:52:00.000-07:00

Today was a rest day, which means extra time to spend showering Miss G with my affections. We Sea Otter Swim Schooled it, parked it, read it, played it, cooked it, sang it, and I even worked it for a while.

Life is good.

We are entering the rest phase.

2009-08-26T09:07:00.001-07:00

I completed the easy five and now we are in a slow steady LONG walking pace for the remainder of the week.

I honestly can not believe that I am going to run my first of the twelve this weekend and that this will be my second marathon of my life in just over a months time lapse.

I have not set any particular goals for this marathon...other than to finish. I will think about it a little more and let you know.

Come September (which is just around the corner can you believe that!?!?!) I am going to try to incorporate speed work.

One of my goals during this process is to act as if I am a runner.

If you act that way you will be, right?

Complete.

2009-08-24T23:14:00.001-07:00

Twelve miles completed. With a sixty minute park break (where I completed 25 stair climbs) in between. Miss Gia was a trooper as always and was stuffed full of goldfish by runs end.

My throat is a little scratchy and I have s fierce headache. I am praying it is just allergies....

Tomorrow is an easy five.

Rest day.

2009-08-23T21:17:00.000-07:00

And boy was it ever. I slept in...thank you RT! RT made a fantastic breakfast feast and during Miss G's nap, I read the entire issue of Runner's World from cover to cover. It was delightfully relaxing and refreshing. The day was rounded out with a short trip to the pool and a light dinner.

12 miles in the morning.

Sweet dreams.

Long run today....well, not so much.

2009-08-22T17:05:00.000-07:00

I was supposed to run a long run today. Somewhere between four and five hours. Life happened and I settled for forty five minutes. There is a four and a five in there. So that will help me next weekend, right?

I think more and more about running. Quite frankly, many would consider me a jogger. I am not fast and I don't know how fast I will ever be. But to me, I am going along, pushing more and more each day and covering ground.

That is what makes the journey of running exhilarating. One foot in front of the other. One step beyond what you have done before.

When I ran my first race (California International Marathon, 12.2008, Seven mile leg of a relay) I felt like I had concord the world. My second big accomplishment: a half marathon (Parkway Half Marathon, 3.2009, 13.1 miles) in the rain, and quite possible the most unvarying course in the country....I thought that I had gone as far as I could go. My first marathon (San Francisco, 7.2009, 26.2 miles) which I finished by most in a laughable time of 5:51......the crazy thing, I felt and still do that I had concord the world.

Each day I go another step, another mile. Another journey. Another few fish thrown down to Miss G to let me keep going. I figure I log roughly 60 miles a week. If I keep this steady and add in twelve marathons come next July I will have logged 3434.4 miles.

I will literally have logged enough miles to jog to Texas and back....at least to Kerrville and back...I am just not sure I know anyone in Kerrville. Maybe my mom would come pick me up if I made it that far.

The schedule.

2009-08-21T08:31:00.000-07:00

The original idea was to do one marathon a month. Well, given that there are seasons in the United States and race directors did not consult me prior to their marathons, it is not always possible. So, here are the twelve marathons I will run over the next twelve months:

8.30.2009 Santa Rosa Full Marathon Santa Rosa, CA
10.04.2009 Cow Town Marathon Sacramento, CA
10.25.2009 Silicon Valley Marathon San Jose, CA
11.08.2009 Twin Cities Marathon Fresno, CA
12.06.2009 California International Marathon Sacramento, CA
01.27.2010 Redding Marathon Redding, CA
03.07.2010 Napa Valley Marathon Napa, CA
03.28.2010 Oakland Marathon Oakland, CA
04.04.2010 Golden Gate Headlands Sausalito, CA
04.18.2010 River City Marathon Sacramento, CA
05.02.2010 Reno Rock n Roll Marathon Reno, NV
07.25.2010 San Francisco Marathon San Francisco, CA

So that is it. The proposed twelve marathons in twelve months. The fact that is exhausting just to type them out raises my anxiety levels to new heights.

One thing that was important to me when planning out my journey is that they are all pretty darn close to home and they are all places that RT and Miss G can join me. The River City Marathon is on RT's birthday which makes me a little sad, but he says that it is fine....I am sure I will make up for it somehow!

For now, I need to stop seeing the problems that can arise and focus on putting one foot in front of the other.

The deal.

2009-08-20T09:17:00.000-07:00

I am just a mom.

I just ran my first marathon last month.

Then I had a crazy idea....to run twelve marathons in twelve months.

I am not an elite athlete. Nor am I even built like a runner. But there is something about it. Something about pounding the pavement that makes me feel like a better wife, mother and worker bee. Something about running that gives me a sense of independence and identity.

This is my journey. Training (which I am hoping will be more like maintaining given the frequency of each marathon). Wifing.....not sure that that is a word. Mothering. Working. Marathon running. And writing about it all.

It will be a challenge, but one thing I do know about myself is that challenges bring out my best.

Goals for the new year.

2009-01-09T23:06:00.000-08:00

Run eight more marathons.
Get pregnant.
Run my entire pregnancy.